1. To wistfully surrender to another sweet kiss.
2. More happiness. Everybody needs it.
3. Someone to shut up Chris Dodd
4. While they're at it... Michelle Bachmann, Roland Burris, Sarah Palin, Al Sharpton, and the hundreds of political entities who annoy the everloving piss out of me.
5. A Dark Knight sequel involving Two-Face (call me crazy, but I don't care).
6. Conservatives who accept gays, and hippies that shave and bathe (paraphrasing Patton Oswalt).
7. A rationale explanation on why the public allows Hollywood to mass produce shit (.
8. Another vacation. It did me a lot of good.
9. A quick extinction for reality television.
10. Money in my pocket so my wife and I can have a child.
11. A really great semester.
12. An even better Christmas.
13. My thesis (all three of them) to royally kick ass.
14. To visit Europe.
15. To find one political figure who doesn't cheat on their spouses.
16. Another great John Grisham book.
17. For the BBC to dramatize some more stories.
18. To own the Complete Conan Doyle Sherlock Holmes collection from the above listed company. But, it's expensive.
19. For someone to actually do something about poverty, especially in West Virginia.
20. For my neighbors to finally run out of their endless supply of fireworks, which wake me every night until 2 A.M.
R.I.P. Michael Jackson.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Waterboarding...
I've got some bad news for everyone involved in this argument... there are no winners.
Waterboarding is torture. No delusion can ever change that. Unfortunately, sometimes... that's our only option. My friends on the left are going to hate this, but I'll explain.
Say we've caught Killer A. Killer A is part of an organization which plans to hit the U.S. with another bomb. That bomb is on a plane heading for the U.S., and it plans to detonate in one hour. You've exhausted diplomacy, bargaining, and psychological intimidation. The clock is ticking. Thousands of lives are in the process. Would you?
Bringing it closer to home, say someone abducted the one you love. Say you've got the criminal, and you can't open the combination lock to free that person you love. Time is ticking. Law enforcement is nowhere to be found. The criminal isn't budging. What would you do?
You'd do it. I'd do it, and I have the stones to admit it. I am in no way endorsing some sort of Batman-ish vigilante style violence... but you get my point.
At times, torture is the only option. However, it should only be used as a final option to the worst of circumstances. I'm open to listening to comments.
The Bush Administration is another freaking story. The more evidence released, the more it looks like the reasoning behind the waterboarding was political. However, not all of the information was released.
Here's my take: Cheney and friends authorized torture. They did it as a knee-jerk reaction to a post-9/11 world. It's been done before (Cromwell, Stalin), and it will unfortunately be done again. That doesn't make it right, but there may have been some truly good reasoning behind it. If waterboarding performed the function per my reasoning above, I'll bite. However, the number of times waterboarding took place per individual is questionable.
And if any of you think Pelosi or the high level Democrats are innocent or oblivious on this, think again. If it comes out that our worst fears are confirmed, then Pelosi should be behind bars with "Dead Eye Dick."
Any questions?
Waterboarding is torture. No delusion can ever change that. Unfortunately, sometimes... that's our only option. My friends on the left are going to hate this, but I'll explain.
Say we've caught Killer A. Killer A is part of an organization which plans to hit the U.S. with another bomb. That bomb is on a plane heading for the U.S., and it plans to detonate in one hour. You've exhausted diplomacy, bargaining, and psychological intimidation. The clock is ticking. Thousands of lives are in the process. Would you?
Bringing it closer to home, say someone abducted the one you love. Say you've got the criminal, and you can't open the combination lock to free that person you love. Time is ticking. Law enforcement is nowhere to be found. The criminal isn't budging. What would you do?
You'd do it. I'd do it, and I have the stones to admit it. I am in no way endorsing some sort of Batman-ish vigilante style violence... but you get my point.
At times, torture is the only option. However, it should only be used as a final option to the worst of circumstances. I'm open to listening to comments.
The Bush Administration is another freaking story. The more evidence released, the more it looks like the reasoning behind the waterboarding was political. However, not all of the information was released.
Here's my take: Cheney and friends authorized torture. They did it as a knee-jerk reaction to a post-9/11 world. It's been done before (Cromwell, Stalin), and it will unfortunately be done again. That doesn't make it right, but there may have been some truly good reasoning behind it. If waterboarding performed the function per my reasoning above, I'll bite. However, the number of times waterboarding took place per individual is questionable.
And if any of you think Pelosi or the high level Democrats are innocent or oblivious on this, think again. If it comes out that our worst fears are confirmed, then Pelosi should be behind bars with "Dead Eye Dick."
Any questions?
Friday, February 27, 2009
Yes!
I love to yell and scream at the idiots in charge.
I don't do this very often.
In fact, I rarely do it.
Yet this morning, I am more than proud to eat crow.
I began reading an article (http://www.wvgazette.com/News/200902261114), preparing myself for the same lunacy I read every day. Yet then, a gem:
"Housing the homeless is a goal. This will give us more money for shelters, to take care of shelters that exist..."
FINALLY, someone... somewhere, said something of merit. For the first time in years, someone is actually recognizing the problems of the street... and plans to do something about it. I'm smiling while I write this.
