Our Visit with Amy

Another fantastic evening of Drinking Liberally. I arrived a bit after 7:00, knowing that the guest of the evening wouldn't be there till later. When REW disappeared just before the scheduled arrival of 7:45 I suspected that she had 'gotten the call'. A few moment later REW returned with Amy at her side, along with two members of Amy's campaign staff.

I have already endorsed Amy, so I observed from the periphery to witness how Amy would choose to engage the attendees. She clearly showed her desire to mingle with us and began at one end of the table introducing herself to each and every person there. She definitely has a handle on the blogoshpere, as she was eager to finally meet Wege, even-though she was aware of where his current support was. My turn was towards the end, and I was glad to find out that Amy really likes 'Centrisity' (I wonder why *grin*). We visited briefly and talked a bit about my mother, who has worked on many of Amy's campaigns (Mom, Amy says Hi *waving*)

At this point, our NEXT US Senator found a comfortable spot in the middle of the group and shared with us her views, her vision, and her passion for the people of Minnesota. She mixed in personal reflection intermixed with snippets from her stump speech. There were no surprises on her comments. She systematically dismantled the Right wing propaganda, yet in a respectful way. There is no need to sling mud at this point. Amy has a lot to offer the state of Minnesota as our next Senator. Only those candidates who have nothing to run on have to resort to slime and smear, with a dose of deception to try to steal this seat.

I had only one question to ask our guest. I was not going to take up her time knowing there were others that either supported the endorsement of Dr. Bell, or were still undecided in this race. But I did want to know where Amy stood on the Feingold censure resolution. I explained to her that I supported the censure of President Clinton, and that I currently support Feingold's resolution as well. Amy was clear in her response. She would NOT support the Feingold resolution at this time. She does believe there needs to be an investigation, and would consider whatever consequences the investigation would recommend, but at this time, which was my question, she said she would vote 'NO'.

Amy took the time to visit with everyone, to make sure their questions were answered to their satisfaction. We may not have always gotten the answer we wanted to hear, but this 'tiger from the range' took a firm and convincing stand on every issue that was thrown her way. Do not believe the men behind the curtain, when they spread their 'memes of misinformation'.

Amy Klobuchar is one of the BEST things that will happen to Minnesota as we begin to take back this country. It's time we elect representation that adequately and accurately represents the constituency they serve, not the corporate interests of a select few.

I am proud to support the candidacy of Amy Klobuchar for US Senate, and last night, she only made it more clear why!!

Flash

Doug at MOBange has a fair and respectful liveblog of the event.

AK at DL

I'll be venturing to the 331 club this evening to visit with our next US Senator. I'll also be sure to wish REW a happy 29th. I think she is actually 29, not a Jack Benny 29.

Flash

AI Top 11

Those who loved the 50's would have loved Tuesday's show. For me, it was too much Barry Manilow and not enought energy. We fell asleep half way through the show (literally) and I viewed the second half this morning. I thought the show was bland and that there wasn't any stellar performances.

In order of my performance preference:

A = Katharine; Best performance of the evening, but no ++, just an A for quality and consistency. She'll be tough to beat, but America will probably be looking for something other then a clone of a former Idol (ie Clarkson)

A- = Taylor; What a performer. the song was not for me, but Taylor has a way of projecting his professionalism and talent that just separates him from most of the other contestants. It will be a travesty if he is not in the thick of things 6 weeks from now.

A-- = Chris; The only thing that kept him from being my #1 this week was the vocal performance itself. He took this song and totally changed it, which kind of distracted me. I think maybe he went a bit too far with it. The second half, and the ending specifically is what saved it for him.

B+ = Paris; Great job! Vocally struggled at beginning but really built up the energy throughout with a Fantastic finish. Her performance immaturity showed a bit which kept her out of the A area for me.

B = Mandesa; When you are a front runner, and have nailed the last couple weeks you make yourself vulnerable by projecting high expectations. Her performance tonight was simply not up to the standard she set for herself. She has an opportunity to be the Next Idol since she is unique and incomparable to past winners, but she can't start coasting now. Tonight performance was a safe one, but not eye opening.

B- = Elliott; Inconsistent vocal throughout, Not sure what the Judges were listening for unless they are trying to push him into the later rounds through their words. Elliott has one of the best voices in the competition, but tonight he showed what happens if he doesn't control it. Maybe it was just the song choice.

B-- = Kellie; Kellie was good tonight, one of the better vocal performances on an off night. She really struggled with the key change though and I could see the horror in her eyes. She pulled it off with a powerful finish so those 70+ year old men out there will vote in flurries while wiping the drool from their chin.

C++ = Lisa; She should have taken Barry's advice and taken the opening up and octave. The lowness of her voice at the beginning was difficult for her to control and may be enough to place her in the bottom three tonight.

C+ = Ace; another rough night for Ace. One of the poorest vocal performances of the evening with limited control. I;d be surprised if he is NOT in the bottom three. Looks can only carry you so far in this gig.

C = Kevin; What a nice job. Ya know, this kid isn't bad, he is just not able to make the transition into Idol or Superstar that some of the upper tier folks have been able to do. Kevin is way out of his league. Fortunately for him, the votefortheworst cronies will keep him in the game a bit longer, so there is a chance he can make the run. But I think it is too late. If he doesn't leave tonight, he'll be gone in t he next couple weeks.

D = Bucky; Oh Boy, stick a fork in him. Made me wish melissa was still here. Bucky's ride should be over tonight. He just doesn't have the ability that Chris has of being able to take any song and form it around his own style. Buck looked uncomfortable, unsure, and out of place. I think we might just be waving good bye to him this week.

Bottom Three tonight: Bucky, Ace, and should be Kevin, but probably Lisa
Going Home: No Brainer, Bucky, but the Voters decide, not me.

Third of Forth

Anyone else notice how most of the media acknowledged the 3rd anniversary of Iraq War II. It wasn't the Third Anniversary, it was the beginning of the fourth year. I always use that to taunt those who have a birthday. Like explaining to my brother this AM that he isn't 43, but beginning his 44th year. I didn't think the media would take a page out of that handbook. I'm not one to tout media bias, as it exists on both ends of the political spectrum. But this one was pretty conspicuous to me.

As for the war. let me remind you. I have been in favor of liberating Iraq since our first excursion into the country. I understand why President PaPa Bush held off, but hind sight tells me we should have just finished the job while we were there. I dismissed most of the current President's justifications, with WMD's being the most visible and primary reason. Some have made up other excuses, but anyone who looks at the build up with some level of objectivity knows it was all about WMDs. SoDamn was bad, he needed to be dealt with. If this President would have parked his arrogance at the door, and talked to the American people sincerely and honestly, he would have found much more long term support, instead of the dwindling acceptance of this fiasco we have now.

Honesty is the best policy, especially if you are the leader of the free world.

But that's just me!

Flash

Kansas Krumbles, AGAIN!

Once again Kansas busts my bracket. At least I was smart enough to have them losing the title, but I did have them running all the way to the Semis.

I have a small lead in this years' KAR's BasketBlogging event. However, even though I had fewer wrong in the first round, I had key misses that effect my S16, E8, and like I mentioned above, the Final 4 and Semis. Next year, I'll just have Kurly do my picks.Flash

Sabo Retirement?

Listening to 'The Neighbor' on my way home I heard a somewhat surprising announcement. They stated that Congressman Martin Sabo would be making a major announcement early next week. The speculation is he may not run for re-election. I scoured the news wires and local blogoshpere and didn't see any other mention of this. Not even on 'CCOs own website.

Maybe I misheard them . . . or maybe not.

Flash

UPDATE: STRIB just posted confirmation!

Dancing Fool!

"hear that beat; I jump outa my seat, But I can't compete, 'cause I'm a Dancin' Fool"

Ah yes, one of my favorite Zappa tunes. After the first day of dancing I have survived the bracket busters. I am still not as confident about my board as I was last year, when I had a pretty good run. This years' picks were done late Wednesday night in a sleep induced stupor. I am hoping my gut and my brain stem will carry my through.

I did call a couple of the upsets yesterday. Montana (12) over Nevada (5) and Alabama (10) over Marquette (7), Over all I was 13 for 16 after the first day. No too Bad. Maybe I CAN compete, but I'm still a 'Dancing Fool'!

My final four has Kansas beating Duke in the one Semi, with Ohio State defeating Tennessee in the other. Ohio State will then finish of Kansas for the championship.

You heard it here first . . . . or as the song says:

I may be totally wrong, but I'm a
I may be totally wrong, but I'm a
I may be totally wrong, but I'm a
FOOL-uh!

On the other hand, the Learned one is hurtin' early.

Here is my complete bracket (click to enlarge):
Flash

UPDATE: Brackets are busting today. 3 seed Iowa downed by lowly #14 Northwestern St. 64-63. Ohio State avoids embarrasement by squeaking by Davidson. I hope this evenings games are as engaging.

