From the Las Vegas Sun: Democratic Rep. Shelley Berkley made a visit today to that most Las Vegas of Vegas attractions – the celebrity pawn shop.... “Pawn Stars” is based on the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop in the heart of Berkley’s Las Vegas district. Berkley stopped by Monday afternoon to celebrate Gold and Silver’s popularity and thank the Harrisons, the owner-operators, “for helping to promote Las Vegas tourism through the success of the program which is seen by millions of History Channel viewers.” http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2010/apr/12/shelley-berkley-thanks-pawn-stars-during-visit/
First why is this even news? You have to realize that is a publicity stunt by both Berkley and the cast at Pawn Stars. They also had their the liberal accomplices in the likes of the Las Vegas Sun and it's author of this press release, Lisa Mascaro. Mascaro is just a little hack extremist liberal reporter. She has no ethics and really doesn't know much about journalism. I'd say she should go back to Journalism 101 but I don't think any journalism school would take her.
Then, why is Berkley even visited with lapdog Mascaro in tow? She must be feeling the heat in her upcoming election that she has to stoop so low.
And why did the Pawn Stars cast want to do this? Lately, the Pawn Stars are doing everything to get into the newspaper. Recent reports find them reporting a stop in Wisconsin, doing interviews and other publicity stunts. This seems out of character of them or at least how they portray themselves, but they must have gotten the fame bug in them. I shopped at the store before they started and what they were then is not the same people they are now.
I am glad they are getting their 15 minutes of fame, but I hope they don't get huge egos.
And looking at the picture of the Old Man, I don't think it has for him.
Monday, April 12, 2010
There He Goes Again
Quoting the great Ronald Reagan "There he goes again". Obama now bows to the Chi Coms. Maybe I should Obama a little slack. He is kind of spineless.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Barry Manilow Review
When I moved to Las Vegas, there were only a few acts I really wanted to see. Penn and Teller, Elton John and Barry Manilow. Well, tonight, my wish list is down to one as Elton John is gone, leaving Penn and Teller. I was able to get 4 tickets for tonight performance at the Paris Las Vegas casino.
If you like Barry Manilow, this show is for you, if you couldn't care less, you probably would not want to spend $100 a ticket.
Manilow played a lot of his old songs along with some newer love songs by different composers like Gershwin and Berlin.
The most touching moment was his tribute to his grandfather. It can be a tear jerker if you want it to be.
Manilow was backed with about a 10 person band and 4 singers. Manilow tried to do some dance numbers, but he was kind of stiff, but at his age, it is understandable.
Manilow was very personable to the audience and he didn't act like he was bored, even though he has been performing in Las Vegas for years.
The music was loud, which was nice for us because we had some cackling hens behind us. Apparently they thought people were here to hear them instead of Manilow.
It's a great show because it had good lighting, sound and the talent of the musicians was great. While Manilow did not sing all of my favorites, he played enough to make the show worthwhile.
The show is for 6 years and up. My kids were bored at times, mainly because they never heard of Manilow, except when he was portrayed on Family Guy.
The show lasted a little more than an hour, about 1 hr. 20 minutes. The audience gave Manilow a standing ovation and it was well deserved.
If you like Barry Manilow, this show is for you, if you couldn't care less, you probably would not want to spend $100 a ticket.
Manilow played a lot of his old songs along with some newer love songs by different composers like Gershwin and Berlin.
The most touching moment was his tribute to his grandfather. It can be a tear jerker if you want it to be.
Manilow was backed with about a 10 person band and 4 singers. Manilow tried to do some dance numbers, but he was kind of stiff, but at his age, it is understandable.
Manilow was very personable to the audience and he didn't act like he was bored, even though he has been performing in Las Vegas for years.
The music was loud, which was nice for us because we had some cackling hens behind us. Apparently they thought people were here to hear them instead of Manilow.
It's a great show because it had good lighting, sound and the talent of the musicians was great. While Manilow did not sing all of my favorites, he played enough to make the show worthwhile.
The show is for 6 years and up. My kids were bored at times, mainly because they never heard of Manilow, except when he was portrayed on Family Guy.
The show lasted a little more than an hour, about 1 hr. 20 minutes. The audience gave Manilow a standing ovation and it was well deserved.
Want To Ask The Pawn Stars A Question?
If you want to ask the Pawn Stars a question, please fill out the form from the Las Vegas Sun.
http://www.lasvegassun.com/pawn-stars/ask/
http://www.lasvegassun.com/pawn-stars/ask/
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Funniest Whose Line Is It Video
I was watching Drew Carey's "Whose Line Is It Anyways" and it brought back memories of this video with Richard Simmons. One of the best videos ever.
A Day At Death Valley
The family took a day trip to Death Valley, CA. today and it was really interesting and surprising.
First, Death Valley actually has many green areas in the area. When I thought of Death Valley, I thought of the desert with nothing growing. Well, I was wrong. While we did not see water, it must be close to the surface as there were areas of date trees, bushes, flowers, pine trees and other assorted vegetation. It also has a golf course with green grass! It seems it has more natural green areas than Las Vegas. Other than a few birds, we saw no wildlife.
The temperature when we there was about 95 but it didn't seem so bad. Well, the wind was blowing about 30-50 mph, so that cooled things down.
The mountains are like the mountains like those in Las Vegas. No vegetation on the mountains and they were tall. While there was no snow on the mountains, some of the mountains with snow were visable from NV 373, which is close to the park. There were hiking trails in several areas.
There were a lot of people camping out in there RV's and the hotels were almost full. Lot's of motorcycles as well.
Unlike most national parks, there were no fees to drive through the park.
To get to Death Valley, it was an easy trip. Just take Hwy 95 to NV 373 which is near Armagossa Valley. Drive down about 15 miles and turn right onto the CA highway. It's less than a 3 hour drive. One hint though, fill up with gas in Vegas. Gas in Indian Springs was $3.27 while gas in Death Valley was $4.07 a gallon.
I'll try and post pictures tomorrow.
First, Death Valley actually has many green areas in the area. When I thought of Death Valley, I thought of the desert with nothing growing. Well, I was wrong. While we did not see water, it must be close to the surface as there were areas of date trees, bushes, flowers, pine trees and other assorted vegetation. It also has a golf course with green grass! It seems it has more natural green areas than Las Vegas. Other than a few birds, we saw no wildlife.
The temperature when we there was about 95 but it didn't seem so bad. Well, the wind was blowing about 30-50 mph, so that cooled things down.
The mountains are like the mountains like those in Las Vegas. No vegetation on the mountains and they were tall. While there was no snow on the mountains, some of the mountains with snow were visable from NV 373, which is close to the park. There were hiking trails in several areas.
There were a lot of people camping out in there RV's and the hotels were almost full. Lot's of motorcycles as well.
Unlike most national parks, there were no fees to drive through the park.
To get to Death Valley, it was an easy trip. Just take Hwy 95 to NV 373 which is near Armagossa Valley. Drive down about 15 miles and turn right onto the CA highway. It's less than a 3 hour drive. One hint though, fill up with gas in Vegas. Gas in Indian Springs was $3.27 while gas in Death Valley was $4.07 a gallon.
I'll try and post pictures tomorrow.
Polish Tragedy: Could It Happen Here?
In the aftermath of the Polish airline tragedy, where many of the Polish elite were killed in a plane crash in Russia. Among those killed were the president of Poland, generals, admirals, MP's, religious leaders and many more.
While the plane used in Poland was aged, the question I have is, can it happen to the U.S.?
While the probability of it happen is small, I think it could happen. As I detailed in a previous blog post, http://lasvegasbadger.blogspot.com/2010/02/air-force-1-damn-near-crashes-or-pilots.html , the pilots of AF1 were either reckless or showboating when they took off from McCarren Field, here in Vegas. The plane barely made it above the fences surrounding the airport and I could have thrown a baseball and hit the plane as it flew overhead.
Essentially, the pilots left no room for error and if something mechanical did happen to the plane, it could have crashed.
So, can an Air Force 1 crash like it did in Russia, doubtful, but not impossible.
While the plane used in Poland was aged, the question I have is, can it happen to the U.S.?
While the probability of it happen is small, I think it could happen. As I detailed in a previous blog post, http://lasvegasbadger.blogspot.com/2010/02/air-force-1-damn-near-crashes-or-pilots.html , the pilots of AF1 were either reckless or showboating when they took off from McCarren Field, here in Vegas. The plane barely made it above the fences surrounding the airport and I could have thrown a baseball and hit the plane as it flew overhead.
Essentially, the pilots left no room for error and if something mechanical did happen to the plane, it could have crashed.
So, can an Air Force 1 crash like it did in Russia, doubtful, but not impossible.
Indepth Article Of The Pawn Star Stars
The Las Vegas Weekly did a very nice job interviewing the Pawn Stars here in Las Vegas.http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/news/2010/apr/08/pawn-shop-boys/
The big news is that the show has been signed up for 5 more seasons.
The big news is that the show has been signed up for 5 more seasons.
Polish President Dies In An Airplane Accident In Russia
From Fox News: "A plane carrying Polish President Lech Kaczynski, his wife and two top Polish officials crashed Saturday while landing at Smolensk airport in western Russia.
"It clipped the tops of the trees, crashed down and broke into pieces," the governor of the Smolensk region, Sergei Antufiev, told Russia-24 television news network by telephone.
A Russian investigator said 132 were killed.
Polish foreign ministry spokesman Piotr Pszkowski said the Polish president, accompanied by his wife, the army chief of staff and Deputy Foreign Minister Andrzej Kremer were on board the plane." http://www.foxnews.com/world/2010/04/10/polish-presidents-plane-crashes-russia-killing/
This plane crash is going to devastate the government of Poland. The president, army chief of staff and the deputy foreign minister were killed. If this happened in the U.S., we would have lost Obama (perhaps Biden depending on how powerful the president of Poland is), chairman of the joint chiefs and Hillary or 1 step below Hillary.
It also has to be noted that this would never happen in the U.S. as it seems anybody in Washington D.C. who is a major leader in government has use of a military plane.
So, please keep the the people of Poland in your prayers as they struggle to get through this tragedy.
"It clipped the tops of the trees, crashed down and broke into pieces," the governor of the Smolensk region, Sergei Antufiev, told Russia-24 television news network by telephone.
A Russian investigator said 132 were killed.
Polish foreign ministry spokesman Piotr Pszkowski said the Polish president, accompanied by his wife, the army chief of staff and Deputy Foreign Minister Andrzej Kremer were on board the plane." http://www.foxnews.com/world/2010/04/10/polish-presidents-plane-crashes-russia-killing/
This plane crash is going to devastate the government of Poland. The president, army chief of staff and the deputy foreign minister were killed. If this happened in the U.S., we would have lost Obama (perhaps Biden depending on how powerful the president of Poland is), chairman of the joint chiefs and Hillary or 1 step below Hillary.
It also has to be noted that this would never happen in the U.S. as it seems anybody in Washington D.C. who is a major leader in government has use of a military plane.
So, please keep the the people of Poland in your prayers as they struggle to get through this tragedy.
Get A Reckless Driving Charge And Get Suspended From College?
From Knoxnews.com "Even at 60 years old Suzanne Glen is a fighter.
She fought through an agonizing childhood disease that resulted in the loss of her colon, divorce, the loss of both parents and being diagnosed with fibromyalgia, a medical disorder that disables its sufferers with chronic joint and muscle pain.
Now she's fighting to complete her master's degree at the University of Tennessee. University officials want to indefinitely suspend her from the institution because of a reckless driving conviction last year while camping in Alabama.
