Sunday, August 27, 2006
The big news...
Glad to hear Steve Centanni and Olaf Wiig were freed, even if it involved a gunpoint conversion to Islam.
From my perspective, pointing a gun at two men and forcing them to "convert" to Islam and then releasing the video and touting it as a real conversion harms Islam far more than, say, a collection of cartoons drawn by non-Muslims. I'd expect to see protests commensurate with the outrage, and obviously, there should be no rock in the Middle East big enough for the kidnappers to hide under.
Tip - Ace.
A statement from the captors today stated, "They chose Islam and that is a gift that God gives to those whom he chooses." They have yet to be apprehended or arrested.Just wondering - having now presumably said the Shadada and declared themselves Muslim, even if it was just to avoid being shot in the head, would anyone consider them apostates if they now renounced this conversion? Will Ismael Haniyah, or any other prominent Muslim political or religious leader, clarify this point?
From my perspective, pointing a gun at two men and forcing them to "convert" to Islam and then releasing the video and touting it as a real conversion harms Islam far more than, say, a collection of cartoons drawn by non-Muslims. I'd expect to see protests commensurate with the outrage, and obviously, there should be no rock in the Middle East big enough for the kidnappers to hide under.
Tip - Ace.
Puerto Rico...you lovely island...
Just a quick stop in the San Juan Airport Best Western before we board our cruise ship in a couple of hours. Spouse is checking HSX, and she's not pleased that How to Eat Fried Worms bombed.
Trip has been relatively chaos-free, which is driving the spouse nuts. Getting to the airport early? Did we lose a war? Also, when we parked the truck, she was less than amused that I checked to make sure that she turned it off.
That's right. The truck is off, and the keys are not in the ignition. Not falling for that one again.
Trip has been relatively chaos-free, which is driving the spouse nuts. Getting to the airport early? Did we lose a war? Also, when we parked the truck, she was less than amused that I checked to make sure that she turned it off.
That's right. The truck is off, and the keys are not in the ignition. Not falling for that one again.
Friday, August 25, 2006
Cruising...
Five years ago next Sunday, my wife agreed to forsake all other men for yours truly.
In case anyone was wondering why I call her "the crazy redhead."
Tomorrow we fly down to San Juan, from where we will begin our week-long Caribbean cruise. By incredible coincidence, as my five year anniversary approaches, making its rounds throughout the internet is this article (now with counterpoint) about what a freaking disaster it is to marry a career woman. This article was written by a man named Michael Noer, who clearly has adequecy issues.
Noer's concern is a woman who goes out and works eventually meets someone better than the schlump sitting at home, since apparently all he has to offer a woman is money, and if she figures out how to earn her own, all he has is his scintillating personality. I can see why that someone might be concerned in that situation.
Because when the woman doesn't particularly need you to keep the roof over your head (although it does bear mentioning that your salary ensures that the roof covers a larger house than might otherwise be possible), you have to find something else to offer. Things like time, attention, shared interests, and genuine interest in who she is as a person. (In case you're wondering - I asked around, and yes, it does have to be genuine interest.)
Or, most importantly, the ability to make jokes that any fool can see are poorly disguised masks for your complete adoration.
See y'all on the beach.
In case anyone was wondering why I call her "the crazy redhead."
Tomorrow we fly down to San Juan, from where we will begin our week-long Caribbean cruise. By incredible coincidence, as my five year anniversary approaches, making its rounds throughout the internet is this article (now with counterpoint) about what a freaking disaster it is to marry a career woman. This article was written by a man named Michael Noer, who clearly has adequecy issues.
Noer's concern is a woman who goes out and works eventually meets someone better than the schlump sitting at home, since apparently all he has to offer a woman is money, and if she figures out how to earn her own, all he has is his scintillating personality. I can see why that someone might be concerned in that situation.
Because when the woman doesn't particularly need you to keep the roof over your head (although it does bear mentioning that your salary ensures that the roof covers a larger house than might otherwise be possible), you have to find something else to offer. Things like time, attention, shared interests, and genuine interest in who she is as a person. (In case you're wondering - I asked around, and yes, it does have to be genuine interest.)
Or, most importantly, the ability to make jokes that any fool can see are poorly disguised masks for your complete adoration.
See y'all on the beach.
Cause you know Sheik Nasrallah owns a couple of Backstreet Boys CD's...
West Bank boy band has a big hit singing the praises of Hezbollah's leader.
They're hoping Nasrallah has a better run then their last man-crush:
They're hoping Nasrallah has a better run then their last man-crush:
"We used to sing for Saddam," said Saed Akrawi, 26, whose perfume shop in downtown Jenin is adorned with a Nasrallah portrait, next to posters of models. "Saddam is gone. We want someone else to sing for."Not known at this time - whether Saed Akrawi is the "shy one" or the "bad boy."
