Before the law sits a gatekeeper. To this gatekeeper comes a man from the country who asks to gain entry into the law. But the gatekeeper says that he cannot grant him entry at the moment. The man thinks about it and then asks if he will be allowed to come in later on. “It is possible,” says the gatekeeper, “but not now.”
At the moment the gate to the law stands open, as always, and the gatekeeper walks to the side, so the man bends over in order to see through the gate into the inside. When the gatekeeper notices that, he laughs and says: “If it tempts you so much, try it in spite of my prohibition. But take note: I am powerful. And I am only the most lowly gatekeeper. But from room to room stand gatekeepers, each more powerful than the other. I can’t endure even one glimpse of the third.”
The man from the country has not expected such difficulties: the law should always be accessible for everyone, he thinks, but as he now looks more closely at the gatekeeper in his fur coat, at his large pointed nose and his long, thin, black Tartar’s beard, he decides that it would be better to wait until he gets permission to go inside. The gatekeeper gives him a stool and allows him to sit down at the side in front of the gate. There he sits for days and years. He makes many attempts to be let in, and he wears the gatekeeper out with his requests.
The gatekeeper often interrogates him briefly, questioning him about his homeland and many other things, but they are indifferent questions, the kind great men put, and at the end he always tells him once more that he cannot let him inside yet. The man, who has equipped himself with many things for his journey, spends everything, no matter how valuable, to win over the gatekeeper. The latter takes it all but, as he does so, says, “I am taking this only so that you do not think you have failed to do anything.”
During the many years the man observes the gatekeeper almost continuously. He forgets the other gatekeepers, and this one seems to him the only obstacle for entry into the law. He curses the unlucky circumstance, in the first years thoughtlessly and out loud, later, as he grows old, he still mumbles to himself. He becomes childish and, since in the long years studying the gatekeeper he has come to know the fleas in his fur collar, he even asks the fleas to help him persuade the gatekeeper.
Finally his eyesight grows weak, and he does not know whether things are really darker around him or whether his eyes are merely deceiving him. But he recognizes now in the darkness an illumination which breaks inextinguishably out of the gateway to the law. Now he no longer has much time to live.
Before his death he gathers in his head all his experiences of the entire time up into one question which he has not yet put to the gatekeeper. He waves to him, since he can no longer lift up his stiffening body. The gatekeeper has to bend way down to him, for the great difference has changed things to the disadvantage of the man. “What do you still want to know, then?” asks the gatekeeper. “You are insatiable.” “Everyone strives after the law,” says the man, “so how is that in these many years no one except me has requested entry?”
The gatekeeper sees that the man is already dying and, in order to reach his diminishing sense of hearing, he shouts at him, “Here no one else can gain entry, since this entrance was assigned only to you. I’m going now to close it.”
Friday, February 29, 2008
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Ask It And They Will Answer
A couple of days ago I posted a question about an upcoming election of Florida delegates to be sent to the Democratic convention. Florida, you may remember, had been stripped of all of its delegates and the word from the DNC was that voting in the Democratic Florida Primary was, sure, patriotic, civic minded, and stuff like that, but otherwise a waste of time. So imagine my confusion when I started getting emails from delegate candidates.
Here's a response I received from Clyde Collins, one of the candidates vying for a delegate spot, assisting in explaining this situation and the reason for the voting this Saturday from 10am to 12 pm at the Union Hall on Liberty:
Here's a response I received from Clyde Collins, one of the candidates vying for a delegate spot, assisting in explaining this situation and the reason for the voting this Saturday from 10am to 12 pm at the Union Hall on Liberty:
Florida is sending a delegation to the Democratic National Convention. There will be an appeal to seat the delegates either before or after the first round of voting. ALL registered DEMOCRATIC voters are eligible to vote for the delegates. Depending on which congressional district [Brown CD3, Crenshaw CD4], you can cast a vote for delegate according to the President candidate you support [Clinton, Obama, Edwards]. I am running as a delegate for Sen.Obama for the 4th CD and ask for your vote on Saturday.
Jabour Out, Blames Court For His Troubles – Forgets To Blame Self And Apologize For Wasting Everyone’s Time – Whines About His Mounting Legal Fees
Not even 24 hours after leaving office and the news is already old. Jabour is out, having stepped down “voluntarily” to avoid, in the most ignoble fashion, an appeal to the Florida Supreme Court (Um, Jay, procedurally, the FSC did not have jurisdiction to hear any appeal) which would have made things sticky down the road for his successor if his “appeal” was successful. Martyr.
Perhaps the saddest part about Jay’s farewell speech was his inability to accept any responsibility for causing this mess. No, the problem was created by Harms, who had to go and make a stink about things. And Judge Nachman, who unfairly applied the facts to the law and found that Jay had indeed violated City law. And don’t forget the First DCA who really screwed things up by agreeing with Nachman.
Perhaps the saddest part about Jay’s farewell speech was his inability to accept any responsibility for causing this mess. No, the problem was created by Harms, who had to go and make a stink about things. And Judge Nachman, who unfairly applied the facts to the law and found that Jay had indeed violated City law. And don’t forget the First DCA who really screwed things up by agreeing with Nachman.
Jay’s farewell speech was pathetic and reading it makes me all the more elated that this man no longer represents this City.
Here are some highlights of what he said:[H]aving lost at the ballot box, my opponent decided to try to negate the will of the people by filing suit to overturn the result based on questions of my legal residency. The courts obliged with what is in my and my attorney’s view, an unreasonable and narrow interpretation of the law, saying that because I did not spend 183 consecutive nights at my beach residence, I was therefore not qualified to run.
That begs the question – must a candidate sleep in the same bed for 183 consecutive nights in order to qualify to run for public office? How many of us have gone out of town over the course of six months to attend a funeral, a wedding, take a vacation, or to visit a sick relative? I was, in fact, away from home during this time for many of the reasons I just cited.
Nevertheless, I have always been open and honest about the fact that my head did not lie on the same pillow every night during the qualifying period. And I want to emphasize that never at any time did I purposely try to deny or hide this fact. Yet no lawsuit or serious challenge to my candidacy was brought against me by my opponent during the campaign.
While I strongly disagree with the courts’ decisions and am inclined to continue to fight in spite of the mounting personal and legal costs, the citizens of Jacksonville deserve a full-time representative on the city council.
If I were to file an appeal to the Florida Supreme Court, and it is accepted, and a favorable ruling is issued after a special election is held, my successor may find himself or herself in a situation where he or she could likewise be removed by the courts. It is for these reasons that I have decided not to further appeal my case.
I always will be gratified by the fact that in the election over 62% of Jacksonville voters chose me as the candidate most qualified to represent them. Although I am now being compelled to leave office, I want to assure my many friends and supporters that I will continue to care about and serve the people of the city I love.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Election For Democratic Florida Delegates To Be Held This Sa-- . . . . . . .Wait A Second! Democratic Florida Delegates?!? What The . . . . . . .!?!
Could someone please explain why my email inbox has been filling up over the past two and a half hours with people from all over the state asking for votes to become delegates to the Democratic Convention in Colorado this August.
Seriously, I am a bit confused. I thought Florida was stripped of its delegates and would have no say in picking the next Democratic candidate. Sure, I could probably do some homework, make some calls, write some emails, but I'd rather someone just tell me.
Whatever the answer to this engima wrapped in a pita surrounded by a mystery and covered in slaw, there is voting on March 1, 2008 from 10am to 12pm at the IBEW Hall, 966 Liberty Street, downtown Jacksonville, to choose delegates.
Seriously, I am a bit confused. I thought Florida was stripped of its delegates and would have no say in picking the next Democratic candidate. Sure, I could probably do some homework, make some calls, write some emails, but I'd rather someone just tell me.
Whatever the answer to this engima wrapped in a pita surrounded by a mystery and covered in slaw, there is voting on March 1, 2008 from 10am to 12pm at the IBEW Hall, 966 Liberty Street, downtown Jacksonville, to choose delegates.
Will The Truth Derail The Straight Talk Express?
It’s looking like a scorecard will be necessary to keep up with the ever growing number of inconsistencies, indiscretions and improprieties that are coming out about Mr. Straight Talk Express, heir to the GOP thrown, John McCain.
Sure, February was a good month for McCain. He pretty much locked up his party’s nomination, sending Thompson, Giuliani and Romney back into relative obscurity. But February also saw hopefully the first of many stories that are showing the true colors of the man who prides himself on his above the fray, beyond reproach, squeaky clean, reformer image.
Okay, here’s where we’ll start needing the scorecard.
1. The Lobbyist
Two weeks ago, the New York Times “broke” a story describing McCain’s close relationship with lobbyist Vicky Iseman. Much has been written, blogged, screamed, sung, and danced about this story with McCain doing all the denying and his former aids doing all the confirming.
Did this relationship grow to such an intimate level that these aids had to use a hose to separate the two budding lovebirds? This is not the point. What is more important is that, out of “nowhere,” here comes a snapshot of a man who may not be as righteous as he claims to be. (Are we surprised? He did, after all cheat on his first wife, the woman who raised his three children while he was imprisoned in Vietnam.)
2. The Money
The next bit of pesky business for McCain is the FEC complaint that was filed yesterday by the DNC.
Here’s the short of it: Back when McCain’s campaign was tanking and on its last gasps, he elected to sign on for federal matching funds. To obtain a quick influx of cash, McCain used the assurance of these funds as collateral to obtain a bank loan. Now that McCain is the presumptive candidate and money is no longer an issue, he is trying to weasel his way out of the promise he made to use the federal funds.
The issue here is that, if McCain is required to adhere to the strict confines of (here’s the best part) the MCCAIN/FEINGOLD bill, then he will be limited to the amount of money he can spend between now and the GOP convention when he becomes the party nominee. Seeing as how he has already spent about $50 million dollars, McCain has about reached the limits of what he can spend over the next six months.
OUCH. This is huge and if the FEC does not allow McCain to opt out of the federal funds, then he’s going to be stuck in the mud and forced to sit on the sidelines while Obama/Clinton campaign without limits. And if McCain decides to press on and spend away, FEC be damned, then he will be breaking the same federal law he helped write.
3. The Email
As if it couldn’t get worse, the Huffington Post is reporting that McCain withheld an email during the Abramoff investigation that was damaging to one of his cronies. Remember, McCain, the Reformer, the self-described king of routing out waste, evil, corruption and hedonism in the sacred walls of the Senate, sat on the Indian Affairs Committee that investigated the corruption that was part of the Abramoff investigation.
As it turns out, McCain and his staff had an email describing Abramoff’s attempts to assure the election of Alabama Gov. Bob Riley. McCain not only ignored the email, thereby protecting his friend Riley from any unwanted negative attention, but he even refused to make the email public even after his committee report was released. Riley went on to win under dubious circumstances.
As the article states,
Seriously, folks, it’s not even March and three back to back stories have appeared questioning the “political veneer” of McCain. There’s no question that we are going to need a score card to keep up with all of the other indiscretions that will assuredly start appearing in the press in the coming weeks and months. Is it any wonder that Josh Romney, Mitt's son, is hinting that his dad's campaign suspension may be ending?
Sure, February was a good month for McCain. He pretty much locked up his party’s nomination, sending Thompson, Giuliani and Romney back into relative obscurity. But February also saw hopefully the first of many stories that are showing the true colors of the man who prides himself on his above the fray, beyond reproach, squeaky clean, reformer image.
Okay, here’s where we’ll start needing the scorecard.
