So the end of 2008 has sucked pretty hardcore for a lot of people I know. Here's to 2009 being better.
Christmas was actually pretty pleasant this year. I think because we all did the low-key route - nothing fancy, nothing over the top. Christmas eve with my mom's side of the family, my cousins and their family was just a dinner buffet at mom's consisting of ham and Popeye's Chicken, with some sides and salads. We did our grab-bag gift exchange where we draw names (on Thanksgiving) and each adult gets another adult something. We watched the kids open gifts, and that was that. After everyone left, we did our immediate family gifts, and that was nice. Again, we decided to scale it back this year.
Christmas day was at my aunt & uncle's house in a nearby suburb (kinda by Ohare) and again, it was nice and low key - buffet style, eat when you want. We played some Wii and the kids opened some gifts. We normally do a grab bag with that side as well, but this year we decided to scrap that idea because one of my cousins has an ongoing battle with a very persistent strain of breast cancer and is going through a nasty divorce. Instead of the grab bag where we all exchange with one other person, we decided to all adopt my cousin - unbeknownst to her. So we all got her something she needs - money, gift cards, anything she can use for herself and her daughter. I knit a couple of lace caps to cover her hair because of chemo. So that felt really good to give something to someone who really needs it.
It was a weird not having John around, but for the most part it was fine. I think it's much easier on me than for some because John and I still talk and are still friends. My poor cousin, on the other hand, is the other extreme. I think she's what people think of when they hear "divorce" - nasty custody battles, financial squabbles, hateful sentiments. Seriously, I don't wish harm on many people, but when her cuntrag of an ex gets shipped off to Afghanistan, I do wish for him to meet with a roadside bomb. I don't want him just wounded either, because then the asshole will continue to suck oxygen from the rest of us. My situation is nothing like that, and I'm thankful for that.
It has been an adjustment. I do find myself talking to the pets more often. I've also started cooking different things for myself in an effort to start eating better. I've discovered that I like poached eggs, and have been making a lot of mixed greens salads with poached egg and leftover christmas ham. I also made a garlic and butter chicken pasta with vegetables that was quite good. I think I'll save a lot of money on food because I don't plan to eat out nearly as much as before.
The day after Christmas was like an ice castle in Chicago. Seriously, the whole city looked like the Fortress of Solitude. I took Annie for a walk that morning and almost did a faceplant on the sidewalk. Everything was ice. Strangely enough, the next day, it was 55 degrees and rainy - go figure. I got to see Heathen & Cillic for the holidays and I took a couple vacation days so I can have this whole week off.
I cleaned a lot in the apartment and re-arranged some furniture. Basically the basement, which used to be the bedroom, is now just a storage area. My dresser, clothes, and the larger bathroom are down there, but for the most part I stay upstairs. It makes more sense in the long run.
So it's been a messy end to the year and I can only hope 2009 is better for a lot of people.
30 December 2008
18 December 2008
Another turning point, a fork stuck in the road
Time grabs you by the wrist, directs you where to go
So make the best of this test, and don't ask why
It's not a question, but a lesson learned in time
It's something unpredictable, but in the end it's right.
I hope you had the time of your life.
So take the photographs, and still frames in your mind
Hang it on a shelf in good health and good time
Tattoos of memories and dead skin on trial
For what it's worth it was worth all the while
It's something unpredictable, but in the end it's right.
I hope you had the time of your life.
It's something unpredictable, but in the end it's right.
I hope you had the time of your life.
It's something unpredictable, but in the end it's right.
I hope you had the time of your life.
15 December 2008
Happiness is just a rationalization away
A recent study at NYU attempted to explain why political conservatives seem to be happier than liberals. Their conclusions make sense to me.
Basically, what they found, is that since most conservative ideologies serve to rationalize the equity of the status quo, that people who buy into that ideology believe the world is the way it should be. The study termed this a "system-justifying ideology" that serves to support the economic and social order as it is today. Liberals on the other hand, see more inequality in the world, and are therefore frustated by its existence and the inability of conservatives to see or acknowledge inequality at all.
It also found that political conservatives prefer simple, clear cut answers to questions (willfull ignorance of nuance would probably make me a happier person too) while liberals tend to think more deeply about problems and their solutions.
Based on the political conservatives in the public eye, as well as most of those I know in my daily life, this pretty much hits the nail on the head. It's especially true for social conservatives who see the world in manichean good vs. evil dualities where there is only one right answer to any issue and that answer usually involves the invocation of Jesus.
Basically, what they found, is that since most conservative ideologies serve to rationalize the equity of the status quo, that people who buy into that ideology believe the world is the way it should be. The study termed this a "system-justifying ideology" that serves to support the economic and social order as it is today. Liberals on the other hand, see more inequality in the world, and are therefore frustated by its existence and the inability of conservatives to see or acknowledge inequality at all.
It also found that political conservatives prefer simple, clear cut answers to questions (willfull ignorance of nuance would probably make me a happier person too) while liberals tend to think more deeply about problems and their solutions.
Based on the political conservatives in the public eye, as well as most of those I know in my daily life, this pretty much hits the nail on the head. It's especially true for social conservatives who see the world in manichean good vs. evil dualities where there is only one right answer to any issue and that answer usually involves the invocation of Jesus.
10 December 2008
What a fuckstick
I've never been a fan of Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich. OK, I won't say never, but I'd say after his second year when he started screwing things up, that's when I decided I didn't like him. The GOP in Illinois is so tainted and weak that they've not been able to put up a challenger candidate and let's face it, this is Illinois - no challenger democrat will unseat the incumbent. So we've been stuck with him for many years and he's overstayed his welcome. Finally, we might get the chance to get rid of him.
I don't know what is worst about the situation... I will forgo the obligatory use of "allegedly" since, after all, it's all on fucking wire tapped conversations.
If convicted, he will be the fourth of the last eight IL governors who have been convicted of crimes committed either while in office or after leaving office. Welcome to Chicago
I don't know what is worst about the situation... I will forgo the obligatory use of "allegedly" since, after all, it's all on fucking wire tapped conversations.
- He tried to extort money from the executive of Children's Memorial Hospital in the form of campaign contributions by threatening to rescind state funding for the hospital.
- He tried to effectively sell Obama's vacant senate seat to the highest bidder, knowing he had the sole appointment power.
- He tried to force the Chicago Tribune to fire editorial board members who called for his impeachment in exchange for state assistance for the Tribune company.
- He still maintains he did nothing wrong and his lawyer calls this "just politics".
- He legally maintains the sole right to appoint Obama's replacement, which means Illinois is in legal and legislative limbo right now. Anyone Blago appoints could be tainted, and it's still unclear whether a special session of the General Assembly could wrest that appointment power from him.
- Even though US Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald said that at no point is Barack Obama implicated in any of this (and actually in one conversation Blagojevich called Obama a "motherfucker" for not wanting to give him "anything but appreciation" for his appointment of a replacement), the anti-Obama consipiracy theorists will still try to make this an "Obama scandal". It can't not taint Obama in some way, even if he was not involved, because of the 'guilt by association' issues of him being from Chicago.
If convicted, he will be the fourth of the last eight IL governors who have been convicted of crimes committed either while in office or after leaving office. Welcome to Chicago
26 November 2008
Moving forward
John left to go see his dad this week in Southern Indiana, and I'm left with the nagging feeling that this is the first Thanksgiving in probably 9 or 10 years that he won't be around. Yes, it truly sucks, but the last thing I want is a pity party.
Tomorrow I go to my parent's house and spend some time with my mom's side of the family (cousins mostly), who have their own mini-dramas going on right now too. I almost want to ignore the fact that John won't be there, because honestly, I don't really want to talk about it with them.
John will be gone until Sunday, so that gives me some time to clean up around the apartment, sort through some stuff, and get cracking on a couple of knitting projects. Saturday night I'm going to a poker game at a former coworker's house nearby, so that should be fun. It's a low stakes game, so even if I get my ass handed to me I won't lose more than $20 or so.
I'm also trying to make a list of things that I'm going to need for myself soon. Like a TV, since I don't want the projector. I don't want to mess with having to mount it and figure out all the connections - it's not worth my time. I'll also be wanting to get a futon sooner or later. The "Select Comfort" bed that we just bought earlier this year is going with John as well. I never really wanted it. I hate that fuckin' thing. It's SO not worth the money. I wake up with a back ache every day since we've gotten it. Plus, Annie won't need a bridge to get up and down from a futon. Back to the simpler life for me.
My life has been a never ending stream of paperwork and little questions running around in my head. I know I can ask for help - but there's nothing to do yet. It's just all rattling around in my head.
Tomorrow I go to my parent's house and spend some time with my mom's side of the family (cousins mostly), who have their own mini-dramas going on right now too. I almost want to ignore the fact that John won't be there, because honestly, I don't really want to talk about it with them.
John will be gone until Sunday, so that gives me some time to clean up around the apartment, sort through some stuff, and get cracking on a couple of knitting projects. Saturday night I'm going to a poker game at a former coworker's house nearby, so that should be fun. It's a low stakes game, so even if I get my ass handed to me I won't lose more than $20 or so.
I'm also trying to make a list of things that I'm going to need for myself soon. Like a TV, since I don't want the projector. I don't want to mess with having to mount it and figure out all the connections - it's not worth my time. I'll also be wanting to get a futon sooner or later. The "Select Comfort" bed that we just bought earlier this year is going with John as well. I never really wanted it. I hate that fuckin' thing. It's SO not worth the money. I wake up with a back ache every day since we've gotten it. Plus, Annie won't need a bridge to get up and down from a futon. Back to the simpler life for me.
My life has been a never ending stream of paperwork and little questions running around in my head. I know I can ask for help - but there's nothing to do yet. It's just all rattling around in my head.
20 November 2008
Getting out
I've had a few people concerned that I won't get out and do stuff during this difficult time. Don't worry, I have plenty of social engagements lined up for a while. The holidays help with that, for sure.
I've gotten used to doing certain things without John over the years since he doesn't like clubs or bars. This weekend is something I've been looking forward to for almost a month. A local DJ, who used to do a weekly new-wave/post-punk night at a few local clubs (one of which I frequented during my undergraduate years until it closed) is planning a Wax Trax! revival night at a local club.
