Facebook

Facebook

House Ignores Experts, Colleagues In Push For More Sanctions On Iran | ThinkProgress

The House GOP has been trying to ruin the US. Looks like this is another push in that direction.

'Morning Joe' Guests Call Ted Cruz, 'Train Wreck,' 'Member Of The Taliban!' - Americans Against the Tea Party

Speaking of ass-pimples... ;)

Bernie Sanders debates conservative economist over living wage laws | The Raw Story

Not much of a debate. Holtz-Eakin is pretty much a pimple on the ass of economics.

What percentage of Libertarians claim to be Christian, would you say?

Facebook

Daily Kos: Senate Judiciary Committee not happy with the NSA

Daily Kos: Senate Judiciary Committee not happy with the NSA

Costco's Profit Soars To $459 Million As Low-Wage Competitors Struggle

Costco's Profit Soars To $459 Million As Low-Wage Competitors Struggle

Daily Kos: Paul Ryan demonstrates the rhetorical equivalent of washing clean dishes

"The one thing Ryan's comments prove beyond a shadow of doubt is that he continues to be a world-class bullshit artist, capable of saying absolutely nothing with utter sincerity."

FUCK YOU G.O.P. -- That's Right, I Said It! - By Steve M. Ahearn - Stop Telling Lies About Liberals

As you might have guess, this guy is on a bit of a rant :)

Report: 'Obamacare' has extended the life of Medicare by 10 years - Orlando liberal | Examiner.com

Report: 'Obamacare' has extended the life of Medicare by 10 years - Orlando liberal | Examiner.com

Daily Kos: Republicans (fail to) do it again: Transportation and housing bill collapses with a THUD

Rogers, who is rock-solid conservative, went beyond simply saying the measure's prospects were bleak. He took aim at his entire party, condemning them with words Democrats should throw in the GOP's face every single day from now until House Republicans finally get their act together—if they ever do. 

“With this action, the House has declined to proceed on the implementation of the very budget it adopted three months ago,” said the Kentucky Republican. “Thus I believe that the House has made its choice: sequestration — and its unrealistic and ill-conceived discretionary cuts — must be brought to an end.”

Palin top pick of Alaska Republicans - Public Policy Polling

Palin top pick of Alaska Republicans - Public Policy Polling

Noam Chomsky: The State Fears Its Own People | Alternet

Chomsky on terror, Snowden, and why "security" is usually an excuse for government repression.

Glenn Greenwald: Americans Are Now More Worried About Civil Liberties Abuses Than Terrorism | Alternet

Glenn Greenwald: Americans Are Now More Worried About Civil Liberties Abuses Than Terrorism | Alternet

Cumulus planning to drop Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity - POLITICO.com

Flush Rush! Fabulous!

'Do the Right Thing': World Rallies Behind Bradley Manning | Common Dreams

International Day of Solidarity as the whistleblower awaits sentencing, faces 11th hour switch in charges

Petition: Congress should EXPAND Social Security benefits, not cut them | Progressive Change Campaign Committee (PCCC)

Watch Senators Tom Harkin (D-Iowa) and Mark Begich (D-Alaska) explain their plan for expanding Social Security on MSNBC's Ed Show.

The 5 Worst Things Republicans Have Said About Immigration — Recently

The usual cast of characters = the Moron's Hall of Fame

Planet Earth Is a U.S. Military Base | Alternet

The U.S. military has failed to win a single one of its numerous wars in our time. But hey, who has to win a specific war when it’s“wartime” all the time?

Sen. Ron Wyden On NSA Spying: It's As Bad As Snowden Says | Alternet

If we do not seize this moment in history to reform our surveillance laws, we will all live to regret it.

Why I Choose to be Fat | Alternet

Good for her!

Shocking 'Extermination' Fantasies By the People Running America's Empire on Full Display at Aspen Summit | Alternet

Have I mentioned that Ashcroft is a raving lunatic? And consider... he was pretty much the voice of 'reason' in the Bush2 administration!

Measuring GOP Extremism: What Carville And Greenberg’s Latest Polling Reveals

"It is becoming increasingly plain that the most formidable obstacle to national progress and global security is the Republican Party – and specifically the extremist factions that currently dominate the GOP."

This Week In Crazy — July 26th Edition

This Week In Crazy — July 26th Edition

Just FYI

I'll be out of town for a day or two, so expect light (or at least, lighter) posting thru Thursday or Friday. Try not to let the world go to hell while I'm not watching ;)

Here Come the Drone Wars in America -- The Public vs. Overzealous Police | Alternet

I have some issues with police using them for surveillance purposes, but if they get to have armed drones, we all need to move to Canada.

Bank of America's Recipe for Getting Away with Massive Fraud, Racketeering and Money Laundering | Alternet

Inside the hypergluttonous megabank, whose criminal conspiracies we’ll all be paying for until the end of time.

Mitch McConnell Gets A Tea Party Challenger

How's that caving to the insanely rabid right working out for ya, Mitchy? :) (nsert schadenfreude here)

Daily Kos: Rick Perry’s Texas: Her body was more regulated than the roller coaster she died on…

Daily Kos: Rick Perry’s Texas: Her body was more regulated than the roller coaster she died on…

Daily Kos: The 21st Century Glass Steagall Act

"When I learned last winter that I would have a seat on the Senate Banking Committee, I was very happy because I knew it would give me the opportunity to ask tough questions and push for some accountability from Wall Street and its regulators. In the last six months, that's exactly what I've tried to do."

Daily Kos: Bill Maher rips into the GOP's anti-intellectuals with advanced degrees

Daily Kos: Bill Maher rips into the GOP's anti-intellectuals with advanced degrees

One Simple Graphic

Daily Kos: Bad student loan interest rate deal could be fixed with Reed amendment

Daily Kos: Bad student loan interest rate deal could be fixed with Reed amendment

Are You Addicted to Stress? | Alternet

It's time to free yourself from negative, health-eroding stress responses by rewiring, rethinking, and retooling how you react.

5 Reasons It's Just Absurd That America Doesn't Tax Wall St's Transactions | Alternet

The financial speculation industry has devastated middle-class wealth -- and there's a simple way to curb its power.

Rand Paul's White Supremacy Double Game | Alternet

Paul's aide Jack Hunter says he’s leaving to protect his boss and clear his own name -- but there's plenty of reason not to buy it.

Both Ron and Rand have a deep history of racist connections and attachment to divisive politics and obsolete economics. Can we PLEASE stop electing 'doctors' from the South? :)

The United States Is Awash in Public Stupidity, and Critical Thought Is Under Assault | Alternet

From celebrity culture to phony public intellectuals to shallow politicians -- there's an assault on rational thinking in this country.

