The contest to increase readership was a smashing success--well almost. I now have over 70 readers and looking for more. The winner of the contest in a close race was Fuzzie--he has already received his fantabulous award. A word of caution to all you newbies: This little project started because someone I love dearly and live with told me she did not want to hear me rant, rave, scream incoherently, and generally rage against the machine--so why didn't I just start a blog, she asked? Abracadabra, with much help from the young woman in the Lone Star state, here it is. You may wish to comment and may in fact disagree. But this is not truly a two way street since I am invariably right and you are not. So buckle up and hopefully at least enjoy--here goes.
Assorted Items of Interest:
The two Ric's (that would be Santorum and Perry) have decided that the Boy Scouts will be destroyed if they decide to include Gay leaders and Gay Scouts. They just don't get it--by the end of the week, the Illinois State Senate passed a gay marriage bill. These guys lost the Republican nomination but still feel obligated to share their vile opinions. Kick 'em to the curb.
Staying in Pennsylvania, Mrs. Paterno "got ill" from all the bad stuff said about her husband. Well I think she ought to go back in bed and put her blinders back on--she was not sexually abused; the children were and they will have long term problems. Who cares if she is ill--this is about damage done to children; it is about them. And the family's report which contradicted Freeh's report is a basket of BS. This happened and the culture created by Joe Pa allowed it to flourish.
Eric Cantor (he who is a member of my tribe) is back in the news with all sorts of "non -partisan" proposals. He is just reshuffling the deck and calling out the Prez for not being responsive to the middle class. Another one to kick to the curb (which is getting pretty full). Two quotes about these guys. Paul Krugman refers to them as the "ignorance caucus". And I am pretty sure it is Hilary after she left office who referred to them as folks "who don't live in the evidence based world".
Staying in the so called political world. I just want to send Mitch McConnell back to the tobacco fields in Kentucky. After the state of the union speech, this brilliant leader said: "He's gotten all the revenue he is going to get. Been there, done that". Real helpful and very respectful. Any room left on the curb? The 2/5 Globe carried a great Doonesbury strip about Elizabeth Warren and her new staff member who is (ahem) a Senior Citizen. Elizabeth gets "that the elderly are people too". And of course the gutless legislators won't go near any gun legislation. Everyone was all excited about getting some limits after Newtown but, if you have noticed, its back to business as usual. I have to hand it to those NRA assholes--they really are savvy in both a PR and a political sense. Chuck Hagel anyone?
And now to Israel. Police detained women including the Rabbi/sister of comedienne Sarah Silverman because they were praying at the Wailing Wall. These are the same zealots (not the police but the ultra Orthodox Rabbis who oversee the activity at the Wall) who are involved with the illegal settlements but don't want their boys to fight in the IDF. And yup those were Israeli jets destroying a convoy in Syria carrying arms to Lebanon. And OOPS--they also managed to destroy an arms depot which at first was denied. Lebanon, which was the destination of the convoy, is controlled by Hezbollah and is a mess--so I get what the Israelis were up to. But they best be careful about how many of their neighbors they can afford to offend. They are increasingly getting more isolated ---and just became the first country to ever refuse to allow the UN to review the country's Human Rights practices.
So Scottie is now on Fox News--I am guessing some of his truer colors will come out sooner or later.
What scares me is that he will appear to be "normal" compared to Palin. On the other hand, Jon Stewart who may have the best writers and researchers in the world (ditto Rachel Maddow) eviscerated Dick Cheyney who came out of hiding long enough to grant his first interview and blast Obama. Stewart dug up all sorts of old tape and just exposed Cheyney for the fool he is--onto the curb too.
SPORTS TALK
Did not watch one play of the Super Bowl--my protest to no one about the pathetic performance of the Pats. No points in the second half--are you kidding me? Greg Bedard may be the best pro football analyst in America. His positions ratings both during and after the season were terrific. If you want to read a really good sports media critic, you have to read Richard Deitsch in SI.Com. The man writes real well and has great sources.
Any of you know or care about the romance between Danica Patrick and Ricky Stenhouse? It is a NASCAR story which means it hits a wall at the Mason Dixon line. I mean who cares what happens at Talledega?. Much more interested in this whole saga in South Africa with Oscar and his now murdered girl friend. And anyone care about ARod--of course he took those banned substances. He should shut up and go stand on top of those other curb dwellers.
I am one of those who believe the Celtics are better off without Rondo. Three reasons: he is a drama queen; he plays out of control too often; and he falls down like a soccer player if he is breathed on too hard.
I hate players who hold their hand up wanting the ball while they are in a game. They often get it and fuck up. Play the game--don't stand around waving and then sulking when you don't get it.
The goalie for Juventus is a spitting image of Bowser the lead singer for Sha Na Na--you need to be of a certain age to remember that factoid.
Hope you are both feeling better, Peter and Ashok. Happy Belated Valentine's Day to all
Sayonara
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Friday, February 1, 2013
TWENTY MILLION FOLLOWERS!!!!!!
Read somewhere that a woman who publishes this wedding blog has 20 million followers. I'm trying to get to 100. Cannot fathom how that happens. Or how you can fit all the names into that little "TO" box. Anyhow I have a secret but special reward for the first one of you who sends me 5 email addresses of folks who actually might enjoy this screed. Kind of like a contest. I cannot be categorized but I can hopefully be interesting.
So I loved the speech at the Inauguration. Now I know nothing may come of it but the language and the message was terrific. "Seneca Falls and Selma and Stonewall". First of all, it is beautifully alliterative which is amazing. Second, in a few short words he made history acknowledging women, African Americans, and, for the first time ever, Gay men and women. Even if nothing else happens, he "came out" on these issues and on immigration. The line "do not confuse absolutism with principles"--another terrific use of language and a slap at the Tea Partiers without naming them and thus egging them on. Speaking of slaps, Ryan and Romney must still have red faces from the slaps they got. And that fool Romney is probably still at the Convention Center counting his firecrackers--what a baby not showing for the Inaugural.
OK, so you live in Bethel, Maine and are likely the only Hispanic gay man within a bazillion miles. On the other hand, you happen to be a poet and you get a call sometime after the election and are asked to write a poem for the Inauguration--hello!! I would have headed straight to bed--no, first to the liquor cabinet for the Scotch, then the freezer for the ice, and then bed--but this guy Blanco came up with a beauty under gigantic pressure. The symbolism of his remarks means something to the Immigrants who came before and the ones that will come again. And it blasted away at the homophobes already freaked out by the Stonewall reference.
On a somewhat lighter note, my old hometown (that would be Brookline--though I have a few others) is being overrun by wild turkeys. Front page of the Globe had pix of these critters and all sorts of crazed residents who "cannot leave their houses"; a mailman who had to enter someones home to escape attack (there is a joke there, right?); and children afraid of going to school. The next time there is an absence of an animal story on either the front page of the Globe or the front page of the Metro section of the paper, please notify me immediately. One day last week we learned about insects.