Glen was slated to graduate May 14. She has continued her studies and expects to complete her courses April 30. But she already has lost an academic year for applying to colleges for her doctorate degree in social work because UT refused to release her course transcripts pending resolution of her disciplinary appeal.
Matthew M. Scoggins, UT assistant general counsel, told the administrative law judge hearing Glen's appeal that UT wants to nullify Glen's academics for the spring semester." ..."Any time we think the act threatens the community or reflects poorly on the university, we take action," Rogers said.
Scoggins said Glen violated rule 8 of UT's student conduct policy with her July 2009 drunken-driving arrest in Gulf Shores, Ala. Glen, on advice of an attorney, pleaded guilty to reckless driving. That conviction, Scoggins said, showed Glen's alleged act "threatens or endangers the health or safety of any person," as stated in rule 8 of the dozens of student conduct violations.
Glen refused to submit to a breath test when arrested. She testified Friday she was not intoxicated when an officer stopped her Hyundai Sonata about 5:47 a.m. while she was getting an order from a McDonald's drive-through window.
http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2010/apr/10/woman-fighting-ut-suspension/
Ok, the lady screwed up and got convicted of reckless driving and the university of Tennessee wants to indefinitely suspend her? Well maybe this is the real reason: "Scoggins declined to say how UT became aware of Glen's arrest and plea bargain. Glen, however, was camping with another female UT student at the time of her arrest and their relationship has since soured."
So, Glen apparently was involved in a lesbian relationship with a fellow student and they broke up and her partner reported her to the university.
Hell, I went to U.W. Madison. If they suspended students who got drunk or were convicted of alcohol related crimes, 2/3 of the student population would have been in trouble. And the other 1/3 are thankful they were not caught.
This is a bogus case by the university and Glen should be allowed to continue to get her degree and let her continue to get her doctorate. Unless the university can show other behavior that makes her a threat to the community, they need to back off and let her finish her degrees.
She fought through an agonizing childhood disease that resulted in the loss of her colon, divorce, the loss of both parents and being diagnosed with fibromyalgia, a medical disorder that disables its sufferers with chronic joint and muscle pain.
Now she's fighting to complete her master's degree at the University of Tennessee. University officials want to indefinitely suspend her from the institution because of a reckless driving conviction last year while camping in Alabama.
Glen was slated to graduate May 14. She has continued her studies and expects to complete her courses April 30. But she already has lost an academic year for applying to colleges for her doctorate degree in social work because UT refused to release her course transcripts pending resolution of her disciplinary appeal.
Matthew M. Scoggins, UT assistant general counsel, told the administrative law judge hearing Glen's appeal that UT wants to nullify Glen's academics for the spring semester." ..."Any time we think the act threatens the community or reflects poorly on the university, we take action," Rogers said.
Scoggins said Glen violated rule 8 of UT's student conduct policy with her July 2009 drunken-driving arrest in Gulf Shores, Ala. Glen, on advice of an attorney, pleaded guilty to reckless driving. That conviction, Scoggins said, showed Glen's alleged act "threatens or endangers the health or safety of any person," as stated in rule 8 of the dozens of student conduct violations.
Glen refused to submit to a breath test when arrested. She testified Friday she was not intoxicated when an officer stopped her Hyundai Sonata about 5:47 a.m. while she was getting an order from a McDonald's drive-through window.
http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2010/apr/10/woman-fighting-ut-suspension/
Ok, the lady screwed up and got convicted of reckless driving and the university of Tennessee wants to indefinitely suspend her? Well maybe this is the real reason: "Scoggins declined to say how UT became aware of Glen's arrest and plea bargain. Glen, however, was camping with another female UT student at the time of her arrest and their relationship has since soured."
So, Glen apparently was involved in a lesbian relationship with a fellow student and they broke up and her partner reported her to the university.
Hell, I went to U.W. Madison. If they suspended students who got drunk or were convicted of alcohol related crimes, 2/3 of the student population would have been in trouble. And the other 1/3 are thankful they were not caught.
This is a bogus case by the university and Glen should be allowed to continue to get her degree and let her continue to get her doctorate. Unless the university can show other behavior that makes her a threat to the community, they need to back off and let her finish her degrees.
Gas Prices Keep Rising. Will It Kill A Recovery?
Gas prices continue to rise and the cost for a gallon has passed the three dollar mark at several Las Vegas area gas stations.
Last year, at this time, gas was averaging $2.11 in Vegas and now it is $2.88, a difference of 77 cents a gallon. http://www.vegasgasprices.com/ the lowest price, without purchasing groceries or being a member of a shopping club is $2.77.
Liberals like Obama and Reid and Pelosi cheer the rise in gas prices. However, just about everyone else hate it.
There have been news reports that gas may hit $4 a gallon this summer. If you want to commit economic suicide, keep the gas prices high. Especially for Las Vegas that depends on people driving cars to come to Las Vegas.
But we know that Reid and Obama really don't care about the people in Las Vegas. They have given us the middle finger so many times that they are getting arthritis in the middle finger from flipping us off.
When gas prices rise, I don't spend as much money on other things. I may cut out a night out with the family, a small trip or some entertainment so I can fill the gas tank. I'm pretty sure most other people in the valley do the same thing. And the small business people who depend on low gas prices, well this will give them another reason not to hire more staff.
So, while Obama and Reid are happy with high gas prices, most people are not and it will cost the liberals in the elections in 2010.
Last year, at this time, gas was averaging $2.11 in Vegas and now it is $2.88, a difference of 77 cents a gallon. http://www.vegasgasprices.com/ the lowest price, without purchasing groceries or being a member of a shopping club is $2.77.
Liberals like Obama and Reid and Pelosi cheer the rise in gas prices. However, just about everyone else hate it.
There have been news reports that gas may hit $4 a gallon this summer. If you want to commit economic suicide, keep the gas prices high. Especially for Las Vegas that depends on people driving cars to come to Las Vegas.
But we know that Reid and Obama really don't care about the people in Las Vegas. They have given us the middle finger so many times that they are getting arthritis in the middle finger from flipping us off.
When gas prices rise, I don't spend as much money on other things. I may cut out a night out with the family, a small trip or some entertainment so I can fill the gas tank. I'm pretty sure most other people in the valley do the same thing. And the small business people who depend on low gas prices, well this will give them another reason not to hire more staff.
So, while Obama and Reid are happy with high gas prices, most people are not and it will cost the liberals in the elections in 2010.
Friday, April 9, 2010
For You Trekkies Out There
From the LVRJ: "Propworx, a California company that markets set decorations and costumes from TV shows and movies, will sell several hundred items from the Las Vegas Hilton's Star Trek: The Experience on Saturday.
In an 11-year run that ended in 2008, Star Trek: The Experience and its interactive rides generated plenty of set pieces. Trekkies will be able to snap up parts of the beloved attraction for as little as $25, and everyone who walks in the door will get a free pair of 3D glasses worn on the rides. Up for sale will be themed signs, 20-foot spaceship replicas from the attraction's lobby, Starfleet costumes, bar furniture and components of transporter rooms (perfect for when your mother-in-law visits!).
The sale runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 66 Spectrum Boulevard. Propworx will accept cash or checks only." http://www.lvrj.com/business/intergalactic-rubble-from-star-trek--the-experience-up-for-grabs-at-sale-90336399.html
I am probably the only person in the United States who has not ever seen a Star Trek movie or an episode on TV. Never even saw a Star Wars movie or E.T. But I did see Space Balls a few times. I wouldn't be able to tell the difference between a Klingon and Al Gore, though rumor has it that Gore was a model for some out-of-this-world character.
So, if you have a few bucks laying around, go down to the warehouse and pick up some things.
For a map: http://maps.google.com/maps?rlz=1T4GGIC_enUS309US309&q=66+Spectrum+Boulevard+las+vegas&um=1&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=66+Spectrum+Blvd,+Las+Vegas,+NV+89101&gl=us&ei=KRXAS8P5IdLangej6ZiuCg&sa=X&oi=geocode_result&ct=image&resnum=1&ved=0CAgQ8gEwAA
In an 11-year run that ended in 2008, Star Trek: The Experience and its interactive rides generated plenty of set pieces. Trekkies will be able to snap up parts of the beloved attraction for as little as $25, and everyone who walks in the door will get a free pair of 3D glasses worn on the rides. Up for sale will be themed signs, 20-foot spaceship replicas from the attraction's lobby, Starfleet costumes, bar furniture and components of transporter rooms (perfect for when your mother-in-law visits!).
The sale runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 66 Spectrum Boulevard. Propworx will accept cash or checks only." http://www.lvrj.com/business/intergalactic-rubble-from-star-trek--the-experience-up-for-grabs-at-sale-90336399.html
I am probably the only person in the United States who has not ever seen a Star Trek movie or an episode on TV. Never even saw a Star Wars movie or E.T. But I did see Space Balls a few times. I wouldn't be able to tell the difference between a Klingon and Al Gore, though rumor has it that Gore was a model for some out-of-this-world character.
So, if you have a few bucks laying around, go down to the warehouse and pick up some things.
For a map: http://maps.google.com/maps?rlz=1T4GGIC_enUS309US309&q=66+Spectrum+Boulevard+las+vegas&um=1&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=66+Spectrum+Blvd,+Las+Vegas,+NV+89101&gl=us&ei=KRXAS8P5IdLangej6ZiuCg&sa=X&oi=geocode_result&ct=image&resnum=1&ved=0CAgQ8gEwAA
Let Me Make This Clear: HELL NO!!!
From the LVRJ:
"Jim Rogers, the former chancellor of the Nevada System of Higher Education, has suddenly become the popular choice of many who would like to see him take over immediately as interim superintendent of the beleaguered Clark County School District.
The School Board on Thursday received a petition with 3,350 signatures asking for Rogers to replace outgoing Superintendent Walt Rulffes, who plans to leave the post in August."
In an interview, Rogers said he would be happy to step in and work for free. Rulffes earns $276,932 a year.
"I'm not hustling for the job, but if they said, 'Jim, we need you,' I would do it," Rogers said.
Rogers, who is also busy leading efforts to transform the University Medical Center into public-private teaching hospital, said he could take over "next Monday or Tuesday" if needed, but would not want to work much longer than a year for the school district. http://www.lvrj.com/news/supporters-want-rogers-to-become-interim-superintendent-90425939.html
When Rogers was in charge of Nevada System of Higher Education, he acted like a complete ass. It was his way or the highway. He has one hell of a temper and it has got him into trouble. My guess, if he didn't quit, he would have been fired or his contract would not have been renewed. He would not work well with the school board and he already has plenty of enemies up in Carson City. His ego is much bigger than the Thomas and Mack Center.
In addition, running a university system is much different than running the 5th largest K-12 school system. He will have to deal with a lot of different aspects of a school district that he didn't have to deal with the Nevada colleges. The biggest is special education and ELL problems, then transportation issues and far more employees than in the university system.
Further, does Rogers even have an administrator's license? Would he be willing to get one?
If Jim Rogers is hired, it will be a disaster for CCSD, it's employees and most importantly, the students. So, HELL NO for Jim Rogers for taking over CCSD.
"Jim Rogers, the former chancellor of the Nevada System of Higher Education, has suddenly become the popular choice of many who would like to see him take over immediately as interim superintendent of the beleaguered Clark County School District.
The School Board on Thursday received a petition with 3,350 signatures asking for Rogers to replace outgoing Superintendent Walt Rulffes, who plans to leave the post in August."
In an interview, Rogers said he would be happy to step in and work for free. Rulffes earns $276,932 a year.
