Tuesday, December 27, 2005
This would never happen if we just turned the Internet over to the UN
Well, that's that then...
Russian internal investigation concludes Russian security forces did nothing wrong in the botched rescue attempt at Beslan that resulted in 331 deaths, mostly children.
The spokesman then announced everyone was transferring to the Fulton County, GA Sheriff's Department.
The spokesman then announced everyone was transferring to the Fulton County, GA Sheriff's Department.
I am the champion...
Huge victory in the fantasy football title game. The margin of victory was such that it didn't matter who my second wide receiver was - nevertheless, kudos to JWookie and Bob for their support of Ashley Lelie, who turned in the first game he'd had all year worthy of a fantasy starter. (Still no touchdowns, but hey, there's always next year.) Things went the way they usually did - Carson Palmer, Shaun Alexander, Tiki Barber, and Hines Ward scored enough points that the rest of my lineup could have been staffed with Backstreet Boys and I still would have won. (Much of the year, the rest of my lineup pretty much could have been Backstreet Boys.)
Moral of the story - load up on RB and QB - to hell with the rest. Check Bob's early 2006 preview for ideas - but take RB's with your first two picks no matter what else.
Moral of the story - load up on RB and QB - to hell with the rest. Check Bob's early 2006 preview for ideas - but take RB's with your first two picks no matter what else.
Keep it gay...
Saw the Producers last night. Never seen the stage show, but I have seen the original movie, and the remake is worthy of that. It's clearly a stage show put on film, but everyone does a good job (assuming my wife is correct that Ulla dropping her Swedish accent every fourth line or so is intentional.) Will Ferrell does a great demented Nazi (I'm just saying, is all), and Gary Beach and Roger Bart are hilarious as the director and his "common-law assistant." The actual staging of "Springtime for Hitler" in the original was one of the funniest things I've ever seen on screen, and the remake does a good job with it. If you've seen the stage show, there's the potential for disappointment, I suppose, but if you either like movie musicals or liked the 1968 movie, it's good.
Other than that, Christmas had its ups and downs. Good - four day weekend, good presents (including the Angel prop referenced below). The bad - dropping a piece of roast beef on the kitchen floor, promptly scarfed up by Big Stupid. There's a reason we buy him $70 a bag prescription dog food - if he eats something rich, like say, roast beef, he promptly yaks it up. The good news here - the extra money spent on the prescription food isn't wasted - he geniunely needs it.
Hope everyone's Christmas had all of the love mine had, and none of the dog barf.
Other than that, Christmas had its ups and downs. Good - four day weekend, good presents (including the Angel prop referenced below). The bad - dropping a piece of roast beef on the kitchen floor, promptly scarfed up by Big Stupid. There's a reason we buy him $70 a bag prescription dog food - if he eats something rich, like say, roast beef, he promptly yaks it up. The good news here - the extra money spent on the prescription food isn't wasted - he geniunely needs it.
Hope everyone's Christmas had all of the love mine had, and none of the dog barf.
Sunday, December 25, 2005
I was very good this year.
Know how I know?
That's how.
Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, and whatever depraved rituals the rest of you are celebrating today.
That's how.
Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, and whatever depraved rituals the rest of you are celebrating today.
Thursday, December 22, 2005
Canada makes play to lose status as most boring country on earth
Canadian Supreme Court legalizes swingers' clubs.
Now Canadians can have the freedom to walk into a swingers' club, and in the time it takes their eyes to adjust to the light, pray the other people there will be better looking than they are.
They won't be, but Canadians now have the freedom to hope. Which is what democracy is all about.
Now Canadians can have the freedom to walk into a swingers' club, and in the time it takes their eyes to adjust to the light, pray the other people there will be better looking than they are.
They won't be, but Canadians now have the freedom to hope. Which is what democracy is all about.
You mean, you were serious?
Al Sharpton puts kibosh on sitcom plans.
"I haven't done the things I've done to be in a sitcom," Sharpton told the News & Observer of Raleigh, N.C., in Tuesday's editions.You wish, dude. You wish.
"I'm not interested in being Archie Bunker, I'm looking forward to becoming George Bush," Sharpton said, alluding to a possible future presidential race.
The long arm of the Georgia Law...
He tried to flee to Canada, but there was nowhere for Lex Luger to run.
How our troops know we love them...
We send them a rock band made up of Congressmen.
If they need an opening act, I suggest they go with the P. Diddy of the People's House - M.C. Major Owens.
