So, who here has special plans for the 4th?
Anyone?
Anyone?
Ill go see fireworks on the 2nd and the 4th itself. Here at the State Capitol they put on one hell of a show.
Friday, June 30, 2006
Weekly Random Photo 06/30
Sorry guys I have been out of town since June 21 and my access to Email has been sporadic at best. Also just an update on our new blog interface… I have done almost nothing in the past few weeks, but I expect to have some time soon, hopefully before August.
Thursday, June 29, 2006
missing Mr. Martin
The cable TV guy was here this afternoon and he really reminded me of Mike M. It made me miss Mr. Martin. Mr. Martin I miss you.
OK, I better quit before i get all misty.....
OK, I better quit before i get all misty.....
How the so called mighty have fallen...no pun intended...
June 29, 2006 — As a man in his late 50s with off-and-on weight problems, right-wing radio host Rush Limbaugh is in the perfect demographic for Viagra, the drug that treats "erectile dysfunction," or impotence, the less politically correct name for the inability to get an erection.
After all, for many chubby middle-aged men, having trouble below the belt is as unavoidable as death and taxes. Like menopause, it can simply be a part of aging, although diabetes and artery-clogging cardiovascular disease (both common side effects of obesity among older men) make it worse — not only weakening a man's arteries but his manhood as well.
As sex therapist Dr. Barnaby Barrett puts it, a man of Limbaugh's age "would expect to have occasional problems."
Limbaugh is waiting to find out whether he violated his deal with prosecutors in a prescription fraud case after he was detained for more than three hours Monday at Palm Beach International Airport. Customs officials found Viagra in his bag, but his name wasn't on the prescription — it was in his doctor's name instead. Limbaugh was released without being charged and is waiting to find out whether he violated his deal with prosecutors in another prescription fraud case.
After all, for many chubby middle-aged men, having trouble below the belt is as unavoidable as death and taxes. Like menopause, it can simply be a part of aging, although diabetes and artery-clogging cardiovascular disease (both common side effects of obesity among older men) make it worse — not only weakening a man's arteries but his manhood as well.
As sex therapist Dr. Barnaby Barrett puts it, a man of Limbaugh's age "would expect to have occasional problems."
Limbaugh is waiting to find out whether he violated his deal with prosecutors in a prescription fraud case after he was detained for more than three hours Monday at Palm Beach International Airport. Customs officials found Viagra in his bag, but his name wasn't on the prescription — it was in his doctor's name instead. Limbaugh was released without being charged and is waiting to find out whether he violated his deal with prosecutors in another prescription fraud case.
New OMI post
For those of you interested, John Klika posted a short blog under the OMI reunion thread....go check it out...
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
In the news.....
I think going on one of these digs would be f'in awesome!!!!!
LUXOR, Egypt (AP) -- Archaeologists hoped the first tomb discovered in the Valley of the Kings in 80 years would hold the mummy of King Tut's mother. They opened the last of eight sarcophagi Wednesday, revealing no mummies but finding something almost as valuable: embalming materials and ancient woven flowers.
Hushed researchers craned their necks and media scuffled inside the stiflingly hot underground stone chamber as Egyptian antiquities chief Zahi Hawass slowly cracked open the coffin's lid -- for what scientists believe is the first time in more than 3,000 years.
But instead of a mummy, as archaeologists had expected, the coffin revealed a tangle of fabric and rusty-colored dehydrated flowers woven together in laurels that looked likely to crumble to dust if touched.
LUXOR, Egypt (AP) -- Archaeologists hoped the first tomb discovered in the Valley of the Kings in 80 years would hold the mummy of King Tut's mother. They opened the last of eight sarcophagi Wednesday, revealing no mummies but finding something almost as valuable: embalming materials and ancient woven flowers.
Hushed researchers craned their necks and media scuffled inside the stiflingly hot underground stone chamber as Egyptian antiquities chief Zahi Hawass slowly cracked open the coffin's lid -- for what scientists believe is the first time in more than 3,000 years.
But instead of a mummy, as archaeologists had expected, the coffin revealed a tangle of fabric and rusty-colored dehydrated flowers woven together in laurels that looked likely to crumble to dust if touched.
Goth Fest
so Nine Inch Nails is playing here in Chicago this weekend, I'm not going but I just heard the commercial on the Q101.
Anyway, "Special Guest" Bauhaus is appearing as well.
I was quite amused to hear that Bauhaus was opening for NIN. little Trent has come along way from his angry at the girl days of Pretty Hate Machine.
silence, the boys are reading
Anyway, "Special Guest" Bauhaus is appearing as well.
I was quite amused to hear that Bauhaus was opening for NIN. little Trent has come along way from his angry at the girl days of Pretty Hate Machine.
silence, the boys are reading
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Monday, June 26, 2006
In the news.....
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The Senate began debate Monday on a proposed constitutional amendment that would prohibit the desecration of the American flag, the latest in a series of election-year votes pushed by the chamber's Republican leaders.
Observers give the flag amendment a better chance of passing than the one to ban same-sex marriages that was defeated earlier this month.
That was another vote aimed at mobilizing the GOP's conservative base before November's midterm elections.
A vote is expected this week, before the Fourth of July congressional recess
How do you feel? Is the flag just a piece of cloth and nothing more or does it truly stand for what this Country is?
Observers give the flag amendment a better chance of passing than the one to ban same-sex marriages that was defeated earlier this month.
That was another vote aimed at mobilizing the GOP's conservative base before November's midterm elections.
A vote is expected this week, before the Fourth of July congressional recess
How do you feel? Is the flag just a piece of cloth and nothing more or does it truly stand for what this Country is?
Sunday, June 25, 2006
A Sunday quote.....
There is a tragic flaw in our precious Constitution, and I dont know what can be done to fix it. This is it: Only nut cases want to be president.
- Kurt Vonnegut
- Kurt Vonnegut
Saturday, June 24, 2006
This doesnt surprize me...from CNN
Muslims and the West haven't always seen eye to eye, but a study released Thursday suggests the situation is more severe than mere disagreement and that the two groups generally harbor cynicism and adverse opinions of each other.
The Pew Global Attitudes Project conducted the study among 14,000 people in Indonesia, Jordan, Turkey, Egypt, Nigeria, Pakistan, India, Spain, Germany, Russia, France, Great Britain and the United States, with "special oversamples" taken in the four European Union nations.
The interviews for "The Great Divide: How Westerners and Muslims View Each Other" were conducted from March 31 to May 14.
"The state of relations is not very good," said Richard Wike, senior project director. "Many in the West see Muslims as fanatical, violent and as lacking tolerance. "Meanwhile, Muslims in the Middle East and Asia generally see Westerners as selfish, immoral and greedy -- as well as violent and fanatical."
The study showed that Westerners are "broadly skeptical of Muslim values" and that they often believe, especially in Germany and Spain, that there is a conflict between being a devout Muslim and living in modern society
The Pew Global Attitudes Project conducted the study among 14,000 people in Indonesia, Jordan, Turkey, Egypt, Nigeria, Pakistan, India, Spain, Germany, Russia, France, Great Britain and the United States, with "special oversamples" taken in the four European Union nations.
The interviews for "The Great Divide: How Westerners and Muslims View Each Other" were conducted from March 31 to May 14.
"The state of relations is not very good," said Richard Wike, senior project director. "Many in the West see Muslims as fanatical, violent and as lacking tolerance. "Meanwhile, Muslims in the Middle East and Asia generally see Westerners as selfish, immoral and greedy -- as well as violent and fanatical."
The study showed that Westerners are "broadly skeptical of Muslim values" and that they often believe, especially in Germany and Spain, that there is a conflict between being a devout Muslim and living in modern society
Friday, June 23, 2006
Butt Holder
Inm the mail today I received the neatest little thing from Marlboro. It looks like a bigger sized Zippo excpet it is designed to hold 4 cig. butts until you can find the proper place to throw them away.
