Californian Ramblings

Palin Needs a New Communications Director

2008-11-21T09:09:00.008-05:00

I just ran across this video of Palin being interviewed by the media, after she apparently pardoned a turkey at a turkey farm. Here's the problem... a guy is slaughtering turkey's behind her! From what I can tell, he's turning them upside down and draining their blood, directly in the camera shot! ZOMG!!!

I've always taken pride in the camera shots I line up for my Principals. Whether it's a seated interview with a bookshelf in the background which has a well-placed logo, or an inpromptu on-camera interview for a gubernatorial candidate, or even a press conference that I organized (as a volunteer), for Mecklenburg County Commissioner Karen Bently, that I didn't start until the appropriate flags arrived AND I arranged them properly in the camera shot -- I ALWAYS make sure the shot isn't distracting, and is complimentary to the interviewee and the topic. It's just basic image management.

As a communications professional, I am offended that somebody is getting paid to do her PR. The sad thing is that all they needed to do was move 10 feet to the left, and closer to the pen, and they would've had a shot with the turkeys, and NO slaughtering. Quick and easy.

If her PR person was there, he/she should be fired immediately.

Here's the vid:

NC Congressional Race: 8th District

2008-11-03T09:46:00.006-05:00

Last January while interviewing for the position of Campaign Manager for the Congressman Robin Hayes' re-election campaign, I did some research on his NC 8th Congressional District. Unfortunately, some of the counties listed below had just barely heard of the internet, and I wasn't able to find all the voter data I had hoped. So, sometimes I had to use my best estimate for some of the data. But, broken down from a spread sheet that has twenty columns, this is what I found and reported to the Chief of Staff....

Based upon previous elections, I was expecting the total turnout for the 8th District to reach about 228,453 voters. This means that, historically speaking, about 114,228 (50% +1) voters would be needed to win the election in this district. And based upon past elections, the total Republican voting turnout was about 121,432 voters, meaning that typically a Republican should win, but barely with only about With about 7,200 votes. But an intersting tidbit is that there are, approximately, 13,221 voters who are persuadable.... these are the guys who can, and do, switch their vote. They aren't party line voters. And with more persuadables, than the margin of victory -- things might get VERY dicey for Hayes is there is a big swell of support for a Democrat.

Now, here we are in the 2008 election. And the Democrats are making strong stands in traditional republican strongholds. Hayes' rival, Larry Kissell, lost by only 329 votes in the last election, and he didn't have much support from the Democrats in DC. Now, smelling blood, the national party and third party organizations have been trucking money down to NC, and Hayes is in trouble. Combine that with Kissel's folksy charm, and a ridiculous ammount of positive press, and honestly, I think that this time Hayes is going down.

329 votes is easy to make up when democrats are flooding to the polls.

PREDICTION: Kissell will win this election.

President Obama

2008-10-22T14:50:00.003-04:00

I know we've still got about two weeks until election day, but barring any amazing revelations or gaffes, Obama will be the President of the United States of America. McCain's done -- stick a fork in him. (Zogby's numbers agree with me.)

Watching McCain's campaign has become painful. Most of his ads, the ones that I've seen at least, are very negative, and then Obama's ad comes on, and it's a completely different tone. The music and images, all positive, and almost inspirational.

Don't get me wrong, I'm voting for McCain. Quite frankly, Obama's health care and tax positions are wrong -- at least as far as I'm concerned.

But my vote will be a drop in the bucket, compared to the tsunami of popularity (and money) that Obama will be riding to victory. This will be a historic election for many reasons, and in the end, our next leader will be President Obama.

PREDICTION: After this election, the right-wing will claim that McCain couldn't win because of his moderate / liberal stances. They will embrace Palin, and expect to see Palin become the darling of conservatives. I have little doubt that she'll be a powerhouse in a few years, and possibly a presidential candidate within 8 years -- possibly 4.

Kay Hagan: Angry at BushDole

2008-09-03T14:07:00.003-04:00

This post is long overdue, but a few weeks ago I had the opportunity to watch U.S. Senator Elizabeth Dole and NC State Senator Kay Hagan speak at an agricultural forum in Raleigh, NC. Though they spoke in separate time slots, Hagan spoke as if she were in a debate.

Dole spoke first, choosing to focus on her experience and her senatorial record. She had a LOT to say, and routinely went over her time limit -- which resulted in the mic being cut off. That said, she is no stranger to public speaking, and even though the mic was cut-off, I could still hear her in the back of the room. That woman's got some pipes!

Dole was a little long-winded, and she should have been aware of the time limits. But, she came across as gracious, friendly, and a class act. Next it was Hagan's turn to speak, and the contrasts in personality were remarkable.

Dole's mic had barely had time to cool off, and Hagan was attacking her. (I have no doubt that Dole was still backstage once this point. I would have been FUMING if I were her. And I was a little disappointed that Dole didn't take back her podium to confront the silly attacks) Hagan was routinely going after Dole and whatever topics that Dole has in common with President Bush. It became ridiculous at one point. I'll break-down Hagan's speech to these main parts:

1) Senator E. Dole and President Bush are in bed together on every topic important to the farmers of NC. (I wonder how Bob feels about this!) :)
2) Hagan has very few suggestions for action or legislation, but at least she isn't Dole.
3) Senator Dole's last name is now BushDole.

Now, I'll have you know that I came into this with an open mind. I'd never heard Hagan, and I wasn't too sure about Dole. Heck, in NC, most of the Democrats here are more conservative than republicans on the Left Coast.

What I don't understand is why Hagan took such a shrill and aggressive stance with this crowd. These are (generally speaking) farmers, owning small / medium businesses. They tend to be conservative, and they want their Senator to be competent, and to get things done. Hagan showed no ability to match any of these points. Her speech lacked specifics, would have been much better received in San Francisco, than rural North Carolina.

Dole is running against Hagan, and Hagan is running against BushDole. Will anybody be listening to what Hagan's saying come election day? I doubt it.

The Return

2008-08-11T15:23:00.003-04:00

Well, I've returned. Unfortunately this means that I'm no longer on the McCrory Campaign. Back in June, the new campaign manager decided to replace me with someone with whom he has worked before. It's his perogative -- I just wish he would have told be before I turned down a job on another campaign. So, I no longer have my dream-job and again I'm looking for employment in this foreign land known as Charlotte, NC.

However, this post isn't about my return. It's about the return of Russia to the world scene. Under Putin (even though he's not the President, it does appear that he is still pulling the strings), Russia has emerged as a political and military force again. This is evidenced by the latest retalatory strikes against Georgia (the country, not the state).

From the initial reports, it sounds like Georgia thought it could attack and subdue one of it's internal province 's that is loyal to Russia. They were wrong. Today's Russia is not about to take any guff from one of it's break-away republics. So, Russia went in, secured the area loyal to it, and is now in the process of running over the rest of Georgia.

Unfortunately for Georgia (which was trying to become a part of NATO), the US is in no position to defend it with military might or political strength. American forces are stretched thin due to the wars in Iraq and Afganistan, and the falling dollar has weakened the US economy.

The Russian Bear has returned. And I'm growing concerned that the politics of appeasement will allow Russia to take back most (if not all) of Georgia, much like the Soviet Union did during the early days of the cold war.

Hiatus

2008-05-14T13:56:00.002-04:00

In case you haven't noticed, I've been too busy to post here lately. And, it appears that will continue for a while, since I've been working on a campaign here in North Carolina. So, this blog is on hiatus until further notice.

Also, though it should be apparent -- this blog represents my thoughts, beliefs, and positions. It does not in any way represent the position of whatever campaign I am working for.

I'll be back to posting in November, or whenever I stop working on the campaign trail.

Oh What Fun!

2008-02-20T10:20:00.002-05:00

This election season has been one for the ages. The Republican primary went until Super Tuesday (California FINALLY had a say in the outcome -- YAAY!) and the Democrats are still banging it out.

