DFL Governor's Field Filling Up.

With Kelly Doran's switch to the governor's race, other hopefuls are starting to throw their hat in the ring.

Bud Philbrook is taking a shot:

Advocating for education, an improved economy and environmental protection, DFLer Bud Philbrook officially announced his bid for the governor's office Sunday afternoon.

Philbrook, 59, also criticized Republican Gov. Tim Pawlenty for failing to prioritize "core values" and for using disingenuous rhetoric harmful to political participation.

"I'm running because I am deeply concerned about where Minnesota is being taken, not where we are willingly going," Philbrook said at his campaign launch at a Maplewood park.

Philbrook served as a state legislator from Roseville 30 years ago.

Also, there is strong indications that State Senator Becky Lourey will make a run.

Throw in the almost certain bid of Attorney General Mike Hatch, with Steven Kelley's announcements last Spring, and we have a horse race. And don't think that this will be it. The field will get more crowded before the candidates start thinning out.

Flash

FootBlogging Week #3 (NFL Wk #4)

The only thing in my favor, as I sit 1-5 to Foot’s 5-1 is that it is early. Thank God we post simultaneously or all Foot would have to do is match my picks the rest of the year and win with his 4 ticks already on the board.

The King has picked three more killers, not so much in who is going to win, but the large point spreads. Blowouts are hard to come by in the NFL. It will be tough to pick any favorite and leave the points on the table, especially when it is a touchdown or more.

With that, here goes my attempt to make up some ground:

1. at (-5)

Sunday, 1 p.m. on CBS
New England is king of the NFL. Until someone can knock this giant off the hill, I will be hard pressed to bet against them, even with 5 points on the table. Take the Pats, leave the points. UPDATE: The Pats take a drubbing from the Bolts, 41 - 17. I don't think many people saw that coming.

2. at (-7.5)

Monday, 9 p.m. on ABC
Packers suck, plain and simple. But they aren’t a club that gives up very easy, especially with Favré at the helm. It takes an awfully bad team in this world of NFL parity to go 0 - 4, and even though the Pack will probably do just that, they won’t go down without a fight. The Panther’s are a suspect club simply because they are at 1-2 themselves. Both clubs are facing must win situations, and my gut says the Packers will come up short, but not shorter then 7. Pick the Pack, and take the points, all 7.5 of them! UPDATE: The Pack falls short, but well within the 7.5

3. (-7) at

Sunday, 1 p.m. on CBS
Seven Points! That magic number that any line better shudders at. Like I mentioned already, one must deliberate long and hard before leaving those kind of points on the table. But the Dolts (sic) are as solid of an NFL club as any out there, and have one of the best (if not THE best) coaching staffs in the league. I need to make up some ground, and that means taking risks. So I am picking the Colts and leaving the points, simply because i don’t think Freddie the 'Foot' has the guts to do it! UPDATE: The Colts offense finally lights up and easily covers the 7, 31 - 10. YEAH!! I got one right!

Now I am going to worship before the kegerator in preparation for this weekend’s tilts and hope I can make up a game or two.

Flash

UPDATE: Foot posts, and after picking opposite that last two weeks, this week's picks match. Looks like another week in the cellar. I'll catch him eventually!

Hoof 'N Mouth Disease

Bill, Bill, Bill *shaking head*:

"If you wanted to reduce crime, you could -- if that were your sole purpose -- you could abort every black baby in this country and your crime rate would go down.

In fairness, he did follow it up with a disclaimer:

"That would be an impossibly ridiculous and morally reprehensible thing to do, but your crime rate would go down," he said.

I see the Right wing fringe taking the same approach they did with Robertson's assassination gaff a few weeks ago. 'He shouldn't have said it, even though it's true'. Items like that come from the morally bankrupt. And the scary part is, they are the ones running the country.

Flash

Roberts Confirmed

Roberts is in:

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- John G. Roberts Jr. was sworn in Thursday as the 17th chief justice of the United States after winning Senate approval with a solid majority (78 - 22).

Roberts, 50, was given the oath of office by the senior associate justice, John Paul Stevens, at a ceremony in the White House's East Room.

I said my piece on Roberts not that long ago:

I'm not a big Roberts fan, but respect the right of the President to chose a nominee that best fits his ideology

But Mr Sponge at Clever Peasantry did a better job of echoing my position:

Ladies and gentlemen, Judge Roberts is undoubtedly a competent jurist. As liberal Democrats, we would like him to agree with us 110% of the time. However, until folks like us start winning presidential elections, we don't possess the luxury of getting all up in his face. In the meantime, all we can and should do is be on the look-out for incompetent nominees. Judge Roberts is not incompetent by any stretch of the imagination.

The Right has won the right to select jurists that mirror their ideology. If you don't like it, then bust your ass electing officials that will change the course. But left of Wellstone whiners spending their time crying about stolen elections and our of touch nominees are just spinning their wheels and being counter productive. Quit yer beefin' and get to work. You have an opportunity in a year to retake the Senate, and then you can have a say on who the President picks. Until then, shut yer yaps and get to work!

But that's just me!

Flash

Dominos?

Is the first domino falling.

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Rep. Tom DeLay said Wednesday he will step aside as House majority leader following his indictment by a Texas grand jury on conspiracy charges.

DeLay attorney Steve Brittain said DeLay was accused of a criminal conspiracy along with two associates, John Colyandro, former executive director of a Texas political action committee formed by DeLay, and Jim Ellis, who heads DeLay's national political committee.

I wonder how many more chips will fall in the process, be it related to DeLay's actions or other corruption within the administration.

Flash

I Knew It Wouldn't Last

The high road was a short one at that. The Bush administration is back to playing their favorite grade school game 'It's Not My Fault':

'Brownie' blames local officials

In testimony this AM, Brownie states:

. . . Mississippi and Alabama had evacuated properly, but said New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin and Louisiana Gov. Kathleen Babineaux Blanco were reluctant to order an evacuation.

"My mistake was in recognizing that for whatever reasons ... Mayor Nagin and Governor Blanco were reticent to order a mandatory evacuation," he said.

Objective members of the panel were not amused:

"I find it absolutely stunning that this hearing would start out with you, Mr. Brown, laying the blame for FEMA's failings at the feet of the governor of Louisiana and the mayor of New Orleans," Jefferson said.

"I think it's fair to say that perhaps mistakes (were) made all around, but I don't think the response of the federal government can be explained on the basis of, as you have said here, you could not persuade the governor and the mayor to sit down and coordinate a response."

Also, it is common knowledge that BEFORE Katrina hit:

Jefferson noted that the governor had requested a disaster declaration from the federal government three days before Hurricane Katrina made landfall, which was approved by President Bush two days before the storm hit.

I though President GDub had turned the corner on his pass the buck presidency, but it is still clear that he is presenting his minions to the public to try and spin his way out of this failure of leadership!

Flash

Would you believe ... ?

Don Adams, aka Maxwell Smart died today at the age of 82.

Flash

Sen. Bill 'Martha Stewart' Frist

Sen. Frist is in trouble. The big questions is, what did he know, and when did he know that which he isn't suppose to know.

Frist, R-Tennessee, received regular updates of transfers of assets to his blind trusts and sales of assets. He also was able to initiate a stock sale of a hospital chain founded by his family with perfect timing. Shortly after the sale this summer, the stock price dived.

OH, but that isn't what he has said in the past.

Another political problem for Frist: His own statements suggest he had no knowledge of his blind trust investments.

Asked in a television interview in January 2003 whether he should sell his HCA stock, responded, "Well, I think really for our viewers it should be understood that I put this into a blind trust. So as far as I know, I own no HCA stock"

Frist, referring to his trust and those of his family, also said in the interview, "I have no control. It is illegal right now for me to know what the composition of those trusts are. So I have no idea."

What's that, "It is illegal right now for me (Frist) to know what the composition of those trusts are.".

I have to think that the Senator would be awfully careful of these types of transactions, especially considering his Presidential aspirations. His spokesman confirms:

Frist spokesman Bob Stevenson said the senator received approval from the Senate Ethics Committee before he initiated the stock sale. All the information Frist received complied with federal law and Senate ethics rules, Stevenson added.

Considering how the justice department zeroed in on Martha Stewart and convicted her regardless of her ignorance of the transaction, what kind of pressure will they put on Frist. Frist may be in a similar situation, and a fading political future may become the least of his worries.

O'fer or the Big Goose Egg

My prognosticating prowess took a big credibility hit this weekend. I missed all three games giving Foot an early lead in out season long battle. I can't even blame it on the spreads, as I it wouldn't have mattered.

I am prepared to take my lumps this week, knowing that there are better days ahead, and much football to be played.

At least the Queenies figured out how to play football. Maybe as the Packers continue to fade, the OPG (Obnoxious Packer Guy) will be unable to assist Freddie the Foot in future picks. I could only hope!

