Reporters and a Marine
Dan Rather and Peter Jennings, NPR Reporter Cokie Roberts and a U.S. Marine were hiking through the desert one day when they were captured by Iraqis. They were tied up, led to the village, and brought before the leader.
The leader said, "I am familiar with your western custom of granting the condemned a last wish. Before we kill and dismember you, do you have any last requests?"
Dan Rather said, "Well, IÂ’m a Texan; so IÂ’d like one last bowl full of hot, spicy chili." The leader nodded to an underling who left and returned with the chili. Rather ate it all and said, "Now I can die content." They tied him back up and set him against a wall.
Peter Jennings said "I am Canadian; so IÂ’d like to hear the English National Anthem one last time". The leader nodded to a terrorist who studied the United States and knew the music was the same as to Â’God Bless AmericaÂ’. He returned with some rag-tag musicians and played the music. Jennings sighed and declared he could now die peacefully. They tied him back up and set him against the wall.
Cokie Roberts said, "IÂ’m a reporter to the end. I want to take out my tape recorder and describe the scene here and whatÂ’s about to happen. Maybe some day someone will hear it and know that I was on the job till the end." The leader directed an aide to hand over the tape recorder and Roberts dictated some comments. She then said, "Now I can die happy." They tied her back up and set her against the wall.
The leader turned and said, "And now, Mr. U.S. Marine, what is your final wish?" "Kick me in the ass," said the Marine." "What?" asked the leader. "Will you mock us in your last hour?" "No, IÂ’m not kidding. I want you to kick me in the ass," insisted the Marine. So the leader shoved him into the open, and kicked him in the ass. The Marine went sprawling, but rolled to his knees, pulled a 9mm pistol from inside his cammies, and shot the leader dead. In the resulting confusion, he leapt to his knapsack, pulled out his M4 carbine, and sprayed the Iraqis with gunfire. In a flash, all the Iraqi terrorists were dead.
As the Marine was untying Rather, Jennings and Roberts, they asked him, "Why didnÂ’t you just shoot them? Why did you ask them to kick you in the ass?"
"What!?" said the Marine, "And have you three assholes call ME the aggressor?"
Posted by: Michael at October 12, 2006 04:41 AM (pkkrm)
4
I LOVE IT! The problem is, the three "journalists" were actually allowed near a Marine without the Marine going through delousing afterward (or did you just skip that)?
Posted by: Smokey at October 12, 2006 05:05 AM (fq59s)
Marine Pilot Joke
Mrs. Smith, a teacher, called on little Johnny to tell a personal story with a moral.
Johnny said, "My Uncle Ted was a Marine pilot during the war in Vietnam, one day his plane got hit by a missile and was going down. Uncle Ted grabbed a case of beer, a machine gun and a machete and bailed out. On the way down he drank the whole case of beer. As luck would have it he landed in a field and was surrounded by 100 Viet cong soldiers. He started shooting his machine gun and killed 70 of them before he ran out of ammunition. Then he grabbed the machete and killed 20 more before the machete blade broke. He then killed the last 10 with his bare hands."
"Oh my God!" exclaimed Mrs. Smith, "What could the moral of that story possibly be?"
Johnny said, "The moral of that story is.. DonÂ’t mess with Uncle Ted when heÂ’s been drinking!"
As I see it, the main problem with the Income Tax is that it is virtually impossible to enforce completely and fairly. Compliance with the Income Tax depends on taxpayer truthfulness, which generally is motivated either by a) good character, or b) fear of an IRS audit. With the FairTax, the tax is collected when the money is spent, from everyone, with greatly reduced opportunities for non-compliance by the public.
For instance, what about the criminal element in our country? Have you ever heard of the Mafia? Or the drug dealer? Do you think that these people report 100% of their income? Of course not! They get out of paying a huge percentage of their actual tax bill by the simple expedient of not reporting all of their income. But these same individuals still have to pay utility bills, purchase prescription drugs, visit doctors, and buy food. And if they believe in the "high life" of new cars, fancy clothes and jewelry, and new homes, they're going to pay more than "Joe Six-pack" who chooses to drive a used car, or purchase a home that's not brand new.