Clinton (Hillary) and Obama are slugging the hell out of each other. I'm writing this on February 20, 2008, and it looks like this could go to the next super Tuesday when Ohio and Texas finally get their say. I can't remember the last time when a political party didn't have it's candidate by this time in the primary. Most (I believe) of the states have had their primaries, and there is STILL no clear cut winner! This is just sooo much fun to watch.

But last night, Obama won his 10th state primary in a row! The writing is starting to appear on the wall, and Hillary should be worrying -- if she isn't already.

Obama is a FANTASTIC orator! Hell, I don't like many of his positions -- and I get chills listening to him. Great speech writer -- and even better delivery. Along with inspiring his supporters like no other, people are beginning to realize that Obama is a historic candidate.

He WILL be on the presidential ticket for the Democrats. I think he will be their nominee for president. But if, by some miracle, Hillary pulls this out -- she will have no choice but to make him the vice-presidential nominee. This will be the first time an African American will be a presidential nominee -- and that is very noteworthy.

Republicans should be very worried. McCain doesn't inspire the Republican base voters and he's from an older generation. In additoin, many who do vote for him, will probably do so unenthusiastically.

Obama, on the other hand, inspires the Democratic base, and many others. He is youthful and energetic. And right now, he is riding a tidal wave of momentum. His historic run will continue to inspire, and unless the Republican party gets its act in gear, many voters will want to be a part of history.

Catch-Up

2007-12-14T14:36:00.000-05:00

Ok, it's been a while, and I apologize to all three of you who read this. Hower things HAVE been very busy. Finding a job, selling a house (and keeping it clean), finding and buying a new house, and driving between DC and Charlotte on the weekends can keep a guy busy!

But there is something going on that is just too onerous not to discuss.

This week it came out that the CIA had video of "water boarding". Water boarding is an interrogation technique that scares the hell out of the person being questioned. (Supposedly it makes them feel as if they are drowning.) Apparently, the CIA has been doing this to get timely information out of high-level terrorists they've captured.

But since this information has come out, the Democrats are screaming bloody murder, feigning horror that somebody (i.e. Americans) could condone and support such a thing. (Even though Democratic leadership approved and supported water boarding -- before it was in fashion to oppose it. Don't believe me? Read this from Investors Business Daily)

Sadly, I believe that these Democrats have forgotten all about the horror of 9-11. I believe they are purely interested in political gain -- damn the consequences.

In addition, I would like to remind everyone what terrorists do to Americans. These hostages are are NOT given the luxury of prayer time, or reading materials, or even the luxury of living. Americans, at the hands of terrorists, die a painful greusome death that is broadcast all over the world as propoganda.

Below is a link to a video that shows the death of reporter Daniel Pearl. He died in a most heinous way. Beware, is a slightly edited video of the beheading. The original was much more greusome.

http://justsickshit.com/execution_video/Daniel_Pearl_execution.mpg

Compared to this, I just don't think water boarding is very harsh at all.

Moving to Charlotte....

2007-09-27T11:02:00.000-04:00

Yup, that's right. We're moving to Charlotte. My wife landed a good job doing government relations down in Salisbury (no, not the steak), for a major supermarket chain. Now all I have to do is find a job down there, and the move will become MUCH easier.

Once we get a place, all our friends are welcome to come down and visit. Hopefully, with the cost-of-living adjustments, we'll even be able to get a bigger house, with a decent sized yard.

Just to let ya'll (see? I'm even sounding more Southern!) know, the Charlotte area is NOT the deep-south. It's quite metropolitan -- yeah, I was suprised too! It closely resembles the DC area about 15-20 years ago. With open land being replaced with smart-growth suburbs -- and LOTS of shopping!

So, if you decide to come visit, here are some things to do in Charlotte!
Charlotte Tourism Bureau
Charlotte's Tourism Guide
US Olympic Whitewater Center
Charlotte Parks & Rec
Ballentyne Area (We probably won't live in this area -- but it's a great place to hang out!)

I Miss My Friend.....

2007-09-05T11:19:00.000-04:00

A little over a year ago, I said good-bye to my longtime and trusty friend... My 1993 Mustang. There were times I loved it. (i.e. driving along the California coast with the top down, and sun shining through the salty air) And there were times I hated it. (i.e. dead batteries and dead-er alternators). All-in-all, it was a great car, and I hated to see it go. My memories of Santa Clara, and Washington, DC revolve around that car, the places it took me, and the people who sat in the passenger seat. So to remember my car, here's a video which has the rumble I miss so much.

Update: Google's stupid %^$#!&!%@#%$! video feature doesn't seem to be working. I'll get it uploaded again ASAP.

Visiting the Azores II

2007-07-14T09:22:00.000-04:00

We started off our next day by getting the rental car (an ordeal all by itself), and taking a short trip to a Pineapple Plantation. When driving in the Azores, there are some very basic rules to remember:

If a car can fit, it must be a parking space

No lines on the road? No problem.

Distance between you and the car in front of you should be no more than 5 inches -- at any speed

Don't bother looking for a street sign, if there is one, you won't see it anyway.

Cows think they're parked cars -- be prepared to stop.

One foot on the accelerator, One foot on the clutch, One foot on the break -- YOU figure it out.

So, we headed out in search of the pineapple plantation. After fruitless searches for street signs, and a few wrong turns, we found it. Though "plantation" seemed a bit misleading -- it's a series of 15 or so short green houses that hold hundreds of short pineapple trees. The pineapples are amazingly small, they easily fit in one hand, and are about 1/3 the size of a regular pineapple. Sadly, the Azores were not made for agriculture, and after blights that killed their cash crops over time, they realized this was one of the few ways to make fruit grow in the Azores. Fortunately, the portuguese have learned to make liquor out of them!
Next Up -- Walking around a volcano!

Visiting the Azores

2007-07-11T11:02:00.000-04:00

It's been a while since my last post, and I though I'd catch ya'll up on our recent trip to the Azores. Jenn and I spent about 10 days in the Azores, they're islands owned by Portugal in the middle of the Atlantic. The great thing about them is that they're a 5 hour non-stop flight from Boston, the islands are beautiful, and it's a little quaint slice of Europe as well.

Before the summary, here's the trip by the numbers: 1 rental car, 2 hotels, 2 ferry rides, 3 islands, 4 gardens, 5 tires, 6 plane rides, 7 hours to walk around a volcano, 12+ ice cream bars!

When we arrived early Saturday morning, we were tired and jet-lagged. After a brief nap, we took a walking tour of the city of Ponta Delgada, the largest city of the Azores. The tour took a couple of hours, and we saw several beautiful buildings, deep blue skies, and an ice cream stand on every corner.

We finished the day by sitting in our room, and watching the sun set behind the mountains, while enjoying local wine, cheese, bread, and ham. It was the perfect way to end the first day of our vacation.

On Sunday we decided to extend our boundaries, and we walked to the far parts of the city by hitting some of the many beautiful parks they have. The first park, Jardin Antonio Borges, was the acutually the yard of Antonio Borges (I have no idea who that is). He spent years making trails, bridges, nooks and crannies in this garden. We enjoyed it so much that we visited it two more times.

The second garden we hit was very beautiful, but it was a complete let-down compared to the first garden. But there was one highlight; as we were eating our apples, I heard Jenn yell Chicken!" I looked to my left, and a rooster was charging us -- I had NO idea they could run soooo fast! Hector (that was the name Jenn gave him) continued to pester us until we gave him our apple cores -- which he ate completely. Next up, Azores Part II -- Driving With No Rules & a 7 hr walk around a volcano!

Carter Blasts Bush -- Again (Yawn)

2007-05-22T13:54:00.000-04:00

The news (especially here in the beltway), was all agast this weekend because former President Carter threw yet another verbal grenade at current President Bush calling his administration "the worst in history."

