Petty…
News from Mexico City…United States government officials said Friday that they had asked the owner of a hotel here, which is part of an American corporation, to expel a Cuban delegation that was meeting with American oil executives.
Cuban officials are trying to court American petroleum companies to produce oil in the nation's territorial waters after succeeding in attracting exploratory investments from Chinese, Indian and Norwegian energy companies. The meeting of largely Texan oil executives and elite bureaucrats from Havana began Thursday and was to conclude Saturday.
And I suppose that move has stopped all negotiations and the Texans went home, disappointed. Unless…they moved to another hotel?
Sunday, February 5, 2006
Arnold
According to the news reports, our acting governor has decided to avoid theatrics for awhile; making his public appearances sans Hummer and bandwagons. Let’s face it though…he‘s still an actor! And I’m certain that the props are just waiting in the wings. As soon as he thinks he needs them, he’ll trot them all out with great fanfare…
And during the month of January, “Democratic rivals Controller Steve Westly and Treasurer Phil Angelides were barely visible”…Well, I listened to a short speech from Steve Westly and it impressed me. He has a good technology background and he hasn’t been in Sacramento for his whole life, as Angelides has. Maybe he’s the one?
And during the month of January, “Democratic rivals Controller Steve Westly and Treasurer Phil Angelides were barely visible”…Well, I listened to a short speech from Steve Westly and it impressed me. He has a good technology background and he hasn’t been in Sacramento for his whole life, as Angelides has. Maybe he’s the one?
Department of Homeland Security
ever-vigilant against vegan menace...
But what if she remembered the license plate number? What if she is released and then writes it down again? I think it's time for some serious brain-washing! We can never be too vigilant...
But what if she remembered the license plate number? What if she is released and then writes it down again? I think it's time for some serious brain-washing! We can never be too vigilant...
Sunday morning
Sunday morning once again. And it looks like we’re about to experience a “false” spring. The weather forecast tells me that we will experience temps up into the high 60’s next week; and that will rush some plants into leaf and blossom production. Next, the temperatures will quickly revert to winter norms and possibly damage the plants. After all…it’s still February! But it is nice to be able to walk outside in a t-shirt…
I spent some time repairing the toilet yesterday, not my favorite task. This repair involved taking the tank off and installing a new flush valve and flapper. The job seemed to go well and I had it all back together in about an hour and a half. I flushed it and looked for leaks; all looked good. Then I walked into the bathroom last night about 10:30 and my bare feet contacted…water!
After shutting off the water, I flushed the toilet to remove the rest of the water from the tank and spread a towel on the floor. Now I have a new task for today, whether I needed it or not.
I use my Outlook calendar to remind me of many chores and appointments and it’s pretty handy for that; the reminder function nagging me over and over until I do what is required. And yesterday the Bidwell Classic ½ Marathon message flashed up on my screen with a warning that it was only 3 weeks away. That’s a better indicator of spring’s imminent arrival than experiencing a few warm days in February.
I saw some interesting news this morning…
“AOL and Yahoo are about to start charging companies 1/4 of a cent to a penny per message if they wish to bypass spam filters.”
AOL has enough public relations trouble just being themselves…why would they want to add to it? And guess who will pay for the email that we didn’t really want in the first place? Those companies will simply pass on the cost to the consumer and we’ll end up paying for the spam we will have to delete manually.
Yep; your inbox will soon look just like your mailbox.
“The Army's strategy for persuading young people to join the military includes video games, Web sites, cellphone text messages and helicopter simulators.”
Funny? I don’t see “money” as one of the tools to enhance recruiting. It must have been too obvious for some Generals to understand. Here’s a thought…take all of the money used for these cool strategies and use it for enlisted personnel salaries. Whoa! That’s a bold idea…and one that will never fly. OK. How about a “Salary Simulator” instead?
“Most counties in Nebraska have lower populations today than they had in 1920.”
I’m pretty sure the same thing can be said for Iowa, North and South Dakota and Missouri. I’m not sure why, as they are pretty nice places. But I happen to like them because there aren’t a lot of people around. And Nebraska is home of the Nebraska Furniture Mart…one of the nations great stores! And Warren Buffett lives in Nebraska. I guess that’s a recommendation?
“AP - Iran said Sunday that it was still willing to negotiate with the international community over its nuclear program…”
I may not be a diplomat or a politician…but it seems to me that now would be the time to stop making any public pronouncements about the situation in Iran. The president and all of his men/and one women, should stop talking about it completely. Just say, “No comment” when questioned by reporters. That alone would be enough to change the way Iran is operating. As long as we’re both shouting in public, the rhetoric can only heat things up. The sound of one voice shouting leads to a reduction in volume. And imagine how puzzled Iran would be. They would be confused by this new tactic of ours…a most worrisome tactic.
I spent some time repairing the toilet yesterday, not my favorite task. This repair involved taking the tank off and installing a new flush valve and flapper. The job seemed to go well and I had it all back together in about an hour and a half. I flushed it and looked for leaks; all looked good. Then I walked into the bathroom last night about 10:30 and my bare feet contacted…water!
After shutting off the water, I flushed the toilet to remove the rest of the water from the tank and spread a towel on the floor. Now I have a new task for today, whether I needed it or not.
I use my Outlook calendar to remind me of many chores and appointments and it’s pretty handy for that; the reminder function nagging me over and over until I do what is required. And yesterday the Bidwell Classic ½ Marathon message flashed up on my screen with a warning that it was only 3 weeks away. That’s a better indicator of spring’s imminent arrival than experiencing a few warm days in February.
I saw some interesting news this morning…
“AOL and Yahoo are about to start charging companies 1/4 of a cent to a penny per message if they wish to bypass spam filters.”
AOL has enough public relations trouble just being themselves…why would they want to add to it? And guess who will pay for the email that we didn’t really want in the first place? Those companies will simply pass on the cost to the consumer and we’ll end up paying for the spam we will have to delete manually.
Yep; your inbox will soon look just like your mailbox.
“The Army's strategy for persuading young people to join the military includes video games, Web sites, cellphone text messages and helicopter simulators.”
Funny? I don’t see “money” as one of the tools to enhance recruiting. It must have been too obvious for some Generals to understand. Here’s a thought…take all of the money used for these cool strategies and use it for enlisted personnel salaries. Whoa! That’s a bold idea…and one that will never fly. OK. How about a “Salary Simulator” instead?
“Most counties in Nebraska have lower populations today than they had in 1920.”
I’m pretty sure the same thing can be said for Iowa, North and South Dakota and Missouri. I’m not sure why, as they are pretty nice places. But I happen to like them because there aren’t a lot of people around. And Nebraska is home of the Nebraska Furniture Mart…one of the nations great stores! And Warren Buffett lives in Nebraska. I guess that’s a recommendation?
“AP - Iran said Sunday that it was still willing to negotiate with the international community over its nuclear program…”
I may not be a diplomat or a politician…but it seems to me that now would be the time to stop making any public pronouncements about the situation in Iran. The president and all of his men/and one women, should stop talking about it completely. Just say, “No comment” when questioned by reporters. That alone would be enough to change the way Iran is operating. As long as we’re both shouting in public, the rhetoric can only heat things up. The sound of one voice shouting leads to a reduction in volume. And imagine how puzzled Iran would be. They would be confused by this new tactic of ours…a most worrisome tactic.
Saturday, February 4, 2006
How?
From Reuters…
“Richard Perle, a key architect of the U.S.-led war against Iraq, said on Saturday the West should not make the mistake of waiting too long to use military force if Iran comes close to getting an atomic weapon.”
"If you want to try to wait until the very last minute, you'd better be very confident of your intelligence because if you're not, you won't know when the last minute is," Perle told Reuters on the sidelines of an annual security conference in Munich.
"And so, ironically, one of the lessons of the inadequate intelligence of Iraq is you'd better be careful how long you choose to wait."
So what is the answer? Here’s one of the people who led us down the primrose path and now he’s suggesting that we suddenly need to be very confident in the intelligence we have. We have been duped at every turn during the past 5 years and now we’re supposed to have confidence? But in who? In what? I can’t tell you how much I wish I could!
“Richard Perle, a key architect of the U.S.-led war against Iraq, said on Saturday the West should not make the mistake of waiting too long to use military force if Iran comes close to getting an atomic weapon.”
"If you want to try to wait until the very last minute, you'd better be very confident of your intelligence because if you're not, you won't know when the last minute is," Perle told Reuters on the sidelines of an annual security conference in Munich.
"And so, ironically, one of the lessons of the inadequate intelligence of Iraq is you'd better be careful how long you choose to wait."
So what is the answer? Here’s one of the people who led us down the primrose path and now he’s suggesting that we suddenly need to be very confident in the intelligence we have. We have been duped at every turn during the past 5 years and now we’re supposed to have confidence? But in who? In what? I can’t tell you how much I wish I could!
Generic Drugs
Hit Backlog At FDA:
"The generics office's budget was about $26 million last year, a fraction of the more than $400 million spent to evaluate and monitor new drugs and biologics, according to FDA documents. In response to questions from Congress, the agency said the generics program would have to make cuts in 2006 to offset pay raises."
Golly! Why would that be?
"The generics office's budget was about $26 million last year, a fraction of the more than $400 million spent to evaluate and monitor new drugs and biologics, according to FDA documents. In response to questions from Congress, the agency said the generics program would have to make cuts in 2006 to offset pay raises."
Golly! Why would that be?
Saturday morning
Saturday morning and the wind is howling! Although I was wrong about yesterdays forecast…wait a second, I wasn’t wrong at all! It was the weatherman that made the error; we had beautiful weather yesterday. Anyway, back to today…the forecast now calls for “a steady rain early...then remaining cloudy with a few showers. High 57F. S winds shifting to W at 15 to 25 mph.”
Rain, I like, as that will help to fill the pool. I’m filling it slowly as I want to be certain that the repair will hold and I don’t want to draw down the well too far. So I’m filling it by running the hose for just a few hours each day.
I just heard a very odd sound. I turned on the outside lights but didn’t see anything at first; now I see that the wind has knocked over my ladder and I must have heard it scraping against the wall as it fell. It has landed on the fig tree, so as soon as it’s light enough, I will have to go out and see what kind of damage has been done.
With this wind and rain (forecast) it looks like my original plan of doing some pruning today will just have to wait. The roses and the orchard will take more than a few days to prune and the weather should improve next week.
Rain, I like, as that will help to fill the pool. I’m filling it slowly as I want to be certain that the repair will hold and I don’t want to draw down the well too far. So I’m filling it by running the hose for just a few hours each day.
I just heard a very odd sound. I turned on the outside lights but didn’t see anything at first; now I see that the wind has knocked over my ladder and I must have heard it scraping against the wall as it fell. It has landed on the fig tree, so as soon as it’s light enough, I will have to go out and see what kind of damage has been done.
With this wind and rain (forecast) it looks like my original plan of doing some pruning today will just have to wait. The roses and the orchard will take more than a few days to prune and the weather should improve next week.
mamamusings
flickr/family serendipity
A great story...I have some photos like that; with unidentified relatives and no way to ever know. Scan and post! I may get lucky.
A great story...I have some photos like that; with unidentified relatives and no way to ever know. Scan and post! I may get lucky.
A Guide to Mobile Cooking
Can you hear me now?
With my calling plan, I can cook eggs for free!
And those rumors about the health dangers of cell phones? Just rumors...
