Friday, June 30, 2006
I'm thinking of a word...
Palestinian PM Ismael Haniyah is demanding Israel end raids if they want to free Cpl. Gilad Shalit.
Yeah, raids are bad. People shouldn't do 'em.
Remind me again, how was it that Hamas managed to nab Shalit again?
That thing they did where they snuck in and grabbed him...what do you call that?
Yeah, raids are bad. People shouldn't do 'em.
Remind me again, how was it that Hamas managed to nab Shalit again?
That thing they did where they snuck in and grabbed him...what do you call that?
We know justice is blind - ever wonder how it got that way?
Former judge convicted of indecent exposure for masturbating in court. While on the bench. Presiding over a murder case. While a relative of the victim was testifying.
There's very funny, and there's very not funny. This manages to be both at the same time.
The judge denied everything, but wasn't very convincing.
There's very funny, and there's very not funny. This manages to be both at the same time.
The judge denied everything, but wasn't very convincing.
Thompson noted that he would often pick up the pump during trials, but he said he had no recollection of ever having squeezed its handles.Jurors recommended a $10,000 fine and a year in prison on each count. He will be sentenced August 14.
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
The First Amendment - sacred when discussing newspapers revealing anti-terrorist operations...
...not so much when trying to regulate political campaigns.
The Supreme Court recently struck down Vermont's fairly strict limits on campaign contributions, as well as limits on spending (the Supreme Court has historically never been a fan of the latter.) This isn't news - while there is some tolerance for contribution limits - the Supreme Court has been fairly explicit that you cannot stop someone from spending their own money to advance a political cause they favor, and John McCain and Russ Feingold wanting it to happen very much and being willing to cross party lines and have flowery editorials run praising their foresight isn't going to change things.
I've always thought that any effort by Congress to limit the means by which people could challenge them for their jobs should be given the strongest scrutiny imaginable, and any legislation to that effect should be presumed to be an incumbent protection racket unless and until proven otherwise. But money in politics is bad (when spent by big corporations and rich white guys, or by labor unions and Hollywood bigshots, depending on which way you swing), so every so often people try to get the Supreme Court to revisit the issue, and it never works.
I recall hearing some years ago Steve Forbes was talking to Jack Kemp about running for President. Forbes told Kemp "I wish I could just give you $50 million and let you run." Kemp pointed out that wasn't allowed, so instead we got Steve Forbes - Alien Cyborg for President.
Tell me that was better.
(Seriously - even if you liked Forbes' ideas, wouldn't it have been better to have them argued by someone who looked and acted human? Gore supporters, you can relate, right?)
Anyway, today's lesson in Sometimes the First Amendment Gets In the Way of Positive Social Reform is Randall v. Sorrell.
The Supreme Court recently struck down Vermont's fairly strict limits on campaign contributions, as well as limits on spending (the Supreme Court has historically never been a fan of the latter.) This isn't news - while there is some tolerance for contribution limits - the Supreme Court has been fairly explicit that you cannot stop someone from spending their own money to advance a political cause they favor, and John McCain and Russ Feingold wanting it to happen very much and being willing to cross party lines and have flowery editorials run praising their foresight isn't going to change things.
I've always thought that any effort by Congress to limit the means by which people could challenge them for their jobs should be given the strongest scrutiny imaginable, and any legislation to that effect should be presumed to be an incumbent protection racket unless and until proven otherwise. But money in politics is bad (when spent by big corporations and rich white guys, or by labor unions and Hollywood bigshots, depending on which way you swing), so every so often people try to get the Supreme Court to revisit the issue, and it never works.
I recall hearing some years ago Steve Forbes was talking to Jack Kemp about running for President. Forbes told Kemp "I wish I could just give you $50 million and let you run." Kemp pointed out that wasn't allowed, so instead we got Steve Forbes - Alien Cyborg for President.
Tell me that was better.
(Seriously - even if you liked Forbes' ideas, wouldn't it have been better to have them argued by someone who looked and acted human? Gore supporters, you can relate, right?)
Anyway, today's lesson in Sometimes the First Amendment Gets In the Way of Positive Social Reform is Randall v. Sorrell.
Voter ID law OK...
The U.S. Department of Justice today approved Georgia's Voter ID Bill.
Lawsuits are still pending, so if all you planned to show at the polls was an old renewal notice for "Entertainment Weekly," you still may have a shot.
Lawsuits are still pending, so if all you planned to show at the polls was an old renewal notice for "Entertainment Weekly," you still may have a shot.
Oh, for Pete's sake, just take the freaking money!
What kind of coldhearted monster could possibly object to a bikini contest raising money for an animal shelter's spay/neuter program?
Come on, you gotta admit, "Hooters for Neuters" has a ring to it.
Come on, you gotta admit, "Hooters for Neuters" has a ring to it.
Hard choices...
I hope that Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit is alive, in reasonably good health, and that the current Israeli incursion results in his quick release. But my gut keeps telling me this will end badly for Shalit's family.
Israel had a sure-fire, 100% guaranteed way to secure Shalit's release. All they had to do was release a bunch of Palestinian prisoners. Hell, they probably even could have talked the kidnappers down to a few dozen, and maybe even excluded those directly involved in killings of Israelis. This would, of course, have cost Israel immeasurably in the future - as Palestinians would have taken a clear message that reasonable discussion is less effective than kidnapping. The celebrations that would have taken place upon the prisoners' return to Gaza would send a crystal clear message - grab more Israelis.
The kidnapping of Shalit and Eliyashu Asheri puts Israel in a quandry. Indeed, Asheri's kidnappers have threated to murder him on television unless Israel completely ceases its current incursion. (Which I'm pretty sure violates some international law or other, unless there really is a "Jew exception." I look forward to Amnesty International clearing that up.) The only scenarios under which Shalit and Asheri return home alive would be PR disasters for one side or the other. Caving in, and halting the incursion and releasing prisoners, would destroy any incentive Hamas has to deal in good faith and without violence, and be catastrophic for Israel's security. Should Shalit and Asheri be freed unharmed, or rescued by the IDF, it would be a domestic calamity for Hamas and their various associated groups, whose constituencies are convinced that these kidnappings will lead, must lead, to freedom for hundreds upon hundreds of "activists."
And that second one would be a bigger miracle then the first.
Israel had a sure-fire, 100% guaranteed way to secure Shalit's release. All they had to do was release a bunch of Palestinian prisoners. Hell, they probably even could have talked the kidnappers down to a few dozen, and maybe even excluded those directly involved in killings of Israelis. This would, of course, have cost Israel immeasurably in the future - as Palestinians would have taken a clear message that reasonable discussion is less effective than kidnapping. The celebrations that would have taken place upon the prisoners' return to Gaza would send a crystal clear message - grab more Israelis.
