Monday, December 21, 2009
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Domo is dominating.
So, folks, for those of you who have been awaiting an entry, thanks for your patience.
For those of you who haven't been waiting, go kick rocks lol.
It's been an interesting few weeks, and 2009 looks like it's going to end in style.
Anyone looking for a 2010 campaign hook-up? The races look hot, the folks you'll work with are cool, and I look forward to hearing from you to give you contact info, ok?
Sigh.
So much more to say, so little time to say it.
Just know that Domo dominates.
Deuces por ahora.
For those of you who haven't been waiting, go kick rocks lol.
It's been an interesting few weeks, and 2009 looks like it's going to end in style.
Anyone looking for a 2010 campaign hook-up? The races look hot, the folks you'll work with are cool, and I look forward to hearing from you to give you contact info, ok?
Sigh.
So much more to say, so little time to say it.
Just know that Domo dominates.
Deuces por ahora.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Dammit.
So, the f*ed up phone I had when sending mobile blog posts jacked up the cut.
What's up with the f*ing Sprint logo on the f*ing pic? Ugh.
Ok, reset, refresh.
BRB
What's up with the f*ing Sprint logo on the f*ing pic? Ugh.
Ok, reset, refresh.
BRB
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Saturday, October 24, 2009
The Grind
Get up, shower, dress, walk to office, get the canvass out.
Been there, done that.
But every campaign is a different animal.
KC, STL, GFMT were all unique.
I think I'll call this one, "PME".
It's pouring down rain, so the volunteer flake rate will be as high as Samuel Jackson in "New Jack City."
Crews starting to arrive, so will probably blog from the field.
Remind me to tell you about the monster German Shepard mutant dogs I faced down yesterday...
Been there, done that.
But every campaign is a different animal.
KC, STL, GFMT were all unique.
I think I'll call this one, "PME".
It's pouring down rain, so the volunteer flake rate will be as high as Samuel Jackson in "New Jack City."
Crews starting to arrive, so will probably blog from the field.
Remind me to tell you about the monster German Shepard mutant dogs I faced down yesterday...
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Ugh.
I'm tired.
It's been an interesting week, and as soon as I got off the train, I hit turf, canvassing.
I'm tired.
I'm going to bed, and tomorrow I'll talk more, ok?
G'nite.
It's been an interesting week, and as soon as I got off the train, I hit turf, canvassing.
I'm tired.
I'm going to bed, and tomorrow I'll talk more, ok?
G'nite.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Karma
Bus breaks down on the way to Ch'ville from Roanoke.
Yeah, I know, it's been ages since I've been home, and I was actually looking forward to it.
FYI, the son of my pediatrician is now a Congressman!
Anyways, we ended up 3 hours behind schedule. So, we went to DC!
Iwo Jima memorial is impressive.
Too many people talk about their jobs over dinner.
Hilton Washington Embassy Row has pillows from heaven.
This is my last day on the tour, and I'm doing what Brett, Michael, and others like them should have done--gone out in style, at the top of their games. I'll miss a few folks, here.
Nothing like that band of brothers on a common mission in defense of our country.
Make no mistake, we volunteered (again) to strengthen America's security thru promoting a clean energy policy. Too many dead and wounded moms, dads, aunts, uncles, sons and daughters in a vain and ignorant attempt to feed our oil addiction.
My favorite question?
"What's this all gonna cost?"
Well, John Q. Citizen, let me ask you, which is the cost you're more willing to pay--a few extra dollars a month, knowing those dollars are staying in the US? Or would you rather pay the cost of our current energy policy in the currency of dead American servicemembers?
What goes around, comes around. That's karma, right?
China, India, and Russia are powerful emerging economies seeking to advance their individual energy security. Just look at the Caspian Sea region and Africa. If they follow our example, then expect a few hundred thousand Chinese or Russian troops in Texas, Oklahoma or North Dakota, securing our oil assets as their own.
Karma.
Yeah, I know, it's been ages since I've been home, and I was actually looking forward to it.
FYI, the son of my pediatrician is now a Congressman!
Anyways, we ended up 3 hours behind schedule. So, we went to DC!
Iwo Jima memorial is impressive.
Too many people talk about their jobs over dinner.
Hilton Washington Embassy Row has pillows from heaven.
This is my last day on the tour, and I'm doing what Brett, Michael, and others like them should have done--gone out in style, at the top of their games. I'll miss a few folks, here.
Nothing like that band of brothers on a common mission in defense of our country.
Make no mistake, we volunteered (again) to strengthen America's security thru promoting a clean energy policy. Too many dead and wounded moms, dads, aunts, uncles, sons and daughters in a vain and ignorant attempt to feed our oil addiction.
My favorite question?
"What's this all gonna cost?"
Well, John Q. Citizen, let me ask you, which is the cost you're more willing to pay--a few extra dollars a month, knowing those dollars are staying in the US? Or would you rather pay the cost of our current energy policy in the currency of dead American servicemembers?
What goes around, comes around. That's karma, right?
China, India, and Russia are powerful emerging economies seeking to advance their individual energy security. Just look at the Caspian Sea region and Africa. If they follow our example, then expect a few hundred thousand Chinese or Russian troops in Texas, Oklahoma or North Dakota, securing our oil assets as their own.
Karma.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
"Hate is too great a burden to bear. It injures the hater more than it injures the hated."--Coretta Scott King
I forgot to tell you about Zanesville!
It was CRAZY!
So, a VFW member wearing the ubiquitous POW/MIA cap was drunk, hostile and ignorant.
His name was "Butch," according to other patrons of this post.
Butch tried picking a fight with our Coastie; told us to get our drinks, enjoy them quickly, then leave. He even stared at us hostile-like the entire time we were in the post.
Amazing.
The post commander in Springfield, MO asked us to keep in touch with him, to help him figure out how to recruit members like us--younger than the average VFW or AmVets member.
Then we go to a post like Zanesville's?
Even the post commander in Morgantown chose to treat us like fellow veterans; he even introduced us to the assembled media and members.
The way I see it, this illustrates 3 reasons why veterans like me won't join a post:
1) Members like Butch = #fail. Why do people like him not only embrase the absolute worst qualities of the dregs of American society, then choose to prominently display them like medals? Ugh.
2) VFW's current story = #fail. What is it? How can we share values when you don't articulate a modern message? What's your story, VFW?
3) Social media = #fail. It's great that VFW and other veterans' membership organizations are on Twitter and Facebook. But until you stop regurgitating information that's questionable in application to our lives, and really start to engage your audience, I'll eventually unfollow and unfriend you. No offense, please?
So, Butch, thanks for helping me clarify the reasons why I'm not a member of VFW, AmVets, American Legion, Chipmunk Club or anything resembling a 20th Century veterans' organization. With Neanderthals like you lurking in the cave-like bars of those posts, those organizations are guaranteed to go the way of the dinosaurs.
I forgot to tell you about Zanesville!
It was CRAZY!
So, a VFW member wearing the ubiquitous POW/MIA cap was drunk, hostile and ignorant.
His name was "Butch," according to other patrons of this post.
Butch tried picking a fight with our Coastie; told us to get our drinks, enjoy them quickly, then leave. He even stared at us hostile-like the entire time we were in the post.
Amazing.
The post commander in Springfield, MO asked us to keep in touch with him, to help him figure out how to recruit members like us--younger than the average VFW or AmVets member.
Then we go to a post like Zanesville's?
Even the post commander in Morgantown chose to treat us like fellow veterans; he even introduced us to the assembled media and members.
The way I see it, this illustrates 3 reasons why veterans like me won't join a post:
1) Members like Butch = #fail. Why do people like him not only embrase the absolute worst qualities of the dregs of American society, then choose to prominently display them like medals? Ugh.
2) VFW's current story = #fail. What is it? How can we share values when you don't articulate a modern message? What's your story, VFW?