Flash

UPDATE: The Foot sings his own praises:

Sung to the tune of Yesterday, by the Beatles:

Yesterday,
LaDanian took our breath away
And the Bears played like they were gay
Oh, and New England won yesterday

Suddenly,
The Flash found himself Oh-and-three
Now LearnedFoot looks quite mighty
My victory came suddenly

Click through to sing the rest! Oh it's going to be a loooong week!

FootBlogging Week#2 (NFL Week#3) - MY PICKS

The King has posted this week's tilts.

Be sure to click through and read his take on these gridiron match-ups.

My take:

1. New England @ Pittsburgh (-3).

Here we have a rematch of last year’s AFC Championship game which the Pats dominated. But this years Pat club is starting too look like the shadow of it’s former self. If Cowher was able to beat New England last year during the regular season, this years contest may even be a blowout. Well. maybe not a blowout, but anyone would be hard pressed to bet against the Steelers at home, even when playing the Patriots. Pittsburgh easily covers and takes the rematch!

2. NY Giants @ San Diego (-5.5).

I had to double check this one and am still confused why SD would be favored, let alone by almost a touchdown. This one seems like taking candy from a baby, but my sure things haven’t been panning out all that well lately (See Oakland game last week). I’d pick the Giants without the points, but as long as they are there, I’ll take ‘em.

3. Cincinnati (-3) @ Chicago.

Not many would have had the Bungles at 2-0 right now, but then not many would have predicted a complete collapse of the Queenies by week 2 either. But daBears defense has shown that they can be stingy when it comes to points, while the offense scored at will last weekend. I’m not ready to hop on the Carson Palmer bandwagon yet. Watch the Bears play with continued vigor as they continue to lead the NFC Norris division after this weekend games are complete. Take the points and Pick BEARS.

Foot's are here, and once again, we are on opposite ends, so I'll either makeup lost ground, or fall deeper in the hole. Let's hope for the former!

Flash

Jet Blue Analogy

Mitch tried to be cute today:

Yesterday, in an Alternate Universe

"Hello, this is your pilot, Kathleen Blanco."

"The nose wheel on our landing gear is jammed ninety degrees in the wrong direction."

"Each of you is now responsible for getting yourself safely to the ground. If it doesn't work...blame the Feds for not having a plan to get you out of a crippled airplane".

"So long, and thanks for flying Jet Blue"

Fecke couldn't let that pass, so offered this:

"Hello, this is your pilot, George W. Bush."

"The nose wheel on our landing gear is jammed ninety degrees in the wrong direction."

"I'll be getting around to taking a look at the problem sometime in the next four to six days. Hey, nobody could've predicted that there might be a problem with the landing gear, anyhow."

"At any rate, I'd like to thank the Senior Vice President in charge of Repairs, Michael Brown, for his fine work in preparing us. You're doing a heckuva job, Brownie."

"So long, and thanks for flying Jet Blue"

Two perceptions, one admittedly from an alternate universe, the other from the Reality based community. One based in fantasy, the other based on fact.

Flash

Bush is Kicking Ass . . . For Now!

I overheard a comment made yesterday regarding the latest storm heading towards the Gulf coast of Texas. ‘I suppose Bush is doing nothing again’. I quickly responded, ‘Actually, he is kicking ass right now’

See, the mark of a true leader is being able to recognize your mistakes, make the necessary adjustments, and guide your subordinates down a path of success. With Katrina, all levels of government were caught with their britches in a bunch. The Feds were ill prepared and had faulty plans, the state failed to communicate effectively their needs to the federal level. The local municipalities were too busy pointing fingers and dropped the ball on several occasions.

The President won’t let that happen again. He has acknowledged his mistakes, and has made adjustments to protect as many individuals as possible as Rite steamrolls it’s way through the Gulf. Over 300,00 troops are staged and poised at the ready (compared to 10,000 set for Katrina). An open line of communication exists at all levels of government so that response times will be minimal. The goal here is to protect lives, and preserve lifestyles. Politics seems removed from the formula as the hatches are battened down while Rita approaches.

Which makes me wonder why Bush hasn’t done this sooner on other issues. I have been a supporter of the Iraq war since the beginning, albeit not for the same reasons as this administration. SoDamn Who’s Insane was a bad guy and needed to be dealt with. He had multiple second chances and refused to conform to the expectations of the international community. We didn’t need to make up stories of WMD’s and mobile chemical factories which only rocked our credibility with our allies once the truth was discovered. Bush should have and could have sold this war based on the truth and the credible facts available.

As we approach the 2,000 death mark of American troops in this battle against extremism, I wonder why the President hasn’t taken the same approach as he has with the Hurricane double shot. At least as many mistakes have been made regarding the Iraq war as were made with Katrina. Why wouldn’t it be prudent to reevaluate the failures and trump up the successes as the administration reformulates and readjusts our strategy there.

With his approvals knocking on the 30’s, the President has an opportunity to prove to those of us in the center, and center left, that he is committed to what is best for the country, and not necessarily what is best for him and his ilk’s political future. I hope he realizes how eager the American people are to see a True leader, one that is determined to do their job, listen to everyone as the plan or plans pan out, and readjust as necessary. If he refuses, and falls back into the trap he set for himself, refusing to recognize mistakes and adjust accordingly, he will entrench himself as a lame duck who can’t get anything down, while the remaining leaders of his party battle for power and control, instead of battling for what is best for their constituencies.

But that’s just me!

Flash

Doran to run for Governor?!?

MDE had the scoop, the STRIB has the story.

WASHINGTON, D.C.-- Kelly Doran is dropping out of the Minnesota Senate race to run for governor, a high-ranking Democrat told the Associated Press on Tuesday.

Doran, a DFLer, planned a news conference in St. Paul today. The campaign would only say that he planned "an announcement regarding the future of his campaign for Minnesota." Spokeswoman Tonya Tennessen declined to comment Tuesday.

So that leaves Amy, Patty and Ford in the front row. The Bench has been updated.

Flash

Bloomberg Bails on Roberts

The Mayor of New York, in a tact only a spin doctor could love, bails on his party to play to the middle in an attempt to resurrect his fledgling re-election campaign:

Breaking with his party, Mayor Michael Bloomberg says he's against President Bush's pick for Chief Justice.

In a statement Friday, Bloomberg said he's unconvinced John Roberts accepts the Roe vs. Wade decision as settled law.

I'm not a big Roberts fan, but respect the right of the President to chose a nominee that best fits his ideology. Bloomberg knows this to, and deep down is as elated as the rest of the Right with this choice. But it would destroy what little hope is left in his campaign to speak his true mind.

Bloomberg is a political read shirt, phasers on stun.

Flash

FootBlogging Week #2 - My Picks (Updated 9/19/05)

OK, here goes. I’ve been pretty successful in the past, picking games outright, but I have never played the spreads before, so I may be at a disadvantage. But considering who my opponent is, all smack no tact Freddie the (Learned) Foot I don't see why I won't be able to hold my own. In fact, he just posted his take and we are on opposite ends of the spectrum. As it should be I guess, since now there will be no pushes and a clear winner for the week!

1. Kansas City (-1) @ Oakland

I can’t believe Kansas City is favored in this game. Randy Mawsome will light up the field on a suspect Chef (sic) secondary and come out blazing after his somewhat stealthy performance (at least for him) last week. Oakland big. UPDATE: Randy wasn't Mawsome. Foot wins the rubber game of Week two with a Chefs victory.

2. Miami @ NYJets (-6)

The Jets are a better team then Miami, but it didn’t look that way in their bumbling defeat last week. But a strong club like the Jets will recover from those mistakes and show the home town crowd they are capable of putting together a consistently executed game plan. The Fish are no slough team themselves, but I have a strong hunch that the Jets will keep them in check. Jets win, but fail to cover the 6 points. UPDATE: The Jets cover, and win by 10

3. Buffalo @ Tampa Bay (-2.5)

I was one of the few in week 1 that was prepared for a ViQueen defeat. Gruden is arguably one of the best coaches in the league, and a well coached team is hard to beat. Tampa Bay will win, and easily cover this week. UPDATE: As predicted, Tampa wins handily and covers the 2.5. TB 19 - BUF 3

==

The Flash!

Deal Breaker

When Randy Kelly backed President George Bush, he stated that he was fed up with the negativity and pointed out an 'I Hate Bush' bumper triggered the endorsement:

"The common good will be better served on the path we're on than with an abrupt change of direction, especially one paved in part with political hatred," he told the state in an announcement from his backyard. The mayor cited an "I Hate Bush" bumper sticker he'd recently seen as evidence of this political hatred.

Now we have this in this AM's STRIB:

That is only one sign that Republicans are aligning themselves with Kelly, a lifelong DFLer who broke from his party to endorse Bush in 2004. A political action committee called Campaign for St. Paul's Future was launched last month by Joe Weber, a well-known Republican activist in Minnesota and brother of former Republican U.S. Rep. Vin Weber.