For those who don't know, Wax Trax! was a record label in the mid 80s to early 90s based in Chicago (spun off from a record store in Denver) that produced many of the early industrial bands, like Ministry and My Life with the Thrill Kill Kult, among others. So Saturday will be a night full of My Life with the Thrill Kill Kult, Front 242, Nitzer Ebb, Ministry, KMFDM, REVCO. These bands set the stage for artists like Nine Inch Nails to gain a fairly mainstream following, even if many of the early influencing bands have gone the way of the DoDo. My kind of fun!
I've gotten used to doing certain things without John over the years since he doesn't like clubs or bars. This weekend is something I've been looking forward to for almost a month. A local DJ, who used to do a weekly new-wave/post-punk night at a few local clubs (one of which I frequented during my undergraduate years until it closed) is planning a Wax Trax! revival night at a local club.
For those who don't know, Wax Trax! was a record label in the mid 80s to early 90s based in Chicago (spun off from a record store in Denver) that produced many of the early industrial bands, like Ministry and My Life with the Thrill Kill Kult, among others. So Saturday will be a night full of My Life with the Thrill Kill Kult, Front 242, Nitzer Ebb, Ministry, KMFDM, REVCO. These bands set the stage for artists like Nine Inch Nails to gain a fairly mainstream following, even if many of the early influencing bands have gone the way of the DoDo. My kind of fun!
10 November 2008
Change is coming
According to the Celtic calendar, Sowan (technically November 1) is the beginning of the dark season. In the wheel of life, it is an ending and a new beginning. It's a time to honor and celebrate the dead, cull the herd in preparation for the winter, and turn inward to focus on ourselves and what we will need for the coming year.
It is rare that I post personal stories on this blog. No offense, it's just the way I am. I tend to play it close to the vest with everyone but a few close friends. I'm not a "bear it all" kind of person, especially in cyberspace. However, it seems appropriate and necessary to post about the end of the beginning and the beginning of the end.
I went with three friends who are part of a local women's group up to Wisconsin this weekend to a Sowan celebration hosted by a local Northern Illinois/Southern Wisconsin pagan organization. We were to bring symbols of Sowan and mementos of a particular ancestor or beloved dead to honor.
It was on these two altars that I placed my grandmother's ring and photograph as well as a piece of the aloe plant John bought when we first moved in together 11 years ago (that oddly enough began to die earlier this year for those who believe in omens) and my wedding band.
John and I are splitting up. I'm sorry to those of you who I know in real life who are seeing this for the first time, that I didn't tell you sooner. You know where to find me. In addition to growing in two separate paths and becoming two different people with different interests and different goals, there is one huge insurmountable issue that has arisen in recent months. John realized he actually does want children. As most of you know by now, I have known for a long time that I do not want children. Though I have softened in recent years about being around children (certain, well-behaved children), I have never had the urge to have my own.
So in the coming winter months I need to focus on myself, reflect on what it is I want and need for the coming new year, and prepare myself for the prospect of living alone - something I have never done before.
I don't really know what else to say other than everything will work out and we'll both be OK eventually. I'm lucky to have a lot of good friends and family close by who have all given their support. We're still friends, and want to remain that way. Only time will tell what happens next.
It is rare that I post personal stories on this blog. No offense, it's just the way I am. I tend to play it close to the vest with everyone but a few close friends. I'm not a "bear it all" kind of person, especially in cyberspace. However, it seems appropriate and necessary to post about the end of the beginning and the beginning of the end.
I went with three friends who are part of a local women's group up to Wisconsin this weekend to a Sowan celebration hosted by a local Northern Illinois/Southern Wisconsin pagan organization. We were to bring symbols of Sowan and mementos of a particular ancestor or beloved dead to honor.
It was on these two altars that I placed my grandmother's ring and photograph as well as a piece of the aloe plant John bought when we first moved in together 11 years ago (that oddly enough began to die earlier this year for those who believe in omens) and my wedding band.
John and I are splitting up. I'm sorry to those of you who I know in real life who are seeing this for the first time, that I didn't tell you sooner. You know where to find me. In addition to growing in two separate paths and becoming two different people with different interests and different goals, there is one huge insurmountable issue that has arisen in recent months. John realized he actually does want children. As most of you know by now, I have known for a long time that I do not want children. Though I have softened in recent years about being around children (certain, well-behaved children), I have never had the urge to have my own.
So in the coming winter months I need to focus on myself, reflect on what it is I want and need for the coming new year, and prepare myself for the prospect of living alone - something I have never done before.
I don't really know what else to say other than everything will work out and we'll both be OK eventually. I'm lucky to have a lot of good friends and family close by who have all given their support. We're still friends, and want to remain that way. Only time will tell what happens next.
06 November 2008
Yes we did!
History in the making
Grant Park, Chicago
November 4, 2008
Grant Park, Chicago
November 4, 2008
OK, so the map didn't come out as clear as I wanted, but if you click it, the Google Map will pop up. Basically, Hutchinson Field is the south edge of Grant Park between Balbo and Roosevelt Road. Congress Parkway was the entrance, and that is 500 South. Roosevelt Road is 1200 South (thank GOD for Grid-style city planning). 7 full city blocks were filled with people waiting to get into the rally.
This is a view of Michigan Avenue and the city skyline on our way to the rally. After the rally let out, they closed pretty much the entire loop to all traffic. It was strange because every half block there were vendors selling t-shirts, buttons, hats, even Obama wrist watches! It was surreal and kind of tacky - almost like this is a sports event. Truly bizarre.
The entrance to the event at Congress Parkway & Michigan Avenue. They were trying to direct ticketed people to the South and non-ticketed people to the North to keep the lines separate. Basically, Mayor Daley said unless things got out of hand, he would allow as many people that wanted to stay in the public areas of the park to come down. So the entirety of Grant Park was filled with people. People with tickets were allowed into the barricaded area, but the sound was such that people in the perimeter could hear fine.
We made it inside the field with very little problems. The security was actually not as intense as I had imagined. There were no metal detectors and they barely searched us. I am positive that the park was crawling with Secret Service. Thankfully the crowd, as big as it was, was calm, happy, and generally pleasant. And we could not have asked for better weather. I didn't even need a coat - November in Chicago and it's 55 degrees at 10pm at night with clear skies? Whose side is God on now bitches??
More images of the crowd and the skyline in the background. Keep in mind this is only the barricaded area where the 70,000 people with tickets were allowed. You can't even see the overflow.
This is Donna after they officially called the election for Obama.
The first speaker to address the crowd was a Bishop (I feel terrible that I forgot his name). This was around 10:30pm, after the conclusions had been drawn and the reality set in that Obama won.
Another shot of the massive crowd waiting, listening. There was some music broadcast during the waiting periods, and the jumbotron showed the results as they came in. There were chants and cheers and just general jubilation at this point.
We were pretty far back, having to get there late because I didn't get off election judge duty until 8:30pm. However, we could hear everything crystal clear. This is my one attempt at a picture of Obama sepaking. But I figured there would be plenty of others available online and I should just listen.
Donna using her mental telepathy to control her minions.
Mass Exodus. This makes twice in my life I've been able to walk down the middle of Michigan Avenue. The entire loop was filled with throngs of pilgrims on their way home.
05 November 2008
Wow
OK... I just got home from the rally in Grant Park. Two words: Fucking Amazing.
I have been up since 4:00am this morning, served as an election judge from 5am to 8pm, went to the rally... and now I'm going to bed.
Good Night.
I have been up since 4:00am this morning, served as an election judge from 5am to 8pm, went to the rally... and now I'm going to bed.
Good Night.
29 October 2008
Call me crazy
So I'm an election judge on Tuesday, which means I am in the polling place from 5am until whenever we're done breaking down equipment. At least until 8pm. So that's a 15 hour day right there.
THEN, I figured, well I can't miss this. This is too big and too historic. So, yes, I signed up for the Grant Park Obama rally that night. Yes, I'm crazy. It's going to be an absolute zoo. Thankfully I registered in time to get a ticket - they're issuing free tickets first come first serve on their website so they have a way to limit the crowd size. So Donna and I and two friends of mine from school will be going.
Did I ever mention I hate crowds?
Yeah, I know. What the hell am I thinking, right?
I couldn't miss this though.
Technically, Hutchinson Field in Grant Park can hold 72,000 people. It's the same field where Radiohead played (in 2001 and 2008) and Rage Against the Machine played at Lollapalooza this past year. However, it IS a public park, and as long as it's during park hours, any amount of people can pack into the rest of Grant Park and try to listen and watch from afar - and they will. Daley already said the city is predicting a crowd of up to a million people in Grant Park. It will be worse than the Taste of Chicago fireworks. But I couldn't miss it. And if it gets to be too much, I can always leave.
I just hope everyone behaves themselves.
Stay tuned on Wednesday Nov 5th for the "fuckwittery at the polls" update where I detail all the stupid shit I witnessed as a judge and pictures/video from the Obama rally should I live to tell the tale...
THEN, I figured, well I can't miss this. This is too big and too historic. So, yes, I signed up for the Grant Park Obama rally that night. Yes, I'm crazy. It's going to be an absolute zoo. Thankfully I registered in time to get a ticket - they're issuing free tickets first come first serve on their website so they have a way to limit the crowd size. So Donna and I and two friends of mine from school will be going.
Did I ever mention I hate crowds?
Yeah, I know. What the hell am I thinking, right?
I couldn't miss this though.
Technically, Hutchinson Field in Grant Park can hold 72,000 people. It's the same field where Radiohead played (in 2001 and 2008) and Rage Against the Machine played at Lollapalooza this past year. However, it IS a public park, and as long as it's during park hours, any amount of people can pack into the rest of Grant Park and try to listen and watch from afar - and they will. Daley already said the city is predicting a crowd of up to a million people in Grant Park. It will be worse than the Taste of Chicago fireworks. But I couldn't miss it. And if it gets to be too much, I can always leave.
I just hope everyone behaves themselves.
Stay tuned on Wednesday Nov 5th for the "fuckwittery at the polls" update where I detail all the stupid shit I witnessed as a judge and pictures/video from the Obama rally should I live to tell the tale...
