Fat people need more attention than terrorists, evidently

The idiot that said this is a professor:

"World governments are focussing too much on fighting terrorism while obesity and other 'lifestyle diseases' are killing millions more people, an international conference heard Monday.

Overcoming deadly factors such as poor diet, smoking and a lack of exercise should take top priority in the fight against a growing epidemic of chronic disease, legal and health experts said.

Global terrorism was a real threat but posed far less risk than obesity, type two diabetes and smoking-related illnesses, US law professor Lawrence Gostin said at the Oxford Health Alliance Summit here.

"Ever since September 11 we've been lurching from one crisis to the next which has really frightened the public," Gostin told AFP later.

"While we've been focussing so much attention on that we've had this silent epidemic of obesity that's killing millions of people around the world and we're devoting very little attention to it and a negligible amount of money."

Like terrorism, some passing health threats get major government attention and media coverage, while heart and lung disease, diabetes and cancer account for 60 percent of the world's deaths, the meeting was told.

Global terrorism was a real threat but posed less risk that obesity? Was? Is this professor living in the same age that I am?

Obesity is NOT worse than, or even the same as Terrorism. Obesity may be a factor in diseases that kill millions of people each year. But it's no terrorism. Please, AP, let's report another story that dumbs down terrorism to make people less afraid. Because that helps us in the global war on terror. Idiots.

I'm not sure how people could sit in a conference and listen to imbeciles argue that obesity should be given more money than the war on terror. Instead of frightening the public by raising the terror alert or sending more weapons and gear to the troops abroad, we should stop that and turn our attention to obesity, because surely that will put the fear of God into people.... WHAT?!

There is a great voice out there for all sorts of diseases influenced by obesity- heart disease is the focus this month and everyone is wearing red for women! It's something to be dealt with seriously, that people should take personal responsibility for, that food companies and others can start to turn their attention to healthier choices and lifestyles.

But please don't try to compare obesity to terrorism or terrorists. It does not plot on a daily basis how to take out millions of Americans. Terrorists do. It does not hate our way of life, our freedom, the very air we breathe. Terrorists do. Obesity does not hide in caves, cowardly and afraid. Terrorists do. Obesity does not lie it's way into a country, murder itself as a "martyr for its god" or terrorize innocent citizens trying to live their daily lives. Terrorists do.

We should fear the terrorists. They want to KILL us. Obesity can be brought under control with a little discipline, exercise and moderation. Try taming a terrorist with those tools, moron.

Sunday Night Live

Weekend update, Saturday Night Live should be re-written to include a hit for Barack Obama.

"Obama's rhetoric, actually funny when related to Hillary."

Sen. Barack Obama said today Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton presents herself as if she was "co-president" from 1993 to 2000.

HA! Not off the mark, I'll say.

It's all black and white

I often find myself asking, "Why is this news?" And this is a perfect example.

So what if Michelle Obama wrote her senior thesis about how she rediscovered her Blackness? The "I'm black first, a student second" =BULL S**T. Get over your color-insecurity and quit blaming others for a supposed attitude you project onto them. This is an even bigger pile of crap:

Obama writes that the path she chose by attending Princeton would likely lead to her "further integration and/or assimilation into a white cultural and social structure that will only allow me to remain on the periphery of society; never becoming a full participant."

Perhaps the your husband is running for President thing will lead her to retract that statement in a future piece. I'm sure she'll get a book deal, and not because she's black.

All I have to say is I wish I could have written a 96 page thesis on my white-ness. How absurd.

JUNO: Michael and Ellen Sing About Jason Reitman

She is amazing. I hope she wins.

Are we surprised?

WASHINGTON (Feb. 24) - Ralph Nader said Sunday he will run for president as a third-party candidate, criticizing the top White House contenders as too close to big business and pledging to repeat a bid that will "shift the power from the few to the many."

Did he beat Ron Paul to the 3rd party bid?

Question- what's with all the old guys for president? Barack Obama looks about 15 when compared to these old timers. They'll be dead before their first term is up.

Not quite

One guy's attempt....

Just not the same as THIS guy's!

Proud, for another reason

Michelle Malkin has something to get off her chest.

Like Michelle Obama, I am a "woman of color." Like Michelle Obama, I am a working mother of two young children. Like Michelle Obama, I am a member of the 13th generation of Americans born since the founding of our great nation.

Unlike Michelle Obama, I can't keep track of the number of times I've been proud -- really proud -- of my country since I was born and privileged to live in it.

At a speech in Milwaukee this week on behalf of her husband's Democratic presidential campaign, Mrs. Obama remarked, "For the first time in my adult lifetime, I am really proud of my country, and not just because Barack has done well, but because I think people are hungry for change."

Mrs. Obama's statement was met with warm applause from other Barack supporters who have apparently also been devoid of pride in their country for their adult lifetimes. Or maybe it was just a Pavlovian response to the word "change." What a sad, empty, narcissistic, ungrateful, unthinking lot.

Brilliant. Read the rest.

Feeling grouchy on the McCains

My friends, there should only be ONE "My friends" reference allowed in all future John McCain speeches. Everything he says it, I think he's coming to a close...AND then he continues on to three or more "My friends."

And I'm sorry, but could Cindy McCain have anymore plastic surgery? She's attractive, but sort of looks like Barbie...though a few poses resembled Gollum from Lord of the Rings this evening...please don't wink Mrs. McCain.


