With a curtsy to Steve at The Aging Hipster, I started thinking about my family's traditions for New Year.
As Steve mentions on his blog, a southern tradition is black-eyed peas and cabbage. Then there are those that believe serving food that is expensive and extravagant - indicate our wish to have lots of good things happen in the coming year. Which is why Lobster or one of the more expensive cuts beef is served. Cabbage is another "good luck" vegetable, in my family the tradition is a pork roast (pork being another "good luck" choice) baked with sauerkraut (I always want to spell that word wrong - lol). In some Asian families also follow the cabbage good luck principle with kimchee.
Some people really put alot of belief into the power of the kraut...Craig Wilson shares from a reader:
"It occurred to me that this has been one of the worst years of my life, and then I remembered that I didn't have sauerkraut this past New Year's Day," she wrote. "I was in England at the time (don't go there in January) and couldn't find any sauerkraut anywhere to eat. Maybe I'm a little more superstitious than I like to admit. Hope you had sauerkraut on New Year's Day and that you're having a better year."
I'm not sure how much I rely on this, but not only is the magical cabbage supposed to bring you good luck but it is stated it might be a cure for the bird flu:
Scientists at Seoul National University successfully used Kimchi Sauerkraut to treat chickens infected with avian flu. Kimchi is a seasoned variety of sauerkraut that shares Lactobacillus bacteria with traditional Sauerkraut, which may be the critical element in preventing Avian Flu. Both Kimchi and traditional Sauerkraut are made by fermenting sliced cabbage, producing a high level of lactic acid.
Let's hope this is a bit more reliable than the Korean Scientists who claimed they had made breakthrus in stem cell research...But even if it's not true? Enjoy your traditions no matter what they might be.
And Happy New Year!
Cabbagedtracked for luck at:
Uncooperative Blogger (Best wishes to him right now), Stuck on Stupid (At their new digs), The Crazy Rants of Samantha Burns (Laying down some OTA rules), and Conservative Cat (One of the smartest felines I know).....
Saturday, December 31, 2005
Friday, December 30, 2005
Bob Frantz gives Billboard Bob a free skate
Just when I believed after the lie detector challenge that Bob Frantz was going to follow up on demanding the truth? Didn't happen.
I listened with disbelief as all that happened was what could only be described as a public relations event for Bob McCloskey. The lie detector test? Oh gee, sorry guys, his attorney said he couldn't do it. He really wants to, and he meant it at the time. I couldn't believe Bob Frantz bought that as an excuse.
He allowed Bob McCloskey a public forum when his version of the truth wasn't even challenged. We do know that poor Bob Mc is suffering from alot of stress over the Blade's "constant and constant and constant" negative articles about him. He's claiming that he had the support to win the Council President seat until that mean and nasty Toledo Blade wrote about him. Bob Mc is hurt by Frank's actions, he claims he was all ready to support Frank as City Council President until Frank tried to bribe him. Which we know is debateable given what is below. (Yes it is ironic I would be almost defending the Blade...)
So let's take a look at this "constant and constant and constant" negative articles shall we?
December 29th:
Bob is mentioned but only because Phil Copeland announces he too is going to try for the Council President seat.
Editorial on Council mess, yes Bob is mentioned in this one but it's not just about him.
December 28th:
Bob makes announcement, well gosh darn that Toledo Blade for writing about Bob's announcement he is again going to seek the Council President seat.
December 23rd:
Editorial telling Bob to Take the Oath, again written because Bob can't be both a district wide council wide council person and the district 3 councilman at the same time. Yet, Bob's lack of decision is I guess the Blade's fault too.
Toledo Law Department says Bob can take the oath yet Bob falters. Again, this is only news because Bob didn't make a decision.
December 22nd:
That "Tom Troy" that Bob McCloskey referred to in the radio interview writes about the law suit that Dave Schulz filed concerning the legality of Bob taking the district wide seat. Ummm that's news too.
December 17th:
Mentions Bob but is about the District 3 seat and Council President slot where Bob is "disappointed" and is considering switching his support from he may switch his support for council president from Mark Sobczak to Mr. Szollosi. (Gee he didn't always support Frank now did he?)
December 10th:
Dave Schulz files lawsuit, well who can blame the Blade for writing that it is news....
December 3rd:
The Blade looks at the legal questions about the civil lawuit McCloskey is involved in. According to Bob it's the Blades fault as well that the prosecutor's office is looking at this because Julia Bates read a November 20th article.
November 23rd:
Editorial, and yes this one I'd say is a bit....anti-Bobish....Yet it's not untruthful. It's also after the election.
November 22:
Julia Bates announces the prosecutor's office is looking at McCloskey. Also where Mr. McCloskey said yesterday he was backing out of his quest to be the next president of Toledo City Council. (Of course we know he changes his mind later)
November 20th:
The Blade finally writes about the civil suit realistically if they really wanted to have harmed McCloskey they would have done this before the election. Yet with held this information that many of us knew till after the election was over.
November 10th:
Bob once again makes the news because of his own past statements. Guess no one told him that if you don't make announcements? Local papers don't write about you....
November 5th:
Ohio Elections Commission has dismissed the complaint against Bob. Now surely that doesn't count as a constant, constant, negative.
November 2nd:
Blade doesn't endorse McCloskey not that it appears that mattered since he came in second...
October 29th:
The Blades candidate piece on Bob McCloskey as they did with all of the candidates....
Now, looking at that how many of these articles were not based on real news? Some of it created by Bob McCloskey's decisions or lack of decisions. You be the judge if this was a purposeful attempt to discredit him or rather what we can expect from any media source.
I listened with disbelief as all that happened was what could only be described as a public relations event for Bob McCloskey. The lie detector test? Oh gee, sorry guys, his attorney said he couldn't do it. He really wants to, and he meant it at the time. I couldn't believe Bob Frantz bought that as an excuse.
He allowed Bob McCloskey a public forum when his version of the truth wasn't even challenged. We do know that poor Bob Mc is suffering from alot of stress over the Blade's "constant and constant and constant" negative articles about him. He's claiming that he had the support to win the Council President seat until that mean and nasty Toledo Blade wrote about him. Bob Mc is hurt by Frank's actions, he claims he was all ready to support Frank as City Council President until Frank tried to bribe him. Which we know is debateable given what is below. (Yes it is ironic I would be almost defending the Blade...)
So let's take a look at this "constant and constant and constant" negative articles shall we?
December 29th:
Bob is mentioned but only because Phil Copeland announces he too is going to try for the Council President seat.
Editorial on Council mess, yes Bob is mentioned in this one but it's not just about him.
December 28th:
Bob makes announcement, well gosh darn that Toledo Blade for writing about Bob's announcement he is again going to seek the Council President seat.
December 23rd:
Editorial telling Bob to Take the Oath, again written because Bob can't be both a district wide council wide council person and the district 3 councilman at the same time. Yet, Bob's lack of decision is I guess the Blade's fault too.
Toledo Law Department says Bob can take the oath yet Bob falters. Again, this is only news because Bob didn't make a decision.
December 22nd:
That "Tom Troy" that Bob McCloskey referred to in the radio interview writes about the law suit that Dave Schulz filed concerning the legality of Bob taking the district wide seat. Ummm that's news too.
December 17th:
Mentions Bob but is about the District 3 seat and Council President slot where Bob is "disappointed" and is considering switching his support from he may switch his support for council president from Mark Sobczak to Mr. Szollosi. (Gee he didn't always support Frank now did he?)
December 10th:
Dave Schulz files lawsuit, well who can blame the Blade for writing that it is news....
December 3rd:
The Blade looks at the legal questions about the civil lawuit McCloskey is involved in. According to Bob it's the Blades fault as well that the prosecutor's office is looking at this because Julia Bates read a November 20th article.
November 23rd:
Editorial, and yes this one I'd say is a bit....anti-Bobish....Yet it's not untruthful. It's also after the election.
November 22:
Julia Bates announces the prosecutor's office is looking at McCloskey. Also where Mr. McCloskey said yesterday he was backing out of his quest to be the next president of Toledo City Council. (Of course we know he changes his mind later)
November 20th:
The Blade finally writes about the civil suit realistically if they really wanted to have harmed McCloskey they would have done this before the election. Yet with held this information that many of us knew till after the election was over.
November 10th:
Bob once again makes the news because of his own past statements. Guess no one told him that if you don't make announcements? Local papers don't write about you....
November 5th:
Ohio Elections Commission has dismissed the complaint against Bob. Now surely that doesn't count as a constant, constant, negative.
November 2nd:
Blade doesn't endorse McCloskey not that it appears that mattered since he came in second...
October 29th:
The Blades candidate piece on Bob McCloskey as they did with all of the candidates....
Now, looking at that how many of these articles were not based on real news? Some of it created by Bob McCloskey's decisions or lack of decisions. You be the judge if this was a purposeful attempt to discredit him or rather what we can expect from any media source.
Thursday, December 29, 2005
Taking a closer look at Costco
The latest discussions in Toledo has revolved around the plans for a Costco to come to the Westgate Shopping Center. Alot of misinformation has been stated as to the starting wages, benefits and union information on Costco.
While I support the idea of new stores in an area, I have some concerns. First is the issue of the job numbers touted. First it was 180 "new" jobs, now it is being stated as "close to 200" because that of course sounds better. These do not appear to take into consideration jobs that will be lost from many of the current smaller stores that will not be invited to return to Westgate once construction is completed. While some of the stores will move to secondary locations, not every job that is currently at Westgate will be retained. So far no one seems to have a clear picture as to that issue. Second is the wages offered. The Toledo Blade and several other media sources have stated these jobs are $17 to $18 dollar an hour jobs with a possible $35,000 a year salary (that would be close to $17.00 an hour). However that is not the starting wage at Costco. The starting wage is $10.00 or 4 cents more an hour than Sam's club for a starting wage, $20,800 a year. After between three to four years of employment depending on various factors, a person could make between $35,000 to $40,000 a year at Costco. Next the union theme, only 18% of all Costco stores are union. Realistically with a starting wage of $10.00 that is a good thing. The 18% most of which are Teamsters enables the union contract that they negotiate to be passed on to all other non-union employees. The majority of the Union jobs came from the merger with Price Club over 12 years ago so that demonstrates the union aspect of Costco has not grown.
A positive for Costco is they do have a higher employee retention rate, around 25% compared to the industry standard of 65% and Wal-mart's 50%. That saves Costco between $2,000 to $3,000 in employee training costs per employee retained.
Costco currently pays about 92% of employee insurance costs, 84% of their employees have health insurance.
However Costco is not a garden of eden, it depends on the store management as in most retail locations. Costco's that are not union (of which the majority are not) have had issues with complaints of bonuses being unfairly handed out as well as unreasonable terminations. I don't believe given the over all turnover rate that is a huge issue but one worth pointing out. Costco has also not fared well in discrimination cases, especially sexual harrassment cases.
In August, an assistant warehouse manager in Colorado filed a sex discrimination lawsuit against Costco claiming that she and other women have been denied promotions. Costco has no job posting or application process for manager and assistant manager jobs, which acts as "an invisible glass ceiling" for women, says Brad Seligman, executive director of the Impact Fund, the nonprofit group representing the plaintiff. Only 16.2% of all managers and 17% of all assistant managers are women.
"They’re not union-friendly," says Rome Aloise, a union representative for the Teamsters, which represents Costco’s union workers. "They’re just as bad as any other employer trying to prevent people from joining the union."
So while as I said, new jobs are good, I think we should look at this realistically and expect honesty from not only those who are promoting Costco but those who oppose it. I also think it's important if we are going to hear alot of talk about a "living wage" people understand what that is. The federal poverty level in 2001 was $17,650 for a family of four, equating to about $8.50 an hour for a full-time, year-round worker. The current federally mandated minimum wage is $5.15 an hour. Nineteen point 4% of Toledoans are currently living under the federal poverty level as stated in 2002, 36% of all children in Toledo are living under the federal poverty level.
Toledo does need more employers, but Toledo also has to balance how much they can offer as far as tax abatements and other financial incentives. $800,000.00 is the figure being stated but others claim estimates of tax-dollars for the project range between $2.1 and $2.5 million. So it's safe to say given these things almost always end up costing more that it will be close to two years after Costco begins operation before Toledo taxpayers see a "profit". Is it worth it? Yes, but some honesty would be refreshing....
I'd also like to thank Bob Frantz for taking my phone call tonight and look forward to hearing Liz Holland on his show tomorrow night.
Sources used for this: Sexual Discrimination suit, Welcome to the Club, Costco's Dilemma, Universal Living Wage, Living Wage Campaign, Toledo Blade and Toledo Talk
While I support the idea of new stores in an area, I have some concerns. First is the issue of the job numbers touted. First it was 180 "new" jobs, now it is being stated as "close to 200" because that of course sounds better. These do not appear to take into consideration jobs that will be lost from many of the current smaller stores that will not be invited to return to Westgate once construction is completed. While some of the stores will move to secondary locations, not every job that is currently at Westgate will be retained. So far no one seems to have a clear picture as to that issue. Second is the wages offered. The Toledo Blade and several other media sources have stated these jobs are $17 to $18 dollar an hour jobs with a possible $35,000 a year salary (that would be close to $17.00 an hour). However that is not the starting wage at Costco. The starting wage is $10.00 or 4 cents more an hour than Sam's club for a starting wage, $20,800 a year. After between three to four years of employment depending on various factors, a person could make between $35,000 to $40,000 a year at Costco. Next the union theme, only 18% of all Costco stores are union. Realistically with a starting wage of $10.00 that is a good thing. The 18% most of which are Teamsters enables the union contract that they negotiate to be passed on to all other non-union employees. The majority of the Union jobs came from the merger with Price Club over 12 years ago so that demonstrates the union aspect of Costco has not grown.
A positive for Costco is they do have a higher employee retention rate, around 25% compared to the industry standard of 65% and Wal-mart's 50%. That saves Costco between $2,000 to $3,000 in employee training costs per employee retained.
Costco currently pays about 92% of employee insurance costs, 84% of their employees have health insurance.
However Costco is not a garden of eden, it depends on the store management as in most retail locations. Costco's that are not union (of which the majority are not) have had issues with complaints of bonuses being unfairly handed out as well as unreasonable terminations. I don't believe given the over all turnover rate that is a huge issue but one worth pointing out. Costco has also not fared well in discrimination cases, especially sexual harrassment cases.
In August, an assistant warehouse manager in Colorado filed a sex discrimination lawsuit against Costco claiming that she and other women have been denied promotions. Costco has no job posting or application process for manager and assistant manager jobs, which acts as "an invisible glass ceiling" for women, says Brad Seligman, executive director of the Impact Fund, the nonprofit group representing the plaintiff. Only 16.2% of all managers and 17% of all assistant managers are women.
"They’re not union-friendly," says Rome Aloise, a union representative for the Teamsters, which represents Costco’s union workers. "They’re just as bad as any other employer trying to prevent people from joining the union."
So while as I said, new jobs are good, I think we should look at this realistically and expect honesty from not only those who are promoting Costco but those who oppose it. I also think it's important if we are going to hear alot of talk about a "living wage" people understand what that is. The federal poverty level in 2001 was $17,650 for a family of four, equating to about $8.50 an hour for a full-time, year-round worker. The current federally mandated minimum wage is $5.15 an hour. Nineteen point 4% of Toledoans are currently living under the federal poverty level as stated in 2002, 36% of all children in Toledo are living under the federal poverty level.
Toledo does need more employers, but Toledo also has to balance how much they can offer as far as tax abatements and other financial incentives. $800,000.00 is the figure being stated but others claim estimates of tax-dollars for the project range between $2.1 and $2.5 million. So it's safe to say given these things almost always end up costing more that it will be close to two years after Costco begins operation before Toledo taxpayers see a "profit". Is it worth it? Yes, but some honesty would be refreshing....
