The GOP 2012 Platform was formally adopted yesterday. One of its planks: A Human Life Amendment to the Constitution ("Personhood") with no exceptions for rape, incest or the life of the mother.
In the wake of the furor over Representative Todd Akins outrageous remarks about some magical pregnancy-prevention process which occurs during a rape, Mitt Romney now claims that he rejects the "no exceptions" part of the GOP anti-abortion platform.
When Samantha Bee (The Daily Show) asked numerous GOP conventioneers for their responses to Mitt's choice to 'go rogue' and reject the Party's absolute zero abortion plank, some of the most popular responses were:
"We live in America... A free society."; "It's up to every human being to decide what's best for them."; "Who are we to tell someone how they should act?"; "It's hard to make that decision unless you're the one in that situation."; "It's not for me to judge." and...
"Government's purpose is to protect your individual liberties." *
* Except and Unless * that 'individual liberty' is the one which guarantees each and every American woman's right to choose what happens to her own body.
Enjoy this clip from last night's The Daily Show With Jon Stewart (with TDS Correspondent Samantha Bee reporting from the RNC in Tampa, FL.):
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Experts: "Non-Human Consciousness Exists!" (Well, Duh!)
Have you ever considered the consciousness - or unconsciousness - of your dog?
Last month, 25 of the world's leading scientists gathered together with the express purpose of examining and discussing a variety of accumulated scientific evidence on the subject of animal consciousness and they reached a unanimous decision:
"Animals - specifically mammals and birds - are, in fact, conscious beings."
While some of you may be inclined towards filing this remarkable and truly newsworthy event under the category of "Believe It Or Not"... Not yours truly.
Despite having grown up in a world which had all-too eagerly swallowed/followed/clung to the long-standing tradition/practice of wantonly using/abusing non-human Earthlings however they wanted (with or without a reason)... It wasn't long after achieving awareness of my own consciousness that I reached a conclusion on this very topic.
And - for me - from that moment right on up to this day... this (now scientifically-proven/accepted) "discovery" was a foregone conclusion.
And, as such, I'd filed it under the undeniably apropos category of "Well, Duh!".
Check out the story/discovery and the owners of the brilliant minds who were involved - here:
Link To X-PRIZE Article In The Huffington Post
Last month, 25 of the world's leading scientists gathered together with the express purpose of examining and discussing a variety of accumulated scientific evidence on the subject of animal consciousness and they reached a unanimous decision:
"Animals - specifically mammals and birds - are, in fact, conscious beings."
While some of you may be inclined towards filing this remarkable and truly newsworthy event under the category of "Believe It Or Not"... Not yours truly.
Despite having grown up in a world which had all-too eagerly swallowed/followed/clung to the long-standing tradition/practice of wantonly using/abusing non-human Earthlings however they wanted (with or without a reason)... It wasn't long after achieving awareness of my own consciousness that I reached a conclusion on this very topic.
And - for me - from that moment right on up to this day... this (now scientifically-proven/accepted) "discovery" was a foregone conclusion.
And, as such, I'd filed it under the undeniably apropos category of "Well, Duh!".
Check out the story/discovery and the owners of the brilliant minds who were involved - here:
Link To X-PRIZE Article In The Huffington Post
Friday, August 24, 2012
RNC Ostracizes Todd Akin For His Extremist Views (Which are identical to the RNC's)
Reporter: "Should it be legal for a woman to get an abortion if she's been raped?"
Paul Ryan: "I'm very proud of my pro-life record and I've always adopted the position that the method of conception doesn't change the definition of life."
In other words, regarding the situation in which a rape survivor becomes pregnant, Republican VP nominee Paul Ryan's life-long, doggedly-pursued position is utterly identical to that of Sharon Engle ("If life gives you a lemon (you become pregnant after being raped) then you should make lemonade.") and it's identical to that of the strategically-scapegoated, infamous and utterly clueless Congressman Todd Akin (R-MO).
Don't be fooled by Mr. Ryan's "Gee, shucks. Y'all have nothing to fear. I'm not the one who is running for President. Mitt Romney is."
That may be true, but Paul Ryan is no innocuous bystander/spectator/passer-by. He's running for Vice President. And, Vice President is a heartbeat away from the Presidency.
*Remember Sarah Palin's turn as GOP VP nominee in 2008? (Of course you do.) And, do you remember the moment when that particularly gut-wrenching, nightmare-inducing thought finally hit you that... IF John McCain were elected President... And, IF he were to die suddenly or become incapacitated... THEN... (OMFG!) Sarah Palin would take his place as... President.
It's deja vu again with Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan.
One shudders to think.
From TRMS:
* Romney Girl * Come on and Sing along: "I'm a Romney Girl in a Romney world!"
A lively, catchy song sung by a beautiful blonde...
Featuring fast cars and countless exotic locations... What's not to Love?
Come on, everybody and sing along with us:
"... I'm a Romney Girl in a Romney world!!!"
I sooo Love This!
Featuring fast cars and countless exotic locations... What's not to Love?
Come on, everybody and sing along with us:
"... I'm a Romney Girl in a Romney world!!!"
I sooo Love This!
Thursday, August 23, 2012
21st Century Back-Alley Abortions: Dangerous Pharmaceuticals. Gee Thanks, Texas!
Under extremist, right-wing (nut) Republican control, Texas gutted funding to family-planning services statewide - an action which affects tens of thousands of American women.
Being Texas, of course they didn't stop there. They also passed a law which forces women seeking termination of a pregnancy to undergo medically-unnecessary ultrasound procedures. (What's the big deal. Just close your eyes, right?)
So... Have the draconian actions of the (*mostly male) Texas GOP lawmakers brought an end to abortion?
No. Of course not!
Result: The 21st Century's coat-hanger/back-alley abortions comes in the form of a pharmaceutical drug. Readily available from unregulated pharmacies in Mexico. Without a prescription or instructions, thank you very much.
Can you say "massive hemorrhaging", boys and girls?
Wow! This is much better than undergoing a legal, medical procedure performed by a licensed physician in a sterile, well-equipped, staffed hospital room.
Gee... Thanks, Texas!
(*From TRMS)
Saturday, August 18, 2012
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Saturday, June 02, 2012
Boehner Exhorts For "Jobs!" From Pulpit. House GOP Pushes For... You Guessed It: "Abortion"
House Speaker (and textbook failure) John Boehner ranted and railed during a closed House GOP-members only meeting on Thursday about (you guessed it): "Jobs! Jobs! Jobs!", during which he exhorted that creating jobs for out-of-work Americans is every Congressional Republicans' #1 Priority. He told his minions that they must pass job-creating bills/legislation.
So (of course), immediately following Boehner's fiery, four-letter-word-sprinkled "We are all about Jobs!" sermon, those same-House Republicans hurriedly-lollygagged back to work so that they could put their collective laser-focus on what always has been and still is every House Republican's 1st Order Of Business: "Banning Abortion".
(*If you guessed "Jobs" - :(- you haven't been paying attention.)
Yep, immediately after Boehner's big (and-not-so-secret) secret "Jobs! Jobs! Jobs!, Now!" meeting - House Republicans' unanimous First Order Of Business was (drum roll. please)...
Fast-tracking and voting (unsuccessfully) on yet another Republican-sponsored bill ban a woman's right to reproductive choice/abortion.
*If you guessed "abortion", you get a *Star*!
(Hurray, I got a *Star*!)
... like I said, "Textbook Failure".
From last night's The Rachel Maddow Show:
So (of course), immediately following Boehner's fiery, four-letter-word-sprinkled "We are all about Jobs!" sermon, those same-House Republicans hurriedly-lollygagged back to work so that they could put their collective laser-focus on what always has been and still is every House Republican's 1st Order Of Business: "Banning Abortion".
(*If you guessed "Jobs" - :(- you haven't been paying attention.)
Yep, immediately after Boehner's big (and-not-so-secret) secret "Jobs! Jobs! Jobs!, Now!" meeting - House Republicans' unanimous First Order Of Business was (drum roll. please)...
Fast-tracking and voting (unsuccessfully) on yet another Republican-sponsored bill ban a woman's right to reproductive choice/abortion.
*If you guessed "abortion", you get a *Star*!