1. The Lobbyist
Two weeks ago, the New York Times “broke” a story describing McCain’s close relationship with lobbyist Vicky Iseman. Much has been written, blogged, screamed, sung, and danced about this story with McCain doing all the denying and his former aids doing all the confirming.
Did this relationship grow to such an intimate level that these aids had to use a hose to separate the two budding lovebirds? This is not the point. What is more important is that, out of “nowhere,” here comes a snapshot of a man who may not be as righteous as he claims to be. (Are we surprised? He did, after all cheat on his first wife, the woman who raised his three children while he was imprisoned in Vietnam.)
2. The Money
The next bit of pesky business for McCain is the FEC complaint that was filed yesterday by the DNC.
Here’s the short of it: Back when McCain’s campaign was tanking and on its last gasps, he elected to sign on for federal matching funds. To obtain a quick influx of cash, McCain used the assurance of these funds as collateral to obtain a bank loan. Now that McCain is the presumptive candidate and money is no longer an issue, he is trying to weasel his way out of the promise he made to use the federal funds.
The issue here is that, if McCain is required to adhere to the strict confines of (here’s the best part) the MCCAIN/FEINGOLD bill, then he will be limited to the amount of money he can spend between now and the GOP convention when he becomes the party nominee. Seeing as how he has already spent about $50 million dollars, McCain has about reached the limits of what he can spend over the next six months.
OUCH. This is huge and if the FEC does not allow McCain to opt out of the federal funds, then he’s going to be stuck in the mud and forced to sit on the sidelines while Obama/Clinton campaign without limits. And if McCain decides to press on and spend away, FEC be damned, then he will be breaking the same federal law he helped write.
3. The Email
As if it couldn’t get worse, the Huffington Post is reporting that McCain withheld an email during the Abramoff investigation that was damaging to one of his cronies. Remember, McCain, the Reformer, the self-described king of routing out waste, evil, corruption and hedonism in the sacred walls of the Senate, sat on the Indian Affairs Committee that investigated the corruption that was part of the Abramoff investigation.
As it turns out, McCain and his staff had an email describing Abramoff’s attempts to assure the election of Alabama Gov. Bob Riley. McCain not only ignored the email, thereby protecting his friend Riley from any unwanted negative attention, but he even refused to make the email public even after his committee report was released. Riley went on to win under dubious circumstances.
As the article states,
McCain's campaign did not return request for comment. For critics, however, the senator's decision not to include the email in his report underscores not only a glaring shortcoming of his investigation, but also a chink in his political veneer. Indeed, they claim, the Arizona Republican often takes overt steps to protect Republican colleagues from his anti-corruption dragnets.
Seriously, folks, it’s not even March and three back to back stories have appeared questioning the “political veneer” of McCain. There’s no question that we are going to need a score card to keep up with all of the other indiscretions that will assuredly start appearing in the press in the coming weeks and months. Is it any wonder that Josh Romney, Mitt's son, is hinting that his dad's campaign suspension may be ending?
Monday, February 25, 2008
Let There Be Art In Springfield, Preferably This Friday
I went to the last one of these hosted at the Lloyd and walked away with some fine framed photography. The setting is great and the back outdoor area makes it all the more relaxing. This is indeed one of the finer, homier places to enjoy exhibits. And it's walking distance from my house, so my wife and I can easily tag team the evening and save money on a sitter.Sunday, February 24, 2008
Nader’s In The Race And My Father’s Rolling Over In His Grave
Politically, my father was an interesting man. He wasn’t one to get hot under the collar, to throw his glass of scotch at the TV every time he saw Bush on one of the stations or ever be beholden to just one party. Yet, in his docile, deliberative and simple way, he could debate the state of the world with the likes of Kissinger or Albright and offer up some profound opinions without the appearance of taking a side. He was always more of a listener and a reader who absorbed the words around him, all the while processing the information, then storing it away for passive discussion at a later date.
In the 80s, my father did the Reagan thing, and then kept it in line when it came time to vote for Bush Senior. In the ’92 primaries, however, he voted (as did I) for Jerry “Moonbeam” Brown. Then, when it came time to choose between Bush (Jr.) or Gore, my dad chose . . . . . . . Ralph Nader! In Florida no less!! Yes, my father was one of those voters most of America wanted to scream at, to shake violently, all the while whimpering, “why, why, (sniff, blow nose, wipe tears) why?”
Not that my father has the chance to make up for past mistakes now, but with the announcement this morning of Nader’s bid for the White House, it’s fair to say that my father (turning in his grave at this announcement) would not be suckered a second time into supporting Nader (fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me) and risk dividing the Democratic vote to the benefit of the GOP. And neither should the rest of the “disenfranchised” voters buy the “it’s all about sticking it to corporate American” rallying cry.
Sure, Nader has good ideas that parallel the philosophies of most of those on the left, but the focus on this year’s election has to be more about returning this country to sound and reasonable leadership than about simply making a point. We all know of the corruption, the unbalance, the waste, the deficit, the pollution, and the economic, social, personal, and ideological decimation that will be the legacy of this administration. Let’s not put the icing on the cake by dignifying Nader’s announcement.
Yes, I am adamantly opposed to a Nader candidacy. I’m sickened by the thought that we might have to live 2000 all over again and suffer yet another four or eight years under a totalitarian regime. I’m even more sickened that Huckabee has already said that Republicans welcome his entry into the race. I’m sickened by Nader’s selfishness and hubris. And, yes, I partially hold him accountable for much of the pain that the Bush Administration has inflicted on this country and the world.
I hope this development will energize the Democratic base even more and bring an abundance of otherwise resistant voters to the street in a unified front to support either Hillary or Obama.
I honestly do not think Nader will fair near as well as he thinks. In fact, I predict his candidacy will tank before we have a Democratic nominee.
I never got a chance to ask my father why he voted for Nader or if he ever regretted his decision. I never wanted to put him on the spot. But what I do know is that, like most Americans (69% at last count) my father was well aware of the critical damage the Boy King was doing to our country and that this country could not survive a continuation of the Bush policies by the election of another Republican president. Since Nader does not seem as concerned about the Bush-lite presidency of John McCain, it is up to the Democrats to work that much harder to assure a future for this country.
An addendum: Hemming Plaza, as offended by a Nader candidacy as I am, forwarded this link showing just how much the GOP has supported The Spoiler in the past. http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2004/07/09/MNGQQ7J31K1.DTL
In the 80s, my father did the Reagan thing, and then kept it in line when it came time to vote for Bush Senior. In the ’92 primaries, however, he voted (as did I) for Jerry “Moonbeam” Brown. Then, when it came time to choose between Bush (Jr.) or Gore, my dad chose . . . . . . . Ralph Nader! In Florida no less!! Yes, my father was one of those voters most of America wanted to scream at, to shake violently, all the while whimpering, “why, why, (sniff, blow nose, wipe tears) why?”
Not that my father has the chance to make up for past mistakes now, but with the announcement this morning of Nader’s bid for the White House, it’s fair to say that my father (turning in his grave at this announcement) would not be suckered a second time into supporting Nader (fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me) and risk dividing the Democratic vote to the benefit of the GOP. And neither should the rest of the “disenfranchised” voters buy the “it’s all about sticking it to corporate American” rallying cry.
Sure, Nader has good ideas that parallel the philosophies of most of those on the left, but the focus on this year’s election has to be more about returning this country to sound and reasonable leadership than about simply making a point. We all know of the corruption, the unbalance, the waste, the deficit, the pollution, and the economic, social, personal, and ideological decimation that will be the legacy of this administration. Let’s not put the icing on the cake by dignifying Nader’s announcement.
Yes, I am adamantly opposed to a Nader candidacy. I’m sickened by the thought that we might have to live 2000 all over again and suffer yet another four or eight years under a totalitarian regime. I’m even more sickened that Huckabee has already said that Republicans welcome his entry into the race. I’m sickened by Nader’s selfishness and hubris. And, yes, I partially hold him accountable for much of the pain that the Bush Administration has inflicted on this country and the world.
I hope this development will energize the Democratic base even more and bring an abundance of otherwise resistant voters to the street in a unified front to support either Hillary or Obama.
I honestly do not think Nader will fair near as well as he thinks. In fact, I predict his candidacy will tank before we have a Democratic nominee.
I never got a chance to ask my father why he voted for Nader or if he ever regretted his decision. I never wanted to put him on the spot. But what I do know is that, like most Americans (69% at last count) my father was well aware of the critical damage the Boy King was doing to our country and that this country could not survive a continuation of the Bush policies by the election of another Republican president. Since Nader does not seem as concerned about the Bush-lite presidency of John McCain, it is up to the Democrats to work that much harder to assure a future for this country.
An addendum: Hemming Plaza, as offended by a Nader candidacy as I am, forwarded this link showing just how much the GOP has supported The Spoiler in the past. http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2004/07/09/MNGQQ7J31K1.DTL
Friday, February 22, 2008
JABOUR OUT, 1ST DCA UPHOLDS NACHMAN'S DECISION
Jay Jabour has lost his appeal with a per curiam affirmance, meaning that it is unlikely he will be able to appeal to the Florida Supreme Court, meaning it is likely he is out of office, meaning there will have to be another election, meaning . . . . . . . . . . . .
Metro Jacksonville on Craig Van Horn
Metro Jacksonville has posted a very thorough, albeit lopsided, piece on Craig Van Horn and his business practices (seems like he could use some more lessons), specifically at 9th and Main. It's a heavy yet necessary read. Prepare to be annoyed, frustrated and angered.
The First Coast Democratic Professionals Council (TM) Takes Shape, Forms Board, Plans Future
The other day I posted a note about the Democratic Professionals Council’s expansion into the Greater Duval County area and promised updates on the formation of a local chapter.
Last night, while everyone else was home sitting warm and dry watching the latest Obama/Clinton debate, a group of like-minded folks met to discuss the how and what and when and, well, the why is pretty obvious, isn’t it, of getting that chapter off the ground. And so the First Coast Democratic Professionals Council was born. Few other words can describe this event better than exciting and successful. A board was formed, assignments were distributed, maps were drawn, and roads were paved.
The short of it is this: In the next few weeks, we’ll be brainstorming meeting and speaker ideas and contacting as many people as possible by phone, email, smoke signals, Morse code, etc. to start getting the word out. Our goal is to have a massive inaugural event either in late April or early May. Between now and then, though, we hope to host a few “soft opening-type” events to help build interest and momentum.
I’ve already heard tail of dozens of people interested in the FCDPC and the feeling we’re all getting is that this area has been in desperate need of such an organization. We’re finally stripping off our apathy and cynicism and reversing the “feeling blue in a red state/city” attitude. The northeast Democrats are not a moribund bunch and the success of the FCDPC will prove that.
So, help spread the word and check back here, (or Hemming Plaza, A Geek Lawyer or Urban Core) for updates. Also feel free to contact us with any thoughts, ideas or stories.
Last night, while everyone else was home sitting warm and dry watching the latest Obama/Clinton debate, a group of like-minded folks met to discuss the how and what and when and, well, the why is pretty obvious, isn’t it, of getting that chapter off the ground. And so the First Coast Democratic Professionals Council was born. Few other words can describe this event better than exciting and successful. A board was formed, assignments were distributed, maps were drawn, and roads were paved.
The short of it is this: In the next few weeks, we’ll be brainstorming meeting and speaker ideas and contacting as many people as possible by phone, email, smoke signals, Morse code, etc. to start getting the word out. Our goal is to have a massive inaugural event either in late April or early May. Between now and then, though, we hope to host a few “soft opening-type” events to help build interest and momentum.