Watch the news these days and tell me how it varies that much from reality tv or network/studio promotion. We can only hope Aaron Sorkin and The Newsroom can do for tv news what The West Wing did for politics. ;)

The American Dream Has Turned into a Grueling Quest for Survival for Millions of People | Alternet

Equal opportunity and upward mobility is a long-lost American Dream.

Mind Raped by the Christian Right | Alternet

A former professional skier who sought help for alcoholism became locked in a cultish life that destroyed her self-esteem and independence in the name of Jesus.

How Monsanto Can Be Defeated | Alternet

The anti-GMO movement in the U.S. has achieved some preliminary victories in GMO food labeling but that's not all that needs to be done.

Why the Phrase "Black-on-Black Crime" Suggests Inherent Criminality | Alternet

In the wake of George Zimmerman's acquittal, some are putting the blame on violence in Black communities.

A Thought for Today

There is no man so good, who, were he to submit all his thoughts and actions to the laws, would not deserve hanging ten times in his life.

Michel de Montaigne, essayist (1533-1592)

Off Today

I'm fighting the back and the hip today, so I'm medicating instead of cogitating. More rousing of the rabble manana (if I survive...) ;)

Whee! It's a Boy!

Can we all just relax now?

Daily Kos Action: Tell the House Ethics Committee to investigate Rep. Darrell Issa

Tell the House Ethics Committee that the House Government Reform and Oversight Committee is not a place for politically motivated inquisitions that build campaign coffers. Rep. Darrell Issa should be investigated and censured for his misconduct.

Humans Not Predisposed to War, New Study Finds | Common Dreams

"Humans Not Predisposed to War, New Study Finds

Researchers show war is more recent of an invention than previously thought"

I think this study may have a flaw...

In Detroit Bankruptcy, It's the Poor Who Lose | Common Dreams

City's rush towards bankruptcy spurs fears of further privatization, service gutting, poverty

Liz Cheney’s 5 Most Extreme Statements

Liz Cheney’s 5 Most Extreme Statements

Guy Walks Into Citigroup Branch, Loses $40,000

For a moment, I thought they put him in Citicorp stock :)

The GOP Can’t Reboot With Bigots In Its Midst

Any movement to reform something with Rush involved, even tangentially, is going to require a Rush-ectomy!

Scalia's Judicial Scam--Overview | Crooks and Liars

Haven't read all 9 parts before this (get busy, Dave!) but this is interesting. How did this human waste-dump get a seat on the court? Can we change the Constitution to get rid of him? :)

Ted Cruz 2016: Villagers Make Their Choice | Crooks and Liars

"Yes, that's right. Villagers are in love with Ted Cruz and see him as the Great Hispanic Hope for the 2016 GOP bid for the presidency. Pay no attention to the coy denials on Fox News, because Politico has the hots for Cruz at the top of the ticket, among others.

Google Alerts regurgitated a list of links a mile long today. Allow me to share some of them with you, but have your barf bags ready."

Detroit, and the Bankruptcy of America's Social Contract | Robert Reich

"One way to view Detroit's bankruptcy -- the largest bankruptcy of any American city -- is as a failure of political negotiations over how financial sacrifices should be divided among the city's creditors, city workers, and municipal retirees -- requiring a court to decide instead. It could also be seen as the inevitable culmination of decades of union agreements offering unaffordable pension and health benefits to city workers.

But there's a more basic story here, and it's being replicated across America: Americans are segregating by income more than ever before..."

"You're a Sacrifice": An Open Letter to Edward Snowden | Mother Jones

"You're a Sacrifice": An Open Letter to Edward Snowden | Mother Jones

This week in the war on voters: House GOP holds half-hearted hearing on Voter Rights Act revamp

Since they're almost all Repug-held or lusted-after, I'm not holding out much hope, at least from THIS Congress.

Stop Larry Summers Before He Messes Up Again | The Nation

"Washington insiders are spreading an alarming news alert. Barack Obama, I am told, is on the brink of making a terrible mistake by appointing Lawrence Summers as the new chairman of the Federal Reserve. That sounds improbable, since Summers is a toxic retread from the old boys’ network and a nettlesome egotist who offended just about everyone during his previous tours in government. More to the point, Summers was a central player in the grave governing errors that led to the financial collapse and a ruined economy. Read more: Stop Larry Summers Before He Messes Up Again | The Nation"

Virginia GOP Nominee: I Still Believe Gay People 'Soulless'

"In his first gubernatorial debate against Democratic nominee Terry McAuliffe, Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinellii II (R) admitted Saturday that his extreme anti-LGBT views have not changed. While reaffirming his extreme earlier comments about what he termed “the personal challenge of homosexuality,” he suggested that he would create an economically positive environment that would help LGBT Virginians."

Top 12 Conservative Freakouts After Obama's Race Speech | ThinkProgress

Top 12 Conservative Freakouts After Obama's Race Speech | ThinkProgress

A Shuffle of Aluminum, but to Banks, Pure Gold - NYTimes.com

"Hundreds of millions of times a day, thirsty Americans open a can of soda, beer or juice. And every time they do it, they pay a fraction of a penny more because of a shrewd maneuver by Goldman Sachs and other financial players that ultimately costs consumers billions of dollars."

Bernanke Congress testimony: Finally, some pushback from Democrats on hard money. - Slate Magazine

Liberals in Congress are finally trying to counter GOP hard-money mania.

Petition | Release My Son Justin Carter - Being Prosecuted For A Facebook Comment | Change.org

Petition | Release My Son Justin Carter - Being Prosecuted For A Facebook Comment | Change.org

Helen Thomas Dead: Pioneering White House Reporter Dies At 92

She was one of the last reports who were actually journalists. She will be missed. Hell, she was missed before she died.

16 Years in Solitary Confinement Is Like a "Living Tomb" | American Civil Liberties Union

16 Years in Solitary Confinement Is Like a "Living Tomb" | American Civil Liberties Union

Alliance for Retired Americans

Urge Congress to Support the Medicare Drug Savings Act and Save Taxpayers Billions on Rx Drugs | Alliance for Retired Americans

WATCH: Obama Asks If Trayvon Martin Could Have ‘Stood His Ground’

Sorry, Big O, only white folk get to stand their ground. No blacks allowed!

How to Be a Rogue Superpower: A Manual for the Twenty-First Century | Alternet

On the world stage, America's behavior is appalling.

Arkansas Police Beat Man So Hard His Teeth Fell Out, Man Claims in Court | Alternet

According to lawsuit, Arkansas sheriff's deputies tied a man to chair for eight hours and beat him "until his teeth were knocked from his mouth."

Holy Shit! A trip back in time to the law enforcement of the 30's!!

University President in Indiana Tried to Censor Howard Zinn's 'People's History of the United States' | Alternet

The AP revealed emails showing Daniels' vendetta against Zinn, whom he called "anti-American academic."

Mitch Daniels was a putz as governor and, apparently, is continuing that grand tradition at Purdue.