So I am in a fairly legit kind of men's room--not a sleazoid place on the side of a highway. If some of you are not aware of this, there are now urinals for little guys about half the size of the ones for us manly guys. So two urinals down, there is a grown up manly guy using the kid's urinal and reading the paper. He is also peeing all over his shoe because it is a longer shot--does not notice a thing. Flushes and of course walks out without washing his hands--does leave a good size puddle. Un fucking believable.
Before the Israeli election, David Remnick had a New Yorker article about the rise of the secular (as opposed to the religious) right and how rigid they are about the Palestinians. It was very depressing. Surprise--they got crunched in the election and the center of the populace--in other words, those who might actually favor a two state solution--came out big. I like Remnick a lot but he really blew it this time. Then recently Jon Lee Anderson (another writer in the mag who I like a lot) wrote a great piece about Hugo Chavez who is likely dying in Havana. What he is likely to leave behind in Venezuela will not be pretty. Two days later, a prison riot killed a bunch of guards and inmates in that country.
Scotty will not run so I am not sure which Republican will go after Kerry's seat. I hate to admit it but Weld would be better than most. Also would fit in better what with his WASPY noblesse oblige style. Yuk however to the need for another two elections--a special one this summer and then the regular one.
You all do know there is a website called "Christian Mingle", right?
SPORTS TALK
Don't believe ARod and don't believe Teo and believe Ray Lewis is a thug who should have been in jail 10 years ago. And I don't believe him either. I do believe someone on the Pats coaching staff should be kicked someplace for how they managed to get ZERO points in the second half. Sure, Brady stunk and there were injuries but no points--pathetic. Greg Bedard, in the Globe, has been great all season writing about the Pats. His analysis of this game was excellent. I will not be watching the super bowl at all. Going out to din din and watching Downton.
Phil Mickelson has the shit eatingest grin of anyone on the face of the earth. and he is upset because his taxes are so high he could not buy into the Padres. Kick him to the curb or at least into a sand trap.
Don't forget the contest.
Sayonara.
So I loved the speech at the Inauguration. Now I know nothing may come of it but the language and the message was terrific. "Seneca Falls and Selma and Stonewall". First of all, it is beautifully alliterative which is amazing. Second, in a few short words he made history acknowledging women, African Americans, and, for the first time ever, Gay men and women. Even if nothing else happens, he "came out" on these issues and on immigration. The line "do not confuse absolutism with principles"--another terrific use of language and a slap at the Tea Partiers without naming them and thus egging them on. Speaking of slaps, Ryan and Romney must still have red faces from the slaps they got. And that fool Romney is probably still at the Convention Center counting his firecrackers--what a baby not showing for the Inaugural.
OK, so you live in Bethel, Maine and are likely the only Hispanic gay man within a bazillion miles. On the other hand, you happen to be a poet and you get a call sometime after the election and are asked to write a poem for the Inauguration--hello!! I would have headed straight to bed--no, first to the liquor cabinet for the Scotch, then the freezer for the ice, and then bed--but this guy Blanco came up with a beauty under gigantic pressure. The symbolism of his remarks means something to the Immigrants who came before and the ones that will come again. And it blasted away at the homophobes already freaked out by the Stonewall reference.
On a somewhat lighter note, my old hometown (that would be Brookline--though I have a few others) is being overrun by wild turkeys. Front page of the Globe had pix of these critters and all sorts of crazed residents who "cannot leave their houses"; a mailman who had to enter someones home to escape attack (there is a joke there, right?); and children afraid of going to school. The next time there is an absence of an animal story on either the front page of the Globe or the front page of the Metro section of the paper, please notify me immediately. One day last week we learned about insects.
So I am in a fairly legit kind of men's room--not a sleazoid place on the side of a highway. If some of you are not aware of this, there are now urinals for little guys about half the size of the ones for us manly guys. So two urinals down, there is a grown up manly guy using the kid's urinal and reading the paper. He is also peeing all over his shoe because it is a longer shot--does not notice a thing. Flushes and of course walks out without washing his hands--does leave a good size puddle. Un fucking believable.
Before the Israeli election, David Remnick had a New Yorker article about the rise of the secular (as opposed to the religious) right and how rigid they are about the Palestinians. It was very depressing. Surprise--they got crunched in the election and the center of the populace--in other words, those who might actually favor a two state solution--came out big. I like Remnick a lot but he really blew it this time. Then recently Jon Lee Anderson (another writer in the mag who I like a lot) wrote a great piece about Hugo Chavez who is likely dying in Havana. What he is likely to leave behind in Venezuela will not be pretty. Two days later, a prison riot killed a bunch of guards and inmates in that country.
Scotty will not run so I am not sure which Republican will go after Kerry's seat. I hate to admit it but Weld would be better than most. Also would fit in better what with his WASPY noblesse oblige style. Yuk however to the need for another two elections--a special one this summer and then the regular one.
You all do know there is a website called "Christian Mingle", right?
SPORTS TALK
Don't believe ARod and don't believe Teo and believe Ray Lewis is a thug who should have been in jail 10 years ago. And I don't believe him either. I do believe someone on the Pats coaching staff should be kicked someplace for how they managed to get ZERO points in the second half. Sure, Brady stunk and there were injuries but no points--pathetic. Greg Bedard, in the Globe, has been great all season writing about the Pats. His analysis of this game was excellent. I will not be watching the super bowl at all. Going out to din din and watching Downton.
Phil Mickelson has the shit eatingest grin of anyone on the face of the earth. and he is upset because his taxes are so high he could not buy into the Padres. Kick him to the curb or at least into a sand trap.
Don't forget the contest.
Sayonara.
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
MOSTLY ODDS; NOT TOO MANY ENDS
So I am nearly horizontal, having my second root canal, trying to keep my eyes closed as they dig around inside my mouth/tooth. Except of course the noise is inside my head and driving me crazy. So I open my eyes and what do I see--4 nostrils one of which is all yukked up. And there is nowhere else to look because of course they all now have surgical masks so the first exposed face part is the nose. Oh what a sight--so I am thinking that even if my mouth was not crammed full of crap, what would I have said. Probably nada so I closed my eyes again. Gross. Moving on.
The Tea Party has been "betrayed" according to them and there will be consequences. This is of course aimed at Republicans who voted to avoid the fiscal cliff. Here is hoping those consequences include a bunch of Republicans losing in 2014. And of course the NRA is on the warpath even going after Obama's kids for having secret service protection. They are quite out of touch also but seem to have a lot of money and a lot of politicians who want it. They are also threatening consequences even as a Sheriff in Oregon says he will not enforce any gun ban that Obama signs. What the fuck is it with these people? Jon Stewart had been on vacation and came back looking for targets and boy were there a lot. He absolutely trashed Congress and the NRA and was terrifically funny while doing it.