I’ve already heard tail of dozens of people interested in the FCDPC and the feeling we’re all getting is that this area has been in desperate need of such an organization. We’re finally stripping off our apathy and cynicism and reversing the “feeling blue in a red state/city” attitude. The northeast Democrats are not a moribund bunch and the success of the FCDPC will prove that.
So, help spread the word and check back here, (or Hemming Plaza, A Geek Lawyer or Urban Core) for updates. Also feel free to contact us with any thoughts, ideas or stories.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
A News Cycle To Trump All News Cycles, So I’ll Just Peddle Smut
How can I compete with the McCain scandal that “broke” yesterday in the New York Times? I can’t. Even the Huffington Post is going crazy about it. Or what about the surreal notion that we actually shot down a satellite from a boat in the Pacific? Who said that there wasn’t a single Bush Agency that could do anything right? Oh, right. That would be everybody. And don’t even get me started on the lunar eclipse. That was pretty amazing. I think Hillary and Obama are competing for credit with Obama polling higher on the “Which candidate is better able to inspire and control an astronomical phenomenon?” question.
So, I awoke this morning thinking it best just to take the day off and bask in the ray of positivism that is our government, our solar system, our media. But then I got bored and thought I should follow up and provide updates on some earlier post topics.
One “story” I’ve been curious about is how Labradorphobic Art Shad is faring after assaulting attorney Tim Kelly several weeks ago. I had heard that civil and criminal cases were being pursued and so I hit the COJ website to see what I could find. So far, nothing on the assault charge or anything else related to the punching incident. But, interestingly, I did see where Art “leadfoot” Shad got (yet another) speeding ticket on January 15, 2008. Okay, I know mentioning this really looks like I’m being petty. But not when you take a look at what else popped up under the name Arthur Henderson Shad (Yes, I know, this was all covered last year at MetJax/JaxOutLoud). There were 13 hits for offenses mostly involving speeding and other traffic violations. Oh how our city councilmen inspire me. Anyway, nothing yet on the assault. I’ll keep checking back and maybe give a call to some criminal attorney friends to see what I can find out.
My other favorite topic is the Fourth Circuit judicial races. There’s not much new to report other than the Jeff Morrow campaign reception being held tonight at the River City Brewing Company starting at 5:30.
Jeff has a pretty impressive and varied list of supporters, ranging from Preston Haskell to Cindy Jennings. The lawyers on the list specialize in practices ranging from construction to corporate to criminal to civil to family law. Not bad. I’ve just checked the Supervisor of Elections website and confirmed that Morrow is still unopposed in Group 19. No word on his war chest yet as he only just filed to run one month ago.
I’ll reserve commentary on my pet peeve of raising money to keep others out of a race until I know more. But right now, Morrow's event is being labeled as a “reception” and not a fundraiser. In fact, there is nothing on the invite about money or fundraising.
Jim Daniel’s invite (for an event occurring next week at the FOP), however, states at the bottom that “The purchase of a ticket or a contribution to the fundraiser is a contribution to the Jim Daniel campaign for 4th Judicial Circuit Court Judge.” Remember, Jim too is running unopposed. See an earlier post for my gripe about him raising money when he doesn’t even have any competition.
So that’s all the news that’s not that’s fit to print.
So, I awoke this morning thinking it best just to take the day off and bask in the ray of positivism that is our government, our solar system, our media. But then I got bored and thought I should follow up and provide updates on some earlier post topics.
One “story” I’ve been curious about is how Labradorphobic Art Shad is faring after assaulting attorney Tim Kelly several weeks ago. I had heard that civil and criminal cases were being pursued and so I hit the COJ website to see what I could find. So far, nothing on the assault charge or anything else related to the punching incident. But, interestingly, I did see where Art “leadfoot” Shad got (yet another) speeding ticket on January 15, 2008. Okay, I know mentioning this really looks like I’m being petty. But not when you take a look at what else popped up under the name Arthur Henderson Shad (Yes, I know, this was all covered last year at MetJax/JaxOutLoud). There were 13 hits for offenses mostly involving speeding and other traffic violations. Oh how our city councilmen inspire me. Anyway, nothing yet on the assault. I’ll keep checking back and maybe give a call to some criminal attorney friends to see what I can find out.
My other favorite topic is the Fourth Circuit judicial races. There’s not much new to report other than the Jeff Morrow campaign reception being held tonight at the River City Brewing Company starting at 5:30.
Jeff has a pretty impressive and varied list of supporters, ranging from Preston Haskell to Cindy Jennings. The lawyers on the list specialize in practices ranging from construction to corporate to criminal to civil to family law. Not bad. I’ve just checked the Supervisor of Elections website and confirmed that Morrow is still unopposed in Group 19. No word on his war chest yet as he only just filed to run one month ago.
I’ll reserve commentary on my pet peeve of raising money to keep others out of a race until I know more. But right now, Morrow's event is being labeled as a “reception” and not a fundraiser. In fact, there is nothing on the invite about money or fundraising.
Jim Daniel’s invite (for an event occurring next week at the FOP), however, states at the bottom that “The purchase of a ticket or a contribution to the fundraiser is a contribution to the Jim Daniel campaign for 4th Judicial Circuit Court Judge.” Remember, Jim too is running unopposed. See an earlier post for my gripe about him raising money when he doesn’t even have any competition.
So that’s all the news that’s not that’s fit to print.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Florida Joins 20th Century -- Application for 21st Pending
So the "E" word is going to make it in the school books after a hard fought out, yet overly compromising squabble at the State Board of Education. But it's not evolution that our kids will learn about. It's "the scientific theory of" evolution.
This last minute added phrase provides an out for teachers and administrators when they are confronted by the hellfire and brimstone creationist parents as they form book burning parties when the newly printed textbooks hit the streets.
"Hey, what's the problem?" the principal will stammer, "We're just teaching a theory. No one here really thinks evolution is a fact. Just a theory, man, like gravity or oxygen."
This whole debate has helped bring attention to the bass-ackwardness that is this state's education system. Congratulations, folks, we are now competing with Kansas as the state most resistent to science.
The lunatics continue to hold sway over the asylum. Welcome Florida to the 20th Century. Your application to the 21st is pending.
This last minute added phrase provides an out for teachers and administrators when they are confronted by the hellfire and brimstone creationist parents as they form book burning parties when the newly printed textbooks hit the streets.
"Hey, what's the problem?" the principal will stammer, "We're just teaching a theory. No one here really thinks evolution is a fact. Just a theory, man, like gravity or oxygen."
This whole debate has helped bring attention to the bass-ackwardness that is this state's education system. Congratulations, folks, we are now competing with Kansas as the state most resistent to science.
The lunatics continue to hold sway over the asylum. Welcome Florida to the 20th Century. Your application to the 21st is pending.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Coming Soon To The Area -- The Democratic Professionals Council
This is a very preliminary post to get some buzz (or whisper, or murmur, or hiccup) started about the expansion into the Duval County area of the DPC. What is the DPC? Well, as it says on the website:
"The mission of the Democratic Professionals Council (TM) is to re-engage area professionals in Democratic politics. The DPC is one of the largest professionals or Democratic groups in Florida. Each of its events includes a professional networking reception and luncheon with a Democratic leader (for a sampling, see our listing of past events). The only charge for attendance at a DPC event is the cost of the function."
Conversations have started, emails have been exchanged and volunteers have been recruited to get the area chapter off the ground. If all goes smoothly, there will hopefully be an inaugural event sometime in March. Feel free to contact me if you want to be on the email recipient list or just keep checking back here for announcements.
This is an exciting opportunity for local Democrats to get involved, participate, meet like-minded professionals, network, and unify the party members into a cohesive group.
"The mission of the Democratic Professionals Council (TM) is to re-engage area professionals in Democratic politics. The DPC is one of the largest professionals or Democratic groups in Florida. Each of its events includes a professional networking reception and luncheon with a Democratic leader (for a sampling, see our listing of past events). The only charge for attendance at a DPC event is the cost of the function."
Conversations have started, emails have been exchanged and volunteers have been recruited to get the area chapter off the ground. If all goes smoothly, there will hopefully be an inaugural event sometime in March. Feel free to contact me if you want to be on the email recipient list or just keep checking back here for announcements.
This is an exciting opportunity for local Democrats to get involved, participate, meet like-minded professionals, network, and unify the party members into a cohesive group.
Monday, February 18, 2008
With $100,000.00, You Too Can Nip Any Competition In The Bud
My last post on the Fourth Circuit judicial races alluded to the bona fides of Jim Daniel. He’s a likeable, experienced attorney and easily holds his own with those candidates running in the other Groups.
The thing with Jim’s campaign, however, is that, as of today, he is running unopposed, thereby denying any real testing of his true meddle and spunk. It’s looking like a smooth cruise ride for Jim down 17, through Orange Park and into Green Cove Springs, right up to the newly expanded and remodeled Clay County Courthouse (on the right, just before you get to the Huddle House).
Good for you, Jim. You absolutely deserve it. I’ll be happy to argue motions in front of you, knowing that even if you rule against me, you will have done so with grace, reason and aplomb.
So what’s the point in this post? Well, as I said above, Jim is running unopposed. Even with opposition, he’d probably be a shoe-in. Then why on earth did he feel the need to donate $100,000.00 of his own money on New Year’s Eve to his campaign? He’d already amassed $16,000.00 in donations by the end of last year. And why the need for the fundraiser he’s holding on February 28th at the Fraternal Order of Police? YOU ARE RUNNING UNOPPOSED!
By comparison, in the 2006 judicial races, Jeff Marrow raised a total of $182,000.00 in his competitive race against Libby Senterfitt, who raised $154,000.00 (and won). John Merrett won his seat against three competitors with only $171,000.00. Yet, here’s Jim with over $116,000.00 without competition and nine months from the election.
Now before I offer an opinion on the above, note that I am not opposed to a candidate loaning him or herself money to run a race. Virginia Norton is shelling out $40,000.00 of her own money in her competitive race against, Frederic Buttner, III, who lent his campaign $10,000.00. As blogged previously, Adrian Soud wrote himself a check for $50,000.00. The contributions of Adrian’s opponents are unknown as they only just this year filed the papers to run.
On a grander scale, Hillary Clinton reached into her retirement fund and extracted $5 million. Mitt Romney dipped into his children’s trust fund for nearly $20 million, which, as it turns out, would have been better spent being donated to the Benevolent Country Club Association. And then there’s Michael Bloomberg. He spent close to $140 million on his two mayoral campaigns to buy a bed in Gracie Mansion only to now just use this beautiful estate for ceremonial occasions and guest accommodations.
Okay, so it’s not these personal “loans” that keep me up at night, so long as the money is necessary to stay competitive in a close race. My problem is when money, especially as much as $100,000.00 in a local race, is “loaned” to an uncontested campaign where it is unlikely that even a cent will need to be spent.
Making such a loan tells me one of two things – either Jim (or any other like candidate) is expecting some big time player to enter his race, and so is amassing as much as possible for what may be an expensive battle – or, he’s telling the rest of those folks in the Fourth Circuit, “Don’t even think about running against me!”
I’m fine with the former strategy. It goes hand in hand with what one needs to do to stay competitive. But the latter strategy just smells a bit. By pricing out the competition, the right to choose is being taken away from the voters. The Democratic process has been stunted. Arguably, we will never know who the most qualified candidate is because that person or persons has now been preemptively priced out of the race. It will now be impossible for Jim to ever say he won his seat on his merits. Simply, the election was purchased.