EEK!

Some inspiration for your ballot-box moment

From a friend:

I feel your pain about the dismal choices we face for our next President. It is especially dispiriting the day after Presidents Day, when we celebrate such great men and leaders as Washington and Lincoln. Like I had said before, it really frustrates me that there is nobody seeking office who stirs any kind of passion in me. But perhaps because of this, I've become more and more reluctant to "play the game" in politics. I still believe that the power to restore the country to greatness lies not in its President, but in its people. Maybe our next President will inadvertently remind us of this. You had mentioned you are in a volunteer group. Next time there is a meeting, take a look around. Those are the true leaders of this country. And I might add, they should be looking at you and thinking the same thing.

I could go on and on about how the problem isn't the policies, but the people who nod in agreement when they are told they are owed something. Where is the sense of pride, hard work, and responsibility that built this nation? What ever happened to "Ask not what your country can do for you.."? And that was a Democrat! It is the feeling of entitlement that is the problem. But I think this stems from the bigger issue of relying on the government to fix everything that's wrong. And that is a trap that I think even people like you and me can fall into. I'm saying this not to be preachy, but to offer some consolation. The next President will not be someone you or I will want in office. But I don't think that will be a failure of this country, not as long as there are still people who represent what is best about what America really is.

As to your vote today, it's not an easy choice when there are no good choices. But I would suggest leaving the "game" part out of the equation. I wouldn't worry about the polls or who would benefit most from what. I would make a list of the people who are seeking office, and choose the one you think is best for the job. If that is McCain or Huckabee, Obama or Clinton, or even Ron Paul, a vote for that person equates to your voice being heard. The only way to silence that, or for your vote not to count, is if you either don't vote or if your vote doesn't reflect your voice at all.

Now that is inspirational.

What's a girl gonna do?

Yesterday I rudely made the city clerk's office take a few minutes to fill out a "registration form" for me, after registering so that I would have proper documentation today and not have to re-register at my polling place. I could have just voted early. But I wasn't ready.

Do I crossover?

Do I vote for Hillary in hopes that many other GOPers do the same and thwart Barack's momentum?

Do I vote for Barack because if he wins- and takes the White House- he will no doubt be the easiest to beat in four years, therefore setting up our next guy?

Do I vote within my party?

Do I vote for McCain, despite my absolute disgust at the whole situation?

Do I vote for Huckabee, a lost cause, further wasting my vote?

Romney's still on the ballot..oh how I wish he had waited... and then there's always crazy Ron Paul. Or I could write in Newt?

Taking suggestions. Anyone? Anyone? Bueller?

She speaks to me

"I Don't Ever Give Up" - Patty Griffin

I'm no kid in a kid's game
I did what I did, I've got no one to blame
But I don't give up, no, I don't ever give up
It's all I've got, it's my claim to fame

I'm no fighter but I'm fighting
This whole world seems uninviting
But I don't give up, no, I don't ever give up
I fall down sometimes, sometimes I come back flying

Liars are lying, airplanes are flying
Love isn't here, love isn't here
But it's somewhere
Time to forget me, but something won't let me
Love isn't here, love isn't here
But it's somewhere

And I cleaned and I washed up
This dream I don't ever give up
I don't ever give up, I don't ever give up
No, I don't ever give up, no, I don't ever give up
No, I don't ever give up, I don't ever give up

News 27

Last night, I sat in awe as Madison News 27 tried to put a face, although blurry, to the illegal immigrant of Wisconsin.

Jose Luis -No Last Name- and his wife milk cows and risked their lives coming here- illegally, by the way.

So here we have found illegal immigrants. Rather than report them to authorities, or better yet- round them up and ship them out- we report their story as if it is valuable news for our community and try to create a pity-attitude. I do not pity the illegal immigrants.

They have stolen their way into our country. They want opportunity? So did everyone else who came through Ellis Island, and came through the system as it is today.

Get. In. Line.

Jose Luis now works on a Rock County dairy farm doing maintenance. Maria milks cows. Neither has a social security card or work visa, but they have jobs.

Jose Luis explains how it works: "It's the same way everybody does it. You go to a person. You ask do you have a job? Do you need someone to work?"

Jose Luis says he went door to door until he found a farmer who didn't ask about his immigration status and hired him illegally.

Now, Jose Luis and his family live in a nice house provided by their employer. They drive a car.

Jose Luis even has a valid Wisconsin driver's license. He got it seven years ago when he didn't need a social security card to get a drivers license. Today, Real ID laws mandate he first prove his citizenship.

The only U.S. citizen in the family is 2-year-old Deyamilet, who was born in Wisconsin.

Big sister Deyanira is not a citizen, but she is a first grader. By law, every child has a right to public education in the U.S. regardless of immigration status.

Jose Luis is thankful his daughters will go to American schools.

From the outside, they live a normal, American life, but Jose Luis and his family are not Americans. They illegally live the American dream, hiding in plain sight and in constant fear of deportation.

"You can travel around the country to Vegas, Disney World, but it's better to stay in the shadow. Take it easy. Stay where you are," Jose confides.

Jose Luis says he faces racism daily, but he won't complain. He's too terrified someone will complain about him.

Of all things in this segment, News 27 wants me to feel sorry for Jose Luis. This family has a car and a roof. They have food, enough to have a second child, who will be educated with her big sister in American schools, no questions asked.

