Check out that quote of the day here, today, on this page, to the right:
"If we love our country, we should also love our countrymen."
And look who said it.
None other than Republican and Former President Ronald Reagan.
So the next time you or anyone you hear, wants to trash "Liberals", "Lefties", "Socialists" (even the imagined ones), Blacks, African-Americans, Hispanics, Mexican-Americans, or any other minority, remember this.
Please.
We're Americans first.
We're all in this together.
Let's all work for the bettering of the country.
Together.
That includes listening to one another.
Let's have a great weekend, y'all.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Thursday, April 15, 2010
If a young woman even thinks about an abortion, why don't we just beat her?
I mean, isn't that what the anti-rights people want?
Did you see where now they want yet more laws on abortions?
Check it out:
"Missouri senators endorsed legislation Thursday increasing the information that women must receive from medical professionals at least 24 hours before having abortions."
"Although Missouri already has a 24-hour informed consent law, abortion opponents assert that a more specific law is needed because some women still are unaware of the characteristics and capabilities of the fetuses being aborted."
"The legislation would require that women be provided the following statement: 'The life of each human being begins at conception. Abortion will terminate the life of a separate, unique, living human being.'"
All of the last teo statements being completely subject to opinion, of course.
But wait, as always with these people, there's more:
"Missouri is one of five states that currently prohibit abortion coverage in basic insurance policies, instead requiring the payment of an additional premium. The Senate bill would not allow coverage — even with an additional premium — under the government subsidized health exchanges."
Even though abortion is legal in this country and has been since 1973, these people are going to do all they can, ad infinitum and ad nauseum, to make it as completely, utterly and totally difficult, short of illegal and impossible, to let a woman do with her body as she would.
And these are the "small government" people.
And they don't see the hypocrisy, either.
Link to original story:
http://www.cnbc.com/id/36566860
Did you see where now they want yet more laws on abortions?
Check it out:
"Missouri senators endorsed legislation Thursday increasing the information that women must receive from medical professionals at least 24 hours before having abortions."
"Although Missouri already has a 24-hour informed consent law, abortion opponents assert that a more specific law is needed because some women still are unaware of the characteristics and capabilities of the fetuses being aborted."
"The legislation would require that women be provided the following statement: 'The life of each human being begins at conception. Abortion will terminate the life of a separate, unique, living human being.'"
All of the last teo statements being completely subject to opinion, of course.
But wait, as always with these people, there's more:
"Missouri is one of five states that currently prohibit abortion coverage in basic insurance policies, instead requiring the payment of an additional premium. The Senate bill would not allow coverage — even with an additional premium — under the government subsidized health exchanges."
Even though abortion is legal in this country and has been since 1973, these people are going to do all they can, ad infinitum and ad nauseum, to make it as completely, utterly and totally difficult, short of illegal and impossible, to let a woman do with her body as she would.
And these are the "small government" people.
And they don't see the hypocrisy, either.
Link to original story:
http://www.cnbc.com/id/36566860
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Lower spending? "Who ya' gonna' call?"
Did you see where there are less earmarks coming out of Congress now, since the 2008 elections when the Democrats took over?
Yeah.
Check it out, from the Office of Management and Budget:
"The Administration has just completed its count of the earmarks contained in the Fiscal Year 2010 appropriations bills, the last of which the President signed into law in mid-December. Although more needs to be done, the news is encouraging: earmarks are down by double-digit percentages….These reductions build on the progress that has been made on earmarks since 2006, reductions prompted by a series of reforms that then-Senator Obama helped to write – including bringing more transparency and disclosure to the process."
There was a little blurb about it in the Star yesterday in "Today's Top 5" column on B2. I thought it too important to pass up.
"Members of Congress obtained about 2,000 fewer pet projects last year, according to White House analysis released Monday. Lawmakers stuffed 9,192 so-called earmarks into bills last year, at a cost to taxpayers of more than $11 billion."
That's the bad news, of course.
Here's the good: "That's a 17% drop in the number of earmarks and a 27% reduction in cost."
But wait! There's more!
This just out today on CNN:
"The 'Pig Book,' an annual report detailing the excesses of pork spending, has served up its usual heavy-duty mockery of congressional excesses. But this year the meat spit is smaller."
"The number and costs of congressional pork projects dropped this year, the Citizens Against Government Waste said in its '2010 Congressional Pig Book Summary,' issued on Wednesday."
"The 9,129 projects in the report 'represent a 10.2 percent decline from the 10,160 projects identified in fiscal year 2009, and the $16.5 billion in cost is a 15.5 percent decrease from the $19.6 billion in pork in fiscal year 2009,' the group said."
So what's that, you say? You thought Republicans were more responsible with the people's money?
I guess you'd be wrong, wouldn't you?
Additional link to story:
http://washingtonindependent.com/82043/congressional-earmarks-decline-sharply
Yeah.
Check it out, from the Office of Management and Budget:
"The Administration has just completed its count of the earmarks contained in the Fiscal Year 2010 appropriations bills, the last of which the President signed into law in mid-December. Although more needs to be done, the news is encouraging: earmarks are down by double-digit percentages….These reductions build on the progress that has been made on earmarks since 2006, reductions prompted by a series of reforms that then-Senator Obama helped to write – including bringing more transparency and disclosure to the process."
There was a little blurb about it in the Star yesterday in "Today's Top 5" column on B2. I thought it too important to pass up.
"Members of Congress obtained about 2,000 fewer pet projects last year, according to White House analysis released Monday. Lawmakers stuffed 9,192 so-called earmarks into bills last year, at a cost to taxpayers of more than $11 billion."
That's the bad news, of course.
Here's the good: "That's a 17% drop in the number of earmarks and a 27% reduction in cost."
But wait! There's more!
This just out today on CNN:
"The 'Pig Book,' an annual report detailing the excesses of pork spending, has served up its usual heavy-duty mockery of congressional excesses. But this year the meat spit is smaller."
"The number and costs of congressional pork projects dropped this year, the Citizens Against Government Waste said in its '2010 Congressional Pig Book Summary,' issued on Wednesday."
"The 9,129 projects in the report 'represent a 10.2 percent decline from the 10,160 projects identified in fiscal year 2009, and the $16.5 billion in cost is a 15.5 percent decrease from the $19.6 billion in pork in fiscal year 2009,' the group said."
So what's that, you say? You thought Republicans were more responsible with the people's money?
I guess you'd be wrong, wouldn't you?
Additional link to story:
http://washingtonindependent.com/82043/congressional-earmarks-decline-sharply
On today's KCMO Police Summit at 1 pm
I just read on the Star's website where this "Police Summit" is taking place with Chief Corwin leading it today at 1 pm at their headquarters.
First, good for him. We need this to happen.
