Last night, I went to a Best Buy here in Appleton and priced out laptop computers. I found one I wanted, but didn't have the time to buy last night. But today, I did....so, after finding the supply of the laptop I wanted was out in both Appleton stores, a quick trip to Green Bay got me what I was looking for, which is this! I got the 1525 model, and we just got things started with it! I am very excited as this is my first laptop. My previous computers were both mid-size tower desktops, both of which served me well. But, after having a company laptop on my trip to Houston, I decided a laptop was the way to go for my next computer.
The temporary buyer's remorse hasn't kicked in, but I imagine it will sometime this evening. But, in the end I think I am going to be happy with this.
I guess it's Merry Christmas to me!!
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Happy Holidays
I am posting from my hometown, getting ready to celebrate the holidays, so posting may be light. But, if things go the way I think they might, posts may increase in the very near future. Anyway, Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, Happy Kwanzaa, or if you don't believe in any of that, have a good day.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Factoid heard on TV
Belinda Jensen (aka Badger Bel) just said on KARE11 news that it has snowed 15 of 18 days so far in December in the Twin Cities. By Sunday it sounds like it will be 18 of 21. But hey, it could be worse. Here in the Cities, we've been brushed by these storms. Milwaukee is supposed to get something near a foot, and Madison too I suppose. At this rate, my sister's street (she lives in Madison) will look like a luge or bobsled track by February...again. I wish I had taken a picture of that.
Directionally challenged party
I have hinted at a belief, echoed by many others, that the GOP is at a crossroads. I saw this article, and am interested in what y'all think. I am withholding comment for the moment. But, I think this is an interesting read.
H/T: On the Borderline
H/T: On the Borderline
Monday, December 15, 2008
No Bluejays in the Bay
*This is definitely a Wisconsin post...bubbler....Tyme machine....dere hey*
Menasha, Wisconsin is a city of 16,000 just south of Appleton. They are known for such things as....well, Mihm's, where a stick of butter on your sandwich is normal (I can't believe they are on the web). They are also known for....well, the best-named race in the country, the Grunski Runski. And, in local prep sports, they are known as....well, bottom feeders. For you Minnesota readers, think of Menasha as the moral equivalent of Bloomington Kennedy...or Irondale. A school with declining population that runs with the big dogs, but struggles to keep up (to the point where Irondale went to a conference with less prestige). So, Menasha was thinking of moving to the Bay Conference, where there were smaller schools. But, Menasha has longtime rivalries with other schools in the area, including the favorite town around here, Neenah. So, they decided to stay in their current conference, the Fox Valley Association.
I am glad they did. When I went to school in Kimberly, we were by far the smallest school in the conference (enrollment of 600). Menasha was twice our size, but we took pride in competing (and in many instances beating) with schools twice, three, or close to four times our size (Neenah, Fond du Lac, Appleton West, and Appleton East all had enrollments over 2000 when I was in high school). In the years following my graduation, Kimberly has more than doubled in enrollment, but they just passed Menasha in size in the past couple of years.
To Menasha, I say this: just because you are smaller than everyone in the conference does not mean you can't compete. Look at Kimberly in the 70s, 80s, and 90s. It can be done. Sure, there are disadvantages to being landlocked, but it's not impossible. Props to the school board for ensuring your kids compete against some of the best competition in the state in the FVA. Don't be an Irondale.
By the way, Mihm's is pretty good...if you go, make sure to order light butter. If not, they will put a whole stick on your steak sandwich...I am only exaggerating slightly.
Menasha, Wisconsin is a city of 16,000 just south of Appleton. They are known for such things as....well, Mihm's, where a stick of butter on your sandwich is normal (I can't believe they are on the web). They are also known for....well, the best-named race in the country, the Grunski Runski. And, in local prep sports, they are known as....well, bottom feeders. For you Minnesota readers, think of Menasha as the moral equivalent of Bloomington Kennedy...or Irondale. A school with declining population that runs with the big dogs, but struggles to keep up (to the point where Irondale went to a conference with less prestige). So, Menasha was thinking of moving to the Bay Conference, where there were smaller schools. But, Menasha has longtime rivalries with other schools in the area, including the favorite town around here, Neenah. So, they decided to stay in their current conference, the Fox Valley Association.
I am glad they did. When I went to school in Kimberly, we were by far the smallest school in the conference (enrollment of 600). Menasha was twice our size, but we took pride in competing (and in many instances beating) with schools twice, three, or close to four times our size (Neenah, Fond du Lac, Appleton West, and Appleton East all had enrollments over 2000 when I was in high school). In the years following my graduation, Kimberly has more than doubled in enrollment, but they just passed Menasha in size in the past couple of years.
To Menasha, I say this: just because you are smaller than everyone in the conference does not mean you can't compete. Look at Kimberly in the 70s, 80s, and 90s. It can be done. Sure, there are disadvantages to being landlocked, but it's not impossible. Props to the school board for ensuring your kids compete against some of the best competition in the state in the FVA. Don't be an Irondale.
By the way, Mihm's is pretty good...if you go, make sure to order light butter. If not, they will put a whole stick on your steak sandwich...I am only exaggerating slightly.
If the Packers were the Union in the Civil War...
...the Confederacy would be alive and well today. The Packers are 5-1 versus teams from the Union, and a robust 0-8 against the South. There are a few reasons that the Packers are where they are. A distinct inability to run the ball and stop the run are the biggest reasons they are 5-9. A lot of Favre lovers will say his trade to the Jets is the reason for this, and not the lack of defense. That is faulty logic. Aaron Rodgers more than acquitted himself this season. Long-term, I think the Packers are going to be fine with Rodgers at QB. The thing is, I am not sure how the Pack is going to improve on defense. Is it a personnel thing, or a scheme thing? Honestly, I am not sure. Granted, there have been a fair number of injuries, but the lack of execution on defense is awful. So, what to do?
One other Packer-related question: Are any of you as scared about that Detroit game on 12/28 as I am?
One other Packer-related question: Are any of you as scared about that Detroit game on 12/28 as I am?
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Midwest collapse
I am no weather expert, but I think a cold front went through.
10:00 am - 36 degrees in Minneapolis, light rain showers
10:00 pm - 3 degrees in Minneapolis, NW winds at around 30 mph
Tomorrow's high in Minneapolis - 0. It's not the heat, it's the humidity.
10:00 am - 36 degrees in Minneapolis, light rain showers
10:00 pm - 3 degrees in Minneapolis, NW winds at around 30 mph
Tomorrow's high in Minneapolis - 0. It's not the heat, it's the humidity.
Midwest Swing
There is an interesting article in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel about the Midwest, and particularly states like Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan, being the GOP's best chance to pick up voters and electoral votes going forward. Of course, none of these states has gone to the Republican candidate since 1988 (Minnesota since 1972), but from a demographic standpoint, there may be something to this. This part of the country is overwhelmingly white (save Detroit and Milwaukee) and rural (save the Twin Cities and the other two). These are demographics that are generally amenable to the GOP these days. The GOP could pretty easily get more voters in this part of the country.
The problem with the article is that it assumes a static level of support (or non-support) in the GOP amongst ethnic and racial minorities. If the GOP wants to survive long-term, they need to get serious about getting their message out to this newer audience. Of course, it would serve them better to start being believeable about fiscal responsibility again. But I digress. Here are the facts: America is getting less white. America is getting less Christian. As America becomes less homogeneous, it behooves the GOP to recognize this and start tailoring their platform accordingly. This does not mean they have to junk their values. Less government interference is a good thing. Less dependence on government is a good thing. Government living within its means is a good thing. This is a message that could have more universal appeal. There is nothing that says that all minorities have to be subservient to the Democratic party forever. But, if the GOP doesn't get serious about reaching out to all voters, the assumption in the article will remain true, and the GOP will be doomed....after all, Michigan, Iowa, and Minnesota are probably going to each lose one electoral vote after the 2010 census, and Wisconsin and Michigan lost one in 2000. Hitching your hopes to the South and Midwest won't win you that many more elections.
The problem with the article is that it assumes a static level of support (or non-support) in the GOP amongst ethnic and racial minorities. If the GOP wants to survive long-term, they need to get serious about getting their message out to this newer audience. Of course, it would serve them better to start being believeable about fiscal responsibility again. But I digress. Here are the facts: America is getting less white. America is getting less Christian. As America becomes less homogeneous, it behooves the GOP to recognize this and start tailoring their platform accordingly. This does not mean they have to junk their values. Less government interference is a good thing. Less dependence on government is a good thing. Government living within its means is a good thing. This is a message that could have more universal appeal. There is nothing that says that all minorities have to be subservient to the Democratic party forever. But, if the GOP doesn't get serious about reaching out to all voters, the assumption in the article will remain true, and the GOP will be doomed....after all, Michigan, Iowa, and Minnesota are probably going to each lose one electoral vote after the 2010 census, and Wisconsin and Michigan lost one in 2000. Hitching your hopes to the South and Midwest won't win you that many more elections.
Worth the heart attack that immediately follows
This is incredible! Cheese wrapped in bacon! Can it legally get better than that?!!!
That is all.
H/T: Lance via BBA
That is all.
H/T: Lance via BBA
I bet Helen Thomas is pissed....
...because she didn't think of this first. There have been a lot of things a lot of people would like to have done to W due to his shenanigans in the White House, but I bet nary a soul thought about throwing shoes at him.
Friday, December 12, 2008
The opposite of taking a knee
Last Friday, I posted about taking a knee. Tonight is a little different. We are celebrating a friend's birthday by eating here. I have never been there, but have been by there in the Foshay. Good God is it swanky! Full report later on....
UPDATE: If you haven't been to Manny's, I highly recommend it. I also highly recommend making sure your finances are in order before going. I dropped a lot of dough there last night, but it was pretty much worth it. The steak I ate (10 oz filet mignon) was amazing. We also had hash browns, loaded mashed potatoes (cheese, bacon, sour cream, and chives...I skipped these), and sauteed mushrooms (which were wonderful...that I ate these will come as a shock to some). For dessert, we had this huge brownie with caramel, ice cream, nuts, and of course chocolate syrup. The presentation was amazing. The cuts of meat were rolled out to the table for our inspection prior to our ordering, which was cool. Overall, it's definitely not a place to eat at very often unless you have gobs of cash, but once a year or so, it is worth it.
Also, if you haven't seen the remodel of the Foshay Tower, you need to see it. They did a fabulous job making that into a hotel. It is definitely swanky, and definitely classy...classier than I am used to anyway.
UPDATE: If you haven't been to Manny's, I highly recommend it. I also highly recommend making sure your finances are in order before going. I dropped a lot of dough there last night, but it was pretty much worth it. The steak I ate (10 oz filet mignon) was amazing. We also had hash browns, loaded mashed potatoes (cheese, bacon, sour cream, and chives...I skipped these), and sauteed mushrooms (which were wonderful...that I ate these will come as a shock to some). For dessert, we had this huge brownie with caramel, ice cream, nuts, and of course chocolate syrup. The presentation was amazing. The cuts of meat were rolled out to the table for our inspection prior to our ordering, which was cool. Overall, it's definitely not a place to eat at very often unless you have gobs of cash, but once a year or so, it is worth it.
Also, if you haven't seen the remodel of the Foshay Tower, you need to see it. They did a fabulous job making that into a hotel. It is definitely swanky, and definitely classy...classier than I am used to anyway.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Pass the Christmas dutchie, Bryan Adams
From The Stencil, possibly one of most severely messed-up things in the early days of MTV. A video with Bryan Adams and Pee-Wee Herman (pre-stroke) wishing for a "Reggae Christmas." Click the link, and watch the magic happen. Oh, have a bucket nearby.
Why do I link to The Stencil? Because Caps digs up some really messed-up music-type stuff, that's why.
Why do I link to The Stencil? Because Caps digs up some really messed-up music-type stuff, that's why.
More links
I added two links to the roll...
1. Truth v. the Machine: My brother (Mr. D) is doing more of his political blogging over there now. This is a good chance for him to get more people reading his stuff. Another conservative blog, this came from the ashes of Kennedy (as in Mark Kennedy) v. the Machine.
2. Badger Blog Alliance: They linked to me, so I link to them. Another group blog of conservative Wisconsin bloggers. It's a nice way to keep up with things back in my home state. Mostly political, but with room for other things (like people complaining about what is looking to be the second consecutive really really snowy winter over there).
As always, recommendations for additional blogs will be taken and considered.
1. Truth v. the Machine: My brother (Mr. D) is doing more of his political blogging over there now. This is a good chance for him to get more people reading his stuff. Another conservative blog, this came from the ashes of Kennedy (as in Mark Kennedy) v. the Machine.
2. Badger Blog Alliance: They linked to me, so I link to them. Another group blog of conservative Wisconsin bloggers. It's a nice way to keep up with things back in my home state. Mostly political, but with room for other things (like people complaining about what is looking to be the second consecutive really really snowy winter over there).
As always, recommendations for additional blogs will be taken and considered.
Express Lane Sports - 10 items or less...
Actually, a few less than 10.
1. In the biggest shock since sunrise, CC Sabathia has decided to sign with the New York Yankees. While the Brewers made an offer that would be great for a lot of pitchers, you had to know CC was going to get a better offer. 7 years, $161 million. CC would have been crazy not to take it. Pitchers don't normally get 7-year deals. I appreciate what CC did in Milwaukee, and I am happy I got to see him pitch once as a Brewer, a gem against the Nationals. Bottom line: If he wasn't going to stay in Milwaukee, I am glad he is back in the AL. I just wish there was a salary cap and floor in baseball so that teams like the Brewers would have had a shot.
2. It was a couple of days ago, but Kevin McHale fired Randy Wittman as coach of the Minnesota Timberwolves and replaced him with...Kevin McHale. Or something like that (Glen Taylor probably had something to do with this). I forgot where I read it, but this line was great: "I think it is appropriate for McHale to be the new Wolves coach. That is appropriate punishment for him, to make him coach the team he built." McHale was a terrible GM, on the level of Larry Harris (former Milwaukee Bucks GM). The only reason he kept his job as long as he did is because he is a Minnesotan...either that, or he has the goods on Glen Taylor.
