From Hero to Goat
By Dan Froomkin
Special to washingtonpost.com
Monday, January 22, 2007; 1:20 PM
After six years of striding onto the House floor like a conqueror, President Bush will arrive for Tuesday night's State of the Union Speech deeply unpopular and politically crippled.
The most vivid symbol of the new order of things will be House Speaker Nancy Pelosi literally looking over his shoulder. With Pelosi's Democrats now in control of both houses of Congress -- and some members of the president's own party peeling off as he pushes stubbornly ahead in Iraq -- Bush will find his friends far outnumbered by his foes.
The pomp of the State of the Union address and the deference given to Bush's office will prevent the night from turning into an outright rout.
---Good day fellow Offmen. I was sitting here drinking an afternoon cup of hot tea and catching up on the news when I found this article. I had no idea that he was to deliver his state of the union tomorrow night. Now my question is, are any of you gonna try to catch any of the action? I will probably tune in to hear bits and pieces of it...
I went out today and bought my daughter something called "Moon Sand". Its seemingly pretty cool stuff. It molds like dough, never dries out and floats in water. Its like some space aged sand.
Over and out my brothers---
Monday, January 22, 2007
Oh wouldn't life be grand!
My wife often accuses me of being to quiet, and not more forthcoming with my thoughts and feelings. Maybe she would like me to be more like this Guy .
Thirteen, Johnny Cash
Thirteen, Johnny Cash
A cold one for mans best friend!
AMSTERDAM, Netherlands (AP) -- After a long day hunting, there's nothing like wrapping your paw around a cold bottle of beer.
So Terrie Berenden, a pet shop owner in the southern Dutch town of Zelhem, created a beer for her Weimaraners made from beef extract and malt.
"Once a year we go to Austria to hunt with our dogs, and at the end of the day we sit on the veranda and drink a beer. So we thought, my dog also has earned it," she said.
Berenden consigned a local brewery to make and bottle the nonalcoholic beer, branded as Kwispelbier. It was introduced to the market last week and advertised as "a beer for your best friend."
"Kwispel" is the Dutch word for wagging a tail.
The beer is fit for human consumption, Berenden said. But at $2.14 (or 1.65 euro) a bottle, it's about four times more expensive than a Heineken.
---OK, how many of you would try this? I know its almost a sin to try a non-alcoholic beer, but it would almost be worth it. Talk about a bonding experience between you and your pet.
Hey Scott, are Monty and Rosie worth the brew???---
So Terrie Berenden, a pet shop owner in the southern Dutch town of Zelhem, created a beer for her Weimaraners made from beef extract and malt.
"Once a year we go to Austria to hunt with our dogs, and at the end of the day we sit on the veranda and drink a beer. So we thought, my dog also has earned it," she said.
Berenden consigned a local brewery to make and bottle the nonalcoholic beer, branded as Kwispelbier. It was introduced to the market last week and advertised as "a beer for your best friend."
"Kwispel" is the Dutch word for wagging a tail.
The beer is fit for human consumption, Berenden said. But at $2.14 (or 1.65 euro) a bottle, it's about four times more expensive than a Heineken.
---OK, how many of you would try this? I know its almost a sin to try a non-alcoholic beer, but it would almost be worth it. Talk about a bonding experience between you and your pet.
Hey Scott, are Monty and Rosie worth the brew???---
I think this is the real issue.
From ABC news.com
Jan. 22, 2007 — As Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y., announced her candidacy for president in 2008, another famous Clinton was conspicuously absent.
Where was Bill Clinton? Even as campaign posters say "Hillary for president," the former U.S. president is nowhere to be found.
It's clear that having Bill as a spouse will be a mixed blessing for Hillary, the presidential candidate.
Bill brings distinct assets: He's still tremendously popular as recent polls show his approval rating at 61 percent. That's bound to rub off, observers believe.
The former president is a formidable fundraiser. He'll bring in money for his wife by the bucket load. And he's one of the best political brains going. She gets free top-drawer advice.
"He is a brilliant intellect, a synthetic thinker. He's a brilliant tactician. He's a prodigious fundraiser. He's a fantastic communicator," said Mark Mellman, a Democratic strategist.
The Potential Drawbacks
But there are liabilities.
Bill treasures public attention so much that he could turn into a glutton for the spotlight and overshadow his wife.
"Bill Clinton can light up a room," said Democratic strategist Jenny Backus. "Bill Clinton can light up a campaign, but he can also burn very brightly and people can get burned."
And there is the scandal that marred his presidency: lying about having sexual relations with White House intern Monica Lewinsky.
That certainly seems less of a big issue now, but the taint of those days still drives some anti-Hillary sentiment.
Still, if Hillary is elected, Bill will make history as the country's first first husband.
---I think this is one of the bigger issues about HIllary and her run for the White House. How much will having Bill in her corner effect her credibility? YOu have to admit, he is pretty controversial. Do you think he will be a distraction, or do you think his politicla knowledge will help boost her to a victory?---
Jan. 22, 2007 — As Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y., announced her candidacy for president in 2008, another famous Clinton was conspicuously absent.
Where was Bill Clinton? Even as campaign posters say "Hillary for president," the former U.S. president is nowhere to be found.
It's clear that having Bill as a spouse will be a mixed blessing for Hillary, the presidential candidate.
Bill brings distinct assets: He's still tremendously popular as recent polls show his approval rating at 61 percent. That's bound to rub off, observers believe.
The former president is a formidable fundraiser. He'll bring in money for his wife by the bucket load. And he's one of the best political brains going. She gets free top-drawer advice.
"He is a brilliant intellect, a synthetic thinker. He's a brilliant tactician. He's a prodigious fundraiser. He's a fantastic communicator," said Mark Mellman, a Democratic strategist.
The Potential Drawbacks
But there are liabilities.
Bill treasures public attention so much that he could turn into a glutton for the spotlight and overshadow his wife.
"Bill Clinton can light up a room," said Democratic strategist Jenny Backus. "Bill Clinton can light up a campaign, but he can also burn very brightly and people can get burned."
And there is the scandal that marred his presidency: lying about having sexual relations with White House intern Monica Lewinsky.
That certainly seems less of a big issue now, but the taint of those days still drives some anti-Hillary sentiment.
Still, if Hillary is elected, Bill will make history as the country's first first husband.
---I think this is one of the bigger issues about HIllary and her run for the White House. How much will having Bill in her corner effect her credibility? YOu have to admit, he is pretty controversial. Do you think he will be a distraction, or do you think his politicla knowledge will help boost her to a victory?---
Sunday, January 21, 2007
This is funny.
Goodmorning! We are getting hammered by a pretty good sized snow storm right now. Several inches on the ground, a little more coming. I thought Id start the day off with a humorous little note.
So speaking of goodmornings, how many of you eat breakfast to start the day? Im not a big breakfast eater, I usually just start my day out with a couple -o- smokes and a cup of coffee or two.
---As a joke, an AT&T employee set up the number 666 to forward calls to George W. Bush's campaign headquarters last October. It was in place for three weeks before it was discovered---
So speaking of goodmornings, how many of you eat breakfast to start the day? Im not a big breakfast eater, I usually just start my day out with a couple -o- smokes and a cup of coffee or two.
---As a joke, an AT&T employee set up the number 666 to forward calls to George W. Bush's campaign headquarters last October. It was in place for three weeks before it was discovered---
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Interesting info.
This past Christmas, after hearing my daughter talk about how great Santa is, I began to wonder at what age is stopped believing. I will admit though, after hearing my daugther and seeing her on Christmas morning, I am a believer again.
---One out of 50 Americans still believes in Santa Claus at the age of 23.---
---One out of 50 Americans still believes in Santa Claus at the age of 23.---
A quote for the day.
"Anarchism is founded on the observation that since few men are wise enough to rule themselves, even fewer are wise enough to rule others."
- Edward Abbey
- Edward Abbey
Big news in the race for 08!
Hillary Clinton steps into U.S. presidential race
By Patrick Healy Published: January 20, 2007
Six years after making history by winning a United States Senate seat as first lady, Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton announced Saturday that she was taking the first formal step to seek the Democratic presidential nomination in 2008, a journey that would break yet more political barriers in her extraordinary and controversial career.
"I'm in," she says in a statement on her new campaign Web site. "And I'm in to win."
Clinton, 59, called for "bold but practical changes" in foreign, domestic, and national security policy and said that she would focus on finding "a right end" to the Iraq war, expanding health insurance, pursuing greater energy independence and strengthening the Social Security and Medicare programs for senior citizens.
In her statement, Clinton also squarely confronted an issue that concerns many Democrats: Whether she can, in fact, win the presidency. Some voters still associate her most with the controversies of the Clinton administration, and Republicans have long attacked and caricatured her, and plan to brand her as indecisive on Iraq.
---So, what do you all think? Can she make a serious run for the White House or will she just get in the way of other front runners? Do you think this nation is ready for a female president?---
By Patrick Healy Published: January 20, 2007
Six years after making history by winning a United States Senate seat as first lady, Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton announced Saturday that she was taking the first formal step to seek the Democratic presidential nomination in 2008, a journey that would break yet more political barriers in her extraordinary and controversial career.
"I'm in," she says in a statement on her new campaign Web site. "And I'm in to win."
Clinton, 59, called for "bold but practical changes" in foreign, domestic, and national security policy and said that she would focus on finding "a right end" to the Iraq war, expanding health insurance, pursuing greater energy independence and strengthening the Social Security and Medicare programs for senior citizens.
In her statement, Clinton also squarely confronted an issue that concerns many Democrats: Whether she can, in fact, win the presidency. Some voters still associate her most with the controversies of the Clinton administration, and Republicans have long attacked and caricatured her, and plan to brand her as indecisive on Iraq.
---So, what do you all think? Can she make a serious run for the White House or will she just get in the way of other front runners? Do you think this nation is ready for a female president?---
Friday, January 19, 2007
Cereal...
So I am sitting here, taking a break from the Job Hunt, enjoying the blog and having a bowl of cereal. Note that I didn't say enjoying the cereal. Corn Pops. High fructoce corn syrup glazed chips of styro packaging. I remember our man Woolie-Jack used to eat this stuff, I saw it on sale and picked it up for the kids (yes really the kids, I try to have all my dead calories come from chocolate or alchohal) but of course they don't like it, and instead of just tossing out $3, I eat it.
So getting to the point, I was reminded of my younger days, eating Cereal, Raman, and Peanut Butter everyday. And also thought about how little has changed over the years, I still start every day with a PB&J.
Am I the only one who, when left to his own devices will still eat like a teenager. Microing stuff is almost to much work when preparing a meal for myself.
the police, walking on the moon
So getting to the point, I was reminded of my younger days, eating Cereal, Raman, and Peanut Butter everyday. And also thought about how little has changed over the years, I still start every day with a PB&J.
Am I the only one who, when left to his own devices will still eat like a teenager. Microing stuff is almost to much work when preparing a meal for myself.
the police, walking on the moon
I’m on a role so I am going to complain some more!
By Scott,
I often sit in amazement when reading some of your comments on different posts, and I think wow there are some exceptional word smiths amongst us. Why the hell don’t all of them Post once in a while???
I should also clarify that I have no room to bitch seen as I still have yet to revamp the look and interface of our little party. Just for and update on that vein I am currently waiting to see if the new interface offered by Blogger will allow us to access the info we want, I.E. the side bar with listing of most recent comments. I feel this is the most critical element to our new design, and if the new Blogger interface does not allow it then I will begin to research moving our blog to new location.
King of Carrot Flowers Part 1, Neutral Milk HotelPost Format Standard Revision
By Scott,
I have been thinking for a while now about establishing a few guidelines as to how our posts are structured. Some posts have names some don’t, its not always so easy to tell which posts are copied from a news source, and which are a genuine members words. Also there is the matter of opinions and controversial topics. I feel it is safe to say that none of us want to inflict our personal opinions in a representation of our greater group as a whole. But that being said I don’t feel any of us mind a controversial topic being posted on our blog as long as it is qualified by whom ever posted it. My goal for proposing these Standards, is to quantify our selves as a group more clearly. Outsiders should be able to look at our site and clearly identify whom is posting and where their info is coming from.
What I propose is this;
1. Every post should have a title, and author with in the first two lines (as example I have formatted this post in the suggested manor). Which ever order you put your name or post title, it shouldn’t matter. Title over name, or Name over Title, what ever.
2. If you are posting a copied article from another source, personalize it in some way. Maybe this is to much to ask but for me this blog is about the Offmen and not just another news source. Don’t get me wrong I think most of us like the content on our blog so far (this is a guess)I know I do, but I think we could easily tweak our entries and make more solidified as the words of an Offmen.
Do any of you think this is too collaged? Or simply to heavy handed in its volume of rules for our little party? Your thoughts?
Caribou, Pixies
Robert Redford opened the Sundance Film Festival last night with a bang. He told the audience assembled at the Eccles Auditorium, where Brett Morgen’s “Chicago 10” was about to screen, that we were owed an apology from the Bush Administration for everything that has happened since Sept. 11, 2001.
“Six years ago, we held off [saying anything negative about the administration]. But considering what’s happened, I think we’re owed an apology,” Redford declared.
“Six years ago, we held off [saying anything negative about the administration]. But considering what’s happened, I think we’re owed an apology,” Redford declared.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
According to most, this is it!
