http://www.theradio.com/
Cool site... and I think I linked it right KK!
ok, guess not.. http://www.theradio.com/
Saturday, January 17, 2009
A Hero to Me
Last night, there was a large garage fire in Caledonia. The fire was so intense that multiple municipalities sent crews. Unfortunately, two firefighters were injured. One slipped on the ice and the other was burned. Thankfully, both will be okay.
The fire had fully engulfed the garage (which was detached from the house) and the radiant heat was so intense that the house had caught fire. A firefighter bravely put himself between the garage and the house and was putting water on the house trying to save it. In the process, the radiant heat burned him through his protective turndown gear. Even knowing he was burned, he continued to fight the fire and was part of a crew that went inside the house until his LT told him to get checked out.
He was taken to the burn center at Columbia St. Mary's in Milwaukee and thankfully was treated and released. 2nd & 3rd degree burns to his arm from his shoulder to his elbow.
In the end, the house was not saved.
I got the call from my mom @ 6:36pm. It was my brother that was burned and this is why he is a hero to me.
http://www.journaltimes.com/articles/2009/01/17/local_news/doc4971752d06215887863553.txt#tp_newCommentAnchor
The fire had fully engulfed the garage (which was detached from the house) and the radiant heat was so intense that the house had caught fire. A firefighter bravely put himself between the garage and the house and was putting water on the house trying to save it. In the process, the radiant heat burned him through his protective turndown gear. Even knowing he was burned, he continued to fight the fire and was part of a crew that went inside the house until his LT told him to get checked out.
He was taken to the burn center at Columbia St. Mary's in Milwaukee and thankfully was treated and released. 2nd & 3rd degree burns to his arm from his shoulder to his elbow.
In the end, the house was not saved.
I got the call from my mom @ 6:36pm. It was my brother that was burned and this is why he is a hero to me.
http://www.journaltimes.com/articles/2009/01/17/local_news/doc4971752d06215887863553.txt#tp_newCommentAnchor
Something to take the edge off of all the bad news...
Femmes. Add it up. Turn up the speakers and dance. Let yourself go and forget about reality for four minutes and 59 seconds.
Meet Mr. October: Jamal al-Badawi
Just in case you don't have enough calendars lying around the house for this year, you can download a free copy of the National Counterterrorism Center Calendar. Or you can view the online interactive version. The calendar provides pictures of wanted terrorists, important dates (April 9th in Martyr's Day in Tunisia) and advice on how far away to run from various size 
bombs.According to the press release, "This year’s print calendar contains 160 pages of information on known terrorist groups, individual terrorists, and technical information on topics such as biological and chemical threats and explosives." I thought we were NOT supposed to publish technical information on this type of stuff lest we be "helping the terrorists" (a crime of which I have frequently been accused but guess it must be okay since the National Counterterrorism Center does it).
So back off terrorists...I have a calendar!
FEMA Detainment/Concentration Camps
Have you heard the latest rumor on the web? Our government is supposedly planning for something big by constructing camps all over the United States for the detainment of, well, who knows? I post at another site where some loons and conspiracy nuts hang out. (I know, big surprise, right?) Anyway, the latest buzz in the conspiracy community is that Uncle Sam is using FEMA to build these detainment camps for some unspecified future catastrophe. Are they camps for Obama to house all the people he's going to round up after the inauguration? Is there some impending natural disaster that the government isn't telling us about but is preparing for? Are they for housing aliens? Who knows? Here's a link to a Google search so you can speculate for yourself: http://www.google.com/search?q=fema+camps.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Lee Enterprises avoids default (barely)
Lee Enterprises avoids default on Pulitzer debt. Read all about it here.
http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/090116/20090116005836.html?.v=1
http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/090116/20090116005836.html?.v=1
Tell Your Alderman That Becker Must Go
Unbelievably, unfathomably, some Racine aldermen do not feel the need to remove Mayor Gary Becker from office. Even though Becker was caught in an attempt to have sex with a 14 year old girl, even though his personal computer contained nude pictures of girls as young as ten years old, even though he has partaken in over 1,800 online conversations of an explicitly sexual nature with minors, the Racine Common Council does not see a need to remove him from office.
Who are these people? These are our "representatives"? Does keeping Becker in office represent your view?
Please contact your alderman and let him or her know how you feel about this matter. You can find his/her phone number and email address here: http://www.cityofracine.org/CityGov/commoncouncil/. I've also added a link to our sidebar under Features.
No decent person would allow Becker to remain in office for a second longer. Many of our representatives, though, are playing politics here. They think this is about Becker, and not about the children he has destroyed with his diseased mind. Such a callous disregard for public decency and morality is beyond the pale. Unless they are of the same ilk as Becker (and who knows at this point?), there is no credible reason for their inaction.
Please also pray for the children that Gary Becker has maimed. Thank you.
Who are these people? These are our "representatives"? Does keeping Becker in office represent your view?
Please contact your alderman and let him or her know how you feel about this matter. You can find his/her phone number and email address here: http://www.cityofracine.org/CityGov/commoncouncil/. I've also added a link to our sidebar under Features.
No decent person would allow Becker to remain in office for a second longer. Many of our representatives, though, are playing politics here. They think this is about Becker, and not about the children he has destroyed with his diseased mind. Such a callous disregard for public decency and morality is beyond the pale. Unless they are of the same ilk as Becker (and who knows at this point?), there is no credible reason for their inaction.
Please also pray for the children that Gary Becker has maimed. Thank you.
Educators, I need you!
I have begun tutoring a young woman through our Adult Literacy Program in Florida. During our first meeting today, I realized that she cannot seem to grasp single digit multiplication, but does fine with double digits. Anyone out there have any hints for me. Why would she be able to multiply 12 x 7 and get 84, but 2 x 7 escapes her?
It was not a one time thing...as I went over the tables, same thing happened, struggled with answers until I got to 12 x (fill in the blank), then like a fog was lifted.