(Hurray, I got a *Star*!)
... like I said, "Textbook Failure".
From last night's The Rachel Maddow Show:
Montana On The Verge Of Saving US Democracy From SCOTUS' "Citizens' United" Decision
Still Got Hope...
There's been a modern-day David Vs Goliath legal battle going on in the Great State of Montana.
It's an inspirational example of one American who's standing-up to the big, bad, well-financed bully... and he's making a difference.
Not only that ~ this American's courtroom-wrangling has led to the appearance of a number brilliant rays of Hope appearing out yonder in the vast, toxic, noxious wasteland that is unfettered, untraceable corporate political-influence and corruption which has been like a festering abscess on our democratic political process since the SCOTUS's much-reviled "citizens' united" decision.
Montana's Attorney General, Steve Bullock: I Salute You!
(*All you other 49 states' attorneys-general: Please pay close attention. And, take detailed notes, too.)
Surrender Is Not An Option. (*Yee-Haw!)
From last night's The Rachel Maddow Show:
There's been a modern-day David Vs Goliath legal battle going on in the Great State of Montana.
It's an inspirational example of one American who's standing-up to the big, bad, well-financed bully... and he's making a difference.
Not only that ~ this American's courtroom-wrangling has led to the appearance of a number brilliant rays of Hope appearing out yonder in the vast, toxic, noxious wasteland that is unfettered, untraceable corporate political-influence and corruption which has been like a festering abscess on our democratic political process since the SCOTUS's much-reviled "citizens' united" decision.
Montana's Attorney General, Steve Bullock: I Salute You!
(*All you other 49 states' attorneys-general: Please pay close attention. And, take detailed notes, too.)
Surrender Is Not An Option. (*Yee-Haw!)
From last night's The Rachel Maddow Show:
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
NAACP Votes To Support Marriage Equality / Ben Jealous NAACP President on TRMS
The national board of our nation's oldest civil rights organization, the NAACP, recently voted on whether or not the organization would come out (no pun intended) officially in support of marriage equality.
The results: 62 In Favor Of Supporting Marriage Equality.
And, 2... Er, not so much. (Insert sounds of cheering, here.)
Reporting on the announcement, Rachel Maddow said, "This is kinda a big deal.".
(And, that's kinda an understatement.)
Enjoy this powerful clip from last night's The Rachel Maddow Show with guest NAACP President Benjamin Jealous (A Truly Inspirational Human Being.):
The results: 62 In Favor Of Supporting Marriage Equality.
And, 2... Er, not so much. (Insert sounds of cheering, here.)
Reporting on the announcement, Rachel Maddow said, "This is kinda a big deal.".
(And, that's kinda an understatement.)
Enjoy this powerful clip from last night's The Rachel Maddow Show with guest NAACP President Benjamin Jealous (A Truly Inspirational Human Being.):
Monday, May 21, 2012
Chris Rock, Jay-Z On Marriage Equality: "It's the right thing to do."
During his recent appearance on The Graham Norton Show, Chris Rock expressed his support for President Obama's recent declaration on marriage equality: "It shows you how screwed up the world is. A man says, 'Hey, I think gay people should be treated as everyone else.'... CONTROVERSY!". Then, a couple days later...
Hip-Hop legend JayZ (Mr. Beyonce Knowles) said, "You love who you love... It's no different than discriminating against Blacks. It (marriage equality)'s the right thing to do... whether it costs 'em votes or not. It's about people. I think it's the right thing to do ~ as a human being."
(*Insert deafening roar and thunderous applause signaling majority approval - here.)
You Do The Right Thing Because It Is The Right Thing To Do. Period.
It's not some trick to be pulled out to win a popularity contest, a reward or a political office.
It's Something You Do Every Day... Regardless of whether doing so is popular or not.
;)
Enjoy this brief yet beautiful clip from last night's The Rachel Maddow Show:
Hip-Hop legend JayZ (Mr. Beyonce Knowles) said, "You love who you love... It's no different than discriminating against Blacks. It (marriage equality)'s the right thing to do... whether it costs 'em votes or not. It's about people. I think it's the right thing to do ~ as a human being."
(*Insert deafening roar and thunderous applause signaling majority approval - here.)
You Do The Right Thing Because It Is The Right Thing To Do. Period.
It's not some trick to be pulled out to win a popularity contest, a reward or a political office.
It's Something You Do Every Day... Regardless of whether doing so is popular or not.
;)
Enjoy this brief yet beautiful clip from last night's The Rachel Maddow Show:
Sunday, May 13, 2012
On The Road With Mitt: Fiction vs Fact
On The Road With Mitt Romney and his Campaign (*to Fail) Trail:
He won't talk about his super anti-gayness; or his intentions to limit/prohibit access to contraception; or about ending American women's Constitutionally-Protected Freedom Of Choice; or any other Issues O' The Day. What is Mitt miffed about? Over-regulation. Mitt's claim is that President Obama has doubled the number of Federal regulations/regulators and that hurts our economy/business. That's it. That's the centerpiece of Mitt's campaign.
Of course there are countless things to take issue with with a candidate who refuses to discuss the many topical issues of the day. The bigger problem for Mitt is: The single issue he repeatedly campaigns on is just another lie. Official documentation shows that G.W. Bush initiated more regulations than President Obama.
In other words: President Obama has reduced regulations. Still, Mitt keeps claiming the opposite. It's a Lie.
Mr. Romney: Please repeat after me: "Repeating a Lie Doesn't Make It True." "Repeating a Lie Doesn't Make It True." "Repeating a Lie Doesn't Make It True". ....
* Here's a clip from The Rachel Maddow Show that reveals some of the machinations that go on behind the big velvet curtains...
He won't talk about his super anti-gayness; or his intentions to limit/prohibit access to contraception; or about ending American women's Constitutionally-Protected Freedom Of Choice; or any other Issues O' The Day. What is Mitt miffed about? Over-regulation. Mitt's claim is that President Obama has doubled the number of Federal regulations/regulators and that hurts our economy/business. That's it. That's the centerpiece of Mitt's campaign.
Of course there are countless things to take issue with with a candidate who refuses to discuss the many topical issues of the day. The bigger problem for Mitt is: The single issue he repeatedly campaigns on is just another lie. Official documentation shows that G.W. Bush initiated more regulations than President Obama.
In other words: President Obama has reduced regulations. Still, Mitt keeps claiming the opposite. It's a Lie.
Mr. Romney: Please repeat after me: "Repeating a Lie Doesn't Make It True." "Repeating a Lie Doesn't Make It True." "Repeating a Lie Doesn't Make It True". ....
* Here's a clip from The Rachel Maddow Show that reveals some of the machinations that go on behind the big velvet curtains...
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Monday, March 19, 2012
Equal Protection Under The Law: If women are going to be subject to murder charges for choosing to have an abortion or for using birth control...
If The U.S. Constitution Requires Equal Protection Under The Law...
And, if women are going to be subject to murder charges for choosing to have an abortion or for using birth control...
Then men who masturbate should be arrested for mass murder.
Period.
Saturday, March 17, 2012
"Jobs? What Jobs?" GOP States Pushing Lady Parts Legislation. (Video From The Rachel Maddow Show)
"First, they came for women's health-care in Texas.
But, I didn't speak out. I didn't protest. Why should I? I don't live in Texas, therefore what they do in Texas doesn't affect me - not personally.
Then, they came for women's health care in Georgia.
But, I didn't speak out. I didn't protest. Why should I? I don't live in Georgia and what they do in Georgia doesn't affect me.
Then, they came for women's health care in South Dakota... in Indiana... in New Jersey...
And again, I simply did nothing, because I don't live in those states and nothing they do in them affects me.
And then, they came for women's health-care in Pennsylvania - where the (male) Governor (R) told the women of that state to: "Just close your eyes".
But, I didn't speak out. I didn't protest. Why should I? I don't live in Texas, therefore what they do in Texas doesn't affect me - not personally.
Then, they came for women's health care in Georgia.
But, I didn't speak out. I didn't protest. Why should I? I don't live in Georgia and what they do in Georgia doesn't affect me.
Then, they came for women's health care in South Dakota... in Indiana... in New Jersey...