NEW YORK — A majority of Americans consider President Bush’s plan to send more troops to Iraq his last chance for victory there, according to a new FOX News poll.
Overall, the president’s plan receives only minority support, and that comes mainly from his party faithful. A large part of the public’s opposition to the plan could be based on the fact that most see it as a continuation of the same strategy, rather than as a real change.
Opinion Dynamics Corporation conducted the national telephone poll of 900 registered voters for FOX News from January 16 to January 17. The poll has a 3-point error margin.
By 59 percent to 36 percent, Americans oppose sending more U.S. troops to Iraq, not only because most believe it is unlikely the plan will succeed, but also because few voters see the plan Bush announced last week as a significant change to current policy.
Overall, the president’s plan receives only minority support, and that comes mainly from his party faithful. A large part of the public’s opposition to the plan could be based on the fact that most see it as a continuation of the same strategy, rather than as a real change.
Opinion Dynamics Corporation conducted the national telephone poll of 900 registered voters for FOX News from January 16 to January 17. The poll has a 3-point error margin.
By 59 percent to 36 percent, Americans oppose sending more U.S. troops to Iraq, not only because most believe it is unlikely the plan will succeed, but also because few voters see the plan Bush announced last week as a significant change to current policy.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
random thoughts
I am sick and tired of war. It's glory is all moonshine. It is only those who have neither fired a shot nor heard the shrieks and groans of the wounded who cry aloud for blood, for vengence, for desolation. War is hell.
- William Tecumseh Sherman, (taken from "On Killing" by Lt. Col. Dave Grossman
the low hum of the dishwasher in the back ground
- William Tecumseh Sherman, (taken from "On Killing" by Lt. Col. Dave Grossman
the low hum of the dishwasher in the back ground
Offmen Poll.
I was sitting here, in between that state of sleep and awareness and for some reason this question popped into my head...
When was the last time you stayed up all night and why?
When was the last time you stayed up all night and why?
the end is near?
Timely warning to save the planet
By Tom Clifford, Assistant Editor, International
Dubai: The world officially edged closer to the ultimate deadline when the Doomsday clock was moved nearer to midnight.
The symbolic timepiece was adjusted by scientists yesterday in recognition that the world is closer to nuclear annihilation than at any time since the early eighties.
The clock was devised by the Chicago-based the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists in 1947 at the beginning of the atomic age as a method of warning the world. The last time the clock was moved was in 2002, in the aftermath of 9/11.
Scientists agree that the world is a more perilous place today than during the Cold War due to a combination of factors.
By Tom Clifford, Assistant Editor, International
Dubai: The world officially edged closer to the ultimate deadline when the Doomsday clock was moved nearer to midnight.
The symbolic timepiece was adjusted by scientists yesterday in recognition that the world is closer to nuclear annihilation than at any time since the early eighties.
The clock was devised by the Chicago-based the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists in 1947 at the beginning of the atomic age as a method of warning the world. The last time the clock was moved was in 2002, in the aftermath of 9/11.
Scientists agree that the world is a more perilous place today than during the Cold War due to a combination of factors.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Things To Do In An Elevator
1) When there's only one other person in the elevator, tap them on the shoulder and then pretend it wasn't you.
2) Push the buttons and pretend they give you a shock. Smile, and go back for more.
3) Call the Psychic Hotline from your cell phone and ask if they know what floor your on.
4) Bring a camera and take pictures of everyone in the elevator.
5) Move your desk into the elevator and whenever anyone gets on, ask if they have an appointment.
6) Lay down the twister mat and ask people if they would like to play.
7) Leave a box in the corner, and when someone gets on, ask them if they can hear ticking.
8) Pretend you are a flight attendant and review emergency procedures and exits with the passengers.
9) When the doors close, announce to the others, "It's okay, don't panic, they open again!"
10) Grimace painfully while smacking your forehead and muttering, "Shut up, all of you, just shut up!"
11) Crack open your briefcase or purse, and while peering inside, ask, "Got enough air in there?"
12) Stand silently and motionless in the corner, facing the wall, without getting off.
13) Wear a puppet on your hand and use it to talk to the other passengers.
14) Listen to the elevator walls with your stethoscope.
15) Draw a little square on the floor with chalk and announce to the other passengers, "This is MY personal space!"
1) When there's only one other person in the elevator, tap them on the shoulder and then pretend it wasn't you.
2) Push the buttons and pretend they give you a shock. Smile, and go back for more.
3) Call the Psychic Hotline from your cell phone and ask if they know what floor your on.
4) Bring a camera and take pictures of everyone in the elevator.
5) Move your desk into the elevator and whenever anyone gets on, ask if they have an appointment.
6) Lay down the twister mat and ask people if they would like to play.
7) Leave a box in the corner, and when someone gets on, ask them if they can hear ticking.
8) Pretend you are a flight attendant and review emergency procedures and exits with the passengers.
9) When the doors close, announce to the others, "It's okay, don't panic, they open again!"
10) Grimace painfully while smacking your forehead and muttering, "Shut up, all of you, just shut up!"
11) Crack open your briefcase or purse, and while peering inside, ask, "Got enough air in there?"
12) Stand silently and motionless in the corner, facing the wall, without getting off.
13) Wear a puppet on your hand and use it to talk to the other passengers.
14) Listen to the elevator walls with your stethoscope.
15) Draw a little square on the floor with chalk and announce to the other passengers, "This is MY personal space!"
Old Jack Frost.
OK, its 23 below zero with the wind chill right now. The sliding door on my balcony is frozen shut so I have to go downstairs to smoke. This is not fun. Yesterday it was too cold to take my daughter outside to play in the snow.
I got a new car, well, a used one but still new to me. Im not used to having a 6 cylinder under the hood and the get up and go is quite new to me...its pretty nice being able to pass someone with ease while going up a hill now.
I got a new cell phone too and it sucks. The reception is terrible.
Im done arguing with you all about pesos. We will all just have to agree to disagree.
over and out.
I got a new car, well, a used one but still new to me. Im not used to having a 6 cylinder under the hood and the get up and go is quite new to me...its pretty nice being able to pass someone with ease while going up a hill now.
I got a new cell phone too and it sucks. The reception is terrible.
Im done arguing with you all about pesos. We will all just have to agree to disagree.
over and out.
Sunday, January 14, 2007
I think this is totally rediculous. This is America, not fucking Mexico. If people wanna use pesos to pay for something, it should be done in the proper country, not here. Im SO GLAD I live in the Northern US. I could never live that close to the border.
DALLAS, Jan. 14 — Jose Ramirez and two friends stopped by a Pizza Patrón here after work on Thursday for a carry-out dinner. Mr. Ramirez, his jeans dusted with white chalk from the construction site, ordered a Hawaiian and La Patrona — a large with the works.
The pies cost him almost 220 big ones. Pesos, that is.
Mr. Ramirez, 20, received his change in American coins and said he liked the chain’s new “Pizza por Pesos” promotion. He had been in the United States for 15 days — his home is in Guanajuato, Mexico — and he wanted to spend the last of his Mexican currency.
“I just arrived,” he said in Spanish, smiling nervously. “It’s my first time here.”
The employees at this Pizza Patrón in East Dallas, one of 59 in five Southwestern and Western states, were still puzzling over the conversion rates almost a week after the chain started accepting peso bills on Jan. 8.
But the promotion has already hit a nerve in the nationwide immigration debate. The company’s Dallas headquarters received about 1,000 e-mail messages on Thursday alone. Some were supportive, but many called the idea unpatriotic, with messages like, “If you want to accept the peso, go to Mexico!” There were even a few death threats
DALLAS, Jan. 14 — Jose Ramirez and two friends stopped by a Pizza Patrón here after work on Thursday for a carry-out dinner. Mr. Ramirez, his jeans dusted with white chalk from the construction site, ordered a Hawaiian and La Patrona — a large with the works.
The pies cost him almost 220 big ones. Pesos, that is.
Mr. Ramirez, 20, received his change in American coins and said he liked the chain’s new “Pizza por Pesos” promotion. He had been in the United States for 15 days — his home is in Guanajuato, Mexico — and he wanted to spend the last of his Mexican currency.
“I just arrived,” he said in Spanish, smiling nervously. “It’s my first time here.”
The employees at this Pizza Patrón in East Dallas, one of 59 in five Southwestern and Western states, were still puzzling over the conversion rates almost a week after the chain started accepting peso bills on Jan. 8.
But the promotion has already hit a nerve in the nationwide immigration debate. The company’s Dallas headquarters received about 1,000 e-mail messages on Thursday alone. Some were supportive, but many called the idea unpatriotic, with messages like, “If you want to accept the peso, go to Mexico!” There were even a few death threats
The 01//14 Random Photo
One of the more civilized moments from back in the day. Only thing that bothers me is why did I take this photo?
Way too damn old to have kids!
LONDON —
A 67-year-old woman who became the world’s oldest mother when she gave birth to twins two weeks ago has been publicly attacked by her own family.
The brother of Maria del Carmen Bousada de Lara said that the family was “mystified” and questioned whether she was capable of bringing up her sons, Christian and Pau, who were born in a hospital in Barcelona.
Manuel Bousada de Lara, 73, said that his sister traveled to America for IVF without telling her relatives the reason for the trip.
He said: “My mother would roll in her grave if she knew what my sister has done. She would ask: ‘How are you going to bring up two boys at your age?’”
Staff at the Sant Pau hospital said the boys, who weighed 3.5 pounds each when they were born, are doing well but are still being cared for in incubators. Their mother visits daily.
A 67-year-old woman who became the world’s oldest mother when she gave birth to twins two weeks ago has been publicly attacked by her own family.
The brother of Maria del Carmen Bousada de Lara said that the family was “mystified” and questioned whether she was capable of bringing up her sons, Christian and Pau, who were born in a hospital in Barcelona.
Manuel Bousada de Lara, 73, said that his sister traveled to America for IVF without telling her relatives the reason for the trip.
He said: “My mother would roll in her grave if she knew what my sister has done. She would ask: ‘How are you going to bring up two boys at your age?’”
Staff at the Sant Pau hospital said the boys, who weighed 3.5 pounds each when they were born, are doing well but are still being cared for in incubators. Their mother visits daily.
Saturday, January 13, 2007
Hey Scott!!!!
WE HAVE SNOW COMING!!!!!
1 to 2 inches today and 4 to 6 tomorrow night!!! WOOHOO!!!!!
Are you guys supposed to get any?
1 to 2 inches today and 4 to 6 tomorrow night!!! WOOHOO!!!!!
Are you guys supposed to get any?
Friday, January 12, 2007
Bush stands alone with 'new way forward'advertisement
President George W. Bush on Thursday cut an increasingly lonely and embattled figure as opposition Democrats and fellow Republicans greeted his "new way forward" in Iraq with a barrage of denunciation.
Although Tony Blair, the UK prime minister, said that Mr Bush's plan to send a further 21,500 troops to Iraq "made sense", the US president appeared more isolated than ever before. Republicans pointed to the fact that Mr Bush's address came as the UK plans to announce by the end of next month the withdrawal of about 2,600 troops from Iraq.
"Why is it just the United States that is shouldering this?" said Lisa Murkowski, a Republican senator. "Why is Great Britain withdrawing? Why are we the only ones that are moving forward with this new plan?"
Republican senators who publicly opposed Mr Bush's plan included Norm Coleman of Minnesota and Sam Brownback – both of whom have traditionally backed the White House – in addition to a growing list of Republicans facing 2008 election campaigns.
I find it interesting that England is planning to withdraw troops after Blair was quoted as saying that this "makes sense". I say screw the Brits and Blair!
President George W. Bush on Thursday cut an increasingly lonely and embattled figure as opposition Democrats and fellow Republicans greeted his "new way forward" in Iraq with a barrage of denunciation.
Although Tony Blair, the UK prime minister, said that Mr Bush's plan to send a further 21,500 troops to Iraq "made sense", the US president appeared more isolated than ever before. Republicans pointed to the fact that Mr Bush's address came as the UK plans to announce by the end of next month the withdrawal of about 2,600 troops from Iraq.
"Why is it just the United States that is shouldering this?" said Lisa Murkowski, a Republican senator. "Why is Great Britain withdrawing? Why are we the only ones that are moving forward with this new plan?"
Republican senators who publicly opposed Mr Bush's plan included Norm Coleman of Minnesota and Sam Brownback – both of whom have traditionally backed the White House – in addition to a growing list of Republicans facing 2008 election campaigns.
I find it interesting that England is planning to withdraw troops after Blair was quoted as saying that this "makes sense". I say screw the Brits and Blair!
Since this has been talked about recentley here on the blog, I figured Id give it a post. You never know, something here may help...
How to Switch Careers
Making a big career change isn't easy, especially if you've got kids to support, a mortgage to pay, and a car to worry about. But if you've got the motivation, you can do it. Here's how.
Steps
Tackle the golden question: If you had all the money in the world, what would you be doing with yourself? Don't hold back. This is brainstorming time. Make a list of all the things you'd rather be doing with your time. Your first few answers will probably be something like: Take a tropical vacation, spend more time with the kids, etc. But push your thinking beyond that.
Evaluate your skills and talents. Ask yourself: What am I good at? What do I most enjoy doing? Write down every skill you're capable of. Don't be shy.