With my calling plan, I can cook eggs for free!
And those rumors about the health dangers of cell phones? Just rumors...
Friday, February 3, 2006
Cats
I was hoping that I wouldn’t become a “cat person” when I brought home our new cat. It had been a long time since I had a cat and my plan was to have a mouse killing feline…that was all she had to do. All very simple, and I certainly hadn’t planned on becoming attached to her.
Short story…I’m attached. She has caught one mouse. A miserable record!
The day begins when I let her in about 8 AM. She immediately wants to play and her favorite game is “tag”. She loves to run the length of the house and then when I catch up to her, she turns, smacks my leg with one paw and heads back to the other end of the house. Sometimes she lies in wait for me to pass, then leaps out and smacks my leg again before running off. When I do catch her, she rolls over onto her back, inviting me to rub her belly. That’s a trap. As soon as I touch her, she has her claws and fangs all around my hand…but very gently. It probably wouldn’t be smart to pull away suddenly; but as long as I don’t resist, she quickly stops and begins to purr.
During the day, she enjoys sitting high on the roof of the shed, watching the world go by. When I want her, I simply clap my hands twice and she comes running.
At night, she only wants to lie on my lap and will sleep there for as long as I let her. At 10, she is put back out in the garage to hunt for mice…Hah!
I guess I need to keep the mouse traps.
Short story…I’m attached. She has caught one mouse. A miserable record!
The day begins when I let her in about 8 AM. She immediately wants to play and her favorite game is “tag”. She loves to run the length of the house and then when I catch up to her, she turns, smacks my leg with one paw and heads back to the other end of the house. Sometimes she lies in wait for me to pass, then leaps out and smacks my leg again before running off. When I do catch her, she rolls over onto her back, inviting me to rub her belly. That’s a trap. As soon as I touch her, she has her claws and fangs all around my hand…but very gently. It probably wouldn’t be smart to pull away suddenly; but as long as I don’t resist, she quickly stops and begins to purr.
During the day, she enjoys sitting high on the roof of the shed, watching the world go by. When I want her, I simply clap my hands twice and she comes running.
At night, she only wants to lie on my lap and will sleep there for as long as I let her. At 10, she is put back out in the garage to hunt for mice…Hah!
I guess I need to keep the mouse traps.
US jobs growth
less than forecast
However, the US unemployment rate unexpectedly dropped to a four-and-a-half year low of 4.7%
Not unexpected at all...once you use up your unemployment benefits, you are dropped from the statistics. You become a "nobody".
However, the US unemployment rate unexpectedly dropped to a four-and-a-half year low of 4.7%
Not unexpected at all...once you use up your unemployment benefits, you are dropped from the statistics. You become a "nobody".
TCS Daily
Nuts with Nukes
A good article..."Any form of power, from the most primitive to the most mind-boggling, is always amplified enormously when it falls into the hands of those whose behavior is wild, erratic, and unpredictable."
A good article..."Any form of power, from the most primitive to the most mind-boggling, is always amplified enormously when it falls into the hands of those whose behavior is wild, erratic, and unpredictable."
Friday
Friday has arrived and there is the possibility of sunshine today. Just possible and certainly not guaranteed. Oops! Wrong again; “Areas of dense morning fog. Mostly cloudy skies. High 61F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph.” It looks like we still have to wait till Sunday for any relief.
Since television had little to offer us last night, it was time to watch a movie. I had ordered The Corporation from Netflix and it had been sitting on the shelf for almost a week. I can tell you that it was a good movie. A movie that everyone ought to watch, no matter what your political persuasion happens to be. For a documentary, it was a lengthy movie; yet it was obvious that they hadn’t run out of material when it ended and that’s a shame. I learned a lot from the movie; probably more than I wanted to know as I learned that we (citizens) may think we have all the power we need in our “free” society, but in reality, unless we exercise that power, our plans for our future are meaningless.
The news this morning includes lots of stories about the European newspapers that are printing cartoons of Mohammed that offend the most serious of Muslims. A great outrage has been created in the Middle East because of these cartoons and I had this thought…why not have a war of cartoons? Put away the guns and the bombs. We will use ink and pen to devastate the enemy! As Christians, we are already used to seeing Christ portrayed in a less than dignified manner. We use Jesus’ name as a curse. We even thought that George Burns was hilarious as God. Hey, we’re bulletproof! Nothing much will offend us. (More's the pity!) Bring on the cartoons!
Since television had little to offer us last night, it was time to watch a movie. I had ordered The Corporation from Netflix and it had been sitting on the shelf for almost a week. I can tell you that it was a good movie. A movie that everyone ought to watch, no matter what your political persuasion happens to be. For a documentary, it was a lengthy movie; yet it was obvious that they hadn’t run out of material when it ended and that’s a shame. I learned a lot from the movie; probably more than I wanted to know as I learned that we (citizens) may think we have all the power we need in our “free” society, but in reality, unless we exercise that power, our plans for our future are meaningless.
The news this morning includes lots of stories about the European newspapers that are printing cartoons of Mohammed that offend the most serious of Muslims. A great outrage has been created in the Middle East because of these cartoons and I had this thought…why not have a war of cartoons? Put away the guns and the bombs. We will use ink and pen to devastate the enemy! As Christians, we are already used to seeing Christ portrayed in a less than dignified manner. We use Jesus’ name as a curse. We even thought that George Burns was hilarious as God. Hey, we’re bulletproof! Nothing much will offend us. (More's the pity!) Bring on the cartoons!
Thursday, February 2, 2006
News
Two headlines…minutes apart.
“The Bush administration said it would ask Congress for an additional $70 billion to pay for military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan through September.”
“AP - The Senate passed $70 billion in tax cuts Thursday, one step in an effort that Republican leaders hope will preserve President Bush's tax reductions for capital gains and dividends.”
I don’t even have to make this stuff up.
“The Bush administration said it would ask Congress for an additional $70 billion to pay for military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan through September.”
“AP - The Senate passed $70 billion in tax cuts Thursday, one step in an effort that Republican leaders hope will preserve President Bush's tax reductions for capital gains and dividends.”
I don’t even have to make this stuff up.
All the President’s Power
All the President’s Power
Yes, even the conservatives have had enough...
At the end of the article...
"Former congressman Bob Barr, a conservative from Georgia, has it right:
"The American people are going to have to say, 'Enough of this business of justifying everything as necessary for the war on terror.' Either the Constitution and the laws of this country mean something or they don't. It is truly frightening what is going on in this country."
Yes, even the conservatives have had enough...
At the end of the article...
"Former congressman Bob Barr, a conservative from Georgia, has it right:
"The American people are going to have to say, 'Enough of this business of justifying everything as necessary for the war on terror.' Either the Constitution and the laws of this country mean something or they don't. It is truly frightening what is going on in this country."
Polls
“BBC News - UKIran is the country most widely viewed as having a negative influence in the world, with the US in second place, a new poll for the BBC suggests…”
Second place? Should we ask for a recount? (And who is in last place?)
Second place? Should we ask for a recount? (And who is in last place?)
Citizens Against Government Waste:
porker of the month
Yes, it's depressing...but you might get a giggle or two if try real hard. And pretend it's not real money; your real money.
Yes, it's depressing...but you might get a giggle or two if try real hard. And pretend it's not real money; your real money.
And the answer is...
Earmarks have increased from 1,439 of them in 1995 to 13,997 last year. Lobbyists have doubled in number during the past five years to more than 35,000!
Now here’s the Big Question: How long have the Republicans been in power? Did you say five years? You win!...and you lose, as usual.
Now here’s the Big Question: How long have the Republicans been in power? Did you say five years? You win!...and you lose, as usual.
Here, Pig!
A great example of pork…an earmark from 2004.
“$50,000,000 added in conference for an indoor rainforest project in Coralville, Iowa by Senate Finance Committee Chairman Charles Grassley (R-Iowa). A local businessman, Ted Townsend (heir to the Townsend meat-packing fortune), came up with this idea while contemplating his legacy on a treadmill. The project, which originally was included in the Energy Policy Act of 2003 bill that failed to pass in December, 2003, became so indispensable that Sen. Grassley added it to the Omnibus Appropriations Bill in late January 2004. When completed, Iowa will have the world’s largest enclosed rainforest, spanning five acres. Since then, Townsend has worked to see that taxpayers will pay dearly for his dream to be realized. The project, which is estimated to cost $225 million, includes a generous $5 million from Townsend. This tropical boondoggle has some big name supporters, such as former Iowa Governor Bob Ray (R), who is the chairman of the institute Townsend founded to oversee the production of the rainforest. Ray imagines that it will solve the state’s “demographic problems” by drawing more people to move to Iowa. Ray also believes that mass quantities of retiring baby boomers will “crisscross the country” to visit the indoor rainforest. Senator Grassley claims that it will somehow help the University of Iowa. Ultimately, this project will do nothing for Iowa’s population, energy industry, or the environment, but it will soak the taxpayers.”
Yes, the number at the top of the page is fifty million dollars.
“$50,000,000 added in conference for an indoor rainforest project in Coralville, Iowa by Senate Finance Committee Chairman Charles Grassley (R-Iowa). A local businessman, Ted Townsend (heir to the Townsend meat-packing fortune), came up with this idea while contemplating his legacy on a treadmill. The project, which originally was included in the Energy Policy Act of 2003 bill that failed to pass in December, 2003, became so indispensable that Sen. Grassley added it to the Omnibus Appropriations Bill in late January 2004. When completed, Iowa will have the world’s largest enclosed rainforest, spanning five acres. Since then, Townsend has worked to see that taxpayers will pay dearly for his dream to be realized. The project, which is estimated to cost $225 million, includes a generous $5 million from Townsend. This tropical boondoggle has some big name supporters, such as former Iowa Governor Bob Ray (R), who is the chairman of the institute Townsend founded to oversee the production of the rainforest. Ray imagines that it will solve the state’s “demographic problems” by drawing more people to move to Iowa. Ray also believes that mass quantities of retiring baby boomers will “crisscross the country” to visit the indoor rainforest. Senator Grassley claims that it will somehow help the University of Iowa. Ultimately, this project will do nothing for Iowa’s population, energy industry, or the environment, but it will soak the taxpayers.”
Yes, the number at the top of the page is fifty million dollars.
Smile!
I was just reading a story about cameras and came across these interesting “facts”, “92 percent of all cameras sold are now digital.” And, “The megapixel race is over… Seven- and eight-megapixel cameras seem to be more than adequate. We can easily go up to a 13-by-19 print and see very, very clear detail." If true, what will cause the public to buy new cameras? According to what I read, the manufacturers are already coming out with innovations that will cause us to race to the store and buy a new camera. One is the new look; cameras don’t have to look like “cameras” anymore. They have no film in them so there is no reason to have that rectangular and boxy appearance. They can be any shape (ergonomic) at all. Another feature will be Image Stabilization. Electronics can take the hand shaking and twitches out, eliminating blurring altogether. The camera will also become a better camcorder, producing TV quality images. Canon can now capture movies larger than TV size (1,024 by 768 pixels), for better viewing on high-definition screens and computer monitors. Another feature that we can look forward to will be wireless networking. With your computer nearby, you can access the images without transferring the memory card. I like it!
Litigate!
As I read the latest news from my aggregator, I can’t help but think that the president must wish that he was born a hundred years ago. With our current ability to record and publish every thing that is said and written, he doesn’t have much of a chance to hide anything. Bad for him and good for us.