I am not an educator and I have no idea how I got involved in this, but I am wondering if you guys have any suggestions for me.
Thanks.
It was not a one time thing...as I went over the tables, same thing happened, struggled with answers until I got to 12 x (fill in the blank), then like a fog was lifted.
I am not an educator and I have no idea how I got involved in this, but I am wondering if you guys have any suggestions for me.
Thanks.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
It's A Girl
We received the following from Why Not? today:
It's a girl.
Maia Lynn born at 6:00p.m. after only 6 hours of labor. She weighs 8.2 lbs and 19.7 inches long or metric 3710g and 50cm.
She is a very healthy and may I say extrememly cute Irregular baby girl.
Just wanted to update all of my Irregular friends.
It's a girl.
Maia Lynn born at 6:00p.m. after only 6 hours of labor. She weighs 8.2 lbs and 19.7 inches long or metric 3710g and 50cm.
She is a very healthy and may I say extrememly cute Irregular baby girl.
Just wanted to update all of my Irregular friends.
Ok, I know it's late
Our Mayor's name is Becker
He thinks with his pecker
He's gonna do more time than Hannibal Lechter
He's gonna have some fun
Hidden from the sun
A big guy named Bubba will put it in his bun
They'll throw away the key
Just you wait and see
The guys on D block will be your new family
So bye bye Mayor
We'll see ya much later
She was only fourteen so you shouldn't try to date her
He thinks with his pecker
He's gonna do more time than Hannibal Lechter
He's gonna have some fun
Hidden from the sun
A big guy named Bubba will put it in his bun
They'll throw away the key
Just you wait and see
The guys on D block will be your new family
So bye bye Mayor
We'll see ya much later
She was only fourteen so you shouldn't try to date her
Hold Out For a Dreamliner!
The Guardian is reporting that Airbus wants to offer Obama a new A-380 Superjumbo jet to replace the 747 currently used as Air Force One.
Now nothing against the A380...I have never been on one and only seem them parked on the ground at LAX. They look very impressive and I am sure would serve him well.
However, Obama wants to be the green president and it would behoove him to hold out for the new efficient Boeing 787 Dreamliner. It is not quite as big, but come on, how big does a presidential plane need to be? Some of the secret service can fly on another plane if needed. The 787 can hold a few hundred people and it is an American plane. He has told us we may need to make some sacrifices...well, choosing a 787 over an A380 is a small symbolic sacrifice he can make that would also save us a few bucks.
Either way, I know the plane would need quite a few modifications so I woudn't expect either one to come into service for several years...he would probably need to win reelection just to get to use it if it was ordered today!
Now nothing against the A380...I have never been on one and only seem them parked on the ground at LAX. They look very impressive and I am sure would serve him well.
However, Obama wants to be the green president and it would behoove him to hold out for the new efficient Boeing 787 Dreamliner. It is not quite as big, but come on, how big does a presidential plane need to be? Some of the secret service can fly on another plane if needed. The 787 can hold a few hundred people and it is an American plane. He has told us we may need to make some sacrifices...well, choosing a 787 over an A380 is a small symbolic sacrifice he can make that would also save us a few bucks.
Either way, I know the plane would need quite a few modifications so I woudn't expect either one to come into service for several years...he would probably need to win reelection just to get to use it if it was ordered today!
Time to Start the List
So it's about that time that we should start listing the people that need to go. Racine has too many people that are going to be "understanding" about Mayor McPervert. This is from the Journal Times about asking for a resignation (sorry for the cut and paste hack job):
6th District Alderman Sandy Weidner - "We don’t know anything until we hear it from him,” Weidner said. “I want to give him an opportunity to get his feet back on the ground and make a statement to the people he has served.”
3rd District Alderman Michael Shields said he didn’t want to pressure the mayor.“If he knows he did it, he should resign on his own. He shouldn’t be told,” Shields said.
4th District Alderman Jim Kaplan also said Becker needs to make his own decision.
Ray DeHahn of the 7th District - At this point, he said he isn’t asking for the mayor’s resignation because he hasn’t been found guilty of anything. “You have to go through the judicial system,”
So there you have it Racine. There's your leadership. A great place on a great lake... just not great leadership.
6th District Alderman Sandy Weidner - "We don’t know anything until we hear it from him,” Weidner said. “I want to give him an opportunity to get his feet back on the ground and make a statement to the people he has served.”
3rd District Alderman Michael Shields said he didn’t want to pressure the mayor.“If he knows he did it, he should resign on his own. He shouldn’t be told,” Shields said.
4th District Alderman Jim Kaplan also said Becker needs to make his own decision.
Ray DeHahn of the 7th District - At this point, he said he isn’t asking for the mayor’s resignation because he hasn’t been found guilty of anything. “You have to go through the judicial system,”
So there you have it Racine. There's your leadership. A great place on a great lake... just not great leadership.
Bumper Stickers
Where could I find "Becker for Mayor" bumper stickers? I really want some, but only because I am sick and would make a buck off of the back of those more unfortunate. Particularly Gary Becker.
Holey Moley II
Hey!!! Why aren't they reporting this:
State of Wisconsin vs. Gary Becker
Racine County Case Number 2009CF000047
Charge(s)
Count No. Statute Description Severity
1 948.02(2) 2nd Degree Sexual Assault of Child Felony C
2 948.07(1) Child Enticement-Sexual Contact Felony D
3 948.12(1m) Possession of Child Pornography Felony D
4 948.075(1r) Use a Computer to Facilitate a Child Sex Crime Felony C
5 948.11(2)(a) Expose Child to Harmful Material Felony I
6 946.12(2) Misconduct/Office-Act/Excess Authority Felony I
The most shocking:
948.02 Sexual assault of a child. (1) FIRST DEGREE
SEXUAL ASSAULT. (am) Whoever has sexual contact or sexual
intercourse with a person who has not attained the age of 13 years
and causes great bodily harm to the person is guilty of a Class A
felony.