If they need an opening act, I suggest they go with the P. Diddy of the People's House - M.C. Major Owens.
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
Because news matters...
Britney Spears sues US magazine for claiming she and K-Fed made a sex tape. Attorneys for Spears say "US magazine should have known this story was false. Who could seriously expect either of our lackwit clients would be able to figure out how to work a camcorder?"
In other vital news - Jessica Simpson's people are striking out against Nick Lachey. Frustrated with reports that Simpson, and not Lachey, is being blamed for the breakup, Simpson's PR people are allegedly trying to plant stories of Lachey's supposed greed and infidelity, in an attempt to spin some sympathy for America's Most Famous Airhead Not Currently In Possession Of Nuclear Launch Codes. If Simpson is looking for a way to turn America against Lachey, let me suggest four simple words: New. 98. Degrees. Album.
In other vital news - Jessica Simpson's people are striking out against Nick Lachey. Frustrated with reports that Simpson, and not Lachey, is being blamed for the breakup, Simpson's PR people are allegedly trying to plant stories of Lachey's supposed greed and infidelity, in an attempt to spin some sympathy for America's Most Famous Airhead Not Currently In Possession Of Nuclear Launch Codes. If Simpson is looking for a way to turn America against Lachey, let me suggest four simple words: New. 98. Degrees. Album.
Fantasy Football Finals...
The last time I made the title game in a fantasy football league, my opponent was my wife. She won.
This time, I'm in there by myself, and I need a lineup. Carson Palmer, Shaun Alexander, and Tiki Barber are all must starts. Tight end Ben Troupe (Tennessee), kicker John Kasay (Carolina), and the New York Giants defense all start for two reasons. One, they've all been fairly productive this year, and two, they're the only representatives of their positions on my team.
This leaves the Wide Receiver position, my Achilles' heel all season. I have five options, and two starting spots.
1. Hines Ward - PIT (vs. CLE) - Solid performer all season, except for a brief period of injury. Has suffered a bit with the injury to Roethlisberger, but Cleveland's not one of your scarier defenses, and Ward has by far been the most consistent receiver on my roster this year.
2. Joe Horn - NO (vs. Detroit) - Detroit has a crummy pass defense, but Horn has been an unmitigated disaster this year. And that was with Aaron Brooks throwing passes. Could it possibly get better with Todd Bouman?
3. Brandon Lloyd - SF (vs. St. Louis) - Note to the 49'ers - sort out your quarterback situation on your own time. Tim Rattay was never anyone's idea of a franchise QB, but he and Lloyd were connecting nicely the first few weeks of the season. Then you had to go and play Alex Smith and Cody Pickett (seriously, Cody Pickett?), and the wheels came off the Lloyd-wagon. Oh, yeah, and now he's hurt, and who knows if he'll even play. St. Louis invites shootouts, but will Lloyd even be included?
4. Ashley Lelie - DEN (vs. Oakland) - The good news - Lelie gets 20 yards every time he catches the ball. The bad news - this usually happens no more than twice a game, and not in the end zone. Though underwhelming, he's consistently had at least 50 yards receiving for most of the year. He may be the most reliable point getter I've got, besides Ward.
5. Reggie Brown - PHI (vs. Arizona) - Got off to a great start when he stepped into the starting job after TO's untimely exit. Then Donovan McNabb went down too, and it was off to Brandon Lloyd-land for Brown's productivity. Still, he's allegedly Philly's #1 receiver. The problem is that doesn't mean much.
My receivers all have decent matchups, but they've all had bad seasons save Ward. I'm leaning towards Ward and Lelie, as having your team's real starting QB throwing passes seems to count for something. Suggestions greatly appreciated.
This time, I'm in there by myself, and I need a lineup. Carson Palmer, Shaun Alexander, and Tiki Barber are all must starts. Tight end Ben Troupe (Tennessee), kicker John Kasay (Carolina), and the New York Giants defense all start for two reasons. One, they've all been fairly productive this year, and two, they're the only representatives of their positions on my team.
This leaves the Wide Receiver position, my Achilles' heel all season. I have five options, and two starting spots.
1. Hines Ward - PIT (vs. CLE) - Solid performer all season, except for a brief period of injury. Has suffered a bit with the injury to Roethlisberger, but Cleveland's not one of your scarier defenses, and Ward has by far been the most consistent receiver on my roster this year.
2. Joe Horn - NO (vs. Detroit) - Detroit has a crummy pass defense, but Horn has been an unmitigated disaster this year. And that was with Aaron Brooks throwing passes. Could it possibly get better with Todd Bouman?