The kidnapping of Shalit and Eliyashu Asheri puts Israel in a quandry. Indeed, Asheri's kidnappers have threated to murder him on television unless Israel completely ceases its current incursion. (Which I'm pretty sure violates some international law or other, unless there really is a "Jew exception." I look forward to Amnesty International clearing that up.) The only scenarios under which Shalit and Asheri return home alive would be PR disasters for one side or the other. Caving in, and halting the incursion and releasing prisoners, would destroy any incentive Hamas has to deal in good faith and without violence, and be catastrophic for Israel's security. Should Shalit and Asheri be freed unharmed, or rescued by the IDF, it would be a domestic calamity for Hamas and their various associated groups, whose constituencies are convinced that these kidnappings will lead, must lead, to freedom for hundreds upon hundreds of "activists."
"This is a great opportunity to release thousands of prisoners," said Abu Adham, whose brother, Ali, has been in jail for nearly ten years.Hopes are too high, the stakes are too great. As much as I hope otherwise, I think the only hopes Shalit and Asheri's families have will depend on a miraculous rescue from the IDF, or the humanity of their captors.
"We have been waiting for a prisoner exchange for many years. We have no doubt that Israel will be prepared to release thousands of Palestinians in exchange for the soldier. We don't want to see only a few hundred prisoners released."
And that second one would be a bigger miracle then the first.
Root causes...
Petitdov links to a helpful interview that aired in the Middle East, where a former PLO diplomat explains that the problem he has with the Jews is rooted in their collusion with Hitler, and of course, their plan for world domination as outlined in the Protocols of the Learned Elders of Zion.
Maybe they left out the part where, after he was done talking, the interviewer came back on the air and said "Now, obviously, that man was a rampaging loonball with little to no footing in reality, and should only be listened to for the purpose of either diagnosing a mental illness, or mockery."
I'd like to think that happened. But I doubt it.
Maybe they left out the part where, after he was done talking, the interviewer came back on the air and said "Now, obviously, that man was a rampaging loonball with little to no footing in reality, and should only be listened to for the purpose of either diagnosing a mental illness, or mockery."
I'd like to think that happened. But I doubt it.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
A star passes...
Moose, best known as "Eddie" on Frasier has died.
He was 16 1/2.
He was 16 1/2.
No, they don't...
Anyone claiming that Hamas has agreed to recognize Israel, explicitly, implicitly, or otherwise, is not your friend. They are a journalistic equivalent of a creepy old man who has all sorts of neat toys and candy in his car, if you'd just get in.
The devil, as they say, is in the details:
Now, if Ismael Haniya actually says - "Hamas recognizes the right of the State of Israel to exist," in those words, without any qualifiers such as "provided they allow six million Palestinians to show up, become citizens, and put us in charge of the place," let me know.
The devil, as they say, is in the details:
But the officials also said that the agreement stipulated that moves towards statehood, including Arab initiatives seeking peace with Israel and international resolutions on the conflict, must serve Palestinian interests - which could allow Hamas to reject, on those grounds, any accommodation with Israel, or recognition of the Jewish state.They don't. They won't. And if it costs the Palestinian people anything not to, Hamas will gladly pass those costs on.
Now, if Ismael Haniya actually says - "Hamas recognizes the right of the State of Israel to exist," in those words, without any qualifiers such as "provided they allow six million Palestinians to show up, become citizens, and put us in charge of the place," let me know.
Monday, June 26, 2006
Place your bets!
At least two major characters will eat it in the final "Harry Potter" book.
I'll go out on a limb and say all the big three survive. (If one of them must go - my money's on Hermione, so the series ends how it began, with Harry and Ron.)
Wild-ass guesses? Neville dies a hero, and Snape.
I'll go out on a limb and say all the big three survive. (If one of them must go - my money's on Hermione, so the series ends how it began, with Harry and Ron.)
Wild-ass guesses? Neville dies a hero, and Snape.
First rule of political photo-ops...
Everyone looks like a bozo on a Segway.
Today's exhibit - Japan's rock-star Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi. He's kind of like Bill Clinton with his pants up.
I like the guy, but he's not pulling this off.
Today's exhibit - Japan's rock-star Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi. He's kind of like Bill Clinton with his pants up.
I like the guy, but he's not pulling this off.
You don't make peace with your friends...
Lot of hullaballoo concerning Iraqi PM Nouri al-Maliki's amnesty proposal to insurgents. Sounds like the man's doing his job to me. While killing every last person fighting for the bad guys may be the ideal result, there is that troubling little detail of that never happening in any armed conflict in the history of the world, ever. Ending this conflict will require allowing a certain number of people to lay down their arms and go home.
Which is why watching various Senators pop rivets about the prospect is somewhat disconcerting. If you're arguing for the President to begin bringing troops home (Ex. - Sen. Carl Levin) - the best way to bring that about in the near future is the implementation of a plan similar to what al-Maliki is proposing. It wouldn't eliminate violence completely, of course. The bitter truth is any nation violent Islamists feel belongs to them by divine right (ex. - Indonesia) will face terror attacks. But a reasonable amnesty proposal accepted by most domestic insurgents has the potential to bring the number of violent enemies of Iraq closer to something the government can take on by itself in the near future, allowing foreign troops to leave. As Kevin Drum points out - this really is the best possible scenario:
And I don't think it's disrespectful to the soldiers who gave their lives or their health, any more than letting German soldiers go home was disrespectful to those who stormed the beach at Normandy.
Of course, nobody is claiming everyone will get amnesty - so certain people should quit hinting about it.
Which is why watching various Senators pop rivets about the prospect is somewhat disconcerting. If you're arguing for the President to begin bringing troops home (Ex. - Sen. Carl Levin) - the best way to bring that about in the near future is the implementation of a plan similar to what al-Maliki is proposing. It wouldn't eliminate violence completely, of course. The bitter truth is any nation violent Islamists feel belongs to them by divine right (ex. - Indonesia) will face terror attacks. But a reasonable amnesty proposal accepted by most domestic insurgents has the potential to bring the number of violent enemies of Iraq closer to something the government can take on by itself in the near future, allowing foreign troops to leave. As Kevin Drum points out - this really is the best possible scenario:
President Bush would be flatly insane to turn this opportunity down. It's precisely the kind of request he needs in order to declare victory, assure everyone that the job is close to done, and make it clear that he respects Iraqi sovereignty and doesn't plan to occupy their country forever. There would be no loss of face and no loss of national honor.Rejecting this sort of idea shows either contempt for the Iraqi government, or hanging on to the frankly idiotic idea that every last bad guy in Iraq can be killed. For Pete's sake, we can't even weed every last bad guy out of Major League Baseball.
And I don't think it's disrespectful to the soldiers who gave their lives or their health, any more than letting German soldiers go home was disrespectful to those who stormed the beach at Normandy.
Of course, nobody is claiming everyone will get amnesty - so certain people should quit hinting about it.
Netflix funny...
When you return videos to Netflix, they make recommendations based on your recent rentals. Today, Netflix suggested videos based on people who enjoyed Veronica Mars, Sarah Silverman: Jesus is Magic, and Wrestlemania XXII.