Now that's quite a bold statement, considering that (until recently) there was an unwritten rule that former presidents would not comment on, or at least speak ill, of the current president and his administration.

And though these recent comments are pretty harsh, here's a quick list of headlines I've pulled in less than 5 minutes from google:

Breaking tradition, Carter rips Bush's policies
USA Today - Nov 3, 2005

Carter: White House Manipulated Iraq Intel
San Francisco Chronicle - Nov 2, 2005

Bush exploits suffering of 9/11, says Carter
Guardian Unlimited - Oct 25, 2004

Carter: Kerry 'the president we need now'
CNN International - Jul 26, 2004

Carter blasts rush to war Bush
The Atlanta Constitution - NewsBank - Feb 1, 2003

Carter: Bush is a disappointment
Wichita Eagle - NewsBank - Jul 25, 2001

The list, literally, goes on, and on, and on.

So, what's going on here? Why has a former President who's been out of office for 25+ years, known for peanut farming and building homes for the homeless, been blasting the current administration for the past 6 years? Quick Answer: To improve his own legacy.

Longer Answer: Carter, by virtually all counts, had one of the most failed presidencies in modern time. His economic vision paralysed the country and led to sky-rocketing interest rates, high jobless rates, and gas lines. To say nothing of the hostage situation where 52 U.S. citizens were kidnapped in Iran for 444 days, following the fall of the U.S. friendly Iranian government.

Because of Carter's considerable un-popularity he lost his re-election bid in a landslide to Reagan. Carter's administration has been the butt of jokes for 30 plus years. However, due to the languishing war in Iraq, Bush has become quite unpopular and probably will remain so until the end of his term. This gives Carter something he's never seen before, a target almost as big as he is, and the chance to kick another administration while it's down.

Carter is hoping that nobody will notice that his criticism of Bush is actually a smoke screen, designed to obscure history, and make Carter's presidency look better than it actually was. As long as Bush is an easy target, Carter will continue to hurl smoke grenades at the current administration. However, once the smoke clears, history will see the attacks for what they are: The angry words of an old man, who wants to improve his legacy and doesn't want to be remembered as one of the worst presidents in modern American history.

Restaurant Review - Del Merei Grill

2007-05-11T10:28:00.000-04:00

This post is a bit overdue, but I had to get in to my review of this restaurant.

The Del Merei Grill is in the northern edge of the Del Ray area north of Alexandra. It's a neighborhood restaurant in an un-appealing strip mall, at the base of a mammoth (for the area) apartment complex. And boy, oh, boy, is this place good!

Once you walk in the atmosphere changes from strip mall to a warm and stylish setting, with a hint of funky. It can get loud as this place gets absolutely packed, and it's not that big.

The cuisine has a distinctly southern flare, and the emphsis on the menu is on the meat selection. They have other things (i.e. Salmon, or shrimp and grits), but if you want a decent cut of beef, served with the sauce and sides of your choice, this is the place for you. Oh, it has to be mentioned, their wine list is really good, and their appetizers, particularly the frickles, can't be missed!

We ordered:

Frickles (fried pickles) served with an amazing dill cream dip.

Strip Steak with horseradish sauch, served with cheese grits and macaroni and cheese

??? (Another steak based dish, very tasty)

Score:
Atmosphere: 4/5
Food: 5/5
Service: 5/5
Total: 14/15

Conclusion: Great restaurant, great food, it's definately a diamond in the rough - and the entire neighborhood knows it. It's a little expensive (i.e. $40+ per person) but it's worth it. I'll definately be back.

Restaurant Info:
Del Merei Grill
3106 Mount Vernon Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22305
703-739-4del [4335]

5 Years

2007-05-07T10:39:00.000-04:00

The weekend of April 27, 2007, Jenn and I celebrated our 5 year anniversary in St. Michaels, on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. It was a great weekend, and while we were there we were able to enjoy the festivities of the St. Michaels Food & Wine Festival. This event is only a few years old, but it just seems to be getting bigger and better. We had a great time, drank lots of wine, and just sat around, watching the boats go by. It truly felt as if we were thousands of miles away from the DC area.

But the thing I really came to realize while sipping wine, is how much my life has changed for the better since meeting Jennifer. I'm amazingly lucky to have spent the past 5 years (8 if you include dating), with such an amazing, insightful, and fun woman.

I'm very much looking forwrd to the next 5 and 50 years we have together.

Subponea or No, Time for Rove to Go....

2007-03-21T14:39:00.000-04:00

The most recent scandal to hit the Bush Administration is the firing of 8 U.S. Attorneys General. Though the timing was stupid, moronic, and questionable to say the least, I still stand by the firings. Those U.S. Attorney's serve at the pleasure of the president, and they can be fired any time he wants them fired, for any reason.

But why, oh why, does Carl Rove still have a job at the White House? Rove's tentacles (metaphoric or literal -- take your pick) have stretched into every scandal to hit this administration. Rove was even behind the off-year re-districting of the Texas congressional districts.

Rove has the subtlety of a bulldozer, and his heavy-handed tactics have earned him more enemies than friends. He has become a lightening-rod for the Bush Administration and has become a rallying point for the Democrats. Not only that, but when the advisor of the President of the United States starts becoming the focus and making more headlines than the leader of the free world, it's time to show him the door.

Congressional Democrats are going to subponea Rove over his involvement over the firing of the U.S. Attorneys. This will probably cause a Constitutional showdown between the Bush Administration and Congress. Bush will probably win this battle. But with Democrats focusing on Rove like a laser beam, Bush needs to lose this dead weight if he wants to accomplish anything before he leaves office. Subponea or no -- it's time for Rove to go.

Restaurant Review - Luna Grill and Diner

2007-03-20T13:12:00.000-04:00

Went to Luna Grill and Diner this weekend in Shirlington. I've loved this place for a while because it always reminded me of some restaurants I've been to in the San Francisco Bay Area. The food and menu haven't changed a bit. But over the past year it's atmosphere has changed subtly.

There are still the large murals of the Sun in the front, and the Moon in the back of the restaurant. However, now there are framed photos covering large portions of those murals. The used books lining the window are gone, as are the ecclectic pillows / cushons in the booths. Additionally, the music has changed from 80's alternative (Pet Shop Boys and Depeche Mode were often heard) to a 60's 70's soul mix.

We ordered:

Cheese and Fruit Plate: It contained brie, cheddar, and a creamy swiss cheese. With the apples and grapes, it was a perfect way to start the meal.

Chicken Marsala: Really good, especially considering it contains mushrooms!(YUK)

Spinach Linguini with pesto, sun-dried tomatos, and bacon: This make-your-own pasta dish was great since I ordered what I wanted.

Pecan Pie: WOW. Really one of the best pies I've ever had.

Score:
Atmosphere: 3/5
Food: 4/5
Service: 4/5
Total: 11/15

Conclusion: Though the food is really good, the atmosphere is what always brought me to this restaurant. The score would've been two points higher (atmosphere = 5/5) if I had scored this a year ago.

Restaurant Info:
Luna Grill and Diner (Shirlington Location)
4024 28th Street South
Arlington, VA 22206
703-379-7173

Restaurant Review - Burma Restaurant

2007-03-16T11:11:00.000-04:00

Recently, my wife and I went into DC for dinner and followed-up with an after-hours exhibit at the Smithsonian's Hirshorn Museum. The "art" was interesting, but I had more fun feeding the ducks on the mall. :)

The restaurant we hit was Burma Restaurant, near the Chinatown/Gallery Place metro. The decor was very understated -- as there was none. There was basically only one room, with about 20 or so tables. But the staff were very good, and the food was different but also, very good.

We ordered:

Golden Fingers (appetizer): squash fingers battered and deep fried, with a vinegar/chili sauce. Hey, it's deep fried and battered -- is MUST be good. :)

Mango Pork: This was a spicy dish, that focused more on curry and heat, and less on mango. But damn good nonetheless.