24 October 2008
Funny
My favorite line so far from the election judge handbook?
In the section dealing with voters requesting assistance (i.e. people with a disability that prevents them from voting on their own can have the assistance of the person of their choice):
"Intoxication is not a valid reason for receiving assistance in voting"
And... this just in. I *SO* lucked out. My judge assignment is my normal polling place - 2 blocks from my house. So getting there at 5am won't mean getting up at 3am!! YAY!
In the section dealing with voters requesting assistance (i.e. people with a disability that prevents them from voting on their own can have the assistance of the person of their choice):
"Intoxication is not a valid reason for receiving assistance in voting"
And... this just in. I *SO* lucked out. My judge assignment is my normal polling place - 2 blocks from my house. So getting there at 5am won't mean getting up at 3am!! YAY!
22 October 2008
I voted, will you?
McCain supporters heckle early voters in North Carolina. Seriously people, what is this, 1965?
I don't understand what all the fuss is about over early voting. Don't they know that they too could vote early? Why is early voting "cheating"? I mean, until we make election days national holidays where nobody has to work, then there will always be people who will have difficulty getting to the polls on election days. Especially those who work several jobs or odd hours (i.e. the working class and working poor). Absentee balloting is complicated and requires specific reasons for their use. Early voting periods ensure that EVERYONE has an equal shot at casting a ballot for an election.
Illinois started early voting during the primaries. I took advantage of it then (on Martin Luther King Day) and I took advantage of it this time, last Monday. I didn't need a reason to do it, other than I wanted to. My mind was made up, and I won't be able to vote on election day because I'll be a judge and I don't know if I will be able to make it to my polling place in time, depending on my hours and location.
So if you have early voting in your area, go do it. Take advantage of it and show your local and state officials that there is support for early voting. Until we have a national election day holiday, it's the only way to ensure everyone gets a voice.
I don't understand what all the fuss is about over early voting. Don't they know that they too could vote early? Why is early voting "cheating"? I mean, until we make election days national holidays where nobody has to work, then there will always be people who will have difficulty getting to the polls on election days. Especially those who work several jobs or odd hours (i.e. the working class and working poor). Absentee balloting is complicated and requires specific reasons for their use. Early voting periods ensure that EVERYONE has an equal shot at casting a ballot for an election.
Illinois started early voting during the primaries. I took advantage of it then (on Martin Luther King Day) and I took advantage of it this time, last Monday. I didn't need a reason to do it, other than I wanted to. My mind was made up, and I won't be able to vote on election day because I'll be a judge and I don't know if I will be able to make it to my polling place in time, depending on my hours and location.
So if you have early voting in your area, go do it. Take advantage of it and show your local and state officials that there is support for early voting. Until we have a national election day holiday, it's the only way to ensure everyone gets a voice.
18 October 2008
A shout out for my good friend ~V
I'm very proud of ~V. Today is the launch party for her very own literary journal that she founded with the help of a few other writers. Anyone who is a literary buff, certainly check it out and if you're a writer, consider submitting something for the next issue.
Congratulations ~V!!
Conclave: A Journal of Character
Congratulations ~V!!
Conclave: A Journal of Character
17 October 2008
Yes, I'm still alive
I just have lots of stuff going on right now and the election season is getting so interesting that I can't sort out what I want to say... I'll be back soon. In the meantime, here's something to consider:
When the subject came up about the extremely negative (and sometimes violent) nature of the crowds at McCain/Palin rallies came up in the debate, McCain tried to say that it's because Obama wouldn't do "town hall" discussions. That does not excuse McCain for running a deceitful campaign and for inciting hatred and violence against his opponent.
What did he and Palin expect when they paint Obama as "palling around with terrorists" questioning his patriotism or his Americanness or his dedication to our country, or as a dangerous choice? Of course they're going to scare some people - and people do erratic things when they're scared.
McCain said he's heard similar things at Obama rallies - show me where. Show me audio or video of the same caliber. Obama won't even let his crowds BOO McCain at rallies.
This is what Olbermann had to say about it a few days ago.
When the subject came up about the extremely negative (and sometimes violent) nature of the crowds at McCain/Palin rallies came up in the debate, McCain tried to say that it's because Obama wouldn't do "town hall" discussions. That does not excuse McCain for running a deceitful campaign and for inciting hatred and violence against his opponent.
What did he and Palin expect when they paint Obama as "palling around with terrorists" questioning his patriotism or his Americanness or his dedication to our country, or as a dangerous choice? Of course they're going to scare some people - and people do erratic things when they're scared.
McCain said he's heard similar things at Obama rallies - show me where. Show me audio or video of the same caliber. Obama won't even let his crowds BOO McCain at rallies.
This is what Olbermann had to say about it a few days ago.
12 October 2008
Less than 100 days!!!
Check it out!
Just look at the countdown clock in the left margin!!
We're in the home stretch people!
Now to start the pool on how many more things he can fuck up before he leaves...
Just look at the countdown clock in the left margin!!
We're in the home stretch people!
Now to start the pool on how many more things he can fuck up before he leaves...
09 October 2008
Doing my part
So a while back I filled out an application to be an election judge and I was selected!
So later this month there will be a training class (3 hours) and I'll find out which location I'll be assigned to.
I'm excited because I've always wanted to do more than just vote in an election. I feel like it's a way to give back to the system - volunteer some of my time to make sure that others can vote more efficiently.
And... a Funny from the Daily show:
Breaking down the Undecided Vote:
So later this month there will be a training class (3 hours) and I'll find out which location I'll be assigned to.
I'm excited because I've always wanted to do more than just vote in an election. I feel like it's a way to give back to the system - volunteer some of my time to make sure that others can vote more efficiently.
And... a Funny from the Daily show:
Breaking down the Undecided Vote:
28 September 2008
Tear down the wall...
Why is it so hard to revoke the tax exempt status of churches whose pastors actively endorse political candidates? It's a violation of the law. Why is it so hard? Investigate, revoke the tax status, and make the fuckers start paying property taxes.
Separation of church and state, my ass.
Separation of church and state, my ass.
24 September 2008
Gotta love the Daily Show
So what McCain is saying when he says he'll hijack the debates and election process if a deal isn't reached by Friday on this proposal is that he's backing Paulson's plan that would give an unelected official complete rule over how to oversee fixing a problem that he didn't even see coming as recently as March of this year without any form of oversight and without accountability to anyone. Nice.
The "joint" statement by the candidates regarding the importance of fixing this problem was pretty funny. Olbermann read it last night. It was a general statement about how we need to come together for a bipartisan solution, yada yada. And then, an addendum added by Obama, but not in the "joint" statement - so we can infer that McCain did not want his name associated with this piece of the statement - called for more oversight (in reference to Paulson's demand for absolutely no questions asked) and it also called for taxpayers to benefit from the program in some way (i.e. getting interest back on their 'loan'), and also to ensure that the CEOs do not profit from this, and that it needs to contain a solution for people struggling with their mortgages also. So McCain didn't want that in the joint statement? So handing over 700 billion of taxpayer dollars, no questions, no oversight, to an industry that got us in this mess precisely because HIS economic advisor paved the way for deregulation and no oversight is OK by him??? Does anyone smell anything fishy here??
20 September 2008
Meaningful lyrics
There's a lot of debate about what this song is about, but here's what I think: To me, it tells a story of a society that has become so far removed from it's own sense of agency that we see no choice but to sit back and passively accept what Government, God, Greed, Globalization, George (capital G) does and says without critical thought.
Capital G, Year Zero, Nine Inch Nails
I pushed the button and elected him to office and a
He pushed the button and he dropped the bomb
You pushed the button and could watch in on the television
Those motherfuckers didn't last too long
I'm sick of hearing about the have and have not's
Have some personal accountability
The biggest problem with the way that we are doing things is
The more we let you have the less that I'll be keeping for me
Well I use to stand for something
Well I'm on my hands and knees
Turning in my god for this one
and he signs his name with a capital G
Don't give a shit about the temperature in Guatemala
Don't really see what all the fuss is about
Ain't gonna worry about no future generations
And I'm sure somebody's gonna figure it out
Don't try to tell me that some power can corrupt a person
You hadn't had enough to know what its like
Your only angry cause you wish you were in my position
Now nod your head cause you know that I'm right..alright!
Well I use to stand for something
But forgot what that could be
Theres a lot of me inside you
Maybe your afraid to see
Well I use to stand for something
Well I'm on my hands and knees
Turning in my god for this one
and he signs his name with a capital G
Capital G, Year Zero, Nine Inch Nails
I pushed the button and elected him to office and a
He pushed the button and he dropped the bomb
You pushed the button and could watch in on the television
Those motherfuckers didn't last too long
I'm sick of hearing about the have and have not's
Have some personal accountability
The biggest problem with the way that we are doing things is
The more we let you have the less that I'll be keeping for me
Well I use to stand for something
Well I'm on my hands and knees
Turning in my god for this one
and he signs his name with a capital G
Don't give a shit about the temperature in Guatemala
Don't really see what all the fuss is about
Ain't gonna worry about no future generations
And I'm sure somebody's gonna figure it out
Don't try to tell me that some power can corrupt a person
You hadn't had enough to know what its like
Your only angry cause you wish you were in my position
Now nod your head cause you know that I'm right..alright!
Well I use to stand for something
But forgot what that could be
Theres a lot of me inside you
Maybe your afraid to see
Well I use to stand for something
Well I'm on my hands and knees
Turning in my god for this one
and he signs his name with a capital G
18 September 2008
He's the Real Deal
Given that the election rigmarole has escalated, I wanted to share a story:
"He's the real deal."
That's what my friend's dad (we'll call him Dad) proclaimed about Barack Obama in June at a summer BBQ. Why do I think that warrants a special post? Because coming from Dad, it means a hell of a lot more than from any politico, pundit (armchair or professional), news anchor, or spokesperson. Dad served on the IL state Senate with Obama for many years, and is, himself, a proud Republican from Chicago. Yes, you read that right - there are republicans in Chicago.