3) Social media = #fail. It's great that VFW and other veterans' membership organizations are on Twitter and Facebook. But until you stop regurgitating information that's questionable in application to our lives, and really start to engage your audience, I'll eventually unfollow and unfriend you. No offense, please?
So, Butch, thanks for helping me clarify the reasons why I'm not a member of VFW, AmVets, American Legion, Chipmunk Club or anything resembling a 20th Century veterans' organization. With Neanderthals like you lurking in the cave-like bars of those posts, those organizations are guaranteed to go the way of the dinosaurs.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
I <3 Zanesville VFW!
"Maybe all one can do is hope to end up with the right regrets."--Arthur Miller
Today went from sugar to shit, really quickly.
I first encountered Mr. and Mrs. Teabagger, who said, in no particular order:
1) There WERE 2.2 million people in DC, despite the liberal media. (Wasn't sure if they were referring to population or Teabagger events, they never clarified.)
2) There is NO such thing as "climate change" or "global warming;" as a matter of fact, their scientists prove "global COOLING" (I never got an attribution as to who was promoting this theory).
3) If I'm supporting "clean energy," then I'm contributing to the decline of my country, and it's a shame.
I want to tell Mr. and Mrs. Teabagger, in no particular order:
1) I don't really give a damn how many Teabaggers you claim to have @ your parties. All I know is that it takes a majority to win an election, and we're saying, "President Obama" instead of "President McCain." The people spoke with a vote.
2) I don't really give a damn if you believe in "global cooling." It's great that in your ignorance or arrogance, you can pick and choose what science you believe in. All I know is that our ice caps are melting (according to, oh, I don't know, NASA!), the air and ocean temperatures are rising (according to, oh, I don't know, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency?) and when that happens, storms and tsunamis and hurricanes are more intense and impactful (according to, oh, I don't know, Greensburg, Kansas, the Gulf Coast and Indonesia?).
3) According to the Defense Intelligence Agency, a dollar out of every $5 you spend in gas goes to a terrorist organization like, oh, say, AL-QUAIDA, to assemble another roadside bomb to kill another American soldier or Marine.
My real question to you, Mr. and Mrs. Teabagger, is what's more important to you: rhetoric from your Right, or more American flag-draped coffins flying into Dover AFB?
Clean American power contributes to a more secure America.
It ain't rocket science, but that's what I love about Teabaggers! There's no LACK of rocket scientists in their ranks who can tell me why I'm wrong with this.
I'm going GOP, yeah, are you with me?
Changing my blog title to, "WHAZZUP?"
Wait, that's taken already...sugar to shit, my day has been, dammit.
Today went from sugar to shit, really quickly.
I first encountered Mr. and Mrs. Teabagger, who said, in no particular order:
1) There WERE 2.2 million people in DC, despite the liberal media. (Wasn't sure if they were referring to population or Teabagger events, they never clarified.)
2) There is NO such thing as "climate change" or "global warming;" as a matter of fact, their scientists prove "global COOLING" (I never got an attribution as to who was promoting this theory).
3) If I'm supporting "clean energy," then I'm contributing to the decline of my country, and it's a shame.
I want to tell Mr. and Mrs. Teabagger, in no particular order:
1) I don't really give a damn how many Teabaggers you claim to have @ your parties. All I know is that it takes a majority to win an election, and we're saying, "President Obama" instead of "President McCain." The people spoke with a vote.
2) I don't really give a damn if you believe in "global cooling." It's great that in your ignorance or arrogance, you can pick and choose what science you believe in. All I know is that our ice caps are melting (according to, oh, I don't know, NASA!), the air and ocean temperatures are rising (according to, oh, I don't know, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency?) and when that happens, storms and tsunamis and hurricanes are more intense and impactful (according to, oh, I don't know, Greensburg, Kansas, the Gulf Coast and Indonesia?).
3) According to the Defense Intelligence Agency, a dollar out of every $5 you spend in gas goes to a terrorist organization like, oh, say, AL-QUAIDA, to assemble another roadside bomb to kill another American soldier or Marine.
My real question to you, Mr. and Mrs. Teabagger, is what's more important to you: rhetoric from your Right, or more American flag-draped coffins flying into Dover AFB?
Clean American power contributes to a more secure America.
It ain't rocket science, but that's what I love about Teabaggers! There's no LACK of rocket scientists in their ranks who can tell me why I'm wrong with this.
I'm going GOP, yeah, are you with me?
Changing my blog title to, "WHAZZUP?"
Wait, that's taken already...sugar to shit, my day has been, dammit.
Weeds
"What is a weed? A plant whose virtues have never been discovered."--Ralph Waldo Emerson
So, like a neglected garden, my blog has not been tended to the last couple of days.
Blame it on the difficulty accessing technology, laziness, whatever. The weeds are starting to grow, making it more and more unattractive, now.
We talk a lot about weeds in the field; when a person is "in the weeds," then they're off-message, debating the finer points of a topic instead of staying on-message with the overarching theme.
When I get questions like, "So if these wars in the Middle East are for oil, then how do other countries feel?"
ANSWER: "Um, ma'am, that's a great question. Let me call up Hillary real quickly to get you an answer to that, ok?"
READ: How do I know? I don't work for the State Department. All I know is that our current addiction to fossil fuels and reluctance to move to clean energy is costing American lives, and making the country I swore an oath to protect less secure.
Weeds.
So, like a neglected garden, my blog has not been tended to the last couple of days.
Blame it on the difficulty accessing technology, laziness, whatever. The weeds are starting to grow, making it more and more unattractive, now.
We talk a lot about weeds in the field; when a person is "in the weeds," then they're off-message, debating the finer points of a topic instead of staying on-message with the overarching theme.
When I get questions like, "So if these wars in the Middle East are for oil, then how do other countries feel?"
ANSWER: "Um, ma'am, that's a great question. Let me call up Hillary real quickly to get you an answer to that, ok?"
READ: How do I know? I don't work for the State Department. All I know is that our current addiction to fossil fuels and reluctance to move to clean energy is costing American lives, and making the country I swore an oath to protect less secure.
Weeds.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Dear Mr. Becka
"This is a free country. Folks have a right to send me letters, and I have a right not to read them."--William Faulkner
Dear Mr. Becka,
Thanks for letting us on your show today!
We're not offended that you kept calling us VoteVets.org (one of our sponsors), nor are we offended by your vapid question about the mileage of our biodiesel-powered bus (model Prevost H3-45, 10 mpg). Even your provocative question about wheter we're pro-clean American power or anti-war (clean American power, aye!) didn't offend us.
What WAS offensive was your claim that the Verizon 3G network didn't provide a good enough connection for us to further engage in the critical dialogue concerning clean energy and national security. I was offended that you would rather fake a bad connection and cut off the conversation (read: HANG UP), instead of hearing veterans' stories. I was offended that as you fabricated that pretense to end the interview, you contributed to the attitude that is costing American lives around the world.
You showed your true colors, Mr. Becka, and you would like for the world to believe it's just a CORNHUSKER red, instead of the Grand Old Pigment, wouldn't you?
Signed,
Veterans for American Power
Operation Free
###
Dear Mr. Becka,
Thanks for letting us on your show today!
We're not offended that you kept calling us VoteVets.org (one of our sponsors), nor are we offended by your vapid question about the mileage of our biodiesel-powered bus (model Prevost H3-45, 10 mpg). Even your provocative question about wheter we're pro-clean American power or anti-war (clean American power, aye!) didn't offend us.
What WAS offensive was your claim that the Verizon 3G network didn't provide a good enough connection for us to further engage in the critical dialogue concerning clean energy and national security. I was offended that you would rather fake a bad connection and cut off the conversation (read: HANG UP), instead of hearing veterans' stories. I was offended that as you fabricated that pretense to end the interview, you contributed to the attitude that is costing American lives around the world.