3. The Packers are 5-8 and are likely done for the year. Meanwhile, the Jets and Brett Favre are in the thick of things in the AFC East. Does this make the Favre trade bad? No. It is not Aaron Rodgers' fault the Packers are 5-8. It is the fault of a defense that can't stop the run and an offense that is too one-dimensional (pass-happy). Favre is going to net the Packers at least a 2nd-round pick, and as Packers fans know, Tradedown Ted will parlay that into 15 7th-round picks. Besides, the Jets improved on defense as well, so that has something to do with their improvement. And I defend Rodgers despite hating the pick in 2005. Pass me some crow, Rodgers isn't that bad.
4. The BCS gave us Oklahoma and Florida for the championship game. That is probably correct, even though Texas has legitimate beef. I am not a fan of the BCS and want a playoff system for college football. But what really bugs me is how much the Big 12 and SEC are so much better than everyone else. I think there is a post coming up on a theory I have as to why the Big Ten has been sliding of late. Anyway, the Big Ten sent two sacrificial lam....I mean, two teams to the BCS again. Meanwhile, the Gophers return to the scene of the crime of 2006 (Insight Bowl) to play Rock Chalk Jayhawk. And, Bucky Badger has a really interesting matchup with Florida State in the Champs Sports Bowl in Orlando.
5. The Bucks lost last night in Phoenix. That is nothing new. They have lost 21 in a row in Phoenix to their sister expansion team. I was 11 the last time the Bucks beat the Suns in Arizona. That is pathetic. I hope John Hammond and Scott Skiles get the Bucks to a point where they can beat the Suns. But hey, we have one thing they don't have....a title. Sure it was in 1971, but still...
1. In the biggest shock since sunrise, CC Sabathia has decided to sign with the New York Yankees. While the Brewers made an offer that would be great for a lot of pitchers, you had to know CC was going to get a better offer. 7 years, $161 million. CC would have been crazy not to take it. Pitchers don't normally get 7-year deals. I appreciate what CC did in Milwaukee, and I am happy I got to see him pitch once as a Brewer, a gem against the Nationals. Bottom line: If he wasn't going to stay in Milwaukee, I am glad he is back in the AL. I just wish there was a salary cap and floor in baseball so that teams like the Brewers would have had a shot.
2. It was a couple of days ago, but Kevin McHale fired Randy Wittman as coach of the Minnesota Timberwolves and replaced him with...Kevin McHale. Or something like that (Glen Taylor probably had something to do with this). I forgot where I read it, but this line was great: "I think it is appropriate for McHale to be the new Wolves coach. That is appropriate punishment for him, to make him coach the team he built." McHale was a terrible GM, on the level of Larry Harris (former Milwaukee Bucks GM). The only reason he kept his job as long as he did is because he is a Minnesotan...either that, or he has the goods on Glen Taylor.
3. The Packers are 5-8 and are likely done for the year. Meanwhile, the Jets and Brett Favre are in the thick of things in the AFC East. Does this make the Favre trade bad? No. It is not Aaron Rodgers' fault the Packers are 5-8. It is the fault of a defense that can't stop the run and an offense that is too one-dimensional (pass-happy). Favre is going to net the Packers at least a 2nd-round pick, and as Packers fans know, Tradedown Ted will parlay that into 15 7th-round picks. Besides, the Jets improved on defense as well, so that has something to do with their improvement. And I defend Rodgers despite hating the pick in 2005. Pass me some crow, Rodgers isn't that bad.
4. The BCS gave us Oklahoma and Florida for the championship game. That is probably correct, even though Texas has legitimate beef. I am not a fan of the BCS and want a playoff system for college football. But what really bugs me is how much the Big 12 and SEC are so much better than everyone else. I think there is a post coming up on a theory I have as to why the Big Ten has been sliding of late. Anyway, the Big Ten sent two sacrificial lam....I mean, two teams to the BCS again. Meanwhile, the Gophers return to the scene of the crime of 2006 (Insight Bowl) to play Rock Chalk Jayhawk. And, Bucky Badger has a really interesting matchup with Florida State in the Champs Sports Bowl in Orlando.
5. The Bucks lost last night in Phoenix. That is nothing new. They have lost 21 in a row in Phoenix to their sister expansion team. I was 11 the last time the Bucks beat the Suns in Arizona. That is pathetic. I hope John Hammond and Scott Skiles get the Bucks to a point where they can beat the Suns. But hey, we have one thing they don't have....a title. Sure it was in 1971, but still...
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Just another day in Fibland
Anyone who pays any attention to Illinois politics knows that palms generally need to be greased for anything to get done. The center of this is usually Chicago, but the palm-greasing happens plenty in Springfield too. So now comes current governor, Rod Blagojevich, who allegedly put President-elect Barack Obama's Senate seat up for sale, with the out that he would take the seat himself. He actually said, "I'm not giving this seat up for nothing."
No one should be surprised that this happened. However, if the allegations are true, I am surprised at how blatant he was in auctioning off Obama's Senate seat.
Of course, there is nothing new about corruption in the Illinois governor's office. And, it's bipartisan to boot! Democratic governor Blagojevich followed up Republican governor George Ryan, who is currently doing time for handing out state contracts to his buddies.
If I lived in Illinois, my vote for any office would be based on who doesn't tell me they are going to clean things up. Because, you pretty much know it's crap. You gotta love Illinois.
No one should be surprised that this happened. However, if the allegations are true, I am surprised at how blatant he was in auctioning off Obama's Senate seat.
Of course, there is nothing new about corruption in the Illinois governor's office. And, it's bipartisan to boot! Democratic governor Blagojevich followed up Republican governor George Ryan, who is currently doing time for handing out state contracts to his buddies.
If I lived in Illinois, my vote for any office would be based on who doesn't tell me they are going to clean things up. Because, you pretty much know it's crap. You gotta love Illinois.
Monday, December 8, 2008
200
This is the 200th post in the short history of Stinger Nation. I just want to thank anyone and everyone who has read this little 'ol blog so far. I have to say I am a little surprised at myself for hanging with this. There were definitely times I have been discouraged, and other times when I just didn't have anything to write about. I have almost shut this place down a few times. But I gotta say that seeing more comments on posts has encouraged me to keep this going. Going forward, it will probably be more of the same. I still haven't decided on a direction for this place, but then again maybe lack of direction makes things more interesting. Really, I still haven't "learned" how to write blog-style. But that's alright.
Anyway, thanks again to everyone who reads my scribblings. I enjoy writing them, hopefully you will continue to enjoy (or at least tolerate) reading them.
Anyway, thanks again to everyone who reads my scribblings. I enjoy writing them, hopefully you will continue to enjoy (or at least tolerate) reading them.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Link update
So I added Boots On to the blogroll and removed the Wisconsin Sports Bar. One of the Boots On bloggers came over and commented, so their reward is a link from me. They are pretty conservative, and are based in New Brighton. It's about time a good blogger came out of New Brighton. Lord knows there are some stunningly average blogs that come from there.
I got rid of the Wisconsin Sports Bar link because the site closed down. That's too bad, because it was a good place for fans of Wisconsin sports to catch up on things.
I will probably add some more blogs to the roll. As always, I am open to suggestions from you.
I got rid of the Wisconsin Sports Bar link because the site closed down. That's too bad, because it was a good place for fans of Wisconsin sports to catch up on things.
I will probably add some more blogs to the roll. As always, I am open to suggestions from you.
Taking a knee
So I decided to take a knee and not do anything tonight. After going to Indiana and Wisconsin on consecutive weekends, I figured I needed a break. So, what do I do on a Friday night hanging at the apartment?
First, I watched a documentary on my favorite album of all time...when I was 13. I loved Hysteria from Def Leppard. While I was starting to listen to some alternative music, and I had just discovered Yo! MTV Raps, I still liked my hair metal. There was a time in the 90s when I denounced that stuff, but watching that documentary made me appreciate what a well-crafted album Hysteria is. There are a lot of solid songs on that album. Say what you want about hair metal, but they knew how to make hits.
As I type this, I am trying to get into the Minnesota Wild by sitting through a game. They are playing the Vancouver Canucks, and are down a goal early in the 3rd. I think it's just a matter of time before I become a Wild fan. It will happen as soon as I set foot in the Xcel Energy Center. And hey, the Wild are owned by a Sconnie, so they have that going for them.
By the way, HD rules.
First, I watched a documentary on my favorite album of all time...when I was 13. I loved Hysteria from Def Leppard. While I was starting to listen to some alternative music, and I had just discovered Yo! MTV Raps, I still liked my hair metal. There was a time in the 90s when I denounced that stuff, but watching that documentary made me appreciate what a well-crafted album Hysteria is. There are a lot of solid songs on that album. Say what you want about hair metal, but they knew how to make hits.
As I type this, I am trying to get into the Minnesota Wild by sitting through a game. They are playing the Vancouver Canucks, and are down a goal early in the 3rd. I think it's just a matter of time before I become a Wild fan. It will happen as soon as I set foot in the Xcel Energy Center. And hey, the Wild are owned by a Sconnie, so they have that going for them.
By the way, HD rules.
Not a lot of love here
Has anyone noticed what The Onion has been doing to President Bush in the past few issues? Here's the most recent example. He also passed a 3-pound kidney stone. If I didn't know better, I would think they don't care for Bush much at The Onion.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
No supermajority for you!
GOP senator Saxby Chambliss won the runoff election in Georgia, so the Democrats can't get to 60 seats in the Senate....the filibuster lives. And, it is looking more likely that Norm Coleman will win by the tiniest of margins here in Minnesota, so the worst-case scenario for the GOP will not come to pass. That said, they still need to get their act together. I am thinking about what I think they need to do, and will probably post my thoughts on it as things proceed.
But, I am happy about this because I believe one-party rule is a bad thing, regardless of party. I think our government works best when there is a check on the worst impulses of a political party. We came really close to not having that.
UPDATE: Charlie Sykes had the same headline for his post about the Chambliss win (along with thousands of others, I am sure). But I beat him to it. Sykes 544,861,098, Stinger 1.
Everything is great in Neenah, WI 3
This is getting to be as regular as my rants. Anyway, if you happen to have a rooster in your possession, you may want to consider moving to Menasha. Neenah wants to ban them.
Here are links to one and two.
Three things to worry about...wow.
Here are links to one and two.
Three things to worry about...wow.
Stinger rant #4
Guess what kids, it's time for another rant...this time, the subject of my ire are the McDonalds commercials that advertise cappucino sales at McDonalds restaurants. There are two I have seen. One has men, the other has women. Each starts with the two people speaking in a condescending tone about how McDonalds is now serving lattes. One then says, "that's...well, that's fantastic." Then they list off things they don't have to deal with anymore. The one I see more often has the two women. Here's how it goes:
"I don't have to listen to jazz all day long."
"I can read gossip magazines."
"I don't know how to speak French."
"I don't know where Paraguay is."
OK, what the hell is wrong with listening to jazz, not reading gossip magazines, and knowing how to speak French?!! It seems like the one woman is almost proud to not know where Paraguay is!!
Here it is, folks...IT IS NOT A BADGE OF HONOR TO BE STUPID!!!! You should not be proud to be ignorant!! Knowing things and listening to good music like jazz is not equivalent to being a coffee snob!!!
I hate how stupidity is celebrated in this country. These McDonalds commercials are a prime example of this.
As for me, I want to go to Common Roots cafe and discuss the political situation in Bangladesh with someone. Why? Because this is how I am going to protest the celebration of ignorance in those McDonalds commercials.
Here's the one with the dudes. This one is almost as bad.
"I don't have to listen to jazz all day long."
"I can read gossip magazines."
"I don't know how to speak French."
"I don't know where Paraguay is."
OK, what the hell is wrong with listening to jazz, not reading gossip magazines, and knowing how to speak French?!! It seems like the one woman is almost proud to not know where Paraguay is!!
Here it is, folks...IT IS NOT A BADGE OF HONOR TO BE STUPID!!!! You should not be proud to be ignorant!! Knowing things and listening to good music like jazz is not equivalent to being a coffee snob!!!
I hate how stupidity is celebrated in this country. These McDonalds commercials are a prime example of this.
As for me, I want to go to Common Roots cafe and discuss the political situation in Bangladesh with someone. Why? Because this is how I am going to protest the celebration of ignorance in those McDonalds commercials.
Here's the one with the dudes. This one is almost as bad.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Down to 7?
The 2010 census is coming, and with the continued exodus of people from the Midwest and Northeast to the South and West, it is possible that Minnesota will lose a seat in Congress by 2012. If this happens, the upcoming redrawing of districts will be incredibly contentious. The article I linked to seems to think the 2nd or 6th will lose voters to shrinking urban districts (4th and 5th). To me, it is probably high time to put Minneapolis and St. Paul in one district. I know there is a belief that Minneapolis and St. Paul should anchor separate districts amongst some, but frankly both Minneapolis and St. Paul are shrinking, and are very similar politically. But, I know that basically removes a "safe" seat from the Democrats, so that won't happen. Since we are likely not going the Iowa route (independent commission does redistricting with a mandate of competitive seats...Iowa may lose a district too), I know we are likely going to protect as many incumbents as possible. That means Minneapolis and St. Paul will likely remain in different districts. This also means that the odd person out will probably be either Michelle Bachmann or Erik Paulsen. I don't think the burbs should have to suffer for the inner cities and outstate Minnesota not growing, but I imagine they will.
This is going to be painful. I have a feeling a court will end up resolving this.
This is going to be painful. I have a feeling a court will end up resolving this.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Gobble gobble
Just wanted to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving! I am in Wisconsin, and given that I will actually be doing stuff, posting may be light. In the meantime, check out some of the blogs and other fair to good reading on the 'ol blogroll.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Oranges, lepruchans, and Indiana
As I posted earlier, I went to South Bend to go check out a Notre Dame football game against Syracuse. Some weird things happened there, not least of which was the game itself. Before the game, we checked out the campus. At the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, we spotted one Norm Coleman. Interestingly enough, I have never seen Norm in Minnesota. But go to Indiana, and there he is. I believe his daughter goes to school there.
Anyway, we went to the College Football Hall of Fame, which was a cool place. It doesn't look like a lot of work has gone into the place lately (the video highlighting the collegiate experience featured, in its most recent footage, Danny Kanell), but it was pretty cool nonetheless.
Also found in Indiana, the greatest newspaper name in the world, The Elkhart Truth. I mean, how do you compete with the truth? The Mishawaka Fabrication? Please!