We’ll see what happens as the weeks pass. Someone might actually come forward and challenge Jim, in which case this post will be moot and Jim will have to hit the pavement and explain to the nice folks in the Fourth Circuit why he’s the best person for the job. While I may know Jim somewhat professionally, I'd still like to hear more from him about his qualifications and judicial intentions. Without the competition, people won't get to learn any of this and so will be voting blindly, if at all, for what I would consider a stealth candidate.
The thing with Jim’s campaign, however, is that, as of today, he is running unopposed, thereby denying any real testing of his true meddle and spunk. It’s looking like a smooth cruise ride for Jim down 17, through Orange Park and into Green Cove Springs, right up to the newly expanded and remodeled Clay County Courthouse (on the right, just before you get to the Huddle House).
Good for you, Jim. You absolutely deserve it. I’ll be happy to argue motions in front of you, knowing that even if you rule against me, you will have done so with grace, reason and aplomb.
So what’s the point in this post? Well, as I said above, Jim is running unopposed. Even with opposition, he’d probably be a shoe-in. Then why on earth did he feel the need to donate $100,000.00 of his own money on New Year’s Eve to his campaign? He’d already amassed $16,000.00 in donations by the end of last year. And why the need for the fundraiser he’s holding on February 28th at the Fraternal Order of Police? YOU ARE RUNNING UNOPPOSED!
By comparison, in the 2006 judicial races, Jeff Marrow raised a total of $182,000.00 in his competitive race against Libby Senterfitt, who raised $154,000.00 (and won). John Merrett won his seat against three competitors with only $171,000.00. Yet, here’s Jim with over $116,000.00 without competition and nine months from the election.
Now before I offer an opinion on the above, note that I am not opposed to a candidate loaning him or herself money to run a race. Virginia Norton is shelling out $40,000.00 of her own money in her competitive race against, Frederic Buttner, III, who lent his campaign $10,000.00. As blogged previously, Adrian Soud wrote himself a check for $50,000.00. The contributions of Adrian’s opponents are unknown as they only just this year filed the papers to run.
On a grander scale, Hillary Clinton reached into her retirement fund and extracted $5 million. Mitt Romney dipped into his children’s trust fund for nearly $20 million, which, as it turns out, would have been better spent being donated to the Benevolent Country Club Association. And then there’s Michael Bloomberg. He spent close to $140 million on his two mayoral campaigns to buy a bed in Gracie Mansion only to now just use this beautiful estate for ceremonial occasions and guest accommodations.
Okay, so it’s not these personal “loans” that keep me up at night, so long as the money is necessary to stay competitive in a close race. My problem is when money, especially as much as $100,000.00 in a local race, is “loaned” to an uncontested campaign where it is unlikely that even a cent will need to be spent.
Making such a loan tells me one of two things – either Jim (or any other like candidate) is expecting some big time player to enter his race, and so is amassing as much as possible for what may be an expensive battle – or, he’s telling the rest of those folks in the Fourth Circuit, “Don’t even think about running against me!”
I’m fine with the former strategy. It goes hand in hand with what one needs to do to stay competitive. But the latter strategy just smells a bit. By pricing out the competition, the right to choose is being taken away from the voters. The Democratic process has been stunted. Arguably, we will never know who the most qualified candidate is because that person or persons has now been preemptively priced out of the race. It will now be impossible for Jim to ever say he won his seat on his merits. Simply, the election was purchased.
We’ll see what happens as the weeks pass. Someone might actually come forward and challenge Jim, in which case this post will be moot and Jim will have to hit the pavement and explain to the nice folks in the Fourth Circuit why he’s the best person for the job. While I may know Jim somewhat professionally, I'd still like to hear more from him about his qualifications and judicial intentions. Without the competition, people won't get to learn any of this and so will be voting blindly, if at all, for what I would consider a stealth candidate.
Friday, February 15, 2008
More On The Fourth Circuit Judicial Races, Sunglasses Required
I want to post a quick update on the Fourth Circuit Judicial races. Now, I know I said before that these aren’t sexy races, but that doesn’t mean the competitive ones should be ignored.
Right now it looks like only Groups 11 and 28 are competitive. Groups, 5, 13 and 14 look secure with the incumbents going unchallenged. Jeff Morrow is throwing his hat into the ring again as the only one running for Group 19. Jim Daniel, to be discussed more below, is also going it alone in Group 4.
As it turns out, despite a much earlier post, Adrian Soud does have some competition in Group 11. Mark Hulsey III filed his papers on January 22, 2008 while Gerald Wilkerson filed his on January 17, 2008. Neither Hulsey nor Wilkerson are showing any campaign contributions to date while Soud is showing a $50,000.00 loan he made to his own campaign and another $13,100.00 in contributions from entities either beginning or ending in Soud, the Farah brothers and a few other individuals and organizations. This should be a good one to watch.
Virginia Norton, a seasoned judicial campaigner, is going up against Frederic “doesn’t my last name also sound familiar, Adrian” Buttner, the third, in Group 28. (Go to http://clayclerk.com/judicial_list.htm to see why this name is familiar.)
Now, as for Jim Daniel, I think Clay County has a good opportunity to seat a seasoned and reasonable jurist. I don’t have much to say about him individually other than he’s been practicing about 15 years and has always come across as an amiable, easygoing, and honest adversary. One look at the names attached to his fundraiser this month shows he plays nice and gets along well with others. For example, while many supporters are from the plaintiff’s bar (he is a partner at Coker Myers, after all) he also has the support of insurance defense attorneys (Steve and Jeri O’Hara, for example) and two former mayors of (technically) opposite political persuasions (John Delaney and Tommy Hazouri). Nat Glover, Rick Mullaney and Senator Jim King also make the "Vote For Jim" list.
The qualifying deadline for these races is April 28 – May 2, 2008 so much could change in the competition category. As always, I’ll try to stay on top of this.
Right now it looks like only Groups 11 and 28 are competitive. Groups, 5, 13 and 14 look secure with the incumbents going unchallenged. Jeff Morrow is throwing his hat into the ring again as the only one running for Group 19. Jim Daniel, to be discussed more below, is also going it alone in Group 4.
As it turns out, despite a much earlier post, Adrian Soud does have some competition in Group 11. Mark Hulsey III filed his papers on January 22, 2008 while Gerald Wilkerson filed his on January 17, 2008. Neither Hulsey nor Wilkerson are showing any campaign contributions to date while Soud is showing a $50,000.00 loan he made to his own campaign and another $13,100.00 in contributions from entities either beginning or ending in Soud, the Farah brothers and a few other individuals and organizations. This should be a good one to watch.
Virginia Norton, a seasoned judicial campaigner, is going up against Frederic “doesn’t my last name also sound familiar, Adrian” Buttner, the third, in Group 28. (Go to http://clayclerk.com/judicial_list.htm to see why this name is familiar.)
Now, as for Jim Daniel, I think Clay County has a good opportunity to seat a seasoned and reasonable jurist. I don’t have much to say about him individually other than he’s been practicing about 15 years and has always come across as an amiable, easygoing, and honest adversary. One look at the names attached to his fundraiser this month shows he plays nice and gets along well with others. For example, while many supporters are from the plaintiff’s bar (he is a partner at Coker Myers, after all) he also has the support of insurance defense attorneys (Steve and Jeri O’Hara, for example) and two former mayors of (technically) opposite political persuasions (John Delaney and Tommy Hazouri). Nat Glover, Rick Mullaney and Senator Jim King also make the "Vote For Jim" list.
The qualifying deadline for these races is April 28 – May 2, 2008 so much could change in the competition category. As always, I’ll try to stay on top of this.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Great Space, Bad Blood, 9th and Main Falters Again
I've received an open letter being circulated via email by the folks at Boomtown detailing the disaster that was their short-lived life at 9th and Main and their experience with Craig Van Horn.
As much as I would like to re-publish the letter here, as an attorney, I don't want to get too involved beyond summarizing the scenario. I will, however, offer a bit of the letter just to give you an idea what went down. Note that the bar side, The Rusted Hinge, remains open and fully functional. In fact, I was just there last night and had not a single clue that the Boomtown mess had gone down. Also, the letter indicates that Boomtown is still on track to open between 7th and 8th Street in seven or so weeks.
So, Boomtown is closed at 9th and Main. Lititgation, both criminal and civil, has been filed against Van Horn. Accusations abound, etc. Use your imagination, especially if you know even the slightest history of that amazing location with about the best nightlife potential in Springfield (The Pearl is in its own category).
Craig (Van Horn), suddenly acting on the premise that Boomtown never really opened at 9th and Main, and that I was actually just a 'chef' hired by 9th and Main, declared that he didnt even have to observe the lightning fast process of a month to month lease---you know....15 day notice and then its over.This is of course, patently absurd. As evidenced by the fact that we completely redid the entire space and the space was filled with Boomtown's dining accoutrements. Anyways on monday, without our supervision or permission he seized Boomtown's property, including our art, electronics equipment and computers---not to mention a lock box with almost a thousand dollars cash.
Living just steps away from 9th and Main, I'm continuously saddened to see this place sputter, cough, choke, die, only to be re-born as something else and then . . . repeat steps one through four (sputter, cough, choke, die).
As much as I would like to re-publish the letter here, as an attorney, I don't want to get too involved beyond summarizing the scenario. I will, however, offer a bit of the letter just to give you an idea what went down. Note that the bar side, The Rusted Hinge, remains open and fully functional. In fact, I was just there last night and had not a single clue that the Boomtown mess had gone down. Also, the letter indicates that Boomtown is still on track to open between 7th and 8th Street in seven or so weeks.
So, Boomtown is closed at 9th and Main. Lititgation, both criminal and civil, has been filed against Van Horn. Accusations abound, etc. Use your imagination, especially if you know even the slightest history of that amazing location with about the best nightlife potential in Springfield (The Pearl is in its own category).
Craig (Van Horn), suddenly acting on the premise that Boomtown never really opened at 9th and Main, and that I was actually just a 'chef' hired by 9th and Main, declared that he didnt even have to observe the lightning fast process of a month to month lease---you know....15 day notice and then its over.This is of course, patently absurd. As evidenced by the fact that we completely redid the entire space and the space was filled with Boomtown's dining accoutrements. Anyways on monday, without our supervision or permission he seized Boomtown's property, including our art, electronics equipment and computers---not to mention a lock box with almost a thousand dollars cash.
Living just steps away from 9th and Main, I'm continuously saddened to see this place sputter, cough, choke, die, only to be re-born as something else and then . . . repeat steps one through four (sputter, cough, choke, die).
Smear Hillary? Fine. Smear Obama? I Quit
My good friend R in Georgia sent me this tidbit:
McCain aide won't stay on if Obama is the opponent
Mark McKinnon, THE TOP ADVISER in Republican Sen. John
McCain's presidential campaign, said on National
Public Radio's All Things Considered that he won't
stay with the campaign if Sen. Barack Obama is the
Democratic nominee and inevitably would be the target
of attacks in the general election.
McKinnon, a campaign advertising specialist who helped
get President Bush elected and re-elected, said that
while he would support McCain "100%, ... I met Barack
Obama, I read his book, I like him a great deal. I
disagree with him on very fundamental issues. But I
think, as I said, I think it would a great race for
the country. I would simply be uncomfortable being in
a campaign that would be inevitably attacking Barack
Obama. I think it would be uncomfortable for me, and I
think it would be bad for the McCain campaign."
Very interesting. What does that say about the tenor of modern campaigning? Okay, maybe not so modern. McKinnon knows that the gloves will come off, dung will be flung, Obama’s children will be labeled Satanists and his cat’s little catnip problem will soon be making headlines. No, he just can't be a party to such ugliness. Well, if it's against Hillary, sure, go for it. But not Obama. He's too cool.