Other news…“California will sue the federal government over its new problem-riddled prescription drug plan, which has already cost the state $150 million in emergency prescription help, Attorney General Bill Lockyer said…” I haven’t signed up for the Medicare Drug plan…I have a few months left before making that decision. In the meantime, it looks like it’s falling apart. Why am I not surprised?
Other news…“California will sue the federal government over its new problem-riddled prescription drug plan, which has already cost the state $150 million in emergency prescription help, Attorney General Bill Lockyer said…” I haven’t signed up for the Medicare Drug plan…I have a few months left before making that decision. In the meantime, it looks like it’s falling apart. Why am I not surprised?
Thursday
Thursday morning once again. I think that the weather is turning and we can expect some sunshine later today. That would be nice! I’m really getting tired of the gray winter days and a dose of sunshine, maybe 3 or 4 days worth; that would be invigorating.
My leaking pool has occupied my thoughts for the past week. The contractor that built the pool originally no longer services vinyl pools. After some investigation, I went searching for a pool repairman yesterday and found one in Red Bluff at Mike’s Pools; he has twenty years of experience dealing with in-ground vinyl pool repairs. He came down to look and quickly spotted the hole in a creased corner of the vinyl. It appears that I must have ripped it when I used my new pool brush a little too vigorously. He thinks that the liner probably has another year or so of life and then it would be time for another one. Cost; $2,000. In the meantime, I am having him install a pool sweep and pump to help keep the pool clean.
Well, so much for the chances of sunshine…the latest forecast tells me that we won’t see any sun until Sunday. How appropriate.
My leaking pool has occupied my thoughts for the past week. The contractor that built the pool originally no longer services vinyl pools. After some investigation, I went searching for a pool repairman yesterday and found one in Red Bluff at Mike’s Pools; he has twenty years of experience dealing with in-ground vinyl pool repairs. He came down to look and quickly spotted the hole in a creased corner of the vinyl. It appears that I must have ripped it when I used my new pool brush a little too vigorously. He thinks that the liner probably has another year or so of life and then it would be time for another one. Cost; $2,000. In the meantime, I am having him install a pool sweep and pump to help keep the pool clean.
Well, so much for the chances of sunshine…the latest forecast tells me that we won’t see any sun until Sunday. How appropriate.
Administration backs off
Bush's vow to reduce Mideast oil imports:
Well, that didn't take long...
"One day after President Bush vowed to reduce America's dependence on Middle East oil by cutting imports from there 75 percent by 2025, his energy secretary and national economic adviser said Wednesday that the president didn't mean it literally.What the president meant, they said in a conference call with reporters, was that alternative fuels could displace an amount of oil imports equivalent to most of what America is expected to import from the Middle East in 2025.But America still would import oil from the Middle East, because that's where the greatest oil supplies are.The president's State of the Union reference to Mideast oil made headlines nationwide Wednesday because of his assertion that 'America is addicted to oil' and his call to 'break this addiction.'"
Well, that didn't take long...
"One day after President Bush vowed to reduce America's dependence on Middle East oil by cutting imports from there 75 percent by 2025, his energy secretary and national economic adviser said Wednesday that the president didn't mean it literally.What the president meant, they said in a conference call with reporters, was that alternative fuels could displace an amount of oil imports equivalent to most of what America is expected to import from the Middle East in 2025.But America still would import oil from the Middle East, because that's where the greatest oil supplies are.The president's State of the Union reference to Mideast oil made headlines nationwide Wednesday because of his assertion that 'America is addicted to oil' and his call to 'break this addiction.'"
Wednesday, February 1, 2006
Police Apologize
Drop Charge Vs. Sheehan
Separate...but equal.
I did like Mrs' Young's comments, "They said I was protesting," she told the St. Petersburg Times. "I said, 'Read my shirt, it is not a protest.' They said, 'We consider that a protest.' I said, 'Then you are an idiot.'"
"idiot"? With so many of them present, which one was she refering to? Did they all look up when she said it?
Separate...but equal.
I did like Mrs' Young's comments, "They said I was protesting," she told the St. Petersburg Times. "I said, 'Read my shirt, it is not a protest.' They said, 'We consider that a protest.' I said, 'Then you are an idiot.'"
"idiot"? With so many of them present, which one was she refering to? Did they all look up when she said it?
Sojourners:
Christians for Justice and Peace
Here is an streaming audio reflection on the State of the Union speech...by Jim Wallis. (Sojourners)
“The president's State of the Union address sounded like it was cut and pasted from so many old speeches. There was nothing new last night. Easily agreed-to rhetoric about freedom, growth, opportunity, and civility hides the facts:
1. George Bush's foreign policy, and the way he fights his war on terrorism, is making our families less safe and secure, not more. His war in Iraq was based on false pretenses and has utterly failed. Yet, the president doesn't seem to have the capacity for self-examination, or the moral sense to change the nation's course.
2. George Bush's former rhetoric of compassionate conservatism has all but disappeared, and his domestic policies have clearly increased poverty in the United States. Overseas, shining promises to reduce global poverty have fallen tragically short. Last night he promised to continue down the path of moral hypocrisy with tax and spending cuts that further enrich the wealthy and impoverish the poor.
The facts of George Bush's policies undercut the moral values that many Americans, especially many of us in the religious community, hold dear. When rhetoric hides the facts, moral integrity suffers. Speeches come and go, but policies continue. And the facts of the Bush administration's policies will continue to turn true moral values voters away from this president.”
Here is an streaming audio reflection on the State of the Union speech...by Jim Wallis. (Sojourners)
“The president's State of the Union address sounded like it was cut and pasted from so many old speeches. There was nothing new last night. Easily agreed-to rhetoric about freedom, growth, opportunity, and civility hides the facts:
1. George Bush's foreign policy, and the way he fights his war on terrorism, is making our families less safe and secure, not more. His war in Iraq was based on false pretenses and has utterly failed. Yet, the president doesn't seem to have the capacity for self-examination, or the moral sense to change the nation's course.
2. George Bush's former rhetoric of compassionate conservatism has all but disappeared, and his domestic policies have clearly increased poverty in the United States. Overseas, shining promises to reduce global poverty have fallen tragically short. Last night he promised to continue down the path of moral hypocrisy with tax and spending cuts that further enrich the wealthy and impoverish the poor.
The facts of George Bush's policies undercut the moral values that many Americans, especially many of us in the religious community, hold dear. When rhetoric hides the facts, moral integrity suffers. Speeches come and go, but policies continue. And the facts of the Bush administration's policies will continue to turn true moral values voters away from this president.”
Love
I went out to get the paper and it was already raining, but I was out there early enough to avoid a large wet spot in the paper. While reading, I noted that the Bee put together a short synopsis of the speech, including some very important facts; the speech was 57 minutes long and he was interrupted by applause 60 times. Whoa! He must have enjoyed basking in all of that love. Even if the “love” had to be bought and paid for. The Democrats also got in a few hoots and boo’s when he mentioned Social Security reforms. So why weren’t they arrested as Cindy Sheehan was? After all, they were dissenting in a public place…a high crime, indeed!
Capitol police
arrest activist Sheehan
Oh, yeah...I can see where this was really needed. Was someone afraid that a TV camera might pick up on the slogan?
Excuse me, but do we or don't we have a right to peacefully dissent?
Oh, yeah...I can see where this was really needed. Was someone afraid that a TV camera might pick up on the slogan?
Excuse me, but do we or don't we have a right to peacefully dissent?
February
A new month has arrived and the February calendar is already filled with tasks for me to complete. I just need some motivation. (Easier said than done.)
Last night was the occasion for the annual State of the Union address by the president. And once again I avoided listening to it. But I’m reading it this morning without the distraction of his voice. And I already see that Mr. Bush has become a “Waffler” and a “Flip Flopper”. How can that be? I thought that was only a Democratic Party problem?
The news this morning is filled with briefs on pertinent sections of the speech and you can download the entire text here. The text even includes those places where applause is required…so don’t forget to clap as you read!
One item of merit was his noting that Americans are addicted to oil. And since Bush has always resisted changing the CAFE requirements for automakers, I wonder if he has really changed his mind on that? This is a place where he needs to waffle. I would love to drive an American car that got 40 to 50 mpg; but there is nothing like that for sale…yet.
But…it’s time for a reality check. This was a speech written specifically for political purposes. It was designed by analysts to provide a good measure of comfort with just a hint of a challenge. We all love a good fight! In short; it was simply another speech and until the president and his cohorts get down to business, it will remain words on paper. Keep a copy of it on hand; you may want to refer to it next year at this same time.
Last night was the occasion for the annual State of the Union address by the president. And once again I avoided listening to it. But I’m reading it this morning without the distraction of his voice. And I already see that Mr. Bush has become a “Waffler” and a “Flip Flopper”. How can that be? I thought that was only a Democratic Party problem?
The news this morning is filled with briefs on pertinent sections of the speech and you can download the entire text here. The text even includes those places where applause is required…so don’t forget to clap as you read!
One item of merit was his noting that Americans are addicted to oil. And since Bush has always resisted changing the CAFE requirements for automakers, I wonder if he has really changed his mind on that? This is a place where he needs to waffle. I would love to drive an American car that got 40 to 50 mpg; but there is nothing like that for sale…yet.
But…it’s time for a reality check. This was a speech written specifically for political purposes. It was designed by analysts to provide a good measure of comfort with just a hint of a challenge. We all love a good fight! In short; it was simply another speech and until the president and his cohorts get down to business, it will remain words on paper. Keep a copy of it on hand; you may want to refer to it next year at this same time.
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
State of the Union
A little something for you to read before “the speech” is read…
“Wages and benefits paid to civilian workers rose 3.1 percent last year, the smallest increase in nine years, the Labor Department said Tuesday. It said the escalating costs of health insurance and pensions are biting into employee compensation.
The rate at which Americans save money, which has fallen steadily for almost 20 years, dropped below zero to minus 0.5 percent in 2005, the Commerce Department reported. Not since the post-Depression years of 1932 and 1933 has the annual rate, which stood at 10.8 percent in 1984, entered negative territory. High housing prices, some analysts believe, have convinced people they don't need to save.
The government anticipates borrowing a record $188 billion during the January-March quarter - $42 billion more than the old mark set for the same period in 2004, the Treasury Department said. The timing of Medicare payments to health-maintenance organizations was cited as a major reason for the higher figure.”
3 more years?
“Wages and benefits paid to civilian workers rose 3.1 percent last year, the smallest increase in nine years, the Labor Department said Tuesday. It said the escalating costs of health insurance and pensions are biting into employee compensation.
The rate at which Americans save money, which has fallen steadily for almost 20 years, dropped below zero to minus 0.5 percent in 2005, the Commerce Department reported. Not since the post-Depression years of 1932 and 1933 has the annual rate, which stood at 10.8 percent in 1984, entered negative territory. High housing prices, some analysts believe, have convinced people they don't need to save.
The government anticipates borrowing a record $188 billion during the January-March quarter - $42 billion more than the old mark set for the same period in 2004, the Treasury Department said. The timing of Medicare payments to health-maintenance organizations was cited as a major reason for the higher figure.”
3 more years?
Song of Myself
Song of Myself
This article is worth logging on and registering to read it...it's free. And it tells you all about the odd custom of the "State of the Union" speech. Did you know that it's a fairly recent bad habit? And that President Carter saved us from listening to it in 1981 by delivering it to Congress in written form?