Second, I wish more notice had been given and that it were in the evening so more Kansas Citians could attend but hey, we can't all be there I guess.
A few thoughts on the column, one by one:
No. 1: "Councilman John Sharp said several adult witnesses had told him police pepper-sprayed some crowds of African American youth who were not misbehaving."
Yes, and what's your point, Councilman? I don't get it. I was there and if the police pepper-sprayed anyone, it was because they were misbehaving and out of control. They didn't do it because of their color or race.
No. 2: "Councilwoman Melba Curls urged police and city leaders to reach out to youth as they explore solutions. She said that too often, Kansas City adults meet amongst themselves without engaging the youth on solutions to problems and concerns."
Well, yes, but come on, Councilwoman Curls, since when do these kids hang around City Hall, asking to be let in on meetings? It's not like they're being intentionally excluded. How, in fact, do you "include" these kids who actually created these problems Saturday night? That's a tough one to solve, at least.
No. 3: "Councilwoman Cindy Circo agreed and said she and others are starting to work on a youth master plan for the city. Circo said other cities have this while Kansas City does not. It would identify resources and services and where the gaps are."
Okay, Councilwoman Circo, what cities are these? And what plans do they have? And while we're at it, why didn't you or some other Council person bring up these plans before now? Finally, would you get on this and get back to us on it as soon as possible, please?
And another point on this, actually the claim that there's "nothing to do in this town" is more than a little specious.
What about those movies on the Plaza? Why isn't that "something to do"?
And no one, to my knowledge, has yet mentioned the new, beautiful and expensive community center the city built in Swope Park that is big and surely full of things to do. Why weren't these kids there, doing things with their friends, instead of creating a melee' on the Plaza?
And then there's the center on Emanuel Cleaver Boulevard. I don't hear that mentioned, either. Why weren't they there? Or at one of their homes playing games or something?
Finally, No. 3: "Circo also noted that, with new social media networks, kids today have a whole new way of communicating and congregating that can avoid adult supervision or intervention. Kansas City leaders need to make a concerted effort to involve them in any new approaches, she said."
With all due respect and no sarcasm, what, exactly, is Councilwoman Circo talking about that a city can do to "involve them in any new approaches"? Is she talking about the city texting the kids or something, or what? And let me reiterate, I'm not being sarcastic here. What is she referring to?
Hopefully we're on a road to some good solutions here.
First, good for him. We need this to happen.
Second, I wish more notice had been given and that it were in the evening so more Kansas Citians could attend but hey, we can't all be there I guess.
A few thoughts on the column, one by one:
No. 1: "Councilman John Sharp said several adult witnesses had told him police pepper-sprayed some crowds of African American youth who were not misbehaving."
Yes, and what's your point, Councilman? I don't get it. I was there and if the police pepper-sprayed anyone, it was because they were misbehaving and out of control. They didn't do it because of their color or race.
No. 2: "Councilwoman Melba Curls urged police and city leaders to reach out to youth as they explore solutions. She said that too often, Kansas City adults meet amongst themselves without engaging the youth on solutions to problems and concerns."
Well, yes, but come on, Councilwoman Curls, since when do these kids hang around City Hall, asking to be let in on meetings? It's not like they're being intentionally excluded. How, in fact, do you "include" these kids who actually created these problems Saturday night? That's a tough one to solve, at least.
No. 3: "Councilwoman Cindy Circo agreed and said she and others are starting to work on a youth master plan for the city. Circo said other cities have this while Kansas City does not. It would identify resources and services and where the gaps are."
Okay, Councilwoman Circo, what cities are these? And what plans do they have? And while we're at it, why didn't you or some other Council person bring up these plans before now? Finally, would you get on this and get back to us on it as soon as possible, please?
And another point on this, actually the claim that there's "nothing to do in this town" is more than a little specious.
What about those movies on the Plaza? Why isn't that "something to do"?
And no one, to my knowledge, has yet mentioned the new, beautiful and expensive community center the city built in Swope Park that is big and surely full of things to do. Why weren't these kids there, doing things with their friends, instead of creating a melee' on the Plaza?
And then there's the center on Emanuel Cleaver Boulevard. I don't hear that mentioned, either. Why weren't they there? Or at one of their homes playing games or something?
Finally, No. 3: "Circo also noted that, with new social media networks, kids today have a whole new way of communicating and congregating that can avoid adult supervision or intervention. Kansas City leaders need to make a concerted effort to involve them in any new approaches, she said."
With all due respect and no sarcasm, what, exactly, is Councilwoman Circo talking about that a city can do to "involve them in any new approaches"? Is she talking about the city texting the kids or something, or what? And let me reiterate, I'm not being sarcastic here. What is she referring to?
Hopefully we're on a road to some good solutions here.
New book coming out
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Mitt Romney in the catbird seat right now, it seems
Right this moment--and it's a long way from 2012, I'll grant you--it seems like Mitt Romney can do no wrong.
First, I saw a week or two ago how the Republican Party is looking at Salt Lake City for its convention that year.
That just screams "Mitt!", since he's Mormon and that's their promise land, so to speak.
Second, as of last weekend and the wierd, hypocritical meeting that was the Southern Republican Leadership Conference, straw poll showing Mitt on top.
Adding to the fact that he's "presidential handsome" and worth approximately a quarter of a billion dollars, he at least has a good chance right now of being the Republican Party's next presidential candidate.
But it's one heck of a long way to 2012, as we all know.
Funny side note: Sarah Palin was the number 3 popular candidate in this poll, behind Ron Paul.
Man, I love the nutjobs.
First, I saw a week or two ago how the Republican Party is looking at Salt Lake City for its convention that year.
That just screams "Mitt!", since he's Mormon and that's their promise land, so to speak.
Second, as of last weekend and the wierd, hypocritical meeting that was the Southern Republican Leadership Conference, straw poll showing Mitt on top.
Adding to the fact that he's "presidential handsome" and worth approximately a quarter of a billion dollars, he at least has a good chance right now of being the Republican Party's next presidential candidate.
But it's one heck of a long way to 2012, as we all know.
Funny side note: Sarah Palin was the number 3 popular candidate in this poll, behind Ron Paul.
Man, I love the nutjobs.
Quote of the day--on today's Capitalism
From and by French President Nicolas Sarkozy, in his opening speech given at the 40th World Economic Forum January 27, 2010 in Davos, Switzerland, in which he spanks America and Capitalism as we now practice it:
"To my mind, one of the most striking characteristics of this capitalism which we have allowed to emerge, is that the present was all that mattered and the future no longer counted for anything. Everything for the present immediately, no longer anything for the future. Indeed we saw depreciation of the future in the absolutely exorbitant demand for high yields. Those yields, boosted by speculation and leverage, were the discount rate applied to future revenues: the higher they rose, the lower the importance attached to the future fell. Everything, right away."
