I don't think most people calling things "Kabuki Theatre" have actually witnessed Kabuki Theatre
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Friday, January 29, 2010
Ninja Thought
I don't think most people calling things "Kabuki Theatre" have actually witnessed Kabuki Theatre
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Dr. George Tiller's Murderer Convicted
Glad to see this guy convicted and glad he didn't get away with this heinous act. Murder is murder and the jury didn't need much time to figure that out.
MSNBC:
A man who says he killed prominent Kansas abortion provider Dr. George Tiller to protect unborn children has been convicted of murdering the doctor.
A jury deliberated for 37 minutes Friday before finding Scott Roeder guilty of premeditated, first-degree murder. The 51-year-old Kansas City, Mo., man faces a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after 25 years.
Roeder testified that he shot Tiller in the head May 31 in the foyer of Tiller's church in Wichita because he believed Tiller posed an "immediate danger" to unborn children.
His attorneys were hoping to get a lesser charge of voluntary manslaughter for Roeder, but the judge ruled that the jury could not consider such a verdict.
May Dr. Tiller's family now have some sort of closure.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
MSNBC:
A man who says he killed prominent Kansas abortion provider Dr. George Tiller to protect unborn children has been convicted of murdering the doctor.
A jury deliberated for 37 minutes Friday before finding Scott Roeder guilty of premeditated, first-degree murder. The 51-year-old Kansas City, Mo., man faces a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after 25 years.
Roeder testified that he shot Tiller in the head May 31 in the foyer of Tiller's church in Wichita because he believed Tiller posed an "immediate danger" to unborn children.
His attorneys were hoping to get a lesser charge of voluntary manslaughter for Roeder, but the judge ruled that the jury could not consider such a verdict.
May Dr. Tiller's family now have some sort of closure.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Get Your Dunkin Friday
Yesterday was rough for the lady. Not cool. I think she got some sort of stomach bug or just ate something that set her off. Luckily today she is much better and hopefully this weekend she will be back in full force. This weekend our plans are to relax and do much of nothing. I will most likely be juicing my pecs and eating protein shakes as I am still hoping to audition for Jersey Shore II. No joke, how cool would that be? An Asian juicehead?! I tan easy. I can fist pump like crazy and my nickname is solid. Franky C. Ok am I the only one still depressed by the show's finale. I need a fix...wait that just solved my weekend, Jersey Shore reruns!
Here are your highlights:
March of the Deficit Peacocks
Job creation? Tax credit for hiring businesses?
The Party of No strikes again with Paygo, psst Obama, they don't give a damn about anyone, but themselves. They aren't serious about deficits and they aren't serious in general. Hooray for bipartisan fairies!
Uh-oh Link out of hearts
Axelrod is Captain Obvious, "Great Political Mistake" to walk away from health care
At home, things are starting to matter. That's right Illinois is back on the map! Remember the state that Obama lived in before he was president? Tuesday marks the primaries and then it is all out battle. Early polls are looking decent, but the most interesting race will be for Governor.
Chow!
Here are your highlights:
March of the Deficit Peacocks
Job creation? Tax credit for hiring businesses?
The Party of No strikes again with Paygo, psst Obama, they don't give a damn about anyone, but themselves. They aren't serious about deficits and they aren't serious in general. Hooray for bipartisan fairies!
Uh-oh Link out of hearts
Axelrod is Captain Obvious, "Great Political Mistake" to walk away from health care
At home, things are starting to matter. That's right Illinois is back on the map! Remember the state that Obama lived in before he was president? Tuesday marks the primaries and then it is all out battle. Early polls are looking decent, but the most interesting race will be for Governor.
Chow!
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Late Night Music with Motion City Soundtrack
Can't get this song out of my head. Stripped down it is just as catchy and fun to sing.
Absolute Punk:
The complexities and dense topics still remain on Dinosaur, giving the album many layers for the listener to peel apart. Basically, My Dinosaur Life is the fusion of the best moments of Motion City Soundtrack’s previous three albums and expanding on that, while maintaining all the uniqueness and quirks that fans love about the band. This album will probably draw a lot of comparisons to Weezer’s first two albums, which won’t be surprising because there are a lot of similarities. But if Weezer created the nerdy/quirky pop-rock sound, then Motion City Soundtrack has perfected it on their best album to date, My Dinosaur Life.
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Ninja Thought
If we all just listened to Judd Gregg we'd be a Hooverific place!I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Pelosi Hates Our Troops
Or so that will be the headline soon enough...speaking about the "spending freeze" proposed by Obama and his administration Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi stated the Pentagon should be included as well.
Huff Post:
"While we all want to support our men and women in uniform... and our national defense and our veterans, I don't think that we should protect military contractors, and I want to make that distinction very clear," Pelosi said at her weekly press conference Thursday.
The government can't minimize wasteful spending without auditing the Pentagon, Pelosi said, citing a 2009 report indicating that top U.S. weapons programs went over budget by some $296 billion.
"I don't support exempting them from the freeze," she said. "So I think there has to be a bifurcation in terms of: we support our military and their families and we want them to have everything they need, but we do not support an entitlement program for overruns on the part of a military contractor."
I agree, my major criticism of most deficit and self-proclaimed budget hawks is their dishonesty about defense spending. If you don't look at every department and give each its straight up and down you are essentially setting the standard that the rules only apply to some. Such exceptions are to the detriment of our financial future as a nation as we have been paying for it with interest and without accountability for the past decade.
Glenn Greenwald:
The facts about America's bloated, excessive, always-increasing military spending are now well-known. The U.S. spends almost as much on military spending as the entire rest of the world combined, and spends roughly six times more than the second-largest spender, China. Even as the U.S. sunk under increasingly crippling levels of debt over the last decade, defense spending rose steadily, sometimes precipitously. That explosion occurred even as overall military spending in the rest of the world decreased, thus expanding the already-vast gap between our expenditures and the world's. As one "defense" spending watchdog group put it: "The US military budget was almost 29 times as large as the combined spending of the six 'rogue' states (Cuba, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Sudan and Syria) who spent $14.65 billion."
If the administration was truly serious about a "spending freeze" they wouldn't need an army to find where to start.
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Huff Post:
"While we all want to support our men and women in uniform... and our national defense and our veterans, I don't think that we should protect military contractors, and I want to make that distinction very clear," Pelosi said at her weekly press conference Thursday.
The government can't minimize wasteful spending without auditing the Pentagon, Pelosi said, citing a 2009 report indicating that top U.S. weapons programs went over budget by some $296 billion.
"I don't support exempting them from the freeze," she said. "So I think there has to be a bifurcation in terms of: we support our military and their families and we want them to have everything they need, but we do not support an entitlement program for overruns on the part of a military contractor."
I agree, my major criticism of most deficit and self-proclaimed budget hawks is their dishonesty about defense spending. If you don't look at every department and give each its straight up and down you are essentially setting the standard that the rules only apply to some. Such exceptions are to the detriment of our financial future as a nation as we have been paying for it with interest and without accountability for the past decade.
Glenn Greenwald:
The facts about America's bloated, excessive, always-increasing military spending are now well-known. The U.S. spends almost as much on military spending as the entire rest of the world combined, and spends roughly six times more than the second-largest spender, China. Even as the U.S. sunk under increasingly crippling levels of debt over the last decade, defense spending rose steadily, sometimes precipitously. That explosion occurred even as overall military spending in the rest of the world decreased, thus expanding the already-vast gap between our expenditures and the world's. As one "defense" spending watchdog group put it: "The US military budget was almost 29 times as large as the combined spending of the six 'rogue' states (Cuba, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Sudan and Syria) who spent $14.65 billion."