Oh, if only Karl would follow Jimmy's lead and just mail us the darn thing!
This article is worth logging on and registering to read it...it's free. And it tells you all about the odd custom of the "State of the Union" speech. Did you know that it's a fairly recent bad habit? And that President Carter saved us from listening to it in 1981 by delivering it to Congress in written form?
Oh, if only Karl would follow Jimmy's lead and just mail us the darn thing!
Varmint Getter
Got Varmints?
I can hardly wait for the news stories when someone decides to save some $$$ and make their own Varmint Getter.
I can hardly wait for the news stories when someone decides to save some $$$ and make their own Varmint Getter.
Putin boasts
about Russia's missiles
Here we go again...Remember this quote? (From 2001)
"I looked the man in the eye. I found him to be very straight forward and trustworthy and we had a very good dialogue."
"I was able to get a sense of his soul."
"He's a man deeply committed to his country and the best interests of his country and I appreciate very much the frank dialogue and that's the beginning of a very constructive relationship," Mr Bush said."
Here we go again...Remember this quote? (From 2001)
"I looked the man in the eye. I found him to be very straight forward and trustworthy and we had a very good dialogue."
"I was able to get a sense of his soul."
"He's a man deeply committed to his country and the best interests of his country and I appreciate very much the frank dialogue and that's the beginning of a very constructive relationship," Mr Bush said."
Tuesday
Tuesday and it’s already the end of the month. That went by pretty fast! And February is even shorter…Darn! I didn’t get all of things done that I wanted to; not even close, and so my list of January chores rolls over into the next month and the list is even longer.
According to the news reports, it’s time for the annual “State of the Union’ message tonight. I am extremely interested in hearing what Karl has to say, but I will wait until the transcripts are published before I comment. I really have a hard time concentrating when the presenter delivers the message.
And speaking of government…I was listening to Talk of the Nation yesterday and they were exploring some of the problems associated with the rollout of the new Medicare/Medicaid drug plan. Some listeners called in and the government experts gave them advice. Sort of. One gentleman called in and asked for some information on how to deal with the fact that he had to make a choice for a drug provider but he had no prescriptions to fill. (He was drug free!) Since I’m not taking any drugs at this time, I was eager to hear the explanation. The expert then rambled off onto some other subject and when called back to the subject…went off once again in another direction. It seemed like such a simple question! The short story? We never did hear it.
From what I have read, Karl is going to explain some of the drug program rollout issues tonight. I certainly hope he does a better job of it than the “expert” I heard yesterday. I’m still baffled and I can only imagine what it must be like for someone who is genuinely in need of prescription drugs.
It’s time for more coffee. With a shot of Butter Rum syrup. That’s my new favorite. And it’s time to look at the news and weather for today. With the Google Iran Alerts arriving on an hourly basis, it’s sometimes hard to see past that crisis and notice the other news. But there is plenty of it if you look for it. Such as “The highlight of the State of the Union address is likely to be the expansion of Health Savings Account”. Now there is a plan doomed for failure. You can’t get Americans to save for the little things in life (like retirement) and you expect them to save for their health care?
And how about this? “The much debated California Clean Money and Fair Elections Act of 2006, which passed with 47 of 48 Democrats voting in favor -- and no Republicans in support…would be a voluntary program. But a candidate who chose not to participate and accepted outside donations would almost certainly face scrutiny -- and perhaps voter backlash.”
The Republicans had this to say, "A system like this of public financing compels people to support candidates they otherwise would never want to support," said Mark Wyland, R-Vista.”
It would be better for all of us, no matter who we supported, if the voters paid for the campaign rather than the special interests. They just don’t get it…
According to the news reports, it’s time for the annual “State of the Union’ message tonight. I am extremely interested in hearing what Karl has to say, but I will wait until the transcripts are published before I comment. I really have a hard time concentrating when the presenter delivers the message.
And speaking of government…I was listening to Talk of the Nation yesterday and they were exploring some of the problems associated with the rollout of the new Medicare/Medicaid drug plan. Some listeners called in and the government experts gave them advice. Sort of. One gentleman called in and asked for some information on how to deal with the fact that he had to make a choice for a drug provider but he had no prescriptions to fill. (He was drug free!) Since I’m not taking any drugs at this time, I was eager to hear the explanation. The expert then rambled off onto some other subject and when called back to the subject…went off once again in another direction. It seemed like such a simple question! The short story? We never did hear it.
From what I have read, Karl is going to explain some of the drug program rollout issues tonight. I certainly hope he does a better job of it than the “expert” I heard yesterday. I’m still baffled and I can only imagine what it must be like for someone who is genuinely in need of prescription drugs.
It’s time for more coffee. With a shot of Butter Rum syrup. That’s my new favorite. And it’s time to look at the news and weather for today. With the Google Iran Alerts arriving on an hourly basis, it’s sometimes hard to see past that crisis and notice the other news. But there is plenty of it if you look for it. Such as “The highlight of the State of the Union address is likely to be the expansion of Health Savings Account”. Now there is a plan doomed for failure. You can’t get Americans to save for the little things in life (like retirement) and you expect them to save for their health care?
And how about this? “The much debated California Clean Money and Fair Elections Act of 2006, which passed with 47 of 48 Democrats voting in favor -- and no Republicans in support…would be a voluntary program. But a candidate who chose not to participate and accepted outside donations would almost certainly face scrutiny -- and perhaps voter backlash.”
The Republicans had this to say, "A system like this of public financing compels people to support candidates they otherwise would never want to support," said Mark Wyland, R-Vista.”
It would be better for all of us, no matter who we supported, if the voters paid for the campaign rather than the special interests. They just don’t get it…
Monday, January 30, 2006
Tribalism and
Ignorance...all wrapped up in one. A dangerous combination!
I looked up this cartoon that has the idiots in such a bind and I saw...a cartoon.
I looked up this cartoon that has the idiots in such a bind and I saw...a cartoon.
Politicians notice Wikipedia
I'm surprised!
Statements traced to a House IP address included entries that U.S. Rep. Eric Cantor, R-Va., "smells of cow dung" and that Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn., is "ineffective." I didn't know they had the knowledge to do this....let alone turn the computer on. Oh, I know...they hired someone to do it!
Statements traced to a House IP address included entries that U.S. Rep. Eric Cantor, R-Va., "smells of cow dung" and that Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn., is "ineffective." I didn't know they had the knowledge to do this....let alone turn the computer on. Oh, I know...they hired someone to do it!
Morning News
Headlines…. “Because they can't pass algebra, thousands of students are denied diplomas. Many try again and again - but still get Fs…”
That headline came from the LA Times and I read a similar one in the Sacramento Bee last week. And it strikes a very responsive chord in me. When I was in high school, I received a D- in Algebra. I still don’t understand Algebra, though I wish I did…but the school and my parents failed me. And I should have received an F. Cruel words. At some point in my education a teacher knew that I wasn’t “getting” it, but they chose to advance me to the next grade. Was that in the 3rd grade? Perhaps the 5th? And we still do it today and parents still like to believe that it will all be OK in the end. I’m guilty of that as well…
So now that this child, a high school student but still a child…is about to graduate; why do we decide to punish him instead of helping him? (Or her) Isn’t it our fault that he or she won’t graduate? And what are we going to do about the thousands that will leave high school this June without a diploma or a chance?
That headline came from the LA Times and I read a similar one in the Sacramento Bee last week. And it strikes a very responsive chord in me. When I was in high school, I received a D- in Algebra. I still don’t understand Algebra, though I wish I did…but the school and my parents failed me. And I should have received an F. Cruel words. At some point in my education a teacher knew that I wasn’t “getting” it, but they chose to advance me to the next grade. Was that in the 3rd grade? Perhaps the 5th? And we still do it today and parents still like to believe that it will all be OK in the end. I’m guilty of that as well…
So now that this child, a high school student but still a child…is about to graduate; why do we decide to punish him instead of helping him? (Or her) Isn’t it our fault that he or she won’t graduate? And what are we going to do about the thousands that will leave high school this June without a diploma or a chance?
The Truth?
Huh?
Here's one from the Republican camp...change a few names and it looks and sounds just like one from the Democrats...And you believe which one?
Good! I have bridge I would like to sell you...
Here's one from the Republican camp...change a few names and it looks and sounds just like one from the Democrats...And you believe which one?
Good! I have bridge I would like to sell you...
Judgment day arrives
for Enron chiefs
Four years later! It's hard to believe that it could take this long...I have to ask; why? It only took a few months to get Martha into the slammer. Could it be that Lay and Skilling have friends in high places? Not that they're guilty, of course. It will take a jury to decide that.
Four years later! It's hard to believe that it could take this long...I have to ask; why? It only took a few months to get Martha into the slammer. Could it be that Lay and Skilling have friends in high places? Not that they're guilty, of course. It will take a jury to decide that.
Party Time!
Odd…during the course of last Saturday evening’s festivities, I was asked by my son-in laws if I would be attending the local Democratic Party Dinner? There was a sign posted in Hamilton City that advertised the coming event and it was apparent that they thought I would be going. Since I don’t belong to a party of any kind, I have to wonder why they thought I would be attending? In truth, I have a problem understanding why anyone would belong to a political party…Have we lost the ability to think for ourselves and so we need a “Party” to do our thinking for us? If you support the Democratic or Republican Parties by joining them, then you are in effect telling the world that you stand behind every single thing that those parties espouse. Why would you want to do that? You can do a lot more for the political process by remaining neutral and not committed…this forces the political parties to come to you and explain themselves if they want your support. Luckily, there are a growing number of voters who have recognized this potential power and the two parties are starting to take notice of them.
I wasn’t planning on going to the dinner…but maybe, if the Democrats paid for it…?
I wasn’t planning on going to the dinner…but maybe, if the Democrats paid for it…?
The Time of Day
Monday morning and it’s very quiet. I’m sure we can get used to it. We had a large number of grandchildren here on Saturday evening and it was great to have them all in one place! Good memories. And it was startling to see how they had grown as well. Karlee and Kyle, 7 and 5 respectively, had grown at least a foot…and we last saw them only a few weeks ago. Maybe it was the lighting?
I can’t help but be reminded of grandchildren this morning as I can see, quite clearly now, that someone (Who could it have been?) has drawn lines and squiggles all across the face of my monitor. They show up very well against the white background of this Word document. It looks like pencil marks and with any luck it will come off.
I was just reading the news this morning and came across this headline and quote; “Rice Admits U.S. Underestimated Hamas Strength” and "I've asked why nobody saw it coming. It does say something about us not having a good enough pulse." Condoleezza Rice, On Hamas's Victory In Palestinian Elections.
And so I wonder…why is it that in one of the most critical areas of the world, we can’t even tell what time of day it is? Why is our “intelligence” an oxymoron? And do we make all, or just some of our foreign policy decisions based on flawed information? Shouldn’t someone lose their job for this kind of failure? Or…since Ms. Rice was guilty of this herself, back in the Reagan days, when she was supposed to be watching the Russians, will the offenders be promoted instead?
I can’t help but be reminded of grandchildren this morning as I can see, quite clearly now, that someone (Who could it have been?) has drawn lines and squiggles all across the face of my monitor. They show up very well against the white background of this Word document. It looks like pencil marks and with any luck it will come off.