"I'm not hustling for the job, but if they said, 'Jim, we need you,' I would do it," Rogers said.
Rogers, who is also busy leading efforts to transform the University Medical Center into public-private teaching hospital, said he could take over "next Monday or Tuesday" if needed, but would not want to work much longer than a year for the school district. http://www.lvrj.com/news/supporters-want-rogers-to-become-interim-superintendent-90425939.html
When Rogers was in charge of Nevada System of Higher Education, he acted like a complete ass. It was his way or the highway. He has one hell of a temper and it has got him into trouble. My guess, if he didn't quit, he would have been fired or his contract would not have been renewed. He would not work well with the school board and he already has plenty of enemies up in Carson City. His ego is much bigger than the Thomas and Mack Center.
In addition, running a university system is much different than running the 5th largest K-12 school system. He will have to deal with a lot of different aspects of a school district that he didn't have to deal with the Nevada colleges. The biggest is special education and ELL problems, then transportation issues and far more employees than in the university system.
Further, does Rogers even have an administrator's license? Would he be willing to get one?
If Jim Rogers is hired, it will be a disaster for CCSD, it's employees and most importantly, the students. So, HELL NO for Jim Rogers for taking over CCSD.
Sadly, Last 4 Miners Have Died
Gov. Joe Manchin has announced that the four miners who were missing all were found dead.
Three missing miners were found about 500 feet behind mantrip where 6 coworkers were still seated. The other miner was a short distance away.
The mission now is to recover those who died. Seven already were recovered. 29 total deaths.
http://www.dailymail.com/News/breakingnews/201004100024
Three missing miners were found about 500 feet behind mantrip where 6 coworkers were still seated. The other miner was a short distance away.
The mission now is to recover those who died. Seven already were recovered. 29 total deaths.
http://www.dailymail.com/News/breakingnews/201004100024
Thursday, April 8, 2010
I'm Glad I Am Not A Fashion Designer
I am watching the finale of Project Runway on Lifetime (not my idea, I blame Cathy). Everything I thought was good, the judges hated. Everything I thought was ugly (most of the clothes) the judges liked.
Thank goodness I am not a fashion designer But I have to give credit to the designers for coming up with so many different designs in a very short period of time.
Thank goodness I am not a fashion designer But I have to give credit to the designers for coming up with so many different designs in a very short period of time.
Umpire Joe West Speaks The Truth
"Before Wednesday night's game, West called the AL East rivals "embarrassing" and "a disgrace to baseball" for slowing the pace of their games to a crawl, according to the Bergen (N.J.) Record.
The teams' season opener on Sunday took 3:46 to play. Tuesday night's game went 3:48, while Wednesday night's contest, which went 10 innings, was finished in a relatively brisk 3:21.
"They're the two clubs that don't try to pick up the pace," said West, the chief of the umpiring crew working the three-game series, according to the report. "They're two of the best teams in baseball. Why are they playing the slowest? "It's pathetic and embarrassing. They take too long to play," he said, according to the report.
During Tuesday night's game, home plate umpire Angel Hernandez denied a number of requested timeouts in the batter's box.
West did not allow Hernandez to comment, according to the report.
"All of baseball looks to these two clubs to pick up the pace," West said, according to the report. "[Hernandez] did everything he could. The players aren't working with us.""
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=5066650
It seems like major league baseball has become quite boring because the players think that every at bat and every pitch is the same as the pitch of the ninth inning with two outs of the 7th game of the World Series.
The games get boring, especially if you are working watching on TV. Channel surfing between pitches is an art form. If you play it right, you can watch an entire episode of Family Guy and not miss anything in one inning, if you watch in between the pitches. If you wanted to watch an entire episode of Grey's Anatomy, then 2 innings.
A good baseball game shouldn't last more than 2 1/2 hours, any longer and it gets boring any shorter, then you are not getting your money's worth.
Hopefully West will not get punished for speaking his mind. If so, then his punishment should be to watch the next Yankee-Red Sox game in slow motion with Bud Selig. What can be worse?
The teams' season opener on Sunday took 3:46 to play. Tuesday night's game went 3:48, while Wednesday night's contest, which went 10 innings, was finished in a relatively brisk 3:21.
"They're the two clubs that don't try to pick up the pace," said West, the chief of the umpiring crew working the three-game series, according to the report. "They're two of the best teams in baseball. Why are they playing the slowest? "It's pathetic and embarrassing. They take too long to play," he said, according to the report.
During Tuesday night's game, home plate umpire Angel Hernandez denied a number of requested timeouts in the batter's box.
West did not allow Hernandez to comment, according to the report.
"All of baseball looks to these two clubs to pick up the pace," West said, according to the report. "[Hernandez] did everything he could. The players aren't working with us.""
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=5066650
It seems like major league baseball has become quite boring because the players think that every at bat and every pitch is the same as the pitch of the ninth inning with two outs of the 7th game of the World Series.
The games get boring, especially if you are working watching on TV. Channel surfing between pitches is an art form. If you play it right, you can watch an entire episode of Family Guy and not miss anything in one inning, if you watch in between the pitches. If you wanted to watch an entire episode of Grey's Anatomy, then 2 innings.
A good baseball game shouldn't last more than 2 1/2 hours, any longer and it gets boring any shorter, then you are not getting your money's worth.
Hopefully West will not get punished for speaking his mind. If so, then his punishment should be to watch the next Yankee-Red Sox game in slow motion with Bud Selig. What can be worse?
Looks Like Dad 29's Blog Has Been Terrorized
Just went to Dad 29's blog and it looks like a blog terrorist has attacked it. http://dad29.blogspot.com/
Almost everything has been crossed out, with a line through the words.
And I thought Dad had no enemies.
Almost everything has been crossed out, with a line through the words.
And I thought Dad had no enemies.
Stupid Union News #123436
From the Las Vegas Sun: "When Santa Fe & The Fat City Horns and assorted Las Vegas big-band musicians put on their rollicking music showcases at the Tropicana each week, everyone’s happy.
The assembled musicians, given the opportunity to play for scores of avid late-night fans, are happy.
Those who attend the free Monday night performances at Tiffany Theatre and Celebration Lounge -- many of them musicians themselves -- are happy.
Tropicana hotel executives, who pay scant wages to Santa Fe & The Fat City Horns to compensate the musicians and reap the benefits of a few hundred potential gamblers and drinkers each Monday, are happy, too.
But officials with the Las Vegas Musicians Union Local 369 … not so happy.
In a skirmish likely to unplug the late-night jams that follow the Santa Fe performances at Tiffany Theatre, the Las Vegas Musicians Union has sent letters to member musicians who participate in the post-show performances at Celebration Lounge to stop playing. Union President Frank Leone said the union began contacting musicians this week, asking them to cease playing in the hour-long showcases.
“We’re simply asking our members not to do this,” Leone said. “We understand the big-band musicians who want to have some place to play, but we can’t condone it happening in a Strip casino that is the beneficiary from liquor sales and ancillary playing -- people who stroll over to the machines in the casino -- and the musicians are not getting compensated.”"
So, you have musicians wanting to play for free or minimally compensated and they play for their friends and customers and they are doing it voluntarily. But the union says, no, no, no. We don't want you to play because we are the union and we are the law.
So, who wins? No one. Who loses? The musicians because they lose a place to play and in Las Vegas, it is very difficult for a band to find a place to play. It also hurts the musicians because it is a place for them to be discovered so they have a chance to play in the big shows in Vegas. The customers lose because they won't be able to listen to true jam sessions. The casinos don't lose because the customers already are in the casino.
So, the local musician union show why unions have become pretty much irrelevant and are tone deaf. No one was being harmed and the only one's who look like fools is the union.
The assembled musicians, given the opportunity to play for scores of avid late-night fans, are happy.
Those who attend the free Monday night performances at Tiffany Theatre and Celebration Lounge -- many of them musicians themselves -- are happy.
Tropicana hotel executives, who pay scant wages to Santa Fe & The Fat City Horns to compensate the musicians and reap the benefits of a few hundred potential gamblers and drinkers each Monday, are happy, too.
But officials with the Las Vegas Musicians Union Local 369 … not so happy.
In a skirmish likely to unplug the late-night jams that follow the Santa Fe performances at Tiffany Theatre, the Las Vegas Musicians Union has sent letters to member musicians who participate in the post-show performances at Celebration Lounge to stop playing. Union President Frank Leone said the union began contacting musicians this week, asking them to cease playing in the hour-long showcases.
“We’re simply asking our members not to do this,” Leone said. “We understand the big-band musicians who want to have some place to play, but we can’t condone it happening in a Strip casino that is the beneficiary from liquor sales and ancillary playing -- people who stroll over to the machines in the casino -- and the musicians are not getting compensated.”"
So, you have musicians wanting to play for free or minimally compensated and they play for their friends and customers and they are doing it voluntarily. But the union says, no, no, no. We don't want you to play because we are the union and we are the law.
So, who wins? No one. Who loses? The musicians because they lose a place to play and in Las Vegas, it is very difficult for a band to find a place to play. It also hurts the musicians because it is a place for them to be discovered so they have a chance to play in the big shows in Vegas. The customers lose because they won't be able to listen to true jam sessions. The casinos don't lose because the customers already are in the casino.
So, the local musician union show why unions have become pretty much irrelevant and are tone deaf. No one was being harmed and the only one's who look like fools is the union.
Illegal Immigrant March On Saturday In Vegas
A march and rally for illegal immigrants will be held in Las Vegas on Saturday at the federal courthouse at 3:00. The pro-illegal immigrant politicians will be there. Harry Reid and Shelly Berkley will be there in support of illegal immigrants.
They are expecting between 10,000 to 14,000 illegal immigrant supporters, which really means about 4-5000 people.
One of the biggest BS quotes is this: "Nevada "is such an important state politically, and our constituents are people here who make up a very high immigrant population," said Michael Flores, Southern Nevada director of Reform Immigration for America. "The location is ideal. Right now we're in a big economic downturn, so what we're trying to do is show that if you pass comprehensive immigration reform this would really help the economy. This is a very appropriate place for that, in a city and state that's hurting so bad." " http://www.lvrj.com/news/immigration-reformers-ready-for-saturday-rally-90199067.html
Mr. Flores apparently doesn't understand that illegal immigrants are costing the Las Vegas economy tens of millions of dollars each year. From medical care, education, crime and social services, illegals cost the local economy and government tens of millions each year with little or no benefit for the people legally living here. There will be no benefit maing the illegals, legal. they are not going to spend more, they are not going bring in more tax money and their expense to the government will only go up.
When in Wisconsin, I was pretty much blind to the effects of illegal immigrants, but since moving to Las Vegas, I have seen first hand the harm illegal immigrants have done to this community. Illegals have not helped the economy but it has hurt it and making illegals legal is not going to help the economy one little bit. If anything, it will make things worse. There will be more government services available at the cost of the taxpayer but there would not be any increase in tax revenue.
It would also wrong to say that legal immigrants support illegal immigrants and immigration reform. I know many legal immigrants and they do not like illegal immigrants or immigration reform.
It is pretty obvious why the Dem's want to make illegal immigrants legal- they want their votes. Reid and Berkley also are tone deaf to the majority voices of the people of the Valley- we don't want reforms and most of the people want the illegals, especially those who have committed crimes or receive government services or free medical care at taxpayer expense, to be deported.
So, Harry and Shelly, once again you are giving the people of the Valley the middle finger and saying screw you.
Another reason why Harry and Shelly need to be retired now.