I'd also like to thank Bob Frantz for taking my phone call tonight and look forward to hearing Liz Holland on his show tomorrow night.
Sources used for this: Sexual Discrimination suit, Welcome to the Club, Costco's Dilemma, Universal Living Wage, Living Wage Campaign, Toledo Blade and Toledo Talk
Some Ohio Republicans know....
From Right Angle Blog with a curtsy to Ohio 2nd
It seems to us that Sherrod Brown will have a hard time converting Bush voters over to his side, especially in Southern Ohio. On the other hand, Paul Hackett has proven he can deliver swing votes...this uncertainty is why we think Hackett would have a better shot against DeWine. Many Republicans are very unhappy with DeWine now, but we have a hard time believing they would pull the lever for Sherrod, but can see some of them voting for Hackett out of protest. Just our opinion....With that being said, we hope Sherrod Brown destroys Hackett and puts an end to his political career.
So....do you support the guy Republicans want to have DeWine run against or the one that they fear?
hmmmmmm that's a hard decision....NOT....
It seems to us that Sherrod Brown will have a hard time converting Bush voters over to his side, especially in Southern Ohio. On the other hand, Paul Hackett has proven he can deliver swing votes...this uncertainty is why we think Hackett would have a better shot against DeWine. Many Republicans are very unhappy with DeWine now, but we have a hard time believing they would pull the lever for Sherrod, but can see some of them voting for Hackett out of protest. Just our opinion....With that being said, we hope Sherrod Brown destroys Hackett and puts an end to his political career.
So....do you support the guy Republicans want to have DeWine run against or the one that they fear?
hmmmmmm that's a hard decision....NOT....
Phil Copeland takes my advice....
Okay, he probably didn't see what I wrote yesterday on Toledo Talk
I also can't help wondering why Phil Copeland doesn't step up as the major vote getter and end that part of the discussion.
Phil who was the top vote getter in the elections for Toledo City Council has decided to enter his name as well for the President of Toledo City Council. He's offering himself as a compromise candidate and given the statements by Bob McCloskey that his second place poll numbers should make him the "choice" of the Presidency? Guess you'll have to support Phil now Bob...
It's getting to the point where it will be a shorter list to write who is NOT running for the President slot.
Three members have expressed no presidential ambitions publicly: Republicans Betty Shultz and Joe Birmingham, and Democrat Michael Ashford. Another Democrat, Ellen Grachek, isn't a candidate but said yesterday "if the call to leadership were there from my colleagues, I would answer it." (Somehow Ellen I think you don't have to worry about that one, they seem more interested in only nominating themselves...)
Yet, the drama has stepped up another notch:
One apparent offer yesterday, according to Ms. Brown and Mr. Szollosi, was for Mr. Sobczak to cross faction lines and support Mr. Copeland, a recent council appointee who won the most votes in November's at-large election. Mr. Sobczak then would become the council's second-ranking member.
Ms. Brown said Mr. Finkbeiner and other Democratic leaders offered Mr. Sobczak's vote to Mr. Copeland. Mr. Sobczak said, "I don't know that to be not true," and when asked if he'd support Mr. Copeland, said "I'd have to talk to Phil."
Mr. Sobczak and Mr. Copeland said a Copeland candidacy, if it happens, could help mend the Democratic rift. "I'd be a compromise," Mr. Copeland said.
But at least two members of Mr. Copeland's Democratic faction said they'd be unlikely to go along. Mr. Szollosi called a Copeland-Sobczak leadership team "irresponsible" because both men lack experience on council. Ms. Grachek said she had "a distaste for externalities and backroom deals."
Phil has been on Toledo City Council since January of 2005. He was appointed to replace Pete Gerkin. Mark Sobczak has no Council experience.
(The Blade also has an op ed piece City Council's free for all)
Who the Blade would like to see:
In that vein, we still see only three members of this council who could handle that role: either of the two veteran Republicans - Mr. Ludeman or Mr. Sarantou - or Democrat Mr. Szollosi.
The real reason why so many are paying attention to this? And why so many of them want it...
The city charter provides that if anything happens to incapacitate the mayor, the president of council takes over.
I also can't help wondering why Phil Copeland doesn't step up as the major vote getter and end that part of the discussion.
Phil who was the top vote getter in the elections for Toledo City Council has decided to enter his name as well for the President of Toledo City Council. He's offering himself as a compromise candidate and given the statements by Bob McCloskey that his second place poll numbers should make him the "choice" of the Presidency? Guess you'll have to support Phil now Bob...
It's getting to the point where it will be a shorter list to write who is NOT running for the President slot.
Three members have expressed no presidential ambitions publicly: Republicans Betty Shultz and Joe Birmingham, and Democrat Michael Ashford. Another Democrat, Ellen Grachek, isn't a candidate but said yesterday "if the call to leadership were there from my colleagues, I would answer it." (Somehow Ellen I think you don't have to worry about that one, they seem more interested in only nominating themselves...)
Yet, the drama has stepped up another notch:
One apparent offer yesterday, according to Ms. Brown and Mr. Szollosi, was for Mr. Sobczak to cross faction lines and support Mr. Copeland, a recent council appointee who won the most votes in November's at-large election. Mr. Sobczak then would become the council's second-ranking member.
Ms. Brown said Mr. Finkbeiner and other Democratic leaders offered Mr. Sobczak's vote to Mr. Copeland. Mr. Sobczak said, "I don't know that to be not true," and when asked if he'd support Mr. Copeland, said "I'd have to talk to Phil."
Mr. Sobczak and Mr. Copeland said a Copeland candidacy, if it happens, could help mend the Democratic rift. "I'd be a compromise," Mr. Copeland said.
But at least two members of Mr. Copeland's Democratic faction said they'd be unlikely to go along. Mr. Szollosi called a Copeland-Sobczak leadership team "irresponsible" because both men lack experience on council. Ms. Grachek said she had "a distaste for externalities and backroom deals."
Phil has been on Toledo City Council since January of 2005. He was appointed to replace Pete Gerkin. Mark Sobczak has no Council experience.
(The Blade also has an op ed piece City Council's free for all)
Who the Blade would like to see:
In that vein, we still see only three members of this council who could handle that role: either of the two veteran Republicans - Mr. Ludeman or Mr. Sarantou - or Democrat Mr. Szollosi.
The real reason why so many are paying attention to this? And why so many of them want it...
The city charter provides that if anything happens to incapacitate the mayor, the president of council takes over.
My very last share the link love Thursday thread....
For 2005...hehehe...Okay old joke and a bad one but the last time I'll do that until next year too.
Those of you that want to share know what to do. If you don't know what this is all about? Stop by The Crazy Rants of Samantha Burns for the low down...
The song that has been in my head all day....
What if God was one of Us
:-)
Bloggin' Outloud wakes me up by sharing this one..."Why I Don't Wash Open Post"
Ten Reasons I Don't Wash (Number One: People who make soap are only after your money!) Scrubbing the back of Lisa Renee, Mary Hunter, Ferdy, bRight, and Two Babes.
Conservative Cat sheds some light on "Advertisers May Be Able to Tell You've Looked at the NSA Web Site"
It turns out that the NSA was caught using permanent cookies. This has several people in a tizzy, but the incident says more about the silliness of federal regulations than it does about invasion of privacy. A cookie is a...
Freedom Folks shares "Religion vs. Culture in Public Schools"
Parents and children challenging a California school district for its practice of teaching 12-year-old students to "become Muslims" are asking a federal appeals court to reconsider its ruling in front of the entire panel of judges.
Freedom Folks then shares..."Mealy-Mouthed Catholic Support for Illegal Immigration"
Evidently, January 8-14th is the 25th anniversay of "National Migration Week." I've never heard of it, but it got my attention. Migration is a pretty broad word, especially these days, so I read on.
The Florida Masochist asks...172
Am I insane or do I need a life?
The Florida Masochist then shares "The Knucklehead of the Year award- Org., Corp. &"
The first Knucklehead of the year awards is back. Today's category is Organizations, Corporations and Associations. Knuckleheads are definitely not limited to humans.
The Florida Masochist gives us this breaking story..."Robert Novak's source has been found!"
Read this news. Valerie Plame and Joe Wilson are outed by their five-year-old son. I await the Grand Jury investigation.
Third world county joins the "lovefest" with "Confessions of a Practicing Tightwad/OP"
Most of my metaphorical fires and alligators taken care of now. Now all I have to do the rest of the week is drain the metaphorical swamp... (it's overflowing primarily with references to metaphors, I think. :-) Yeh, yeh. Open post. You know awhat to ...
Those of you that want to share know what to do. If you don't know what this is all about? Stop by The Crazy Rants of Samantha Burns for the low down...
The song that has been in my head all day....
What if God was one of Us
:-)
Bloggin' Outloud wakes me up by sharing this one..."Why I Don't Wash Open Post"
Ten Reasons I Don't Wash (Number One: People who make soap are only after your money!) Scrubbing the back of Lisa Renee, Mary Hunter, Ferdy, bRight, and Two Babes.
Conservative Cat sheds some light on "Advertisers May Be Able to Tell You've Looked at the NSA Web Site"
It turns out that the NSA was caught using permanent cookies. This has several people in a tizzy, but the incident says more about the silliness of federal regulations than it does about invasion of privacy. A cookie is a...
Freedom Folks shares "Religion vs. Culture in Public Schools"
Parents and children challenging a California school district for its practice of teaching 12-year-old students to "become Muslims" are asking a federal appeals court to reconsider its ruling in front of the entire panel of judges.
Freedom Folks then shares..."Mealy-Mouthed Catholic Support for Illegal Immigration"
Evidently, January 8-14th is the 25th anniversay of "National Migration Week." I've never heard of it, but it got my attention. Migration is a pretty broad word, especially these days, so I read on.
The Florida Masochist asks...172
Am I insane or do I need a life?
The Florida Masochist then shares "The Knucklehead of the Year award- Org., Corp. &"
The first Knucklehead of the year awards is back. Today's category is Organizations, Corporations and Associations. Knuckleheads are definitely not limited to humans.
The Florida Masochist gives us this breaking story..."Robert Novak's source has been found!"
Read this news. Valerie Plame and Joe Wilson are outed by their five-year-old son. I await the Grand Jury investigation.
Third world county joins the "lovefest" with "Confessions of a Practicing Tightwad/OP"
Most of my metaphorical fires and alligators taken care of now. Now all I have to do the rest of the week is drain the metaphorical swamp... (it's overflowing primarily with references to metaphors, I think. :-) Yeh, yeh. Open post. You know awhat to ...
Wednesday, December 28, 2005
Billboard Bob makes the news again!
In addition to the above linked Blade article, the Toledo Free Press also has an exclusive interview where Bob makes some pretty interesting claims about my favorite Democrat on Toledo City Council.
Rather than get into that here? I suggest you check out History Mike for the full story...
I've just learned that Bob Frantz has made the lie detector challenge...He's promised to let us know when and if Billboard Bob accepts...
:-)
Rather than get into that here? I suggest you check out History Mike for the full story...
I've just learned that Bob Frantz has made the lie detector challenge...He's promised to let us know when and if Billboard Bob accepts...
:-)
It's almost now or never time
The above lined Washington Post piece called "Our Entitlement Paralysis" discusses one part of the pension issue, federal retirement benefits. In both public and private trying to figure out a way to still provide promised benefits yet control costs is becoming more and more of an issue. One of the reasons GM is not as competitive financially as Honda has to do with the amount per car needed to cover pension and medical coverage for retirees. Rather than wait until the company fails which results in retirees losing all or a good portion of their pensions something needs to be done.
While I recommend reading the whole article, this one paragraph makes a point I agree with:
If we were creating Social Security and Medicare today, we'd set different terms. The first baby boomers hitting 60 include George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Donald Trump, Diane Sawyer and Susan Sarandon. It's doubtful we'd provide benefits for any of these wealthy people. Indeed, we'd probably be less generous toward many affluent retirees, because we'd question why age alone (not need) should qualify people for government assistance. We'd also note vast changes since 1935 (Social Security's creation) and 1965 (Medicare's):
So, does Congress and the President and Private industry figure out a way to provide services for those who really need them or continue until no one can have them....
While I recommend reading the whole article, this one paragraph makes a point I agree with:
If we were creating Social Security and Medicare today, we'd set different terms. The first baby boomers hitting 60 include George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Donald Trump, Diane Sawyer and Susan Sarandon. It's doubtful we'd provide benefits for any of these wealthy people. Indeed, we'd probably be less generous toward many affluent retirees, because we'd question why age alone (not need) should qualify people for government assistance. We'd also note vast changes since 1935 (Social Security's creation) and 1965 (Medicare's):
So, does Congress and the President and Private industry figure out a way to provide services for those who really need them or continue until no one can have them....
Tuesday, December 27, 2005
Ecosystem gone wild...again...
I quit listing the numerous changes from "adorable rodent" to "maurading marsupial". Yesterday when I checked I had something like 203 links - 198 if I remember right were "counted". I was a Marsupial again...Tonight?
Current Rank: #975 Current Status: Large Mammal Link Count: 69 Link Score: 66
So a lot of links lost yet I went up? I did some checking...
Me4President has lost links too, yet now he is a "Flappy Bird".
Peter Porcupine is now a "Large Mammal" too, but of course the server is now busy so I can't check anymore.
Sooo a we are experiencing another "evolution" probably to be followed by a rapid "de-evelotion". Hold on to your hamsters....
:-)
Current Rank: #975 Current Status: Large Mammal Link Count: 69 Link Score: 66
So a lot of links lost yet I went up? I did some checking...
Me4President has lost links too, yet now he is a "Flappy Bird".
Peter Porcupine is now a "Large Mammal" too, but of course the server is now busy so I can't check anymore.
Sooo a we are experiencing another "evolution" probably to be followed by a rapid "de-evelotion". Hold on to your hamsters....
:-)
End Ohio Term Limits?
(This piece is my submission to the Carnival of Ohio Politics at Northwest Ohio Net, make sure to visit tomorrow to see all of the other submissions by some of Ohio's best bloggers)
My initial thought upon reading the above linked editorial was.."ARE they NUTS?"....
Let's look at this one statement:
Oh really? Well let's take a look at how this "new blood" comes into office. There are 33 Senators in the Ohio Senate. Fourteen are not eligible for re-election; ten Republicans, four Democrats. Two of those not eligible for re-election next term ran unopposed; Amstutz and Mumper who are both Republicans. In the Ohio House, there are 99 Representatives, eighteen of them are serving their first term which means 81 were re-elected. Of the 18 Freshman Ohio House members, nine are Democrats and nine are Republicans; two of them Mitchell (D) and Uecker (R) ran unopposed.
Of the 81 Ohio Representatives that were re-elected, twenty of them ran unopposed. Eight Republicans and 12 Democrats faced no opponent at re-election. All of this information came from The House of Representatives, The Ohio Senate, and the Ohio Secretary of State.
Locally, Toledo has term limits though there are those like Bob McCloskey who is currently facing a court challenge to his "creative" manner of trying to skirt term limits. The Toledo Law director obviously had a different idea of what Toledo voters meant when they agreed to change the City Charter which allowed Mr. McCloskey and Betty Shultz to have the impression the City Charter did not apply to them.
Nationally the picture is not much different. In November of 2004, 401 of the 435 sitting members of the U.S. House of Representatives sought reelection. Of those 401, all but five were reelected. In other words, incumbents seeking reelection to the House had a better than 99% success rate. In the U.S. Senate, only one incumbent seeking reelection was defeated. Twenty-five of twenty-six (96%) were reelected.