Political candidates have been slinging mud at each other for decades, maybe centuries, whatever, all in the hopes of making themselves look more pious, innocent, and just not as corrupt as the other guy. So my hope is that McKinnon’s selfless act (assuming it’s not just an “act” to score media points for his guy) will somehow resonate amongst the candidates so the campaigns can stay focused on the issues. The Swiftboating of days past is and was an embarrassment because it reminded me of how gullible and blissfully ignorant Americans can be.
One question I have for McKinnon is, how self-righteous does he intend to be? Sure, he won't be campaigning for McCain, but will he stay the higher ground and actually publicly criticize his man when the attacks start? Probalby not. Politics is war and and all's fair in, well, you get it.
McCain aide won't stay on if Obama is the opponent
Mark McKinnon, THE TOP ADVISER in Republican Sen. John
McCain's presidential campaign, said on National
Public Radio's All Things Considered that he won't
stay with the campaign if Sen. Barack Obama is the
Democratic nominee and inevitably would be the target
of attacks in the general election.
McKinnon, a campaign advertising specialist who helped
get President Bush elected and re-elected, said that
while he would support McCain "100%, ... I met Barack
Obama, I read his book, I like him a great deal. I
disagree with him on very fundamental issues. But I
think, as I said, I think it would a great race for
the country. I would simply be uncomfortable being in
a campaign that would be inevitably attacking Barack
Obama. I think it would be uncomfortable for me, and I
think it would be bad for the McCain campaign."
Very interesting. What does that say about the tenor of modern campaigning? Okay, maybe not so modern. McKinnon knows that the gloves will come off, dung will be flung, Obama’s children will be labeled Satanists and his cat’s little catnip problem will soon be making headlines. No, he just can't be a party to such ugliness. Well, if it's against Hillary, sure, go for it. But not Obama. He's too cool.
Political candidates have been slinging mud at each other for decades, maybe centuries, whatever, all in the hopes of making themselves look more pious, innocent, and just not as corrupt as the other guy. So my hope is that McKinnon’s selfless act (assuming it’s not just an “act” to score media points for his guy) will somehow resonate amongst the candidates so the campaigns can stay focused on the issues. The Swiftboating of days past is and was an embarrassment because it reminded me of how gullible and blissfully ignorant Americans can be.
One question I have for McKinnon is, how self-righteous does he intend to be? Sure, he won't be campaigning for McCain, but will he stay the higher ground and actually publicly criticize his man when the attacks start? Probalby not. Politics is war and and all's fair in, well, you get it.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Celebrity Endorsements, Or Why I 'm More Willing To Vote For Who They Didn't Endorse
My opinion of endorsements may be myopic, out of synch, or profound like sand is succulent. Or I might be right in line with the statistical analysis that shows that endorsements are about as beneficial to a candidate as a Fox hosted debate is to Obama.
Whatever the case, I don't care for them much. Sure, I'm a big fan of Susan Sarandon and Tim Robbins, but I'm not holding my breath waiting for a press conference announcement on who they are supporting so I can fill in the right oval. As for newspaper endorsements, I'm not sure I'm going to be swayed by the editorial board of the Florida Times-Union, especially when they endorse city council candidates who they knew were continuously violating Florida' Sunshine Law.
The media, though, just can't seem to get enough of celebrity and political endorsements, which is why political elections are getting Grammy-style, Joan Riversesque attention and showcasing on Entertainment Tonight. Does it really take the bright light flare, Paris Hilton style, to move middle Americans away from their couches and into the voting booths? Maybe, but I have digressed.
Okay, back to the ever uninspiring endorsements of late. Obama got Oprah, Huckabee got Norris, McCain got Rudy and Arney, and Hillary got Bill. Who gives a crap? Sure, I love Bill, but even on his best campaigning day (was there one?), I still wasn't going to go for Hillary. And while I will always feel the Oscars have snubbed Norris' prolific film career, his love for Huckabee just isn't enough. Yet I never watch Oprah nor bought a book she recommended, but I still voted for Obama.
I think the better stories to be told on this subject are the ones about the movers and shakers who AREN'T endorsing anyone, for whatever reason. Gore has announced he's not taking sides. He's not stupid. He doesn't want to back the wrong team and be left eating solar panels and forced into groveling for support of his climate agenda. Reid and Pelosi are sitting quiet. And Edwards, while hosting secret tea parties for Hillary and eventually Obama, blew any chance to be relevant by staying mum in the days before Super Tuesday.
This all leads me to the conclusion that NOT getting a big name endorsement is the wave of the future and what all candidates should be aspiring for. In fact, I think that being able to announce proudly who ISN'T supporting your candidacy would carry so much more weight in the voters' eyes.
Imagine Obama standing in front of his usual 10,000+ crowd shouting, "And I am proud to say that Ben Affleck will not be endorsing me and my run for the White House!" I can just hear the roaring applause and the ringing of phones as people from all over the country start calling in their donations.
Of course, the better scene would have been one of Rudy standing in front of a crowd of U.S soldiers taking another fake cell call like the one he did in front of the NRA. "Excuse me guys, I have to take this. It's the president. -- Yes, sir. I'm talking to some soldiers right now. Do you want to say hello? No? (long wait, slow, deliberate nodding, wry smile forming, wait, wait). Okay. Thank you sir. Thank you very, very much (click). -- Well, it's good news. George wants nothing to do with my campaign!" Again, hooting and hollering, whistle calls, and centrists and independents around the country pulling out their wallets trying to shake out the loose quarters and pennies to drop in the next "Rudy for President" charity bucket they pass.
So from now on, when I'm on the fence, sweating profusely, unable to decide on which candidate to vote for as I stand at the Springfield Women's Club waiting to cast my ballot, I'm going to look to the candidate who didn't get endorsements from the likes of the Times-Union, Ralph Nader, or Richard Simmons.
Whatever the case, I don't care for them much. Sure, I'm a big fan of Susan Sarandon and Tim Robbins, but I'm not holding my breath waiting for a press conference announcement on who they are supporting so I can fill in the right oval. As for newspaper endorsements, I'm not sure I'm going to be swayed by the editorial board of the Florida Times-Union, especially when they endorse city council candidates who they knew were continuously violating Florida' Sunshine Law.
The media, though, just can't seem to get enough of celebrity and political endorsements, which is why political elections are getting Grammy-style, Joan Riversesque attention and showcasing on Entertainment Tonight. Does it really take the bright light flare, Paris Hilton style, to move middle Americans away from their couches and into the voting booths? Maybe, but I have digressed.
Okay, back to the ever uninspiring endorsements of late. Obama got Oprah, Huckabee got Norris, McCain got Rudy and Arney, and Hillary got Bill. Who gives a crap? Sure, I love Bill, but even on his best campaigning day (was there one?), I still wasn't going to go for Hillary. And while I will always feel the Oscars have snubbed Norris' prolific film career, his love for Huckabee just isn't enough. Yet I never watch Oprah nor bought a book she recommended, but I still voted for Obama.
I think the better stories to be told on this subject are the ones about the movers and shakers who AREN'T endorsing anyone, for whatever reason. Gore has announced he's not taking sides. He's not stupid. He doesn't want to back the wrong team and be left eating solar panels and forced into groveling for support of his climate agenda. Reid and Pelosi are sitting quiet. And Edwards, while hosting secret tea parties for Hillary and eventually Obama, blew any chance to be relevant by staying mum in the days before Super Tuesday.
This all leads me to the conclusion that NOT getting a big name endorsement is the wave of the future and what all candidates should be aspiring for. In fact, I think that being able to announce proudly who ISN'T supporting your candidacy would carry so much more weight in the voters' eyes.
Imagine Obama standing in front of his usual 10,000+ crowd shouting, "And I am proud to say that Ben Affleck will not be endorsing me and my run for the White House!" I can just hear the roaring applause and the ringing of phones as people from all over the country start calling in their donations.
Of course, the better scene would have been one of Rudy standing in front of a crowd of U.S soldiers taking another fake cell call like the one he did in front of the NRA. "Excuse me guys, I have to take this. It's the president. -- Yes, sir. I'm talking to some soldiers right now. Do you want to say hello? No? (long wait, slow, deliberate nodding, wry smile forming, wait, wait). Okay. Thank you sir. Thank you very, very much (click). -- Well, it's good news. George wants nothing to do with my campaign!" Again, hooting and hollering, whistle calls, and centrists and independents around the country pulling out their wallets trying to shake out the loose quarters and pennies to drop in the next "Rudy for President" charity bucket they pass.
So from now on, when I'm on the fence, sweating profusely, unable to decide on which candidate to vote for as I stand at the Springfield Women's Club waiting to cast my ballot, I'm going to look to the candidate who didn't get endorsements from the likes of the Times-Union, Ralph Nader, or Richard Simmons.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Corruption in City Hall, Act II, Scene 1, Ad Infinitum (Ad Nauseum)
NEWSFLASH! There's a city councilman, Jay Jabour, who currently holds the Group 2 At-Large seat even though his election was invalidated last year when Judge Bernard Nachman determined that he does not reside in the district he represents.
ANOTHER NEWSFLASH! Jabour appealed this decision, even though he admitted under oath that, no, he does not actually live at his condominium at the beach, but really lives in his San Jose home, mere steps from his beloved country club.
BACKGROUND: Bob Harms, the defeated Democrat for this seat, sued after the elections and succeeded in getting the election tossed. Despite Judge Nachman's decision, Jabour was able to stay the decision during the appellate process.
Just so we're clear, to qualify for Group 2, Jabour changed his homestead election from his San Jose home to his beach condominium. He also changed his driver's license, etc. When Judge Nachman issued his decision, he ipso facto determined that Jabour had violated Florida law. Sure, his homestead exemption was revoked. But State Attorney Harry Shorstein wasted no time announcing that he would not prosecute Jabour for committing a third degree felony when Jabour submitted false voter registration information.
Finally, on February 20th, the First DCA will hear oral arguments to determine Jabour's fate. However, there's no telling how long the Court will take to issue its decision. One thing we know is that Jabour intends to appeal to the Florida Supreme Court if Judge Nachman's decision is upheld. Now, I'm no appellate attorney, but if I understand the rules (and someone correct me if I'm wrong), the First DCA could issue a per curiam affirmance which would deny the Florida Supreme Court jurisdiction to hear the case, thus rendering Judge Nachman's decision final.
I know this issue will be blogged/discussed in greater detail as the hearing grows closer and after it happens by the folks at Jax Out Loud, A Geek Lawyer, The Folio, and The Urban Core (to name a few), but I just wanted to get my two cents in as Jabour's continued representation of Group 2 makes for yet another blatant act of corruption by a city official (see an earlier post). Even if Judge Nachman's decision is affirmed, this will only result in, at best, Jabour stepping down (thus forcing a million dollar special election -- something this city can ill afford). The worst we have to look forward to is his continuing his post until his term runs.
Not only is all of this another slap on this wrist of a county official, but it's a slap across the face to all the un-elected common folk who are the ones who'll end up paying for this malfeasance. Jabour has made a mockery of the democratic process. I think instead of running for a seat he does not qualify to run for, it's time Jabour seek a re-match against Art Shad, not in District 5 this time, but in the ring, Fight Club style, where I hear Shad has a wicked right hook (see the same earlier post).
ANOTHER NEWSFLASH! Jabour appealed this decision, even though he admitted under oath that, no, he does not actually live at his condominium at the beach, but really lives in his San Jose home, mere steps from his beloved country club.