Anyway, we had a blast down there, and even snuck in a quick trip into Michigan, where we had a beer at a great place called the Sauk Trail Bar & Grille, in a little town called Union.
The Notre Dame experience is something that I really think most sports fans should do at least once in their life, even if you don't like them.
Anyway, we went to the College Football Hall of Fame, which was a cool place. It doesn't look like a lot of work has gone into the place lately (the video highlighting the collegiate experience featured, in its most recent footage, Danny Kanell), but it was pretty cool nonetheless.
Also found in Indiana, the greatest newspaper name in the world, The Elkhart Truth. I mean, how do you compete with the truth? The Mishawaka Fabrication? Please!
Anyway, we had a blast down there, and even snuck in a quick trip into Michigan, where we had a beer at a great place called the Sauk Trail Bar & Grille, in a little town called Union.
The Notre Dame experience is something that I really think most sports fans should do at least once in their life, even if you don't like them.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Anger in the Nation
I'm in a little bit of F the World mode today. I don't want to go into too much detail, but suffice it to say I am not in a good mood based on stuff happening at work (not the job itself, but other things...the Packer game isn't helping either). So, while we're at the half, I want to talk about good angry music. I like to listen to either really aggressive rock or hardcore hip-hop. Angry lyrics, hard beats, shredding guitar, that's what I want when I am upset. Some examples:
"Trife Life" by Mobb Deep
"Killing in the Name Of" by Rage Against the Machine
"Downfall" by Atomic Number 9 (defunct band from Milwaukee)
"Channeling Elements" by Candiria (really any hardcore music works)
My question to you: What do you listen to for music therapy when you are mad, angry, pissed off, whatever? I have more, I am just paying attention to the game and blogging, so good angry tunes are not coming to me. I will post some in the comments if I think of any...
Oh, bonus points to whoever can tell me about "Anger in the Nation."
"Trife Life" by Mobb Deep
"Killing in the Name Of" by Rage Against the Machine
"Downfall" by Atomic Number 9 (defunct band from Milwaukee)
"Channeling Elements" by Candiria (really any hardcore music works)
My question to you: What do you listen to for music therapy when you are mad, angry, pissed off, whatever? I have more, I am just paying attention to the game and blogging, so good angry tunes are not coming to me. I will post some in the comments if I think of any...
Oh, bonus points to whoever can tell me about "Anger in the Nation."
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Stinger's hitting the road...again! (aka Indiana wants me)
Posting will be light to nonexistent for a couple of days. I am heading with some buddies down to South Bend, Indiana to watch Notre Dame play Syracuse this weekend.
For me, there is an internal conflict. I don't like that Notre Dame thinks they are too good for the Big Ten. I don't like that they have their own TV contract with NBC, and I don't like that they get preferential treatment in the BCS rules. But, they apparently have a beautiful campus, and they definitely have a great stadium with a lot of history. It's one of the places people who are sports fans should go to at least once in their life (like Lambeau, Fenway, Wrigley, Madison Square Garden, etc). So, I will be in South Bend this weekend. Of course, there will be post-trip reports because I know my audience loves those.
The price of honesty
This is an interesting story: J.P. Hayes, a pro golfer from Appleton (and a classmate of one of my brothers), apparently used a non-sanctioned ball in a qualifying tournament at Q-School. He probably could have gotten away without reporting it, but he did report it. His twinge of honesty means he will not be a regular on the PGA Tour next year because the stroke penalty knocked him out in the 2nd round.
One thing though: How much do you want to bet that this will get Hayes a bunch of sponsors' exemptions next year? I bet he will play in at least 10-15 events next year just based on those.
So yeah, while he won't be on the tour, I bet this episode will bode pretty well for his immediate future. Hopefully this will show that good can come out of admitting mistakes and being honest.
One thing though: How much do you want to bet that this will get Hayes a bunch of sponsors' exemptions next year? I bet he will play in at least 10-15 events next year just based on those.
So yeah, while he won't be on the tour, I bet this episode will bode pretty well for his immediate future. Hopefully this will show that good can come out of admitting mistakes and being honest.
Obama and cities
The Antiplanner put up a post speculating that an Obama administration will be more pro-city than previous presidents (and presumably the current one), or more to the point, anti-suburb. His point is that Obama has mostly lived in large cities, and comes to the White House from that perspective. Of course, his being a community organizer was a punchline to the GOP in this election cycle. Anyway, The Antiplanner speculates that because there will be a director of urban policy in the White House, that this scenario will happen.
I happen to disagree. I think a wholesale attack on suburbia would be absolutely ridiculous. I will have to verify this, but I am fairly certain about half of the nation lives in suburban areas of larger cities. To completely alienate the denizens of the burbs is just politically stupid. I do think that Obama will have more of a pro-city policy, but it will not be a zero-sum game for that very reason. What will be interesting to see is if Obama's environmental policy has an effect on suburban life (lowering emissions, increased funding for mass transit and/or less federal funding for roads).
This is something I will keep an eye on as the Obama administration takes root, as someone who lives in a major city and has a big interest in urban affairs.
I happen to disagree. I think a wholesale attack on suburbia would be absolutely ridiculous. I will have to verify this, but I am fairly certain about half of the nation lives in suburban areas of larger cities. To completely alienate the denizens of the burbs is just politically stupid. I do think that Obama will have more of a pro-city policy, but it will not be a zero-sum game for that very reason. What will be interesting to see is if Obama's environmental policy has an effect on suburban life (lowering emissions, increased funding for mass transit and/or less federal funding for roads).
This is something I will keep an eye on as the Obama administration takes root, as someone who lives in a major city and has a big interest in urban affairs.
Stinger rant #3
There is a terrible new trend that has emerged in the past couple of years...it affects many of us acutely, and will eventually affect many more of us. It is pernicious, unforgiving, and possibly one of the more evil developments in recent society. What is this terrible menace??? Voice-activated automated phone systems.
In case you don't know what this is, these are automated phone systems that, instead of prompting you to push buttons (1 for English, oprima numero ocho para espanol), it asks you to say what you want to do. I despise these things. The most recent instance of me using this was when I called to pay my cell phone bill. At one point, it asked me for the security code on my card. I had to dig it out of my wallet to get the card. Not five seconds after asking me the first time, it asked me a second time. Good Lord, the stupid thing nagged me!!! I was so upset I actually yelled, "I'm working on it, jerk (only I didn't say jerk)." The other problem of course is that you have to say things exactly right, or it doesn't understand you. That is pretty damn frustrating as well.
You: Yes
Software: Sorry, I didn't understand you. Please say yes or no.
You: YES!
Software: Sorry, I didn't understand you. Please say yes or no.
You: YES!!!! I SAID YES, DAMMIT!!!!!!
1 second.....2 seconds.....3 seconds....."hey, maybe it got it this time".....4 seconds......5 seconds
Software: Sorry, I didn't understand you. Please say yes or no.
You: BLEEEEEEEEEEEP!!!!!!!!!
The thing that bothers me is that this is the solution presented because people don't want to press buttons, they want to talk to someone when they make a customer service call. But, companies don't want to pay a lot of customer service representatives. So, they compromise. You want to talk to someone? OK, talk to this voice-activated automated system. See how you like that.
Personally, if that's the choice I have, I'll press 3 to press buttons. Voice-activated automated phone systems can go to Hell....which is likely where they came from in the first place.
In case you don't know what this is, these are automated phone systems that, instead of prompting you to push buttons (1 for English, oprima numero ocho para espanol), it asks you to say what you want to do. I despise these things. The most recent instance of me using this was when I called to pay my cell phone bill. At one point, it asked me for the security code on my card. I had to dig it out of my wallet to get the card. Not five seconds after asking me the first time, it asked me a second time. Good Lord, the stupid thing nagged me!!! I was so upset I actually yelled, "I'm working on it, jerk (only I didn't say jerk)." The other problem of course is that you have to say things exactly right, or it doesn't understand you. That is pretty damn frustrating as well.
You: Yes
Software: Sorry, I didn't understand you. Please say yes or no.
You: YES!
Software: Sorry, I didn't understand you. Please say yes or no.
You: YES!!!! I SAID YES, DAMMIT!!!!!!
1 second.....2 seconds.....3 seconds....."hey, maybe it got it this time".....4 seconds......5 seconds
Software: Sorry, I didn't understand you. Please say yes or no.
You: BLEEEEEEEEEEEP!!!!!!!!!
The thing that bothers me is that this is the solution presented because people don't want to press buttons, they want to talk to someone when they make a customer service call. But, companies don't want to pay a lot of customer service representatives. So, they compromise. You want to talk to someone? OK, talk to this voice-activated automated system. See how you like that.
Personally, if that's the choice I have, I'll press 3 to press buttons. Voice-activated automated phone systems can go to Hell....which is likely where they came from in the first place.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Recount time
The Minnesota Senate race has a certified result, with Norm Coleman being all of 215 votes ahead of Al Franken going into the recount which begins tomorrow. This promises to be a pretty contentious recount, as the Coleman and Franken clearly have little use for each other. Here are the questions I have:
1. How many people are going to be watching the counters on this? I know Coleman has dispatched an army of lawyers to contest ballots, and Franken likely has as well. How will this affect the counting?
2. Is there a standard that is uniform that will determine what counts as a vote? If so, what is that standard? I am inclined to think that people should have to follow instructions in order for their vote to count. But, I will be OK as long as there is a standard that all have to follow. But, the instructions were pretty clear to me on my ballot.
3. I know many on the right question the integrity of Mark Ritchie. In the times I have seen him, he seems to want to do this right....but, what does he believe to be right? I am inclined to take him at his word for now.
So, as things progress, I will post as I feel inclined. In the meantime, may the process go smoothly and that the right person wins, whoever he may be.
1. How many people are going to be watching the counters on this? I know Coleman has dispatched an army of lawyers to contest ballots, and Franken likely has as well. How will this affect the counting?
2. Is there a standard that is uniform that will determine what counts as a vote? If so, what is that standard? I am inclined to think that people should have to follow instructions in order for their vote to count. But, I will be OK as long as there is a standard that all have to follow. But, the instructions were pretty clear to me on my ballot.
3. I know many on the right question the integrity of Mark Ritchie. In the times I have seen him, he seems to want to do this right....but, what does he believe to be right? I am inclined to take him at his word for now.
So, as things progress, I will post as I feel inclined. In the meantime, may the process go smoothly and that the right person wins, whoever he may be.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
It was a good day
You know what a good day is....when the Packers beat the Bears by 34, the Vikings lose, and the Lions lose too. That is a good day.
After further review, the Bears still suck!!!
That is all.
After further review, the Bears still suck!!!
That is all.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Goin' to New Delhi with an achin'...in my knee
This is an interesting development. Wellpoint is offering people working for Serigraph in West Bend, WI the option to travel to other countries for non-emergency surgery, specifically India. What amazes me about this is that it is actually cheaper to fly someone to India and have surgery than it is for someone to have surgery here. I don't know that this will work, as I don't think there would necessarily be a high level of trust in doctors abroad with a lot of people. But, there is that much cost savings? Clearly something is out of whack with health care costs in this country.
Would I do it to waive the deductible and copay? I am probably not a good person to ask because I like to travel. But, for non-emergency surgery? I don't know...I can't dismiss the idea out of hand, especially if the hospital and doctor(s) are properly accredited. But, the cost of missed work, passport, etc makes me wonder if it would be worth the cost. I will give Serigraph and Wellpoint points for creativity.
Would I do it to waive the deductible and copay? I am probably not a good person to ask because I like to travel. But, for non-emergency surgery? I don't know...I can't dismiss the idea out of hand, especially if the hospital and doctor(s) are properly accredited. But, the cost of missed work, passport, etc makes me wonder if it would be worth the cost. I will give Serigraph and Wellpoint points for creativity.
CC-C ya later...so now what?
They say there are two certainties in life: death and taxes. Certainly these days there is a third, that being that CC Sabathia will not be a Brewer next year. I mean, it's not "certain," but with the Angels and Yankees probably throwing money at him, it's a done deal.
So what do the Brewers do? Despite his injury history, it would be interesting to see how Ben Sheets will do on the market. He potentially will make a lot of money too, but I think he is too injury-prone to command CC-type money, which may make him signable for the Brewers.
Really, the Brewers really, really need to work on that bullpen. A good first step would be to not re-sign Eric Gagne. He was too useless at too many big moments, so he was not worth the $10 million. With Salomon Torres retiring, the bullpen becomes even more of a problem than it already is. The Brewers need a new closer.
I will try to post more thoughts on the Brewers' offseason needs later.
So what do the Brewers do? Despite his injury history, it would be interesting to see how Ben Sheets will do on the market. He potentially will make a lot of money too, but I think he is too injury-prone to command CC-type money, which may make him signable for the Brewers.
Really, the Brewers really, really need to work on that bullpen. A good first step would be to not re-sign Eric Gagne. He was too useless at too many big moments, so he was not worth the $10 million. With Salomon Torres retiring, the bullpen becomes even more of a problem than it already is. The Brewers need a new closer.
I will try to post more thoughts on the Brewers' offseason needs later.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Prop 8
I first read about California's Prop 8 to ban same-sex marriage about a week or so before the election. I figured there was a headwind against its passage, given California's political leanings and the excitement about Barack Obama. Besides, Arizona had rejected a gay marriage ban two years ago, so California certainly would, right? Well, it passed 52-48.
One issue where I part with conservatives is same-sex marriage. I have heard all the arguments, including people saying it's a question of judicial overreach. But, when it comes down to it, to me the judicial overreach argument is a red herring. I don't believe that all proponents of same-sex marriage bans (including the one that unfortunately passed in Wisconsin) hate homosexuals. But, some do. And, others seem to feel queasy about it. Others will argue that they are defending the sanctity of marriage. What sanctity? We as a society have done a pretty good job of ruining the sanctity of marriage. I don't think there is a good legal argument against same-sex marriage. Now, if any church does not want to marry same-sex couples, that is their perogative.
Amanda has a good post about this at her place. It also includes a video from Keith Olbermann. I don't agree with him on a lot, but he is dead on here.