In terms of Congress, they are simply a bunch of wusses afraid to make any tough decisions. I will say, though I detest those Tea Partyers, they are willing to put up or shut up. They are wrong on almost everything but boy are they willing to stand up and be visibly wrong. As opposed to John Boehner (he of the perpetual tan) who calmly says he won't negotiate--and that is that. And of course with this debt ceiling crap on the near horizon, Boehner will have another chance to do nothing.
A terrific Doonesbury strip today which has to be read--in it a Tea Party guy who is talking to Boehner refers to him as "suntan". Was with a group of people over New Year's and we agreed that if there were 8 members of Congress at the meal instead of us, they could not decide what to order. They are so ineffectual it scares me.
Clarence Thomas finally spoke after literally 7 years of silence on our high court--who nominated him anyway? Problem was he did not ask a question but tried to tell a joke which no one understood. He is as stupid as a rock.
Another reason why I continue to feel itchy at my synagogue. One of these upcoming Fridays, the theme will be "Torah Tefilah Yoga". I am thinking that means we will all get into a lotus position and pretend that is religion. And we will all say the prayers in Hindi. I know the tent needs to be extra big to insure diversity but enough--after a while, stretching the tent can lead to rips in the fabric (nice analogy, no?).
On the other hand Ricardo Blanco, a gay Cuban poet/man who lives in Bethel, Maine, has been chosen to read his poetry at the Inauguration. Obama really has gotten this gender thing right and believe me Mitt would not have come close.
Saw "Zero Dark Thirty". Have two things to say without giving up any details. I am astounded that a woman made this and it is her second film about a war. Second, I am not a big war/military fan. But those guys (and they were all men) who went into Pakistan and got Bin Laden are either the craziest or the bravest men I have ever seen--probably a bit of both. And Obama approved this without knowing for sure that he was there. His folks put the % at between 40 and 60 percent that he was there. Gutsy all around.
SPORTS TALK
Love it that the Yanks let Soriano go--he is a very short fuse away from a blow up and they get draft choices and it might mean Rivera is getting along ok.
Read not one word about the NHL lockout or the Notre Dame/Bama game. Now that both are over I will say that Bettman and Fehr should both be fired and I hate both the South Benders and the Tuscaloosa folks.
The Celtics are not all the way back and to repeat--they need a big man. But having Bradley back and Sullinger playing more has made a big difference. Sullinger has a big wide body and a big butt which gives him a lot of room underneath the hoop. I am really not liking Rondo. Michigan finally lost a BB game and have the Celtics problem--not enough height though I am guessing they will get no lower than a 2 seed come March.
Still cannot believe the Pats hung up 40 again on the hapless Texans. JJ Watt was a non factor and Brady was excellent. I hear Oliver even saw some of it down there in Philly. For some reason I am less worried about the Ravens than I was about the Texans. I have ordered some delicious and decidedly less than healthy snacks for this coming game.
Sayonara
The Tea Party has been "betrayed" according to them and there will be consequences. This is of course aimed at Republicans who voted to avoid the fiscal cliff. Here is hoping those consequences include a bunch of Republicans losing in 2014. And of course the NRA is on the warpath even going after Obama's kids for having secret service protection. They are quite out of touch also but seem to have a lot of money and a lot of politicians who want it. They are also threatening consequences even as a Sheriff in Oregon says he will not enforce any gun ban that Obama signs. What the fuck is it with these people? Jon Stewart had been on vacation and came back looking for targets and boy were there a lot. He absolutely trashed Congress and the NRA and was terrifically funny while doing it.
In terms of Congress, they are simply a bunch of wusses afraid to make any tough decisions. I will say, though I detest those Tea Partyers, they are willing to put up or shut up. They are wrong on almost everything but boy are they willing to stand up and be visibly wrong. As opposed to John Boehner (he of the perpetual tan) who calmly says he won't negotiate--and that is that. And of course with this debt ceiling crap on the near horizon, Boehner will have another chance to do nothing.
A terrific Doonesbury strip today which has to be read--in it a Tea Party guy who is talking to Boehner refers to him as "suntan". Was with a group of people over New Year's and we agreed that if there were 8 members of Congress at the meal instead of us, they could not decide what to order. They are so ineffectual it scares me.
Clarence Thomas finally spoke after literally 7 years of silence on our high court--who nominated him anyway? Problem was he did not ask a question but tried to tell a joke which no one understood. He is as stupid as a rock.
Another reason why I continue to feel itchy at my synagogue. One of these upcoming Fridays, the theme will be "Torah Tefilah Yoga". I am thinking that means we will all get into a lotus position and pretend that is religion. And we will all say the prayers in Hindi. I know the tent needs to be extra big to insure diversity but enough--after a while, stretching the tent can lead to rips in the fabric (nice analogy, no?).
On the other hand Ricardo Blanco, a gay Cuban poet/man who lives in Bethel, Maine, has been chosen to read his poetry at the Inauguration. Obama really has gotten this gender thing right and believe me Mitt would not have come close.
Saw "Zero Dark Thirty". Have two things to say without giving up any details. I am astounded that a woman made this and it is her second film about a war. Second, I am not a big war/military fan. But those guys (and they were all men) who went into Pakistan and got Bin Laden are either the craziest or the bravest men I have ever seen--probably a bit of both. And Obama approved this without knowing for sure that he was there. His folks put the % at between 40 and 60 percent that he was there. Gutsy all around.
SPORTS TALK
Love it that the Yanks let Soriano go--he is a very short fuse away from a blow up and they get draft choices and it might mean Rivera is getting along ok.
Read not one word about the NHL lockout or the Notre Dame/Bama game. Now that both are over I will say that Bettman and Fehr should both be fired and I hate both the South Benders and the Tuscaloosa folks.
The Celtics are not all the way back and to repeat--they need a big man. But having Bradley back and Sullinger playing more has made a big difference. Sullinger has a big wide body and a big butt which gives him a lot of room underneath the hoop. I am really not liking Rondo. Michigan finally lost a BB game and have the Celtics problem--not enough height though I am guessing they will get no lower than a 2 seed come March.
Still cannot believe the Pats hung up 40 again on the hapless Texans. JJ Watt was a non factor and Brady was excellent. I hear Oliver even saw some of it down there in Philly. For some reason I am less worried about the Ravens than I was about the Texans. I have ordered some delicious and decidedly less than healthy snacks for this coming game.