If the administration was truly serious about a "spending freeze" they wouldn't need an army to find where to start.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Get Your Dunkin Thursday
Ok so yesterday my computer got the swine flu or the ebola or some kind of virus and poof, I was out of commission. Couldn't post a damn thing. Stupid PC's. So that is why you didn't get any rage filled posts yesterday or any heads slamming on desks. Last night was great. Drinking Liberally was moved to Wednesday so everyone could watch the SOTU together. It also ended up being one of the "Watch parties" for OFA, so needless to say two rooms were packed and rowdy. I for one enjoyed the speech. It is hard not to like a speech by Obama, however this particular speech was more straight talk. I spoke with another anonymous blogger who agreed that speech last night was not for the policy wonks or pol heads like ourselves, but for those who have been missing it or those being misinformed. And if you ever doubted, HE IS THE PRESIDENT. The humor was great, the stabs were playful, the focus on jobs was paramount, and the talk of bipartisanship was fantasy. Overall I think it was the right speech at the right time which also means Obama is the black Jimmy Carter (insert major sarcasm here). The lady isn't feeling well today, so I will be home blasting a post or two.
Here are your highlights:
Early polls say people liked the SOTU
Obama did mention the repeal of "Don't Ask Don't Tell" WHAT I SAY?!! Oh golly gee people still aren't happy...
WANT: Tron bike
Oregon did the right thing and raised taxes on the filthy rich
Activist Judge caught on film
It is 2010, concerts are starting, Take Action Tour!
Late last night I noticed a sad headline. Howard Zinn passes away. It struck me quite hard. I remember reading Zinn's "A People's History of the United States" and thinking wow I never read anything like this; history was in fact being told. He will be sorely missed.
Chow!
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Late Night Music with the Friday Night Boys
A shout out to some local boys. Love them or hate them, I will say it is crazy seeing a band I saw start in a basement (cough very close to where I live) in Virginia doing music videos for a major movie. Congrats to the Friday Night Boys!
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ACORN Pimp Arrested for Wiretapping
You can't write a better shit than this! For all those haters out there, learn your lesson and don't be stupid. Don't mess with ACORN or you will end up in the slamma like MC Hammer.
Josh Marshall:
Remember James O'Keefe, the 'pimp' from the tag team of conservative 'journalists' who landed a massive blow on ACORN with their hidden camera series of videos showing ACORN employees discussing and advising on how to hide various forms of illegal acts?
Well, O'Keefe just got arrested by the FBI down in New Orleans for his role in a plot to plant wiretaps in the state offices of Sen. Mary Landrieu. That was on federal property. So a big time felony.
Once we heard that O'Keefe got clipped, we wondered whether this was another job for Andrew Breitbart who published O'Keefe's ACORN videos. Our Christina Bellantoni just got hold of him and he responded: "I need to find information on this. I'm out of the loop on this. I will make my determination then on when to comment."
Of course the right-wing at Faux News just can't believe it and don't know what to do about their big pimpin' hero. I propose they start blaming Media Matters and the radical left wing media for taking down a true patriot and forcing him to commit a crime.
This ladies and gentlemen is what we have come to; our Congress actually passed legislation trying to stop funding to....ACORN! ACORN! ACORN!!! ACORN rules everything around me, dolla dolla bill ya'll.
Josh Marshall:
Remember James O'Keefe, the 'pimp' from the tag team of conservative 'journalists' who landed a massive blow on ACORN with their hidden camera series of videos showing ACORN employees discussing and advising on how to hide various forms of illegal acts?
Well, O'Keefe just got arrested by the FBI down in New Orleans for his role in a plot to plant wiretaps in the state offices of Sen. Mary Landrieu. That was on federal property. So a big time felony.
Once we heard that O'Keefe got clipped, we wondered whether this was another job for Andrew Breitbart who published O'Keefe's ACORN videos. Our Christina Bellantoni just got hold of him and he responded: "I need to find information on this. I'm out of the loop on this. I will make my determination then on when to comment."
Of course the right-wing at Faux News just can't believe it and don't know what to do about their big pimpin' hero. I propose they start blaming Media Matters and the radical left wing media for taking down a true patriot and forcing him to commit a crime.
This ladies and gentlemen is what we have come to; our Congress actually passed legislation trying to stop funding to....ACORN! ACORN! ACORN!!! ACORN rules everything around me, dolla dolla bill ya'll.
Morons.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Lunch Break with Yuriokis Gamboa
This kid is sick. Needs to work on his defensive fundamentals still, but WOW.
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No Stupid Hooverism
Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
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Get Your Dunkin Tuesday
Howdy Tuesday! Normally I would be ranting and raving about stuff here, but instead I am going to save it for tomorrow night's State of the Union. Drinking Liberally was moved to tomorrow to accommodate the President and his big moment of unifying. It's not going to happen, but man it would be nice if he went American President on everyone. Heck even Dave! Talk about jobs, jobs and more jobs for people. Forget about the Republicans and go it alone, alas most likely we will get enough bipartisan to chew on we will vomit all over the teevee (ok sorry little bit of a rant). Anyone catch Castle last night? It was yet another fine episode. Sadly the lady had it figure out in the first 30 seconds, so CASTLE PEOPLE LISTEN UP. Mix it up a bit. I know you writers don't trust a soul near ya, especially your family members, but we are on to you and that is not good. P.S. Castle kiss Beckett already!
Here are your highlights:
The Spending Freeze, as I spoke about last night, economists didn't have nice things to say about it; political gimmick, "Dingbat Kabuki" and unseriousness
Give them an inch they take a mile, Gregg says Republicans will make reconciliation "extraordinarily difficult"...OBAMA ADMINISTRATION ARE YOU HEARING THIS?!!
Illinois Governor Race is "sleazy"
A day late, Boxing Round Up
Tea Party imploding? The latest from the Sarah Palin is god crowd....they are destroying themselves from within and finally catching on that they are being played by major corporations and political action groups. The bigger question we are still asking is, what the eff do Teabaggers actually stand for other than old fashion racism, catch phrases and talking points?
Chow!
Monday, January 25, 2010
We Just Don't Learn
Atrios:
Giving Up
Chuck Toddler informs us that Obama, in SOTU, will push for 3 year non-defense discretionary spending freeze.
And then, I suppose, he'll "focus" on jobs. Message: Obama cares.
We are ruled by idiots.
Obama and his administration has pretty much had all their outlooks wrong this past year; stimulus was too small, unemployment is still at 10% and the real estate market ain't looking too good. Bang up job Timmeh and Larreh. Not surprised, obviously the move to the deficit spending while still blowing shit up is to appease our center right nation, who by the way knows absolutely nothing whatsoever. But I get the politics...
FDR fell for this trap his second year as well and it led to a REAL "double dip" the so called deficit hawks pee their pants over. The question is if on Wednesday during the SOTU this "spending freeze" is a political game to make the bedwetters happy or really as idiotic as it sounds.
MSNBC:
Among the president's ideas:
* Nearly doubling the tax credit that families making under $85,000 can receive for child care costs, with some help for families earning up to $115,000, too.
* Capping the size of periodic federal college loan repayments at 10 percent of borrowers' discretionary income to make payments more affordable.
* Increasing by $1.6 billion the money pumped into a federal fund to help working parents pay for child care, covering an estimated 235,000 additional children.
* Requiring employers who don't offer 401(k) retirement plans to offer direct-deposit IRAs for their employees, with exemptions for the smallest firms.
* Spending more than $100 million to help people care for their elderly parents and get support for themselves as well.
The White House maintained that its imperative still is to create jobs. Unemployment remains in double digits, and the economy is the public's top concern. Yet Obama said that squeezed families need help in other ways, too: paying for child care, helping out aging parents, saving for retirement, paying off college debt.
What matters ultimately to people, Obama said, is "whether they see some progress in their own lives. So we're going to keep fighting to rebuild our economy so that hard work is once again rewarded, wages and incomes are once again rising, the middle class is once again growing."