3. Brandon Lloyd - SF (vs. St. Louis) - Note to the 49'ers - sort out your quarterback situation on your own time. Tim Rattay was never anyone's idea of a franchise QB, but he and Lloyd were connecting nicely the first few weeks of the season. Then you had to go and play Alex Smith and Cody Pickett (seriously, Cody Pickett?), and the wheels came off the Lloyd-wagon. Oh, yeah, and now he's hurt, and who knows if he'll even play. St. Louis invites shootouts, but will Lloyd even be included?
4. Ashley Lelie - DEN (vs. Oakland) - The good news - Lelie gets 20 yards every time he catches the ball. The bad news - this usually happens no more than twice a game, and not in the end zone. Though underwhelming, he's consistently had at least 50 yards receiving for most of the year. He may be the most reliable point getter I've got, besides Ward.
5. Reggie Brown - PHI (vs. Arizona) - Got off to a great start when he stepped into the starting job after TO's untimely exit. Then Donovan McNabb went down too, and it was off to Brandon Lloyd-land for Brown's productivity. Still, he's allegedly Philly's #1 receiver. The problem is that doesn't mean much.
My receivers all have decent matchups, but they've all had bad seasons save Ward. I'm leaning towards Ward and Lelie, as having your team's real starting QB throwing passes seems to count for something. Suggestions greatly appreciated.
Monday, December 19, 2005
The empty ranting of a disgruntled consumer...
OK, so TIME magazine has awarded their person of the year. You've probably heard. This is not a post about what a crappy choice TIME has made. This is not a post about how good a choice TIME has made. "Who gives a shit what choice TIME has made?" is controlling editorial policy around here, and it's an editorial policy we're comfortable with.
No, what this post is simply wondering why the hell I actually pay TIME money to deliver their stupid magazine to my house, seeing as how the person of the year issue has yet to arrive, but I already know who it is.
The spouse has noted we subscribe to too many magazines as it is. All I'm going to say, if something's getting cut, it ain't gonna be Toyfare.
No, what this post is simply wondering why the hell I actually pay TIME money to deliver their stupid magazine to my house, seeing as how the person of the year issue has yet to arrive, but I already know who it is.
The spouse has noted we subscribe to too many magazines as it is. All I'm going to say, if something's getting cut, it ain't gonna be Toyfare.
Allen Shore would have pulled it off...
Defense attorney facing charges for apparently encouraging client to lie in her DUI trial.
Read the emails discussing the defendant's potential testimony. (The defendant herself provided the emails to the judge - there is no violation of attorney/client privilege.)
The lawyer's claim: She's lying when she said I told her to lie.
Perhaps the email omitted the part where he said "Of course, you can only testify that way if that's what happened."
Tip - Volokh.
Read the emails discussing the defendant's potential testimony. (The defendant herself provided the emails to the judge - there is no violation of attorney/client privilege.)
The lawyer's claim: She's lying when she said I told her to lie.
Perhaps the email omitted the part where he said "Of course, you can only testify that way if that's what happened."
Tip - Volokh.
Breaking laws: Do we make it too difficult?
The U.S. plans on building a fence to keep out people who, technically speaking, aren't legally entitled to be here. There are probably at least two places where disrespecting U.S. laws is a popular political position. One of them is Detroit. The other is Mexico, where President Fox railed against the fence:
"Fox said barriers between nations belonged to the last century and had been torn down by popular uprisings, referring to the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989.Karol's headline says it all here:
How many times do we have to review that the Berlin wall kept people in, not out?
I don't know how he does it...
Mahmoud Ahmadinejad continues to bring the crazy. This week's threat to the Great Islamic Republic of Oil-Rich Countries that For Some Reason Need Nuclear Power...
...the WHAM! song "Careless Whisper."
...the WHAM! song "Careless Whisper."
Headlines...
Cheney Pledges to Support Afghan Democracy
Howard Dean pledges to support Afghan Democracy "just as soon as we can come up with a way to explain that all the good stuff was our idea, and all the bad stuff was Bush's fault - cause while your election was great, it's over, and we've got 2006 to think about."
Howard Dean pledges to support Afghan Democracy "just as soon as we can come up with a way to explain that all the good stuff was our idea, and all the bad stuff was Bush's fault - cause while your election was great, it's over, and we've got 2006 to think about."
Friday, December 16, 2005
Thus endeth the week from hell...
"That which doesn't kill you, only makes you stronger..."