They should live in constant fear of deportation. They should be DEPORTED!

And please don't get me started on racism. I'm not going to bat for the illegal immigrant, no matter the country.

News 27, I'm disappointed. Do better.

FISA IN-Action

Next time we are attacked, most likely under President Obama, I'm marching straight to the office of one, Nancy Pelosi.

The House's failure to extend FISA puts us in danger. A three week extension-wow, what a generous gesture towards the wellbeing of America. What is 3 weeks if Congress still allows it to expire?

The President initially postponed his Africa trip to pressure the House. The Senate already passed the FISA bill. Nancy, wake up and smell the coffee. I understand you're probably distracted by your neighbor Marine-hate groups in Berkeley, but America actually needs you on this one.

If FISA expires, making it more difficult to obtain vital information against terrorists by requiring law enforcement to wait on the bureaucracy of obtaining specific warrants and legal action to fight terrorism, the bullseye on the US Map will only thicken. Are you kidding me?

Go ahead, make us more vulnerable. Once a few more thousand Americans are dead, perhaps the reality will set in.

Another school shooting

It's not original anymore. It just pisses me off. I get angry reading the headline of another school shooting, but then I get sucked into the personal accounts of terror.

Dan Parmenter, a 20-year-old sophomore from Elmhurst, Ill., was one of those killed, his stepfather, Robert Greer, told the Chicago Tribune.

"I'm not angry," Greer said. "I'm just sad, and I know that right now what I need to do is comfort my wife."

Mr. Greer,I'm sorry for you and your family. But I'm really angry. The Cowards that are school shooters are only that and nothing more, spineless. If they are sick, they need to get help.

Yes, easier said than done. But what does that suicide mission and killing innocent college students and creating terror actually do?

The shooting was the fourth at a U.S. school within a week.

It's a cowardly out.

What does this mean?

There's an letter to the editor in the Green Bay Press Gazette today, that left me feeling "?"

'Always vote for principle'

ALLOUEZ — Sen. Obama says he will eliminate poverty. Christ told us the poor will always be with us.

I'm again implored to vote for change, to move forward — whatever that means, yet the candidate who speaks to healing the country and wins most of the debates only receives about 4 percent of the vote.

Voters seem to swallow the snake-oil spiel of only voting for someone electable. This robs one of his vote and is destructive of the democratic process. While your candidate may not win, John Quincy Adams reminds us to "always vote for principle, though you may vote alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never lost."

Edward A. Hummel

So is Eddie here an Obama supporter? Who's winning what debates?

Sounds like a bunch of made-up shit to me.

Wake up

I am deeply troubled about the future of America. While overwhelmed by Obama's Universal healthcare for America tv ads and the idea that my vote next week certainly won't count after today, I hang my head for our nation.

Tonight, McCain's recitation of the words on the teleprompter were just about enough for me. He sure isn't an inspiring reader. I can't say the "new ideas" he's bringing to "Warshington" will be much more inspiring if he doesn't start putting some thought behind those words- some emotion - some emphasis. A note to your crowd, they shouldn't read it along with you.

We're not friends either, man.

Mum's the word

"British Olympic chiefs are to force athletes to sign a contract promising not to speak out about China's appalling human rights record – or face being banned from travelling to Beijing."

This is interesting on so many levels, let's begin with censorship in the athletic arena. As the Olympics are often a stage of protest- examples abound in this article alone -it is an interesting choice of location for political statements to be dramatized.

For one, how hypocritical of a nation to stand shoulder to shoulder with athletes from different countries, saluting their flags, the rings, and the torch- but then criticize one another for their government's actions? "One World, One Dream" is the official slogan. What is the actual "one dream" to which they refer, though?

World peace? Democracy? Freedom? One religion for all? Athletic gold? Hmmmm.

We know now, thanks to the English, that not everyone is actually agreeing with the "one dream" ideal in participating in China. So why not stay home?

If British athletes stay home from the Summer 2008 Olympics, what message does that send? Flying in the face of white-supremacy and Nazi extremism, a black man won 4 golds in Munich. In your face, Hitler! He didn't go to the Olympics though to send Hitler a message. He went to break Olympic athletic records, to be recognized on an international scale for his talent. Is that not what all athletes compete for?

As far as China's record of civil rights, I by no means am one to defend them. But China won the bid to host. Um, let me remind you, they won it 7 years ago- in 2001. Why an issue only now?

Is anyone else protesting? Yes. Pro-Tibetan groups are protesting for Tibetan independence. Reporters Without Borders will boycott over violations of free speech and human rights in China. Activists against the violence in Darfur are calling for pressure on China because of their connections to Omar al-Bashir, and even Desmond Tutu may protest too. With so much attention on the nation and Beijing, why would the Olympics not attract thousands of people "with a message" to send to the world?

All the world's a stage and the athletes, merely players in it? I dare say, is China right to criticize these groups for trying to negatively politicize the Olympics? There is no right or wrong answer here. If the British athletes feel constricted by this condition of their contracts, they should boycott the Olympics. If they can stomach the "civil rights record of China" and be there merely to compete for their dream of Gold, they should just go and shut up about it.

Or, is this a chance to turn the world's eye on China and pressure it to conform to a higher standard of human rights? Honestly, do you believe China will change it's ways because a few countries bow out of the Olympics? It would take a large group of significant countries to make even a dent...