Nice touches with families and retirement planning, "Obama cares." I am trying not to be so pessimistic, but damn it is tough.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
"Send the Men Home"
I know awesome when I read it and this will be turned on its head to be reverse sexism or the words of a "feminazi." Anyway I like it and say more of this please:
Rep. Carol Shea-Porter (D-N.H.) said that both Republican and Democratic women members of Congress understand how to care for relatives and thus want the healthcare system to change.
"We go to the ladies room and the Republican women and the Democratic women and we just roll our eyes," she said. "And the Republican women said when we were fighting over the healthcare bill, if we sent the men home..." at which point she was interrupted by loud applause.
"You know why? I'm not trying to diss the men but I'm telling you it's the truth that every single woman there has been responsible for taking care of a [relatives] and so we think we can find a common ground there," she said.
I am not sure about finding common ground with some of the right-wing Republican females like Michele Bachmann, however it does stand to reason that better representation by women in Congress and the Senate would lead to more coalescing over health care reform. They are the more rational sex after all.
Rep. Carol Shea-Porter (D-N.H.) said that both Republican and Democratic women members of Congress understand how to care for relatives and thus want the healthcare system to change.
"We go to the ladies room and the Republican women and the Democratic women and we just roll our eyes," she said. "And the Republican women said when we were fighting over the healthcare bill, if we sent the men home..." at which point she was interrupted by loud applause.
"You know why? I'm not trying to diss the men but I'm telling you it's the truth that every single woman there has been responsible for taking care of a [relatives] and so we think we can find a common ground there," she said.
I am not sure about finding common ground with some of the right-wing Republican females like Michele Bachmann, however it does stand to reason that better representation by women in Congress and the Senate would lead to more coalescing over health care reform. They are the more rational sex after all.
Why the DADT Repeal will Never Happen
John Aravosis of AMERICAblog:
DADT hearing, supposed to happen this week, is now 'not scheduled'
Joe just called the Senate Armed Services Committee to find out when the Don't Ask Don't Tell hearing is going to be, the one that we were promised would happen this week. They told him the hearing hasn't been scheduled.
We predicted this a good seven months ago. Let me quote my article in Salon last June:
When, Mr. President, will be a good time to set my people free? When will the leader of the free world get a breather, a presidential timeout as it were? (And I thought this was the administration that could walk and chew gum at the same time.) Are we really to believe that 2010, a congressional election year, will be any more timely than today? Or 2011, the beginning of the presidential primaries? Or 2012, with a congressional and presidential election? There is quite literally no time like the present.
Sigh, such a tiring narrative. The president doesn't have an almighty wand to waive. Yes, he could do more than attempting to pass it through the Defense Authorization Bill perhaps just repeal it, but that is too open to a fight.
DADT hearing, supposed to happen this week, is now 'not scheduled'
Joe just called the Senate Armed Services Committee to find out when the Don't Ask Don't Tell hearing is going to be, the one that we were promised would happen this week. They told him the hearing hasn't been scheduled.
We predicted this a good seven months ago. Let me quote my article in Salon last June:
When, Mr. President, will be a good time to set my people free? When will the leader of the free world get a breather, a presidential timeout as it were? (And I thought this was the administration that could walk and chew gum at the same time.) Are we really to believe that 2010, a congressional election year, will be any more timely than today? Or 2011, the beginning of the presidential primaries? Or 2012, with a congressional and presidential election? There is quite literally no time like the present.
Sigh, such a tiring narrative. The president doesn't have an almighty wand to waive. Yes, he could do more than attempting to pass it through the Defense Authorization Bill perhaps just repeal it, but that is too open to a fight.
My question, what about the gay community? Where are the phone calls to Congress and Senate? Huge marches for inequality? Protests? Lt. Daniel Choi aside, I just haven't seen or heard enough. Change happens not because of one man, but because of the will of the people. Blaming Obama does no one any good and is misplaced. Want things to get done? Make it happen with or without Obama's magic "acceptance" wand.
It really is hard sometimes to support the cause when it is being fought like it has already been lost.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Conan's Goodbye
One of the best speeches about comedy by an honorable man. I suggest we take his advice, truly inspiring. And Conan, can't wait till you are back on the tube!
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Get Your Dunkin Monday
Super Bowl!!! Saints!!! How can you not root for the Saints this Super Bowl? I mean your choice is either the team of evil aka Manning's Horsemen or the team of New Orleans. After all they have been through who in their right mind, but the people of Indy, would root for the Colts? Exactly. Go Saints! The lady and I had a nice and relaxing weekend in Central Illinois. Not too bad. We got to get away, play some duck pin bowling and eat fried mushrooms at a local bar. And boy what mushrooms! I can still taste them. Not too happy to be back in cold Chicago right now. It is going to be a grumpy day ya'll...
Here are your highlights:
White House signals they are fed up with the filibuster
Teaching our children to enjoy witchcraft, Harry Potter gets its own theme park
STIMULUS! Get your facts straight people
Anyone, whether a Republican or Democrats, talking deficits and spending freezes at this time, can't be taken seriously. They always wants to keep spendings on their wars and all those hurting rich peoples...
Getting to Yes, Drum has some good news about the state of health care and most experts agree Pass. The. Damn. Bill. This is far from over and it is important to call your Congressmen or Senator. Heck call Pelosi for being the toughest leader on the block. Just let people know, the cost of doing nothing will be much worse than passing the Senate Bill.
Chow!
Friday, January 22, 2010
Green Acres
Fast forward to 5:39, I am off to Central Illinois.
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Special Comment by Keith Olbermann: Free Speech has been Destroyed
Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
A little melodramatic as expected, but he says what most of us fear. Dahlia Lithwick at Slate:Even former Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist once warned that treating corporate spending as the First Amendment equivalent of individual free speech is "to confuse metaphor with reality." Today that metaphor won a very real victory at the Supreme Court. And as a consequence some very real corporations are feeling very, very good.
And that is a very, very bad thing for people.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Get Your Dunkin Friday
Man the end of Jersey Shore was sad. Why did all the awesome have to end? And why in the world did Snooki and the Situation bump uggs? Duuuuuuuude! I know there are other things going on and a lot of whining and nonsense from the Democrats, but let's focus on one thing, what do I live vicariously through now? I mean the Shore was the shit. It was all the bad things I have never done in one season of trashy goodness. Seriously I am drinking a protein shake right now and working on the un-Situation! The post season "reunion" was pretty lame. Sammi Sweetheart is scandalous and shades mcgee. Ronnie and her broke up for like the 100th time in their short and total trainwreck of a relationship. I don't blame Ronnie for being pissed if I were him I would fist pump my way into a club and forgetta bout her! This weekend the lady and I are heading to Central Illinois because people get pregnant and you throw them parties for getting pregnant. I hope it includes mad juiceheads and guidettes.
Here are your highlights:
Do the Right Thing, Pass. The. Damn. Bill.
Debating Torture leads to Journalism
The new meme in the mainstream media, Obama went too far left Joan Walsh puts the cabash on that shizzle
"They started it" the mature words of Fox & Friends. It is war stupid.
Last decade was the warmest ever. 2009 was mighty hot!
Mr. President this is the lead in for your State of the Union and the key to the Democrats future. The Republicans have admitted they love them some Wall St. and corporations. (although I am not positive the Dems have the stones to do much of anything these days)
Chow!
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Prop 8 Trial is About "Putting Christianity on Trial"
I guess it isn't about equality, it is about putting Christianity on trial...
Right Wing Watch has this Bill Donohue rant:
Yesterday, the judge allowed Boies and Olsen to submit e-mails they obtained between the director of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and the bishops. Allowing such communication in a trial is unusual enough, but the purpose was even more invidious: to show that Catholics played a major role in passing Proposition 8. The lawyers did the same thing to Mormons, offering more e-mail “proof” of their involvement.
...
