I want to quickly give a shout out to my friend, Katie, by way of advertising for a musician she really likes. If you live in DC, the not-yet-famous Josh Garrels is playing tonight at Ebeneezers Coffee House.
He isn't exactly my cup o' tea, but maybe he is yours. At the very least, he is an incredibly talented musician and is worth your having a listen...
Friday, April 28, 2006
Fueling ourselves
It seems that every day brings another article about the rising prices of gas, and frankly, I'm really tired of the bitching and moaning. Does the average person know that we are still paying the lowest prices in the world to fill up at the pump? Does anyone realize that the real issue here isn't how we lower the price of gas, but rather how quickly we can produce viable, renewable alternatives?
In this morning's paper, I am reading about a proposed GOP idea that would have the government - which, by the way, is running up a huge deficit right now as it is - issue $100 rebate checks to taxpayers to alleviate the strain at the pump. And all they ask in return? To be allowed to drill in an Alaska wildlife refuge.
I can't imagine a more repulsive bill could pass in Congress these days (actually, I could, but I'd rather not go there).
While there are many things with which I disagree in our current administration, one of my biggest concerns is the catering to big business. This measure the Republican are proposing only serves to benefit big oil companies that have been salivating over this opportunity for years. The average American is feeling the crunch (I know I am) and is likely to be more lenient towards a bill, no matter how awful, if it provides them with some relief during a period of great vulnerability. I mean, really, look at what happened with The Patriot Act.
Instead, I would like to hear our politicians propose some of the following:
1. No more of this pay-to-play bullshit that results in our representatives being in the pocket of any business interests;
2. Heavy investment in public transportation, allowing the citizenry an affordable, efficient, and environmentally friendly option for getting to work, going out to play, or traveling;
3. An increase in federal grants to companies that are researching alternative (a.k.a. renewable, inexpensive) fuel methods;
4. Immediate federal restrictions on the size and stricter controls on the efficiency of our vehicles.
We don't need to drill in Alaska. That won't save us in the long-term - as you all know, crude oil is not a renewable energy source. It takes millions of years to produce, and we don't have the time (nor, do I think, do we have an environment that will produce the same amount of energy reserves as we have today - but Eric, feel free to correct me if I am wrong). I am tired of our government resorting to the proverbial bandaid. What we need today is those truly selfless politicians, who actually work for the good of the public and do not worry about reelection. We need representatives with a vision, not for themselves, but for the future of our nation. We need people who have long-term solutions in mind, not quick marketing ploys for their election-year campaigns.
But in the meantime, we need an electorate that is involved in our nation's politics. If you live outside of DC (because, as you well know, we have no federal representation here; and, if you are unaware, we have the most silly city council ever to be known to man), I urge you to write to your representatives, research what's going on and vote smart in the fall, or even run for office. A well-informed citizenry is the best weapon we have against the atrocities of a selfish government.
In this morning's paper, I am reading about a proposed GOP idea that would have the government - which, by the way, is running up a huge deficit right now as it is - issue $100 rebate checks to taxpayers to alleviate the strain at the pump. And all they ask in return? To be allowed to drill in an Alaska wildlife refuge.
I can't imagine a more repulsive bill could pass in Congress these days (actually, I could, but I'd rather not go there).
While there are many things with which I disagree in our current administration, one of my biggest concerns is the catering to big business. This measure the Republican are proposing only serves to benefit big oil companies that have been salivating over this opportunity for years. The average American is feeling the crunch (I know I am) and is likely to be more lenient towards a bill, no matter how awful, if it provides them with some relief during a period of great vulnerability. I mean, really, look at what happened with The Patriot Act.
Instead, I would like to hear our politicians propose some of the following:
1. No more of this pay-to-play bullshit that results in our representatives being in the pocket of any business interests;
2. Heavy investment in public transportation, allowing the citizenry an affordable, efficient, and environmentally friendly option for getting to work, going out to play, or traveling;
3. An increase in federal grants to companies that are researching alternative (a.k.a. renewable, inexpensive) fuel methods;
4. Immediate federal restrictions on the size and stricter controls on the efficiency of our vehicles.
We don't need to drill in Alaska. That won't save us in the long-term - as you all know, crude oil is not a renewable energy source. It takes millions of years to produce, and we don't have the time (nor, do I think, do we have an environment that will produce the same amount of energy reserves as we have today - but Eric, feel free to correct me if I am wrong). I am tired of our government resorting to the proverbial bandaid. What we need today is those truly selfless politicians, who actually work for the good of the public and do not worry about reelection. We need representatives with a vision, not for themselves, but for the future of our nation. We need people who have long-term solutions in mind, not quick marketing ploys for their election-year campaigns.