You showed your true colors, Mr. Becka, and you would like for the world to believe it's just a CORNHUSKER red, instead of the Grand Old Pigment, wouldn't you?
Signed,
Veterans for American Power
Operation Free
###
Don't Know Much About Cap'n Trade?
"So, which one of y'all can tell me 'bout Cap'n Trade?"
We looked at each other, wondering how the heck did he miss the fact that, as veterans, we aren't policy experts on the Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act (SB 1733).
As veterans, we are concerned about the national security threat climate disruption and peak oil represent to America.
We're concerned about climate disruption as a threat mulitplier (factor that enhances the impact of an action or event) due to the increase in impact and intensity of natural disasters occuring with rising sea levels and temperatures.
We're concerned about multiple deployments of our brothers and sisters in arms to defend what President Bush declared in his 2003 State of The Union Address as "American oil interests." This attitude wears down manpower and materiel, causing the United States to be even more vulnurable to real security threats.
We're concerned because others are concerned: National Security Agency, CIA, United Nations, even the National Association of Insurance Carriers. Each have written dire reports on climate disruption and how the country with 5% of the world's population that burns 25% of the world's fossil fuels needs to embrace a paradigm shift towards clean energy.
How to describe Cap'n Trade? He's a real American hero, sir. He's clean American power.
He's what we need, right now.
We looked at each other, wondering how the heck did he miss the fact that, as veterans, we aren't policy experts on the Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act (SB 1733).
As veterans, we are concerned about the national security threat climate disruption and peak oil represent to America.
We're concerned about climate disruption as a threat mulitplier (factor that enhances the impact of an action or event) due to the increase in impact and intensity of natural disasters occuring with rising sea levels and temperatures.
We're concerned about multiple deployments of our brothers and sisters in arms to defend what President Bush declared in his 2003 State of The Union Address as "American oil interests." This attitude wears down manpower and materiel, causing the United States to be even more vulnurable to real security threats.
We're concerned because others are concerned: National Security Agency, CIA, United Nations, even the National Association of Insurance Carriers. Each have written dire reports on climate disruption and how the country with 5% of the world's population that burns 25% of the world's fossil fuels needs to embrace a paradigm shift towards clean energy.
How to describe Cap'n Trade? He's a real American hero, sir. He's clean American power.
He's what we need, right now.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Ooh-ee-ooh-ah-ah, ting-tang-walla-walla-bing-bang...
I spoke to a teabagger, and this is what he said:
Ooh-ee-ooh-ah-ah, ting-tang-walla-walla-bing-bang.
Or the conservative equivalent of that.
Guy was obviously a plant, working in collusion with an "Independent" candidate for US House of Representatives who was also present. And vocal.
I guess conservatives can't stand their own party, and have to go center of right to be liked.
Anyways, after having my veteran status challenged (nothing new, eh, Brutus?), he went on to say that his real issue with "Cap'n Trade" (the imaginary foe of all conservatives who huff and puff and blow more CO2 into the atmosphere as they deny climate disruption), is the "$1,700 that families are going to have to pay when it passes," according to the liberal scourges of the universe, Senators Boxer and Kerry.
Um, let's affirm, answer, and redirect, now, ok?
AFFIRM: I understand your concern, Mr. I'm-A-Conservative-Consultant-Disguised-As-A-Concerned-Citizen.
ANSWER: I don't know where you're getting that data; all I know is that the nonpartisan (read: NONPARTISAN) Congressional Budget Office released data showing that over a 10 year implementation of the Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act policies, the average American family would pay less than $180 for energy a year.
Yup, $15 a month.
Wait for it...
REDIRECT: So, Mr. Teabagger, what's your REAL concern about the pending legislation?
"I'll tell you what," he huffed, "I am tired of people like you coming here and telling us what to think and how to vote!"
Ah, the hypocricy.
"You've been keepin' love from me just like you were a miser,
And I'll admit I wasn't very smart.
So I went out and found myself a guy who's so much wiser
And he taught me the way to win your heart.
My friend the witch doctor, he taught me what to say.
My friend the witch doctor, he taught me what to do.
I know that you'll be mine when I say this to you:
Ooh-ee-ooh-ah-ah, ting-tang-walla-walla-bing-bang..."
Ooh-ee-ooh-ah-ah, ting-tang-walla-walla-bing-bang.
Or the conservative equivalent of that.
Guy was obviously a plant, working in collusion with an "Independent" candidate for US House of Representatives who was also present. And vocal.
I guess conservatives can't stand their own party, and have to go center of right to be liked.
Anyways, after having my veteran status challenged (nothing new, eh, Brutus?), he went on to say that his real issue with "Cap'n Trade" (the imaginary foe of all conservatives who huff and puff and blow more CO2 into the atmosphere as they deny climate disruption), is the "$1,700 that families are going to have to pay when it passes," according to the liberal scourges of the universe, Senators Boxer and Kerry.
Um, let's affirm, answer, and redirect, now, ok?
AFFIRM: I understand your concern, Mr. I'm-A-Conservative-Consultant-Disguised-As-A-Concerned-Citizen.
ANSWER: I don't know where you're getting that data; all I know is that the nonpartisan (read: NONPARTISAN) Congressional Budget Office released data showing that over a 10 year implementation of the Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act policies, the average American family would pay less than $180 for energy a year.
Yup, $15 a month.
Wait for it...
REDIRECT: So, Mr. Teabagger, what's your REAL concern about the pending legislation?
"I'll tell you what," he huffed, "I am tired of people like you coming here and telling us what to think and how to vote!"
Ah, the hypocricy.
"You've been keepin' love from me just like you were a miser,
And I'll admit I wasn't very smart.
So I went out and found myself a guy who's so much wiser
And he taught me the way to win your heart.
My friend the witch doctor, he taught me what to say.
My friend the witch doctor, he taught me what to do.
I know that you'll be mine when I say this to you:
Ooh-ee-ooh-ah-ah, ting-tang-walla-walla-bing-bang..."
Friday, October 9, 2009
U.S. Department of State, Office of International Information Programs Conference: Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency to Enhance Energy Security
Check out this SlideShare Presentation:
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Uh-oh, I feel a rant coming on...
W/o the common enemy of anonymous anarchists burning down the Steel City to rally against, Pittsburghers have resorted back to political internecine warfare. Gubernatorial candidates preen, mayoral candidates scream, but state legislators squirm under the onus of not yet having passed a budget.
Meanwhile, back in Gotham, carpe diem'ing of the per diem has been the talk of the town. An article made the front page of the Trib earlier this week, telling tales of hotels, gas and grub reimbursements.
Are people THAT pissed off because legislators haven't brought home the bacon, but instead are getting reimbursed for eating high off the hog in H'burg?
Harumph.
Listening to talk radio (read: KDKA Radio) since the story broke, I never knew so many Hill District residents were fans. The ones I paid attention to tended to sound like the ones you see in the background of neighborhood shots on TV--you know, the ones txting, "Hey, can you see me on the screen?" In WWE-style vernacular, they called in to put area politicians on blast for eating, sleeping and putting fuel in their vehicles and getting reimbursed for it.
"They ain't done nuthin' for MY neighborhood," one caller yelled, as if the state representative could hear him from H'burg.
Well, being the ass that I am, I immediately yelled back, "Well, what have you done for HIM?"
Apparently, while I was away in a self-induced coma, the United States political process has devolved into the greatest welfare state in the known universe.
"No, I don't have to vote, but you need to put money in a brotha's pocket, ok?"
"What? The other guy got in? Well, let me steep my teabag in the hot stink of Glenn Beck's man-love."
Never have I seen a more lazy and less participatory electorate bitch, moan, groan, and complain so damn much. Never mind that people in other countries are DYING to get involved in their politics. Never mind that as Black folk, we were just 3/5s human for census purposes. Never mind that women suffered to gain suffrage just in the last century.