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Stone Cold John Bolton's new favorite band
Solid contender for Best Headline Ever:
Megadeth angry at United Nations.
Don't make Megadeth angry. You wouldn't like them when they're angry.
Metalheads take note - "United Abominations" should be available sometime in 2007.
Megadeth angry at United Nations.
Don't make Megadeth angry. You wouldn't like them when they're angry.
Metalheads take note - "United Abominations" should be available sometime in 2007.
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Thanks for the help...
I just received a notice from a flower retailer reminding me that my anniversary was coming up next week.
Totally slipped my mind, guys. Thanks for that.
Totally slipped my mind, guys. Thanks for that.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Take that, Texas!
University of Georgia bookstores are giving students coupon books that include discounts on alcohol and bail bonds when they buy textbooks.
I wish I could go back to college...
I wish I could go back to college...
Update...
Anyone remember the fuss over Prussian Blue, the cute little twin pop singers who really weren't that cute because they sang about white supremacism?
Interesting thing - they apparently live with their mom, which seems to be where they picked up their special little take on the world around them. Well, their dad wasn't in the picture, and he professes himself shocked and appalled at having his kids turned into the Aryan Nation version of Hillary and Haylie Duff.
So, he does what any outraged non-custodial parent would do in that situation - he goes to court to try and get custody of his kids.
Get this - he loses.
Interesting thing - they apparently live with their mom, which seems to be where they picked up their special little take on the world around them. Well, their dad wasn't in the picture, and he professes himself shocked and appalled at having his kids turned into the Aryan Nation version of Hillary and Haylie Duff.
So, he does what any outraged non-custodial parent would do in that situation - he goes to court to try and get custody of his kids.
Get this - he loses.
And that's why Lingelser went back to court to try to regain custody, which he lost when he and April first divorced because, he admits, he had a problem with drugs.How messed up does a person have to be for a judge to think his kids are better off with the woman who's turning them into Nazis?
"I had a drug issue, and you know, I was not always the most responsible parent," Lingelser says.
ABC News uncovered a troubling letter in which Lingelser threatened to kill April and the twins if she told police of his drug abuse.
Lingelser says he's no longer a threat to his girls. He lives and works in San Diego, and says he's now clean and sober and believes he would be a better parent.
But a judge in California ruled in April's favor. She retains sole custody of Lynx and Lamb.
Monday, August 21, 2006
Hook 'em Horns!
The University of Texas at Austin has been named the #1 party school in the U.S.
Now, sure, Texas had the national football championship driving parties, but working against them, Jenna Bush had already graduated.
But, with that Texas spirit - they pulled it out anyway.
Now, sure, Texas had the national football championship driving parties, but working against them, Jenna Bush had already graduated.
But, with that Texas spirit - they pulled it out anyway.
Because, you know, not everyone's dead yet...
How to get me to start watching TV news again...
Swedish TV news program has porn playing in the background during the newscast.
The news producers are horrified, of course. But anyone wanna bet their next show gets substantially higher ratings?
The news producers are horrified, of course. But anyone wanna bet their next show gets substantially higher ratings?
Saturday, August 19, 2006
Snakes on a Plane...
"There is no way in hell your wife is going to agree to see that movie with you." - A friend and coworker.
The good news is my wife did go see Snakes on a Plane with me last night. The bad news is, after seeing it, there's no way I can even bring up the subject of joining the Mile High Club now.
I will say, without qualification, this is the best movie ever to feature snakes biting people in very personal places. Everyone involved is well aware of how cheeseball this ridiculous idea is, and is appropriately over the top.
After the movie is over, stay for the Cobra Starship video, but there isn't any end-of-film scene, so feel free to leave unless the 2nd Unit Gaffer is a friend of yours or something.
For the "Republicans on Film" take on SoaP - see Ace's review.
The good news is my wife did go see Snakes on a Plane with me last night. The bad news is, after seeing it, there's no way I can even bring up the subject of joining the Mile High Club now.
I will say, without qualification, this is the best movie ever to feature snakes biting people in very personal places. Everyone involved is well aware of how cheeseball this ridiculous idea is, and is appropriately over the top.
After the movie is over, stay for the Cobra Starship video, but there isn't any end-of-film scene, so feel free to leave unless the 2nd Unit Gaffer is a friend of yours or something.
For the "Republicans on Film" take on SoaP - see Ace's review.
Friday, August 18, 2006
ECW! ECW!
Justin Timberlake is starting a beef with Taylor Hicks.
"The guy who won - people think he looks so normal, and he's so sweet, and he's so earnest, but he can't carry a tune in a bucket. Do you realize how much pressure it is to put on somebody all of a sudden?"To quote ECW play-by-play man Joey Styles - "CATFIGHT! CATFIGHT!"