And if you're wondering where those three things would meet - apparently the intersection of spunky teen detectives, dirty jokes, and Edge spearing Mick Foley through a burning table is Margaret Cho.
And if you're wondering where those three things would meet - apparently the intersection of spunky teen detectives, dirty jokes, and Edge spearing Mick Foley through a burning table is Margaret Cho.
Friday, June 23, 2006
Fear the UN Human Rights Council...
Iran's designated observer is an official responsible for media crackdowns, as well as involvement in the torture and death of Canadian journalist Zahra Kazemi.
In other news, happy birthday...
3-year old wants a Jim Lehrer News Hour-themed birthday.
And gets it. Complete with autographed photo of "Jimmy Jimmy BoBo," as the lad refers to Lehrer. There's also a News Hour cake...
and Jim Lehrer party hats.
The kid's actually pretty amazing. He successfully names the President, Vice President (remember, he's 3), Secretary of State ("Condi!") and Secretary of Defense.
I bet Paris Hilton couldn't do that.
Tip - Hubs and Spokes - who notes the reporter actually asked the parents - "Are you concerned your little boy is going to grow up to be an unbelievable dork?"
And gets it. Complete with autographed photo of "Jimmy Jimmy BoBo," as the lad refers to Lehrer. There's also a News Hour cake...
and Jim Lehrer party hats.
The kid's actually pretty amazing. He successfully names the President, Vice President (remember, he's 3), Secretary of State ("Condi!") and Secretary of Defense.
I bet Paris Hilton couldn't do that.
Tip - Hubs and Spokes - who notes the reporter actually asked the parents - "Are you concerned your little boy is going to grow up to be an unbelievable dork?"
Thursday, June 22, 2006
And we're done now.
Despite Italy doing its job and taking out the Czechs, the U.S. tanked and Ghana will go to the second round of the World Cup. And don't blame the penalty on Gooch for them not making it - they needed a win, and had the penalty not been called, it's still 1-1, and the U.S. still goes home.
Everyone is now free to pull for your backup teams. Mine are, in no particular order - Italy (family's Italian), Germany (have friends there), England (picked 'em to win it all), and of course, whoever's playing Mexico.
Everyone is now free to pull for your backup teams. Mine are, in no particular order - Italy (family's Italian), Germany (have friends there), England (picked 'em to win it all), and of course, whoever's playing Mexico.
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
You want crazy? We got crazy.
Bolivian President Evo Morales: United States is sneaking soldiers into Bolivia disguised as tourists and students. Venezuelan soldiers in the country disguised as Venezuelan soldiers, however, not a problem.
Now that's some good crazy right there.
Now that's some good crazy right there.
The Rock's dangerous job.
Stone Cold? Wuss.
Ken Shamrock? Pansy.
The Undertaker? Sissy.
Mankind? Like a girl he hits.
Disney films? Now those things are dangerous.
Ken Shamrock? Pansy.
The Undertaker? Sissy.
Mankind? Like a girl he hits.
Disney films? Now those things are dangerous.
Please be a Democrat, Please be a Democrat, Please be a Democrat,,,
Congressional candidate crashes his car, leaves the scene, found covered in leaves in the woods a day later, tells the police a story that doesn't really match the phsyical evidence...and he's not a Kennedy?!?
Come on Democrat, come on Democrat...
...Yes!
Come on Democrat, come on Democrat...
...Yes!
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
If you live in Maryland, vote for this guy...
Former pro wrestler Nikolai Volkoff is running for a State Legislature seat in Maryland. As a Republican.
Tip - Oxblog.
My favorite Volkoff moment occurred when he teamed with Boris Zhukov as the Bolsheviks. Around the time of the Baltic Revolution, when Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia rebelled against Soviet rule, the Bolsheviks were your traditional Communist bad guys. Then it was decided that Nikolai Volkoff was actually Lithuanian, and he was siding with the Baltic protestors, causing dissention with his partner Zhukov, who favored a military crackdown. (I shit you not, this was an actual wrestling storyline.) Volkoff began receiving support from American fans, pissing off Zhukov and leading to the inevitable match.
Before the match, Zhukov took over Volkoff's traditional singing of the Russian National Anthem, revealing why Boris Zhukov never opened his mouth. Then, Volkoff demanded the mic to sing as well.
"Oh, say can you see..."
That was as far as he got before the nefarious Zhukov jumped him, but Volkoff turned the tide, winning the match and running Zhukov out of the WWF in short order.
The match stunk, of course. But it was still a neat thing to see.
Vote Volkoff.
Tip - Oxblog.
My favorite Volkoff moment occurred when he teamed with Boris Zhukov as the Bolsheviks. Around the time of the Baltic Revolution, when Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia rebelled against Soviet rule, the Bolsheviks were your traditional Communist bad guys. Then it was decided that Nikolai Volkoff was actually Lithuanian, and he was siding with the Baltic protestors, causing dissention with his partner Zhukov, who favored a military crackdown. (I shit you not, this was an actual wrestling storyline.) Volkoff began receiving support from American fans, pissing off Zhukov and leading to the inevitable match.
Before the match, Zhukov took over Volkoff's traditional singing of the Russian National Anthem, revealing why Boris Zhukov never opened his mouth. Then, Volkoff demanded the mic to sing as well.
"Oh, say can you see..."
That was as far as he got before the nefarious Zhukov jumped him, but Volkoff turned the tide, winning the match and running Zhukov out of the WWF in short order.
The match stunk, of course. But it was still a neat thing to see.
Vote Volkoff.
My fault for listening...
Back in March, the Supreme Court heard oral arguments on a couple of cases that have great importance to those of us who prosecute domestic violence. The issue concerned out of court statements made by a victim - in one instance, a 911 call pleading for help, and in another, statements made to the police officer who arrived at the scene and began inquiring about what had happened. In both cases, the victim was either unavailable or unwilling to appear in court and testify - yet the statements were admitted anyway, under exceptions to the hearsay rule.
Reports about the oral argument suggested it wasn't going to go well. Coincidentally, I'm sure, Samuel Alito had just taken Sandra Day O'Conner's place, and it was said the state faced tough questioning, with only Justice Ginsburg asking questions deemed to be sympathetic. This allowed those so inclined to suggest that part of the problem was President Bush's nomination of two men to fill vacancies on the Supreme Court. The leanings of the court were clear - a valuable tool used to convict abusers was going away, courtesy of the horrible Antonin Scalia and his band of right-wing men.
Course, that's why they actually have the arguments, read the briefs, and write the opinions. The actual opinion of the court does exclude statements given to police during the ordinary course of evidence gathering, but it permits the admission of statements made to 911 operators for the purpose of getting emergency help - a powerful piece of evidence when available. It's not everything advocates for victims of domestic violence were hoping for, but to quote:
The case is Davis v. Washington. It may be read here.