Sigh. Maybe I'm bitter 'cause I wasn't featured in a cool YouTube clip getting my wig split by a baton-wielding stormtrooper during G-20. Maybe I'm pissed 'cause I ain't had maple bacon in a while. But if you didn't knock on a door, make a phone call, or even pull a lever for an election, a cause, or a candidate, and you're BITCHING, I've got 2 words for you--East Timor.
Go rent the Rambo movie. Maybe I'll reimburse you, ok?
NOT.
Meanwhile, back in Gotham, carpe diem'ing of the per diem has been the talk of the town. An article made the front page of the Trib earlier this week, telling tales of hotels, gas and grub reimbursements.
Are people THAT pissed off because legislators haven't brought home the bacon, but instead are getting reimbursed for eating high off the hog in H'burg?
Harumph.
Listening to talk radio (read: KDKA Radio) since the story broke, I never knew so many Hill District residents were fans. The ones I paid attention to tended to sound like the ones you see in the background of neighborhood shots on TV--you know, the ones txting, "Hey, can you see me on the screen?" In WWE-style vernacular, they called in to put area politicians on blast for eating, sleeping and putting fuel in their vehicles and getting reimbursed for it.
"They ain't done nuthin' for MY neighborhood," one caller yelled, as if the state representative could hear him from H'burg.
Well, being the ass that I am, I immediately yelled back, "Well, what have you done for HIM?"
Apparently, while I was away in a self-induced coma, the United States political process has devolved into the greatest welfare state in the known universe.
"No, I don't have to vote, but you need to put money in a brotha's pocket, ok?"
"What? The other guy got in? Well, let me steep my teabag in the hot stink of Glenn Beck's man-love."
Never have I seen a more lazy and less participatory electorate bitch, moan, groan, and complain so damn much. Never mind that people in other countries are DYING to get involved in their politics. Never mind that as Black folk, we were just 3/5s human for census purposes. Never mind that women suffered to gain suffrage just in the last century.
Sigh. Maybe I'm bitter 'cause I wasn't featured in a cool YouTube clip getting my wig split by a baton-wielding stormtrooper during G-20. Maybe I'm pissed 'cause I ain't had maple bacon in a while. But if you didn't knock on a door, make a phone call, or even pull a lever for an election, a cause, or a candidate, and you're BITCHING, I've got 2 words for you--East Timor.
Go rent the Rambo movie. Maybe I'll reimburse you, ok?
NOT.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Wow.
I just came from downtown, via bus.
If you get a chance, do that.
Or walk.
Yes, there is a VERY visible police/military presence.
But, if that's all you're looking for, here's what you'll miss:
You'll miss international visitors to Pgh in their traditional regalia.
You'll miss protesters tying t-shirts around their heads to emulate burkhas, to tempt the authorities.
You'll miss an opportunity to touch history.
Yeah, it's the G-20, y'all.
If you get a chance, do that.
Or walk.
Yes, there is a VERY visible police/military presence.
But, if that's all you're looking for, here's what you'll miss:
You'll miss international visitors to Pgh in their traditional regalia.
You'll miss protesters tying t-shirts around their heads to emulate burkhas, to tempt the authorities.
You'll miss an opportunity to touch history.
Yeah, it's the G-20, y'all.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Engaging Government Accountability, via Social Media
(Via Evernote)
Today, 02:39 PM
Jesse, WH New Media Team
Karina, Speaker Pelosi Web Admin
Jake Brewer, Sunlight Foundation Engagement Director
"Holding gov't accountable via social media"
Jesse suggests a powerful chat room/town hall strategy, is to attack the hard questions first.
Question: what is the role of gov't in moderating questions, vs role of constituents in moderating questions? What about third-party groups?
Phil mentions purpose of OFA 2.0 as being that third-party group to keep gov't accountable thru consistent engagement.
DailyKos member suggests that you must engage your community when you enter into social media platform use.
Question: from an advocacy group perspective, what are the best ways of engagement with the elected official?
Karina mentioned geotagging for member use--excellent potential to engage constituents in district.
Advocacy groups used for member to engage nontraditional groups is a possibility, according to Jake.
Scalability of info directed to members needs to be refined. Don't innundate members with massive amounts of information on multiple platforms.--comment from audience.
Answering tough questions from 'fringe' groups lend legitimacy to groups, giving authenticity to process, according to Jesse.
Karina asks what 'furthers the dialogue' between member and constituents? According to her, Speaker Pelosi follows social media data as it relates to her job.
Transparency can go too far in that strategy is revealed to opponents, according to Jesse. Transparency works when people realize that agendas are set with constituents in mind, not self-gain.
Wrapping up, gonna go listen to jazz and process session.
More later.
Today, 02:39 PM
Jesse, WH New Media Team
Karina, Speaker Pelosi Web Admin
Jake Brewer, Sunlight Foundation Engagement Director
"Holding gov't accountable via social media"
Jesse suggests a powerful chat room/town hall strategy, is to attack the hard questions first.
Question: what is the role of gov't in moderating questions, vs role of constituents in moderating questions? What about third-party groups?
Phil mentions purpose of OFA 2.0 as being that third-party group to keep gov't accountable thru consistent engagement.
DailyKos member suggests that you must engage your community when you enter into social media platform use.
Question: from an advocacy group perspective, what are the best ways of engagement with the elected official?
Karina mentioned geotagging for member use--excellent potential to engage constituents in district.
Advocacy groups used for member to engage nontraditional groups is a possibility, according to Jake.
Scalability of info directed to members needs to be refined. Don't innundate members with massive amounts of information on multiple platforms.--comment from audience.
Answering tough questions from 'fringe' groups lend legitimacy to groups, giving authenticity to process, according to Jesse.
Karina asks what 'furthers the dialogue' between member and constituents? According to her, Speaker Pelosi follows social media data as it relates to her job.
Transparency can go too far in that strategy is revealed to opponents, according to Jesse. Transparency works when people realize that agendas are set with constituents in mind, not self-gain.
Wrapping up, gonna go listen to jazz and process session.
More later.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Saturday, July 25, 2009
What a week!
The G-20 trade expo event looks more and more real; I am discovering who my real friends are; and my generation falls somewhere between "Frazer" and "Friends."
Wow, what a week.
Wow, what a week.
Friday, July 17, 2009
I agree with Pat Buchanan.
I think Pat Buchanan is correct.
Sonya Sotomayor is not fit to be on the Supreme Court.
If all Black men are on the Olympic team, that's because they're fast. Ask Dusty Baker.
If all White men are on the winning Stanley Cup team, that's because they're better. Ask Pete Marovich.
So, there should be no Sotomayor on SCOTUS, because the preponderence of evidence presented by Pat Buchanan should stipulate that.
Wait. I used the word, "stipulate," instead of "stupid."
It's stupid to think that monocromatic approaches to the law benefits the country defined as a "melting pot" early in its history.
It's stupid to think that NO Supreme Court justice brings their background into the decision-writing process. Why did Clarence Thomas write a book entitled, "My Grandfather's Son"? Who cares about his grandfather? His grandfather isn't sitting on the Supreme Court, now, is he?
I just find it ludicrous that Pat Buchanan would just say the things others think, and get lambasted for it. I made hundreds of calls into the rural parts of a state during Barack's campaign, and was flatly told, "I wouldn't vote for that nigger."
'Nuff said. Let's just be honest. Let's call a spade a spade, and a spic a spic, right, Pat?
Watch the video, and tell me what you think: http://bit.ly/hvXTG
Sonya Sotomayor is not fit to be on the Supreme Court.
If all Black men are on the Olympic team, that's because they're fast. Ask Dusty Baker.
If all White men are on the winning Stanley Cup team, that's because they're better. Ask Pete Marovich.