BACKGROUND: Bob Harms, the defeated Democrat for this seat, sued after the elections and succeeded in getting the election tossed. Despite Judge Nachman's decision, Jabour was able to stay the decision during the appellate process.
Just so we're clear, to qualify for Group 2, Jabour changed his homestead election from his San Jose home to his beach condominium. He also changed his driver's license, etc. When Judge Nachman issued his decision, he ipso facto determined that Jabour had violated Florida law. Sure, his homestead exemption was revoked. But State Attorney Harry Shorstein wasted no time announcing that he would not prosecute Jabour for committing a third degree felony when Jabour submitted false voter registration information.
Finally, on February 20th, the First DCA will hear oral arguments to determine Jabour's fate. However, there's no telling how long the Court will take to issue its decision. One thing we know is that Jabour intends to appeal to the Florida Supreme Court if Judge Nachman's decision is upheld. Now, I'm no appellate attorney, but if I understand the rules (and someone correct me if I'm wrong), the First DCA could issue a per curiam affirmance which would deny the Florida Supreme Court jurisdiction to hear the case, thus rendering Judge Nachman's decision final.
I know this issue will be blogged/discussed in greater detail as the hearing grows closer and after it happens by the folks at Jax Out Loud, A Geek Lawyer, The Folio, and The Urban Core (to name a few), but I just wanted to get my two cents in as Jabour's continued representation of Group 2 makes for yet another blatant act of corruption by a city official (see an earlier post). Even if Judge Nachman's decision is affirmed, this will only result in, at best, Jabour stepping down (thus forcing a million dollar special election -- something this city can ill afford). The worst we have to look forward to is his continuing his post until his term runs.
Not only is all of this another slap on this wrist of a county official, but it's a slap across the face to all the un-elected common folk who are the ones who'll end up paying for this malfeasance. Jabour has made a mockery of the democratic process. I think instead of running for a seat he does not qualify to run for, it's time Jabour seek a re-match against Art Shad, not in District 5 this time, but in the ring, Fight Club style, where I hear Shad has a wicked right hook (see the same earlier post).
New Poll Shows Americans Opinion Of Themselves At An All Time Low
A recent AP-Ipsos poll showed Bush’s and Congress’ approval rating at an all time low -- 30% and 22% , respectively.
But what about me? If the rest of Americans are anything like me, then their approval rating of themselves must also in the crapper.
Just yesterday morning I polled myself and found my self-esteem at a dismal 19%. My professional confidence was down 5 percentage points from 34% just six months ago. And my hope for a better tomorrow was down to 15%. The only spike in the poll was in my political aspirations which, thanks to the ineptitude and incompetence of all the other politicians, locally and nationally as they tank in the eyes of the voters, rose to 3%.
Not wanting to accept such a microscopic approach to the state of the world, I also polled my four year old daughter on a variety of geo-social, political and environmental issues as I drove her to school.
Unfortunately, the numbers were even grimmer. Her aspirations for enjoying continued breathable air over the next five years sank to 54%, down 12 percentage points from two years ago. She went from 38% to 22% in her dreams to graduate from college debt free (I didn‘t even ask her how she felt about inheriting the current national debt). However, she showed strong polling data with the realization that this country would still be at war with (insert country here) when she enters kindergarten, stating that the odds had increased from 73% to 99%.
No, it’s not looking good for anyone these days. I’m just glad that I’m not alone in this sturm und drang. This made my anxiety index factor rise to an all time high of 100%, up two percentage points from last week.
But what about me? If the rest of Americans are anything like me, then their approval rating of themselves must also in the crapper.
Just yesterday morning I polled myself and found my self-esteem at a dismal 19%. My professional confidence was down 5 percentage points from 34% just six months ago. And my hope for a better tomorrow was down to 15%. The only spike in the poll was in my political aspirations which, thanks to the ineptitude and incompetence of all the other politicians, locally and nationally as they tank in the eyes of the voters, rose to 3%.
Not wanting to accept such a microscopic approach to the state of the world, I also polled my four year old daughter on a variety of geo-social, political and environmental issues as I drove her to school.
Unfortunately, the numbers were even grimmer. Her aspirations for enjoying continued breathable air over the next five years sank to 54%, down 12 percentage points from two years ago. She went from 38% to 22% in her dreams to graduate from college debt free (I didn‘t even ask her how she felt about inheriting the current national debt). However, she showed strong polling data with the realization that this country would still be at war with (insert country here) when she enters kindergarten, stating that the odds had increased from 73% to 99%.
No, it’s not looking good for anyone these days. I’m just glad that I’m not alone in this sturm und drang. This made my anxiety index factor rise to an all time high of 100%, up two percentage points from last week.
Friday, February 8, 2008
Jacksonville Taxpayers, We've Hit The Corruption Trifecta, And It's Business As Usual
“There is probable cause that some Jacksonville elected officials violated state law by failing to report as gifts taxpayer-financed outings to football games, concerts and other events BUT THEY SHOULD NOT BE PUNISHED.” (emphasis mine).
That’s the first sentence in an article in today’s Florida Times-Union. Let’s think about that for a second. Okay. Local officials violated state law. But they shouldn’t be punished. Great. Why, you might ask? Well, as the article continues, the report of the Florida Commission on Ethics feels that these evildoers have now changed their ways, repented for all their sins, and have promised, really really promised, to be good and never do it again. Phew. I sure believe that and have a new found trust and belief in the honesty and righteousness of our elected officials.
Unfortunately, some naysayers and killjoyers like local attorney Leslie Goller aren’t as appeased. “If there is no penalty for ethics violations, it will just be business as usual here,” the article quotes her. NO! That can’t be true. When the fox says he’ll play nice with the hens, or when the scorpion promises he won’t sting the frog, you have to believe them.
Well, no, you don’t. Why? Because this week saw the trifecta of wrist slapping, eye winking and turning a blind eye. As above, apparently violating state laws regarding improper gifting is okay, as long as you form some kind of toothless committee, appoint some incompetent Ethics Officer, and re-write a law that was already written which was pretty clear in the "what not to do" category in the first place.
So what else did our city officials get away with this week? Oh, yeah. Violating Florida’s open meeting laws and improperly awarding no-bid contracts to Peyton’s cronies and former senior staff members.
As for the former, you may remember that a few of our city council members, in an apparently excusable violation of Florida’s Sunshine Law, thought it okay to meet for a meal and discuss city business at a local diner without bothering to, I don’t know, follow any of the notification and reporting requirements of the Sunshine Law. Over 300 calendared meetings were examined, with potential flaws and violations found in dozens of them. So how did the investigation into this resolve? The Grand Jury found violations but, you guessed it, no criminal wrongdoing. Again, Phew. Our council members have thwarted another sticky career ending penalty by promising to play nice and, oh yeah, by the rules.
So how about the latter? You know, the no-bid contract issue. Well, let’s see. Scott Teagle is a close friend of Mayor Peyton and former chief of staff who left his noble civil service job in 2004, opting instead for a lucrative career in the private sector taking advantage of his cronyistic ties to start ProLogic and seek improper and, if not illegal, then definitely smelly, no contract bids with the city. His payoff? Over $500,000.00 in technology contracts that ProLogic was unqualified to receive.
Okay. So what happened to Scott and those involved in this non-scandal. Well, the same Grand Jury that looked into the Sunshine Law violations determined that these contracts were improperly awarded, but again, did not go so far as to find criminal wrongdoing.
Therein lies the trifecta. Get free tickets on the DL? No problem. An unannounced, unreported breakfast amongst city council members? Why not just let the taxpayer get the check? Get an illegal, half million dollar city contract ? Who’s watching?
While we have to live with these apparently minor indiscretions, and no fines or jail time will be meted out, I find it difficult to swallow that, at best, our city government is rife with utter incompetence and, at worst, devoid of a single ethical and moral fiber. Rudy Guiliani would surely be proud.
Finally, as a footnote really, and while we’re talking about the upstanding character that is our city government and its elected officials, I can’t help but mention a cute little event that happened last week. City Councilman Art, “I swear I’m not addicted to pain killers anymore” Shad, in an apparent attempt to protect himself from the vicious attack of an unleashed Labrador, PUNCHED THE DOG’S OWNER RIGHT IN THE FACE. Seriously. He said he was acting in self-defense. So he punched attorney Tim Kelly in the friggin face. It is unclear at this point what, if any, criminal charges will be filed.
That’s the first sentence in an article in today’s Florida Times-Union. Let’s think about that for a second. Okay. Local officials violated state law. But they shouldn’t be punished. Great. Why, you might ask? Well, as the article continues, the report of the Florida Commission on Ethics feels that these evildoers have now changed their ways, repented for all their sins, and have promised, really really promised, to be good and never do it again. Phew. I sure believe that and have a new found trust and belief in the honesty and righteousness of our elected officials.
Unfortunately, some naysayers and killjoyers like local attorney Leslie Goller aren’t as appeased. “If there is no penalty for ethics violations, it will just be business as usual here,” the article quotes her. NO! That can’t be true. When the fox says he’ll play nice with the hens, or when the scorpion promises he won’t sting the frog, you have to believe them.
Well, no, you don’t. Why? Because this week saw the trifecta of wrist slapping, eye winking and turning a blind eye. As above, apparently violating state laws regarding improper gifting is okay, as long as you form some kind of toothless committee, appoint some incompetent Ethics Officer, and re-write a law that was already written which was pretty clear in the "what not to do" category in the first place.
So what else did our city officials get away with this week? Oh, yeah. Violating Florida’s open meeting laws and improperly awarding no-bid contracts to Peyton’s cronies and former senior staff members.
As for the former, you may remember that a few of our city council members, in an apparently excusable violation of Florida’s Sunshine Law, thought it okay to meet for a meal and discuss city business at a local diner without bothering to, I don’t know, follow any of the notification and reporting requirements of the Sunshine Law. Over 300 calendared meetings were examined, with potential flaws and violations found in dozens of them. So how did the investigation into this resolve? The Grand Jury found violations but, you guessed it, no criminal wrongdoing. Again, Phew. Our council members have thwarted another sticky career ending penalty by promising to play nice and, oh yeah, by the rules.
So how about the latter? You know, the no-bid contract issue. Well, let’s see. Scott Teagle is a close friend of Mayor Peyton and former chief of staff who left his noble civil service job in 2004, opting instead for a lucrative career in the private sector taking advantage of his cronyistic ties to start ProLogic and seek improper and, if not illegal, then definitely smelly, no contract bids with the city. His payoff? Over $500,000.00 in technology contracts that ProLogic was unqualified to receive.
Okay. So what happened to Scott and those involved in this non-scandal. Well, the same Grand Jury that looked into the Sunshine Law violations determined that these contracts were improperly awarded, but again, did not go so far as to find criminal wrongdoing.
Therein lies the trifecta. Get free tickets on the DL? No problem. An unannounced, unreported breakfast amongst city council members? Why not just let the taxpayer get the check? Get an illegal, half million dollar city contract ? Who’s watching?
While we have to live with these apparently minor indiscretions, and no fines or jail time will be meted out, I find it difficult to swallow that, at best, our city government is rife with utter incompetence and, at worst, devoid of a single ethical and moral fiber. Rudy Guiliani would surely be proud.