And again, I simply did nothing, because I don't live in those states and nothing they do in them affects me.
And then, they came for women's health-care in Pennsylvania - where the (male) Governor (R) told the women of that state to: "Just close your eyes".
Despite my overwhelming desire to give the Gov. a (steel-toed boot) kick to the groin... I did nothing.
Why should I? I don't live in Pennsylvania. What they do in Pennsylvania doesn't affect me.
Then, they came for women's health-care in Louisiana.
And again, I did nothing. I don't live in Louisiana. So, whatever they're doing in Louisiana doesn't affect me.
In each of these instances, I took no action.
Sure, I may have thought, "Wow! That really sucks for the women who live there.".
Sure, I may have thought, "Wow! That really sucks for the women who live there.".
I definitely felt for them...
But, beyond that, I did nothing.
I kept telling myself that it simply wasn't my problem.
I told myself that (thankfully) I don't live in those states, so whatever back-a**wards things they were doing in them just didn't affect me - not personally.
Even now, their festering march continues...
Today... tomorrow... next week... next month...
They keep coming for women's health-care...
And now? I'm beginning to worry."
And now? I'm beginning to worry."
*Sound familiar?
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
As A Young American Woman Who Cherishes Her Hard-Won and Well-Deserved Self-Respect And Dignity, I'm Sharing This...
An Open (and Sincere) Memo to All Texas, Virginia, Georgia, Oklahoma (etc., etc.) Republicans:
Go Probe Yourselves!
P.S. ~ I'd be happy to help any of you old white guys (that's who's doing this) to do so, if you're not sure where to shove the "wand" and, therefore, require assistance.
Go Probe Yourselves!
P.S. ~ I'd be happy to help any of you old white guys (that's who's doing this) to do so, if you're not sure where to shove the "wand" and, therefore, require assistance.
After Rush Limbaugh's Fluke-slut diatribe, Kristen Schaal discovers that Republican policies towards women's health are Comedy Gold!
Tuesday March 13, 2012 The Daily Show:
Following Rush Limbaugh's Fluke-slut diatribe, Kristen Schaal discovers that the Republican Party's policies towards women's health are a true Comedy Goldmine!!
After watching her mini stand-up routine, I agree.
Check her out...
Following Rush Limbaugh's Fluke-slut diatribe, Kristen Schaal discovers that the Republican Party's policies towards women's health are a true Comedy Goldmine!!
After watching her mini stand-up routine, I agree.
Check her out...
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Newt Gingrich Defends The Catholic Church... And Is Swallowed By A Snake - The Daily Show
In the 2008 Presidential Race, Republicans prophesied many, er, creative "Be Afraid... Be Very Afraid." potential outcomes in their "If-Obama-becomes-President"-dystopian tirades.
None, of course, came to fruition.
Now, in 2012, how will those same Republican wrong-nosticators top themselves?
Here's one GOP candidate's recent declaration:
"He will wage war on the Catholic Church the morning after he's re-elected." - so said Newt Gingrich.
Newt Gingrich is worried about the Catholic Church? Newt Gingrich?
The very same, self-serving, Pillsbury P.O.S. who not only cheated on his first but, later, his second wife after each had became seriously ill and who, shortly thereafter, divorced Wife Number One and later divorced Wife Number Two and is now on Wife Number Three wants American Catholics to believe that he's concerned for and looking out for Catholicism and for the Catholic Church?
Uh, yeah... Riiiiiiiiiight.
D'ya like to hear more improbable prognostications from GOP leadership?
Then enjoy this brief clip from The Daily Show With Jon Stewart:
None, of course, came to fruition.
Now, in 2012, how will those same Republican wrong-nosticators top themselves?
Here's one GOP candidate's recent declaration:
"He will wage war on the Catholic Church the morning after he's re-elected." - so said Newt Gingrich.
Newt Gingrich is worried about the Catholic Church? Newt Gingrich?
The very same, self-serving, Pillsbury P.O.S. who not only cheated on his first but, later, his second wife after each had became seriously ill and who, shortly thereafter, divorced Wife Number One and later divorced Wife Number Two and is now on Wife Number Three wants American Catholics to believe that he's concerned for and looking out for Catholicism and for the Catholic Church?
Uh, yeah... Riiiiiiiiiight.
D'ya like to hear more improbable prognostications from GOP leadership?
Then enjoy this brief clip from The Daily Show With Jon Stewart:
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
GOP-Led States/House Give Up On Gays To Go After Women's Va-Jay Jays!
With Hellfire-fueled hubris propelling them out of the starting gate (Discourse be Damned)... Observed teetering - only slightly - due to the freakish expansion of their craniums (yet tragically, not the brains within) and in the wake of widespread GOP majority wins in several states and in the House of Representatives... The countless oaths sworn that they would - if elected - focus on "Jobs! Jobs! Jobs!" were unceremoniously dumped (like fleetingly-revered Christmas Trees abandoned/forgotten on sidewalks) once they were elected.
Still, times had been a' changing. Perspectives, too. The GOP was forced to accept some hard Truths. Fact: Policies discriminating against gays and lesbians were being repealed. Fact: Nationwide, Americans were more supportive of Gay Rights and Same Sex marriage. Fact: No matter how hard they prayed, gays and lesbians weren't going away. So, what's a political juggernaut composed primarily of intolerant, blindingly-white, Viagra/Cialis -popping, 99%er old men to do?
The same thing they've always done: Demonize someone who isn't them. In this case, they chose a long-time favorite target: Women. Target chosen, they moved on to legislation: Bill after bill after bill (... after bill) began appearing in both state legislatures and in the House that made no mention of "Jobs", but were disturbingly detailed and specific about demonizing and de-funding life-saving providers of women's health-care and family-planning for the middle-class and poor (often shamelessly utilizing Iraq War-worthy fabricated "factoids"). "Person-hood" initiatives?. And now... Some GOP-laden state legislatures are trying to Force women who want an abortion to undergo State-Mandated, Invasive, Medically-Unnecessary, AMA, ultrasound, first!
Hey... Can I get that in an 8x10 Glossy?
*Shame On You Virgina! *Shame on You Pennsylvania!
All of which leads me to bring you this important announcement:
As of Today, February 21st, 2012, all across our Great Nation, I hereby declare that the GOP's standard Call To Arms: "God, Guns and Gays!" is for now and for the foreseeable future (or until after the 2012 Elections) updated so that it more accurately reflects the GOP's current "Most Wanted".
Drum roll, please...
The new version is as follows:
Can I get an "Amen!"?
Please enjoy this brief clip from The Rachel Maddow Show (guest:: Dahlia Lithwick Senior Editor Slate Magazine.)
Still, times had been a' changing. Perspectives, too. The GOP was forced to accept some hard Truths. Fact: Policies discriminating against gays and lesbians were being repealed. Fact: Nationwide, Americans were more supportive of Gay Rights and Same Sex marriage. Fact: No matter how hard they prayed, gays and lesbians weren't going away. So, what's a political juggernaut composed primarily of intolerant, blindingly-white, Viagra/Cialis -popping, 99%er old men to do?
The same thing they've always done: Demonize someone who isn't them. In this case, they chose a long-time favorite target: Women. Target chosen, they moved on to legislation: Bill after bill after bill (... after bill) began appearing in both state legislatures and in the House that made no mention of "Jobs", but were disturbingly detailed and specific about demonizing and de-funding life-saving providers of women's health-care and family-planning for the middle-class and poor (often shamelessly utilizing Iraq War-worthy fabricated "factoids"). "Person-hood" initiatives?. And now... Some GOP-laden state legislatures are trying to Force women who want an abortion to undergo State-Mandated, Invasive, Medically-Unnecessary, AMA, ultrasound, first!
Hey... Can I get that in an 8x10 Glossy?
*Shame On You Virgina! *Shame on You Pennsylvania!
All of which leads me to bring you this important announcement:
As of Today, February 21st, 2012, all across our Great Nation, I hereby declare that the GOP's standard Call To Arms: "God, Guns and Gays!" is for now and for the foreseeable future (or until after the 2012 Elections) updated so that it more accurately reflects the GOP's current "Most Wanted".
Drum roll, please...