But in the meantime, we need an electorate that is involved in our nation's politics. If you live outside of DC (because, as you well know, we have no federal representation here; and, if you are unaware, we have the most silly city council ever to be known to man), I urge you to write to your representatives, research what's going on and vote smart in the fall, or even run for office. A well-informed citizenry is the best weapon we have against the atrocities of a selfish government.
Thursday, April 27, 2006
I have ten seconds, and I share them all with you
I know I have been greatly remiss in my blogging lately, but I am trying to get back into it. Work has actually picked up since I became official, and my background life, i.e. that part of my life that happens outside of my cubicle, has been relatively unexciting. If I were a better writer, I am sure I could come up with something witty to say about everyday things, but I am not, and so my Blog suffers from neglect.
The most recent outing I experienced was to Spotsylvania, VA, to visit my friend Laure. She and I met when I was an intern for Diplomatic Security - yeah, way back in the day. In any case, she slaved over a five-course Indian meal for Anthony, myself, and several other of her friends and family members. Like always, it was a joy to see friends after so long an absence.
Anthony and I also went to see V for Vendetta before it left theatres in DC last weekend. Anthony adored it, and I said (in my best Shel Silverstein voice no less), "Almost perfect, but not quite." There were some really strong elements in the movie, but they were rendered weak by the truly corny bits. There is a scene where Natalie Portman raises her arms into the rain and I just wanted to shout out (to the crowd of six couples in the theatre), "I am the king of the world!" The scene was that heart-wrenchingly painful to watch.
However, by all means, rent the movie when it comes out on DVD. Or go see it at your second-run theatre. It is a much better crafted movie than most of the other filth Hollywood is passing off as blockbusters these days. And the themes are eerily relevant to today's current events. If you think too hard about it (which I am often guilty of doing), there is a really interesting parallel to be made between Nazi Germany, the England of this movie, and the current political atmosphere. I am sure there is some graduate-level dissertation in there somewhere.
The most recent outing I experienced was to Spotsylvania, VA, to visit my friend Laure. She and I met when I was an intern for Diplomatic Security - yeah, way back in the day. In any case, she slaved over a five-course Indian meal for Anthony, myself, and several other of her friends and family members. Like always, it was a joy to see friends after so long an absence.
Anthony and I also went to see V for Vendetta before it left theatres in DC last weekend. Anthony adored it, and I said (in my best Shel Silverstein voice no less), "Almost perfect, but not quite." There were some really strong elements in the movie, but they were rendered weak by the truly corny bits. There is a scene where Natalie Portman raises her arms into the rain and I just wanted to shout out (to the crowd of six couples in the theatre), "I am the king of the world!" The scene was that heart-wrenchingly painful to watch.
However, by all means, rent the movie when it comes out on DVD. Or go see it at your second-run theatre. It is a much better crafted movie than most of the other filth Hollywood is passing off as blockbusters these days. And the themes are eerily relevant to today's current events. If you think too hard about it (which I am often guilty of doing), there is a really interesting parallel to be made between Nazi Germany, the England of this movie, and the current political atmosphere. I am sure there is some graduate-level dissertation in there somewhere.
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Baaaah-arf! Baaaaah-arf! goes Ryan
| You Were Actually Born Under: |
 You have an artistic temperament that makes you seem creative to some, eccentric to others. You avoid conflict at all costs, and you have a difficult time with relationships. Attractive and with good manners, you tend to shine in social situations. You are most compatible with a Pig or Rabbit. |
| You Should Have Been Born Under: |
 You are totally loyal, faithful, and honest. However, you don't trust others to be as ethical as you are! Straight forward and direct, you really aren't one for small talk. You are a great listener - and an agreeable companion when you're in a good mood! You are most compatible with a Tiger or Horse. |
Another reason to be proud of my Masshole heritage
While I am lazy enough to avoid reading all the minutia involved in Massachusetts healthcare reform, I fully support the concept of universal health care coverage. I have long been a proponent of the English system of universal health care coverage (although Vince will now promptly get on my case about the British system's higher taxes and lack of scientific competition which leads to what he believes is sub-par health care). Now we Massholes are the first U.S. state to allow gay marriage, and the first to offer universal health care. What a great time to be from Mass.!