What I've Been Trying to Say

In my conversation with Dr. Bell, I respectfully requested that we all keep our 'eye on the prize'. We need to ensure the US Senate seat is in the hands of a competent and qualified individual, rather then giving it up to a pawn of political ideology who can't think any further then the latest Rovian memo received.

I stumbled across this post at MN Campaign Report. The comment posted mirrors what I feel we need to do to restore decency and common sense to our state:

In this game, you have to know that one year you're working against someone who may be working above/beneath/or with you in the next election. It does no good to eat your own and burn bridges for a short term gain. You make your case for your campaign, then if it works out, you reach out to the others, if it doesn't, you call them up to ask how you can be helpful in taking down the Republicans. That is the end game- a DFLer in office.

Keep our eye on the prize. The Right has no problem making stuff up, let's not give them the opportunity to use our own words against us.

Flash

I Met Ford Bell

It was a great evening of Drinking Liberally, last night. I arrived a bit late, but Dr. Bell was still mingling with other DLers and had not yet begun what turned out to be a very productive and positive exchange with the group.

Dr. Bell had no problem taking a seat at the head of the table and engaging anyone who had questions for him, regardless of whether they agreed with his position or not. I found him respectful, professional, and most importantly, very Senatorial. I was honest with him in that I have already thrown my support behind Amy, but did make it clear that I honor and admire his candidacy.

I would have no problem supporting him should he get the nomination. He does meet the first and most important criteria of all. He is not Mark 'The Puppet' Kennedy and can think for himself. We won't have to worry about him being a marionette of the Bush Administration.

Flash

Bell at DL this evening

I plan on attending the Drinking Liberally event this evening.

Ford Bell is scheduled to mingle with the crew. I promise to be gentle.

Flash

AI Top 12 Quickie post

In a just world, Kellie would be gone tonight. But little Miss phoney will sail through to torture us for another week. She was cute at first, but now isn't even in the same league with Melissa, let alone any of the others.

Ranked based on this evenings performance. At some point I will do a power ranking based on my prediction of order of finish, not my personal preferences.

1 Chris
2 Taylor
3 Elliot
4 Katharine
5 Paris
6 Mandesa
7 Bucky
8 Ace
9 Lisa
10 Melissa
11 Kevin
12 Kellie

==

Flash

Blustery

A few years ago I was out shoveling my driveway on a beautiful Winter morning after a fresh blanket settled on the Earth. I was preparing for my short walk to work, only to be flagged down by my neighbor, also a school employee 'They just cancelled school'.

"WHAT!!? . . for this?" Sure enough, a day off work and an opportunity for the boys to take a free day. Most of that snow was gone by noon, and Spring returned by the next day.

Today was different. 12 inches of snow on the ground, visibility down to maybe 15 feet or so. I was pretty convinced I wasn't going anywhere. This was not to be, The District decided to stay open so I sent my boys off to their busses and fought the traffic, that I could barely see, to my school. No more three block walk for me. When they closed my former school just down the road I was transferred across town.

I get to work and most all technology was down. Power outages in the area took out one of the main network hubs for the district. My wife's school is closed due to power outages and my lab is dead in the water without authentication services at the district's main technology hub. Needless to say, it was been a weird day with maybe just over a third of the students in the building.

I never thought I would say this, but, 'Thank God for AOL dial-up' *laughing*

More later when I have something quicker then a 26,400 bps dial-up connection!

Flash

UPDATE: Final count, 285 students out of about 730 total enrollment.

Good Times

I had a few people over tonight. A little mix of the Left and Right for a low key Drinking Moderately kickoff.

Attendees included my good friend Clive (the Doctor), Bogus Doug, Wege, MNObserver, Rew, Smartie, Tracy and Julie, Capt. Fishsticks, Mitch and neighbor Jerry.



I hit play on my VCR to watch Game 6 of the 1991 World Series. We awaited the infamous 3rd inning Puckett catch that robbed Gant of extra bases to toast in tribute to this fallen Icon of Minnesota Sports. Here's Mitch Craig, and Clive glued to the set (or is that Mitch's inner liberal drooling over the Carter/Monday poster *laughing*



Once the weather is more predictable, I'll have an open invite for all to enjoy bipartisan camaraderie on a Friday evening in the near future.

Flash

Spiraling

Just read it. Here is a tease:

More and more people, particularly Republicans, disapprove of President Bush's performance, question his character and no longer consider him a strong leader against terrorism, according to an AP-Ipsos poll documenting one of the bleakest points of his presidency.

Nearly four out of five Americans, including 70 percent of Republicans, believe civil war will break out in Iraq Â? the bloody hot spot upon which Bush has staked his presidency. Nearly 70 percent of people say the U.S. is on the wrong track, a 6-point jump since February.

AI - Guys Top 8

It's been a busy morning (actually the whole week has been bonkers for me), So here is a quickie review of last night's performances. Idols are ranked in my order of preference based on last evening's performance alone.

A+ Taylor; First WOW! Moment of the season

A Gedeon; Solid! Definitely in the upper tier

A- Chris; Weird song. Seemed off his game

B+ Bucky; Good, but dry. He is vulnerable

B+ Elliott; Way off his game. Simon was spot on in his comments here.

B+ Ace; I didn't like Ace, tonight.
==
C Will; Good solid performance from him, but not the showmanship of the
upper tier. I don't think it will be enough to save him.

C Kevin; I really like Kevin, But his version of Vincent was no Clay
Aiken. I don't think his cuteness will save him.

Top 6 Locks: Taylor, Gedeon, Chris, Elliot, Ace

Bubble: Bucky, Will

Gone: Kevin, sorry to say, and probably Will. Bucky is the dark horse.

Flash

AI - Gals Top 8

Pretty good night for the ladies, the following is in the order of how I thought they did this evening:

Mandisa was #1 again. After her first week fiasco, she has now put together two leading performances.

Katharine had a strong performance, but no WOW factor. Still in at the top of the ladies

Ayla chose a weird song for this week. She performed it well and should be safe on selection Thursday

Lisa continues to perform above well for her age. She complete the upper tier

Kellie had a GREAT performance this week with the exception of her pitch failing at the end of the song. Still not amongst the upper tier, but will make top 6 for her talent ability, not just her heart tugging likeability

Paris was not very good last night. Serious problems in the middle of her performance. Since Paris was first on, it was the only performance I looked at again to see if maybe my impression was due to her early on time. It wasn't. I think she'll be find going into Thursday, but she has shown she is vulnerable.

I really liked Melissa, but the 6 gals ahead of her are clearly better. Melissa was one of the few in the Top 24 who received hardly any, if any, TV time prior to the live performances. This will cost her in votes, and a slot in the top 6 gals

Kinnik is already on borrowed time. Her performance last night was good, but I don't see her able to survive the cut. The gals above have put a big spread on her.

Top 6 Women: Mandisa, Katharine, Ayla, Lisa, Kellie, Paris

Gone on Thursday: Melissa and Kinnik

What do you think?

Flash

Reality TV Magaizine's take.
Bogus Doug's review following his attendance at the GOP caucuses. That may have effected his ability to think objectively. You know how those Republican mind camps can be *laughing*

Straw Poll results

DFL.org has current results of the straw poll with 75% reporting:

Senate (22,821)

76.9 Amy Klobuchar
15.9 Ford Bell
7.2 Undecided/other

Governor (22,697)

38.3 Mike Hatch
22.7 Becky Lourey
22.4 Steve Kelley
9.8 Undecided/other
6.4 Kelly Doran
00.3 Ole Savior

Attorney General (20,729)

81.8 Matt Entenza
18.2 Undecided/other

Secretary of State (19,427)

40.9 Undecided/other
38.3 Mark Ritchie
15.4 Christian Sande
5.4 Dick Franson

State Auditor (19,157)

46.8 Rebecca Otto
41.1 Undecided/other
12.1 Reggie Edwards

Biggest surprise to me is Lourey's strong showing in the Governor's race followed by low undecided numbers in both of the contested races.

Amy's in Good shape right now. I hope that everyone in this race keeps their eye on the prize and does not do anything foolish in an attempt to garner what little undecided support remains.

The Governor's race will be a shoot out. For me it is between Kelley and Hatch and I will continue to watch their campaigns closely.

Flash

An Amy Endorsement

MNPublius offers their support to the next US Senator from Minnesota:

More than just a great candidate, however, we believe that Amy will be a great Senator once elected. We find her proposals for energy independence refreshing and enlightened, and, as members of a younger generation, we share her concern about our ever-increasing budget deficit. Finally, Klobuchar's candidacy is one of the few chances we have to elect a woman to the United States Senate this year. Not only that, but Minnesota has never elected a woman to this high office. MN Publius does not believe in endorsing candidates on the basis of their gender, but it is a nice bonus in this case.

Caucus tonight, and support your candidate of choice. Hopefully you agree with me and others that Amy is our best hope to promote Minnesota values in Washington.