The new version is as follows:
"God, Guns, Gays and Va-Jay Jays".
Can I get an "Amen!"?
Please enjoy this brief clip from The Rachel Maddow Show (guest:: Dahlia Lithwick Senior Editor Slate Magazine.)
Saturday, February 18, 2012
NJ Legislature Approves Same Sex Marriage. Gov. Christie Vetos: "Rights Be Damned. Let's Put Civil Rights To A Popular Vote""
Both houses of the New Jersey legislature have approved the bill that would allow same-sex couples to marry and sent it on to GOP Gov. Chris Christie's desk, where it should've been signed into law.
Sadly, the not-such-a-good-fella Governor - having already declared that he would Veto any such bill - did just that.
Christie also declared that this Civil Rights Issue should, instead, be put to a popular vote.
(I cannot believe that - in this, the 21st Century - I actually have to say this, but...)
Dear (? Ugh.) Governor Christie:
No One's "Civil Rights" Should Ever Be Put To A "Popular Vote".
Civil Rights are - according to our Founding Documents - "Inalienable", sir.
And, unfortunately, it is both sad and true that, if we - as a country - were in the habit of putting any/all Civil Rights up for Popular Votes...
Well then, women would likely still be unable to vote and African Americans (and other minorities) would have no legal protection from racial discrimination.
Duh! (What a freaking dumb a**...)
Enjoy this brief clip on this story from The Rachel Maddow Show:
Sadly, the not-such-a-good-fella Governor - having already declared that he would Veto any such bill - did just that.
Christie also declared that this Civil Rights Issue should, instead, be put to a popular vote.
(I cannot believe that - in this, the 21st Century - I actually have to say this, but...)
Dear (? Ugh.) Governor Christie:
No One's "Civil Rights" Should Ever Be Put To A "Popular Vote".
Civil Rights are - according to our Founding Documents - "Inalienable", sir.
And, unfortunately, it is both sad and true that, if we - as a country - were in the habit of putting any/all Civil Rights up for Popular Votes...
Well then, women would likely still be unable to vote and African Americans (and other minorities) would have no legal protection from racial discrimination.
Duh! (What a freaking dumb a**...)
Enjoy this brief clip on this story from The Rachel Maddow Show:
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Ted Olson and David Boyce v. CA's Proposition 8: 9th Circuit Court Ruling a Victory For Same-Sex Marriage
Forget what makes "odd-bedfellows"...
One of the most curious alliances ever to occur in the world of litigation has just scored an enormous victory:
In the U.S. 9th Circuit Court Of Appeals: David Boyce and Ted Olson - lead counsel for Al Gore and G.W. Bush, respectively, in Bush v Gore - have won the latest battle in their fight to overturn California's 2008 ballot measure known as "Proposition 8".
The Court has officially and correctly ruled the Un-Constitutional ban against same-sex marriage as being exactly what it is: Un-Constitutional.
Oh Happy Day! Another Win for Enlightenment!
Here's Mr. Ted Olson from The Rachel Maddow Show:
One of the most curious alliances ever to occur in the world of litigation has just scored an enormous victory:
In the U.S. 9th Circuit Court Of Appeals: David Boyce and Ted Olson - lead counsel for Al Gore and G.W. Bush, respectively, in Bush v Gore - have won the latest battle in their fight to overturn California's 2008 ballot measure known as "Proposition 8".
The Court has officially and correctly ruled the Un-Constitutional ban against same-sex marriage as being exactly what it is: Un-Constitutional.
Oh Happy Day! Another Win for Enlightenment!
Here's Mr. Ted Olson from The Rachel Maddow Show:
Pete Hoekstra: House Racist/Hypocrite vs The Truth About America's Chinese Debt
NEWS FLASH...
For those of you whom have - like myself - long been lead to believe (often by Republicans who are frantically crying: Wolf!" or, perhaps, in this particular case: "Panda!") that China holds the greatest percentage of America's Debt...
Here's A Little Priceless Nugget O' TRUTH:
The nation of China holds only (Drum roll, please)...: 8% of America's Debt.
That's E-I-G-H-T Percent, people. 8. Period.
Feel Better, Now? (I do.)
And, if you don't believe me - no worries - just, please, check it out for yourself...
From The Rachel Maddow Show:
For those of you whom have - like myself - long been lead to believe (often by Republicans who are frantically crying: Wolf!" or, perhaps, in this particular case: "Panda!") that China holds the greatest percentage of America's Debt...
Here's A Little Priceless Nugget O' TRUTH:
The nation of China holds only (Drum roll, please)...: 8% of America's Debt.
That's E-I-G-H-T Percent, people. 8. Period.
Feel Better, Now? (I do.)
And, if you don't believe me - no worries - just, please, check it out for yourself...
From The Rachel Maddow Show:
Saturday, February 04, 2012
Eric Schneiderman: NY's Heroic AG Is Holding Wall Street (BofA, Wells Fargo, JPMorgan Chase) Accountable... Hurray!!
Eric Schneiderman, Heroic Attorney General of The Great State Of New York has just filed a huge lawsuit against Bank Of America, Wells Fargo, JPMorgan/Chase - accusing them of fraud, deceptive and illegal practices (including false documents) for what they did to American homeowners and to the American economy.
It's all about Accountability.
Wall Street Must Be Held Accountable for what they did as well as be forever prevented from ever doing it again.
("Get a rope...")
Enjoy this brief clip from The Rachel Maddow Show - featuring Jared Bernstein from the Center On Budget and Policy Priorities - that reveals something not only genuinely newsworthy, but extraordinary - which your local news may have neglected to report...
It's all about Accountability.
Wall Street Must Be Held Accountable for what they did as well as be forever prevented from ever doing it again.
("Get a rope...")
Enjoy this brief clip from The Rachel Maddow Show - featuring Jared Bernstein from the Center On Budget and Policy Priorities - that reveals something not only genuinely newsworthy, but extraordinary - which your local news may have neglected to report...
GOP May Claim Its War On Unions Is "All About Economy/Jobs"... No. It. Isn't.
Wisconsin was the 1st state in which a Republican-led legislature and GOP Governor focused all their efforts into destroying union rights/collective bargaining - claiming that, "It's all about the economy.".
And - Surprise! Surprise! - It wasn't.
Since then, several other states sadly stuck with Republican-led state legislatures and/or Republican Governors have followed in (soon to be voted out of office) WI Governor Scott Walker's footsteps.
Ohioans recently forced a repeal of their Governor's anti-union legislation.
Now, Arizona's Republican legislators are, apparently, overflowing with inspiration and motivation following a visit from WI's shameless Governor Scott Walker - who lectured them about making "... fundamental and permanent changes...".
Arizona's Republican-led government is blasting their own uniquely extreme version of union-destroying legislation through it's halls... And, it's already reached their Governor's desk.
And, as you probably guessed... They, too, are claiming: "It's about jobs.".
(*Sigh)... Once more, with feeling: No. It. Isn't.
Enjoy this brief clip from The Rachel Maddow Show that sums up the whole nationwide, organized, GOP-led plan to permanently damage the fundraising abilities of the Democratic Party by destroying union rights/collective bargaining.
And - Surprise! Surprise! - It wasn't.
Since then, several other states sadly stuck with Republican-led state legislatures and/or Republican Governors have followed in (soon to be voted out of office) WI Governor Scott Walker's footsteps.
Ohioans recently forced a repeal of their Governor's anti-union legislation.
Now, Arizona's Republican legislators are, apparently, overflowing with inspiration and motivation following a visit from WI's shameless Governor Scott Walker - who lectured them about making "... fundamental and permanent changes...".
Arizona's Republican-led government is blasting their own uniquely extreme version of union-destroying legislation through it's halls... And, it's already reached their Governor's desk.
And, as you probably guessed... They, too, are claiming: "It's about jobs.".
(*Sigh)... Once more, with feeling: No. It. Isn't.
Enjoy this brief clip from The Rachel Maddow Show that sums up the whole nationwide, organized, GOP-led plan to permanently damage the fundraising abilities of the Democratic Party by destroying union rights/collective bargaining.
Thursday, February 02, 2012
The World Has Suffered An Enormous Loss In Recent Days... Susan Poff, San Francisco Bay-Area Nurse Practitioner.