So, there should be no Sotomayor on SCOTUS, because the preponderence of evidence presented by Pat Buchanan should stipulate that.
Wait. I used the word, "stipulate," instead of "stupid."
It's stupid to think that monocromatic approaches to the law benefits the country defined as a "melting pot" early in its history.
It's stupid to think that NO Supreme Court justice brings their background into the decision-writing process. Why did Clarence Thomas write a book entitled, "My Grandfather's Son"? Who cares about his grandfather? His grandfather isn't sitting on the Supreme Court, now, is he?
I just find it ludicrous that Pat Buchanan would just say the things others think, and get lambasted for it. I made hundreds of calls into the rural parts of a state during Barack's campaign, and was flatly told, "I wouldn't vote for that nigger."
'Nuff said. Let's just be honest. Let's call a spade a spade, and a spic a spic, right, Pat?
Watch the video, and tell me what you think: http://bit.ly/hvXTG
Sunday, July 12, 2009
How NOT To Organize, by Sarah Palin
I learned a valuable 4-point method for making political organizing decisions:
1, will this help build capacity;
2, will this help develop leaders;
3, will this represent an efficient use of resources; and
4, will this move my target?
Let's look @ each of these from the POV of soon-to-be former governor of Alaska, as she continues to fight for more minutes of fame than Michael Jackson, Steve McNair and Farrah Fawcett.
First, who is she building capacity for, or for what? If the GOP, then she gets a #fail by making this whorish statement: "I will go around the country on behalf of candidates who believe in the right things, regardless of their party label or affiliation." Right by who? Can we chop & skrew you with a pro-gun, pro-choice champion of energy independence (a la Brian Schweitzer)? When he runs for Congress against Rehberg (hint, hint, Mr. Governor!), will you come to Big Sky country and dazzle us with your support? Can you build capacity for movements and campaigns, Sarah? Didn't work for you when you ran for Vice President...
Next, what leadership will you be developing? Wait, that's a #fail on my part--you're grooming Bristol, right? She is taking the lead, baby in tow, as the leading voice in teen abstinence. I'll move on, because any more keystrokes on this will kill me.
Third, resources? Your press conference on 3 July shows how you squander resources, Madam Governor. Oh, and your clothes from your failed Vice Presidential bid--which Goodwill did they go to, again, please?
Lastly, if your target is the American electorate, then I wish there were a hashtag for #doublefail. How can you move targets on issues independent of partisanship when you participated in the most partisan campaign in history, up to this point? When I was on Barack's campaign, you flooded our office with Republicans who were repulsed by your addition to the top ticket and wanted to help President Obama win. Move targets? If I were running for an office, I would encourage my opponent to ask you to stump for them. You provide a perspicaciously paradoxical effect, Mrs. Palin.
So, best of luck to you in your future endeavors. Just don't become a community organizer.
![Reblog this post [with Zemanta]](http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=68f12778-ba02-40d1-bce0-42eb87cef688)
1, will this help build capacity;
2, will this help develop leaders;
3, will this represent an efficient use of resources; and
4, will this move my target?
Let's look @ each of these from the POV of soon-to-be former governor of Alaska, as she continues to fight for more minutes of fame than Michael Jackson, Steve McNair and Farrah Fawcett.
First, who is she building capacity for, or for what? If the GOP, then she gets a #fail by making this whorish statement: "I will go around the country on behalf of candidates who believe in the right things, regardless of their party label or affiliation." Right by who? Can we chop & skrew you with a pro-gun, pro-choice champion of energy independence (a la Brian Schweitzer)? When he runs for Congress against Rehberg (hint, hint, Mr. Governor!), will you come to Big Sky country and dazzle us with your support? Can you build capacity for movements and campaigns, Sarah? Didn't work for you when you ran for Vice President...
Next, what leadership will you be developing? Wait, that's a #fail on my part--you're grooming Bristol, right? She is taking the lead, baby in tow, as the leading voice in teen abstinence. I'll move on, because any more keystrokes on this will kill me.
Third, resources? Your press conference on 3 July shows how you squander resources, Madam Governor. Oh, and your clothes from your failed Vice Presidential bid--which Goodwill did they go to, again, please?
Lastly, if your target is the American electorate, then I wish there were a hashtag for #doublefail. How can you move targets on issues independent of partisanship when you participated in the most partisan campaign in history, up to this point? When I was on Barack's campaign, you flooded our office with Republicans who were repulsed by your addition to the top ticket and wanted to help President Obama win. Move targets? If I were running for an office, I would encourage my opponent to ask you to stump for them. You provide a perspicaciously paradoxical effect, Mrs. Palin.
So, best of luck to you in your future endeavors. Just don't become a community organizer.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
This has nothing to do with organizing.
Here's a story...
2 Southern boys. High-profile men.
Married, with 4 children.
Cheating on their wives.
Only difference? One's dead.
Why the difference?
Your thoughts?
2 Southern boys. High-profile men.
Married, with 4 children.
Cheating on their wives.
Only difference? One's dead.
Why the difference?
Your thoughts?
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Happy 4th!
Celebrate your country; thank a veteran; see some fireworks; hang out with family & friends; thank God you aren't living in Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan or Honduras...
Have a happy and safe 4th of July.
Have a happy and safe 4th of July.
Monday, June 29, 2009
The 29
29 Senators, according to TweetCongress.com, have Twitter accounts:
@Barbara_Boxer
@SenSamBrownback
@TomCoburn
@senatorcollins
@JohnCornyn
@JimDeMint
@SenChrisDodd
@DickDurbin
@JohnEnsign
@russfeingold
@ChuckGrassley
@OrrinHatch
@jminhofe
@MelMartinez
@SenJohnMcCain
@clairecmc
@SenatorMenendez
@SenJeffMerkley
@lisamurkowski
@SenBillNelson
@SenatorReid
@RichardShelby
@SenArlenSpecter
@johnthune
@tomudall
@MarkUdall
@DavidVitter
@MarkWarner
@rogerwicker
So, to emulate what I did for the House vote on HR2454, I used FutureTweets to schedule a daily message to each Twitter account to ask them to support the bill, to vote yes on the bill.
I'll be doing the same thing with the above Senators on Twitter, and ask that you do the same, please?
Thanks again!
@Barbara_Boxer
@SenSamBrownback
@TomCoburn
@senatorcollins
@JohnCornyn
@JimDeMint
@SenChrisDodd
@DickDurbin
@JohnEnsign
@russfeingold
@ChuckGrassley
@OrrinHatch
@jminhofe
@MelMartinez
@SenJohnMcCain
@clairecmc
@SenatorMenendez
@SenJeffMerkley
@lisamurkowski
@SenBillNelson
@SenatorReid
@RichardShelby
@SenArlenSpecter
@johnthune
@tomudall
@MarkUdall
@DavidVitter
@MarkWarner
@rogerwicker
So, to emulate what I did for the House vote on HR2454, I used FutureTweets to schedule a daily message to each Twitter account to ask them to support the bill, to vote yes on the bill.
I'll be doing the same thing with the above Senators on Twitter, and ask that you do the same, please?
Thanks again!
Friday, June 26, 2009
The 44
1. Altmire
2. Arcuri
3. Barrow
4. Berry
5. Boren
6. Bright
7. Carney
8. Childers
9. Costa
10. Costello
11. Dahlkemper
12. Davis (AL)
13. Davis (TN)
14. DeFazio
15. Donnelly (IN)
16. Edwards (TX)
17. Ellsworth
18. Foster
19. Griffith
20. Herseth Sandlin
21. Holden
22. Kirkpatrick (AZ)
23. Kissell
24. Kucinich
25. Marshall
26. Massa
27. Matheson
28. McIntyre
29. Melancon
30. Minnick
31. Mitchell
32. Mollohan
33. Nye
34. Ortiz
35. Pomeroy
36. Rahall
37. Rodriguez
38. Ross
39. Salazar
40. Stark
41. Tanner
42. Taylor
43. Visclosky
44. Wilson (OH)
Democrats who need to hear from you as far as what they were thinking when they voted "NO" on HR 2454, American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES Act).