"To my mind, one of the most striking characteristics of this capitalism which we have allowed to emerge, is that the present was all that mattered and the future no longer counted for anything. Everything for the present immediately, no longer anything for the future. Indeed we saw depreciation of the future in the absolutely exorbitant demand for high yields. Those yields, boosted by speculation and leverage, were the discount rate applied to future revenues: the higher they rose, the lower the importance attached to the future fell. Everything, right away."
It could always be worse
We could be St. Louis.
America's 5 Worst-Selling Housing Markets
No. 1: Milwaukee, Wis.
Metropolitan Statistical Area: Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, Wis.
Slow Sales Rate Rank: 11
Inventory Increase Rank: 2
No. 2: Denver, Colo.
Metropolitan Statistical Area: Denver-Aurora, Colo.
Slow Sales Rate Rank: 9
Inventory Increase Rank: 5
No. 3 (tie): St. Louis, Mo.
Metropolitan Statistical Area: St. Louis, Mo.-Ill.
Slow Sales Rate Rank: 14
Inventory Increase Rank: 3
No. 3 (tie): Los Angeles, Calif.
Metropolitan Statistical Area: Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana, Calif.
Slow Sales Rate Rank: 3
Inventory Increase Rank: 14
No. 5: San Francisco, Calif.
Metropolitan Statistical Area: San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, Calif.
Slow Sales Rate Rank: 6
Inventory Increase Rank: 12
America's 5 Worst-Selling Housing Markets
No. 1: Milwaukee, Wis.
Metropolitan Statistical Area: Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, Wis.
Slow Sales Rate Rank: 11
Inventory Increase Rank: 2
No. 2: Denver, Colo.
Metropolitan Statistical Area: Denver-Aurora, Colo.
Slow Sales Rate Rank: 9
Inventory Increase Rank: 5
No. 3 (tie): St. Louis, Mo.
Metropolitan Statistical Area: St. Louis, Mo.-Ill.
Slow Sales Rate Rank: 14
Inventory Increase Rank: 3
No. 3 (tie): Los Angeles, Calif.
Metropolitan Statistical Area: Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana, Calif.
Slow Sales Rate Rank: 3
Inventory Increase Rank: 14
No. 5: San Francisco, Calif.
Metropolitan Statistical Area: San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, Calif.
Slow Sales Rate Rank: 6
Inventory Increase Rank: 12
And now we wait for Saturday evening (or the next flash event)
If I were a restaurateur or restaurant manager of a Country Club Plaza establishment, I'd be coming up with all kinds of extremely lucrative specials for my clients--all my clients--for this Saturday evening, if possible.
That is, I would do that if I had already spoken with the Mayor, KCMO Police Chief Corwin and Highwoods Properties Management and Security, to see if there really is a new, strong, workable, viable plan for everything to be under control this Saturday evening.
It's going to be a peculiar, fascinating weekend, here in Kansas City, in a few days, I think.
Hopefully a quiet one.
That is, I would do that if I had already spoken with the Mayor, KCMO Police Chief Corwin and Highwoods Properties Management and Security, to see if there really is a new, strong, workable, viable plan for everything to be under control this Saturday evening.
It's going to be a peculiar, fascinating weekend, here in Kansas City, in a few days, I think.
Hopefully a quiet one.
Quote of the day--on the Catholic Church
"The Catholic Church is an authoritarian institution, modelled on the political structures of the Roman Empire and medieval Europe. It is better at transmitting instructions downward than at facilitating accountability upward. It is monolithic. It claims the unique legitimacy of a line of succession going back to the apostolic circle of Jesus Christ. Its leaders are protected by a nimbus of mystery, pomp, holiness, and, in the case of the Pope, infallibility—to be sure, only in certain doctrinal matters, not administrative ones, but the aura is not so selective. The hierarchy of such an institution naturally resists admitting to moral turpitude and sees squalid scandal as a mortal threat. Equally important, the government of the Church is entirely male."
Link to complete story: http://www.newyorker.com/talk/comment/2010/04/19/100419taco_talk_hertzberg#ixzz0kubiopF3
Link to complete story: http://www.newyorker.com/talk/comment/2010/04/19/100419taco_talk_hertzberg#ixzz0kubiopF3
Monday, April 12, 2010
Finally, a step in the right direction from the Vatican
This just out this morning:
"The Vatican responded Monday to allegations that it had concealed years of clerical sex abuse by making it clear for the first time that bishops and other high-ranking clerics should report such crimes to police if required by law."
Long overdue but we'll take it.
See? If pushed enough, we can make some progress.
Now we need to keep pushing, Catholics included.
"The Vatican responded Monday to allegations that it had concealed years of clerical sex abuse by making it clear for the first time that bishops and other high-ranking clerics should report such crimes to police if required by law."
Long overdue but we'll take it.
See? If pushed enough, we can make some progress.
Now we need to keep pushing, Catholics included.
More reasons to appreciate this President
It's nice to have a President doing some "heavy lifting", after the 8 year, minimum, hiatus we had.
"President Obama is having the largest group of world leaders collected in one place since the founding of the United Nations in 1945. Leaders from 47 countries are here at his invitation to discuss ways to fight what is easily arguably the biggest security issue for the planet--that of the spread of nuclear weapons and nuclear materials."
"Obama wants world leaders to confront the threat of nuclear arms falling into the hands of terrorists — a specter he labels 'the single biggest threat to U.S. security.' And he's looking at the high-profile security forum here to help him reach his goal of ensuring that all nuclear materials worldwide are secured from theft or diversion within four years."
What a nice change of pace.
And you know what? This is what you get for having an "elitist" run your government and country.
And it's a great thing, thank you very much.
So, down this same train of thought comes Russian President Dmitri Medvedev:
"In a veiled jibe at Bush, Medvedev said during an exclusive interview with ABC News on Monday that the new US President Barack Obama is a 'thinker' unlike 'other people.'"
Yes, Dmitri, we know.
And we're pretty proud of it and him, too, thank you.
Link to original post:
http://www.presstv.ir/classic/detail.aspx?id=123111§ionid=351020602
"President Obama is having the largest group of world leaders collected in one place since the founding of the United Nations in 1945. Leaders from 47 countries are here at his invitation to discuss ways to fight what is easily arguably the biggest security issue for the planet--that of the spread of nuclear weapons and nuclear materials."
"Obama wants world leaders to confront the threat of nuclear arms falling into the hands of terrorists — a specter he labels 'the single biggest threat to U.S. security.' And he's looking at the high-profile security forum here to help him reach his goal of ensuring that all nuclear materials worldwide are secured from theft or diversion within four years."