Sorry, Britain: Bain Capital Now Owns the Majority of Your Blood Plasma Supply | Alternet

"Is there no limit to what and how this coalition government will privatise?” exclaimed former UK Health Minister.

Virginia Gubernatorial Candidate Wants to Outlaw Oral Sex—Yup, That Includes Between Married Couples | Alternet

Oy! Just OY!!! Why is that Repugs are OBSESSED with sex? Not theirs. YOURS!

Rabid Liberals

Another reason to hate Repugs... they're obsessed with sex. Not theirs! YOURS! OY!

It's Working | ThinkProgress

Round from TP... all the news you missed and I was too lazy...er busy, I mean busy, to post!

WATCH: Obama Defends Affordable Care Act Implementation, Slams Repeal Efforts

WATCH: Obama Defends Affordable Care Act Implementation, Slams Repeal Efforts

Colbert on Immigration Reform: 'When Will We Build the Border Wall with Florida?' | Alternet

NO SHIT!

What's So Scary About Rolling Stone's Boston Bomber Dzokhar Tsarnaev Cover? | Alternet

Cries for boycotts and censorship miss the point of journalism and shield us from the uncomfortable truth that terrorists can look just like us.

Why the Right-Wing Media Spent 16 Months Smearing a Dead Teenager | Alternet

Apalling behavior has been on display for some time.

Bill Moyers: Weapons of Mass Distraction—Why the Media Most Americans Consume Is Harmful to the Public Health | Alternet

Marty Kaplan unravels distractions that prevent national outcry over unemployment, hunger, crumbling infrastructure and out of whack systems.

Daily Kos Action Tell President Obama: “Reject Keystone XL”

Please join Daily Kos and the Natural Resources Defense Council in urging President Obama to keep his promise and reject the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline.

Alexei Navalny, Russian Opposition Leader, Sentenced To 5 Years

Amazing how Putin's opponents all seem to be crooks and bad businessmen... amassed fortunes running successful companies and then bam! Fingers in the till, or foot in mouth?

Another Trayvon Martin Is Killed Every 28 Hours in This Country | Alternet

A racist mindset infects our criminal justice system, our schools, and our politics in ways that have had disastrous consequences.

Salt Sugar Fat: How the Food Giants Hooked Us on Deadly Junk | Alternet

Food giants have used food science to train Americans for a lifetime of extra calories, pounds and health risks.

How the FBI Uses Rapists and Child Molesters to Entrap Gullible People in Terror Stings | Alternet

Gotta do something, I guess, to justify those giant budgets.... koffkoffasswipeskoff

No Charges For Virginia AG Ken Cuccinelli’s Late Disclosure Of Personal Gifts

Gee, it's good to be the AG!

Agent Who Reported Iowa Gov's Speeding Vehicle Has Been Fired | TPM LiveWire

Political rule number one: Don't narc on your boss. Rule Two: If you do, do it anonymously!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Liz Cheney Says Opponent Mike Enzi Is 'Confused' (VIDEO) | TPM LiveWire

OMG She has the same warlock power as her Father, Darth Cheney! She cast a +6 confusion spell on Enzi and it worked! :)

A Rough Guide to Life in the United States of Zimmermanm, the US of Z | Alternet

A Rough Guide to Life in the United States of Zimmermanm, the US of Z | Alternet

Conservative Salivating Over Race Riots That Didn't Happen | Alternet

I haven't heard about any problems elsewhere, and the 'riot' we had in LA last about ten minutes and did about as much damage as a frat party (okay, a REALLY enthusiastic frat!)

Daily Kos: Good news from the Trayvon Martin tragedy

Good news from the Trayvon Martin tragedy

'You Are Being Tracked': License Plate Readers Capture Millions of Innocent Americans' Data | Common Dreams

'You Are Being Tracked': License Plate Readers Capture Millions of Innocent Americans' Data 

Private companies utilized to capture location info, with little to no oversight

Car Crash that Killed Rolling Stone Reporter Michael Hastings Still Being Investigated | Alternet

Hmmmm

Trial Begins for Old White Man Who Senselessly Shot and Killed Black Middle-Schooler | Alternet

Trial Begins for Old White Man Who Senselessly Shot and Killed Black Middle-Schooler | Alternet

Teehee! The Joy of Watching a Cheney Bite Republicans in Their Behind | Alternet

(snicker)

Washington Post Columnist Richard Cohen: Black People Are Scary | Alternet

Richard Cohen has been, is, and probably always will be a pretentious (and ridiculously stupid) twit. If he didn't have a WaPo column, he'd be annoying people on street corners, hoping that they'd give him a dollar to go away.

Judge Rules Cop Who Shot and Killed Unarmed 14-year-old Hiding in a Woodshed After a Fistfight May Have Used Excessive Force | Alternet

Judge Rules Cop Who Shot and Killed Unarmed 14-year-old Hiding in a Woodshed After a Fistfight May Have Used Excessive Force | Alternet

4 Unhinged, Offensive Reactions to the Zimmerman Verdict | Alternet

4 Unhinged, Offensive Reactions to the Zimmerman Verdict | Alternet

Outrage Is Rising Against Stand Your Ground | The Nation

It's a stupid law. Most of the 'advanced' self-defense laws are insane. And almost all (stand your ground being an exception) are more concerned with protecting property than worry about human life (I'm looking at you (AGAIN!), Texas!)

House GOP Doesn't Care About A Republican White House In 2016 | Stan Collender's Capital Gains and Games

Zealots and fanatics don't make great politicians. Remember, we out polled them in '12; it's just their gerrymandering that's kept them in control of the House. Their stuff is not popular outside of their home bases, and in a lot of cases, not all that popular there. But they are, never doubt for an instant, zealously committed to dismantling America as we know it and if we turn our backs on them for a second, they'll blow something up.

CNBC Hosts Decide To Teach Senator Warren How Regulation Works. Probably Shouldn't Have Done That.

Get out and fight for it. God, I love Elizabeth Warren!

How The Senate Filibuster Reform Fight Saved Elizabeth Warren's Consumer Board

One thing I'm wondering is that, since (with the remarkable exception of last year) the Republicans are very good at electoral math (hence all the gerrymandering to save their demographically challenged asses), they've done the math and see the Senate as a lost cause, at least for a while. As the meme from earlier in the week said, you can't gerrymander the Senate.

Senate Filibuster Deal An Embarrassment For Mitch McConnell

In the end, it's John McCain making trouble again. But that's something we can, to some extent, rely on, so with luck and a little flattery/sucking up, we may be able to work this :) Keep your fingers crossed and DO NOT hold your breath.

Democrats Counting On Paul Ryan To Help Pass Immigration Bill

(sigh) There goes immigration reform...