Some sort of noodle dish: Can't remember the name, but it was a noodle dish that had peanuts on it. I think it was #23 on the menu. Looked like pad-thai. Tasted like "feet."

Score:
Atmosphere: 2/5
Food: 3/5
Service: 4/5
Total: 9/15

Conclusion: We'll probably go back some day. But we're not in a rush.

Restaurant Info:
Burma Restaurant
740 Sixth St. NW
Washington, DC 20001
202-638-1280

Anti-War Miseducation in San Francisco

2007-03-14T14:46:00.000-04:00

This is a blatant plug for my favorite new columnist Cinnamon Stillwell. As the token rightie for the San Francisco Chronicle, she's got some great topics to comment on. And since she's in the Bay Area surrounded by hippies, she has a whole range of topics to choose from.

Today's column discusses the peace-at-all-costs stance of the San Francisco school board, which would rather teach peace and love while Al-Qaeda wants to turn them into a flaming nuclear wasteland.

Here's the link to her article: http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/gate/archive/2007/03/14/cstillwell.DTL

All Hail Cinnamon!

Democrats Over-React to Firing of U.S. Attorneys

2007-03-14T09:59:00.000-04:00

Why is the Bush Administration under fire from Congressional Democrats (Including Hillary) for firing 8 U.S. Attorneys, when the Clinton Administration fired ALL 93 of them? (FYI, when Clinton fired them, it was unprecendented. Typically, the U.S. Attorneys were replaced once they decided to end their tenure -- though they are political appointees, and can realistically be fired anytime the Administration wants.)

I understand it's politics, and the Dems are just calling foul to get some political points. BUT come-on, asking for the resignation of Alberto Gonzales is just a little ridiculous, don't ya think? Shouldn't we be a little more worried about something a little more serious? Like Iran trying to get nukes?

Here's a great op-ed from the Wall Street Journal on the U.S. Attorneys getting fired -- hope you like!

http://www.opinionjournal.com/editorial/feature.html?id=110009784

OR

http://tinyurl.com/yvf2lz

Anybody want a witch hunt?

2007-03-07T09:58:00.000-05:00

I've been trying to keep my attention away from the "Scooter" Libby scandal here in Washington, because it's sinply ridiculous. The "facts" brought to trial were little more than a "he said, she said" scenario, and it looks like the prosecutor was simply on a witch hunt -- to try to embarass the executive branch.

With all the negative media coverage, imagine my suprise when I read this article from the Washington Post, Trial in Error by Victoria Toensing, a couple of weeks ago. The article states that since Libby was brought to trial, so should a LOT of other people and organizations. To give you an idea it states that Special Prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald should be charges with "ignoring the fact that there was no basis for a criminal investigation from the day he was appointed." It's a decidedly fair, balanced, and intelligent article --
so I don't know what it was doing in the Washington Post. :)

Here's the link: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/02/16/AR2007021601705_pf.html

The Southern Senator from New York?

2007-03-05T16:29:00.000-05:00

I've got so many rants to post about, but this one takes the cake. Senator Hillary Clinton (D-NY) was in the south over the weekend making political speeches. Now, you must listen carefully to the audio clip below. When you listen to it, you will hear a distinctly southern drawal.

Now, don't get me wrong. I have no problem with the southern drawal, or those who speak with a different accent. BUT I do have a problem with a politician who appears to be willing and able to do anything to get elected. Seriously -- if Hillary Clinton has a southern accent, fine -- but I seriously doubt that the constituents of the Junior Senator from New York will be pleased with the new accent.

Here's the clip: This file can take a couple of minutes to load if you have a slow connection

OPM Director Linda M. Springer, Living in a (Winter) Wonderland

2007-02-14T13:40:00.000-05:00

This morning I awoke to a winter wonderland. Outside I could see white stuff about 1.5 inches thick all over everything. It was beautiful. I was happy. Then I got the news -- the Federal Government was opening 2 hours late. DAMN!

For those of you who aren't from the DC area, the Federal Government is the de-facto scheduler for most white collar businesses. If the gov't is closed, everyone stays home. If it is open, you go to work -- along with millions of others.

Unfortunately, the white stuff that fell last nigh was not snow, it was ICE. This makes shoveling difficult (Ice is frackin HEAVY!), walking difficult, and driving impossible. So, instead of letting everybody stay in the safety of their own home and dig out, Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Director Linda M. Springer decided that millions of people, should get to work in an area that can't even plow and clear emergency roads!

Springer made a poorly informed decision at best. At worst, she should be held personally responsible for the traffic accidents/injuries/deaths that happened because of people traveling to work in the D.C. area. The roads are NOT clear. The sidewalks are still close to impassable. But the ENTIRE AREA heads to work because she said so. OPM needs to realize that more than just Federal employees are effected.

It's a wonderland all right. Springer tells the area to go to work -- and we wonder how the hell we're gonna get there.

Here's a link to the Washington Post Article that details the snowy terror.

Global Warming - Is it REAL?

2007-02-12T14:07:00.000-05:00

I've become fascinated by all this talk about global warming in the news. Mainstream media claims it's real. Al Gore claims it's real. And any liberal hearing that you MIGHT question it's existance will attack your stance as quickly as a rabid pit bull.

But, for all the media attention it gets, it's existance, let alone it's potential causes, IS NOT 100% proved! Here is a great article written by Nigel Calder, former editor of New Scientist, who loginally discusses global warming.

Cool tidbit: Did you know that east Antarctica getting colder? Which flies in the face of the reasoning that the earth is getting warmer because of carbon dioxide.

Can I Protest Protestors?

2007-01-29T10:26:00.000-05:00

This weekend we went to the U.S. Botanical Garden located in the National Mall of Washington DC. Typically this place is great. It was renovated a few years ago, and it's off the beaten path, so there are fewer tourists. That is, unless you happen to visit it during an anti-war protest.

Unfortunately our local news, is often national news. So, to avoid the valdals spray painting the Capitol, and the photographers, we stealthfully made our way to the Gardens.

The botanical gardens were wonderful -- I highly recommend checking them out. They were re-done a few years ago, and it looks amazing. The areas ranging from desert to rain forest, and everything in between. Be sure to bring your walking shoes!

The hippies, were somewhat in the way, but overall not too bad -- these 2000 hippies, are a much less stinky type than their brethern of the 60's and 70's. Actually, a LOT of the protestors probably were protestors from the 60's and 70's. But now, they have a job, a 401K, and take showers regularly!

Sen Boxer, Takes Tasteless Jab at Condi Rice

2007-01-12T09:10:00.000-05:00

The New York Post is reporting on it's editorial page a run-in Rice had with Boxer. During the exchange Boxer basically states (read between the lines of the quote below) that Rice is an unfit advisor to the President because she has no children, and couldn't possibly understand what it's like to lose a loved one in a time of war.

Here's the exchange:

Rice appeared before the Senate in defense of President Bush's tactical change in Iraq, and quickly encountered Boxer.

"Who pays the price? I'm not going to pay a personal price," Boxer said. "My kids are too old, and my grandchild is too young."

Then, to Rice: "You're not going to pay a particular price, as I understand it, with an immediate family."

Wow, I'm amazed, that a Senator could be so brazenly tasteless. Let alone doing this to an accomplished scholar who has been an advisor of two presidents. But you know what REALLY scares me?? That Boxer has offspring!! I'm assuming they are not actual demon spawn -- even if they came from Boxer's womb. However, shouldn't we get their DNA sample just in case?

Catch Up

2006-12-14T10:04:00.000-05:00

Ok, it's been a busy past month, so here's some info to catch you up.

Global warming may not be real. Yeah, Yeah, I KNOW what the media tells you, but they only report one side. Here's an article from the Reporter Herald in Colorado that is one of the few stories to report the OTHER side. click here I'm not saying it DOESN'T exist -- I'm still waiting to see all the facts. And those change with every study that comes out. Remember, in the 70's they were worried about global cooling.