Here is the bottom line: Same-sex marriage is going to happen (it already is in Massachusetts and Connecticut), and we are going to end up wasting a lot of time overturning constitutional bans that have been enacted once we realize that same-sex marriage is no big deal. As for me, I don't care if gays want to marry each other. Let them...it's not taking away any marriage license I may eventually need. If Minnesota ever puts a ban like this on the ballot, I will vote against the ban.
I know I will get flak from conservatives on this...so be it.
One issue where I part with conservatives is same-sex marriage. I have heard all the arguments, including people saying it's a question of judicial overreach. But, when it comes down to it, to me the judicial overreach argument is a red herring. I don't believe that all proponents of same-sex marriage bans (including the one that unfortunately passed in Wisconsin) hate homosexuals. But, some do. And, others seem to feel queasy about it. Others will argue that they are defending the sanctity of marriage. What sanctity? We as a society have done a pretty good job of ruining the sanctity of marriage. I don't think there is a good legal argument against same-sex marriage. Now, if any church does not want to marry same-sex couples, that is their perogative.
Amanda has a good post about this at her place. It also includes a video from Keith Olbermann. I don't agree with him on a lot, but he is dead on here.
Here is the bottom line: Same-sex marriage is going to happen (it already is in Massachusetts and Connecticut), and we are going to end up wasting a lot of time overturning constitutional bans that have been enacted once we realize that same-sex marriage is no big deal. As for me, I don't care if gays want to marry each other. Let them...it's not taking away any marriage license I may eventually need. If Minnesota ever puts a ban like this on the ballot, I will vote against the ban.
I know I will get flak from conservatives on this...so be it.
Houston Review 2 - They don't like Ike
I was originally supposed to go to Houston for work in September, but was derailed by Hurricane Ike. So instead of going in September and seeing an Astros game, I went last week and saw the Rockets. Quick review: Ike was a large storm that hit the Texas Gulf Coast in September. It made landfall as a category 2 hurricane, but it was huge in area, and packed a big storm surge. Galveston took a big hit from the storm, but Houston was affected as well. But, you would barely know it looking around Houston two months later. Other than a few boarded-up windows I saw downtown, and some damage in League City (the closest I got to Galveston), it hardly looks like a large hurricane hit town.
I am not sure what this means, other than both the feds and local government learned lessons from Katrina. But, I do believe that Houston probably has better local government than New Orleans from the standpoint that people got out (except those who chose to ride out the storm...monumentally stupid, by the way). Granted, I did not see Galveston, so I can't speak to the recovery efforts there. But, just up the pike, things looked pretty good relatively speaking. I guess not having an incompetent mayor like Ray Nagin helps. I also suppose having different leadership at FEMA helps as well.
The only way my trip was affected was that a burger joint that was highly recommended by my co-workers hadn't re-opened yet. That was in League City. Instead, we ate lunch at a pretty decent Mexican joint up the street.
I am not sure what this means, other than both the feds and local government learned lessons from Katrina. But, I do believe that Houston probably has better local government than New Orleans from the standpoint that people got out (except those who chose to ride out the storm...monumentally stupid, by the way). Granted, I did not see Galveston, so I can't speak to the recovery efforts there. But, just up the pike, things looked pretty good relatively speaking. I guess not having an incompetent mayor like Ray Nagin helps. I also suppose having different leadership at FEMA helps as well.
The only way my trip was affected was that a burger joint that was highly recommended by my co-workers hadn't re-opened yet. That was in League City. Instead, we ate lunch at a pretty decent Mexican joint up the street.
Monday, November 10, 2008
You're out of touch, I'm out of time
OK, really this is an experiment to see if I am out of touch musically. You can join in the fun too. Here is the most recent Billboard Hot 100 chart. Two questions: 1. How many artists in the top 50 do you know? 2. How many songs do you know?
For me, I know of 36 out of 50 artists in the top 50 (repeats count). As for songs, I have heard a paltry 4 of the songs in this week's Billboard top 50. I would say that I am pretty much done with new pop music (not old pop obviously, what with quoting Hall and Oates). Either that or I am a huge music snob, because I do listen to some current music, just nothing that is charting apparently.
Oh, one other thing: Lil Wayne is involved in six of the top 50 songs...SIX!! I knew that dude was everywhere. However, he could be in all 50 songs, and my niece would still not be impressed.
For me, I know of 36 out of 50 artists in the top 50 (repeats count). As for songs, I have heard a paltry 4 of the songs in this week's Billboard top 50. I would say that I am pretty much done with new pop music (not old pop obviously, what with quoting Hall and Oates). Either that or I am a huge music snob, because I do listen to some current music, just nothing that is charting apparently.
Oh, one other thing: Lil Wayne is involved in six of the top 50 songs...SIX!! I knew that dude was everywhere. However, he could be in all 50 songs, and my niece would still not be impressed.
Houston Review 1 - Rockin' Rockets
As part of my trip to H-Town, I got to watch the Houston Rockets play the Boston Celtics. The Rockets play at the Toyota Center, which is a pretty new arena that replaces The Summit, which is now a megachurch. I gotta tell you, the atmosphere at the Toyota Center is outstanding!! Of course, the Rockets are a pretty good team, so that stands to reason. As in most new arenas and stadiums, there are many luxury suites. But, where I sat (lower level behind the basket), there were a lot of great fans. While the Rockets made it interesting, the Celtics won in the end.
Having been to only the Target Center and the Bradley Center before, I have to say the Toyota Center is definitely a step or three up from either of those places.
Having been to only the Target Center and the Bradley Center before, I have to say the Toyota Center is definitely a step or three up from either of those places.
Overdue preview of little probable interest - Bucks Ball!!!
It's sad that I say the Bucks don't rate a lot of interest. But, that's the reality. In the meantime, I still like them, so here's the Stinger preview.
Guards: The Bucks traded Mo Williams to the Cleveland Cavaliers. While Williams was a solid scorer, he was not a true point guard, which on a team that wasn't really a team, is not a good thing. The Bucks in 07-08 were a team that couldn't play team ball and couldn't play defense. Having a shoot-first point guard is not conducive to what new coach Scott Skiles wants to do, so away he went. In comes Luke Ridnour, who I liked coming out of Oregon. He is a solid 1, so I think he will eventually help. At the 2 is the well-traveled Michael Redd, who has a gold medal from Beijing. He will get the Bucks 22-26 points every night, but it will be interesting to see if he sticks around through yet another rebuild. Someone may want him at the trade deadline. Backups are the occasionally solid Ramon Sessions and Charlie Bell, and Damon Jones and Tyronn Lue.
Forwards: The Bucks made a splash this year by miraculously getting rid of Bobby Simmons' contract and a malcontent-in-the-waiting in Yi Jianlian, and getting Richard Jefferson. This was a great move to get someone who will be a good three for the next few years. This has not been a position of strength since Glenn Robinson was around (which is saying something considering Big Dog could shoot, but little else). The Bucks have the frustrating Charlie Villanueva at the 4, who shows flashes of brilliance, but doesn't always show up. The Bucks drafted Joe Alexander and Luc Mbah a Moute to solidify the forward slots. Both have some promise. Austin Croshere is there to provide some experience off the bench. I doubt he has much left in the tank, though.
Centers: The man is Andrew Bogut. He is fast becoming a solid center in this league, which is exactly what Milwaukee wanted when they drafted him (although Chris Paul would have looked awfully good in Bucks gear). The thing is, if you have a good center who can alter shots and get some boards, that is a great start to a good team. The unshakable Dan Gadzuric is still around (unshakable because of his contract), so Bogut will need a lot to play a lot of minutes.
Coaching: Larry Krystowiak was in over his head coaching in the NBA. That was patently obvious pretty much right away. Getting Scott Skiles in was a big move, but not the biggest move. I think Skiles is worth at least 5-7 more victories by himself.
Overall: This Bucks team is better than last year's edition. In the East, they will be in contention for the 8 spot. But, they aren't good enough to make a run yet. It will be interesting to see how much of a rebuilding project the Bucks will be in the next couple of years. But, I think John Hammond will guide the Bucks to better days.
Guards: The Bucks traded Mo Williams to the Cleveland Cavaliers. While Williams was a solid scorer, he was not a true point guard, which on a team that wasn't really a team, is not a good thing. The Bucks in 07-08 were a team that couldn't play team ball and couldn't play defense. Having a shoot-first point guard is not conducive to what new coach Scott Skiles wants to do, so away he went. In comes Luke Ridnour, who I liked coming out of Oregon. He is a solid 1, so I think he will eventually help. At the 2 is the well-traveled Michael Redd, who has a gold medal from Beijing. He will get the Bucks 22-26 points every night, but it will be interesting to see if he sticks around through yet another rebuild. Someone may want him at the trade deadline. Backups are the occasionally solid Ramon Sessions and Charlie Bell, and Damon Jones and Tyronn Lue.
Forwards: The Bucks made a splash this year by miraculously getting rid of Bobby Simmons' contract and a malcontent-in-the-waiting in Yi Jianlian, and getting Richard Jefferson. This was a great move to get someone who will be a good three for the next few years. This has not been a position of strength since Glenn Robinson was around (which is saying something considering Big Dog could shoot, but little else). The Bucks have the frustrating Charlie Villanueva at the 4, who shows flashes of brilliance, but doesn't always show up. The Bucks drafted Joe Alexander and Luc Mbah a Moute to solidify the forward slots. Both have some promise. Austin Croshere is there to provide some experience off the bench. I doubt he has much left in the tank, though.
Centers: The man is Andrew Bogut. He is fast becoming a solid center in this league, which is exactly what Milwaukee wanted when they drafted him (although Chris Paul would have looked awfully good in Bucks gear). The thing is, if you have a good center who can alter shots and get some boards, that is a great start to a good team. The unshakable Dan Gadzuric is still around (unshakable because of his contract), so Bogut will need a lot to play a lot of minutes.
Coaching: Larry Krystowiak was in over his head coaching in the NBA. That was patently obvious pretty much right away. Getting Scott Skiles in was a big move, but not the biggest move. I think Skiles is worth at least 5-7 more victories by himself.
Overall: This Bucks team is better than last year's edition. In the East, they will be in contention for the 8 spot. But, they aren't good enough to make a run yet. It will be interesting to see how much of a rebuilding project the Bucks will be in the next couple of years. But, I think John Hammond will guide the Bucks to better days.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Iron Range shenanigans
Norm Coleman had a 725ish-vote lead after all the votes were counted initially. Over the past few days, that lead has dwindled to 221, courtesy of 100 votes from Mountain Iron, amongst others. Mr. D has a pretty intense post about this situation. We should be used to bitter recount situations, what with half the country believing Bush stole the 2000 election while the other half thought Gore was trying to steal it. Just recently, 32 absentee ballots from Minneapolis were ordered to be opened, which should almost certainly narrow the count by 32 more.
I am not sure what to think. Having supported Coleman in the election, of course I want him to be victorious. But, I am not going to get into a lather about this until the scenario Mr. D spelled out actually happens.
I am not sure what to think. Having supported Coleman in the election, of course I want him to be victorious. But, I am not going to get into a lather about this until the scenario Mr. D spelled out actually happens.
Shout-out to Gino
In the craziness that has been happening with me and with the election, I forgot to mention the situation regarding my blogging buddy Gino. He went in for surgery for a tumor and is currently recovering. You can read more details on his blog. So here's hoping things continue to improve for him.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Post-Houston, Post-Election
First thing...I am back from Houston, and I gotta say it's alright. I wasn't as impressed as I was with Denver (another city I visited for the first time this year), but I had a good time. I found myself in the happiest place in the city Tuesday night, a bar called the Flying Saucer in downtown Houston, where there was a big Obama celebration on Election Night. Obama's election seemed to cause a nationwide burst of emotion in a lot of people. It was hard to not feel good about it. And, Obama did win easily, which I thought would happen. The GOP is in trouble, and I think they need a couple of years in the wilderness to get their act together. I will post my thoughts on how they should do it in a different post.
Boy, things got pretty interesting here in Minnesota with the Senate race, didn't it? I am happy that Coleman is ahead, but I am disappointed that a lot of people are so full of hatred for the GOP that we are damn near sending Stuart Smalley to the Senate. He is a spiteful individual that, in my opinion, does not have the demeanor to serve in the Senate. I hope Coleman stays ahead. In addition, Coleman winning will greatly reduce the likelihood that the Dems will get to 60 senators. We need to have 41 GOP senators to serve as a check on the Dems. Remember, divided government is a good thing.
Michelle Bachmann hung on, which I didn't think would happen. She is troubling to me because of her ultra-conservative views on social issues, but she won in the 6th. I think the national Democratic party will continue to gun for her in the future.
It was good to see Erik Paulsen win in the 3rd. Ashwin Madia was not a good candidate for the 3rd, which is a moderate-right district. I think Madia was trying to portray himself as a moderate, but his past endorsements of raising taxes does not play well out in the burbs.
I will post more thoughts on Houston later.
Boy, things got pretty interesting here in Minnesota with the Senate race, didn't it? I am happy that Coleman is ahead, but I am disappointed that a lot of people are so full of hatred for the GOP that we are damn near sending Stuart Smalley to the Senate. He is a spiteful individual that, in my opinion, does not have the demeanor to serve in the Senate. I hope Coleman stays ahead. In addition, Coleman winning will greatly reduce the likelihood that the Dems will get to 60 senators. We need to have 41 GOP senators to serve as a check on the Dems. Remember, divided government is a good thing.
Michelle Bachmann hung on, which I didn't think would happen. She is troubling to me because of her ultra-conservative views on social issues, but she won in the 6th. I think the national Democratic party will continue to gun for her in the future.
It was good to see Erik Paulsen win in the 3rd. Ashwin Madia was not a good candidate for the 3rd, which is a moderate-right district. I think Madia was trying to portray himself as a moderate, but his past endorsements of raising taxes does not play well out in the burbs.
I will post more thoughts on Houston later.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Hanging in the 713 and some predictions
Well, the computer is not fixed...but, here's a quick post. I am pretty excited as I am taking my first business trip, which involves a trip to Houston. Beyond work, I am going to see the Rockets play the Celtics, which should be fun. If anything piques my interest, I will post about it when I get back. In the meantime, here's how I think tomorrow will go:
President: Obama wins easily.
MN Senate: I think Norm Coleman will win, but barely...
MN-3: Hard to call, but I think Paulsen will squeak by
MN-6: I am not sure Bachmann will win.