(b) Whoever has sexual intercourse with a person who has not
attained the age of 12 years is guilty of a Class B felony.
(c) Whoever has sexual intercourse with a person who has not
attained the age of 16 years by use or threat of force or violence
is guilty of a Class B felony.
(d) Whoever has sexual contact with a person who has not
attained the age of 16 years by use or threat of force or violence
is guilty of a Class B felony if the actor is at least 18 years of age
when the sexual contact occurs.
(e) Whoever has sexual contact with a person who has not
attained the age of 13 years is guilty of a Class B felony.
(2) SECOND DEGREE SEXUAL ASSAULT. Whoever has sexual
contact or sexual intercourse with a person who has not attained
the age of 16 years is guilty of a Class C felony.
948.07 Child enticement. Whoever, with intent to commit
any of the following acts, causes or attempts to cause any child
who has not attained the age of 18 years to go into any vehicle,
building, room or secluded place is guilty of a Class D felony:
(1) Having sexual contact or sexual intercourse with the child
in violation of s. 948.02, 948.085, or 948.095.
(2) Causing the child to engage in prostitution.
(3) Exposing a sex organ to the child or causing the child to
expose a sex organ in violation of s. 948.10.
(4) Recording the child engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
(5) Causing bodily or mental harm to the child.
(6) Giving or selling to the child a controlled substance or controlled
substance analog in violation of ch. 961.
Update: To fully understand KK's question. I apologize that this is graphic:
(5) “Sexual contact” means any of the following:
(a) Any of the following types of intentional touching, whether
direct or through clothing, if that intentional touching is either for
the purpose of sexually degrading or sexually humiliating the
complainant or sexually arousing or gratifying the defendant:
1. Intentional touching by the defendant or, upon the defendant’s
instruction, by another person, by the use of any body part
or object, of the complainant’s intimate parts.
2. Intentional touching by the complainant, by the use of any
body part or object, of the defendant’s intimate parts or, if done
upon the defendant’s instructions, the intimate parts of another
person.
(b) Intentional penile ejaculation of ejaculate or intentional
emission of urine or feces by the defendant or, upon the defendant’s
instruction, by another person upon any part of the body
clothed or unclothed of the complainant if that ejaculation or
emission is either for the purpose of sexually degrading or sexually
humiliating the complainant or for the purpose of sexually
arousing or gratifying the defendant.
(c) For the purpose of sexually degrading or humiliating the
complainant or sexually arousing or gratifying the defendant,
intentionally causing the complainant to ejaculate or emit urine or
feces on any part of the defendant’s body, whether clothed or
unclothed.
(6) “Sexual intercourse” means vulvar penetration as well as
cunnilingus, fellatio or anal intercourse between persons or any
other intrusion, however slight, of any part of a person’s body or
of any object into the genital or anal opening either by the defendant
or upon the defendant’s instruction. The emission of semen is
not required.
State of Wisconsin vs. Gary Becker
Racine County Case Number 2009CF000047
Charge(s)
Count No. Statute Description Severity
1 948.02(2) 2nd Degree Sexual Assault of Child Felony C
2 948.07(1) Child Enticement-Sexual Contact Felony D
3 948.12(1m) Possession of Child Pornography Felony D
4 948.075(1r) Use a Computer to Facilitate a Child Sex Crime Felony C
5 948.11(2)(a) Expose Child to Harmful Material Felony I
6 946.12(2) Misconduct/Office-Act/Excess Authority Felony I
The most shocking:
948.02 Sexual assault of a child. (1) FIRST DEGREE
SEXUAL ASSAULT. (am) Whoever has sexual contact or sexual
intercourse with a person who has not attained the age of 13 years
and causes great bodily harm to the person is guilty of a Class A
felony.
(b) Whoever has sexual intercourse with a person who has not
attained the age of 12 years is guilty of a Class B felony.
(c) Whoever has sexual intercourse with a person who has not
attained the age of 16 years by use or threat of force or violence
is guilty of a Class B felony.
(d) Whoever has sexual contact with a person who has not
attained the age of 16 years by use or threat of force or violence
is guilty of a Class B felony if the actor is at least 18 years of age
when the sexual contact occurs.
(e) Whoever has sexual contact with a person who has not
attained the age of 13 years is guilty of a Class B felony.
(2) SECOND DEGREE SEXUAL ASSAULT. Whoever has sexual
contact or sexual intercourse with a person who has not attained
the age of 16 years is guilty of a Class C felony.
948.07 Child enticement. Whoever, with intent to commit
any of the following acts, causes or attempts to cause any child
who has not attained the age of 18 years to go into any vehicle,
building, room or secluded place is guilty of a Class D felony:
(1) Having sexual contact or sexual intercourse with the child
in violation of s. 948.02, 948.085, or 948.095.
(2) Causing the child to engage in prostitution.
(3) Exposing a sex organ to the child or causing the child to
expose a sex organ in violation of s. 948.10.
(4) Recording the child engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
(5) Causing bodily or mental harm to the child.
(6) Giving or selling to the child a controlled substance or controlled
substance analog in violation of ch. 961.
Update: To fully understand KK's question. I apologize that this is graphic:
(5) “Sexual contact” means any of the following:
(a) Any of the following types of intentional touching, whether
direct or through clothing, if that intentional touching is either for
the purpose of sexually degrading or sexually humiliating the
complainant or sexually arousing or gratifying the defendant:
1. Intentional touching by the defendant or, upon the defendant’s
instruction, by another person, by the use of any body part
or object, of the complainant’s intimate parts.
2. Intentional touching by the complainant, by the use of any
body part or object, of the defendant’s intimate parts or, if done
upon the defendant’s instructions, the intimate parts of another
person.
(b) Intentional penile ejaculation of ejaculate or intentional
emission of urine or feces by the defendant or, upon the defendant’s
instruction, by another person upon any part of the body
clothed or unclothed of the complainant if that ejaculation or
emission is either for the purpose of sexually degrading or sexually
humiliating the complainant or for the purpose of sexually
arousing or gratifying the defendant.