Reports about the oral argument suggested it wasn't going to go well. Coincidentally, I'm sure, Samuel Alito had just taken Sandra Day O'Conner's place, and it was said the state faced tough questioning, with only Justice Ginsburg asking questions deemed to be sympathetic. This allowed those so inclined to suggest that part of the problem was President Bush's nomination of two men to fill vacancies on the Supreme Court. The leanings of the court were clear - a valuable tool used to convict abusers was going away, courtesy of the horrible Antonin Scalia and his band of right-wing men.
Course, that's why they actually have the arguments, read the briefs, and write the opinions. The actual opinion of the court does exclude statements given to police during the ordinary course of evidence gathering, but it permits the admission of statements made to 911 operators for the purpose of getting emergency help - a powerful piece of evidence when available. It's not everything advocates for victims of domestic violence were hoping for, but to quote:
"It's more of a win than a loss," said Joan S. Meier, director of the Domestic Violence Legal Empowerment & Appeals Project at George Washington University's Law School. "It's an acknowledgment of the reality of domestic violence."The author of this win for victims of abuse? Antonin Scalia. (As an aside - one justice also wanted to admit statements given to police officers - Thomas.)
The case is Davis v. Washington. It may be read here.
Here goes nothing...
Cuba and China prepare to lead the next great U.N. debate on human rights.
Of course - "human rights" is a tricky term. Per Cuba:
But hey, at least it's not a collection of dictators gathered together to muddy the waters and prevent tough scrutiny of autocratic regimes.
The French are there, too.
Comedy link of the day - Cuban Foreign Minister Felipe Perez Roque hailing the result of an election.
Of course - "human rights" is a tricky term. Per Cuba:
Cuba, in the letter it, like all applicants, had to send to the General Assembly, made a point of defining human rights in its own terms."Self-Determination" being defined as "Castro will determine the rules by himself."
It stated that "the most important attribute and right the Cuban people [had] achieved was the full exercise of its right to self-determination, facing the grave obstacles and threats derived from the unilateral policy of hostility, aggression and blockade imposed on it by the superpower."
But hey, at least it's not a collection of dictators gathered together to muddy the waters and prevent tough scrutiny of autocratic regimes.
The French are there, too.
Comedy link of the day - Cuban Foreign Minister Felipe Perez Roque hailing the result of an election.
All you need to know...
Good dog...
Happy Birthday...
Yesterday marked the 61st birthday of the legitimately elected prime minister of Burma, Daw Aung Sung Suu Kyi.
She spent her birthday under house arrest. Again.
She spent her birthday under house arrest. Again.
Me learn stuff...
Posted an update to the post on the Jay-Z/Cristal beef with a response from Louis Roederer, the makers of Cristal.
Monday, June 19, 2006
Blame Canada...
A lot of World Cup competitors play their pro soccer outside their home countries. For instance, U.S. goalkeeper Kasey Keller plays in Germany. The Gooch plays in Belgium. Brian McBride plays in England. (Although if you click on McBride's link, be advised - I don't think is nose is shaped that way anymore.)
Anyway, Ghana (who the U.S. needs to beat to have any chance of advancement) has a guy (at least three, actually), who play their pro ball in Israel, and one of them, John Paintsil, promised to acknowledge his Israeli fans should Ghana score during the World Cup. They did, and he did.
Hah. Israel's involved. It's never inoffensive. And we're not talking about fans of Ghana who question Paintsil's loyalties. They know why he did it. But in certain circles, the Israeli flag is offensive because the existence of Israel is offensive. Nobody would give a rat's patoot if Paintsil played for the Windsor Border Stars in the Canadian Soccer League, and chose to wave the Canadian flag. Except, of course, for Canadian fans, who would have been thrilled to be acknowledged. (Because, while I love Canada and Canadians, let's be frank, it's going to be awhile before the Canadian flag shows up at the World Cup because the Canadian team qualified.)
But because it's Israel, Ghana had to apologize, and assure everyone that Paintsil didn't know what he was doing. Which is horsecrap, he knew damn well what he was doing. Nobody is ignorant of what the gesture meant. But because the existence of Israel illegitimate, even this harmless display of thanks must be attacked, and Ghana must be made to punk out.
Well, at least everyone agrees on something. I don't want to see Paintsil wave the Israeli flag during Ghana's next game either. But that's just because they're playing the U.S., and we really need to shut them out.
Additional links via Ace.
Anyway, Ghana (who the U.S. needs to beat to have any chance of advancement) has a guy (at least three, actually), who play their pro ball in Israel, and one of them, John Paintsil, promised to acknowledge his Israeli fans should Ghana score during the World Cup. They did, and he did.
"I love the supporters in Israel so I decided to take out the flag," Paintsil said.A nice gesture of thanks, appreciated by those it was intended for, and inoffensive to everyone else, right?
"I have played for Hapoel and Maccabi Tel Aviv and the supporters there always made me happy so I wanted to repay them."
Hah. Israel's involved. It's never inoffensive. And we're not talking about fans of Ghana who question Paintsil's loyalties. They know why he did it. But in certain circles, the Israeli flag is offensive because the existence of Israel is offensive. Nobody would give a rat's patoot if Paintsil played for the Windsor Border Stars in the Canadian Soccer League, and chose to wave the Canadian flag. Except, of course, for Canadian fans, who would have been thrilled to be acknowledged. (Because, while I love Canada and Canadians, let's be frank, it's going to be awhile before the Canadian flag shows up at the World Cup because the Canadian team qualified.)
But because it's Israel, Ghana had to apologize, and assure everyone that Paintsil didn't know what he was doing. Which is horsecrap, he knew damn well what he was doing. Nobody is ignorant of what the gesture meant. But because the existence of Israel illegitimate, even this harmless display of thanks must be attacked, and Ghana must be made to punk out.
Well, at least everyone agrees on something. I don't want to see Paintsil wave the Israeli flag during Ghana's next game either. But that's just because they're playing the U.S., and we really need to shut them out.
Additional links via Ace.
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Blogger Poker championship...
Begins in a couple of hours. My attempt at live-blogging last year was pretty lame, which I blame on Blogger - so this time, I'll just say maybe I'll post a couple times during this thing, depending on how long I last.
Known or suspected participants include Alceste, Karol, Teethwriter, and the Defending Champion of People I Know Who Entered This Thing - Dawn Summers.
This year, there are bounties on some of the big guns who signed up. Strangely enough, there are no bounties on either of the I Had Outs bloggers.
Good luck all - and for PokerStars purposes, I'm known as K-Dogs, should you find yourself at my table.
Update 4:05 p.m. - That was quick - Ace high flush, meet full house. Good luck to everyone still around.
Known or suspected participants include Alceste, Karol, Teethwriter, and the Defending Champion of People I Know Who Entered This Thing - Dawn Summers.
This year, there are bounties on some of the big guns who signed up. Strangely enough, there are no bounties on either of the I Had Outs bloggers.
Good luck all - and for PokerStars purposes, I'm known as K-Dogs, should you find yourself at my table.