Something I was appalled by in college was the liberal left's idea that anyone who dosen't agree with them is a facist right-wing wacko, and doesn't deserve to be heard. Cinnamom Stillwell is quicly becoming one of my favorite columnists -- she used to be a liberal, but she has reformed. :) Here is one of her columns on SFGate.com. Mob Rule on College Campuses. All hail Cinnamon!

Last but not least, Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) appears to has suffered, some sort of brain hemmorage / stroke caused by arteriovenous malformation. In laymans terms, he had some bleeding in his brian, caused my inflamed and tangled arteries that are located in his brain. Suddenly this mans tragedy, may cause the Republicans to gain back the senate. This should be a lesson to each political party. Play nice with each other -- you never know when you're going to lose power. Hopefully they can both learn this lesson and end some of the most brutal partisan politics in recent history. (Keep in mind though, the harsh partisan politics today is MUCH nicer than it was in the late 1700's to late 1800's)

They Got What they Deserved

2006-11-08T10:44:00.000-05:00

In 1994, republican swept into power during what would later be called "The Republican Revolution." They ran on lower taxes, less government spending, more personal responsibility, and on the democrats corruption.

Yesterday, Republicans lost the House and will probably lose the Senate (If the latest numbers are any indication), and they have only themselves to blame.

Once they came into power they started to focus on doing what they needed to do stay in power. Even if that meant going against the tennants that brought them into the majority in the first place. Lord Acton said that power tends to corrupt, and it definately corrupted the Republicans.

During these past 6 years of republican rule, government spending has boomed, government programs have been created (Medicare Part D comes to mind-- I've heard that it's the largest entitlement ever in human history.), and scandals have revealed themselves over and over again.

The Republicans forgot what brought them into power in the first place, and they tried to buy themselves the House and Senate with government spending. Now they get to go into a dark hole lick their wounds and reflect on where they went wrong (Again, Medicare part D comes to mind).

Perhaps when they come out of their caves in 2008, they will have a new plan, that resembles their past successes, and will sweep themselves into power again.
------------------------
PREDICTION

With the House and Senate under Democrat control. Big spending packages will be vetoed by Pres. Bush. Dems will use this in 08 to say "Vote for Democrats, then we will be able to effect change. Bush (and Republicans) are just a road-block for change."

Dems win House, Senate, and Presidency in 08

Americans see the disaster this creates, and vote Republicans into the House (and maybe Senate?) in 2010.

The Prop 87 (Snake) Oil Salesman

2006-10-24T14:49:00.000-04:00

California was for many the embodiment of the wild west. Filled with gun fights, Calvary wars with the Indians, rugged cowboys, and Snake Oil salesmen.

Those days are long gone, but there is a new varmint in California rearing it's ugly head. It's Proposition 87 and its creators and vocal supporters are lilly -livered, yellow-bellied liars.

Al Gore has been going around California (Ever since he created the internet, he's been a bigger environmentalist than Smokey the Bear) with a gas-guzzling motorcade (3 motorcycles, 2 limos, and 1 Dodge Ram truck) claiming that prop 87 will reduce the state's dependence on foreign oil.

Prop 87 will reduce the dependence on foreign oil by -- get this -- taxing California oil withdrawals. Now if you don't understand the dilemma here, I'll give you some Econ 101. If you increase taxes on something, people will reduce their consumption of that product. This means that Prop 87 will reduce consumption of California's oil, and will INCREASE the state's dependence on foreign oil.

Al Gore's claims fly in the face of logic, and common sense. Gore's selling something all right -- he's selling snake oil, and the people of California are buying it by the barrel.
--------------
UPDATE! Prop 87 Failed. Honestly, I'm amazed that people saw through this sham.

A's Clinch

2006-09-27T09:52:00.000-04:00

I awoke this morning to glorious news -- The Oakland Athletics clinched their 1st playoff spot in two years.

The birds are singing, the sun is shining, and life is beautiful. Below are some links with info about their victory over the Seattle Mariners, and the upcoming playoffs.

This is rather fortuitous, as I head to Vegas on Sunday for work -- I may need to place a wager on my favorite team!

Athletics Nation

SF Gate

Oakland Athletics

House Democrats Support Voter Fraud

2006-09-21T09:02:00.000-04:00

Ok, now this is something I just don't understand. House Democrats are opposing a bill that would require voters to provide proof of identification when the get their ballot. The article can be found at the Washington Times.

Though voter fraud isn't the largest problem in america, it is something that has the potential to change the course of a city, county, state, and/or America. Democrats have been notorious for their voter fraud (how many dead people can vote in Seattle?), so imagine my suprise when I learn that the House Dems are opposing the Federal Election Integrity Act.

The bill ensures that voters are american citizens, and that the people who vote, are actually who they say they are -- this keeps people from going from poll to poll, pretending they're someone else and voting.

However, the dems are saying:

Rep. Alcee L. Hastings, Florida Democrat, said he's more concerned about discouraging voters than he is about illegals voting.
"Nonparticipation in the election process is more of a problem in this country than noncitizens trying to vote," Mr. Hastings said.

Now think about that for a minute. Hastings is saying that non-citizens should be allowed to vote illegally. Also, he's stating that he supports, or at least doesn't care about voter fraud.

The bill requires a person to show ID. Big freaking deal! This is something we do every day for: credit card transactions, writing checks, buying alcohol, getting concert tickets at will-call. Show me a legitimate reason not to prove who I am at the polls, and don't use the wimpy excuse that I'll be scared to vote.

Heaven forbid we show our ID's when we get our ballot! After all, the dead may have to vote again.

Politically Incorrect

2006-09-15T13:34:00.000-04:00

We currently live in an age of political correctness. People, especially politicians are raked over the coals for comments that seem inconsiderate. For example: Sen. Trent Lott while speaking at a birthday party for the very old (it was probably his last birthday party) Sen. Strom Thurmond.

Thurmond was very old, feeble, and his most aware mental days were behind him. At this birthday tribute, Lott makes reference to Thurmond's 1948 presidential bid and states, "if the rest of the country had followed our lead, we wouldn't have had all these problems over all these years, either."

These were off-the-cuff remarks meant to make the old and dying man next to Lott feel good. Instead Lott's comments were intrepreted by those with thin skins (and looking for political clout) that Lott still supported segregation and was racist.

Lott was forced to resign his Leadership post, and almost had to resign completely, due to the firestorm that surrounded him.

Political correctness has grown to the point that, I believe, if you are not part of a minority, and you criticize a specific minority, you will be branded a racist and/or biggot and/or sexist and/or homophobe, etc., etc. While any context or value of your statement will be ignored.

This leads me to the comedian Carlos Mencia. This guy is brash, unapologetic, and has a no-holds-barred approach to comedy. If he thinks a person, or a group is out of line, he calls it. However, I feel the sad thing is that his comedy could not be done by a white / caucasion person. That person would instantly be attacked by every minority group out there, boycotts would be called, and the person would have to live the rest of his/her life trying to avoid contact with anybody. But when a person who is a minority (Mencia is latino / mexican) preforms the skit, it is suddenly acceptable. And this bothers me.

Here is a great rap/song by Mencia called "Dee, Dee, Dee." Dee Dee Dee, refers to a person who is stupid, some of the lyrics go like this:

Parents are to blame for all these dee dee dee's
Letting their kids drop out and not get GED's
You keep your kids inside 'cause there's freaks on the loose
But then you let them drink Michael Jackson's Jesus Juice?