Their goal is not to contest the First Amendment rights of Catholics and others—their goal is to put religion on trial. What they are saying is that religious-based reasons for rejecting gay marriage are irrational, and thus do not meet the test of promoting a legitimate state interest. That is why they have trotted out professors like Gary Segura of Stanford and George Chauncey of Yale to testify to the irrationality of the pro-Proposition 8 side. Chauncey was even given the opportunity to read from a Vatican document that rejects homosexual marriage.
Society cannot exist without families; families cannot exist without reproduction; reproduction cannot exist without a sexual union between a man and a woman; and every society in the history of the world has created an institution called marriage to provide for this end. In short, it is nothing but irrational to challenge such a timeless verity. No matter, what is going on in the courtroom smacks of an animus against religion.
I really have never understood the victim role the religious right plays on a regular basis. It seems rather apparent they attack relentlessly and attempt to impose their radical views on everyone without regard for individual freedom. Yet here they are again with a nice little talking point, "Prop 8 is about putting religion on trial."
If your argument for denying two humans the right to marry is based on the predication that it spotlights the flaws in your own doctrine; it is clear you have no argument.
Andrew Sullivan has more about this "Big Lie."
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message.
Right Wing Watch has this Bill Donohue rant:
Yesterday, the judge allowed Boies and Olsen to submit e-mails they obtained between the director of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and the bishops. Allowing such communication in a trial is unusual enough, but the purpose was even more invidious: to show that Catholics played a major role in passing Proposition 8. The lawyers did the same thing to Mormons, offering more e-mail “proof” of their involvement.
...
Their goal is not to contest the First Amendment rights of Catholics and others—their goal is to put religion on trial. What they are saying is that religious-based reasons for rejecting gay marriage are irrational, and thus do not meet the test of promoting a legitimate state interest. That is why they have trotted out professors like Gary Segura of Stanford and George Chauncey of Yale to testify to the irrationality of the pro-Proposition 8 side. Chauncey was even given the opportunity to read from a Vatican document that rejects homosexual marriage.
Society cannot exist without families; families cannot exist without reproduction; reproduction cannot exist without a sexual union between a man and a woman; and every society in the history of the world has created an institution called marriage to provide for this end. In short, it is nothing but irrational to challenge such a timeless verity. No matter, what is going on in the courtroom smacks of an animus against religion.
I really have never understood the victim role the religious right plays on a regular basis. It seems rather apparent they attack relentlessly and attempt to impose their radical views on everyone without regard for individual freedom. Yet here they are again with a nice little talking point, "Prop 8 is about putting religion on trial."
If your argument for denying two humans the right to marry is based on the predication that it spotlights the flaws in your own doctrine; it is clear you have no argument.
Andrew Sullivan has more about this "Big Lie."
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message.
Ninja Thought
This is election was brought to you by the FedEx Election Bowl 2012. Ladies and gentlemen of America your winner and new President Viacom with Vice President Wal-Mart.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
With Their Tails Between Their Legs
Dems must not believe in going out for the bell for round 12, Talking Points Memo:
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi just told reporters that she does not believe she has enough votes in the House to pass the Senate health care reform bill as-is -- at least not yet.
"I don't see the votes for it at this time," Pelosi said. "The members have been very clear in our caucus about the fact that they didn't like it before it had the Nebraska provision and some of the other provisions that are unpalatable to them."
"In every meeting that we have had, there would be nothing to give me any thought that that bill could pass right now the way that it is," she said. "There isn't a market right now for proceeding with the full bill unless some big changes are made."
While she didn't say the option was dead -- "Everything is on the table," she said -- she outlined two very different options for passing a bill.
She then added, "We're in no rush."
Yeah I mean what do 30 million people who are already uninsured, bankruptcies up 32% with a high volume due to medical bills, and people losing insurance because of pre-existing conditions lose anyway? They are already screwed. Let them be screwed longer. I just don't get it. One seat and they lose whatever fortitude they had.
I see no other alternative. Let's get this done, ourselves.
Call Congress, tell them to suck it up and pass the damn bill.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi just told reporters that she does not believe she has enough votes in the House to pass the Senate health care reform bill as-is -- at least not yet.
"I don't see the votes for it at this time," Pelosi said. "The members have been very clear in our caucus about the fact that they didn't like it before it had the Nebraska provision and some of the other provisions that are unpalatable to them."
"In every meeting that we have had, there would be nothing to give me any thought that that bill could pass right now the way that it is," she said. "There isn't a market right now for proceeding with the full bill unless some big changes are made."
While she didn't say the option was dead -- "Everything is on the table," she said -- she outlined two very different options for passing a bill.
She then added, "We're in no rush."
Yeah I mean what do 30 million people who are already uninsured, bankruptcies up 32% with a high volume due to medical bills, and people losing insurance because of pre-existing conditions lose anyway? They are already screwed. Let them be screwed longer. I just don't get it. One seat and they lose whatever fortitude they had.
I see no other alternative. Let's get this done, ourselves.
Call Congress, tell them to suck it up and pass the damn bill.
*Clarification, I am more for passing meaningful reform, however getting this through and fixing it through reconciliation seems the most plausible way of moving forward. If Pelosi somehow scraps the Senate Bill and goes through reconciliation first I am all for that. I do believe though if we don't call, the shit will sit.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Get Your Dunkin Thursday
YO IT'S FRANKY C!
What Now?! The sky is falling. Democrats everywhere running scared. Please. Spare me. The narrative from the major news outlets is that Obama was never elected and the Democrats weren't given a sweeping majority. Yes Scott Brown won, but it says more about Massachusetts then anything. I am not buying some of the cowering being reported in, but then again I wouldn't be surprised. Like I stated yesterday progressives need to be even more aggressive. I will spare you the cheer leading because frankly my feet are frozen from the Chicago fuggin weather and I gots boots! Jersey Shore finale is tonight (how's that for transition bitches), so you know what the lady and I will be doing. Yeah they are everything I don't want to be, but it is damn fun watching them be everything and a bag of pickles! Holla! Fist pumping all day!Aight so here's the Situation:
Paul Volcker Prevails, after Goldman Sucks posts RIDONKULOUS profits, the administration looks to reign in the fat cats
Dear Lady get this dress, thanks, Gameboy Girl
Legislating from the bench, say goodbye to "honest campaigns" forever
New Alkaline Trio leaks...uh-oh
Wow, this is fun, Bill O'Reilly doesn't like it when people intrude on other people's vacations...I smell hypocrisy
Health care reform, of all the options right now some Dems are going with the Underpants Gnome or worse, the "Piecemeal" approach won't work. Pass the damn bill.
Chow!
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Late Night Music with Maritime
Long before I ever knew I was going to be a failure at music, I started at least three bands a year until the age of 21. One of those inceptions was a carbon copy of all the bands we were listening to at the time, but mostly Sunny Day Real Estate, Jimmy Eat World and the Promise Ring.
Most of all I wanted to be and sound like Davey von Bohlen. The odd turns of his melodies and quirky lyrics made me want to dance in my skinny jeans. Needless to say I never became Davey von Bohlen and the band didn't sound like the Promise Ring either. Heck, we didn't get passed a basement show.
Maritime isn't the Promise Ring. It is its own thing. The similarities are certainly there, however the band misses some of the youthful playfulness that was so infectious with von Bohlen's earlier songs. Sometimes it is hard to admit that your teenage favorites have grown up. Maritime hits Chicago in February and I can't wait. It's not the Promise Ring, but I like where this band is headed.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Don't Panic Be Heard
I spoke today with an aide for Rep. Mike Quiqley (IL). He stated that Congress is still hoping to hear what comes out of committee before making a final decision about health care reform. I did ask about the recent loss in Massachusetts and how that might effect the process, he stated that they were not concerned about it and it didn't effect how Quiqley or Congress would conduct business. Odd since if you read any paper, columnist or blog someone somewhere is screaming PANIC! Or writing the obituary for President Obama's term in office and the Democrats in 2010.
The message seemed simple from Quiqley. Don't panic. I also asked about pushing through the Senate bill to which the aide stated, "that's not on the table." After hearing from President Obama that seems to be accurate.