Back in 1995, Doug Bandow of the Cato Institute addressed among many issues, this misconception that the Akron Beacon Editorial stated above concerning their opposition to term limits:
Opponents of term limits also argue that there is plenty of turnover already. But, except for 1994, in recent years turnover has occurred largely as a result of people's retiring after long careers in politics or to seek different political offices. It is good that incumbents occasionally leave, else congressional membership would be almost permanent. Yet competitive elections, lots of them, are necessary for representative democracy. We do not have that today. As political scientist Mark Petracca observes, "Electoral competition is no longer possible in a system where the benefits and power of incumbency virtually guarantee a lifelong career as a legislator." That just 88 of 2,175 seats during the 1980s changed hands because of an incumbent's defeat is not a good thing. That 99.3 percent of unindicted congressional and state legislative incumbents won reelection during the same period is also not a good thing.
While this may have been written in 1995? There is no question that since that time period there has not been an increase in competitive elections for office.
In closing another statment from the Bandow article that I not only agree with but is part of the reason I support the Vote out Incumbents for Democracy (VOID):
The nation's Founders strongly believed in rotation in office. They left term limits out of the Constitution because they did not foresee that politics would become a career for so many people. Short term limits would remedy that mistake. Nothing is more important today than reversing the pernicious rise of a professional political class.
I think it's obvious that the current system is one of creating political careers and that extending the term limits or ending them all together as can be seen would even lessen the chance of new representation.
My initial thought upon reading the above linked editorial was.."ARE they NUTS?"....
Let's look at this one statement:
Elections every two years for state representatives and every four years for state senators create ample accountability and a steady inflow of new blood. What term limits prevent is the formation of a core of veterans whose stature and experience give them the perspective to guide new members and see the state as a whole.
Oh really? Well let's take a look at how this "new blood" comes into office. There are 33 Senators in the Ohio Senate. Fourteen are not eligible for re-election; ten Republicans, four Democrats. Two of those not eligible for re-election next term ran unopposed; Amstutz and Mumper who are both Republicans. In the Ohio House, there are 99 Representatives, eighteen of them are serving their first term which means 81 were re-elected. Of the 18 Freshman Ohio House members, nine are Democrats and nine are Republicans; two of them Mitchell (D) and Uecker (R) ran unopposed.
Of the 81 Ohio Representatives that were re-elected, twenty of them ran unopposed. Eight Republicans and 12 Democrats faced no opponent at re-election. All of this information came from The House of Representatives, The Ohio Senate, and the Ohio Secretary of State.
Locally, Toledo has term limits though there are those like Bob McCloskey who is currently facing a court challenge to his "creative" manner of trying to skirt term limits. The Toledo Law director obviously had a different idea of what Toledo voters meant when they agreed to change the City Charter which allowed Mr. McCloskey and Betty Shultz to have the impression the City Charter did not apply to them.
Nationally the picture is not much different. In November of 2004, 401 of the 435 sitting members of the U.S. House of Representatives sought reelection. Of those 401, all but five were reelected. In other words, incumbents seeking reelection to the House had a better than 99% success rate. In the U.S. Senate, only one incumbent seeking reelection was defeated. Twenty-five of twenty-six (96%) were reelected.
Back in 1995, Doug Bandow of the Cato Institute addressed among many issues, this misconception that the Akron Beacon Editorial stated above concerning their opposition to term limits:
Opponents of term limits also argue that there is plenty of turnover already. But, except for 1994, in recent years turnover has occurred largely as a result of people's retiring after long careers in politics or to seek different political offices. It is good that incumbents occasionally leave, else congressional membership would be almost permanent. Yet competitive elections, lots of them, are necessary for representative democracy. We do not have that today. As political scientist Mark Petracca observes, "Electoral competition is no longer possible in a system where the benefits and power of incumbency virtually guarantee a lifelong career as a legislator." That just 88 of 2,175 seats during the 1980s changed hands because of an incumbent's defeat is not a good thing. That 99.3 percent of unindicted congressional and state legislative incumbents won reelection during the same period is also not a good thing.
While this may have been written in 1995? There is no question that since that time period there has not been an increase in competitive elections for office.
In closing another statment from the Bandow article that I not only agree with but is part of the reason I support the Vote out Incumbents for Democracy (VOID):
The nation's Founders strongly believed in rotation in office. They left term limits out of the Constitution because they did not foresee that politics would become a career for so many people. Short term limits would remedy that mistake. Nothing is more important today than reversing the pernicious rise of a professional political class.
I think it's obvious that the current system is one of creating political careers and that extending the term limits or ending them all together as can be seen would even lessen the chance of new representation.
Monday, December 26, 2005
My children never listen to me...yet...
I told all of my bunch no presents for me this year for various reasons, however there was a spy campaign behind my back this year. Besides two beautiful candles and a box of my favorite white chocolate covered oreos, (Yes I am allergic to chocolate but I can eat and cherish it in small amounts and I have had to hide the oreos for their own protection) I got something pretty darn nifty. My dad had a tradition of always buying me some sort of kitchen appliance for Christmas. It became a family joke because at one time I think I had every sort of appliance one could possibly ever have from a salad shooter to a rice steamer...part of the mystery was figuring out what could be left for him to find.
The tradition continues....but this one? Being an Egg McMuffin/Eggs Benedict aficionado has taken it's place on my counter where it will remain....
Not only does it make perfect Egg McMuffins and Eggs Benedict timed perfectly so that both the egg and muffin are done at the same time? It also does an excellent job with toast and can hardboil or softboil eggs in record time.
So...all in all? I would say it is eggsellent....
:-)
The tradition continues....but this one? Being an Egg McMuffin/Eggs Benedict aficionado has taken it's place on my counter where it will remain....
Not only does it make perfect Egg McMuffins and Eggs Benedict timed perfectly so that both the egg and muffin are done at the same time? It also does an excellent job with toast and can hardboil or softboil eggs in record time.
So...all in all? I would say it is eggsellent....
:-)
How do you excommunicate a man like this?
The article linked above demonstrates one of the major problems with the Roman Catholic Church and the part of the process which has become more about money and buisness than what should be one of the most important things about the Church. While I am a Roman Catholic there are times when I am not proud of my church. Nor is this the first time money and property has become more of an issue than what the true goals of the Church should be. We've experienced that locally as well.
Father Marek Bozek has been declared to not be a "priest in good standing". He and many others are now facing excommunication. What is the terrible crime he committed?
He said Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve.....
Because of a squabble with the St. Louis diocese and the Church board of St. Stanislaus Kostka that revolved around property and the dicoeses desire to control what had been given since the 19th century to the parish of St. Stanislaus Kostka this all began. In what can only be considered an act of vengence and punishment, St. Louis Archbishop Raymond Burke removed both of the priests assigned to that Parish in the summer of 2004 and never replaced them.
Some of the members of St. Stanislaus Kostka joined another parish, others did not. They held on to what to them was their spiritual home for decades. The diocese did not have the nerve to close the Parish, but taking away the priests was an underhanded way of doing so. I'd like to say the Vatican supported the Parish of Stanislaus Kostka, but it hasn't. It has supported the St. Louis diocese.
Father Bozek doesn't even disagree with the Diocese and Vatican demands as far as the property/money aspect goes. He went to St. Louis because he believes very strongly in what is (or at least should be) a more important reason than power or control. The salvation of souls....
"In a statement Friday, Burke reminded St. Louis Catholics that to "participate knowingly and willingly in the celebration of the Mass by a suspended priest is gravely sinful."
Yet they came...by the hundreds... close to 2,000 attended.....
Bozek quotes from part of Canon 1752, the final law in the Catholic church’s law code, which reads in part, "the salvation of souls, which must always be the supreme law in the Church, is to be kept before one’s eyes."
"I think it’s significant that the code ends that way," he said. "There are many canons, and I am breaking some of them. But to me, in that last canon, the word ‘supreme’ means it precedes all the other ones. To me, it’s about saving the souls of the people of St. Stanislaus."
In this time period when the Church laments the lack of good priests....I ask again...How do you excommunicate a man like this?
Father Marek Bozek has been declared to not be a "priest in good standing". He and many others are now facing excommunication. What is the terrible crime he committed?
He said Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve.....
Because of a squabble with the St. Louis diocese and the Church board of St. Stanislaus Kostka that revolved around property and the dicoeses desire to control what had been given since the 19th century to the parish of St. Stanislaus Kostka this all began. In what can only be considered an act of vengence and punishment, St. Louis Archbishop Raymond Burke removed both of the priests assigned to that Parish in the summer of 2004 and never replaced them.
Some of the members of St. Stanislaus Kostka joined another parish, others did not. They held on to what to them was their spiritual home for decades. The diocese did not have the nerve to close the Parish, but taking away the priests was an underhanded way of doing so. I'd like to say the Vatican supported the Parish of Stanislaus Kostka, but it hasn't. It has supported the St. Louis diocese.
Father Bozek doesn't even disagree with the Diocese and Vatican demands as far as the property/money aspect goes. He went to St. Louis because he believes very strongly in what is (or at least should be) a more important reason than power or control. The salvation of souls....
"In a statement Friday, Burke reminded St. Louis Catholics that to "participate knowingly and willingly in the celebration of the Mass by a suspended priest is gravely sinful."
Yet they came...by the hundreds... close to 2,000 attended.....
Bozek quotes from part of Canon 1752, the final law in the Catholic church’s law code, which reads in part, "the salvation of souls, which must always be the supreme law in the Church, is to be kept before one’s eyes."
"I think it’s significant that the code ends that way," he said. "There are many canons, and I am breaking some of them. But to me, in that last canon, the word ‘supreme’ means it precedes all the other ones. To me, it’s about saving the souls of the people of St. Stanislaus."
In this time period when the Church laments the lack of good priests....I ask again...How do you excommunicate a man like this?
Saturday, December 24, 2005
Twas the day before Christmas....
A very good friend sent this to me, I enjoyed it very much so I am sharing it here with you. Teach the Children
Blogging will be light as I spend time with my family and celebrate what is the true meaning of Christmas.
A Merry Christmas to all, the near and the dear ones.....and all the rest too...
Blogging will be light as I spend time with my family and celebrate what is the true meaning of Christmas.
A Merry Christmas to all, the near and the dear ones.....and all the rest too...
Thursday, December 22, 2005
Threats and Lawsuits
It's not ironic enough that two of my favorite local politicians are in different political parties but today they both made the Toledo Blade on different topics.
My favorite Republican David Schulz makes the news concerning the lawsuit filed regarding Bob McCloskey term limits question. The three judge panel has given Mr. McCloskey 30 days to respond...yet as of the printing of the Toledo Blade article Bob has not resigned his District 3 seat. Supposedly you can't hold two seats but since, Gerald Dendinger, clerk of city council, said he does not know what would happen if Mr. McCloskey declines to resign Jan. 3? Makes you wonder what City Law Director Barb Herring will state on this one. District 3 Bob could miss a few meetings so that City wide district Bob could hold on to both seats incase the judges rule against him. Or? It could be a Bobaganza on City Council! Two Bobs for the price of one!
Next, the Toledo Democrat I write about the most, Frank Szollosi makes the front page of today's Toledo Blade because he was threatened by Bill Lichtenwald, president of Teamsters Local 20. No, not with cement shoes or a Jimmy Hoffa type disappearance but the threat of 'Support my guy or else'. (Note to those outside Toledo...this group didn't support or endorse Frank in the past.)
So the whole Council President issue heats up even more. I still stand by my intial belief that neither Mark Sobczak (no experience on Council) or Frank (as even the article implied he'd "stand up to Carty" which is what I fear would happen too often) while the Council President shouldn't be someone that would be a rubber stamp (Sobczak) it should be someone that does not have such a anti-Carty stance. However, if they cannot come together to settle on a third person, I'd rather see it be Frank than Mark.
Most importantly Bill Lichtenwald should be removed from the Carty transition team. This is not how to start out "transitioning". I think it was silly for the Blade to even report that Michael Ashford was "thrown out" or somehow physically prevented joining the meeting between Frank Szollosi and Lichtenwald (Come on Blade you could you be even more obvious?). Yet Toledo doesn't need this. There has been enough of this "A" Team and "B" Team nonsense and frankly? Demanding someone who has never even been on Toledo City Council as the "obvious" choice for Toledo City Council President is not something anyone should support.
My favorite Republican David Schulz makes the news concerning the lawsuit filed regarding Bob McCloskey term limits question. The three judge panel has given Mr. McCloskey 30 days to respond...yet as of the printing of the Toledo Blade article Bob has not resigned his District 3 seat. Supposedly you can't hold two seats but since, Gerald Dendinger, clerk of city council, said he does not know what would happen if Mr. McCloskey declines to resign Jan. 3? Makes you wonder what City Law Director Barb Herring will state on this one. District 3 Bob could miss a few meetings so that City wide district Bob could hold on to both seats incase the judges rule against him. Or? It could be a Bobaganza on City Council! Two Bobs for the price of one!
Next, the Toledo Democrat I write about the most, Frank Szollosi makes the front page of today's Toledo Blade because he was threatened by Bill Lichtenwald, president of Teamsters Local 20. No, not with cement shoes or a Jimmy Hoffa type disappearance but the threat of 'Support my guy or else'. (Note to those outside Toledo...this group didn't support or endorse Frank in the past.)
So the whole Council President issue heats up even more. I still stand by my intial belief that neither Mark Sobczak (no experience on Council) or Frank (as even the article implied he'd "stand up to Carty" which is what I fear would happen too often) while the Council President shouldn't be someone that would be a rubber stamp (Sobczak) it should be someone that does not have such a anti-Carty stance. However, if they cannot come together to settle on a third person, I'd rather see it be Frank than Mark.
Most importantly Bill Lichtenwald should be removed from the Carty transition team. This is not how to start out "transitioning". I think it was silly for the Blade to even report that Michael Ashford was "thrown out" or somehow physically prevented joining the meeting between Frank Szollosi and Lichtenwald (Come on Blade you could you be even more obvious?). Yet Toledo doesn't need this. There has been enough of this "A" Team and "B" Team nonsense and frankly? Demanding someone who has never even been on Toledo City Council as the "obvious" choice for Toledo City Council President is not something anyone should support.
It's Share the Love Thursday!
Yes, it's that time once again!
So you know what to do if you want to join in the whole lotta linkin going on...
:-)
And just after I started thinking I had "lost that lovin feeling"....
Customer Service send some link love this way with "The Twelve Days Of Critmus"
I and the people who sit on my row spent the last month coming up with this.
It’s all meant in good fun, so don’t anybody get offended.
I’m starting from Day Twelve, mainly to save myself some typing time.
and then the title of this one almost scared me....Freedom Folks gives us "Dick Cheney: He's So Dreamy!"
Cheney and the 40 thieves plotting coup in Iraq
Uncooperative Blogger shares "Mexican immigration hypocrisy"
Remember my previous article about Mexico’s President Fox’s outrage over our new immigration plans? Well…
QandO Opines:
Well, unless it is to Mexico:
Mexico’s federal Human Rights Commission acknowledged yesterday that...
The Real Ugly American provides some very important information (one we should all take the time to read) "Thank a Soldier Week"
Please follow this link and send an email to thank a Soldier. It only takes a moment. In fact here is an idea if you wanna do something really special for christmas.
Where ever your family gathers for Christmas Eve or Christmas day pull up this ...
The ever interesting Don Surber provides Merry Mehlman
Did I mention Mehlman is Jewish?
The Business of America is Business shares some information on a story some of us have been discussing "Roe v. Hwang"
Late last night news a major news story broke, one that will reverberate through scientific, academic, and corporate circles for years. Here's one headline I picked up via Drudge: South Korean researcher Hwang Woo-suk faked results of at least nine...