It's not in my nature to agree with our leaders. Our lazy Democrats and clueless Republicans choose to enter in useless political bluster, ignoring the real problems of our society. We see the debates, watch the protests, and nothing gets done.
Meanwhile, people are cold... hungry... and in need. The homeless cannot get meaningful employment because they have no address (and the shelters are off limits to employers). No job, no way to move up. You get it.
Say what you want about the shortcomings of Obama and his plan, but this little slice of the pie makes me proud of our leadership (momentarily, perhaps). I've seen the President treat the poor with dignity and respect, and the case of Henrietta Hughes is evidence to that effect. I'm glad, really.
It makes me believe that someone in a position of authority actually gives a crap about the poor. I like thinking like that. Even though such thoughts may be totally naive... these are good thoughts...
...and I am appreciative for them, even for a moment.
I don't do this very often.
In fact, I rarely do it.
Yet this morning, I am more than proud to eat crow.
I began reading an article (http://www.wvgazette.com/News/200902261114), preparing myself for the same lunacy I read every day. Yet then, a gem:
"Housing the homeless is a goal. This will give us more money for shelters, to take care of shelters that exist..."
FINALLY, someone... somewhere, said something of merit. For the first time in years, someone is actually recognizing the problems of the street... and plans to do something about it. I'm smiling while I write this.
It's not in my nature to agree with our leaders. Our lazy Democrats and clueless Republicans choose to enter in useless political bluster, ignoring the real problems of our society. We see the debates, watch the protests, and nothing gets done.
Meanwhile, people are cold... hungry... and in need. The homeless cannot get meaningful employment because they have no address (and the shelters are off limits to employers). No job, no way to move up. You get it.
Say what you want about the shortcomings of Obama and his plan, but this little slice of the pie makes me proud of our leadership (momentarily, perhaps). I've seen the President treat the poor with dignity and respect, and the case of Henrietta Hughes is evidence to that effect. I'm glad, really.
It makes me believe that someone in a position of authority actually gives a crap about the poor. I like thinking like that. Even though such thoughts may be totally naive... these are good thoughts...
...and I am appreciative for them, even for a moment.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Fill In the Blank
West Virginia is a great place to live, if you're a white, straight Christian. Guess that group is a little tired of diversity. Check this out:
http://www.wvgazette.com/News/200902150398
The article comments that one of the involved websites is involved in solely electing Republicans to office. Don't make the mistake of believing this a "Republican" problem, as the majority of elected officials in this state are Democrats.
Bigots come in all shapes and forms. I know, because I used to be one.
To properly trounce the target, one must dehumanize them. "Marriage equality" sounds a lot less provoking than "gay marriage." I've spoken about this before at length, and won't rehash it.
I ask, however, how does one reconcile such bigotry? Religion? Tradition? A lack of education?
Nope, Lewis Black says it best.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-id4GKsaQk
http://www.wvgazette.com/News/200902150398
The article comments that one of the involved websites is involved in solely electing Republicans to office. Don't make the mistake of believing this a "Republican" problem, as the majority of elected officials in this state are Democrats.
Bigots come in all shapes and forms. I know, because I used to be one.
To properly trounce the target, one must dehumanize them. "Marriage equality" sounds a lot less provoking than "gay marriage." I've spoken about this before at length, and won't rehash it.
I ask, however, how does one reconcile such bigotry? Religion? Tradition? A lack of education?
Nope, Lewis Black says it best.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-id4GKsaQk
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Love, Bailout, and Canes... Oh My!
Hello folks,
Here on the day of gankings... I spread love. Funny how these little traditions get started. However, for the sake of children... it's good that they give each other Valentine's and not weaponry.
My wife's birthday was on the 4th. Good times. She's never been to the Japanese restaurant around here, and she thoroughly loved it. Got to see Mike and Matt there, too... another bonus.
-------------
School is studious, but captivating. The instruction is fantastic, and the books are even good to read. One class requires 3 books...
...but as any good Dr. Porter student knows, busting your ass is part of the deal. The syllabus is the contract which states "you show up, you work hard, and you bust your ass. In return, you get a good grade." I really like it.
------------
Speaking of reading, I'm rigorously taking to audiobooks again. How much of a boner kill was the ending of "The Historian?" All that Conan Doyle detective work, and that otr suspense...
...at the end, it was as if the author decided to go on a creative vacation. "The Appeal" is good so far. I haven't took up a Grisham book in months, and have yet to read "The Associate."
------------
My car is a total mess. For those not in the know, Kristen and I were in a wreck. No injuries, thankfully. I got rear-ended by someone following too close. In the midst of this, I was finishing a Defensive Driving course required for all state employees. I actually learned a few things, and was applying them when my little car got spanked.
I drive with different eyes, as some may expect. I think requiring drivers to take such a course is an excellent measure, and would vote for such an idea instantly.
------------
I voted for Obama (after my first and second choices dropped), and I think he's doing a pretty good job thus far in repairing our international reputation, and making descent headway in technology. But can someone explain how this bailout package is going to affect those who really need it... the poor?