He speaks!
Cuban Crown Prince Raul Castro makes his first public comments, reassuring Cubans that the government's control over their lives remains total, and he has the means and the willingness to kill anybody who wants to suggest otherwise.
Thursday, August 17, 2006
A modest proposal
Come January, America will no longer have Cynthia McKinney to kick around any more. As Grant pointed out in the comments to this post, that's not without its downside. The woman is extremely entertaining, especially if she isn't speaking for a political party or point of view you happen to share. Very few people in public life could bring the crazy the way Cynthia McKinney brought the crazy.
Which brings me to a way we can keep her around. Obviously, returning her to her orginal position is flat out - electoral challenges notwithstanding - but how can we keep her around, more or less safely?
The answer - delegates. The District of Columbia, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and American Samoa all have non-voting delegates in Congress. Puerto Rico has a Resident Commissioner. The Northern Marianas Islands currently have squat, but they too will have a nonvoting delegate if H.R. 873 passes, and we all pray that it will. With all due respect to the people currently holding these offices (did you know Puerto Rico's voice in Congress is a Republican? Neither did I!) their inability to vote in the full House renders them fairly powerless. Nonetheless, they have an office in Washington D.C., committee posts, and a voice, should they choose to exercise it. A megaphone without power - the perfect position for someone you want to keep in the political spotlight for solely entertainment value.
Since unseating one of the sitting delegates would require Cynthia McKinney to win an election, which the Vast Right-Wing Conspiracy would assuredly rig against her, the obvious solution is to pass H.R. 873, give the Northern Marianas Islands a delegate in Congress, then have McKinney win the post. It would let us enjoy her unique view of American society without hazarding the possibility of her wielding any real influence.
The fact that she would also have to establish a residence in a territory so far away from Georgia it makes Hawaii look next door is just a secondary benefit, I swear.
Really.
Which brings me to a way we can keep her around. Obviously, returning her to her orginal position is flat out - electoral challenges notwithstanding - but how can we keep her around, more or less safely?
The answer - delegates. The District of Columbia, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and American Samoa all have non-voting delegates in Congress. Puerto Rico has a Resident Commissioner. The Northern Marianas Islands currently have squat, but they too will have a nonvoting delegate if H.R. 873 passes, and we all pray that it will. With all due respect to the people currently holding these offices (did you know Puerto Rico's voice in Congress is a Republican? Neither did I!) their inability to vote in the full House renders them fairly powerless. Nonetheless, they have an office in Washington D.C., committee posts, and a voice, should they choose to exercise it. A megaphone without power - the perfect position for someone you want to keep in the political spotlight for solely entertainment value.
Since unseating one of the sitting delegates would require Cynthia McKinney to win an election, which the Vast Right-Wing Conspiracy would assuredly rig against her, the obvious solution is to pass H.R. 873, give the Northern Marianas Islands a delegate in Congress, then have McKinney win the post. It would let us enjoy her unique view of American society without hazarding the possibility of her wielding any real influence.
The fact that she would also have to establish a residence in a territory so far away from Georgia it makes Hawaii look next door is just a secondary benefit, I swear.
Really.
Now I'm kind of sorry I didn't see "Click."
Adam Sandler is donating 400 Playstations to Israelis whose homes were damaged during the fighting with Hezbollah.
Tip - Corner.
Tip - Corner.
A clean desk is the sign of a sick mind...
Today is an open house in our new court building. Everyone is supposed to have their offices and work spaces in neat order, fit for public viewing.
It has been decided that I should just keep my office door closed.
It has been decided that I should just keep my office door closed.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Man, I'm going to miss her...
You know who'd be a great person to ask about ways we can improve democracy?
Cynthia McKinney.
Electronic voting machines? Bad. Open primaries? Worse. Runoff elections? A violation of the Voting Rights Act.
That's right - it is contrary to American Democracy to ask that a winner receive a majority of the vote.
By incredible coincidence, all of these things are considered to be factors in the fact that Hank Johnson beat McKinney's ass like a drum in the August 8 runoff.
It's a coincidence, people. It's not that she thinks it should be illegal to vote her out of office or anything.
Really.
Cynthia McKinney.
Electronic voting machines? Bad. Open primaries? Worse. Runoff elections? A violation of the Voting Rights Act.
That's right - it is contrary to American Democracy to ask that a winner receive a majority of the vote.
By incredible coincidence, all of these things are considered to be factors in the fact that Hank Johnson beat McKinney's ass like a drum in the August 8 runoff.
It's a coincidence, people. It's not that she thinks it should be illegal to vote her out of office or anything.
Really.
A little less country, a little more rock 'n roll, maybe?