...is the dumbest freaking quote in the history of quotations.
...is the dumbest freaking quote in the history of quotations.
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
A message from the state of Georgia...
To: Dawn Summers.
Look, whatever it was, we're sorry already. Pick on some other state's lunatics for awhile.
Look, whatever it was, we're sorry already. Pick on some other state's lunatics for awhile.
Monday, December 12, 2005
OK, I'm actually working here...
Sunday, December 11, 2005
Rest in Peace...
Legendary comedian and native of Peoria, Illinois - Richard Pryor has passed away at age 65.
Narnia...
Short answer - great film.
Somewhat longer answer - It's true to the book, in a a good-movie kind of way. Some scenes are longer, some shorter, but the filmmakers know that a movie is paced differently than a book, and they adjust accordingly. (A problem with the Harry Potter films is they've often (with the exception of Azkaban) been somewhat mechanical in their faithfulness to the book.)
Tilda Swinton is good as the witch, and Liam Neeson's voice sounds a lot like you'd expect Aslan to sound. The kids are all very good, especially Georgie Henley as Lucy. She's outstanding, and her performance really makes the film.
As for the religious symbolism, the plot points are there, but they aren't any more or less prominent then they are in the book. The movie just gets the book right, act accordingly. I think it would be pretty easy to look beyond the symbolism and enjoy the swordfights and talking animals, but your mileage may vary.
To sum up - it at least met my expectations, which were very high. Great movie - highly recommended.
Somewhat longer answer - It's true to the book, in a a good-movie kind of way. Some scenes are longer, some shorter, but the filmmakers know that a movie is paced differently than a book, and they adjust accordingly. (A problem with the Harry Potter films is they've often (with the exception of Azkaban) been somewhat mechanical in their faithfulness to the book.)
Tilda Swinton is good as the witch, and Liam Neeson's voice sounds a lot like you'd expect Aslan to sound. The kids are all very good, especially Georgie Henley as Lucy. She's outstanding, and her performance really makes the film.
As for the religious symbolism, the plot points are there, but they aren't any more or less prominent then they are in the book. The movie just gets the book right, act accordingly. I think it would be pretty easy to look beyond the symbolism and enjoy the swordfights and talking animals, but your mileage may vary.
To sum up - it at least met my expectations, which were very high. Great movie - highly recommended.
Friday, December 09, 2005
It's going to be tough going...
The World Cup draw has taken place. The US is assigned to group E, a tough crowd including Italy, the Czech Republic, and Ghana. The good news is...actually, there is no good news. If the 2006 World Cup has a "Group of Death," this is it. If you must see a bright spot, it's that Italy, Ghana, & the Czechs are just as pissed to have us in their group as we are.
According to this analysis, the draw was very uneven - with only Group C (Netherlands, Argentina, Cote D'Ivore and Serbia & Montenegro) as tough, top to bottom. Host Germany has an easy route to the second round, as do England, Brazil, France, Spain, and (curse them) Mexico.
Still, the US should have a shot at two wins - but there's no off game in the draw. (Sadly, Saudi Arabia will play in another group.)
First game June 12 against the Czechs. Mark your calendars.
According to this analysis, the draw was very uneven - with only Group C (Netherlands, Argentina, Cote D'Ivore and Serbia & Montenegro) as tough, top to bottom. Host Germany has an easy route to the second round, as do England, Brazil, France, Spain, and (curse them) Mexico.
Still, the US should have a shot at two wins - but there's no off game in the draw. (Sadly, Saudi Arabia will play in another group.)
First game June 12 against the Czechs. Mark your calendars.
So, what are y'all doing tonight?
Me? I'm going to see a talking lion. As previously stated, I have been looking forward to this movie more than just about any other in recent memory. It's been favorably reviewed, the trailer looks great, and people who care about the books and have seen the movie have assured us that the film is true to the book.
How Narnia became controversial, I don't know, but it is. Not everyone is satisfied with saying "sorry, but it just wasn't that good a read," and has to somehow manufacture a threat to civilization as we know it. (Cause, in case you hadn't heard, it sort of follows a Biblical theme.) I thought it was a good story as a kid, before my mom patiently explained the symbolism to me. My very liberal mother would be shocked to learn she exposed me to "the perfect Republican, muscular Christianity for America - that warped, distorted neo-fascist strain that thinks might is proof of right." (Funny thing - you read the column just linked, at it's pretty clear that she thinks this is a very well-made movie. Which is the problem. If it sucked, no one would see it, or God forbid, give it any serious thought.) I don't know about anyone else, but the strongest religious message I ever took from any of the Chronicles of Narnia came from Aslan's meeting with Emeth in The Last Battle, and I didn't see Aslan as the vengeful Republican God there. But yes, reading it as a kid, my impressionable young mind was definitely influenced by it. (I probably lacked the attention span to read Mere Christianity - so this was C.S. Lewis' only chance, and he took it.)