*****
Mass. Leads Way in Health Care Coverage
By STEVE LeBLANC
The Associated Press
Thursday, April 13, 2006; 8:30 AM
BOSTON -- By next summer, Massachusetts may cross a threshold that has eluded presidents, governors and other political leaders for generations by becoming the first state to require universal health care coverage.
Massachusetts took a major step toward that accomplishment Wednesday when Gov. Mitt Romney signed legislation designed to guarantee coverage for virtually all residents by July 2007, including an estimated 550,000 people who are now uninsured.
The law has set a standard for other states and thrust Massachusetts to the forefront of the national debate about how to dramatically expand health care coverage without creating a single government-controlled system.
Even as he signed the law amid fanfare at historic Faneuil Hall, Romney faced criticism for vetoing a key portion of the legislation: a $295 per employee annual fee on businesses that do not provide their employees with coverage.
The law also provides subsidies and sliding-scale premiums to get poor and low-income residents into health plans and require those deemed able to afford insurance to purchase a policy.
"We have found a way, collectively, to get all of our citizens insurance without some new government-mandated takeover or a huge new tax program," Romney said.
Romney is weighing a potential run for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 and the law could be a centerpiece of that campaign.
Speakers at the ticket-only signing event, attended by more than 300 people, included Democratic U.S. Sen. Edward Kennedy.
"After so many years of false starts, our actions have finally matched our words and we have lived up to our ideals," Kennedy said. "You have given Massachusetts just what the doctor ordered."
An ABC News-Washington Post poll of more than 1,000 adults nationwide released Wednesday found 55 percent of Americans would support a health care law similar to the Massachusetts model in their own states. Forty-one percent opposed. The poll had a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percentage points.
Romney used his line-item veto power to strike eight portions of the bill, including the $295 fee. He said the fee was not needed to pay for the reform.
Leaders of the heavily Democratic House and Senate have said they would override the vetoes. House Speaker Salvatore DiMasi called the vetoes disingenuous, saying the law was crafted with concessions and compromise.
"To change anything will disturb the delicate balance that made this law possible," DiMasi said.
Business and hospital leaders also criticized the veto of the fee. Massachusetts Hospital Association President Ron Hollander said it threatened the balance of the bill.
"I think it is important that all the parts and all the parties stay together," he said. "The employer assessment is critical."
Romney, speaking to reporters after the event, defended the action.
"There are many businesses who have been flooding my office with calls as well as business associations, that are very concerned about it," he said.
Under the law, those who can afford insurance but still refuse to get it will face escalating tax penalties.
The cost of the health care package was put at $316 million in the first year, rising to more than a $1 billion in the third year, with much of that money coming from federal reimbursements and existing state spending, officials said.
*****
*****
Mass. Leads Way in Health Care Coverage
By STEVE LeBLANC
The Associated Press
Thursday, April 13, 2006; 8:30 AM
BOSTON -- By next summer, Massachusetts may cross a threshold that has eluded presidents, governors and other political leaders for generations by becoming the first state to require universal health care coverage.
Massachusetts took a major step toward that accomplishment Wednesday when Gov. Mitt Romney signed legislation designed to guarantee coverage for virtually all residents by July 2007, including an estimated 550,000 people who are now uninsured.
The law has set a standard for other states and thrust Massachusetts to the forefront of the national debate about how to dramatically expand health care coverage without creating a single government-controlled system.
Even as he signed the law amid fanfare at historic Faneuil Hall, Romney faced criticism for vetoing a key portion of the legislation: a $295 per employee annual fee on businesses that do not provide their employees with coverage.
The law also provides subsidies and sliding-scale premiums to get poor and low-income residents into health plans and require those deemed able to afford insurance to purchase a policy.
"We have found a way, collectively, to get all of our citizens insurance without some new government-mandated takeover or a huge new tax program," Romney said.
Romney is weighing a potential run for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 and the law could be a centerpiece of that campaign.
Speakers at the ticket-only signing event, attended by more than 300 people, included Democratic U.S. Sen. Edward Kennedy.
"After so many years of false starts, our actions have finally matched our words and we have lived up to our ideals," Kennedy said. "You have given Massachusetts just what the doctor ordered."
An ABC News-Washington Post poll of more than 1,000 adults nationwide released Wednesday found 55 percent of Americans would support a health care law similar to the Massachusetts model in their own states. Forty-one percent opposed. The poll had a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percentage points.