So you know what to do if you want to join in the whole lotta linkin going on...
:-)
And just after I started thinking I had "lost that lovin feeling"....
Customer Service send some link love this way with "The Twelve Days Of Critmus"
I and the people who sit on my row spent the last month coming up with this.
It’s all meant in good fun, so don’t anybody get offended.
I’m starting from Day Twelve, mainly to save myself some typing time.
and then the title of this one almost scared me....Freedom Folks gives us "Dick Cheney: He's So Dreamy!"
Cheney and the 40 thieves plotting coup in Iraq
Uncooperative Blogger shares "Mexican immigration hypocrisy"
Remember my previous article about Mexico’s President Fox’s outrage over our new immigration plans? Well…
QandO Opines:
Well, unless it is to Mexico:
Mexico’s federal Human Rights Commission acknowledged yesterday that...
The Real Ugly American provides some very important information (one we should all take the time to read) "Thank a Soldier Week"
Please follow this link and send an email to thank a Soldier. It only takes a moment. In fact here is an idea if you wanna do something really special for christmas.
Where ever your family gathers for Christmas Eve or Christmas day pull up this ...
The ever interesting Don Surber provides Merry Mehlman
Did I mention Mehlman is Jewish?
The Business of America is Business shares some information on a story some of us have been discussing "Roe v. Hwang"
Late last night news a major news story broke, one that will reverberate through scientific, academic, and corporate circles for years. Here's one headline I picked up via Drudge: South Korean researcher Hwang Woo-suk faked results of at least nine...
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
Best blog posts of 2005
Thanks to Left Brain Female, I read about this "contest". It's a chance for all of you to suggest what your favorite post was. The information and rules are linked at Mister Snitch's site as linked above...
So if you read a post somewhere that you felt was really noteworthy? Click above and email Mister Snitch...and grab one if his cool banners for your site to let other people know. Animated even! Granted no hamsters but still pretty darn neat.
:-)
Carnival of Ohio Politics and a John McCain moment....
Once again I'm in the company of some great bloggers, click on the above link to read the second Carnival of Ohio Politics.
I'd also like to point out a statement by Senator John McCain that Aaron provided as part of the earlier discussion on the House Defense Bill.
This to me is a must read, however, this part I had to share:
But perhaps we’re being too hard on ourselves. After all, the conference report includes a number of provisions that will rescind unobligated balances in federal accounts – so we are offsetting a small portion of some of these needless costs. But wait a minute. . . . there’s always a catch. While the conference report rescinds $10 million from the Natural Resources Conservation Service Operations account, it also includes language to prevent any cuts to the projects and activities identified on pages 84-87 of the House Report that accompanies the Agriculture Appropriations bill! And if you review that report, you’ll find 108 earmarked projects totaling more than $103 million. A few examples of the projects that the appropriators are committed to protecting from any reductions, even for the sake of fiscal responsibility, include:
• $242,000 for a wildlife habitat education program in conjunction with the National Wild Turkey Federation in Illinois, which is dedicated to conserving wild turkeys and preserving our nation’s hunting heritage.
• $100,000 for the Trees Forever Program in Iowa – an organization with a laudable mission statement – it claims to be an organization that not only plants and cares for trees, but also addresses the challenges facing our communities and the environment – but hardly one that should be funded in a Defense Appropriations bill.
• $400,000 for dairy waste remediation in Louisiana
• $600,000 for conservation related to cranberry production in Massachusetts and Wisconsin. Conservation related to cranberry production. Remarkable.
• $200,000 for Weed It Now-Taconic Mountains (MA/NY/CT). Weed It Now, I am told, is an effort to remove invasive plants from the forest habitat of the Berkshire Taconic plateau. I am a strong supporter of the Global War on Weeds, Mr. President, but this earmark does not belong in this bill.
Clearly, such projects should not be asked to spare a dime!
I'd also like to point out a statement by Senator John McCain that Aaron provided as part of the earlier discussion on the House Defense Bill.
This to me is a must read, however, this part I had to share:
But perhaps we’re being too hard on ourselves. After all, the conference report includes a number of provisions that will rescind unobligated balances in federal accounts – so we are offsetting a small portion of some of these needless costs. But wait a minute. . . . there’s always a catch. While the conference report rescinds $10 million from the Natural Resources Conservation Service Operations account, it also includes language to prevent any cuts to the projects and activities identified on pages 84-87 of the House Report that accompanies the Agriculture Appropriations bill! And if you review that report, you’ll find 108 earmarked projects totaling more than $103 million. A few examples of the projects that the appropriators are committed to protecting from any reductions, even for the sake of fiscal responsibility, include:
• $242,000 for a wildlife habitat education program in conjunction with the National Wild Turkey Federation in Illinois, which is dedicated to conserving wild turkeys and preserving our nation’s hunting heritage.
• $100,000 for the Trees Forever Program in Iowa – an organization with a laudable mission statement – it claims to be an organization that not only plants and cares for trees, but also addresses the challenges facing our communities and the environment – but hardly one that should be funded in a Defense Appropriations bill.
• $400,000 for dairy waste remediation in Louisiana
• $600,000 for conservation related to cranberry production in Massachusetts and Wisconsin. Conservation related to cranberry production. Remarkable.
• $200,000 for Weed It Now-Taconic Mountains (MA/NY/CT). Weed It Now, I am told, is an effort to remove invasive plants from the forest habitat of the Berkshire Taconic plateau. I am a strong supporter of the Global War on Weeds, Mr. President, but this earmark does not belong in this bill.
Clearly, such projects should not be asked to spare a dime!
Speicher and Maupin Families Deserve Answers...
Those who have read this blog and know me from other forums know I have written about Michael Scott Speicher from time to time to remind people who he is.
On January 17, 1991, Navy pilot, Lieutenant Commander Michael “Scott” Speicher, was shot down while flying a combat mission over western Iraq on the first night of Operation Desert Storm. The next morning, then-Secretary of Defense Dick Cheney told the news media that the United States had suffered one combat loss. When questioned whether or not it had been a death, he confirmed that the service member had been killed.
Four months later, Scott Speicher was declared KIA/BNR—Killed In Action, Body Not Recovered—by the United States Navy. Hailed thereafter as a hero, mourned by family and friends, it wasn’t until nearly two full years had passed that it was discovered that LCDR Speicher had almost certainly ejected from his aircraft before it crashed.
Scott's family still waits for confirmation, Scott's status has been changed several times but they have no real answers.
In September:
A Navy board of inquiry concluded that there is no credible evidence that Capt. Michael "Scott" Speicher is dead, and it reaffirmed his official status as "missing/captured," according to the board's final report.
As I was reading Porkopolis last night, I was remindeded that there is an Ohio Family who is experiencing that same loss, the same lack of information and the inability to be able to finally know for sure what happened to their loved one.
Matt Maupin has been missing since April 9, 2004. Like Scott Speicher there are those who believe he is dead. A video showing a man being executed by terrorists some believe was Matt. Yet, there is no body, no proof, and the military has not been able to provide either family any real answers.
Just like Scott Speicher, someone knows something. Someone out there has information as to what happened to both of these men. Perhaps both men are dead, but the families deserve the peace of knowing at least that much.
I don't do New Year's Resolutions, but I do have a wish, that 2006 is the year both of these families finally get confirmation of what happened to their loved one. One family has waited since 1991, another family should not have to wait that long.
Trackbacked at:
Third World County, Diane's Stuff, Conservative Cat, Right Wing Nation....
On January 17, 1991, Navy pilot, Lieutenant Commander Michael “Scott” Speicher, was shot down while flying a combat mission over western Iraq on the first night of Operation Desert Storm. The next morning, then-Secretary of Defense Dick Cheney told the news media that the United States had suffered one combat loss. When questioned whether or not it had been a death, he confirmed that the service member had been killed.
Four months later, Scott Speicher was declared KIA/BNR—Killed In Action, Body Not Recovered—by the United States Navy. Hailed thereafter as a hero, mourned by family and friends, it wasn’t until nearly two full years had passed that it was discovered that LCDR Speicher had almost certainly ejected from his aircraft before it crashed.
Scott's family still waits for confirmation, Scott's status has been changed several times but they have no real answers.
In September:
A Navy board of inquiry concluded that there is no credible evidence that Capt. Michael "Scott" Speicher is dead, and it reaffirmed his official status as "missing/captured," according to the board's final report.
As I was reading Porkopolis last night, I was remindeded that there is an Ohio Family who is experiencing that same loss, the same lack of information and the inability to be able to finally know for sure what happened to their loved one.
Matt Maupin has been missing since April 9, 2004. Like Scott Speicher there are those who believe he is dead. A video showing a man being executed by terrorists some believe was Matt. Yet, there is no body, no proof, and the military has not been able to provide either family any real answers.
Just like Scott Speicher, someone knows something. Someone out there has information as to what happened to both of these men. Perhaps both men are dead, but the families deserve the peace of knowing at least that much.
I don't do New Year's Resolutions, but I do have a wish, that 2006 is the year both of these families finally get confirmation of what happened to their loved one. One family has waited since 1991, another family should not have to wait that long.
Trackbacked at:
Third World County, Diane's Stuff, Conservative Cat, Right Wing Nation....
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
Favorite Christmas Movies
Of course my favorite of all times is "It's a wonderful Life", though no matter how many times I see it I still tear up. It's a reminder to me no matter how life may not be as I expect it, that I am here for a reason.
While Silver and Gold as sung in Rudolph is probably my favorite Christmas Song, (Most years as well as this one that is my choice for my tree too) my favorite Christmas Cartoon Movie is "A year with out Santa". I have a prized cup shaped like this guy:
Amazingly even though we have moved several times his nose has managed to survive unbroken....
Sooo what's yours?
While Silver and Gold as sung in Rudolph is probably my favorite Christmas Song, (Most years as well as this one that is my choice for my tree too) my favorite Christmas Cartoon Movie is "A year with out Santa". I have a prized cup shaped like this guy:
Amazingly even though we have moved several times his nose has managed to survive unbroken....
Sooo what's yours?
I blame....Jonathan!
While I don't totally agree on his interpretation of the House Resolution, Jonathan at Crush Liberalism (as linked above) inspired me to write about what is a pet peeve of mine. House and Senate Resolutions....
This is not to say that some of these resolutions don't have merit. However, recently we discussed a House Resolution on the "protection of Christmas Symbols", so while I of course don't want to join in the Elf tossing....I thought it would be interesting to point out some of the "hard" work our Congress has been up to recently in the resolution department. To spare you the details I have provided you with my own interpretation of each Resolution....
The Senate is by nature less Resolution "happy", 28 Joint Resolutions, 339 Resolutions, and 73 Concurrent resolutions this year. Some of which:
S.CON.RES.71
Title: A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of Congress that States should require candidates for driver's licenses to demonstrate an ability to exercise greatly increased caution when driving in the proximity of a potentially visually impaired individual. Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 12/15/2005)
(Lisa intepretation - watch out when driving for people that have trouble seeing)
S.CON.RES.69
Title: A concurrent resolution supporting the goals and ideals of a Day of Hearts, Congenital Heart Defect Day in order to increase awareness about congenital heart defects, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Sen Isakson, Johnny [GA] (introduced 12/14/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - remember to donate/support birth defect research)
S.RES.310
Title: A resolution honoring the life, legacy, and example of Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin on the tenth anniversary of his death. Sponsor: Sen Lautenberg, Frank R. [NJ] (introduced 11/10/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - Rabin died ten years ago, let's remember him)
S.RES.326
Title: A resolution designating November 27, 2005, as "Drive Safer Sunday." Sponsor: Sen Chambliss, Saxby [GA] (introduced 11/18/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - Drive safe all the time but especially on November 27, 2005)
S.RES.329
Title: A resolution congratulating Coach Bill Snyder for his achievements during 17 years as the head football coach of the Kansas State University Wildcats. Sponsor: Sen Roberts, Pat [KS] (introduced 11/18/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - Go Bill Snyder!)
The House is a bit more "Resolutiony", yet mathematically we could probably say given the fact that the House has more Representatives than the Senate that could be debated. The House chimed in this year with 75 Joint Resolutions, 634 Resolutions and 324 Concurrent Resolutions, some recent selections:
H.CON.RES.305
Title: Recognizing the vital importance of hunting as a legitimate tool of wildlife resource management. Sponsor: Rep Green, Mark [WI-8] (introduced 11/17/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - sometimes it's okay to kill Bambi's mother)
H.CON.RES.314
Title: Recognizing the artistic excellence and community value of a national service organization for the performing arts and how this community improves diplomacy through global cultural exchange by the celebration of humanity's transcendent power to imagine and create across geographic, political and cultural borders. Sponsor: Rep Shays, Christopher [CT-4] (introduced 12/8/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - Art is good)
H.CON.RES.325
Title: Congratulating Oprah Winfrey for her 20 years of exemplary work and service to the people of the United States and the world. Sponsor: Rep Davis, Danny K. [IL-7] (introduced 12/17/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - Some people think Oprah is good)
H.RES.605
Title: Recognizing the life of Preston Robert Tisch and his outstanding contributions to New York City, the New York Giants Football Club, the National Football League, and the United States. Sponsor: Rep Fossella, Vito [NY-13] (introduced 12/14/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - Preston Tisch did alot for the NFL and the NY Giants)
H.RES.615
Title: Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the symbols and traditions of Hanukkah, Ramadan, and Kwanzaa should be protected. Sponsor: Rep Israel, Steve [NY-2] (introduced 12/15/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - HEY if Christmas symbols can have a resolution? We can too! Pagans you best get on this, they forgot you again, you FSM believers? You too!)
H.RES.617
Title: Supporting the goals and ideals of National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Week. Sponsor: Rep Millender-McDonald, Juanita [CA-37] (introduced 12/15/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - if your date is violent? Break up with him)
H.RES.638
Title: Congratulating Bill Gates, Melinda Gates and Bono for being named Time Magazine's 2005 Person of the Year. Sponsor: Rep Waters, Maxine [CA-35] (introduced 12/18/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - You have got to be kidding me....)
Ironically very few of these "Resolutions" even end up being "resolved", most get shuffled to a committee where they appear to languish.....
UPDATE: I have broken out the calculator....440 Senate Resolutions by 50 Senators... 8.8 per Senator.....1033 House Resolutions by 435....2.37 per House Member...I stand corrected, the Senate is more Resolutionary by average....(baring any math errors)
This is not to say that some of these resolutions don't have merit. However, recently we discussed a House Resolution on the "protection of Christmas Symbols", so while I of course don't want to join in the Elf tossing....I thought it would be interesting to point out some of the "hard" work our Congress has been up to recently in the resolution department. To spare you the details I have provided you with my own interpretation of each Resolution....
The Senate is by nature less Resolution "happy", 28 Joint Resolutions, 339 Resolutions, and 73 Concurrent resolutions this year. Some of which:
S.CON.RES.71
Title: A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of Congress that States should require candidates for driver's licenses to demonstrate an ability to exercise greatly increased caution when driving in the proximity of a potentially visually impaired individual. Sponsor: Sen Akaka, Daniel K. [HI] (introduced 12/15/2005)
(Lisa intepretation - watch out when driving for people that have trouble seeing)
S.CON.RES.69
Title: A concurrent resolution supporting the goals and ideals of a Day of Hearts, Congenital Heart Defect Day in order to increase awareness about congenital heart defects, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Sen Isakson, Johnny [GA] (introduced 12/14/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - remember to donate/support birth defect research)
S.RES.310
Title: A resolution honoring the life, legacy, and example of Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin on the tenth anniversary of his death. Sponsor: Sen Lautenberg, Frank R. [NJ] (introduced 11/10/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - Rabin died ten years ago, let's remember him)
S.RES.326
Title: A resolution designating November 27, 2005, as "Drive Safer Sunday." Sponsor: Sen Chambliss, Saxby [GA] (introduced 11/18/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - Drive safe all the time but especially on November 27, 2005)
S.RES.329
Title: A resolution congratulating Coach Bill Snyder for his achievements during 17 years as the head football coach of the Kansas State University Wildcats. Sponsor: Sen Roberts, Pat [KS] (introduced 11/18/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - Go Bill Snyder!)