Its great to prevent litter and it is another cool thing to have hanging of your wasit because of the cool carrying case it is. If I had pictures of it, Id share with you but I it just the coolest little gadjet.
Its great to prevent litter and it is another cool thing to have hanging of your wasit because of the cool carrying case it is. If I had pictures of it, Id share with you but I it just the coolest little gadjet.
In the news.....
MIAMI, Florida (CNN) -- A federal indictment against seven men revealed Friday details of what the government said was a plan to "kill all the devils we can" by blowing up Chicago's Sears Tower.
The "jihad" was intended to be "as good or greater than 9/11," beginning with destruction of the 110-story tower and FBI buildings, according to court documents obtained Friday by CNN.
U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, in a news conference Friday, described the men as examples of "homegrown terrorists" who "may prove to be as dangerous as groups like al Qaeda" and who have come "to view their home country as the enemy."
Named in the grand jury indictment is Narseal Batiste, who allegedly told an informant -- posing as a member of al Qaeda -- that he was organizing an Islamic army to wage a jihad in the United States.
The indictment offered no indication that the suspects were actually in contact with any al Qaeda members.
Gonzales said there never was an immediate threat to the alleged targets.
It was horrid enough to see the 2 towers fall, but could you imagine the sears tower being destroyed too?
The "jihad" was intended to be "as good or greater than 9/11," beginning with destruction of the 110-story tower and FBI buildings, according to court documents obtained Friday by CNN.
U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, in a news conference Friday, described the men as examples of "homegrown terrorists" who "may prove to be as dangerous as groups like al Qaeda" and who have come "to view their home country as the enemy."
Named in the grand jury indictment is Narseal Batiste, who allegedly told an informant -- posing as a member of al Qaeda -- that he was organizing an Islamic army to wage a jihad in the United States.
The indictment offered no indication that the suspects were actually in contact with any al Qaeda members.
Gonzales said there never was an immediate threat to the alleged targets.
It was horrid enough to see the 2 towers fall, but could you imagine the sears tower being destroyed too?
random thoughts
the trouble is that you frequently consider the soul or entity as a finished, static "thing" that belongs to you but is not you. the soul or entity- in other words, your most intimate powerful inner identity- is and must be forever changing. it is not, therefore, something like a cherished heirloom. it is alive, responsive, curious. it forms the flesh and the world that know, and it is in a state of becoming.
-seth speaks, by jane roberts.
the buzzing of insects, mother nature.
just a coincidence, but the author's husband is named robert butts, which just happens to be my brothers name minus the "s".
-seth speaks, by jane roberts.
the buzzing of insects, mother nature.
just a coincidence, but the author's husband is named robert butts, which just happens to be my brothers name minus the "s".
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
random thoughts
pessimist by policy, optimist by temperment-it is possible to be both. how? by never taking an unnecessary chance andby minimizingrisks you can't avoid. this permits you play out the game happily, untroubled by the certainty of the outcome.
-from the notebooks of lazarus long, time enough for love, robert heinlein
julia reading the little prince out loud.
-from the notebooks of lazarus long, time enough for love, robert heinlein
julia reading the little prince out loud.
June 21, 2006 — Smokers who must step outside for that quick fix or whose states are considering public bans may not have to worry much longer — if a new tobacco product hits the market.
Two top U.S. tobacco companies are testing a new "pouch" product that would cease the need for lighters and matches.
Philip Morris USA has introduced Taboka, which comes in small pouches that can be placed between the lip and the gums for five minutes to 30 minutes and then thrown out. Each tin carries 12 pouches of tobacco and costs about the same as a pack of cigarettes. The company is testing the product in Indianapolis retail stores.
Also, RJ Reynolds Tobacco Co. is testing Camel Snus — named after a popular and decades-old smokeless tobacco product in Sweden — in Austin, Texas, and Portland, Ore. It also costs the same as a pack of cigarettes.
Unlike chewing tobacco or similar products — such as dip, snuff or chew — Taboka and Camel Snus don't need to be chewed or spat out frequently. While they may be convenient, these products still carry their own health risks, albeit smaller than those associated with cigarettes, health experts say.
I am having a hard time understanding the diff. between this and old fashioned dip and chew. I guess you can swallow the spit that is generated from these things?
Two top U.S. tobacco companies are testing a new "pouch" product that would cease the need for lighters and matches.
Philip Morris USA has introduced Taboka, which comes in small pouches that can be placed between the lip and the gums for five minutes to 30 minutes and then thrown out. Each tin carries 12 pouches of tobacco and costs about the same as a pack of cigarettes. The company is testing the product in Indianapolis retail stores.
Also, RJ Reynolds Tobacco Co. is testing Camel Snus — named after a popular and decades-old smokeless tobacco product in Sweden — in Austin, Texas, and Portland, Ore. It also costs the same as a pack of cigarettes.
Unlike chewing tobacco or similar products — such as dip, snuff or chew — Taboka and Camel Snus don't need to be chewed or spat out frequently. While they may be convenient, these products still carry their own health risks, albeit smaller than those associated with cigarettes, health experts say.
I am having a hard time understanding the diff. between this and old fashioned dip and chew. I guess you can swallow the spit that is generated from these things?
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
In the news.....
OK, now I will admit it, being part of this would be way cool.
HAGATNA, Guam (AP) -- Three aircraft carriers filled the skies with fighters as one of the largest U.S. military exercises in decades got underway Tuesday off this island in the western Pacific.
For the first time ever, a Chinese delegation was sent to observe the U.S. war games. But as the show of American military power began, North Korea -- one of the region's most unpredictable countries -- was rattling some swords of its own.
The maneuvers, dubbed "Valiant Shield," bring three carriers together in the Pacific for the first time since the Vietnam War. Some 30 ships, 280 aircraft and 22,000 troops will be participating in the five-day war games, which end Friday.
The exercises are intended to boost the ability of the Navy, Air Force and Marines to work together and respond quickly to potential contingencies in this part of the world, U.S. military officials said. Even U.S. Coast Guard vessels were joining in the maneuvers.
"The exercises are taking place on land, sea, air, space and cyberspace," said Senior Master Sgt. Charles Ramey. "They cover the whole spectrum."
HAGATNA, Guam (AP) -- Three aircraft carriers filled the skies with fighters as one of the largest U.S. military exercises in decades got underway Tuesday off this island in the western Pacific.
For the first time ever, a Chinese delegation was sent to observe the U.S. war games. But as the show of American military power began, North Korea -- one of the region's most unpredictable countries -- was rattling some swords of its own.
The maneuvers, dubbed "Valiant Shield," bring three carriers together in the Pacific for the first time since the Vietnam War. Some 30 ships, 280 aircraft and 22,000 troops will be participating in the five-day war games, which end Friday.
The exercises are intended to boost the ability of the Navy, Air Force and Marines to work together and respond quickly to potential contingencies in this part of the world, U.S. military officials said. Even U.S. Coast Guard vessels were joining in the maneuvers.
"The exercises are taking place on land, sea, air, space and cyberspace," said Senior Master Sgt. Charles Ramey. "They cover the whole spectrum."
another random thingie
We always knew there was something wrong with those Segways. By requiring prolonged standing and mild leaning motions they flew in the face of everything our sedentary lifestyle stands for, and it's good to see some clever inventors take notice and restore us to our passivity. The SegSeat is actually intended for handicapped users who can't quite manage all the standing, yet don't want to be regaled to the world of scooters or wheelchairs. It's a fairly easy installation to add a SegSeat to an existing Segway, and you can collapse the seat when it's not in use. To emulate the leaning motion of a standing rider, the seat slides forward and back, so we're not sure this is 100% sedentary approved, but at least it's a good start. You can get one starting now for $749.