Think of jobs that allow you to do what you really want to do, at least in some form, and apply your skills and talents every day. Be creative and open-minded.
Consider your financial situation. How much does it cost, on a monthly and annual basis, to support your current standard of living? Are you willing to lower your standard so that you can take a job that pays less?
Make a list of everything you want in your new job, and one of everything you don't.
Browse job descriptions in your desired field. Visit a site like Salary.com to find out how much you can expect to earn in your new career. (However, do realize that Salary.com is NOT the source businesses use to set salaries- they use services that survey other businesses. Salary.com just shows a possible average of salaries and is a decent general place to start for career info.) Also refer to the Occupational Outlook Handbookto see how competitive the job market may be.
Check local schools for courses and programs that may give you an edge. Start taking night classes while you're still at your current job. Establish rapport with your teacher - he or she will prove to be a valuable reference when you're applying for a new job.
Volunteer for organizations related to your desired career. For example, if you want to work in architecture, volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, which builds houses for disadvantaged families. You get experience, and they get a helping hand!
Network. Talk to people in your desired field. Explain your situation. Ask them for advice. Give them your contact information. If what they say is true - "It's not what you know, it's who you know" - then cover all your bases in this department.
Save enough money to support you for 3-6 months, or however long you think it'll take to find a job in your new career that'll support you adequately.
Write a new resume. Make sure you include your objectives (based on step 1), education (step 6) and relevant experience (step 7). See also How to Write a Resume.
Start your job search and good luck!
How to Switch Careers
Making a big career change isn't easy, especially if you've got kids to support, a mortgage to pay, and a car to worry about. But if you've got the motivation, you can do it. Here's how.
Steps
Tackle the golden question: If you had all the money in the world, what would you be doing with yourself? Don't hold back. This is brainstorming time. Make a list of all the things you'd rather be doing with your time. Your first few answers will probably be something like: Take a tropical vacation, spend more time with the kids, etc. But push your thinking beyond that.
Evaluate your skills and talents. Ask yourself: What am I good at? What do I most enjoy doing? Write down every skill you're capable of. Don't be shy.
Think of jobs that allow you to do what you really want to do, at least in some form, and apply your skills and talents every day. Be creative and open-minded.
Consider your financial situation. How much does it cost, on a monthly and annual basis, to support your current standard of living? Are you willing to lower your standard so that you can take a job that pays less?
Make a list of everything you want in your new job, and one of everything you don't.
Browse job descriptions in your desired field. Visit a site like Salary.com to find out how much you can expect to earn in your new career. (However, do realize that Salary.com is NOT the source businesses use to set salaries- they use services that survey other businesses. Salary.com just shows a possible average of salaries and is a decent general place to start for career info.) Also refer to the Occupational Outlook Handbookto see how competitive the job market may be.
Check local schools for courses and programs that may give you an edge. Start taking night classes while you're still at your current job. Establish rapport with your teacher - he or she will prove to be a valuable reference when you're applying for a new job.
Volunteer for organizations related to your desired career. For example, if you want to work in architecture, volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, which builds houses for disadvantaged families. You get experience, and they get a helping hand!
Network. Talk to people in your desired field. Explain your situation. Ask them for advice. Give them your contact information. If what they say is true - "It's not what you know, it's who you know" - then cover all your bases in this department.
Save enough money to support you for 3-6 months, or however long you think it'll take to find a job in your new career that'll support you adequately.
Write a new resume. Make sure you include your objectives (based on step 1), education (step 6) and relevant experience (step 7). See also How to Write a Resume.
Start your job search and good luck!
More Troops !!
did you guys see the W's speach the other day?
He wants to further escalate the tragedy in Iraq
Lets hope the new congress is able to get a grip on this mess before Jake and Max end up over there.
He looks a little confused here
Thursday, January 11, 2007
This is disturbing.
ANKARA, Turkey — A 12-year-old died by hanging himself from the ceiling of his home, a hospital said Wednesday, and family members said the boy was copying Saddam Hussein's execution.
It was the second death of a youngster blamed on televised images of the deposed Iraqi dictator's Dec. 30 execution. 30. A 10-year-old boy in Houston died Sunday by hanging himself from a bunk bed after watching news reports of the execution.
A hospital official in the southeastern province of Mus said Alisen Akti was dead on arrival at a hospital. The boy died of asphyxiation after apparently hanging himself, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity because she was not authorized to speak to journalists.
Radikal newspaper quoted the boy's father as saying that the youngster had been affected by television images of Saddam's execution.
"What kind of a problem could a 12-year-old have to want to kill himself?" Radikal quoted Esat Akti as saying.
"After watching Saddam's execution he was constantly asking 'How was Saddam killed?' and 'Did he suffer?"' Akti said. "These television images are responsible for my son's death."
It was the second death of a youngster blamed on televised images of the deposed Iraqi dictator's Dec. 30 execution. 30. A 10-year-old boy in Houston died Sunday by hanging himself from a bunk bed after watching news reports of the execution.
A hospital official in the southeastern province of Mus said Alisen Akti was dead on arrival at a hospital. The boy died of asphyxiation after apparently hanging himself, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity because she was not authorized to speak to journalists.
Radikal newspaper quoted the boy's father as saying that the youngster had been affected by television images of Saddam's execution.
"What kind of a problem could a 12-year-old have to want to kill himself?" Radikal quoted Esat Akti as saying.
"After watching Saddam's execution he was constantly asking 'How was Saddam killed?' and 'Did he suffer?"' Akti said. "These television images are responsible for my son's death."
What am I?
I hover out there in darkness unseen.
I will shred things to pieces 'till they're just smithereens.
I might serve as a gateway to places unspoken,
Yet I'm sealed off to man, forever unbroken.
I twist and distort, only darkness escapes,
I destroy all I find
Whatever I take.
What am I?
I will shred things to pieces 'till they're just smithereens.
I might serve as a gateway to places unspoken,
Yet I'm sealed off to man, forever unbroken.
I twist and distort, only darkness escapes,
I destroy all I find
Whatever I take.
What am I?
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
She is indeed a bitch!
WASHINGTON — Smokers may be one minority in Congress with even fewer rights than newly demoted Republicans. Now they are losing one of their last, cherished prerogatives — a smoke break in the ornate Speaker's Lobby just off the House floor.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., announced a ban Wednesday, effective immediately.
"The days of smoke-filled rooms in the United States Capitol are over," Pelosi said. "Medical science has unquestionably established the dangerous effects of secondhand smoke, including an increased risk of cancer and respiratory diseases. I am a firm believer that Congress should lead by example."
Lawmakers will be free to light up in their own offices. But no longer can they mingle in the Speaker's Lobby in a haze of cigarette smoke during House votes, as they did just Tuesday night while passing anti-terrorism legislation.
House Minority Leader John Boehner, R-Ohio, is a heavy smoker, often found at the center of a group puffing away in a corner of the lobby. He had little to say Wednesday about Pelosi's move. Questioned at a news conference, Boehner described it as "fine." He did not elaborate.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., announced a ban Wednesday, effective immediately.
"The days of smoke-filled rooms in the United States Capitol are over," Pelosi said. "Medical science has unquestionably established the dangerous effects of secondhand smoke, including an increased risk of cancer and respiratory diseases. I am a firm believer that Congress should lead by example."
Lawmakers will be free to light up in their own offices. But no longer can they mingle in the Speaker's Lobby in a haze of cigarette smoke during House votes, as they did just Tuesday night while passing anti-terrorism legislation.
House Minority Leader John Boehner, R-Ohio, is a heavy smoker, often found at the center of a group puffing away in a corner of the lobby. He had little to say Wednesday about Pelosi's move. Questioned at a news conference, Boehner described it as "fine." He did not elaborate.
this would be a tad bit freaky!
MONTPELIER, Vt. — A scorpion stung David Sullivan on the back of his right leg, just below the knee, then crawled up and down his left leg, he thinks, before getting him again in the shin.
Not what he was expecting on his flight home from Chicago to Vermont.
Sullivan, a 46-year-old builder from Stowe, was aboard the United Airlines flight on the second leg of his trip home from San Francisco, where he and his wife Helena had been visiting their sons. He awoke from a nap shortly before landing and noticed something strange.
"My right leg felt like it was asleep, but that was isolated to one spot, and it felt like it was being jabbed with a sharp piece of plastic or something."
The second sting came after the plane had landed and the Sullivans were waiting for their bags at the luggage carousel. Sullivan rolled up his cuff to investigate, and the scorpion fell out.
"It felt like a shock, a tingly thing. Someone screamed, 'It's a scorpion,"' Sullivan recalled. Another passenger stepped on the two-inch arachnid, and someone suggested Sullivan seek medical help.
Not what he was expecting on his flight home from Chicago to Vermont.
Sullivan, a 46-year-old builder from Stowe, was aboard the United Airlines flight on the second leg of his trip home from San Francisco, where he and his wife Helena had been visiting their sons. He awoke from a nap shortly before landing and noticed something strange.
"My right leg felt like it was asleep, but that was isolated to one spot, and it felt like it was being jabbed with a sharp piece of plastic or something."
The second sting came after the plane had landed and the Sullivans were waiting for their bags at the luggage carousel. Sullivan rolled up his cuff to investigate, and the scorpion fell out.
"It felt like a shock, a tingly thing. Someone screamed, 'It's a scorpion,"' Sullivan recalled. Another passenger stepped on the two-inch arachnid, and someone suggested Sullivan seek medical help.
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
I havent taken the time to write anything personal in a while so I guess Ill take a stab at it....
I guess last month was the warmest December in US history! This warmer winter is really starting to piss me off. I know we have an arctic cold front headed this way this weekend, but I dont think we will see much, if any snow. I am kind of missing snow right now. First of all, I really wanna take my daughter out in it and I miss the look of the pureness it brings, you know, when everything you see if covered in a pure, white bliss. I miss that. Im sure Scott can relate, him being Mr. winter and all...
Im sick of getting spam emails! I have even tried to reduce the number of spam emails I get by going to various websites I get spam from and clicking on their "unsubscribe" buttons. Guess what? It usually doesnt work. The next day, I get the same emails from the same compaines and/or porn sites. Porn. Lots of it is porn.
Ive been doing a lot of reading lately. A lot of reading of work by the infamous author H.P. Lovecraft. His stuff blows my mind. Its so mindblowing horrorific. Not your usual horror though, his stuff goes much deeper. His is very psychological, very much a big mind fuck, pardon the term.
I will let you all go now, I just wanted to let you know what Ima thinkin abouts these days.....
E.
I guess last month was the warmest December in US history! This warmer winter is really starting to piss me off. I know we have an arctic cold front headed this way this weekend, but I dont think we will see much, if any snow. I am kind of missing snow right now. First of all, I really wanna take my daughter out in it and I miss the look of the pureness it brings, you know, when everything you see if covered in a pure, white bliss. I miss that. Im sure Scott can relate, him being Mr. winter and all...
Im sick of getting spam emails! I have even tried to reduce the number of spam emails I get by going to various websites I get spam from and clicking on their "unsubscribe" buttons. Guess what? It usually doesnt work. The next day, I get the same emails from the same compaines and/or porn sites. Porn. Lots of it is porn.
Ive been doing a lot of reading lately. A lot of reading of work by the infamous author H.P. Lovecraft. His stuff blows my mind. Its so mindblowing horrorific. Not your usual horror though, his stuff goes much deeper. His is very psychological, very much a big mind fuck, pardon the term.
I will let you all go now, I just wanted to let you know what Ima thinkin abouts these days.....
E.
Monday, January 08, 2007
Guess the quote
Got any ideas as to who possibly said this???
"Our problems are man-made, therefore they may be solved by man. And man can be as big as he wants. No problem of human destiny is beyond human beings."
"Our problems are man-made, therefore they may be solved by man. And man can be as big as he wants. No problem of human destiny is beyond human beings."
Lets all take up an Offmen collection and make and offer!!!!! It would be great for meetings, parties and the like.....
World's Smallest 'Country' for Sale
Monday, January 08, 2007
By Sara Bonisteel
The self-proclaimed sovereign principality of Sealand, aboard an artillery platform built during World War II, as seen in 1999.
The world's smallest "country" is going on the chopping block.
The self-proclaimed sovereign principality of Sealand, built atop a World War II artillery platform in the North Sea, is for sale for the whopping price tag of $977 million.
Its price tag and remote accessibility would make it perfect for a James Bond villain. Sealand's past is just as colorful as any Ian Fleming novel.
Built by the British Navy in 1941 in international waters off the coast of Harwich, England, the approximately 1,800-square-foot steel platform set atop two concrete towers was abandoned after World War II.
Enter Paddy Roy Bates, who along with his family, occupied the structure in 1967 and proclaimed its sovereign principality, dubbing himself and his wife prince and princess of the island.
That sovereignty claim lead to a decade's long struggle for control with the United Kingdom that included a lawsuit and the jury-rigging of international water boundaries.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Backs New Members
By BEN SISARIO
Published: January 8, 2007
Van Halen, the Ronettes, Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, R.E.M. and Patti Smith will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this year, in the 22nd annual round of honors, the organization announced this morning.
The members of Van Halen to be inducted are the brothers Alex and Eddie Van Halen; the bassist Michael Anthony; and David Lee Roth and Sammy Hagar, who have replaced one another as the band’s lead singer more than once. Gary Cherone, who sang with the group in the late 1990s between Mr. Roth’s second stint and Mr. Hagar’s, was not recognized.