Update 4:05 p.m. - That was quick - Ace high flush, meet full house. Good luck to everyone still around.
Pray for Cristian Zaccardo...
Cristian Zaccardo is the Italian defender who accidentally deflected the ball into his own net, allowing the U.S. to pull off a 1-1 tie that keeps them alive, and prevented Italy from clinching a berth in the second round.
Don't get me wrong, I'm glad the U.S. is still alive - but all I'm saying is, this isn't the first time a player for a country with a history of organized crime had a critical own goal against the U.S. in the World Cup.
And, for the record, nobody should be mad at Brian McBride for being offside when Beasley put the ball in the net. He was probably still loopy from the elbow he took earlier.
Don't get me wrong, I'm glad the U.S. is still alive - but all I'm saying is, this isn't the first time a player for a country with a history of organized crime had a critical own goal against the U.S. in the World Cup.
And, for the record, nobody should be mad at Brian McBride for being offside when Beasley put the ball in the net. He was probably still loopy from the elbow he took earlier.
Friday, June 16, 2006
I'll take opportunites to gloat where I can get them...
Ha-ha. Mexico couldn't beat Angola.
Work with me here...
Let's say that members of an office are told by the boss that because visitors are coming by, the staff "needs to act like grownups for awhile."
And let's say that a member of said staff (who shall remain nameless) may have been heard colorfully explaining to coworkers how, should he win the lottery, he would dress and act like a pirate at work that day.
My contention is this would constitute "acting like a grownup," as children cannot play the lottery.
And let's say that a member of said staff (who shall remain nameless) may have been heard colorfully explaining to coworkers how, should he win the lottery, he would dress and act like a pirate at work that day.
My contention is this would constitute "acting like a grownup," as children cannot play the lottery.
Does anyone other than Bill Jefferson think he should stay in office?
House Democrats vote to suspend Cong. Bill Jefferson from the House Ways and Means Committee, because of, you know, the bribes.
Jefferson's defenders are all up in arms, not because they actually support the guy - Heaven forfend! - but because of the double standard. You know, he's being treated different than that other guy who kept money in a freezer.
Congressman Mel Watt on the subject:
Ah...Congress. Where the idea that a corrupt Congressman shouldn't sit on a powerful committee is a debatable principle.
Jefferson's defenders are all up in arms, not because they actually support the guy - Heaven forfend! - but because of the double standard. You know, he's being treated different than that other guy who kept money in a freezer.
Congressman Mel Watt on the subject:
(T)he suspension was based on "political expediency" rather than House rules, warning that it "could have consequences" for Democrats among black voters.Ummm...Mel? You just said that.
"We believe our constituents will import their own interpretation into this, and a number of them will import that there's a different standard in our caucus based on race," Watt said, though he added, "None of us are saying that. I'm not saying that."
Ah...Congress. Where the idea that a corrupt Congressman shouldn't sit on a powerful committee is a debatable principle.
What rhymes with "Cristal?" It no longer matters.
Jay-Z announces he's boycotting Cristal champagne, no longer drinking it himself, or selling it in the clubs he owns, following comments by the maker's director that are pompous at best, and at worst, racist, according to Jay-Z.
Update 6/20 - Found a response from Cristal. According to them:
I do blame him for touring with R. Kelly though. He really should have known better.
In The Economist, Rouzaud said the company viewed the affection for his company's champagne from rappers and their fans with "curiosity and serenity."In other news, Larry the Cable Guy assured Budweiser they were "still cool."
Asked by the magazine if the association between Cristal and the bling lifestyle could be detrimental, Rouzaud replied:
"That's a good question, but what can we do? We can't forbid people from buying it. I'm sure Dom Perignon or Krug would be delighted to have their business."
Update 6/20 - Found a response from Cristal. According to them:
"A house like Louis Roederer would not have existed since 1776 without being totally open and tolerant to all forms of culture and art, including the most recent musical and fashion styles which -- like hiphop -- keep us in touch with modernity," it said.Reading that - I still think it's pretty clear there's a bunch of ambivalence over Cristal's appeal to the rap crowd - they have to think it diminishes their brand's upper end appeal to be constantly associated with the uncouth ruffians of hip-hop. Whether they're racist or just arrogant, I don't particularly blame Jay-Z for getting PO'ed.
I do blame him for touring with R. Kelly though. He really should have known better.
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Well, the price was right...
Just got back from a free preview of Nacho Libre. I have to agree with Steve's take on the movie - they tried something different, but they didn't pull it off. There are a few funny moments, but nothing that makes it worth spending money on.
The wrestling was all right, although, frankly, if I'd known Silver King was going to be playing the top heel in the film, I'd have expected better. As celebrity involved wrestling goes - better than the Jay Leno & DDP vs. Bischoff & Hogan match, not as good as Lawrence Taylor - Bam Bam Bigelow.
The wrestling was all right, although, frankly, if I'd known Silver King was going to be playing the top heel in the film, I'd have expected better. As celebrity involved wrestling goes - better than the Jay Leno & DDP vs. Bischoff & Hogan match, not as good as Lawrence Taylor - Bam Bam Bigelow.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Now that's motivation...
Should Trinidad & Tobago manage to pull off the upset of upsets against England tomorrow, each and every member of the team will receive a barrel of specially aged rum.
That's 64 gallons of motivation that Mr. Posh Spice and friends will have to overcome, with only their vastly superior talent and experience to rely on.
That's 64 gallons of motivation that Mr. Posh Spice and friends will have to overcome, with only their vastly superior talent and experience to rely on.
Need help getting through your home repair projects?
If you do your home improvement shopping at Home Depot, you may just find an added bonus in your merchandise - say, over $100,000 worth of marijuana.
In an unrelated story, Snoop Dogg just realized he's been meaning to fix up the crib...
In an unrelated story, Snoop Dogg just realized he's been meaning to fix up the crib...
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Why, Ray, Why?
Purpose of Congress - shovel home the pork:
Tip - Ace.
Appropriations members have already vowed to fight any move to strip spending from the bill. “I’m not going to take their crap,” Rep. Ray LaHood (R-Ill.) said last week. The Illinois appropriator said he included several projects for his district and would fight to keep them all.If there's a bright side - anything that distracts Congress for helping William Jefferson's coverup can't be all bad.
“They think they’ve gotten a little steam building, and we’re going to have to shoot them down,” LaHood said. He ripped RSC members this year on the House floor for successfully stripping $507 million in construction projects from a military spending bill.
Tip - Ace.
So, I take it he still hasn't found a hobby...
Michael Newdow loses lawsuit trying to get "In God We Trust" taken off U.S. currency.
And somewhere, an angel gets his wings...
And somewhere, an angel gets his wings...
Good news...
For Dawn Summers, at least.
World Cup blogging will be temporarily suspended, since I can't think of a way right now to post on the World Cup without unleashing a torrent of profanity that would cause my mother to faint and my wife to say "Oh, how cute! He's trying to swear!"