Keith Olbermann Returning To ESPN, But Barred From Talking Politics

It'll be the best damned show on TV for about six weeks... :)

Annoy A Repug and Share This with Everyone! :)

Obamacare Cuts New York Insurance Premiums In Half Before Government Subsidies

Wire's' David Simon: 'If you stand your ground with your fists and you're black, you're dead' - Yahoo! News

Wire's' David Simon: 'If you stand your ground with your fists and you're black, you're dead' - Yahoo! News

Democrats See Advantage With Women in State Abortion Laws - Bloomberg

More on this...

Reuters Exposed: Publication Openly Hostile To Climate Coverage, Top Editor Doubts Climate Science | ThinkProgress

Reuters Exposed: Publication Openly Hostile To Climate Coverage, Top Editor Doubts Climate Science | ThinkProgress

Like a complete unknown: Bob Dylan frogmarched to collect ID after rookie policewoman fails to recognise scruffy music legend | Mail Online

Ah, the exuberance (and ignorance) of youth...

McDonalds’ suggested budget for employees shows just how impossible it is to get by on minimum wage | Death and Taxes

I don't eat at McDonald's, but if you do. Stop. This is reprehensible.

Reuters Exposed: Publication Openly Hostile To Climate Coverage, Top Editor Doubts Climate Science | ThinkProgress

Reuters Exposed: Publication Openly Hostile To Climate Coverage, Top Editor Doubts Climate Science | ThinkProgress

Democrats See Advantage With Women in State Abortion Laws - Bloomberg

More on this...

Daily Kos: The filibuster was reformed today. Really.

"True, today's deal preserved the existing filibuster rule, but it really didn't. Democrats established that they could bust through any filibuster with a simple majority anytime they wanted. Sure, it's still a process to do so, full of blustery threats and hyperbolic doomsaying, but it's a process.

And best of all, it won't be limited to just administration appointments. Republicans have conceded that Democrats can change the filibuster rule at will, and they clearly understand that the will to do so exists."

Greek Strike Against 'Poverty and Wretchedness' of Austerity | Common Dreams

As the conservative government pushes through more devastating austerity cuts in exchange for 'bailout loans,' Greece's largest unions launch a nation-wide work stoppage

If we just stop spending, we'll pop right out of this spiraling depression... (facepalm)

I Hereby Resign in Protest Effective Immediately | Common Dreams

If I had a company, I'd hire him immediately :)

How an Ayn Rand-Loving Libertarian Destroyed The Company He Runs With His Cultish Objectivist Theories | Alternet

Not so much 'Atlas Shrugged' as the 'Hunger Games'.... 

 Read the Business Week article cited, it's good (http://www.businessweek.com/articles/2013-07-11/at-sears-eddie-lamperts-warring-divisions-model-adds-to-the-troubles#p2)

Ted Cruz Heads To Iowa And New Hampshire To Plant His 2016 Flag

If anything ever qualified for an OMG! LOL!, this does. I'm laughing so hard I think I hurt myself.

A Funny Thing Happened On Marco Rubio’s Way To The Nomination

That's what happens to Repugs when they sell out one set of principles for another. I didn't know they even had one set, let alone multiples!!!

Has the 1 Percent Committed Treason? | Alternet

My answer remains yes, until I get there :) Then it'll be the rest of them!

Why the U.S. Executive Branch Is a Clear and Present Danger to Our Democracy | Alternet

Why the U.S. Executive Branch Is a Clear and Present Danger to Our Democracy | Alternet

Tell Your Rep: Take The No Cuts To Social Security Pledge

No hope for mine, but I'll send the letter anyway. Work yours too.

Report: Zimmerman Juror B37 Will Not Write Book | TPM LiveWire

A little perspective (and general opprobrium) brought her back to sanity :)

Tell your Senators to fulfill their constitutional duty and fight to protect the voting rights of all Americans!

Take action now!

Texas Democrats See Chance To Become Relevant Again After Abortion Bill

It would be nice if they could just move Texas out of the perpetual embarrassment column...

Senate Republicans Give In, ‘Nuclear’ Crisis Averted

...for now

The Return of Lawrence Summers, Mr. Spectacular Failure | Robert Scheer

The Return of Lawrence Summers, Mr. Spectacular Failure | Robert Scheer

It's Not MY Fault....

Timeline Photos

Automate This: How Algorithms Came to Rule Our World: Christopher Steiner: 9781591844921: Amazon.com: Books

While I'm recommending books, let me pimp Christopher Steiner's book Automate This. It's a fascinating glimpse into how algorithms are running our live and may, in the fullness of time, take over (or take away) our jobs. Almost everything you do is controlled, or at least touched by algorithms. Have a credit card? Algorithms determine whether your purchase is flagged as fraud. Seeing a doctor? An algorithm may be fine-tuning, or just flat-out making, your diagnosis. And on and on. Really a fascinating book.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/1591844924?tag=mhsvortex

Why Stand Your Ground Is Central To George Zimmerman’s Case After All | ThinkProgress

More on this (whee!)... I still think the jury probably, given the facts presented, returned a 'proper' verdict. But the whole thing sucks. And it's mainly 'southern justice' in all its glory. Change the system. I've only been on this bandwagon for 50 years.

MoveOn Petitions - Stop Trayvon Martin Jury From Receiving Money Off His Death, By Writing A Book

MoveOn Petitions - Stop Trayvon Martin Jury From Receiving Money Off His Death, By Writing A Book

Fiscal Conservatives NEED to See Dr House ;)

Facebook

Rachel Jeantel Piers Morgan Inteview - Trayvon CNN VIDEO | Mediaite

Piers Morgan followed Anderson Cooper's bombshell interview with an anonymous Zimmerman trial juror tonight with an exclusive chat with the witness everyone has been waiting to hear from since the verdict came down: Trayvon Martin's friend Rachel Jeantel.

Breaking news..... this just in.... CNN is NOT a complete waste of time!

Trayvon Martin Update: Justice Department Might Take Up Case, Zimmerman Attorney Says It's Time to Return His Gun | Alternet

The Justice Department announced Sunday that they will review the facts of Trayvon Martin's death to see if civil rights charges against George Zimmerman are warranted.

Good news, bad news? Don't take a stroll in Florida in a hoodie. In fact, just boycott the fucking state altogether until it rejoins the human race.

Surveillance Blowback: The Making of the U.S. Surveillance State, 1898-2020 | Common Dreams

I'll be hiding under the bed...

Kids Allege That Police Beat Dad to Death After Finding Him Sleeping on the Front Lawn | Alternet

Ex-urban Southern California... what can I say? I'm sure if they could have run him over with a SWAT wagon, they would have. The dumbification of, combined with the militarization of, our police forces is going to come back to bite us all in the ass. And most likely sooner rather than later.