By BEN SISARIO
Published: January 8, 2007
Van Halen, the Ronettes, Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, R.E.M. and Patti Smith will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this year, in the 22nd annual round of honors, the organization announced this morning.
The members of Van Halen to be inducted are the brothers Alex and Eddie Van Halen; the bassist Michael Anthony; and David Lee Roth and Sammy Hagar, who have replaced one another as the band’s lead singer more than once. Gary Cherone, who sang with the group in the late 1990s between Mr. Roth’s second stint and Mr. Hagar’s, was not recognized.
OK, see if you can get this riddle correct. I looked at the answer right away because I thought it was too easy and the answer was obvious, but it isnt.
See if you get it, I didnt....
Clock
At noon, you look at the clock in your bedroom. The big hand is on the five and the little hand is in between the 3 and the 4. What time is it?
See if you get it, I didnt....
Clock
At noon, you look at the clock in your bedroom. The big hand is on the five and the little hand is in between the 3 and the 4. What time is it?
Sunday, January 07, 2007
File under, I Didn’t Know?
Unknown to me as of this morning, Hard drives are actually quite Hard! As recommended when disposing of an old hard drive to insure personal info does net get into the wrong hands, I took a hammer to my old hard drive. But to my surprise my eighteen ounce ball-peen (as seen bellow) it just left twenty or so small dents in the case. Now surely this was likely enough to have disabled my family’s old disc drive for good. How ever being said I am a SAHD, and I felt I had some thing to prove so nothing less than total annihilation would do… at least splitting the dam thing in half would make me feel good. So I dug out my old sludge hammer and took it along with the delinquent Hard drive to the back yard where I could have a word or to with it and a certain hard place I reserve for these special moments. But to my surprise it took seven swings to produce the image you see bellow… all I could think was wow, I actually damaged my special hard place! Disc Drives are really made quite solid! Any how it was a good day as I did get to use one of my favorite toys, on a rather unsuspected object.
Saturday, January 06, 2007
"Military Intelligence" at its finest.....
WASHINGTON — The Army on Saturday blamed a computer mix-up for recruitment letters mistakenly sent out over the holidays to the families of 275 officers killed or wounded in action in Iraq.
"Every Army leader is just sick that this happened," said Gen. Richard Cody, the Army's vice chief of staff. "This is an inexcusable mistake. Five years into this war, the Army can do better than this — and we will."
"Every Army leader is just sick that this happened," said Gen. Richard Cody, the Army's vice chief of staff. "This is an inexcusable mistake. Five years into this war, the Army can do better than this — and we will."
We havent heard about Nukes in quite some time.....
This article is by William J. Broad, David E. Sanger and Thom Shanker.
Skip to next paragraph WASHINGTON, Jan. 6 — The Bush administration is expected to announce next week a major step forward in the building of the country’s first new nuclear warhead in nearly two decades. It will propose elements of competing designs from two weapons laboratories in an approach that some experts argue is untested and risky.
The announcement, to be made by the interagency Nuclear Weapons Council, avoids making a choice between two competing designs for a new weapon, called the Reliable Replacement Warhead, which at first would be mounted on submarine-launched missiles. The effort, if approved by President Bush and financed by Congress, would require a huge refurbishment of the nation’s complex for nuclear design and manufacturing, with the overall bill estimated at more than $100 billion.
But the council’s decision to seek a hybrid design, combining well-tested elements from an older design with new safety and security elements from a more novel approach, could delay the production of the weapon. It also raises the question of whether the United States will ultimately be forced to end its moratorium on underground nuclear testing to make sure the new design works.
Skip to next paragraph WASHINGTON, Jan. 6 — The Bush administration is expected to announce next week a major step forward in the building of the country’s first new nuclear warhead in nearly two decades. It will propose elements of competing designs from two weapons laboratories in an approach that some experts argue is untested and risky.
The announcement, to be made by the interagency Nuclear Weapons Council, avoids making a choice between two competing designs for a new weapon, called the Reliable Replacement Warhead, which at first would be mounted on submarine-launched missiles. The effort, if approved by President Bush and financed by Congress, would require a huge refurbishment of the nation’s complex for nuclear design and manufacturing, with the overall bill estimated at more than $100 billion.
But the council’s decision to seek a hybrid design, combining well-tested elements from an older design with new safety and security elements from a more novel approach, could delay the production of the weapon. It also raises the question of whether the United States will ultimately be forced to end its moratorium on underground nuclear testing to make sure the new design works.
Friday, January 05, 2007
History is made.....
Democrats take over the gavel in 110th US Congress
The Democrats are now in control of the US Congress. High on the agenda, hearings on how to stop sectarian strife in Iraq and perceived mistakes by the administration on getting into the war.
For the first time in US history, the House welcomes a female speaker.
And for the first time in more than a decade, the democrats are taking the lead.
"The campaign is over. Democrats are ready to lead." said Nancy Pelosi.
For the last six years, President Bush has enjoyed working with a Congress which has mostly done his bidding.
But as Democrats take over the gavel, their plan of 100 legislative hours immediately leaves a Democratic stamp on the new congress.
However, the war in Iraq still dominates the agenda.
Harry Reid, Senate Majority leader, said "We want to work with Republicans, I'm happy to see the President met with the Study Group early on, he said he wouldn't, I'm glad he did. But this is not a time for threatening the President with anything. We are going to see how we can work with him to change course in Iraq."
The Democrats are now in control of the US Congress. High on the agenda, hearings on how to stop sectarian strife in Iraq and perceived mistakes by the administration on getting into the war.
For the first time in US history, the House welcomes a female speaker.
And for the first time in more than a decade, the democrats are taking the lead.
"The campaign is over. Democrats are ready to lead." said Nancy Pelosi.
For the last six years, President Bush has enjoyed working with a Congress which has mostly done his bidding.
But as Democrats take over the gavel, their plan of 100 legislative hours immediately leaves a Democratic stamp on the new congress.
However, the war in Iraq still dominates the agenda.
Harry Reid, Senate Majority leader, said "We want to work with Republicans, I'm happy to see the President met with the Study Group early on, he said he wouldn't, I'm glad he did. But this is not a time for threatening the President with anything. We are going to see how we can work with him to change course in Iraq."
Thursday, January 04, 2007
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BLOG!!!
Well, according to my bookmarks, this blog is one year old today. It has definitley come a long way and we have found a lot of old Offmen in the process along with gaining a new one.
For me, this blog has been a learning experience and a great blessing.
For me, this blog has been a learning experience and a great blessing.
This makes me wish for a longer winter.....if summer is going to be that bad.
LONDON - A resurgent El Nino and persistently high levels of greenhouse gases are likely to make 2007 the world's hottest year ever recorded, Britain's weather agency said Thursday.
The Meteorological Office calculated a 60 percent probability that 2007 would break the record set in 1998, which was 1.20 degrees Fahrenheit over the long-term average.
"This new information represents another warning that climate change is happening around the world," agency consultant Katie Hopkins said in a statement.
LONDON - A resurgent El Nino and persistently high levels of greenhouse gases are likely to make 2007 the world's hottest year ever recorded, Britain's weather agency said Thursday.
The Meteorological Office calculated a 60 percent probability that 2007 would break the record set in 1998, which was 1.20 degrees Fahrenheit over the long-term average.
"This new information represents another warning that climate change is happening around the world," agency consultant Katie Hopkins said in a statement.
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
FARMINGTON, Conn. — A Burlington woman has been charged with trying to get painkillers from a drug store by using her dog's name.
Kymberly Smith, 38, faces more than two dozen charges related to her alleged repeated attempts to fraudulently obtain painkillers at a Farmington pharmacy under her dog's name.
Police said Smith is charged with using her dog Zack's name to get Hydrocodone, which is marketed under several names including Vicodin.
Simsbury police said Smith was also arrested in June after she was allegedly caught calling in a fraudulent prescription for the same drug.
Farmington police said Smith was a veterinary technician for several area veterinarians when she began using their ID number to call in prescriptions for herself under the name "Zack Smith."
Ive only taken Vicodin a couple times in my life and it got me pretty high. I guess the stuff is rather addictive. It made me feel as buzzy and floaty. It was fun, I reccomend it to anyone else who has the chance.....
Kymberly Smith, 38, faces more than two dozen charges related to her alleged repeated attempts to fraudulently obtain painkillers at a Farmington pharmacy under her dog's name.
Police said Smith is charged with using her dog Zack's name to get Hydrocodone, which is marketed under several names including Vicodin.
Simsbury police said Smith was also arrested in June after she was allegedly caught calling in a fraudulent prescription for the same drug.
Farmington police said Smith was a veterinary technician for several area veterinarians when she began using their ID number to call in prescriptions for herself under the name "Zack Smith."
Ive only taken Vicodin a couple times in my life and it got me pretty high. I guess the stuff is rather addictive. It made me feel as buzzy and floaty. It was fun, I reccomend it to anyone else who has the chance.....
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
A ROCKABILLY Station!!!
Yahoo radio has added a free Rockabilly station to their listings FYI. Its pretty new so the selection is limited (too much Stray Cats for my liking) but its pretty cool nonetheless. You should all check it out.
Monday, January 01, 2007
Googley Eyed Bastards or just the weather?
CHICAGO — Federal officials say it was probably just some weird weather phenomenon, but a group of United Airline employees swear they saw a mysterious, saucer-shaped craft hovering over O'Hare Airport last fall.
The workers, some of them pilots, said the object didn't have lights and hovered over an airport terminal before shooting up through the clouds, according to a report in Monday's Chicago Tribune.
The Federal Aviation Administration acknowledged that a United supervisor had called the control tower at O'Hare, asking if anyone had spotted a spinning disc-shaped object. But the controllers didn't see anything, and a preliminary check of radar found nothing out of the ordinary, FAA spokeswoman Elizabeth Isham Cory said.
The workers, some of them pilots, said the object didn't have lights and hovered over an airport terminal before shooting up through the clouds, according to a report in Monday's Chicago Tribune.
The Federal Aviation Administration acknowledged that a United supervisor had called the control tower at O'Hare, asking if anyone had spotted a spinning disc-shaped object. But the controllers didn't see anything, and a preliminary check of radar found nothing out of the ordinary, FAA spokeswoman Elizabeth Isham Cory said.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Happy Happy New Year!
I just wanted to wish you all a very happy and SAFE New Years.
Another one down, huh?
So, what are your New Years plans for tonight? Anything good? Anyone heading out?
How about new year resolutions, does anyone have any?
Another one down, huh?
So, what are your New Years plans for tonight? Anything good? Anyone heading out?
How about new year resolutions, does anyone have any?
Saturday, December 30, 2006
more hang time.....
BAGHDAD, Dec. 30 — After nearly three decades living with the brutal repression of Saddam Hussein and the violent aftermath of his overthrow by American troops, most of Iraq responded with relative calm on Saturday to the news that the former dictator had been hanged at dawn in one of the grimmest of his own execution chambers.
Death of the Iraqi Tyrant This nation of 27 million people spent much of the day crowding around TV sets to watch mesmerizing replays of a video recording that showed the 69-year-old Mr. Hussein, in what appeared to be a state of subdued resignation, being led to the gallows shortly after 6 a.m. in Baghdad by masked executioners, and having a noose fashioned from a thick rope of yellow hemp lowered around his neck.
Death of the Iraqi Tyrant This nation of 27 million people spent much of the day crowding around TV sets to watch mesmerizing replays of a video recording that showed the 69-year-old Mr. Hussein, in what appeared to be a state of subdued resignation, being led to the gallows shortly after 6 a.m. in Baghdad by masked executioners, and having a noose fashioned from a thick rope of yellow hemp lowered around his neck.
Friday, December 29, 2006
Hangovers suck
If ringing in the New Year feels like a gong banging in your head, chances are you drank too much alcohol celebrating New Year's Eve, and you're not alone.
Scientists have studied few of the common treatments for hangovers found at your local drugstore.
However, you can avoid headaches this holiday by learning the facts about alcohol: a cup of coffee won't sober you up, popping Tylenol can be bad for your liver, and the hair of the dog will only prolong your pain.
"The severity of a hangover is related to the blood alcohol level you reach, how rapidly you drink, and the amount you drink," said Dennis Twombly, program director of the Division of Neuroscience and Behavior at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). "After the alcohol has been cleared from the system, a hangover can last for 8 to 24 hours, depending on how much you've consumed."
Scientists have studied few of the common treatments for hangovers found at your local drugstore.
However, you can avoid headaches this holiday by learning the facts about alcohol: a cup of coffee won't sober you up, popping Tylenol can be bad for your liver, and the hair of the dog will only prolong your pain.
"The severity of a hangover is related to the blood alcohol level you reach, how rapidly you drink, and the amount you drink," said Dennis Twombly, program director of the Division of Neuroscience and Behavior at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). "After the alcohol has been cleared from the system, a hangover can last for 8 to 24 hours, depending on how much you've consumed."
Granted, I would NEVER wanna mess with this guy, but he is just a world class fuck up.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Mike Tyson was arrested early Friday on suspicion of driving under the influence and possession of cocaine after police stopped him shortly after he left a Scottsdale nightclub, police said.