They are expecting between 10,000 to 14,000 illegal immigrant supporters, which really means about 4-5000 people.
One of the biggest BS quotes is this: "Nevada "is such an important state politically, and our constituents are people here who make up a very high immigrant population," said Michael Flores, Southern Nevada director of Reform Immigration for America. "The location is ideal. Right now we're in a big economic downturn, so what we're trying to do is show that if you pass comprehensive immigration reform this would really help the economy. This is a very appropriate place for that, in a city and state that's hurting so bad." " http://www.lvrj.com/news/immigration-reformers-ready-for-saturday-rally-90199067.html
Mr. Flores apparently doesn't understand that illegal immigrants are costing the Las Vegas economy tens of millions of dollars each year. From medical care, education, crime and social services, illegals cost the local economy and government tens of millions each year with little or no benefit for the people legally living here. There will be no benefit maing the illegals, legal. they are not going to spend more, they are not going bring in more tax money and their expense to the government will only go up.
When in Wisconsin, I was pretty much blind to the effects of illegal immigrants, but since moving to Las Vegas, I have seen first hand the harm illegal immigrants have done to this community. Illegals have not helped the economy but it has hurt it and making illegals legal is not going to help the economy one little bit. If anything, it will make things worse. There will be more government services available at the cost of the taxpayer but there would not be any increase in tax revenue.
It would also wrong to say that legal immigrants support illegal immigrants and immigration reform. I know many legal immigrants and they do not like illegal immigrants or immigration reform.
It is pretty obvious why the Dem's want to make illegal immigrants legal- they want their votes. Reid and Berkley also are tone deaf to the majority voices of the people of the Valley- we don't want reforms and most of the people want the illegals, especially those who have committed crimes or receive government services or free medical care at taxpayer expense, to be deported.
So, Harry and Shelly, once again you are giving the people of the Valley the middle finger and saying screw you.
Another reason why Harry and Shelly need to be retired now.
Interesting Lawsuit Involving The Catholic Church
From the Las Vegas Sun: "A judge has tossed out a Roman Catholic priest's lawsuit against the Diocese of Reno and its bishop, saying the First Amendment prevents a court from becoming involved in a contractual dispute involving a church.
Washoe County District Judge Patrick Flanagan granted the diocese's motion to dismiss the suit filed Sept. 30 by Richard DeMolen, the former pastor of Our Lady of Tahoe Catholic Church in Zephyr Cove.
DeMolen claims he was unjustly fired after he obtained a protective order against a deacon he believes made a death threat against him. He also contends Bishop Randolph Calvo failed to investigate the death threat and defamed him when he sent a letter to parishioners about the pastor and deacon.
DeMolen's attorney, Jeffrey Dickerson, said he intends to appeal Tuesday's ruling.
"The Nevada Supreme Court has never addressed whether a diocese and its bishop should be exempt from lawsuits," Dickerson told the Reno Gazette-Journal. "It presents a very interesting appeal, which we look forward to prosecuting."" http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2010/apr/08/judge-tosses-out-nev-priests-lawsuit-vs-bishop/
I can see why a court would not want to intervene in Church issues. You are dealing with belief issues among other things.
But this case seems to be more about regular case law rather than Church law. This case also has implications if a lay person wanted to sue the Church for something. Could the Church use this defense if there was a case of child molestation?
It will be interesting to see how Nevada Supreme Court rules.
Washoe County District Judge Patrick Flanagan granted the diocese's motion to dismiss the suit filed Sept. 30 by Richard DeMolen, the former pastor of Our Lady of Tahoe Catholic Church in Zephyr Cove.
DeMolen claims he was unjustly fired after he obtained a protective order against a deacon he believes made a death threat against him. He also contends Bishop Randolph Calvo failed to investigate the death threat and defamed him when he sent a letter to parishioners about the pastor and deacon.
DeMolen's attorney, Jeffrey Dickerson, said he intends to appeal Tuesday's ruling.
"The Nevada Supreme Court has never addressed whether a diocese and its bishop should be exempt from lawsuits," Dickerson told the Reno Gazette-Journal. "It presents a very interesting appeal, which we look forward to prosecuting."" http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2010/apr/08/judge-tosses-out-nev-priests-lawsuit-vs-bishop/
I can see why a court would not want to intervene in Church issues. You are dealing with belief issues among other things.
But this case seems to be more about regular case law rather than Church law. This case also has implications if a lay person wanted to sue the Church for something. Could the Church use this defense if there was a case of child molestation?
It will be interesting to see how Nevada Supreme Court rules.
The Las Vegas Sun Is Acting Very Strange
Yesterday, the CCSD school board decided to eliminate 1,077 positions within CCSD and probably layoff hundreds of employees. Later in the day, they said they are hiring an outside firm to help find a new superintendent at a cost of many thousands of dollars.
For whatever reason, the Las Vegas Sun has not reported either story while the LVRJ has been all over it as has the local TV and radio news departments.
While I certainly disagree with the Sun on many issues, I do give them credit for having a very good web site with up to the minute in breaking news. This is out of their character.
So why has the Sun disregarded this major news story?
Very strange indeed.
For whatever reason, the Las Vegas Sun has not reported either story while the LVRJ has been all over it as has the local TV and radio news departments.
While I certainly disagree with the Sun on many issues, I do give them credit for having a very good web site with up to the minute in breaking news. This is out of their character.
So why has the Sun disregarded this major news story?
Very strange indeed.
Breaking News: Wisconsin Badgers Playing In The NCAA Hockey Championship
The Wisconsin Badgers just defeated RIT in the NCAA Championship Semifinal, 8-1 and will play the winner of the Miami (OH) or Boston College for the championship. The Championship is being played in Detroit.
The championship will be played on Saturday night.
Hope to hear lot's of "Sieve!!" on Saturday.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
My Predictions For The Masters
Like anyone really cares about my predictions, but here goes.
Television ratings will be highest ever for any golf tournament.
Tiger Woods makes the cut, but he never is in contention but we will see nearly every shot he makes, including those on the practice greens and driving range. Woods finishes around 20th place.
Steve Stricker wins the Masters. Phil Mickleson chokes. Again.
The winner of the event will be asked 10 or more questions about Tiger Woods and his comeback.
3/4 of the crowd will follow Tiger. The other 1/4 will be in the bar or in the stands.
The first person who heckles Tiger will be kicked out of the Masters and a ball retriever will be stuck up the fan's butt.
Next year, the event will be called Master Tiger, a golf event.
If Tiger wins the Master's, Buddhism will be now the number one religion in the world. Buddah statues with clock in it's belly will be the number 1 seller of gifts.
Let the games begin.
Television ratings will be highest ever for any golf tournament.
Tiger Woods makes the cut, but he never is in contention but we will see nearly every shot he makes, including those on the practice greens and driving range. Woods finishes around 20th place.
Steve Stricker wins the Masters. Phil Mickleson chokes. Again.
The winner of the event will be asked 10 or more questions about Tiger Woods and his comeback.
3/4 of the crowd will follow Tiger. The other 1/4 will be in the bar or in the stands.
The first person who heckles Tiger will be kicked out of the Masters and a ball retriever will be stuck up the fan's butt.
Next year, the event will be called Master Tiger, a golf event.
If Tiger wins the Master's, Buddhism will be now the number one religion in the world. Buddah statues with clock in it's belly will be the number 1 seller of gifts.
Let the games begin.
April 8, 1973- The Real Home Run Champion
The true home run champion, Hank Aaron, hit his 715th home run on April 6, 1973 off of Al Downing in Atlanta.I was lucky enough to see Hank play when he returned to the Milwaukee Brewers and I got to see one of his home runs hit in Milwaukee County Stadium.
Henry Aaron is truly a class act and the true home run champion of Major League Baseball.
And The Waste In CCSD Continues On
From The LVRJ: "The Clark County School Board voted unanimously today to seek an outside consultant or search firm to assist them in hiring a new superintendent.
Clark County School District Superintendent Walt Rulffes has announced he will not seek to extend his contract, which ends Aug. 30. School Board members did express interest in keeping Rulffes on as an interim while they look for his successor." http://www.lvrj.com/news/school-board-seeks-outside-help-in-search-for-new-superintendent-90155812.html
In the same meeting that the CCSD board announced that they were eliminate 1077 positions and lay off CCSD employees, they announce they are going to hire an outside firm to help find a new superintendent. I wonder if the board every hearing the word phrase "timing is everything".
Hello, CCSD board, we are having a financial crisis in the schools. CCSD has a huge human resources department and has experience hiring people. They are qualified to do background checks. They will have committees to help. So, why do they have to bring in an outside company at a budget of who knows what, to find a superintendent?
Clark County School District Superintendent Walt Rulffes has announced he will not seek to extend his contract, which ends Aug. 30. School Board members did express interest in keeping Rulffes on as an interim while they look for his successor." http://www.lvrj.com/news/school-board-seeks-outside-help-in-search-for-new-superintendent-90155812.html
In the same meeting that the CCSD board announced that they were eliminate 1077 positions and lay off CCSD employees, they announce they are going to hire an outside firm to help find a new superintendent. I wonder if the board every hearing the word phrase "timing is everything".
Hello, CCSD board, we are having a financial crisis in the schools. CCSD has a huge human resources department and has experience hiring people. They are qualified to do background checks. They will have committees to help. So, why do they have to bring in an outside company at a budget of who knows what, to find a superintendent?
Bloody Day At CCSD- 1077 Positions Lost
From The LVRJ: "The Clark County School District will have to cut 1,077 positions for the new fiscal year that begins July 1 to close the budget gap with a reduction in force alone. About 649 positions have already been identified for elimination.
The gap had been estimated at $123 million, but district officials said today that the decline in property tax revenues is going to be steeper than previously expected."
http://www.lvrj.com/news/tentative-2010-11-budget-would-slash-1-077-positions-90148422.html
For that many positions to be lost is a complete and utter failure by everyone involved.
The administration just cannot see waste in CCSD if it came up to them and slapped them in the face.
The unions are also to blame. They basically said, screw the people being laid off, but just keep on paying the veteran teachers their salaries and step increases.
And I also blame the public for this as well, but they are the in third place. From what I have seen, the public has been pretty quiet on this issue. It's like, do whatever you want, we don't care.
I have outlined several ways to cut the budget but it seems like the district and the unions pretty much want to deal with the budget problem by cutting jobs.
How will this work out, I have no idea. Will education suffer? Perhaps. Will there continue to be waste in CCSD, it certainly looks that way.
And who gets hurt? the laid off teachers and staff and the children.
The gap had been estimated at $123 million, but district officials said today that the decline in property tax revenues is going to be steeper than previously expected."
http://www.lvrj.com/news/tentative-2010-11-budget-would-slash-1-077-positions-90148422.html
For that many positions to be lost is a complete and utter failure by everyone involved.
The administration just cannot see waste in CCSD if it came up to them and slapped them in the face.
The unions are also to blame. They basically said, screw the people being laid off, but just keep on paying the veteran teachers their salaries and step increases.
And I also blame the public for this as well, but they are the in third place. From what I have seen, the public has been pretty quiet on this issue. It's like, do whatever you want, we don't care.
I have outlined several ways to cut the budget but it seems like the district and the unions pretty much want to deal with the budget problem by cutting jobs.
How will this work out, I have no idea. Will education suffer? Perhaps. Will there continue to be waste in CCSD, it certainly looks that way.
And who gets hurt? the laid off teachers and staff and the children.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Obama Don't Know Baseball
Can't name a single White Sox player even though it's his favorite team. He throws a baseball like he bowls. Doesn't know the name of the home ball park of the White Sox (It's U.S. Celluar Field, formerly Comiskey Park)
Shameful and it shows once again that Obama needs his teleprompter to survive.