Flash

Kirby's Gone

Kirby Puckett succumbed to the effects of a massive stroke, he was 45.

Puckett by the numbers:

In 12 seasons with the Twins he accumulated a

.318 BA
207 Home Runs
1085 RBIs
10 All Star Teams
6 Gold Gloves
5 200 hit seasons

He was rewarded with a 2001 1st ballot Hall Of Fame Induction.

Thanks for bringing it home, Puck! You will be missed!

Flash

Quicky bio from WiKi:

Kirby Puckett (March 14, 1960 – March 6, 2006) was an American center fielder in Major League Baseball who played his entire career with the Minnesota Twins from 1984 to 1995. Puckett led the Twins to World Series titles in 1987 and 1991. After being forced to retire at age 35 due to a loss of vision in one eye, he was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2001 in his first year of eligibility. He passed away at the age of 45 due to a massive stroke.

Date of birth March 14, 1960
Place of birth Chicago, Illinois
Date of death March 6, 2006
Position(s) Center fielder
College Triton College
Draft 1982 / Round 1
All Stars 10

Records
Statistics BaseballAlmanac
Statistics MLB.com

Mitch at his best!

In the Game of His Life

Kirby's hurting after suffering a stroke this AM. News is sketchy as to the severity, but it doesn't sound good. Gardy says what we are all thinking:

Said manager Ron Gardenhire: "Our hearts and our prayers are all with Puck. We know it's a tough situation out there."

We're pulling for ya Kirby.

Flash

In the Blog House

My first Blog House entry.

It's going to a tough session for the governor, who has yet to announce that he's open to another term. Noting how his numbers have fallen in the latest Rasmussen Poll, Flash at Centrisity (6) said Pawlenty "will be walking on egg shells this session. It will be interesting to see how much he moderates over the course of the next few months. It's clear that he has his work cut out for him if he hopes to keep his political ambitions alive through re-election."

I am now looking forward to the Drinking Liberally/Drinking Conservatively article that is in the works. A Strib reporter and cameraman visited the two events over the last couple weeks and is writing an article for an upcoming Sunday Signature edition. We'll see if my mug makes the cut.

Flash

tis the Season

Spring has sprung in the Midway, I tapped my first keg of the season. Now it's time to check the schedule and see when I can have the first 'Drinking Moderately' gathering.

Neighbor Jerry and I enjoyed the crisp evening as we broke in the garage for the season. It's going to be another great year!

Flash

Performance Pay for Legislators

HF 2966:

Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, members of the legislature may not receive salary or per diem living expenses after May in an odd-numbered year until the legislature has passed and presented to the governor all of the bills designated as major appropriation and revenue bills by law, or by rules of both the house of representatives and the senate.

How could anyone vote against this. My only amendment would be to strike the back door clause:

This section does not apply to a member of the legislature who files a signed statement with the presiding officer of the body in which the member serves, stating that the member wishes to receive salary and per diem notwithstanding the fact that the legislature has not passed all of the major appropriation and revenue bills. This statement must read as follows:
"I request continuation of my legislative salary and per diem living expenses beyond the May adjournment of the legislative session. I understand that the health and welfare of Minnesota citizens may be imperiled as a result of the failure of the legislature to pass all of the bills designated as major appropriation and revenue bills. I further understand that failure of the legislature to pass all of the bills designated as major appropriation and revenue bills may result in the shutdown of critical government services and lost wages for public servants affected by a shutdown.

The sentiment of this legislation is lost in the opportunity for legislators to simply sign a document buried in bureaucracy.

Let's just keep it simple. If you don't get your job done, you don't get paid!

Flash

AI - Guys Top 10

A = Elliott - Best performance of the evening. Great voice, solid pitch
A = Chris - Nice way to finish the show. One of the strongest in the competition.
A- = Taylor - Little Flat tonight. His style is vulnerable to songs like this. Still one of the best, though
A- = Gedeon - Slow start but powerful finish. First sign of nerves from him. If he can settle down he will be around for the alter rounds
B+ = Ace - Off his game, but still Top 6 material

--Significant separation here --

C+ = Bucky - Nice job, but nothing special. Not part of the elite tonight
C = Will - Better then least week but is vulnerable do to Kevin's like-ability factor
C = David - Not spectacular. He was in his safe zone and still couldn't sell it
C = Kevin - Flat, off tonight. Will his cuteness carry him through to the Top 12
C- = Sway - He's gone. He had a chance to distance himself from last weeks falsetto fiasco and I don't think he did it. He should his weakness and I would be surprised if he makes it past tonight

= = = =

Current Top 6 prediction:
Locks: Taylor, Elliott, Ace, Chris
Almost: Gedeon, Bucky
Bubble: Will, David, Kevin

Gone tonight: Sway and either David or Will.

Great breakdowns on Reality TV Magazine.

Rassy's Governor Poll

The Governor continues to slip:

Pawlenty currently trails Attorney General Mike Hatch by five percentage points--45% to 40%. Last month, Pawlenty led Hatch 47% to 44%. Pawlenty is also now neck-and-neck with State Senator Steve Kelley, 42% to 42%. In our January poll, Pawlenty led Kelly 46% to 37%.

We saw similar movement from Rasmussen in the Senate Race, where the front runner added slight gains, and the other candidate made increases large enough to prove their viability.

Governor Pawlenty will be walking on egg shells this session. It will be interesting to see how much he moderates over the course of the next few months. It's clear that he has his work cut out for him if he hopes to keep his political ambitions alive through re-election.

Flash

Updated Truth

We had a great discussion on the Midwest Heroes ad in the thread below. One of the items in questions was the statement:

"American troops overwhelmingly support the mission President Bush has given us"

Keeping in mind the definition of overwhelm is:

Overwhelm=to cover over completely : SUBMERGE b : to overcome by superior force or numbers c : to overpower in thought or feeling

Now let's look at a recent Zogby poll of our military.

U.S. Troops in Iraq: 72% Say End War in 2006

* Le Moyne College/Zogby Poll shows just one in five troops want to heed Bush call to stay “as long as they are needed”
* While 58% say mission is clear, 42% say U.S. role is hazy
* Plurality believes Iraqi insurgents are mostly homegrown
* Almost 90% think war is retaliation for Saddam’s role in 9/11, most don’t blame Iraqi public for insurgent attacks
* Majority of troops oppose use of harsh prisoner interrogation
* Plurality of troops pleased with their armor and equipment

Rasmussen has the goods on the views of American Citizens as well:

Just 39% of Americans now believe the U.S. and its allies are winning the War on Terror. That's down from 42% earlier this month and from 44% in January. With just one exception, this is the lowest level of confidence ever measured by Rasmussen Reports.

Even more dramatic is the fact that 36% now believe the terrorists are winning. That's up five points over the past two weeks and up ten points since our January survey.

At some point, this administration will no longer be able to play the slight of hand spin game. Both the military and the populace are wising up to that strategy.

Flash

AI - Gals Top 10

Graded based on this evenings performance:

A = Mandisa was spot on tonight. Major improvement from last week.
A- = Ayla continued her powerful performances
A- = Katharine slipped a little from last week, but still up there
B = Lisa was a bit awkward at the start but finished strong
B = Paris was a bit out of character, but still nailed it
B- = Kellie was much better this week, but still lacking the talent of the upper tier
B- = Melissa was pretty good, but not Top 6 this week
C+ = Heather Plain, average, Not bad, just not Idol material
C = Kinnik No WOW at all. More karaoke
C- = Brenna simply stale. Definitely out of place in a vocal competition

Current Top 6 prediction:
Locks: Katherine, Lisa, Paris, Kellie
Almost: Mandisa, Ayla
Bubble: Melissa

Flash

Dems lead Kennedy

The GOPs favorite Right leaning pollster shows Kennedy behind against BOTH contenders for the nomination. It wasn't that long ago that Ford Bell was merely a footnote in this race. But a 7 point jump in the prior Rasmussen number crunching now puts him ahead of the sitting congressman.:

February 28, 2006--Since last month, support for Democrat Ford Bell has jumped 7 points in a match-up with Republican Mark Kennedy. He now leads Kennedy 43% to 40%. In the Rasmussen Reports January poll, Kennedy led Bell 41% to 36%.

Democrat Amy Klobuchar also gained ground, but only a couple points. She now leads Kennedy 45% to 42%. Last month the two were neck-and-neck (see crosstabs).

Klobuchar does a little better than Bell among unaffiliated voters and moderates.

There is still a lot of campaigning to do, but the optimistic Kennedy camp must be concerned if a former no name like Bell is now polling/pulling ahead.

Flash

bin Laden Elects Bush

No wonder the President isn't all that interested in capturing bin Laden, he was his #1 supporter in the last election:

Bush: Bin Laden helped me, book says

Flash

AI Week #1 - Timeshift version

Today begins week #2 of the elimination phase of Idol as they whittle the group of 24 to the top 12. The Olympics deterred me from watching live last week, so I TIVOd and watched the girls and guys back to back over the weekend. I scored each person on a 10 scale and used decimals to rank those within each number.