While socially moderate and fiscally conservative, Dad worked with Obama several times prior to his own retirement, and follows his own logic, working for the greater good rather than tow a party line. In this way, both men are a rare breed among today's politicians. The few times I've had the opportunity to speak to Dad, I listen, because I respect his opinions.
So when he started talking politics with the few remaining BBQ guests, we stuck around. In a nutshell, what he said was this: Obama is a great man, and the 'real deal.' The election is his to lose. If Barack Obama stays true to his roots, remains the type of man he was in the Illinois Senate, that he can do some real good.
Coming from this man, that means a lot. And I hope he's right.
"He's the real deal."
That's what my friend's dad (we'll call him Dad) proclaimed about Barack Obama in June at a summer BBQ. Why do I think that warrants a special post? Because coming from Dad, it means a hell of a lot more than from any politico, pundit (armchair or professional), news anchor, or spokesperson. Dad served on the IL state Senate with Obama for many years, and is, himself, a proud Republican from Chicago. Yes, you read that right - there are republicans in Chicago.
While socially moderate and fiscally conservative, Dad worked with Obama several times prior to his own retirement, and follows his own logic, working for the greater good rather than tow a party line. In this way, both men are a rare breed among today's politicians. The few times I've had the opportunity to speak to Dad, I listen, because I respect his opinions.
So when he started talking politics with the few remaining BBQ guests, we stuck around. In a nutshell, what he said was this: Obama is a great man, and the 'real deal.' The election is his to lose. If Barack Obama stays true to his roots, remains the type of man he was in the Illinois Senate, that he can do some real good.
Coming from this man, that means a lot. And I hope he's right.
11 September 2008
Are you really that dumb?
This is what I want to ask people who think Sarah Palin is fantastic because she's an 'everywoman,' or she's 'just like me,' or 'she makes us feel like anyone can be president.' Seriously folks? You want a president who's just like you? You don't want a president to be smarter and more experienced in governing and foreign policy? Are you really that dumb?
I personally want a president who IS smarter than me. I don't find that threatening or elitist in any way. The president is supposed to be a job that not everyone can get. I, for one, want a president that represents the best of us, not the average in us. I want a president that is well spoken, intellectually curious, and smart enough to surround him/herself with the best people - not just his/her buddies. I want a president who is comfortable enough with his/her own abilities that s/he is able to deal with criticism and dissent in a mature and responsible manner.
Another thing I'm tired of is people who keep saying "we'll see where the country stands." As if this election will somehow solidify public opinion on the myriad issues up for discussion this season. Whomever is elected will need to be able to serve ALL Americans, not just those who voted for him/her. This was Bush's biggest mistake - believing that he should only represent the opinions and policies of the "side" that voted for him. Regardless of who wins, there will remain a large divide between Americans on a variety of issues. Whoever is elected will need to be able to find a common ground and compromise on those issues, not just push the country in the direction of his/her party. I want a president that is able to represent the majority of people and able to compromise to find solutions that serve the best interests of the country as a whole, not just his/her party affiliates.
I don't want a president that thinks, believes and worships exactly the way I do. Nor do I want a president that has exactly the same worldview as I do - because I know that's a selfish and narcissistic concept. If I did believe that the president should represent MY views as closely as possible, I'd be backing Kucinich. I believe whoever the next president is should be able to compromise and find solutions that serve the interests of the most people, on the most substantive issues, regardless of how it might conflict with his/her own personal ideologies.
That person is not McCain/Palin. Nor, I might add, is it Kucinich.
I personally want a president who IS smarter than me. I don't find that threatening or elitist in any way. The president is supposed to be a job that not everyone can get. I, for one, want a president that represents the best of us, not the average in us. I want a president that is well spoken, intellectually curious, and smart enough to surround him/herself with the best people - not just his/her buddies. I want a president who is comfortable enough with his/her own abilities that s/he is able to deal with criticism and dissent in a mature and responsible manner.
Another thing I'm tired of is people who keep saying "we'll see where the country stands." As if this election will somehow solidify public opinion on the myriad issues up for discussion this season. Whomever is elected will need to be able to serve ALL Americans, not just those who voted for him/her. This was Bush's biggest mistake - believing that he should only represent the opinions and policies of the "side" that voted for him. Regardless of who wins, there will remain a large divide between Americans on a variety of issues. Whoever is elected will need to be able to find a common ground and compromise on those issues, not just push the country in the direction of his/her party. I want a president that is able to represent the majority of people and able to compromise to find solutions that serve the best interests of the country as a whole, not just his/her party affiliates.
I don't want a president that thinks, believes and worships exactly the way I do. Nor do I want a president that has exactly the same worldview as I do - because I know that's a selfish and narcissistic concept. If I did believe that the president should represent MY views as closely as possible, I'd be backing Kucinich. I believe whoever the next president is should be able to compromise and find solutions that serve the interests of the most people, on the most substantive issues, regardless of how it might conflict with his/her own personal ideologies.
That person is not McCain/Palin. Nor, I might add, is it Kucinich.
09 September 2008
Just in case
Just in case CERN blows us up tomorrow, I want all my friends and family to know I love them...
Hopefully I'll see you soon...
Hopefully I'll see you soon...
06 September 2008
The Daily Show Brilliance
The GOP putting their foot in their mouths:
Of course, the old double standards continue. When it doesn't involve a GOP member, it's BAD, but when it does, let's spin it to be good! Like having a candidate that's great at reading teleprompter speeches (for Obama, that's bad, for Palin, it's great). Of course, the difference is Obama isn't afraid to appear on Sunday news shows to answer substantive, on the fly questions.
Bristol Palin's.... oh, what's the word...
They need to stop spinning this as a private family choice unless they want an open debate about what choice really means and how Sarah Palin's policies seek to limit those options. Choice means having more than one valid option, especially for those families not in such powerful, financially stable situations. If this is a "private" family matter, then the government should stay out of it right?
What anti-choice people don't understand about pro-choice movement is that it's not "pro abortion," it's pro choice. Planned Parenthood allows discussion of ALL options, including proper neonatal care should a woman choose to continue her pregnancy, adoption counseling should she choose that option, and yes, birth control and abortion services. They offer a REAL choice to women, not a choice limited to those options they personally or politically feel are 'correct.' My guess is that with her strict evangelical views and adherence to abstinence only education, that her daughter didn't have the full facts about sex, pregnancy, or birth control. She's living proof that no matter how hard you might try, teenagers are going to have sex. What's the best way to stop abortion? How about reducing the number of unwanted pregnancies to begin with by teaching people about their birth control options?????
Of course, the old double standards continue. When it doesn't involve a GOP member, it's BAD, but when it does, let's spin it to be good! Like having a candidate that's great at reading teleprompter speeches (for Obama, that's bad, for Palin, it's great). Of course, the difference is Obama isn't afraid to appear on Sunday news shows to answer substantive, on the fly questions.
Bristol Palin's.... oh, what's the word...
They need to stop spinning this as a private family choice unless they want an open debate about what choice really means and how Sarah Palin's policies seek to limit those options. Choice means having more than one valid option, especially for those families not in such powerful, financially stable situations. If this is a "private" family matter, then the government should stay out of it right?
What anti-choice people don't understand about pro-choice movement is that it's not "pro abortion," it's pro choice. Planned Parenthood allows discussion of ALL options, including proper neonatal care should a woman choose to continue her pregnancy, adoption counseling should she choose that option, and yes, birth control and abortion services. They offer a REAL choice to women, not a choice limited to those options they personally or politically feel are 'correct.' My guess is that with her strict evangelical views and adherence to abstinence only education, that her daughter didn't have the full facts about sex, pregnancy, or birth control. She's living proof that no matter how hard you might try, teenagers are going to have sex. What's the best way to stop abortion? How about reducing the number of unwanted pregnancies to begin with by teaching people about their birth control options?????
03 September 2008
Worth a read
I routinely post some of Irshad Manji's posts here because I feel they have an important message. This one is no exception.
It takes a global village
By Irshad Manji
"As First Lady of the United States, Hillary Rodham Clinton wrote a book called It Takes a Village. A mother and world-traveler, she understood that raising children well demands attention, care and persistence from a sprawling network of individuals beyond the immediate family.
America’s right-wing nuts hated her metaphor of the village, interpreting it as an assault on the sanctity of parental power. But having grown up in a violent household myself, I loved Hillary’s point that a biological mother and father often ain’t enough. It takes a village.
So how ironic that, for many children in the Muslim world, the village is the problem, not the solution. Actually, it’s village idiots who are the problem. Let me illustrate." ...
Click the link above to read the rest. It's very interesting.
It takes a global village
By Irshad Manji
"As First Lady of the United States, Hillary Rodham Clinton wrote a book called It Takes a Village. A mother and world-traveler, she understood that raising children well demands attention, care and persistence from a sprawling network of individuals beyond the immediate family.
America’s right-wing nuts hated her metaphor of the village, interpreting it as an assault on the sanctity of parental power. But having grown up in a violent household myself, I loved Hillary’s point that a biological mother and father often ain’t enough. It takes a village.
So how ironic that, for many children in the Muslim world, the village is the problem, not the solution. Actually, it’s village idiots who are the problem. Let me illustrate." ...
Click the link above to read the rest. It's very interesting.
30 August 2008
26 August 2008
Finally, somebody says it
Unionist: Some wary of black president
DENVER -- The head of one of the country's most politically active unions acknowledged today that some of his rural members in key voting states fear casting a ballot for an African-American for president.Gerald McEntee, president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, used colorful language to describe racist attitudes against Obama as well as where union workers would find themselves if they don't win in states like Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Michigan.
"If we don't win those kinds of states, we're going to be in that--pardon my language, I know it's early--that proverbial s--t house for four more years. OK, sisters and brothers? That is where we will be," McEntee told members of Illinois' delegation to the Democratic National Convention at their morning breakfast meeting.
McEntee said that union members who say they can't vote for a black presidential contender need to measure Obama's labor record against that of Arizona Sen. John McCain, the presumptive Republican nominee.
"You can't vote for Barack Obama because he's black? That's his color and that is bulls--t. That is absolute bulls--t," McEntee said in getting a standing ovation."