If the movie's as good as I expect it to be, this could be the blockbuster of the year. (Ace notes that the Hollywood Stock Exchange has King Kong predicted to make more money. I would just note that HSX generally undervalues movies targeted to certain audiences, and that especially includes religious audiences.)
Go see a Christian allegory retold as a kid's fable, or go see the movie with talking animals and a big battle. Either way, should be good.
How Narnia became controversial, I don't know, but it is. Not everyone is satisfied with saying "sorry, but it just wasn't that good a read," and has to somehow manufacture a threat to civilization as we know it. (Cause, in case you hadn't heard, it sort of follows a Biblical theme.) I thought it was a good story as a kid, before my mom patiently explained the symbolism to me. My very liberal mother would be shocked to learn she exposed me to "the perfect Republican, muscular Christianity for America - that warped, distorted neo-fascist strain that thinks might is proof of right." (Funny thing - you read the column just linked, at it's pretty clear that she thinks this is a very well-made movie. Which is the problem. If it sucked, no one would see it, or God forbid, give it any serious thought.) I don't know about anyone else, but the strongest religious message I ever took from any of the Chronicles of Narnia came from Aslan's meeting with Emeth in The Last Battle, and I didn't see Aslan as the vengeful Republican God there. But yes, reading it as a kid, my impressionable young mind was definitely influenced by it. (I probably lacked the attention span to read Mere Christianity - so this was C.S. Lewis' only chance, and he took it.)
If the movie's as good as I expect it to be, this could be the blockbuster of the year. (Ace notes that the Hollywood Stock Exchange has King Kong predicted to make more money. I would just note that HSX generally undervalues movies targeted to certain audiences, and that especially includes religious audiences.)
Go see a Christian allegory retold as a kid's fable, or go see the movie with talking animals and a big battle. Either way, should be good.
When they're right, they're right.
Tapped makes the vital observation that Iranian President/Raging Loonball Mahmoud Ahmadinejad looks a lot like Tony Montana.
"First you get the money, then you get the power, then you veer off on a demented anti-Semitic tangent every time you're in shouting distance of a microphone!"
"First you get the money, then you get the power, then you veer off on a demented anti-Semitic tangent every time you're in shouting distance of a microphone!"
Thursday, December 08, 2005
Yep, that'd be the UN...
UN commemorates Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. Complete with map of "Palestine," that conveniently manages to exclude the existence of Israel, which, incidentally is a member of the UN.
I've never gotten why Iran is so worried about letting the UN deal with their alleged nuclear plan. Iran and the UN seem made for each other.
Tip - LGF
I've never gotten why Iran is so worried about letting the UN deal with their alleged nuclear plan. Iran and the UN seem made for each other.
Tip - LGF
Sigh.
American activists are in Cuba, protesting unlawful detentions and torture - at Guantanamo Bay - the only place on Cuba where anyone's rights might be violated.
I just thought, you know. Cause I know it's all about fighting for what's right, and not just being anti-American.
We're really saddened and horrified by what's going on in Guantanamo and the other prisons" where the U.S. military holds terror suspects, said marcher Susan Crane of Baltimore. "Our hope is to get as close as we can (to the base)."Hey, I've got an idea. While you're there, and while you're in the mood to demonstrate against human rights abuses of prisoners..., maybe you could look up a guy I heard about.
"We want the prisoners to know we care about them," she added.
I just thought, you know. Cause I know it's all about fighting for what's right, and not just being anti-American.
Feel the B to the Izzang
Professional wrestler sues Jay-Z over hand signal.
Diamond Dallas Page was known in wrestling for two things. Since one of them is forming a tag team with Jay Leno, it's only natural he would focus on the other, his big move, the "Diamond Cutter." Prior to Page being launched over the shark (I'd say he jumped it, but I suspect that the David Arquette thing wasn't his idea), the Diamond Cutter was the hottest move in wrestling, with Page's signal for it (which Jay-Z now stands accused of swiping) being mimiced everywhere - from NFL players who just recorded sacks, on down to high school kids who might never kiss a girl.