What a nice change of pace.
And you know what? This is what you get for having an "elitist" run your government and country.
And it's a great thing, thank you very much.
So, down this same train of thought comes Russian President Dmitri Medvedev:
"In a veiled jibe at Bush, Medvedev said during an exclusive interview with ABC News on Monday that the new US President Barack Obama is a 'thinker' unlike 'other people.'"
Yes, Dmitri, we know.
And we're pretty proud of it and him, too, thank you.
Link to original post:
http://www.presstv.ir/classic/detail.aspx?id=123111§ionid=351020602
Anarchy, chaos and intimidation for their own "entertainment" brought to you by the youth of Kansas City
What happened Saturday night, according to the Police's own log, taken from a link at Police Chief Corwin's blog, because we need to know what happened:
• Crowds began to gather in front of businesses, blocking the entrances and exits, and would not move. Officers were deployed on foot to move crowds.
• Traffic was at a standstill and traffic was requested to assist with traffic flow.
• Helicopter responded after numerous crowds began to run and numerous fight calls were received. He spent at least 3 hours overhead assisting officers with their movement and following the crowds.
• The Classic Cup, 301 West 47th was a central focus and had numerous large disturbances in front of the business. Several complaints were received from patrons at this location and their fear of being hurt.
• We responded to PF Changs to assist with clearing juveniles out of the restrooms. They were harassing customers and blocking the foyer of the business.
• During one of the large disturbances along 47th street a knife was located lying on the sidewalk in the middle of the crowd.
• As the juveniles were circling the Plaza they were grabbing flowers, flower pots, and damaging various greenery around the Plaza.
• A Plaza medic responded to treat a 16 year old girl who got run over by one of the stampedes. She had several abrasions but was not seriously hurt.
• Citizens were continually stopping officers and complaining of the crowds, that they were being pushed and shoved, and that the kids were trying to intimidate them.
• Plaza Security had to assist with walking patrons to their vehicles due to the number of request for escorts due to fear of their safety.
• The foot/traffic flow became so bad that the Horse and Buggy Operation had to close due to cancellations along with the inability to function.
• Every time there was interaction with any of the juveniles obscenities were flowing freely along with disrespect not only for authority but anyone they came into contact with.
• At approximately 2200 hours the situation was at a flash point and a mass exit of patrons was observed due to the disorder going on.
• As a couple exited the Cheesecake Factory, dressed in tuxedo and formal dress for prom, the female was shoved into the fountain by a group of juveniles who then ran and not apprehended.
• As the flash point hit officers had to deploy pepper spray to disperse the crowds to minimize injury to citizens. Numerous MK-46’s were emptied along with 12-13 MK-9’s being emptied to get the crowd to move.
• Numerous businesses contacted police in regards to wanting to make complaints. Also, citizens from out of town asked officers on several occasions if this was normal or stated they would not come back.
• In a parking garage at Nichols and Pennsylvania, a husband and wife were jumped by approximately 15 juveniles. They were assaulted and then the suspects took the husbands glasses and the wife’s purse.
Say, side note, where are you planning to have dinner Saturday night?
• Crowds began to gather in front of businesses, blocking the entrances and exits, and would not move. Officers were deployed on foot to move crowds.
• Traffic was at a standstill and traffic was requested to assist with traffic flow.
• Helicopter responded after numerous crowds began to run and numerous fight calls were received. He spent at least 3 hours overhead assisting officers with their movement and following the crowds.
• The Classic Cup, 301 West 47th was a central focus and had numerous large disturbances in front of the business. Several complaints were received from patrons at this location and their fear of being hurt.
• We responded to PF Changs to assist with clearing juveniles out of the restrooms. They were harassing customers and blocking the foyer of the business.
• During one of the large disturbances along 47th street a knife was located lying on the sidewalk in the middle of the crowd.
• As the juveniles were circling the Plaza they were grabbing flowers, flower pots, and damaging various greenery around the Plaza.
• A Plaza medic responded to treat a 16 year old girl who got run over by one of the stampedes. She had several abrasions but was not seriously hurt.
• Citizens were continually stopping officers and complaining of the crowds, that they were being pushed and shoved, and that the kids were trying to intimidate them.
• Plaza Security had to assist with walking patrons to their vehicles due to the number of request for escorts due to fear of their safety.
• The foot/traffic flow became so bad that the Horse and Buggy Operation had to close due to cancellations along with the inability to function.
• Every time there was interaction with any of the juveniles obscenities were flowing freely along with disrespect not only for authority but anyone they came into contact with.
• At approximately 2200 hours the situation was at a flash point and a mass exit of patrons was observed due to the disorder going on.
• As a couple exited the Cheesecake Factory, dressed in tuxedo and formal dress for prom, the female was shoved into the fountain by a group of juveniles who then ran and not apprehended.
• As the flash point hit officers had to deploy pepper spray to disperse the crowds to minimize injury to citizens. Numerous MK-46’s were emptied along with 12-13 MK-9’s being emptied to get the crowd to move.
• Numerous businesses contacted police in regards to wanting to make complaints. Also, citizens from out of town asked officers on several occasions if this was normal or stated they would not come back.
• In a parking garage at Nichols and Pennsylvania, a husband and wife were jumped by approximately 15 juveniles. They were assaulted and then the suspects took the husbands glasses and the wife’s purse.
Say, side note, where are you planning to have dinner Saturday night?
KC Police Chief Corwin's response to Saturday's Plaza brawl
From his blog:
Plaza incident
"As you’ve probably heard, large crowds of juveniles converged on the Country Club Plaza on Saturday night and wreaked havoc throughout. They intimidated shoppers and diners, destroyed property, committed a strong-arm robbery, and a juvenile suffered severe head injuries in an aggravated assault. Police took control of the crowds using traffic crews to close streets, pepper spray to disperse the crowds and a helicopter overhead to help officers on the ground find the most troublesome areas."
"We will be taking a number of measures to ensure those who shop, visit, dine at and stroll around Kansas City’s historic Plaza area can do so without fear. We will be meeting with the Plaza Merchant’s Association, NAACP and others to put together the best possible plan to allow Plaza patrons to fully enjoy themselves while keeping disorder at bay. We plan strict enforcement this weekend and for future weekends, and it will be mobile in case problems arise elsewhere."
"We will be closely following the development of any similar events. If you hear of a group planning to organize something like this, please call the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS. You will remain anonymous, and you could save someone’s life. As I mentioned, one young man was seriously hurt in Saturday night’s incident."
Uh, right, Chief. I'm sure they're going to call. You'd better get back to your office right away and wait for it to come in.
Reading through the lines here, I make this predictable prediction: Cinemark will no longer allow teens to come to movies there, without parents, as it used to be.