I was just reading the news this morning and came across this headline and quote; “Rice Admits U.S. Underestimated Hamas Strength” and "I've asked why nobody saw it coming. It does say something about us not having a good enough pulse." Condoleezza Rice, On Hamas's Victory In Palestinian Elections.
And so I wonder…why is it that in one of the most critical areas of the world, we can’t even tell what time of day it is? Why is our “intelligence” an oxymoron? And do we make all, or just some of our foreign policy decisions based on flawed information? Shouldn’t someone lose their job for this kind of failure? Or…since Ms. Rice was guilty of this herself, back in the Reagan days, when she was supposed to be watching the Russians, will the offenders be promoted instead?
Sunday, January 29, 2006
True Cost
Something from the Daily Reckoning…
“The true cost of the war in Iraq: Since March 2003, the monthly cost of the war in Iraq has risen from $4.4 billion to $7.1 billion. That means the war will cost $266 billion more than originally projected - and ultimately hit $1.2 trillion. But what else can we do? As a declining empire, it seems that the only thing America has left to offer in a globalized economy is the soft warmth of her protection.”
And I was listening to an interview the other day; Terry Gross was talking to Economist Douglas Holtz-Eakin, the former director of the Congressional Budget Office. During that interview, he acknowledged that he found it quite difficult to think about a Trillion dollars and what it meant. The numbers are just too big! He said that he would use percentages of a single dollar instead. An American tax payers dollar.
“The true cost of the war in Iraq: Since March 2003, the monthly cost of the war in Iraq has risen from $4.4 billion to $7.1 billion. That means the war will cost $266 billion more than originally projected - and ultimately hit $1.2 trillion. But what else can we do? As a declining empire, it seems that the only thing America has left to offer in a globalized economy is the soft warmth of her protection.”
And I was listening to an interview the other day; Terry Gross was talking to Economist Douglas Holtz-Eakin, the former director of the Congressional Budget Office. During that interview, he acknowledged that he found it quite difficult to think about a Trillion dollars and what it meant. The numbers are just too big! He said that he would use percentages of a single dollar instead. An American tax payers dollar.
$90
News; we have news this morning and it’s all about Iran. And it has been for the past week. According to the headlines, we are going to see oil climb to record prices. Predictions are for over $90 a barrel as traders worry about the effect of possible UN sanctions against Iran. And I don’t see Iran backing down from their position.
Here is what I see; Iran is a sovereign nation and a signatory member of the group of nations that have signed the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty. They have violated provisions of that treaty. The other members of the treaty organization have a duty to deal with those violations.
India, Pakistan and Israel are rogue nations that have never joined the signers of the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty. These nations do not acknowledge any responsibility for world peace. In fact, Pakistan has admitted that they have sold nuclear secrets to North Korea and Iran…plus, who knows which other countries. Our threats to attack Iran only reveal a double standard in our foreign policy. Other countries around the world wonder why those rogue nations are allowed a “free pass”. And so do I.
Is Iran a danger to us? You bet! And so are Pakistan and Israel…maybe even more so.
Here is what I see; Iran is a sovereign nation and a signatory member of the group of nations that have signed the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty. They have violated provisions of that treaty. The other members of the treaty organization have a duty to deal with those violations.
India, Pakistan and Israel are rogue nations that have never joined the signers of the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty. These nations do not acknowledge any responsibility for world peace. In fact, Pakistan has admitted that they have sold nuclear secrets to North Korea and Iran…plus, who knows which other countries. Our threats to attack Iran only reveal a double standard in our foreign policy. Other countries around the world wonder why those rogue nations are allowed a “free pass”. And so do I.
Is Iran a danger to us? You bet! And so are Pakistan and Israel…maybe even more so.
Sunday
Sunday has arrived and it looks like a stormy week ahead of us. The rain has stopped for a little bit and won’t begin again till tomorrow. And then the forecast calls for rain throughout the week. It looks like I’m going to have to begin my marathon training on Monday while wearing rain gear…but train I must. A very wet winter!
Last night we were enjoying a house filled with laughter as children and grandchildren (14 of us!) gathered to have dinner with “Aunt Kitty” and “Uncle Dean”. But, all is quiet in the house this morning. Later this morning, we will take Kitty and Dean on another short tour of the Chico area before we drive down to the Sacramento Airport, where they will board a plane and head home to Phoenix. (Where it’s drier!)
Last night, someone asked if I thought about my audience when I’m posting these thoughts to my blogs. Who was I writing for? I had to think about that for only a second and I replied that I write as if I were holding an actual conversation with friends while seated in my living room; commenting on current events and things that interest me and that might interest the other party. I don’t write for a specific audience. And after more thought on the subject, I would have to say that I write mainly for myself. I need to give my thoughts a voice and a blog works. It doesn’t really matter whether or not someone is listening. That’s one of the reasons for my keeping a Journal as well.
That gives me an idea; I could start posting to my blog by using the format of writing a letter to an imaginary friend. That’s an old and accepted literary practice…But first I need to come up with a fictional persona.
Last night we were enjoying a house filled with laughter as children and grandchildren (14 of us!) gathered to have dinner with “Aunt Kitty” and “Uncle Dean”. But, all is quiet in the house this morning. Later this morning, we will take Kitty and Dean on another short tour of the Chico area before we drive down to the Sacramento Airport, where they will board a plane and head home to Phoenix. (Where it’s drier!)
Last night, someone asked if I thought about my audience when I’m posting these thoughts to my blogs. Who was I writing for? I had to think about that for only a second and I replied that I write as if I were holding an actual conversation with friends while seated in my living room; commenting on current events and things that interest me and that might interest the other party. I don’t write for a specific audience. And after more thought on the subject, I would have to say that I write mainly for myself. I need to give my thoughts a voice and a blog works. It doesn’t really matter whether or not someone is listening. That’s one of the reasons for my keeping a Journal as well.
That gives me an idea; I could start posting to my blog by using the format of writing a letter to an imaginary friend. That’s an old and accepted literary practice…But first I need to come up with a fictional persona.
The PACE Act
Immigrants Welcome!
As long as their skills are needed...so only the brightest need apply.
As long as their skills are needed...so only the brightest need apply.
Saturday, January 28, 2006
Surprised?
"The top climate scientist at NASA says the Bush administration has tried to stop him from speaking out since he gave a lecture last month calling for prompt reductions in emissions of greenhouse gases linked to global warming."
I wasn't...
I wasn't...
Sundial Revisited
Here are some great shots that Kitty took...she seemed to have a great eye for this, capturing the essence of the bridge.
Friday, January 27, 2006
Curious
What is the universe expanding into?
In downtown Chico, there is a billboard with the picture of a small boy and this question printed next to him...I don't remember what the billboard is supposed to be selling, but I loved the question. Now if only I could understand the answer!
In downtown Chico, there is a billboard with the picture of a small boy and this question printed next to him...I don't remember what the billboard is supposed to be selling, but I loved the question. Now if only I could understand the answer!
Gallery
Google Earth Images
You don't have Google Earth? Are you kidding me? Get it...
And here are the links to some great images. Find your own.
You don't have Google Earth? Are you kidding me? Get it...
And here are the links to some great images. Find your own.
Friday
Friday morning and we’re safe and sound here in Orland after a trip to the big city. First, we went to Roseville and then to the Sacramento Airport to pick up my sister and brother in-law. My plan, ill conceived…was to shop for a few things that I needed at Restoration Hardware. That store was the only place I had found that sold a special nylon pan scrubber that I really like. And to our great disappointment, we found that Restoration Hardware was gone. Oh, the store is still there and the name can be found above the doors, but the spirit of the store has been sacrificed to the gods of mediocrity. They no longer sell exciting things. It looks like a Mervyn’s Outlet store now, with a touch of Pottery Barn thrown in. Now…where am I going to find my scrubbers? By the way, we asked the clerk at Restoration Hardware that question and she suggested, “A hardware store”! What?! We were in a hardware store! Or so I thought…
We left Restoration Hardware with a heavy heart and wandered the length of the Roseville Galleria, hoping to find some solace…and a store to replace the one we lost. No deal. So we headed to In-n-Out Burger instead and drowned our sorrows in a chocolate shake, plus a double-double and fries! Then we drove to the airport and picked up Kitty and Dean. The plane was on time and we were able to use the ½ hour free parking available in the new parking garage. Then we were back on the road to Orland.
And this morning we will head north to Redding to visit the bridge and the gardens at Turtle Bay…even if it’s raining.
We left Restoration Hardware with a heavy heart and wandered the length of the Roseville Galleria, hoping to find some solace…and a store to replace the one we lost. No deal. So we headed to In-n-Out Burger instead and drowned our sorrows in a chocolate shake, plus a double-double and fries! Then we drove to the airport and picked up Kitty and Dean. The plane was on time and we were able to use the ½ hour free parking available in the new parking garage. Then we were back on the road to Orland.
And this morning we will head north to Redding to visit the bridge and the gardens at Turtle Bay…even if it’s raining.
Read ‘em and weep
A tale of two countries as seen in the headlines…
Google Alert for: Iraq
US Rebuilding in Iraq Found to Fall ShortNew York Times - United StatesBecause of unforeseen security costs, haphazard planning and shifting priorities, the American-financed reconstruction program in Iraq will not complete scores ...
Kerry: 'Let Iraqis Stand Up for Iraq'ABC News - USA... John Kerry, D-Mass., believes US troops do not necessarily need to be pulled out of Iraq right away, as a senior Democrat suggested this week, but they need ...
Iraq's oil industry far from recoveryDaily Times - Lahore,Pakistan... oil minister. Insurgents blew up pipelines from Iraq's northern fields on Wednesday, halting the flow of oil to Turkey. On Thursday ...
US, Iraq leaders reach out to Sunnis to counter IranIndian Express - New Delhi,India... "They are trying to find someone else, some other allies who will not turn against them (in Iraq) if things heat up with Iran.". ...
US fails to carry out most Iraq water projectsReuters - USAWASHINGTON, Jan 26 (Reuters) - About 60 percent of planned water and sanitation projects in Iraq have not been carried out since the 2003 US-led invasion, a US ...
And now this…
Google Alert for: Iran
57% Back a Hit on Iran if Defiance PersistsLos Angeles Times - CA,USA... WASHINGTON -- Despite persistent disillusionment with the war in Iraq, a majority of Americans supports taking military action against Iran if that country ...
57%? Who are these people? And what are they thinking?
Google Alert for: Iraq
US Rebuilding in Iraq Found to Fall ShortNew York Times - United StatesBecause of unforeseen security costs, haphazard planning and shifting priorities, the American-financed reconstruction program in Iraq will not complete scores ...
Kerry: 'Let Iraqis Stand Up for Iraq'ABC News - USA... John Kerry, D-Mass., believes US troops do not necessarily need to be pulled out of Iraq right away, as a senior Democrat suggested this week, but they need ...
Iraq's oil industry far from recoveryDaily Times - Lahore,Pakistan... oil minister. Insurgents blew up pipelines from Iraq's northern fields on Wednesday, halting the flow of oil to Turkey. On Thursday ...
US, Iraq leaders reach out to Sunnis to counter IranIndian Express - New Delhi,India... "They are trying to find someone else, some other allies who will not turn against them (in Iraq) if things heat up with Iran.". ...
US fails to carry out most Iraq water projectsReuters - USAWASHINGTON, Jan 26 (Reuters) - About 60 percent of planned water and sanitation projects in Iraq have not been carried out since the 2003 US-led invasion, a US ...