You don't care when your kids come home with D's from class
What you need to do is get some balls and beat that ass
He's not stupid, you say he's got ADD
It's that his mom and dad are both Dee Dee Dee

"This test is too hard" -- So we lower the standard
"I'm not good in sports" -- Se we give 'em a trophy
"My dad used to spank me" -- So we lower the standard
"I'm too fat for this seat" -- So we widen the standard

"They say no 'cause I'm black" -- So we lower the standard
"They say no 'cause I'm white" -- So we lower the standard
"They say no 'cause I'm asian" -- So we lower the standard
"No hablo ingles" -- No me llamos (?) ustedes

And you wake up one day, and you don't have the skills
To get a better job, so you're stuck on the grill
You're wondering why Julio got your job
But you forget to see you're as dumb as a knob

Now your ass is too fat to get out of the house
And you're eating more food, trying to figure it out
"Why'd they outsource my job to some guy named Habib?"
'Cause he works harder than you, and he's got five degrees!

And you're asking yourself "how could this happen to me?"
I'll tell you why homie -- you're dee dee dee.

Here's the video -- enjoy!

5 Years and Counting

2006-09-11T09:19:00.000-04:00

On the morning of 9-11-2001 I was working in Old Town Alexandria (a couple of blocks from where I now work), when reports started coming in, via CNN, of a fire in the World Trade Center in New York City.

The live video showed smoke billowing from the tower. Morbid curiosity kept me glued to the TV. A short time later a second explosion. The camera angle lined the two towers together, so that the second explosion appeared to come from the nearest tower to the camera. "Secondary Explosion!" I exclaimed, thinking that something stored in the first tower heated up and exploded.

Then they started talking about airplanes. Then there was an unconfirmed explosion at the Pentagon. Then many unconfirmed explosions of car-bombs in DC. Sensing that this was becoming something far more than a sky-scraper fire, I called my parents in Aptos.

My dad anwered grogily, "Hello."

"Dad, it's me. Do you have the TV on?" I knew that I woke him up, but I didn't have time to bring him up to speed.

He answered no, that he had just woken up.

"Turn on CNN. There are explosions in New York, and DC. But I'm OK. If I don't get a chance to talk to you later today or tomorrow, don't worry. It looks like the world is coming to an end on the east coast, but I'm fine. I'm safe. I'll call you again when I can."

Then the first tower fell. Then the second. I had talked to Jennifer, who worked a few blocks away. She was shaken, and was probably going to go home soon. Unfortunately my boss wasn't allowing anyone to leave -- we had work to do.

I was scared, and staring at the TV with my co-workers. We could hear the fire trucks rush to the Pentagon, a few of us walked down to the Potomac. I stopped by Jenn's office to see a loved one, and offer and get some reassurance.

The walk to the potomac was surreal. It was silent. People were huddled around a contractor's pickup, listening to reports on the radio. There was a large traffic jam on Rte 1 South -- people were already headed home. But even the traffic jam was silent as people listened to their radios.

Once we reached the Potomac, you could see, and even smell the smoke from the pentagon as it drifted by overhead. I was scared. We were getting hit hard, and it seemed we were defenseless.

At that moment, 2 fighter jets, screamed by, very close to the water, heading north. I'm sure they were over the Pentagon in seconds. That was the first time that day I felt secure. And thinking about the sight of those jets (F-14's?) still gives me goose-bumps.

Our soldiers, sailors, airmen/women, sacrifice their lives daily, to make sure we get to pursue our dreams and say what we want.

Yes, today is a say to commemorate that horrid event and remember those killed.
But to me, it is a day to thank those that protect us from the bad guys -- who want to kill us because we pursue our dreams, and say what we want.

Now to thank the members or our armed forces, here is a cheesy video that will make you glad to be an Ameican! (Um, wait, North American. Hmm, I mean United States, of course, not Canadian, eh?)

Great Defenders Of The U.S.A - video powered by Metacafe

Yea! We're going to the (yawn) moon... ZZZZZZZ

2006-09-01T09:28:00.000-04:00

Niccolo Machiavelli said:
Make no small plans for they have no power to stir the soul.

Sadly NASA did not listen to Machiavelli. They've decided to move foward, colonize the moon, and mars.... and they'll do so in something that looks like it's from the 1960's -- because it basically is.

According to this article from SFGate:

Lockheed Martin's initial proposal was vastly different from what NASA wanted. Its first submission looked more like the since-abandoned X-33 spaceplane and less like a capsule. NASA told Lockheed Martin it wanted an Apollo-like capsule, so the company changed its proposal.

And I believe this because there was an article in the Washington Post a little while ago stating that NASA engineers were checking out engines at the Air and Space Museum, because they didn't know how to design the parts needed for the upcoming Orion space capsule -- since the ideas were so antiquated.

As you may know, I HATE government waste, but I always supported NASA because it inspired people to dream. It made me wish I was an astronaut. (I even had a "Space Shuttle Club" made up of kids from the neighborhood) It was following a Star Trek like credo to go out and explore.

Unfortunately, my soul has only been stirred to cry. NASA has just inspired me to go buy a crappy Corvair instead of a Lamborgini.

The Hezbollah Spin

2006-08-17T10:07:00.000-04:00

This is a quick post about the messages coming out of the middle east. I want to make it VERY clear, that I do not support Hezbollah in any way. They are murders, terrorists, and big bad meanies that talk funny. During a period of "peace" they launched countless rockets into Israel, occasionally killing civilians. Then they copied the Palestinians and kidnapped a couple of Israeli soldiers.

Israel, seeing the attacks escalating, responded with an assault that awed even Americans -- the creators of "Shock and Awe." The international community, blamed Hezbollah for provoking Israel, and called for peace -- though they did little to end hostilities.

Hezbollah and Lebanon proceeded to get their butts kicked. Roads, highways, runways, buildings, bridges, homes, soldiers and civilians (it's a war, there will always be civilian casualties, especially when the Hezbollah cowards make their bases of operation in residential areas) were all bombed and blown-up again and again.

Now the hostilities have ended. Israel has occupied part of Lebanon, and that section will become occupied by UN Troops. Lebanon lost real estate, infrastructure, and everything else you can lose in a war.... So imagine my suprise when Hezbollah declares victory, and on top of that, everybody believes them!

Hezbollah knows how to play the Spin Game. They are able to manipulate their message and the media in a way that has few rivals. Now they're gaining even more political clout by helping people re-build their homes (Probably with money from Syria and Iran) -- and people are THANKING Hezbollah?!?! These are the terrorists that brought the destruction on the people of Lebanon !! But the people are thanking them anyways.

Yet another great play. They're able to turn reason COMPLETELY on it's head, and people don't seem to care. I know there's more going on here than press releases, there's hundreds, if not thousands, of years of hatred built up here. But you've gotta hand it to Hezbollah, they know how to spin things.

Bachelor for (almost) a week

2006-08-16T11:09:00.000-04:00

Jennifer is out of town, and I'm left to my own devices. But I'm a little disappointed in myself, I'm not in the mood to party and hit the bars checking out the scenery. Instead my idea of a good time is staying at home with the cat, opening the door for the pizza delivery guy, an Angel DVD (The best show EVER), and playing Oblivion.

Oblivion is a game at the cutting edge of graphics. And next to the FIRST Mircosoft Flight Simulator, it's the only game for a desktop computer of mine that has ever taxed it. I had to upgrade my system (power supply, RAM, and video card) to play it, and even then I'm only on the medium settings. If I had REALLY spent money (and bought a small super computer) I would be able to put all the settings on max, and hardly be able to tell the game from reality.

So, from now until Friday, I will be roaming the countryside, slaying dragons, zombies, and whatever elase comes my way. If you want to reach me, feel free to drop by -- just bring a pizza with you.

We Got a New Car!

2006-08-02T11:10:00.000-04:00

Well, it finally happened. After 13 years for me, and 10 for Jennifer, we've got a new car. It's a 2006 Toyota Rav4, and it's pretty sweet. Being a small SUV, the car has some serious cargo room and a hefty engine. With a 269hp V6, it gets 29mpg at highway speeds, but can beat a BMW M3 in 0-60.