If anything we should learn from this beside to not commit political malpractice is that we need to be heard again and again. We have spent an entire year stressing the importance of meaningful health care reform. The bills have passed both through the House and the Senate. One election does not change that. One election does not mean we should give up a years and years of effort and whimper away.
The message seemed simple from Quiqley. Don't panic. I also asked about pushing through the Senate bill to which the aide stated, "that's not on the table." After hearing from President Obama that seems to be accurate.
If anything we should learn from this beside to not commit political malpractice is that we need to be heard again and again. We have spent an entire year stressing the importance of meaningful health care reform. The bills have passed both through the House and the Senate. One election does not change that. One election does not mean we should give up a years and years of effort and whimper away.
Call your congressman or congresswoman. Call your senators. Remind them of why health care reform should and needs to passed. You can call the switchboard at (202) 224-3121.
Tim F. at Balloon Juice has a step by step way to handle calling in to your rep. And remember we are the change, it isn't the other way around.
Tim F. at Balloon Juice has a step by step way to handle calling in to your rep. And remember we are the change, it isn't the other way around.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Lunch Break with Bacon
Bacon Care of Bizniz - watch more funny videos
More about Rare Form Films.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Come On Really? White-Only BBall League
Huffington Post:
A whites-only basketball league aims to launch in twelve cities this summer, according to a report in the Augusta Chronicle. The All-American Basketball Alliance would also ban players born outside the United States.
The league's commissioner, Don "Moose" Lewis, claims that he doesn't "hate anyone of color. But people of white, American-born citizens are in the minority now." Thus, he says, the All-American Basketball Alliance would be "a league for white players to play fundamental basketball, which they like."
The report includes additional shocking quotes from the commissioner:
Lewis said he wants to emphasize fundamental basketball instead of "street-ball" played by "people of color." ...
"Would you want to go to the game and worry about a player flipping you off or attacking you in the stands or grabbing their crotch?" he said. "That's the culture today, and in a free country we should have the right to move ourselves in a better direction."
Haven't we already proven this? White Man Can't Jump!
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
A whites-only basketball league aims to launch in twelve cities this summer, according to a report in the Augusta Chronicle. The All-American Basketball Alliance would also ban players born outside the United States.
The league's commissioner, Don "Moose" Lewis, claims that he doesn't "hate anyone of color. But people of white, American-born citizens are in the minority now." Thus, he says, the All-American Basketball Alliance would be "a league for white players to play fundamental basketball, which they like."
The report includes additional shocking quotes from the commissioner:
Lewis said he wants to emphasize fundamental basketball instead of "street-ball" played by "people of color." ...
"Would you want to go to the game and worry about a player flipping you off or attacking you in the stands or grabbing their crotch?" he said. "That's the culture today, and in a free country we should have the right to move ourselves in a better direction."
Haven't we already proven this? White Man Can't Jump!
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Rage the Eff On
This is why I write because sometimes you read something and yell at the screen at the alternate reality taking place. You read it and you know America has a lot to work to do and the reason you pen with rage is because people just don't get it. How I am not sure, but you know you have to keep on trucking because this shit gets a man enraged.
Sullivan:
Mort Zuckerman pronounces:
He didn’t address the main issue.
He means the economy. How anyone who has been sentient this past year can say such a thing merely reveals how effective the propaganda has been. Let's review: a stimulus package that has clearly helped turn the economy around and was skilfully structured to ensure that it didn't entirely fade away when the second year came around, a third of which was tax cuts; a bank bailout that is now being paid back; a lifeline to the car industry; major investment in infrastructure; extension of unemployment benefits; avoidance of a second great depression and a return to fragile but real growth after the financial and economic abyss of a year ago ... I mean he didn't address the main issue??
What the fuck is he talking about?
But this will be the reality because this is the easy reality and our politics now lives off of created reality, not the data. For Zuckerman, the idea of extending health insurance to the working poor in a period of immense economic insecurity is not addressing the main issue. He is, of course, a billionaire diner at Michael's whose own access to the best healthcare in the world is automatic. And he wants a Democratic president to share those priorities.
Sullivan:
Mort Zuckerman pronounces:
He didn’t address the main issue.
He means the economy. How anyone who has been sentient this past year can say such a thing merely reveals how effective the propaganda has been. Let's review: a stimulus package that has clearly helped turn the economy around and was skilfully structured to ensure that it didn't entirely fade away when the second year came around, a third of which was tax cuts; a bank bailout that is now being paid back; a lifeline to the car industry; major investment in infrastructure; extension of unemployment benefits; avoidance of a second great depression and a return to fragile but real growth after the financial and economic abyss of a year ago ... I mean he didn't address the main issue??
What the fuck is he talking about?
But this will be the reality because this is the easy reality and our politics now lives off of created reality, not the data. For Zuckerman, the idea of extending health insurance to the working poor in a period of immense economic insecurity is not addressing the main issue. He is, of course, a billionaire diner at Michael's whose own access to the best healthcare in the world is automatic. And he wants a Democratic president to share those priorities.
We are battling the most closed minded group of people, who want to rewrite history. They take no blame for their faults and trounce repetitive talking points backed by intellectually bankrupt ideals. No this isn't anything new, but it has become increasingly tiring and my head is sore from slamming it on my desk.
Yesterday I spatted a bit of debate with a complete stranger who had some viable points, but was missing the point. The only party who has attempted to fix our economy are the Democrats. And although one might be frustrated with their tactics, there has been nothing but obstructionism and misinformation from the GOP. Nothing. Not a damned thing.
What the people of Massachusetts did yesterday was reinforce that Congress has to pass health care reform faster, enact another jobs bill and repair our financial system or the people will act foolishly. They will act with a populist anger so reckless that no amount of clapping will save us. Sullivan is right the propaganda machine is working. It is working to the detriment of our nation and elitists like Mort Zuckerman will applaud it all the way to the fucking end of the Earth. And why? Because they don't give a fuck about people actually losing jobs, they don't give a fuck about how bad shit will get, they care that it makes a president or the Senate or whoever doesn't agree with them the loser.
Sociopaths.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Get Your Dunkin Wednesday
Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
Well the world as we know it is upside down. The Democratic Party is over. Tea Baggers can win elections forever. Get ready for Republican rule for the rest of our lives. Obama is the Black Jimmy Carter. If you turn on the teevee or read the headlines, that is pretty much what the news outlets are saying. Wow. Our liberal media bias at work. Now, I am not going to downplay the significance of the win in Massachusetts, however if anything this should be a lesson to Democrats, if you play it lazy, if you don't get it done the people will forget how bad the other party is and vote against you. It is sad that the seat formally held by Ted Kennedy was won by such an asshat, but what we are going to hear for the next couple of weeks maybe months is exactly what I wrote above. It is not time to panic, but it is time to put a concerted focused effort so this doesn't happen throughout 2010. It is amazing how easily Americans forget. It is frustrating how easily Democrats whimper. Now is not the time. And man it is going to be annoying as all hell reading the VICTORY call from wing-nuts. And man is it going to be annoying hearing the media-duh for weeks to come. Watching Good Morning America it is *headslamondesk already. You would think Obama's presidency was already over.Here are your highlights:
WAKE UP DEMOCRATS and let's do this thing already
Chait: Health Care Bill Can Pass
Wanksta for Life: Jim DeMint making our country less safe
Krugman explains it clearly, don't be Fools on the Hill! I am so sick of the whimpy Democrats/ Blue Dog nonsense about governing Republican lite. Note to Blue Dogs you are Republican lite! This is about getting things done, no one likes talks, more talks and another set of meetings, they like results and it is time for Democrats to get together and pass the shit they know needs to be done. Or else I am a Canadian...(such an idle threat, but hey Avril Lavigne is single now BOOM BABY!)
Chow!