Jay-Z ought to be ashamed of himself. Seriously, dude, rip off someone current. I suggest you swipe John Cena's "You can't see me!" move. Cena would then respond somehow, and this could all build to the one thing wrestling fans love above all others - a celebrity trying to wrestle.
Seriously, there's money there.
Diamond Dallas Page was known in wrestling for two things. Since one of them is forming a tag team with Jay Leno, it's only natural he would focus on the other, his big move, the "Diamond Cutter." Prior to Page being launched over the shark (I'd say he jumped it, but I suspect that the David Arquette thing wasn't his idea), the Diamond Cutter was the hottest move in wrestling, with Page's signal for it (which Jay-Z now stands accused of swiping) being mimiced everywhere - from NFL players who just recorded sacks, on down to high school kids who might never kiss a girl.
Jay-Z ought to be ashamed of himself. Seriously, dude, rip off someone current. I suggest you swipe John Cena's "You can't see me!" move. Cena would then respond somehow, and this could all build to the one thing wrestling fans love above all others - a celebrity trying to wrestle.
Seriously, there's money there.
Tookie supporters - want help?
Potentially the most powerful ally you could possibly have - the older brother of one of the victims. He's even gone to the trouble of telling you how to get his support:
Give up the "yet" and you can add a voice to Tookie's chorus far more powerful than Snoop Dogg and Jamie Foxx combined.
And, yes, I'm well aware of the argument "he's innocent! He can't give up his 'yet' because he'll still keep working to prove his innocence." File me under unimpressed. For an alternative take, feel free to peruse the brief filed in the California Supreme Court in support of the claim that Tookie was framed, and read an article in support of same. Said brief was rejected by the cabal of right-wingers sitting on the California Supreme Court.
It's up to the Governor now. Meanwhile - people wait.
Her uncle, Wayne Owens, the victim's older brother, said he generally opposes the death penalty, but he believes it's warranted in Williams' case because he fears the former gangster would someday be released if he's not executed.One argument in favor of abolishing the death penalty is that it's unnecessary to keep killers off the street - they can be locked up for life without the possibility of parole. One reason that argument fails - no one believes it. All of Tookie's supporters claim "we're not asking he be set free," leaving out the crucial word "Yet." But everyone knows there's a "yet."
"After many years of consideration and a totally inordinate amount of soul searching, I had to make a choice that I wasn't entirely comfortable with," Wayne Owens, 55, said from his home in Olathe, Kan. "If there were a way to say, 'If you will sign a paper and say that you will stop trying to get out. If you will stop the litigation,' I will be the first to say, 'OK, clemency's cool.' But to believe that this man will be released and become a hero and be proof that you don't have to take responsibility, that's a message we can't afford to put out. That's something we can't teach our children."
Give up the "yet" and you can add a voice to Tookie's chorus far more powerful than Snoop Dogg and Jamie Foxx combined.
And, yes, I'm well aware of the argument "he's innocent! He can't give up his 'yet' because he'll still keep working to prove his innocence." File me under unimpressed. For an alternative take, feel free to peruse the brief filed in the California Supreme Court in support of the claim that Tookie was framed, and read an article in support of same. Said brief was rejected by the cabal of right-wingers sitting on the California Supreme Court.
It's up to the Governor now. Meanwhile - people wait.
The world is coming to an end.
Fez from "That 70's Show" will be starring as Ponch in a movie remake of "CHiPs".
I can't even begin to list all the ways that previous sentence heralds the demise of Western Civilization.
I can't even begin to list all the ways that previous sentence heralds the demise of Western Civilization.
Wednesday, December 07, 2005
Dodged a bullet - no pun intended.
Convicted murderer barred from practice of law due to "bad character."
Thank God for that. Otherwise, he might have soiled the good name and sterling reputation of lawyers.
Thank God for that. Otherwise, he might have soiled the good name and sterling reputation of lawyers.
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
Finally, a liberal we can all vote for...
Dawn Summers for Best Liberal Blog.
Because who else is going to bring the truth about killer dogs who I presume are probably Republicans? Merritt? Yglesias? I don't think so.
Because who else is going to bring the truth about killer dogs who I presume are probably Republicans? Merritt? Yglesias? I don't think so.
Inigo Montoya for the defense...
And I was so sure that the first participant in the Saddam Hussein trial to win a Montoya Award would be Ramsey Clark.
Nope. Givin' one to the guest of honor his damn self:
"You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means."