And now this…
Google Alert for: Iran
57% Back a Hit on Iran if Defiance PersistsLos Angeles Times - CA,USA... WASHINGTON -- Despite persistent disillusionment with the war in Iraq, a majority of Americans supports taking military action against Iran if that country ...
57%? Who are these people? And what are they thinking?
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Half Full or?
More from the Daily Reckoning…
“*** The rapidly deflating wealth balloon...how much destiny does a decadent empire have?
*** A whole lot of nothing...paper money's latest experiment enters a new phase...
*** Bernanke is battling a forest fire with a woodpile...the French begin a campaign against their obesity epidemic...and more!
The days of cheap energy are over. Kuwait confessed that it has about half the oil it once claimed. And like a fat lady in the pastry section before a snowstorm, China is buying up oil reserves wherever it can find them - in Nigeria, in Ecuador, and in Syria.
Meanwhile, wealth leaks rapidly out of the West and into the East.
Bloomberg tells us that China's economy grew at 9.9% last year, overtaking France's in total output. That puts China in the number five position, just behind Britain, Germany, Japan and the United States. Economists expect China to run past Britain this year. Then, it will be snapping at Germany's heels.”
Compared to these boys, I’m a paragon of optimism! Take that, you critics who call me cynical!
“*** The rapidly deflating wealth balloon...how much destiny does a decadent empire have?
*** A whole lot of nothing...paper money's latest experiment enters a new phase...
*** Bernanke is battling a forest fire with a woodpile...the French begin a campaign against their obesity epidemic...and more!
The days of cheap energy are over. Kuwait confessed that it has about half the oil it once claimed. And like a fat lady in the pastry section before a snowstorm, China is buying up oil reserves wherever it can find them - in Nigeria, in Ecuador, and in Syria.
Meanwhile, wealth leaks rapidly out of the West and into the East.
Bloomberg tells us that China's economy grew at 9.9% last year, overtaking France's in total output. That puts China in the number five position, just behind Britain, Germany, Japan and the United States. Economists expect China to run past Britain this year. Then, it will be snapping at Germany's heels.”
Compared to these boys, I’m a paragon of optimism! Take that, you critics who call me cynical!
Thursday
Thursday morning and I think it rained last night…of course it wasn’t forecast. This week, the forecast has varied every day from what was previously forecast and now I just read that rain is predicted for the entire weekend. Darn! Kitty and Dean are arriving tonight and I was hoping we would see some decent “walk around” weather while they are here. The only good part of this forecast are the low temperatures; all in the high 40’s.
Speaking of walking around; our plan was to drive to Redding and visit Turtle Bay and the see the Sundial Bridge on Friday. I think Kitty and Dean would appreciate the mosaic work in the Children’s Garden…but right now the forecast says “showers”. Perhaps it will still be possible. I know that I would like to see the completed mosaics; last time we were there, the artist had about 80% of the work finished.
Some headlines I noticed a few minutes ago…
“Schwarzenegger Approval Rating Recovering: Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's approval rating is showing signs of recovery after tumbling late last year, according to a poll released Thursday.”
Do you think this might have something to do with the fact that he is acting a little more responsibly? That he is showing some signs of maturity? This year he has avoided a lot of the Hollywood-style press conferences that he was becoming infamous for. It isn’t much of an improvement, but even a little bit of humility is better than nothing.
“Congress catching on to the value of blogs: It's starting slowly, but a group of senators and representatives are now blogging, and some observers expect the number to grow as elections near.”
Ah! But who is really doing the blogging? Don’t bet your paycheck that it’s a real senator or representative at the other end of the “net”. It will be some low paid operative in the publicists’ office that is doing the work. Very much like the “personal” letters you receive when you communicate with your representatives. Blogs like that just take up valuable space that could be used for better purposes…similar to their offices in Sacramento and Washington.
Speaking of walking around; our plan was to drive to Redding and visit Turtle Bay and the see the Sundial Bridge on Friday. I think Kitty and Dean would appreciate the mosaic work in the Children’s Garden…but right now the forecast says “showers”. Perhaps it will still be possible. I know that I would like to see the completed mosaics; last time we were there, the artist had about 80% of the work finished.
Some headlines I noticed a few minutes ago…
“Schwarzenegger Approval Rating Recovering: Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's approval rating is showing signs of recovery after tumbling late last year, according to a poll released Thursday.”
Do you think this might have something to do with the fact that he is acting a little more responsibly? That he is showing some signs of maturity? This year he has avoided a lot of the Hollywood-style press conferences that he was becoming infamous for. It isn’t much of an improvement, but even a little bit of humility is better than nothing.
“Congress catching on to the value of blogs: It's starting slowly, but a group of senators and representatives are now blogging, and some observers expect the number to grow as elections near.”
Ah! But who is really doing the blogging? Don’t bet your paycheck that it’s a real senator or representative at the other end of the “net”. It will be some low paid operative in the publicists’ office that is doing the work. Very much like the “personal” letters you receive when you communicate with your representatives. Blogs like that just take up valuable space that could be used for better purposes…similar to their offices in Sacramento and Washington.
News
Google Alerts are very handy for keeping up with the news. I have this one, the Iran Alert, set for delivery anytime. You can set the delivery for once a day if you like…right now, I’m getting this one about 4 times a day. And, as you can see, the sources are from all over the world; you get a balanced view of the news.
Iran Receptive to Nuclear ProposalLos Angeles Times - CA,USA... a possible Russian compromise aimed at defusing the international dispute over his country's nuclear program but reiterating a threat that Iran might launch a ... See all stories on this topic
China opposes sanctions to resolve Iran disputeReuters - USABEIJING (Reuters) - Veto-wielding China said on Thursday it opposed sanctions over Iran's nuclear ambitions, as Tehran's nuclear negotiator held talks in ... See all stories on this topic
Former Iraq weapons inspector says referral of Iran to UN not ...People's Daily Online - Beijing,ChinaFormer UN chief weapons inspector in Iraq Hans Blix said on Wednesday that it will not be helpful if the United States refers Iran to the United Nations ... See all stories on this topic
Israel Supports Diplomacy With Iran While Readying Its ArsenalBloomberg - USA... Desert Storm. Dick Cheney.''. Twenty-five years later, the US and Israel say they face a fresh nuclear challenge, in Iran. This time ... See all stories on this topic
India Rejects US Attempt to Link Iran Vote to Nuclear AccordBloomberg - USA... government rejected an attempt by the US to link a proposed civilian nuclear accord between them with support for the American stance on Iran's atomic program. ... See all stories on this topic
Iran's siege withinKhaleej Times - Dubai,United Arab EmiratesLITTLE is generally reported from within Iran even as the country remains in global spotlight for all the wrong reasons. The twin ... See all stories on this topic
Iran Receptive to Nuclear ProposalLos Angeles Times - CA,USA... a possible Russian compromise aimed at defusing the international dispute over his country's nuclear program but reiterating a threat that Iran might launch a ... See all stories on this topic
China opposes sanctions to resolve Iran disputeReuters - USABEIJING (Reuters) - Veto-wielding China said on Thursday it opposed sanctions over Iran's nuclear ambitions, as Tehran's nuclear negotiator held talks in ... See all stories on this topic
Former Iraq weapons inspector says referral of Iran to UN not ...People's Daily Online - Beijing,ChinaFormer UN chief weapons inspector in Iraq Hans Blix said on Wednesday that it will not be helpful if the United States refers Iran to the United Nations ... See all stories on this topic
Israel Supports Diplomacy With Iran While Readying Its ArsenalBloomberg - USA... Desert Storm. Dick Cheney.''. Twenty-five years later, the US and Israel say they face a fresh nuclear challenge, in Iran. This time ... See all stories on this topic
India Rejects US Attempt to Link Iran Vote to Nuclear AccordBloomberg - USA... government rejected an attempt by the US to link a proposed civilian nuclear accord between them with support for the American stance on Iran's atomic program. ... See all stories on this topic
Iran's siege withinKhaleej Times - Dubai,United Arab EmiratesLITTLE is generally reported from within Iran even as the country remains in global spotlight for all the wrong reasons. The twin ... See all stories on this topic
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
What's the Real Story?
What’s the big secret?
“…citing the confidentiality of executive branch communications, said Tuesday that it did not plan to turn over certain White House documents about Hurricane Katrina or make senior White House officials available for sworn testimony…”
Others already have made some of this known. What’s the problem with the White House? Are they embarrassed? Secrecy seems to be their favorite tool.
Fashion News?
Libya sees swift removal from US terror list
But, Muammar Gaddafi will soon head up Mr. Blackwell's list...
But, Muammar Gaddafi will soon head up Mr. Blackwell's list...
Late Again
And now the newspaper is late in arriving. Darn! I was hoping to see some good local news and get rid of the intense anxiety and depression caused by today’s national and international news stories. Let’s see what’s on the Sacbee.com website, “Federal budget cuts would take billions from California programs” That’s probably not what I was looking for…
(And I had to use the San Jose Mercury News for the story link above because the Bee insists on readers registering first. What a drag!)
I did notice this from the article…“ California also faces penalties of $185 million in 2009 and $260 million in 2010 if the state cannot encourage more welfare recipients back to work.” And the minimum wage level is what? Do you think there might be a relationship?
(And I had to use the San Jose Mercury News for the story link above because the Bee insists on readers registering first. What a drag!)
I did notice this from the article…“ California also faces penalties of $185 million in 2009 and $260 million in 2010 if the state cannot encourage more welfare recipients back to work.” And the minimum wage level is what? Do you think there might be a relationship?
Intelligence Test
I just happen to know the answers to all of these
I did receive a little coaching...but I can't tell you how much.
I did receive a little coaching...but I can't tell you how much.
Audit reveals
widespread misuse of reconstruction money in Iraq
Great picture of Donald! If only that were his real day job...the hat looks good on him.
Great picture of Donald! If only that were his real day job...the hat looks good on him.
Wednesday
Wednesday has arrived in the usual fashion and I’m here to see it. That’s always a good thing! Now if Wednesday turns out to be as nice as Tuesday was; this could be a great day. After lunch, It didn’t take me long to rid myself of my sweatshirt and I spent the rest of the day in my t-shirt. If I had thought about it, I might have grabbed a pair of shorts to wear instead of the jeans.
The day isn’t very old, but I already have two “Iran” alerts from Google News and no “nanotechnology” alerts at all. Oops! Make that three “Iran” alerts now. It would be so nice to not think about the Middle East for awhile, but that isn’t going to happen, not while our future is tied to the oil that comes from there. And I believe that most people would be surprised at just much oil we use for purposes other than driving from point A to point B. If manufacturers would use the label to include the statement, “Made from oil” right below their logo, I think we would all be surprised at just how much oil is used to make our lives comfortable.
I did read some promising news about the possibility of using our huge reserves of oil shale. The technology is evolving on how best to extract the oil and from what I read, the cost would be around $30 a barrel. That’s cost…so price would probably be double that.
But, wouldn’t we better off in the long run if we could find a way to end our dependence on oil for transport? Maybe it would be a good thing to tax our oil to the point where we are forced to find an alternative and use that tax money to develop it. But who would we trust to do that for us?