The former heavyweight champion appeared in Maricopa County Superior Court in Phoenix later Friday and was ordered released without bond on a felony drug possession charge.
No alcohol was detected in his system, and a DUI-drugs charge was not filed pending toxicology tests.
Tyson, 40, will be required to submit to drug and alcohol testing and is prohibited from drinking or taking any nonprescription drugs while the case is pending.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Mike Tyson was arrested early Friday on suspicion of driving under the influence and possession of cocaine after police stopped him shortly after he left a Scottsdale nightclub, police said.
The former heavyweight champion appeared in Maricopa County Superior Court in Phoenix later Friday and was ordered released without bond on a felony drug possession charge.
No alcohol was detected in his system, and a DUI-drugs charge was not filed pending toxicology tests.
Tyson, 40, will be required to submit to drug and alcohol testing and is prohibited from drinking or taking any nonprescription drugs while the case is pending.
Time to hang.....
U.S. official says execution could come tomorrow, but Iraqis are not so sure
December 29, 2006
BAGHDAD–Saddam Hussein bade two half-brothers farewell yesterday in a rare prison meeting as he awaits execution, but U.S. and Iraqi officials gave conflicting accounts of whether he would hang within days.
A senior Bush administration official said the ousted president could go to the gallows as soon as tomorrow. But Iraqi officials backed away from suggestions they'd definitely hang Saddam within a month.
December 29, 2006
BAGHDAD–Saddam Hussein bade two half-brothers farewell yesterday in a rare prison meeting as he awaits execution, but U.S. and Iraqi officials gave conflicting accounts of whether he would hang within days.
A senior Bush administration official said the ousted president could go to the gallows as soon as tomorrow. But Iraqi officials backed away from suggestions they'd definitely hang Saddam within a month.
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Edwards Makes It Official: He's Running For President
December 28, 2006 10:50 a.m. EST
William Macklin - All Headline News Staff Reporter
New Orleans, LA (AHN) - In an appearance on NBC's "Today Show" early Thursday, former North Carolina Sen. John Edwards admitted what anyone vaguely familiar with the electoral process already knew: he wants to be president.
"I'm here to announce I'm a candidate for president of the United States," said Edwards, a Democrat and his party's 2004 vice-presidential candidate. "I've reached my own conclusion that this is the best way to serve my country."
Standing in the early morning light in a Katrina-ravaged neighborhood in New Orleans, Edwards formalized his campaign after months of cat-out-the-bag leaks that left little doubt as to his intentions. As he spoke about his desire to reduce the number of troops in Iraq and tackle other problems ranging from global warming to health care, his campaign was already in full swing on the internet, where for months Edwards has been posting blogs and raising money on his "One America" website.
December 28, 2006 10:50 a.m. EST
William Macklin - All Headline News Staff Reporter
New Orleans, LA (AHN) - In an appearance on NBC's "Today Show" early Thursday, former North Carolina Sen. John Edwards admitted what anyone vaguely familiar with the electoral process already knew: he wants to be president.
"I'm here to announce I'm a candidate for president of the United States," said Edwards, a Democrat and his party's 2004 vice-presidential candidate. "I've reached my own conclusion that this is the best way to serve my country."
Standing in the early morning light in a Katrina-ravaged neighborhood in New Orleans, Edwards formalized his campaign after months of cat-out-the-bag leaks that left little doubt as to his intentions. As he spoke about his desire to reduce the number of troops in Iraq and tackle other problems ranging from global warming to health care, his campaign was already in full swing on the internet, where for months Edwards has been posting blogs and raising money on his "One America" website.
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
The joy of music.....
OK, I know I have asked this of you in the past Scott, but since we have had so many new Offmen pop up on here since then I ask again. I also ask that you add your few to the pile again Scott!
If you had to pick 5 or 10 songs of the past that would help you to build you an Offmen soundtrack, what would they be?
I am building a new library of songs for my new MP3 player and I need your help.
Anyone?
If you had to pick 5 or 10 songs of the past that would help you to build you an Offmen soundtrack, what would they be?
I am building a new library of songs for my new MP3 player and I need your help.
Anyone?
Thats why they taste so darn good!!!!!
Over the course of its four-month life span, the average commercially bred domestic turkey is fed two pounds of antibiotics, sedatives and other growth enhancing drugs.
This makes me wanna think twice come next Thanksgiving. Its pretty amazing to think what they add to our food. Granted, Ill still eat it.....it has always made me wonder as to why you see so many young kids develop so early....makes me wonder if all the hormones they add to our food is playing a large part in this. Its just not right seeing an 8th grade boy stand nearly 6 feet tall or some 11 year old girl having boobs bigger than your wife or girlfriend, you know?
You cant help but notice. Its kinda freaky.
This makes me wanna think twice come next Thanksgiving. Its pretty amazing to think what they add to our food. Granted, Ill still eat it.....it has always made me wonder as to why you see so many young kids develop so early....makes me wonder if all the hormones they add to our food is playing a large part in this. Its just not right seeing an 8th grade boy stand nearly 6 feet tall or some 11 year old girl having boobs bigger than your wife or girlfriend, you know?
You cant help but notice. Its kinda freaky.
Great Place
I am seen through many eyes.
Even the blind see me.
Through me, nothing is impossible.
Many stories come from within me.
Time can hold still, or move at the speed of light.
The unthinkable comes to life in me.
I am a wondrous world full of life, or even death.
Love can rule, and hate fades out of the picture.
Peace can be found throughout and no wars.
It is within me where only I can control; no one else can.
I am a place that no one can take from you.
What am I?
I am seen through many eyes.
Even the blind see me.
Through me, nothing is impossible.
Many stories come from within me.
Time can hold still, or move at the speed of light.
The unthinkable comes to life in me.
I am a wondrous world full of life, or even death.
Love can rule, and hate fades out of the picture.
Peace can be found throughout and no wars.
It is within me where only I can control; no one else can.
I am a place that no one can take from you.
What am I?
In the news.....RIP.
RANCHO MIRAGE, California (CNN) -- Former President Gerald Ford, who became president in 1974 after the resignation of Richard Nixon, died Tuesday at age 93.
Ford, the oldest surviving former U.S. president, died peacefully at 6:45 p.m. PT (9:45 p.m. ET) Tuesday at his home in Rancho Mirage, California, according to a statement from his office. The cause of death was not given.
A statement from Ford's wife, Betty, said: "My family joins me in sharing the difficult news that Gerald Ford, our beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather has passed away at 93 years of age. His life was filled with love of God, his family and his country."
Ford, the oldest surviving former U.S. president, died peacefully at 6:45 p.m. PT (9:45 p.m. ET) Tuesday at his home in Rancho Mirage, California, according to a statement from his office. The cause of death was not given.
A statement from Ford's wife, Betty, said: "My family joins me in sharing the difficult news that Gerald Ford, our beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather has passed away at 93 years of age. His life was filled with love of God, his family and his country."
Monday, December 25, 2006
In the music world.....
A true pioneer.....
James Brown, the ‘Godfather of Soul’, Dies at 73
By JON PARELES
Published: December 25, 2006
James Brown, the singer, songwriter, bandleader and dancer, who indelibly transformed 20th-century music, died early today at Emory Crawford Long Hospital in Atlanta, where he been admitted on Saturday with pneumonia, his agent, Frank Copsidas, said. Mr. Brown was 73 years old and lived in Beech Island, S.C., near the Georgia border.
James Brown, the ‘Godfather of Soul’, Dies at 73
By JON PARELES
Published: December 25, 2006
James Brown, the singer, songwriter, bandleader and dancer, who indelibly transformed 20th-century music, died early today at Emory Crawford Long Hospital in Atlanta, where he been admitted on Saturday with pneumonia, his agent, Frank Copsidas, said. Mr. Brown was 73 years old and lived in Beech Island, S.C., near the Georgia border.
Gifts Galore?
So, what did everyone get for Christmas?
I gots me a new pair of jeans, an MP3 player, a new electric razor and some new boxers.
What did you get?
I gots me a new pair of jeans, an MP3 player, a new electric razor and some new boxers.
What did you get?
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Dad e O Update
so life here in AH has been a thrill a minute lately, thought I would update you boys to let you know why my postings have been so erratic (and a little salty).
-I got a new boss, the guy I 've been working with for the last 5 years has moved on, and I am not ready to GM my own place yet so we brought in a Lady to take the helm, there has been some shifting of responsibilities and some policy changes. And of course I take a little time to get used to so that can be a little trying. All this happening in December after a difficult year is bad timing. Some soul searching is/was inorder to decide whether or not I want to be part of the new regime. I'm gonna stick it out since the boys get hungry when I'm out of work.
-Tiff also is doing a little soul searching, she has been experiencing some trouble getting used to her new responsibilies at her job.
-My brother Scott (Middle brother) is in town (Rockford, doing Managment training with a major national Steak House Chain) and I have to deal with some long squelched familial emotions.
-Max is sick on Christmas!! poor little dude is having Vomit and Diariah.
-Jake is getting a little big for his britches if ya know what I mean.
-We are getting ready to go down and visit my Mom in Dallas, she hasn't seen the boys in a few years.
-Oh yea, my Dad's wife died of lung cancer, kinda lame
-On a brighter note, this summer I hung some flyers in a couple of local buisness offering to overhaul bikes in my garage, and I just got a call from one of them. This dude wanted me to put together his brand new Felt Tri bike ($1200, online), and overhaul a Schwinn tandem. so I threw together this bike in a couple of hours and made $50, he takes in home, and comes back 2 hours later saying he cant get the gears to shift. OK, lets check it out, it worked when he left. Turns out he just didn' t know how to use his fancy index shifting 20 speed shifters, there's 2 levers dude, one for down shifts, one for up. this is why I love my old school friction shifters. easy and intuitive.
- I did reach my milage goal this year (1500 miles pedaled) but I was hoping to ride a century (100 miles in a day) which didn't happen (sad face)
-I got to spend some quality on line and face time with old friends!
-I've been happily married for over 12 years, and going strong, Iwould like a piece if the bets that were placed against our marriage lasting. I and despite my grumblings I do have two wonderfull kids,
That being said:
All and All, I am very glad this year is coming to a close, it has had some very distinct up and downs. I'm ready for a new start in '07
Merry Christmas Boys, I'm gonna lift one (or 2) to you all and to your loved ones.
-I got a new boss, the guy I 've been working with for the last 5 years has moved on, and I am not ready to GM my own place yet so we brought in a Lady to take the helm, there has been some shifting of responsibilities and some policy changes. And of course I take a little time to get used to so that can be a little trying. All this happening in December after a difficult year is bad timing. Some soul searching is/was inorder to decide whether or not I want to be part of the new regime. I'm gonna stick it out since the boys get hungry when I'm out of work.
-Tiff also is doing a little soul searching, she has been experiencing some trouble getting used to her new responsibilies at her job.
-My brother Scott (Middle brother) is in town (Rockford, doing Managment training with a major national Steak House Chain) and I have to deal with some long squelched familial emotions.
-Max is sick on Christmas!! poor little dude is having Vomit and Diariah.
-Jake is getting a little big for his britches if ya know what I mean.
-We are getting ready to go down and visit my Mom in Dallas, she hasn't seen the boys in a few years.
-Oh yea, my Dad's wife died of lung cancer, kinda lame
-On a brighter note, this summer I hung some flyers in a couple of local buisness offering to overhaul bikes in my garage, and I just got a call from one of them. This dude wanted me to put together his brand new Felt Tri bike ($1200, online), and overhaul a Schwinn tandem. so I threw together this bike in a couple of hours and made $50, he takes in home, and comes back 2 hours later saying he cant get the gears to shift. OK, lets check it out, it worked when he left. Turns out he just didn' t know how to use his fancy index shifting 20 speed shifters, there's 2 levers dude, one for down shifts, one for up. this is why I love my old school friction shifters. easy and intuitive.
- I did reach my milage goal this year (1500 miles pedaled) but I was hoping to ride a century (100 miles in a day) which didn't happen (sad face)
-I got to spend some quality on line and face time with old friends!
-I've been happily married for over 12 years, and going strong, Iwould like a piece if the bets that were placed against our marriage lasting. I and despite my grumblings I do have two wonderfull kids,
That being said:
All and All, I am very glad this year is coming to a close, it has had some very distinct up and downs. I'm ready for a new start in '07
Merry Christmas Boys, I'm gonna lift one (or 2) to you all and to your loved ones.
Saturday, December 23, 2006
One Offmen's Film Review "Borat"
I have to admit this was not a movie on my list of “must see um’s”… but then as late I really don’t have one any how. So last night, at the last minute my wife secured baby sitting and requested that we get out and see a movie. Our choice Borat fit out film watching parameters in two ways, one it was starting a reasonable hour, and two it was short 81 minutes (which allowed me to get home and in bed before 10pm).
Any-hoo, my expectations were like so, sure I would laugh now and again, but some of the clichés were really going to annoy me. Was I off target, not really how ever I was taken aback to the depth and degree on some of the digs this movie made on some rather unsuspecting characters. To be honest there were many points in this movie when I felt a little uncomfortable with the content. For me it was not so funny to see these unscripted characters teased and hoodwinked on such a personal level. Shortly after my wife and I left the theater I was still in WTF mode, and then it dawned on me. These poor bastards (the films unscripted characters) who where mocked and teased so unshamefully, all signed release forms…. And so with that thought in mind I nearly giggled my self to sleep last night.