I know, I know. Poor first, but who can blame me? At least this President appears to be sympathic, as demonstrated in the town hall meeting. Despite John Edwards being an absolute prick to his spouse (and what good elected official isn't), he did at least provide a plan to attack poverty.
Comments, please.
------------
Miami did another good job with the 2009 class. I really like Armstrong and Dye. Bryce Brown coming or not, Randy Shannon did another exceptional job.
So, this is where is pays off, right? Maybe.
After two new coordinators, a transferred quarterback, a suspension, one bloviated drama involving an assumed phenom freshman, and a partridge and a pear tree... we're in the 2009 preseason.
Miami improved from 5-7 to 7-6. Not bad, and a bowl game appearance to warrant that. Yet already Cane Nation is ready to throw Shannon on the hot seat after a few losses late in the year. Keep in mind, that many of the big names were freshmen and sophomores. Miracles can't happen overnight.
So, what's it going to take for Shannon to keep his job? More wins. I don't expect Miami to win 11-12 games. I don't delude myself into believing that like other fanbase bases (WVU, FSU, and Notre Dame). Miami's early schedule is brutal. Check this out.
Should Miami end up with another 7 wins, fans will be calling for Shannon's head. I don't buy that. 6 wins? I'll buy that. Should Miami somehow beat Oklahoma... LOOK OUT.
The crystal ball:
A brutal and tough start. A kickass finish due to the experience gained from the rough start.
Lowest record: 7-5
Highest record: 9-3
Prediction: 8-4
Here on the day of gankings... I spread love. Funny how these little traditions get started. However, for the sake of children... it's good that they give each other Valentine's and not weaponry.
My wife's birthday was on the 4th. Good times. She's never been to the Japanese restaurant around here, and she thoroughly loved it. Got to see Mike and Matt there, too... another bonus.
-------------
School is studious, but captivating. The instruction is fantastic, and the books are even good to read. One class requires 3 books...
...but as any good Dr. Porter student knows, busting your ass is part of the deal. The syllabus is the contract which states "you show up, you work hard, and you bust your ass. In return, you get a good grade." I really like it.
------------
Speaking of reading, I'm rigorously taking to audiobooks again. How much of a boner kill was the ending of "The Historian?" All that Conan Doyle detective work, and that otr suspense...
...at the end, it was as if the author decided to go on a creative vacation. "The Appeal" is good so far. I haven't took up a Grisham book in months, and have yet to read "The Associate."
------------
My car is a total mess. For those not in the know, Kristen and I were in a wreck. No injuries, thankfully. I got rear-ended by someone following too close. In the midst of this, I was finishing a Defensive Driving course required for all state employees. I actually learned a few things, and was applying them when my little car got spanked.
I drive with different eyes, as some may expect. I think requiring drivers to take such a course is an excellent measure, and would vote for such an idea instantly.
------------
I voted for Obama (after my first and second choices dropped), and I think he's doing a pretty good job thus far in repairing our international reputation, and making descent headway in technology. But can someone explain how this bailout package is going to affect those who really need it... the poor?
I know, I know. Poor first, but who can blame me? At least this President appears to be sympathic, as demonstrated in the town hall meeting. Despite John Edwards being an absolute prick to his spouse (and what good elected official isn't), he did at least provide a plan to attack poverty.
Comments, please.
------------
Miami did another good job with the 2009 class. I really like Armstrong and Dye. Bryce Brown coming or not, Randy Shannon did another exceptional job.
So, this is where is pays off, right? Maybe.
After two new coordinators, a transferred quarterback, a suspension, one bloviated drama involving an assumed phenom freshman, and a partridge and a pear tree... we're in the 2009 preseason.
Miami improved from 5-7 to 7-6. Not bad, and a bowl game appearance to warrant that. Yet already Cane Nation is ready to throw Shannon on the hot seat after a few losses late in the year. Keep in mind, that many of the big names were freshmen and sophomores. Miracles can't happen overnight.
So, what's it going to take for Shannon to keep his job? More wins. I don't expect Miami to win 11-12 games. I don't delude myself into believing that like other fanbase bases (WVU, FSU, and Notre Dame). Miami's early schedule is brutal. Check this out.
- Sept. 7 at Florida State (W)
- Sept. 17 Georgia Tech (L)
- Sept. 26 at Virginia Tech (?)
- Oct. 3 Oklahoma (L)
- Oct. 10 Florida A&M (W)
- Oct. 17 at Central Florida (W)
- Oct. 24 Clemson (W)
- Oct. 31 at Wake Forest (W)
- Nov. 7 Virginia (W)
- Nov. 14 at North Carolina (?)
- Nov. 21 Duke (W)
- Nov. 28 at South Florida (W)
Should Miami end up with another 7 wins, fans will be calling for Shannon's head. I don't buy that. 6 wins? I'll buy that. Should Miami somehow beat Oklahoma... LOOK OUT.
The crystal ball:
A brutal and tough start. A kickass finish due to the experience gained from the rough start.
Lowest record: 7-5
Highest record: 9-3
Prediction: 8-4
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