Sayonara
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
THE VIEW FROM LUDDITEVILLE
Apparently Luddites were people who refused to believe in new developments and were kid of stuck in their real or symbolic caves. In our family, I am referred to as that "Luddite"--and I happen to spend a lot of time in my basement "man cave" office. Got a cell phone but it stays in the car unless I go to Jess' and am with the kids. Don't text and don't want to. Can barely manage my way around the computer. Need Bob for virtually all computer fixes/problems/confusion. Barbara, Anna, and Jess (and pretty soon Lilli) are all way too advanced for me and it is ok--if and only if I were not being asked regularly to move on up to the 21st century. But today, I am quite proud to make the following announcement. I successfully managed to close both my Face book and Linked-in accounts. Done/gone/see you later. Ta Ta.
Now to the important stuff. I thought the President's speech in the aftermath of the Newtown murders was excellent. I was in tears by the time he finished--especially as he read the names. One of the names of the children was Jessica and one was Ana. Too close. I am also not interested in motive--even if it turns out this person was mentally ill and because of my chosen profession, I am supposed to understand the behavior. Nope just won't/can't. Went to Tedeschi's (kind of like a 7/11 for those not up here) to get the NY Times with the front page in black showing a list of the victim's names. The clerk and I always chat but rarely understand each other--he is from South Asia and has a command of English as good as my command of his language whatever it is. I did understand him as I looked at the Times when he said: "Why, Americans are happy people--why this happen?". I had no answer. Finally, on the CNN website--a piece by a BU Religion Professor by the name of Steve Prothero. Titled "Six Things I Don't Want to Hear". Just terrific.
Not that I think anything will change, but the NRA position of having schools staffed with security guards who are armed is so callous and out of touch, it is hard to believe. Hard to know what they are thinking but I worry that a whole bunch of people are right there with them.
The guy who is a member of my tribe (Cantor) and the guy with the perpetual tan (Boehner) nearly ran us off the cliff since they cannot control the freaks and geeks in their own party. But they seemed blissfully unaware or uncaring of the implications. At least I cared even if I had no clue what the fuck it all REALLY meant.
I am so pissed that Kerry is to become Secretary of State (I am also quite worried about Hilary and her blood clot) since it means yet another election and yet another chance for Scottie. And I can assure you that Ed Markey does not excite me in the least. If he gets nominated I will have to hold my nose and work for him but not with the same fervor I felt for Elizabeth. And did you see that Jim Demint the foolish senator from the great state of South Carolina is leaving office. Leave it to those folks in that great state--they found an African American Tea Party guy to replace him--Tim Scott. I have daydreamed about his first conversation with Barack--what can it be about?
Lincoln is a terrific movie and the politics contained it made it seem quite relevant today--in a bit over 100 years the Republicans and the Democrats sure have changed their roles. Loved This is 40 also but thankfully in a much lighter vein.
Had a great visit with that young woman from Austin. Don't see her nearly enough (same with Jess and her family) and Texas is at least in sight of the end of America if not the end itself.
SPORTSTALK
So the Pats get a bye which is really important. There is no way they win with McCourty at cornerback. He has to stay at safety. The 49er game was bizarro and even when they tied it I had no faith the Pats could hold on. Then they just played out the string with the Jags and the Fins--two sucky Florida teams. I really would love them to avoid Peyton but I also cannot see either the Pats or the Broncos losing before the AFC Championship.
I would seriously worry about the Celtics. Avery Bradley's return will help but as far as I know he is not Michael Jordan and also does not walk on water. He also is not a rebounder. They need Kevin Love is what they need.
Happy new Year to all of you. Hope it is peaceful and healthy for all.
Sayonara
Now to the important stuff. I thought the President's speech in the aftermath of the Newtown murders was excellent. I was in tears by the time he finished--especially as he read the names. One of the names of the children was Jessica and one was Ana. Too close. I am also not interested in motive--even if it turns out this person was mentally ill and because of my chosen profession, I am supposed to understand the behavior. Nope just won't/can't. Went to Tedeschi's (kind of like a 7/11 for those not up here) to get the NY Times with the front page in black showing a list of the victim's names. The clerk and I always chat but rarely understand each other--he is from South Asia and has a command of English as good as my command of his language whatever it is. I did understand him as I looked at the Times when he said: "Why, Americans are happy people--why this happen?". I had no answer. Finally, on the CNN website--a piece by a BU Religion Professor by the name of Steve Prothero. Titled "Six Things I Don't Want to Hear". Just terrific.
Not that I think anything will change, but the NRA position of having schools staffed with security guards who are armed is so callous and out of touch, it is hard to believe. Hard to know what they are thinking but I worry that a whole bunch of people are right there with them.
The guy who is a member of my tribe (Cantor) and the guy with the perpetual tan (Boehner) nearly ran us off the cliff since they cannot control the freaks and geeks in their own party. But they seemed blissfully unaware or uncaring of the implications. At least I cared even if I had no clue what the fuck it all REALLY meant.
I am so pissed that Kerry is to become Secretary of State (I am also quite worried about Hilary and her blood clot) since it means yet another election and yet another chance for Scottie. And I can assure you that Ed Markey does not excite me in the least. If he gets nominated I will have to hold my nose and work for him but not with the same fervor I felt for Elizabeth. And did you see that Jim Demint the foolish senator from the great state of South Carolina is leaving office. Leave it to those folks in that great state--they found an African American Tea Party guy to replace him--Tim Scott. I have daydreamed about his first conversation with Barack--what can it be about?
Lincoln is a terrific movie and the politics contained it made it seem quite relevant today--in a bit over 100 years the Republicans and the Democrats sure have changed their roles. Loved This is 40 also but thankfully in a much lighter vein.
Had a great visit with that young woman from Austin. Don't see her nearly enough (same with Jess and her family) and Texas is at least in sight of the end of America if not the end itself.
SPORTSTALK
So the Pats get a bye which is really important. There is no way they win with McCourty at cornerback. He has to stay at safety. The 49er game was bizarro and even when they tied it I had no faith the Pats could hold on. Then they just played out the string with the Jags and the Fins--two sucky Florida teams. I really would love them to avoid Peyton but I also cannot see either the Pats or the Broncos losing before the AFC Championship.
I would seriously worry about the Celtics. Avery Bradley's return will help but as far as I know he is not Michael Jordan and also does not walk on water. He also is not a rebounder. They need Kevin Love is what they need.
Happy new Year to all of you. Hope it is peaceful and healthy for all.
Sayonara
Saturday, December 15, 2012
WORDS, DON'T FAIL ME NOW
But they likely will because I cannot put my thoughts/feelings into words which adequately describe yesterday's massacre in Newtown. My first thought: As a parent, I sent my kids off to school and never ever thought I would never see them alive again. How can that be understood? Second thought: I was with Oliver and Lilli last weekend. I walked Lilli to the bus and accompanied Jess to Oliver's school--I am sure neither Jess nor I ever had the thought that this was the last time we would see them alive. Third thought: More gruesome than the first two, I thought that this small town probably did not have enough child sized caskets to deal with the tragedy. There are not final thoughts since I will not get closure on this ever. I can say this: I don't want to hear any talking heads telling me how to interpret this 5 full minutes after it occurred. I don't want to see any more memorials with flowers. I don't want to hear from instant diagnosticians who did not know the perpetrator but can diagnose what his "illness" was. I don't want to hear from the NRA. I deeply respect Obama's words and, if you saw him yesterday, you know he felt this as a parent first; and as President second. What did he and Michelle say to the kids? What did any of you parents say? I have no clue what I might have said.