The group has hired Michael Brodkorb, a former state Republican spokesman, and paid him $4,000 so far to do issues research, according to campaign documents filed this month. The group's first $5,000 donation came from a Kelly backer Bruce A. Larson, who contributed $500 to the mayor in January.

Coleman said Wednesday that Brodkorb and Weber are Kelly's Republican "surrogates and they're clearly gearing up to run a negative campaign" even though the mayor has pledged to stay positive.

Kelly disavowed any connection with the group Wednesday

Kelly went on to talk about how he has signed a 'clean campaign pledge' to contain himself from his surrogates.

Randy is conforming to a GOP Rovian campaign. It looks like he will try to stay high road, and let the surrogates do the dirty work. I am wise enough to know how this process works. If Kelly chooses to go negative, alla Rove, SmearBoaters, and wolves in the woods, my vote in November becomes a no brainer. Kelly has enough he can tout to prove his worthiness to continue as mayor, but if he chooses to go negative, or allow those around him to do the same, it tells me he isn't very sure of himself.

I so desperately want to vote FOR someone in November, and Kelly is making it more and more difficult each day, as he aligns himself with the far Right failures, and a machine whose only goal is winning, not necessarily what is best for the city.

Flash

FootBlogging Week #2

King has posted this weeks games. The theme for his choices, former Vikings:

1. Kansas City (-1) @ Oakland

2. Miami @ NYJets (-6)

3. Buffalo @ Tampa Bay (-2.5)

Interesting match-ups for the first sparring. Remember, we are picking against the spread, not just a winner.

I'll have my breakdowns on Friday.

Flash

I voted for Randy

It was hard, but Coleman hasn't sold me yet. I don't think I'll ever forgive Randy for the stunt he pulled during the Presidential election, but that wasn't enough to just arbitrarily write him off. Apparently, it was for many others. Kelly almost didn't make it past the Primary:

With 104 of 104 precincts reporting, Coleman had a nearly 2-to-1 lead in votes cast over incumbent Mayor Randy Kelly, despite a strong showing by Green Party contender Elizabeth Dickinson, who sought to succeed Coleman and narrowly missed getting into the general election in 2003.

Final results:

RESULTS: ST. PAUL MAYORAL PRIMARY

104 of 104 precincts reporting

13,041 - Chris Coleman
6,740 - Randy C. Kelly
4,905 - Elizabeth Dickinson
216 - Sharon Anderson
135 - Nick Tschida
59 - Bill Dahn
40 - Glen Mansfield
36 - Jacob Perasso
25,172 - TOTAL VOTES

The general election is a couple months away. Coleman still has some time to close the sale, but I WON'T vote for him just cause I'm pissed at Randy. He has to show me he is the best candidate to move St. Paul forward.

Scapegoat

Brown resigns.

It will take me awhile to get over the shock of a member of this administration accepting responsibility for their actions (or inaction in this case) Could this be the beginning of a honest and open Presidency. No, I didn't think so either. But stranger things have happened.

Flash

Remembering 9/11

My 9/11 Story

Flash

FootBlogging

The gauntlet has been tossed, and appropriately retrieved. Seems good ole LearnedFoot wants some more butt kicking.

Throughout the NFL season, the King will select 3 games for us to predict the outcome based on the point spreads. This is no wussy contest, spreads will matter, no gravy train parlay card here!

A running tally will be kept until the end of the year, where the loser will respectfully honor the victor with beverages of their choice.

GAME ON!

Flash

PS: I'll be heading to Racine in a bit, to say goodbye to a close friend. Blogging will resume Monday (What's that you say, the FEMA director has been recalled to Washington. Can you say 'Red Shirt!'!)

Predicting the Future

From the STRIB:

Brown's reward

President Bush's next photo op will be presenting FEMA Director Michael Brown with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Norma I. Naegele, Minnetonka.

Simply brilliant!

Flash

A Kiltie Tribute

JC has posted his review of the weekend.

The Legend that is Lothar - DCA 2005

It was nice to read that Lothar had me in his thoughts during that weekend.

By 11:45, the brave bus riding contingent was back on the bus heading to our rehearsal field. We arrived to find a field full of Govies. Since we like those guys, we let them have the field until 1:30 while we stretched and warmed up. Lothar, who had a joke for every occasion, said he wanted to rumble for the field.

"Just leave me Flash." he said. "He stole my gum on the Blue Star bus back in 1980",

and then he let out one of his famous high decibel belly laughs.

Services are Saturday morning in Racine. I'll be there, to say goodbye.

Flash

Forced Evacuations Begin

From CNN:

New Orleans' mayor has ordered law enforcement agencies to remove everyone from the city who is not involved in cleaning up after Hurricane Katrina, whether they want to go or not.

Earlier in the week, Hastert made this comment:

It makes no sense to spend billions of dollars to rebuild a city that's seven feet under sea level, House Speaker Dennis Hastert said of federal assistance for hurricane-devastated New Orleans.

I am not going to debate the validity (or lack thereof) of the statement, just the insensitivity of it.

As I pile through the stack of newspapers collected during my 6 days away from home, I am watching the travesty in New Orleans unfold in a fast forward mode. I still have a few more to go, and much more to say!

Flash

The Chops Were Just Too Much

Congratulations to Chops. Inc. The newly crowned DCA Class A champions. The Govenaires held on to their 2nd place position from prelims. We had a MUCH better performance in finals, but that Chops, Inc. corps put on a hell of a show as well. The title would have been nice, but we had no regrets coming off the field after our performance.

I just got home, so need to hit the hay, but I'll have more tomorrow and will soon be back in the swing of things butting heads with my brethren from the other side of the aisle.

CLASS A FINALS

79.100 Chops, Inc.
78.088 Govenaires
77.450 Alliance

In memoriam

From the Kiltie website:

Kiltie mellophone player Joel "Lothar" Magnuson, collapsed in the early moments of the prelims performance at the DCA Senior Drum and Bugle Corps Championships in Scranton, Penn., on Saturday evening, September 3, 2005. He was taken by ambulance from the stadium.

The Kilties reluctantly re-started their performance, this time - "for Lothar." Afterwards, as the Kilties left the group-photo bleachers, they were told that Joel had passed away. Outside the stadium, Joel's horn was placed at the center of a circle of all the members, and the corps song, "Auld Lang Syne" was played for his memory.

At DCA Finals Sunday night, the stadium included banners in memory of the fallen Kiltie, and members of many finalist corps performed with either plaid armbands or plaid ribbons on their uniforms.

Joel was a founding member of the senior edition of the Kiltie Drum & Bugle Corps, marching every season from 1993 to 2005. He also marched in the junior Kilties and Blue Stars as a youth.

We will remember Joel "Lothar" Magnuson for his heart of gold, thunderous laugh, soaring playing, love for his fellow Kiltie brothers and sisters, and all things good in life.

Arrangements are still pending. I still can't even begin to think of a Drum Corps season without the jovial and much loved 'Lothar' out on the field.

Flash

UPDATE: I am getting many hits via search engines looking for more information on Lothar, so here are some links to other discussion forums remembering this great Drum Corps icon.

Drum Corps Planet: The passing of a Kiltie
Drum Corps Planet: ....on behalf of The Kilties.
Blue Stars Discussion Forum: Blue Star Alum And Kiltie Member, passed away tonight

A post from one of these forums remembers :

There was a conversation about the merits of British Brass Bands and a particular piece of music the corps was playing that year. The pro BBB guy kept going on the British this, the British that.

Lothar's response:
"Yeah, well, ya know, It's also well known that 10 million Englishmen think Slim Whittman was a musical genius"

End of debate, game set, and match to Lothar.

I miss him already!

UPDATE II:From the Kiltie Corps Director:

The Kilties are setting up a Joel Magnuson Memorial Fund. Knowing Joel's determination and dream to help the less potentially advantaged youth in experiencing drum corps, musicianship and performing on a local level, carrying his dream forth is a priority.

Joel desired local youngsters, no matter of race, creed or financial challenges to experience the activity. This would be an age group not normally eligible to yet perform in any division.

With that in mind, any contributions would begin to get his dream off the ground, and can be submitted through our general PayPal account located HERE, or by forwarding something via US mail to:

Kilties/Joel Magnuson Memorial Fund
PO Box 085235
Racine, WI 53408.

UPDATE III: Obit:

Joel H. "Lothar" Magnuson

RACINE - Joel H. 'Lothar' Magnuson, 44, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, September 3, 2005, while performing with the Racine Kilties Drum and Bugle Corps in Scranton, Pa. Joel was born in Racine May 12, 1961, son of Howard J. and Charlotte A. (nee: Bubloni) Magnuson. Joel was a graduate of Lake Geneva High School "Class of 1979" and the University of Wisconsin-Stout. He was a proud charter member of the Racine Kilties Drum and Bugle Senior Corps. Joel also was instrumental in instructing the Racine Junior Scout Drum and Bugle Corps. He was last employed as Chef and Kitchen Manager at Amelia's in Milwaukee for many years. Joel will be deeply missed for his kindness and good nature.