This link (to the EnGanget website) was posted on the Chi Crit Mass list serve and I thought it was interesting enough to post here. I'm sure the Segways are used by more then just security and law enforcment personell, but I havn't seen it yet. it will only be a matter of time untill the 5-O is sitting on their Segways.
Your thoughts gents?
Weekly Random Photo 06/20
Where has this mysterious Offmen who lurks behind fin like hair been lately?
Monday, June 19, 2006
THANK GOD!!!
CNN) -- With the presidential election more than two years away, a CNN poll released Monday suggests that nearly half of Americans would "definitely vote against" Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton.
Respondents were asked whether they would "definitely vote for," "consider voting for," or "definitely vote against" three Democrats and three Republicans who might run for president in 2008.
Regarding potential Democratic candidates, 47 percent of respondents said they would "definitely vote against" both Clinton, the junior senator from New York who is running for re-election this year, and Sen. John Kerry of Massachusetts, the party's candidate in 2004. (Poll)
Forty-eight percent said the same of former Vice President Al Gore, who has repeatedly denied he intends to run again for president.
Among the Republicans, Sen. John McCain of Arizona and former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani fared better than the Democrats, and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush fared worse.
Respondents were asked whether they would "definitely vote for," "consider voting for," or "definitely vote against" three Democrats and three Republicans who might run for president in 2008.
Regarding potential Democratic candidates, 47 percent of respondents said they would "definitely vote against" both Clinton, the junior senator from New York who is running for re-election this year, and Sen. John Kerry of Massachusetts, the party's candidate in 2004. (Poll)
Forty-eight percent said the same of former Vice President Al Gore, who has repeatedly denied he intends to run again for president.
Among the Republicans, Sen. John McCain of Arizona and former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani fared better than the Democrats, and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush fared worse.
He has his cake and he eats it!
Wednesday is Colin’s first birthday, so we held his first birthday party this past Saturday. For me it was a real eye opener… Babies every where, some of them good and cute others not so, but all of them demanding a lot of attention and not all of them getting it. The weather was very hot the crowd stressful, and when it was all over mom and dad were wilted and pooped. But Colin seemed to have a grand time, and I suppose that is what really counts!
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Better late than not at all.....
HAPPY DADS DAY to my brothers PJ, Mike M., Scott and Steve.....
I hope your day was kick friggin butt!!!!!
I hope your day was kick friggin butt!!!!!
Saturday, June 17, 2006
in the news...
BAGHDAD, Iraq (CNN) -- Iraqi witnesses say they saw two U.S. soldiers who survived an attack at a checkpoint near Baghdad being led away by masked insurgents to a pair of cars, The New York Times is reporting in its Sunday edition.
"There are intelligence indicators [that] they may have been captured alive rather than killed," a senior military official told CNN on Saturday night.
One U.S. soldier was killed in the attack, and a massive search was under way Saturday for the two who are unaccounted for.
The paper cited Iraqis in the area, who were interviewed by telephone from Baghdad, as saying the attack appeared to have been intended to lure some soldiers away and separate the force.
Talk about being in a terrifying situation. I couldnt imagine being lost in the wrong part of town here, let alone taken captive by a group of insurgents who hated everything you stood for. Gotta send a special shout out to those who are missing this evening...you are in my thoughts as I pray tonight.
"There are intelligence indicators [that] they may have been captured alive rather than killed," a senior military official told CNN on Saturday night.
One U.S. soldier was killed in the attack, and a massive search was under way Saturday for the two who are unaccounted for.
The paper cited Iraqis in the area, who were interviewed by telephone from Baghdad, as saying the attack appeared to have been intended to lure some soldiers away and separate the force.
Talk about being in a terrifying situation. I couldnt imagine being lost in the wrong part of town here, let alone taken captive by a group of insurgents who hated everything you stood for. Gotta send a special shout out to those who are missing this evening...you are in my thoughts as I pray tonight.
Friday, June 16, 2006
In da news....
Now from here on out, I dont wanna hear about you guys washing your hands for anything, ok? Read on....
WASHINGTON Jun 16, 2006 (AP)— Gritty rats and mice living in sewers and farms seem to have healthier immune systems than their squeaky clean cousins that frolic in cushy antiseptic labs, two studies indicate. The lesson for humans: Clean living may make us sick.
The studies give more weight to a 17-year-old theory that the sanitized Western world may be partly to blame for soaring rates of human allergy and asthma cases and some autoimmune diseases, such as Type I diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. The theory, called the hygiene hypothesis, figures that people's immune systems aren't being challenged by disease and dirt early in life, so the body's natural defenses overreact to small irritants such as pollen.
The new studies, one of which was published Friday in the peer reviewed Scandinavian Journal of Immunology, found significant differences in the immune systems between euthanized wild and lab rodents.
So, now Im only gonna shower twice a month. Thatll get my immune system used to dirt and germs...anyone else up for it?
WASHINGTON Jun 16, 2006 (AP)— Gritty rats and mice living in sewers and farms seem to have healthier immune systems than their squeaky clean cousins that frolic in cushy antiseptic labs, two studies indicate. The lesson for humans: Clean living may make us sick.
The studies give more weight to a 17-year-old theory that the sanitized Western world may be partly to blame for soaring rates of human allergy and asthma cases and some autoimmune diseases, such as Type I diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. The theory, called the hygiene hypothesis, figures that people's immune systems aren't being challenged by disease and dirt early in life, so the body's natural defenses overreact to small irritants such as pollen.
The new studies, one of which was published Friday in the peer reviewed Scandinavian Journal of Immunology, found significant differences in the immune systems between euthanized wild and lab rodents.
So, now Im only gonna shower twice a month. Thatll get my immune system used to dirt and germs...anyone else up for it?
Word of the day
I just found this interesting, I didnt think it was real....
salad days: a time of youthful inexperience, innocence, or indiscretion.
Now be good boys and use it in a sentence.
salad days: a time of youthful inexperience, innocence, or indiscretion.
Now be good boys and use it in a sentence.
Thursday, June 15, 2006
By CARLA K. JOHNSON
CHICAGO Jun 15, 2006 (AP)— Groups opposed to circumcision are watching the case of an 8-year-old suburban Chicago boy whose divorced parents are fighting in court over whether he should have the procedure.
The child's mother wants him circumcised to prevent recurring, painful inflammation she says he's experienced during the past year. But the father says the boy is healthy and circumcision, which removes the foreskin of the penis, is an unnecessary medical procedure that could cause him long-term physical and psychological harm.
Talk about an odd court battle....could you imagine being the poor kid?
CHICAGO Jun 15, 2006 (AP)— Groups opposed to circumcision are watching the case of an 8-year-old suburban Chicago boy whose divorced parents are fighting in court over whether he should have the procedure.
The child's mother wants him circumcised to prevent recurring, painful inflammation she says he's experienced during the past year. But the father says the boy is healthy and circumcision, which removes the foreskin of the penis, is an unnecessary medical procedure that could cause him long-term physical and psychological harm.
Talk about an odd court battle....could you imagine being the poor kid?
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
in response to thought of the day
"you still don't understand," the grey voice droned on. "there is no time, there is no space. what was, is, and ever shall be. you are you, playing chess with yourself, and again have checkmated yourself. you are the referee. morals are your agreement with yourself to abide by your own rules. to thine own self be true or you spoil the game."
"crazy."
"then vary the rules and play a different game. you cannot exhaust her infinite variety."
"if you would just let me look at your face," lazarus muttered pettishly.
"try a mirror."
-time enough for love, robert heinlein
down in it, nine inch nails
"crazy."
"then vary the rules and play a different game. you cannot exhaust her infinite variety."
"if you would just let me look at your face," lazarus muttered pettishly.
"try a mirror."
-time enough for love, robert heinlein
down in it, nine inch nails
random thoughts
there are also various states of consciousness in waking life, upon which you do not focus, and of which you are usually quite unaware. each state knows it own conditions and is familiar with a different kind of reality.