I am not sure where to take this except I do have more to say--maybe just itemize some odds and ends?
--Last week in Kansas City, a professional football player murdered his girlfriend and then committed suicide in front of a group of his coaches. More guns, more flowers, more memorials, and then Bob Costas (on a sports program mind you) had the temerity of raising the issues related to gun control. And of course got slammed by all sorts of people. The instant diagnosticians were out in force on this one also.
--I did have a terrific time in Philadelphia with Jess, Steffen, and the kids. Mostly just followed them around and through all their activities and celebrated the first two nights of Hanukkah while there. They go to Germany this coming week for the Holidays and to spend time with Steffen's family. These bi-continental lives are very hard. The really interesting news is that in the spring Jet Blue will begin flying there and finally offer USAir some serious competition.
--Susan Rice "withdrew" and I am trying hard not to believe Obama gave her more than a slight hint that it was a good idea. Those fucking Republicans continue to act like they won the election and that their main goal is to limit any of Obama's possibilities of success. McCain and Graham need to be kicked to the curb. Now if Kerry is selected, we will have another damn election here and will face the prospect of Scottie running again. A pathetic and ugly happenstance.
--Speaking of Kerry and the Republicans, a vote to approve an international treaty supporting the rights of the disabled lost because the Republicans saw it as just another UN kind of thing. One of a handful of countries which failed to support it--wonderful.
--More about the Republicans. I love their in-fighting over the direction of the party. and I fervently hope that this self injurious process is self defeating in 2014. They hate Medicare but always forget about granny collecting it.
--Not sure about that fiscal cliff craziness. But I am sure the fools in DC should be able to resolve it--it is not brain surgery. But both sides seem determined to a duel in the sun and some Republicans just want to see what happens. Hello!
--Elizabeth did get on the Banking Committee. Please tell me why it became an ordeal. She is probably more qualified than any other Senator but we had to have a BIG DEBATE about it. Give me a break.
--The folks living on the Cape want federal money to put up signs warning visitors about sharks. Wait til the Tea Partiers see that--wait til I see that. Better idea: Just put two signs up--one on each bridge and tell folks that sharks swim in the water. Done.
--Lost a filling and thought just refill it. But nooooooo--now will have two root canals and a crown and also lucked out with an infection in one of the teeth. Fast Eddie, my dentist, says it is age. Just another doctor telling me that certain body parts are wearing out. Terrific.
--Read a non-fiction book by Katherine Boo recommended by Babs about the "slums" of Mumbai. Cannot quite remember the name--something with "Forever" in the title. Engrossing but so depressing. One more reason why I never ever want to go there. Sorry since I know a few of my readers are connected to, if not from, India.
--Garry Trudeau has resurrected his "Duke " character in the Doonesbury cartoon. Duke is based on Hunter Thompson who committed suicide some years ago. Duke is now working for a DC lobbying firm and his project is the secession of Texas. Now everything is going swimmingly until he realizes that Austin is in Texas. And he does not want Austin to be lost. Oh Anna I am glad you will continue to be part of the U.S. of A. Has to be read.
SPORTS TALK
--I warned all of you about Don Fehr--and don't give me any pro union arguments. Talk about a cliff. This will be Bettman' third work stoppage in his tenure. Fehr and Bettman are a terrible twosome.
--The Blue Jays, Dodgers, and Angels have loaded up and spent some serious bucks. And the Red Flops signed Napoli--he of the .228 and .237 batting averages. And my pinstripes down there in NYC seem hell bent on signing the oldest players available. We shall see.
--We all know Bounty Gate was real and that the facts are irrefutable. I don't care what the players say or Tagliabue says or the coaches say. They did it. Period.
--I would not have predicted how the Pats manhandled the Texans and now I am not sure what to predict tomorrow night against the 49ers. I do know a bye will help and it would not surprise me if they finish first.
Merry Christmas to those of you who celebrate it. Happy 8th night of Hanukkah to those of you who celebrate that. And really, for all of us, think about Newtown and the grief of the parents and the survivors.
Sayonara
I am not sure where to take this except I do have more to say--maybe just itemize some odds and ends?
--Last week in Kansas City, a professional football player murdered his girlfriend and then committed suicide in front of a group of his coaches. More guns, more flowers, more memorials, and then Bob Costas (on a sports program mind you) had the temerity of raising the issues related to gun control. And of course got slammed by all sorts of people. The instant diagnosticians were out in force on this one also.
--I did have a terrific time in Philadelphia with Jess, Steffen, and the kids. Mostly just followed them around and through all their activities and celebrated the first two nights of Hanukkah while there. They go to Germany this coming week for the Holidays and to spend time with Steffen's family. These bi-continental lives are very hard. The really interesting news is that in the spring Jet Blue will begin flying there and finally offer USAir some serious competition.
--Susan Rice "withdrew" and I am trying hard not to believe Obama gave her more than a slight hint that it was a good idea. Those fucking Republicans continue to act like they won the election and that their main goal is to limit any of Obama's possibilities of success. McCain and Graham need to be kicked to the curb. Now if Kerry is selected, we will have another damn election here and will face the prospect of Scottie running again. A pathetic and ugly happenstance.
--Speaking of Kerry and the Republicans, a vote to approve an international treaty supporting the rights of the disabled lost because the Republicans saw it as just another UN kind of thing. One of a handful of countries which failed to support it--wonderful.
--More about the Republicans. I love their in-fighting over the direction of the party. and I fervently hope that this self injurious process is self defeating in 2014. They hate Medicare but always forget about granny collecting it.
--Not sure about that fiscal cliff craziness. But I am sure the fools in DC should be able to resolve it--it is not brain surgery. But both sides seem determined to a duel in the sun and some Republicans just want to see what happens. Hello!
--Elizabeth did get on the Banking Committee. Please tell me why it became an ordeal. She is probably more qualified than any other Senator but we had to have a BIG DEBATE about it. Give me a break.
--The folks living on the Cape want federal money to put up signs warning visitors about sharks. Wait til the Tea Partiers see that--wait til I see that. Better idea: Just put two signs up--one on each bridge and tell folks that sharks swim in the water. Done.
--Lost a filling and thought just refill it. But nooooooo--now will have two root canals and a crown and also lucked out with an infection in one of the teeth. Fast Eddie, my dentist, says it is age. Just another doctor telling me that certain body parts are wearing out. Terrific.