Survivors include his father, Howard J. Magnuson of Boca Raton, Fla.; his sister, Jennifer (Jorma) Louko of Nottingham, England; his brother, Christopher Magnuson of Milwaukee; his grandmother, Violet Lindholm of Loretto, Mich.; his uncle and aunt, Don and Vicki Magnuson of Racine; other relatives and dear friends including his Kiltie family and his cat, Attitude. He was preceded in death by his mother, Charlotte in 1998; and his grandparents, Iver and Elsie Magnuson and George Bubloni.

Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, September 10, 2005, 11:30 a.m. with Rev. Richard Molter officiating. Interment will be held in Norway, Mich. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the funeral home on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until time of service. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Racine Kilties Drum and Bugle Corps have been suggested.

MARESH-MEREDITH AND ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main Street 634-7888

Published in the Racine Journal Times on 9/7/2005.

UPDATE IV: JC's review post.

2nd in Prelims!

The Govenaires get a do-over.

1 75.425 Chops, Inc.
2 75.038 Govenaires
3 74.625 Alliance
^^ Finalists^^
4 73.525 Music City Legend
5 71.288 Heat Wave
6 68.738 White Sabers
7 64.950 Lakeshoremen
8 64.738 Gulf Coast Sound
9 56.800 Shenandoah Sound
10 53.563 Mon Valley Express

It wasn't our best show, so with all three finalists corps witin 8 tenths of a point, it will be a shoot out. We have a shot at the title, but that is not why many of us do this gig. It is about entertaining the crowd!

However the evening was bitter sweet. A member of the Kilties Drum and Bugle Corps collapsed on the field during their performance of an apparent heart attack. The corps moved off the field while EMTs tried to revive him. Although they were able to stabilize him, he would not make it. This individual was a VERY good friend of mine. He marched in the Lacrosse Blue Stars with me in 1980, and was my seatmate on the tour bus while we traveled the country all summer long. It is like losing a brother. The last time I saw him was in St. Peter in Mid July and we had a hell of a time reminiscing our Drum Corps past. The Govies, and some of the other Midwest corps will be sporting black and yellow plaid armbands.

His name was Joel Magnuson, known as Lothar in the drum corps community. I believe he was 46 (ed- He was 44, born May 1961) Although I don't believe he had any prior Heart issues, he was a very large man, pushing well over 300 lbs, if not closer to 400.

My performance tonight will be dedicated to his honor. God I'll miss him.

I'll have more Tuesday Morning, including the results of Finals

The Corps Has Landed

Live from Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Pennsylvania.

I (and the rest of the Govenaires) have arrived. We are staying at the beautiful Days Inn in Wilkes-Barre, about 15 minutes away from the stadium. We have a 10:00 - 2:00 rehearsal block Friday, with a Mini-Corps performance later in the evening.

Preliminary competition is Saturday, and God willing, a final performance of the year on Sunday night at World Championship finals. I don't want to jinx myself, but the Govies are currently ranked #1 in our class and have a legitimate shot at the title. But it is not about the competition. It is about entertaining the crowd, and having the best performance of our lives. This is the culmination of a season that began in the subzero weather of a Minnesota Winter back in January, and in a few days, it will all be over. A group of individuals who have grown together as friends and comrades will NEVER be together again. The corps will persevere, but the exact same group of people will have their final performance together this weekend.

But don't think I am unaware of the tragedy in the South. Katrina has wreaked havoc on a integral part of the nation, and it is with heavy heart that I will be participating in my passion. Although my head will be in this weekends obligations, my heart will be with those struggling to rebuild their lives and show the true spirit of being and American, be helping out our brothers and sisterz effected by this devastation. You can to your part to help here.

I'll try to post an update of my experiences here in Scranton this weekend, but you can check on your own at the DCA website. More information is on my Sidebar. Scores would be posted Saturday night LIVE as they happen, Finals scores won' post until the conclusions of the show, sometime close to midnight.

Time to hit the hay, after 25 hours on a bus, I can use some quality shut-eye!

Flash

Back to the Grind

First day back to work. I miss Summer already. I have a little break here, but not enough for anything extensive. I would like to point you all to this, though:

A trifecta of terrible prospects for the GOP

I found it enlightening. But of course, I have an objective mind.

More later, hopefully. I have a new position this year, and I am starting to feel overwhelmed already.

Flash

Cheering the Cheerleaders

Mitch has an exclusive interview with MDE. Nothing new, mostly old. Yea Rah Rah!

Flash

Exposed!?!

Checks and Balances claims to have the scoop (registration required):

Questions have been circling about the person behind Minnesota Democrats Exposed and we have found a person with a connection to blogging that is a good candidate.

. . .

So recent information that has come our way is the Jerome Plagge is the person behind Minnesota Democrats Exposed. It will be interesting to see if now the anonymous source behind MDE either confirms or denies this idea. We encourage the folks at MDE to contact us and tell it how it is.

Jerome, of SD63 responds:

After picking myself off the floor, I realized I should maybe be nervous because MDE is so good he is making a few enemies and I don't wake a dead fish wrapped in paper delivered to my wife. So let me state unequivocally, SD63, aka Jerome Plagge, IS NOT MDE.

I received an E-Mail from Towle pointing me to the post on C&B and replied that it seemed like a circumstantial case to me.

I have commented previously on the anonymity of MDE.

I find it cowardly to hide behind an anonymous nom de plume when you are attempting to thrust yourself into the political spotlight. I believe it effects your credibility. It should also make one leery that if you can't even be honest about who you are, how can you trust the information that is being disseminated.

It is one thing to spout political ideology from an anonymous blog. But to continue to attack and hammer on individuals while hiding behind a name just seems wrong to me.

Flash

UPDATE: Confessions?!?

UPDATE II: MDE Responds!

Robertson Makes Me Laugh

First he said this:

"If he thinks we're trying to assassinate him, I think we really ought to go ahead and do it," said Robertson on Monday's program. "It's a whole lot cheaper than starting a war."

and now he says this:

"I didn't say 'assassination.' I said our special forces should 'take him out.' And 'take him out' can be a number of things, including kidnapping; there are a number of ways to take out a dictator from power besides killing him. I was misinterpreted by the AP [Associated Press], but that happens all the time," Robertson said on "The 700 Club" program.

ANYONE who watched Robertson's complete, in context, statement could draw no other conclusion other then he was actively promoting the assassination of another world leader. Anyone who even attempts to spin it otherwise has absolutely no credibility with me.

This guy's a nut case, one of many on the other side of the aisle! OH, retract your claws my Righty brethren, the left has their share of goofballs, too!

Flash

Robertson

There isn't much for me to really say about Robertson's call for the assassination of Hugo Chevez of Venezuela

"If he thinks we're trying to assassinate him, I think we really ought to go ahead and do it,"

when even members of the far Right are condemning him. But what is the reaction of the administration.

State Department spokesman Sean McCormack said Tuesday that Robertson has the right of any private citizen to say whatever he wants, but added that the televangelist's remarks "do not represent the views of the United States."

"His comments are inappropriate and, as we have said before, any allegations that we are planning to take hostile action against the Venezuelan government are completely baseless and without fact," McCormack said.

Robertson isn't just a 'private' citizens. He is a member of the inner circle, and a former GOP candidate for President.

When you think of how the Right has chastised others for their words, with calls for resignations or dismissals, why should this be any different.

Pat was wrong, his words should be condemned, not simply dismissed as inappropriate.

The affiliates who carry his program should dump him. He has crossed the line and should be dealt with appropriately,

Flash

But it's not serious

Humor from the STRIB:

Doctor: "Ma'am, your brother's heart is still strong but his brain is dead."

Sister: "Really? We've never had a liberal in the family."

From Garrison Keillor's annual joke show.

Only in Minnesota!

Flash

Happy Birthday!