In the end you would have to say I was a little slow on the uptake. So would I recommend this movie? Sure any of the Offmen would enjoy this movie… just don’t take your mom, or your children!
Merry Christmas!
I wanna take this little time to wish each and every Offmen that visits this blog a very Merry Christmas. I hope you all have a wonderful holiday weekend and that you are able to spend some quality time with your loved ones.
I cant believe 2006 is all but over, can you?
Happy Holidays brothers!!!
Eric =)
I cant believe 2006 is all but over, can you?
Happy Holidays brothers!!!
Eric =)
Another mile stone for boner.....
DUBLIN, Ireland — Irish rocker and humanitarian Bono will become a knight of the British empire — but the U2 frontman won't be called "Sir."
Britain confirmed Saturday Bono will receive his honorary knighthood from the British ambassador to Ireland, David Reddaway, in a Dublin ceremony shortly after New Year's Day.
The Dubliner, whose real name is Paul Hewson, won't be entitled to use the title "Sir" because he is not a national of Britain or the Commonwealth of former British colonies.
A spokesman said the 46-year-old singer was flattered by the honor and hoped it will help him open diplomatic doors in his campaign for more Western aid to Africa.
Britain confirmed Saturday Bono will receive his honorary knighthood from the British ambassador to Ireland, David Reddaway, in a Dublin ceremony shortly after New Year's Day.
The Dubliner, whose real name is Paul Hewson, won't be entitled to use the title "Sir" because he is not a national of Britain or the Commonwealth of former British colonies.
A spokesman said the 46-year-old singer was flattered by the honor and hoped it will help him open diplomatic doors in his campaign for more Western aid to Africa.
Friday, December 22, 2006
The (Holiday) Random Photo 12/22
I found this one in an old file a few months ago, and thought I would save it for a special day. Merry Christmas every one, hope these holidays all find you well.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
More troops, this is insanity!!!
Washington, December 20, 2006
President George W Bush on Wednesday said he is inclined to believe that there is a need to permanently increase in the strength of the United States Army and the Marine Corps in Iraq, maintaining that securing a peaceful future required a sustained commitment from the American people and the military.
At the year-end press conference, Bush said that he did not disagree with the notion of lighter armed forces as pushed for by former Defence Secretary Donald Rumsfeld but that one had to factor in the long term threats of extremists and radicals.
"One of my top priorities during this war is to ensure that our men and women wearing the uniform have everything they need to do their jobs. This war on terror is the calling of a new generation. It is the calling of our generation. Success is essential to securing a future for peace for our children and grandchildren. And securing this peaceful future is going to require a sustained commitment from the American people and our military," he said.
President George W Bush on Wednesday said he is inclined to believe that there is a need to permanently increase in the strength of the United States Army and the Marine Corps in Iraq, maintaining that securing a peaceful future required a sustained commitment from the American people and the military.
At the year-end press conference, Bush said that he did not disagree with the notion of lighter armed forces as pushed for by former Defence Secretary Donald Rumsfeld but that one had to factor in the long term threats of extremists and radicals.
"One of my top priorities during this war is to ensure that our men and women wearing the uniform have everything they need to do their jobs. This war on terror is the calling of a new generation. It is the calling of our generation. Success is essential to securing a future for peace for our children and grandchildren. And securing this peaceful future is going to require a sustained commitment from the American people and our military," he said.
strong, strong weed.....
LAZARO CARDENAS, Mexico — Soldiers trying to seize control of one Mexico's top drug-producing regions found the countryside teeming with a new hybrid marijuana plant that can be cultivated year-round and cannot be killed with pesticides.
Soldiers fanned out across some of the new fields Tuesday, pulling up plants by the root and burning them, as helicopter gunships clattered overhead to give them cover from a raging drug war in the western state of Michoacan. The plants' roots survive if they are doused with herbicide, said army Gen. Manuel Garcia.
"These plants have been genetically improved," he told a handful of journalists allowed to accompany soldiers on a daylong raid of some 70 marijuana fields. "Before we could cut the plant and destroy it, but this plant will come back to life unless it's taken out by the roots."
I wonder what this shit is like smoked? I wonder if it has hit the US yet and what a half ounce goes for?
Soldiers fanned out across some of the new fields Tuesday, pulling up plants by the root and burning them, as helicopter gunships clattered overhead to give them cover from a raging drug war in the western state of Michoacan. The plants' roots survive if they are doused with herbicide, said army Gen. Manuel Garcia.
"These plants have been genetically improved," he told a handful of journalists allowed to accompany soldiers on a daylong raid of some 70 marijuana fields. "Before we could cut the plant and destroy it, but this plant will come back to life unless it's taken out by the roots."
I wonder what this shit is like smoked? I wonder if it has hit the US yet and what a half ounce goes for?
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
And now for something else.
Compliments of a History Channel Daily E-Mail: this day in history: It's a little long but....sorry about the format sucking. edited for length, but you remember, right?.
1998 : President Clinton impeached
After nearly 14 hours of debate, the House of Representatives approves two articles of impeachment against President Bill Clinton, charging him with lying under oath to a federal grand jury and obstructing justice. Clinton, the second president in American history to be impeached, vowed to finish his term.
In November 1995, Clinton began an affair with Monica Lewinsky, a 21-year-old unpaid intern. Over the course of a year and a half, the president and Lewinsky had nearly a dozen sexual encounters in the White House. In April 1996, Lewinsky was transferred to the Pentagon. That summer, she first confided in Pentagon co-worker Linda Tripp about her sexual relationship with the president. In 1997, with the relationship over, Tripp began secretly to record conversations with Lewinsky, in which Lewinsky gave Tripp details about the affair.
In December, lawyers for Paula Jones, who was suing the president on sexual harassment charges, subpoenaed Lewinsky. In January 1998, allegedly under the recommendation of the president, Lewinsky filed an affidavit in which she denied ever having had a sexual relationship with him. Five days later, Tripp contacted the office of Kenneth Starr, the Whitewater independent counsel, to talk about Lewinsky and the tapes she made of their conversations. Tripp, wired by FBI agents working with Starr, met with Lewinsky again, and on January 16, Lewinsky was taken by FBI agents and U.S. attorneys to a hotel room where she was questioned and offered immunity if she cooperated with the prosecution. A few days later, the story broke, and Clinton publicly denied the allegations, saying, "I did not have sexual relations with that woman, Ms. Lewinsky."
Editorial comment by your truly: This was (I'm a little sorry to say in hind sight) one of the most deciding factors in the following elections for me. This whole sordid affair so filled me with discust that I had no choice then to vote for the opposition. No matter who it was. It's kinda wierd but Slick willy getting it wet probably changed America more then nearly anything else he did in office. He would probably go down in history as one of our greatest presidents if not for the cigar shenanigens. IMO
1998 : President Clinton impeached
After nearly 14 hours of debate, the House of Representatives approves two articles of impeachment against President Bill Clinton, charging him with lying under oath to a federal grand jury and obstructing justice. Clinton, the second president in American history to be impeached, vowed to finish his term.
In November 1995, Clinton began an affair with Monica Lewinsky, a 21-year-old unpaid intern. Over the course of a year and a half, the president and Lewinsky had nearly a dozen sexual encounters in the White House. In April 1996, Lewinsky was transferred to the Pentagon. That summer, she first confided in Pentagon co-worker Linda Tripp about her sexual relationship with the president. In 1997, with the relationship over, Tripp began secretly to record conversations with Lewinsky, in which Lewinsky gave Tripp details about the affair.
In December, lawyers for Paula Jones, who was suing the president on sexual harassment charges, subpoenaed Lewinsky. In January 1998, allegedly under the recommendation of the president, Lewinsky filed an affidavit in which she denied ever having had a sexual relationship with him. Five days later, Tripp contacted the office of Kenneth Starr, the Whitewater independent counsel, to talk about Lewinsky and the tapes she made of their conversations. Tripp, wired by FBI agents working with Starr, met with Lewinsky again, and on January 16, Lewinsky was taken by FBI agents and U.S. attorneys to a hotel room where she was questioned and offered immunity if she cooperated with the prosecution. A few days later, the story broke, and Clinton publicly denied the allegations, saying, "I did not have sexual relations with that woman, Ms. Lewinsky."
Editorial comment by your truly: This was (I'm a little sorry to say in hind sight) one of the most deciding factors in the following elections for me. This whole sordid affair so filled me with discust that I had no choice then to vote for the opposition. No matter who it was. It's kinda wierd but Slick willy getting it wet probably changed America more then nearly anything else he did in office. He would probably go down in history as one of our greatest presidents if not for the cigar shenanigens. IMO
What do you think?
Should this guy really be charged with kidnapping????
WARREN, Mich. — An 84-year-old man who took his 81-year-old wife from a Michigan nursing home and moved her to Florida has been charged with kidnapping her.
Judge John Chmura of 37th District Court in Warren on Monday reduced the bond for Joseph Perez from $100,000 to a personal bond, and he was released from the Macomb County Jail. He had been held since being charged last week with kidnapping his wife Helen.
Kidnapping carries a possible sentence of life in prison, but a prosecutor suggested that the charge may not stand.
"Let's put it this way: Everybody's going to have a merry Christmas," Macomb County Assistant Prosecutor John Latella told The Detroit News. A preliminary examination is scheduled Wednesday.
WARREN, Mich. — An 84-year-old man who took his 81-year-old wife from a Michigan nursing home and moved her to Florida has been charged with kidnapping her.
Judge John Chmura of 37th District Court in Warren on Monday reduced the bond for Joseph Perez from $100,000 to a personal bond, and he was released from the Macomb County Jail. He had been held since being charged last week with kidnapping his wife Helen.
Kidnapping carries a possible sentence of life in prison, but a prosecutor suggested that the charge may not stand.
"Let's put it this way: Everybody's going to have a merry Christmas," Macomb County Assistant Prosecutor John Latella told The Detroit News. A preliminary examination is scheduled Wednesday.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Suprize Email!!!!
I got a suprize email today from Mike T. and it was so great to hear from him. I always held Mike up with a lot of respect and andmiration....
It was just a nice little suprize. Thanks to the Offmen who gave him my email addy!!!!
It was just a nice little suprize. Thanks to the Offmen who gave him my email addy!!!!
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Damn former commie pigs.....
MOSCOW — Russia is to begin supplying Iran with nuclear fuel early next year despite mounting concern in the West that this could accelerate Tehran’s plans to build a nuclear bomb.
Sergei Shmatko, head of Atomstroyexport, Russia’s state nuclear fuel exporter, said last week that preparations to send fuel to Iran would start next month and the first consignment was expected to reach the Islamic republic in early spring.
The announcement, at a time when Russia is asserting itself as an energy power, has caused anxiety in western countries which are trying to convince the Kremlin to end its nuclear co-operation with Tehran.
The concerns were strengthened yesterday when President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was reported to have told a Kuwaiti envoy that Iran was ready to transfer its nuclear technology to neighbouring countries.
Sergei Shmatko, head of Atomstroyexport, Russia’s state nuclear fuel exporter, said last week that preparations to send fuel to Iran would start next month and the first consignment was expected to reach the Islamic republic in early spring.
The announcement, at a time when Russia is asserting itself as an energy power, has caused anxiety in western countries which are trying to convince the Kremlin to end its nuclear co-operation with Tehran.
The concerns were strengthened yesterday when President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was reported to have told a Kuwaiti envoy that Iran was ready to transfer its nuclear technology to neighbouring countries.
Last Night!
A few Offmen found lurking at the 2006 Bongiovanni Christmas party. From the left; Martin, Frank, Scott, Mike T, and Pete. Special thanks to Kristi for the photo.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
"Choose your friends carefully. Your enemies will choose you!" Y. Arafat (taken from "Hit or Myth" by Robert Asprin)
Just wanted to stop in and say hi. the weather is great here if it gets a little chilly at night. i was fired from one of my jobs friday night. apparently i don't get along with others well. that was the reason stated. it was my secondary job and my primary was looking to give me more hours anyway, so now they are available. it has been brewing since the boss told me to cut my hair and i said no. the final straw came when i confronted a co-worker during a slow period over an opinion she expressed that offended me. i never got rude and i never insulted her but since she was a two week employee and i had been there since the place opened the brilliant manager chose to fire me so she wouldn't quit. oh well i won't have anytrouble finding a new part time gig to fill my hours and i get to spend little extra time with my family right before the solistice celebration. every body have a great holiday.
So, how is everyones weekend going? Quiet here. It is cloudy and around 60 degrees, terrible, terribly warm for this time of year, but I guess Ill take it because when winter hits, its really going to hit. I got all my holiday shoppin done which is nice. Didnt spend a terrible amount either.
Hows things with everyone else?
Hows things with everyone else?
Friday, December 15, 2006
Florida Halts Executions After Injection Problem
By ADAM LIPTAK and TERRY AGUAYO
Published: December 15, 2006
Gov. Jeb Bush of Florida suspended all executions in the state today, citing a troubled execution on Wednesday and appointing a commission to consider the humanity and constitutionality of the way inmates are put to death in the state.
Hours later, a federal judge ruled that California’s death penalty protocol violated the constitutional prohibition of cruel and unusual punishment.