-seth speaks, by jane roberts
even the losers, tom petty
-seth speaks, by jane roberts
even the losers, tom petty
New Ministry Album
any of you mugs hear the new Ministry album?
"Rio Grande Blood"
I picked it up at the library.
pretty wild stuff. but some of it is actually not shit-tacular
here is a link to the Ministry web site, showing that:
Big Al is not a fan of "W"
it's a loooonnng way away from the first album
38, revco
"Rio Grande Blood"
I picked it up at the library.
pretty wild stuff. but some of it is actually not shit-tacular
here is a link to the Ministry web site, showing that:
Big Al is not a fan of "W"
it's a loooonnng way away from the first album
38, revco
JACKSONVILLE, North Carolina (AP) -- A Marine corporal seen in a video singing about killing members of an Iraqi family says the song was a joke.
"It's a song that I made up and it was nothing more than something supposed to be funny, based off a catchy line of a movie," Cpl. Joshua Belile said in Wednesday's Daily News of Jacksonville.
In a four-minute video called "Hadji Girl," a singer who appears to be a Marine tells a cheering audience about gunning down members of an Iraqi woman's family after they confront him with automatic weapons.
Belile, 23, apologized and said the song was not tied in any way to allegations that Marines killed as many as two dozen unarmed civilians in Haditha last year.
So, what do you think? Sense of humor taken the wrong way or something gone too far???
"It's a song that I made up and it was nothing more than something supposed to be funny, based off a catchy line of a movie," Cpl. Joshua Belile said in Wednesday's Daily News of Jacksonville.
In a four-minute video called "Hadji Girl," a singer who appears to be a Marine tells a cheering audience about gunning down members of an Iraqi woman's family after they confront him with automatic weapons.
Belile, 23, apologized and said the song was not tied in any way to allegations that Marines killed as many as two dozen unarmed civilians in Haditha last year.
So, what do you think? Sense of humor taken the wrong way or something gone too far???
Bike the Drive
As most of you know, I (and my family) am a little bit addicted to cycling. This year for mothers day we got a family pass to Bike the Drive.
if your un familiar, the Chicagoland Bicycle Assoc. convinced Daley and his cronies to close Lake Shore Drive for a morning and open it to cycling only.
We did it last year with Tiffs brother Dan (our cycling guru), and this year we went with the kids. Here are links to the Bike the Drive pictures (I think)
Jake
Max (& Me)
Tiff (&Me)
we all had a great time, we rode 15 miles, and took the CTA with our bikes, It was quite an adventure.
Thanks for sharing....
if your un familiar, the Chicagoland Bicycle Assoc. convinced Daley and his cronies to close Lake Shore Drive for a morning and open it to cycling only.
We did it last year with Tiffs brother Dan (our cycling guru), and this year we went with the kids. Here are links to the Bike the Drive pictures (I think)
Jake
Max (& Me)
Tiff (&Me)
we all had a great time, we rode 15 miles, and took the CTA with our bikes, It was quite an adventure.
Thanks for sharing....
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
impending visit
well guys, i just got off of the phone with my father and since he said i could bunk down at his place for a week i am going to splurge and purchase to tickets to the chicago area for a week in august. i'll be in town from the 14th to the 22nd. woo hoo!!!
scott will note that this time frame will include the family reunion, but i don't want him to think that he is going to escape with only a visit with me there. anybody else in the area can start to think on ways to get together. just let me know.
just the way you are, billy joel
scott will note that this time frame will include the family reunion, but i don't want him to think that he is going to escape with only a visit with me there. anybody else in the area can start to think on ways to get together. just let me know.
just the way you are, billy joel
random thoughts
the first opinion that is formed of a ruler's intelligence is based on the quality of the men he has around him.
-machiavelli
stop, jane's addiction
-machiavelli
stop, jane's addiction
A follow up to an old in the news....
I guess if you are in a position of power it is fine by the law to drive hammered on prescription pills....read on...
By ANDREW MIGA
WASHINGTON Jun 13, 2006 (AP)— Rep. Patrick Kennedy pleaded guilty Tuesday to driving under the influence of prescription drugs and was sentenced to undergo court-ordered drug treatment and a year's probation.
Kennedy, D-R.I., also was fined at least $350 in connection with his middle-of-the-night car crash last month near the U.S. Capitol.
In exchange, two other charges against Kennedy were dismissed: Reckless driving and failure to exhibit a driving permit.
By ANDREW MIGA
WASHINGTON Jun 13, 2006 (AP)— Rep. Patrick Kennedy pleaded guilty Tuesday to driving under the influence of prescription drugs and was sentenced to undergo court-ordered drug treatment and a year's probation.
Kennedy, D-R.I., also was fined at least $350 in connection with his middle-of-the-night car crash last month near the U.S. Capitol.
In exchange, two other charges against Kennedy were dismissed: Reckless driving and failure to exhibit a driving permit.
In the News in Tippy’s absence
June 11, 2006 ABC News- Some Chicago bikers got some extra fresh air Saturday night. About 200 nude riders gathered in
Not everyone was naked -- some bikers wore costumes -- but there was enough skin showing to draw attention to the cause and gain supporters.
"I was surprised and then I learned what it was about, I support it. We gotta do something and even that small amount was enough," said Art Auterson, Saw Naked Riders.
In
Scott Said; Um, I think some seats now need some washing… I tried to find an article with some thing for every one.
Im back up in this M'Fer.....
Hi boys.....I missed you. Im back and doing okay. I have lots and lots to read here I see and I sh all do so soon, but its back to unpacking for me right now.
love yous...
love yous...
Monday, June 12, 2006
King Hammurabi, and some of his rules
For the most part we as humans make and maintain laws in an attempt to create a life fair and honest amongst one another. This morning while researching Pete’s post “Truth or Trash?” I found these rules, from an ancient
I couldn’t help but comment on what would happen if one was to impose Hammurabi’s rules on us here in the
- If one accuses another, but cannot prove it, the accuser will be killed. No thanks! I will keep my mouth shut! Just think about all those LA P.D. who accused OJ.
- If one accuses another, and can prove it, he shall be rewarded with money. Where will all of this money come from and how much? I smell a democrat.
- If a judge decides in a case, and later it turns out that he was wrong, he will have to pay twelve times as much as he set for the accused, and will never be allowed to judge anymore. Sounds good for Robots, but last I checked human beings are fallible.
- If one steals the son of another, he will be killed. I would like to add to this one, if he damages the merchandise then death will be extra slow and extra painful!
- If one finds a slave who has run away, and he brings the slave back to his owner, the owner will pay two shekels. It’s not worth my time or energy, you can go now.
- If a robber is caught while stealing, he will be killed. Sorry lady your baby just stole that stick of gum and for that he must DIE!!!
- If one does not take good enough care of a dam, and the dam breaks, he shall be sold for money, which will replace the corn ruined due to the over-flooding of the crops. Wow! Do you really think the current admin, and corps. of engineers will fetch enough on the slave market to pay for
- If one over-floods a neighbor’s crops, then he shall pay the loss. Your trial lawyer says good news! The term “loss” includes pain and suffering, your going to be rich!
- If one gives his garden to a gardener to take care of, and the gardener has done his job well for four years, on the fifth year the owner will have to take part in the gardening. Watch out
- If one is in debt, and cannot pay, he can sell himself, his wife, his son and his daughter to work; after three years they shall be set free. Only three? But GM finance told me it would be five!!!
- If one marries a woman, but has no relationship with her, it is not considered as a marriage. Yeah well I’m kind of sore about a lack of sex also, but I really like my wife, she has allot of good qualities. Only my dick could like this stupid rule.
- If a wife has a relationship with another man, both shall be tied and thrown into water, but the wife can be pardoned by her husband and given to the king as a slave. What if she slept with the king?