Inquest For Officer Involved Shooting Set
The coroner's inquest has been set for May 21, involving the shooter of a police officer, Damon Beal. "A coroner’s inquest has been scheduled in the case of a 26-year-old man who police fatally shot after the man fired at a Metro Police officer March 23.
The Clark County Coroner’s Office has scheduled the inquest for 9 a.m. May 21 for Damon Beal, who authorities say led police on a pursuit in the 800 block of Dolores Drive after allegedly stealing a Mercedes and trying to break into a house earlier that afternoon.
When two officers tried to stop the car, Beal and 45-year-old Marvin Lee Wilson jumped out, police said. Beal jumped over a wall and started running, and Wilson was taken into custody shortly after leaving the car.
Beal pulled out a gun and started shooting at officers, striking a major artery in 31-year-old officer Mike Madland’s leg. Police Capt. Randy Montandon said Beal was then shot twice in the head by officer Christopher Le Blanc." http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2010/apr/06/coroners-inquest-set-man-shot-metro-officer/
This version of the story is different than what was reported earlier. "he "heard shots fired and found a LVMPD officer partially lying on the suspect." The second officer “saw the suspect pointing a black semi-automatic handgun at the downed officer” then “fired at the suspect to neutralize the threat against the downed officer.”" http://lasvegasbadger.blogspot.com/2010/03/something-bothers-me-about-police.html
Hopefully all the information will come out.
Also, the injured officer apparently has had a turn for the worse. According to radio 840 today, the officer's condition has been downgraded from good to serious.
The Clark County Coroner’s Office has scheduled the inquest for 9 a.m. May 21 for Damon Beal, who authorities say led police on a pursuit in the 800 block of Dolores Drive after allegedly stealing a Mercedes and trying to break into a house earlier that afternoon.
When two officers tried to stop the car, Beal and 45-year-old Marvin Lee Wilson jumped out, police said. Beal jumped over a wall and started running, and Wilson was taken into custody shortly after leaving the car.
Beal pulled out a gun and started shooting at officers, striking a major artery in 31-year-old officer Mike Madland’s leg. Police Capt. Randy Montandon said Beal was then shot twice in the head by officer Christopher Le Blanc." http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2010/apr/06/coroners-inquest-set-man-shot-metro-officer/
This version of the story is different than what was reported earlier. "he "heard shots fired and found a LVMPD officer partially lying on the suspect." The second officer “saw the suspect pointing a black semi-automatic handgun at the downed officer” then “fired at the suspect to neutralize the threat against the downed officer.”" http://lasvegasbadger.blogspot.com/2010/03/something-bothers-me-about-police.html
Hopefully all the information will come out.
Also, the injured officer apparently has had a turn for the worse. According to radio 840 today, the officer's condition has been downgraded from good to serious.
Harry Reid: What The Hell Are You Talking About?
From the official Harry Reid web site, the Las Vegas Sun and it's biggest suck up mistress, Lisa Mascaro , comes this story: "Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid is known for his frank talk even, it turns out, when it comes to sex.
Reid was asked today during a talk with supporters about developing an immigration policy to attract educated, child-bearing immigrants to help counter the U.S.'s aging baby-boomer population.
As the Carson City crowd chuckled at the question, Reid drew quiet, then said:
"Let me answer it this way: I'm not opposed to sex."
The crowd cracked up.
"By the way," Reid added with comedic timing, "Tiger Woods is making a comeback this week."
Reid is three hours into day two of his bus tour that today is traveling through northern Nevada."
What the hell is he talking about and what the hell does Tiger Woods have anything to do with the question?
And his liberal followers think this is funny?
Pathetic and sad.
Reid was asked today during a talk with supporters about developing an immigration policy to attract educated, child-bearing immigrants to help counter the U.S.'s aging baby-boomer population.
As the Carson City crowd chuckled at the question, Reid drew quiet, then said:
"Let me answer it this way: I'm not opposed to sex."
The crowd cracked up.
"By the way," Reid added with comedic timing, "Tiger Woods is making a comeback this week."
Reid is three hours into day two of his bus tour that today is traveling through northern Nevada."
What the hell is he talking about and what the hell does Tiger Woods have anything to do with the question?
And his liberal followers think this is funny?
Pathetic and sad.
Avoind I-15 and Blue Diamond
I was watching the news and I-15 is shut down by Blue Diamond for repairs, I believe. No accident there, so just guess it is for repairs.
Avoid the area at all costs for at least another hour or more.
Update: Apparently the problem is power lines down and across the freeway. So, this won't be solved any time soon.
Avoid the area at all costs for at least another hour or more.
Update: Apparently the problem is power lines down and across the freeway. So, this won't be solved any time soon.
Please Keep The West Virginia Coal Miner's And Their Families In Your Prayers
On Monday afternoon, there was an explosion in a coal mine in West Virginia and at least 25 miners have died with 4 miners are still missing.
Coal miners are true workers. They work in dangerous and dirty conditions and today, the worst possible scenario happen when there was an explosion underground.
From Fox News: "An explosion at a remote coal mine with a history of safety problems killed 25 workers and at least four others were still missing early Tuesday more than a thousand feet underground in the worst U.S. mine disaster since 1984.
Rescuers had been making their way to the area where the miners were believed trapped at Massey Energy Co.'s sprawling Upper Big Branch mine, where the blast occurred around 3 p.m. Monday. However, safety officials said at a news conference that the search was suspended because rising methane gas levels in the mine made it a high risk for another explosion.
Earlier, Kevin Stricklin, an administrator for the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration, said officials hoped some of the missing survived the initial blast and were able to reach airtight chambers stocked with food, water and enough oxygen for them to live for four days. However, rescue teams made it to one of two nearby shelters and it was empty. The gas levels prevented them from reaching the second."
http://www.foxnews.com/us/2010/04/05/explosion-underground-west-virginia-coal/
I just hope that certain people will not exploit this disaster for their political beliefs. For example, use this tragedy to diminish coal and extol the virtues of renewable energy like solar power and windmills.
Please keep the miners, their families and all miners in your prayers.
Coal miners are true workers. They work in dangerous and dirty conditions and today, the worst possible scenario happen when there was an explosion underground.
From Fox News: "An explosion at a remote coal mine with a history of safety problems killed 25 workers and at least four others were still missing early Tuesday more than a thousand feet underground in the worst U.S. mine disaster since 1984.
Rescuers had been making their way to the area where the miners were believed trapped at Massey Energy Co.'s sprawling Upper Big Branch mine, where the blast occurred around 3 p.m. Monday. However, safety officials said at a news conference that the search was suspended because rising methane gas levels in the mine made it a high risk for another explosion.
Earlier, Kevin Stricklin, an administrator for the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration, said officials hoped some of the missing survived the initial blast and were able to reach airtight chambers stocked with food, water and enough oxygen for them to live for four days. However, rescue teams made it to one of two nearby shelters and it was empty. The gas levels prevented them from reaching the second."
http://www.foxnews.com/us/2010/04/05/explosion-underground-west-virginia-coal/
I just hope that certain people will not exploit this disaster for their political beliefs. For example, use this tragedy to diminish coal and extol the virtues of renewable energy like solar power and windmills.
Please keep the miners, their families and all miners in your prayers.
Great NCAA Except for...
You could not a better NCAA men's basketball game, except for the North Carolina State win for Jim Valvano, except for one thing.
It was an intense game, exciting and nail biting. The game was undecided until the final buzzer. You had a true Cinderella story and I am sure the sportsbook in Vegas made a lot of money because Butler beat the spread.
The only complaint was the officiating. The ref's were inconsistent. They would let the players play and it was rough but then they would call ticky tack fouls as well. They also missed an offensive goal tending call on Duke towards the end of the game. Duke inbounded the ball with 1 second on the shot clock and the center made a quick jump hook that missed, but the ball was still on the rim when it was tapped into the basket.
They also missed it when the Butler player was thrown down trying to rebound a Duke miss with a few seconds left on the clock. But the ref's also missed calls that benefited Butler. The zebra's essentially took the Duke and Butler big men out of the game because of foul trouble.
I used to be a referee and an umpire, so I look closely at the officiating and if is the best the NCAA has, then the NCAA is in a world of hurt.
While the ref's didn't directly effect the outcome of the game, they certainly made their presence felt, which is not supposed to happen.
It was an intense game, exciting and nail biting. The game was undecided until the final buzzer. You had a true Cinderella story and I am sure the sportsbook in Vegas made a lot of money because Butler beat the spread.
The only complaint was the officiating. The ref's were inconsistent. They would let the players play and it was rough but then they would call ticky tack fouls as well. They also missed an offensive goal tending call on Duke towards the end of the game. Duke inbounded the ball with 1 second on the shot clock and the center made a quick jump hook that missed, but the ball was still on the rim when it was tapped into the basket.
They also missed it when the Butler player was thrown down trying to rebound a Duke miss with a few seconds left on the clock. But the ref's also missed calls that benefited Butler. The zebra's essentially took the Duke and Butler big men out of the game because of foul trouble.
I used to be a referee and an umpire, so I look closely at the officiating and if is the best the NCAA has, then the NCAA is in a world of hurt.
While the ref's didn't directly effect the outcome of the game, they certainly made their presence felt, which is not supposed to happen.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Pawn Stars Review April 4, 2010
In a day that it was reported that Chumlee was given a key to a small city in Indiana, another Pawn Star review.
In today's first episode, a guy brought in a 1964 Austin Healy Sprite. When they tried to start it up, it didn't start. The guy wanted $10,000 and he got $5000 cash money. The car is really small. They took it to the mechanics and found out they needed to do a lot more work than a tune up. It will cost $6000 to fix. When Rick told the Old Man, and the Old Man was pissed and just said move on.
The next guy brought in an old metal diving helmet. Rick has a feeling it may be a fake. His expert thought it was real and it was one of the earliest made in the U.S.. The expert said it was worth $15,000. Rick offered $7000 with a counter offer of $10,000. It went for $8000 plus a rifle.
The next guy brought in some old U.S. Fractional Currency Notes from the Civil War era. The Old Man offered $60 and the seller decided to share them with his kids.
The next guy brought in a 2006 championship ring from the Miami Heat basketball team. He got them from a trainer. The guy wanted $20,000 and Rick offered $9000 and after some haggling and the seller sounded like an ass, to be honest. There was no sale. He came back later and took the $9000. Cash. Hundred dollar bills.
The next guy brought in an antique wooden chest. The Old Man didn't want it, but he said he should take it to a decorator and sell it to them instead.
In the 2nd episode, it was another rerun. http://lasvegasbadger.blogspot.com/2010/01/pawn-stars-review-january-25-2010.html
After all this time, I still have not meet anybody in the Pez community. Shocking, I'm sure.
In today's first episode, a guy brought in a 1964 Austin Healy Sprite. When they tried to start it up, it didn't start. The guy wanted $10,000 and he got $5000 cash money. The car is really small. They took it to the mechanics and found out they needed to do a lot more work than a tune up. It will cost $6000 to fix. When Rick told the Old Man, and the Old Man was pissed and just said move on.
The next guy brought in an old metal diving helmet. Rick has a feeling it may be a fake. His expert thought it was real and it was one of the earliest made in the U.S.. The expert said it was worth $15,000. Rick offered $7000 with a counter offer of $10,000. It went for $8000 plus a rifle.