Half of country duo Montgomery Gentry was indicted for killing a tame bear in an enclosed pen, and editing a video to make it look like he was a real hunter.
The bear was named "Cubby." While the outcome of the criminal case is still to be determined, Troy Gentry was immediately downgraded on the "Real Men of Country Music" scale. He now ranks just barely ahead of the lead singer of Rascal Flatts, and a couple of spots behind Faith Hill.
The bear was named "Cubby." While the outcome of the criminal case is still to be determined, Troy Gentry was immediately downgraded on the "Real Men of Country Music" scale. He now ranks just barely ahead of the lead singer of Rascal Flatts, and a couple of spots behind Faith Hill.
Try topping this story on the campaign trail...
Congressman Bobby Jindal delivers his own son.
His opponent claimed that if the U.S. had a real healthcare system, the government would have paid to have a nurse staying at the house throughout the ninth month of his wife's pregnancy.
His opponent claimed that if the U.S. had a real healthcare system, the government would have paid to have a nurse staying at the house throughout the ninth month of his wife's pregnancy.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Think three-strikes laws are too harsh?
How about a 225-strike law?
And, to be fair, an arrest does not equal a conviction. So he's really not that bad a guy.
Really.
And, to be fair, an arrest does not equal a conviction. So he's really not that bad a guy.
Really.
This week's sign of the apocalypse...
Jerry Springer and Tucker Carlson will be on the next installment of Dancing With The Stars.
Also Slater. Can't forget Slater.
Also Slater. Can't forget Slater.
I was curious what all the fuss was about...
So I had Netflix send me High School Musical.
So the spouse and I watched it, and we're wondering - the idea that the class jock is going to take over the drama club is a happy ending cause why now?
So the spouse and I watched it, and we're wondering - the idea that the class jock is going to take over the drama club is a happy ending cause why now?
The Jill Carroll story...
The Christian Science Monitor is starting to post reporter Jill Carroll's account of her abduction and captivity.
Friday, August 11, 2006
Quality television is dying...
Blind Date and ElimiDate have been cancelled.
Now all those people who appeared on those shows will have to return to their old ways of getting dates - standing on street corners and posting classified ads in the back of alternative newspapers.
Tip - Summers.
Now all those people who appeared on those shows will have to return to their old ways of getting dates - standing on street corners and posting classified ads in the back of alternative newspapers.
Tip - Summers.
Your mother gave you life...
...the least you can do is keep her sleazy, worthless boyfriend happy while she recovers from surgery.
And in the "How smart are criminals?" department:
And nobody wants that.
Also noting the story - Ace.
And in the "How smart are criminals?" department:
Police said the three signed an agreement specifying the sexual services the girl would perform and the compensation she would receive, including clothing and body piercings.Cause when you're planning the sexual abuse of a teenage girl - get it in writing. Otherwise, there's a chance you might not go to prison.
And nobody wants that.
Also noting the story - Ace.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Guess who's too good for blogspot?
Pretty much everyone who can string two sentences together, actually.
But unlike the rest of us, Dawn Summers actually did something about it - she is now at http://www.clareified.com/.
Modify your bookmarks and head over and suggest a new tagline. My suggestion - "Clareified - grown ups do too listen to Clay Aiken!"
But unlike the rest of us, Dawn Summers actually did something about it - she is now at http://www.clareified.com/.
Modify your bookmarks and head over and suggest a new tagline. My suggestion - "Clareified - grown ups do too listen to Clay Aiken!"
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Things you shouldn't do drunk...
How about try a criminal case where your client is facing a life sentence if convicted?
The lawyer's defense was he was only at .075, a shade below the state limit of .08 for DUI. And hey, if you're not too blitzed to drive, you're not to blitzed to decide the future of your client's life, right?
The lawyer's defense was he was only at .075, a shade below the state limit of .08 for DUI. And hey, if you're not too blitzed to drive, you're not to blitzed to decide the future of your client's life, right?
Headline of the day....
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Fish in a barrel...
Lots of people were sure the new U.N. Human Rights Council would be a huge improvement over the Dictator Protection Society/Israel Blaming Collective they replaced. Many people thought all the UN was doing was changing the letterhead - including yours truly and Stone Cold John Bolton himself.
While the Senate considers whether or not Stone Cold knows what the hell he's talking about, let's see how that newfangled Human Rights Council is conducting itself:
Well, read the document calling for the special session - looks like everything's still all Israel's fault.
Yep - it's definitely a new era where the U.N. and human rights are concerned.
And that's the bottom line, cause...well, you know.