- If a man uses violence on another man’s wife to sleep with her, the man shall be killed, but the wife shall be blameless. Oh and who is going to do any accusing, remember rule 1.
- If a man is captured in war, and the wife leaves the house, even though there is enough food, she shall be thrown into water. What it if the house was about to be bombed?
- If a man adopts a son and he grows up in the adopter’s house, the original parents can not demand his return. I will admit that I like this rule.
- If anyone strikes a man whose rank is higher than his, the man shall be whipped sixty times with an ox-whip in public. Wahoo!!! I’ll have to track down my old classmates from grammar school… Looks like there is going to be some public whipping.
- If someone strikes another man equally ranked, he shall pay one gold mina. For each punch?
- If a man strikes a pregnant woman, and she therefore loses her child, he shall pay ten shekels for her. If you know me then you know I have a soft view on the death penalty, because I believe the any system is fallible. How ever if all truth could be know with out any doubt then throwing this guy in to an industrial meat grinder… alive, might be a good start!
Truth or Trash?
Bob Lonski forwarded this to me, I cut and pasted it here from the e-mail, if its all true, it's interesting, if it's crap it's shows a very determined bull shit artist....
you be the judge..:
"This is pretty interesting....
Read all of this one, it is interesting!! Read down to the very bottom highlighted in green, you don't want to miss this! VERY INTERESTING-
1. The Garden of Eden was in Iraq.
2. Mesopotamia, which is now Iraq, was the cradle of civilization!
3. Noah built the ark in Iraq.
4. The Tower of Babel was in Iraq
5. Abraham was from Ur, which is in Southern Iraq!
6. Isaac's wife Rebekah is from Nahor, which is in Iraq!
7. Jacob met Rachel in Iraq.
8. Jonah preached in Nineveh - which is in Iraq.
9. Assyria, which is in Iraq, conquered the ten tribes of Israel.
10. Amos cried out in Iraq!
11. Babylon, which is in Iraq, destroyed Jerusalem.
12. Daniel was! in the lion's den in Iraq!
13. The three Hebrew children were in the fire in Iraq (Jesus had been in Iraq also as the fourth person in the Fiery furnace!)
14. Belshazzar, the King of Babylon saw the "writing on the wall" in Iraq.
15. Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon, carried the Jews captive into Iraq.
16. Ezekiel preached in Iraq.
17. The wise men were from Iraq
18. Peter preached in Iraq.
19. The "Empire of Man" described in Revelation is called Babylon, which was a city in Iraq!
And you have probably seen this one. Israel is the nation most often mentioned in the Bible. But do you know which nation is second? It is Iraq! However, that is not the name that is used in the Bible The names used in the Bible are Babylon, Land of Shinar, and Mesopotamia . The word Mesopotamia means between the two rivers, more exactly between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers. The name Iraq, means country with deep roots. Indeed Iraq is a country with deep roots and is a very significant country in the Bible. No other nation, except Israel, has more history and prophecy associated it than Iraq.
And also,
This is something to think about! Since America is typically represented by an eagle. Saddam should have read up on his Muslim passages... The following verse is from the Koran, (the Islamic Bible) Koran (9:11 ) - For it is written that a son of Arabia would awaken a fearsome Eagle. The wrath of the Eagle would be felt throughout the lands of Allah and lo, while some of the people trembled in despair still more rejoiced; for the wrath of the Eagle cleansed the lands of Allah; and there was peace. (Note the verse number!) Hmmmmmm?!
I BETTER NOT HEAR OF ANYONE BREAKING THIS ONE OR SEE DELETED This is a ribbon for soldiers fighting in Iraq. Pass it on to everyone and pray. Something good will happen to you tonight at 11:11 PM. This is not a jokeone will either call you or will talk to you online and say that they love you. Do not break this chain. Send this to 13 people in the next 15 minutes. Go."
So I lead a more or less religion free life, i kinda have my own brand of spirituality, but that being said, stuff like this is fairly interesting reading and thinking and discussion material. what do y'all think. Truth or trash? the "chain letter of luck" bit at the end gets me thinking BS, propaganda... kinda.
you be the judge..:
"This is pretty interesting....
Read all of this one, it is interesting!! Read down to the very bottom highlighted in green, you don't want to miss this! VERY INTERESTING-
1. The Garden of Eden was in Iraq.
2. Mesopotamia, which is now Iraq, was the cradle of civilization!
3. Noah built the ark in Iraq.
4. The Tower of Babel was in Iraq
5. Abraham was from Ur, which is in Southern Iraq!
6. Isaac's wife Rebekah is from Nahor, which is in Iraq!
7. Jacob met Rachel in Iraq.
8. Jonah preached in Nineveh - which is in Iraq.
9. Assyria, which is in Iraq, conquered the ten tribes of Israel.
10. Amos cried out in Iraq!
11. Babylon, which is in Iraq, destroyed Jerusalem.
12. Daniel was! in the lion's den in Iraq!
13. The three Hebrew children were in the fire in Iraq (Jesus had been in Iraq also as the fourth person in the Fiery furnace!)
14. Belshazzar, the King of Babylon saw the "writing on the wall" in Iraq.
15. Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon, carried the Jews captive into Iraq.
16. Ezekiel preached in Iraq.
17. The wise men were from Iraq
18. Peter preached in Iraq.
19. The "Empire of Man" described in Revelation is called Babylon, which was a city in Iraq!
And you have probably seen this one. Israel is the nation most often mentioned in the Bible. But do you know which nation is second? It is Iraq! However, that is not the name that is used in the Bible The names used in the Bible are Babylon, Land of Shinar, and Mesopotamia . The word Mesopotamia means between the two rivers, more exactly between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers. The name Iraq, means country with deep roots. Indeed Iraq is a country with deep roots and is a very significant country in the Bible. No other nation, except Israel, has more history and prophecy associated it than Iraq.
And also,
This is something to think about! Since America is typically represented by an eagle. Saddam should have read up on his Muslim passages... The following verse is from the Koran, (the Islamic Bible) Koran (9:11 ) - For it is written that a son of Arabia would awaken a fearsome Eagle. The wrath of the Eagle would be felt throughout the lands of Allah and lo, while some of the people trembled in despair still more rejoiced; for the wrath of the Eagle cleansed the lands of Allah; and there was peace. (Note the verse number!) Hmmmmmm?!
I BETTER NOT HEAR OF ANYONE BREAKING THIS ONE OR SEE DELETED This is a ribbon for soldiers fighting in Iraq. Pass it on to everyone and pray. Something good will happen to you tonight at 11:11 PM. This is not a jokeone will either call you or will talk to you online and say that they love you. Do not break this chain. Send this to 13 people in the next 15 minutes. Go."
So I lead a more or less religion free life, i kinda have my own brand of spirituality, but that being said, stuff like this is fairly interesting reading and thinking and discussion material. what do y'all think. Truth or trash? the "chain letter of luck" bit at the end gets me thinking BS, propaganda... kinda.
Weekly random Photo 06/11
Papa Joe, where are you? Sorry I burned your scalp with my hot clippers. I had no idea they would get that way after hours of continuous use. Hope your mohawk still treats you well.
Sunday, June 11, 2006
random thoughts
those who cast the votes decide nothing. those that count the votes decide everything.
-joseph stalin
we live no more, black label society
-joseph stalin
we live no more, black label society
Saturday, June 10, 2006
random thoughts
i do solemnly swear that i will faithfully execute the office of president of the united states, and will, to best of my ability, preserve, protect, and defend the constitution of the united states.