The next guy brought in some old U.S. Fractional Currency Notes from the Civil War era. The Old Man offered $60 and the seller decided to share them with his kids.
The next guy brought in a 2006 championship ring from the Miami Heat basketball team. He got them from a trainer. The guy wanted $20,000 and Rick offered $9000 and after some haggling and the seller sounded like an ass, to be honest. There was no sale. He came back later and took the $9000. Cash. Hundred dollar bills.
The next guy brought in an antique wooden chest. The Old Man didn't want it, but he said he should take it to a decorator and sell it to them instead.
In the 2nd episode, it was another rerun. http://lasvegasbadger.blogspot.com/2010/01/pawn-stars-review-january-25-2010.html
After all this time, I still have not meet anybody in the Pez community. Shocking, I'm sure.
Obama Shows His Inexperience And It May Cost American Lives
President Obama today just made America vulnerable to attack by announcing to the world that he is revamping the U.S. nuclear policy.
The most dangerous part of this paragraph from the New York Times: "It eliminates much of the ambiguity that has deliberately existed in American nuclear policy since the opening days of the Cold War. For the first time, the United States is explicitly committing not to use nuclear weapons against non-nuclear states that are in compliance with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, even if they attacked the United States with biological or chemical weapons, or launched a crippling cyberattack." It eliminates much of the ambiguity that has deliberately existed in American nuclear policy since the opening days of the Cold War. For the first time, the United States is explicitly committing not to use nuclear weapons against non-nuclear states that are in compliance with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, even if they attacked the United States with biological or chemical weapons, or launched a crippling cyberattack. http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/06/world/06arms.html
So, if a country decides to launch a chemical or biological attack against the U.S., they don't have to fear about being blown up within a short period of time.
But the most idiotic part of this is that he actually made this public. It's one thing keep your enemy guessing but it's another to give them your game plan.
This actually may be grounds for impeachment.
The most dangerous part of this paragraph from the New York Times: "It eliminates much of the ambiguity that has deliberately existed in American nuclear policy since the opening days of the Cold War. For the first time, the United States is explicitly committing not to use nuclear weapons against non-nuclear states that are in compliance with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, even if they attacked the United States with biological or chemical weapons, or launched a crippling cyberattack." It eliminates much of the ambiguity that has deliberately existed in American nuclear policy since the opening days of the Cold War. For the first time, the United States is explicitly committing not to use nuclear weapons against non-nuclear states that are in compliance with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, even if they attacked the United States with biological or chemical weapons, or launched a crippling cyberattack. http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/06/world/06arms.html
So, if a country decides to launch a chemical or biological attack against the U.S., they don't have to fear about being blown up within a short period of time.
But the most idiotic part of this is that he actually made this public. It's one thing keep your enemy guessing but it's another to give them your game plan.
This actually may be grounds for impeachment.
h/t Drudge
World Coming To the End? Chumlee Given Key To An Indiana City?
From Norm of the LVRJ: "Chumlee, one of the young men in the reality TV hit "Pawn Stars," got singled out for some love on Thursday. Mayor Doug Hedrick of Greendale, Ind., population 4,298, dropped in the Gold and Silver pawn shop on Las Vegas Boulevard and presented a proclamation naming Thursday "Chumlee Day" and gave him a key to the city. Hedrick referred to Corey Harrison's sidekick "as the maligned but never daunted Chumlee.""
http://www.lvrj.com/news/here-s-the-skinny-on-bonds-in-vegas-89897797.html
Unless Chumlee has some connection to Greendale, IN., then I would be embarrassed to live in Greendale. Sounds like like the Mayor is looking for his 15 minutes of fame.
Also if you go on the link, take a gander of the picture of Barry Bonds. You tell me me he never took steroids.
http://www.lvrj.com/news/here-s-the-skinny-on-bonds-in-vegas-89897797.html
Unless Chumlee has some connection to Greendale, IN., then I would be embarrassed to live in Greendale. Sounds like like the Mayor is looking for his 15 minutes of fame.
Also if you go on the link, take a gander of the picture of Barry Bonds. You tell me me he never took steroids.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Movie Night Tonight
The family and I are watching Mary Poppins and Sound of Music. They bring back memories as these were the first movies my parents took me to when I was a youngster.
Hopefully, my kids will enjoy the movies as much as I did.
Hopefully, my kids will enjoy the movies as much as I did.
Las Vegas Sun Show's It's Real Feelings About The Tea Party Movement
As if there is any doubt the ultra liberal newspaper has a liberal agenda and hates the Tea Party movement because it is raining on Harry Reid's parade, check out the phrase in this link: http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2010/apr/04/tea-partyers-hate-really-strong/
Yep, the kind, caring and compassionate left.
Yep, the kind, caring and compassionate left.
Brian Greenspun Makes An Ass Of Himself Once Again
Brian Greeenspun, the jackass editor of the very liberal Las Vegas Sun makes a total ass of himself once again in of his mindless editorials. Again, Greenspun is a extreme liberal, who depends on conservatives to deliver his newspaper. Just like in real life, conservatives doing the heavy work for liberals.
In his latest rant, he says that there is anger within the Tea Party movement.
From the editorial: "I didn’t see much love of fellow men in Searchlight last week. I heard a lot of hate, though." Does he mean the pro-Reid crowd who showered the Tea Party Express bus with eggs and swear words?
"There are people everywhere who don’t carry their own weight." Start with your own newspaper (see above) The conservative Las Vegas Review Journal distributes the Sun paper.
"Do the folks who have claimed the Tea Party as their express ride to better government really believe they are more patriotic than the thousands of people who show up every day to work for the government — local, state and national — on their behalf?" Most tea party people don't begrudge most government services, but the government is bloated, wastes money, have regulations that strangle everyone, especially the small business person. They want the basic services, not services for illegals, not services for people who abuse the system and they are against wasteful government services.
"I don’t see the protesters and naysayers taking oaths of office, government salaries and citizen ridicule to work on behalf of their fellow citizens. All I hear are anger-laden complaints." Then you are not looking very close. Truth is that there police officers, teachers, firefighters, black and white and Hispanic people in the movement. But then maybe, Mr. Greenspun, you are blind or you are ignorant.
"I know it is every citizen’s right to complain, and I have done my share over the years. But mine has never been filled with hate. " Except for this article, I suppose.
"And I don’t believe I have a corner on the truth. And, for certain, I am careful about what I choose to believe of what comes over the Internet — a medium filled with junk that is designed to inflame our passions, play with our emotions and lead us down the path of falsity and away from truth." Does this explains why your paper is primarily done over the Internet?
"But, I am concerned about those who hear the truth — that jobs are starting to come back, that the economy is beginning to rebound ever so slightly and that major financial disaster was averted last year — and refuse to believe it, choosing instead to see socialists, communists and anti-American sleepers under every bed. We have been there and done that — 60 years ago it almost destroyed this nation." Jobs are starting to come back? Tell that to 13+% unemployed in the Las Vegas Valley. It also has been argued that the financial crisis would have been better off if the government did not intervene. The economy is not rebounding. Food and gas prices are rising. That is not helping the people who need the help the most. And yes, we do see socialists and communists in government. President Obama has nationalized several businesses and wants more. The federal government now control 48% of the economy. That's socialism.
"Somehow, though, we have allowed our fear to consume us to the extent that we can no longer see the difference between what is real and what is not and what is fact and what is fiction. And that fear has turned to anger in many cases and frustration in most." And you, Mr. Greenspun, do you know what is real or not real? Based on your papers positions, I suggest you really have no clue what you are talking about.
"But I am also saddened that so many people felt so aggrieved that they had to drive their campers, trucks, cars and buses to a place that most people need go to only once to realize they don’t want to go there again. With apologies to our good senator, Harry Reid." Wow, what a insult to the people of Searchlight. Mr. Greenspun, what a pathetic moron you are.
Finally, Greenspun ends his drooling rant by writing this: "On this Easter, ask yourselves, “What would Jesus do? How would Jesus act? Who would Jesus blame?” Happy Easter."
Well, the easy comeback would be that Greenspun, as a Jewish person, doesn't believe in Christ, so he would be in no position to state what Jesus would say or do. But I will admit I don't know what Jesus would say, do or blame. That's not my business to say. But I am willing to bet that he would be against the hatred of the left, those who throw eggs at buses, those who threaten people with violence, those who lie, those who approve of abortion and those who use their faith to gain a political advantage like Harry Reid does. He would also like fairness, like allowing comments on Greenspun's editorial, which he doesn't allow but allow comments on people who just some quiet in their lives.
So, Mr. Greenspun, you can crawl back into your little hole in the ground and think up your next gushing story for Harry and Rory. Meanwhile, the anger the tea party will continue and there is nothing you can do about it.
To get a clear view of Greenspun hatred of the tea party, just look at the Sun's link.
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2010/apr/04/tea-partyers-hate-really-strong/
In his latest rant, he says that there is anger within the Tea Party movement.
From the editorial: "I didn’t see much love of fellow men in Searchlight last week. I heard a lot of hate, though." Does he mean the pro-Reid crowd who showered the Tea Party Express bus with eggs and swear words?
"There are people everywhere who don’t carry their own weight." Start with your own newspaper (see above) The conservative Las Vegas Review Journal distributes the Sun paper.
"Do the folks who have claimed the Tea Party as their express ride to better government really believe they are more patriotic than the thousands of people who show up every day to work for the government — local, state and national — on their behalf?" Most tea party people don't begrudge most government services, but the government is bloated, wastes money, have regulations that strangle everyone, especially the small business person. They want the basic services, not services for illegals, not services for people who abuse the system and they are against wasteful government services.
"I don’t see the protesters and naysayers taking oaths of office, government salaries and citizen ridicule to work on behalf of their fellow citizens. All I hear are anger-laden complaints." Then you are not looking very close. Truth is that there police officers, teachers, firefighters, black and white and Hispanic people in the movement. But then maybe, Mr. Greenspun, you are blind or you are ignorant.
"I know it is every citizen’s right to complain, and I have done my share over the years. But mine has never been filled with hate. " Except for this article, I suppose.
"And I don’t believe I have a corner on the truth. And, for certain, I am careful about what I choose to believe of what comes over the Internet — a medium filled with junk that is designed to inflame our passions, play with our emotions and lead us down the path of falsity and away from truth." Does this explains why your paper is primarily done over the Internet?
"But, I am concerned about those who hear the truth — that jobs are starting to come back, that the economy is beginning to rebound ever so slightly and that major financial disaster was averted last year — and refuse to believe it, choosing instead to see socialists, communists and anti-American sleepers under every bed. We have been there and done that — 60 years ago it almost destroyed this nation." Jobs are starting to come back? Tell that to 13+% unemployed in the Las Vegas Valley. It also has been argued that the financial crisis would have been better off if the government did not intervene. The economy is not rebounding. Food and gas prices are rising. That is not helping the people who need the help the most. And yes, we do see socialists and communists in government. President Obama has nationalized several businesses and wants more. The federal government now control 48% of the economy. That's socialism.
"Somehow, though, we have allowed our fear to consume us to the extent that we can no longer see the difference between what is real and what is not and what is fact and what is fiction. And that fear has turned to anger in many cases and frustration in most." And you, Mr. Greenspun, do you know what is real or not real? Based on your papers positions, I suggest you really have no clue what you are talking about.
"But I am also saddened that so many people felt so aggrieved that they had to drive their campers, trucks, cars and buses to a place that most people need go to only once to realize they don’t want to go there again. With apologies to our good senator, Harry Reid." Wow, what a insult to the people of Searchlight. Mr. Greenspun, what a pathetic moron you are.