This is a photo of my late Friend, Susan Poff, with another Friend, Mary Howe.
The World suffered an enormous loss, in recent days, of both Susan and her husband, Robert Kamin.
Their sudden and untimely deaths were (and are) an unbelievable shock and an utterly inexplicable tragedy...
One which has left a vast, painful and empty chasm - not only in my Heart - but, also, in Our World.
Good-Bye, Dear Susan and Thank You.
You are Forever Loved. And will be Forever Missed.
Friday, January 27, 2012
From The Rachel Maddow Show: "Facts Are Facts". (*And Politifact.com - Isn't)
Question: Do you or does anyone you respect use "Politifact.com" as your Go-To Fact-Checker for things Political?
If so, then be forewarned/fore-armed with this one simple Truth:
"Politifact.com"... Isn't. And, what I mean when I say "isn't" is that "Politifact.com" isn't inherently factual.
If you've been going there to Fact Check - Please Stop.
If you haven't gone, but you were thinking about it - Please Don't.
Here's the "Why?", from The Rachel Maddow Show...
Thursday, January 26, 2012
GOP State Of The Union Rebuttal Choice Mitch Daniels: Excuse Me While I ROFL!!
If you need any more proof that the GOP is either:
A.) Insane. B.) Completely Out of touch with REALITY. and/or C.) All Of The Above...
The guy they picked to deliver their rebuttal to Obama's State of the Union address was Mitch Daniels.
The same Mitch Daniels who was George W. Bush's Senior Budget Director. The very same dim-witted dolt who claimed that the Iraq War would cost us $50 billion.
(*It cost $3 TRILLION.)
...And now Mr. Daniels/the GOP is promoting himself/themselves as "Mr. Fiscal Responsibility"/"Fiscally Conservative"?
Riiiiiiiigghhtt. (*cough*) Iraq War! (*cough).
Enjoy this revealing article on GOP Rebuttal Choice Mitch Daniels from TruthDig:
TruthDig: Mitch Daniels: Bombast From The Past - Joe Conason
A.) Insane. B.) Completely Out of touch with REALITY. and/or C.) All Of The Above...
The guy they picked to deliver their rebuttal to Obama's State of the Union address was Mitch Daniels.
The same Mitch Daniels who was George W. Bush's Senior Budget Director. The very same dim-witted dolt who claimed that the Iraq War would cost us $50 billion.
(*It cost $3 TRILLION.)
...And now Mr. Daniels/the GOP is promoting himself/themselves as "Mr. Fiscal Responsibility"/"Fiscally Conservative"?
Riiiiiiiigghhtt. (*cough*) Iraq War! (*cough).
Enjoy this revealing article on GOP Rebuttal Choice Mitch Daniels from TruthDig:
TruthDig: Mitch Daniels: Bombast From The Past - Joe Conason
Saturday, January 21, 2012
From The Rachel Maddow Show: Newt Blusters / Attacks Media / Avoids Answering Pertinent "Values", "Hypocrisy" Questions
Friday Night's GOP Debate:
Newt Gingrich was asked to comment on his 2nd wife's, Marianne's, interviews - in which she claims he came to her - after she'd been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and after he'd already been cheating on her; and whilst, simultaneously, he was condemning then Pres. Clinton for his lack of moral leadership - and he asked her for an "open marriage".
Newt's holier-than-thou response was to use the Good Ol' Reliable GOP M.O./Safety Net:
He responded by playing - to the hilt - the part of a poor, innocent victim of that evil "Mass Media" whilst ferociously attacking the big, bad "Mass Media" for making such a big deal about what he felt was a private matter.
And in doing so, Newt avoided (this time, anyway) actually having to answer some very pertinent questions (and he did this to much applause/hooting and hollering).
And whilst - certainly - under normal circumstances, as a rule it is a fact that Newt's or anyone's sex life is neither newsworthy nor is it anyone else's business...
The Fact Is This: These are not even remotely "normal circumstances".
The reason that Newt's marriage(s) is (are) an exception to that rule is due to the fact that, historically, Newt has - militantly, if not religiously - portrayed himself as "Mr. Family Values/Traditional Marriage"-Guy...
Whilst he was publicly vilifying others for their extramarital affairs and...
Whilst he was simultaneously railing against same-sex marriage as an affront to "traditional marriage" and...
Oh yeah ~ Whilst "Mr. Family Values/Traditional Marriage-Guy" Newt, himself, was actively cheating on his own wife... No, wait... Hold that thought.
Correction: "...his own wives".
Hey, Look Everybody: It's the Great White Hypocrite!
Enjoy this brief clip from The Rachel Maddow Show:
Newt Gingrich was asked to comment on his 2nd wife's, Marianne's, interviews - in which she claims he came to her - after she'd been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and after he'd already been cheating on her; and whilst, simultaneously, he was condemning then Pres. Clinton for his lack of moral leadership - and he asked her for an "open marriage".
Newt's holier-than-thou response was to use the Good Ol' Reliable GOP M.O./Safety Net:
He responded by playing - to the hilt - the part of a poor, innocent victim of that evil "Mass Media" whilst ferociously attacking the big, bad "Mass Media" for making such a big deal about what he felt was a private matter.
And in doing so, Newt avoided (this time, anyway) actually having to answer some very pertinent questions (and he did this to much applause/hooting and hollering).
And whilst - certainly - under normal circumstances, as a rule it is a fact that Newt's or anyone's sex life is neither newsworthy nor is it anyone else's business...
The Fact Is This: These are not even remotely "normal circumstances".
The reason that Newt's marriage(s) is (are) an exception to that rule is due to the fact that, historically, Newt has - militantly, if not religiously - portrayed himself as "Mr. Family Values/Traditional Marriage"-Guy...
Whilst he was publicly vilifying others for their extramarital affairs and...
Whilst he was simultaneously railing against same-sex marriage as an affront to "traditional marriage" and...
Oh yeah ~ Whilst "Mr. Family Values/Traditional Marriage-Guy" Newt, himself, was actively cheating on his own wife... No, wait... Hold that thought.
Correction: "...his own wives".
Hey, Look Everybody: It's the Great White Hypocrite!
Enjoy this brief clip from The Rachel Maddow Show:
Friday, January 20, 2012
ABC News: Mitt's Millions In Cayman Islands. Romney Campaign denies tax shelter. (with TRMS video)
Politically, Thursday was a roller-coaster of a day, with some GOP Presidential Primary candidates riding Upwards and some tumbling Down:
"No Newt Is Good" Newt Gingrich rode the crest of the wave whilst "Mr. 1%" Mitt, uh, didn't.
On Wednesday, ABC News reported that the Multimillion $ Mitt (who admitted to lounging in the shallow end of the tax pool: paying only 15%) stashed Million$ of his Million$ offshore... in the Cayman Islands.
After the AP ran with the story today, Mr. Romney's campaign came out and confirmed the veracity of the Mitt's Million$ / Cayman Islands report and then quickly added that the former Governor has "... never used the location as a tax haven".
Sure. {*nudge*nudge} Whatever you say. {*wink*wink}
I'm sure he has a very simple explanation for the Cayman Islands Million$...
Perhaps something like: Mitt just felt that those millions of dollars had earned a well-paid, extended and tax-free vacation(?).
Enjoy this brief clip from Thursday's The Rachel Maddow Show:
"No Newt Is Good" Newt Gingrich rode the crest of the wave whilst "Mr. 1%" Mitt, uh, didn't.
On Wednesday, ABC News reported that the Multimillion $ Mitt (who admitted to lounging in the shallow end of the tax pool: paying only 15%) stashed Million$ of his Million$ offshore... in the Cayman Islands.
After the AP ran with the story today, Mr. Romney's campaign came out and confirmed the veracity of the Mitt's Million$ / Cayman Islands report and then quickly added that the former Governor has "... never used the location as a tax haven".
Sure. {*nudge*nudge} Whatever you say. {*wink*wink}
I'm sure he has a very simple explanation for the Cayman Islands Million$...
Perhaps something like: Mitt just felt that those millions of dollars had earned a well-paid, extended and tax-free vacation(?).