Link to original post here: http://kcpdchief.blogspot.com/2010/04/plaza-incident.html
Saturday evening plans and Kansas City commercial real estate right now
GUESS WHERE NO ONE WILL BE GOING TO DINNER THIS COMING SATURDAY NIGHT IN THE CITY OF KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI?
I'd like to personally thank Mayor Mark Funkhouser for his total, utter and complete lack of leadership on this issue--and virtually all other, for that matter--pertaining to the city he's suppposed to be leading. Additionally, I'd like to thank the person or persons who thought running these kids out of Westport but not offering up any other solutions was a good idea.
Don't you know Crate & Barrel is glad they located out on 119th Street, out in bleached white suburbia right about now? And Bristol's restaurant--don't you know they're glad they moved some years ago?
Some of the "forever hottest property in Kansas City" just became the coldest--The Country Club Plaza, at least temporarily.
Wow.
Who'da' thunk it?
I'd like to personally thank Mayor Mark Funkhouser for his total, utter and complete lack of leadership on this issue--and virtually all other, for that matter--pertaining to the city he's suppposed to be leading. Additionally, I'd like to thank the person or persons who thought running these kids out of Westport but not offering up any other solutions was a good idea.
Don't you know Crate & Barrel is glad they located out on 119th Street, out in bleached white suburbia right about now? And Bristol's restaurant--don't you know they're glad they moved some years ago?
Some of the "forever hottest property in Kansas City" just became the coldest--The Country Club Plaza, at least temporarily.
Wow.
Who'da' thunk it?
Saturday night's blow up--the only two things that matter
Let's call this what this was--a melee'--as I said before.
It wasn't "riot" and it certainly wasn't a "race riot", since it isn't one group against another.
You can even call it a "flash mob" as some have but a "flash mob", up to this point has meant people that get together to entertain others and create a fleeting event.
This was a flash mob that was created only to entertain themselves, at the rather big expense of others.
Two things, then, call out to me about this incident this past Saturday evening on the Plaza.
First, it seems insane that these kids coordinated this anarchy and chaos for entertainment.
There's no other way to describe it. It was simply anarchy and chaos for entertainment.
And how do you combat that?
Anyone who says you don't need or use pepper spray, then, needs to go down there and work with the police to get and keep things under control.
The second thing about this is that this is the third week in a row this has happened and, as the weather warms and word gets out, it's increasing in the number of people who participate. Good luck to us in May, June and the rest of the Summer if this isn't under control rather quickly. As in, immediately.
So if you're the government of the City of Kansas City, Missouri, or the Mayor or the Chief of Police or part of the Police Department or Highwoods Properties or their security staff, the only question is how do you stop it from happening again?
It wasn't "riot" and it certainly wasn't a "race riot", since it isn't one group against another.
You can even call it a "flash mob" as some have but a "flash mob", up to this point has meant people that get together to entertain others and create a fleeting event.
This was a flash mob that was created only to entertain themselves, at the rather big expense of others.
Two things, then, call out to me about this incident this past Saturday evening on the Plaza.
First, it seems insane that these kids coordinated this anarchy and chaos for entertainment.
There's no other way to describe it. It was simply anarchy and chaos for entertainment.
And how do you combat that?
Anyone who says you don't need or use pepper spray, then, needs to go down there and work with the police to get and keep things under control.
The second thing about this is that this is the third week in a row this has happened and, as the weather warms and word gets out, it's increasing in the number of people who participate. Good luck to us in May, June and the rest of the Summer if this isn't under control rather quickly. As in, immediately.
So if you're the government of the City of Kansas City, Missouri, or the Mayor or the Chief of Police or part of the Police Department or Highwoods Properties or their security staff, the only question is how do you stop it from happening again?
Police say they were ready; Mayor says it was "unexpected"
According to NBC Action News , the police say they expected some action, of one sort or another, on the Plaza this last Saturday night, they just weren't for the increased numbers of kids in the crowds.
The Mayor?
In his own words, he said that the melee' was "unexpected".
It may be "unexpected" by him and his office--not a big shock--but his own police department did expect it. There's a shock, huh?
Let's see--it happened two weeks in a row, apparently, before this weekend but his office didn't expect it.
To Mayor Funkhouser: we aren't surprised.
The Mayor?
In his own words, he said that the melee' was "unexpected".
It may be "unexpected" by him and his office--not a big shock--but his own police department did expect it. There's a shock, huh?
Let's see--it happened two weeks in a row, apparently, before this weekend but his office didn't expect it.
To Mayor Funkhouser: we aren't surprised.
One is the loneliest number
After watching local Kansas City blogs over the weekend, since Saturday night, up to this moment, I've come to the conclusion that I must be the only blogger who lives on the Plaza.
The silence is pretty deafening.
The silence is pretty deafening.
Last questions--for now--on Saturday night's blow up
First, wouldn't you hate to be part of the Highwoods Properties security staff right now and be told you have to work Saturday night?
Yeah, without any real protection, nada.
Right. That'd be fun.
Second, how long do you think it will be until the entire Plaza is blocked off, a little after sunset? You'd be able to drive out but not in. If these melee's continue, it will have to be an option, I'd guess, even though it's the last thing the restaurant and bar merchants will want.
If you own Tomfooleries or any other bar/restaurant on the Plaza, don't you know you're raising hell this morning, if you haven't already been, this weekend?
Whaddya' think?
Somebody's going to do something, that's for sure.
What they'll do, now that's a whole 'nother thing.
As for the coming weekend, I saw last evening where, as of now, they're calling for rain Saturday night.
If you're the police or that same Highwoods Properties Security staff, you're praying for it.
Stay tuned, folks.
Yeah, without any real protection, nada.
Right. That'd be fun.
Second, how long do you think it will be until the entire Plaza is blocked off, a little after sunset? You'd be able to drive out but not in. If these melee's continue, it will have to be an option, I'd guess, even though it's the last thing the restaurant and bar merchants will want.
If you own Tomfooleries or any other bar/restaurant on the Plaza, don't you know you're raising hell this morning, if you haven't already been, this weekend?
Whaddya' think?
Somebody's going to do something, that's for sure.
What they'll do, now that's a whole 'nother thing.
As for the coming weekend, I saw last evening where, as of now, they're calling for rain Saturday night.
If you're the police or that same Highwoods Properties Security staff, you're praying for it.
Stay tuned, folks.
Apologists make me ill
Anyone and everyone who paint themselves as apologists for the people who started and continued either--or both--of the melee's on the Plaza in the last two weeks deserve to be given police duty the next time one of these breaks out.
That includes Alonzo Washington.
Let me make it clear, too. I have no "bone to pick" with Mr. Washington. I just read his blog entry on this and had to react.