All other MN incumbents will win easily I think.
WI-8: This is my hometown district (actually I think my childhood home may be in the 6th now), so I will make a prediction based on nothing more than tidbits I have heard: While Dr. Kagen has said some outlandish things, and the 8th is fairly conservative, it's not as conservative as it used to be. Also, I think Obama is going to have some coattails in Wisconsin, where he has been ahead the entire time. So, Kagen wins by a hair.
Gotta go, but I will post more when I get back from H-Town.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Down and out in Mpls
Blogging will be light for a day or two...I am having computer problems (again!). Hopefully this will be short-lived as there is a lot going on as we approach the election. So, stay tuned. I'll be back soon.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Baconfest Saturday
Today is truly one of the best days of the year, for today I, along with several work buddies, celebrate the greatest food known to man. That, my friends, is BACON!!! That's right, today is Baconfest. This year, it is being held in Minnetonka. Just the thought of sizzling bacon is making me want to throw down hundreds...nay, thousands of pieces of it. A bunch of us get together, eat bacon and food with bacon in it. Beers will be consumed as well I am sure. This is the fourth edition of Baconfest, and it will only get bigger and better.
You may not be able to be there with us, but if you have the means, I highly recommend you celebrate bacon with me today. Fry up a slice or 50. You can't go wrong with bacon!!
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Wandering into the big time?
Over the past year or so, I have occasionally read in the hometown paper about a band out of Appleton that seems to be on the brink of breaking out. That band is Cory Chisel & the Wandering Sons. They are kinda folksy...they are listed as doing Americana music. I am checking it out as I type this post, and while I am a little biased as friends of mine back home rave about them, I think it's pretty decent music. Check 'em out. Look, Appleton hasn't had a band break out in many years...the closest is the seemingly defunct Number One Fan, an emo group that was decent. So, the prospect of these guys breaking is exciting.
Stinger rant #1 - Update
One of my first rants (I really thought rants would be a regular feature here) was about healthy people using the handicapped button that opens doors. Recently, I have seen the most egregious example yet. Every once in awhile, including today, I see guys at the gym using the cripple button....AT THE GYM!!! Christ, does opening a door interfere with your workout??!!! I can just picture some meathead who grunts loud enough for people in St. Paul to hear when lifting weights saying, "yeah I can bench 500, but opening the door messes with my shoulder...so I hit the button."
Here's the deal...if you can bench 300 lbs, run 3 miles and/or hog the treadmill for hours on end, or swim 1000 meters, you can open a freaking door!! Grrrrr.......
Here's the deal...if you can bench 300 lbs, run 3 miles and/or hog the treadmill for hours on end, or swim 1000 meters, you can open a freaking door!! Grrrrr.......
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Is this supposed to help?
Michelle Bachmann, who is a little too righty for me with her Bible-thumping ways, got into a little trouble for remarks made in an interview with Chris Matthews. So, her explanation is, "I stepped into a trap?!!" You basically admitted you are not savvy enough to avoid or beat a "trap" set up by Chris Matthews. First, you need to know that Chris Matthews is not sympathetic to your cause. Second, making remarks like that on Barack Obama when he has a huge lead in your state is not smart. You know, he just might have coattails...enough to elect a Dem congressman, even in a relatively conservative district like the Sixth.
Strib poll, granuals of salt, and the Senate race
The latest Strib poll shows a tight race amongst Norm Coleman, Al Franken, and Dean Barkley. Franken is still up 3, but it's tighter than the last poll, in which Franken had an eight-point lead. Now, keeping in mind the historical inaccuracy of the poll, I think this means that things between Coleman and Franken are probably tied.
A part of me knew this would happen because of the distinct advantage the Democrats should have this year, plus Al Franken does have name recognition. But, I have to say that Al hasn't really done or said anything that makes me want to vote for him. Actually, I don't really know what he stands for. From what I can tell, his only reason for running is because Norm Coleman is a Bush-bot and his belief that we have to get out of Iraq now (wow, haven't heard much about Iraq lately).
As for Norm, he has not been perfect as a Senator, but he has been more than adequate. If this was most other years, Coleman would win easily, even in Minnesota. I am also a fan of divided government, so the prospect of a filibuster-proof Senate compels me to vote for Coleman. I like divided government because it serves to check the worst impulses of the party in power. And, there are a lot of things the Dems want to do that I think are ill-advised, including card-check, the incremental nationalization of health care, and the possible reinstatement of the Fairness Doctrine. Knowing the House and Presidency are going to be in Democratic hands, having at least one drag on the Democratic agenda is needed.
A part of me knew this would happen because of the distinct advantage the Democrats should have this year, plus Al Franken does have name recognition. But, I have to say that Al hasn't really done or said anything that makes me want to vote for him. Actually, I don't really know what he stands for. From what I can tell, his only reason for running is because Norm Coleman is a Bush-bot and his belief that we have to get out of Iraq now (wow, haven't heard much about Iraq lately).
As for Norm, he has not been perfect as a Senator, but he has been more than adequate. If this was most other years, Coleman would win easily, even in Minnesota. I am also a fan of divided government, so the prospect of a filibuster-proof Senate compels me to vote for Coleman. I like divided government because it serves to check the worst impulses of the party in power. And, there are a lot of things the Dems want to do that I think are ill-advised, including card-check, the incremental nationalization of health care, and the possible reinstatement of the Fairness Doctrine. Knowing the House and Presidency are going to be in Democratic hands, having at least one drag on the Democratic agenda is needed.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Next 5
In my several months of blogging, I can't believe I haven't done a next 5 post. These are pretty common, but I am going to put myself out there a bit and give a glimpse into my weird taste in music. I will list the next 5 songs on my iPod and explain why they are there.
"Breaking My Heart (Pretty Brown Eyes)" by Mint Condition - This is probably one of my favorite songs of all time. Great mid-tempo song, very clean-sounding, and it builds up as the song goes on. You can almost hear the increasing frustration in Stokely Williams' voice as the song goes on. I think we've all been where he was in that song.
"Campus" by Vampire Weekend - A friend from work introduced me to this band, and I got into them right away. I would have been quicker to get into them, but I haven't been listening to The Current like a good boy this year. Campus is not my favorite song on the album (that would be "A-Punk"), but it's a pretty good song. Another song of lament....
"Chloe Dancer/Crown of Thorns" by Mother Love Bone - This song is off the Singles soundtrack, which is one of my all-time favorite soundtracks. This song is the best song on the album ("Birth Ritual" by Soundgarden being a close 2nd). My favorite line: "I used to treat you like a lady, now you're a substitute teacher." The soundtrack version is better than the version on Mother Love Bone's albums, and it's because of the combination of these two songs and a great fade-out at the end. Spoken like a true music snob, I know. Andrew Wood is still missed....
"Solsbury Hill" by Peter Gabriel - This is essentially a Dear John letter to Genesis written after Gabriel left the group. The funny thing is, both Gabriel and Genesis had much more commercial success separate than together. When I was unhappy in my job a few years ago, this song popped into my head a lot.
"Around the World" by Daft Punk - Not a lot of lyrics in this one. This song has a time and place attachment for me. It came out in 1998, just as I was planning my triumphant return to Minnesota. I would listen to Daft Punk on my frequent bus trips between Appleton and the Cities. Actually, a lot of things were happening in my life in 1998. I won't get into all that here, but it's always fascinating how we have our own soundtracks.
So there you go. I want to do these every once in awhile...I would also love to have people chime in with their next 5, whether or not they have an iPod.
"Breaking My Heart (Pretty Brown Eyes)" by Mint Condition - This is probably one of my favorite songs of all time. Great mid-tempo song, very clean-sounding, and it builds up as the song goes on. You can almost hear the increasing frustration in Stokely Williams' voice as the song goes on. I think we've all been where he was in that song.
"Campus" by Vampire Weekend - A friend from work introduced me to this band, and I got into them right away. I would have been quicker to get into them, but I haven't been listening to The Current like a good boy this year. Campus is not my favorite song on the album (that would be "A-Punk"), but it's a pretty good song. Another song of lament....
"Chloe Dancer/Crown of Thorns" by Mother Love Bone - This song is off the Singles soundtrack, which is one of my all-time favorite soundtracks. This song is the best song on the album ("Birth Ritual" by Soundgarden being a close 2nd). My favorite line: "I used to treat you like a lady, now you're a substitute teacher." The soundtrack version is better than the version on Mother Love Bone's albums, and it's because of the combination of these two songs and a great fade-out at the end. Spoken like a true music snob, I know. Andrew Wood is still missed....
"Solsbury Hill" by Peter Gabriel - This is essentially a Dear John letter to Genesis written after Gabriel left the group. The funny thing is, both Gabriel and Genesis had much more commercial success separate than together. When I was unhappy in my job a few years ago, this song popped into my head a lot.
"Around the World" by Daft Punk - Not a lot of lyrics in this one. This song has a time and place attachment for me. It came out in 1998, just as I was planning my triumphant return to Minnesota. I would listen to Daft Punk on my frequent bus trips between Appleton and the Cities. Actually, a lot of things were happening in my life in 1998. I won't get into all that here, but it's always fascinating how we have our own soundtracks.
So there you go. I want to do these every once in awhile...I would also love to have people chime in with their next 5, whether or not they have an iPod.
#25 Ski-U-Mah!!!
It may not last that long, and they aren't a title-caliber team yet, but I just wanted to note the Minnesota Golden Gophers' rise into the ranks of the top 25. It's their first appearance in the rankings since 2005. Now, I have to be cautious in my optimism as I've been burned before by the Gophs. But, it's entirely possible that the Gopher football program will have a nice head of steam going for it going into the new stadium. They've come a long way since I watched them squeak by Northern Illinois. They have a tough one coming up at Purdue, where they have had a lot of trouble winning over the years.
Come to think of it, the football teams I root for are all doing well.
Kimberly - 8-0, winning games by an average score of 48-7.
Minnesota - 6-1 (2-1 in the Big Ten)
Green Bay - 4-3, with an impressive win over the Indianapolis Colts...tied for 1st with da Bears.
Other than the Bucks, 2008 has been a pretty good sports year for me.
Oh, I suppose I should mention the Badgers, who are not having a good year. Despite my history with UW, I do still root for them against all non-Gophers teams. But, I do have to say I like seeing the Gophers well north of Bucky in the Big Ten standings.
Come to think of it, the football teams I root for are all doing well.
Kimberly - 8-0, winning games by an average score of 48-7.
Minnesota - 6-1 (2-1 in the Big Ten)
Green Bay - 4-3, with an impressive win over the Indianapolis Colts...tied for 1st with da Bears.
Other than the Bucks, 2008 has been a pretty good sports year for me.
Oh, I suppose I should mention the Badgers, who are not having a good year. Despite my history with UW, I do still root for them against all non-Gophers teams. But, I do have to say I like seeing the Gophers well north of Bucky in the Big Ten standings.
Requiem for a good drink for the underage
The year was 1993. Bill Clinton hadn't met his favorite intern yet. Brett Favre was just beginning his slow build towards greatness. The Spin Doctors still had a future. And, a clear alcoholic beverage that no self-respecting dude would ever admit to drinking came into being. Of course, most self-respecting guys don't admit to a lot of things they do, so that's irrelevant.
I remember when Zima came out. I was in high school, and had already developed a bit of a taste for beer, but not to the point it is now, so in the spring of 1994, some of us decided to try it. We got a guy to buy us a six-pack, and four of us drank it in about 15 minutes. That should tell you all you need to know. Four high school kids threw down a six-pack, and none of us got even close to drunk. But, Zima did appeal to a lot of us underage kids in the mid 90s.
Now, in 2008, MillerCoors has decided to end production of Zima. Sales are down (and probably have been since December 1994, around the last time I drank it). Zima is a lesson in novelty value wearing off quickly. I forgot it was still available. I don't recall it being available at the Coors brewery when I was out there this summer, so it's not like they were proud of it. So, the first malt beverage goes out with a whimper.
I remember when Zima came out. I was in high school, and had already developed a bit of a taste for beer, but not to the point it is now, so in the spring of 1994, some of us decided to try it. We got a guy to buy us a six-pack, and four of us drank it in about 15 minutes. That should tell you all you need to know. Four high school kids threw down a six-pack, and none of us got even close to drunk. But, Zima did appeal to a lot of us underage kids in the mid 90s.
Now, in 2008, MillerCoors has decided to end production of Zima. Sales are down (and probably have been since December 1994, around the last time I drank it). Zima is a lesson in novelty value wearing off quickly. I forgot it was still available. I don't recall it being available at the Coors brewery when I was out there this summer, so it's not like they were proud of it. So, the first malt beverage goes out with a whimper.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Will this escape scrutiny?
Tonight's episode of Family Guy had a plot with time travel and World War II. There were two instances of blatant leftist tripe. I know show creator Seth MacFarlane is a hardcore lefty, so this is to be expected. One was a shot at the war in Iraq, and the other one made my jaw drop. At one point in the episode, the characters drop a couple of Nazis in order to steal their uniforms and get entrance into a German operation. Stewie lifts the lapel of his uniform to reveal a McCain/Palin campaign button. Of course, the idea is that McCain and Palin are Nazis (or at least they have similar views). Now, we hear things like this all the time. My jaw dropped because of how blatant the writers were in doing it.
I'm not going to stop watching the show but good Lord, do we need to have constant politicking on shows that are not strictly political in nature? If someone had done a cartoon where a Soviet uniform revealed an Obama campaign button, it would be roundly denounced, and rightly so. But, my bet is we'll hear nary a peep about this (other than here, of course). You know, because comparing Republicans to Nazis is funny and accurate.
I'm not going to stop watching the show but good Lord, do we need to have constant politicking on shows that are not strictly political in nature? If someone had done a cartoon where a Soviet uniform revealed an Obama campaign button, it would be roundly denounced, and rightly so. But, my bet is we'll hear nary a peep about this (other than here, of course). You know, because comparing Republicans to Nazis is funny and accurate.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
I had a visitor today
This morning my roommate and I were watching Walk the Line when we hear a knock at our door. Interestingly enough, a couple of Barack Obama operatives are at our door. My roommate told them he's a Republican and ended it. But, I decided to ask a couple of questions. I told them that I am a fairly conservative guy, but that I wasn't impressed with John McCain (which I am not). The guy started talking about Obama's tax plan and his middle class tax-cut. For fun, I asked him how one can cut from 0% (which is the effective tax rate for a significant percentage of people). He squirmed a little at the question, then tried to change the subject. I then told him how I am against punishing success with punitive tax rates. He posited that Warren Buffet is an Obama supporter. My response to that is that if he was to research, he would find that a lot of the ultrarich in this country support Democrats. Warren Buffet, George Soros, the Gettys of San Francisco, and so on.