While the Senate considers whether or not Stone Cold knows what the hell he's talking about, let's see how that newfangled Human Rights Council is conducting itself:
The council will "consider and take action on the gross human rights violations by Israel in Lebanon," according to the request filed by Tunisia on behalf of the 57-member Organization of the Islamic Conference.Well, that's just a media interpretation, designed to discredit the U.N. I'm sure the U.N. Human Rights Council themselves make it quite clear that they are deeply concerned with Hezbollah's bringing a war onto Lebanon's backdoor, firing from civilian positions, turning residential areas into military targets, denying the Red Cross access to prisoners, and generally being jerks.
The session was called because 16 countries — more than the requisite one-third of the 47-member council — backed Tunisia's request for the special session. Non-Arab countries signing the petition included China, Cuba, Russia and South Africa.
Well, read the document calling for the special session - looks like everything's still all Israel's fault.
Yep - it's definitely a new era where the U.N. and human rights are concerned.
And that's the bottom line, cause...well, you know.
Not the only ones who aren't ready to make nice...
The Dixie Chicks have cancelled shows in 14 cities such as Houston and St. Louis due to slow ticket sales. Several other show dates, including Atlanta and Nashville have been pushed back.
For those concerned about the looming specter of country artists having their voices silenced because of unpopular opinions - take heart: Tickets to see Tim McGraw, who's just about as liberal as Natalie Maines, but doesn't whine about it near as much, are selling like hotcakes.
For those concerned about the looming specter of country artists having their voices silenced because of unpopular opinions - take heart: Tickets to see Tim McGraw, who's just about as liberal as Natalie Maines, but doesn't whine about it near as much, are selling like hotcakes.
Memo to the Pittsburgh Steelers...
From: Coach Bill Cowher
Re: Those $&*%^ing motorcycles.
OK, that's it. It was bad enough when our freaking star quarterback nearly got his dumb ass killed. Now I have to read about another player who gets arrested from running from the cops on his motorcycle, and his excuse was "he didn't see the police?" Apparently big cars with flashing lights and sirens just blend right into the environment.
Great. The Pittsburgh Steelers MENSA chapter will apparently be able to meet in a sock drawer this year.
Bottom line - next person I see riding a motorcycle, standing near a motorcycle, or so much as TiVo'ing an episode of American Chopper is getting traded to the Arena League for a cheese sandwich.
Any questions?
Re: Those $&*%^ing motorcycles.
OK, that's it. It was bad enough when our freaking star quarterback nearly got his dumb ass killed. Now I have to read about another player who gets arrested from running from the cops on his motorcycle, and his excuse was "he didn't see the police?" Apparently big cars with flashing lights and sirens just blend right into the environment.
Great. The Pittsburgh Steelers MENSA chapter will apparently be able to meet in a sock drawer this year.
Bottom line - next person I see riding a motorcycle, standing near a motorcycle, or so much as TiVo'ing an episode of American Chopper is getting traded to the Arena League for a cheese sandwich.
Any questions?
Monday, August 07, 2006
You taste of America...
By and large, the big summer movies haven't lived up to snuff. The only one I really liked so far was X-Men, and now I can say I've seen another. Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby was a very funny movie.
Steve Silver pointed out that he couldn't tell whether the movie was a mocking parody or a loving homage. I saw the movie in Hiram, Georgia, in a theater where my wife apparently had to go mudbogging to park, and they loved it. Of course, Ricky Bobby and his friends are such over the top caricatures that if you want to go and laugh at the drunk rednecks who get a kick out of watching people turn left all afternoon, you could do that too.
But if you are into NASCAR, you will appreciate that Jean Girard is far, far more macho than Jeff Gordon. And slightly more macho than Dale Junior.
Steve Silver pointed out that he couldn't tell whether the movie was a mocking parody or a loving homage. I saw the movie in Hiram, Georgia, in a theater where my wife apparently had to go mudbogging to park, and they loved it. Of course, Ricky Bobby and his friends are such over the top caricatures that if you want to go and laugh at the drunk rednecks who get a kick out of watching people turn left all afternoon, you could do that too.
But if you are into NASCAR, you will appreciate that Jean Girard is far, far more macho than Jeff Gordon. And slightly more macho than Dale Junior.
Thank you for not smoking...
Back in June of 2002, Phillip Elmore beat his ex-girlfriend, Pamela Annarino, to death with a metal pipe. The 40-year old Annarino had just returned from her son's wedding.
Elmore was sentenced to death, and his appeal will be heard tomorrow by the Ohio Supreme Court. Among the various technical issues (not much to dispute factually - Elmore confessed several times) is the rather novel claim that jurors were artifically rushed into making a decision when the judge refused to let them take cigarette breaks. The State noted in its reply that Elmore's attorneys were consulted and consented to the smoking ban.