Notable August 19th Birthdays:

1969 Matthew Perry, actor, Sydney, Chandler-Friends
1963 John Stamos, actor, General Hospital, Full House
1960 Morten Andersen, NFL kicker for the Atlanta Falcons
1956 Adam Arkin, actor, Busting Loose, Pearl, Northern Exposure
1952 Jonathan Frakes, actor, Commander Riker-Star Trek Next Gen
1951 John Deacon, British pop guitarist, Queen-Somebody to Love
1951 Lillian Muller, Grimstad Norway, playmate of year, Aug, 1975
1948 Tipper Gore, wife of vice president Al Gore, 1993-01
1946 William Jefferson "Bill" Clinton, 42nd U.S. President, D, 1993-01
1945 Ian Gillian, heavy metal rocker, Deep Purple-Knocking at Backdoor
1942 Fred Thompson, senator, R-Tenn, /actor, In the Line of Fire
1940 Jill St. John, [Oppenheim], , actress, Diamonds are Forever
1939 Ginger [Peter] Baker, England, drummer, Cream-White Room
1938 Diana Muldaur, actress, McCloud, Star Trek Next Gen, LA Law
1935 F Story Musgrave, Boston, MD/astronaut, STS 6, 51-F, 33, 44, 61, 80
1934 David F. Durenberger, Minnesota, Sen-R-MN, 1978-
1934 Renee Richards, [Richard Rankind], trans-sexual tennis player
1931 Willie Shoemaker, jockey, won 8,833 of 40,350 starts
1921 Gene Roddenberry, El Paso Texas, executive producer, Star Trek
1919 Malcolm Forbes, publisher, Forbes Magazine
1902 Ogden Nash, humorous poet, I'm a Stranger Here Myself
1871 Orville Wright, born in Dayton, Ohio, aviator

Oh, one more, ME!

See ya tonight!

Flash

The Presidential Weather Report

Was I the only one that missed this from earlier in the week:

George W. Bush's mood swings have become so drastic that White House emails often contain 'weather reports' to warn of the President's demeanor. 'Calm seas' means Bush is calm while 'tornado alert' is a warning that he is pissed at the world.

Decreasing job approval ratings and increased criticism within his own party drives the President's paranoia even higher. Bush, in a meeting with senior advisors, called Senator Majority Leader Bill Frist a 'god-damned traitor' for opposing him on stem-cell research.

I had speculated that the President was out of touch with the American people, but it is becoming apparent that he may even be out of touch with his own people.

Stormy seas ahead, folks!

Flash

Drinking Moderately, tomorrow, Aug 19

You have drinking liberally on Wednesday, and drinking conservatively on Thursday, but tomorrow, on August 19th, you can drink moderately!!!

Come join me in celebrating the 45th anniversary of my existence and my 5th year of wedded wonderment!

A fine spread including Sloppy Joes, relish trays and other assorted munchies will be available. Keg beer and some sodas will also be provided

Festivities will begin about 6:ish and run till whenever. Stereo will be jamming and WiFi will be active for those that can't stay away from their computers for a couple hours of celebration. You may want to bring a chair to rest your weary legs when needed.

Don't miss the blow out bash of the Summer:

E-Mail if you need directions (anokaflash -at- gmail.com) I expect a fine mix of Left leaning bloggers, MOB members, and Right wingers. (Mitch will be by, AntiStrib hinted at making an appearance along with the Power Liberals, Norwegianity and Yowling.

See ya tomorrow!

Flash

Fresh Troops

One of the largest deployments of Minnesota Guard members will begin in October:

About 2,600 Minnesota National Guard troops will leave the state sometime in October for training and an eventual deployment to southwest Asia.

The mobilization of the 34th Infantry Division's First Brigade Combat Team will be Minnesota's largest overseas Guard deployment since World War II.

Adjutant General Larry Shellito said Tuesday the official notification came on Monday. The specific country where the soldiers will end up was not known, but they are being mobilized in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

My son, the Marine, received orders recently. He will be deployed early next Spring. He has been training heavy as an aircraft mechanic, so hopefully that will keep him in green zone areas. But war is a viscous game, and no one is safe anywhere.

Godspeed to all the troops engaged in keeping our homeland secure. I pray that they will come home safe . . . and soon!

Flash

Air America Redux:A Message from Janet Robert

I received an E-Mail from Janet Robert this afternoon. It was a reply to my message from last Friday, but addressed the memo and some other issues. The E-Mail is identical to one forwarded to me earlier in the afternoon (and this post) by someone else who inquired about station policy, so this is the formal response she is presenting, and will be posting on the AM950 website.

First, the Memo. The memo was authenticated by Ms. Robert, however, it was described as an earlier draft and was not the final policy adopted on June 1, 2005. That policy is:

Because certain hot button social issues such as gun control, abortion, or gay marriage tend to arouse strong emotions among our listening audience, JR Broadcasting wishes to be respectful in discussing these issues. It is the position of JR Broadcasting that persons often hold positions on these issues as deeply held moral beliefs that therefore deserve respect, and focus on these issues can undermine the very opportunities we seek to advance.

In the event a host should ever wish to discuss these issues on the air, JR Broadcasting requests that the host notify the station manager prior to airing the discussion.

and with regards to Nick Coleman:

I do not discuss publicly personnel issues, but Nick Coleman has never been censored and that is not the reason he is no longer with the station. Furthermore, Nick knows that one of the compliments I regularly made to him was that his rants against the Iraqi War were his shining moment. Anyone who ever listened to his show also knows that.

Thank you to my readers for dropping me information and pointing me in the right correct directions, especially Mr. Coleman for having the courtesy to respond to me in a timely manner, and Ms. Robert for clarifying AM950's policies.

Flash

Not on 950

The Strib has no problem reporting on it, why not local progressive radio!

Democrats seek dialogue on abortion

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Democrats looking for a new voice on abortion are getting help from Rep. Jim Oberstar, an abortion opponent from Minnesota's Iron Range who is pushing to broaden the party's message on the issue.

He is one of several leading Democrats playing a prominent role on Capitol Hill to find common ground between the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and Democrats for Life of America, which has long felt shunned by the party.

See, this is how things get done. This is how you find common ground. This is why Oberstar is a LEADER. This is why sweeping issues like this under the rug will kill a radio station, not nurture growth.

But that's just me!

Flash

Air America Flap Wrap

It has become clear to me that the local Air America affiliate has an agenda that may not be consistent with the more progressive National organization. It will be interesting to see what type of relationship is built once Al Franken moves to Minnesota and starts broadcasting from here. I find it a reach to think that Al, or any of the AA National talent would conform to a 'hands off hot topics' policy.

My Political views tend to line up more closely with Ms. Robert, but that does not mean I will unconditionally protect her and her radio station. To state one thing to the press; "We do not censor anybody on this radio station," yet disseminate a document that contradicts that public impression, "JR Broadcasting will not permit discussion of the issues of gun control, abortion, or gay marriage." can be a credibility killer.

There is also a concern regarding the stifling of candidates, as mentioned in the comments below. The Memo addresses this issues in a dry, legal sort of way, aligning with the FCC requirements for equal time, with the procedure for requesting this time outlined.

The left can't afford to be splintered at this time. They have a Senate seat to retain, and momentum from the last election to harness, at least on the local level, to recapture state government. They can only succeed by working together. Internal power squabbles will only hurt this effort and feed the Right Wing blogosphere with more red meat.

It is controversies like this that convince me that the Left's worst enemy, are those from the Left themselves.

Flash

Actual Air America MN Policy?

I received an E-Mail today, which I have not been able to authenticate. However, the content of the attachment seems on the up and up. What caught my eye was an inconsistency with Janet Robert's statement to City Pages yesterday.

"We do not censor anybody on this radio station," Robert says

However, the memo sent to me, clearly stipulates in item #6:

JR Broadcasting will not permit discussion of the issues of gun
control, abortion, or gay marriage.

Now that certainly seems like a form of censorship.

The attachment sent to me was an internal memo, dated today. Here is the intro to the memo, and item #6. Most of the rest was boiler plate radio stuff. I'll let you all make the determination as to it's accuracy and credibility. Should I receive confirmation or additional info, I will post accordingly.

Of course, if station management would respond to my E-Mails, we could clear all this up in a more timely manner. Here is the pertinent information from the attachment

TO: KTNF STAFF, GUEST HOSTS AND TIME BROKERS
FROM: JANET ROBERT, STATION MANAGER
DATE: 8/12/05
RE: BROADCASTING GUIDELINES

This memorandum sets forth JR Broadcasting's policy regarding certain programming. This memorandum is intended to address certain issues and not as a comprehensive statement of all programming policy. Specific questions should be directed to the station manager.

If any programming is broadcast in violation of this policy, the responsible party or parties will be subject to sanction, up to and including termination of employment or contract, and indemnification of any party harmed as a result of such violation.

--snip--

6. Certain Subjects Prohibited

JR Broadcasting will not permit discussion of the issues of gun control, abortion, or gay marriage. It is the policy of JR Broadcasting that discussion around these issues tend to be more sensationalistic than substantial. In order to provide for reasoned, substantial discussion of other issues, JR Broadcasting prohibits discussion of gun control, abortion, or gay marriage. Exceptions to this policy can be obtained prior to broadcast by request in writing to the station Manager.

What frustrates me, is I always thought I was on their side.

Flash

UPDATE: Extracting properties information has shown that the memo was written within a law firm that has experience working in the broadcasting field. The author listed is on the 'Professional Staff' of this law firm.

Creation and Modified dates match based on when I downloaded it. But
there is a 'Last Printed' date of 5/4/2005.