Israel Beats Drum Louder: 'Won't Wait Until It's Too Late' to Attack Iran | Common Dreams

Israel Beats Drum Louder: ''Our clocks are ticking' faster than the US, says Israeli PM

Juror Who Found Zimmerman Innocent Cashing In With Book Deal, Called Martin "A Boy of Color”

One juror who found George Zimmerman innocent has signed on with a literary agent in the hopes of a future book deal about her experience.

Ugh! This is so wrong. Although, I have to add.... will anyone who's surprised by this please raise their hands so we can keep them away from sharp objects

7 Ways the Zimmerman Mindset Permeates America's Criminal Justice System | Alternet

It's not just about one man.

Locking Out the Voices of Dissent | Common Dreams

The security and surveillance state, after crushing the Occupy movement and eradicating its encampments, has mounted a relentless and largely clandestine campaign to deny public space to any group or movement that might spawn another popular uprising.

Notice of Termination of Employment

I need 5 Friends to contact their Senators.

Elizabeth Warren for Senate | Give Richard Cordray an up or down vote

This is about as important as it gets, short of a Presidential election or a Supreme Court nomination. This is one of the few agencies that, at least NOW, is dedicated to protecting and assisting the 'little guy'

Bloomberg by Bloomberg: Michael R. Bloomberg

Bloomberg by Bloomberg

Just finished reading this. Never been a huge fan of MB, particularly as mayor, but the book is a great read. And he's a pretty fascinating guy too. I don't know if I'd vote for him, but I'd sure enjoy sitting down and talking to him.

Protect My Public Media » Take a stand for the local stations and programs you love.

Protect My Public Media » Take a stand for the local stations and programs you love.

Reid Warns Republicans: ‘Stop The Filibuster Or We’re Going To Have To Change The Rule’ [Video]

Reid Warns Republicans: ‘Stop The Filibuster Or We’re Going To Have To Change The Rule’ [Video]

How Former Very Influential Revolving-Door Senators Give Corporate Propaganda Extraordinary Clout | Alternet

We've got to figure out a way to stop a) legislators and high level staffers transitionin to the lobbying swarm and b) the near uncontrolled power of lobbyists in DC and around the country (I'm looking at you, ALEC.) Nothing good has come from it and much evil. We need more legislators that pay attention to the Federalist Papers and fewer that pay attention to the Bible and Atlas Shrugged (altho how they reconcile the two, I've never figured out!)

The Pushback Against the Feds' Over-the-Top Crusade Against Pot | Alternet

Oh man.... I forgot what I was gonna post here, ya know what I mean? Whoa.....

How Obama Is Expanding the Century-Long Project to Build a Total Surveillance State | Alternet

Face meet boot...

Federal Prosecutors' Unchecked Power and Zeal Creates Prison Nation | Alternet

No other arm of the federal government is less accountable.

If I'm never heard of again... refer back to this post ;)

Gov. Perry: 'Our Justice System Is Colorblind' | TPM LiveWire

As long as you're white... and preferably, rich!

Daily Kos: How to play economic bait-ball

Daily Kos: How to play economic bait-ball

Radley Balko: “Once a town gets a SWAT team you want to use it” - Salon.com

America's police are beginning to look like an army, and the author says there's very little we can do about it

Beginning to?!?!?! I don't know where he lives, but they were 'beginning to' when I left Dallas in the 90s. It's not the WoT that started this, it was the War on Drugs. The WoT just increased the funding.

Lon And Jim: Together 34 Years, Separated By Family And The Law. An Update. | The New Civil Rights Movement

I hope Jim's family all die of painful and disiguring diseases, just after losing everything they own and being at the mercy of the state, which in Texas is pretty much non-existent.

Republicans Once Again Reaping What They've Sown | Mother Jones

"I don't know whether Reid is involved in the campaign against McConnell or not. But if he is, I think we all know exactly where this charming tradition started."

Bill Frist, anybody? And he wasn't the first, just the latest.

Edward Snowden Says He Could Destroy the NSA Anytime He Wants To | Mother Jones

NO wonder he's gone into hiding :)

Justice for Trayvon Martin

Sign AFT's petition

Demand Progress | HELP: Teen Jailed for Facebook Comments, now on Suicide Watch

Demand Progress | HELP: Teen Jailed for Facebook Comments, now on Suicide Watch

Sign Sherrod’s Petition to Repair America’s Bridges | U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown, Ohio -- Official Campaign Website

Sign Sherrod’s Petition to Repair America’s Bridges | U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown, Ohio -- Official Campaign Website

Criminalize Conservatism: Conservative Criminals Are Above The Law

We needed journalistic research to determine this? I could have told 'em that in 30 seconds, and they could have spend 2-3 days drinking margaritas by the pool.

Daily Kos: Republicans use farm bill to lay the groundwork for massive food stamp cuts

The good news is that food stamps won't automatically go away or be reduced. The bad news is that Congress is still in session.

Daily Kos: Walmart tries—and fails badly—to push back against workers' awful stories

WalMart is NOT amused :)

Daily Kos: Zimmerman not guilty, but ALEC sure as hell is

If you don't remember what the American Legislative Exchange Council is, that video will remind you. ALEC created the Stand Your Ground Law that allowed George Zimmerman to kill [Martin]...

U.S. approves NON-GMO labeling for meats from animals fed NON-GMO diets - Underground Health

U.S. approves NON-GMO labeling for meats from animals fed NON-GMO diets - Underground Health

Ain't THAT the Truth?

Facebook

The Charm That IS..... Erick Erickson

WTF was CNN thinking when they hired him!?!?!!?

Bradley Manning defence rests after calling just 10 witnesses | World news | guardian.co.uk

I have no hope of a good outcome here. They just don't tend to happen in military justice.

Fla. mom gets 20 years for firing warning shots - CBS News

Denied protection under Stand Your Ground, Marissa Alexander given mandatory minimum for firing warning shots against allegedly abusive 

On the other side of the coin....

Zimmerman Has Been Found Not Guilty. Now What? | Mother Jones

The racially charged trial for the killing of Trayvon Martin has ended, but George Zimmerman might not be done defending himself in court.

There's still civil suits by the family and, possibly, a civil rights action by the DOJ. Keep the lawyers on speedial, George

Elizabeth Warren's Long Game Against Wall Street

This is badly needed reform (deform... since we'd be going back to proven, successful systems?) I pray daily we can make this happen before the whole house of cards falls apart again.

Think About This For a While

(1) Facebook

Zimmerman Not Guilty!

Details as the come in.