-the presidential oath of office
you can't always get what you want, the rolling stones
-the presidential oath of office
you can't always get what you want, the rolling stones
random thoughts
this one's for the rest of us.
a zygote is a gamete's way of producing more gametes. this may be the purpose of the universe.
meow, captain midnight
a zygote is a gamete's way of producing more gametes. this may be the purpose of the universe.
meow, captain midnight
random thought
this one's for pete
be wary of strong drink. it can make you shoot at tax collectors,
and miss.
the buzzing of insect, mother nature
be wary of strong drink. it can make you shoot at tax collectors,
and miss.
the buzzing of insect, mother nature
Friday, June 09, 2006
is it safe yet?
so now that he's gone... can we start talking shit about Tippy?
just kiddin' dude,
tee, hee, tee, hee.
hopefully when you see this, life will have improved for you.... your in our thought little bro'
whip and chain, ministry
just kiddin' dude,
tee, hee, tee, hee.
hopefully when you see this, life will have improved for you.... your in our thought little bro'
whip and chain, ministry
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Ill leave you with this....
Something very pathetic yet interesting....but back in the day, I could totally see teh addiction process. Hell, who am I kidding now, you should see me sit here and play Star Wars Battlefront I and II.....I can go four hours if I am let free to do so....
By FIA CURLEY
AMSTERDAM, Netherlands Jun 8, 2006 (AP)— An addiction center is opening Europe's first detox clinic for game addicts, offering in-house treatment for people who can't leave their joysticks alone.
Video games may look innocent, but they can be as addictive as gambling or drugs and just as hard to kick, says Keith Bakker, director of Amsterdam-based Smith & Jones Addiction Consultants.
Bakker already has treated 20 video game addicts, aged 13 to 30, since January. Some show withdrawal symptoms, such as shaking and sweating, when they look at a computer.
By FIA CURLEY
AMSTERDAM, Netherlands Jun 8, 2006 (AP)— An addiction center is opening Europe's first detox clinic for game addicts, offering in-house treatment for people who can't leave their joysticks alone.
Video games may look innocent, but they can be as addictive as gambling or drugs and just as hard to kick, says Keith Bakker, director of Amsterdam-based Smith & Jones Addiction Consultants.
Bakker already has treated 20 video game addicts, aged 13 to 30, since January. Some show withdrawal symptoms, such as shaking and sweating, when they look at a computer.
Killing Terrorists
we learned today that the #1 man in Iraq Abu Musab a- Zarqawi was killed. I dont think this will make much of a differnece in the current situation in Iraq, do you? I think this may boost Pres. Bush's ratings a bit for a while, but thats about it. The only big name left is Bin Laden now.
Will we ever find him?
Will we ever find him?
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
random thoughts
all the world's a stage
and all men and women merely players
they have their exits and entrances
and one man in his time plays many parts.
-shakespeare, as you like it
nowhere man, the beatles
and all men and women merely players
they have their exits and entrances
and one man in his time plays many parts.
-shakespeare, as you like it
nowhere man, the beatles
erics story
I figured instead of telling each and every one of you my story separately I would voice my needs here so you could all tap into what I am going through right now. I have come to the most difficult crossroads in my life thus far. I have beat addiction and I have beaten illness, but this is by far, the hardest thing I have yet to endure.
As most of you know, I am currently going through the process of trying to get fed. Disability. This process is long and very drawn out and can take some time. I am living with my parents right now due to my financial hardships. Well, my parents decided to move back to Illinois due to a few big reasons, mainly over the fact that my step dad will end up in a home within the next few years due to the bastard known as Alzheimer’s disease. My mom is also a severe diabetic and the health care here sucks; it is very far from great.
I am moving away from my daughter.
Yes, that read right; I am moving away from my little girl and it is killing me inside. Im not like the normal person you may or may not know; I don’t recover from hurt was easily as you may. This decision has caused me to question all I am including my own life and existence.
My move away will not be permanent; it will be temporary until my disability comes through. It may be several months, but just think about being away from your kid(s) for several months. Yeah, kills you too, huh?
That is my story. A week from now I will be back in Illinois living 300 and some odd miles away from my little girl.
I hate myself for what this has done and I really detest my life right now.
That’s my story……sorry if you didn’t wanna hear about it but I needed to vent it out so I could fell better.
As most of you know, I am currently going through the process of trying to get fed. Disability. This process is long and very drawn out and can take some time. I am living with my parents right now due to my financial hardships. Well, my parents decided to move back to Illinois due to a few big reasons, mainly over the fact that my step dad will end up in a home within the next few years due to the bastard known as Alzheimer’s disease. My mom is also a severe diabetic and the health care here sucks; it is very far from great.
I am moving away from my daughter.
Yes, that read right; I am moving away from my little girl and it is killing me inside. Im not like the normal person you may or may not know; I don’t recover from hurt was easily as you may. This decision has caused me to question all I am including my own life and existence.
My move away will not be permanent; it will be temporary until my disability comes through. It may be several months, but just think about being away from your kid(s) for several months. Yeah, kills you too, huh?
That is my story. A week from now I will be back in Illinois living 300 and some odd miles away from my little girl.
I hate myself for what this has done and I really detest my life right now.
That’s my story……sorry if you didn’t wanna hear about it but I needed to vent it out so I could fell better.
I think this is a good idea:
OMAHA, Nebraska (AP) -- President Bush stressed the need for immigrants to learn American values and culture if they are to become citizens, as he paid a visit Wednesday to this heartland state where the Hispanic population is on the rise.
Bush said upon his return to Washington, he would sign an executive order creating a task force that will expand English, civics and history classes to help more foreigners assimilate into America. It will be led by Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff.
"One aspect of making sure we have an immigration system that works, that's orderly and fair, is to actively reach out and help people assimilate into our country," Bush said. "That means to learn the values and history and language of America."
OMAHA, Nebraska (AP) -- President Bush stressed the need for immigrants to learn American values and culture if they are to become citizens, as he paid a visit Wednesday to this heartland state where the Hispanic population is on the rise.
Bush said upon his return to Washington, he would sign an executive order creating a task force that will expand English, civics and history classes to help more foreigners assimilate into America. It will be led by Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff.
"One aspect of making sure we have an immigration system that works, that's orderly and fair, is to actively reach out and help people assimilate into our country," Bush said. "That means to learn the values and history and language of America."
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
keeping with the lighter side
my family has just taken in a new kitten. he is black and fluffy and just loves to run up and leap into the air and land claws first on my leg and since it is hot lately(although we had some wonderful rain storms today) i've been wearing shorts. i still love the little critter and have an ample supply of hydrogen peroxide. (and maybe some day i'll figure out how to post photos)
On a lighter note
Seen here my old bicycle completely rebuilt, with Colin’s new side car! I thought it might be nice to post something with out a hot button political statement attached to it. As I want you all know that even of the most venomous of my comments are just passions of few words and with out the whole truth. To me all of you are my brothers and I would hope you never feel the need to question my loyalty to any Offmen, no matter how much I may disagree with any of you. I think Pete wisely said it in an earlier comment that it is very difficult to communicate simple things like body language in the written word and that words are easily misinterpreted. So please bear in mind that some times my comments may be a larger reflection of my mood, passion, or rum in my tummy making me dumb, you need not doubt where my commitment lays. I guess I needed to say that for some times I type shit out then go to bed and think, Oh Crap what have I done?
Engel, Rammstein
A fun quote....
To take away from all the seriousness of the political talk around here lately;
After one look at this planet any visitor from outer space would say "I want to see the manager."
- William S. Burroughs
After one look at this planet any visitor from outer space would say "I want to see the manager."
- William S. Burroughs
random thoughts
he has refused his assent to laws, the the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.
-u.s. declaration of independence, otherwise known as a short letter to king george.
the rest is also some very interesting reading.
-u.s. declaration of independence, otherwise known as a short letter to king george.
the rest is also some very interesting reading.
To add to the 6-6-06 myth.....
Here is an interesting quick read I found to go along with PJ's little post:
June 6, 2006 — Denise Gordon, an editor at Glamour magazine, was to give birth to twins today — 6/6/06.