This is not a debate about union issues, so just put that aside for a minute. As I've said from the beginning when news outlets were talking about Obama's "White, working class" problem, he does not have a "White, working class" problem. There are plenty of White, working class people who look at Obama's policies, not the color of his skin.
No, Obama has a hillbilly problem.
I'm not talking about conservatives who are already leaning towards McCain who use Obama's race as another justification to not vote for him - though that is also despicable. I'm talking about people who fancy themselves progressives and democrats but can't vote for a black guy. These people might like to THINK they are progressive and democrats - but they're nothing more than racist hypocrites who obviously don't know the meaning of democracy if they think a person's racial background should be a qualifier to hold public office. Call a spade a spade.20 August 2008
Movie Review: Teeth
This is the best. movie. ever.
Ok, well, not ever. And I won't get into my diatribe about how movies of different genres cannot be directly compared with each other in terms of which are "best."
This movie came out last year, and apparently was playing at the Music Box theatre in Chicago a while back and I missed it. I'd heard about it when it came out, and tried to find it. John and I finally found it on our On Demand, and after we were done watching it, we went to Amazon and bought the DVD.
I don't want to give away too many details, but here's my synopsis:
It's a satirical dark horror movie with a bit of comic flair, political poignancy, and a feminist backdrop. It is about a girl, Dawn, who is a figurehead in her community's abstinence only movement. She speaks to her fellow students about why sex before marriage is wrong and wears a promise ring. She's got the best t-shirts too, like the one in the photo above. Her step-brother, on the other hand, is this really fucked up douchenozzle who, we discover, has always harbored a hatred of his father for making Jess his sister. Brad is in love with Dawn, and since he can't have her, takes it out on others. Brad also vaguely remembers something strange about Dawn from a game of "show me yours" when they were kids, but he can't quite put his finger on it.
The movie takes this abstinence only stance and blends it expertly with how our society treats female sexuality as something to be hidden, guarded, and never, ever, discussed. The biology class we see, for instance, talks in depth about male sexuality and biology while the page in their book with the female diagram is blocked out by a big sticker. Dawn explains to the class that this is understandable because women have a "natural modesty" and things like this just aren't discussed.
All this is going on while Dawn is having fantasy's about a boy in her Promise group. She gives in to her temptations and meets him in a secluded place where they go swimming and end up fooling around. He tries to force himself on her and that is when Dawn realizes that she has a secret weapon (or curse?).
Vagina Dentata.
She does some research on the internet and finds that Vagina Dentata is a common myth in many cultures used to dissuade men from having sex with strange women, express the persistent male fear of female sexual expression, and used to illustrate how women's sexuality and genital organs are some mysterious, dangerous void.
The movie does a great job illustrating the parallels between this myth, our current abstinence only educational push, our society's puritanical views of sex and our persistent double standard for male and female sexuality, and the impacts of not encouraging children to ask questions and explore their own bodies.
There's a great scene when she goes to the gynecologist for the first time because she thinks there's something wrong with her. The effects of the dentata (which are never actually seen) are filmed with a comic gore that had us simultaneously laughing and covering our eyes.
Seriously. Rent this movie.
19 August 2008
what the...
Donna showed this to me, and I had to share...
I ask you, my devoted readers, what. the. fuck??
What was Burger King Thinking?
Take a look and tell me what you think.
The first thing that struck me, other than the utter ridiculousness, was how this simply reinforces our societal fear of sex and sexuality as something "bad." Not that I'm saying I want sexuality expressed in my double Whopper with cheese...
I ask you, my devoted readers, what. the. fuck??
What was Burger King Thinking?
Take a look and tell me what you think.
The first thing that struck me, other than the utter ridiculousness, was how this simply reinforces our societal fear of sex and sexuality as something "bad." Not that I'm saying I want sexuality expressed in my double Whopper with cheese...
18 August 2008
Score!
A few years ago, a friend of ours had a tenant move out after a severe injury. He left a lot of things behind when he moved, including a Lichtenstein poster. Sean knew that John liked Lichtenstein, so he gave us the poster. It was in good condition, except for the frame, which was old and had sharp edges, and the wire was splintering. We finally got around to getting it re-framed.
We knew it was older, but we figured this guy just bought it online or on a trip to New York or something. Well... I found out from the manager of the frame shop I go to, when I went to get it re-framed, that it is an original poster from 1969!! It's not one of the limited edition lithographs (that would be awesome) but it's still pretty valuable and in good condition. Not like we're going to sell it... but now we have two Lichtenstein pieces that were actually created with his authorization while he was still alive as opposed to poster reprints.
Talk about artistic genius...
We knew it was older, but we figured this guy just bought it online or on a trip to New York or something. Well... I found out from the manager of the frame shop I go to, when I went to get it re-framed, that it is an original poster from 1969!! It's not one of the limited edition lithographs (that would be awesome) but it's still pretty valuable and in good condition. Not like we're going to sell it... but now we have two Lichtenstein pieces that were actually created with his authorization while he was still alive as opposed to poster reprints.
Talk about artistic genius...
12 August 2008
Lollapalooza, Days 2 & 3
Day 2: Our volunteer shift started early, and given that we didn't get home until after midnight the previous night (it took FOREVER to find a cab even after waiting an hour in my office after the Radiohead show), we were a little tired. John doesn't do as well with little sleep as I do, so we had a small breakfast and made our way downtown. We stopped at Dunkin Donuts to get some munchkins for the early morning crew and arrived for our shift at 8:30am. We helped our team lead get things set up for the day, and after that the day was pretty slow.
For those a little slow on the uptake - this is Volunteer HQ.
The Greeter/Information team getting ready to meet the masses.
Since most volunteers work all three days, very few people needed to sign the liability form or pick up t-shirts on Saturday or Sunday. There were some, but not many. Mostly we hung around, checked in those people starting for their shifts, and goofed off. Our shift ended at 1pm, at which time we walked over to t-shirt vendors, got a couple of shirts (reasonably priced, surprisingly) and then to the food vendors, got some lunch, and listened a bit to a nearby stage. I was amazed that the food prices were so low - given what you pay at many other local venues, $5 for a sandwich and $5 for a beer isn't bad at all. I guess they figure if people are forking over $200 for a three day pass and expecting to stay in the park all day, the least they can do is offer affordable food.
John went home to walk the dog and take a nap while I hung out in the park all day. It was a much cooler day that Friday, so I just relaxed in the various open spaces and listed to whatever was going on around me. I stopped by Perry's stage to hear Perry's set, rolled out my blanket against a tree and just hung out. A couple of guys sat by me who were from the Iraq Veterans Against the War organization and we talked for a bit. They were trying to get backstage for Rage - apparently Zach has done some stuff for IVAW and they were in contact with the band manager. The band spent the day at the Cubs game and wasn't around before their set.
Buckingham Fountain looking North toward the Standard Oil building
(I refuse to call it the Aon Center)
Unlike other music festivals or concerts, there's lots of green, open space to just relax.
I mostly just chilled out in the grass most of Saturday afternoon.
I called John to wake him up, got a beer, and wandered around a bit more. We didn't get to see Lupe Fiasco, cuz John arrived late - however, he was smart and brought the motorcycle downtown - free meter parking on Wabash after 6pm - so we didn't have any problems getting home that night.
Already scaling fences for a good look at Rage. The crowd was massive.
Relaxing at Rage?? What am I, old or something?
Unlike the previous night, where Radiohead played un-opposed (there's two headliner stages, one on either end of the festival), Rage Against the Machine and Wilco were both playing at 8:30pm. Given the sheer number of Rage shirts I saw throughout the day, I should not have been surprised at the size of the crowd, but I was. It looked even worse than Friday, though I don't know how that's possible. We found an out-of-the-way area in the back of the field. We couldn't see, but we could hear just fine. Thankfully we weren't amidst the chaos. They had to stop the show three times so Zach could tell people in the front to back up and stop crushing people against the barricade. I hadn't seen Rage live in 15 years, and they didn't disappoint. Just as frenzied and political and relevant as ever.
Day 3: Our shift was from 1-5pm on Sunday, so we slept in and took the motorcycle downtown again (free parking on Sundays on Wabash). Sunday's shift was even slower than Saturday's, with even fewer people needing to check in while we were there. See, most people check in around Noon for the day, check out the music, and then return for their shift, so very few people check in between 1 and 5pm. We passed the time watching one of the other team leads whose job was over chase fence jumpers and filled up on freebie giveaways from the Whole Foods booth.
We went with one of our other teammates to find a spot for Nine Inch Nails, found a lovely area of grass, rolled out our blankets, and listened to Flogging Molly's set. After that, Love and Rockets came on, and they were pretty damn good too. We bumped into a couple other volunteers who set up camp by us. I went to forage for food during The Nationals set, and we hung out on the lawn until NIN took the stage.
Now, yes. I love Radiohead, and I like Rage a lot. But I've seen both of them before. I've never seen NIN live and I think that, and the sheer enthusiasm shown by Trent and the band is why I had such a great time. I seriously felt 18 again. That show has re-kindled my crush on Trent Reznor - and man, he's lookin pretty damn buff lately. Just goes to show that lifting weights is always a better option than heroin. At one point, near the end of the show, he said he was amazed that he was still alive and that he was playing Lollapalooza 17 years after he first played Lolla to an appreciative crowd. Well, I'm certainly glad he's still alive. They put on one fantastic show.
Driving the motorcycle down LaSalle street canyon Sunday morning.
Yes, this is where they flipped the semi truck in the Dark Knight.
They call it the canyon because the Board of Trade at the end of the street makes it look like a canyon.
Love and Rockets had some weird dancing things on stage that looked like the Bumble Bee Man and the Michelin Man had a love child.
Devoted volunteer. He has 5 wristbands. Why?
Friday pass, Saturday Pass, Hospital wristband from getting a bruised rib at an after party Saturday night, Sunday Pass, Beer wristband.
Nine Inch Nails takes the stage.
Nine Inch Nails, Closer. It's a little shaky, but the sound is good. Epileptics beware.
Nine Inch Nails, Hurt. Our video was ruined by chatty Cathy's in our midst who jabbered through the whole thing, but I found another good one. This one also includes Trent's comments prior to the song. The friend he refers to is Johnny Cash.