The House is a bit more "Resolutiony", yet mathematically we could probably say given the fact that the House has more Representatives than the Senate that could be debated. The House chimed in this year with 75 Joint Resolutions, 634 Resolutions and 324 Concurrent Resolutions, some recent selections:
H.CON.RES.305
Title: Recognizing the vital importance of hunting as a legitimate tool of wildlife resource management. Sponsor: Rep Green, Mark [WI-8] (introduced 11/17/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - sometimes it's okay to kill Bambi's mother)
H.CON.RES.314
Title: Recognizing the artistic excellence and community value of a national service organization for the performing arts and how this community improves diplomacy through global cultural exchange by the celebration of humanity's transcendent power to imagine and create across geographic, political and cultural borders. Sponsor: Rep Shays, Christopher [CT-4] (introduced 12/8/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - Art is good)
H.CON.RES.325
Title: Congratulating Oprah Winfrey for her 20 years of exemplary work and service to the people of the United States and the world. Sponsor: Rep Davis, Danny K. [IL-7] (introduced 12/17/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - Some people think Oprah is good)
H.RES.605
Title: Recognizing the life of Preston Robert Tisch and his outstanding contributions to New York City, the New York Giants Football Club, the National Football League, and the United States. Sponsor: Rep Fossella, Vito [NY-13] (introduced 12/14/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - Preston Tisch did alot for the NFL and the NY Giants)
H.RES.615
Title: Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the symbols and traditions of Hanukkah, Ramadan, and Kwanzaa should be protected. Sponsor: Rep Israel, Steve [NY-2] (introduced 12/15/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - HEY if Christmas symbols can have a resolution? We can too! Pagans you best get on this, they forgot you again, you FSM believers? You too!)
H.RES.617
Title: Supporting the goals and ideals of National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Week. Sponsor: Rep Millender-McDonald, Juanita [CA-37] (introduced 12/15/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - if your date is violent? Break up with him)
H.RES.638
Title: Congratulating Bill Gates, Melinda Gates and Bono for being named Time Magazine's 2005 Person of the Year. Sponsor: Rep Waters, Maxine [CA-35] (introduced 12/18/2005)
(Lisa interpretation - You have got to be kidding me....)
Ironically very few of these "Resolutions" even end up being "resolved", most get shuffled to a committee where they appear to languish.....
UPDATE: I have broken out the calculator....440 Senate Resolutions by 50 Senators... 8.8 per Senator.....1033 House Resolutions by 435....2.37 per House Member...I stand corrected, the Senate is more Resolutionary by average....(baring any math errors)
Taking a Closer look at Summit County Court issue
This article was written for the Carnival of Ohio Politics sponsored by Paul at NorthwestOhio.net...Make sure to visit tomorrow a.m. to read the other contributions. Last week was the first one and it was excellent. If you would like to submit a an article visit Paul today for instructions....
The other day I read an editorial in the Akron Beacon Journal when I was doing research on the Ohio Election Reform Bill. It seems there has been an on going problem between a majority of Judges in Summit County and Alex Arshinkoff, who President Bush called "ultimate king of grassroots politics".
To quote from the editorial:
Jon Husted, the House speaker, explained that he wouldn't bring the bill forward unless local lawmakers in the Republican majority expressed their support. Mary Taylor of Green and John Widowfield of Cuyahoga Falls did not step forward. To do so would have required crossing Alex Arshinkoff, the county Republican Party chairman. Taylor wants to be state auditor. Widowfield has long been a loyal soldier.
I then read an article from the Toledo Blade that outlined some of the facts concerning Court case loads in our region. This made me decide to take a closer look.
In an earlier article, in response to the Summit County Judges stating Civil Court Proceedings would face future delays under the current caseload; even Supreme Court Chief Justice Moyer stated:
``In 1998 and again in 2004, I have recommended to the General Assembly that the request of the Summit County Court of Common Pleas for two additional judges was a reasonable request and should be adopted. I am aware of the perception that unique political factors have impeded the adoption of appropriate legislation. The cause of your frustration is obvious,'' Moyer wrote.
At first I thought, okay this is probably Democrat vs Republican gamesmanship here...Yet, the Cleveland Plain Dealer reported this in September of this year:
Summit County common pleas judges Mary Spicer, a Republican, and Jane Bond, a Democrat, filed the affidavits earlier this month. The documents are part of a defamation lawsuit against Alex Arshinkoff, chairman of the Summit County Republican Party, and others brought by Oriana House, a corporation hired by Summit County to oversee much of the county's jail and corrections operations.
It appears upon closer look that it is the battle over Oriana House who provides contract services to the Summit County Court and what they should or should not be required to make public that is at the root of this situation. Betty Montgomery (rumor has it that Alex Arshinkoff is no longer supporting Betty but will switch to supporting Blackwell) has filed suit against Oriana House and that case is now at the Ohio Supreme Court. [State of Ohio ex rel. Oriana House, Inc. v. Betty D. Montgomery, Auditor of State] If you read the list of those who have filed an Amicus Curiae on behalf of Appellant (Oriana House) it reads like a who's who in the Ohio Non-profit list.
Filed by: Association of Ohio Philanthropic Homes, Housing and Service
Filed by: Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio
Filed by: Corporation for Ohio Appalachian Development
Filed by: Envirotest Systems Corporation
Filed by: Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies
Filed by: Ohio Association of Nonprofit Organizations
Filed by: Ohio Hospital Association
Filed by: Ohio Partners for Affordable Energy
Filed by: Ohio United Way
Filed by: The Action Ohio Coalition for Battered Women
Filed by: The Association for Children for Enforcement of Support
Filed by: The Betty Jane Center
Filed by: The Center for Community Solutions
Filed by: The Now Education and Legal Fund
Filed by: The Ohio Association of Child Caring Agencies
Filed by: The Ohio Association of Second Harvest Foodbanks
Filed by: The Ohio Head Start Association
Filed by: United Rehabilitation Services of Greater Dayton
Filed by: Ohio Community Corrections Association
Filed by: Ohio Domestic Violence Network
While of course a legal case is not decided on the basis of who files a brief in support, this does make one pause and consider for a moment the fact this many organizations have done so. Many of the organizations on that list I not only think highly of but support.
It appears there have been accusations leveled back and forth between some of the Judges and Alex Arshinkoff who has been fighting the increase in Judges for six years. (Amazingly almost the same amount of time the battle between Oriana House and Alex Arshinkof.)
No matter which side is "right" in this situation, it's obvious that Summit County does have a larger caseload than we do in Lucas County. It's also a shame that Republicans and Democrats are letting a side issue have such an impact as to the legal rights of Ohioans of Summit County. Allowing political games to continue for this long and that those elected would not do their jobs first no matter what...I'm left thinking of a quote by Sir Walter Scott:
The other day I read an editorial in the Akron Beacon Journal when I was doing research on the Ohio Election Reform Bill. It seems there has been an on going problem between a majority of Judges in Summit County and Alex Arshinkoff, who President Bush called "ultimate king of grassroots politics".
To quote from the editorial:
Jon Husted, the House speaker, explained that he wouldn't bring the bill forward unless local lawmakers in the Republican majority expressed their support. Mary Taylor of Green and John Widowfield of Cuyahoga Falls did not step forward. To do so would have required crossing Alex Arshinkoff, the county Republican Party chairman. Taylor wants to be state auditor. Widowfield has long been a loyal soldier.
I then read an article from the Toledo Blade that outlined some of the facts concerning Court case loads in our region. This made me decide to take a closer look.
In an earlier article, in response to the Summit County Judges stating Civil Court Proceedings would face future delays under the current caseload; even Supreme Court Chief Justice Moyer stated:
``In 1998 and again in 2004, I have recommended to the General Assembly that the request of the Summit County Court of Common Pleas for two additional judges was a reasonable request and should be adopted. I am aware of the perception that unique political factors have impeded the adoption of appropriate legislation. The cause of your frustration is obvious,'' Moyer wrote.
At first I thought, okay this is probably Democrat vs Republican gamesmanship here...Yet, the Cleveland Plain Dealer reported this in September of this year:
Summit County common pleas judges Mary Spicer, a Republican, and Jane Bond, a Democrat, filed the affidavits earlier this month. The documents are part of a defamation lawsuit against Alex Arshinkoff, chairman of the Summit County Republican Party, and others brought by Oriana House, a corporation hired by Summit County to oversee much of the county's jail and corrections operations.
It appears upon closer look that it is the battle over Oriana House who provides contract services to the Summit County Court and what they should or should not be required to make public that is at the root of this situation. Betty Montgomery (rumor has it that Alex Arshinkoff is no longer supporting Betty but will switch to supporting Blackwell) has filed suit against Oriana House and that case is now at the Ohio Supreme Court. [State of Ohio ex rel. Oriana House, Inc. v. Betty D. Montgomery, Auditor of State] If you read the list of those who have filed an Amicus Curiae on behalf of Appellant (Oriana House) it reads like a who's who in the Ohio Non-profit list.
Filed by: Association of Ohio Philanthropic Homes, Housing and Service
Filed by: Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio
Filed by: Corporation for Ohio Appalachian Development
Filed by: Envirotest Systems Corporation
Filed by: Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies
Filed by: Ohio Association of Nonprofit Organizations
Filed by: Ohio Hospital Association
Filed by: Ohio Partners for Affordable Energy
Filed by: Ohio United Way
Filed by: The Action Ohio Coalition for Battered Women
Filed by: The Association for Children for Enforcement of Support
Filed by: The Betty Jane Center
Filed by: The Center for Community Solutions
Filed by: The Now Education and Legal Fund
Filed by: The Ohio Association of Child Caring Agencies
Filed by: The Ohio Association of Second Harvest Foodbanks
Filed by: The Ohio Head Start Association
Filed by: United Rehabilitation Services of Greater Dayton
Filed by: Ohio Community Corrections Association
Filed by: Ohio Domestic Violence Network
While of course a legal case is not decided on the basis of who files a brief in support, this does make one pause and consider for a moment the fact this many organizations have done so. Many of the organizations on that list I not only think highly of but support.
It appears there have been accusations leveled back and forth between some of the Judges and Alex Arshinkoff who has been fighting the increase in Judges for six years. (Amazingly almost the same amount of time the battle between Oriana House and Alex Arshinkof.)
No matter which side is "right" in this situation, it's obvious that Summit County does have a larger caseload than we do in Lucas County. It's also a shame that Republicans and Democrats are letting a side issue have such an impact as to the legal rights of Ohioans of Summit County. Allowing political games to continue for this long and that those elected would not do their jobs first no matter what...I'm left thinking of a quote by Sir Walter Scott:
Oh what a tangled web we weave,
When first we practise to deceive!
Bad things come in threes?
Not in this house, lol try more like 3 times 3....
Having already wondered if this place was haunted or hated me. (Falling down the stairs then having a stair break) Other strange things have happened. For some reason the small piece of wood that is supposed to be a door into the attic storage spot kept opening on it's own. Sure, logic tells you it might be the wind but it was freaky to the girls. Especially since it kept happening. It is now securely taped with weather tape. This morning for some reason the furnance went nuts! It was 82 degrees and the thermostat was set for 68. It would not turn off. Even when I turned it off at the thermostat. I had to go to the fuse box to get it to stop. So while I am waiting for the apartment to not be a sauna zone...I discovered there are two triple A batteries in the thermostat with a warning "To prevent freezing or overheating replace when LD battery warning shows". Well, there is no "LD battery warning" symbol but I think it's time to replace the batteries.
Which brings us to the next adventure....the car. Having already experienced massive car repairs to the point we probably should have just scrapped it and started over, the heat isn't working again. Okay fine, just dress warm in the car and don't talk alot so the windows don't fog up. It also helps fuel conservation because you really think about how badly you want to go anywhere when it is cold. Last night, it decided having no heat was not enough of a challenge. Looks like the alternator went. So I'm waiting for the tow truck to stop by pick up the keys and tell me "The car is broken".
Then the myriad of other December adventures....I'm trying to tell myself that December is trying to win the "worst month of the year" contest. If that's the case? You WIN December! Honest!
Having already wondered if this place was haunted or hated me. (Falling down the stairs then having a stair break) Other strange things have happened. For some reason the small piece of wood that is supposed to be a door into the attic storage spot kept opening on it's own. Sure, logic tells you it might be the wind but it was freaky to the girls. Especially since it kept happening. It is now securely taped with weather tape. This morning for some reason the furnance went nuts! It was 82 degrees and the thermostat was set for 68. It would not turn off. Even when I turned it off at the thermostat. I had to go to the fuse box to get it to stop. So while I am waiting for the apartment to not be a sauna zone...I discovered there are two triple A batteries in the thermostat with a warning "To prevent freezing or overheating replace when LD battery warning shows". Well, there is no "LD battery warning" symbol but I think it's time to replace the batteries.
Which brings us to the next adventure....the car. Having already experienced massive car repairs to the point we probably should have just scrapped it and started over, the heat isn't working again. Okay fine, just dress warm in the car and don't talk alot so the windows don't fog up. It also helps fuel conservation because you really think about how badly you want to go anywhere when it is cold. Last night, it decided having no heat was not enough of a challenge. Looks like the alternator went. So I'm waiting for the tow truck to stop by pick up the keys and tell me "The car is broken".
Then the myriad of other December adventures....I'm trying to tell myself that December is trying to win the "worst month of the year" contest. If that's the case? You WIN December! Honest!
Monday, December 19, 2005
Defense Bill by House a mixed review....
I haven't had a chance to read this whole defense bill before the House last night. I as always find it ironic how so many different issues can be thrown into one bill but that seems to be something not likely to change.
From the brief CNN article some interesting statements:
A $453 billion defense spending bill became the flypaper for issues that have eluded congressional compromise. Those included, along with the ANWR provision, $29 billion in federal aid for victims of Katrina and other storms; an additional $2 billion to help low-income families with home heating costs; and $3.8 billion to prepare for a possible bird flu pandemic. Of the defense money, $50 billion is for military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Also in the bill is the compromise language worked out between Sen. John McCain, R-Arizona, and the White House banning the cruel, inhumane and degrading treatment of prisoners in U.S. custody.
Now for some of the cuts, ironic that a reduction of 39.7 billion is being touted as proof of a newfound fiscal responsbility given some of the new expenditures above. It' s like going to the grocery store, spending $453 dollars in groceries, most of which you didn't need, yet rather than focusing on the items you could have done without, celebrating you saved $39.70 in coupons.....
In addition to a 1% across the board decrease in all federal discretionary funding with the exception of those affecting veterans ($8.5 billion savings).
Planned spending on Medicare was estimated to fall by $6.4 billion and Medicaid by $4.8 billion. Another $13 billion would be saved from student loan programs, in part by establishing a fixed 6.8 percent interest rate instead of maintaining lower variable rates.
A late concession to lawmakers with interests in the durable medical equipment industry (not to mention I'm sure appreciated by those elderly on oxygen) 1.9 billion dollars worth of cuts were restored.
Same with physicians a scheduled 4.6 percent cut in physician payments under Medicare that would have had a 7.3 billion dollar savings was eliminated.
So, the principle of robbing Peter to pay Paul continues......