(c) For the purpose of sexually degrading or humiliating the
complainant or sexually arousing or gratifying the defendant,
intentionally causing the complainant to ejaculate or emit urine or
feces on any part of the defendant’s body, whether clothed or
unclothed.
(6) “Sexual intercourse” means vulvar penetration as well as
cunnilingus, fellatio or anal intercourse between persons or any
other intrusion, however slight, of any part of a person’s body or
of any object into the genital or anal opening either by the defendant
or upon the defendant’s instruction. The emission of semen is
not required.
Is That a Central Bulge in Your Pocket or Are You Just Happy To See Me?
Stephen Colbert takes on new findings about the Milky Way Galaxy.
And he does a pretty good job of it...gets the numbers right and throws in some pretty good lingo.
And he does a pretty good job of it...gets the numbers right and throws in some pretty good lingo.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
JTI Christmas Party South
Present: Hale-Bopp and Beejay
Absent: Everyone else.
Weather: Sunny and 60
After discovering that the restaurant Beejay suggested does not exist anymore, Hale-Bopp and Beejay found each other and got into a heated dispute over whether Hale-Bopp was wearing red or blue. The eventually "agreed to disagree".
They beat a hasty retreat to an emergency backup bar and grill. No one put ice in their wine. After introductions and ordering food, we proceeded to have good conversation, especially about those who could not attend.
A good time was had by both and we hope you can all make the next JTI South party!
Absent: Everyone else.
Weather: Sunny and 60
After discovering that the restaurant Beejay suggested does not exist anymore, Hale-Bopp and Beejay found each other and got into a heated dispute over whether Hale-Bopp was wearing red or blue. The eventually "agreed to disagree".
They beat a hasty retreat to an emergency backup bar and grill. No one put ice in their wine. After introductions and ordering food, we proceeded to have good conversation, especially about those who could not attend.
A good time was had by both and we hope you can all make the next JTI South party!
Racine News
Has anyone else registered at Racinenews.org? I did, but haven't gotten my email giving me a password! How are you supposed to post if they never send you a password?
Seems like a good site. They had the school closing before anyone else did.
Seems like a good site. They had the school closing before anyone else did.
Dancing with a Dog
I saw this a while ago on Real Debate Wisconsin. Thought is was so cool. Some of you may have dogs. Mine is a well mannered golden retriever. She's friendly,obedient,and smart. Well trained. She's been my loyal companion for seven years. Wish I had the time and patience to teach her something like this on this video.
Kids do the dumbest things.
Ok here's my dumb kid award for the day. I ask my daughter to go get the snow off the car so I can take her to school this morning. I look out the window and she's using the shovel on the hood of the car. Lets see can anyone top that?
Amazing Striped Icebergs
Icebergs in the Antarctic area sometimes have stripes, formed by Layers of snow that react to different conditions. Blue stripes are often created when a crevice in the ice sheet Fills up with meltwater and freezes so quickly that no bubbles form. When an iceberg falls into the sea, a layer of salty seawater can Freeze to the underside. If this is rich in algae, it can form a Green stripe. Brown, black and yellow lines are caused by sedim ent, picked up When the ice sheet grinds downhill towards the sea.
Antarctica Frozen Wave Pictures - Nature is amazing!
The water froze the instant the wave broke through the
Ice. That's what it is like in Antarctica where it is the
Coldest weather in decades. Water freezes the instant
The water froze the instant the wave broke through the
Ice. That's what it is like in Antarctica where it is the
Coldest weather in decades. Water freezes the instant
It comes in contact with the air. The temperature of the
Water is already some degrees below freezing.
Just look at how the wave froze in mid-air!!!
Water is already some degrees below freezing.
Just look at how the wave froze in mid-air!!!
On the fence with this one
Ok, I am usually decisive with this kind of thing, but I think I come down on:
Not criminal, but an ethical violation that warrants immediate dismissal.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,479817,00.html
Basically, a Seattle court has ruled that a teacher cannot be criminally charged for having sex with an 18 year old student. The court states that the state law is "vague" and only intended to stop teachers from having sex with students under 18.
Not criminal, but an ethical violation that warrants immediate dismissal.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,479817,00.html
Basically, a Seattle court has ruled that a teacher cannot be criminally charged for having sex with an 18 year old student. The court states that the state law is "vague" and only intended to stop teachers from having sex with students under 18.
Holey Moley
Our esteemed Mayor has been arrested for solicitation of a minor. What a town we live in....
http://www.journaltimes.com/articles/2009/01/14/local_news/doc496deda1079ed663015381.txt
UPDATE: According to JSONLINE, there will be a news conference at 10AM.
http://www.jsonline.com/newswatch/37567049.html
http://www.journaltimes.com/articles/2009/01/14/local_news/doc496deda1079ed663015381.txt
UPDATE: According to JSONLINE, there will be a news conference at 10AM.
http://www.jsonline.com/newswatch/37567049.html
Dear Madame Zoltar
Hello, my sweethearts! It’s so nice to be blogging with you again.I apologize again for missing the Christmas Party. I was very busy with a wealthy client who was very generous in his desire for me to stay with him and read the bumps on his head. It was well worth it, ka-ching.
Which brings me to the subject of this week’s blog. I, Madame Zoltar, am not immune to the influences of the current economic crisis. Many of my clients can no longer afford my services. Those that can, usually purchase less these days. It is beginning to become a bit tight around here.
I notice that my brethren in Korea are also feeling the pinch: http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2008/12/117_36753.html. And here’s a site that says the average fortune teller salary is only $23,000: http://www.simplyhired.com/a/salary/search/q-Fortune+Teller. Who can live on that?