For those a little slow on the uptake - this is Volunteer HQ.
The Greeter/Information team getting ready to meet the masses.John went home to walk the dog and take a nap while I hung out in the park all day. It was a much cooler day that Friday, so I just relaxed in the various open spaces and listed to whatever was going on around me. I stopped by Perry's stage to hear Perry's set, rolled out my blanket against a tree and just hung out. A couple of guys sat by me who were from the Iraq Veterans Against the War organization and we talked for a bit. They were trying to get backstage for Rage - apparently Zach has done some stuff for IVAW and they were in contact with the band manager. The band spent the day at the Cubs game and wasn't around before their set.
Buckingham Fountain looking North toward the Standard Oil building(I refuse to call it the Aon Center)
Unlike other music festivals or concerts, there's lots of green, open space to just relax.I mostly just chilled out in the grass most of Saturday afternoon.
I called John to wake him up, got a beer, and wandered around a bit more. We didn't get to see Lupe Fiasco, cuz John arrived late - however, he was smart and brought the motorcycle downtown - free meter parking on Wabash after 6pm - so we didn't have any problems getting home that night.
Already scaling fences for a good look at Rage. The crowd was massive.
Relaxing at Rage?? What am I, old or something?Unlike the previous night, where Radiohead played un-opposed (there's two headliner stages, one on either end of the festival), Rage Against the Machine and Wilco were both playing at 8:30pm. Given the sheer number of Rage shirts I saw throughout the day, I should not have been surprised at the size of the crowd, but I was. It looked even worse than Friday, though I don't know how that's possible. We found an out-of-the-way area in the back of the field. We couldn't see, but we could hear just fine. Thankfully we weren't amidst the chaos. They had to stop the show three times so Zach could tell people in the front to back up and stop crushing people against the barricade. I hadn't seen Rage live in 15 years, and they didn't disappoint. Just as frenzied and political and relevant as ever.
Day 3: Our shift was from 1-5pm on Sunday, so we slept in and took the motorcycle downtown again (free parking on Sundays on Wabash). Sunday's shift was even slower than Saturday's, with even fewer people needing to check in while we were there. See, most people check in around Noon for the day, check out the music, and then return for their shift, so very few people check in between 1 and 5pm. We passed the time watching one of the other team leads whose job was over chase fence jumpers and filled up on freebie giveaways from the Whole Foods booth.
We went with one of our other teammates to find a spot for Nine Inch Nails, found a lovely area of grass, rolled out our blankets, and listened to Flogging Molly's set. After that, Love and Rockets came on, and they were pretty damn good too. We bumped into a couple other volunteers who set up camp by us. I went to forage for food during The Nationals set, and we hung out on the lawn until NIN took the stage.
Now, yes. I love Radiohead, and I like Rage a lot. But I've seen both of them before. I've never seen NIN live and I think that, and the sheer enthusiasm shown by Trent and the band is why I had such a great time. I seriously felt 18 again. That show has re-kindled my crush on Trent Reznor - and man, he's lookin pretty damn buff lately. Just goes to show that lifting weights is always a better option than heroin. At one point, near the end of the show, he said he was amazed that he was still alive and that he was playing Lollapalooza 17 years after he first played Lolla to an appreciative crowd. Well, I'm certainly glad he's still alive. They put on one fantastic show.
Driving the motorcycle down LaSalle street canyon Sunday morning.Yes, this is where they flipped the semi truck in the Dark Knight.
They call it the canyon because the Board of Trade at the end of the street makes it look like a canyon.
Love and Rockets had some weird dancing things on stage that looked like the Bumble Bee Man and the Michelin Man had a love child.
Devoted volunteer. He has 5 wristbands. Why?Friday pass, Saturday Pass, Hospital wristband from getting a bruised rib at an after party Saturday night, Sunday Pass, Beer wristband.
Nine Inch Nails takes the stage.
Nine Inch Nails, Closer. It's a little shaky, but the sound is good. Epileptics beware.
Nine Inch Nails, Hurt. Our video was ruined by chatty Cathy's in our midst who jabbered through the whole thing, but I found another good one. This one also includes Trent's comments prior to the song. The friend he refers to is Johnny Cash.
11 August 2008
Lollapalooza
Sorry it took so long... I've had little motivation to do much of anything the past week or so.
Day 1: Our shift at Volunteer HQ was from 1pm to 5pm, so we arrive after taking the el downtown. We dropped our provisions at my office, about 2 blocks from Grant Park and make our way over. It's HOT and humid and John is feeling it already. Not a good sign. Our jobs were very easy, and we got along well with our leads and our team. Friday was the busiest day because most volunteers work all three days - so Friday is the big check-in day. All volunteers have to sign a liability form (if you're injured while working, don't blame Lolla and all that jazz), get their t-shirts, and go meet their teams. The Funniest thing was that I saw the name of a girl I went to high school with on my list of check in volunteers. So when she arrived, I said "Hi Corinne", and she was like 'wait, how do you know my name? Do I know you? OMG, wait..." It was pretty funny. She also knows one of my old DePaul friends and former roomates, Jeff, who was at the festival covering it for the Daily Herald, a newspaper in the Northwest burbs of Chicago. Small world.
So we finished our shift, went back to my office to cool off, take a potty break, and grab some food. We went back to Grant Park to see Radiohead, and they did not disappoint. We grabbed a piece of lawn near other people who had put down blankets - I'm of the mind that if I can hear fine, then I'm good. I don't need to stand shoulder to shoulder with sweaty drunkards, especially when we have a huge field. Small world again, we ended up right next to a blanket where a guy I work with was sitting.
Radiohead did not disappoint. I have some photos (mostly of Chicago because we were too far to get photos of the stage) and a youtube video I took (Everything in its Right Place/Fake Plastic Trees). That's facing South, the Field Museum of Natural History is in the background. Let me say, I am AMAZED at the quality of video and sound coming off my little Canon PowerShot SD950 IS camera. If you're in the market for a point and shoot digital camera - I highly recommend it. The detail in the pictures is phenomenal.
Day 1: Our shift at Volunteer HQ was from 1pm to 5pm, so we arrive after taking the el downtown. We dropped our provisions at my office, about 2 blocks from Grant Park and make our way over. It's HOT and humid and John is feeling it already. Not a good sign. Our jobs were very easy, and we got along well with our leads and our team. Friday was the busiest day because most volunteers work all three days - so Friday is the big check-in day. All volunteers have to sign a liability form (if you're injured while working, don't blame Lolla and all that jazz), get their t-shirts, and go meet their teams. The Funniest thing was that I saw the name of a girl I went to high school with on my list of check in volunteers. So when she arrived, I said "Hi Corinne", and she was like 'wait, how do you know my name? Do I know you? OMG, wait..." It was pretty funny. She also knows one of my old DePaul friends and former roomates, Jeff, who was at the festival covering it for the Daily Herald, a newspaper in the Northwest burbs of Chicago. Small world.
So we finished our shift, went back to my office to cool off, take a potty break, and grab some food. We went back to Grant Park to see Radiohead, and they did not disappoint. We grabbed a piece of lawn near other people who had put down blankets - I'm of the mind that if I can hear fine, then I'm good. I don't need to stand shoulder to shoulder with sweaty drunkards, especially when we have a huge field. Small world again, we ended up right next to a blanket where a guy I work with was sitting.
Radiohead did not disappoint. I have some photos (mostly of Chicago because we were too far to get photos of the stage) and a youtube video I took (Everything in its Right Place/Fake Plastic Trees). That's facing South, the Field Museum of Natural History is in the background. Let me say, I am AMAZED at the quality of video and sound coming off my little Canon PowerShot SD950 IS camera. If you're in the market for a point and shoot digital camera - I highly recommend it. The detail in the pictures is phenomenal.
05 August 2008
What a weekend
A full report is forthcoming, with pictures, as soon as I weed through them.
This past weekend was Lalapalooza and - wow... just wow. John and I both got a volunteer gig through a friend of mine who was a team lead this year and it was so much fun. You volunteer 4 hours of your time each day and in return, you get a pass for the day. Technically, we're being compensated $200 (the cost of the three day pass) for 12 hours of "work." Now, a lot of the other volunteer teams did have hard jobs - like walking around the park distributing program books or answering questions. Our job was at volunteer headquarters. We checked in the volunteers for their shifts and sat under a shaded tent and watched one of the other team leads chase fence jumpers. It was a great experience and I will totally do it again next year. Once you're a volunteer, you're more likely to get in again following years because they know you're reliable.
What astounded me was the sheer number of no-shows. You get a free pass to the festival but these ass clowns just never showed. Oh well.
The highlights of my experience, in no particular order, were Radiohead, Nine Inch Nails, Flogging Molly, Perry's set at his small stage, and the people we met through the volunteer program. We took a way back seat during Rage Against the Machine - setting up camp off to the side of the field away from the mayhem. I'm glad we did. Reports vary, but the scene was chaotic, as described here by Jim DeRogatis, the Sun Times music critic. It's unfortunate, too, since Rage isn't meant to inspire violence.
Friday was very, very hot and humid, but the evening was perfect. Saturday and Sunday were perfect weather, hot, but not too bad. Monday, the day after the festival ended, were thunderstorms and spotted tornadoes in the area. Mother nature likes Perry Ferrel.
This past weekend was Lalapalooza and - wow... just wow. John and I both got a volunteer gig through a friend of mine who was a team lead this year and it was so much fun. You volunteer 4 hours of your time each day and in return, you get a pass for the day. Technically, we're being compensated $200 (the cost of the three day pass) for 12 hours of "work." Now, a lot of the other volunteer teams did have hard jobs - like walking around the park distributing program books or answering questions. Our job was at volunteer headquarters. We checked in the volunteers for their shifts and sat under a shaded tent and watched one of the other team leads chase fence jumpers. It was a great experience and I will totally do it again next year. Once you're a volunteer, you're more likely to get in again following years because they know you're reliable.
What astounded me was the sheer number of no-shows. You get a free pass to the festival but these ass clowns just never showed. Oh well.