And it's not just individuals who are managing to avoid paying taxes these days. Everyone in America has heard of the rush to move American companies "offshore", whether in whole or in part. Think about it -- have you ever seen an American-flagged commercial vessel? Oh sure, we've got our warships, but what about commercial boats that carry cargo or cruise passengers? Most of these are flying the flag of Liberia or Panama -- low-tax nations.
In the mid-1950s, about 33% of all income taxes collected were paid by American corporations. Today that number is down to approximately 10%. From "The FairTax Book" by Boortz and Linder:
1
You are missing one of the butiful things about the income tax in relation to criminals. Many times, there is just not enough evidence to prove that someone was selling drugs or engaged in illicit activities. Or, what we have caught them doing and can prove is light compared to their actual crimes.
But it is much easier to prove that someone is not reporting all their income. Therefore, one of the best tools law enforcement can use against the criminals who would otherwise get away with their crimes is tax evasion.
If you change the tax code, criminals that would otherwise be behind bars get to scott free. There would be no way for the IRS to go after them when regular law enforcement can't.
That is how we but Capone and many other mafia/drug king pins behind bars.
Posted by: dingo at October 11, 2006 06:07 PM (8SHtH)
2
Ah, but look at this angle -- if there's a tax on consumption instead of earnings, those criminals will be PAYING taxes every time they buy something! So while they're getting away by not paying taxes now, all that drug money will be taxed when it's spent!
Posted by: Ogre at October 11, 2006 07:06 PM (oifEm)
School Safety
The White is doing it. The North Carolina governor is jumping on board. Everyone wants to know what is to be done about school violence.
Here's an idea -- let's ban weapons in schools. That way those evil people who are committing these crimes will obey the law and not attack anyone in the schools. It's a perfect system! Everyone knows that criminals who are willing to murder people and kill themselves ALWAYS obey the law when they do so, right?
Morons.
I predict they will come up with plans for "stiffer penalties" for those who bring weapons to schools. They'll need more money, of course, to implement these ideas. NC might decide that they need an extra billion or five to put metal detectors in every school. Maybe they'll hire one extra policeman to peek into cars in the parking lots. And, after spending more money than most people will ever see in their entire lives, nothing will change.
If you want a serious change, stop creating an area where crime is encouraged. Stop creating a zone where criminals know there's not one thing even resembling a weapon. Stop disarming law-abiding people who might be able to stop these crimes. Get rid of the moronic federal "gun-free school zone" laws that I routinely violate. Allow people who AREN'T killing others to defend themselves and others.
Or, you could take the simple approach and simply get government the hell out of the education business. Remember the massive investigation of the mining industry when a few people died? There's no one to investigate the government when they have a monopoly on an industry (education).
Posted by: Ogre at
01:04 PM
| No Comments
| Add Comment
Post contains 277 words, total size 2 kb.
Charlotte Free Money
Look, public transportation is crap. Period. There's really no other way to look at it. However, big-government socialists and liberals absolutely cannot comprehend that idea. I will never forget the time I was running for elected office and I interviewed with the socialists at the Charlotte Observer. This person's jaw hit the ground as she said to me, "Do you mean to say that if the public transportation system can't pay for itself that we should get rid of it?" Being logical and pro-freedom, I replied, "As quickly as possible."
The Charlotte train system is absolutely insane (like nearly every other light rail system in the country). It's only purpose is so that government can take your money and spend it on people they like. And yes, I'm dead serious. The purpose of the train system is nothing else. It IS to expand government, and absolutely nothing else. It's based on socialist dogma and everything about it screams anti-freedom.
To show just a tiny example of how insane this has become, using the system's own numbers, they will spend at LEAST $462,700,000.00 just to build the system. Now that doesn't take into effect all the various salaries, web sites, and other massive expenses. That doesn't even consider the OPERATING EXPENSES that will be required to keep the system running. So keep in mind, that $462 million is a VERY Low number.
But don't worry, the first year (supposedly 2007, but no one really believes them), 9,100 people will ride the train.