Here we go with last weeks take.

GUYS

9.90 Taylor - My favorite from the auditions
9.85 Gedeon - Cocky without the attitude. I like him
9.80 Ace
9.75 Chris
9.50 Elliot
9.20 David - needs to be himself and he'll be fine
= = = = = = = =
8.75 Bucky He's close but has something to prove to crack top 6
8.25 Kevin - Loveable, likable, but not in the same league as the others
8.125 Will
8.00 Bobby - I liked Bobby, another year he would be higher
7.50 Patrick - Sorry, Mom, Patrick was out of place
6.50 Sway - I didn't like the pitchy squeaky falsetto stuff

-------- --------- ----------

GALS

9.75 Katherine - Not who I would have thought would be sitting here
9.50 Paris - May not have the endurance for this competition
9.25 Lisa - Great voice
9.125 Ayala - Even tho a shaky performance, she is clearly one of the top vocalists
8.75 Kinnick
8.25 Kellie - Overhyped, sweet gal and all, but just not amongst the top.
8.00 Melissa
7.75 Mandisa - She is probably here cause of her early performnce slot
7.25 Heather
7.00 Beckie
6.0 Stevie - Wrong Competition for her, very talented
5.75 Brenna - Annoying, can't wait till she's gone, and she isn't even very good

--

If I rank them all be score you get this:

9.90 Taylor
9.85 Gedeon
9.80 Ace
9.75 Katherine
9.75 Chris
9.50 Elliot
9.50 Paris
9.25 Lisa
9.20 David
9.125 Ayala
8.75 Kinnick
8.75 Bucky

8.25 Kellie
8.25 Kevin
8.125 Will
8.00 Bobby
8.00 Melissa
7.75 Mandisa
7.50 Patrick
7.25 Heather
7.00 Beckie
6.50 Sway
6.0 Stevie
5.75 Brenna

But since they are taking 6 and 6, Bucky gets bumped to make room for
Kellie Pickler.

Once I watched the performances, it was off to the reveal show. I was close in my rankings in that my 10 and 11 from each list were eliminated (Stevie and Beckie, Patrick and Bobby are no more)

More timely reviews now that the Olympics are over.

Flash

McCloud Makes Three

The 'it happens in threes' meme is complete. We have lost three great ones recently.

Don Knotts, Darren McGavin, and now Dennis Weaver.

Flash

Docking at Port Miers

OK, bare with me. Are these 'out of touch' decisions being made by the administration (think Harriet Miers and the UAE Port transfers) part of a meticulous plan by the Rovian machine to provide cover for GOP candidates in the mid terms. I mean, what have we been hearing most during the early stages of this elections cycle. The Left has shown their hand and will tie everything they can to the Administration, and the loyalty the Republican candidates have towards this President. It is clear that with President Bush's approvals still tanking in the mid/low 40s (43% as of yesterday), he will be no asset to a GOP candidate.

Will we see a few other controversial issues that on the surface will cause us pause in saying 'What the heck is he doing', only to see the GOP candidates criticize the administration and distance themselves from these decisions. They will build up a handful of issues that they can tout as a sign of independence, while they shake the 'lap dog' meme that the Dems will push all season.

The Right is very cunning, and the Left should realize that anything their opponents do is not a mistake, but a calculated plan to allow for their candidates to release themselves from the grip of a lame duck administration.

Think about that while you sip your morning caffeine.

Flash

Taking One For the Team

The Moderate Voice points out how the President is slipping again. They use the Right's favorite right of center pollster Rasmussen's numbers:

February 24, 2006--Just 17% of Americans believe Dubai Ports World should be allowed to purchase operating rights to several U.S. ports. A Rasmussen Reports survey found that 64% disagree and believe the sale should not be allowed (see crosstabs).

Just 39% of Americans know that the operating rights are currently owned by a foreign firm. Fifteen percent (15%) believe the operating rights are U.S. owned while 46% are not sure.

From a political perspective, President Bush's national security credentials have clearly been tarnished due to the outcry over this issue. For the first time ever, Americans have a slight preference for Democrats in Congress over the President on national security issues. Forty-three percent (43%) say they trust the Democrats more on this issue today while 41% prefer the President.

MV's Gandelman comments:

But this means GOPers will likely continue to keep a distance from the White House on this issue, unless polls show the public cooling down. The delay in the deal will give the company and White House more time to explain what the deal means and what security measures will be in place. At the same time, the deal likely means there could be some more unflattering news stories coming out about the deal, or how it was approved, etc. Both Congress and the press now have more time to scrutinize what it means.

The President's approval rating is also taking a hit. After knocking on, but failing to reach, the 50% mark just a few weeks ago, he is now back in the low 40s:

Forty-four percent (44%) of American adults approve of the way George W. Bush is performing his role as President. Fifty-four percent (54%) disapprove.

I don't suspect these numbers will rebound anytime soon. But don't count out the Rovian machines ability to deflect this setback with a plan of their own.

Flash

Pimping the Good News!

While Doug and I battle it out in a thread below, I hope he understands where my skepticism comes from. Let's look at this article I stumbled on.:

Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld said on Tuesday he was mistaken when he stated last week that the U.S. military had stopped paying Iraqi newspapers to publish pro-American articles.

Rumsfeld had said in a television interview on Friday that the U.S. military had ceased paying to place positive stories in Iraqi media after criticism in the U.S. Congress and press. Rumsfeld made similar comments the same day to the Council on Foreign Relations.

"I just misstated the facts," Rumsfeld told a Pentagon briefing on Tuesday.

So not only were we paying to have Pro American articles published, we were telling people we weren't. When caught, again, Rummy spins with "I just misstated the facts". Should we be shocked?! How many other facts has he misstated along the way.

Yet another of many examples of why one should pause anytime someone from within this administration opens their mouth, and that includes their surrogates like PfA.

Puppy Power

Meet Kurly:

He's a playful one:

Dear IRS:

From my Inbox:

Dear Internal Revenue Service:

Enclosed you will find my 2005 tax return showing that I owe $3,407.00 in taxes. Please note the attached article from the USA Today newspaper; dated 12 November, wherein you will see the Pentagon (Department of Defense) is paying $171.50 per hammer and NASA has paid $600.00 per toilet seat.

I am enclosing four (4) toilet seats (valued @ $2,400) and six (6) hammers valued @ $1,029), which I secured at Home Depot, bringing my total remittance to $3,429.00. Please apply the overpayment of $22.00 to the "Presidential Election Fund," as noted on my return. You can do this inexpensively by sending them one (1) 1.5" Phillips Head screw (see aforementioned article from USA Today newspaper detailing how H.U.D. pays $22.00 each for 1.5" Phillips Head Screws). One screw is enclosed for your convenience.

It has been a pleasure to pay my tax bill this year, and I look forward to paying it again next year.

Sincerely,

A Satisfied Taxpayer

The Step Parent Myth

My son is a Marine, my stepson for those who haven't been paying attention. I have never attempted to present my relationship with him as anything less then a shared responsibility. Anything other then that would be disingenuous. It would detract from others who have shared in his life up until now, including his other step dad and his birth father. Tom is fortunate enough to have three dads, and he loves them all equally.

The Right is all up in a fervor, because Nick Coleman had the gall to point out the true parentage of a fallen hero. But if step mom would have been honest about her relationship, there wouldn't have been anything to write about.

What IS interesting, is when you scroll around Freeper land and skim the comments about the rights of Step Parents to speak out. There are still those who are trying to perpetuate a long debunked rumor that Cindy Sheehan did not raise her son, Casey. Even a commenter at SitD mentions this:

Nick Coleman undermines his argument about an alleged "deception" by writing:"Folks who would do that kind of despicable thing are the folks who attacked Cindy Sheehan as a "tragedy pimp" and mocked her grief over the loss of her soldier son, Casey."

Should that be "her soldier STEP-son" or is that distinction only important when the (step-)parent supports the mission in Iraq.
Posted by Thorley Winston at February 20, 2006 12:05 PM
----
Surely you aren't accusing Nick Coleman of hypocrisy? He writes for a major newspaper, for gosh sakes.
Posted by Kermit at February 20, 2006 12:37 PM
----
I wasn’t commenting so much on hypocrisy as the apparent lack of fact-checking done for Nick Coleman’s columns particularly when it undermines a key part of his argument that this was somehow a “deception.”
Posted by Thorley Winston at February 20, 2006 01:09 PM

In fairness, there are those in Freeperville with enough intelligence to quell these onslaughts. But I found one comment most interesting:

I thought that was an urban legend from a change in guest anti-war mother on some talking head show. Sheehan bailed and the substitute turned out to be a phony.

22 posted on 02/03/2006 10:36:53 AM PST by RebelBanker

Who was the substitute the poster references. Wait for it . . . . . M.J. Kesterson.