The highlights of my experience, in no particular order, were Radiohead, Nine Inch Nails, Flogging Molly, Perry's set at his small stage, and the people we met through the volunteer program. We took a way back seat during Rage Against the Machine - setting up camp off to the side of the field away from the mayhem. I'm glad we did. Reports vary, but the scene was chaotic, as described here by Jim DeRogatis, the Sun Times music critic. It's unfortunate, too, since Rage isn't meant to inspire violence.
Friday was very, very hot and humid, but the evening was perfect. Saturday and Sunday were perfect weather, hot, but not too bad. Monday, the day after the festival ended, were thunderstorms and spotted tornadoes in the area. Mother nature likes Perry Ferrel.
24 July 2008
Overstaying your welcome
Maliki Calls for Timetable for US Troop Withdrawal
"Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki has for the first time publicly called for a timetable for the withdrawal of US troops from Iraq. The Bush administration has been secretly negotiating a long-term agreement with Iraq that would allow the US to keep permanent military bases in Iraq. But al-Maliki said Iraq only wants to sign a short-term agreement that includes a withdrawal timetable. Al-Maliki said, “The goal is to end the presence of foreign troops.” In Washington, the Bush administration rebuffed Maliki’s request. Pentagon spokesperson Bryan Whitman criticized timelines as “artificial.” State Department spokesperson Sean McCormack questioned whether Maliki might have been misquoted."
Yesterday [July 08, 2008], Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki said he would like to set a timetable for the withdrawal of U.S. troops. Today, however, the Bush administration rejected the timetable. In an April 24, 2007 interview with Charlie Rose, however, President said he would remove troops if asked by Iraq, but he predicted that Maliki would not ask for a withdrawal:
ROSE: But if he said get out now, we don’t want you anymore–
BUSH: I don’t see how we could stay. It is his country.
ROSE: But if he said that, it would lead to the catastrophe that you have suggested.
BUSH: That’s why he’s not going to say it.
ROSE: You don’t think he’ll say it?
BUSH: I don’t. No, I don’t.
Back in April 2004, Peter Peterson, chairman of the Council on Foreign Relations, asked Sen. McCain what the US government would do if asked to leave by the Iraqi government.
McCAIN: "Well, if that scenario evolves, then I think it's obvious that we would have to leave because— if it was an elected government of Iraq— and we've been asked to leave other places in the world. If it were an extremist government, then I think we would have other challenges, but I don't see how we could stay when our whole emphasis and policy has been based on turning the Iraqi government over to the Iraqi people."
President Bush has long maintained that if the Iraqi government wants the U.S. to leave Iraq, then the U.S. would do just that, as he said in May 2007:
"We are there at the invitation of the Iraqi government. This is a sovereign nation. Twelve million people went to the polls to approve a constitution. It’s their government’s choice. If they were to say, leave, we would leave."
So we're left with an administration and a GOP presidential candidate grasping at straws to try and find another reason we should stay in Iraq. Once the democratically elected government asks us to leave and we refuse, we truly do become an occupying force and all those arguments about how we went in to remove an evil dictator and help the Iraqis form their own government become null and void. So what have our soldiers and Iraqi civilians been dying for then?
"The purpose of the war in Iraq is to maintain a war in Iraq."
Keith Olbermann
02 July 2008
Book Review: Three Cups of Tea
The title of the book is a reference to the customary way of doing business in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and other parts of Central Asia:
For the first cup of tea, you are a stranger. By the second cup, you are a friend. By the third cup, you are family. It is a testament to the patience and understanding it takes to forge the kind of long-lasting ties to work in this region of the world.
By far, one of the most inspiring books I've ever read. Greg Mortenson single handedly started an initiative to bring education to rural Pakistan. I wish I had gotten a chance to read this before finishing my thesis - because this story is more directly related to my work than any other book or journal article I used.
Through persistence and a little luck, he made the right connections in Pakistan (and eventually Afghanistan) and in the U.S. with donors. This book recounts his efforts from their inception in 1996 after getting lost in the Himalaya through 9/11 and up to 2003 when the war in Iraq diverted promised American resources from Afghanistan (again). His work survived a kidnapping in Waziristan, several fatwas (that were eventually overturned by the highest mufti in Iran), and death threats (most of which came from his fellow Americans after 9/11 in the form of "how dare you help Muslims").
After getting separated from his guide leading him off the Baltoro glacier in Northern Pakistan after a failed attempt to scale K2, Mortenson found himself in a little village called Korphe in Baltistan, Pakistan. The first Westerner ever to stumble into Korphe intrigued the people. After being nursed back to health and served what little food the people had to offer, he witnessed children in Korphe studying outside, with no teacher and no school, scratching lessons in the dirt. He promised the village elder Haji Ali that he would build them a school, went back to the US, began writing letters and grants while living out of his car. After sending 580 letters, a single $100 check from Tom Brokaw, and $600 in pennies raised by elementary school children was the net result.
Then, fellow Mountaineer, physicist and silicon-valley pioneer turned philanthropist Jean Hoerni agreed to donate $12,000 for the school. Mortenson sold everything he owned, and returned to Pakistan, forged business ties and purchased supplies only to discover that the village did not yet want a school - but a bridge. Korphe was inaccessible except for a single hand-pulled makeshift lift cart that spanned the Braldu river. There was no way to get supplies into Korphe. Rather than storming off like many impatient Americans would, Mortenson entered a partnership with the people of Korphe - valuing their opinions, customs, and assessments of their own needs rather than dismissing them as primitive or assuming that an American knows what's best for them.
As Mortenson has said, it took 3 years and a lot of mistakes, but the Korphe school was finally built and has sent many of Korphe's children on to local towns for further education - including many girls.
It's a stunning account of an extraordinary man, who through his humility and respect for the people of the region, worked with them, heeding their input and their cultural norms, was able to do what no other humanitarian organization could -- build schools focusing on girls' education and bring long-lasting, meaningful change to one of the world's poorest and most unstable regions of the world where outsiders are usually regarded with cautious suspicion.
With Jean Hoerni's help once again, Mortenson founded the Central Asia Institute (see link to the left) and has built over 60 schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan since 1996 and has provided countless services and monetary support for education in these regions.
He is fighting the war on terror with the only effective ammunition - education. Give people education, and you give them the means to take control of their own lives. In areas where the only free education available is in the form of conservative, fundamentalist madrassas (many funded by the Saudi government), access to broad general education is key to fighting terrorism while forging ties with the very people we're trying to help.
It costs $1 per day to pay a teacher in Afghanistan or Pakistan.
For the first cup of tea, you are a stranger. By the second cup, you are a friend. By the third cup, you are family. It is a testament to the patience and understanding it takes to forge the kind of long-lasting ties to work in this region of the world.
By far, one of the most inspiring books I've ever read. Greg Mortenson single handedly started an initiative to bring education to rural Pakistan. I wish I had gotten a chance to read this before finishing my thesis - because this story is more directly related to my work than any other book or journal article I used.
Through persistence and a little luck, he made the right connections in Pakistan (and eventually Afghanistan) and in the U.S. with donors. This book recounts his efforts from their inception in 1996 after getting lost in the Himalaya through 9/11 and up to 2003 when the war in Iraq diverted promised American resources from Afghanistan (again). His work survived a kidnapping in Waziristan, several fatwas (that were eventually overturned by the highest mufti in Iran), and death threats (most of which came from his fellow Americans after 9/11 in the form of "how dare you help Muslims").
After getting separated from his guide leading him off the Baltoro glacier in Northern Pakistan after a failed attempt to scale K2, Mortenson found himself in a little village called Korphe in Baltistan, Pakistan. The first Westerner ever to stumble into Korphe intrigued the people. After being nursed back to health and served what little food the people had to offer, he witnessed children in Korphe studying outside, with no teacher and no school, scratching lessons in the dirt. He promised the village elder Haji Ali that he would build them a school, went back to the US, began writing letters and grants while living out of his car. After sending 580 letters, a single $100 check from Tom Brokaw, and $600 in pennies raised by elementary school children was the net result.
Then, fellow Mountaineer, physicist and silicon-valley pioneer turned philanthropist Jean Hoerni agreed to donate $12,000 for the school. Mortenson sold everything he owned, and returned to Pakistan, forged business ties and purchased supplies only to discover that the village did not yet want a school - but a bridge. Korphe was inaccessible except for a single hand-pulled makeshift lift cart that spanned the Braldu river. There was no way to get supplies into Korphe. Rather than storming off like many impatient Americans would, Mortenson entered a partnership with the people of Korphe - valuing their opinions, customs, and assessments of their own needs rather than dismissing them as primitive or assuming that an American knows what's best for them.
As Mortenson has said, it took 3 years and a lot of mistakes, but the Korphe school was finally built and has sent many of Korphe's children on to local towns for further education - including many girls.
It's a stunning account of an extraordinary man, who through his humility and respect for the people of the region, worked with them, heeding their input and their cultural norms, was able to do what no other humanitarian organization could -- build schools focusing on girls' education and bring long-lasting, meaningful change to one of the world's poorest and most unstable regions of the world where outsiders are usually regarded with cautious suspicion.
With Jean Hoerni's help once again, Mortenson founded the Central Asia Institute (see link to the left) and has built over 60 schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan since 1996 and has provided countless services and monetary support for education in these regions.
He is fighting the war on terror with the only effective ammunition - education. Give people education, and you give them the means to take control of their own lives. In areas where the only free education available is in the form of conservative, fundamentalist madrassas (many funded by the Saudi government), access to broad general education is key to fighting terrorism while forging ties with the very people we're trying to help.
It costs $1 per day to pay a teacher in Afghanistan or Pakistan.
01 July 2008
Wes Clark is right
I do not understand the uproar over Wesley Clark's comments the other day.
Seriously... what is wrong with that? He wasn't "devaluing" McCain's service. He was simply saying that his experience as a POW and a fighter pilot is not a qualification to be president. I agree with that. It takes more than a singular experience to qualify someone to be president. Just because he was a POW doesn't mean he's automatically qualified.
Barack Obama played into that hand by condemning the comments. Sure, McCain is an American war hero. No doubt about that. But is that all we want in a president?
And... a funny
Today Now!: How To Pretend You Give A Shit About The Election
“I certainly honor (McCain’s) service as a prisoner of war. He was a hero to me and to hundreds of thousands and millions of others in the armed forces as a prisoner of war,” Clark said in his opening remarks.