I do find it appalling that the British government is trying to muzzle their athletes. A clear and blatant disregard for individuals' rights to speech and protest. Can you imagine the United States pulling such a wool sweater over American Athlete's eyes? Oh Boo-hoo. Like I said, I'd think these athletes would forfeit their right to just about anything else to compete in the Olympics. That is an amazing gift and honor. I'm a woman and the Chinese bind little girls' feet and send them down the river (yes, female infanticide)...but if I was competing in the 2008 Olympics, you'd be right I'd do it with a closed mouth, or sit home if I couldn't. Come home after you win your medal and blog away about it. What can they do to you then? Or if you can't handle it, snub 'em and deal with it on a personal level.

Technically Britain is only repeating what is already in Section 51 of the International Olympic Committee charter, which

“provides for no kind of demonstration, or political, religious or racial propaganda in the Olympic sites, venues or other areas”.

And, I might just agree with Simon Cowell's twin brother, Simon Clegg of the BOA who said:

“There are all sorts of organisations who would like athletes to use the Olympic Games as a vehicle to publicise their causes.

“I don't believe that is in the interest of the team performance.

“As a team we are ambassadors of the country and we have to conform to an appropriate code of conduct.”

Finally, I believe the right to speech crap falls on it's face. Not to dumb it down too much, but you can't yell out at the Opera, yell FIRE in a theatre, or sing in the movies. That's a restriction of my right to free-speech. But, it's obnoxious, distracting, and a societal-norm that you just don't do those things. Perhaps that's how the Olympics should be. Let's focus on athleticism and the pretty medals.

I'm done repeating myself.

I lost my

Pizza cutter. This is a tragedy of gargantuan proportions for a pizza lover such as myself.

And my mother will likely not vote today.

Extra cheese, and slice before delivery please.

Standing up

Kudos, Mr. Van Hollen.

Republican Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen is offering a passionate defense of his conservative credentials, responding to critics in his party.

Some want him to issue legal opinions tailored to conservative views, he says. But people who focus on single issues – such as abortion, guns and business regulation – are missing the larger picture of “guiding principles,” he said Saturday.

"There are too many in both parties who stand for issues, not philosophies," Van Hollen told a big gathering of conservatives at the Americans for Prosperity summit in Pewaukee on Saturday.

Van Hollen explained that even if he disagrees with a law on the books, his job is to offer a legal opinion when controversies arise, not a personal opinion. He accused his predecessor, Democrat Peg Lautenschlager, of injecting her personal politics into the job. While it may appear he is not acting as a conservative, Van Hollen said his philosophy is actually true to the “first principles” of conservatism: limited government, local control and individual responsibility. “I can’t abrogate my duties,” he said. After his address, he told a reporter that if voters didn't like his approach, they will vote him out of office. But he said he has to be true to his philosophy.

Kudos.

Rove on the Factor...and subsequent pontifications

Some interesting citations and political analysis offered this evening on The Factor.

Rove cites poling numbers that indicate McCain may be better at consolidating his base than Obama. Evidently 78% of Republican voters choose McCain over Obama, 10% choosing Obama.

Recognizing Obama is the most inexperienced candidate, has no business being Commander in Chief and is one of the most liberal members of Congress, 18% of Democratic voters choose McCain over Obama (almost twice that of Republicans).

Obama may speak eloquently and flutter amidst the moderate idealists of the nation, but his record is anything BUT.
His interest group ratings over the past few years? I'll just list a few...he supported the interests of:

NARAL Pro-Choice America - Supported 100%
Planned Parenthood - 100% (ah, him and the Girl Scouts too)
National Right to Life- GOOSE egg
Farm Bureau - 35%
Americans for Tax Reform - 15%
Citizens for Tax Justice - 100% (My favorite "* Requiring the wealthy to pay their fair share")
National Tax Payers Union - 6%
American Forest & Paper Association - 42% (That, to Wisconsin? OH NO YOU DIDN'T!)
National Small Business Association - 28%
NFIB - 17%
Americans United for the Separation of Church and State - 100%
American Civil Liberties Union - 83%
National Council of La Raza - 100%
Citizens United for Rehabilitation of Errants - 70%
League of Conservation Voters - 100%
National Rifle Association -Grade: F
American Immigration Lawyers Association - 88%
US Border Control - 8%
AFL-CIO - 93%
National Journal - Liberal on Foreign Policy - 85%
National Journal - Liberal on Economic Policy -87%
National Journal - Composite Liberal Score - 86%

He doesn't care if you want an abortion or want to come in illegally and get free health care. But he's certainly behind unions, liberal ideology, separating church and state, and robbing the rich to pay for the poor.

However, I'm not confident enough to put this up in comparison to McCain's record.

But, can I be one of the GOP 78%?

No sympathy

Bobby Cutts is crying on the stand and it's being broadcast over my late lunch hour. Not OK.

You murdered your pregnant girlfriend, you Sick Perv. Keep up the crying act. Good acting.

No sympathy. And I've officially lost my appetite.

Waterboarding

All means necessary.

What is it you people are missing here? We are talking about the interrogation of TERRORISTS for vital information to protect the United States of America. These are people who want to KILL you.