Cause in a swearing contest - Spouse = Czechs. Me = USA.
World Cup blogging will be temporarily suspended, since I can't think of a way right now to post on the World Cup without unleashing a torrent of profanity that would cause my mother to faint and my wife to say "Oh, how cute! He's trying to swear!"
Cause in a swearing contest - Spouse = Czechs. Me = USA.
Monday, June 12, 2006
The right way to go after Hamas...
Palestinian gunmen go on an anti-Hamas rampage.
You know, whenever Israel attacks Hamas, it's not nearly this chaotic or indiscriminate, yet international institutions get much more upset.
Just saying, is all.
You know, whenever Israel attacks Hamas, it's not nearly this chaotic or indiscriminate, yet international institutions get much more upset.
Just saying, is all.
Human smuggling update...
A while back, an enterprising prosecutor charged a number of illegal immigrants with conspiracy to commit human smuggling - the humans to be smuggled being the immigrants themselves.
Round 1 to the state - or as the prosecutor put it, "Arizona taxpayers 1, Mexican government nothing." (The Mexican government is assisting the defense.)
As with any novel application of the law, a trial court ruling is only the first step (and, of course, doesn't even address the question of whether any defendant even did the act in question - it just held that the law could be applied to the conduct alleged). Appeals to follow.
Round 1 to the state - or as the prosecutor put it, "Arizona taxpayers 1, Mexican government nothing." (The Mexican government is assisting the defense.)
As with any novel application of the law, a trial court ruling is only the first step (and, of course, doesn't even address the question of whether any defendant even did the act in question - it just held that the law could be applied to the conduct alleged). Appeals to follow.
Bad idea...worse idea...worst idea
It's a bad idea to solicit a prostitute.
It's a worse idea to solicit what appears to be a prostitute, but is actually an undercover a police officer.
It's the worst idea to solicit what appears to be a prostitute, but is actually an undercover police officer, while you are working for one of the departments conducting the sting.
It's a worse idea to solicit what appears to be a prostitute, but is actually an undercover a police officer.
It's the worst idea to solicit what appears to be a prostitute, but is actually an undercover police officer, while you are working for one of the departments conducting the sting.
World Cup update...
...apparently the U.S. sucks again.
Hey, maybe the Czechs will pull a Japan.
Post-game Update: Or not.
Hey, maybe the Czechs will pull a Japan.
Post-game Update: Or not.
Sunday, June 11, 2006
And let me just add, it's about time...
Saturday, June 10, 2006
Getting soccer
People who say the problem with soccer is the lack of scoring should have seen the Sweden - Trinidad & Tobago game today. It ended 0-0, but was frankly more exciting than most Super Bowls, and pretty much all professional golf.
Trinidad, who knew damn well how lucky they were to even be here, a draw was as good as a win. And for the Swedes, who were counting on the three points from this game to make sure they went though, desperately needed to pull it off. Watching Sweden throw everything but the kitchen sink at a short-handed underdog, only to have backup goalie Shaka Hislop turn it all away - didn't need goals to be entertaining.
Trinidad, who knew damn well how lucky they were to even be here, a draw was as good as a win. And for the Swedes, who were counting on the three points from this game to make sure they went though, desperately needed to pull it off. Watching Sweden throw everything but the kitchen sink at a short-handed underdog, only to have backup goalie Shaka Hislop turn it all away - didn't need goals to be entertaining.
Friday, June 09, 2006
Vital questions of our time...
Should pro wrestlers have to undergo pregnancy tests prior to getting in the ring?
Remember - Triple H could spawn again at any time.
Remember - Triple H could spawn again at any time.
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
World Cup Preview, concluded...
Group G:
France - In 1998, World Champions. In 2002, zero, that's right, zero goals. They're better than that, and Thierry Henry is one of the class acts of soccer, so they'll stick around a while.
South Korea - Semi-finalists in 2002 with the entire country right there. Barring plans for all of South Korea to travel to Germany, it's three and out this time around.
Switzerland - Solid, yet unspectacular. But hey, somebody's gotta advance.
Togo - They were so shocked at qualifying they fired the coach who got them there. Their swift exit will probably be less shocking.
Picks to advance - France, Switzerland.
Group H:
Saudi Arabia - They perform well in regional contests, but will likely be overmatched against the world's best. U.S. GK Kasey Keller tags Mabrouk Zaid as Asia's best keeper, so if he plays and he's on - the Saudis may have a shot.
Spain - Best club league in the world. Great players. Yeah, they'll choke again, but not until the knockout round.
Tunisia - The weak draw gives them a shot to advance, and their best player is actually Brazilian (long story), but he's pretty much it. If he's not nuclear, Tunisia goes home.
Ukraine - Good news - they've played well in tuneup matches, and have the talent to survive. Bad news - first World Cup ever - if the pressure gets to them, the more experienced Tunisia or Saudi Arabia will take their spot in the second round.
Picks to advance - Spain, Ukraine.
Knockout round picks:
Germany over Sweden; Argentina over Portugal
England over Costa Rica; Mexico over Ivory Coast
United States over Japan; Ukraine over France
Brazil over Italy; Switzerland over Spain
Quarterfinals
Argentina over Germany; England over Mexico
United States over Ukraine; Brazil over Switzerland
Semifinals
England over Argentina; Brazil over United States
Finals
Eh, let's take a risk - England over Brazil (unless Rooney's hurt worse then he's claiming - then never mind.) And what the hell, the US beats Argentina for 3rd.
Final thought on the World Cup - Remember, do not refer to English team captain David Beckham as "Mr. Posh Spice."
Go, USA!
France - In 1998, World Champions. In 2002, zero, that's right, zero goals. They're better than that, and Thierry Henry is one of the class acts of soccer, so they'll stick around a while.
South Korea - Semi-finalists in 2002 with the entire country right there. Barring plans for all of South Korea to travel to Germany, it's three and out this time around.
Switzerland - Solid, yet unspectacular. But hey, somebody's gotta advance.
Togo - They were so shocked at qualifying they fired the coach who got them there. Their swift exit will probably be less shocking.
Picks to advance - France, Switzerland.
Group H:
Saudi Arabia - They perform well in regional contests, but will likely be overmatched against the world's best. U.S. GK Kasey Keller tags Mabrouk Zaid as Asia's best keeper, so if he plays and he's on - the Saudis may have a shot.
Spain - Best club league in the world. Great players. Yeah, they'll choke again, but not until the knockout round.
Tunisia - The weak draw gives them a shot to advance, and their best player is actually Brazilian (long story), but he's pretty much it. If he's not nuclear, Tunisia goes home.
Ukraine - Good news - they've played well in tuneup matches, and have the talent to survive. Bad news - first World Cup ever - if the pressure gets to them, the more experienced Tunisia or Saudi Arabia will take their spot in the second round.
Picks to advance - Spain, Ukraine.