So, I have been forced to consider alternate sources of income, and I would appreciate everyone’s suggestions and ideas. One of the things that I have thought about is online fortune telling, psychic readings, etc. This is a site, http://www.liveperson.com/experts/spirituality-religion/psychic-reading/, that offers psychic readings at minute or email rates. Emails can cost over $100 each. Here’s a psychic who specializes in reuniting lovers that is “$18.80 per minute ($1128/hour),” including a currency converter:
Over a thousand dollars an hour? I think I could survive on that.Here’s a job on craigslist in Providence, RI: http://providence.craigslist.org/med/967187156.html. It doesn’t sound very promising, though, and they welcome amateurs. I hate scabs.
I am also considering relocating, if necessary, to secure my financial future. The Wisconsin Lottery saw revenue decline with the economic crisis while other states’ lotteries posted increases. Similarly, while I am beginning to eat the putty out of my windows in sub arctic southeast Wisconsin, psychics in Virginia prosper: http://www.wjla.com/news/stories/1208/580561_video.html.
Thus, my friends, I ask for your advice on how to supplement my income in these recessionary times. Please note that I will consider manual labor as a last resort only; i.e., after I am dead. Post your suggestions below or send them to me, along with your comments and questions, to: madamezoltar@jtirregulars.com. I look forward to your responses.
Guadalajara, my precious peanuts.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Best Commercials
As promised at our get together, here is your chance to identify your favorite commercials.
"West Racine to hold developer open house"
"The developers of a proposed $7.2 million housing and retail project in West Racine will let the public have a look at the plan.
"The Landmark Group will hold an open house from 6-7 p.m. Jan. 21 at 3308 Washington Ave., immediately west of Wilson’s Coffee & Tea. Anyone interested can stop in to see the artist renderings, meet the developer and ask questions."
http://www.journaltimes.com/articles/2009/01/12/local_news/doc496bb06933d8f133333429.txt
I know, I blogged about this a week ago. More importantly, I don't live in West Racine, so it's none of my business. That, however, has rarely stopped me before.
I do appreciate the area. As a kid, I took the bus from the north side to Gary's Hobby Shop where it was originally in West Racine, before they moved to Uptown, then Elmwood Plaza. Nelson's is legendary. I remember seeing movies at the Capitol Theater and then getting a burger or pizza at DeRango's. Hell, I'm so old that I remember the North Shore and the station in West Racine. And I remember the "experts" saying that commuter rail was kaput. Must've been the same experts that said the Venetian Theater had to be razed. For thirty years I've watched them tear things down in this city. Now West Racine sports the latest open wound in our urban landscape.
Anyway, Beejay suggested that senior housing would be better suited to the neighborhood than the public housing that they're currently proposing. I couldn't agree more. The developers, The Landmark Group, have a snazzy website, http://www.landmarkdevelopment.biz/, with examples of senior housing projects that they've done elsewhere. Why not in West Racine? Seniors are clean and quiet, two positive characteristics that I associate with West Racine - at least, currently.
If you live in West Racine, or if you care about truly preserving diversity in our city, I suggest that you attend the open house with The Landmark Group.
"The Landmark Group will hold an open house from 6-7 p.m. Jan. 21 at 3308 Washington Ave., immediately west of Wilson’s Coffee & Tea. Anyone interested can stop in to see the artist renderings, meet the developer and ask questions."
http://www.journaltimes.com/articles/2009/01/12/local_news/doc496bb06933d8f133333429.txt
I know, I blogged about this a week ago. More importantly, I don't live in West Racine, so it's none of my business. That, however, has rarely stopped me before.
I do appreciate the area. As a kid, I took the bus from the north side to Gary's Hobby Shop where it was originally in West Racine, before they moved to Uptown, then Elmwood Plaza. Nelson's is legendary. I remember seeing movies at the Capitol Theater and then getting a burger or pizza at DeRango's. Hell, I'm so old that I remember the North Shore and the station in West Racine. And I remember the "experts" saying that commuter rail was kaput. Must've been the same experts that said the Venetian Theater had to be razed. For thirty years I've watched them tear things down in this city. Now West Racine sports the latest open wound in our urban landscape.
Anyway, Beejay suggested that senior housing would be better suited to the neighborhood than the public housing that they're currently proposing. I couldn't agree more. The developers, The Landmark Group, have a snazzy website, http://www.landmarkdevelopment.biz/, with examples of senior housing projects that they've done elsewhere. Why not in West Racine? Seniors are clean and quiet, two positive characteristics that I associate with West Racine - at least, currently.
If you live in West Racine, or if you care about truly preserving diversity in our city, I suggest that you attend the open house with The Landmark Group.
Tax time is coming.
So with all of the options out there does anyone have any suggestions on a good one? I Have gone to H&R for the last 20 years. Their expensive. Has anyone ever tried Turbo-tax? How about the free Gov tax site? Anyone here know how to do taxes? Anyone ever get audited because of bad a tax prep? I don't think I'll do it alone this year because I'm a big chicken (scared I'll forget something) The last thing any of us needs now is unlce Sam coming after us for more money!
"Bernanke: More bank bailouts needed"
"Fed chairman endorses economic stimulus, but also says more help for banks is needed to fix the economy.
"Bernanke suggested that more banks and financial firms are likely to need additional capital injections from the government, and that further guarantees of their debt could be necessary, in return for the federal government receiving further equity in the firms."
http://money.cnn.com/2009/01/13/news/economy/bernanke_speech/
They don't know what the banks are doing with the first TRILLION of OUR money, and they aren't asking, but Ben Bernanke has divined that the banks need more, the banks that caused this mess by playing games with everyone's life savings in an effort to swindle us out of even more money.
I agree that we should give them something. I suggest a bullet to the brain of the CEOs of the first four or five banks that "need" more of our money. The rest should fall into line after that.