Press people - Quit asking about waterboarding. Quit trying to get the President to talk about how the U.S. may or may not be using torture methods to extract critical information. Quit telling our Military officials how they should or should not handle TERRORISTS WHO WANT TO KILL US.

There won't be any secret trials, are you happy? Now you can rest assured all "men" on earth are receiving just trials. But damn straight we want the Death penalty for these scumbags.

The prosecution rests.

Hurray for Mark Green!

Green relishes his duties as U.S. ambassador to Tanzania : Ex-congressman prepares for visit from president

GREEN BAY — Almost six months after assuming his post as U.S. ambassador to Tanzania, Mark Green is keeping plenty busy.

In fact, he says he is too immersed in the business of overseeing America's interest in that African nation and preparing for a visit by President Bush to get involved in partisan politics back home or sulk about his own failed run for governor.

In a telephone interview last week from his office in Dar es Salaam, Green, 47, didn't rule out a return to politics, when he returns to the Green Bay area, probably next year. He stressed that he has no specific post in mind.

"I serve at the pleasure of the president," Green said. "I assume the next president, Republican or Democrat, will want to be able to fill this great post with someone of his or her choice."

In the meantime, the former Republican congressman and state legislator from Hobart said he feels honored to be able to serve as the chief U.S. representative to one of America's staunchest African allies. And he's getting ready to support President Bush, who is making his second visit to Africa from Friday through Feb. 21.

"The president will spend the largest part of his African trip here in Tanzania. Tanzania will be the centerpiece of his African trip," Green said. "He is doing a number of things here, but I think the best way to characterize it is, he is coming to see some of his signature policy initiatives at work."

Those policies include programs to support the economic development of Tanzania and campaigns against HIV/AIDS and malaria.

"Before I arrived here, I couldn't have imagined how this touches every single Tanzanian," he said.

"I have not yet met a Tanzanian who does not know someone who is HIV-positive or does not know someone who has lost a loved one because of AIDS. It is a cost to every community. It has weakened the generation that would normally be the income-producing leaders in society. It's a huge challenge."

Green said he's been given the rare opportunity to see firsthand the implementation of some of the programs that he championed in Congress.

"I'm just blessed to have had this exciting chapter open up," he said. "We'll see what the next chapter is, but this is a pretty good place right now."

Chelsea and Bill, but no Hill?

Obama is coming a-knockin'. The Kohl center will be a-rockin'. I have to say, despite my hatred for the Democratic ticket's "agenda" and the dude who insists upon hanging an "Obama '08" sign in the front window of the house I live in... it's exciting when Presidential candidates visit your state- and the Capitol city if you live in it.

But the Hillary campaign (and yes, isn't it interesting how most pundits refer to the candidates as Obama (last name) and Hillary (first name)?) is sending Bill, and... Chelsea?

Now, I understand children advocating for their parents for political office. I understand the Romney sons out along the campaign trail, wind rustling their perfect hair, sun tanning their golden skin and children's toe-heads, their Orbitz gum teeth sparkling in the sun. I think it's also great when they stand back, as in the case of the Bush twins, who just wanted to be kids and support their dad from afar. Now that she's older, and having been protected well during her awkward, growing-up years in the White House, Chelsea Clinton is an integral part of her mother's campaign. I assume there's a Real World/Survivor type alliance between the two women of the house, but I am a bit surprised she is such a warrior for her mother.

Of all things, I'm not sure she's the surrogate they want a-stumpin'. If you think about Obama, he will rally the children of the corn, I mean, the Wisconsin student body. There is no doubt, it will be as though Wisconsin just upset another Big-10 team in the Kohl center and Halloween on State Street all combined. Hell, Kerry had his largest rally EVER on Capitol Square with Bruce Springstein in '04 - and John Kerry is about as inspiring as Dr. Kevorkian (who I surprisingly think about everytime Kerry speaks . oh sorry). However you want to say it, the liberals will be out wagging their tails in anticipation.

But what's to get excited about with Chelsea? She's single now...but I have a feeling most Fraternity boys would go running in the other direction - they do say women take after their mothers as they age... and well, boys, do you disagree? I have nothing personal against the girl, and I am sorry that her homeliest years were exploited in the media. (Disclaimer: I myself was not the most coordinated or stylish teenager, glasses, braces, the works - so I can say it!!)

Anyway, back on topic. IF I were a Hilary Clinton supporter (pause- shiver at the thought), I would feel a tad gypped. I'm just not sure you want the kid of the candidate before a critical primary. CRITICAL! Yes, the Bush twins stumped for their dad, but they certainly weren't a substitution for the real thing during a critical primary in a targeted state. The daughter, really?

At least Obama is coming himself. And his wife will bring the booty!

Colossians, chapter 3

"Let Heaven fill your thoughts. Do not think only about things down here on earth...

"Now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malice, slander, and dirty language. Don't lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old evil nature and all its wicked deeds...

"Christ is all that matters, and he lives in all of us."

If you've ever read The Power of Now, though it never specifically says that, I think it mirrors Colossians, chapter 3. I haven't written it all down here, but check it out. We can all step outside of ourselves- seeing our reactions and emotions for what they are- not necessarily becoming controlled by them.

Our thoughts are only thoughts. Let's live in the Now. That's my resolution.

ESPN Soundtracks with Brett Favre

It's been three weeks. I needed a fix.