There is no excuse for what happened Saturday evening.
Since when can you not go to a movie on the Plaza if you live anywhere else in the city?
When did the behavior that broke out in the last two weeks become acceptable because there isn't a movie theater on the East Side or some other neighborhood?
Should the Mayor, the Mayor's office and the city have addressed these issues earlier?
Yes, absolutely.
Is this city racially polarized?
Sure, you bet. I said as much here, earlier, on this site, this weekend.
All that--and a lot more--taken into consideration, no one can still come to the conclusion that what happened Saturday night on the Plaza or that used to happen up in Westport, before that got shut down is somehow "understandable" or otherwise acceptable behavior.
It's not.
And explaining it away as understandable makes it allowable.
That includes Alonzo Washington.
Let me make it clear, too. I have no "bone to pick" with Mr. Washington. I just read his blog entry on this and had to react.
There is no excuse for what happened Saturday evening.
Since when can you not go to a movie on the Plaza if you live anywhere else in the city?
When did the behavior that broke out in the last two weeks become acceptable because there isn't a movie theater on the East Side or some other neighborhood?
Should the Mayor, the Mayor's office and the city have addressed these issues earlier?
Yes, absolutely.
Is this city racially polarized?
Sure, you bet. I said as much here, earlier, on this site, this weekend.
All that--and a lot more--taken into consideration, no one can still come to the conclusion that what happened Saturday night on the Plaza or that used to happen up in Westport, before that got shut down is somehow "understandable" or otherwise acceptable behavior.
It's not.
And explaining it away as understandable makes it allowable.
Saturday evening's melee': A possible fantastic opportunity for The Kansas City Star
Once again, this difficulty last night on the Plaza points out the weaknesses of the old newspaper-style of reporting since we couldn't open our papers and read anything on this.
Conversely, where the Star could really shine right now and make some big gains in readership, likely, I think, is if they sicked a reporter or some reporters on this immediately and did some good, in-depth research and writing/reporting on it.
Virtually anyone and everyone in the city who is interested in this situation--and there are a lot of us--would, by necessity, turn to the paper for that information.
You can bet the TV news stations aren't going to be able to commit the air time to cover this.
If the Star knows what is good for its survival, they will already have reporters hitting this story hard, today, interviewing everyone they can get their notepads in front of.
As it is, with this last Saturday evening's events, I didn't think the paper could, would and did cover it in Sunday's paper but they did.
The sad/stupid thing?
They buried it on page B2 of the Local section.
Without doubt THE big story of the city in the previous 24 hours--what they're supposed to be covering--and they don't put it on the front page.
Heck, they didn't even put it on the front page of the 2nd section.
They buried it.
Highwoods Poperties must be tickled pink.
Anyway, here you go, Kansas City Star--this is your opportunity to shine, for the city, sure, but for your own profit and existence, too. If you take up the challenge and cover this story well and in-depth, you'll be doing yourself and the city a great deal of service. Heck, who knows? There might even be a Pulitzer in it for you.
If you don't, you will have earned the failure of your medium.
It will be interesting to see the outcome and we will, shortly.
Conversely, where the Star could really shine right now and make some big gains in readership, likely, I think, is if they sicked a reporter or some reporters on this immediately and did some good, in-depth research and writing/reporting on it.
Virtually anyone and everyone in the city who is interested in this situation--and there are a lot of us--would, by necessity, turn to the paper for that information.
You can bet the TV news stations aren't going to be able to commit the air time to cover this.
If the Star knows what is good for its survival, they will already have reporters hitting this story hard, today, interviewing everyone they can get their notepads in front of.
As it is, with this last Saturday evening's events, I didn't think the paper could, would and did cover it in Sunday's paper but they did.
The sad/stupid thing?
They buried it on page B2 of the Local section.
Without doubt THE big story of the city in the previous 24 hours--what they're supposed to be covering--and they don't put it on the front page.
Heck, they didn't even put it on the front page of the 2nd section.
They buried it.
Highwoods Poperties must be tickled pink.
Anyway, here you go, Kansas City Star--this is your opportunity to shine, for the city, sure, but for your own profit and existence, too. If you take up the challenge and cover this story well and in-depth, you'll be doing yourself and the city a great deal of service. Heck, who knows? There might even be a Pulitzer in it for you.
If you don't, you will have earned the failure of your medium.
It will be interesting to see the outcome and we will, shortly.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
One more (last?) question about Saturday night on the Plaza
Who thought it was a good idea to run the kids off, out of Westport, anyway?
Since when do you think sweeping something like that, "under the rug", so to speak, is going to solve anything?
Why should anyone be surprised they moved to the Plaza?
Who was the rocket scientist who thought that up?
And who, if anyone, thought that simply running them off was going to be the big solution to that problem?
Since when do you think sweeping something like that, "under the rug", so to speak, is going to solve anything?
Why should anyone be surprised they moved to the Plaza?
Who was the rocket scientist who thought that up?
And who, if anyone, thought that simply running them off was going to be the big solution to that problem?
Race in Kansas City: Are we ever going to look at the bigger picture?
There already is, I'm sure, all kinds of writing and talking about the "mess on the Plaza" last Saturday evening.
All kinds of people will be shocked and surprised and disappointed and condemning and on and on and that's fine. It's to be expected.
And there will be much more. Some of it simply hand-wringing.
And it is/was unusual and odd and disturbing and it must be solved, for sure and quickly, as I wrote here earlier.
But last Saturday night's blowup, whatever the source, is only one smaller problem in a much bigger picture.
The situation is that we need to look at the bigger issue of race here in the Kansas City metropolitan area.
Before last Saturday night, we perceived our biggest short-term problem might be the possible Summer shootings--drive-by and otherwise--that might develop, heaven forbid, the way they did all last year.
Then we had Saturday night.
That will preoccupy our attention for a while, until it is, hopefully, soon solved.
But we really have to, eventually, look at the bigger picture and ALL the problems of race, collectively, in this city if we ever intend to solve all our problems. If we only look at different, smaller facets of us and our city, we'll never get to the core of our problems and different things will keep popping up.
We need to face up to the fact that, for the most part, our city is far too divided into East Side African-Americans, West Side Hispanic area and Southwest Side/Suburbs Caucasian.
Sure, that's a huge, sweeping generalization but there's a great deal of truth to it, too, and we all know it.
We've counted on extreme growth and sprawl and de-centralization for the growth of this city, financially and economically, and that has clearly also fed into "White flight", which separates us horribly.
We need to somehow examine our city schools, our city codes and sprawl I mentioned earlier, and the shootings and killings in the inner city and our separation--everything--as a larger package so we understand truly what the problems are and what solutions might be available to us.