What exactly were they saying no on? Jobs? Increased economy? Energy independence?
Or were they saying "YES" to special interests?
Ask them, please.
Thanks.
2. Arcuri
3. Barrow
4. Berry
5. Boren
6. Bright
7. Carney
8. Childers
9. Costa
10. Costello
11. Dahlkemper
12. Davis (AL)
13. Davis (TN)
14. DeFazio
15. Donnelly (IN)
16. Edwards (TX)
17. Ellsworth
18. Foster
19. Griffith
20. Herseth Sandlin
21. Holden
22. Kirkpatrick (AZ)
23. Kissell
24. Kucinich
25. Marshall
26. Massa
27. Matheson
28. McIntyre
29. Melancon
30. Minnick
31. Mitchell
32. Mollohan
33. Nye
34. Ortiz
35. Pomeroy
36. Rahall
37. Rodriguez
38. Ross
39. Salazar
40. Stark
41. Tanner
42. Taylor
43. Visclosky
44. Wilson (OH)
Democrats who need to hear from you as far as what they were thinking when they voted "NO" on HR 2454, American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES Act).
What exactly were they saying no on? Jobs? Increased economy? Energy independence?
Or were they saying "YES" to special interests?
Ask them, please.
Thanks.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
ACES Act
Vote on HR 2454, the American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES Act) will be this Friday.
For the past 2 weeks, I've used FutureTweets to send Twitter messages daily to members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee who are also on Twitter. If you find yourself desiring to blitz them over the next 48 hours, then here are their IDs:
@USRepMikeDoyle
@RepRadanovich
@FrankPallone
@RepInsleeNews
@repjonbarrow
@RepJoeBarton
@RepShimkus
@RoyBlunt
@MaryBonoMack
@LeeTerryNE
@USRepSullivan
@MichaelCBurgess
@RepPhilGingrey
And I tweeted these two today, and will continue over the next 48 hours:
@neilabercrombie
@ArturDavis
Other than the obvious, the votes on Friday, does anyone else have ideas about how to measure the success of a Twitter-driven advocacy campaign? Do I measure in RTs? In the traditional letterwriting, phoning or email/fax campaign, measurement is finite--#s of letters written, phone calls made, emails or faxes sent. But, it all falls on the final vote, n'est ce pas? Numbers in the thousands can be generated, but if the vote goes against the will of the people, then what?
Inquiring minds want to know. Your thoughts?
For the past 2 weeks, I've used FutureTweets to send Twitter messages daily to members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee who are also on Twitter. If you find yourself desiring to blitz them over the next 48 hours, then here are their IDs:
@USRepMikeDoyle
@RepRadanovich
@FrankPallone
@RepInsleeNews
@repjonbarrow
@RepJoeBarton
@RepShimkus
@RoyBlunt
@MaryBonoMack
@LeeTerryNE
@USRepSullivan
@MichaelCBurgess
@RepPhilGingrey
And I tweeted these two today, and will continue over the next 48 hours:
@neilabercrombie
@ArturDavis
Other than the obvious, the votes on Friday, does anyone else have ideas about how to measure the success of a Twitter-driven advocacy campaign? Do I measure in RTs? In the traditional letterwriting, phoning or email/fax campaign, measurement is finite--#s of letters written, phone calls made, emails or faxes sent. But, it all falls on the final vote, n'est ce pas? Numbers in the thousands can be generated, but if the vote goes against the will of the people, then what?
Inquiring minds want to know. Your thoughts?
Saturday, June 20, 2009
The Story of Us.
So, by now, you've crafted (or read) a 'story of me;' or a narrative that has a challenge, choice and outcome.
Now, the next step is to create a 'story of us,' linking similar values between you and your audience. You first have to identify at what points in your story are you illustrating values, so that when your audience reacts, you get the context clues you need to know that these are shared values.
For example, if you reacted at the point where my grandfather lost his wife and partner of 45 + years, I can safely assume that relationships are important to you.
So, what made you react, in my story? What values do we share?
Now, the next step is to create a 'story of us,' linking similar values between you and your audience. You first have to identify at what points in your story are you illustrating values, so that when your audience reacts, you get the context clues you need to know that these are shared values.
For example, if you reacted at the point where my grandfather lost his wife and partner of 45 + years, I can safely assume that relationships are important to you.
So, what made you react, in my story? What values do we share?
Thursday, June 18, 2009
The Story of Me.
So, my parents divorced on my 6th birthday.
I can still see the brightly colored wrapping paper of the presents in the front seat, and feel the warmth of my mom's breath on my cheek as she buckled me into the back seat.
I didn't know it at the time, but we were heading to my dad's parents, my paternal grandparents' home. They were domestics, and lived on a huge horse farm in Albemarle County, Virginia.
My dad was a cop, and Black, and was always taking extra shifts or longer hours to get ahead. I was practically raised by my grandparents. I can hear my grandfather's voice in my head every time I say the Lord's Prayer he taught me; and it's my grandmother's hands that guide my hands when I'm cooking.
But when my grandmother died after a long, hard fight with liver cancer, my grandfather lost his best friend and partner of over 45 years, and started to slide into dementia. My dad and his 8 siblings didn't have the resources to institutionalize my grandfather, so the decision was made to house my grandfather in the biggest home among them.
I would go visit him, and was saddened by the blue glow of the television washing over his face as he struggled to remember who I was. I was graduating at that time, and had to make a decision--do I move on to college and the rest of my life, or do I help dignify and edify my grandfather at the end of his life?
So, I gave up a full-ride scholarship and stayed to take care of my grandfather until he passed, and joined the Army to get my education.
I'm sure there were moments when you were nodding, or otherwise reacting to what you read, and I'm wondering what it would take for you to just leave a comment, now, ok?
I can still see the brightly colored wrapping paper of the presents in the front seat, and feel the warmth of my mom's breath on my cheek as she buckled me into the back seat.
I didn't know it at the time, but we were heading to my dad's parents, my paternal grandparents' home. They were domestics, and lived on a huge horse farm in Albemarle County, Virginia.
My dad was a cop, and Black, and was always taking extra shifts or longer hours to get ahead. I was practically raised by my grandparents. I can hear my grandfather's voice in my head every time I say the Lord's Prayer he taught me; and it's my grandmother's hands that guide my hands when I'm cooking.
But when my grandmother died after a long, hard fight with liver cancer, my grandfather lost his best friend and partner of over 45 years, and started to slide into dementia. My dad and his 8 siblings didn't have the resources to institutionalize my grandfather, so the decision was made to house my grandfather in the biggest home among them.
I would go visit him, and was saddened by the blue glow of the television washing over his face as he struggled to remember who I was. I was graduating at that time, and had to make a decision--do I move on to college and the rest of my life, or do I help dignify and edify my grandfather at the end of his life?
So, I gave up a full-ride scholarship and stayed to take care of my grandfather until he passed, and joined the Army to get my education.
I'm sure there were moments when you were nodding, or otherwise reacting to what you read, and I'm wondering what it would take for you to just leave a comment, now, ok?
Monday, June 15, 2009
Janet Fouts
I found this fascinating quote today:
TweetPsych uses two different analysis algorithms–Regressive Imagery Dictionary and Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count) to create a psychological profile for you based on your last 1,000 tweets. Type in a username and TweetPsyche comes back with a profile of cognitive, primordial, conceptual and emotional content of your Tweets.Janet Fouts, Jun 2009
You should read the whole article.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Tweeting to organize.