I feel relatively confident that the information in the memo is authentic and have forwarded the original to others for their opinion.

Craig Mulls Nick's Ponder

Craig Westover, freelance columnist with the PiPress, tackles Nick Coleman's ponder from yesterday:

Now here's a question to mull:

Can "liberal" or "progressive" talk radio prosper under an
ownership that is neither?

Well, having mulled for bit, the answer is that if Nick is defining “liberal” and “progressive,” the answer is probably “no.” To “prosper” in a free market, one has to appeal to a wide enough audience that one can entice advertisers and consequently make enough money to support operations if not show a profit. That probably means appealing to a wider audience than is interested in "speculation on the size of the genitals of the Power Line guys.” It doesn't mean a station can't have a point of view -- it does mean its host ought to be able to frame the point of view so it's possible to have a discussion not just a bashing.

Sounds like Air America is getting that message and apparently Nick wasn‘t.

So there is his perspective. Anyone else?

Flash

Cat's Out of the Bag

The Blotter has just posted "Nick Coleman: Off the leash!".

The article aligns with what Nick shared with me. So, in his own words, and with his blessing "You are free to post.", this is what he told me:

I essentially quit AM950 * refusing to come in for work and asking to be placed on "hiatus" by the station on July 25. My official resignation was tendered Aug. 8. I'll give you a short list of reasons why:

1) Station management increasingly demanded control over "topics, tone and guests" and ordered certain hot button topics off limits, such as guns, gays and abortion. I refused to comply.

2) Station management repeatedly disrupted program development by making mercurial staffing changes without my knowledge or consent. (Last straw: Producer Joe Palan, whose hiring I approved, was fired without my consent on July 25. I went on hiatus the same day. The station told listeners I was still on family leave, but that was not true).

3) The station, despite its on-air support for the "dignity of workers," mistreats its own employees (who have no union protections).

4) I do not like wingnuts, of any stripe.

Now here's a question to mull:
1) Can "liberal" or "progressive" talk radio prosper under an
ownership that is neither?

Nick Coleman
Columnist

Further info:
Producer Palan was hired in June. Two days later, the station fired Tim Dennis, the show's board operator. This destroyed what little chemistry and camaraderie we had been able to develop. A few days later, the baby was born and I went on leave. I was gone two weeks and returned to the air one day * July 25 * to do my show.

Later that very day, Palan was fired. That's when I called station management to express my anger over the continuing interference and to request to be placed on hiatus. On July 29, I informed the station that I would return only if if Palan and Dennis were re-hired, and only if station owner Janet Robert stopped interfering with the show. For a week or so, things looked like they might work out. But on Aug. 8, I was told that nothing would change.

I resigned.

So it seems that their is some internal battles going on regarding
content. It is no secret that Janet is a Pro Life democrat, so there
may be conflicts with more traditional DFL platform issues. But I
would hope there is a significant level of autonomy for someone who
has their own show. Here is what Janet had to say to 'The Blotter':

Janet Robert strenuously denies most of Coleman's claims. She did not interfere with Coleman's choice of topics, she says, including any criticism of the war in Iraq. (She states that she, too, opposes it.) "We do not censor anybody on this radio station," Robert says. On the Joe Palan matter, Roberts says simply, "He quit." She repeats, too, "I don't discuss personnel matters."

I included Wendy Wilde in my inquiry. I am more curious to hear from her, now.

Flash

Nick Coleman Responds

I took Nick up on his offer in the comments below, and contacted him regarding his absence from the Air America lineup. Short version:

I essentially quit AM950, refusing to come in for work and asking to be placed on "hiatus" by the station on July 25. My official resignation was tendered Aug. 8.

The long version is forthcoming, as Mr. Coleman went into some 'reasons' as to what lead up to his departure. I have a couple E-Mails out to Air America staff and will wait for their side of the story before I put it all together, but I won't wait too long.

Let's just say there are creative differences involved, and I am curious to hear what Janet Robert has to say.

Flash

Coupla Updates

Rewriting History
Let the linking begin:

Mark Kennedy's U.S. Senate campaign website, under fire for deleting negative comments from news stories before posting them, will now link users to the full text of articles, a spokeswoman said Wednesday.

They website has also removed the AP stories which caused the ruckus.

parts of articles from the Star Tribune and New York Times were still on www.markkennedy06.com, labeled as "Excerpted from ..." It appeared that Associated Press articles had been removed from the site.

Cheers to the Kennedy camp for addressing this issue in a timely manner!

Meet with Cindy
Today's eviction day for Cindy. The Secret Service had threatened to remove Cindy, citing her as a security risk, if she was still in place today. The Iconoclast has set up a Cindy Watch Page, so that would be the best place to find updates.


--More:

12:05 p.m.
Nathan Diebenow reporting for the Iconoclast:

I talked with Jim Harrington, Cindy's lawyer from Texas, who informed me of the legal situation here. He said that the Sheriff's Department is kind of in a bind because the people technically have the right of way on the road to walk on it, but not on the shoulders, the 8 ft. easement, so they are letting the people around here stay on the side of the road. There apparently is no easement statute in this county. There have been no First Amendment quarrels out here before.

He also said that, legally, there shouldn't be any problem with the President driving through here and having the protestors here, since, basically, she's just a mother wanting to talk to him. He pointed out that there are alternatives instead of moving the campers. Like in previous instances, the Secret Service could patrol with their dogs to make sure there are no crazies. There are alternatives to just kicking people out.

Flash

Rewriting History

The Kennedy Campaign takes a page from the Rovian handbook:

The headline on Mark Kennedy's U.S. Senate campaign website, over excerpts from an Associated Press article, said he is "A Common-Sense Get Things Done Guy," and the AP material under the headline made the case that the Republican congressman voted with Democrats on 10 key issues this year.

Missing from the story were 13 sentences in which Democrats and political analysts accused Kennedy of disguising a career of extreme conservative voting by only recently casting a few votes with Democrats as he prepares for a U.S. Senate race. No link was supplied to the original version of the AP story, so readers who came to this article via the Kennedy website might think that they were getting the AP's portrayal of the candidate as a bipartisan moderate.

Amazing, a headline that reads "A Common-Sense Get Things Done Guy," taken right from the article. Oh wait, wherein the article was that:

That phrase appeared in the article as Kennedy's description of himself

Ohhh, that'll hurt.

Campaign's use clipping and excerpts to their advantage all the time. But this is to an extreme that has even peeved the AP themselves:

The AP is not pleased about the Kennedy campaign's editing of the article, and its attorney in Washington called the campaign Tuesday afternoon.

The lawyer requested that the material be removed as quickly as possible, said Dave Pyle, AP's Minneapolis bureau chief. "Number one, they are not authorized to use the content. And number two, if they were, they'd never be allowed to alter the content the way they have," Pyle said.

The egregiousness goes a step further in that they wouldn't even link to the original stories

Campaign websites commonly provide online links to articles that are favorable to the candidate, and no one expects a candidate to post an unflattering profile, West said. But Kennedy has gone a step further, he said, excluding all unflattering references on a sentence-by-sentence basis and providing no link to the full version of the article.

The local spin doctors will be defending their anointed candidate, but I would hope the objective side of them will denounce this kind of deceptive behavior. There is too much mud and mess in the campaign business as it is. Let's not pollute the race with the continued deception of the people. Haven't we had enough of that from the Rovian machine already.

Flash

No More Nick?

A commenter over at Shot in the Dark noticed a change in the local Air America affiliates Lineup:

12:00am - 2:00am
The Majority Report-Best of
Janeane Garofalo & Sam Seder

2:00am - 4:00am
Randi Rhodes (Best Of)

4:00am - 5:00am
Rachel Maddow

5:00am - 8:00am
Morning Sedition

8:00am - 11:00am
Wendy Wilde Show
Twin Cities Produced Show featuring
Wendy Wilde

11:00am - 2:00pm
Al Franken Show
Al Franken & Katherine Lanpher

2:00pm - 5:00pm
Ed Schultz Show

5:00pm - 6:00pm
Wendy Wilde Show
(Highlights from the morning's show)

6:00pm - 9:00pm
The Majority Report
Janeane Garofalo & Sam Seder

9:00pm - 12:00am
Mike Malloy Show

No Nick . . . . Hmmmmmmm, Vacation, the axe, a break . . . anyone know the scoop?

Flash

UPDATE: Mitch did some digging:

It started with a bit of standard boilerplate on their website stating Coleman was out on parental leave.

But over this past week, the station's schedule page was rebuilt, and Coleman's show wasn't a part of it.

A phone call to the KTNF office earlier today confirmed it: Coleman's show is history.

I asked "So is he returning"

The woman on the other end of the line sounded uncomfortable. "We're going ahead with plans for a new morning show", she replied.