I would never call Ms Kesterson a phony. She performed one of the most challenging tasks there is next to parenthood, and that is step parenthood. There are challenges very unique in rearing a child who is not of your blood, because they have no problem pointing it out when you are butting heads with them. I was merely pointing out the mind set of those on the Right, who continuously pick and choose what is right or wrong depending on the political breeze. I wonder if RebelBanker thinks Ms M. J. is a phony now.

Flash

Long Weekend

Nice long weekend. I was, however, distracted. We have a new addition to the family. A cockapoo puppy named 'Curly'. Needless to say, I played referee most of the weekend.

More later, and pictures of the pup tomorrow.

Flash

Anatomy of a Political Ad

An out of state political group puts together an Ad based on misleading representations.

The opposition gets into the mix to stop the ad from being aired.

The Echo Chamber starts pumping the meme, even using private E-Mails from private citizens (this has me so pissed off that I wrote my very first profanity ladened screed against the total lack of respect and decorum once again exhibited by MDE. Cool heads prevailed and I deleted it) sent to a private group leaked to them by internal informants.

The news media picks up on the confrontations and alerts the public to the ad, during the news cycle.

The ad maker now gets free air time and more exposure then their limited investment would have ever provided.

lather, rinse, repeat.

And if you still aren't convinced that this ad is nothing more then a bunch of misleading BS, then You are Dumb!

I've been a proponent of this war on terror since day one. It sickens me that the Right continues to use this War for pure political gain without any consideration for the sacrifices made by these brave soldiers. Ads like this, and the response that followed just proves to me that they think of these human beings as nothing more then pawns in their political game. I wish those in power would spend their energies securing Iraq, not letting it linger through another elections cycle so they can continue to promote fear! Soon this will hit even closer to home, once my son is deployed.

Flash

Is He or Isn't He?

Jeff questions the manliness of our Vice President:

'Twas the latest incident that really brought it home for me. Oh, the signs were there all along--he got five deferments during Vietnam, for God's sake, and while that's no sin if you're against the war, it's pretty shady if you're for it. (If I have to explain why, you're probably a pussy). Still, like many pussies, he covered himself in the vestments of manliness. He seems stoic to a fault, reticent even. He's allegedly loyal to his boss. Oh, he's able to snarl at an opponent now and then, but that's a typical manly fault.

But the shooting of Harry Whittington does more than tie Dick Cheney to historic pussy Aaron Burr. It throws into high relief the utter wimpiness of Cheney.

You really need to read the whole thing.

Flash

Blown Opportunities?

The withdrawal of Paul Hackett from the Ohio US Senate race has reminded me of my plea following Patty Wetterling's departure from the MN Senate race.

The Democratic party has a unique opportunity. If they remain aggresive, and stay united, the chances of re-taking the Senate and knocking on the door of the majority in the House is within grasp. But there are those under the big tent party that want it all. I do not want to imply we should ignore debate and not have spirited campaigning within the party. But if a candidate has become cream, and floated to the top, all should rally behind them. The party must not lose sight of the ultimate goal, which I would hope is returning to the majority. This can only be done by rallying around an electable, well financed, and strongly supported candidate

However emotions get involved, candidates feel slighted, supporters become disenfranchised, and the Right just cackles at their bumbling.

For the greatest enemy the Left has, is not the Right but it is those on the fringe of the Left itself. The 'pick up my toys and go home' mentality is what will prevent the Democratic Party from making far reaching gains in a political environment where the Right is prime for picking. If they blow this opportunity again. It may be a long time before a situation like this will present itself.

Keep the eye on the prize, folks. This may just be the last chance for quite sometime.

Flash

That Thing They Do!

Those without a sense of humor can move along, nothing to see here:

"The Late Show With David Letterman" (CBS)

"Good news ladies and gentleman, we have finally located weapons of mass destruction … It's Dick Cheney."
* * *

"We can't get Bin Laden, but we nailed a 78-year-old attorney."
* * *

"Honestly, I don't know what all of the fuss is about. What's more American than shooting your hunting buddy in the ass?"
* * *

"The guy who got gunned down is a Republican lawyer and a big Republican donor and fortunately the buck shot was deflected by wads of laundered cash. So he's fine. He took a little in the wallet."
* * *

From "Cheney's Excuses," Monday night's Top 10 list: "I thought the guy was trying to go gay cowboy on me."


"The Daily Show With Jon Stewart" (Comedy Central)

A partial transcript:

Jon Stewart: "Yes, as you've just heard, a near-tragedy over the weekend in south Texas. Vice President Dick Cheney accidentally shot a man during a quail hunt at a political supporter's ranch. Making 78-year-old Harry Whittington the first person shot by a sitting VP since Alexander Hamilton.

"Hamilton, of course, shot in a duel with Aaron Burr over issues of honor, integrity and political maneuvering. Whittington? Mistaken for a bird.
* * *

The other player in the drama? Ranch owner and eyewitness Katharine Armstrong.

Katharine Armstrong: "We were shooting a covey of quail. The vice president and two others got out of the car to walk up the covey."

Jon Stewart: "What kind of hunting story begins with getting out of your car? As I sighted the great beast before us, my shaking hands could barely engage the parking brake. Slowly, I turned off the A/C and silenced my sub-woofers…"
* * *

Katharine Armstrong: "A bird flushed. The vice president took aim at the bird and shot and unfortunately, Mr. Whittington was in the line of fire and got peppered pretty well."

Jon Stewart: "Peppered. There you have it. Harry Whittington, seasoned to within an inch of his life.
* * *

Jon Stewart: "I'm joined now by our own vice-presidential firearms mishap analyst, Rob Corddry. Rob, obviously a very unfortunate situation. How is the vice president handling it?

Rob Corddry: "Jon, tonight the vice president is standing by his decision to shoot Harry Wittington. According to the best intelligence available, there were quail hidden in the brush. Everyone believed at the time there were quail in the brush.

"And while the quail turned out to be a 78-year-old man, even knowing that today, Mr. Cheney insists he still would have shot Mr. Whittington in the face. He believes the world is a better place for his spreading buckshot throughout the entire region of Mr. Whittington's face."

Jon Stewart: "But why, Rob? If he had known Mr. Whittington was not a bird, why would he still have shot him?"

Rob Corddry: "Jon, in a post-9-11 world, the American people expect their leaders to be decisive. To not have shot his friend in the face would have sent a message to the quail that America is weak."

Jon Stewart: "That's horrible."

Rob Corddry: "Look, the mere fact that we're even talking about how the vice president drives up with his rich friends in cars to shoot farm-raised wingless quail-tards is letting the quail know 'how' we're hunting them. I'm sure right now those birds are laughing at us in that little 'covey' of theirs.

Jon Stewart: "I'm not sure birds can laugh, Rob."

Rob Corddry: "Well, whatever it is they do … coo .. they're cooing at us right now, Jon, because here we are talking openly about our plans to hunt them. Jig is up. Quails one, America zero.

Jon Stewart: "Okay, well, on a purely human level, is the vice president at least sorry?"

Rob Corddry: "Jon, what difference does it make? The bullets are already in this man's face. Let's move forward across party lines as a people … to get him some sort of mask."

"Jimmy Kimmel Live" (ABC)

Among the jokes in consideration for Monday's telecast:

"It's part of the president's new Social Security plan. Once you hit 78, kablamo."
* * *

"Luckily, the guy he shot was wearing the body armor that never got shipped to the troops."
* * *

"You know what they say, if Dick Cheney comes out of his hole and shoots an old man in the face, 6 more weeks of winter."

"The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" (NBC)

"Although it is beautiful here in California, the weather back East has been atrocious. There was so much snow in Washington, D.C. Dick Cheney accidentally shot a fat guy thinking it was a polar bear."
* * *

"When people found out he shot a lawyer his popularity is now at 92%"
* * *

"After he shot the guy, he screamed, 'Anyone else want to call domestic wire tapping illegal?' "
* * *

"Something I just found out today about the incident. Do you know that Dick Cheney tortured the guy for a half hour before he shot him?"
* * *

"Cheney's defense is that he was aiming at a quail when he shot the guy. Which means that Cheney now has the worst aim of anyone in the White House since Bill Clinton."

Spewing Coffee

Best Headline of the morning. Put your coffee down first.

"Cheney to Get Probed"

Flash

The 18 hour Gap

The late night comics will have a hey day with Cheney's hunting incident. Accidents happen, and while we would love to speculate how the Blogosphere, or even the main stream media, would have reacted if it were a high ranking Dem involved, especially Kerry, I'll leave that for their writers to sort out.

What is interesting to me, is 18 hours passed before news got out. In fact, there is speculation the Administration wanted no one to find out:

While E&P was first to raise questions about the delay Sunday afternoon, Frank James, reporter in the Chicago Tribune's Washington bureau, put his own spin on it later in the day, asking, "How is it that Vice President Cheney can shoot a man, albeit accidentally, on Saturday during a hunting trip and the American public not be informed of it until today?"