Elmore was sentenced to death, and his appeal will be heard tomorrow by the Ohio Supreme Court. Among the various technical issues (not much to dispute factually - Elmore confessed several times) is the rather novel claim that jurors were artifically rushed into making a decision when the judge refused to let them take cigarette breaks. The State noted in its reply that Elmore's attorneys were consulted and consented to the smoking ban.
Sunday, August 06, 2006
The Night Listener
...is a pretty good movie. Robin Williams is good, Toni Collette is great. Without giving too much away, it doesn't have the big twists and turns of your traditional thriller, but it builds suspense well, and is worth seeing if you're not in the mood for the regular big summer flicks.
Speaking of which, if the spouse ever wakes up, might be seeing Ricky Bobby today.
Speaking of which, if the spouse ever wakes up, might be seeing Ricky Bobby today.
Friday, August 04, 2006
The Joys of Journalism...
Last summer, a San Francisco Police Officer named Peter Shields was seriously injured during a G-8 protest. During the protest, a blogger/activist named Joshua Wolf was filming, and captured some of the scenes surrounding the assault on Officer Shields. An edited version of his footage is on his website.
A federal grand jury has subpoenad the unedited footage, and Wolf has refused to comply, resulting in him being incarcerated for potentially until next summer. Some of the legal wrangling that led to Wolf's jailing can be found here.
California has a strong state journalism shield law, the feds less so. One of Wolf's arguments is this matter was made federal specifically to avoid state protections. While federal officials note their investigation (due to federally funded property being damaged in the riot) began prior to learning of Wolf's tape - there is one "extra state protection" that it seems law enforcement wanted to avoid - the tense relationship between the San Francisco P.D. and the District Attorney's office, hinted at in this article. The lack of faith the police have in the DA was made apparent when the DA refused to seek the death penalty on the gang member accused of gunning down police officer Isaac Espinoza, and may have had something to do with the police requesting federal involvement in what they've termed the attempted murder of an officer.
Barring a successful appeal, Wolf faces the prospect of jail until the grand jury term ends next summer, or he turns over the evidence.
A federal grand jury has subpoenad the unedited footage, and Wolf has refused to comply, resulting in him being incarcerated for potentially until next summer. Some of the legal wrangling that led to Wolf's jailing can be found here.
California has a strong state journalism shield law, the feds less so. One of Wolf's arguments is this matter was made federal specifically to avoid state protections. While federal officials note their investigation (due to federally funded property being damaged in the riot) began prior to learning of Wolf's tape - there is one "extra state protection" that it seems law enforcement wanted to avoid - the tense relationship between the San Francisco P.D. and the District Attorney's office, hinted at in this article. The lack of faith the police have in the DA was made apparent when the DA refused to seek the death penalty on the gang member accused of gunning down police officer Isaac Espinoza, and may have had something to do with the police requesting federal involvement in what they've termed the attempted murder of an officer.
Barring a successful appeal, Wolf faces the prospect of jail until the grand jury term ends next summer, or he turns over the evidence.
A complete list of who to draft in fantasy football...
Bob lists his top 200 players from #1 (Larry Johnson) to #200 (Alex Smith).
Thursday, August 03, 2006
2008's still a ways off...
But, at the moment, one potential candidate I'm favorably inclined towards at the moment is Sam Brownback.
This article, about a visit Brownback made to a Kansas prison, is one reason why.
This article, about a visit Brownback made to a Kansas prison, is one reason why.
Bill Veeck would be proud...
Minor league baseball team to host "Britney Baby Safety Night", where they will give away information on car safety for babies, hold a drawing for a baby car seat, and, if there's time, play a baseball game.
Funniest part of the story - where they say Britney Spears' husband is "aspiring rapper" Kevin Federline.
Funniest part of the story - where they say Britney Spears' husband is "aspiring rapper" Kevin Federline.
I'm not as think as you drunk I am...
A guy shows up at the hospital after drinking fuel alcohol - leaving him with a blood-alcohol content of .72. For comparison's sake - most states use a limit of .08 before you're DUI, Mel Gibson allegedly blew a .12, and the highest level I've ever seen personally in close to a decade is .37.
The fun part is he thinks his employer is partially to blame:
The fun part is he thinks his employer is partially to blame:
Neddermeyer argued that his employer shared in the responsibility for the incident because the spill at the plant provided an "opportunity" for him to drink.This claim was denied:
"The employer has a right to expect employees not to drink the fuel," Hillary ruled. "Just because some of the ethanol leaked onto the floor is not a good reason for the claimant to drink automobile fuel."Tip - Sully.
You know who's got a solution to the Israel/Hezbollah crisis?
That's right - President Wackypants:
And what we're doing wrong is not being sufficiently evenhanded between Hezbollah's goals and Israel's.
"Although the main solution is for the elimination of the Zionist regime, at this stage an immediate cease-fire must be implemented," he said.Given that the Iranian government supports Hezbollah at the highest levels, one can safely conclude that Iran's solution to the problem is Hezbollah's.