From the brief CNN article some interesting statements:
A $453 billion defense spending bill became the flypaper for issues that have eluded congressional compromise. Those included, along with the ANWR provision, $29 billion in federal aid for victims of Katrina and other storms; an additional $2 billion to help low-income families with home heating costs; and $3.8 billion to prepare for a possible bird flu pandemic. Of the defense money, $50 billion is for military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Also in the bill is the compromise language worked out between Sen. John McCain, R-Arizona, and the White House banning the cruel, inhumane and degrading treatment of prisoners in U.S. custody.
Now for some of the cuts, ironic that a reduction of 39.7 billion is being touted as proof of a newfound fiscal responsbility given some of the new expenditures above. It' s like going to the grocery store, spending $453 dollars in groceries, most of which you didn't need, yet rather than focusing on the items you could have done without, celebrating you saved $39.70 in coupons.....
In addition to a 1% across the board decrease in all federal discretionary funding with the exception of those affecting veterans ($8.5 billion savings).
Planned spending on Medicare was estimated to fall by $6.4 billion and Medicaid by $4.8 billion. Another $13 billion would be saved from student loan programs, in part by establishing a fixed 6.8 percent interest rate instead of maintaining lower variable rates.
A late concession to lawmakers with interests in the durable medical equipment industry (not to mention I'm sure appreciated by those elderly on oxygen) 1.9 billion dollars worth of cuts were restored.
Same with physicians a scheduled 4.6 percent cut in physician payments under Medicare that would have had a 7.3 billion dollar savings was eliminated.
So, the principle of robbing Peter to pay Paul continues......
Sunday, December 18, 2005
Chargers end Colts perfect season dreams...
I realize some of the sports experts picked the Chargers to beat Indy today. I really put some thought into it and ended up picking Indy. Did the hype get to them or was it just as the saying goes "Any team on any given day can win" with it ending up being the Chargers turn to win? I didn't get to watch the game though I heard it on the radio. Our local game on tv was San Fran versus Jax for some reason.
Sooo now the remaining team members from the 1972 Dolphins will gather together, in their tradition...and a sigh of relief that until next season? Their record still stands....
I also picked Miami (Yes, I know I said I wasn't going to pick them anymore) sorry Jets Fans. Good week so far, my only loss was the Indy game.
:-)
Sooo now the remaining team members from the 1972 Dolphins will gather together, in their tradition...and a sigh of relief that until next season? Their record still stands....
I also picked Miami (Yes, I know I said I wasn't going to pick them anymore) sorry Jets Fans. Good week so far, my only loss was the Indy game.
:-)
Chocolate covered cherry is
really purplish red....
I'm vain when it comes to my hair, I admit it. I know I don't look soon to be 46 yet I have alot of gray hair. Yes it is the pretty silvery type gray hair but I don't want to see it.
However tonight after spending alot of time debating which color of dye I would use to help make the gray go away...I decided on "Chocolate Covered Cherry" because I do have some natural red/gold highlights. Well it's purple...not barney purple but has a purple tint to it.
As Lisa hummms I'm gonna wash that gray right out of my hair...EEEK PURPLE!
:-)
I'm vain when it comes to my hair, I admit it. I know I don't look soon to be 46 yet I have alot of gray hair. Yes it is the pretty silvery type gray hair but I don't want to see it.
However tonight after spending alot of time debating which color of dye I would use to help make the gray go away...I decided on "Chocolate Covered Cherry" because I do have some natural red/gold highlights. Well it's purple...not barney purple but has a purple tint to it.
As Lisa hummms I'm gonna wash that gray right out of my hair...EEEK PURPLE!
:-)
Saturday, December 17, 2005
Frank Eyes Council President Seat, District 3 Heats up and
Billboard Bob is disappointed
I don't know where to start after reading the above linked article as well as this one
I do find it rather ironic that now Bob is interested in what will happen to District 3, if he really was that concerned he would have stayed there rather than go for the At Large seat. Nor is it any surprise that he's engaging in some "make me happy or I'll vote for Frank" statements.
I am suprised that Frank would prefer McCloskey's campaign treasurer who is 70 years old as opposed to someone who is young, and would bring a fresh viewpoint into the Toledo Council which is badly needed. We have people like Taylor Balderas leaving this area, someone like her would be an excellent source of information on how to make the City attractive to those who will be the cities future rather than continue to support candidates that will only focus on the past. How do we encourage our children to stay here and be involved if we continually demean their desire to be involved? Sure Taylor's father is heavily involved in the Democratic Party, but that's no different than several of the current Council who have political family ties. If not Taylor then there are surely other candidates like Ernest Berry who actually ran for City Council. Especially since the May primary is not far away and the ability to be re-elected should be considered.
Monday on his blog Frank wrote:
The choice of several Democratic members, including me, is veteran councilwoman Wilma Brown. Experience, toughness, graciousness and, I belive, a willingness to work with the new administration and council make her the responsible choice. Others expressing interest are Sarantou, Ludeman, and Sobczak. Fine candidates.
Just days ago as the second article states, it appeared Wilma Brown had the necessary votes for Council President. Mark Sobczak no matter if he is A or B Team shouldn't be Council President, I agree with George Sarantou and Rob Ludeman, Council President should be someone who has had previous City Council experience.
I like Frank, I've never made a secret of that fact, however Council President should be someone who can work closely with the Mayor.Frank alludes to that ability being desired for a Council President his own blog statement as quoted above. I'm not sure if given his past comments and feelings about Carty that Frank as City Council President would be a positive step. I see it fraught with the potentional for alot of un-necessary squabbles. Toledo needs leadership not more A Team and B Team tit for tat type behavior. George Sarantou would be an excellent choice in the ability to work with the Mayor category, however since he is a Republican, I can understand the concern of letting the minority party have that much control over the agenda and focus of Toledo City Council.
"It's going to be an interesting first night, and more than a couple of ballots to get things organized," Mr. Ludeman predicted.
I don't know where to start after reading the above linked article as well as this one
I do find it rather ironic that now Bob is interested in what will happen to District 3, if he really was that concerned he would have stayed there rather than go for the At Large seat. Nor is it any surprise that he's engaging in some "make me happy or I'll vote for Frank" statements.
I am suprised that Frank would prefer McCloskey's campaign treasurer who is 70 years old as opposed to someone who is young, and would bring a fresh viewpoint into the Toledo Council which is badly needed. We have people like Taylor Balderas leaving this area, someone like her would be an excellent source of information on how to make the City attractive to those who will be the cities future rather than continue to support candidates that will only focus on the past. How do we encourage our children to stay here and be involved if we continually demean their desire to be involved? Sure Taylor's father is heavily involved in the Democratic Party, but that's no different than several of the current Council who have political family ties. If not Taylor then there are surely other candidates like Ernest Berry who actually ran for City Council. Especially since the May primary is not far away and the ability to be re-elected should be considered.
Monday on his blog Frank wrote:
The choice of several Democratic members, including me, is veteran councilwoman Wilma Brown. Experience, toughness, graciousness and, I belive, a willingness to work with the new administration and council make her the responsible choice. Others expressing interest are Sarantou, Ludeman, and Sobczak. Fine candidates.
Just days ago as the second article states, it appeared Wilma Brown had the necessary votes for Council President. Mark Sobczak no matter if he is A or B Team shouldn't be Council President, I agree with George Sarantou and Rob Ludeman, Council President should be someone who has had previous City Council experience.
I like Frank, I've never made a secret of that fact, however Council President should be someone who can work closely with the Mayor.Frank alludes to that ability being desired for a Council President his own blog statement as quoted above. I'm not sure if given his past comments and feelings about Carty that Frank as City Council President would be a positive step. I see it fraught with the potentional for alot of un-necessary squabbles. Toledo needs leadership not more A Team and B Team tit for tat type behavior. George Sarantou would be an excellent choice in the ability to work with the Mayor category, however since he is a Republican, I can understand the concern of letting the minority party have that much control over the agenda and focus of Toledo City Council.
"It's going to be an interesting first night, and more than a couple of ballots to get things organized," Mr. Ludeman predicted.
Now that I agree with, as well as pondering why the Law Director made a ruling that there had to be a majority winner for the Council President Seat...as usual? The Toledo Blade article raises more questions than answers.
Friday, December 16, 2005
Boy am I glad I didn't switch to typepad....
I almost did a few weeks ago but didn't like what was offered free there versus what is free on blogspot. I am still considering using my domain though so I can use wordpress...
But for those of you who might not know what is going on?
Above link has more info but the basics:
The TypePad application is currently unavailable, which means that users will not be able to log in, and visitors to weblogs will not be able to post comments. We are working to bring TypePad back online as soon as possible.
But for those of you who might not know what is going on?
Above link has more info but the basics:
The TypePad application is currently unavailable, which means that users will not be able to log in, and visitors to weblogs will not be able to post comments. We are working to bring TypePad back online as soon as possible.
It's all in fun...poke...poke...
The Weblog awards have ended. While there are of course some that realized what this was supposed to be about there were others that were pretty darn nasty and petty. I'd like to tell you that those that deserved to win did, but that wasn't the case in all categories. I'd like to be able to tell you that the people that had the supporters that were petty or basically admitted to thwarting the system didn't win. A few didn't which I'll admit I was happy about. Considering I basically pulled myself out of it and asked my readers to please vote for Ellen, I ended up in 6th place with 202 votes (seven would have been cool since it is my favorite number). Over a 100 of you kept voting for me showing that either they were not regular readers who knew I wanted Ellen to win or? You didnt listen - lol.
As I've wandered the different sites during this, I made note of some of the more "special" comments. I'm not going to be like a certain person I criticized and list names or blog addresses, yet I really think some of these comments need to be pointed out because it is the ones like this that do give the blogosphere a bad rap. So A big Lisa wish for a lump of coal in the stockings of the people that wrote comments like this:
Seriously, I think these awards are complete crap, as how can one explain a world were *****, who has consistently provided interesting content would lose to a blog that whose content consists of pictures of the author's pregnant stomach...
You really believe you recieved 600 votes in two days? How many people actually read your blog? Care to share some numbers?
Anyone who wants to do some counter voting might consider voting for anyone but (continues on with tacky insults.....)
I am surprised that this polar bear in a snowstorm blog, can hold a candle to the verbose truthtellosetude of *****, for shame voters of america.
You may want to look at the best **** talleys. I can't believe ***** has gotten that many votes. I smell a rat and he's wearing a Kerry button.
***** is also the beneficiary of the dregs of society....
Now, they have all their little hormonal friends, whose only link to the outside world is the computer, voting every freakin day......
That's not bad you can easily pass her and knock her scrawny little ass back down a couple pegs before it is all said and done
hint guys & gals,if you are at work and have a network, go to your co-workers computers and vote from them too!
Yeppers, all in fun....My hearty congratulations to those who won who deserved it, best wishes to those who should have won yet didn't and to those of you who didn't cheat, didn't leave nasty comments and enjoyed visiting other new blogs you might not have heard about? Bravo....
:-)
As I've wandered the different sites during this, I made note of some of the more "special" comments. I'm not going to be like a certain person I criticized and list names or blog addresses, yet I really think some of these comments need to be pointed out because it is the ones like this that do give the blogosphere a bad rap. So A big Lisa wish for a lump of coal in the stockings of the people that wrote comments like this:
Seriously, I think these awards are complete crap, as how can one explain a world were *****, who has consistently provided interesting content would lose to a blog that whose content consists of pictures of the author's pregnant stomach...
You really believe you recieved 600 votes in two days? How many people actually read your blog? Care to share some numbers?
Anyone who wants to do some counter voting might consider voting for anyone but (continues on with tacky insults.....)
I am surprised that this polar bear in a snowstorm blog, can hold a candle to the verbose truthtellosetude of *****, for shame voters of america.
You may want to look at the best **** talleys. I can't believe ***** has gotten that many votes. I smell a rat and he's wearing a Kerry button.
***** is also the beneficiary of the dregs of society....
Now, they have all their little hormonal friends, whose only link to the outside world is the computer, voting every freakin day......
That's not bad you can easily pass her and knock her scrawny little ass back down a couple pegs before it is all said and done
hint guys & gals,if you are at work and have a network, go to your co-workers computers and vote from them too!
Yeppers, all in fun....My hearty congratulations to those who won who deserved it, best wishes to those who should have won yet didn't and to those of you who didn't cheat, didn't leave nasty comments and enjoyed visiting other new blogs you might not have heard about? Bravo....
:-)
Bloggers have bad reputation?
While I'm still doing some research and working on some other things, I thought I'd share an experience I had this morning.
I called a local political party to get contact information on a person I wanted to talk to. I stated who I was and that I was calling because I wanted to write about this person for my blog.
First I was asked "Isn't Liberal Common Sense an Oxymoron"...hehehe (Exactly!)
Then it appears we bloggers have a bad reputation as the person I spoke with was of the opinion that what we do is take pot shots at people. Dig for dirt, etc.
After I explained I was not that kind of a blogger...I started to wonder. I guess that's another goal for LCS, to show what blogging is about. Sure I'll call someone on something that's not factual and yes at times I give my opinion which might not be the way some of you feel but? To me blogging is an alternative source of information. Credibility and honesty are important.
I called a local political party to get contact information on a person I wanted to talk to. I stated who I was and that I was calling because I wanted to write about this person for my blog.
First I was asked "Isn't Liberal Common Sense an Oxymoron"...hehehe (Exactly!)
Then it appears we bloggers have a bad reputation as the person I spoke with was of the opinion that what we do is take pot shots at people. Dig for dirt, etc.
After I explained I was not that kind of a blogger...I started to wonder. I guess that's another goal for LCS, to show what blogging is about. Sure I'll call someone on something that's not factual and yes at times I give my opinion which might not be the way some of you feel but? To me blogging is an alternative source of information. Credibility and honesty are important.
Thursday, December 15, 2005
The Christmas Card..ummm Holiday Card battle continues
As I headed over to read Michael Meckler at Red-State, I discovered the above linked article about Senator Mike DeWine's choice of a card being an issue.
Okay, I'm not a fan of Mike DeWine most times, and I do prefer "Merry Christmas", but is this really that big of a deal?
Do we need the House wasting time to make proclaimations that the symbols and traditions of Christmas should be protected, and that references to Christmas should be supported?
I would strongly suggest that if you have a few moments you go thru the transcript of the debate concerning House Resolution 579...
Some selected comments....
Mr. ACKERMAN Did something happen when I was not looking? Did somebody mug Santa Claus? Is somebody engaging in elf tossing? Did somebody shoot Bambi? If you eat venison, are you a suspect? What silliness we engage in, protecting symbols.
Mr. DINGELL Madam Speaker, I have a little poem.
'Twas the week before Christmas and all through the House,
no bills were passed `bout which Fox News could grouse.
Tax cuts for the wealthy were passed with great cheer,
so vacations in St. Barts soon should be near.
Katrina kids were all nestled snug in motel beds,
while visions of school and home danced in their heads.
In Iraq, our soldiers need supplies and a plan,
and nuclear weapons are being built in Iran.
Gas prices shot up, consumer confidence fell.
Americans feared we were in a fast track to ..... well.
Wait, we need a distraction, something divisive and wily,
a fabrication straight from the mouth of O'Reilly.
We will pretend Christmas is under attack,
hold a vote to save it, then pat ourselves on the back.
Silent Night, First Noel, Away in the Manger,
Wake up Congress, they're in no danger.
This time of year, we see Christmas everywhere we go,
From churches to homes to schools and, yes, even Costco.
What we have is an attempt to divide and destroy
when this is the season to unite us with joy.
At Christmastime, we're taught to unite.
We don't need a made-up reason to fight.
So on O'Reilly, on Hannity, on Coulter and those right-wing blogs.
You should sit back and relax, have a few egg nogs.
'Tis the holiday season; enjoy it a pinch.
With all our real problems, do we really need another Grinch?