But, here's a question...to me, Obama's people have no reason to canvass Minneapolis. We are going to give about 80-85 percent of our vote to Obama. So, why are they still working Minneapolis? If there is uncertainty of the result of the Minnesota vote, shouldn't they be working this guy's neighborhood? Or, perhaps the 2nd, 3rd, and 6th districts? Maybe this thing isn't entirely over yet. Or maybe the Obama campaign has so much money they can move into more Republican areas as well as reinforce their strongholds.
But, here's a question...to me, Obama's people have no reason to canvass Minneapolis. We are going to give about 80-85 percent of our vote to Obama. So, why are they still working Minneapolis? If there is uncertainty of the result of the Minnesota vote, shouldn't they be working this guy's neighborhood? Or, perhaps the 2nd, 3rd, and 6th districts? Maybe this thing isn't entirely over yet. Or maybe the Obama campaign has so much money they can move into more Republican areas as well as reinforce their strongholds.
Newspaper endorsements
Newspaper endorsements have always been interesting to me. It's always good to know where newspapers stand, although I always wonder how their coverage is affected post-endorsement.
With that in mind, the Chicago Tribune endorsed Barack Obama for President. Honestly, I am not surprised. Obama is an Illinois guy, and the tone of the Chicago Tribune editorial page has gone to the left as of late. Really, I would be more surprised if any newspaper that is not blatantly conservative endorses John McCain. As much as I think McCain is not a good candidate, I do think that he is being messed over by a media that wants Obama elected more than any candidate in the past several election cycles. What did surprise me is that the Trib has never endorsed any Democrat before. I know the Trib has a historically pro-Republican editorial page, but I figured they would have endorsed at least one Democrat at some point. So, maybe I should be surprised at the endorsement. I would certainly be surprised if the Star Tribune endorsed any Republican for any major office, particularly for President. Really, when their endorsements start rolling in, it's going to be an open question whether or not they endorse an entirely Democratic Congressional slate for Minnesota. Maybe they'll endorse John Kline since he isn't really facing a contest.
With that in mind, the Chicago Tribune endorsed Barack Obama for President. Honestly, I am not surprised. Obama is an Illinois guy, and the tone of the Chicago Tribune editorial page has gone to the left as of late. Really, I would be more surprised if any newspaper that is not blatantly conservative endorses John McCain. As much as I think McCain is not a good candidate, I do think that he is being messed over by a media that wants Obama elected more than any candidate in the past several election cycles. What did surprise me is that the Trib has never endorsed any Democrat before. I know the Trib has a historically pro-Republican editorial page, but I figured they would have endorsed at least one Democrat at some point. So, maybe I should be surprised at the endorsement. I would certainly be surprised if the Star Tribune endorsed any Republican for any major office, particularly for President. Really, when their endorsements start rolling in, it's going to be an open question whether or not they endorse an entirely Democratic Congressional slate for Minnesota. Maybe they'll endorse John Kline since he isn't really facing a contest.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Well, I'll give the old man credit...
...he's got some fight left in him. I will not say he's winning so far. But, at least he has a few punches that are hitting. More to come later....
8:54 - I guess this is an attempt to live blog. Anyway, I have to say I really like this debate format.
8:56 - Health care. This is where Obama is going to get points. Never mind that his plan works towards socialized medicine. Costs need to be contained. I really think they would go down if we as consumers of health care actually felt the cost. Unfortunately, I don't know how to do that. Maybe one of my two commenters has an idea.
9:01 - Waiting for the next topic...
9:03 - Joe the Plumber is a nice personification of the "plain folks" propaganda technique. By the way, are we going to be able to call high-end anything "Cadillac" much longer?
9:06 - Oh Christ, here's the abortion topic! I know this is going to Supreme Court nominations. I think this is the most important issue not being discussed. Not because of abortion, though...but because Stevens, Ginsburg, and a couple of others don't have a lot of time left on this planet. Frankly, abortion as an issue is not that important to me. But, Supreme Court justices are.
9:11 - Obama, it's called statute of limitations, chucklehead. His story of Lucille (or whatever her name was) suing for equal pay was a red herring. Basically, Obama just gave away the game vis-a-vis judicial activism vs. strict Constitutionalists.
9:16 - Education...Obama being for charter schools is a good thing, as is McCain. Competition amongst K-12 schools is long overdue on a national basis.
9:23 - I think it looks like McCain is about to cry sometimes. He is a voracious note-taker.
9:26 - The closing statements are happening. I don't care. I think McCain did alright. Unfortunately, it's not nearly enough. He needed a knockout, and he didn't get it. But, he needed to give voters a reason to not vote for Obama, and to me, he didn't really do that.
9:29 - Obama just played his trump card, and why he is going to be the next President. Essentially he just equated McCain to the definition of insanity...doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. I think that resonates with people, even if the assertion that Bush=McCain is somewhat questionable.
10:07 - Watching the post-debate analysis, and I tend to agree that it would have been very difficult for McCain to "move the needle." That said, I also agree with some of the pundits that by not losing, Obama won. I think something really bad is going to have to happen to Obama for McCain to win.
8:54 - I guess this is an attempt to live blog. Anyway, I have to say I really like this debate format.
8:56 - Health care. This is where Obama is going to get points. Never mind that his plan works towards socialized medicine. Costs need to be contained. I really think they would go down if we as consumers of health care actually felt the cost. Unfortunately, I don't know how to do that. Maybe one of my two commenters has an idea.
9:01 - Waiting for the next topic...
9:03 - Joe the Plumber is a nice personification of the "plain folks" propaganda technique. By the way, are we going to be able to call high-end anything "Cadillac" much longer?
9:06 - Oh Christ, here's the abortion topic! I know this is going to Supreme Court nominations. I think this is the most important issue not being discussed. Not because of abortion, though...but because Stevens, Ginsburg, and a couple of others don't have a lot of time left on this planet. Frankly, abortion as an issue is not that important to me. But, Supreme Court justices are.
9:11 - Obama, it's called statute of limitations, chucklehead. His story of Lucille (or whatever her name was) suing for equal pay was a red herring. Basically, Obama just gave away the game vis-a-vis judicial activism vs. strict Constitutionalists.
9:16 - Education...Obama being for charter schools is a good thing, as is McCain. Competition amongst K-12 schools is long overdue on a national basis.
9:23 - I think it looks like McCain is about to cry sometimes. He is a voracious note-taker.
9:26 - The closing statements are happening. I don't care. I think McCain did alright. Unfortunately, it's not nearly enough. He needed a knockout, and he didn't get it. But, he needed to give voters a reason to not vote for Obama, and to me, he didn't really do that.
9:29 - Obama just played his trump card, and why he is going to be the next President. Essentially he just equated McCain to the definition of insanity...doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. I think that resonates with people, even if the assertion that Bush=McCain is somewhat questionable.
10:07 - Watching the post-debate analysis, and I tend to agree that it would have been very difficult for McCain to "move the needle." That said, I also agree with some of the pundits that by not losing, Obama won. I think something really bad is going to have to happen to Obama for McCain to win.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Everything is great in Neenah, WI 2
OK, so there are two things to worry about. But other than that, it's wonderful there.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Everything is great in Neenah, WI
Things must be wonderful in Neenah, because this is apparently all they have to worry about.
NHL pipe dream
People who know me well know I would love the NHL to come to Wisconsin. I also know that it will likely never happen. It's a shame, given that Wisconsin is, relatively speaking, a pretty good hockey state. It's no Minnesota or Massachusetts, but hockey is actually played in Wisconsin (you know, as opposed to Tennessee, Texas, Georgia or Arizona). However, Milwaukee is not big enough to support three teams, so I highly doubt we will ever see a Wisconsin-based NHL team.
I often wonder who I am supposed to root for in the NHL as a Wisconsin native. Living in Minnesota, I support the Wild to some extent, although I can see being more of a fan once I get to a game. But, I would imagine the Chicago Blackhawks and the Detroit Red Wings have some sort of territorial "claim" over Wisconsin. So, here's my idea: I think it would be fun to have a 4-team preseason tournament, with the winner getting "rights" to Wisconsin. It would be played every year in Milwaukee. I know I would put the Red Wings, Blackhawks, and Wild in the tournament. I am not sure on the 4th team, although I would think it would be either the St. Louis Blues or Nashville Predators (Nashville's AHL affiliate is the Milwaukee Admirals).
Obviously there are a lot of obstacles to making this happen. First off, it would be tough to say how much interest there would be in Wisconsin for this. Second, would the teams be interested in playing a preseason tournament with anything at stake? Also, would the winning team's games being shown in Wisconsin get much viewership?
Like I said, this is a pipe dream. But, wouldn't it be fun for people in Wisconsin?
I often wonder who I am supposed to root for in the NHL as a Wisconsin native. Living in Minnesota, I support the Wild to some extent, although I can see being more of a fan once I get to a game. But, I would imagine the Chicago Blackhawks and the Detroit Red Wings have some sort of territorial "claim" over Wisconsin. So, here's my idea: I think it would be fun to have a 4-team preseason tournament, with the winner getting "rights" to Wisconsin. It would be played every year in Milwaukee. I know I would put the Red Wings, Blackhawks, and Wild in the tournament. I am not sure on the 4th team, although I would think it would be either the St. Louis Blues or Nashville Predators (Nashville's AHL affiliate is the Milwaukee Admirals).
Obviously there are a lot of obstacles to making this happen. First off, it would be tough to say how much interest there would be in Wisconsin for this. Second, would the teams be interested in playing a preseason tournament with anything at stake? Also, would the winning team's games being shown in Wisconsin get much viewership?
Like I said, this is a pipe dream. But, wouldn't it be fun for people in Wisconsin?
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Offensive music
Not really...but I was turned onto a fairly new band out of the UK called Does It Offend You, Yeah? I have always liked new wavy-type music, and as of late there have been some bands who have incorporated it into their music. These guys do it well.
Here's a video for a song of theirs I like. Check it out. The video itself is a little odd, but the song is cool.
Here's a video for a song of theirs I like. Check it out. The video itself is a little odd, but the song is cool.
2008 Milwaukee Brewers
In my blogging absence, the Milwaukee Brewers managed to do something they haven't done since I was in 1st grade (incidentally my only year of Catholic school)....make the postseason!! As most know, the Brewers got bounced by the Philadelphia Phillies 3 games to 1. Of course, it's nothing new for Wisconsin-based teams to get bounced by Philly teams. 4th and 26, anyone? How about all those Bucks teams that kept running into the Sixers? I suspect that if Philly or a nearby suburb ever gets an AHL team, they would beat the Milwaukee Admirals in a playoff series (I said it this way because Milwaukee will likely never get the NHL). I think you could also throw in the Philadelphia Kixx beating the Milwaukee Wave at indoor soccer at some point.
But, the 2008 season was a good season overall except for September. The Brewers made a big move to get CC Sabathia, and their young roster came together decently for a good chunk of the season. So, I want to thank Mark Attanasio, Doug Melvin, and the Brewers team for giving me hope that postseason baseball can be played in Wisconsin. Now, let's try to get back before 2034.
But, the 2008 season was a good season overall except for September. The Brewers made a big move to get CC Sabathia, and their young roster came together decently for a good chunk of the season. So, I want to thank Mark Attanasio, Doug Melvin, and the Brewers team for giving me hope that postseason baseball can be played in Wisconsin. Now, let's try to get back before 2034.
Debate 2 - This time, it's person.....zzzzzzzz
My friends, last night's debate didn't change anything. We need change, and my friends, I saw nothing to indicate that there would be any change...in the electorate, anyway. Barack Obama started out ahead, and to me was ahead at the end. John McCain needed to win this debate convincingly, and I am not even sure he won it. I think the winner was Tom Brokaw. His point about time constraints and maintaining a schedule hit home. But seriously, the questions were boring and the answers were essentially talking points we have heard numerous times before. Nothing new came out of it.
Can you tell I am sick of the election?
Can you tell I am sick of the election?
Sunday, October 5, 2008
More cowbell
My last post was several weeks ago...for some reason, a request was made for more cowbell in the comments. It wasn't the guy pictured, but hey, he puts his pants on one leg at a time just like anyone. But, when his pants are on, he makes hits. When my pants are on, I sometimes blog.
Seriously, there are a couple of reasons I have not been blogging of late. First off, I am not sure what to write. I have to find a real niche, something that is interesting to me as well as the reader. I don't think I have found it yet.
Second, the big thing to be blogging about is the election. Frankly, I don't want to write about it that much because I don't really care for anyone running, including third parties. Barack Obama is going to win convincingly. If Indiana is in play, then I know it's pretty much over. I think it's going to take video of Tony Rezko, Bill Ayers, and Barack Obama in a room plotting the demise of the United States for John McCain to win...and Obama will still get Minnesota's electoral votes. Given my disdain for McCain (McCain-Feingold to me is defecating on the Constitution), frankly I will not be disappointed when he concedes. The GOP really screwed the pooch on this one. Is Barack Obama going to be a good president? I really don't think so. But, we haven't had a good president in many years, so we ought to be used to it. I am really cynical about this whole election cycle.
Anyway, I will do my best to post more often.
Note: I started this post a couple of days before I finished it (10/8).
Monday, September 15, 2008
Yost is toast
I saw this at work today (link goes to the JSO Brewers blog), and let out a pretty audible "wow." Of all the things I thought would happen during the plunge into the middle of the division standings, I did not think they would pop a cap into Ned Yost, the now-fired Milwaukee Brewers manager. I mean, something had to be done as the Brewers were throwing their season away, but this? Hey, it's a ballsy move. I just don't know that it's going to help with only 12 games left.