Israel "is an illegitimate regime, there is no legal basis for its existence," he said.
And what we're doing wrong is not being sufficiently evenhanded between Hezbollah's goals and Israel's.
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
So, he'll be dead soon?
Castro's recovery "advancing positively."
Fantasy Football Preview, Cont.
Tight Ends
Must Have: Antonio Gates, San Diego Chargers - As arguably the only TE who will consistently put up receiving numbers comprable to a starting WR, he's worth drafting early, if you're sure you can get him.
Sleeper - Leonard Pope, Arizona Cardinals - More a pass-catcher than a blocker at Georgia, Pope will likely be the Cards' starting TE, and as a potentially explosive pass-catcher, should see his share of catches in what should be an explosive offense. Crazy-ass prediction - if Kurt Warner starts all 16 games, Leonard Pope is the NFL's Offensive Rookie of the Year.
Overrated: Kellen Winslow, Cleveland Browns - He's going to get hurt again. Go ahead, bet he won't. I dare you.
Kickers
Must Have - Adam Vinatieri, Indianapolis Colts - He was money in the bank in the arctic tundra of Foxboro. Now he's in a dome.
Sleeper - Jason Hanson, Detroit Lions - A solid kicker, an improved offense, a dome. There's decent value for a guy who could theoretically still be available with the last pick in your draft.
Overrated - Neil Rackers, Arizona Cardinals - Some idiot will look at his great season last year (which he won't come close to matching this year), and draft him a round or two ahead of other kickers. Don't be that idiot.
Team Defenses
Must Have: Chicago Bears - The only thing that would make this defense better is an offense capable of staying on the field longer. Nevertheless, a complete unit that will hold down offenses, and rack up sacks and turnovers.
Sleeper: Jacksonville Jaguars - A balanced unit capable of starting in most fantasy leagues that tends to get overlooked, because, let's face it, would you even have remembered Jacksonville had an NFL team if I hadn't just reminded you?
Overrated: New England Patriots - I like the Tedy Bruschi story as much as the next guy, but this team took some personnel hits in the offseason, and will still get drafted higher than they merit because they're the New England Freaking Patriots.
In conclusion, good luck to everyone who 1. Plays fantasy football, and 2. Is not my wife. Thank you.
Must Have: Antonio Gates, San Diego Chargers - As arguably the only TE who will consistently put up receiving numbers comprable to a starting WR, he's worth drafting early, if you're sure you can get him.
Sleeper - Leonard Pope, Arizona Cardinals - More a pass-catcher than a blocker at Georgia, Pope will likely be the Cards' starting TE, and as a potentially explosive pass-catcher, should see his share of catches in what should be an explosive offense. Crazy-ass prediction - if Kurt Warner starts all 16 games, Leonard Pope is the NFL's Offensive Rookie of the Year.
Overrated: Kellen Winslow, Cleveland Browns - He's going to get hurt again. Go ahead, bet he won't. I dare you.
Kickers
Must Have - Adam Vinatieri, Indianapolis Colts - He was money in the bank in the arctic tundra of Foxboro. Now he's in a dome.
Sleeper - Jason Hanson, Detroit Lions - A solid kicker, an improved offense, a dome. There's decent value for a guy who could theoretically still be available with the last pick in your draft.
Overrated - Neil Rackers, Arizona Cardinals - Some idiot will look at his great season last year (which he won't come close to matching this year), and draft him a round or two ahead of other kickers. Don't be that idiot.
Team Defenses
Must Have: Chicago Bears - The only thing that would make this defense better is an offense capable of staying on the field longer. Nevertheless, a complete unit that will hold down offenses, and rack up sacks and turnovers.
Sleeper: Jacksonville Jaguars - A balanced unit capable of starting in most fantasy leagues that tends to get overlooked, because, let's face it, would you even have remembered Jacksonville had an NFL team if I hadn't just reminded you?
Overrated: New England Patriots - I like the Tedy Bruschi story as much as the next guy, but this team took some personnel hits in the offseason, and will still get drafted higher than they merit because they're the New England Freaking Patriots.
In conclusion, good luck to everyone who 1. Plays fantasy football, and 2. Is not my wife. Thank you.
Fantasy Football Draft Preview...
For sound, rational discussion of the upcoming fantasy football draft, see Bob's posts here and here. For wild-ass, scattershot (yet successful) guesswork, keep reading.
Lest I be blamed again for another subpar performance from the ECB Rams, I hereby present all you need to know to win your fantasy football league:
Quarterbacks
Must Have: Matt Hasselbeck, Seattle Seahawks - Yes, Payton Manning will put up the best numbers, but that's not who you want. If you have picked Manning, you have chosen your #1 quarterback too soon. You want running backs in the first two rounds. Let someone else miss out on a good RB taking Manning, and try for Hasselbeck, who's good enough to put up big numbers, but still has a shot at being around in the third round.