Clark then went to dispute McCain’s claim of extensive experience with strategic issues, noting that in his political and military careers McCain had never handled major executive responsibility and had little experience in decision-making roles.
(2:43 in video above) “Barack Obama has not had any of those experiences either, nor has he ridden in a fighter plane and gotten shot down,” host Bob Schieffer said.
“I don’t think riding in a fighter plane and getting shot down is a qualification to be president,” Clark responded.
Seriously... what is wrong with that? He wasn't "devaluing" McCain's service. He was simply saying that his experience as a POW and a fighter pilot is not a qualification to be president. I agree with that. It takes more than a singular experience to qualify someone to be president. Just because he was a POW doesn't mean he's automatically qualified.
Barack Obama played into that hand by condemning the comments. Sure, McCain is an American war hero. No doubt about that. But is that all we want in a president?
And... a funny
Today Now!: How To Pretend You Give A Shit About The Election
29 June 2008
Lucky
So John and I were bummed that we couldn't see Radiohead on their latest tour. Their only stop in Chicago was Lollapalooza and the tickets for that are $205 for the three day passes ($100 something for one day passes). We decided it wasn't really worth the cost.
It is, however, worth 12 hours of our time (4 hrs each day) as volunteer coordinators. A friend of mine worked last year's Lollapalooza as the "Green team" - coordinating recycling, and other things to make sure the fest wasn't too wasteful and didn't tear up Grant Park. Well she's doing it again this year, and is a team lead. She let me know they had two open spots in the volunteer HQ tent and were John and I interested. The three of us, two years ago, tried and failed to get Radiohead tickets when they were playing the Auditorium Theatre, so she knew how much we wanted to see them.
We applied, and were hired. We work 4 hour shifts each day, getting the volunteers for each area set up with the shirts, materials, etc. In return, we each get a pass for each day. That's not a bad deal, huh?
So... now, not only do we get to see Radiohead in Grant Park again, but we also get to see Nine Inch Nails, Rage Against the Machine, Lupe Fiasco (a new rapper out of Chicago's West Side who is very, very interesting), and a whole host of others.
Yippie!
FYI, even if you don't like Hip Hop/Rap, you might like Lupe. He's a Muslim, into nerdy stuff like skateboarding and videogames, raps about nerdy shit, and speaks out against the rampant violence and substance abuse of the black community. According to "Sound Opinions," a music critique show on Chicago Public Radio and WXRT, Lupe Fiasco said he wanted to make a rap album that would hold up to time like Dark Side of the Moon. He's an interesting cat...
It is, however, worth 12 hours of our time (4 hrs each day) as volunteer coordinators. A friend of mine worked last year's Lollapalooza as the "Green team" - coordinating recycling, and other things to make sure the fest wasn't too wasteful and didn't tear up Grant Park. Well she's doing it again this year, and is a team lead. She let me know they had two open spots in the volunteer HQ tent and were John and I interested. The three of us, two years ago, tried and failed to get Radiohead tickets when they were playing the Auditorium Theatre, so she knew how much we wanted to see them.
We applied, and were hired. We work 4 hour shifts each day, getting the volunteers for each area set up with the shirts, materials, etc. In return, we each get a pass for each day. That's not a bad deal, huh?
So... now, not only do we get to see Radiohead in Grant Park again, but we also get to see Nine Inch Nails, Rage Against the Machine, Lupe Fiasco (a new rapper out of Chicago's West Side who is very, very interesting), and a whole host of others.
Yippie!
FYI, even if you don't like Hip Hop/Rap, you might like Lupe. He's a Muslim, into nerdy stuff like skateboarding and videogames, raps about nerdy shit, and speaks out against the rampant violence and substance abuse of the black community. According to "Sound Opinions," a music critique show on Chicago Public Radio and WXRT, Lupe Fiasco said he wanted to make a rap album that would hold up to time like Dark Side of the Moon. He's an interesting cat...
Intro (Food & Liquor)
Food and liquor stores rest on every corner
From 45th and State to the last standing Henry Horner
J&J's, Harold's chicken, good finger licking
While they sin, gin, sin sin at Rothschild and Kenwood Liquors
The winos crooked stagger
meets the high stride of the youth searching for the truth
They rebel and raise hell across alleyways and in classroom settings
They get, high off that drum bass and 20/20 rims
They rock braids, Air Force Ones and Timbs
They drink Hennessy, Hypnotiq and 40's
They call they women hoes, bust downs and shorties
They keep funeral homes in business and gunshot wards of hospitals full
Prisons packed, bubbling over in brown sugar
They keep empty, Westside lots crowded, hype's powdered
The well is running dry, the days of Malcolm and Martin have ended
Our hope has descended and off to the side
Waiting for the reinstallment of the revolution
Because we are dying at the cost of our own pollution
But God has another solution, that has evolved from the hood
I present one who turns, the Fiasco to good
[Lupe Fiasco]
A'uzu billahi min ash shaitani r rajimi
Bismi 'llahi 'r-rahmani 'r-rahim
Dedicated, to my grandmother
Peace! And much love to you
YEAH!! And it start
1st and, 15, proudly present
You know what it is
See.. I got this philosophy right
I think the world, and everything in it
Is made up of a mix, of two things
You got your good, y'know, and you're bad
You got your food, and your liquor
That's right.. Chilly Chill!
You already know, it's a long time coming
I give you my.. I give you my heart
My soul, my mind my thoughts, my feelings
My experience, nothing more, and nothing less
Yes, FNF, uh-huh! So
With no further adieux...
Lupe, Fiasco's, "Food & Liquor"
Food and liquor stores rest on every corner
From 45th and State to the last standing Henry Horner
J&J's, Harold's chicken, good finger licking
While they sin, gin, sin sin at Rothschild and Kenwood Liquors
The winos crooked stagger
meets the high stride of the youth searching for the truth
They rebel and raise hell across alleyways and in classroom settings
They get, high off that drum bass and 20/20 rims
They rock braids, Air Force Ones and Timbs
They drink Hennessy, Hypnotiq and 40's
They call they women hoes, bust downs and shorties
They keep funeral homes in business and gunshot wards of hospitals full
Prisons packed, bubbling over in brown sugar
They keep empty, Westside lots crowded, hype's powdered
The well is running dry, the days of Malcolm and Martin have ended
Our hope has descended and off to the side
Waiting for the reinstallment of the revolution
Because we are dying at the cost of our own pollution
But God has another solution, that has evolved from the hood
I present one who turns, the Fiasco to good
[Lupe Fiasco]
A'uzu billahi min ash shaitani r rajimi
Bismi 'llahi 'r-rahmani 'r-rahim
Dedicated, to my grandmother
Peace! And much love to you
YEAH!! And it start
1st and, 15, proudly present
You know what it is
See.. I got this philosophy right
I think the world, and everything in it
Is made up of a mix, of two things
You got your good, y'know, and you're bad
You got your food, and your liquor
That's right.. Chilly Chill!
You already know, it's a long time coming
I give you my.. I give you my heart
My soul, my mind my thoughts, my feelings
My experience, nothing more, and nothing less
Yes, FNF, uh-huh! So
With no further adieux...
Lupe, Fiasco's, "Food & Liquor"
26 June 2008
In tribute to George
There's a term I've heard tossed around on news and political programs lately that is, frankly, annoying the fuck out of me. It's a term that I'm sure George Carlin had a few chuckles over before he died.
Low-Information Voter
Has anyone else noticed this? We really need a euphemism for lazy, willfully-ignorant, or just plain fuckin stupid people?
In the context in which I've heard it, it is used to describe those people who rely on 20-second sound bites, headlines, direct mail propoganda, talking heads, or Gods forbid, internet/email rumors to decide who to vote for. We really need a polite term for the people who re-elected George W. Bush? We really need a polite term for the fucktards who think Obama was a) born in Kenya, b) a covert Muslim, c) a radical Black Panther? Or people who believed in 2000 that John McCain had an illegitimate Black baby? Or people who think that all politicians are crooked and so who cares if we elect John McCain or Obama because it'll make no difference.
I have a euphemism for these people: Fucking idiots. How about that?
As I said in a recent post... put a little effort into learning about your candidates... they're only the people making decisions about your life... It's not like it's important or anything.
Honestly... we don't need a polite term for these people. Call a spade a spade. I'm calling out all those pundits and talking heads to stop insulting the people who actually pay attention to elections by sugar coating reality for the people who don't. And besides... it's not like any Low-Information Voter would recognize him/herself for what s/he is anyway. So call them "lazy ignoramuses," they won't know you're talking about them anyway.
Coming soon... "Single-issue voter" People who are too selfish or short sighted to see the bigger picture...
Low-Information Voter
Has anyone else noticed this? We really need a euphemism for lazy, willfully-ignorant, or just plain fuckin stupid people?
In the context in which I've heard it, it is used to describe those people who rely on 20-second sound bites, headlines, direct mail propoganda, talking heads, or Gods forbid, internet/email rumors to decide who to vote for. We really need a polite term for the people who re-elected George W. Bush? We really need a polite term for the fucktards who think Obama was a) born in Kenya, b) a covert Muslim, c) a radical Black Panther? Or people who believed in 2000 that John McCain had an illegitimate Black baby? Or people who think that all politicians are crooked and so who cares if we elect John McCain or Obama because it'll make no difference.
I have a euphemism for these people: Fucking idiots. How about that?
As I said in a recent post... put a little effort into learning about your candidates... they're only the people making decisions about your life... It's not like it's important or anything.
Honestly... we don't need a polite term for these people. Call a spade a spade. I'm calling out all those pundits and talking heads to stop insulting the people who actually pay attention to elections by sugar coating reality for the people who don't. And besides... it's not like any Low-Information Voter would recognize him/herself for what s/he is anyway. So call them "lazy ignoramuses," they won't know you're talking about them anyway.
Coming soon... "Single-issue voter" People who are too selfish or short sighted to see the bigger picture...
23 June 2008
FUCK!! I'll miss you George
As George would probably say... ok, people, stop making such a big fuckin deal about this...
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