I was thinking about a post expressing my disgust with the lack of hitting, horrific bullpen pitching, and inadequate starting pitching (save CC Sabathia). Changing managers won't change these things. If the Brewers are going to get their mojo back, maybe making Dale Sveum the manager will do it. But, the bottom line is the Brewers' players have to play. It's now or never. After 26 years of no playoffs, we Brewers fans deserve an October run. Like I said, firing Yost may not help. But, the Brewers braintrust has to keep throwing crap on the wall and hope something sticks.
UPDATE: I am listening to WTMJ radio in Milwaukee online, and there is a collective bemused "what?!" in the air in SE Wisconsin. This was definitely an odd move, so I understand.
I was thinking about a post expressing my disgust with the lack of hitting, horrific bullpen pitching, and inadequate starting pitching (save CC Sabathia). Changing managers won't change these things. If the Brewers are going to get their mojo back, maybe making Dale Sveum the manager will do it. But, the bottom line is the Brewers' players have to play. It's now or never. After 26 years of no playoffs, we Brewers fans deserve an October run. Like I said, firing Yost may not help. But, the Brewers braintrust has to keep throwing crap on the wall and hope something sticks.
UPDATE: I am listening to WTMJ radio in Milwaukee online, and there is a collective bemused "what?!" in the air in SE Wisconsin. This was definitely an odd move, so I understand.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Played down the middle...but not really
Read this Milwaukee Journal Sentinel article, and then tell me if the tone of the article isn't, "Why isn't our guy winning?!! We should be kicking their butts, but we aren't? Why?!! Why?!! Oh, it's because Americans are stupid and vote on cosmetics instead of 'the issues.'"
Monday, September 8, 2008
Packers 24, Vikings 19
Green Bay escaped with a 24-19 win that should not have been as close as it was. Aaron Rodgers had a nice debut, completing 18 of 22 passes, with 1 TD pass and 1 rushing TD. He had a solid game against a Vikings defense designed to rattle QBs. Here are other impressions:
Chad Clifton kept Jared Allen at bay all night, but the interior line was terrible. Not because they didn't block decently (that actually went well), but because they committed stupid penalties, including one that negated an outstanding Rodgers-to-Driver touchdown. They really have to work that out, or else it could cost the Packers a game or two down the line.
The defense was pretty good. I am still not sure how much of a fan I am of the scheme in the secondary. If I am gameplanning against the Packers, I go deep and expect to get some first downs on penalties. Adrian Peterson got 103 yards, but got a lot of those on one run. Lesser running backs will have a tough time against the Packers.
The communication between Rodgers and his WRs is improving. In the preseason, there were a lot of dropped passes. But, with Rodgers going 18 for 22 tells me things here will be OK going forward.
Ryan Grant got 92 yards, which is good against the top run defense in the league. He got one great run off to get a lot of those yards, but you know the Vikings defense is not happy about that.
Overall, a win is a win. A win over a division rival is always a good thing. For my sanity, a win over the Viqueens is always great. But, a lot of things need to get better if the Packers are going to go anywhere this year. They need to play cleaner football, as there were way too many penalties.
Chad Clifton kept Jared Allen at bay all night, but the interior line was terrible. Not because they didn't block decently (that actually went well), but because they committed stupid penalties, including one that negated an outstanding Rodgers-to-Driver touchdown. They really have to work that out, or else it could cost the Packers a game or two down the line.
The defense was pretty good. I am still not sure how much of a fan I am of the scheme in the secondary. If I am gameplanning against the Packers, I go deep and expect to get some first downs on penalties. Adrian Peterson got 103 yards, but got a lot of those on one run. Lesser running backs will have a tough time against the Packers.
The communication between Rodgers and his WRs is improving. In the preseason, there were a lot of dropped passes. But, with Rodgers going 18 for 22 tells me things here will be OK going forward.
Ryan Grant got 92 yards, which is good against the top run defense in the league. He got one great run off to get a lot of those yards, but you know the Vikings defense is not happy about that.
Overall, a win is a win. A win over a division rival is always a good thing. For my sanity, a win over the Viqueens is always great. But, a lot of things need to get better if the Packers are going to go anywhere this year. They need to play cleaner football, as there were way too many penalties.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
The Game - 1
Tomorrow night is the first game of the season. It's on ESPN because they thought Brett Favre's number was going to be retired, but there is some compelling drama anyway. This article in the Wisconsin State Journal is a good synopsis of why the ante has been upped in the Packers-Vikings rivalry.
Personally, I think the Vikings were less than clean in the whole Favre saga. Did they tamper with Favre? Probably not...but, they had to know it would distract the Packers. I believe that Darrell Bevell and Favre definitely had a circle jerk over the phone over the possibility of being reunited under the Jiffy Pop Dome. Also, Ziggy Piggy (as Vikings owner Zygi Wilf is known around here) was very upset about the supposed bounty placed on Adrian Peterson's head by the Packers secondary. All this leads to tomorrow night's opener at Lambeau Field.
So, how will the game go? I don't know for sure. The Vikings unfortunately are better than last year, but it's not as though the Packers are suddenly bad. I think it will probably be a low-scoring game, being that these are two of the better defenses in the game. I think the Packers have an advantage in that they are less one-dimensional than the Vikings are on offense (at least until Tavaris Jackson proves otherwise). So, with a friendly crowd, I think the Packers win 20-17.
Personally, I think the Vikings were less than clean in the whole Favre saga. Did they tamper with Favre? Probably not...but, they had to know it would distract the Packers. I believe that Darrell Bevell and Favre definitely had a circle jerk over the phone over the possibility of being reunited under the Jiffy Pop Dome. Also, Ziggy Piggy (as Vikings owner Zygi Wilf is known around here) was very upset about the supposed bounty placed on Adrian Peterson's head by the Packers secondary. All this leads to tomorrow night's opener at Lambeau Field.
So, how will the game go? I don't know for sure. The Vikings unfortunately are better than last year, but it's not as though the Packers are suddenly bad. I think it will probably be a low-scoring game, being that these are two of the better defenses in the game. I think the Packers have an advantage in that they are less one-dimensional than the Vikings are on offense (at least until Tavaris Jackson proves otherwise). So, with a friendly crowd, I think the Packers win 20-17.
Don Haskins
Hall of Fame coach Don Haskins passed away today at age 78. He dared to start 5 black players in the 1966 NCAA basketball title game against Kentucky, who was notorious for not having black players, especially under Adolph Rupp. Texas Western (now Texas-El Paso) won the championship, which really opened the door for more black players to play college basketball.
Haskins was a trailblazer, and is a credit to the game of basketball. Rest in peace, Don.
Haskins was a trailblazer, and is a credit to the game of basketball. Rest in peace, Don.
Recreating "Americana"
One of the more interesting things in recent years of suburban development is the tendency of suburbs to create city centers to create a "small-town" feel. If you live in a suburb, you know of what I speak. This St. Paul Pioneer Press article is a fairly solid assessment of the attempts to do this in the suburban Twin Cities.
I think that these attempts to gain some sort of authenticity in the suburbs is pretty laughable. I understand the impulse, though. Suburban life has been under assault for years by new urbanists and others (myself included) who ridicule the lifestyle of cookie-cutter houses, long commutes, shopping malls that are the same in one suburb as the next, strip malls, and chain restaurants. Suburban life has been derided as soul-draining, with some effect. You see empty-nesters and others moving back into cities in search of something "real." So suburbs, trying to reinvent themselves have been trying to build city centers featuring pedestrian-friendly streets and sidewalks, small businesses, and the other trappings of small town life (or at least someone's vision of small-town life).
The problem is, people vote with their feet, and in most cases, continue their patterns of going to the mall (or lifestyle center) to do their shopping. These contrived city centers aren't really working by and large. One example cited of a place where it did work was Lakeville. The difference is, Lakeville was a small town at the beginning of its existence. That seems to be the key. Suburbs that once were small towns seem to do a better job of developing city centers, because once upon a time they were city centers. The experience of cities like Stillwater, Hudson, Lakeville, Hastings and others like that are based on that reality. You can't create the authentic small-town feel unless you have a good base with which to start.
It's funny, I sometimes wonder if anyone likes where they are. People in big cities want small-town life, and people in small towns want big-city life.
I think that these attempts to gain some sort of authenticity in the suburbs is pretty laughable. I understand the impulse, though. Suburban life has been under assault for years by new urbanists and others (myself included) who ridicule the lifestyle of cookie-cutter houses, long commutes, shopping malls that are the same in one suburb as the next, strip malls, and chain restaurants. Suburban life has been derided as soul-draining, with some effect. You see empty-nesters and others moving back into cities in search of something "real." So suburbs, trying to reinvent themselves have been trying to build city centers featuring pedestrian-friendly streets and sidewalks, small businesses, and the other trappings of small town life (or at least someone's vision of small-town life).
The problem is, people vote with their feet, and in most cases, continue their patterns of going to the mall (or lifestyle center) to do their shopping. These contrived city centers aren't really working by and large. One example cited of a place where it did work was Lakeville. The difference is, Lakeville was a small town at the beginning of its existence. That seems to be the key. Suburbs that once were small towns seem to do a better job of developing city centers, because once upon a time they were city centers. The experience of cities like Stillwater, Hudson, Lakeville, Hastings and others like that are based on that reality. You can't create the authentic small-town feel unless you have a good base with which to start.
It's funny, I sometimes wonder if anyone likes where they are. People in big cities want small-town life, and people in small towns want big-city life.
Monday, September 1, 2008
Hate Week
One of my favorite books of all time is George Orwell's 1984. One of the aspects of the society Orwell constructed in this book is the use of propaganda to stir up strong feelings of hatred, the apex of which was Hate Week. Well, with the RNC in town, many in the population of the Twin Cities, as well as other protesters trucked in from elsewhere, can now have their own Hate Week. For example, 50,000 people are expected to march today in St. Paul to protest the war in Iraq, the continued insistence by George W Bush of breathing oxygen, and whatever other grievances they have. This has been a long time coming. Years of animosity could come out this week. Too bad for them that Bush and Dick Cheney aren't coming here.
UPDATE: 50,000 was a slight overestimation, much like Ricky Vaughn was juuuust a bit outside in Major League...the protester count was more like 2,000. (note: as of 6:45 pm CDT, the article said 10,000 showed up, still far less than what they were hoping for). Here's the money quote:
"There's far too few people here," said Lennie Major, a teacher from Mounds View. "We should have 10 times this many. This will only be a blip."
Antiwar protests just ain't what they used to be.
UPDATE: 50,000 was a slight overestimation, much like Ricky Vaughn was juuuust a bit outside in Major League...the protester count was more like 2,000. (note: as of 6:45 pm CDT, the article said 10,000 showed up, still far less than what they were hoping for). Here's the money quote:
"There's far too few people here," said Lennie Major, a teacher from Mounds View. "We should have 10 times this many. This will only be a blip."
Antiwar protests just ain't what they used to be.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
63-7
I can't believe my high school alma mater has become a football powerhouse. When I was in high school, we were middling to bad. Kimberly is a basketball town. But, in the past few years, fortunes have improved for Kimberly football, culminating in a state title run last season. But, they lost their top runner (who plays at MSU-Mankato). So, what do they do? They start the season by going to their archrival's home field and mutilating them by the score indicated above.
It's a weird new world in Kimberly, Wisconsin...
It's a weird new world in Kimberly, Wisconsin...
Sarah Palin
I haven't commented on John McCain's pick of Alaska governor Sarah Palin as his pick for VP yet. I think my brother had a pretty good assessment of the pick over at his place. McCain really shook up the game with this pick, and blunted a lot of the momentum Barack Obama had post-convention. There is an argument that it was a token pick, and I can why one could make that point. However, it's still a good pick. Honestly, I have not been enthusiastic about McCain, and a lot of me still isn't because of that wretched piece of crap McCain-Feingold campaign finance reform bill. McCain has not earned my vote yet. But, having someone like Palin makes the ticket more palatable for me. She is not going to wilt in front of Joe Biden, and she has a rep as a reformer up in Alaska. This goes well with the whole CHAAAAAAAAAAANGE thing that seems to be the thing in this election.
Hat tip to Power Line for the reference to the Heather MacDonald piece.
UPDATE: Apparently Hillary Clinton is not happy with the pick...which is to be expected. The money quote from that article is from John Kerry, who posited that women aren't going to be "seduced" by the Palin pick. Nice choice of terms there, Senator. Of course, no woman would vote for McCain/Palin of their own volition, so they have to be "seduced."
Hat tip to Power Line for the reference to the Heather MacDonald piece.
UPDATE: Apparently Hillary Clinton is not happy with the pick...which is to be expected. The money quote from that article is from John Kerry, who posited that women aren't going to be "seduced" by the Palin pick. Nice choice of terms there, Senator. Of course, no woman would vote for McCain/Palin of their own volition, so they have to be "seduced."
Russia asserts itself
New Russian president Dmitri A Medvedev outlined what will become his foreign policy in a speech on Russian television. He said that Russia will assert a "sphere of influence," which will come as no surprise to those in Georgia. The Russians have already demonstrated what they plan to do. South Ossetia, one of the breakaway regions in Georgia, has expressed its desire to be absorbed back into Russia.
If I am in Warsaw, Bucharest, Prague, Bratislava, Kiev, Riga, Vilnius, or anywhere else that enjoyed the last attempt by Russia to exert its sphere of influence, I am making every effort to make sure they don't decide to really execute that policy. In some cases, they are running to the United States for assistance (although the agreement with Poland is ostensibly for attacks by "rogue nations").
Maybe it's because I can still remember the end of the Cold War, but when Russia starts talking about its sphere of influence, I have an inclination to not trust them to play nice with neighboring countries, especially those who once were under the Soviet umbrella.
If I am in Warsaw, Bucharest, Prague, Bratislava, Kiev, Riga, Vilnius, or anywhere else that enjoyed the last attempt by Russia to exert its sphere of influence, I am making every effort to make sure they don't decide to really execute that policy. In some cases, they are running to the United States for assistance (although the agreement with Poland is ostensibly for attacks by "rogue nations").
Maybe it's because I can still remember the end of the Cold War, but when Russia starts talking about its sphere of influence, I have an inclination to not trust them to play nice with neighboring countries, especially those who once were under the Soviet umbrella.