Sleeper: Jake Delhomme, Carolina Panthers - Carolina has as good a collection of receivers as you're likely to find in the NFL, yet Jake gets little love, comparatively speaking. He should be a quality fantasy starter.
Overrated: Marc Bulger, St. Louis Rams - I didn't like him then, and now that's he's added "fragile" to his list of faults, I still don't like him.
Running Back
Must Have: Shawn Alexander, Seattle Seahawks - Larry Johnson's potential is tempting, but Alexander was the #1 guy last year, and unless you buy the "Madden curse" argument, he deserves to stay there.
Sleeper: Kevin Jones, Detroit Lions - Yeah, I know, it's Detroit, but a lot of teams are looking to split carries this year among two RB's, so anyone who has a lock on the #1 back position is worth a look. Plus, Detroit will be better offensively this year (as if they could be worse), so look for Jones to play more like his 2004 self than 2005.
Overrated: Reggie Bush, New Orleans Saints - A great talent who will be a fine pro, but a healthy Deuce McAllister will limit his touches. Also, of the two, McAllister is more likely to get the ball at the goal line, and RB's need TD's to be big fantasy contributers. (Say the word "Duckett" to anyone who owns Warrick Dunn and you'll get a sense of what I mean.)
Wide Receiver
Must Have: Steve Smith, Carolina Panthers - This assumes his injury situation sorts itself out OK. If not, go with Marvin Harrison or Chad Johnson.
Sleeper: Michael Jenkins, Atlanta Falcons - Every year the Falcons swear this'll be the year Vick starts using his receivers more, and every year Alge Crumpler and Warrick Dunn end up 1-2 in pass receptions. But if that promise ever comes true, you're going to want the Falcons receiver that benefits. Vick's favorite WR is actually Brian Finneran, but he's done for the year, and Jenkins has the tools to step up.
Overrated: Terrell Owens, Dallas Cowboys - Like this was in doubt. You don't have to know what's going to cause him to blow up to know that something will.
Next - TE's, D's, and K's.
Lest I be blamed again for another subpar performance from the ECB Rams, I hereby present all you need to know to win your fantasy football league:
Quarterbacks
Must Have: Matt Hasselbeck, Seattle Seahawks - Yes, Payton Manning will put up the best numbers, but that's not who you want. If you have picked Manning, you have chosen your #1 quarterback too soon. You want running backs in the first two rounds. Let someone else miss out on a good RB taking Manning, and try for Hasselbeck, who's good enough to put up big numbers, but still has a shot at being around in the third round.
Sleeper: Jake Delhomme, Carolina Panthers - Carolina has as good a collection of receivers as you're likely to find in the NFL, yet Jake gets little love, comparatively speaking. He should be a quality fantasy starter.
Overrated: Marc Bulger, St. Louis Rams - I didn't like him then, and now that's he's added "fragile" to his list of faults, I still don't like him.
Running Back
Must Have: Shawn Alexander, Seattle Seahawks - Larry Johnson's potential is tempting, but Alexander was the #1 guy last year, and unless you buy the "Madden curse" argument, he deserves to stay there.
Sleeper: Kevin Jones, Detroit Lions - Yeah, I know, it's Detroit, but a lot of teams are looking to split carries this year among two RB's, so anyone who has a lock on the #1 back position is worth a look. Plus, Detroit will be better offensively this year (as if they could be worse), so look for Jones to play more like his 2004 self than 2005.
Overrated: Reggie Bush, New Orleans Saints - A great talent who will be a fine pro, but a healthy Deuce McAllister will limit his touches. Also, of the two, McAllister is more likely to get the ball at the goal line, and RB's need TD's to be big fantasy contributers. (Say the word "Duckett" to anyone who owns Warrick Dunn and you'll get a sense of what I mean.)
Wide Receiver
Must Have: Steve Smith, Carolina Panthers - This assumes his injury situation sorts itself out OK. If not, go with Marvin Harrison or Chad Johnson.
Sleeper: Michael Jenkins, Atlanta Falcons - Every year the Falcons swear this'll be the year Vick starts using his receivers more, and every year Alge Crumpler and Warrick Dunn end up 1-2 in pass receptions. But if that promise ever comes true, you're going to want the Falcons receiver that benefits. Vick's favorite WR is actually Brian Finneran, but he's done for the year, and Jenkins has the tools to step up.
Overrated: Terrell Owens, Dallas Cowboys - Like this was in doubt. You don't have to know what's going to cause him to blow up to know that something will.
Next - TE's, D's, and K's.