"Bernanke suggested that more banks and financial firms are likely to need additional capital injections from the government, and that further guarantees of their debt could be necessary, in return for the federal government receiving further equity in the firms."
http://money.cnn.com/2009/01/13/news/economy/bernanke_speech/
They don't know what the banks are doing with the first TRILLION of OUR money, and they aren't asking, but Ben Bernanke has divined that the banks need more, the banks that caused this mess by playing games with everyone's life savings in an effort to swindle us out of even more money.
I agree that we should give them something. I suggest a bullet to the brain of the CEOs of the first four or five banks that "need" more of our money. The rest should fall into line after that.
Marathon Musings
As some of you know, I just did the Disney Marathon (#13 Disney, #14 overall) on Sunday and am on vacation which is why I haven't been around as much. Anywho, a few observations from the marathon.
This year my atheistic tendencies paid off. My race number was 2666. I know at least a few literalist Christians who would be more than a little freaked out by that, especially the group that all wore yellow t-shirst about running for Christ (I behaved myself...I did not run to a single one of them threateningly brandishing my race number). Out of curiosity, I looked at the race results and saw they do not issue number 666 but they do issue 1666, 2666, 3666, etc. And to think the Southern Baptists used to boycott for Disney not catering to Christians.
In the Disney Marathon, you will get passed by Mickey Mouse. You will get passed by Minnie Mouse. You will get passed by the woman dressed as a fairy and the man dressed as a fairy (maybe that's why they want to boyctott Disney...they let men run dressed as fairies!) You will see Disney Villans and characters along the course and runners stopping to get their pictures taken during the race.
Sharpie is a sponsor and puts up lots of signs with witticisms along the course. One read, "I almost has a psychic girlfriend, but she dumped me before we met". Ah, Madame Zoltar, what might have been!
There is a fake gospel choir at mile 26...fake beause it is recorded music and a bunch of people in gospel style robes swaying back and forth clapping along.
After the marathon on Disney property is the one place you can wear a finisher's medal and not look like a complete dork (or at least be in the presence of enough other dorks it doesn't matter).
Already looking forard to 2010.
This year my atheistic tendencies paid off. My race number was 2666. I know at least a few literalist Christians who would be more than a little freaked out by that, especially the group that all wore yellow t-shirst about running for Christ (I behaved myself...I did not run to a single one of them threateningly brandishing my race number). Out of curiosity, I looked at the race results and saw they do not issue number 666 but they do issue 1666, 2666, 3666, etc. And to think the Southern Baptists used to boycott for Disney not catering to Christians.
In the Disney Marathon, you will get passed by Mickey Mouse. You will get passed by Minnie Mouse. You will get passed by the woman dressed as a fairy and the man dressed as a fairy (maybe that's why they want to boyctott Disney...they let men run dressed as fairies!) You will see Disney Villans and characters along the course and runners stopping to get their pictures taken during the race.
Sharpie is a sponsor and puts up lots of signs with witticisms along the course. One read, "I almost has a psychic girlfriend, but she dumped me before we met". Ah, Madame Zoltar, what might have been!
There is a fake gospel choir at mile 26...fake beause it is recorded music and a bunch of people in gospel style robes swaying back and forth clapping along.
After the marathon on Disney property is the one place you can wear a finisher's medal and not look like a complete dork (or at least be in the presence of enough other dorks it doesn't matter).
Already looking forard to 2010.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Use Your Head for More Then a Hat Rack - Safety First
You know about the law requiring you call for utility locating before you do any excavation. This guy decided not to call. The pictures below are a result of this guy using a post hole digger without calling for “locates” and he hit an underground cross country gas pipe.This is what a high pressure gas main is capable of.
One More....
"More than Likely" - PM Dawn and Boy George. (Stop Laughing and give it a listen!)
What's the use in trying
If all my senses say no place exists for you
What's the use in hoding out my arms
I couldn't find reasons if I tried to...
What's the use in floating if
all it does is tell
you someone's under you
What's the use in being if I learn to be
neglectful to all the things
that mean the most to most of you...
But I can hear me say...
( chorus )
More than likely I'm the one you're living for
If I find out I am then I'll
finally understand
when I say...
More than likely I'm the one you're living for
More than likely (living for)...
What's the use in praying
For all the things that mean so much to none
of you...
What's the use in pouring out my heart into
situations I could cry thorough
Oh, what's the use in closing all the doors
that let the loving into you...
What's the use of loving If I learn
Not to feel anything at all, even if it means
the most to you....
But I can hear me say
( chorus )
Even If you find that I'm transcending most
of my mind...
Through the often closing doors of what's
to come, and what's in store.
Even if because you find I'm spending most
of my love...
To the often closed minds that must inquire
what you're living for...
What's the use in clinging (let go)
To all the hopes that leave you somewhere
next to lies
What's the use in buying all my time,
to try and figure out the frame that likes to
communicate through signs
I can hear me say...
( chorus )
What's the use in trying
If all my senses say no place exists for you
What's the use in hoding out my arms
I couldn't find reasons if I tried to...
What's the use in floating if
all it does is tell
you someone's under you
What's the use in being if I learn to be
neglectful to all the things
that mean the most to most of you...
But I can hear me say...
( chorus )
More than likely I'm the one you're living for
If I find out I am then I'll
finally understand
when I say...
More than likely I'm the one you're living for
More than likely (living for)...
What's the use in praying
For all the things that mean so much to none
of you...
What's the use in pouring out my heart into
situations I could cry thorough
Oh, what's the use in closing all the doors
that let the loving into you...
What's the use of loving If I learn
Not to feel anything at all, even if it means
the most to you....
But I can hear me say
( chorus )
Even If you find that I'm transcending most
of my mind...
Through the often closing doors of what's
to come, and what's in store.
Even if because you find I'm spending most
of my love...
To the often closed minds that must inquire
what you're living for...
What's the use in clinging (let go)
To all the hopes that leave you somewhere
next to lies
What's the use in buying all my time,
to try and figure out the frame that likes to
communicate through signs
I can hear me say...