Here is a photo of one similar to our car. Will post the real photos ASAP.

Need a Break? Try Pug Bowling!

2006-07-25T09:49:00.000-04:00

I got out of the coffee shop this morning, and noticed that my convertible's top had been slashed. There are two large cuts in it, and I'll have to keep the car in my work garage to keep it from getting rained on during the week. So, to cheer me up, and you as well, here is some good 'ol fashoned fun pug bowling!

Let's face it, a hard wood floor, a bottle of pledge, a laser pointer, and a pug is just good clean fun!

Thanks for the folks at break.com for the video!

'93 Mustang for Sale

2006-06-27T21:15:00.000-04:00

The time has come to sell my 1993 Mustang GT.(SNIFF, SNIFF)

I have many fond memories of this car, and though I hate to get rid of it, 13 years is a long time to own any car.

This car and I took fantastic drives up and down the California coast, through Yosemite, around Lake Tahoe, across the Golden Gate Bridge, and coast-to-coast twice. This car has seen me grow up, and selling it is akin to selling my best friend.

So now I start my search for a Mustang enthusiuast who will treat this car as well as I wish I could have. Here are the details:

Miles: Approx. 123,000
Top: Convertible, Black (NEW top, and motor replaced one yr. ago)
Doors: 2
Engine: V8, 5.0 Liter
Exterior Color: Electric Red, Titanium
Interior: Black Leather
Sound: Sony AM/FM Radio, Tape Deck, 10 disk CD Changer in Trunk, Original Speakers
Electric Windows, Door Locks, and Driver's Seat
Manual Transmission (5 speed)
Chrome Headers and Custom Exhaust
This car was delivered in August 1993, and was one of the last mustangs with this body-type off of the assembly line.
Original Owner
As I dig through paperwork, I will post more information (i.e. gear ratios, where built, etc.)
Price: $3,500

To contact me please e-mail me at polytician@yahoo.com

Kill the Heathen!

2006-06-07T11:56:00.000-04:00

This entry comes from the "What the ....?" category.

There's a new video game coming in October 2006. In it, you get to run around the streets of New York City, and kill all the bad guys. What makes this game remarkable is that the bad guys are the heathen New Yorkers who haven't accepted Christ (i.e. the "Catholics, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, gays, and anyone who advocates the separation of church and state - especially moderate, mainstream Christians")

Here's an excerpt from the game write up:

Imagine: you are a foot soldier in a paramilitary group whose purpose is to remake America as a Christian theocracy, and establish its worldly vision of the dominion of Christ over all aspects of life. You are issued high-tech military weaponry, and instructed to engage the infidel on the streets of New York City. You are on a mission - both a religious mission and a military mission -- to convert or kill Catholics, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, gays, and anyone who advocates the separation of church and state - especially moderate, mainstream Christians. Your mission is "to conduct physical and spiritual warfare"; all who resist must be taken out with extreme prejudice. You have never felt so powerful, so driven by a purpose: you are 13 years old. You are playing a real-time strategy video game whose creators are linked to the empire of mega-church pastor Rick Warren, best selling author of The Purpose Driven Life.

I though it was already bad enough with islamic militants coming from foreign lands to blow me up. NOW I've got to worry about the militant christians as well! These guys are just as bad as the Taliban -- if not worse, because they're already here.

Cleaning Out the Gene Pool

2006-06-06T09:17:00.000-04:00

In Kiev, Ukraine, a man recently broke into the lion cage shouting "God will save me, if he exists!" A lioness in the cage, looked at this guy like a noisy gazelle, and promptly quieted him.... permanently.

This isn't meant to be a discussion on the existence of God. But I think it's fair to say that if you're stupid enough to break into a lion cage AND draw attention to yourself, God will be looking the other way when the inevitable happens. I've heard the saying "God helps them that helps themselves" -- and this guy definitely wasn't helping himself. (But at least he gave the lioness a tasty snack! I'm sure she appreciated it.)

Here's a link to the Reuters story. Lioness in zoo kills man who invoked God

Arctic Was Balmy

2006-06-01T09:34:00.000-04:00

A report was released yesterday which makes the claim that the arctic polar region was once sub-tropical at a balmy 74 degrees. They came to this conclusion by boring for core samples.

Kinda puts a wrinkle in the notion that man is the only reason for global warming. Really, when you think about it, the Ice Age came to an end because of something, and it wasn't medieval knights riding around in SUV's -- right?

New York Times Article is here.

Plane Etiquette

2006-05-30T14:50:00.000-04:00

This past weekend I took a round-trip flight from Washington, DC to San Jose California. That's a 6 hour flight one way, and 5 1/4 hour flight the other way, and it's quite a long time to spend sitting still with 160+ strangers in an aluminum tube hurtling through the air at 500 mph.

Though everyone should be courteous and respect other people's personal space, I found that many people (particularly those around me) did not use proper airplane etiquette. So, here is a refresher course on airplane etiquette... especially you, Mr. Seat 17F.

The middle passenger gets BOTH armrests. Lets face it, the middle passenger gets screwed, the least the rest of us could do is give 'em a little arm room.

When getting up, do not use the headrest of seat in front of you to pull yourself up. Lean back on your own seat if necessary, but if you put your hand on the head rest, you're also putting your hand on that passenger's head -- and you don't know when they last used shampoo.

If you're in the window seat, and the people blocking your way to the aisle have left their seats, use this time to use the restroom. Making two people get up who might be sleeping / eating, just plane sucks.

Do not lean your seat all the way back. Half way back is far enough, and it allows the passenger behind you to keep his/her kneecaps intact.

If you are so short that you have to STAND UP to reach the air vent, you are too short to need to lean your seat back all the way. You've got plenty of leg room already.

When playing a gameboy or PSP, DO NOT make sound effects, including car revving and swoosh sounds with your mouth. Use your inside voice instead.

Those are my suggestions, Anyone else got any more rules?

Goin' Back to Cali...

2006-05-26T09:21:00.000-04:00

As you can guess by the title, I'm going back to my childhood hometown of Riverbank for Memorial Day. The primary reason I'm there, instead of Aptos, is the fact that I need to FINALLY clean out my room. My parents won't be there forever, so I need to figure out what needs to be shipped to Virginia, and what needs to be tossed or sold on e-bay.

It's always a strange feeling heading back, since my room hasn't changed since high-school... heck, my letterman jacket is still in the closet! I still have model planes and space-ships hanging from the ceiling. Perhaps the strangest thing is the feeling that everything is smaller. I haven't grown (in height) since high-school. But strangely, everything seems much smaller, the desk, the closet, the bed.... all WAAAY too small.

That's all for now. Since my parent's don't have hi-speed (or even cable TV for that matter) I won't be posting.

For those of you that need your LL Cool J fix, click here.

Taxing and Spending in Virginia

2006-05-25T11:05:00.000-04:00

I ran across this article in the Washington Post today... [Gov.] Kaine, Assembly Leaders Support Further Discussion. It discusses the current impasse with the Democrats in Virginia (including the Governor) advocating MORE tax hikes, and the Republicans are fighting against them.

The article fails to mention is that:

Virginia raised taxes by $1.6 billion in 2004

The fiscal year 2004 ended with a surplus of $323.8 million!

Even without a tax increase, the Virginia budget was estimated to increase by 11.6%

With the tax increase incorporated, the 2005-2006 budget enriched state coffers by an AMAZING 19%

Now, Virginia is sitting on a huge budget surplus of $1.4 billion.

State tax collections, from July through February, have grown 10.6% over the same period a year earlier

Since 2004, Virginia's surplus has grown to over $3 billion.

Why are the Virginia Democrats raising taxes when there's a $3 Billion surplus, due to tax collections increasing by 19%? If the surplus has disappeared, where was it spent? Sadly, it isn't on the pitiful road infrastructure, but most probably on pet social issues and projects, to make their constituents feel better.