Nope. Givin' one to the guest of honor his damn self:
Saddam also complained he had no fresh clothes and had been deprived of shower and exercise facilities.I suppose we could be relieved that finally something has happened that strikes Saddam as inhumane. But, I'll just turn things over to my co-counsel...
"This is terrorism," he said.
"You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means."
Monday, December 05, 2005
Tookie answers life's questions...
Like - the way to survive life with an unfortunate name (and Tookie is his given middle name) - develop biceps you can land a helicopter on.
Yeah, that's pretty much the route I took, too.
I'm not technically anti-clemency. This is a California decision, and the Governor represents the people more than any other single person, and if he decides that California would be better served with Williams continuing to outlive his victims, I understand why someone would make that decision. What I am "anti-" is the innocence myth that's swelling up. The claim that Williams was railroaded by shaky evidence and inept counsel is, to put it simply, horseshit. Yet the narrative has gained such traction that it has influenced some of the finest legal scholars of our time, including (you'll want to sit down for this) Mike Farrell.
That's right. Mike Farrell.
As far as the good he's supposed to have done, if he's genuinely tried to use his situation to persuade kids to steer clear of gangs, and reduce violence, it doesn't matter how many kids he's actually touched or how many books he's sold, at least not for the purposes of measuring his redemption. I mean, come on, the man's in prison, there's a limit to what he can accomplish. Which, I should note, is kind of the point in prison - most prison occupants being the kind of people whose accomplishments we should want to limit. But, when measuring the kind of guy Tookie is nowadays - one question I'd love his supporters to answer.
"What kind of guy is he if he really did it?"
Everyone who supports Williams puts aside his refusal to own up by just saying "He's maintained his innocence," and either consider that sufficient to ignore the victims, or take it as evidence of what a truly great man he is. Well, the evidence is out there to be evaluated. And we're talking about a guy whose level of due process has even passed the muster of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, not exactly a haven for right-wing execution loving racists. While Williams' claims have certainly swayed a portion of the 9th Circuit, by and large, he is taken less seriously than Michael Newdow.
(Which is sort of like saying he has worse advance buzz then Kevin Federline's album.)
Sure - Williams now sounds like a decent guy. And people can, and do reform in prison, and even on death row. But when his supporters try to make their case to Schwarzenegger this week, they'll need to consider the possiblity that they won't persuade him on Tookie's innocence. And then the question becomes, if Tookie is both the anti-gang activist writing children's books, and a cold-blooded murderer who will never admit his acts because he can get more mileage out of lying...what kind of guy is he really?
Yeah, that's pretty much the route I took, too.
I'm not technically anti-clemency. This is a California decision, and the Governor represents the people more than any other single person, and if he decides that California would be better served with Williams continuing to outlive his victims, I understand why someone would make that decision. What I am "anti-" is the innocence myth that's swelling up. The claim that Williams was railroaded by shaky evidence and inept counsel is, to put it simply, horseshit. Yet the narrative has gained such traction that it has influenced some of the finest legal scholars of our time, including (you'll want to sit down for this) Mike Farrell.
That's right. Mike Farrell.
As far as the good he's supposed to have done, if he's genuinely tried to use his situation to persuade kids to steer clear of gangs, and reduce violence, it doesn't matter how many kids he's actually touched or how many books he's sold, at least not for the purposes of measuring his redemption. I mean, come on, the man's in prison, there's a limit to what he can accomplish. Which, I should note, is kind of the point in prison - most prison occupants being the kind of people whose accomplishments we should want to limit. But, when measuring the kind of guy Tookie is nowadays - one question I'd love his supporters to answer.
"What kind of guy is he if he really did it?"
Everyone who supports Williams puts aside his refusal to own up by just saying "He's maintained his innocence," and either consider that sufficient to ignore the victims, or take it as evidence of what a truly great man he is. Well, the evidence is out there to be evaluated. And we're talking about a guy whose level of due process has even passed the muster of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, not exactly a haven for right-wing execution loving racists. While Williams' claims have certainly swayed a portion of the 9th Circuit, by and large, he is taken less seriously than Michael Newdow.
(Which is sort of like saying he has worse advance buzz then Kevin Federline's album.)
Sure - Williams now sounds like a decent guy. And people can, and do reform in prison, and even on death row. But when his supporters try to make their case to Schwarzenegger this week, they'll need to consider the possiblity that they won't persuade him on Tookie's innocence. And then the question becomes, if Tookie is both the anti-gang activist writing children's books, and a cold-blooded murderer who will never admit his acts because he can get more mileage out of lying...what kind of guy is he really?