Republicans Seek to Re-brand Themselves As Inclusive, But Leaders Continue to Spout Divisive Views | Alternet

It's hard to seem inclusive when your members keep singing the Horst Wessel Song or Springtime for Hitler (like any of them have even SEEN the Producers!) :)

Everyone all together now.... "Die Fahne hoch...." o/~

How Big Is the Average Penis? You Might Be Surprised | Alternet

With my massive rampant throbbing member (I've been asked to leave crowded airplanesso people in front could recline their seats), it matters not to me. But it is interesting in general. At least, I'm assuming prurience is general :)

Spoiler alert- average is still about 5.5 inches. But hey, I'm considered a giant in Asia ;)

The 7 Craziest, Cruelest Right-Wing Statements from Just This Week | Alternet

Yesterday, we had 5. Today, we're going for 7!!! :)

The United States of Crazy: You Can Now Go to Jail for a Sarcastic Facebook Comment | Alternet

I grew up in the 60s in Texas, so I've never been a big fan of law enforcement. One would think with a half century (OHMYGOD, REALLY!?!?!) of advancement, we'd see improvement in the policing policies of our law enforcement agencies. And I really think we were seeing it. Then the militarization of the cops due to the (oh-so-successful) War on Drugs met the incipient War on Terror and all progress was lost, a large heap of regression was tossed in too. I'm sure there are good cops out there, but they're being buried in a tidal wave of stupid policing.

Rand Paul's Confederacy Scandal Is Not an Anomaly -- Libertarianism Papers Over Deep Racism in America | Alternet

Libertarianism truly is the velvet glove of a nice-sounding “freedom” policy that covers the iron fist of five hundred years of genocide and apartheid in America.

Tell Senate Democrats: Don't back down on filibuster reform.

Yeah, I know. Another petition. Sign it anyway, it's important!

Progressives United / Action / Sign on to the 21st Century Glass-Steagall Act

Progressives United / Action / Sign on to the 21st Century Glass-Steagall Act

Tell Congress To Act Now To End The Surveillance State | American Civil Liberties Union

"The question is not 'do you have something to hide?' The question is whether we control government or the government controls us." - Oliver Stone

Texas Rep. Steve Toth claims sex education causes pregnancy by sexually arousing teenagers.

Not how I remember sex ed....

With Glass-Steagall Revival, A Call to Bust Up the Megabanks | Common Dreams

More on this...

Snowden Calls Out for Justice and Support: 'I Did What I Believed Right' | Common Dreams

NSA whistleblower officially accepts all asylum offers, and asks for continued support from international community and human rights campaigners

Why Is an Investigative Journalist in Jail for Doing His Job? | Alternet

I repeat, first, you neuter the press....

Drones Above California? Stop and Frisk Across the Country? What the Shake Up at DHS Could Mean for the Nation | Alternet

Drones Above California? Stop and Frisk Across the Country? What the Shake Up at DHS Could Mean for the Nation | Alternet

Gretchen Carlson Leaving 'Fox And Friends': 10 Of Her Most Baffling Moments (VIDEO)

F&F will never be the same, altho I'm sure Hasselbeck can, if she tries, drop to Gretchen's level. It will be fun to see the shenanigans Gretch gets up to in the afternoons, without those two bozos to restrain her mighty ummm intellect. :)

America's Dirty, Global War on Journalists | Alternet

If you want to build a dictatorship, first you have to neuter the press. Our press in the US shows many signs of having been neutered (Tucker Carlson, anyone?) and much of the rest of the world has little or no 'free' press. It's worrisome, that's all I'm saying.

Why Brazilians Are Sick of Corrupt Politicians: And Signs That Their Government is Actually Listening | Alternet

First Egypt, now Brazil? Whee!

As Millions Celebrate Morsi's Overthrow in Egypt, Five Things You Need Know About What Led to this Revolt | Alternet

As Millions Celebrate Morsi's Overthrow in Egypt, Five Things You Need Know About What Led to this Revolt | Alternet

Think We Haven’t Come A Long Way? Watch How Ridiculous Men Were Just 40 Years Ago.

You go, girls!!

The Sneaky Game Banking Giants Are Playing to Suck More Money From the Foreclosure Crisis | Alternet

The Sneaky Game Banking Giants Are Playing to Suck More Money From the Foreclosure Crisis | Alternet

James K. Galbraith: How to Stop the Path of Economic and Social Destruction | Alternet

James K. Galbraith: How to Stop the Path of Economic and Social Destruction | Alternet

Become a Citizen Cosponsor | Tom Udall for Senate

Become a Citizen Cosponsor

An Impertinent Question | Robert Reich

And several pertinent answers

Geraldo Rivera: George Zimmerman Jury Would Have Killed Trayvon Martin Too (VIDEO)

I think this is probably only outrageous and disgusting to whites in denial. It seems pretty accurate, given the location. I'm not a big Geraldo fan, but look at the statement in view of 'small town Florida' and it's probably not too far from the truth. Altho I do disagree with his comment about self-defense.

States Push Post-Citizens United Reforms As Washington Stands Still

Pushback against the Supreme Court's Citizens United decision keeps growing in the states. Over the first six months of this year, even as campaign finance reforms go nowhere in Congress, five more states have backed resolutions calling for a constitutional amendment to overturn the 2010 ruling. That brings the total number of states supporting an amendment to 16.

Rick Santorum On Texas Abortion Bill: It's Not Radical, It's Part Of A 'Movement Of Love'

Huh! I never knew love was based on hate-filled speech and violent rhetoric and public shaming! Who knew?

Willie Brown On Hillary Clinton 2016 Run: 'Everybody Fears Hillary'

Willie is one smart cookie, so this makes me happy :)

Janet Napolitano To Resign, Will Become University Of California System President

Does this give the NSA access to UC records? :)

Spain's Running Of The Bulls: American, 2 Others Gore On Sixth Run

Why does a big part of me say "Good!"

Imprisoned CIA Whistle-Blower: “Everyone Is Corrupt, I’ve Come to Learn” | Alternet

“DO NOT,” Kiriakou wrote, “under any circumstances, cooperate with the FBI. FBI agents will lie, trick, and deceive you. They will twist your words and play on your patriotism to entrap you. They will pretend to be people they are not – supporters, well-wishers, and friends – all the while wearing wires to record your out-of-context statements to use against you. The FBI is the enemy; it’s part of the problem, not the solution.”

The 10 Cheesiest "Just Say No" After-School Specials | Alternet

I was never much of a 'druggie' and by the 80's was no longer the target audience for 'kid's' programming (altho I would watch ANYTHING with Scott Baio in a speedo!!!!), so most of these I'd have never seen. But these are some awesomely bad pieces of infotainment. I vageuly remember the Cartoon Allstars one, as it was awesomely bad. The last clip, a blooper reel from one of the seemingly endless Scott Baio specials is kind of funny.... plus Scott Baio in a speedo! ;)

CEO Pay Went Up 16% Last Year to $15 million -- How Much Did Your Pay Go Up? | Alternet

I'm betting it was less :)

The 6 Types of Atheists and Non-Believers in America | Alternet

Interesting view into the world of non-believers and their (non?) beliefs.