She had serious reservations.
"I don't want them to have this birthday. There could be a stigma attached to it," she said.
Gordon and many other expectant mothers rescheduled their planned Caesarean sections for Wednesday — if there is a Wednesday.
So what's the fuss all about? In the Bible, Revelation 13:18 says: "Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is six hundred, three-score [and] six."
In other words the number of the beast or Devil is 666.
In the 1976 horror film "The Omen," Damien had that number on his head. He turned out to be the anti-Christ.
Some people believe that bad things will happen on days associated with 6-6-6 — even the ultimate bad thing: the apocalypse.
Robert Hodgson of the American Bible Society describes the apocalypse as a "period of tribulation."
"This will be a certain amount of time when there might be wars and pestulences and floods," he said.
It isn't just fanatics who are skittish about 6-6-6. President Reagan and his family changed the address of one of their houses from 666 to 668.
While some are scared of the number, others are cashing in.
A remake of "The Omen" opens in theaters today. The town of Hell, Mich., is throwing a party, and a gambling Web site is even giving odds — 100,000-to-1 — that the planet will survive the day.
If you win, how will you collect the bet if the world has ended?
June 6, 2006 — Denise Gordon, an editor at Glamour magazine, was to give birth to twins today — 6/6/06.
She had serious reservations.
"I don't want them to have this birthday. There could be a stigma attached to it," she said.
Gordon and many other expectant mothers rescheduled their planned Caesarean sections for Wednesday — if there is a Wednesday.
So what's the fuss all about? In the Bible, Revelation 13:18 says: "Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is six hundred, three-score [and] six."
In other words the number of the beast or Devil is 666.
In the 1976 horror film "The Omen," Damien had that number on his head. He turned out to be the anti-Christ.
Some people believe that bad things will happen on days associated with 6-6-6 — even the ultimate bad thing: the apocalypse.
Robert Hodgson of the American Bible Society describes the apocalypse as a "period of tribulation."
"This will be a certain amount of time when there might be wars and pestulences and floods," he said.
It isn't just fanatics who are skittish about 6-6-6. President Reagan and his family changed the address of one of their houses from 666 to 668.
While some are scared of the number, others are cashing in.
A remake of "The Omen" opens in theaters today. The town of Hell, Mich., is throwing a party, and a gambling Web site is even giving odds — 100,000-to-1 — that the planet will survive the day.
If you win, how will you collect the bet if the world has ended?
random thoughts
the first time a man hurled a curse instead of a stone was the start of civilization.
-sigmund freud, collected works
tangled, maroon 5
-sigmund freud, collected works
tangled, maroon 5
Monday, June 05, 2006
Washington - With the situation in Iraq all but stable, high gasoline prices weighing on the minds of US consumers, large federal deficits, a national debate over immigration reform and a crisis brewing over Iran's nuclear programme, President George W Bush chose to defend the institution of marriage in his weekly radio address.
The address, and a subsequent televised speech on the same issue Monday, is part of an effort to shore up Bush's conservative base ahead of congressional elections in November.
The president's approval rating has hovered just above 30 per cent in recent weeks, as the war in Iraq and high gas prices weigh on the minds of Americans.
The majorities that Bush's Republican Party enjoys in the US House of Representatives and Senate are expected to shrink in November and it is possible, though not certain, that opposition Democrats will win control of one or both chambers of Congress. This would likely put an end to Bush's agenda and make him much less effective in his last two years in office.
To get his core supporters involved, Bush picked gay marriage as an issue to speak out on. The US Senate is currently debating whether to amend the US Constitution to define marriage as the union between a man and a woman.
You know, years and years ago, I wouldnt have had a problem with this, but now that I have a kid a lot of my views inside myself have changed: some for the better some for the worse, on a social scale. I think supporting marrage between a man and a woman is a good thing. A child needs both and man and a woman in their lives to grow properly....in my humble opinion. I dont really care about the gay bullshit per say but more about the union between man and a woman. Just my 2 cents....I am sure this will piss some of you off, but if you cant stand up for w hat you believe in, you might as well not stand at all.....
The address, and a subsequent televised speech on the same issue Monday, is part of an effort to shore up Bush's conservative base ahead of congressional elections in November.
The president's approval rating has hovered just above 30 per cent in recent weeks, as the war in Iraq and high gas prices weigh on the minds of Americans.
The majorities that Bush's Republican Party enjoys in the US House of Representatives and Senate are expected to shrink in November and it is possible, though not certain, that opposition Democrats will win control of one or both chambers of Congress. This would likely put an end to Bush's agenda and make him much less effective in his last two years in office.
To get his core supporters involved, Bush picked gay marriage as an issue to speak out on. The US Senate is currently debating whether to amend the US Constitution to define marriage as the union between a man and a woman.
You know, years and years ago, I wouldnt have had a problem with this, but now that I have a kid a lot of my views inside myself have changed: some for the better some for the worse, on a social scale. I think supporting marrage between a man and a woman is a good thing. A child needs both and man and a woman in their lives to grow properly....in my humble opinion. I dont really care about the gay bullshit per say but more about the union between man and a woman. Just my 2 cents....I am sure this will piss some of you off, but if you cant stand up for w hat you believe in, you might as well not stand at all.....
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Weekly Random Photo 6/4
I must have stuck my arm in rather deep this time to have pulled out this little gem from the archive. For those not in the know, this photo of two mikes and a John, is from the first Offmen camping trip. Also I think most of you will agree this is a classic shot of Mike T. Maybe someday we will find him and he will join us in our fun here on the internet.
Saturday, June 03, 2006
By TRAVIS REED
ORLANDO, Fla. Jun 3, 2006 (AP)— At just 1 year old, Theo had already turned to a life of crime. The tiny Yorkie would sneak into restaurants inside his owner's bag, usually undetected, but he and Marcy Richardson were occasionally kicked out. Now the 26-year-old Richardson and Theo can stop worrying and start chowing down.
Gov. Jeb Bush on Friday signed the so-called "doggie dining" bill, which allows local governments to let restaurants permit dogs to eat with their owners outside.
Florida health regulations previously prevented all dogs except service animals from joining patrons al fresco, although several restaurants ignored the rules until local regulators started cracking down last year.
Rep. Sheri McInvale, an Orlando Republican, filed the bill after some complained they were threatened with fines.
The measure creates a three-year pilot program, and the state will determine whether to continue it. Allowing dogs to dine will be up to each county, and even if it's allowed, restaurant owners will still decide individually whether to participate.
When I first skimmed over this story I thought this would be something that was more fitting for say, California as opposed to Florida. PJ, can you chime in on this one? I guess I wouldnt see the harm done in letting the family dog eat with you on an outside patio and the local restaurnant. I guess the "doggy bag" will be brought back into light now.
ORLANDO, Fla. Jun 3, 2006 (AP)— At just 1 year old, Theo had already turned to a life of crime. The tiny Yorkie would sneak into restaurants inside his owner's bag, usually undetected, but he and Marcy Richardson were occasionally kicked out. Now the 26-year-old Richardson and Theo can stop worrying and start chowing down.
Gov. Jeb Bush on Friday signed the so-called "doggie dining" bill, which allows local governments to let restaurants permit dogs to eat with their owners outside.
Florida health regulations previously prevented all dogs except service animals from joining patrons al fresco, although several restaurants ignored the rules until local regulators started cracking down last year.
Rep. Sheri McInvale, an Orlando Republican, filed the bill after some complained they were threatened with fines.
The measure creates a three-year pilot program, and the state will determine whether to continue it. Allowing dogs to dine will be up to each county, and even if it's allowed, restaurant owners will still decide individually whether to participate.
When I first skimmed over this story I thought this would be something that was more fitting for say, California as opposed to Florida. PJ, can you chime in on this one? I guess I wouldnt see the harm done in letting the family dog eat with you on an outside patio and the local restaurnant. I guess the "doggy bag" will be brought back into light now.