--Read a non-fiction book by Katherine Boo recommended by Babs about the "slums" of Mumbai. Cannot quite remember the name--something with "Forever" in the title. Engrossing but so depressing. One more reason why I never ever want to go there. Sorry since I know a few of my readers are connected to, if not from, India.
--Garry Trudeau has resurrected his "Duke " character in the Doonesbury cartoon. Duke is based on Hunter Thompson who committed suicide some years ago. Duke is now working for a DC lobbying firm and his project is the secession of Texas. Now everything is going swimmingly until he realizes that Austin is in Texas. And he does not want Austin to be lost. Oh Anna I am glad you will continue to be part of the U.S. of A. Has to be read.
SPORTS TALK
--I warned all of you about Don Fehr--and don't give me any pro union arguments. Talk about a cliff. This will be Bettman' third work stoppage in his tenure. Fehr and Bettman are a terrible twosome.
--The Blue Jays, Dodgers, and Angels have loaded up and spent some serious bucks. And the Red Flops signed Napoli--he of the .228 and .237 batting averages. And my pinstripes down there in NYC seem hell bent on signing the oldest players available. We shall see.
--We all know Bounty Gate was real and that the facts are irrefutable. I don't care what the players say or Tagliabue says or the coaches say. They did it. Period.
--I would not have predicted how the Pats manhandled the Texans and now I am not sure what to predict tomorrow night against the 49ers. I do know a bye will help and it would not surprise me if they finish first.
Merry Christmas to those of you who celebrate it. Happy 8th night of Hanukkah to those of you who celebrate that. And really, for all of us, think about Newtown and the grief of the parents and the survivors.
Sayonara
Sunday, December 2, 2012
IF TUESDAY IS THE NEW WEDNESDAY, IS SATURDAY THE NEW SUNDAY?
On turkey day we had a terrific easy drive to NJ after hearing about the traffic disasters on Tuesday and Wednesday. By the time we left Scranton on Saturday, we figured no sweat. WRONG. Totally messed up in Danbury and then another mess at the entrance to the Mass Pike.And as a point of information to all you EZ Pass advocates--it did not matter if you had one or not. The road was totally clogged on the other side of the toll booths so going to the EZ Pass lane was not any better. So there.
Welcome to Ronni, Patty, Sherrie, and Rick. Getting close to 60/want to get to 100. So send those cards and letters of folks who might love to hear my rants. Also a very happy welcome to both Henry and Poppy--two special baby additions to my relatively small family. So cute.
Moving on. The Globe had two straight days of animal stories--dogs, cats, assorted other non humans. As if there is not enough going on in the world. And on the front pages of the first or second sections. Really now. One article was about a new law which allows animals to be included in restraining orders. I would love to see that in court. ARF ARF keep him away from me. Are you shitting me? Then an article in the Globe magazine about this woman who has decorated her office as if it were in Paris. She had placed a book about Paris and a book about Rodin on the chair in the picture--can you fucking believe it? More importantly, two women got married in the West Point chapel and one of the officiants was the senior Army chaplain of the Academy--pretty cool.
More odds and ends--mostly odd. Why is Arafat's body being exhumed? What am I missing? Is it to prove he was murdered and did not die of natural causes and of course the Israelis must have done it. He is gone and they have to move on. But of course we have Netanyahu who won't move on--five seconds after the UN raised the status of the Palestinians, he approved 3000 new homes on the
West Bank. Five minutes later, Hilary expressed our country's disagreement with that decision. He has basically told us to fuck off. I am beginning to believe it is close to hopeless as long as Hamas has the rockets and the Israelis have a sabre rattling Prime Minister.
I did not know Susan Rice was African American--but that explains a bit about Lindsey Graham and John McCain going after her. Both due to her gender and the color of her skin. At least Hilary is white. My mother would simply say: OY.
After 3 attempts, a female Mexican mayor was finally assassinated. She fought the cartels and tried to keep them out of her small town and lost. So courageous and yet dead. It is just plain ugly in some of those Mexican cities. And yes part of it is due to the demand for drugs up here. But meanwhile the violence just continues.
So I go to my local Post Office which truly (and kind of nicely) seems to be my local UN branch. Problem is the PO staff tend to disappear for long breaks while the line lengthens. Then you have some of my fellow JPers sending something to Bangladesh to some remote village with no zip code and requesting certified return receipts. I mean they should be able to do that but with the staff heading out back, do you know how long that takes? And it is not just one person, it is a whole group of folks sending stuff to these zip codeless places.
Digressing further, Grover Norquist is an asshole and he is increasingly becoming isolated. Even some of the crazy Republicans are distancing themselves from him. I look forward to the 2012 elections with him in mind. Speaking of which, anyone hear from either Eric Cantor or Sheldon Adelson (both members of my tribe). They seem to be a bit silent since the election. Maybe their meds have not kicked in or maybe they are in bed with their stuffed animals sucking their thumbs.
Can someone tell me why Barack can visit Myanmar one of the worst dictatorships ever and establish some sort of relationship with them--but not row his boat over to Havana and do the same thing. He can't still be scared about those crazy old Cuban farts in Miami, can he? The younger generation of those old farts actually went 50/50 for Obama and Romney and likely would welcome an open relationship with Cuba. Come on, it is time and he almost has a free pass since he can't be re-elected.
A terrific article in the New Yorker of 11/12 about Daine Ravitch the education reformer. I am not sure I understand all of her positions but I do know a lot of people are angry at her because she actually admitted to changing her mind about testing and charter schools, Also you should see the documentary on the Rolling Stones on HBO. I have no clue how Keith Richards has not od'd or died of lung cancer. There are also terrifying videos of Altamont and the Hells Angels attacking the audience in the guise of security.
Enough.
SPORTS TALK
The Yanks have signed 3 key pitchers and lost their catcher--who I never liked but he is apparently good with pitchers. He just cannot fucking hit. They will find someone--but getting Kuroda, Petite, and Rivera done is important. Good luck with Jonny Gomes you Red Flop lovers. Rondo is very good but he is also a drama queen who needs a few slaps or a spanking. I still believe they will be ok but they are struggling right now. The Pats had an ugly win today and it should be apparent that they had better sign Welker because the guy is already over 1000 yards and will be over 100 catches next week. I hate Nick Saban and Alabama and was way disappointed that they won. Notre Dame is worse and I will not watch the game at all.
Now playing forward for the Michigan Wolverines BB team--Nik Skauskas from Missisauga Ontario. A freshmen who just is deadly from 3 point range. Could he be the next Steve Nash? Too early to tell but even with those other more glamourous freshmen, he has been the standout on that team.
To Philadelphia this Thursday to spend time with the Helmlings before they go across the big pond for Christmas. And little Anna arrives in less than 3 weeks. Can't wait.
Sayonara.