Meet with Cindy

Cindy Sheehan has been camped out a Crawford trying to get an audience with the President. See, her son died in Iraq, and she wants some answers. Reasonable enough:

The mother of a U.S. soldier slain in Iraq was denied a face-to-face meeting with President Bush here Saturday after she walked through a ditch-like path in the August heat to the President’s Prairie Chapel Ranch.

“I didn't come all this way from California to stand here in a ditch,” said Cindy Sheehan, 48, co-founder of Gold Star Families for Peace, attempting to continue her trek to the ranch.

Even though two of the President’s aides later agreed to deliver her message to him, Sheehan said that she would remain in Crawford for the whole month, if need be, until she is granted a private audience with the commander-in-chief to ask him for what “noble cause” did her son die overseas.

“If he doesn't come out to talk to me in Crawford, I'll follow him to D.C., and I'll camp out on his lawn,” she said, to a round of applause from her supporters. “I'll go to prison. I don't want to live in a country where people are treated this way.”

What does the President do, he sics the Secret Service on her and threatens her with arrest:

In the early afternoon, we got word that if we were still there by Thursday, we were going to be deemed a “security threat” to the president. Condi and Rummy are coming in on Thursday for a “policy” meeting. I just don’t understand why we will be a security threat on Thursday when we aren't now? If we don't leave on Thursday, we could be arrested. Well, I am not leaving. There are only three things that would make me leave: if George comes out and talks to me; if August comes to an end, or if I am arrested.

Sure this may seem like grandstanding. But the arrogance of the administration is going to turn this into a snowball rolling down a hill. Don't mess with a mother who lost her son.

So while the Right Wing media machine goes out of their way to demean and discredit her, she has one simple question for them:

Why do the right wing media so assiduously scrutinize the words of a grief filled mother and ignore the words of a lying president?

Anyone, anyone . . Bueller?!?

Flash

Whew!!

Discovery is Home!

Now we need to figure out this falling foam thing. Meanwhile, the unmanned program takes another shot at Mar's tomorrow!

Flash

Drinking Moderately!

You have drinking liberally on Wednesday, and drinking conservatively on Thursday, but two weeks from today, on August 19th, you can drink moderately!!!

Come join me in celebrating the 45th anniversary of my existence and my 5th year of wedded wonderment!

A Fine spread including Sloppy Joes, relish trays and other assorted munchies will be available. Keg beer and some sodas will also be provided

Festivities will begin about 6:ish and run till whenever. Stereo will be jamming and WiFi will be active for those that can't stay away from their computers for a couple hours of celebration. You may want to bring a chair to rest your weary legs when needed.

Don't miss the blow out bash of the Summer:

Friday August 19th, 6:00 PM

St. Paul, MN 55104

E-Mail if you need directions (anokaflash -at- gmail.com) I expect a fine mix of Left leaning bloggers, MOB members, and Right wingers, so start making arrangements today!

Flash

DOWN, DOWn, DOwn, Down . . . . .

The ole CiC continues to struggle in the hearts and minds of the American people:

(July results are in parentheses, X signifies less than 1 percent.)

1. Generally speaking, would you say things in this country are heading in the right direction, or are they off on the wrong track?
—Right direction, 37 percent (36)
—Wrong track, 59 percent (59)
—Not sure, 4 percent (6)

2. Overall, do you approve, disapprove or have mixed feelings about the way George W. Bush is handling his job as president?
—Approve, 42 percent (42)
—Disapprove, 55 percent (56)
—Mixed feelings, 2 percent (1)
—Not sure, X percent (2)

3. And when it comes to handling the economy, do you approve or disapprove or have mixed feelings about the way George W. Bush is handling that issue?
—Approve, 41 percent (42)
—Disapprove, 56 percent (56)
—Mixed feelings, 2 percent (2)
—Not sure, 1 percent (X)

4. And when it comes to domestic issues like health care, education and the environment, do you approve or disapprove or have mixed feelings about the way George W. Bush is handling that issue?
—Approve, 37 percent (42)
—Disapprove, 60 percent (56)
—Mixed feelings, 2 percent (1)
—Not sure, 2 percent (1)

5. When it comes to handling foreign policy issues and the war on terrorism, do you approve or disapprove or have mixed feelings about the way George W. Bush is handling that issue?
—Approve, 47 percent (51)
—Disapprove, 51 percent (48)
—Mixed feelings, 1 percent (2)
—Not sure, X percent (X)

6. When it comes to handling the situation in Iraq, do you approve or disapprove or have mixed feelings about the way George W. Bush is handling that issue?
—Approve, 38 percent (40)
—Disapprove, 59 percent (59)
—Mixed feelings, 2 percent (1)
—Not sure, 1 percent (X)

7. When it comes to Social Security, do you approve, disapprove or have mixed feelings about the way George W. Bush is handling that issue?
—Approve, 33 percent (35)
—Disapprove, 63 percent (61)
—Mixed feelings, 2 percent (2)
—Not sure, 1 percent (1)

8. Overall, do you approve, disapprove or have mixed feelings about the way Congress is handling its job?
—Approve, 33 percent (35)
—Disapprove, 62 percent (60)
—Mixed feelings, 3 percent (4)
—Not sure, 2 percent (1)

9. Now I'm going to read you some words that might be used to describe a person. As I read each word, please tell me whether you think the word describes George W. Bush or not?
LIKABLE
August 2005: Yes, 63 percent; No, 36 percent; Not sure, 1 percent
January 2005: Yes, 66 percent; No, 33 percent; Not sure, 1 percent

HONEST
August 2005: Yes, 48 percent; No, 50 percent; Not sure, 2 percent
January 2005: Yes, 53 percent; No. 45 percent; Not sure, 2 percent

STRONG
August 2005: Yes, 64 percent; No, 35 percent; Not sure, 1 percent
January 2005: Yes, 65 percent; No, 34 percent; Not sure, 1 percent

INTELLIGENT
August 2005: Yes, 56 percent; No, 43 percent; Not sure, 1 percent
January 2005: Yes, 62 percent; No, 37 percent; 1 percent

ARROGANT
August 2005: Yes, 56 percent; No, 43 percent; Not sure, 1 percent
January 2005: Yes, 49 percent; No, 50 percent; Not sure, 1 percent

DEPENDABLE
August 2005: Yes, 55 percent; No, 43 percent; Not sure, 2 percent
January 2005: Yes, 57 percent; No, 42 percent; Not sure, 1 percent

The last one is the most telling. People who think he is honest dropped to below 50% (48), and those that think he is arrogant has jumpped to 56%.

Do ya think the President still thinks he has any political capital in the bank? Sure he does, and there is 56% of the people that would agree that he thinks he does. But in the reality based world, he doesn't have a plugged nickles worth left!

Flash

Speaking of Birthdays!

Recent, early 50's (Korean Conflict), with his sister early 30's.

Today my Dad is 76. Still working, still active, still there for ya in a pinch if ya need him. Thanks, Dad! Have a GREAT birthday!

Love, your son!

Performance Pay for Politicians

So the Governor is on another junket, promoting his latest proposal:

The proposal would hold legislators and the Governor accountable by requiring legislative work to be completed on time or face real consequences. The key element of the plan is:

· In the odd-numbered year of the legislative session, if the legislature did not pass a budget by the constitutional adjournment date legislators and the Governor would forfeit their salaries for the month of June.

If a budget is not completed by June 30 of the odd-numbered year, additional penalties would be incurred:

· Legislators and the Governor would forfeit their salaries for July and August or until the month after a budget is completed it if occurs after September 1.

So it's not really performance pay, it is a consequence for lack of performance. (Ya gotta keep an eye on these guys. They like calling things the exact opposite of what they really are. Think 'No Child Left Behind, et. al.)

I am all for some type of accountability package for legislators, but not sure if this is the way to go. We struggle as it is finding competent and qualified candidates to run for these offices, and something tells me this just may discourage some more.

There is no mention of how this would effect 'per diem' reimbursement (that additional daily expense allowance over and above their salaries). I could definitely support 'per diem' restrictions if there is a way to figure out how to not unduly punish outstate legislators.

I'm open to the concept, but leery as to what TPaw's actual motivation is. I think it is to save face . . . but that's just me!

Flash

Wetterling Redux: UPDATE

The DFL State Central Committee has an E-Mail discussion group which posts periodic Blog Updates. Yesterday, my 'Wetterling Redux' post was featured. The post prompted a follow up by the 6th District Chair, in an attempt to diffuse the 'rumor':

Friends:

I just got off the phone with the Patty Wetterling and Elwyn Tinklenberg campaigns.

Both campaigns DENY these baseless rumors. Rest assured I will speak with both candidates in the coming days to figure out the best course of action to finally put this nonsense to rest.

In the meantime, It is my hope that people consider the source.

Greg Hansen, Chair
6th Congressional District DFL

The BOLD was contained in the message. I am not sure what 'source' they were referring to, Blogs in general, myself, or MDE. But in the interest of full disclosure, and my commitment to accurate information, I felt it appropriate to share this information.