A Liberal Dixie? What You May Not Know About the Changing South | Alternet

No, but at least a less rigidly brain-dead reactionary-conservative South. And, as time passes, perhaps a slightly liberal South.

Elizabeth Warren Wants To Break Up The Big Banks And This Explains Why

Elizabeth Warren Wants To Break Up The Big Banks And This Explains Why

‘They’re Just So Stuck’

As Congress returns from recess this week, we would like to believe that it will finally get down to the business of governing — but that would be too optimistic, even for us.

...Clearly, the GOP is in need of a course correction. With even red-state voters expressing frustration at the nonstop obstruction, Republicans will continue their inflexible approach at their own peril.

This Week In Crazy — July 12th Edition

I was upset after the first two. I thought we were heading into a Texas sweep with the first two both being Texas Repug Congresscritters, and we hadn't even seen Louie Gohmert yet! But, no! The rest of the country had to be represented and we finished with only two of the top five! C'mon Texas! Represent! You're letting your nutty constituents down!

Todd Schneider: Chef Embroiled In Bob McDonnell Scandal | TPMMuckraker

I'm not one to indulge in schadenfreude (oh, STFU!), but this is so much fun to watch. McDonnell is a scuzz bucket of the first order; about the only thing good you can say about him is that he's better than the Cooch.

Ain't This the Truth?

Facebook

High School Teacher Turned Democratic Congressman Trolls Republicans With Red Pen

(snicker)

Wal-Mart to DC: Force us to raise wages? We'll leave - NBC News.com

Wal-Mart to DC: Force us to raise wages? We'll leave - NBC News.com

To Attorney General Eric Holder:

End the Numbers Game

Google Faces Environmentalist Wrath Over Fundraiser For James Inhofe, Climate Change Denier

What the Fuck?!?!?!

New Book From Charlie Crist a Memoir on Journey, GOP Failings

Memoir Will Be a 'No-Holds-Barred' Look at GOP Failings

In Wake of Lac-Mégantic Train Inferno, Anger Turns Toward Profit-Hungry 'Rail Empire' | Common Dreams

Families of those still missing told to expect the worst as anger rises against company behind disaster

Revealed: Microsoft's Secret Collaboration With NSA | Common Dreams

Hey, Chevron, just get those records from the NSA

In 'Chilling' Ruling, Chevron Granted Access to Activists' Private Internet Data | Common Dreams

This is INSANE! And frightening.

WATCH: Rick Santorum Joins Fight For Abortion Restrictions In Texas

Things getting frothy?

Elizabeth Warren for Senate | Support the 21st Century Glass Steagall Act

Support the 21st Century Glass Steagall Act

BREAKING: Texas Senate to Vote on Extreme Anti-Choice Bill AS SOON AS TOMORROW

Click here to automatically sign your name to our petition defending women's rights to make their own health care decisions today.

Thanks, Ted.

We've been fighting this fight since Clinton

It's Time to End Gridlock In Washington - YouTube

Last chance to be grown-ups for the Repugs.

Jobs Nailed It

Facebook

The Political Garbage Chute | The Debt Ceiling Part 342 or, “Are Republicans Really Even Trying Anymore?”

No. No, they're not!

Wendy Davis Speech at Capitol | www.statesman.com

Wendy Davis gives the closing speech at a rally of abortion rights activists on the first day of the second special session at the Texas Capitol.

Payback's a bitch

Ain't it, guys?

The Political Garbage Chute | I’m a Liberal, and You Better Believe I Want To Fundamentally Change

Why conservatives are right and liberals do want a vastly different America.

Texas Weighs Ban on Women : The New Yorker

Republican lawmakers in the Texas State Senate are proposing a precedent-setting new bill that would make it illegal for women to live in the state.

ROFL!!!!

Wrong Wing

Facebook

FISA is Your Friend. On a Related Note, War is Peace and Slavery is Freedom...

We survived Bush. You will survive Obama.

Why doesn't it disturb more Democrats that the secret FISA court, which lays out all warrants for covert surveillance, is chaired with almost 90% Republicans? Where is the outrage? Doesn't it disturb any of you that a Republican judge in office until he dies, Chief Justice Roberts, has the sole veto-proof ability to appoint these judges? You're fine with this?

A Republican placing other Republicans in offices of severe power, where oversight is non-existent as a matter of protocol.

There is a mental disconnect, as the GOP regularly displays their willingness to not act on the behalf of the American people. Yet when it comes to surveillance there isn't even a rumbling of a question as to their competency for the job?

Keep your eyes shut and your mouth closed.

Is it wrong to wish for a lone gunman? Well, actually two, one for each brother....

Well, actually two, one for each brother....

The Answer Won't Surprise You

Facebook

That's Why You Want to be Sky High :)

Safety first, doood!

Watch: Glenn Greenwald Delivers the Hard Truth About Spying... On Fox and Friends | Alternet

Greenwald barely lets the fox news interviewer get a word in edgewise.

Snowden's Revelation Paves the Way for Federal Lawsuit Against NSA | Alternet

The Electronic Frontier Foundation has filed multiple lawsuits against the NSA for spying on Americans, but until now the government has convinced courts to block them.

Can we find one judge who'll support the Fourth Amendment? Just one? I know we'll probably have it taken away again by the Supremes, but it'd be nice to visit with it for a while.

Glenn Beck Unveils His Next Nutty Idea to His Followers at His Summer Gathering: I'm the Man in the Moon | Alternet

Well, he's already a Disney character... Goofy.

Journalism Is in a Disastrous State -- But for a Handful of Millionaire Pundits, It's Wonderful Life | Alternet

Journalism is not in a disastrous state. Journalism as we know it has ceased to exist.

Senate Set to Confirm New FBI Head Who OK’d Waterboarding, Defends Mass Spying, Indefinite Detention | Alternet

And, the reaction from former special FBI agent and whistleblower Coleen Rowley.

11 Big Myths About the Economy That Are Destroying America | Alternet

Forget the dumbed-down garbage most economists spew. Their myths are causing tragic results for everyday Americans.

"They Throw Kids on the Ground, Put Guns to Their Heads" -- The Horrors Unleashed by Police Militarization | Alternet

SWAT teams burst through doors armed to the teeth, terrifying (and killing) children. How did we get here?

WalMart threatens to pull out of Washington, D.C., over living wage measure

Sign the petition urging DC Mayor Vincent Gray to stand up to WalMart's threats and sign proposed legislation requiring large retailers to pay employees $12.50 an hour.

Newsflash: Obamacare Haters Hate Obamacare

The latest uproar over health care reform's implementation? Pure confirmation bias.

Rand Paul Refuses To Fire Staffer Over ‘Southern Avenger’ Revelations

The GOP's minority outreach cracks up -- again.

The Mean Team Piles On Jobless Americans

When did it become acceptable to attack Americans merely for being poor?