Enjoy this brief clip from Thursday's The Rachel Maddow Show:
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
What You Need To Know About: SOPA and PIPA: Just The Facts (Source: PCWorld.com)
In case you didn't know exactly what SOPA and PIPA are (if so, don't worry, you're not alone), but are eager to learn what all the hubbub is about - just as long as it won't take too long...
Well then, here are The Facts and Just The Facts:
(Thank You to PCWorld)
SOPA and PIPA: Just The Facts
(FYI- the link will open in a new window)
Enjoy!
Well then, here are The Facts and Just The Facts:
(Thank You to PCWorld)
SOPA and PIPA: Just The Facts
(FYI- the link will open in a new window)
Enjoy!
The Rachel Maddow Show: Racism A Growing Issue For Gingrich, Paul. (with video)
On Martin Luther King Day, during the South Carolina GOP Primary debate, hosts from Fox TV utterly ignored the enormous elephants in the room by refusing to ask Ron Paul about voting against the National MLK Holiday or about his being against the Civil Rights Act.
Then, "No Newt is Good Newt" Gingrich refused to accept that he'd offended/insulted countless Americans (and African-Americans, in particular) with his "... they need jobs not food-stamps" and his suggestion that poor kids (whom he also said "lack a good work ethic") replace janitors at schools.
Hold on, folks... There's more!
Worst of all: the blindingly-white audience defended Newt's nonsense.
(*Sigh.)
For more on the story, please enjoy this brief clip from last night's The Rachel Maddow Show:
Then, "No Newt is Good Newt" Gingrich refused to accept that he'd offended/insulted countless Americans (and African-Americans, in particular) with his "... they need jobs not food-stamps" and his suggestion that poor kids (whom he also said "lack a good work ethic") replace janitors at schools.
Hold on, folks... There's more!
Worst of all: the blindingly-white audience defended Newt's nonsense.
(*Sigh.)
For more on the story, please enjoy this brief clip from last night's The Rachel Maddow Show:
Monday, January 16, 2012
Does Corporate Cash Explain the Networks' Silence on SOPA? | Save the Internet
It's Genuinely Newsworthy - So, Where's The News Coverage?
A Media Matters for America study shows that most of the major networks - ABC, CBS, Fox News, MSNBC and NBC - have failed to cover opposition to the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) and the Protect IP Act (PIPA).
Does Corporate Cash Explain the Networks' Silence on SOPA? | Save the Internet
A Media Matters for America study shows that most of the major networks - ABC, CBS, Fox News, MSNBC and NBC - have failed to cover opposition to the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) and the Protect IP Act (PIPA).
Does Corporate Cash Explain the Networks' Silence on SOPA? | Save the Internet
Colbert: ‘The more money you have, the more you can speak’ | The Raw Story
Speaking at the Iowa State Fair last year, Mitt Romney asserted that “corporations are people.”
Following that line of Mitt-belief, Stephen Colbert's former (and newly Jon Stewart-controlled) Super PAC released an ad on Saturday attacking Mitt Romney as a “serial killer” due to his record of destroying corporations (which Mitt said are "people") as the head of Bain Capital.
Here's Sunday's Colbert interview with George Stephanopoulos and the "Mitt The Ripper" ad.
Enjoy!
Colbert: ‘The more money you have, the more you can speak’ | The Raw Story
Following that line of Mitt-belief, Stephen Colbert's former (and newly Jon Stewart-controlled) Super PAC released an ad on Saturday attacking Mitt Romney as a “serial killer” due to his record of destroying corporations (which Mitt said are "people") as the head of Bain Capital.
Here's Sunday's Colbert interview with George Stephanopoulos and the "Mitt The Ripper" ad.
Enjoy!
Colbert: ‘The more money you have, the more you can speak’ | The Raw Story
Friday, January 13, 2012
From The Rachel Maddow Show: "President Colbert" A Possibility?
Brian Stelter at The New York Times has tweeted a tantalizing tidbit...
Stelter tweets that Stephen Colbert (of The Colbert Report) is transferring his Colbert Super-Pac to Jon Stewart and forming an "exploratory committee" for a possible run for the Presidency.
Colbert, himself, hinted at that very possibility on Wednesday night's show, after hearing news reports that, according to at least one poll in South Carolina (Colbert's home-state) Colbert was polling at 5% among likely Republican voters in the state - a whopping 1% higher than the current GOP Primary's 3rd Place-Holder John Huntsman's (4%) showing.
Hmmm... Curiouser and curiouser...
Here's the brief clip from Thursday night's The Rachel Maddow Show:
"President Colbert" A Possibility?
Stelter tweets that Stephen Colbert (of The Colbert Report) is transferring his Colbert Super-Pac to Jon Stewart and forming an "exploratory committee" for a possible run for the Presidency.
Colbert, himself, hinted at that very possibility on Wednesday night's show, after hearing news reports that, according to at least one poll in South Carolina (Colbert's home-state) Colbert was polling at 5% among likely Republican voters in the state - a whopping 1% higher than the current GOP Primary's 3rd Place-Holder John Huntsman's (4%) showing.
Hmmm... Curiouser and curiouser...
Here's the brief clip from Thursday night's The Rachel Maddow Show:
"President Colbert" A Possibility?
Insensitive? Who Me?: Mitt Romney (the Hoser) and Seamus (the Irish Setter)
"Insensitive? Who?... Me?"
I hadn't heard, until recently, about the unburdened-by-human-sensitivity Mitt Romney incident where Romney packed the family's large Irish Setter, "Seamus", into a dog-kennel which was strapped atop the Romney-mobile for an undoubtedly blustery 12-hour ride to a lakeside in Canada. Apparently, it became a rather messy trip during which the roof-rack kenneled canine, Seamus, visibly suffered from bowel distress - as was first witnessed and then reported by one of Romney's sons - one who was sitting, alone, in the very back section of the station wagon.
According to the Boston Globe-reported timeline of the event, after being informed of the appearance of the "brown liquid" dripping down the rear window, Romney pulled into a gas station; hosed off the car, the kennel and Seamus; and then returned the (now soaking wet?) dog to the kennel (still atop the car) and drove on to Canada.
In an interview on Fox (not)News Sunday - Mr. Wallace asked Romney about the incident... and Mitt chuckled. Following that, Wallace informed Romney that Massachusetts law actually prohibits carrying an animal atop a car: it's considered cruel and unusual treatment. Mitt's response was to claim that he "didn't know that" (that it was against the law) {Did you know this: "Ignorance of the law is no excuse."?} and Romney also added that Seamus (the dog) "loved" these rides.
(Mr. Romney: It's painfully obvious that Seamus did not "love" that particular ride - even before he messed himself and you hosed him off.)
Now, as the story has reached more Americans, something steeped in the tradition of the intentional online redefining of the word "Santorum" and raising of that definition's place in Google searches (initiated after Mr. Santorum's highly-offensive public statement in which he compared homosexuality with "man on dog relationships") has begun to occur. Originating at a website called spreadingromney.com, there's a new definition of the 'Romney' that's being promoted:
The "New" definition of "Romney" is: "To defecate in fear."
First, let me just say, "Eww!". And, after that, "Apropos".
I hope you enjoy this brief clip from Thursday night's The Rachel Maddow Show.
Topic: Mitt Romney being "dogged" (pun intended):
From The Rachel Maddow Show: Insensitivity, gaffes dog Romney
I hadn't heard, until recently, about the unburdened-by-human-sensitivity Mitt Romney incident where Romney packed the family's large Irish Setter, "Seamus", into a dog-kennel which was strapped atop the Romney-mobile for an undoubtedly blustery 12-hour ride to a lakeside in Canada. Apparently, it became a rather messy trip during which the roof-rack kenneled canine, Seamus, visibly suffered from bowel distress - as was first witnessed and then reported by one of Romney's sons - one who was sitting, alone, in the very back section of the station wagon.
According to the Boston Globe-reported timeline of the event, after being informed of the appearance of the "brown liquid" dripping down the rear window, Romney pulled into a gas station; hosed off the car, the kennel and Seamus; and then returned the (now soaking wet?) dog to the kennel (still atop the car) and drove on to Canada.