Indeed, others raised questions as well. "There was no immediate reason given as to why the incident wasn't reported until Sunday," the Dallas Morning News observed. "The sheriff's office in Kenedy County did not respond to phone calls Sunday."

The president, who was at the White House over the weekend, was informed about the incident in Texas after it happened Saturday by Chief of Staff Andrew Card and Deputy Chief of Staff Karl Rove and was updated on Sunday, press secretary Scott McClellan said.

But neither the White House nor the vice president's staff announced the shooting. The Washington Post reported late Sunday that Cheney's office did not make a public announcement.

Asked by The New York Times why it did not make the news known, Cheney spokeswoman McBride said, "We deferred to the Armstrongs regarding what had taken place at their ranch."

Armstrong said later, according to The Associated Press, that everyone at the ranch was so "focused" on Whittington's health Saturday that it wasn't until Sunday she called the Caller-Times to report the accident.

I know, picking nits, but if it wasn't for the pattern of deception by this administration, it wouldn't bother me at all!

Jeff has more.

Flash

Pickin' Cherries v2006

. . . or, Kennedy voted against it, before he voted for it!

Wednesday the 'Echo Chamber' got all up in a tizzy over a claim Amy Klobuchar made in a recent debate. It started with MDE posting a copy/paste of the Kennedy Kamp's version entitled:
"Amy Klobuchar's Truth Problem
Launches False Attack on Kennedy's Pro-Law Enforcement Record"
KvM picks up on it and calls Amy misleading. Mitch uses the L word.

But what is the truth, and what exactly did Amy say. Here is the disputed quote:

"Congressman Ramstad in two votes in the last two years tried to increase the COPS funding, and you didn't join the other Republicans that voted for that. You voted against the increase."

Bottom line, it's a true statement. I could have scoured the net to find the votes myself, but why bother. The Klobuchar campaign wouldn't throw out something like that without having their house in order. I E-Mailed them and asked. Here is what they shared:

Kennedy Opposed $100 Million Increase to Put More COPS On the Street. In 2005, Kennedy voted against an amendment to increase funding for the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program, which helps police departments hire extra police officers or pay for overtime to keep more officers on the streets, by $100 million. The amendment also would have increased local justice assistance grants by $100 million, to be offset by a $200 million cut in NASA funding. [HR 2862, Vote #244, 6/14/05] Note: Rep. Ramstad was one of the 21 Republicans who voted for this funding.

Kennedy Opposed $106.9 Million Increase in COPS Funding. In 2004, Kennedy opposed a $106.9 million increase for law enforcement grants under COPS program. The Bush administration wanted to cut spending on the program from the current $482 million to $97 million. The amendment to increase funding was rejected 206-212. [HR 4754, Vote #330, 7/7/04; CQ Vote Report; Houston Chronicle, 2/3/04; New York Times, 5/25/04] Note: Rep. Ramstad was one of the 74 Republicans who voted for this funding.

I can understand the confusion. Kennedy did jump on board when it became politically appropriate for him. One might think that once he recognized that his likely opponent was going to be a prosecutor, he decided to do a little flip-pity flop. You remember the line "I voted for it, after I voted against it" ([Vote #248, 6/14/05; Vote #247, 6/14/05])

Those on the Right have set the standard for cherry picking votes. If they also want to draw the line regarding the definition of deception they better be careful. Once they set that bar, they should look within their own ranks, and see how it applies.

Flash
UPDATE: MN Publius and NorthStar Politics also point this out.

The Devil Made Me Do It

A Peek at the Libby Defense:

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Vice President Cheney's former chief of staff, I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby, told a grand jury he was "authorized by his superiors" to disclose classified information from an intelligence report to reporters, according to the special prosecutor in the CIA leak case.

In a letter to Libby's lawyers, obtained by CNN, special prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald said it is his understanding that Libby testified he was "authorized to disclose information about the National Intelligence Estimate to the press by his superiors."

As the Vice President's Chief of Staff, wouldn't that make Cheney his superior?!?

The letter does not name who the superiors are. But the National Journal, which first reported on the Fitzgerald letter, named Vice President Dick Cheney and other White House officials as authorizing Libby to disclose the classified material.

(cue Arte Johnson)Interesting . . . verrrrry interesting!

Flash (who is really dating himself by starting with a Flip Wilson reference and ending with Laugh-In)

Ciresi Takes a Pass

The press will have to come up with another 'footnote' to future stories on the MN US Senate race. Ciresi has opted to save his money:

Minneapolis attorney Mike Ciresi will not seek a U.S. Senate seat this year, he said Wednesday.

Ciresi, who ran for Senate six years ago, was considered a potential Democratic candidate when incumbent U.S. Sen. Mark Dayton announced last year he would not run for re-election in 2006. Even Ciresi said he thought he would be a candidate but decided he would be more frustrated than effective in the current climate in Washington, D.C.

"I was very close to running. In fact, everything was in place to run," he said. But watching the Senate right now, including the confirmation hearings for Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito, made him decline a run. "You have to be true to yourself and say what type of person are you? By nature, history and inclination, I like to get things done."

So Ford Bell and Amy Klobuchar can breathe a sigh of relief.

What seemed ironic to me, however, is how this story seemed to slip past me. With every mention of the Senate race, was a blurb mentioning Ciresi's pending candidacy. But when he announced he wasn't going to run, the story was buried. Now, I was a pretty busy guy yesterday, and through the evening, but news like this would have caught my eye. No mention on either major newspapers Websites front page. Where did I first see it, MDE of course. I hate when that happens *laughing*.

The final Bench update is on the sidebar. Interesting to scroll through the complete list of names and see the pool of DFL candidates that were all mentioned at one time as being contenders. Now it is down to two.

Flash

Some Housekeeping

I have adjusted my sidebar to better reflect my almost daily reading list. I like to keep a nice range of Left, Right, and Center blogs in the mix. I have moved a few blogs off the list due to retirement or inactivity, and have added a few others that I have found myself visiting more frequently.

NEW ADDITIONS:
MN Campaign Report
Pawlenty Unplugged

ADJUSTMENTS
Power Liberal(s)
I had to add an 'S' since there are more then one of them.

Finally, I adjusted Minnesota to just MN, which moved Fecke to the top of the list. Although I consider Mitch at SitD my blog father, for turning me onto the blogosphere several years ago, the BotML is my Blog Godfather. It became the first daily read for me once I found another like minded blogger who shared my slightly left of center views, without the venom that can spill out of those sites that are further to the end of the political spectrum. And besides, he can write circles around me in his sleep, like this for example.

Flash

UPDATE: Thanks to R-Five for picking up the broken links. I have also added a 'Grip N Grin section for your socializing needs:

Grip N Grin
Gatheroo
St. Paul Issues Forum
Drinking Liberally(Wednesday)
Drinking Conservatively (Thursday)
Drinking Moderately (Friday)

The Dancing AG

Moses was all over the hearings yesterday, pointing out the deception dance that Alberto has gotten very good at:

1:20 p.m.

Senator John Cornyn: Asks Gonzales questions regarding FISA versus the Constitution. Gonzales dances perilously close to the "It depends on what the definition of 'is' is" answer. Cornyn asks about espionage laws and the leaking of the NSA wiretapping story to the New York Times. Gonzales says an investigation is under way. Cornyn wants to know if the New York Times has freedom of the press. Gonzales isn't going to answer.

Senator Richard Durbin: Cites Gonzales' statement of FISA as a "useful tool" and argues that it is a limitation on the president, which the president seems intent to ignore when inconvenient. Asks what other laws the administration might ignore. Durbin is trying to find out when the president decided to ignore FISA? Gonzales says the administration is not, but FISA can't interfere with the president's authority.

Durbin asks why the president didn't come to Congress to seek changes to FISA. He criticizes Gonzales' citing of the USSC Hamdi case as justification. They are arguing over the "exclusive means" in FISA and an escape clause in the criminal code that Gonzales says allows the president to bypass that law

I have been clear on this issue from the start. I have no problem with the President using any means necessary to protect this nation at a time of war, but I do have a problem with an administration that continues to lie and deceive the American people.

President Bush lied in Buffalo when he said he was getting warrants to wiretap.

"(A)ny time you hear the United States government talking about wiretap, it requires -- a wiretap requires a court order. Nothing has changed, by the way. When we're talking about chasing down terrorists, we're talking about getting a court order before we do so.

and AG in waiting Alberto lied in his confirmation hearing when he wouldn't answer a question that he deemed 'hypothetical' when it now turns out the question was spot on to an ongoing surveillance operation

Feingold asked Gonzales about:

where the president's authority ends and whether Gonzales believed the president could, for example, act in contravention of existing criminal laws and spy on U.S. citizens without a warrant.