Finally, as a footnote really, and while we’re talking about the upstanding character that is our city government and its elected officials, I can’t help but mention a cute little event that happened last week. City Councilman Art, “I swear I’m not addicted to pain killers anymore” Shad, in an apparent attempt to protect himself from the vicious attack of an unleashed Labrador, PUNCHED THE DOG’S OWNER RIGHT IN THE FACE. Seriously. He said he was acting in self-defense. So he punched attorney Tim Kelly in the friggin face. It is unclear at this point what, if any, criminal charges will be filed.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
The $1 Billion Race, or, How I Became President While The Rest of America Lost Their Homes
Has anyone stopped to ponder just how much this presidential campaign is costing, has cost, will cost? The numbers are staggering. It seems no month can go by without hearing of another record breaking fundraising milestone.
In November, we heard how Ron Paul raised $4.3 million dollars in one day in a gimmicky fundraising online campaign (who is Guy Fawkes again?), breaking a GOP record, then broke Kerry’s 2004, $5.7 million 24 hour online fundraising record just a month later by raising almost $6 million, yet again using a gimmicky historical bite, this time the 234th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party.
Barack “the Million Dollar a Day Man” Obama scored big last month raising $32 million dollars in 31 days, more than any other candidate has ever raised in one month at this point in the presidential campaign season.
The prediction this time around is that by November 4, 2008, over $1 billion dollars will be raised and spent trying to elect someone who will earn an annual salary of only $400,000.00. It seems the investment does not match the return, but then Michael Bloomberg spent $100 million dollars of his own money to become mayor of New York – another record breaker – only to reduce his salary to $1.00 per year, or just $.93 per year after taxes.
More money has been raised already at this point than in all the other races from 1976 to 2004. In 2004, the total price tag came to $880.5 million raised and $717.9 million spent. Last year, the presidential candidates for 2008 raised $582.5 million and spent $481.2 million. The billion dollar game is afoot.
I can’t say I’m a fan of multi-million dollar fundraising and campaigns. In fact, I think it’s downright gross that so much is wasted, I mean spent, flooding all mediums, including lamp posts, front yards and car bumpers, with in your face, Orwellian sloganing (wasn’t GW’s proposed national slogan “Ignorance is Strength,”) and propagandizing, not to mention outright slandering and smearing (for the record, Obama is NOT a muslim and Hillary is NOT a lesbian -- and even if they were, that would hardly sway the liberal opinion).
Is no one else bothered that the only ones turning a profit in this otherwise decimated economy is the commercial and advertising industry?
I personally can think of a few better ways to spend a billion dollars. For one, I want to see more money spent on PAC retirement and healthcare funding so that all those underappreciated, overworked lobbyists, unlike those ungrateful VA patients, can feel secure in growing old. Or how about using some of that money conducting more research on the effect unemployment benefits and social services has on the poor in the hopes of one day finding a cure for disenfranchisement.
But I delude myself. Of course the costs of campaigns will keep going up. Buying one’s way into political office is as American as war, torture and foreclosures.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
How a McCain Candidacy Terrifies the Right, Thereby Appeasing the Left
Did I call it or did I call? Remember yesterday? My Prediction: WHO FRIGGIN' KNOWS? Results: WHO FRIGGIN' KNOWS? Yep, Super Tuesday has come and gone and the Dems are still without a front runner.
I also called it, sort of, for McCain, but not before spending at least two thankless and tiring hours reading and analyzing all 8,374 articles about McCain on CNN.com before coming to the profound, albeit grossly obvious conclusion that McCain is more likeable than Romney and Huckabee put together.
So where is all of the news in this? Simple. This isn’t news. Hillary and Barack will continue battling it out for a few more weeks while McCain spends that time pondering whether he wants Guiliani or Crist as a vice president.
I think the real news about McCain’s commanding lead is how fractured the conservatives are over his candidacy. Most Dems I know worry about McCain. Romney or Huckabee can be beat in November for the bargain price of less than $500 million. But if it’s McCain, then oh crap.
That’s where the neo-totalitarian rightwing demagogues (to borrow from an earlier post) come in handy. Quite simply, if McCain gets the official nod, then the ubercrazys of the right have assured us they will either stay away from the polls in the entirety or vote for the democratic candidate. Of course, no one really believes that Rush or Coulter are going to do the latter, but with their popularity waning, they’ve got to come up with some shtick to get attention.
Now don’t take my word for it. Let’s hear from, oh, I don’t know, maybe Mr. James Dobson, leader and head mouth frother of the incredibly discredited Focus on the Family:
“But what a sad and melancholy decision this is for me and many other conservatives. Should Sen. McCain capture the nomination as many assume, I believe this general election will offer the worst choices for president in my lifetime. I certainly can't vote for Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama based on their virulently anti-family policy positions. If these are the nominees in November, I simply will not cast a ballot for president for the first time in my life. "
And then there’s Rush, Coulter, Sean Hannity, Laura “There is no way in hell I could pull the lever for John McCain” Ingraham and Glenn Beck. All have railed against McCain, convinced in their own ego induced paranoia that McCain is a Republican traitor, a liberal mole, Al Gore in disguise (I wish!).
Of course, we know these folks have absolutely no creditability with us sensible folks on the left. But what is potentially assuring is that the herd mentality of the right will abide by the words of Herr Dobson and actually stay at home this November. However, what will most likely happen is, come sometime in June or July, these sorry folks will deny ever having said a bad word about McCain, will embrace him on their respective programs, and flower him with juicy love and god-like praise, knowing that most Americans suffer from short term memory and won’t remember the venom these folks spewed on McCain oh so few months previously.
For now it’s fun to watch. Let the Right beat each other up for a while. I take pleasure in knowing that most Democrats fully support either an Obama or Clinton ticket and aren't hitting the airwaves vowing to flee the party if one or the other gets the nod. This strength and unity has to be causing some blood vessels to burst over at Faux News.
I also called it, sort of, for McCain, but not before spending at least two thankless and tiring hours reading and analyzing all 8,374 articles about McCain on CNN.com before coming to the profound, albeit grossly obvious conclusion that McCain is more likeable than Romney and Huckabee put together.
So where is all of the news in this? Simple. This isn’t news. Hillary and Barack will continue battling it out for a few more weeks while McCain spends that time pondering whether he wants Guiliani or Crist as a vice president.
I think the real news about McCain’s commanding lead is how fractured the conservatives are over his candidacy. Most Dems I know worry about McCain. Romney or Huckabee can be beat in November for the bargain price of less than $500 million. But if it’s McCain, then oh crap.
That’s where the neo-totalitarian rightwing demagogues (to borrow from an earlier post) come in handy. Quite simply, if McCain gets the official nod, then the ubercrazys of the right have assured us they will either stay away from the polls in the entirety or vote for the democratic candidate. Of course, no one really believes that Rush or Coulter are going to do the latter, but with their popularity waning, they’ve got to come up with some shtick to get attention.
Now don’t take my word for it. Let’s hear from, oh, I don’t know, maybe Mr. James Dobson, leader and head mouth frother of the incredibly discredited Focus on the Family:
“But what a sad and melancholy decision this is for me and many other conservatives. Should Sen. McCain capture the nomination as many assume, I believe this general election will offer the worst choices for president in my lifetime. I certainly can't vote for Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama based on their virulently anti-family policy positions. If these are the nominees in November, I simply will not cast a ballot for president for the first time in my life. "
And then there’s Rush, Coulter, Sean Hannity, Laura “There is no way in hell I could pull the lever for John McCain” Ingraham and Glenn Beck. All have railed against McCain, convinced in their own ego induced paranoia that McCain is a Republican traitor, a liberal mole, Al Gore in disguise (I wish!).
Of course, we know these folks have absolutely no creditability with us sensible folks on the left. But what is potentially assuring is that the herd mentality of the right will abide by the words of Herr Dobson and actually stay at home this November. However, what will most likely happen is, come sometime in June or July, these sorry folks will deny ever having said a bad word about McCain, will embrace him on their respective programs, and flower him with juicy love and god-like praise, knowing that most Americans suffer from short term memory and won’t remember the venom these folks spewed on McCain oh so few months previously.
For now it’s fun to watch. Let the Right beat each other up for a while. I take pleasure in knowing that most Democrats fully support either an Obama or Clinton ticket and aren't hitting the airwaves vowing to flee the party if one or the other gets the nod. This strength and unity has to be causing some blood vessels to burst over at Faux News.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Predicting Super (Duper) Tuesday
In a word, or two, who friggin' knows?
Sure, McCain seems to have things locked up, much to the pathological chagrin of Rush, Coulter and the other neototalitarian rightwing demagogues.
But what about the Dems? Just about every pundit, blogger, journalist and even Punxsutawney Phil (who I think was filling in for Katie Couric the other night -- and doing a much better job) has commented on the push Obama has been making these past few days and how he has closed the commanding lead Hillary once held in just about every Super Tuesday state but Georgia. This race has become as close as Bush and cocaine at a Yale frat party.
So as we kick back today, waiting for the final poll numbers to trickle in, let's all bask in one thing: this time next year, George Bush will be nothing but a painful memory. The next president will inherit the economy in its poorest state in history. The budget deficit will be at an all time high. Stagflation. Oil prices. Unemployment. Who could have predicted this disaster? Maybe savoring the end of his reign isn't so peaceful afterall.
Sure, McCain seems to have things locked up, much to the pathological chagrin of Rush, Coulter and the other neototalitarian rightwing demagogues.
But what about the Dems? Just about every pundit, blogger, journalist and even Punxsutawney Phil (who I think was filling in for Katie Couric the other night -- and doing a much better job) has commented on the push Obama has been making these past few days and how he has closed the commanding lead Hillary once held in just about every Super Tuesday state but Georgia. This race has become as close as Bush and cocaine at a Yale frat party.
So as we kick back today, waiting for the final poll numbers to trickle in, let's all bask in one thing: this time next year, George Bush will be nothing but a painful memory. The next president will inherit the economy in its poorest state in history. The budget deficit will be at an all time high. Stagflation. Oil prices. Unemployment. Who could have predicted this disaster? Maybe savoring the end of his reign isn't so peaceful afterall.
Monday, February 4, 2008
Duval County Lawyers Donated More to Democratic Presidential Candidates than to the GOP Candidates in 2007
2007 was a banner year for political fundraising. Records were broken as millions of dollars poured in from all walks of life giving to every presidential candidate, even if that candidate had no business running in the first place (think Mike Gravel and Alan Keyes).
So it got me thinking. How did Duval County fair in this drive? And, more importantly, how did our local bar do when it came to giving? Words can't even begin to describe the joy of my discovery and the warmth I felt when I saw the numbers. First, and perhaps most shocking, is that The Duval Dems raised $470,522.00 to the GOPers $406,859.00 (note double * in paragraph below). Yes, folks, that's roughly $64,000.00 more going to the Democratic presidential candidates from this bastion of First Coast Conservatism.
So, that got me going. Now, what about my fellow bar members? Well, as you can expect, the list was full of the usual players. I actually formatted the entire list, including recipient and amount donated with the intention of posting it here. I couldn't do it. The list was way to long. If you ask nicely, I'll email it to you. Instead, I'm going to have to provide highlights, then refer you to The Huffington Post for more details. **Note that this list does not account for donations less than $200.00 (sorry Deb and Brian).
Yes, Wayne Hogan, Eddie Farah, Bill Harrell, Howard Coker, etc., were all on the list. That's to be expected. What made my liberal bleeding heart skip a beat were all of the other, what I would call varied, names I saw. James Waters gave $2,300.00 to Obama. Warren Anderson gave $350.00 to Edwards. William Kent gave $500.00 to Mike Gravel. Christine Clark gave $2,300.00 to Obama. Really, you should check out the list.