In an interview on Fox (not)News Sunday - Mr. Wallace asked Romney about the incident... and Mitt chuckled. Following that, Wallace informed Romney that Massachusetts law actually prohibits carrying an animal atop a car: it's considered cruel and unusual treatment. Mitt's response was to claim that he "didn't know that" (that it was against the law) {Did you know this: "Ignorance of the law is no excuse."?} and Romney also added that Seamus (the dog) "loved" these rides.
(Mr. Romney: It's painfully obvious that Seamus did not "love" that particular ride - even before he messed himself and you hosed him off.)
Now, as the story has reached more Americans, something steeped in the tradition of the intentional online redefining of the word "Santorum" and raising of that definition's place in Google searches (initiated after Mr. Santorum's highly-offensive public statement in which he compared homosexuality with "man on dog relationships") has begun to occur. Originating at a website called spreadingromney.com, there's a new definition of the 'Romney' that's being promoted:
The "New" definition of "Romney" is: "To defecate in fear."
First, let me just say, "Eww!". And, after that, "Apropos".
I hope you enjoy this brief clip from Thursday night's The Rachel Maddow Show.
Topic: Mitt Romney being "dogged" (pun intended):
From The Rachel Maddow Show: Insensitivity, gaffes dog Romney
Monday, January 09, 2012
Netherlands to close prisons for lack of criminals (Decriminalization actually worked?)
"Netherlands to close prisons for lack of criminals"
My 1st Thought when I saw the above-titled article post..."Bravo Netherlands!"
My 2nd Thought...
"Here's irrefutable proof that All is Not lost. Not only that, but that Humanity would be very wise to cease with the "It's 2012! The Mayan's said the World's gonna end. We're doomed!" nonsense and any other similar thoughts/acts of self- and/or reckless destruction."
Here's the brief yet fabulous news: http://vorige.nrc.nl/international/article2246821.ece/Netherlands_to_close_prisons_for_lack_of_criminals
Thursday, January 05, 2012
Obama Is My President: Richard Cordray Appointed To Head Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
Obama Is My President:
I may not agree with everything he's done - cough*NDAA*cough - but, I'm thrilled that President Obama just made four (count 'em: 1, 2, 3, 4!) recess appointments.
As Rachel Maddow said, "He never does that.".
Our President appointed three people to the National Labor Relations Board - so that they may have a quorum/continue to function - and (Drum roll, please...) he appointed Mr. Richard Cordray to head up the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
I'm doing the Snoopy Dance about that last one.
GOP Senators have been relentlessly preventing anyone from being appointed to head the CFPB.
Why do such a thing?
Because, even after our most recent Wall Street shyster-caused economic melt-down, Republicans in Congress still haven't wanted millions of Americans to be protected from evil, greedy, unethical, fast-talking loan and credit card companies...
But, My President Does!
In this clip from last night's The Rachel Maddow Show, Rachel talks with Gene Sperling, Director of the National Economic Council:
I may not agree with everything he's done - cough*NDAA*cough - but, I'm thrilled that President Obama just made four (count 'em: 1, 2, 3, 4!) recess appointments.
As Rachel Maddow said, "He never does that.".
Our President appointed three people to the National Labor Relations Board - so that they may have a quorum/continue to function - and (Drum roll, please...) he appointed Mr. Richard Cordray to head up the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
I'm doing the Snoopy Dance about that last one.
GOP Senators have been relentlessly preventing anyone from being appointed to head the CFPB.
Why do such a thing?
Because, even after our most recent Wall Street shyster-caused economic melt-down, Republicans in Congress still haven't wanted millions of Americans to be protected from evil, greedy, unethical, fast-talking loan and credit card companies...
But, My President Does!
In this clip from last night's The Rachel Maddow Show, Rachel talks with Gene Sperling, Director of the National Economic Council:
Tuesday, January 03, 2012
Radical NDAA Bill A Clear & Present Danger For Americans - Rachel Maddow Show
Despite an earlier veto threat - followed by revisions by Congress - President Obama signed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
The NDAA funds our military AND this particular one includes a number of highly radical and inexplicable provisions. For example: It authorizes the military to arrest American citizens 'suspected of terrorism' and - for the first time in our history - detain said American citizens indefinitely without charge or trial for... well, forever.
It's referred to as "Indefinite Detention" and, although Obama added a signing statement saying his Administration would not authorize it, theoretically, he could change his mind.
And, beyond that highly-unlikely event, it will continue to exist as law on the books.
Why is this noteworthy? Once again: Because "Indefinite Detention" is now "on the books". Because it has been signed into law. Which means that any future President could, at any time, decide to authorize "Indefinite Detention" and then... What?
(I sincerely hope none of us ever have to find out. Remember the recent instances of Constitutionally-Protected American protesters being assaulted by authorities?)
Simple Truth: "Indefinite Detention" is Un-American.
And yet, now that the NDAA has been signed into law (mind you, Congress's earlier versions were significantly worse) it is hanging over all of our heads - not unlike a guillotine. And, it will continue to do so - with the blade closing in on us - until the moment when yet another law is passed which will strike the provision of Indefinite Detention from the books, permanently.
Those politicians who've been working, tirelessly, to dismantle and do-away with two of America's most important ideals, namely Liberty and Freedom, have finally done it. They've not only spat on our Constitution and radically-altered our nation's laws... they've done it whilst, simultaneously, achieving those goals usually ascribed to anti-American Terrorists. (Uh... Congratulations?)
Because of their shenanigans, newly-unemployed, former terrorists are likely being forced to search for something else to do with their lives... Once they're able to stop those fits of uncontrollable, hysterical laughter...
Here's the story from The Rachel Maddow Show:
The NDAA funds our military AND this particular one includes a number of highly radical and inexplicable provisions. For example: It authorizes the military to arrest American citizens 'suspected of terrorism' and - for the first time in our history - detain said American citizens indefinitely without charge or trial for... well, forever.
It's referred to as "Indefinite Detention" and, although Obama added a signing statement saying his Administration would not authorize it, theoretically, he could change his mind.
And, beyond that highly-unlikely event, it will continue to exist as law on the books.
Why is this noteworthy? Once again: Because "Indefinite Detention" is now "on the books". Because it has been signed into law. Which means that any future President could, at any time, decide to authorize "Indefinite Detention" and then... What?
(I sincerely hope none of us ever have to find out. Remember the recent instances of Constitutionally-Protected American protesters being assaulted by authorities?)
Simple Truth: "Indefinite Detention" is Un-American.
And yet, now that the NDAA has been signed into law (mind you, Congress's earlier versions were significantly worse) it is hanging over all of our heads - not unlike a guillotine. And, it will continue to do so - with the blade closing in on us - until the moment when yet another law is passed which will strike the provision of Indefinite Detention from the books, permanently.
Those politicians who've been working, tirelessly, to dismantle and do-away with two of America's most important ideals, namely Liberty and Freedom, have finally done it. They've not only spat on our Constitution and radically-altered our nation's laws... they've done it whilst, simultaneously, achieving those goals usually ascribed to anti-American Terrorists. (Uh... Congratulations?)
Because of their shenanigans, newly-unemployed, former terrorists are likely being forced to search for something else to do with their lives... Once they're able to stop those fits of uncontrollable, hysterical laughter...
Here's the story from The Rachel Maddow Show:
Sunday, January 01, 2012
4.0 Earthquake In Youngstown; Official Cause: Natural Gas Fracking
4.0 Earthquake In Youngstown; Official Cause: Natural Gas Fracking
From the "I (Don't) Hate To Say, 'I told you so.'" Files:
Surely, you recall the recent flurry of earthquakes in Ohio?
Ohio, a state not known for having significant seismic activity and yet, within a series of smaller ones, it was shaken by one measuring around 4.0-4.3 recently?
A while back, when I recommended the film "Gasland" for it's subject - natural gas fracking poisoning well-water and causing faucets to behave like blow-torches - I hadn't thought to add "causing earthquakes", too...
Until, that is, they started cropping up.
And now?
Well, now it's Official: Gas Fracking = Earthquakes. (Hurray?)
Here's the link to the NPR story:
From the "I (Don't) Hate To Say, 'I told you so.'" Files:
Surely, you recall the recent flurry of earthquakes in Ohio?