Gonzales said that it was impossible to answer such a hypothetical question but that it was "not the policy or the agenda of this president" to authorize actions that conflict with existing law. He added that he would hope to alert Congress if the president ever chose to authorize warrantless surveillance, according to a transcript of the hearing.

So when was AG Gonzales going to alert Congress now that it is factual information that the President authorized Warrantless surveillance. I mean, Gonzales did say if the President 'EVER chose to authorize surveillance' he would alert congress. Anyone on Capitol Hill ever get that alert memo?!? I'm just saying!

Flash

Beer break

MNSpeak has a little blurb about a new brewery in town. Surly Brewing is shipping their first two beverage styles to fill a much needed niche in the local brewing game. I have been waiting for them to release their first brews since I found out about Surly. The Surly Brewer, Todd, spent over 10 years at my regular haunt as the Brewmeister at the Rock Bottom Brewery on Hennepin Avenue. Now that he is free to delve into his dream recipes without the constraints of corporate hovering over his head, Surly is surely to be a hit!

Here is their inaugural list of establishments:

We are finally selling beer! Our ales are available, so run out and put down your hard earned money and tell the bartender, "I wanna get Surly!" Where can you get your hands on some sweet Surly? Check out the places below. Be sure that they know you came to drink some of our beer.

Are you a bar/restaurant/liquor store that would like to carry our brew? Drop us an email or give us a call and we will talk.

Bars
Half Time Rec - St. Paul

Restaurants
Cafe Twenty Eight - Minneapolis
Solera Restaurant - Minneapolis
The Blue Nile - Minneapolis
Acadia Cafe - Minneapolis

Liquor Stores - That carry our kegs
THe Liquor Barrel - Golden Valley
Highway 55 and Winnetka Ave - 763.544.4441
7890 Highway 55 (Olson Memorial Highway)
Call them to be sure they have what you need.
They are carrying both our beers, Furious and Bender in 5 Gallon and 15.5 Gallon kegs.

Don't get just any beer, get Surly

Flash

The REAL Game.

Yes, the Super Bowl was on, and everybody watched it. But no matter what anyone tells you, it is the only event I am aware of where people run to the TV during the commercials, rather then take a potty break or get a refill.

So in case you missed 'em, they can all be found here.

Oh yeah, Steelers beat the Seahawks, 21 - 10.

Flash

Gather Up, Gatheroo

It may only be an Alpha launch, but Gatheroo is already making a hit.

Gatheroo, the brain child of New Patriot contributor Chris Dyklstra, is "a free, web-based group organizing and social networking service." From Chris:

"There is a need for free community organizing tools, which can be accomplished through a new model. Because of our expertise, we knew we could provide a valuable alternative to meeting site users that provides an unmatched experience," said Chris Dykstra, Warecorp partner and Gatheroo founder. "We are looking forward to being a strong player in CivicSpace partners network and to being one of the first to donate a portion of our profits to support the CivicSpace foundation."

The ALPHA launch site is here. I have set up a Drinking Moderately group which I will use to announce public Drinking Moderately events. If that isn't enough incentive, then I am sure you will find other groups of interest there. Remember, Gatheroo is NOT limited to political Meetups, but is available for use to all, free, for promoting any group based organization that needs an online outlet for announcements.

Gather up, at Gatheroo!

Flash

The Patty Payoff

I would have made a killing, but the odds would have been very short I am sure. Last April I stated this:

I would still put my money on a Klobuchar Senate, Wetterling 6th pairing. It is so early that I am hoping Wetterling is choosing not to hedge her situation to allow for a more robust fund raising effort and a focused campaign. But when all is said and done, I hope she reconsiders.

Today, all will be said and done, and the easiest prediction in politics will come to fruition.

Children's safety advocate Patty Wetterling will announce her candidacy for the DFL nomination for Congress from the Sixth Congressional District today, according to her new rival in that race, former Blaine Mayor Elwyn Tinklenberg.

Patty will take considerable lumps for her strategic decision to dismiss any chance of returning to the congressional race. One quote that will come back to haunt her (from April 2005):

Speaking to Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party elders at a Hemenway Forum luncheon in Oakdale , she said, "I'm not going to run for the 6th District. The numbers show me that ? I will not win."

However, as mentioned earlier, King ran this by some of his DFL contacts.

Theory goes: If she breaks the promise she will receive negative press, but it would fade rather quickly and not be a problem for her by the time the district convention arrives. Makes sense to me.

So the GOP will have a heyday for a short period, but the DFL's chances of retaking the 6th have significantly improved.

Flash

Flight 93

Thanks to the wonders of TIVO, I have 'Flight 93' in the buffer, so I haven't watched it yet. I am still torn between my wanting to see this docudrama interpretation of events, and the reality of knowing how it ends. I am sure it was rough on the families just knowing the broadcast was going to happen.

But for Cable network A & E, it was a hit:

"Flight 93," about the hijacking of the United Airlines plane and passengers' efforts to retake it, drew 5.9 million viewers when it premiered Monday, the cable channel said.

It was the most-watched A&E program since the channel launched in 1984.

So are any of my readers amongst the 5.9 million. I'd be curious to hear your take on the show.

Flash

Training Day

I was in training yesterday for an exciting new technology program that we will roll out at our school next week. It is an after school opportunity which I will be teaching. I'll probably share more about this fantastic opportunity since some of you out there, especially you Rabid Righties, don't think the public school system is doing enough for these inner city students.

Since I was occupied yesterday, I didn't have a chance to opine on the SOTU address. But then, even if I did have time, there wasn't much there. Kind of a yawner. Rah rah Troops, Social Security not passed, addicted to oil, warrantless surveillance must be done, yadda yadda.

So this morning Mitch rips Mayor Coleman for his initiative to reduce pollution emissions by 2012. Not much to rip there, a leadership stance on a timely issue. We could just do nothing, but that would give the likes of Shoot from the Hip Berg a real reason to complain. Besides, the President said we were 'addicted to oil'. Maybe the Mayor is doing his part to show his support for President Bush. Ya think . . come on, there is an outside chance.

Incoherent rambling over.

Flash

Alberto, define 'hypothetical'

Tom points us to this tidbit. See, During a Senate Judiciary hearing back in January 2005, Feingold asked Gonzales about:

where the president's authority ends and whether Gonzales believed the president could, for example, act in contravention of existing criminal laws and spy on U.S. citizens without a warrant.

We know that the warrantless surveillance was already taking place, and don't you think the Attorney General of the United States in waiting and at the time White House Counsel would have known about it at the time. Apparently not. Or so he claims.

Gonzales said that it was impossible to answer such a hypothetical question but that it was "not the policy or the agenda of this president" to authorize actions that conflict with existing law. He added that he would hope to alert Congress if the president ever chose to authorize warrantless surveillance, according to a transcript of the hearing.

Hmmm, hypothetical, but the President said: in December of 2005 that Gonzales authorized the action.

The activities I authorized are reviewed approximately every 45 days. Each review is based on a fresh intelligence assessment of terrorist threats to the continuity of our government and the threat of catastrophic damage to our homeland. During each assessment, previous activities under the authorization are reviewed. The review includes approval by our nation's top legal officials, including the Attorney General and the Counsel to the President. I have reauthorized this program more than 30 times since the September the 11th attacks, and I intend to do so for as long as our nation faces a continuing threat from al Qaeda and related groups.

As Tom said, the AG 'has some splainin' to do'

Flash

Old News

As mentioned last week, and now being reported by local media, Patty Wetterling has decided not to be Mike Hatch's running mate:

Wetterling was not available for comment Monday, but her campaign spokeswoman, Carol Butler, confirmed that the former U.S. Senate candidate had told Hatch she would not be his running mate.

"She is considering Congress," Butler said, and Wetterling will make an announcement about her political future soon.

The spokesman stopped short of commenting on her future plans other then to say:

But Wetterling is still considering running for Congress.

And just like the obligatory Ciresi quote at the end of every article on the senate race, this boiler plate line continues to be used regarding Patty's 6th district aspirations:

Elwyn Tinklenberg, former mayor of Blaine and former state transportation commissioner, is the only announced DFL candidate in the 6th District race. He has said Wetterling has assured him several times that she would not run for the seat again this year.

However, King at SCSU Scholars ran my comments by some of his DFL friends, and they pointed out:

I asked some DFL party people about this over the weekend and they confirmed it. They are using a "draft Patty" campaign including a rally here in St. Cloud yesterday afternoon. Theory goes: If she breaks the promise she will receive negative press, but it would fade rather quickly and not be a problem for her by the time the district convention arrives. Makes sense to me.

Timing is everything, so the inevitable announcement regarding her run in the 6th may be delayed.

Flash

UPDATE: WOW! A Gitmo deferral. Thanks guys!

It's Only a Game

Broken Nails provides us a release from the monotony that can be the annual State of the Union Address to be given by the President, tomorrow.

(T)his year, I've decided that my party needs me to foster an interest in the State of the Union amongst people ages 18-35 who feel otherwise disaffected by the Bush Administration. (In other words, everyone I know.)