Welcome to Ronni, Patty, Sherrie, and Rick. Getting close to 60/want to get to 100. So send those cards and letters of folks who might love to hear my rants. Also a very happy welcome to both Henry and Poppy--two special baby additions to my relatively small family. So cute.
Moving on. The Globe had two straight days of animal stories--dogs, cats, assorted other non humans. As if there is not enough going on in the world. And on the front pages of the first or second sections. Really now. One article was about a new law which allows animals to be included in restraining orders. I would love to see that in court. ARF ARF keep him away from me. Are you shitting me? Then an article in the Globe magazine about this woman who has decorated her office as if it were in Paris. She had placed a book about Paris and a book about Rodin on the chair in the picture--can you fucking believe it? More importantly, two women got married in the West Point chapel and one of the officiants was the senior Army chaplain of the Academy--pretty cool.
More odds and ends--mostly odd. Why is Arafat's body being exhumed? What am I missing? Is it to prove he was murdered and did not die of natural causes and of course the Israelis must have done it. He is gone and they have to move on. But of course we have Netanyahu who won't move on--five seconds after the UN raised the status of the Palestinians, he approved 3000 new homes on the
West Bank. Five minutes later, Hilary expressed our country's disagreement with that decision. He has basically told us to fuck off. I am beginning to believe it is close to hopeless as long as Hamas has the rockets and the Israelis have a sabre rattling Prime Minister.
I did not know Susan Rice was African American--but that explains a bit about Lindsey Graham and John McCain going after her. Both due to her gender and the color of her skin. At least Hilary is white. My mother would simply say: OY.
After 3 attempts, a female Mexican mayor was finally assassinated. She fought the cartels and tried to keep them out of her small town and lost. So courageous and yet dead. It is just plain ugly in some of those Mexican cities. And yes part of it is due to the demand for drugs up here. But meanwhile the violence just continues.
So I go to my local Post Office which truly (and kind of nicely) seems to be my local UN branch. Problem is the PO staff tend to disappear for long breaks while the line lengthens. Then you have some of my fellow JPers sending something to Bangladesh to some remote village with no zip code and requesting certified return receipts. I mean they should be able to do that but with the staff heading out back, do you know how long that takes? And it is not just one person, it is a whole group of folks sending stuff to these zip codeless places.
Digressing further, Grover Norquist is an asshole and he is increasingly becoming isolated. Even some of the crazy Republicans are distancing themselves from him. I look forward to the 2012 elections with him in mind. Speaking of which, anyone hear from either Eric Cantor or Sheldon Adelson (both members of my tribe). They seem to be a bit silent since the election. Maybe their meds have not kicked in or maybe they are in bed with their stuffed animals sucking their thumbs.
Can someone tell me why Barack can visit Myanmar one of the worst dictatorships ever and establish some sort of relationship with them--but not row his boat over to Havana and do the same thing. He can't still be scared about those crazy old Cuban farts in Miami, can he? The younger generation of those old farts actually went 50/50 for Obama and Romney and likely would welcome an open relationship with Cuba. Come on, it is time and he almost has a free pass since he can't be re-elected.
A terrific article in the New Yorker of 11/12 about Daine Ravitch the education reformer. I am not sure I understand all of her positions but I do know a lot of people are angry at her because she actually admitted to changing her mind about testing and charter schools, Also you should see the documentary on the Rolling Stones on HBO. I have no clue how Keith Richards has not od'd or died of lung cancer. There are also terrifying videos of Altamont and the Hells Angels attacking the audience in the guise of security.
Enough.
SPORTS TALK
The Yanks have signed 3 key pitchers and lost their catcher--who I never liked but he is apparently good with pitchers. He just cannot fucking hit. They will find someone--but getting Kuroda, Petite, and Rivera done is important. Good luck with Jonny Gomes you Red Flop lovers. Rondo is very good but he is also a drama queen who needs a few slaps or a spanking. I still believe they will be ok but they are struggling right now. The Pats had an ugly win today and it should be apparent that they had better sign Welker because the guy is already over 1000 yards and will be over 100 catches next week. I hate Nick Saban and Alabama and was way disappointed that they won. Notre Dame is worse and I will not watch the game at all.
Now playing forward for the Michigan Wolverines BB team--Nik Skauskas from Missisauga Ontario. A freshmen who just is deadly from 3 point range. Could he be the next Steve Nash? Too early to tell but even with those other more glamourous freshmen, he has been the standout on that team.
To Philadelphia this Thursday to spend time with the Helmlings before they go across the big pond for Christmas. And little Anna arrives in less than 3 weeks. Can't wait.
Sayonara.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
NATE THE GREAT
I am almost sure the above title is also the name of children's story book--whatever. I will chat a bit later about the actual election. But first a word about my man Nate Silver. He was vilified and pilloried (how do you like them words) by all sorts of right wing media and by some not so right wing for either being wrong, being pro-Obama, or both. All he did was get 100% of the states correct in the presidential voting and all the Senate seats right except for that colossal upset in North Dakota. He is also very humble and consistently kept saying that all he does is collect numbers and then average them--not brain surgery. But he consistently reflected what those averages meant and was right on target about the implications. Finally, I read somewhere that beside not being Jewish, he is an openly gay man. Who knew? If those Fox folks knew that, they might have gone overboard.
Speaking of which, if you haven't seen the video clip of Karl Rove having an on air fight with Fox colleagues about the Ohio results, you have to find it. He insists in the clip that Ohio will go for Romney and requests that one of the others go down the hall where the data people are and get the scoop from them. The camera follows and the data nerds patiently explain that Karl is bonkers. It would be totally hilarious if not for how out of touch Rove is.
I would like to thank every Hispanic person, every African American person, every young person, and all unmarried women--they apparently are the coalition that pushed Obama to the victory and they well may be the groups that push other more progressive candidates to victory in the future as well. According to all that I have read, white men loved the Mitter--them and the evangelicals. But before we get too giddy, there was a terrific article in the recent New Yorker about the new U.S. Senator from the Lone Star state--that would be the person representing Anna. Turns out he is a Tea Party conservative who is first generation American born to Cuban refugee parents. He would like the border wall erected a bazillion feet high to keep the riff raff from Central America out. Also turns out you will help yourself and should not get help from BIG GOVERNMENT. Like Marc Rubio, he is seen as the future of the Republican party. But guess what? In that very same state, Jeb Bush has a son who is "dark skinned" and Jeb's wife is Hispanic. He might be running for some crazy office and he has very different views on immigration--let them duke it out at the Alamo.
So glad Scottie got kicked to the curb up here in the Bay State. Not even close--she whupped him and she will not be a church mouse down there in DC. However, the thought that we might have to have another election if Kerry gets a big job--that makes me want to puke since the pundits are already saying Scottie might want to run again. Ugh.