( chorus )
Lost Video Spanish Version
So I was playing Guitar Hero Would Tour with Daughter Wacko, and had a flashback to 1984. Late at night, drinking beers on the sly, sneaking smokes in the back yard listening to WMSE. They played everything. Including the occasional spanish rock tune. I remember hearing and taping this song, and lost the tape. How shocked I was when it showed up on the Guitar Hero playlist. Enjoy the video (which is a little creepy) of "Escuela de Calor" by Radio Futura. And if anyone could translate the lyrics for me I would appreciate it!!!!!
The Return of the Lost Video
Get the speakers turned back up kids, as the moldy oldies and missing wonders are back.
Up for your listening pleasure is a song from 1982. Keny Logins was going Footloose and Journey was playing at every high school dance. Someone get the idea to put Kenny Loggins and Steve Perry together for a duet. Two very powerful voices in a song we forgot....
Please enjoy "Dont Fight It".
(Sorry for the MIA guys. Consider me back at least until the election gets closer!)
Up for your listening pleasure is a song from 1982. Keny Logins was going Footloose and Journey was playing at every high school dance. Someone get the idea to put Kenny Loggins and Steve Perry together for a duet. Two very powerful voices in a song we forgot....
Please enjoy "Dont Fight It".
(Sorry for the MIA guys. Consider me back at least until the election gets closer!)
Little Grin For Today
A Jewish businessman was in a great deal of trouble. His business was failing, he had put everything he had into the business, he owed everybody it was so bad he was even contemplating suicide. As a last resort he went to a Rabbi and poured out his story of tears and woe.
When he had finished, the Rabbi said, "Here's what I want you to do: Put a beach chair and your Bible in your car and drive down to the beach. Take the beach chair and the Bible to the water's edge, sit down in the beach chair, and put the Bible in your lap.
Open the Bible; the wind will rifle the pages, but finally the open Bible will come to rest on a page. Look down at the page and read the first thing you see. That will be your answer, that will tell you what to do."
A year later the businessman went back to the Rabbi and brought his wife and children with him. The man was in a new custom- tailored suit, his wife in a mink coat, the children shining. The businessman pulled an envelope stuffed with money out of his pocket and gave it to the Rabbi as a donation in thanks for his advice.
The Rabbi recognized the benefactor, and was curious. "You did as I suggested?" he asked.
"Absolutely," replied the businessman.
"You went to the beach?"
"Absolutely."
"You sat in a beach chair with the Bible in your lap?"
"Absolutely."
"You let the pages rifle until they stopped?"
"Absolutely."
"And what were the first words you saw?"
"Chapter 11"
When he had finished, the Rabbi said, "Here's what I want you to do: Put a beach chair and your Bible in your car and drive down to the beach. Take the beach chair and the Bible to the water's edge, sit down in the beach chair, and put the Bible in your lap.
Open the Bible; the wind will rifle the pages, but finally the open Bible will come to rest on a page. Look down at the page and read the first thing you see. That will be your answer, that will tell you what to do."
A year later the businessman went back to the Rabbi and brought his wife and children with him. The man was in a new custom- tailored suit, his wife in a mink coat, the children shining. The businessman pulled an envelope stuffed with money out of his pocket and gave it to the Rabbi as a donation in thanks for his advice.
The Rabbi recognized the benefactor, and was curious. "You did as I suggested?" he asked.
"Absolutely," replied the businessman.
"You went to the beach?"
"Absolutely."
"You sat in a beach chair with the Bible in your lap?"
"Absolutely."
"You let the pages rifle until they stopped?"
"Absolutely."
"And what were the first words you saw?"
"Chapter 11"
Do You Read Editorials?
I rarely do. I have never understood the point of them. Do editors write them because they feel obligated? I was looking over the Journal Times' editorial on raising chickens in Caledonia. All I could think is, "What?" How does raising chickens in Caledonia affect the Journal Times? What expertise do they bring to the subject? Does the editorial board live in Caledonia? Are they chicken farmers? In short, who gives a damn except those living in Caledonia, and who else should properly have an opinion on it? It's their city, let them decide .
Always the smug stance, always blowing smoke at a populace that sees them as ever more irrelevant to life in this city. The Journal Times wouldn't endorse a presidential candidate, but they are ready to tell you whether or not to raise chickens. Phffft!
Always the smug stance, always blowing smoke at a populace that sees them as ever more irrelevant to life in this city. The Journal Times wouldn't endorse a presidential candidate, but they are ready to tell you whether or not to raise chickens. Phffft!
"Nationwide Cell Phone Ban for Drivers Urged"
"A leading consumer safety organization is calling for a nationwide ban on drivers using all cell phones and other messaging devices.
"While there are a few state and local laws banning drivers from using hand-held cell phones, the National Safety Council (NSC) believes it's time to make it unanimous."
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/01/11/AR2009011101959.html
I know that a lot of people find cell phones convenient (some would say necessary, I'm sure), but I have had many close calls with drivers distracted by cell phones, easily a dozen wherein the other driver is still unaware that he/she cut me off or otherwise endangered others. They are oblivious when they are on the phone, just as bad or worse than drunk drivers.
Driving skills have dropped markedly and the number of vehicles on the road has increased. This is obvious to anyone who has driven for a few decades. Traffic law enforcement is all but nonexistent in Racine, usually occurring only after an accident has already taken place. (I recently got into an argument with a cop over this. He told me that they're too busy with "important" crimes to deal with traffic. What a farce the law is in Racine. No wonder so many ignore it.) Driving today is a major chore because so many drivers are incompetent.
I'm sure that just as the Tavern League comes to the defense of the thousands of drunk drivers that they turn loose on us every day, the cell phone companies will fight any attempts to regulate the use of their products. If nothing else, if you drive and use a cell phone, then the law should require that your phone number be stenciled on the back of your vehicle, like those How Am I Driving? stickers. That way, when I get home, I can call you up and tell you how you cut off six other vehicles and nearly ran down five pedestrians while you selfishly yammered on the phone.