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Lunch Break with Thrice
After reading all the comments from Facebook, Twitter, Blogs and teh papers, this song seems more than appropriate. The United States Of Mad.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Thoughts and Prayers out to Andre Berto and his family
ESPN has some sad news. Welterweight champion Andre Berto, who I posted about earlier, has dropped out of his scheduled fight with Shane Mosley due to overwhelming family tragedy in Haiti.
"Since the 7.0 earthquake struck Haiti on Tuesday evening, I have been focusing on my family and the Haitian people who are facing an inconceivable battle for survival while still trying to continue to prepare for an opportunity I have dreamt of since childhood," Berto said in a statement. "I lost several family members to the earthquake and, after two days without word, was relieved to learn that my sister, Naomi, and her daughter, Jessica, survived, but were left homeless. I have seen the pain in my parents' eyes as they attempt to understand what has happened to our homeland and recognize a place they once called home.
"As a result of this disaster, I am mentally and physically exhausted and, therefore, I have no choice but to withdraw from my bout on January 30."
Berto lost at least eight family members in the disaster.
Berto's parents were born in Haiti before immigrating in 1980 to Winter Haven, Fla., where Berto grew up and still lives. Berto (25-0, 19 KOs) also represented Haiti in the 2004 Olympic Games and has done charitable work there for the past several years.
"Throughout the past six days, I have received an incredible outpouring of support, and I sincerely appreciate everyone's prayers for the people of Haiti," Berto said. "I hope that everyone will continue to keep the Haitian people in their thoughts and prayers as we work to rebuild this proud nation. The rebuilding of Haiti is not something that will happen overnight, but I am fully dedicated to helping the Haitian people recover from this catastrophic event."
For more ways to help you can donate here.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
"Since the 7.0 earthquake struck Haiti on Tuesday evening, I have been focusing on my family and the Haitian people who are facing an inconceivable battle for survival while still trying to continue to prepare for an opportunity I have dreamt of since childhood," Berto said in a statement. "I lost several family members to the earthquake and, after two days without word, was relieved to learn that my sister, Naomi, and her daughter, Jessica, survived, but were left homeless. I have seen the pain in my parents' eyes as they attempt to understand what has happened to our homeland and recognize a place they once called home.
"As a result of this disaster, I am mentally and physically exhausted and, therefore, I have no choice but to withdraw from my bout on January 30."
Berto lost at least eight family members in the disaster.
Berto's parents were born in Haiti before immigrating in 1980 to Winter Haven, Fla., where Berto grew up and still lives. Berto (25-0, 19 KOs) also represented Haiti in the 2004 Olympic Games and has done charitable work there for the past several years.
"Throughout the past six days, I have received an incredible outpouring of support, and I sincerely appreciate everyone's prayers for the people of Haiti," Berto said. "I hope that everyone will continue to keep the Haitian people in their thoughts and prayers as we work to rebuild this proud nation. The rebuilding of Haiti is not something that will happen overnight, but I am fully dedicated to helping the Haitian people recover from this catastrophic event."
For more ways to help you can donate here.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Outcome Looks Bad for Coakley
This statement sums up why I think Coakley will lose, look at the dialog:
At a West Springfield rally on Sunday, a Brown supporter yelled out “Shove a curling iron up her butt’’. The remark was a crude reference to Brown’s opponent, Attorney General Martha Coakley, who was criticized in a recent Boston Globe story for failing to aggressively prosecute a sexual abuse case involving a curling iron.
After that charming rallying cry, a video clip shows Brown grinning and saying, “We can do this.’’
A campaign spokesman said the Republican state senator didn’t hear what was said and was merely giving his standard stump reply. But if Brown didn’t hear it then, shouldn’t he - especially as the father of two daughters - be outraged now ?
Instead, when Sen. John F. Kerry called upon Brown to curb his supporters, a Brown campaign spokesman replied “People are tired of John Kerry’s partisan politics. His baseless accusations reflect the desperate last gasps of a flailing campaign.’’
If Brown isn’t outraged by the crudeness of the curling iron remark, you would think Massachusetts voters would be. But so far, they’re more outraged by Coakley’s misstatement on a radio show that ex-Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling is a “Yankee fan’’, as in the evil empire, New York ball club.
Teh stupid is strong in this campaign. Schilling is a moron for diving into the political climate, however Coakley's comment shows how silly the voters can be, "Don't like the Sox? WE WON'T VOTE FOR YOU!!" Nevermind Brown is a sly politician riding the tea bagger wave with no intention but to win the Senate seat. He won't bring change, it will be more of the same failed Bush policies. But they flock to him and in frightening ways, for all you read about the faux controversy including the Black Panthers from the right-wing during the presidential election, it looks like Brown supporters are much worse:
The polls are reportedly breaking Brown’s way and he may win. The only way to stop him is to get out and vote for Coakley.
Turnout is key. The Democrat’s best hope is a strong ground game.
That’s why Brown supporters are trying to suppress the vote, by bullying and making Coakley supporters believe the cause is hopeless.
That’s the picture Brown is trying to paint. It isn’t pretty, like a lot of his campaign.
Stand up guy. Stand up party. Abusing the system to suppress the vote and deteriorate our national discourse. This won't end well, I hate to be pessimistic, but as the guys at Balloon Juice have pointed out, the narrative for the upcoming weeks will be the following if Brown wins.
Black Jimmy Carter and all of that.
At a West Springfield rally on Sunday, a Brown supporter yelled out “Shove a curling iron up her butt’’. The remark was a crude reference to Brown’s opponent, Attorney General Martha Coakley, who was criticized in a recent Boston Globe story for failing to aggressively prosecute a sexual abuse case involving a curling iron.
After that charming rallying cry, a video clip shows Brown grinning and saying, “We can do this.’’
A campaign spokesman said the Republican state senator didn’t hear what was said and was merely giving his standard stump reply. But if Brown didn’t hear it then, shouldn’t he - especially as the father of two daughters - be outraged now ?
Instead, when Sen. John F. Kerry called upon Brown to curb his supporters, a Brown campaign spokesman replied “People are tired of John Kerry’s partisan politics. His baseless accusations reflect the desperate last gasps of a flailing campaign.’’
If Brown isn’t outraged by the crudeness of the curling iron remark, you would think Massachusetts voters would be. But so far, they’re more outraged by Coakley’s misstatement on a radio show that ex-Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling is a “Yankee fan’’, as in the evil empire, New York ball club.
Teh stupid is strong in this campaign. Schilling is a moron for diving into the political climate, however Coakley's comment shows how silly the voters can be, "Don't like the Sox? WE WON'T VOTE FOR YOU!!" Nevermind Brown is a sly politician riding the tea bagger wave with no intention but to win the Senate seat. He won't bring change, it will be more of the same failed Bush policies. But they flock to him and in frightening ways, for all you read about the faux controversy including the Black Panthers from the right-wing during the presidential election, it looks like Brown supporters are much worse:
The polls are reportedly breaking Brown’s way and he may win. The only way to stop him is to get out and vote for Coakley.
Turnout is key. The Democrat’s best hope is a strong ground game.
That’s why Brown supporters are trying to suppress the vote, by bullying and making Coakley supporters believe the cause is hopeless.
That’s the picture Brown is trying to paint. It isn’t pretty, like a lot of his campaign.
Stand up guy. Stand up party. Abusing the system to suppress the vote and deteriorate our national discourse. This won't end well, I hate to be pessimistic, but as the guys at Balloon Juice have pointed out, the narrative for the upcoming weeks will be the following if Brown wins.
If Coakley loses today, in what way will it be Obama’s fault?
Showing up too late to support her? Crappy health care bill that pisses voters off? Pissing off the base?
Showing up too late to support her? Crappy health care bill that pisses voters off? Pissing off the base?