The day isn’t very old, but I already have two “Iran” alerts from Google News and no “nanotechnology” alerts at all. Oops! Make that three “Iran” alerts now. It would be so nice to not think about the Middle East for awhile, but that isn’t going to happen, not while our future is tied to the oil that comes from there. And I believe that most people would be surprised at just much oil we use for purposes other than driving from point A to point B. If manufacturers would use the label to include the statement, “Made from oil” right below their logo, I think we would all be surprised at just how much oil is used to make our lives comfortable.
I did read some promising news about the possibility of using our huge reserves of oil shale. The technology is evolving on how best to extract the oil and from what I read, the cost would be around $30 a barrel. That’s cost…so price would probably be double that.
But, wouldn’t we better off in the long run if we could find a way to end our dependence on oil for transport? Maybe it would be a good thing to tax our oil to the point where we are forced to find an alternative and use that tax money to develop it. But who would we trust to do that for us?
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Good one!
Sharing...
A great example of a mashup. Google Maps scores again. And maybe I can find a link nearby...
A great example of a mashup. Google Maps scores again. And maybe I can find a link nearby...
Obvious
I think every smoker ought to see this picture...yes, he's three years old. Obviously he can't read the warning labels on the packs.
Morning
Tuesday has arrived once again. And I’m here in my usual place. This morning I’m trying to see through the darkness and see if I can tell what is causing the neighborhood dogs to bark. I even heard our cat making noises; and she’s all the way down at the other end of the house and inside the garage. My flashlight reveals nothing out of the ordinary and all is quiet now, but it did remind me of the stories about how animals can predict earthquakes long before they occur. Could it be?
I have been checking my Google Alerts this morning and now I’m not sure that I should have included “Iran” in the list of news items that I want Google to seek out for me. Far too much information!
I guess I’m not being honest…I really do look forward to reading the alerts. I only wish that they were of a more positive nature. Trying to deal diplomatically with the leaders of Iran has to be one of the worst jobs you could find yourself in. I was reminded of the diplomat’s difficulties during the first Iranian crisis, the holding of American hostages. At that time, Iran wouldn’t talk directly to the U.S, but insisted that all communications go through a third party. Can you imagine what is lost in the translation? That’s another reason to make certain that open and direct communication remains an option.
Of course you won’t find Iran and Israel talking to each other; the two antagonists that most need that kind of approach. Those two are already using the world’s news media to launch their pre-emptive strikes against one another. The only consolation is that their angry words of war are not killing the innocent. Not yet.
I have been checking my Google Alerts this morning and now I’m not sure that I should have included “Iran” in the list of news items that I want Google to seek out for me. Far too much information!
I guess I’m not being honest…I really do look forward to reading the alerts. I only wish that they were of a more positive nature. Trying to deal diplomatically with the leaders of Iran has to be one of the worst jobs you could find yourself in. I was reminded of the diplomat’s difficulties during the first Iranian crisis, the holding of American hostages. At that time, Iran wouldn’t talk directly to the U.S, but insisted that all communications go through a third party. Can you imagine what is lost in the translation? That’s another reason to make certain that open and direct communication remains an option.
Of course you won’t find Iran and Israel talking to each other; the two antagonists that most need that kind of approach. Those two are already using the world’s news media to launch their pre-emptive strikes against one another. The only consolation is that their angry words of war are not killing the innocent. Not yet.
Absolutely
“President Bush said he found it "amazing" to be accused of breaking the law by ordering a secret program to intercept calls and e-mails.”
I’m sure he did. His presidency has been one amazing thing after another…
I’m sure he did. His presidency has been one amazing thing after another…
Monday, January 23, 2006
Immigration grows as security issue | csmonitor.com
as a security issue.
Bush is going to have a very difficult time in the days ahead as this kind of news takes over the headlines. To satisfy the farmers, he has to push immigration reform that includes “guest workers”, something that doesn’t go down well with most neo-cons, making them angry. But the facts are this…Americans won’t do farm labor unless they are paid more. If paid more, the price of farm products can rise till they are no longer competitive with imported products. When that happens, the farmers will want tariff protection, which will ruin the plans for a free trade agreement. The rest of the world is angry. Product prices will rise and the consumer is angry…and red states will slowly but surely turn blue.
Bush is going to have a very difficult time in the days ahead as this kind of news takes over the headlines. To satisfy the farmers, he has to push immigration reform that includes “guest workers”, something that doesn’t go down well with most neo-cons, making them angry. But the facts are this…Americans won’t do farm labor unless they are paid more. If paid more, the price of farm products can rise till they are no longer competitive with imported products. When that happens, the farmers will want tariff protection, which will ruin the plans for a free trade agreement. The rest of the world is angry. Product prices will rise and the consumer is angry…and red states will slowly but surely turn blue.
Postscript to Tired
...And cable? That isn’t even on the horizon for us. When we lived in remote Janesville (population 500), 20 years ago, cable was available. Thank you Comcast! Cable or satellite, neither one are what we really want; that‘s the ability to choose only the programs we want to pay for. That’s the part that is so frustrating as I know the technology is available for us to pick and choose the programs we want to see.
As one who is still able to remember the earliest days of television; it’s especially irritating to see how far from the original promise that television has strayed. Oh, sure…it’s now High Definition and in glorious colors, but for 100+ shopping channels do we really need High Definition? Ginzu knives in full color? How odd…I was reading the paper and sure enough. There was an article about the problems we “rural” folks have with the availability of broadband, or lack thereof. The article referenced some wireless ISP’s, but even those are unavailable here.
Another news article detailed the problem that newcomers to the Sacramento area (Natomas) are having. It seems that the realtors don’t mention the fact that Natomas is a historical flood plain and the federal government has conveniently changed the definition for this high risk area. (Convenient for developers) Now the newcomers have read the Sacramento Bee articles on the distinct possibility of levee failures. They have also noted for the first time that the large earthen structures on the immediate horizon are in fact, levees! Some people feel they have been sold a bill of goods…but I have a feeling that these same people didn’t notice the existence of a nearby airport as well and are now wondering what that noise is?
As one who is still able to remember the earliest days of television; it’s especially irritating to see how far from the original promise that television has strayed. Oh, sure…it’s now High Definition and in glorious colors, but for 100+ shopping channels do we really need High Definition? Ginzu knives in full color? How odd…I was reading the paper and sure enough. There was an article about the problems we “rural” folks have with the availability of broadband, or lack thereof. The article referenced some wireless ISP’s, but even those are unavailable here.
Another news article detailed the problem that newcomers to the Sacramento area (Natomas) are having. It seems that the realtors don’t mention the fact that Natomas is a historical flood plain and the federal government has conveniently changed the definition for this high risk area. (Convenient for developers) Now the newcomers have read the Sacramento Bee articles on the distinct possibility of levee failures. They have also noted for the first time that the large earthen structures on the immediate horizon are in fact, levees! Some people feel they have been sold a bill of goods…but I have a feeling that these same people didn’t notice the existence of a nearby airport as well and are now wondering what that noise is?
Top 100
-essential downloads of free software & freeware for Windows XP
I just ran across this list. From personal experience, I can see that there are quite a few good ones available here.
I just ran across this list. From personal experience, I can see that there are quite a few good ones available here.
Tired
The news is exhausting at times. The sheer volume of available news is staggering! And I have this compulsion to read it all…or at least the headlines. And this morning I’m having a frustrating time with my Direcway satellite connection; getting DNS error messages at every page I try to access. I may have to wait till the black and white news is delivered before I comment any further.
I can hardly wait till cable or DSL broadband is available here. Yes, we live in one of the few places where cable doesn’t even exist as an option. You might think that we lived in a “holler” in faraway Appalachia…instead of where we do live; suburban California, 20 minutes from Chico and its University. Although I complain about the satellite connection, it’s still ten times faster than the available dial-up, though the rumor has it that DSL might become available this year. (Same rumor as last years) Thank you SBC!
And cable? That isn’t even on the horizon for us. When we lived in remote Janesville (population 500), 20 years ago, cable was available. Thank you Comcast!
I can hardly wait till cable or DSL broadband is available here. Yes, we live in one of the few places where cable doesn’t even exist as an option. You might think that we lived in a “holler” in faraway Appalachia…instead of where we do live; suburban California, 20 minutes from Chico and its University. Although I complain about the satellite connection, it’s still ten times faster than the available dial-up, though the rumor has it that DSL might become available this year. (Same rumor as last years) Thank you SBC!
And cable? That isn’t even on the horizon for us. When we lived in remote Janesville (population 500), 20 years ago, cable was available. Thank you Comcast!
Turkish Court Drops Charges
Freedom of Speech, at last.
Let us never lose it...
I can't imagine this happening in our country.
But we need to "imagine" the possibility that it really could happen, even here.
Let us never lose it...
I can't imagine this happening in our country.
But we need to "imagine" the possibility that it really could happen, even here.
Bloomberg.com on Iran vs. U.S.
"Bush acknowledged that America's faulty prewar intelligence on Iraq has undermined its credibility. ``People will say, if we're trying to make the case on Iran, well, the intelligence failed in Iraq, therefore, how can we trust the intelligence on Iran?'' he said. "
Good question, Mr. Bush. How can we?
Good question, Mr. Bush. How can we?
Sunday, January 22, 2006
The Notorious Mr. Blum
Interesting guy and with a lot of data and history to interpret. He should soon be quite rich, according to the news story I read about him. His books, which weren't all that popular, have a new notoriety since he was quoted by bin Laden in last weeks audio tape. I understand that the books are now flying off of the shelves...Here's his website
Bending the truth
in a million little ways
Good article that made me think. And that's always a plus! And from this same article, "the Internet is awash in bloggers who trade in gossip and speculation instead of fact. For many of these people, it's not about being accurate or fair. It's about being entertaining, snarky or provocative --" First; what is "snarky"? Is that a current word or a typo? Was it supposed to be "sneaky"? And of course it's not about being accurate or fair...it's all about opinions. Always has been and always will be. Sometimes, if lucky, the opinions will be accurate and fair...
Good article that made me think. And that's always a plus! And from this same article, "the Internet is awash in bloggers who trade in gossip and speculation instead of fact. For many of these people, it's not about being accurate or fair. It's about being entertaining, snarky or provocative --" First; what is "snarky"? Is that a current word or a typo? Was it supposed to be "sneaky"? And of course it's not about being accurate or fair...it's all about opinions. Always has been and always will be. Sometimes, if lucky, the opinions will be accurate and fair...
Peace...in our lifetime.
Sunday is here; a new week begins, according to some calendars. I have always preferred the week beginning on Monday and never understood the preference for Sunday. Ah well, small thing! But I’m sure I could find a focus group and at least half a dozen bloggers to support (feverishly) one day or the other. That is…if I bothered to look. And I won’t. Can you imagine the arguments, both for and against Mondays being the first day of the week? Imagine how it might effect the economy as millions of useless calendars could lie moldering in warehouses, unsold? And pollution…that moldering just might produce toxins that would create new Superfund sites. This in turn would allow some contractors to make millions while remediating the problem. Gosh! It seemed like such a simple problem…The good news is that Outlook allows you set any day of the week as the first one. How democratic; and disaster is averted. Using Outlook just might be the way to spread democracy and world peace would soon follow
Saturday, January 21, 2006
Saturday
Saturday already; this week…this year, are going by very fast. But that’s just an age thing. And scary! I wonder how I can slow it down? Should I throw away my calendars? I have already given up my watch and still the days fly by and so I doubt that a lack of calendars will do much to slow things down.