Disturbing thought for the day...
Katie Holmes replaced boyfriend Chris Klein with a deranged midget cult member almost twenty years her senior...and she appears to have actually traded up.
Blogroll modification...
Dave Justus has new digs at http://www.davejustus.com/ - check them out and modify blogrolls accordingly.
Also, now on the blogroll is Cake or Death. I'm just wondering - does the cake in question have coconut on it? I don't like coconut.
Also, now on the blogroll is Cake or Death. I'm just wondering - does the cake in question have coconut on it? I don't like coconut.
Sunday, December 04, 2005
Three word DVD review
Fever Pitch: Cinematic root canal.
Friday, December 02, 2005
Curse you, John Bolton!
U.N. to address Myanmar's continued detention of their country's Prime Minister.
Thankfully, for those of us who like our UN corrupt, inefficient, and unwilling to piss off tyrants, we have been assured that this isn't really going to count for anything:
Thankfully, for those of us who like our UN corrupt, inefficient, and unwilling to piss off tyrants, we have been assured that this isn't really going to count for anything:
Algerian Ambassador Abdallah Baali, who had earlier questioned the U.S. plan along with China, Russia and Japan, said the council action meant only that there would be a briefing.Follow up would take away from valuable time that could be better spent blaming Israel for stuff, like the fact that someone let Ashlee Simpson make another album. I mean seriously, what the hell?
"That means there is no follow-up, and we do not expect any follow-up," Baali said.
Dude, sometimes we're not thinking about you. Deal.
OK, so all the political parties in Venezuela that aren't about loving the Hugo Chavez have decided to sit this one out, having found Jimmy Carter insufficiently reassuring concerning Chavez' commitment to free and fair elections.
Chavez has, of course, dealt with this unexpected circumstance in a calm and rational manner, by which I mean cutting an Ultimate Warrior promo on George W. Bush:
Enter obligatory denial from United States - and Ultimate Warrior promo II from Hugo:
Oh, and one other thing. Hugo? You seem to think that nobody in Venezuela could possibly dislike or distrust you, and all opposition has to be the result of a foreign conspiracy. You know what group of people think like that?
Dictators. Just saying.
Chavez has, of course, dealt with this unexpected circumstance in a calm and rational manner, by which I mean cutting an Ultimate Warrior promo on George W. Bush:
''I denounce it before the world and hold responsible for this new conspiracy against Venezuela the very chief of the empire, Mister Danger, the president of the United States," Chavez said."Mister Danger." Not bad. It's no "Captain Unilateral", but it's not bad.
Enter obligatory denial from United States - and Ultimate Warrior promo II from Hugo:
"Mr. Bush, I'm going to make another bet with you. I've bet you a dollar to see who lasts longer — you in the White House or me here in Miraflores (palace)," Chavez said Thursday.Well, both Presidents currently have term limits - Bush's expires January of 2009, and Chavez, IIRC, would have run his course in 2012. That's assuming, of course, that nobody commits a blatantly anti-democratic power grab and amends the constitution to aid their hold on power. Wonder if either President is contemplating such a thing, and if so, which one?
Oh, and one other thing. Hugo? You seem to think that nobody in Venezuela could possibly dislike or distrust you, and all opposition has to be the result of a foreign conspiracy. You know what group of people think like that?
Dictators. Just saying.
Thursday, December 01, 2005
Paradise Lost...
Discussion going on over at PetiteDov regarding the merits, or lack of same, of the film Paradise Now - a critically lauded art flick that delves into what goes into the mind of a couple of prospective Palestinian suicide bombers.
Nuanced exploration of a previously little-discussed subject, or same old "understanding of root causes" that only seems to emerge when the victims are Jews? Tell me if it's worth seeing - my Netflix list has degraded to the point I actually have both Fever Pitch and Man of the House sitting on top of my TV.
Nuanced exploration of a previously little-discussed subject, or same old "understanding of root causes" that only seems to emerge when the victims are Jews? Tell me if it's worth seeing - my Netflix list has degraded to the point I actually have both Fever Pitch and Man of the House sitting on top of my TV.
How about a capital case?
George W. Bush called for jury duty.
Here's my question - if Bush served on a jury, and was not selected as the foreman (by a group of his fellow Texans) - how much of a loser is John Kerry?
Here's my question - if Bush served on a jury, and was not selected as the foreman (by a group of his fellow Texans) - how much of a loser is John Kerry?