Mr. Gustav says we will bury you
The idea was that the Republican National Convention was supposed to start tomorrow. And it will, but John McCain has asked that only "essential business" happen. President Bush and others are not coming to St. Paul now. This is all because of Hurricane Gustav, which is bearing down on the Gulf Coast. I can see the reason for doing this, but I can't help but agree with this post at Power Line. I think the GOP has been shellshocked by the reaction post-Hurricane Katrina in 2005, where everything up to and including the storm itself was blamed on Bush. Because Bush and his handlers have done nothing to refute anything said about them, it's pretty much accepted as gospel that Bush screwed it up, while New Orleans mayor Ray Nagin and former Louisiana governor Kathleen Blanco (both Democrats) largely escaped scrutiny.
Unfortunately for the GOP, and the Twin Cities, Mr. Gustav is burying the GOP convention.
Unfortunately for the GOP, and the Twin Cities, Mr. Gustav is burying the GOP convention.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
The Welcome Wagon
Here is an article welcoming our GOP friends into town, from a media vehicle who is really enamored with Republicans. OK, as much as the linked article pretty much equates to a middle finger to our visiting elephants, I have to admit it is kinda funny. The idea of identifying a FBI mole by his/her constantly asking where to score a "doobie" is amusing to me.
A good synopsis
The hilariously-named columnist for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel turned in a good column about the summer had by the Milwaukee Bucks. I have posted on a couple of these things before, but this is a good summary. Basically, the Bucks had to make a lot of moves to give themselves a chance to improve rather quickly. GM John Hammond has done that. And, he brought in a real coach in Scott Skiles. I believe the Bucks are going to be better this year, which may get them an 8 seed in the weak-sister Eastern Conference.
Is anyone else amazed that, as bad as the Bucks were last season, they had two Olympians?
Is anyone else amazed that, as bad as the Bucks were last season, they had two Olympians?
Monday, August 25, 2008
Things to Do in Denver When You're Dems
Today is day one of the Democratic National Convention out in Denver. Thus begins the coronation of Barack Obama as the Presidential candidate of the Democratic party, much to the consternation of those who believed that the presidency was Hillary Clinton's birthright. The nomination process for the Dems has been fascinating. I did not think Obama would have received the nomination this time around, but he did a great job creating a cult of personality around him. So, he's the man.
Given that his campaign has been slumping lately, I will be curious to see his acceptance speech and to see how much of a bounce he will get. I wonder if the speech being at Invesco Field is going to have an impact. I also wonder if they will actually fill the place up. I would imagine if they let people onto the field and fill it up, they can actually put over 100,000 in the stadium. They better fill it up, though. Anything less, and I think the perception will be that moving it to Invesco will have been a bad move.
Anyway, the countdown here continues until the elephants on parade show up here. While I will not be anywhere near the Xcel Energy Center, I will post any observations about the GOP convention that I have.
UPDATE: My apologies to the thousands, if not millions, who thought of this headline before me. But hey, the movie title this was jacked from was pretty good.
Given that his campaign has been slumping lately, I will be curious to see his acceptance speech and to see how much of a bounce he will get. I wonder if the speech being at Invesco Field is going to have an impact. I also wonder if they will actually fill the place up. I would imagine if they let people onto the field and fill it up, they can actually put over 100,000 in the stadium. They better fill it up, though. Anything less, and I think the perception will be that moving it to Invesco will have been a bad move.
Anyway, the countdown here continues until the elephants on parade show up here. While I will not be anywhere near the Xcel Energy Center, I will post any observations about the GOP convention that I have.
UPDATE: My apologies to the thousands, if not millions, who thought of this headline before me. But hey, the movie title this was jacked from was pretty good.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Runnin' around, robbin' banks....
A bank in Danbury, WI was robbed last weekend, and former Hopkins center Anthony Diloreto was implicated in the crime. Now, since he has not been convicted, it's possible he had nothing to do with this. Here are some other tall Caucasian people who either are from or lived in Wisconsin who could have done it.
1. Randy Breuer
2. Paul Mokeski
3. Jack Sikma
4. Kurt Portmann
5. Jim McIlvaine
6. Paul Grant
Those are just some of the people I would be investigating in this. You know, I would want to be sure before I ruin the life of a kid who was going to play college basketball at Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo. I mean, that's an NBA factory!!
1. Randy Breuer
2. Paul Mokeski
3. Jack Sikma
4. Kurt Portmann
5. Jim McIlvaine
6. Paul Grant
Those are just some of the people I would be investigating in this. You know, I would want to be sure before I ruin the life of a kid who was going to play college basketball at Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo. I mean, that's an NBA factory!!
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Say, you look good after a case
We can lament that this was studied, likely at taxpayer expense, but the news that "beer goggles" are real is outstanding!!! Unfortunately women will have to damn near get alcohol poisoning to find me attractive, but at least science has established at least a correlational relationship between alcohol consumption and perception of attractiveness. Yet another reason that there is always hope, even in the worst of times.
A blueprint for a McCain victory?
This is an interesting column from George Will about how John McCain can get the election to go on his terms. The crux of the column is that McCain can make Vladimir Putin's attempts to re-establish the Soviet Union into a winning issue.
The other thing is that Will acknowledges the probable reality that the Dems are going to still be in the majority in Congress. Having McCain as President to stop things like the disgusting measure to end secret ballots in union elections (I'll post on this later) is also something he can talk about.
Anyway, give the column a read. It may be wishful thinking for the GOP, but it lets us know that, despite current conditions (WE WANT CHANGE!!!!), it's not over yet.
Hat tip: Charles Sykes
The other thing is that Will acknowledges the probable reality that the Dems are going to still be in the majority in Congress. Having McCain as President to stop things like the disgusting measure to end secret ballots in union elections (I'll post on this later) is also something he can talk about.
Anyway, give the column a read. It may be wishful thinking for the GOP, but it lets us know that, despite current conditions (WE WANT CHANGE!!!!), it's not over yet.
Hat tip: Charles Sykes
Biden time...
So it looks like VP speculation is starting to veer towards Delaware senator Joe Biden. This is an interesting pick to me. Joe Biden became a senator when Barack Obama was 12, so he's been around. Biden spent his weekend in Georgia. There is a school of thought that Biden is too much of an insider, but I think Obama needs someone with more experience (especially on foreign policy) to run with him. I don't think Biden would be my first choice. But, Obama could have done worse.
The reason this is interesting though is because it does nothing to change the electoral math. Delaware was going for Obama anyway. I thought someone like Senator Evan Bayh (D-Indiana) would have been a better choice, if only because it potentially would have put Indiana more into play. Also, Bayh is not as liberal as Obama. He would have served as a balance in a different way.
As it is, if Biden is the guy, it gives more experience to the ticket, but not more electoral votes. It will be interesting to see who John McCain eventually picks.
The reason this is interesting though is because it does nothing to change the electoral math. Delaware was going for Obama anyway. I thought someone like Senator Evan Bayh (D-Indiana) would have been a better choice, if only because it potentially would have put Indiana more into play. Also, Bayh is not as liberal as Obama. He would have served as a balance in a different way.
As it is, if Biden is the guy, it gives more experience to the ticket, but not more electoral votes. It will be interesting to see who John McCain eventually picks.
Monday, August 18, 2008
They found me
Back in the day, I always joked that I would be amongst the hardest people in my class to locate for class reunion invites. I hardly talk to any of my high school friends anymore, and I don't live in the Appleton area, where most of my class still seems to live. I live "all the way in Minnesota." But, one of my friends who I do occasionally talk to texted me saying she wanted my address for a reunion invite. Keep in mind that I graduated in 1994, so the 15-year reunion isn't until next year. But, being that my class managed to not have a 10-year reunion, I can see that we want to plan better this time around. She also pretty much demanded that I join Facebook.
So, as part of this effort, I set myself up on Facebook (to my everlasting shame as I have not historically been a fan of social networking sites). I am amazed at how quickly people have found me. Dammit, one of the reasons I moved to Minnesota in the first place was to escape Kimberly, Wisconsin. On some levels, I wanted there to be an air of mystery amongst my former classmates. "What happened to Mike?" Well, now they will know. Of course, part of me would rather people find me here.
But strangely enough, I am glad these people have found me. It allows me to remember that, despite some hard times in high school, I did have some great times and had some great friends. If it takes joining something like Facebook to remember this, then so be it. Also, it is confirming something I pretty much already knew...I am amongst the last single people standing. Oh well. Anyone who knows me had to be pretty certain that was going to happen.
One other thing: I am hoping to get back to more regular blogging. There is a lot to talk about, so now is as good a time as any to get cracking again.
UPDATE: I guess I will have to change my byline now. Dang, it was a good one.
So, as part of this effort, I set myself up on Facebook (to my everlasting shame as I have not historically been a fan of social networking sites). I am amazed at how quickly people have found me. Dammit, one of the reasons I moved to Minnesota in the first place was to escape Kimberly, Wisconsin. On some levels, I wanted there to be an air of mystery amongst my former classmates. "What happened to Mike?" Well, now they will know. Of course, part of me would rather people find me here.
But strangely enough, I am glad these people have found me. It allows me to remember that, despite some hard times in high school, I did have some great times and had some great friends. If it takes joining something like Facebook to remember this, then so be it. Also, it is confirming something I pretty much already knew...I am amongst the last single people standing. Oh well. Anyone who knows me had to be pretty certain that was going to happen.
One other thing: I am hoping to get back to more regular blogging. There is a lot to talk about, so now is as good a time as any to get cracking again.
UPDATE: I guess I will have to change my byline now. Dang, it was a good one.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
When you're a Jet, you're a Jet...
...til your last cigarette. Or, in Brett Favre's case, when Deanna "Yoko" Favre tells him to stop being one. As everyone in the civilized world probably knows, Brett Favre was traded to the New York Jets for a conditional draft pick.
This was probably about the best possible outcome for the Packers. Favre goes to the AFC, the Packers can finally move on with Aaron Rodgers, and the Jets become...about a 9-7 team with a shot at a wild-card berth.
This whole Favre saga has really angered me. He never should have retired in the first place. And, the way he and his handlers tried to strong-arm the Packers was bush league. But, the thing that really pisses me off are the pseudo-Packer fans around the Web that are declaring that they are no longer Packers fans because of this. To them, I say you were never real fans in the first place. I will gladly take your tickets off your hands, because I am a Packer fan until I die. I will go see them regardless of who the QB is.
However, I do wish Favre well in the swamps of New Jersey.
This was probably about the best possible outcome for the Packers. Favre goes to the AFC, the Packers can finally move on with Aaron Rodgers, and the Jets become...about a 9-7 team with a shot at a wild-card berth.
This whole Favre saga has really angered me. He never should have retired in the first place. And, the way he and his handlers tried to strong-arm the Packers was bush league. But, the thing that really pisses me off are the pseudo-Packer fans around the Web that are declaring that they are no longer Packers fans because of this. To them, I say you were never real fans in the first place. I will gladly take your tickets off your hands, because I am a Packer fan until I die. I will go see them regardless of who the QB is.
However, I do wish Favre well in the swamps of New Jersey.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Kinda quick takes
I am back...sorta. Still waiting for our cable company to come through for me, but in the meantime, a couple of things happening rate mention:
First, Brett Favre is back in Green Bay...for now. I am not sure how this is going to shake out, but this whole situation has been nothing but crap. I am convinced that Deanna Favre is behind Brett's return, as well as Bus Cook. I think both of these leeches realized the gravy train was about to end, so they nagged and cajoled Favre into coming back. While I don't think it will happen, if Favre forces a trade to the Vikings, Favre is dead to me. If NFL Commissioner Roger Goddell forces a trade like this, the NFL is dead to me...seriously. I have no interest in a league that would screw over my beloved Packers by handing a guy like Favre to our biggest rival (sorry Chicago, you are not it for now).
Second, some devastating news for Kimberly, Wisconsin, where I pretty much grew up. The mill that started Kimberly (a company town named after the left half of Kimberly-Clark) is closing. NewPage decided to close the mill because it didn't make its own pulp. Now, I am not personally associated with the mill, but I am positive I know many people who work there. 475 jobs are a lot in a town of 6,000. Thankfully, Kimberly is becoming more of a suburban town than a company town, but still, this is going to hurt for a long time. I'm sorry to see it go.
Third, the chess match in Congress over offshore drilling is fascinating. The GOP (including John Kline, R-MN2) is trying to demand a vote on a bill that would allow offshore drilling for oil, which is ostensibly being held up by Nancy Pelosi, who is apparently trying to single-handedly save the planet. Although, her efforts may not be enough according to the perpetually silly Paul Krugman. Oh well, at least Al Gore got his child off the planet. Seriously, I think that the idea that exploring energy alternatives and drilling for oil is a zero-sum game is ridiculous. Yes, we do need to find another way to power our world. But until then, we need cheaper oil.
First, Brett Favre is back in Green Bay...for now. I am not sure how this is going to shake out, but this whole situation has been nothing but crap. I am convinced that Deanna Favre is behind Brett's return, as well as Bus Cook. I think both of these leeches realized the gravy train was about to end, so they nagged and cajoled Favre into coming back. While I don't think it will happen, if Favre forces a trade to the Vikings, Favre is dead to me. If NFL Commissioner Roger Goddell forces a trade like this, the NFL is dead to me...seriously. I have no interest in a league that would screw over my beloved Packers by handing a guy like Favre to our biggest rival (sorry Chicago, you are not it for now).
Second, some devastating news for Kimberly, Wisconsin, where I pretty much grew up. The mill that started Kimberly (a company town named after the left half of Kimberly-Clark) is closing. NewPage decided to close the mill because it didn't make its own pulp. Now, I am not personally associated with the mill, but I am positive I know many people who work there. 475 jobs are a lot in a town of 6,000. Thankfully, Kimberly is becoming more of a suburban town than a company town, but still, this is going to hurt for a long time. I'm sorry to see it go.
Third, the chess match in Congress over offshore drilling is fascinating. The GOP (including John Kline, R-MN2) is trying to demand a vote on a bill that would allow offshore drilling for oil, which is ostensibly being held up by Nancy Pelosi, who is apparently trying to single-handedly save the planet. Although, her efforts may not be enough according to the perpetually silly Paul Krugman. Oh well, at least Al Gore got his child off the planet. Seriously, I think that the idea that exploring energy alternatives and drilling for oil is a zero-sum game is ridiculous. Yes, we do need to find another way to power our world. But until then, we need cheaper oil.
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