Live on CPAC

Laura Ingraham: "Here's another little nugget. It's not enough to claim to have been a foot-soldier for the Reagan revolution. What have you done for Conservatism lately?"

Bingo.

Goodbye Mitt

I'm so disappointed about Mitt, if this is all true about him dropping out....

I guess I will finally have my chance to write-in Newt.

Snowowowwowow

We've had 225% more snow than a "typical Madison winter."

MAKE IT STOP!

I feel Irrelevant

It's February 6th, after a stunning Super Tuesday, it appears John McCain will be our nominee, though Romney and Huckabee both will continue the fight until... who knows when.

As I watched returns last night, I began to feel irrelevant as a Wisconsin voter. Even my position, laying on my couch, sinking further into the cushions conveyed the depressing truth that was setting in.

Our primary is not until,February 19th, 13 days from today. We still have Louisiana, Kansas(R) and Nebraska(D) primaries on Friday. Maine will have it's Democratic caucuses on Saturday. Next Tuesday will bring the Potomac Primaries with Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia....and then finally, little ol' Wisconsin will vote a week later along with Washington and Hawaii(D). Gee, what three states could be less important?

I feel as though my vote doesn't count. How is it that I, a Wisconsin elector, am having an impact on our nominee? 13 days from now it'll likely be secured- long before I even trudge through the snow mounds to my polling place. If I was smart, I'd stay holed-up inside and absentee ballot... but who are we kidding? Should I even vote?

Now my vote will only count in the November election. And sorry to all those Rudy "moderate Republican" supporters (disclaimer: not I) in Madison and Milwaukee- I know how excited you were about him, and now he had to drop out and he's not even on our ballot! I guess you can use these next two weeks to start stomaching McCain. We're such a late, irrelevant primary that only 3 candidates, and Crazy Ron Paul, could even last this long.

While we joked early on about the Iowa and NH voters who by some stroke of luck are considered worthy of having every candidate shake their hand and look them in the eye, all while holding their baby, kissing their grandmother and standing in their living room, I now realize I actually do envy those voters. Wisconsin brings me nothing in the way of voter-clout. I suppose at least Wisconsin voted for Reagan in '84, but then again, who didn't? Well, Minnesota didn't. But we have no claim to fame. We have no pattern. We are a trend-less state. We couldn't be won for Bush in '04, but we had a Republican governor for 14 years. And that was before I even lived here, so I really feel left out.

Am I a little premature with my prediction? Perhaps. I suppose I can still drown these sad voter-history sorrows in beer. There is plenty of that here. Oh, and cheese.

And no, they can't take that away from me.

Awkward

I just received an email from the Romney campaign, entitled

"Mitt. Not McCain."

Subtle, folks.

Spineless

Jellyfish.

BERKELEY, Calif.—Two Berkeley City Council members want the city to rescind a declaration that says the U.S. Marines' recruiting center is not welcome in Berkeley.

Council members Betty Olds and Lauri Capitelli have proposed backing off the anti-Marines declaration and publicly declaring that Berkeley opposes the war in Iraq but supports the troops.

YOU CAN'T OPPOSE THE WAR AND SUPPORT THE TROOPS IF YOU DON'T SUPPORT WHAT THEY'RE FIGHTING FOR!

We should be very afraid

WASHINGTON — President Bush’s final budget, a $3 trillion plan offered Monday that would continue his tax cuts and sharply reduce domestic spending, has little chance of surviving in a Democratic Congress. But the problems it lays out will survive and grow, presenting tough choices for the next administration.

There is a valid concern for our future- especially as the keys to the oval will switch hands.
This is a red flag:

“Republicans and Democrats are in complete denial on these issues,” said Robert D. Reischauer, president of the Urban Institute and former director of the Congressional Budget Office. “But were they to face up to the long-run fiscal challenges, it would be a ticket to defeat. It’s not what voters want to hear.”

We all know Washington politicians are less about the actual constituents than they are about their personal re-election, but when are we going to start telling constituents the cold hard truth?

One example, Social Security is not on the mend, despite the President's efforts, because our Reps in Congress are too sick about telling the public something they will not want to hear. GET OVER IT. Americans aren't stupid. Let's hear the facts and see what we think. If you come up with a plan and you botch it, we'll tell you in November. But if you actually go out on a limb for the people and what's best for the taxpayer, perhaps we'll reward you. (Well, no guarantees.)

Is there hope?

The presidential campaign does not exactly reverberate with proposals for dealing with these problems.

For the Democrats, Senators Barack Obama of Illinois and Hillary Rodham Clinton of New York would find the money by letting taxes rise for the wealthiest Americans. But that step would not raise enough money to pay for the spending programs they propose.

On the Republican side, Senator John McCain of Arizona and former Gov. Mitt Romney of Massachusetts would cut wasteful federal spending — Mr. McCain points to “earmarks” for “pork barrel” projects — but budget experts agree that there is not enough money to be had from that course of action either.

On Super Tuesday, what are voters actually voting for?

Pack Cartoons

Good stuff.

Race and Gender

Today on my lunch break I check in with Martha McCallum at Fox News, and to my delight* the discussion turns quickly to gender and race in the Presidential contest. This is truly one of my favorite topics, because I believe it is a complete waste of time and energy to even discuss.

Anyway, clips are shown of Oprah at an Obama Rally - the three ladies leading his campaign, Oprah, Caroline Kennedy, and wife Michelle. Oprah claims she would never vote for someone on the basis of skin color, but is choosing Obama "Not because he is black, but because he is brilliant."