Finally, Greenspun ends his drooling rant by writing this: "On this Easter, ask yourselves, “What would Jesus do? How would Jesus act? Who would Jesus blame?” Happy Easter."
Well, the easy comeback would be that Greenspun, as a Jewish person, doesn't believe in Christ, so he would be in no position to state what Jesus would say or do. But I will admit I don't know what Jesus would say, do or blame. That's not my business to say. But I am willing to bet that he would be against the hatred of the left, those who throw eggs at buses, those who threaten people with violence, those who lie, those who approve of abortion and those who use their faith to gain a political advantage like Harry Reid does. He would also like fairness, like allowing comments on Greenspun's editorial, which he doesn't allow but allow comments on people who just some quiet in their lives.
So, Mr. Greenspun, you can crawl back into your little hole in the ground and think up your next gushing story for Harry and Rory. Meanwhile, the anger the tea party will continue and there is nothing you can do about it.
To get a clear view of Greenspun hatred of the tea party, just look at the Sun's link.
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2010/apr/04/tea-partyers-hate-really-strong/
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Findlay Prep Wins National Title
Findlay Prep, a school based in Henderson, won the so- called national basketball title today, defeating Montverde Academy of Florida, 59-46. The game was played in Baltimore. The event was the ESPN National High School Invitational. Before the game, Findlay was raked 2nd in the nation while Montverde was ranked first.
Findlay Prep is not a high school but a basketball team. They are associated loosely with Henderson International School. Their basketball team recruits their players from across the United States and maybe beyond. Their team was started with the backing of Cliff Findlay, an auto dealer in the Valley. While they are based in Henderson, they rarely play any Nevada opponents, especially other public high schools. They travel throughout the country to play their games.
Next year, Henderson International is closing it's doors because of financial difficulties. So, Findlay Prep is looking for a new school to become associated with. Ahh, yes, high school basketball at it's best.
Findlay Prep is not a high school but a basketball team. They are associated loosely with Henderson International School. Their basketball team recruits their players from across the United States and maybe beyond. Their team was started with the backing of Cliff Findlay, an auto dealer in the Valley. While they are based in Henderson, they rarely play any Nevada opponents, especially other public high schools. They travel throughout the country to play their games.
Next year, Henderson International is closing it's doors because of financial difficulties. So, Findlay Prep is looking for a new school to become associated with. Ahh, yes, high school basketball at it's best.
I Knew this Was A Stupid Idea
From the Las Vegas Sun: "Nevada teachers — some of whom might soon be forced to take pay cuts or furloughs — should not count on a timely bonus from the fund created by Gov. Jim Gibbons to supplement their pay with voluntary donations.
As of Friday, the Education Gift Certificate program, unveiled during Gibbons’ Feb. 8 State of the State address, had received four contributions for a not-so-grand total of $261." In an understatement: "“It hasn’t been a big seller so far,” state Superintendent Keith Rheault said."
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2010/apr/03/teachers-dont-spend-gift-all-once/
When this idea was floated by Gov. Gibbons, I thought "who would donate to a teacher's salary?"
Well, I guess 4 people did and that is 4 more people than I thought.
When Gibbons floated the idea, he was thinking that teachers would be taking a 10% pay decrease and that is why he floated the idea. But in the real world, people throughout Nevada were either losing money or worse, their jobs, so why would they donate their income to teachers?
Well, we didn't lose any money this year and probably won't this year, unless they institute furlough days, which the teacher's union opposes.
But hey, if you want to donate to a teacher, just send me an e-mail....
As of Friday, the Education Gift Certificate program, unveiled during Gibbons’ Feb. 8 State of the State address, had received four contributions for a not-so-grand total of $261." In an understatement: "“It hasn’t been a big seller so far,” state Superintendent Keith Rheault said."
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2010/apr/03/teachers-dont-spend-gift-all-once/
When this idea was floated by Gov. Gibbons, I thought "who would donate to a teacher's salary?"
Well, I guess 4 people did and that is 4 more people than I thought.
When Gibbons floated the idea, he was thinking that teachers would be taking a 10% pay decrease and that is why he floated the idea. But in the real world, people throughout Nevada were either losing money or worse, their jobs, so why would they donate their income to teachers?
Well, we didn't lose any money this year and probably won't this year, unless they institute furlough days, which the teacher's union opposes.
But hey, if you want to donate to a teacher, just send me an e-mail....
Darwin Canidate Of The Year
Notre Dame's top football candidate died in an accident that could qualify him for a Darwin award. From ESPN: "Witnesses and friends indicate he had become drunk and belligerent," Humphreys said. "He had leaned over the balcony rail, was shaking his finger at the people in the next room over. He fell over."..."James was part of a group of about 40 St. Xavier students and a half-dozen parents on the trip." http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=5053059
First, obviously there was a lack of oversight by the adults who were chaperoning the trip. Also, it is pretty obvious that there was no peer pressure with the kids.
The only good thing that could come of this is that parents who let their kids go on Spring Break either go themselves and watch their kids or have someone in charge who maintains strict control of all the kids. Six adults for 40 kids seems kind of low.
The other thing people can bring from this tragedy is that kids will finally realize that drinking alcohol has consequences and this time, the consequence is death. Hopefully this accident will sink in and it will stop someone from doing the same stupid thing.
First, obviously there was a lack of oversight by the adults who were chaperoning the trip. Also, it is pretty obvious that there was no peer pressure with the kids.
The only good thing that could come of this is that parents who let their kids go on Spring Break either go themselves and watch their kids or have someone in charge who maintains strict control of all the kids. Six adults for 40 kids seems kind of low.
The other thing people can bring from this tragedy is that kids will finally realize that drinking alcohol has consequences and this time, the consequence is death. Hopefully this accident will sink in and it will stop someone from doing the same stupid thing.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Those Kind And Caring CCFD Firefighters
From Fox 5 news via Firehouse.com: "Clark County Commissioner Steve Sisolak said he has taken more heat than one would normally expect after questioning whether firefighters should perform charitable duties during work hours.
“I’ve gotten some very, very nasty e-mails and phone calls,” Sisolak told
FOX5
. “Threatening phone calls, from some individual, individuals, who claim they’re firefighters or related to firefighters.”
“They haven’t quite crossed that line in terms of physical harm, but threats about your house burning down and sort of stuff,” he added.
The criticism began, Sisolak said, after he took a controversial stance on the annual “Fill the Boot” drive, which involves firefighters collecting donations in boots.
All of the money goes to the Muscular Dystrophy Foundation. A total of $200,000 was collected in 2009.
“For all these years, quite frankly, I thought it was done on volunteer time,” Sisolak said, adding that taxpayer dollars shouldn’t be spent on something that can be done off the clock."
http://www.firehouse.com/topics/funding-and-grants/vegas-boot-drive-allegedly-draws-threats
CCFD firefighters are finding themselves being roundly criticized for their huge pay from overtime and failure to understand that Clark County is hurting financially. They basically say to the taxpayers, screw you, we want our money. The majority of firefighters make over $100,000 a year, with several firefighters making over $200,000+ a year. As I pointed out earlier, CCFD firefighters are not that busy compared to an average sized volunteer fire department in most areas of the country. Now, rightly or wrongly, they are getting heat about raising money for Jerry's Kids, or MDA.
My view is if they have all their training done for the day, all the inspections and all the other work that is required to do is completed, fine, go out and raise money as long as you are within a mile of 2 of your station. But if they are putting off duties or go further than 2 miles from their station, then no, they should not be raising money while on duty. If they are more than 2 miles from their station, they add about 3-4 minutes minutes to their response time if the alarm is in the opposite direction of where they are fund raising.
I think it's time for the CCFD and it's unions realize that the love of firefighters has evaporated in the Las Vegas Valley because of their percieved greed and failing to recognize that Clark County is having severe financial difficulties.
“I’ve gotten some very, very nasty e-mails and phone calls,” Sisolak told
FOX5
. “Threatening phone calls, from some individual, individuals, who claim they’re firefighters or related to firefighters.”
“They haven’t quite crossed that line in terms of physical harm, but threats about your house burning down and sort of stuff,” he added.
The criticism began, Sisolak said, after he took a controversial stance on the annual “Fill the Boot” drive, which involves firefighters collecting donations in boots.
All of the money goes to the Muscular Dystrophy Foundation. A total of $200,000 was collected in 2009.
“For all these years, quite frankly, I thought it was done on volunteer time,” Sisolak said, adding that taxpayer dollars shouldn’t be spent on something that can be done off the clock."
http://www.firehouse.com/topics/funding-and-grants/vegas-boot-drive-allegedly-draws-threats
CCFD firefighters are finding themselves being roundly criticized for their huge pay from overtime and failure to understand that Clark County is hurting financially. They basically say to the taxpayers, screw you, we want our money. The majority of firefighters make over $100,000 a year, with several firefighters making over $200,000+ a year. As I pointed out earlier, CCFD firefighters are not that busy compared to an average sized volunteer fire department in most areas of the country. Now, rightly or wrongly, they are getting heat about raising money for Jerry's Kids, or MDA.
My view is if they have all their training done for the day, all the inspections and all the other work that is required to do is completed, fine, go out and raise money as long as you are within a mile of 2 of your station. But if they are putting off duties or go further than 2 miles from their station, then no, they should not be raising money while on duty. If they are more than 2 miles from their station, they add about 3-4 minutes minutes to their response time if the alarm is in the opposite direction of where they are fund raising.
I think it's time for the CCFD and it's unions realize that the love of firefighters has evaporated in the Las Vegas Valley because of their percieved greed and failing to recognize that Clark County is having severe financial difficulties.
Not All Illegal Immigrant Criminals Are Hispanic
From the Havre (MT) Daily News: "U.S. Border Patrol agents charged 20 illegal aliens in three arrests in northern Montana in the last two weeks, including a couple accused of stealing more than $80,000 worth of camera equipment and transporting it on Amtrak’s Empire Builder. The aliens detained in Havre March 15 were two Polish citizens, found during an immigration check of Amtrak passengers in Havre. Camera equipment found in their possession was discovered to be reported stolen in Seattle. The equipment and the two suspects were taken to the Hill County Detention Center pending ext radi t ion to Washington. Two Iraqi citizens were arrested Monday after they illegally drove around the Sweetgrass Port of Entry north of Shelby to enter Montana." http://www.havredailynews.com/cms/news/local_headlines/story-172500.html
The Canadian border in the west is extremely porous. From North Dakota to Washington State, if a person wants to illegally cross the border, they can. There are few check points, few border patrol agents and fewer law enforcement officers. I predict the next big terrorism event in the U.S. will have ties to these areas.
The Canadian border in the west is extremely porous. From North Dakota to Washington State, if a person wants to illegally cross the border, they can. There are few check points, few border patrol agents and fewer law enforcement officers. I predict the next big terrorism event in the U.S. will have ties to these areas.
CCSD Broke? I Don't Think So
Most CCSD employees received a e-mail this week announcing that the Equity and Diversity of CCSD was bringing in a speaker to speak about Hispanic problems. It is called the Joel Garcia Townhall and it is scheduled May 10th and it lasts 2 hours.
Ok, we can debate whether CCSD needs a Equity and Diversity department and it's 11 employees. However, this is the kicker:
"COST: No Cost.
CCSD teachers will receive professional development compensation per the negotiated
agreement between the Clark County School District and the Clark County Education
Association."
Teachers will be paid about $25-30 and hour to attend this event. If 100 people attend this presentation, the cost just for the employees attending is going to cost the district at least $5000 in addition to the cost of the speaker.