Again, politicians are taking my (and your) hard-earned money and spending it wherever they feel like it. I know this thought may be naivee, but WHY can't the government be run like a non-profit corporation, where the surplus handed back to the shareholders (i.e. taxpayers)? Sadly the politicians frequently run for re-election based on the amount of government money they have spent in their district. And voters don't understand, or care, enough to realize that the money comes from their hard-earned tax dollars.

* Figures taken from ATR website.

The House Always Wins

2006-05-24T10:39:00.000-04:00

In gambling, there is an irrefutable rule -- the house always wins.

And in the City of Black Jack, MO, it appears that the house has again gotten its way. You see, Black Jack is getting more media attention that it probably ever has. It has been the focus of national media lately because of it's definition of "family."

No, this has nothing to do with the Christian Right fighing a homosexual marriage. But it has everything to do with a family trying to find a place to call home.

A while ago, a couple (a man and a woman together for 13 years), along with with three children (two from the couple's relationship, and one child of the woman from a previous relationship) were denied a residency permit, though they purchased a four bedroom house, because:

Black Jack ordinance prohibits more than three people from living together in a single family home unless they are related by "blood, marriage or adoption".

Yup, that's right, this slightly unconvnetional family isn't a family -- at least in the eyes of the city of Black Jack. Never mind the couple has been together longer than most marriages today last.

Against the odds, the couple tried to pass an ordinance that would allow them to stay. But the stogy City Council, much like a weathered Pit Boss, denied it -- even though it was the right thing to do.

So the family must move again and try to find another place to live. Hopefully, this time they will find a place where the odds are in their favor. Because the House always wins...

Congressman Busted

2006-05-22T10:06:00.000-04:00

Apparently Congressman Jefferson Wilson (D-LA) was video taped by the FBI accepting $100,000 in bribes. (The $100,000 was in $100 bills... that's One THOUSAND, $100 bills.)

During the alleged bribe (It isn't official until he's convicted) he made the comment, "All these damn notes we're writing to each other as if we're talking, as if the FBI is watching."

Here's a hint for you all: If you're doing something that requires writing in code, $100,000 in CASH, and making jokes that the FBI may be watching you -- IT'S PROBABLY ILLEGAL!

I hope this crook gets put away for life, and is subjected to daily beatings while being some inmate's wife. Unfortunately, he'll probably get minimal time, if any. And it'll be at a minimum security prison with tennis courts and a golf course!

UPDATE! Apparently the FBI recovered $90,000 of the $100,000 bribe money in the Congressman's FREEZER! According to an AOL article by the AP: "The money was stuffed in his freezer, wrapped in $10,000 packs and concealed in food containers and aluminum foil." This story just gets better and better...

Another Polytician?

2006-05-19T09:59:00.000-04:00

I've had my "polytician" account with AOL since 1993. And I've had my Yahoo! account since at least 1997. I came up with the handle trying to find something like politician (As my love for politics was strong). So I settled on polytician, a fun play on the word, and it implies that I have many interests.

So, imagine my suprise when I ran across polytician.com. It's a guy that does 3D renderings. Clever, use of poly... I never thought about it like that. But did he have to use MY handle?? :)

Well, back to the drawingboard. I wonder if sitingonthebeachalldaylongdrinkingpinacoladas is taken....

California Dreaming

2006-05-17T10:16:00.000-04:00

On occasion, something triggers memories of my home in California which is the South Bay area and northern Monterey Bay. A sight, a sound, a smell -- whatever it is will remind me of my time in Santa Clara, San Jose, Santa Cruz and Aptos.

Usually I'm able to go about my day, do work, relax at home (Which is MUCH easier to do since the back yard was landscaped ... more on that later), spend time with Jennifer, and I'll have nothing more than several passing memories of home, and several more of the friends I left behind. But it's nothing that I can't put out of my mind.

Well, it just hit me -- hard. This happens, once or twice every month and I can't get those thoughts of places and friends out of my mind. I then fight the panicked urge to hop on the next plane to the west coast.

So, to calm myself, I go to a few websites that can appease my panic:

Seascape Resort; Check out the virtual tour (My parent's have a place here)

Santa Cruz Surfing Museum

SFGate.com Live Views; Several cameras around the Bay

Maverick's

Whew, that helped. Now if they can just build a super-sonic jet to get me to california in under 2 hours, I'd be a very happy commuter!

Disillusioned Republican

2006-05-16T09:44:00.000-04:00

I moved to the DC area because I generally like politics. And as a free-market libertarian I usually choose the republican party because I don't like big government. The free market can, will, and do things better than the Federal Government ever will. I've worked in Federal Government offices, and you will NOT believe the amount of waste and general feeling of entitlement in many of those offices.

So, recently I've become dis-illusioned with President Bush and the Republican Party in general. And, no, it's not because of Iraq, oil, immigration, abortion, etc., etc. It's because the Republican Party has lost it's way. No longer does it stand for personal responsibility, and small / limited government. Unfortunately, it's become the Democratic party of old. How else can you explain that the largest entitlement ever (Medicare part D), was created and approved by a Republican President and Congress?

So, during this time, I ran across an op-ed by Peggy Noonan. Baseless Confidence is her column that outlines the main problem that Congressmen encounter while being in power in Washington, DC too long: forgetting why your constituents sent you there.

The Republicans have lost their reason for being in power, perhaps losing this November will help them remember why they were sent there in the first place.

Hiking to Yosemite -- from San Francisco!

2006-05-15T10:32:00.000-04:00

This post comes from my recent interest in California's history from the 1850's to the early 1900's. John Muir walked from the Bay Area to Yosemite in 1868. That's quite a trek. Just imagine, no planes, no cars, no In-N-Out (ACK!). Muir made the walk while examining California's natural beauty, and he documented much of it.

Now, some folks from Santa Cruz are following in Muir's footsteps (or as close as they can get, with a modern landscape of strip malls to navigate around), and hiking to Yosemite. Here is their website: A Trans California Ramble. Yes, our titles are similar, but our blogs are completely different. Mine's better! :)

Though I am a creature of comfort, I must admit, I would love to try something this ambitious. Even though the walk Peter and Donna Thomas are taking must be fantastic, it surely can't compare to the walk Muir took almost 150 year ago. The uncluttered and smog-free views Muir had of an undeveloped and sparsely polulated California must have been breathtaking.

Trivia Fact: Muir DID NOT discover Yosemite. But I recently read the memoirs of one of the guys that did -- more about that later. (By discover, I'm talking about the Western World... let's face it the Native American Indians were the ones who first found it!)

Ghost Towns

2006-05-12T10:48:00.000-04:00

Recently I have become interested in western history, in particular, ghost towns. They're scattered all around California, particularly in the foot hills and mountains. I grew up near a few, and had no idea until recently.

But there is a book I recently ran across that describes the history, and ultimately many ghost towns in the area between the South Bay and Santa Cruz. It's called, predictably, Ghost Towns of the Santa Cruz Mountains. I had no idea that the drive from Los Gatos to Santa Cruz was so filled with a rich and fabled history. I can't wait to take the drive again, leave 17 behind, and try to find some of these places.

Baseball

2006-05-11T11:36:00.000-04:00

I have many interests in life, but few things keep my interest from March thru October each year like baseball. I'm a lifelong Oakland A's fan, and a few years ago I started playing for an adult leage team called the Potomac Mets, now the 9Davine Vandals. Be sure to check out the links, and on the Vandals site, check out my stats -- I'm having my best season yet!

A Start

2006-05-11T10:47:00.000-04:00

Welcome to my blog. I'm a Californian trapped (by choice) on the east coast. What am I doing here? Where will my wife and I end up? Will her east coast roots keep us grounded here? Or will my California dreams make us take flight? You'll know as soon as I do!