Why use Twitter as an organizing tool? Because it forces you to craft a message that is confined to the restraints of organizing; that is, to build capacity, mobilize and move a target.
Concise is communicating your message in 140 characters. Or less lol. Clear is contained within the conciseness--you can't dissemble in a message that short, now, can you? Because Twitter is utilized by news agencies, the credibility of the medium is rising, which lends to how concrete your message is. Compelling? A message that short can move an audience. Think taglines. If you're retweeted (RT), then you've succeeded in crafting a compelling message.
I'm using FutureTweets to schedule msgs to key legislators in an attempt to move a target in a campaign.
What I like most about it is that I can set up the tweet, time it, and click it. It's done. Every day, until I cancel, that tweet will be sent out.
Despite having to enter everything manually (it doesn't yet have the ability to go to your friends list and allow you to just click to add), it's efficient and easy to use. The effectiveness on the level in which I'm using it will have to be determined by news, lol, or the congressman's vote.
So, blogs to tell your story and share the story of us and the story of now; Facebook to outline strategy; and Twitter to make the asks. If these platforms are linked in your campaign, then they create a natural flow for organizing.
Concise is communicating your message in 140 characters. Or less lol. Clear is contained within the conciseness--you can't dissemble in a message that short, now, can you? Because Twitter is utilized by news agencies, the credibility of the medium is rising, which lends to how concrete your message is. Compelling? A message that short can move an audience. Think taglines. If you're retweeted (RT), then you've succeeded in crafting a compelling message.
I'm using FutureTweets to schedule msgs to key legislators in an attempt to move a target in a campaign.
What I like most about it is that I can set up the tweet, time it, and click it. It's done. Every day, until I cancel, that tweet will be sent out.
Despite having to enter everything manually (it doesn't yet have the ability to go to your friends list and allow you to just click to add), it's efficient and easy to use. The effectiveness on the level in which I'm using it will have to be determined by news, lol, or the congressman's vote.
So, blogs to tell your story and share the story of us and the story of now; Facebook to outline strategy; and Twitter to make the asks. If these platforms are linked in your campaign, then they create a natural flow for organizing.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Don't Blog From the Field
So that's why God invented Twitter.
So you can 'microblog' from the field.
I get it now. Nothing pithy, but the Bard did say that brevity is the soul of wit, didn't he? Can you tweet sonnets? Methinks aye...
I was brainstorming earlier today, and said aloud, "Hey, what if your blog was all about your story; what if your Facebook page outlined your strategy; and your tweets were your asks?"
I'll need to get with some of my activist/organizer cohorts to flesh this out more.
I won't ask for your thoughts. I'm sure you'll just give me your opinion if you feel compelled to do so, now, won't you?
So you can 'microblog' from the field.
I get it now. Nothing pithy, but the Bard did say that brevity is the soul of wit, didn't he? Can you tweet sonnets? Methinks aye...
I was brainstorming earlier today, and said aloud, "Hey, what if your blog was all about your story; what if your Facebook page outlined your strategy; and your tweets were your asks?"
I'll need to get with some of my activist/organizer cohorts to flesh this out more.
I won't ask for your thoughts. I'm sure you'll just give me your opinion if you feel compelled to do so, now, won't you?
Friday, June 5, 2009
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Community
I applaud the Northside Public Safety Council.
Tonight, I attended their monthly meeting, and watched a dedicated group of citizens organize themselves to combat challenges where they live.
Positive interactions between disparate neighborhoods, law enforcement and city council have and will continue to occur to the benefit of all involved.
Congratulations, Donna Kramer, for being re-elected to lead such a fine group of citizen organizers.
http://bit.ly/5L8eF
Tonight, I attended their monthly meeting, and watched a dedicated group of citizens organize themselves to combat challenges where they live.
Positive interactions between disparate neighborhoods, law enforcement and city council have and will continue to occur to the benefit of all involved.
Congratulations, Donna Kramer, for being re-elected to lead such a fine group of citizen organizers.
http://bit.ly/5L8eF
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Moving on...
Ok, so I went to this forum sponsored by the American Energy Solutions Group.
The letters "GOP" were everywhere.
I've got just a few observations about the rather monochromatic proceeding.
First, the panic in which the Republicans are reveling in is amazing to observe. Their resistance to change must be reminiscent of the turn of the century, when the Industrial Revolution was ramping up. Changes in technology always result in net losses and gains in jobs. What's curious is that while I heard the phrase, "we can provide jobs with current technology," no specifics were mentioned.
Speaking of what was mentioned, that lie, that damn lie and statistic was repeated by both Representatives Pence and Murphy. Shameful. Carbon trading won't cost the American family $3,100 a year, Congressmen. The MIT professor who sent you a letter asking you to stop misrepresenting the facts should have clued you in on that. But no, if you repeat a lie often and loudly enough...
Wait, there are lies of omission as well, right? SO if the Republicans don't tell us about the tax credits we receive when we green up our lives, then, are they lying?
OR, are they engaging in "behavior modification," as Competitive Enterprise Institute's Chris Horner calls tax policy? Wait, if 'cap-and-trade' is "behavior modification" by causing pain, then weren't you providing pleasure during Bush's administration by administering huge tax cuts to the top 10% of wealthy taxpayers only? What modification was being performed then, Mr. Horner?
BTW, Lil' Chris Horner was sent to his corner by a scientist on his own panel, lol. It was quite funny that, after Horner stated that temperatures won't change due to carbon emissions, Dr. Anthony Cugini let us know that global temperatures would rise by 11 degrees Farenheit if we stay the course we're on now.
So why don't we compromise with Republicans and call CO2 capture and sequestration a "green" job?
Wait, did I just use the words "compromise" and "Republicans" in the same sentence?
I must be crazy. I'm gonna go back to huffing CO2. Ah, carbon...
The letters "GOP" were everywhere.
I've got just a few observations about the rather monochromatic proceeding.
First, the panic in which the Republicans are reveling in is amazing to observe. Their resistance to change must be reminiscent of the turn of the century, when the Industrial Revolution was ramping up. Changes in technology always result in net losses and gains in jobs. What's curious is that while I heard the phrase, "we can provide jobs with current technology," no specifics were mentioned.
Speaking of what was mentioned, that lie, that damn lie and statistic was repeated by both Representatives Pence and Murphy. Shameful. Carbon trading won't cost the American family $3,100 a year, Congressmen. The MIT professor who sent you a letter asking you to stop misrepresenting the facts should have clued you in on that. But no, if you repeat a lie often and loudly enough...
Wait, there are lies of omission as well, right? SO if the Republicans don't tell us about the tax credits we receive when we green up our lives, then, are they lying?
OR, are they engaging in "behavior modification," as Competitive Enterprise Institute's Chris Horner calls tax policy? Wait, if 'cap-and-trade' is "behavior modification" by causing pain, then weren't you providing pleasure during Bush's administration by administering huge tax cuts to the top 10% of wealthy taxpayers only? What modification was being performed then, Mr. Horner?
BTW, Lil' Chris Horner was sent to his corner by a scientist on his own panel, lol. It was quite funny that, after Horner stated that temperatures won't change due to carbon emissions, Dr. Anthony Cugini let us know that global temperatures would rise by 11 degrees Farenheit if we stay the course we're on now.
So why don't we compromise with Republicans and call CO2 capture and sequestration a "green" job?
Wait, did I just use the words "compromise" and "Republicans" in the same sentence?
I must be crazy. I'm gonna go back to huffing CO2. Ah, carbon...
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Congrats, Pens!
Despite raping the Hill District for parking, land and other resources, I want to extend a hearty congratulations to the Pittsburgh Penguins!
I'm off to celebrate on someone else's tab, so I'll finish this later, ok?
I'm off to celebrate on someone else's tab, so I'll finish this later, ok?
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Thanks, Tonya!