These are very tough times for the district. I thin there are better ways to spend $5000+. And if this speaker is so good, why do you need to pay teachers to go see this speaker. I know if CCSD brings in a speaker I would be interested in, I wouldn't demand to be paid. If there was an inservice I am interested, I would go to the inservice without demanding extra money. That's how it is done in the real world, why should CCSD be any different?
CCSD pays speakers to come in and it pays teachers to listen to speakers throughout the school year. Since CCSD is in such bad financial shape, I think this is one area CCSD can cut out, bringing in speakers and paying teachers to listen.
Ok, we can debate whether CCSD needs a Equity and Diversity department and it's 11 employees. However, this is the kicker:
"COST: No Cost.
CCSD teachers will receive professional development compensation per the negotiated
agreement between the Clark County School District and the Clark County Education
Association."
Teachers will be paid about $25-30 and hour to attend this event. If 100 people attend this presentation, the cost just for the employees attending is going to cost the district at least $5000 in addition to the cost of the speaker.
These are very tough times for the district. I thin there are better ways to spend $5000+. And if this speaker is so good, why do you need to pay teachers to go see this speaker. I know if CCSD brings in a speaker I would be interested in, I wouldn't demand to be paid. If there was an inservice I am interested, I would go to the inservice without demanding extra money. That's how it is done in the real world, why should CCSD be any different?
CCSD pays speakers to come in and it pays teachers to listen to speakers throughout the school year. Since CCSD is in such bad financial shape, I think this is one area CCSD can cut out, bringing in speakers and paying teachers to listen.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Bogus Complaint About John Ensign
I have to start with obligatory, John Ensign is a dirty rotten slug and I hope he does not run for re-election when his term expires.
But a liberal so-called watch dog group has charged that Ensign was receiving a cut rate in rent from a religious organization who run a group house and because only congresscritters could only stay there. From the LVRJ: "Sen. John Ensign was named in a new ethics complaint filed Thursday that alleges he and other lawmakers who lived in a religious-affiliated group house on Capitol Hill paid cut-rate rents in violation of congressional gift rules.
The complaint targets eight senators and House members who have lived in the stately brick rowhouse on C Street SE, behind the Library of Congress and just a few blocks from the U.S. Capitol. The home is owned by the C Street Center Inc., an affiliate of a religious group known as the Fellowship Foundation that sponsors the annual National Prayer Breakfast and international development projects, and holds Bible study and prayer meetings on site....Research by Clergy Voice that was cited in the CREW complaint found the Capitol Hill Suites a block away charged between $149 and $259 per night for its lowest priced rooms, and that no hotel room in Washington could be found for less than $80 per night, or $2,400 per month....Melanie Sloan, a former Department of Justice attorney and executive director of CREW, said the alleged housing gift for members of Congress is an example of how the religious organization, also referred to as the Family, seeks to act as a government power broker.
"The whole point is they do like to bring government officials together, it helps them to be more powerful," Sloan said.
She said the house is different from a country club or other organization a member of Congress might join because it appears restricted to elected officials, as opposed to open to anyone with money to pay.
"It appears that, in fact, they got this exactly because they were members of Congress, not despite that," she said" ... A Protestant clergy group from Ohio, Clergy Voice, also has called for the Internal Revenue Service to investigate the living arrangements, contending the owners of the home have been wrongly claiming a federal tax exemption as a church.
Clergy Voice also suggested that lawmakers who lived there should be reporting any rent subsidy as taxable income. http://www.lvrj.com/news/ensign-named-in-new-ethics-complaint-89704602.html
Clergy Voice is also a very liberal activist group that targets conservative politicians and has filed complaints against them.
First, CREW complains that only congresscritters live in this house. So what? Ever hear of college dormitories? Rooming houses for employees that work for a corporation? When I worked for an institution for the developmentally disabled, they had rooming houses similar, but not as high quality, for it's employees. So this part of the complaint is completely bogus.
Second, the rent. $950 for a bedroom and you have to share bathroom facilities and the kitchen.
CREW compared their living conditions to a hotel. Well, a hotel room has it's own bathroom and it's own privacy and you don't share it with a group of people year round, so that part of the complaint is bogus. They also said they were paying cheaper rent. Were they comparing prices from a private religious non-profit organization to a for-profit organization? Of course they were Again bogus. If you look at apartment rates from the Washington Post, those rates are not unreasonable, especially when you compare them against a for-profit company.
This is just another example of liberal activists targeting conservatives and moderates. Bogus, bogus, bogus and this complaint will not fly.
So, Sen. Ensign, finish out your term and say good bye. Get another job and stay out of the spotlight so the likes of me don't have to defend you against bogus charges.
But a liberal so-called watch dog group has charged that Ensign was receiving a cut rate in rent from a religious organization who run a group house and because only congresscritters could only stay there. From the LVRJ: "Sen. John Ensign was named in a new ethics complaint filed Thursday that alleges he and other lawmakers who lived in a religious-affiliated group house on Capitol Hill paid cut-rate rents in violation of congressional gift rules.
The complaint targets eight senators and House members who have lived in the stately brick rowhouse on C Street SE, behind the Library of Congress and just a few blocks from the U.S. Capitol. The home is owned by the C Street Center Inc., an affiliate of a religious group known as the Fellowship Foundation that sponsors the annual National Prayer Breakfast and international development projects, and holds Bible study and prayer meetings on site....Research by Clergy Voice that was cited in the CREW complaint found the Capitol Hill Suites a block away charged between $149 and $259 per night for its lowest priced rooms, and that no hotel room in Washington could be found for less than $80 per night, or $2,400 per month....Melanie Sloan, a former Department of Justice attorney and executive director of CREW, said the alleged housing gift for members of Congress is an example of how the religious organization, also referred to as the Family, seeks to act as a government power broker.
"The whole point is they do like to bring government officials together, it helps them to be more powerful," Sloan said.
She said the house is different from a country club or other organization a member of Congress might join because it appears restricted to elected officials, as opposed to open to anyone with money to pay.
"It appears that, in fact, they got this exactly because they were members of Congress, not despite that," she said" ... A Protestant clergy group from Ohio, Clergy Voice, also has called for the Internal Revenue Service to investigate the living arrangements, contending the owners of the home have been wrongly claiming a federal tax exemption as a church.
Clergy Voice also suggested that lawmakers who lived there should be reporting any rent subsidy as taxable income. http://www.lvrj.com/news/ensign-named-in-new-ethics-complaint-89704602.html
Clergy Voice is also a very liberal activist group that targets conservative politicians and has filed complaints against them.
First, CREW complains that only congresscritters live in this house. So what? Ever hear of college dormitories? Rooming houses for employees that work for a corporation? When I worked for an institution for the developmentally disabled, they had rooming houses similar, but not as high quality, for it's employees. So this part of the complaint is completely bogus.
Second, the rent. $950 for a bedroom and you have to share bathroom facilities and the kitchen.
CREW compared their living conditions to a hotel. Well, a hotel room has it's own bathroom and it's own privacy and you don't share it with a group of people year round, so that part of the complaint is bogus. They also said they were paying cheaper rent. Were they comparing prices from a private religious non-profit organization to a for-profit organization? Of course they were Again bogus. If you look at apartment rates from the Washington Post, those rates are not unreasonable, especially when you compare them against a for-profit company.
This is just another example of liberal activists targeting conservatives and moderates. Bogus, bogus, bogus and this complaint will not fly.
So, Sen. Ensign, finish out your term and say good bye. Get another job and stay out of the spotlight so the likes of me don't have to defend you against bogus charges.
But Who Paid The Bill?
From the LVRJ: "Scott Ashjian, the Tea Party of Nevada candidate for U.S. Senate, paid $5,575 Wednesday to cover a bounced check and court fees and will avoid being arrested on felony charges of theft and writing bad checks.
Chief Deputy District Attorney Bernie Zadrowski said a Las Vegas judge is expected on Friday to approve withdrawal of criminal charges against Ashjian." http://www.lvrj.com/news/tea-party-candidate-makes-restitution--avoids-arrest-89721282.html
Ashjian is a fake Tea Party candidate that is supported by Harry Reid and The Las Vegas Sun. His candidacy was announced by ultra liberal reporter Jon Ralston and the sun has been propping him up with numerous articles.
The only problem is that Ashjian has serious financial problems, he lost his contractor license for failing to pay bills ($37,000+).
So, where did he get the money to pay for the bounced check? And where is he getting money to run for office? Harry? Jon? Las Vegas Sun? Other liberals associated with those 3?
Can't wait to see his financial report.
Chief Deputy District Attorney Bernie Zadrowski said a Las Vegas judge is expected on Friday to approve withdrawal of criminal charges against Ashjian." http://www.lvrj.com/news/tea-party-candidate-makes-restitution--avoids-arrest-89721282.html
Ashjian is a fake Tea Party candidate that is supported by Harry Reid and The Las Vegas Sun. His candidacy was announced by ultra liberal reporter Jon Ralston and the sun has been propping him up with numerous articles.
The only problem is that Ashjian has serious financial problems, he lost his contractor license for failing to pay bills ($37,000+).
So, where did he get the money to pay for the bounced check? And where is he getting money to run for office? Harry? Jon? Las Vegas Sun? Other liberals associated with those 3?
Can't wait to see his financial report.
Injured Officer Improving
From the LVRJ:
"The condition of a Las Vegas police officer who was shot last week on duty has been upgraded to serious, a University Medical Center official said Thursday.
Michael Madland was shot twice on March 23 while chasing an auto-theft suspect near Washington Avenue and Rainbow Boulevard. Madland, a three-year veteran with the department, received a bullet in the leg that severed an artery. He was also shot in the chest, but the bullet never pierced his protective vest, police said.
Sheriff Doug Gillespie said Madland was fighting for his life after the shooting." http://www.lvrj.com/news/wounded-officer-s-condition-upgraded-to-serious-89723467.html
Officer Madland has had numerous surgeries and will need a lot of rehabilitation. Hopefully, there will be limited long term effects from this ordeal.
"The condition of a Las Vegas police officer who was shot last week on duty has been upgraded to serious, a University Medical Center official said Thursday.
Michael Madland was shot twice on March 23 while chasing an auto-theft suspect near Washington Avenue and Rainbow Boulevard. Madland, a three-year veteran with the department, received a bullet in the leg that severed an artery. He was also shot in the chest, but the bullet never pierced his protective vest, police said.
Sheriff Doug Gillespie said Madland was fighting for his life after the shooting." http://www.lvrj.com/news/wounded-officer-s-condition-upgraded-to-serious-89723467.html
Officer Madland has had numerous surgeries and will need a lot of rehabilitation. Hopefully, there will be limited long term effects from this ordeal.
This Doesn't Happen Too Many Times
It's colder in Las Vegas than in Wisconsin Rapids, my last hometown in Wisconsin, by 21 degrees. 81 In Rapids, 60 in Las Vegas and it's snowing in the mountains. Enjoy it while you can.
Thought For Today
Let me get this straight......we're passing a health care plan written by a committee whose chairman says he doesn't understand it, passed by a Congress that hasn't read it but exempts themselves from it, to be signed by a president that also is exempt from it and hasn't read it and who smokes, with funding administered by a treasury chief who didn't pay his taxes, all to be overseen by a surgeon general who is obese, and financed by a country that's broke. What the hell could possibly go wrong?
h/t Phyllis
It's April Fools Day: Watch Out
Beware, today is April Fools Day. Beware of phone calls from Mr. Lyon, strange phone calls and other practical jokes.
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