Therefore, my downhearted liberal brethren and Conservative brothers-in-arms alike, I give you:

Click here for State of the Union POTUS Bingo (PDF)! the .doc version

Looks like fun, I think I'll play along!

Flash

Round 2 Begins

The beginning of the second semester is reminiscent of the beginning of the year. New classes, new schedules, new routes to figure out, and then some. Just as we were all, staff and students, getting comfortable in our routines, everything gets shuffled up.

At home it is a similar story, but all the cherubs are even, no late work or missing assignments, and another opportunity to show us that they have it all figured out.

Here's to a productive second half of the year. I know my day has been bonkers, I'll be curious to hear how my kids fared.

A great discussion evolved over the weekend in my comment threads below. Plenty of fodder for me to touch on as the week continues, but for now, back to the grind.

Flash

Dear Fringe of the Left

You MUST rally behind a candidate soon to assure victory. If you give up this senate seat to the GOP when they are as vulnerable as they are, you have only yourselves to blame.

I will not sit back and watch the likes of Liberal Loonies like Alice Hausmen splinter this party at a time when you can coalesce behind the most electable candidate and concentrate on the ultimate goal, defeating the Rovian Machine. You must put behind the pettiness that exisits in this big tent party and play for the middle. If you endorse a 'cut and run' candidate, like Ford Bell, you lose the middle, people like me. You MUST look at big picture here and what the ultimate goal is.

I believe Amy Klobuchar is our best bet at victory. People can say all they want about the great things Ford Bell can do, but there simply isn't enough time to sell that to those outside the metro, and THEY are the ones who decide elections.

The same thing will happen in the governor's race. The DFL is Peroting themselves and allowing 3rd party splinter candidates to grab the middle that the Left needs to win. Instead, the likes of a Peter Hutchinson now will run as an independent, siphoning off votes of whoever wins the bloodletting that is to be the DFL Primary. The Right will use all the attacks that we used against each other during the process, and Tim "tax them plenty" (but call it a fee) will win another term with a plurality of the vote.

If the Democrats of this state don't realize in an awful hurry that the ultimate goal must be to defeat the Rovian Right, instead of taking potshots at each other, another election cycle will pass with GOP dominance.

I will not sit back and let that happen. Too much is at stake!

Flash

Amy for Senate

I was going to let this process run it's course, but events over the past day have made the choice clear. I will be supporting the candidacy of Amy Klobuchar for the US Senate seat in Minnesota.

In other news, I will NEVER vote for Alice Hausman again, EVER, in anything, not even dog catcher!! More later . . .

Flash

UPDATE: I'm sneaking this in here just to see if anyone actually pays attention. Patty Wetterling has said no to Mike Hatch, and will be running in the 6th. Expect an official announcement early next week. I may expand on this later, or maybe not. But I will be at Rock Bottom Brewery for Happy Hour mulling over the tumult that is known as Minnesota politics with my good friend 'The Doctor'. Stop by if you're in the neighborhood.

Conspiracy Theory Ahead

DFLSenate posted on an interesting tidbit found at the NRSC website. When you went to the '2006 Races' page, there was a message that said:

No Information available at this time or there is no Republican challenger

(screenshot here). Since then, the page is updated, and now displays:

"Senate Race Update Coming Soon."

Now this doesn't really seem like much, but I do have a couple observations. First, mrw points out:

The NRSC used to have a page full of news clips from the race, but now there's nothing left.

Which tells me there WAS activity in that section, and for whatever reason, it was all pulled off. The other thought pounding in my head, is that if they took the time to change the site to say "Senate Race Update Coming Soon", they could have just as easily added the names of the announced candidates pursuing the GOP nomination and links to their websites. Kennedy has been their anointed candidate for sometime, wouldn't they want to get his name out there to the party faithful as quick and efficiently as possible to drum up contributions.

I am sure I am reading way too much into this, but it seems to me that either someone dropped the ball, or maybe, just maybe, there is some cold feet on the Right side of the aisle. Call it buyer's remorse after you've signed the contract, but before you even get a chance to take the ole jalopy out for a spin.

Kennedy does absolutely nothing for me as a moderate. Too bad Ramstad didn't throw his hat in the ring. That would've made an interesting race. Minnesota is still more Blue than Purple, without the middle, it will be kind of tough for a hand picked Roveian candidate to win. But as we saw a few years ago, not impossible.

Flash

Significant Legal and Practical Issues

Jeff points us to this discovery. Be sure to read his take, and the original screed he references. The meat:

In June, 2002, Republican Sen. Michael DeWine of Ohio introduced legislation (S. 2659) which would have eliminated the exact barrier to FISA which Gen. Hayden yesterday said is what necessitated the Administration bypassing FISA. Specifically, DeWine's legislation proposed:

to amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modify the standard of proof for issuance of orders regarding non-United States persons from probable cause to reasonable suspicion. . . .

In other words, DeWine's bill, had it become law, would have eliminated the "probable cause" barrier (at least for non-U.S. persons) which the Administration is now pointing to as the reason why it had to circumvent FISA.

WOW! Almost exactly what the Administration is making clear they should be able to do now. What's all the fuss, the GOP controlled Congress and White House will sail this baby through with a tip of the hat and the Our Gang 'Hi' Sign. But WAIT! Not so fast:

a Statement from James A. Baker, the Justice Department lawyer who oversees that DoJ's Office of Intelligence Policy and Review....[R]egarding DeWine's specific proposal to lower the evidentiary standard required for a FISA warrant, Baker said that:

The Department of Justice has been studying Sen. DeWine's proposed legislation. Because the proposed change raises both significant legal and practical issues, the Administration at this time is not prepared to support it.

With that statement, can we assume that the Administration's behavior regarding their use of surveillance outside of the FISA requirements "raises both significant legal and practical issues". I mean, they said it, so it must be so!!

Flash

St. Cloud Times on Wetterling

Reporter Dave Aeikens, of the St. Cloud Times, was able to get a peek into the mind set of former US Senate Candidate Patty Wetterling.

Here are the Cliff Notes:

On Lt Governor:

Patty Wetterling . . . said Monday she has met with Attorney General Mike Hatch about being his running mate in the 2006 governor's race.

On the 6th:

she also is getting pressure from people in the 6th Congressional District to take another run at what is now an open seat. Kennedy is running for the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate.

Elwyn Tinklenberg, a former mayor of Blaine and transportation commissioner, is the only declared Democrat. Tinklenberg, who opposes abortion rights, gay marriage and restrictions on guns, is more conservative than Wetterling.

Wetterling said she talked briefly with Tinklenberg on Saturday at a Democratic Party meeting and plans to meet with him again about the 6th District race.

and more:

"At this point, I am gathering information and taking a look at my life," Wetterling said.

She also would not rule out a run for Secretary of State against Republican Mary Kiffmeyer and said she has several offers for jobs in the private sector. She said she has not had a paycheck in 2½ years.

I am sure there isn't a Vegas line out there, but you would think the smart money is on Lt. Governor. We'll know sooner, rather then later. Just a hunch.

Flash

'West Wing' Cancelled

One of my favorite shows of all times will be leaving the air this Spring:

NBC's political drama "The West Wing," which briefly made bureaucrats hip and won four Emmy awards for best drama, will end this spring with the inauguration of a new fictional president.

NBC announced the series' conclusion after seven seasons on Sunday. In the end, it fell victim to television's democratic process: sinking ratings, particularly after this season's move to Sunday nights.

They do comment on the impact of the untimely passing of John Spencer, the Democratic Veep Candidate on the series:

The decision to cancel it was made before actor John Spencer, who played former presidential chief of staff Leo McGarry, died of a heart attack Dec. 16, said Kevin Reilly, NBC entertainment president.

Although "The West Wing" briefly considered calling it quits after Spencer's death, or remaking episodes featuring him that were filmed but not yet aired, Wells said the producers ultimately decided to use the late actor's work.

It will be an interesting ride to the end, but The End, is what it will be.

Flash

How To . .

get Minvolved!

You know how it is, ya take a day off work only to have twice as much to do when you get back. Makes ya wonder if the respite was worth it. So while I get these various issues moved off my plate, YOU need to check out how to get MINVOLVED in this years' election.

Flash

Hatch's Wink and a Nod

A reader sends in the following observation from the State Central Committee meeting:

when Mike got up to speak he started by telling us (paraphrased)

"When I proposed to my wife Patti, she told me she would think about it, It took her 5 years to finally say yes.."

Then he turned towards Patty Wetterling in the audience and said. something like.

"I am a very patient man Patty.."

That is the closest I have heard to anything resembling a Hatch/Wetterling ticket, but one never knows. I'd be curious if anyone else at the meeting may have caught this comment.

DFLSenate reports on Ford Bell's statement at the same meeting. I simply don't know why he thought those remarks added value to his candidacy. I know they have now made my decision much easier.

Flash