Opponents of the death penalty cheered the decisions. “Today has been the most significant day in the history of the death penalty in the America in many years,” said Jamie Fellner, the director of United States programs for Human Rights Watch.
“These developments show that the current lethal-injection protocols pose an unacceptable risk of cruelty,” Ms. Fellner said. “The way states have been killing people for the last 30 years has yielded botched execution after botched execution.”
By ADAM LIPTAK and TERRY AGUAYO
Published: December 15, 2006
Gov. Jeb Bush of Florida suspended all executions in the state today, citing a troubled execution on Wednesday and appointing a commission to consider the humanity and constitutionality of the way inmates are put to death in the state.
Hours later, a federal judge ruled that California’s death penalty protocol violated the constitutional prohibition of cruel and unusual punishment.
Opponents of the death penalty cheered the decisions. “Today has been the most significant day in the history of the death penalty in the America in many years,” said Jamie Fellner, the director of United States programs for Human Rights Watch.
“These developments show that the current lethal-injection protocols pose an unacceptable risk of cruelty,” Ms. Fellner said. “The way states have been killing people for the last 30 years has yielded botched execution after botched execution.”
In the news.....
By PATRICK HEALY
Published: December 15, 2006
It’s her! Wait, who’s she with? Wait — not him? With him?!?
Probably the juiciest power lunch of the week unfolded at the Four Seasons yesterday as Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton sized up her 2008 presidential chances with none other than the Republican power broker Alfonse M. D’Amato, with former Mayor Edward I. Koch merrily riding shotgun.
Mr. D’Amato, the former senator from New York, described himself in an interview yesterday as a big, big fan of hers, (though he will be supporting a Republican in 2008), and said he told her not to lose a minute’s sleep over her possible Democratic rival — “what’s-his-name, Obama.” The three dine together once or twice a year, with each taking a turn at picking up the check. (Mrs. Clinton, who had the $56 Dover sole, paid yesterday, so the White House consultation did come at a price, something north of $250.)
Over salad, Nantucket Bay scallops and a plate of heavenly truffles (gratis), Mr. D’Amato and Mr. Koch said they analyzed the 2008 field, and both predicted that Senator John McCain would be the Republican nominee and that former Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani would be his running mate.
Mr. Koch said he told Mrs. Clinton that she would triumph over that ticket, while Mr. D’Amato, a friend of both men, would not reveal how he rated her chances.
Published: December 15, 2006
It’s her! Wait, who’s she with? Wait — not him? With him?!?
Probably the juiciest power lunch of the week unfolded at the Four Seasons yesterday as Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton sized up her 2008 presidential chances with none other than the Republican power broker Alfonse M. D’Amato, with former Mayor Edward I. Koch merrily riding shotgun.
Mr. D’Amato, the former senator from New York, described himself in an interview yesterday as a big, big fan of hers, (though he will be supporting a Republican in 2008), and said he told her not to lose a minute’s sleep over her possible Democratic rival — “what’s-his-name, Obama.” The three dine together once or twice a year, with each taking a turn at picking up the check. (Mrs. Clinton, who had the $56 Dover sole, paid yesterday, so the White House consultation did come at a price, something north of $250.)
Over salad, Nantucket Bay scallops and a plate of heavenly truffles (gratis), Mr. D’Amato and Mr. Koch said they analyzed the 2008 field, and both predicted that Senator John McCain would be the Republican nominee and that former Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani would be his running mate.
Mr. Koch said he told Mrs. Clinton that she would triumph over that ticket, while Mr. D’Amato, a friend of both men, would not reveal how he rated her chances.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Lets all go and shoot this man, shall we?
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Two children have been removed from their home after a man reportedly ran a clothes dryer with the toddlers inside.
A 3-year-old boy was treated for second-degree burns, but a 2-year-old girl was not injured after the Nov. 28 incident, the Reno County district attorney's office said.
Aron J. Pritchard, 27, was charged Tuesday with one felony count of child abuse and another of aggravated endangering a child. Bond was set at $750,000.
Police investigators alleged the man stuffed the children into the dryer and turned it on, reportedly after the boy wet his pants. The boy was not treated for his injuries until he was taken into protective custody on Dec. 6, the district attorney's office said in a news release.
A 3-year-old boy was treated for second-degree burns, but a 2-year-old girl was not injured after the Nov. 28 incident, the Reno County district attorney's office said.
Aron J. Pritchard, 27, was charged Tuesday with one felony count of child abuse and another of aggravated endangering a child. Bond was set at $750,000.
Police investigators alleged the man stuffed the children into the dryer and turned it on, reportedly after the boy wet his pants. The boy was not treated for his injuries until he was taken into protective custody on Dec. 6, the district attorney's office said in a news release.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
How to Stay Calm when Other People Give You the Finger when You're Driving
Keep calm - don't react angrilyDid someone give you the finger, and you want to stay calm, even though what they did was very insulting (not to mention, immature)? Follow these steps, and have less drivers pulling beside you just to flip you the bird.
Steps
Consider why they are giving you the finger. Are you cutting them off, speeding up when they need to get over, or do you have an extremely insulting bumper sticker? If you know what it could be, try changing that a little bit.
When someone gives you the finger, and you want to remain calm, pretend that they are telling you that you're number one.
You can always smile and wave at them, instead of yelling back. They hate this, because they want you to do something annoying to justify their anger, but don't do this just to annoy them; do it to keep yourself calm and collected.
Turn the radio on to your favorite station. Sing along to the music, to get your mind off rush hour traffic. This works especially well with pop music such as Britney Spears or Pusscat Dolls, don't be afraid to turn that music way up.
Think about what you're going to do when you get home. A relaxing bath, crawl into bed, read, etc.
Ignore it, act as if they flipped off the car next to, or behind you.
Find humor in the situation; just laugh it off.
Be the mature one in the situation.
If it still doesn't help, imagine the horrible car crash they will suffer the next time they are giving the finger and not paying attention to their driving.
Keep calm - don't react angrilyDid someone give you the finger, and you want to stay calm, even though what they did was very insulting (not to mention, immature)? Follow these steps, and have less drivers pulling beside you just to flip you the bird.
Steps
Consider why they are giving you the finger. Are you cutting them off, speeding up when they need to get over, or do you have an extremely insulting bumper sticker? If you know what it could be, try changing that a little bit.
When someone gives you the finger, and you want to remain calm, pretend that they are telling you that you're number one.
You can always smile and wave at them, instead of yelling back. They hate this, because they want you to do something annoying to justify their anger, but don't do this just to annoy them; do it to keep yourself calm and collected.
Turn the radio on to your favorite station. Sing along to the music, to get your mind off rush hour traffic. This works especially well with pop music such as Britney Spears or Pusscat Dolls, don't be afraid to turn that music way up.
Think about what you're going to do when you get home. A relaxing bath, crawl into bed, read, etc.
Ignore it, act as if they flipped off the car next to, or behind you.
Find humor in the situation; just laugh it off.
Be the mature one in the situation.
If it still doesn't help, imagine the horrible car crash they will suffer the next time they are giving the finger and not paying attention to their driving.
Buy a home, get a free gun!
HOUSTON — A Texas real estate agent looking to add more bang to her business is offering clients in law enforcement a free Glock pistol if they buy a home from her.
Julie Upton, a Houston-area real estate agent, spurned traditional buyer incentives like free gasoline cards or home improvement store gift certificates.
Instead, she placed an advertisement offering a pistol with the purchase of any home worth at least $150,000 in the city police department's monthly publication, "Badge & Gun."
The free guns are only for those in law enforcement, said Upton, who is married to a police officer.
"We thought it would be a good way to entice other police officers," Upton said. "And whether people want the gun or not, it has stirred up a lot of attention."
Upton has given away two pistols to police officers who purchased homes from her. The guns cost about $500.
Julie Upton, a Houston-area real estate agent, spurned traditional buyer incentives like free gasoline cards or home improvement store gift certificates.
Instead, she placed an advertisement offering a pistol with the purchase of any home worth at least $150,000 in the city police department's monthly publication, "Badge & Gun."
The free guns are only for those in law enforcement, said Upton, who is married to a police officer.
"We thought it would be a good way to entice other police officers," Upton said. "And whether people want the gun or not, it has stirred up a lot of attention."
Upton has given away two pistols to police officers who purchased homes from her. The guns cost about $500.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Follow up.....
Leaders Voice Outrage on Conference on Holocaust in Iran
By CHRISTINE HAUSER
Published: December 12, 2006
A gathering in Iran billed as a conference to “debate” the Nazi annihilation of six million Jews continued on its second day to spark outrage in the West, drawing fierce criticism today from European leaders, the Vatican and the White House.
Calling the Holocaust an “immense tragedy” for all humanity, the Vatican issued a statement admitting of no doubt that the mass murder took place, and said it must serve as a warning for people to respect the rights of others. The statement used the Hebrew word for the Holocaust, Shoah, and expressed “great compassion” for what happened to the Jews during World War II, according to Agence France-Presse.
“The last century saw an attempt to exterminate the Jewish people, which led to the killing of millions of Jews of all social categories merely because of the fact that they belonged to that people,” the Vatican statement said.
The White House said in a statement today that the gathering of Holocaust deniers in Tehran is an “affront to the entire civilized world, as well as to the traditional Iranian values of tolerance and mutual respect.”
By CHRISTINE HAUSER
Published: December 12, 2006
A gathering in Iran billed as a conference to “debate” the Nazi annihilation of six million Jews continued on its second day to spark outrage in the West, drawing fierce criticism today from European leaders, the Vatican and the White House.
Calling the Holocaust an “immense tragedy” for all humanity, the Vatican issued a statement admitting of no doubt that the mass murder took place, and said it must serve as a warning for people to respect the rights of others. The statement used the Hebrew word for the Holocaust, Shoah, and expressed “great compassion” for what happened to the Jews during World War II, according to Agence France-Presse.
“The last century saw an attempt to exterminate the Jewish people, which led to the killing of millions of Jews of all social categories merely because of the fact that they belonged to that people,” the Vatican statement said.
The White House said in a statement today that the gathering of Holocaust deniers in Tehran is an “affront to the entire civilized world, as well as to the traditional Iranian values of tolerance and mutual respect.”
Just incase you wanted to know.....
How to Write an Obituary
Writing an obituary can be a painful ordeal if you know the deceased. It can also be an important thing to do if announcing a person's death is relevant to a small community.
There are five parts of an obituary: announcement, biographical information, survivor information, scheduled ceremonies, and contributions.
Steps
Example of short obituary without biographical info.Begin with the announcement. It should include who the person is, the date they died, and how they died. Be short and concise. All this can be typically included in one sentence.
Write up a short biographical piece about the person's life. This should include where/when the person was born, where they lived throughout their life, notable awards and times in their life, important hobbies, where they went to school.
Include who the person is survived by. Include, in this order, immediate family members (spouse and children or parents and siblings) and secondary family members (aunts, uncles, grand-parents, close cousins).
Note where and when important ceremonies will take place, such as memorial services, grave-side burials, etc.
Tell people where they can make donations in remembrance of the person who has died. This is a very common practice in the United States and should always be noted, to avoid an influx of calls to the bereaved family.
Writing an obituary can be a painful ordeal if you know the deceased. It can also be an important thing to do if announcing a person's death is relevant to a small community.
There are five parts of an obituary: announcement, biographical information, survivor information, scheduled ceremonies, and contributions.
Steps
Example of short obituary without biographical info.Begin with the announcement. It should include who the person is, the date they died, and how they died. Be short and concise. All this can be typically included in one sentence.
Write up a short biographical piece about the person's life. This should include where/when the person was born, where they lived throughout their life, notable awards and times in their life, important hobbies, where they went to school.
Include who the person is survived by. Include, in this order, immediate family members (spouse and children or parents and siblings) and secondary family members (aunts, uncles, grand-parents, close cousins).
Note where and when important ceremonies will take place, such as memorial services, grave-side burials, etc.
Tell people where they can make donations in remembrance of the person who has died. This is a very common practice in the United States and should always be noted, to avoid an influx of calls to the bereaved family.
Water in the Cup
A man in a restaurant asked a waiter for a juice glass, a dinner plate, water, a match, and a lemon wedge. The man poured enough water onto the plate to cover it.
"If you can get the water on the plate into this glass without touching or moving this plate, I will give you $100," the man said. "You can use the match and lemon to do this."
A few minutes later, the waiter walked away with $100 in his pocket. How did the waiter get the water into the glass?
JUST SO YOU KNOW....the answer is on the reply page......
A man in a restaurant asked a waiter for a juice glass, a dinner plate, water, a match, and a lemon wedge. The man poured enough water onto the plate to cover it.
"If you can get the water on the plate into this glass without touching or moving this plate, I will give you $100," the man said. "You can use the match and lemon to do this."
A few minutes later, the waiter walked away with $100 in his pocket. How did the waiter get the water into the glass?
JUST SO YOU KNOW....the answer is on the reply page......
Monday, December 11, 2006
The 12/11 Random Photo
Have you ever been humped and spit upon? That was the question I would ask any one visiting the apartment Frank and I shared back in the day. Although I don’t recall ever forgetting or discriminating, I am not sure how it all started but before long it was the official rite of entry. Which as many of you already know in embarrassing detail if you were there?
Seen above Tom B, Frank’s largest take down… an impressive feat! I know this one aroused our neighbors bellow, but I was always surprised to not hear from any of our other neighbors.