We have all known Oprah to be supportive of the advancement of African Americans- no matter the cause. A true philanthropist, she does not give on the base of race, but she is quick to hold her luncheons for influential black women and NAACP events or what have you. To me, clarifying that she is supporting Obama for his platform of change and not his skin color is a good statement to make, once. For all the rest of the times she may state it, I feel it is only a mechanism to convince others of an untruth. Oprah is actually glowing at the fact that Barack Obama is a black man. She is proud of him. And that's fine. If he were white though, would she feel the same way?

Finally, I am very disenchanted by a female, black commentator on the Fox News panel today. The topic was Oprah's comment. And this woman, Angela, starts to say "Obama never entered this race as a black man, but it's the Clintons that have made it about race." While I will never stand up for the Clintons, I find it a tad self-righteous for a black woman to be turning the discussion to criticize white people, even the Clintons. She is pointing her finger at white people, the only racists, who keep bringing the discussion back to race. Puh-lease.

If race isn't a big deal in this contest- if Obama isn't running as a black man- why the hell is Oprah talking about it at his rally? Why is that all the media can focus on?

Just some thought-provoking questions. Gender comments to follow...

Please, tax me more

The State of Wisconsin "may not" tax rebate checks from the Federal government.

If the federal government provides tax rebates to stimulate the sputtering economy, the state likely won 't tax them, an official said Friday.

Jessica Iverson, a spokeswoman for the state Department of Revenue, said agency officials haven 't made a final determination not to tax the federal tax rebates if they 're issued by Congress.

But she pointed to the 2001 federal rebate checks of up to $600 that weren 't taxed by the state as precedent.

"It does appear, based on the information we have now, and based on how rebates have been structured in the past, these rebates wouldn 't be taxable in Wisconsin, " Iverson said.

I'm sorry, what? They "likely won't tax them." Oh gee, how considerate of you!

Think of the message that sends. While President Bush and unbelievably, the empty heads in Congress agree to stimulate the economy by giving a little back to those earning between $3,000 and $75,000 (Yay, that's me!), Wisconsin seems to believe they can use that as an opportunity to take more money AWAY from its good, tax-paying residents. What an unbelievable disconnect between the Federal Government and the State. Gives the Tenth Amendment a whole new meaning!

Can Congress please do us a favor and add an amendment to this little gift that the states have ZERO authority to even consider taxing these rebates? It should not even be an option.

A Conservative for McCain

Jeff Jacoby at the Boston Globe makes a conservative's case for John McCain. Though well written and striking in parts, I'm still far from convinced. Jacoby writes,

Conservatives bristle at the thought of a Republican president who might raise income and payroll taxes. Or enlarge the federal government instead of shrinking it. Or appoint Supreme Court justices who are anything but strict constructionists. Or grant a blanket amnesty to millions of illegal aliens.

Now, I don't believe that a President McCain would do any of those things. But President Reagan did all of them. Reagan also provided arms to the Khomeini theocracy in Iran, presided over skyrocketing budget deficits, and ordered US troops to cut and run in the face of Islamist terror in the Middle East. McCain would be unlikely to commit any of those sins, either.

Does this mean that Reagan was not, in fact, a great conservative? Of course not. Nor does it mean that McCain has not given his critics on the right legitimate reasons to be disconcerted.

Can it be said that these are different times, calling for a different type of conservative leader? Reagan took on the Soviets with a quiet, though forceful strength. That's all it took back then. Then he continues,

My point is simply that the immaculate conservative leader for whom so many on the right yearn to vote is a fantasy. Conservatives who say that McCain is no Ronald Reagan are right, but Mitt Romney is no Ronald Reagan either. Neither is Mike Huckabee. And neither was the real - as opposed to the mythic - Ronald Reagan.

Perhaps our perfect candidate is a fantasy. Frankly I think he's still serving in the White House, but looking ahead, we do need change.
While I am quite tired of McCain's own "foot-soldier" language and his claiming to be Reagan's heir in the latest ads, can I agree with Jacoby's appeal to McCain on the war on terror?

On the surpassing national-security issues of the day - confronting the threat from radical Islam and winning the war in Iraq - no one is more stalwart. Even McCain's fiercest critics, such as conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt, will say so. "The world's bad guys," Hewitt writes, "would never for a moment think he would blink in any showdown, or hesitate to strike back at any enemy with the audacity to try again to cripple the US through terror."

I've said before on this blog I am a national-security, War on Terror voter. It's my issue. I sleep at night because the President keeps us safe from future attacks. So if that's my issue, can I pull the lever for John McCain?

Further,

"He is a spending hawk and an enemy of pork and earmarks. He has never voted to increase taxes, and wants the Bush tax cuts made permanent for the best of reasons: "They worked." He is a staunch free-trader and a champion of school choice. He is unabashedly prolife and pro-Second Amendment. He opposes same-sex marriage. He wants entitlements reined in and personal retirement accounts expanded."

If all this is true, how can we still not acknowledge McCain-Feingold and McCain-Kennedy, truly liberal legislation that has the power- and already has in some cases- crippled our party?

Perhaps I am stuck on this:

"I wish McCain evinced a greater understanding that limited government is indispensable to individual liberty."