Flash

Who's the Boss?

Via Cheers and Jeers:

"The White House announced that the public would not be allowed to see the memos produced by John Roberts when he represented the United States government as a lawyer. They say this is because of the attorney-client privilege.

Here's the part I don't understand: he represented the United States, we're the client, he's our lawyer. Shouldn't we be allowed see our own notes?"

--Jay Leno

It's really that simple people!

Flash

Wetterling Redux!

A rumor running through the local blogosphere hint at Wetterling possible readjusting her Senate campaign into a Congressional one:

I'm sure this will come as no surprise, but according to one of my real DFL insider friends, Patty Wetterling has all but announced that she'll be running for the 6th CD again because Klobuchar has proven to be much stronger than expected. Apparently Tinklenburg has agreed to get out of the 6th if Wetterling gets in, too."

With that, I point you to a post from last Spring:

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.

It's still VERY early in this campaign process. Trial balloons will be floated, but eventually clear heads will prevail.

Flash

The Current

Current TV has debuted:

Gore and his fellow investors envision Current as a sounding board for young people, a step beyond traditional notions of interactivity. They want viewers to contribute much of the network's content now that quality video equipment is widely available.

Based on material previewed on its Web site, Current at first glance seems like a hipper, more irreverent version of traditional television newsmagazines.

DirecTV viewer can find itn on 366. That's where I'll be monitoring for a few days to see what the buzz is all about!

Flash

Bolting for Bolton

So the President has used the back door to appoint Bolton to the vacant UN post. We now have a representative at the United Nations who does NOT have the support of the Senate and luke warm support at best by the American people. Is this really the message we want to send to the International community, not that the President really cares about anything beyond the truffles on his Oval office desk. I'm just saying.

I've learned one thing from this president. If you can't get your way using the rules that everyone else has to use, then find every loophole you can to do what you want anyway. A fine example he presents to the citizens he represents

But that's just me!

Flash

CNN Breaking News: "Roberts documents reveal a conservative"

What did they expect, a bleeding heart liberal.

CNN reports on some recently released Reagan Era documents from the National Archives on Roberts. I won't go over the breakdown, but it is an interesting read if you haven't caught the details of the information disseminated.

As for Roberts, Bush could have done a lot worse. As petty as it may sound, I am more concerned with the young age, and the long legacy Roberts could leave on the bench. But the President nominated someone who the Left will be hard pressed to fight too hard. And if they know what is good for them, they'll save their slings and arrows for another day.

Flash

Second Thoughts?

The Hennepin County board is hedging on their smoking ban. From the STRIB:

In a sudden change of direction, Hennepin County moved closer Tuesday toward a partial rollback of a smoking ban that the state's largest county put into effect only four months ago.

The county has been under pressure to scale back the ban, and more than 100 smoking-ban opponents held signs and applauded Tuesday as commissioners voted overwhelmingly to undertake a study of the ban's economic impact.

It appeared to signal the first significant backlash to the wave of smoking bans adopted last year by metro area governments, including Minneapolis, Ramsey County and Bloomington.

So they're listening, and are going to actually take a sincere look at the fiscal impact of the ban.

But the political subplot is what is as interesting. Peter McLaughlin, campaigning to unseat incumbent Mayor Rybak, is not only in the forefront of the debate, but is viewed as the swing vote on the issue.

With the economic impact study expected to take perhaps a month, county officials said any change to the ordinance would likely not be voted on until the fall.

That timeline also would probably put the political spotlight on Commissioner Peter McLaughlin, who is considered a swing vote on any exemptions to the ban and who is also campaigning to be Minneapolis' next mayor. McLaughlin, who approved the ban last fall, voted Tuesday for the economic study.

Although McLaughlin did not directly state his intentions, he clearly sympathized with the bar owners. "We got people who are bleeding here, so let's get on with this," McLaughlin said at one point during the meeting.

Said Dorfman: "Peter's the swing. Peter makes the difference on this."

I can appreciate the desire to pursue societal benefits by banning unhealthy substances in public places. However this is a legal substance, and no one is forcing anyone to enter these establishments unwillingly. Hennepin County is beginning to recognize their flawed policy, and if Minneapolis follows suit, we may have a compromise that many can except.

Flash

Return to Space

Ever since I was a little grade school kid, I have been fascinated by the space program. I am old enough to remember Apollo 11, and the grainy B/W TV video of the first mission to the Moon.

It seems the manned space program has stagnated some, with the Challenger launch break-up, followed by an extended hiatus, and then the Columbia tragedy, followed by another extended delay.

That delay ended today, with the successful launch of the shuttle Discovery.

I was fortunate enough to huddle around the TV with my three boys and witness this momentous occasion. I wish Godspeed to the crew of the Discovery, and look forward to their safe return.

Follow the mission here.

Flash

Where's Waldo?

OK, so I have been incommunicado for awhile. I actually had planned on Centrisity going dark over the Summer. Funny, I guess, since you would think I would have more time. But sitting on the computer simply isn't a high priority, and when I do, I am doing more Drum Corps stuff then blogging.

This weekend is the last show weekend for the corps, before nationals Labor Day weekend. I have a couple projects around the house I need to knock off between now and then, so I will probably still be blogging light.

However, things are starting to heat up on the National front, and I don't know if I can stay away much longer. So I'll see if I can't touch on a couple things before I leave for the weekend.

Flash

Let's Play Hockey!

It's about time:

NEW YORK (AP) -- The NHL and the players' association reached an agreement in principle Wednesday on a new labor deal, ending a lockout that wiped out last season.

The sides met for 24 hours starting Tuesday afternoon to hammer out the collective bargaining agreement that will return the NHL to the ice. In February, commissioner Gary Bettman canceled the season, making the NHL the first North American sports league to lose a year because of a labor dispute.

Both sides still need to ratify the deal, which is expected to contain a salary cap. That process is expected to be completed next week, the league and the union said in a joint news release.

It took all night and then some for the final round of negotiations to produce an agreement.

I Should Leave the State More Often

I take off for a weekend and they turn the lights back on in the state. I was pretty void of any news most of the weekend. It wasn't until a stop in Tomah, WI when I saw the headlines on the Sunday PiPress detailing the budget discussions and the term of the ratified Lights On bill.

Like Jeff said:

It's the voters.

We voters elected Tim Pawlenty in 2002 knowing that he was unwilling to ever raise taxes, but kept the DFL entrenched in the Senate. Then, in 2004, we emboldened the DFLers by restoring them to near-parity in the House.

This, of course, cannot stand. Because both sides think they've got the voters on their side.

It's our fault, folks. If we want government to function smoothly, we should've voted straight-ticket all the way.

Of course, we can vote the bums out, but that would create just a different deadlock.

I'll reserve final judgment till I see the final budget bill.

Flash

I'll Take 2nd!

The Govies pulled it off. Facing stiff competition from the Kilties (Racine, WI) and the upstart Frontier (Dallas, TX), The Govenaires held onto 2nd place. Both the Kilts and Frontier are twice the size of us. Our visual package, with Color Guard, made up the difference for our size.

Minnesota Brass, my former corps and one I am still very involved with administratively, continued their dominance by capturing their 8th consecutive Championship, and 25th overall in 27 attempts.

The Results:

86.30 Minnesota Brass, Inc. (Twin Cities, MN)
69.75 Govenaires (St. Peter, MN)
69.70 Kilties (Racine, WI)
59.20 Frontier Dallas, TX)

This weekend is the innuagural DCA-Central weekend. DCA is the International sanctioning body for All Age Drum Corps. We'll be in Hastings, MN Saturday evening, and St. Peter Sunday Afternoon. Plan your weekend accordingly. Pure entertainment!

Flash

Potpourri

My heart and many prayers go out to the victims and their families of the horrific terrorist attack in London. May those who are responsibile get everything that is coming to them!!

I am off for the weekend. Midwest Championships await in DeKalb Illinois. I'll be back Sunday night late. Minnesota Brass has a lock on defending their title, the battle will be for second. Let's hope the Govies can pull it off!

Flash

L. Patrick Gray passes

Oh boy, had Felt not revealed himself, the speculation would be running rampant right now:

L. Patrick Gray, whose yearlong stint as acting FBI director was marked by the Watergate break-in and the ensuing scandal that led to President Nixon's resignation, has died. He was 88.

Gray died at his home in Atlantic Beach from complications from pancreatic cancer, said his son, Ed Gray, of Lyme, New Hampshire.

Gray was my pick for Deep Throat, but it was his right hand man Felt.

Flash

On This Day

IN CONGRESS, July 4, 1776.

The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America,

When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

Read it all here, everyone should!

I'll be in St. Peter and Apple Valley for a couple parades and a concert. I LOVE this time of year!

Have a safe and healthy Independence Day holiday!!

Flash