Black Jimmy Carter and all of that.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Get Your Dunkin Tuesday
| The Daily Show With Jon Stewart | Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c | |||
| Mass Backwards | ||||
| ||||
It is going to be a barn burner!! The early word from Massachusetts is the booths are light. OR not light? And it doesn't sound promising. But you never know! Welp, I am sure the Democrats and Blue Dogs will take this act of laziness on their part as a rejection of "doing too much." 2010 will then include wanking over the deficit, budget hawks in favor of invading Yemen and Joe Lieberman becoming Supreme Chancellor...something to that effect. I for one will rage the eff on. Did anyone catch Castle last night? Man was it good, if you haven't seen it I won't spoil it, but the increasing sexual tensions between Beckett and Castle are about to JUMP OFF THE SCREEN!!! The lady and I have recognized that they have a good formula going right now, "don't trust family" or else (insert creepy music here). I won't say anymore, but man something about Castle's simplicity and crime comedic drama has me hooked.
Here are your highlights:
What looting in Haiti? Our sad media wants everyone to know Haitians steal...or do they? Perhaps it is people who are starving attempting to survive during a terrible tragedy, wow what a concept!
Jesse Jackson Jr. endorses Toni Preckwinkle for Cook Country Board President
Breaking the Law, breaking the law! Bush and the FBI breaking the law
The coddling of the banks needs to continue, otherwise, they can't be creative. Frum = idiot
Rifle sights used by the U.S. military have Bible verses on them. Yes you read that correctly. The name of the company making millions off their "Jesus sights" is named Trijicon. If you ever wanted to find a recruiting tool for Al-Qaida look no further. Not only is this against the Constitution, but it is dangerous to our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. Remind me again, who is it that is fighting a holy war?
Chow!
Monday, January 18, 2010
No Matter What Happens
The race for Senate in Massachusetts reminds me a lot of the NY-23 race, but I will hold my breath because the Senate has proven to be a thorn in our progressive side. Yes, admittedly it means more. Some people are hollering for heads already or declaring if Coakley loses that Obama is a failure. I will remind everyone that this is a much bigger issue. When times like these come up, when all of us want to go "how and the fugg did we end up here?" I will leave you a quote that has kept me great company over the years and it so happens to come from Men in Black:
A person is smart. People are dumb, panicky dangerous animals and you know it. Fifteen hundred years ago everybody knew the Earth was the center of the universe. Five hundred years ago, everybody knew the Earth was flat, and fifteen minutes ago, you knew that humans were alone on this planet. Imagine what you'll know tomorrow.
Not everyone is as informed on the issues, not everyone remembers Republicans being awful for the past 20 years, not everyone agrees Bush caused this mess even if PROOF says otherwise. We are in fact surrounded by the stupid and the Democratic party lost sight of that or perhaps they are the stupid. Whichever way you want to take it, I am sure after tomorrow it applies.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
A person is smart. People are dumb, panicky dangerous animals and you know it. Fifteen hundred years ago everybody knew the Earth was the center of the universe. Five hundred years ago, everybody knew the Earth was flat, and fifteen minutes ago, you knew that humans were alone on this planet. Imagine what you'll know tomorrow.
Not everyone is as informed on the issues, not everyone remembers Republicans being awful for the past 20 years, not everyone agrees Bush caused this mess even if PROOF says otherwise. We are in fact surrounded by the stupid and the Democratic party lost sight of that or perhaps they are the stupid. Whichever way you want to take it, I am sure after tomorrow it applies.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Ninja Thought
Any news, win or lose, is good news for Republicans (h/t Atrios)I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
And the Children throw a Temper Tantrum
Huffington Post:
Critics of the Obama administration's proposed bank tax have called the levy arbitrary, punitive and unfair. Now they may repeat those same claims in court.
The banking industry, the New York Times reports today, is hoping to stave off a tax that could cost the largest firms more than $1.5 billion each.
The Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (SIFMA), the banks' top lobbying group, the NYT reports, is currently considering challenging the constitutionality of Obama's Financial Crisis Responsibility Fee. According to an email from SIFMA to Wall Street's banks obtained by the NYT, the tax "would unfairly single out and penalize big banks."
We should make it even a harsher punishment. Perhaps putting them in time out and taking away their after dinner teevee privileges? Threatening them with a wooden spoon or daddy will bring out the leather belt to give them a whopping? Maybe take away their play time with mistresses and transformers?
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Critics of the Obama administration's proposed bank tax have called the levy arbitrary, punitive and unfair. Now they may repeat those same claims in court.
The banking industry, the New York Times reports today, is hoping to stave off a tax that could cost the largest firms more than $1.5 billion each.
The Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (SIFMA), the banks' top lobbying group, the NYT reports, is currently considering challenging the constitutionality of Obama's Financial Crisis Responsibility Fee. According to an email from SIFMA to Wall Street's banks obtained by the NYT, the tax "would unfairly single out and penalize big banks."
We should make it even a harsher punishment. Perhaps putting them in time out and taking away their after dinner teevee privileges? Threatening them with a wooden spoon or daddy will bring out the leather belt to give them a whopping? Maybe take away their play time with mistresses and transformers?
As I said to Paddy K over the weekend we should collect the TARP money and all the other "earned dollars" these fat cats have received from taxpayers with the same standard they apply to their victims, with interest and excessive fees. It would only be fair, especially after this behavior. Sadly, with Dodd looking to destroy the Consumer Protection Agency, Frank losing his fortitude and Brown perhaps getting elected in Mass; the banks again look to be winning.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
The Uneducation of Texas
This is frightening. Right-wing legislators in Texas are proposing changes to our history books and they might actually be successful.
TPM:
The conservative bloc on the Texas State Board of Education won a string of victories Friday, obtaining approval for an amendment requiring high school U.S. history students to know about Phyllis Schlafly and the Contract with America as well as inserting a clause that aims to justify McCarthyism.
Outspoken conservative board member Don McLeroy, who reportedly spent over three hours personally proposing changes to the textbook standards, even wanted to cut "hip-hop" in favor of "country" in a section about the impact of cultural movements. That amendment failed.
The board also voted to delay further debate on the nationally influential standards until March, with a final adoption vote now scheduled for May.
Just to emphasize the severity of these proposals here is one that luckily was not adopted:
McLeroy proposed a clause in the civil rights section that read (emphasis ours): "Evaluate changes and events in the United States that have resulted from the civil rights movement, including increased participation of minorities in the political process and unrealistic expectations for equal outcomes."
Houston we have a problem. This is getting increasingly serious, we aren't talking about the John Birch society or KKK members intimidating voters and these aren't enraged tea-baggers. These are elected officials attempting to downplay the civil rights movement and rewrite history in a more positive light of conservatism. Can you imagine what happens to kids in Texas? The Bush's are exalted. Reagan is perfect and Gingrich is a god. And this coming from the very people screaming "Obama is indoctrinating our kids!"
I hate to say it, but this is why I consider moving out of the United States on a regular basis. There is just too much stupid to combat. You have to realize that the most recent incarnation of the conservative movement isn't based in reality and it has no intent to include open minds and difference of opinion. They are eliminationists and their purpose is to change the culture by which we define Americanism.
If you think they will stop with textbooks, you are sorely mistaken.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message.
TPM:
The conservative bloc on the Texas State Board of Education won a string of victories Friday, obtaining approval for an amendment requiring high school U.S. history students to know about Phyllis Schlafly and the Contract with America as well as inserting a clause that aims to justify McCarthyism.
Outspoken conservative board member Don McLeroy, who reportedly spent over three hours personally proposing changes to the textbook standards, even wanted to cut "hip-hop" in favor of "country" in a section about the impact of cultural movements. That amendment failed.
The board also voted to delay further debate on the nationally influential standards until March, with a final adoption vote now scheduled for May.
Just to emphasize the severity of these proposals here is one that luckily was not adopted:
McLeroy proposed a clause in the civil rights section that read (emphasis ours): "Evaluate changes and events in the United States that have resulted from the civil rights movement, including increased participation of minorities in the political process and unrealistic expectations for equal outcomes."