In the news.....
By NAZILA FATHI
Published: December 11, 2006
TEHRAN, Dec. 11 — Holocaust deniers and skeptics from around the world gathered at a government-sponsored conference here today to discuss their theories about whether six million Jews were indeed killed by the Nazis during World War II and whether gas chambers existed.
In a speech opening the two-day conference, Rasoul Mousavi, head of the Iranian Foreign Ministry’s Institute for Political and International Studies, which organized the event, said it was an opportunity for scholars to discuss the subject “away from Western taboos and the restriction imposed on them in Europe.”
The foreign ministry had said that 67 foreign researchers from 30 countries were scheduled to take part. Among those speaking today are David Duke, the American white-supremacist politician and former Ku Klux Klan leader, and Georges Thiel, a French writer who has been prosecuted in France over his denials of the Holocaust.
Mr. Duke’s remarks late this afternoon are expected to assert that no gas chambers or extermination camps were actually built during the war, on the ground that killing Jews that way would have been much too bothersome and expensive when the Nazis could have used much simpler methods, according to an advance summary of his speech published by the institute.
“Depicting Jews as the overwhelming victims of the Holocaust gave the moral high ground to the Allies as victors of the war, and allowed Jews to establish a state on the occupied land of Palestine,” Mr. Duke’s paper says, according to the summary.
Published: December 11, 2006
TEHRAN, Dec. 11 — Holocaust deniers and skeptics from around the world gathered at a government-sponsored conference here today to discuss their theories about whether six million Jews were indeed killed by the Nazis during World War II and whether gas chambers existed.
In a speech opening the two-day conference, Rasoul Mousavi, head of the Iranian Foreign Ministry’s Institute for Political and International Studies, which organized the event, said it was an opportunity for scholars to discuss the subject “away from Western taboos and the restriction imposed on them in Europe.”
The foreign ministry had said that 67 foreign researchers from 30 countries were scheduled to take part. Among those speaking today are David Duke, the American white-supremacist politician and former Ku Klux Klan leader, and Georges Thiel, a French writer who has been prosecuted in France over his denials of the Holocaust.
Mr. Duke’s remarks late this afternoon are expected to assert that no gas chambers or extermination camps were actually built during the war, on the ground that killing Jews that way would have been much too bothersome and expensive when the Nazis could have used much simpler methods, according to an advance summary of his speech published by the institute.
“Depicting Jews as the overwhelming victims of the Holocaust gave the moral high ground to the Allies as victors of the war, and allowed Jews to establish a state on the occupied land of Palestine,” Mr. Duke’s paper says, according to the summary.
At the touch of a button, a moment is captured.
A marriage, a birth or a birthday I see.
Later, an image might leave thee enraptured,
All due to a flash, or a mere click indeed.
Yet some people say that I am quite evil,
That my staring eye might just capture your soul!
At least to my knowledge it is utter nonsense,
Only moments I capture, that is my sole goal.
What am I?
A marriage, a birth or a birthday I see.
Later, an image might leave thee enraptured,
All due to a flash, or a mere click indeed.
Yet some people say that I am quite evil,
That my staring eye might just capture your soul!
At least to my knowledge it is utter nonsense,
Only moments I capture, that is my sole goal.
What am I?
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Friday, December 08, 2006
In the news.....Goodbye Rummy.....
By DAVID STOUT
Published: December 8, 2006
WASHINGTON, Dec. 8 -- Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld bade farewell to Pentagon employees today in his familiar style, fencing with his questioners and voicing deep faith in the American people.
“Every day, in one way or another, I’ve seen the strength of men and women in uniform, and the dedication of the many thousands who serve here, military and civilian, who do their jobs knowing that theirs is the essential business of protecting a nation and protecting a people,” Mr. Rumsfeld said at what was probably his last meeting with Defense Department employees.
“You do so knowing that you contribute directly to the safety of millions of Americans — people you’ll never meet, whose names you’ll never know,” Mr. Rumsfeld said. “I leave office very proud to have served with you, inspired by your dedication, by your patriotism, and by your sacrifice.”
Published: December 8, 2006
WASHINGTON, Dec. 8 -- Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld bade farewell to Pentagon employees today in his familiar style, fencing with his questioners and voicing deep faith in the American people.
“Every day, in one way or another, I’ve seen the strength of men and women in uniform, and the dedication of the many thousands who serve here, military and civilian, who do their jobs knowing that theirs is the essential business of protecting a nation and protecting a people,” Mr. Rumsfeld said at what was probably his last meeting with Defense Department employees.
“You do so knowing that you contribute directly to the safety of millions of Americans — people you’ll never meet, whose names you’ll never know,” Mr. Rumsfeld said. “I leave office very proud to have served with you, inspired by your dedication, by your patriotism, and by your sacrifice.”
New stuff.....
I noticed this AM upon logging in that a newer version of Blogger is available, has anyone else seen this and have you upgraded?
Thursday, December 07, 2006
The 12/8 Random Photo
Wow the hand pulled a very memorable B&W beauty from the archive this week.
Shi'ite Punk, The Vandals
How to Bike to Work
Off to work Bicycling to work is one of the best choices you can make for your health and the environment. After an initial investment of purchasing a bicycle, biking is a very inexpensive mode of transportation. You'll save money on gas and car maintenance, you'll get in great shape, and your coworkers will think you're awesome. Join the growing ranks of bike-to-workers!
Steps
Acquire a bike, bike lock, and bike helmet. There are many varieties of each. Do not buy a cheap bike at a discount store; instead, find a local bicycle shop. There, knowledgeable people can help you decide what to buy. Later on you will be able to go there for help and bike tune-ups. You may also wish to buy extra tire tubes or flat-fixing tools.
Learn the local bicycling laws of your area. This is essential to remain safe and within the law. Register your bike if required.
Your local bike shop will probably have bicycle route maps. Get one and map out your route to work. If there are no bike route maps, get on your bike on a non-work day and scout out the area.
Look for streets with bicycle lanes.
Avoid streets with excessive potholes or junk in the road.
Determine where you can lock your bike while you are at work.
You will need something in which to carry your work items. There are many types of bicycle luggage carriers, or you can use a backpack or messenger bag.
Some people like to bike in work-out clothes and then change into their day clothes. Other people just bike in their day clothes. It's up to you.
Don't just assume that the route you drive to work is the best route for biking. Often the best bike route includes back streets and side roads which may make your trip slightly longer but much safer and more enjoyable.
Do a test-run of your bike route. Try some alternate routes, if possible. Make a note of how long each rout takes you.
Bike to work!
Off to work Bicycling to work is one of the best choices you can make for your health and the environment. After an initial investment of purchasing a bicycle, biking is a very inexpensive mode of transportation. You'll save money on gas and car maintenance, you'll get in great shape, and your coworkers will think you're awesome. Join the growing ranks of bike-to-workers!
Steps
Acquire a bike, bike lock, and bike helmet. There are many varieties of each. Do not buy a cheap bike at a discount store; instead, find a local bicycle shop. There, knowledgeable people can help you decide what to buy. Later on you will be able to go there for help and bike tune-ups. You may also wish to buy extra tire tubes or flat-fixing tools.
Learn the local bicycling laws of your area. This is essential to remain safe and within the law. Register your bike if required.
Your local bike shop will probably have bicycle route maps. Get one and map out your route to work. If there are no bike route maps, get on your bike on a non-work day and scout out the area.
Look for streets with bicycle lanes.
Avoid streets with excessive potholes or junk in the road.
Determine where you can lock your bike while you are at work.
You will need something in which to carry your work items. There are many types of bicycle luggage carriers, or you can use a backpack or messenger bag.
Some people like to bike in work-out clothes and then change into their day clothes. Other people just bike in their day clothes. It's up to you.
Don't just assume that the route you drive to work is the best route for biking. Often the best bike route includes back streets and side roads which may make your trip slightly longer but much safer and more enjoyable.
Do a test-run of your bike route. Try some alternate routes, if possible. Make a note of how long each rout takes you.
Bike to work!
It roars like thunder,
And rises higher,
While breathing fire,
This wingless wonder.
If it leaves its cave,
Drags us in its tail,
Over hill and dale,
Then you must be brave.
Early morning flight,
Silently it flies,
Slowly in the skies.
Hides before the night.
My kingdom at least,
To the brave young knight,
If you name it right.
What is this huge beast?
And rises higher,
While breathing fire,
This wingless wonder.
If it leaves its cave,
Drags us in its tail,
Over hill and dale,
Then you must be brave.
Early morning flight,
Silently it flies,
Slowly in the skies.
Hides before the night.
My kingdom at least,
To the brave young knight,
If you name it right.
What is this huge beast?
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
WASHINGTON, Dec. 6 — Pictures of Martian gullies taken several years apart strongly suggest that water still flows at least occasionally on the surface of the planet, scientists announced Wednesday.
While water ice and water vapor have long been known to exist below the surface of Mars in the relatively recent past, and water ice has been seen at the poles, this is “the strongest evidence to date that water still flows occasionally on the surface of Mars,” said Michael Meyer, the lead scientist for NASA’s Mars exploration program.
If water is present, that would raise the possibility of microbial life: with water and some form of steady heat, bacteria can grow even in hostile environments
While water ice and water vapor have long been known to exist below the surface of Mars in the relatively recent past, and water ice has been seen at the poles, this is “the strongest evidence to date that water still flows occasionally on the surface of Mars,” said Michael Meyer, the lead scientist for NASA’s Mars exploration program.
If water is present, that would raise the possibility of microbial life: with water and some form of steady heat, bacteria can grow even in hostile environments
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
This is very interesting to me.....
Iran to Host Scholarly Seminar on Holocaust
By NAZILA FATHI
Published: December 5, 2006
TEHRAN, Dec. 5 — Iran will hold a two-day conference on the Holocaust next week in which more than 60 scholars from some 30 countries will participate, the Foreign Ministry said today.
The seminar is in response to President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s comments last year, when he said the scale of the genocide of the Jews had been exaggerated, the deputy foreign minister, Manouchehr Mohammadi, told a news conference today. Mr. Ahmadinejad first stirred outrage in the West in December last year, when he called the Holocaust a myth. He has repeatedly said that the Holocaust has been used as a tool of propaganda, and banned scholars here from research on the subject. The president also sent a 3,000-word letter to Germany’s Chancellor Angela Merkel outlining his arguments.
Mr. Mohammadi said next week’s conference will “provide the opportunity for scholars from both sides to give their papers in freedom and without pre-conceived ideas.” He refused to give the names of the 67 international scholars he said were attending the seminar, out of concern that their countries would prohibit them from coming.
He said the conference does not mean that Iran “denies the crimes of Hitler.”
“Since we are not accused and responsible for the Holocaust, we are an impartial judge,” Mr. Mohammadi said.
By NAZILA FATHI
Published: December 5, 2006
TEHRAN, Dec. 5 — Iran will hold a two-day conference on the Holocaust next week in which more than 60 scholars from some 30 countries will participate, the Foreign Ministry said today.
The seminar is in response to President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s comments last year, when he said the scale of the genocide of the Jews had been exaggerated, the deputy foreign minister, Manouchehr Mohammadi, told a news conference today. Mr. Ahmadinejad first stirred outrage in the West in December last year, when he called the Holocaust a myth. He has repeatedly said that the Holocaust has been used as a tool of propaganda, and banned scholars here from research on the subject. The president also sent a 3,000-word letter to Germany’s Chancellor Angela Merkel outlining his arguments.
Mr. Mohammadi said next week’s conference will “provide the opportunity for scholars from both sides to give their papers in freedom and without pre-conceived ideas.” He refused to give the names of the 67 international scholars he said were attending the seminar, out of concern that their countries would prohibit them from coming.
He said the conference does not mean that Iran “denies the crimes of Hitler.”
“Since we are not accused and responsible for the Holocaust, we are an impartial judge,” Mr. Mohammadi said.
ST. LOUIS — A St. Louis man was shot to death by his wife after giving her a can of warm beer, police said.
The shooting happened Sunday. Names have not been released. The woman was taken into custody.
The wife allegedly admitted shooting her husband, who was about 70 years old, in the kitchen of their home. The man was shot four or five times in the chest after giving his wife a can of warm Stag beer.
A STAG beer! I had to chuckle over that.
The shooting happened Sunday. Names have not been released. The woman was taken into custody.
The wife allegedly admitted shooting her husband, who was about 70 years old, in the kitchen of their home. The man was shot four or five times in the chest after giving his wife a can of warm Stag beer.
A STAG beer! I had to chuckle over that.
Gross.....
Love me slender: Candy fans are all shook up over plans by Hershey (HSY) to sell a peanut butter and banana crème version of its Reese's cup to honor The King.
The King, as in Elvis Presley.
Elvis' favorite sandwich was fried peanut butter and banana - sometimes with honey or slices of bacon added.
So in July, to mark the 30th anniversary of the rock legend's death, Hershey will introduce a limited edition of its chocolate cup featuring a layer of peanut butter and a layer of banana crème.
The King, as in Elvis Presley.
Elvis' favorite sandwich was fried peanut butter and banana - sometimes with honey or slices of bacon added.
So in July, to mark the 30th anniversary of the rock legend's death, Hershey will introduce a limited edition of its chocolate cup featuring a layer of peanut butter and a layer of banana crème.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)