I want my fantasy candidate, I deserve no less. At the end of the day though, will this be the campaign of anybody but Hillary or Obama? I don't know if I can rally.

Shush, people!

"Eli is no Peyton."

If I hear that one more time today, I'm going to scream!

I'm still not cheering for the Giants.

Spare us

John McCain is running ads on Fox News. The words "inspired by the Reagan Revolution" ...and "Conservative principles"... can be heard as pictures of McCain with Reagan and "fighting the good fight" can be seen.

Spare us the lies, Mr. McCain.

Why I'm boycotting the Superbowl

Other than I don't care for either of the teams... may I offer you a joke I read this morning:

So Four NFL Quarterbacks Go to Heaven…

God asks Eli Manning first: "What do you believe?"
Manning thinks long and hard, looks God in His awesome eye, and says, "I believe in hard work, and in staying true to family and friends. I believe in giving. I was lucky, but I always tried to do right by my fans."

God can't help but see the essential goodness of Manning, and offers him a seat next to him.

God turns to Philip Rivers and says, "Philip, what do you believe?"

Rivers replies, "I believe there's no such thing as luck, that everything is guided by Your hand. I've been judged on the field, and what I've achieved is not good fortune but rather my guided path."

God is impressed with the depth of Rivers' response, and offers him a seat next to him.

Then God turns to Brett Favre and says, "What do you believe?"

Favre says, "I believe in passion, discipline, courage and honor are the fundamentals of life. I, too have been lucky, but win or lose I've always tried to be a true sportsman both on and off the playing fields."

God is greatly moved by Favre's sincere eloquence, and he offers him a seat next to him.

Finally, God turns to Tom Brady: "And you, Tom, what do you believe?"

Brady replies, "I believe you're in my seat."

Repugnant

The punishment for sexual assault of a child in this state is absolutely abhorrent. We should be protesting THAT, folks.

MILWAUKEE (AP) -- A 79-year-old nun was sentenced Friday to one year in a county jail for sexually abusing two teens when she was their principal four decades ago.

Sister Norma Giannini avoided a trial by pleading no-contest in November to two felony counts of indecent behavior with a child.

So what if she plead no-contest? We're talking sexual abuse of two teenagers, though forty years ago, that left them scarred. One never married, and one, contrary to all reason -honestly forgave. For that, he should be given sainthood.

And from a NUN, no less. Would we let a priest off with just one year?

I'll liken this sentence with a sports analogy to a hockey penalty. Judge Donald has done nothing for these men to bring their predator to justice, except slam them repeatedly into the wall. One year and the encouragement of a face-to-face meeting. The thought of that alone leaves me losing my breakfast. Judge Donald is despicable and should be put in the penalty box. Any one who receives him as a judicator in the future should ask for a change of venue. Of all things to suggest when dealing with such a deceptive "woman of God," you can't honestly believe she feels remorse. Her actions are abominable and she should rot in prison. That would give her the chance to truly consider the Word of God.

If you're already as angry as me, don't read the end. Evidently there was awareness of "the situation" in the 1990s! THE 1990S!! And no punishment. She's 79 years old, take pity on the old nun.... Not a chance.

It is no wonder the people have lost faith in the judicial process.

"Congress shall make no law...prohibiting...free speech." Maybe they should.

Berkeley, CA, a city so left of Madison my head cocks to the side to actually recognize it's existence, is not only protesting the Marine Recruiters present in the city, but the City Council has endorsed such a protest. Now a U.S. Senator wants to revoke funding to the city council because of it.

We are all so resigned to this right-to-protest, free speech and all that America's Constitution and 1st Amendment rights entail. (Frankly, I feel the third Amendment never gets referenced, so I've decided to shout out to it - No Quartering Soldiers- WOO!) Jokes aside, we don't realize the harm we're doing to those who aren't present but are deeply affected by such protests and references to "free speech."

What is the goal of the Berkeley anti-Marine crowd? Honestly, I am baffled. If they take Marine recruiters out of the city, isn't that a revocation of the Marine Corps' 1st amendment rights? What about the rights of those in the city or those who attend UC-Berkeley who may want to join the Marine Corps? (Unlikely many, but stick with me on principle here.)

I find protests against the pillars of American society - our troops and source of national security included - not only insulting, but precisely Un-American and anti-free speech and 1st Amendment rights. Acting out on the basis of the Constitution to achieve an effect that merely strips others of the same constitutional rights invoked for the protest should never be tolerated.

Beyond that, why do we as a society insist on divisiveness? Why do we insist on tearing eachother down for something we disagree with? I may be opinionated, and differ from a lot of folks on religion or politics, but I'm not trying to take away anyone's U.S.- and God-given rights (except maybe Illegal Immigrants...).

If holding a sign in the street against a Marine Corps office makes you feel better about yourself or affirms your purpose in life, then I feel sorry for you. Think of the Recruiter inside the window, the job he is trying to do and the money he is working to make to support his family. I'm sorry if you're too busy combing your purple hair and eating your granola, but it's about basic rights FOR ALL. He's not holding a sign outside your global-warming meeting or throwing trash outside your place of work on Earth Day (which you know is a big concern to those crazy libs).

At least the Marines have the right outlook.

"We understand things are different there, but some people just don't get it," said a senior Marine official. "This is a part of the military machine that gives them the right to do what they do, but what they are doing is extreme."