I wonder what kind of day we will have? It was raining last night and that was a last minute correction to the old forecast. And now I see that the new and revised forecast calls for sunny days ahead…until the weekend when rain “showers” are forecast. Darn!
I need to go to the bank soon and turn in the last of the coins I have been collecting for many years. All of the years that traveled, I kept stowing my loose change in my briefcase or suitcase, and then, after coming home, I would place it all in wrappers. I ended up with close to $1,600 in coins! This should help to finance some of the power tools I want for the garage. I picked up a nice band saw yesterday and the plan calls for a scroll saw as well.
I wonder what kind of day we will have? It was raining last night and that was a last minute correction to the old forecast. And now I see that the new and revised forecast calls for sunny days ahead…until the weekend when rain “showers” are forecast. Darn!
I need to go to the bank soon and turn in the last of the coins I have been collecting for many years. All of the years that traveled, I kept stowing my loose change in my briefcase or suitcase, and then, after coming home, I would place it all in wrappers. I ended up with close to $1,600 in coins! This should help to finance some of the power tools I want for the garage. I picked up a nice band saw yesterday and the plan calls for a scroll saw as well.
Map Reading
Rove Lays Out Road Map for Republicans in Fall Election
The president's chief political advisor left little doubt that he is intent on making national security the pre-eminent issue.
Gosh, do you really feel safer with W in the driver’s seat? With a Republican majority?
Do you feel safer with Karl in charge? That’s even scarier!
The president's chief political advisor left little doubt that he is intent on making national security the pre-eminent issue.
Gosh, do you really feel safer with W in the driver’s seat? With a Republican majority?
Do you feel safer with Karl in charge? That’s even scarier!
Friday, January 20, 2006
Expose 'radical' UCLA teacher,
get $100 -
Ah! The power of greed...
"...is the creation of Andrew Jones, a 2003 UCLA graduate who said he runs the organization mostly on his own with $22,000 in private donations." I wonder what ethics class he took?
Ah! The power of greed...
"...is the creation of Andrew Jones, a 2003 UCLA graduate who said he runs the organization mostly on his own with $22,000 in private donations." I wonder what ethics class he took?
Midwest
Portable Greenhouse
Darn! I paid too much for it at Lowe's...though I suppose the shipping (32 pounds) would equal it out.
Darn! I paid too much for it at Lowe's...though I suppose the shipping (32 pounds) would equal it out.
More
Also in the morning’s news were stories of Iran’s moving assets to prevent them from being seized if the UN moves ahead on threats to enforce economic sanctions. The scene in the Middle East is chaotic; although we (The U.S.) are threatening Iran because of nuclear ambition, we are quite cozy with Pakistan. And that nation is very unstable and already owns a large number of nukes. Plus the fact that we support Israel and they won’t reveal anything about their nuclear capabilities. They won’t even join the Nuclear Non-Proliferation club. It looks like we have painted ourselves into a tight corner.
Book Sales
More on the Orland Free library…I just found this page. It seems that the Library Book Sales organization can dynamically search the current database each time you call up this page and that let’s you see exactly what’s stored in the old trailer, ready for you to buy…If you’re looking for a special book, this might be the place to look. Just my unbiased opinion of course.
Friday
Friday has arrived once again and I’m as ready for it as I can be…which isn’t saying much. I do have the fire revived and I have my first cup of coffee in hand, so as much of the world that I can control is in pretty good shape. But as for the rest of the world…
The headlines are pretty much standard and I have to look at my email and my Google Alerts to find something interesting. I did get a good joke from the Prairie Home Companion weekly email, “A blonde man decided to wash his sweatshirt, but when he started to put it in the washer he stopped and asked his wife, "Should I wash the sweatshirt in hot water or cold?"
"What does the sweatshirt say?" she asked.
"University of Oklahoma"
The more I think about it, the more I think that’s not really a blonde joke, but a true representation of the differences in Type. A man whose Type prefers Sensing versus a wife who uses iNtuition. Oh well, it’s still funny!
That’s one of the problems that comes with knowing a great deal about the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, everything seems to have some connection to Type. It’s like the story of the new carpenter and with a brand new hammer in his hand, everything looks like a nail.
I did read about the latest in nanotech news; it appears that Denmark will soon be the center of research in this field as they were given a €15M grant to develop the world’s most powerful microscope, an Environmental Transmission Electron Microscope that is five times as powerful as existing microscopes for research. I would love to be able to look through it!
And there was some news about the need for new laws to govern nanotechnology. I really agree…except. We certainly can’t allow the current generation of lawmakers to write them. These partisan dimwits can’t think past the contents of their wallets. Their version of regulation for nanotechnology would put the science back 50 years.
The headlines are pretty much standard and I have to look at my email and my Google Alerts to find something interesting. I did get a good joke from the Prairie Home Companion weekly email, “A blonde man decided to wash his sweatshirt, but when he started to put it in the washer he stopped and asked his wife, "Should I wash the sweatshirt in hot water or cold?"
"What does the sweatshirt say?" she asked.
"University of Oklahoma"
The more I think about it, the more I think that’s not really a blonde joke, but a true representation of the differences in Type. A man whose Type prefers Sensing versus a wife who uses iNtuition. Oh well, it’s still funny!
That’s one of the problems that comes with knowing a great deal about the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, everything seems to have some connection to Type. It’s like the story of the new carpenter and with a brand new hammer in his hand, everything looks like a nail.
I did read about the latest in nanotech news; it appears that Denmark will soon be the center of research in this field as they were given a €15M grant to develop the world’s most powerful microscope, an Environmental Transmission Electron Microscope that is five times as powerful as existing microscopes for research. I would love to be able to look through it!
And there was some news about the need for new laws to govern nanotechnology. I really agree…except. We certainly can’t allow the current generation of lawmakers to write them. These partisan dimwits can’t think past the contents of their wallets. Their version of regulation for nanotechnology would put the science back 50 years.
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Documentary
The documentary, 'Why We Fight' harks back to Eisenhower's warnings about military buildup.
Eugene Jarecki, who produced this film says, “No matter who is in power, the status quo in America here and abroad is disproportionately on defense. When you take away resources from the elements of your natural life and allocate them to defense, you skew society and you disrupt a terribly delicate framework on which democracy is based.”
And how much do we spend?
Eugene Jarecki, who produced this film says, “No matter who is in power, the status quo in America here and abroad is disproportionately on defense. When you take away resources from the elements of your natural life and allocate them to defense, you skew society and you disrupt a terribly delicate framework on which democracy is based.”
And how much do we spend?
Headlines
A headline from the Los Angeles Times…
Governor Goes on the Road to Mend Fences in the GOP
In Newport Beach, Arnold Schwarzenegger meets with Republican stalwarts upset with his proposed state budget and public works plans.
When will our acting governor realize that he would gain credibility if he simply stops playing to an audience? In this case, he will do his best to placate the Republicans and next week it will be the Democrats. Why can’t he just be his own man? Oh, that’s right…he’s an actor; everyone is an audience!
Governor Goes on the Road to Mend Fences in the GOP
In Newport Beach, Arnold Schwarzenegger meets with Republican stalwarts upset with his proposed state budget and public works plans.
When will our acting governor realize that he would gain credibility if he simply stops playing to an audience? In this case, he will do his best to placate the Republicans and next week it will be the Democrats. Why can’t he just be his own man? Oh, that’s right…he’s an actor; everyone is an audience!
HDD Drive (4GB)
Not quite Nano
But this is getting close. Can you imagine how small the nuts and bolts are?
But this is getting close. Can you imagine how small the nuts and bolts are?
If You Give a Congressman
a Cookie
Sorry; it's one of those New York Times links...but it's worth the effort to read it. I will look around and see if I can find it somewhere else.
ps. The authors of this piece have a book coming out soon, "The Broken Branch : How Congress is Failing America and How to Get It Back on Track (Hardcover)"
Sorry; it's one of those New York Times links...but it's worth the effort to read it. I will look around and see if I can find it somewhere else.
ps. The authors of this piece have a book coming out soon, "The Broken Branch : How Congress is Failing America and How to Get It Back on Track (Hardcover)"
Clearing
Thursday morning and I can see the moonlight. No clouds. That’s a good thing. Yesterday’s violent weather was certainly interesting; wind, hail and lightning. But, it’s time for some sunshine!
I have the wood stove fired up and heating the house once again. It’s a chore and I dislike the ashes and the dirt that comes in with the wood, but the heat is nice. The builders of this house included a ventilation system that takes heated air from the area above the wood stove and directs it to the remote bedrooms. It works on convection (1.vertical air circulation in which warm air rises and cool air sinks, resulting in vertical transport and mixing of atmospheric properties. 2. Flow of heat by this circulation) so it’s not the most efficient way to heat a distant room, but every little bit helps and since I am still using the firewood that came with the house, it’s cheap. I have the thermostat set at 65 and I see that the thermometer is right at 71. The heater never came on at all last night.
Speaking of chores. I had a terrible dream this morning; one that woke me up quite early. In the dream, I was late for an appointment and everything that could possibly go wrong… was going wrong, making me anxious and very upset. What was that all about? Am I feeling guilty because I don’t normally worry about those things anymore? If so, it’s time for my subconscious mind to get with the program. I’m retired! I don’t need to worry about appointments!
The news looks like more of the usual, although I did spot this strange piece, “France said on Thursday it would be ready to launch a targeted nuclear strike against any state that carried out a terrorist attack on French soil.” What are they thinking? What kind of terrorist attack? And how do you prove which state carried out the attack? Do you just lob an atomic bomb at the first country that comes to mind? Once the first atomic weapon is used, all bets are off. Just talking about the possibility of using atomic weapons can bring us closer to doomsday. I’m afraid that the current generation in power has forgotten just how terrible a weapon an atomic bomb is…and the French statement is similar to a dare, a dare that some fool may try.
I have the wood stove fired up and heating the house once again. It’s a chore and I dislike the ashes and the dirt that comes in with the wood, but the heat is nice. The builders of this house included a ventilation system that takes heated air from the area above the wood stove and directs it to the remote bedrooms. It works on convection (1.vertical air circulation in which warm air rises and cool air sinks, resulting in vertical transport and mixing of atmospheric properties. 2. Flow of heat by this circulation) so it’s not the most efficient way to heat a distant room, but every little bit helps and since I am still using the firewood that came with the house, it’s cheap. I have the thermostat set at 65 and I see that the thermometer is right at 71. The heater never came on at all last night.
Speaking of chores. I had a terrible dream this morning; one that woke me up quite early. In the dream, I was late for an appointment and everything that could possibly go wrong… was going wrong, making me anxious and very upset. What was that all about? Am I feeling guilty because I don’t normally worry about those things anymore? If so, it’s time for my subconscious mind to get with the program. I’m retired! I don’t need to worry about appointments!
The news looks like more of the usual, although I did spot this strange piece, “France said on Thursday it would be ready to launch a targeted nuclear strike against any state that carried out a terrorist attack on French soil.” What are they thinking? What kind of terrorist attack? And how do you prove which state carried out the attack? Do you just lob an atomic bomb at the first country that comes to mind? Once the first atomic weapon is used, all bets are off. Just talking about the possibility of using atomic weapons can bring us closer to doomsday. I’m afraid that the current generation in power has forgotten just how terrible a weapon an atomic bomb is…and the French statement is similar to a dare, a dare that some fool may try.
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