This has gone on far too long and we know that. In our "heart of hearts", we know that.
We need to come together, as one, entire city, and start looking at what we are and who we are and fairness and equality and how we all live so we can come up with solutions.
If we don't, Saturday night's messy episode on the Plaza will just be one more smaller chapter in the rather long and ignominious story of a city that isn't living and working well after all.
All kinds of people will be shocked and surprised and disappointed and condemning and on and on and that's fine. It's to be expected.
And there will be much more. Some of it simply hand-wringing.
And it is/was unusual and odd and disturbing and it must be solved, for sure and quickly, as I wrote here earlier.
But last Saturday night's blowup, whatever the source, is only one smaller problem in a much bigger picture.
The situation is that we need to look at the bigger issue of race here in the Kansas City metropolitan area.
Before last Saturday night, we perceived our biggest short-term problem might be the possible Summer shootings--drive-by and otherwise--that might develop, heaven forbid, the way they did all last year.
Then we had Saturday night.
That will preoccupy our attention for a while, until it is, hopefully, soon solved.
But we really have to, eventually, look at the bigger picture and ALL the problems of race, collectively, in this city if we ever intend to solve all our problems. If we only look at different, smaller facets of us and our city, we'll never get to the core of our problems and different things will keep popping up.
We need to face up to the fact that, for the most part, our city is far too divided into East Side African-Americans, West Side Hispanic area and Southwest Side/Suburbs Caucasian.
Sure, that's a huge, sweeping generalization but there's a great deal of truth to it, too, and we all know it.
We've counted on extreme growth and sprawl and de-centralization for the growth of this city, financially and economically, and that has clearly also fed into "White flight", which separates us horribly.
We need to somehow examine our city schools, our city codes and sprawl I mentioned earlier, and the shootings and killings in the inner city and our separation--everything--as a larger package so we understand truly what the problems are and what solutions might be available to us.
This has gone on far too long and we know that. In our "heart of hearts", we know that.
We need to come together, as one, entire city, and start looking at what we are and who we are and fairness and equality and how we all live so we can come up with solutions.
If we don't, Saturday night's messy episode on the Plaza will just be one more smaller chapter in the rather long and ignominious story of a city that isn't living and working well after all.
More thoughts on last night's Plaza mess
There was just too much of what happened last evening on the Plaza to not have some more thoughts on it so here goes:
I'd really like to not see it referred to as a "riot" because that seems wrong for several reasons.
Calling it a riot seems to imply that it was organized and it patently wasn't--the only thing that may have been organized was converging in one place and raising cane.
This didn't have any real goals, it doesn't seem. It was just anarchy and chaos for entertainment's sake, I think and believe, unless and until someone can prove differently.
Finally, an "internet friend" of mine here in Kansas City (from the Kansas side, as a matter of fact), one Dr. Ernest Evans (no relation) wrote me the following today and I found it very true, of course and illuminating:
"Dan Rather has said that all journalists in the US live in terror of the "Racism Police" of the liberals and the "Patriotism Police" of the conservatives.
I hadn't heard this quote. It surprised me I hadn't.
And it's very applicable here. I think the local news organizations--the TV stations and the Star--will be very careful reporting on last night's melee'.
City government will be the same way, I think, for the same reasons but we need to do some serious, fast research on this and find out the following:
--Why two of these, to date, have happened--are they, in fact, chaos and anarchy for entertainment's sake?;
--How they're starting;
--Who is starting them;
--Finally, what needs to be done to have them stopped immediately?
Think about it. If we don't find out these last four things, above, and right away, I think everyone will expect this to happen again next Saturday evening.
For that matter, what's to keep it from happening again, tonight, after dark?
The answer is: nothing at all.
I'd really like to not see it referred to as a "riot" because that seems wrong for several reasons.
Calling it a riot seems to imply that it was organized and it patently wasn't--the only thing that may have been organized was converging in one place and raising cane.
This didn't have any real goals, it doesn't seem. It was just anarchy and chaos for entertainment's sake, I think and believe, unless and until someone can prove differently.
Finally, an "internet friend" of mine here in Kansas City (from the Kansas side, as a matter of fact), one Dr. Ernest Evans (no relation) wrote me the following today and I found it very true, of course and illuminating:
"Dan Rather has said that all journalists in the US live in terror of the "Racism Police" of the liberals and the "Patriotism Police" of the conservatives.
I hadn't heard this quote. It surprised me I hadn't.
And it's very applicable here. I think the local news organizations--the TV stations and the Star--will be very careful reporting on last night's melee'.
City government will be the same way, I think, for the same reasons but we need to do some serious, fast research on this and find out the following:
--Why two of these, to date, have happened--are they, in fact, chaos and anarchy for entertainment's sake?;
--How they're starting;
--Who is starting them;
--Finally, what needs to be done to have them stopped immediately?
Think about it. If we don't find out these last four things, above, and right away, I think everyone will expect this to happen again next Saturday evening.
For that matter, what's to keep it from happening again, tonight, after dark?
The answer is: nothing at all.
Questions for Kansas City after last night's mess on the Plaza
First, what the hell was that?
You know what I'm talking about.
The 2nd melee' on the Country Club Plaza last evening.
Again, what the hell was that?
There are so many questions.
Like what were these kids doing? Was there an event, in their eyes? There must be. Some reason why they all converged right there on the Plaza.
Then, how do we get these to not happen again, for obvious reasons? I was walking out of Unity Temple on the Plaza about 10 pm (after seeing a terrific Celtic concert you may have missed, but that's another story) when there were police and people and the local police helicopter--the whole shmear--converging on our beloved Plaza.
You have to know the "city fathers" are concerned about this one.
It's only Spring--April, for pity's sake--and things are busting out all over--and not in a good way?
Here's another question for us, and it's my favorite today: What are you, Mr. and Mrs. Mayor, going to finally do about this?
I mean, you totally, completely and utterly ignored all the shootings in the city last year and while you've been Mayor, thank you very much, but this one you can't overlook.
Once more, with feeling: What are you going to do about this?
I'll tell you what you'd better do, even though it's unsolicited advice--you'd better get with the Police Department right away (like you didn't for the murders and shootings, to repeat) and develop a plan for handling this.
And then, the 2nd and last thing you'd better do is get with all the African-American leaders in this city you can get in a room and calmly, quietly and intelligently address this situation.
You're going to need to ask questions like:
--why did these 2 melee's happen?
--what are these kids doing down there on Saturday night that they collect like this (because we sure don't understand it)?
--how do we keep these things from repeating because every responsible parent in this city doesn't want things like this happening.
Finally, there better be answers quickly, otherwise, this is going to happen again and again, for the rest of the summer.
And they'll only get bigger and uglier, in the meantime.