Last of AdSense Nonsense

The one upside of being anally raped by AdSense is that removing the ads let me clean up the 'architecture' of the blog a little and I think it looks better now than it did before. 

Tell Wall Street to Back Off! - Americans for Financial Reform: Take Action

Tell Wall Street to Back Off! - Americans for Financial Reform: Take Action

5 Statements That Show Why Elisabeth Hasselbeck Will Fit Right In On Fox And Friends | ThinkProgress

She really is a piece of work

LET’S GET THIS ELEPHANT OUT OF THE ROOM | U.S. Senator Al Franken, Minnesota -- Official Campaign Website

LET’S GET THIS ELEPHANT OUT OF THE ROOM | U.S. Senator Al Franken, Minnesota -- Official Campaign Website

WATCH: With Immigration Reform On Life Support, George W. Bush Calls For ‘A Positive Resolution’

"Speaking at a naturalization ceremony for new citizens at his presidential library, former president George W. Bush supported the spirit of immigration reform while refusing to embrace or discuss any specifics."

Bushie don't do SPECIFICS, biotch!

Time For Marriage Equality?

Make your voice heard. Vote in the poll!

Why Veterans Struggling with PTSD Want Access to Medical Marijuana | Alternet

Why Veterans Struggling with PTSD Want Access to Medical Marijuana | Alternet

Justice Denied: 71 New 'Tort Reform' Bills Make It Harder to Hold Corporations Accountable for Causing Injury and Death | Alternet

I hate the smell of ALEC in the morning....

Injured Vet Traveling to Be Honored Is Aggressively Searched by TSA Agents | Alternet

Just charming...

The Backlash Begins: Indiana Makes Same-Sex Marriage a Felony Punishable by Prison | Alternet

WTF? Remind me to ignore the fuck out of Indiana. As if giving us Dave Letterman wasn't bad enough, now this! :)

Got an Abusive Boss? There's an App for That | Alternet

Welcome to America... where WORKING is a medical condition!

Why It Takes Organized Resistance To Bring in the Sweeping Change That the Public Wants | Alternet

See previous post...

Whatever Happened to Using Boycotts and Constant Protests in the People's Fight Against Govt. and Corporate Power? | Alternet

It was overwhelmed by public apathy.

Activists Sue Federal Agency for Illegally Withholding Affordable Housing Funds | Alternet

It's been a couple of months since I've had to said that Ed DeMarco is the lowest pondscum on the bottom of the pond, but here it is. So, let me emphasize ED DEMARCO IS THE LOWEST PONDSCUM ON THE BOTTOM OF THE POND. There, I feel better!

Big News on Equality! | ThinkProgress

Key LGBT Equality Bill Moves Forward

Stand strong against Rick Perry and the out-of-touch GOP! | EMILY's List

Sign!

Tell Harry Reid and Democratic senators: Hang tough on filibuster reform

Please join with Daily Kos and CREDO in signing our petition to Sen. Harry Reid and the entire Senate Democratic caucus, telling them to pass meaningful filibuster reform so that we can have a functioning Senate that confirms all nominations, including judges, in a timely manner.

Take Action

From George Takei

Google+

A new ad attacking ‘Obamacare’ - The Washington Post

FactChecker gives the ad two "pinocchios'

The Koch Brothers' Advertising Campaign - NYTimes.com

They’re spending more than $1 million to (yet again) discredit President Obama’s health care law.

Report: House Dems made history - Tal Kopan - POLITICO.com

Report: House Dems made history - Tal Kopan - POLITICO.com

Amen to that!

Facebook

I think I posted this before, but it's deserving of multi-posting :)

Facebook

Palin Considering U.S. Senate Bid In Alaska | TPM LiveWire

Oh God, Alaska is crazy enough to elect her, altho I think I remember seeing a poll that said they were sick of her. I pray that's the case :)

Forward Progressives — The Bible, Rated X: Mr. Jefferson, 666 and Biblical Bosoms

It's certainly caused more problems than anything rated X...

Poll: Majority Says Snowden A Whistleblower, Not A Traitor | TPM LiveWire

Poll: Majority Says Snowden A Whistleblower, Not A Traitor | TPM LiveWire

Republicans who lost close races eager for rematches - Priya Anand - POLITICO.com

Good luck with that after this misbegotten group of Congressional Repugs.

Sounds Fair to Me!

Facebook

Whistleblower: Obama's Secrecy Makes Bush Look Mild

Whistleblower: Obama's Secrecy Makes Bush Look Mild

All In : Americans feel the hurt of continued GOP filibusters of Obama nominations

Obstruction is fun only for the obstructors, at least til the (electoral) bill comes due...

Tru Dat

Facebook

How Unchecked Capitalism Has Brought the World to the Brink of Apocalypse -- and What We Must Do Now | Alternet

I'm as capitalistic as the next guy (maybe more so), but I'm definitely a fan of REGULATED capitalism. not the unbridled type. Any 'organism' left unchecked will almost always over-reproduce and destroy its niche. The problem with unchecked capitalism is that it can destroy the entire 'ecosystem' in which it lives.

Edward Snowden Is No Hero

He's probably not a hero, but I don't think he's a traitor either.

AdSense's Non-Response to my 'Appeal'

Was there really time for them to have investigated anything in the less than 12 hours since I appealed.

Them:

From: "adsense-adclicks@google.com"
To: dpnewport@att.net
Sent: Wednesday, July 10, 2013 4:08 AM
Subject: Re: [4-1841000001344] Invalid Activity Appeal

Hello,

Thanks for the additional information provided in your appeal, we appreciate your continued interest in the AdSense program. After thoroughly reviewing your account data and taking your feedback into consideration, our specialists have confirmed that we're unable to reinstate your AdSense account.

If you'd like more details on our invalid activity policies or review process, please visithttp://www.google.com/adsense/support/bin/answer.py?answer=57153. As a reminder, further participation in the AdSense program by publishers whose accounts have been disabled is not permitted.


Thanks for your understanding,
The Google AdSense Team
===============================

My Response:

This is just insane, and incredibly bad business and customer service on the part of Google. Star Chamber procedures and absolute radio silence as to what I supposedly did and how any decision as such was reached is just insanely stupid on your part. The fact that it all occurred on the day I started attempting to get paid makes it doubly suspicious. It looks as if you're merely trying to avoid making a pay out; you're quite welcome for letting me drive business to your ad customers, and fuck you very much for your subsequent treatment of me. If it was a significantly larger amount, I'd drag an attorney in just to be annoying. I'm sure part of your metric took that into account. REALLY HORRIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE.

Thanks for YOUR consideration (or complete lack thereof)

Dave Newport

PS I highly recommend you change the name of the program to AdNonsense.

Jobnoxious

Timeline Photos

Just Imagine

Timeline Photos

There Go His Grades...

Timeline Photos