Knockout round picks:
Germany over Sweden; Argentina over Portugal
England over Costa Rica; Mexico over Ivory Coast
United States over Japan; Ukraine over France
Brazil over Italy; Switzerland over Spain
Quarterfinals
Argentina over Germany; England over Mexico
United States over Ukraine; Brazil over Switzerland
Semifinals
England over Argentina; Brazil over United States
Finals
Eh, let's take a risk - England over Brazil (unless Rooney's hurt worse then he's claiming - then never mind.) And what the hell, the US beats Argentina for 3rd.
Final thought on the World Cup - Remember, do not refer to English team captain David Beckham as "Mr. Posh Spice."
Go, USA!
Democracy, Mexico-style...
Mexican Presidential candidates held a televised face-off, with Felipe Calderon, the conservative successor to Vincente Fox's mantle squaring off with Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (aka AMLO), the leftist candidate who is either the people's hope for the future, or a slightly better-looking Hugo Chavez, depending on who you ask. A third candidate is running, but nobody gives a crap.
AMLO lost pretty much all his lead when he skipped the first debate, so he made sure to make this one, promising to improve Mexico's prospects so citizens didn't need to cross illegally into the U.S. He also promised to fight efforts by the U.S. to secure the border, in case plan A didn't work out.
In another interesting twist, the wife of a man who claims to have videos damaging to AMLO's reputation as a pillar of integrity (a big selling point to an electorate sick of corruption), had her car shot at shortly before the debate.
Mexico's election will be held on July 2.
AMLO lost pretty much all his lead when he skipped the first debate, so he made sure to make this one, promising to improve Mexico's prospects so citizens didn't need to cross illegally into the U.S. He also promised to fight efforts by the U.S. to secure the border, in case plan A didn't work out.
In another interesting twist, the wife of a man who claims to have videos damaging to AMLO's reputation as a pillar of integrity (a big selling point to an electorate sick of corruption), had her car shot at shortly before the debate.
Mexico's election will be held on July 2.
Hey, Detroit Tigers...
Welcome to reality. Your hosts, the Chicago White Sox.
Haditha story...
Long, interesting article about what is and isn't known about events in Haditha.
Tip - JWookie, Ace.
Tip - JWookie, Ace.
How about schools? Can they be near schools?
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Oops.
Son plans to kill his father for his inheritance, and enlists a friend to help do the deed.
They kill him, only son finds out later - dad cut him out of the will.
On the other hand - good call from the father about disinheriting the kid.
They kill him, only son finds out later - dad cut him out of the will.
On the other hand - good call from the father about disinheriting the kid.
Confession in...
Atlanta Courthouse shooting defendant Brian Nichols' confession to police may be used against him at trial.
Yeah, don't know how they were going to be able to connect him to the shootings without that...
Yeah, don't know how they were going to be able to connect him to the shootings without that...
Kelo is not the guy from Gnarls Barkley...
New London, CT City Council votes to evict the two remaining residents whose homes were condemned via eminent domain to make way for a private development. Michael Cristofaro and Suzette Kelo are the last two remaining holdouts, and could be assessed rent and back taxes.
The residents only real remaining options are political - legally speaking, the city holds all the cards. Of course, should law enforcement have to physically remove the residents from their homes so they can be bulldozed, that should be a pretty memorable moment. Definitely something to remember when you see what business chooses to set up shop in this new development.
The residents only real remaining options are political - legally speaking, the city holds all the cards. Of course, should law enforcement have to physically remove the residents from their homes so they can be bulldozed, that should be a pretty memorable moment. Definitely something to remember when you see what business chooses to set up shop in this new development.
World Cup previews - continued...
Group E:
This is the other "Group of Death", although it's not as bad as Group C, it's still got 3 teams that legitimately deserve to play beyond the first round.
Czech Republic - Not the second best team in the world, despite what FIFA may tell you. Solid both in the net and on the attack, but injuries could slow down their scoring.
Ghana - Their best chance at the next round went by the wayside when Freddy Adu stuck with his new home in the U.S., even though he didn't make the squad.
Italy - Haven't failed to make the second round since 1974. And, despite injuries to their defense, that streak should continue.
United States - No expectations in 1994 - made it to the second round. High expectations in 1998 - three and out. Lower expectations in 2002 - quarterfinals. This year, everyone is calling this the best U.S. team ever. History says we're screwed. However, a nation with Captain Unilateral in charge don't need no stinkin' history.
Picks to advance - United States, Italy
Group F:
Australia - Quite possibly the biggest surprise in the draw are the Aussies. However, playing the Netherlands to a draw recently says they may be up for the challenge. (They aren't, but we like Australia and want them to feel good.)
Brazil - Best player in the world - check. Bunch of players who only use one name, you know, like Cher? Check. Green light to the knockout round? Check.
Croatia - 3rd in 1998, but they've been playing like poop in the warmups.
Japan - Only recently started getting any good at soccer, but they're probably Asia's best team.
Picks to advance: Brazil, Japan.
This is the other "Group of Death", although it's not as bad as Group C, it's still got 3 teams that legitimately deserve to play beyond the first round.
Czech Republic - Not the second best team in the world, despite what FIFA may tell you. Solid both in the net and on the attack, but injuries could slow down their scoring.
Ghana - Their best chance at the next round went by the wayside when Freddy Adu stuck with his new home in the U.S., even though he didn't make the squad.
Italy - Haven't failed to make the second round since 1974. And, despite injuries to their defense, that streak should continue.
United States - No expectations in 1994 - made it to the second round. High expectations in 1998 - three and out. Lower expectations in 2002 - quarterfinals. This year, everyone is calling this the best U.S. team ever. History says we're screwed. However, a nation with Captain Unilateral in charge don't need no stinkin' history.
Picks to advance - United States, Italy
Group F:
Australia - Quite possibly the biggest surprise in the draw are the Aussies. However, playing the Netherlands to a draw recently says they may be up for the challenge. (They aren't, but we like Australia and want them to feel good.)
Brazil - Best player in the world - check. Bunch of players who only use one name, you know, like Cher? Check. Green light to the knockout round? Check.
Croatia - 3rd in 1998, but they've been playing like poop in the warmups.
Japan - Only recently started getting any good at soccer, but they're probably Asia's best team.
Picks to advance: Brazil, Japan.
Happy Evil Day, everybody!
Interestingly enough, today is also Robert "Freddy Krueger" Englund's birthday today!
Satan's coming. Look busy.
Satan's coming. Look busy.
Monday, June 05, 2006
Remember Tiananmen...
Despite China's best efforts, people still remember June 4, 1989, when China's rulers brutally cracked down on their nation's best and brightest for the crime of trying to make their government more open and accountable to their people.
World Cup Previews - cont.
Group C - The first Group of Death in the field.
Argentina: Always tough, and PO'ed after not making it out of the first round in 2002. Should they survive Group C, they're a real threat to go a long ways.
Ivory Coast - Kind of a surprise, taking this spot instead of Cup perennial Cameroon. In most other groups, they'd be a cinch for the next round. But here?