(Pssst, Rep. Cleaver. Can you help us with this? Do you have any information? Input? Can you help?)
You know what I'm talking about.
The 2nd melee' on the Country Club Plaza last evening.
Again, what the hell was that?
There are so many questions.
Like what were these kids doing? Was there an event, in their eyes? There must be. Some reason why they all converged right there on the Plaza.
Then, how do we get these to not happen again, for obvious reasons? I was walking out of Unity Temple on the Plaza about 10 pm (after seeing a terrific Celtic concert you may have missed, but that's another story) when there were police and people and the local police helicopter--the whole shmear--converging on our beloved Plaza.
You have to know the "city fathers" are concerned about this one.
It's only Spring--April, for pity's sake--and things are busting out all over--and not in a good way?
Here's another question for us, and it's my favorite today: What are you, Mr. and Mrs. Mayor, going to finally do about this?
I mean, you totally, completely and utterly ignored all the shootings in the city last year and while you've been Mayor, thank you very much, but this one you can't overlook.
Once more, with feeling: What are you going to do about this?
I'll tell you what you'd better do, even though it's unsolicited advice--you'd better get with the Police Department right away (like you didn't for the murders and shootings, to repeat) and develop a plan for handling this.
And then, the 2nd and last thing you'd better do is get with all the African-American leaders in this city you can get in a room and calmly, quietly and intelligently address this situation.
You're going to need to ask questions like:
--why did these 2 melee's happen?
--what are these kids doing down there on Saturday night that they collect like this (because we sure don't understand it)?
--how do we keep these things from repeating because every responsible parent in this city doesn't want things like this happening.
Finally, there better be answers quickly, otherwise, this is going to happen again and again, for the rest of the summer.
And they'll only get bigger and uglier, in the meantime.
(Pssst, Rep. Cleaver. Can you help us with this? Do you have any information? Input? Can you help?)
Have I mentioned how fond I am of irony?
Yes, I am extremely fond of irony. I believe that, if there were a god, he or she creating this reached possibly their finest hour, being as it is one of our best gifts of the universe.
Where else can you get that much humor?
For instance (you knew there'd be a "for instance", didn't you?), the Republicans right now, meeting in, of all places, New Orleans for the "Southern Republican Leadership Conference."
Man, is that good?
That, as they say, is delicious.
It doesn't get much better than that, does it?
But they weren't done there, either, oh no.
Check this out--guess who they had as a speaker?
David Vitter.
From Think Progess yesterday:
"SRLC organizers noted that the conference was 'going to be highlighted by the bold and dynamic values and individuals that make our party what it is.' In selecting the individuals who 'make our party what it is,' SRLC chose Sen. David Vitter (R-LA) to kick off today’s events. Vitter, of course, is known for frequenting a Washington, D.C. and New Orleans prostitution service. The married father of four has led Senate efforts to pass a 'Marriage Protection Amendment' and bring down ACORN. Today, right-wing activists rewarded Vitter with a standing ovation. Vitter thanked the crowd for the 'warm welcome.'”
It gets better. They gave Vitter a standing ovation.
Wow. I couldn't write stuff that good.
And then, of course, there is the equally entertaining fact that Republican National leader Michael Steele is there and speaking, even after his staff took clients to a Hollywood bondage club, spending nearly $2000.00 on them and billing it to the same Republican Party.
Man, I love these people. Sure, they're haters and dividers and they're only for themselves and their wealthy clients and big corporations, instead of the American people but when they're not hating or legislating horribly, they're darned, ironically funny and entertaining.
And you can't forget Newt Gingrich's earlier adultery, even as he gears for a run at the White House, even now, for 2012.
More, you say?
How about the fact that the Republican Party called for an "earmark moratorium" in Congress but, according to OpenSecrets.org, "Reps. Don Young (R-Alaska) and Ron Paul (R-Texas) were the first to submit earmark requests in violation of the new moratorium, followed recently by freshman Rep. Joseph Cao (R-La.). All three have asserted the importance of directing money back to their constituents."
This gets better, too: "in some cases, these earmarks are benefiting industries that rank among two of these three politicos' major benefactors."
Ain't dat a beauty?
So you see? All the Republican greed and ugliness isn't for nothing.
They're also here to entertain us, even if it is at our own expense.
Again, have a great weekend, y'all.
Where else can you get that much humor?
For instance (you knew there'd be a "for instance", didn't you?), the Republicans right now, meeting in, of all places, New Orleans for the "Southern Republican Leadership Conference."
Man, is that good?
That, as they say, is delicious.
It doesn't get much better than that, does it?
But they weren't done there, either, oh no.
Check this out--guess who they had as a speaker?
David Vitter.
From Think Progess yesterday:
"SRLC organizers noted that the conference was 'going to be highlighted by the bold and dynamic values and individuals that make our party what it is.' In selecting the individuals who 'make our party what it is,' SRLC chose Sen. David Vitter (R-LA) to kick off today’s events. Vitter, of course, is known for frequenting a Washington, D.C. and New Orleans prostitution service. The married father of four has led Senate efforts to pass a 'Marriage Protection Amendment' and bring down ACORN. Today, right-wing activists rewarded Vitter with a standing ovation. Vitter thanked the crowd for the 'warm welcome.'”
It gets better. They gave Vitter a standing ovation.
Wow. I couldn't write stuff that good.
And then, of course, there is the equally entertaining fact that Republican National leader Michael Steele is there and speaking, even after his staff took clients to a Hollywood bondage club, spending nearly $2000.00 on them and billing it to the same Republican Party.
Man, I love these people. Sure, they're haters and dividers and they're only for themselves and their wealthy clients and big corporations, instead of the American people but when they're not hating or legislating horribly, they're darned, ironically funny and entertaining.
And you can't forget Newt Gingrich's earlier adultery, even as he gears for a run at the White House, even now, for 2012.
More, you say?
How about the fact that the Republican Party called for an "earmark moratorium" in Congress but, according to OpenSecrets.org, "Reps. Don Young (R-Alaska) and Ron Paul (R-Texas) were the first to submit earmark requests in violation of the new moratorium, followed recently by freshman Rep. Joseph Cao (R-La.). All three have asserted the importance of directing money back to their constituents."
This gets better, too: "in some cases, these earmarks are benefiting industries that rank among two of these three politicos' major benefactors."
Ain't dat a beauty?
So you see? All the Republican greed and ugliness isn't for nothing.
They're also here to entertain us, even if it is at our own expense.
Again, have a great weekend, y'all.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Because I'm sick of the Tiger Woods coverage--and because we always need a good laugh
I would never have expected Jimmy Kimmel to turn out as funny as he is, as he can be.
Have a great weekend, y'all.
Have a great weekend, y'all.
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