So, fine, now tell me that, duh, of course the entire plaintiff's bar is going to be giving to the Democrats. No, you're not going to find me complaining about that. But the last surprise I took from the list was how few Republican lawyer contributions there were. Yeah, Hans Tanzler gave to McCain. And there were a few other folks giving to Thompson (really?) and Romney, even Brownback. But the point is that the Republican bar gave, if at all, at such a lower count than the Democrats.
The Democrat lawyers contributed at a rate of about ten to one to their counterparts. That's huge. I can only hope that we keep up the pace in 2008, not just here in Duval County, but across the state and country.
So it got me thinking. How did Duval County fair in this drive? And, more importantly, how did our local bar do when it came to giving? Words can't even begin to describe the joy of my discovery and the warmth I felt when I saw the numbers. First, and perhaps most shocking, is that The Duval Dems raised $470,522.00 to the GOPers $406,859.00 (note double * in paragraph below). Yes, folks, that's roughly $64,000.00 more going to the Democratic presidential candidates from this bastion of First Coast Conservatism.
So, that got me going. Now, what about my fellow bar members? Well, as you can expect, the list was full of the usual players. I actually formatted the entire list, including recipient and amount donated with the intention of posting it here. I couldn't do it. The list was way to long. If you ask nicely, I'll email it to you. Instead, I'm going to have to provide highlights, then refer you to The Huffington Post for more details. **Note that this list does not account for donations less than $200.00 (sorry Deb and Brian).
Yes, Wayne Hogan, Eddie Farah, Bill Harrell, Howard Coker, etc., were all on the list. That's to be expected. What made my liberal bleeding heart skip a beat were all of the other, what I would call varied, names I saw. James Waters gave $2,300.00 to Obama. Warren Anderson gave $350.00 to Edwards. William Kent gave $500.00 to Mike Gravel. Christine Clark gave $2,300.00 to Obama. Really, you should check out the list.
So, fine, now tell me that, duh, of course the entire plaintiff's bar is going to be giving to the Democrats. No, you're not going to find me complaining about that. But the last surprise I took from the list was how few Republican lawyer contributions there were. Yeah, Hans Tanzler gave to McCain. And there were a few other folks giving to Thompson (really?) and Romney, even Brownback. But the point is that the Republican bar gave, if at all, at such a lower count than the Democrats.
The Democrat lawyers contributed at a rate of about ten to one to their counterparts. That's huge. I can only hope that we keep up the pace in 2008, not just here in Duval County, but across the state and country.
Arguing in front of the First DCA? Try arguing WITHIN the First DCA!
I love our judiciary. The County Court. Circuit Court. Courts of Appeal. And the Florida Supreme Court. It seems like everyone gets along like siblings. You know, the kind of siblings who no longer trust each other and who would just as rather set the sister’s room on fire than have to share it with her while all the Christmas guests are in town.
So too is the love amongst the judges at the First DCA. Just check out this article in the St. Pete Times. I especially like the part about how some of the judges competed to see who could get their very own gun permit first. Or how another judge was so proud of his libido that he had to share it with others on the Court’s staff.
Truly this is the Brady Bunch meets The Hatfields and McCoys meets Ally McBeal. Well, maybe not TV. I don’t think any writer could make this stuff up. But I’m sure a televised version of this drama would just by hysterical.
Don’t miss the touring First DCA as they bring their show to Florida Coastal, I think in March (I’ll have to check).
So too is the love amongst the judges at the First DCA. Just check out this article in the St. Pete Times. I especially like the part about how some of the judges competed to see who could get their very own gun permit first. Or how another judge was so proud of his libido that he had to share it with others on the Court’s staff.
Truly this is the Brady Bunch meets The Hatfields and McCoys meets Ally McBeal. Well, maybe not TV. I don’t think any writer could make this stuff up. But I’m sure a televised version of this drama would just by hysterical.
Don’t miss the touring First DCA as they bring their show to Florida Coastal, I think in March (I’ll have to check).
Let This Be The Year Of The Underdog
I love the underdog story. So let’s compare last night’s Super Bowl to, say, Barack Obama and his campaign for president.
Okay. The game was pretty dull when you get right down to it until the waning minutes of the fourth quarter. Despite the Giant’s brief three point lead, there was a continuing understanding that the Giants were eventually going to lose because, well, they were playing against the monster, the titan, the machine, the dynasty. And now we know what happened. Thirty seconds left and, bye-bye Brady.
Can Obama pull off the same stunning upset? He’s been at it for over a year now, stumbling a bit just like the Giants at the beginning of the season, hardly being taken seriously, much like poor Eli. It’s been a slow rise and no one gave his campaign a serious chance of survival. I sure didn’t. I couldn’t understand why this freshman senator with such Washington potential would throw away his political career running for an office he had no chance of winning (cough, Edwards, cough, cough).
Like the Giants, Obama faced (faces) an adversary who started her campaign at the very top, as the one to beat -- the one who couldn’t be beaten. Now, it’s the fourth quarter for Obama and, holy crap, he’s moving, running, gaining speed, on the verge of surpassing, and maybe even toppling, the leader. The polls cannot be clearer or the endorsers more confident (I can just hear the pillow talk last week in the California governor’s mansion – “Um, Arnie, I know you just endorsed McCain and all, but, well, I’m going to go on national TV and endorse Obama like my uncle and cousin did, if you don’t mind. Great. Sweet dreams.”)
Whether it’s the Edwards effect, or Bill’s missteps, the nation, generally, and the Super Tuesday voters, specifically, are giving Obama meteoric (yes I’ll use this word) momentum. Is it too little, too late? It wasn’t for Eli. He pulled the pass of his life (two passes, really) out of his rear and became a champion. I think, in the spirit of the underdog story, Obama has what it takes to manage the same victory.
Okay. The game was pretty dull when you get right down to it until the waning minutes of the fourth quarter. Despite the Giant’s brief three point lead, there was a continuing understanding that the Giants were eventually going to lose because, well, they were playing against the monster, the titan, the machine, the dynasty. And now we know what happened. Thirty seconds left and, bye-bye Brady.
Can Obama pull off the same stunning upset? He’s been at it for over a year now, stumbling a bit just like the Giants at the beginning of the season, hardly being taken seriously, much like poor Eli. It’s been a slow rise and no one gave his campaign a serious chance of survival. I sure didn’t. I couldn’t understand why this freshman senator with such Washington potential would throw away his political career running for an office he had no chance of winning (cough, Edwards, cough, cough).
Like the Giants, Obama faced (faces) an adversary who started her campaign at the very top, as the one to beat -- the one who couldn’t be beaten. Now, it’s the fourth quarter for Obama and, holy crap, he’s moving, running, gaining speed, on the verge of surpassing, and maybe even toppling, the leader. The polls cannot be clearer or the endorsers more confident (I can just hear the pillow talk last week in the California governor’s mansion – “Um, Arnie, I know you just endorsed McCain and all, but, well, I’m going to go on national TV and endorse Obama like my uncle and cousin did, if you don’t mind. Great. Sweet dreams.”)
Whether it’s the Edwards effect, or Bill’s missteps, the nation, generally, and the Super Tuesday voters, specifically, are giving Obama meteoric (yes I’ll use this word) momentum. Is it too little, too late? It wasn’t for Eli. He pulled the pass of his life (two passes, really) out of his rear and became a champion. I think, in the spirit of the underdog story, Obama has what it takes to manage the same victory.
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Laziness and Insensitivity at the Y
I think the sign says it all. Kid Zone Parking Only. That pretty much is clear. If you're not leaving your child at the Kid Zone while you work out, then these parking spaces ARE NOT FOR YOU! Yet, each time I go, I see a number of lazy, insensitive people parking there.
Now, let me get this straight. You're going to the gym, in this case it's the Riverside YMCA. You're going to get fit, to exercise, to tax your muscles and heart. Yet you're so lazy that you have to park as close to the front door as possible. Why not park in the handicap spot while you're at it. It's even closer.
I've caught a judge parking there in his whale of an SUV, clearly caring less about the environment than he does children. When I confronted him, he acted like I was being rude. So rude, in fact, that he had to rely on mild expletives to make his point. I had to remind him that not only is he a jerk for parking in the Kid Zone, but an even bigger jerk for swearing in front of my daughter.
Not two minutes after this confrontation, I saw another guy park in a clearly marked Kid Zone spot. When I confronted him, he hurredly said that he's a Y instructor and is late for a class. Great. Some kind of example.
Finally, and worn out for the morning, I saw another woman, a local attorney no less, park her brand new Audi A6 in a, you guessed, Kid Zone spot. She had the look of couldn't be bothered. Much like the same look I've seen her wear during a deposition. The sickening arrogance.
So this post is for all you lazy, insensitive idiots out there who put your own special needs in front of the safety of parents and the children they are taking to the Kid Zone. I'll be bringing my camera to the gym every time now and snap a photo, hopefully with you in it, to post here if I see you parking where YOU CLEARLY SHOULD NOT BE PARKING.
Friday, February 1, 2008
Sure, the Kennedy endorsement was cool, but an Edwards endorsement would be cooler
This is the Super Duper Tuesday polling information I was looking for last night right after the debate. I knew Daily Kos would come through for me if I just waited long enough.
Seems the Edwards factor is leaning in Barack's favor, although it still is a bit early to say since some of the below still account for Edwards.
Sure, Barack is polling behind Hillary in most states, but not as much as he has been over the past few months. There's still momentum. Should be an interesting weekend for candidates and pundits alike.
California (370 delegates)
Rasmussen 1/31
Hillary Clinton 43%
Barack Obama 40%
John Edwards 9%
Connecticut (60 delegates)
Rasmussen 1/28
Hillary Clinton 40%
Barack Obama 40%
John Edwards 11%
Georgia (103 delegates)
Public Policy Polling 1/30
Barack Obama 51%
Hillary Clinton 41%
Massachusetts (121 delegates)
Rasmussen 1/28
Hillary Clinton 43%
Barack Obama 37%
John Edwards 11%
New Jersey (127 delegates)
Rasmussen 1/31
Hillary Clinton 49%
Barack Obama 37%
New York (281 delegates)
Public Policy Polling 1/30
Hillary Clinton 45%
Barack Obama 33%
John Edwards 10%
Tennesee(85 delegates)
Public Policy Polling 1/30
Hillary Clinton 43%
Barack Obama 32%
John Edwards 16%
Seems the Edwards factor is leaning in Barack's favor, although it still is a bit early to say since some of the below still account for Edwards.
Sure, Barack is polling behind Hillary in most states, but not as much as he has been over the past few months. There's still momentum. Should be an interesting weekend for candidates and pundits alike.
California (370 delegates)
Rasmussen 1/31
Hillary Clinton 43%
Barack Obama 40%
John Edwards 9%
Connecticut (60 delegates)
Rasmussen 1/28
Hillary Clinton 40%
Barack Obama 40%
John Edwards 11%
Georgia (103 delegates)
Public Policy Polling 1/30
Barack Obama 51%
Hillary Clinton 41%
Massachusetts (121 delegates)
Rasmussen 1/28
Hillary Clinton 43%
Barack Obama 37%
John Edwards 11%
New Jersey (127 delegates)
Rasmussen 1/31
Hillary Clinton 49%
Barack Obama 37%
New York (281 delegates)
Public Policy Polling 1/30
Hillary Clinton 45%
Barack Obama 33%
John Edwards 10%
Tennesee(85 delegates)
Public Policy Polling 1/30
Hillary Clinton 43%
Barack Obama 32%
John Edwards 16%
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