So to my friends and my colleagues, I say with delight,
a Merry Christmas to all, and to Bill O'Reilly, happy holidays.
Ho, ho, ho. Merry Christmas.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, this resolution purports to protect the symbols of Christmas, but what really needs to be protected are not the symbols of Christmas, but rather the spirit of Christmas. The spirit of Christmas demands generosity and goodwill towards others.
There's alot more...Yes, this is our Government at work....
Here
Oh and I agree with Mr. DAVIS of Illinois...So, I would hope that all of us would have a happy Kwanzaa, a happy Chanukah, a happy Ramadan, a merry Christmas and happy holidays to everybody. (Though he forgot the Pagans...hope they are not offended)
:-)
This wasn't the share the link love post but it was on a similar topic sooo I give you Committees of Correspondence's Give A Heifer For Christmas...
How about a Yule Goat or some New Years Chickens?
Now THIS site has some unique gifts indeed and they have a real good deal on Water Bufalos. :-)
Okay, I'm not a fan of Mike DeWine most times, and I do prefer "Merry Christmas", but is this really that big of a deal?
Do we need the House wasting time to make proclaimations that the symbols and traditions of Christmas should be protected, and that references to Christmas should be supported?
I would strongly suggest that if you have a few moments you go thru the transcript of the debate concerning House Resolution 579...
Some selected comments....
Mr. ACKERMAN Did something happen when I was not looking? Did somebody mug Santa Claus? Is somebody engaging in elf tossing? Did somebody shoot Bambi? If you eat venison, are you a suspect? What silliness we engage in, protecting symbols.
Mr. DINGELL Madam Speaker, I have a little poem.
'Twas the week before Christmas and all through the House,
no bills were passed `bout which Fox News could grouse.
Tax cuts for the wealthy were passed with great cheer,
so vacations in St. Barts soon should be near.
Katrina kids were all nestled snug in motel beds,
while visions of school and home danced in their heads.
In Iraq, our soldiers need supplies and a plan,
and nuclear weapons are being built in Iran.
Gas prices shot up, consumer confidence fell.
Americans feared we were in a fast track to ..... well.
Wait, we need a distraction, something divisive and wily,
a fabrication straight from the mouth of O'Reilly.
We will pretend Christmas is under attack,
hold a vote to save it, then pat ourselves on the back.
Silent Night, First Noel, Away in the Manger,
Wake up Congress, they're in no danger.
This time of year, we see Christmas everywhere we go,
From churches to homes to schools and, yes, even Costco.
What we have is an attempt to divide and destroy
when this is the season to unite us with joy.
At Christmastime, we're taught to unite.
We don't need a made-up reason to fight.
So on O'Reilly, on Hannity, on Coulter and those right-wing blogs.
You should sit back and relax, have a few egg nogs.
'Tis the holiday season; enjoy it a pinch.
With all our real problems, do we really need another Grinch?
So to my friends and my colleagues, I say with delight,
a Merry Christmas to all, and to Bill O'Reilly, happy holidays.
Ho, ho, ho. Merry Christmas.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, this resolution purports to protect the symbols of Christmas, but what really needs to be protected are not the symbols of Christmas, but rather the spirit of Christmas. The spirit of Christmas demands generosity and goodwill towards others.
There's alot more...Yes, this is our Government at work....
Here
Oh and I agree with Mr. DAVIS of Illinois...So, I would hope that all of us would have a happy Kwanzaa, a happy Chanukah, a happy Ramadan, a merry Christmas and happy holidays to everybody. (Though he forgot the Pagans...hope they are not offended)
:-)
This wasn't the share the link love post but it was on a similar topic sooo I give you Committees of Correspondence's Give A Heifer For Christmas...
How about a Yule Goat or some New Years Chickens?
Now THIS site has some unique gifts indeed and they have a real good deal on Water Bufalos. :-)
Okay fine I'll play...Five weird habits...
David at Third World County listed my second usual response to tagging...
And sure, there are going to be people who whimp out and say something totally weenie like, "I'm not gonna tag anyone; y'all can just tag yourselves if you want."
To avoid being considered "weenie" (LMAO)...
Five of my weirdist habits:
1) I will not wear plain socks. They have to be sparkly or fuzzy and soft and never ever white.
2) Two of my cats will follow me if I call their names, if I walk they walk, if I run they run. So sometimes I run down the hall just to make sure they will run with me. (Yes I find this amusing).
3) Related to number two, I gather my family to watch the cats run thru the house with me....(Then I laugh when the cats will not do that for them)
4) I use the Sims (a computer game) as a stress reliever. I create Sims named after people that are giving me a hard time and then do really mean things to them. Like put them in a room and then take out the door so they will die. One former boss that I had, I created a Sims charcter of him, let him go swimming then? Deleted the ladder so he couldn't get out of the pool.
5) I like to spread peanut butter on cookies. Especially cookies from Kroger's Bakery. I can't eat alot of chocolate but I've been known to make my own "reeses" by spreading peanut butter on chocolate bars too....
Now, for the rules to this little "let's weird out people" or "let's out weird people" take your pick - lol.
1.) List five of your weirdest habits.
2.) Tag five.
3.) Copy the list (and its links) below and post it with the TOP name/link removed and your blog/link added to the BOTTOM.
4.) Trackback to let me know you joined in the silliness...
5.) Don't forget to give whoever you pick the rules and oh yeah if you don't play? We will taunt you with "NI" or something......
Peakah's Provocations
Diane's Stuff
I'm Just a Girl
third world county
Liberal Common Sense
Now for the hard part....who to tag....
Me4 at Me4President2008
Steve at The Aging Hipster
Tim at See What Happens
Subcomandante Bob at Toledo Tales
HT at Hooda Thunkit
trackbacked to follow the rules and hereby dispell any rumors of my "weeniedom" at David at Third World County
:-)
And sure, there are going to be people who whimp out and say something totally weenie like, "I'm not gonna tag anyone; y'all can just tag yourselves if you want."
To avoid being considered "weenie" (LMAO)...
Five of my weirdist habits:
1) I will not wear plain socks. They have to be sparkly or fuzzy and soft and never ever white.
2) Two of my cats will follow me if I call their names, if I walk they walk, if I run they run. So sometimes I run down the hall just to make sure they will run with me. (Yes I find this amusing).
3) Related to number two, I gather my family to watch the cats run thru the house with me....(Then I laugh when the cats will not do that for them)
4) I use the Sims (a computer game) as a stress reliever. I create Sims named after people that are giving me a hard time and then do really mean things to them. Like put them in a room and then take out the door so they will die. One former boss that I had, I created a Sims charcter of him, let him go swimming then? Deleted the ladder so he couldn't get out of the pool.
5) I like to spread peanut butter on cookies. Especially cookies from Kroger's Bakery. I can't eat alot of chocolate but I've been known to make my own "reeses" by spreading peanut butter on chocolate bars too....
Now, for the rules to this little "let's weird out people" or "let's out weird people" take your pick - lol.
1.) List five of your weirdest habits.
2.) Tag five.
3.) Copy the list (and its links) below and post it with the TOP name/link removed and your blog/link added to the BOTTOM.
4.) Trackback to let me know you joined in the silliness...
5.) Don't forget to give whoever you pick the rules and oh yeah if you don't play? We will taunt you with "NI" or something......
Peakah's Provocations
Diane's Stuff
I'm Just a Girl
third world county
Liberal Common Sense
Now for the hard part....who to tag....
Me4 at Me4President2008
Steve at The Aging Hipster
Tim at See What Happens
Subcomandante Bob at Toledo Tales
HT at Hooda Thunkit
trackbacked to follow the rules and hereby dispell any rumors of my "weeniedom" at David at Third World County
:-)
Sharing the love on a snow day....
More snow, enough that another snow day was declared. I had visions of enjoying a nice warm bed for a few hours more joined by several felines who also seemed to feel it was a good opportunity laze about. However that was not to be...
So? You know what to do if you want to "share the link love"
:-)
The first to join in on this snowy (and I mean snowy) Ohio day is Freedom Folks with Hooray For Hollywood ( yeah, again)
Whenever I grow weary of reporting the latest blatherings of our illuminati, I think of you gentle reader, and I'm refreshed to enter the fetid swamps of Hollywood's leftist thought.
Freedom Folks then shares A Little Help Please asking.....
Who are the biggest anti-christmas grinches out there. Who deserves to be referred to as a cuddly cactus?
So? You know what to do if you want to "share the link love"
:-)
The first to join in on this snowy (and I mean snowy) Ohio day is Freedom Folks with Hooray For Hollywood ( yeah, again)
Whenever I grow weary of reporting the latest blatherings of our illuminati, I think of you gentle reader, and I'm refreshed to enter the fetid swamps of Hollywood's leftist thought.
Freedom Folks then shares A Little Help Please asking.....
Who are the biggest anti-christmas grinches out there. Who deserves to be referred to as a cuddly cactus?
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
The Alito Conference Call
My second conference call of the day was a bit different. I was informed by the operator before being connected that I would be in "listen only" mode when I gave my identifying number; I asked exactly what that meant and was told it meant I was not allowed to ask any questions.
I have linked Alito's America in the title link for those of you who are interested in more information about their movement to prevent Samuel Alito, Jr., from becoming a Supreme Court Justice.
I have to admit though that I was pretty disappointed, as the "evidence" and statements made were basically the same information that can be seen on Daily Kos as one example. If I would have been given the opportunity to ask some questions first would have been given the reality that there is quite some time before President Bush's term ends what will this really accomplish if somehow Alito is not confirmed? Do they really believe they will end up with a better candidate? Who would they like to see that President Bush would actually consider nominating? Those questions will go unanswered....
Paul Begala from CNN was already talking by the time I got approved and thru the operator assisted system for this conference call. Some quotes from him, "Democrats need a spinal transplant...I don't want mychildren to grow up in Alito's America where ten year old children are strip searched." He after continuing in that vein had to return to work so was not a part of the questions.
Paul also made a comment that Alito's mother had even stated he would overturn Roe V Wade, frankly I was surprised someone who works for CNN would make that type of a misrepresentation. That is not what she stated, first of all if it even should be asked of an 90-year-old "of course, he's against abortion" was what she stated. Then again, given the way the "strip searching children" is being over-played I guess it shouldn't have suprised me.
David Halperin was up next, he believes that there will not be a large number of attorneys who will go on record as being against Alito. He states they feel that there would be repercussions against them or their clients if they oppose Alito and he is then confirmed.
Next Jeralyn Merritt, she stated criminal justice issues should be the issue rather than abortion. That the key issue should be to prevent injustice she doesn't think
Alito will do that. As an example she states the Supreme Court has 3 dozen death penalty cases and only three abortion cases during the same time period. Jeralyn feels Alito would be the most conservative justice on the Supreme Court.
She said during Alito's record as a judge there had been 15 death penality cases, 5 of which came before the court. In those five Alito ruled against the inmate. This seems to follow very closely This LA Times commentary, except it states there were ten cases that came up not 15, five of which Alito was involved in. She then touched on the strip search issue again which I really think has been covered. There is some dispute as to the way the death penality cases have been viewed, Town Hall has some of the opposing information on the Death penality issue so that you can make up your own mind, or search for more additional information.
Next, Jeralyn stated Alito felt it was justified for an unarmed teenager to be shot. This was not a court ruling, this is another one of the memo's written during the Regan years, 1984 for this one, that keep being brought up. Should they be a huge issue? That's debateable. I felt quite differently about many issues back in 1984 than I do now, I also wrote many documents in the course of my employment that would not necessarily reflect my personal views. Put in context these old documents have a place as far as questions but not quite to the degree some of them have been made into.
Several of the callers stated they were not seeing alot of intensity over the Alito issue. David touched on that and suggested the website with it's video and information as a way to try to encourage more of a response on this issue. He also stated student groups were actively involved with Bork, they were not with Roberts but he was seeing a growing trend with this on Alito and felt this was a way that could be effective.
In the end I did not learn anything new about Alito that made me change my mind nor do I believe his confirmation will be prevented. However, I think it's important to discuss Alito's nomination. If nothing else it will hopefully encourage people to seek out information on what both sides are saying about Alito. As in almost every case the truth will most likely lie in the middle.
I have linked Alito's America in the title link for those of you who are interested in more information about their movement to prevent Samuel Alito, Jr., from becoming a Supreme Court Justice.
I have to admit though that I was pretty disappointed, as the "evidence" and statements made were basically the same information that can be seen on Daily Kos as one example. If I would have been given the opportunity to ask some questions first would have been given the reality that there is quite some time before President Bush's term ends what will this really accomplish if somehow Alito is not confirmed? Do they really believe they will end up with a better candidate? Who would they like to see that President Bush would actually consider nominating? Those questions will go unanswered....
Paul Begala from CNN was already talking by the time I got approved and thru the operator assisted system for this conference call. Some quotes from him, "Democrats need a spinal transplant...I don't want mychildren to grow up in Alito's America where ten year old children are strip searched." He after continuing in that vein had to return to work so was not a part of the questions.
Paul also made a comment that Alito's mother had even stated he would overturn Roe V Wade, frankly I was surprised someone who works for CNN would make that type of a misrepresentation. That is not what she stated, first of all if it even should be asked of an 90-year-old "of course, he's against abortion" was what she stated. Then again, given the way the "strip searching children" is being over-played I guess it shouldn't have suprised me.
David Halperin was up next, he believes that there will not be a large number of attorneys who will go on record as being against Alito. He states they feel that there would be repercussions against them or their clients if they oppose Alito and he is then confirmed.
Next Jeralyn Merritt, she stated criminal justice issues should be the issue rather than abortion. That the key issue should be to prevent injustice she doesn't think
Alito will do that. As an example she states the Supreme Court has 3 dozen death penalty cases and only three abortion cases during the same time period. Jeralyn feels Alito would be the most conservative justice on the Supreme Court.
She said during Alito's record as a judge there had been 15 death penality cases, 5 of which came before the court. In those five Alito ruled against the inmate. This seems to follow very closely This LA Times commentary, except it states there were ten cases that came up not 15, five of which Alito was involved in. She then touched on the strip search issue again which I really think has been covered. There is some dispute as to the way the death penality cases have been viewed, Town Hall has some of the opposing information on the Death penality issue so that you can make up your own mind, or search for more additional information.
Next, Jeralyn stated Alito felt it was justified for an unarmed teenager to be shot. This was not a court ruling, this is another one of the memo's written during the Regan years, 1984 for this one, that keep being brought up. Should they be a huge issue? That's debateable. I felt quite differently about many issues back in 1984 than I do now, I also wrote many documents in the course of my employment that would not necessarily reflect my personal views. Put in context these old documents have a place as far as questions but not quite to the degree some of them have been made into.
Several of the callers stated they were not seeing alot of intensity over the Alito issue. David touched on that and suggested the website with it's video and information as a way to try to encourage more of a response on this issue. He also stated student groups were actively involved with Bork, they were not with Roberts but he was seeing a growing trend with this on Alito and felt this was a way that could be effective.
In the end I did not learn anything new about Alito that made me change my mind nor do I believe his confirmation will be prevented. However, I think it's important to discuss Alito's nomination. If nothing else it will hopefully encourage people to seek out information on what both sides are saying about Alito. As in almost every case the truth will most likely lie in the middle.
Admiration for Suzi Hackett
I just finished my first conference call, which was with Suzi Hackett. Before I go into what was said and my thoughts on the call, the first thing we were told was of a new video release by the Paul Hackett campaign called "Sacrifice". I have uploaded it so that you can see it here or you can go to Hackett for Ohio to download this video/get more information.