Ohio, a state not known for having significant seismic activity and yet, within a series of smaller ones, it was shaken by one measuring around 4.0-4.3 recently?
A while back, when I recommended the film "Gasland" for it's subject - natural gas fracking poisoning well-water and causing faucets to behave like blow-torches - I hadn't thought to add "causing earthquakes", too...
Until, that is, they started cropping up.
And now?
Well, now it's Official: Gas Fracking = Earthquakes. (Hurray?)
Here's the link to the NPR story:
Earthquake Strikes Near Ohio Fracking Site*
(*Just ignore the little (Ohio Natural Resource Director) man who's still shouting: "The sky isn't falling on fracking! The sky isn't falling on fracking!". He's just visualizing lots of Big Gas Company $ disappearing much like the supporters of gas-fracking.)
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Speaking of monsters... er, Monsanto - Read "Monsanto’s Harvest of Fear"
Speaking of monsters... er, I mean Monsanto...
"Monsanto’s Harvest of Fear" is a terrific & in-depth investigation by Donald L. Barlett and James B. Steele that appeared in Vanity Fair in 2008.
And, don't let the year put you off in the least. This is a well-researched, timely and informative article and, thereby, a worthwhile read...
Especially if you are someone who is unfamiliar with Monsanto's shameless shenanigans...
Or, if you are someone who has concerns about the safety of our food and of our food supply...
Or, if you are someone who consumes dairy products / is a milk-drinker...
Or, if you or someone that you love happens to eat food...
Why?... Because Monsanto has contaminated America’s food-chain with its genetically modified (GM) seeds and crops and they've - with force - injected rGBH (recombinant bovine growth hormone) into U.S. milk production. Monsanto’s playbook tactics (ruthless legal battles against small farmers) are frightening.
Not only that, as an adherent of "To be fore-warned is to be fore-armed." (a.k.a. "Knowledge is Power"), I strongly-believe that people can only benefit from knowing facts about Monsanto's decades-long (continuing...) history of toxic contamination, legal maneuvering and political plays.
Here's the link to the article:
Monsanto’s Harvest of Fear by Donald L. Barlett and James B. Steele
Enjoy!
L.
"Monsanto’s Harvest of Fear" is a terrific & in-depth investigation by Donald L. Barlett and James B. Steele that appeared in Vanity Fair in 2008.
And, don't let the year put you off in the least. This is a well-researched, timely and informative article and, thereby, a worthwhile read...
Especially if you are someone who is unfamiliar with Monsanto's shameless shenanigans...
Or, if you are someone who has concerns about the safety of our food and of our food supply...
Or, if you are someone who consumes dairy products / is a milk-drinker...
Or, if you or someone that you love happens to eat food...
Why?... Because Monsanto has contaminated America’s food-chain with its genetically modified (GM) seeds and crops and they've - with force - injected rGBH (recombinant bovine growth hormone) into U.S. milk production. Monsanto’s playbook tactics (ruthless legal battles against small farmers) are frightening.
Not only that, as an adherent of "To be fore-warned is to be fore-armed." (a.k.a. "Knowledge is Power"), I strongly-believe that people can only benefit from knowing facts about Monsanto's decades-long (continuing...) history of toxic contamination, legal maneuvering and political plays.
Here's the link to the article:
Monsanto’s Harvest of Fear by Donald L. Barlett and James B. Steele
Enjoy!
L.
Monday, December 26, 2011
Advocates Press For Recess Appointment Of Consumer Bureau Chief By Obama / The Hill
Dear President Obama:
Please give us a reason to uncork the champagne on New Year’s Eve:
Use your recess appointment power to overcome the idiotic roadblocks of GOP Senators and appoint Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Chief Richard Cordray and your nominees to the federal bench.
Thank You!
We of the 99%
Advocates Press For Recess Appointment Of Consumer Bureau Chief By Obama - The Hill's On The Money
Please give us a reason to uncork the champagne on New Year’s Eve:
Use your recess appointment power to overcome the idiotic roadblocks of GOP Senators and appoint Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Chief Richard Cordray and your nominees to the federal bench.
Thank You!
We of the 99%
Advocates Press For Recess Appointment Of Consumer Bureau Chief By Obama - The Hill's On The Money
Saturday, December 24, 2011
So This Is Christmas... Well, A Rough (Ruff?) Night Before, Anyway...
"Ruff" day for my dog, Jessi.
Dx: Transitional Cell Carcinoma (an inoperable bladder cancer). She'd been doing fine until Friday. She simply wouldn't eat. When she finally did, she threw it all up hours later. Normal behavior, energy, elimination, otherwise.
Today/Saturday/Christmas Eve: Refused favorite food. Eventually, she lapped up a bowl of H2O and then, promptly, threw it all back up (Thankfully, she let me know something was very wrong and I got her out the back door in time). Later, she had some more H2O - I only put a small amount in her bowl, just in case. After she drank it, I immediately sat next to her; talked softly to her; stroked her - in the hope that doing so would help her to keep the water down. Thankfully, it did just that. Yet, she still refused food.
After a good leisurely walk through the Park, doing her business, Jessi took a little nap.
Finally, at about 10:00pm, Jessi got up to drink a little H2O and actually ate a little food.
*Sigh*
I'm just making the most of however much longer we have together.
And, Thinking Healing Thoughts, too.
Peace (And Good Health!) to You and those you Love.
L.
Dx: Transitional Cell Carcinoma (an inoperable bladder cancer). She'd been doing fine until Friday. She simply wouldn't eat. When she finally did, she threw it all up hours later. Normal behavior, energy, elimination, otherwise.
Today/Saturday/Christmas Eve: Refused favorite food. Eventually, she lapped up a bowl of H2O and then, promptly, threw it all back up (Thankfully, she let me know something was very wrong and I got her out the back door in time). Later, she had some more H2O - I only put a small amount in her bowl, just in case. After she drank it, I immediately sat next to her; talked softly to her; stroked her - in the hope that doing so would help her to keep the water down. Thankfully, it did just that. Yet, she still refused food.
After a good leisurely walk through the Park, doing her business, Jessi took a little nap.
Finally, at about 10:00pm, Jessi got up to drink a little H2O and actually ate a little food.
*Sigh*
I'm just making the most of however much longer we have together.
And, Thinking Healing Thoughts, too.
Peace (And Good Health!) to You and those you Love.
L.
Thursday, December 08, 2011
Jon Stewart on Indefinite Detention: "You can take away our Lives, but only We can take away our Freedoms."
"You can take away our Lives.. But only We can take away our Freedoms".
Congress Passes 2011 Defense Appropriations Bill - including "Indefinite Detention" (of You & All Americans).
Pro-ID Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC): "We're facing an enemy... who will do anything & everything to destroy our way of life."
Jon Stewart: "So we're gonna destroy it before they can get their hands on it!".
Fear-Mongering (the GOP's Perpetual Go-To Method Of Cattle-Driving) rises again.
The Problem?: "Indefinite Detention" all but obliterates every Americans' Constitutionally-Protected Right to a little something called "Due Process".
Gee... Who needs Al Qaeda?
...when John McCain, Lindsey Graham, et al. have already infiltrated our legislative branch and are happily & busily accomplishing Al Qaeda's goals/doing their dirty work?
Enjoy this brief clip ("Arrested Development") from Thursday night's The Daily Show:
Congress Passes 2011 Defense Appropriations Bill - including "Indefinite Detention" (of You & All Americans).
Pro-ID Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC): "We're facing an enemy... who will do anything & everything to destroy our way of life."
Jon Stewart: "So we're gonna destroy it before they can get their hands on it!".
Fear-Mongering (the GOP's Perpetual Go-To Method Of Cattle-Driving) rises again.
The Problem?: "Indefinite Detention" all but obliterates every Americans' Constitutionally-Protected Right to a little something called "Due Process".
Gee... Who needs Al Qaeda?
...when John McCain, Lindsey Graham, et al. have already infiltrated our legislative branch and are happily & busily accomplishing Al Qaeda's goals/doing their dirty work?
Enjoy this brief clip ("Arrested Development") from Thursday night's The Daily Show:
| The Daily Show With Jon Stewart | Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c | |||
| Arrested Development | ||||
| ||||
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