Netherlands - Back after missing out on 2002. Second best team in the group, but with no easy wins, they're not a sure bet for the knockout round.
Serbia & Montenegro - Some of the best defense you'll see at the Cup. Cracking through will require goals, however, and the Serbian attack probably can't hang in this group.
Picks to advance - Argentina, Ivory Coast.
Group D:
Angola - Um...no. Seriously, any draw this team pulls off will count as a moral victory.
Iran - If they can avoid the distraction their nutbag President is sure to cause if he shows up, they're a credible side with an outside chance to advance.
Mexico - Could, and frankly, should, win all three games. Sure thing to advance. But man, would it be cool if they choked somehow.
Portugal - Second best team in the group, and could challenge Mexico for the top spot. However, as any fan of the U.S. knows, Portugal has been known to lose games they were supposed to win.
Picks to advance - Mexico, Portugal.
Argentina: Always tough, and PO'ed after not making it out of the first round in 2002. Should they survive Group C, they're a real threat to go a long ways.
Ivory Coast - Kind of a surprise, taking this spot instead of Cup perennial Cameroon. In most other groups, they'd be a cinch for the next round. But here?
Netherlands - Back after missing out on 2002. Second best team in the group, but with no easy wins, they're not a sure bet for the knockout round.
Serbia & Montenegro - Some of the best defense you'll see at the Cup. Cracking through will require goals, however, and the Serbian attack probably can't hang in this group.
Picks to advance - Argentina, Ivory Coast.
Group D:
Angola - Um...no. Seriously, any draw this team pulls off will count as a moral victory.
Iran - If they can avoid the distraction their nutbag President is sure to cause if he shows up, they're a credible side with an outside chance to advance.
Mexico - Could, and frankly, should, win all three games. Sure thing to advance. But man, would it be cool if they choked somehow.
Portugal - Second best team in the group, and could challenge Mexico for the top spot. However, as any fan of the U.S. knows, Portugal has been known to lose games they were supposed to win.
Picks to advance - Mexico, Portugal.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Discuss...
The Break-Up - Billed as a romantic comedy, yet is neither romantic, nor comedic.
Seriously. It's not good.
Seriously. It's not good.
Friday, June 02, 2006
World Cup Previews...
The World Cup begins next week - and I refuse to let the fact that I don't know much about world soccer stop me from calling the winner.
(Wow - a blogger unwilling to let his own ignorance restrain him. Never seen that before - Ed.)
Yeah, yeah. On to the brackets.
Group A:
Germany - they have home field advantage, they're traditionally a strong side, and their group, comparatively speaking, blows. If they don't advance, their collapse will be the story of the tournament.
Poland - Most common second choice, and they performed decently in European qualifying. They may not be bringing their best team, however.
Costa Rica - World Cup equivalent of a small college powerhouse that makes the NCAA tournament every year, but always draws Duke in the first round and gets their ass beat. Gotta win sometime.
Ecuador - In Ecuador, they were a match for favorites like Brazil and Argentina. If the tournament was played there, they would totally advance. It's not, so they won't.
Picks to advance: Germany, Costa Rica.
Group B:
England - Anyone ever seen Footballer's Wives? It's like Desperate Housewives, only with nudity, profanity, and British accents.
Paraguay - Another one of those teams that makes it a lot, only to go home right away. I know of no reason why that won't continue, but in Paraguay's defense, I didn't look very hard.
Trinidad & Tobago - Just happy to be here. Which is good, because I'd hate for them to go home disappointed.
Sweden - Solid squad, should be good for the round of 16 or the quarterfinals.
Picks to Advance: England, Sweden.
(Wow - a blogger unwilling to let his own ignorance restrain him. Never seen that before - Ed.)
Yeah, yeah. On to the brackets.
Group A:
Germany - they have home field advantage, they're traditionally a strong side, and their group, comparatively speaking, blows. If they don't advance, their collapse will be the story of the tournament.
Poland - Most common second choice, and they performed decently in European qualifying. They may not be bringing their best team, however.
Costa Rica - World Cup equivalent of a small college powerhouse that makes the NCAA tournament every year, but always draws Duke in the first round and gets their ass beat. Gotta win sometime.
Ecuador - In Ecuador, they were a match for favorites like Brazil and Argentina. If the tournament was played there, they would totally advance. It's not, so they won't.
Picks to advance: Germany, Costa Rica.
Group B:
England - Anyone ever seen Footballer's Wives? It's like Desperate Housewives, only with nudity, profanity, and British accents.
Paraguay - Another one of those teams that makes it a lot, only to go home right away. I know of no reason why that won't continue, but in Paraguay's defense, I didn't look very hard.
Trinidad & Tobago - Just happy to be here. Which is good, because I'd hate for them to go home disappointed.
Sweden - Solid squad, should be good for the round of 16 or the quarterfinals.
Picks to Advance: England, Sweden.
Hezbollahpalooza
Some guy on Lebanese TV engaged in a mild spoofing of Hezbollah leader Sheik Hassan Nasrallah. Hezbollah supporters responded in a mature, responsible manner befitting people worth taking seriously on Mideast issues: They rioted.
Good news is, we now have a way to definitively settle the question of how courageous a comedian Steven Colbert really is.
Good news is, we now have a way to definitively settle the question of how courageous a comedian Steven Colbert really is.
I have no idea why...
...but watching other people compete in a spelling bee is surprisingly compelling television.
Best part - when color man Paul Loeffler - and I'll bet that's the high point of his life, doing color at a spelling bee - said one of the judges was "examinating" the contest materials for information about a word.
Loeffler was subsequently named a front runner for the 2008 GOP Presidential nomination.
Best part - when color man Paul Loeffler - and I'll bet that's the high point of his life, doing color at a spelling bee - said one of the judges was "examinating" the contest materials for information about a word.
Loeffler was subsequently named a front runner for the 2008 GOP Presidential nomination.
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Stop the presses...
I'm still having trouble believing the whole Batwoman story. Basically, you're telling me that a bunch of comic book geeks imagined an attractive lesbian in a skintight bodysuit and high heeled boots?
Shocking. Ab-so-freaking-lutely shocking.
Comic book aficiandos across the nation will come together and discuss this stunning turn of events Saturday night.
There was some concern over scheduling, but fortunately nobody had plans that night.
Tip - Summers.
Shocking. Ab-so-freaking-lutely shocking.
Comic book aficiandos across the nation will come together and discuss this stunning turn of events Saturday night.
There was some concern over scheduling, but fortunately nobody had plans that night.
Tip - Summers.
I scream, you scream...
I never got into this southern obsession with college football...
Nevertheless, I did get into the self-absorbed Gen-X'er obsession with the Simpsons enough to appreciate this Southern Appeal post about "The Simpsons Calvacade of College Football."
Georgia is Homer. Sounds about right.
Georgia is Homer. Sounds about right.
Disclaimer...
Joe 6-pack has a disclaimer to use next time a war hero says something stupid.