Kudos to Governor Christie--he has two redeeming values. He loves Bruce (who by the way was out there singing along with Obama) and he had the cojones to thank Obama for visiting his state after Sandy hit. Some Republicans trashed him for that. Kudos also to Bloomberg for endorsing Obama even though in that city and state, it mattered very little. But both of them took risks and deserve some praise.
Sherrod Brown's Senate opponent (Josh Mandel) in Ohio was Jewish and blasted Brown for supporting same sex marriage. Turns out Mandel's sister is married to a woman and they took out an "ad" in the local Jewish paper chastising Mandel for his opposition. Mandel manged to totally split the Jewish community of Cleveland with his obnoxious hate filled positions. And lost. I refer you to op ed pieces by Roger Cohen which is where I stole all this from.
Speaking of stealing--there is a e-zine from Brooklyn called "Heeb". It is full of satire most of the time but in the aftermath of the election, they had a terrific piece on Sheldon Adelson and all the money he spent and lost. 7 of the 8 candidates he supported lost. This included Allen West the right wing Florida congressman who is African American and believes all Democrats are communists. As they say, he is a "nut job" and Sheldon gave him tons of money. Sheldon, Sheldon--its time to come home and take your meds.
Enough--old friends are for me like old levis. As Lilli says, they are comfy cozy. They just fit well and you can just ease right into them without any preliminaries. In the last two weeks we had the luck to spend time with "two pairs of levis". C and M visited with us and then we went to the theatre with C and T. Just a great "fit".
I now have progressive glasses which I hate and have literally been told its because I am getting old. Fuck--every doctor has the same theme. Must be true, no?
Welcome to Andrea--I have cornered the market on Mersons. Still on the look out for others who might wish to receive this screed!!
SPORTS TALK
Poor Phil Jackson/he won't be the Laker coach. Could not care less. Another so called genius bites the dust. However am very happy those pigs from Alabama lost. Johnny football from Texas A and M took them out. Only problem is that school is full of paramilitary student types in uniforms. The Yankees will sign Rivera though how good he will be is an open question. My former home town team (that would be the Marlins) really are a joke. That new stadium was 75% publicly financed and so the city feels fleeced. Caveat emptor.
I warned all of you about Donald Fehr. Talk about the fiscal cliff. Fehr will drive the NHLPA to the hockey cliff. And no this is not about unions--it is about attitudes--Fehr and Bettman should be kicked to the curb like Scottie.
With Barbara out of town, I watched an entire Celtic game last night. Not sure they will go all the way (no one rebounds for example) but I really liked what I saw and doc has a very deep bench.
The Pats will easily win their division but are in deep doo doo with that defensive backfield. If Brady and they boys dont score 30 or more, they are in trouble.
Sayonara.
Speaking of which, if you haven't seen the video clip of Karl Rove having an on air fight with Fox colleagues about the Ohio results, you have to find it. He insists in the clip that Ohio will go for Romney and requests that one of the others go down the hall where the data people are and get the scoop from them. The camera follows and the data nerds patiently explain that Karl is bonkers. It would be totally hilarious if not for how out of touch Rove is.
I would like to thank every Hispanic person, every African American person, every young person, and all unmarried women--they apparently are the coalition that pushed Obama to the victory and they well may be the groups that push other more progressive candidates to victory in the future as well. According to all that I have read, white men loved the Mitter--them and the evangelicals. But before we get too giddy, there was a terrific article in the recent New Yorker about the new U.S. Senator from the Lone Star state--that would be the person representing Anna. Turns out he is a Tea Party conservative who is first generation American born to Cuban refugee parents. He would like the border wall erected a bazillion feet high to keep the riff raff from Central America out. Also turns out you will help yourself and should not get help from BIG GOVERNMENT. Like Marc Rubio, he is seen as the future of the Republican party. But guess what? In that very same state, Jeb Bush has a son who is "dark skinned" and Jeb's wife is Hispanic. He might be running for some crazy office and he has very different views on immigration--let them duke it out at the Alamo.
So glad Scottie got kicked to the curb up here in the Bay State. Not even close--she whupped him and she will not be a church mouse down there in DC. However, the thought that we might have to have another election if Kerry gets a big job--that makes me want to puke since the pundits are already saying Scottie might want to run again. Ugh.
Kudos to Governor Christie--he has two redeeming values. He loves Bruce (who by the way was out there singing along with Obama) and he had the cojones to thank Obama for visiting his state after Sandy hit. Some Republicans trashed him for that. Kudos also to Bloomberg for endorsing Obama even though in that city and state, it mattered very little. But both of them took risks and deserve some praise.
Sherrod Brown's Senate opponent (Josh Mandel) in Ohio was Jewish and blasted Brown for supporting same sex marriage. Turns out Mandel's sister is married to a woman and they took out an "ad" in the local Jewish paper chastising Mandel for his opposition. Mandel manged to totally split the Jewish community of Cleveland with his obnoxious hate filled positions. And lost. I refer you to op ed pieces by Roger Cohen which is where I stole all this from.
Speaking of stealing--there is a e-zine from Brooklyn called "Heeb". It is full of satire most of the time but in the aftermath of the election, they had a terrific piece on Sheldon Adelson and all the money he spent and lost. 7 of the 8 candidates he supported lost. This included Allen West the right wing Florida congressman who is African American and believes all Democrats are communists. As they say, he is a "nut job" and Sheldon gave him tons of money. Sheldon, Sheldon--its time to come home and take your meds.
Enough--old friends are for me like old levis. As Lilli says, they are comfy cozy. They just fit well and you can just ease right into them without any preliminaries. In the last two weeks we had the luck to spend time with "two pairs of levis". C and M visited with us and then we went to the theatre with C and T. Just a great "fit".
I now have progressive glasses which I hate and have literally been told its because I am getting old. Fuck--every doctor has the same theme. Must be true, no?
Welcome to Andrea--I have cornered the market on Mersons. Still on the look out for others who might wish to receive this screed!!
SPORTS TALK
Poor Phil Jackson/he won't be the Laker coach. Could not care less. Another so called genius bites the dust. However am very happy those pigs from Alabama lost. Johnny football from Texas A and M took them out. Only problem is that school is full of paramilitary student types in uniforms. The Yankees will sign Rivera though how good he will be is an open question. My former home town team (that would be the Marlins) really are a joke. That new stadium was 75% publicly financed and so the city feels fleeced. Caveat emptor.
I warned all of you about Donald Fehr. Talk about the fiscal cliff. Fehr will drive the NHLPA to the hockey cliff. And no this is not about unions--it is about attitudes--Fehr and Bettman should be kicked to the curb like Scottie.
With Barbara out of town, I watched an entire Celtic game last night. Not sure they will go all the way (no one rebounds for example) but I really liked what I saw and doc has a very deep bench.
The Pats will easily win their division but are in deep doo doo with that defensive backfield. If Brady and they boys dont score 30 or more, they are in trouble.
Sayonara.
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