I just wanted to send a shout-out to my girl, Tonya Payne, one of Daniel Lavelle's biggest supporters!
Thank you, Tonya, for not truly campaigning for re-election to Pgh's District 6 city council seat!
Thank you, Tonya, for hanging your campaign signs on abandoned buildings, thereby violating city ordinances!
Thank you, Tonya, for not appearing at over 90% of candidate forums around town!
Thank you, Tonya, for waiting until the weekend prior to Primary Day to knock doors!
Thank you, Tonya, for not doing enough during the 3 1/2 years you held the seat to justify being re-elected!
Thank you, Tonya, for making the choice between you and bold, fresh leadership for District 6 an easy choice to make!
Thank you, Tonya, for lowering yourself thru pettiness and raising up Daniel Lavelle in the process!
There's so much more to thank you for, but this will do, for now, ok?
Thanks, Tonya, for being one of Daniel's biggest supporters!
Thank you, Tonya, for not truly campaigning for re-election to Pgh's District 6 city council seat!
Thank you, Tonya, for hanging your campaign signs on abandoned buildings, thereby violating city ordinances!
Thank you, Tonya, for not appearing at over 90% of candidate forums around town!
Thank you, Tonya, for waiting until the weekend prior to Primary Day to knock doors!
Thank you, Tonya, for not doing enough during the 3 1/2 years you held the seat to justify being re-elected!
Thank you, Tonya, for making the choice between you and bold, fresh leadership for District 6 an easy choice to make!
Thank you, Tonya, for lowering yourself thru pettiness and raising up Daniel Lavelle in the process!
There's so much more to thank you for, but this will do, for now, ok?
Thanks, Tonya, for being one of Daniel's biggest supporters!
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
GOTV
It's Primary Day +1, and the numbers speak for themselves.
It's all about the turnout.
Regardless of IDing your supporters, or persuading your 3s, it all comes down to getting out the vote.
Daniel, thank you for allowing me to be a part of a great GOTV effort by a challenger against an entrenched, embattled and ineffective incumbent. Tonya's inability to turn out even her own base (she received less votes yesterday than she did in 2005) shows how weak her campaign was. Really, Daniel summed it up best when he said in the Post-Gazette that since she didn't have a real record to run on, she engaged in a vitriolic attack on him, attempting to play divisive politics to garner more votes.
O well, it's too bad she spent so much time telling Mark Brantley that he's on the school board because of her, instead of pledging to support the winning candidate. (http://tinyurl.com/psm4qf)
It's May 20th, Tonya. Do you know where your loyalties lie?
It's all about the turnout.
Regardless of IDing your supporters, or persuading your 3s, it all comes down to getting out the vote.
Daniel, thank you for allowing me to be a part of a great GOTV effort by a challenger against an entrenched, embattled and ineffective incumbent. Tonya's inability to turn out even her own base (she received less votes yesterday than she did in 2005) shows how weak her campaign was. Really, Daniel summed it up best when he said in the Post-Gazette that since she didn't have a real record to run on, she engaged in a vitriolic attack on him, attempting to play divisive politics to garner more votes.
O well, it's too bad she spent so much time telling Mark Brantley that he's on the school board because of her, instead of pledging to support the winning candidate. (http://tinyurl.com/psm4qf)
It's May 20th, Tonya. Do you know where your loyalties lie?
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Incredulous
An organizer said it best: "So, what frustrates me is when I walk into a small business, and I practically say, 'Hey, I'm going to put more money in your business, let me tell you how,' and the business owner says, 'No, thanks.'"
Incredulous. A word meaning, 'skeptical.'
I can understand the skepticism of small business owners. The messaging they receive from all sides must leave them leery of what's coming next.
But when a dedicated group of organizers are helping to strengthen the middle class and rebuild our economy by building support for the Employee Free Choice Act, skepticism shouldn't become silliness.
'Gospel' is the Middle English word meaning ' something accepted or promoted as infallible truth or as a guiding principle or doctrine.' The gospel of the Employee Free Choice Act is simple: to have a more equitable workplace where employees choose how to form a union; to form a union free from employer intimidation; and to have a contract negotiated by a third party if the newly-formed union goes 3 months without one.
In light of the fact that union workers make an average of 30% more pay than nonunion workers, and are 59% more likely to have health care, then the extra money union employees make give them choices. Choices between CVS or Public Drug; choices between McDonald's or Daily Grind.
It's silly to think that the Employee Free Choice Act does anything other than strengthens the middle class and rebuilds our economy. It's incredulous to me when I speak to a small business owner and they choose not to support it. Months from now, when Employee Free Choice passes, and union employees are spending their hard-earned and increased wages at other small businesses that had foresight, we'll probably have to witness the groaning and gnashing of teeth from small business owners who were again on the wrong side of history.
Hey, it was their choice, right?
Incredulous. A word meaning, 'skeptical.'
I can understand the skepticism of small business owners. The messaging they receive from all sides must leave them leery of what's coming next.
But when a dedicated group of organizers are helping to strengthen the middle class and rebuild our economy by building support for the Employee Free Choice Act, skepticism shouldn't become silliness.
'Gospel' is the Middle English word meaning ' something accepted or promoted as infallible truth or as a guiding principle or doctrine.' The gospel of the Employee Free Choice Act is simple: to have a more equitable workplace where employees choose how to form a union; to form a union free from employer intimidation; and to have a contract negotiated by a third party if the newly-formed union goes 3 months without one.
In light of the fact that union workers make an average of 30% more pay than nonunion workers, and are 59% more likely to have health care, then the extra money union employees make give them choices. Choices between CVS or Public Drug; choices between McDonald's or Daily Grind.
It's silly to think that the Employee Free Choice Act does anything other than strengthens the middle class and rebuilds our economy. It's incredulous to me when I speak to a small business owner and they choose not to support it. Months from now, when Employee Free Choice passes, and union employees are spending their hard-earned and increased wages at other small businesses that had foresight, we'll probably have to witness the groaning and gnashing of teeth from small business owners who were again on the wrong side of history.
Hey, it was their choice, right?
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Employee Free Choice drops in the House--What next?
Be careful of what you call something.
My given name is Charles, but to separate me from my dad, I was nicknamed "Chuck."
The Employee Free Choice Act has been nicknamed, "Card Check," to separate you from the truth.
There is NO truth to the assertion that Employee Free Choice Act removes the "secret ballot" from employees.
The Employee Free Choice Act ADDS to the tools employees have to form unions in order to strengthen the middle class and help rebuild our economy.
Employee Free Choice allows employees to have EITHER an election or a simple majority sign-up to form a union.
Union employees make on average 30% more pay than their non-union counterparts and are 59% more likely to have health care.
In Montana, over 50% of bankruptcies are caused by medical debt. Over 98% of Montana businesses are small businesses.
If you had extra money in your pocket and was free from medical debt, then wouldn't you be more likely to shop at your local business instead of comparison shopping at your big-box stores?
My name is Chuck, and I approve this message.
My given name is Charles, but to separate me from my dad, I was nicknamed "Chuck."
The Employee Free Choice Act has been nicknamed, "Card Check," to separate you from the truth.
There is NO truth to the assertion that Employee Free Choice Act removes the "secret ballot" from employees.
The Employee Free Choice Act ADDS to the tools employees have to form unions in order to strengthen the middle class and help rebuild our economy.
Employee Free Choice allows employees to have EITHER an election or a simple majority sign-up to form a union.
Union employees make on average 30% more pay than their non-union counterparts and are 59% more likely to have health care.
In Montana, over 50% of bankruptcies are caused by medical debt. Over 98% of Montana businesses are small businesses.
If you had extra money in your pocket and was free from medical debt, then wouldn't you be more likely to shop at your local business instead of comparison shopping at your big-box stores?
My name is Chuck, and I approve this message.
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