This conference call was not on policy or direct issues related to Paul's campaign. It was a chance to talk with Suzi and to highlight what is an important issue for her, support our troops. As the video entitled Sacrifice shows, the families here at home are important. Suzi pointed out that most Reservists are not part of a military community and many times these families are without the emotional or other types of support that a military community provides. She talked very frankly about how difficult it was for her family to be without Paul, yet she also knew there were other families who have gone thru worse. Paul came home to them safe and unharmed. Others have not been so lucky. Suzi left no doubt that while it was difficult she understood, agreed and supported Paul's reasons for going to Iraq.
Given the focus of this conference call, I asked Suzi what she did to try to "recenter" herself since not only as a former military wife but now the wife of a man who is running for office it's obvious she has taken on alot to help support Paul in reaching his goal of winning this Senate Race in Ohio. It's apparent Suzi is a very honest person, she first stated she does not have alot of time for herself, but then shared running is her first love but she does escape from time to time to horseback ride. The Hackett Family is one that loves the outdoors so it's not suprising that would be one of Suzi's favorite ways to enjoy some quiet time to reflect. Despite her not being a big fan of the blogosphere, she does enjoy writing and is keeping a journal for each one of her children to give to them when they reach adulthood. As a parent, I agree with her that these types of journals end up being not only important to the parent while writing them but end up being a treasured item for their children later in life.
Suzi's professional background as a Child Psychologist was discussed as well as the topic of homeschooling. They had made the decision to homeschool but they are allowing their children to have the deciding factor in that decision. Their oldest daughter desired the more social atmosphere of a classroom environment so she is attending third grade with her peers.
I had read alot about Suzi during the OH-2 campaign, she is just as she comes across in the media. A devoted, loving mother and wife who not only supports her husband but remembers what last Christmas without Paul was like. She ended the conference call with a reminder to please seek out military families and let them know during this Christmas season that you support them, call them, send them Chrismas/Season Greetings cards...so? That is how I will end this as well.
update....Tulin at Victory06 has the audio and a transcript of part of Suzi's statement....
This conference call was not on policy or direct issues related to Paul's campaign. It was a chance to talk with Suzi and to highlight what is an important issue for her, support our troops. As the video entitled Sacrifice shows, the families here at home are important. Suzi pointed out that most Reservists are not part of a military community and many times these families are without the emotional or other types of support that a military community provides. She talked very frankly about how difficult it was for her family to be without Paul, yet she also knew there were other families who have gone thru worse. Paul came home to them safe and unharmed. Others have not been so lucky. Suzi left no doubt that while it was difficult she understood, agreed and supported Paul's reasons for going to Iraq.
Given the focus of this conference call, I asked Suzi what she did to try to "recenter" herself since not only as a former military wife but now the wife of a man who is running for office it's obvious she has taken on alot to help support Paul in reaching his goal of winning this Senate Race in Ohio. It's apparent Suzi is a very honest person, she first stated she does not have alot of time for herself, but then shared running is her first love but she does escape from time to time to horseback ride. The Hackett Family is one that loves the outdoors so it's not suprising that would be one of Suzi's favorite ways to enjoy some quiet time to reflect. Despite her not being a big fan of the blogosphere, she does enjoy writing and is keeping a journal for each one of her children to give to them when they reach adulthood. As a parent, I agree with her that these types of journals end up being not only important to the parent while writing them but end up being a treasured item for their children later in life.
Suzi's professional background as a Child Psychologist was discussed as well as the topic of homeschooling. They had made the decision to homeschool but they are allowing their children to have the deciding factor in that decision. Their oldest daughter desired the more social atmosphere of a classroom environment so she is attending third grade with her peers.
I had read alot about Suzi during the OH-2 campaign, she is just as she comes across in the media. A devoted, loving mother and wife who not only supports her husband but remembers what last Christmas without Paul was like. She ended the conference call with a reminder to please seek out military families and let them know during this Christmas season that you support them, call them, send them Chrismas/Season Greetings cards...so? That is how I will end this as well.
update....Tulin at Victory06 has the audio and a transcript of part of Suzi's statement....
What kind of trouble am I up to?
No, I am in no danger of losing the title Bob Frantz gave me of "Toledo's most prolific Blogger".....I'm still doing some research on the Ohio Election Reform Bill status/situation as well as some other awsome new adventures (vote for Ellen)...
I'm going to participate in my first conference call with Suzi Hackett today which I'm really looking forward too.
Suzi Hackett is the wife of the future Senator of Ohio, Paul Hackett. I'll of course fill you in on the details of the call and what Suzi's thoughts are later today.
I've also been invited to participate in a conference call concerning the nomination of Samuel Alito later this afternoon.
:-)
I'm going to participate in my first conference call with Suzi Hackett today which I'm really looking forward too.
Suzi Hackett is the wife of the future Senator of Ohio, Paul Hackett. I'll of course fill you in on the details of the call and what Suzi's thoughts are later today.
I've also been invited to participate in a conference call concerning the nomination of Samuel Alito later this afternoon.
:-)
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
Quick reminders....
Please don't forget to visit NorthWest Ohio Net tomorrow for the first "Carnival of Ohio Politics"....
But before you head over? Don't forget to vote for Reign of Ellen in the Weblog Awards Last day for voting is tomorrow. She's pretty close to winning our category.
:-)
Yes, I think that calls for some hamsters...this one is feeling the love....
But before you head over? Don't forget to vote for Reign of Ellen in the Weblog Awards Last day for voting is tomorrow. She's pretty close to winning our category.
:-)
Yes, I think that calls for some hamsters...this one is feeling the love....
Voter Election Reform Confusion
Just when you thought the RON ballot issues were long and confusing, we now have the Ohio Election Reform Bill. The House version of the Bill contained a requirement that:
In addition to these Ohio law provisions, HAVA currently imposes specific identification requirements on first-time electors in an election for federal office who registered to vote by mail. The bill adds identification provisions to Ohio law that generally mirror the federal law identification requirements (sec. 3505.18(A)(2)(a)).
Specifically, if the election for which the elector appears in a polling place to vote is an election for federal office, if the elector registered to vote by mail, and if the elector has not previously voted in an election for federal office in Ohio, the elector must announce to the precinct election officials the elector's full name and address and provide to them proof of identity in the form of a current valid photo identification or a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document that shows the elector's name and address. If the elector does not provide to the precinct election officials any of the specified forms of identification, the elector may cast a provisional ballot as previously described (see "Provisional ballots for federal elections," above). (Sec. 3505.18(A)(2)(a).)
That is pretty straight forward and mirrors Federal Requirements under the Help America Vote Act of 2002.
However, the Senate Bill changed this. The Ohio Senate version of the bill requires all people to provide identification. There is some confusion within the bill, which is part of the reason some are trying to stall it. I'll give you one example.
Sec. 3505.18. (A)(1) When an elector appears in a polling place to vote , the elector shall announce to the precinct election officials the elector's full name and current address and provide proof of the elector's identity in the form of either a current and valid photo identification or a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document that shows the name and current address of the elector.
With me so far? Seems not so complicated. But wait there's more....
(6) If an elector provides a form of photo identification that does not contain the elector's current residence address, the elector may cast a provisional ballot under section 3505.181 of the Revised Code.
But...it says right above that if you have or a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document that shows the name and current address of the elector you can vote.
Then? Even more confusion....
Sec. 3505.181 B:(6) If, at the time that an individual casts a provisional ballot, the individual provides identification in the form of a current and valid photo identification, in the form of a current and valid photo identification but with the individual's former address instead of current address, or in the form of a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document that shows the individual's name and current address, or provides the last four digits of the individual's social security number, or executes an affirmation that the elector does not have any of those forms of identification or the last four digits of the individual's social security number because the individual does not have a social security number, or declines to execute such an affirmation, the appropriate local election official shall record the type of identification provided, the social security number information, the fact that the affirmation was executed, or the fact that the individual declined to execute such an affirmation and include that information with the transmission of the ballot or voter or address information under division (B)(3) of this section. If the individual declines to execute such an affirmation, the appropriate local election official shall record the individual's name and include that information with the transmission of the ballot under division (B)(3) of this section.
This also contradicts what is listed under the first section. This gives the impression that if you do not have a photo id then you will have to cast a provisional ballot which is NOT the way Sec. 3505.18 is worded.
It also states under Sec. 3505.18:
(B) After the elector has announced the elector's full name and current address and provided any of the forms of identification required under division (A)(1) of this section, (which is: (A)(1) When an elector appears in a polling place to vote he, the elector shall announce his to the precinct election officials the elector's full name and current address to the precinct election officials. He and provide proof of the elector's identity in the form of either a current and valid photo identification or a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document that shows the name and current address of the elector) the elector shall write the elector's name and address at the proper place in the poll list or signature pollbook provided for the purpose, except that if, for any reason, an elector is unable to write his the elector's name and current address in the poll list or signature pollbook, the elector may make the elector's mark at the place intended for the elector's name, and a precinct election official shall write the name of the elector at the proper place on the poll list or signature pollbook following the elector's mark, upon the presentation of proper identification. The making of such a mark shall be attested by the precinct election official, who shall evidence the same by signing the precinct election official's name on the poll list or signature pollbook as a witness to the mark. Alternatively, if applicable, an attorney in fact acting pursuant to section 3501.382 of the Revised Code may sign the elector's signature in the poll list or signature pollbook in accordance with that section.
Confused? Who wouldn't be. Here we have conflicting information or the impression that I have which is if you have moved, since the DMV no longer gives you a new license but only records the new address you will in one section be able to vote if you provide the alternative documentation yet in just a bit lower in the same section you will NOT be able to vote except thru a provisional ballot.
This is the latest version of the bill, I'm sure they will correct it however, something this important that contains such conflicting information should be corrected and distributed before it is voted on. This is only one small part of the bill. There are other areas of concern as well.
I'm not sure they are severe enough to warrant this:
Jonathan Meier, a 23 year-old divinity student and Columbus resident, began a prayer vigil and hunger strike at the Ohio Statehouse to signal his disgust and distrust with the legislation. Meier says that the demonstration is his way of highlighting the injustice of House Bill 3.
“Most people don’t realize that this legislation, if passed by the senate next week, would make it virtually impossible for homeless folks t o vote, would make it virtually impossible for groups to register large numbers of voters, would eliminate oversight of voting machines, and would cancel our right to challenge election results.”
Why prayer and a hunger strike? Meier says that his faith calls him to “constantly pursue social justice and illuminate social ills, and, often, this call requires personal sacrifice.”
UPDATE: Beacon Journal reports on why the bill stalled in the House.
In addition to these Ohio law provisions, HAVA currently imposes specific identification requirements on first-time electors in an election for federal office who registered to vote by mail. The bill adds identification provisions to Ohio law that generally mirror the federal law identification requirements (sec. 3505.18(A)(2)(a)).
Specifically, if the election for which the elector appears in a polling place to vote is an election for federal office, if the elector registered to vote by mail, and if the elector has not previously voted in an election for federal office in Ohio, the elector must announce to the precinct election officials the elector's full name and address and provide to them proof of identity in the form of a current valid photo identification or a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document that shows the elector's name and address. If the elector does not provide to the precinct election officials any of the specified forms of identification, the elector may cast a provisional ballot as previously described (see "Provisional ballots for federal elections," above). (Sec. 3505.18(A)(2)(a).)
That is pretty straight forward and mirrors Federal Requirements under the Help America Vote Act of 2002.
However, the Senate Bill changed this. The Ohio Senate version of the bill requires all people to provide identification. There is some confusion within the bill, which is part of the reason some are trying to stall it. I'll give you one example.
Sec. 3505.18. (A)(1) When an elector appears in a polling place to vote , the elector shall announce to the precinct election officials the elector's full name and current address and provide proof of the elector's identity in the form of either a current and valid photo identification or a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document that shows the name and current address of the elector.
With me so far? Seems not so complicated. But wait there's more....
(6) If an elector provides a form of photo identification that does not contain the elector's current residence address, the elector may cast a provisional ballot under section 3505.181 of the Revised Code.
But...it says right above that if you have or a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document that shows the name and current address of the elector you can vote.
Then? Even more confusion....
Sec. 3505.181 B:(6) If, at the time that an individual casts a provisional ballot, the individual provides identification in the form of a current and valid photo identification, in the form of a current and valid photo identification but with the individual's former address instead of current address, or in the form of a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document that shows the individual's name and current address, or provides the last four digits of the individual's social security number, or executes an affirmation that the elector does not have any of those forms of identification or the last four digits of the individual's social security number because the individual does not have a social security number, or declines to execute such an affirmation, the appropriate local election official shall record the type of identification provided, the social security number information, the fact that the affirmation was executed, or the fact that the individual declined to execute such an affirmation and include that information with the transmission of the ballot or voter or address information under division (B)(3) of this section. If the individual declines to execute such an affirmation, the appropriate local election official shall record the individual's name and include that information with the transmission of the ballot under division (B)(3) of this section.
This also contradicts what is listed under the first section. This gives the impression that if you do not have a photo id then you will have to cast a provisional ballot which is NOT the way Sec. 3505.18 is worded.
It also states under Sec. 3505.18:
(B) After the elector has announced the elector's full name and current address and provided any of the forms of identification required under division (A)(1) of this section, (which is: (A)(1) When an elector appears in a polling place to vote he, the elector shall announce his to the precinct election officials the elector's full name and current address to the precinct election officials. He and provide proof of the elector's identity in the form of either a current and valid photo identification or a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document that shows the name and current address of the elector) the elector shall write the elector's name and address at the proper place in the poll list or signature pollbook provided for the purpose, except that if, for any reason, an elector is unable to write his the elector's name and current address in the poll list or signature pollbook, the elector may make the elector's mark at the place intended for the elector's name, and a precinct election official shall write the name of the elector at the proper place on the poll list or signature pollbook following the elector's mark, upon the presentation of proper identification. The making of such a mark shall be attested by the precinct election official, who shall evidence the same by signing the precinct election official's name on the poll list or signature pollbook as a witness to the mark. Alternatively, if applicable, an attorney in fact acting pursuant to section 3501.382 of the Revised Code may sign the elector's signature in the poll list or signature pollbook in accordance with that section.
Confused? Who wouldn't be. Here we have conflicting information or the impression that I have which is if you have moved, since the DMV no longer gives you a new license but only records the new address you will in one section be able to vote if you provide the alternative documentation yet in just a bit lower in the same section you will NOT be able to vote except thru a provisional ballot.
This is the latest version of the bill, I'm sure they will correct it however, something this important that contains such conflicting information should be corrected and distributed before it is voted on. This is only one small part of the bill. There are other areas of concern as well.
I'm not sure they are severe enough to warrant this:
Jonathan Meier, a 23 year-old divinity student and Columbus resident, began a prayer vigil and hunger strike at the Ohio Statehouse to signal his disgust and distrust with the legislation. Meier says that the demonstration is his way of highlighting the injustice of House Bill 3.
“Most people don’t realize that this legislation, if passed by the senate next week, would make it virtually impossible for homeless folks t o vote, would make it virtually impossible for groups to register large numbers of voters, would eliminate oversight of voting machines, and would cancel our right to challenge election results.”
Why prayer and a hunger strike? Meier says that his faith calls him to “constantly pursue social justice and illuminate social ills, and, often, this call requires personal sacrifice.”
However it is enough to want to make sure since Election Reform is so important that it is done properly. If it was that important they should have been ready for this before the holiday break rather than trying to rush it thru. Rushing it thru will create a situation where if concerns like I've pointed out are not addressed this whole issue will have to be re-visited. Why not do it right the first time?
I've spoken with staff from both Senator Fedor and Senator Coughlin this morning. I wanted to make sure I had this in the proper context. If I get additional information I will update but as it stands right now? That is the way the bill is worded.
UPDATE: Beacon Journal reports on why the bill stalled in the House.