Romney used his line-item veto power to strike eight portions of the bill, including the $295 fee. He said the fee was not needed to pay for the reform.
Leaders of the heavily Democratic House and Senate have said they would override the vetoes. House Speaker Salvatore DiMasi called the vetoes disingenuous, saying the law was crafted with concessions and compromise.
"To change anything will disturb the delicate balance that made this law possible," DiMasi said.
Business and hospital leaders also criticized the veto of the fee. Massachusetts Hospital Association President Ron Hollander said it threatened the balance of the bill.
"I think it is important that all the parts and all the parties stay together," he said. "The employer assessment is critical."
Romney, speaking to reporters after the event, defended the action.
"There are many businesses who have been flooding my office with calls as well as business associations, that are very concerned about it," he said.
Under the law, those who can afford insurance but still refuse to get it will face escalating tax penalties.
The cost of the health care package was put at $316 million in the first year, rising to more than a $1 billion in the third year, with much of that money coming from federal reimbursements and existing state spending, officials said.
*****
Monday, April 10, 2006
Intending to make you think
God, I wish I were a better reader. I would have so much more to say, and great facts to back up my opinions with. Instead, I will have to defer to well-read and well-informed people.
So with no further ado, go here, read, think analytically...
So with no further ado, go here, read, think analytically...
Nothing to talk about, and yet so much to say
Andrew was here this weekend, and it is all his fault that I want to take a big ol' nap this morning. On Saturday night, he called my bluff about going home to bed by 11PM and didn't even arrive at the Brass Monkey (you funky monkey) until 11:30PM. By that point, there was nothing to prevent him from keeping me out on the town until 2:30AM, which he promptly did. And I am all the sorrier for it. I feel like a big ol' pile of horse manure right now (but I probably smell better).
Oh sure, I got to watch Eric serenade his Heineken with his favorite Journey tunes, and scare Jeff's girlfriend Liz by my inappropriateness (don't worry Jeff, we'll tell you all about it when you're older), but I'm feeling a little too old to be springing out of bed at 8AM when I only first entered it at arse-early AM.
But my little Gracie-pie simply can't put off her piddle run, and so it's up on the weekends at an inconveniently early time, whether I party with Andrew or not. (You see folks, Grace is my best attempt yet for an excuse for why I am in bed by 10PM.)
But it wasn't all for naught. My boys did buy me more drinks than I should have consumed, and the lovely Lesley even celebrated my FS Exam glory by treating me to a round of shots. For the life of me, I can't remember what round number that was, but it was near the end of the evening/morning alcoholism so I can't be held accountable for counting.
One of the highlights of the evening was making fun of some guy for macking on a girl by lifting up his shirt and showing her his abs. About thirty seconds after this move, she was on the arm of another guy - quite hysterical. Actually, the more I think about it, the more sad it becomes. The bar scene certainly provides one with more than enough ammo to mock the scenesters, and I can't exactly say that I like the commentary it provides on humankind.
Anyway, the real point of this post is to say that I actually have a life on occassion, and it was pretty damn glorious. Even if we didn't get Andrew to the airport on time for his plane.
Oh sure, I got to watch Eric serenade his Heineken with his favorite Journey tunes, and scare Jeff's girlfriend Liz by my inappropriateness (don't worry Jeff, we'll tell you all about it when you're older), but I'm feeling a little too old to be springing out of bed at 8AM when I only first entered it at arse-early AM.
But my little Gracie-pie simply can't put off her piddle run, and so it's up on the weekends at an inconveniently early time, whether I party with Andrew or not. (You see folks, Grace is my best attempt yet for an excuse for why I am in bed by 10PM.)
But it wasn't all for naught. My boys did buy me more drinks than I should have consumed, and the lovely Lesley even celebrated my FS Exam glory by treating me to a round of shots. For the life of me, I can't remember what round number that was, but it was near the end of the evening/morning alcoholism so I can't be held accountable for counting.
One of the highlights of the evening was making fun of some guy for macking on a girl by lifting up his shirt and showing her his abs. About thirty seconds after this move, she was on the arm of another guy - quite hysterical. Actually, the more I think about it, the more sad it becomes. The bar scene certainly provides one with more than enough ammo to mock the scenesters, and I can't exactly say that I like the commentary it provides on humankind.
Anyway, the real point of this post is to say that I actually have a life on occassion, and it was pretty damn glorious. Even if we didn't get Andrew to the airport on time for his plane.
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