Friday, June 02, 2006
Open letter to Eric
I hope this message finds you well and in good spirits.
This afternoon, I brought up the Offmen website on my browser to find you had written a rant that, um... raised some concerns. I think you recognized this, because the entry was soon deleted.
I haven't seen you in about fifteen years, and I don't know what's going on in your life aside from what I glean from this website. As for your problems, whatever they are, you are rightly hesitant to air them out for the whole world to see. I'm cool with that.
Being a guy, I like to fix stuff. Being an engineer, all the more so. But I recognize I can't fix whatever is bugging you. Still, I have some things to say.
First of all, you got one thing right. Life sucks -- except when it doesn't. That might seem like a glass-half-empty kind of thing to say, but everyone experiences great pain and suffering, and it sucks when we're going through it.
Way back when we were still riding around in the Poobah's Monza, you had your adult life ahead of you -- all your hopes and dreams unrealized, yet intact. But you know, we don't have all that much control over the narrative of our lives, not as much as we'd like. So somewhere along the line, things departed from what you had hoped for. This is something that happens to us all. For some of us, the departure is more jarring and severe than it is for others. For one of my friends, it involved the diagnosis of a brain tumor just past his 32nd birthday. That sucks.
Remember those "choose your own adventure" books (Wikipedia link) that first became popular around 25 years ago? What always frustrated me about those books was that it would offer you a choice, but whatever you did, within about three sentences, there would be a plot twist that would take you in a totally different direction from what you chose. So what was the f'n point? It really got me pissed off. In order to appreciate the story, you had to step back and see that even though it didn't turn out how you wanted, it still wasn't a bad story. Still pissed me off, though.
Anyway, I could be totally off base, but that's the world according to Mark M. Piss off.
This afternoon, I brought up the Offmen website on my browser to find you had written a rant that, um... raised some concerns. I think you recognized this, because the entry was soon deleted.
I haven't seen you in about fifteen years, and I don't know what's going on in your life aside from what I glean from this website. As for your problems, whatever they are, you are rightly hesitant to air them out for the whole world to see. I'm cool with that.
Being a guy, I like to fix stuff. Being an engineer, all the more so. But I recognize I can't fix whatever is bugging you. Still, I have some things to say.
First of all, you got one thing right. Life sucks -- except when it doesn't. That might seem like a glass-half-empty kind of thing to say, but everyone experiences great pain and suffering, and it sucks when we're going through it.
Way back when we were still riding around in the Poobah's Monza, you had your adult life ahead of you -- all your hopes and dreams unrealized, yet intact. But you know, we don't have all that much control over the narrative of our lives, not as much as we'd like. So somewhere along the line, things departed from what you had hoped for. This is something that happens to us all. For some of us, the departure is more jarring and severe than it is for others. For one of my friends, it involved the diagnosis of a brain tumor just past his 32nd birthday. That sucks.
Remember those "choose your own adventure" books (Wikipedia link) that first became popular around 25 years ago? What always frustrated me about those books was that it would offer you a choice, but whatever you did, within about three sentences, there would be a plot twist that would take you in a totally different direction from what you chose. So what was the f'n point? It really got me pissed off. In order to appreciate the story, you had to step back and see that even though it didn't turn out how you wanted, it still wasn't a bad story. Still pissed me off, though.
Anyway, I could be totally off base, but that's the world according to Mark M. Piss off.
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Those heaping portions at restaurants -- and doggie bags for the leftovers -- may be a thing of the past, if health officials get their way.
The government is trying to enlist the help of the nation's eateries in fighting obesity. One of the first things on their list: cutting portion sizes.
With burgers, fries and pizza the Top 3 eating-out favorites in this country, restaurants are in a prime position to help improve people's diets and combat obesity. At least that's what is recommended in a government-commissioned report released Friday.
The report, requested and funded by the Food and Drug Administration, lays out ways to help people manage their intake of calories from the growing number of meals prepared away from home, including at the nation's nearly 900,000 restaurants and other establishments that serve food.
First they wanna censor the music I enjoy. Then they wanna tap our phone for terror threats and now they wanna tell us what a portion is on our plates. I say screw them, they have no damn right telling me what is or isnt enough for me to eat. If I wanna eat until my heart explodes I should be given that right. If I wanna clog upi our healthcare system with obesity issues that should be my right too. If someone who smokes can get public care for lung cancer then if I wanna be a fat pig I should have that right also in return.
Bottom line? Bite on this Uncle Sam and stay the hell outta my dining room ya fat bastard!
The government is trying to enlist the help of the nation's eateries in fighting obesity. One of the first things on their list: cutting portion sizes.
With burgers, fries and pizza the Top 3 eating-out favorites in this country, restaurants are in a prime position to help improve people's diets and combat obesity. At least that's what is recommended in a government-commissioned report released Friday.
The report, requested and funded by the Food and Drug Administration, lays out ways to help people manage their intake of calories from the growing number of meals prepared away from home, including at the nation's nearly 900,000 restaurants and other establishments that serve food.
First they wanna censor the music I enjoy. Then they wanna tap our phone for terror threats and now they wanna tell us what a portion is on our plates. I say screw them, they have no damn right telling me what is or isnt enough for me to eat. If I wanna eat until my heart explodes I should be given that right. If I wanna clog upi our healthcare system with obesity issues that should be my right too. If someone who smokes can get public care for lung cancer then if I wanna be a fat pig I should have that right also in return.
Bottom line? Bite on this Uncle Sam and stay the hell outta my dining room ya fat bastard!
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Yet more in the news.....
June 1, 2006— HURST, Texas (AP) — A teenager accused of spiking a fellow theater student's drink with bleach because she wanted the lead role in a school play has surrendered to authorities.
Katherine A. Smith, 18, of Hurst turned herself in Wednesday, more than a week after a warrant was issued for her arrest.
Smith was charged with tampering with a consumer product, a second-degree felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. She was released after posting $2,500 bail.
A message left by The Associated Press at Smith's home was not immediately returned Thursday.
Smith is accused of putting bleach in a Mountain Dew and then handing it to a sophomore in February, a day after the opening of L.D. Bell High School's production of "Ha!" — a trio of one-act comedies.
Katherine A. Smith, 18, of Hurst turned herself in Wednesday, more than a week after a warrant was issued for her arrest.
Smith was charged with tampering with a consumer product, a second-degree felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. She was released after posting $2,500 bail.
A message left by The Associated Press at Smith's home was not immediately returned Thursday.
Smith is accused of putting bleach in a Mountain Dew and then handing it to a sophomore in February, a day after the opening of L.D. Bell High School's production of "Ha!" — a trio of one-act comedies.
I sometimes think it would be cool to be a bird. You could fly about freely and your biggest concern would be your next worm or berry. You could land on peoples' houses and you wouldnt have to worry about driving anywhere, or sex, or a partner for the rest of your damn life.
You could sit around with other birds and complain about humans and how theyve ruined everything for you. That would be the best part; the complaints.
I wanna be a bird.
You could sit around with other birds and complain about humans and how theyve ruined everything for you. That would be the best part; the complaints.
I wanna be a bird.
name that tune
Any-one able to name the song that this little blub of lyrics is from.
It's an 80's song I think,
It goes a little something like this:
walking in a strange light
looking at the walls
the walls are getting taller
and i think they are going to fall
fall down over me, push me to the street
thats ......living in a dream
My brother asked me, I don't have an idea, so I figured I'd ask you fellas, your smart.
whip-smart, liz phair
It's an 80's song I think,
It goes a little something like this:
walking in a strange light
looking at the walls
the walls are getting taller
and i think they are going to fall
fall down over me, push me to the street
thats ......living in a dream
My brother asked me, I don't have an idea, so I figured I'd ask you fellas, your smart.
whip-smart, liz phair
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