Houston we have a problem. This is getting increasingly serious, we aren't talking about the John Birch society or KKK members intimidating voters and these aren't enraged tea-baggers. These are elected officials attempting to downplay the civil rights movement and rewrite history in a more positive light of conservatism. Can you imagine what happens to kids in Texas? The Bush's are exalted. Reagan is perfect and Gingrich is a god. And this coming from the very people screaming "Obama is indoctrinating our kids!"
I hate to say it, but this is why I consider moving out of the United States on a regular basis. There is just too much stupid to combat. You have to realize that the most recent incarnation of the conservative movement isn't based in reality and it has no intent to include open minds and difference of opinion. They are eliminationists and their purpose is to change the culture by which we define Americanism.
If you think they will stop with textbooks, you are sorely mistaken.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message.
Get Your Dunkin Monday
A quick weekend indeed. The lady and I started off heading out to bowl and ended up at a hipster diner downing some booze. I kicked off Saturday with games of basketball, which I am still sore from, followed by a nice evening with the lady and I simply chilling. Sunday we rocked the grocery store action, football and then the HEAVENS OPENED UP AND GOD WAS GOOD TO ME! The lady made her grandmother's famous coffee cake. You say coffee cake? Frank what's so great about that? Only that God himself smiles every time it comes out of the oven! Just homemade goodness to your morning. And yes I will eat it all tonight. I am in the office as my company is anti-Uhmerican and we work on MLK day. It would be interesting to know what he would be doing if he were alive during our current political climate.
Here are your highlights:
Foreclosure crisis? It's not even close to being over
Chicago Bears Defensive End Gaines Adams passed away yesterday morning
Ezra Klein has done the leg work so we don't have to, Putting the Health Care Bill in Perspective
There have been some rather stupid email blasts lately from progressive groups. And by stupid I mean, "GET RAHM!" or "Tell Obama No!" or "Obama is McCain" These self defeating attacks seem just as irrational as the right wing rants on RedState. Digby paints a little reality on the movement right now. Letting the Republicans win back a couple of seats to prove Democrats "we won't take it." Might be the worst idea ever and are you really willing to let a single right wing, tea party approved Republican in Congress? I don't because I care about the future of our country and fighting ourselves is not worth letting crazy "take the country back."
Chow!
Friday, January 15, 2010
Late Night Music with Devil Wears Prada
I'm out...for now...till then, SHUT UP AND DANCE! Devil Wears Prada, AP's Band of the Year
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Rep. Ike Skelton loves him some Don't Ask Don't Tell
the Hill:
The leading House Democrat on military policy said Friday that he opposes repealing the law that bans openly gay people from serving in the military.
Seventeen years ago, Rep. Ike Skelton (D-Mo.) played a major role in crafting the controversial law known as "Don't ask, don't tell." When President Bill Clinton wanted to lift the ban preventing gay people from joining the military, Skelton opposed the move. The end result was a compromise under which gay service members would conceal their sexual orientation.
Now, after President Barack Obama pledged during his campaign and first year in office to repeal the law, Skelton finds himself on the opposite side once again.
"I am personally not for changing the law," he said during a C-SPAN "Newsmakers" interview that will air Sunday.
Because the military is engaged in two major conflicts, in Afghanistan and Iraq, changing the law would create "disruption" that can cause some "serious problems," Skelton said during the interview.
Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat? "Disruption?" "Serious problems?" What might that be? Skelton must think that soldiers will stop fighting and get all gay like maybe glitter up their weapons and try to play Elton John records to submit Al-Qaida passively (see the comments to see where I get these from *sigh such h8).
The only thing Don't Ask Don't Tell does is make our military personnel less effective. We are talking about willing and committed members of our armed services, some with particular skill sets such as fluency in Arabic, ousted because of their sexual orientation. The actual "serious problem" Skelton misses is the disruption the policy does to our military and military recruitment. What gay individual would want to serve under this policy? It is a policy that is a detriment to our men and women fighting and serving which is based solely off of blatant homophobia. Lt. Dan Choi has been one of the leaders in repealing Don't Ask Don't Tell. I would suggest for those still questioning the necessity of the repeal to listen to him.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
The leading House Democrat on military policy said Friday that he opposes repealing the law that bans openly gay people from serving in the military.
Seventeen years ago, Rep. Ike Skelton (D-Mo.) played a major role in crafting the controversial law known as "Don't ask, don't tell." When President Bill Clinton wanted to lift the ban preventing gay people from joining the military, Skelton opposed the move. The end result was a compromise under which gay service members would conceal their sexual orientation.
Now, after President Barack Obama pledged during his campaign and first year in office to repeal the law, Skelton finds himself on the opposite side once again.
"I am personally not for changing the law," he said during a C-SPAN "Newsmakers" interview that will air Sunday.
Because the military is engaged in two major conflicts, in Afghanistan and Iraq, changing the law would create "disruption" that can cause some "serious problems," Skelton said during the interview.
Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat? "Disruption?" "Serious problems?" What might that be? Skelton must think that soldiers will stop fighting and get all gay like maybe glitter up their weapons and try to play Elton John records to submit Al-Qaida passively (see the comments to see where I get these from *sigh such h8).
The only thing Don't Ask Don't Tell does is make our military personnel less effective. We are talking about willing and committed members of our armed services, some with particular skill sets such as fluency in Arabic, ousted because of their sexual orientation. The actual "serious problem" Skelton misses is the disruption the policy does to our military and military recruitment. What gay individual would want to serve under this policy? It is a policy that is a detriment to our men and women fighting and serving which is based solely off of blatant homophobia. Lt. Dan Choi has been one of the leaders in repealing Don't Ask Don't Tell. I would suggest for those still questioning the necessity of the repeal to listen to him.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Ninja Thought
Fighting for the cause while fighting against the cause is teh stupidI am Frank Chow and I approved this message
"Heroes" Actor Contacts Home
With the tragedies and horror stories we are hearing about in Haiti, it is nice to see something like this:
More here.
More here.
I am Frank Chow and I approved this message
Get Your Dunkin Friday
January sucks. It is a new year. You get back to work, realize not much is different and you can't get back into the flow of working at the office. It is cold out. Really fuggin cold out and your commute is longer, busier and full of slips on the icy sidewalk. January sucks. But you know what doesn't? Football. Beer. Lady. And friends. So you suck it up till May when you get that glimpse of sun through the Midwestern skies. Tonight I am going bowling with the lady and some good friends. Something about chucking a ball down a lane that gets me psyched. I love it. Happy Friday homies!
Here are your highlights:
A year ago the Obama administration predicted unemployment would drop to 6% by 2011, now that it isn't even close, anybody want to do something about?
After tough negotiations, Cadillac Compromise
Taking my money out, JP Morgan Chase billions in profits
Paddy K weighs in on the United States vs. Europe debate
The WaPo is a joke now letting Karl Rove "give" advice to the Dems...I will leave you with this meaty little tidbit from David Axelrod:
The day the Bush administration took over from President Bill Clinton in 2001, America enjoyed a $236 billion budget surplus -- with a projected 10-year surplus of $5.6 trillion. When the Bush administration left office, it handed President Obama a $1.3 trillion deficit -- and projected shortfalls of $8 trillion for the next decade. During eight years in office, the Bush administration passed two major tax cuts skewed to the wealthiest Americans, enacted a costly Medicare prescription-drug benefit and waged two wars, without paying for any of it.
To put the breathtaking scope of this irresponsibility in perspective, the Bush administration's swing from surpluses to deficits added more debt in its eight years than all the previous administrations in the history of our republic combined. And its spending spree is the unwelcome gift that keeps on giving: Going forward, these unpaid-for policies will continue to add trillions to our deficit.
This fiscal irresponsibility -- and a laissez-faire attitude toward the excesses of the financial industry -- helped create the conditions for the deepest economic catastrophe since the Great Depression.
Chow!
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