"While there are a few state and local laws banning drivers from using hand-held cell phones, the National Safety Council (NSC) believes it's time to make it unanimous."
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/01/11/AR2009011101959.html
I know that a lot of people find cell phones convenient (some would say necessary, I'm sure), but I have had many close calls with drivers distracted by cell phones, easily a dozen wherein the other driver is still unaware that he/she cut me off or otherwise endangered others. They are oblivious when they are on the phone, just as bad or worse than drunk drivers.
Driving skills have dropped markedly and the number of vehicles on the road has increased. This is obvious to anyone who has driven for a few decades. Traffic law enforcement is all but nonexistent in Racine, usually occurring only after an accident has already taken place. (I recently got into an argument with a cop over this. He told me that they're too busy with "important" crimes to deal with traffic. What a farce the law is in Racine. No wonder so many ignore it.) Driving today is a major chore because so many drivers are incompetent.
I'm sure that just as the Tavern League comes to the defense of the thousands of drunk drivers that they turn loose on us every day, the cell phone companies will fight any attempts to regulate the use of their products. If nothing else, if you drive and use a cell phone, then the law should require that your phone number be stenciled on the back of your vehicle, like those How Am I Driving? stickers. That way, when I get home, I can call you up and tell you how you cut off six other vehicles and nearly ran down five pedestrians while you selfishly yammered on the phone.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
I am upset
I did the ultimate and posted a comment on the Journal Times in the blogging area. My father died of pancreatic cancer, as did my husband's father and my cousin. All way too young.
This Italian Chick comes on and says that the onocologists and cancer clinics don't release the information that there is a cure for cancer. But they don't want it released because it would mean the end of their clinics and jobs. What the fat dog? Anyway, now I am all bent out of shape.
I know some cancers have had advances made. I do know that dead people are not financially beneficial to any doctor or clinic. Am I lost...living in a fantasy world?
By the way, my father would be 100 if he were still alive, so forget the artificial additives! Now why did I even reply to her post??? Am I nuts...oh wait, don't answer that one!
This Italian Chick comes on and says that the onocologists and cancer clinics don't release the information that there is a cure for cancer. But they don't want it released because it would mean the end of their clinics and jobs. What the fat dog? Anyway, now I am all bent out of shape.
I know some cancers have had advances made. I do know that dead people are not financially beneficial to any doctor or clinic. Am I lost...living in a fantasy world?
By the way, my father would be 100 if he were still alive, so forget the artificial additives! Now why did I even reply to her post??? Am I nuts...oh wait, don't answer that one!
THE BIG THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!
I have to send out the biggest THANK YOU to my family. Never have I been at a loss for words but you guys got me good with this one. I truly could not have asked for a better group of people in my life. You are all so dear to me. Next I need to say, I read through my contract and am not sure I can adhere to all of the rules.....I must first READ all blogs before I comment? Are you kidding me? I never think before I speak this is going to be a tough one for me. I'll be dismissed if ever a piece of ice touches my wine? I'll have to give up wine!!!!!!!!! By the by I know who made up that rule! .......................................Halebopp...for your generosity blows me away.....Logjam.....I have not enough words of gratitude for you.............Fungi........I thank you from the bottom of my heart...........Avenging angel.............I know who you are now so You'll owe me a drink soon preferably some of the dago wine you brought last night..........Liz...My forever angel I wish nothing but the best for you from this day forward............Drew.............one of the biggest hearts I've ever met, thank you for your continued friendship it means the world to me. Orbs.......Big kisses........nuff said.......Ser the best big brother one could ask for. I'm so sorry I didn't get to share a drink with you last night......Beejay...I hope you know how much I adore you. KK.......You are my heart...........To all of my new family I luv ya all and will try to live up to my potential.
WIsh you were there!
Thanks to everybody that came out for our1st annual Irregular Christmas party!
We had a nice, relaxing time visiting and hanging out
together.
To those of you that couldn't make it, try for the next
get-together.
I read somewhere that we are perceived to be a 'cliche'. (sp?)
Interesting, I've never been in a cliche, but usually an outsider.
These get-togethers are ALWAYS all inclusive, open to
anyone who would like to come.
My contact info is always available, and
it's never to late to come out and hang with us.
I'm not going to beg, but if you've been checking us out,
maybe consider joining us next time and see the real us,
we're a fun bunch!
A Little Life Story....
Sorry...I broke wind...
Broke wind my ass, you farted!
Is it embarrassing when it happens in public or do you own up to it and be proud that you had the opportunity to share it with everyone?
Actually, it can be quite embarrassing if it has a lump it! HOWEVER, if it has an aroma that can strip paint off the wall, stand up and take ownership!
You are on your first date and you have to let one rip, but nooooo you do not want to be embarrassed so you squeeze your cheeks tight to hold it in. Well we all know after a while the pain...oh the pain; you hold it back for so long when it does finally pop it is so brutal your pant legs flutter in the breeze! Then you have no choice but to take ownership.
Let me tell you a little story. A friend of mine picked me up in the morning to give me a ride to work. Well I happened to be out the night before and so was he. While riding down the street I let one “fly”; well that baby was so hot I thought it was going to put blisters on my ass! The best part he had a Mustang and you know how small they are in the inside, well this cookie had such an aroma my friend slammed on the brakes and jumped out the car and started puking, now that is a fart!
Some say women don’t fart...ya right.
However, there are some sayings out there like: ‘A burp is a smart fart, it took the elevator’ or ‘It’s better to burp and taste it then fart and waste it’. I am sure there are more sayings, but those are two that come to mind.
So in the future, there is no reason to feel the pain, let it fly and hold your head high!
Generation Y
- The Silent generation, people born before 1946.
- The Baby Boomers, people born between 1947 and 1964.
- Generation X , people born between 1965 and 1983.
- Generation Y, people born between 1984 and 2002.
- Why do we call the last one generation Y?
- I did not know, but a caricaturist explains it eloquently below...