So we're paying well over half a BILLION dollars (and likely much, much more) so that 9,100 people can ride a train. In case you don't feel like doing the math, I'll help. That's:
$50,846.13 PER PERSON
to ride the train. That's right, your tax dollars (whether you live in Charlotte or somewhere else because there's a lot of federal dollars there, too) are paying over fifty thousand dollars per person so a few people in Charlotte can ride a train. Heck, even the train supporters have stopping lying about "traffic" and "the environment."
1
For that kind of money we could have the flying cars we were promised by the year 2000.
If the plan for the lite rail fails in Charlotte, I wonder where the Gov. will try next. Wilmington? Asheville? Burlington?
Posted by: William Teach at October 11, 2006 02:40 PM (doAuV)
2
It doesn't matter where. Heck, let's put one in Boone. It doesn't have to work or actuall have any use, it just has to cost money!
Posted by: Ogre at October 11, 2006 04:57 PM (oifEm)
Terrorism Quiz
Well, it's been awhile since I posted any quiz results here, and I'm sure Smokey is going into withdrawls by now, so I guess I should post one:
Risk: 40% NUCLEAR 66% BIOLOGICAL 15% CONVENTIONAL
Your above scores indicate your relative risk in each of the 3 main types of terrorism. A score above 50% means you are living with the real possibility of death by that type of terrorism. A score above 75% represents extreme danger. Below 25% means you are most likely safe.
Some quick advice follows:
TO REDUCE CHANCE OF NUCLEAR ATTACK
- Avoid large cities (especially political or financial centers) at all costs
- Avoid extremely large sporting events
- Avoid suburbs of extreme large cities
TO REDUCE CONVENTIONAL DEATH ODDS:
- Avoid buses and subways
- Avoid suspicious people
- Avoid establishments owned by targeted groups
- Avoid exploding bombs
TO REDUCE BIO RISK:
- Avoid contact with other people
- Own a shack in the woods - or a cool boat
- Avoid contact with lots of mail (think: Anthrax)
- Avoid drinking tap water
This test sponsored by Dasani.
My test tracked 3 variables How you compared to other people your age and gender:
1
Not bad... he doesn't mention if you live near a nuclear plant. I would think the terrorist might consider that as well. Overall I'm pretty safe now adays... stay at home mom and not traveling the world like I use to.
Posted by: vw bug at October 10, 2006 09:03 PM (beVtv)
2
True, that is a glaring gap, if you ask me...I live less than 10 miles from a nuclear plant...
Posted by: Ogre at October 10, 2006 10:55 PM (QmGzr)
3
Well, I may be over 30 miles from a nuclear facility, but still, I think my results show that Ogre might be "mellowing out" in his "old age", seeing that I am younger than he and such and I am more at risk..........although, one piece of advice has stuck with me since I was a kid.....if there is a "major attack" targeting nuclear facilities, DRIVE LIKE HELL STRAIGHT TOWARD THEM, you'll die faster and less painfully than nuclear winter!
Posted by: Smokey at October 11, 2006 06:50 AM (fq59s)
4
Mellowing out? Heck, I'm just avoiding people more!
Posted by: Ogre at October 11, 2006 11:10 AM (oifEm)
Boycott Papa Johns
No, I'm not thinking that a boycott by me, even if supported by my massive legion of readers, would have much effect on the bottom line of Papa Johns. And since I absolutely believe in freedom, I believe that Papa Johns should be free to do whatever they like -- however, I'm also just as free not to participate.
Papa John's is now catering to illegals by making all their online ordering in Spanish. This is anti-American, whether they or anyone else wants to admit it. The corporate interest is in the almighty dollar, at the expense of America -- they honestly do not care about America.
It's supporting illegals keeping their OWN culture, rather than assimilating, joining, and being a part of America. Yes, English IS a part of the rapidly vanishing uniquely American culture. By supporting people who resist that culture, they are strongly supporting the decline of the once-great American civilization -- and I'm just not going to help them.
Not one more dollar for Papa Johns; Dominos, who will have their anti-American sites up within a year; and Pizza Hut, who is "working on it."
Instead, you can find me at Tony's and Mario's (or Applebees or Dunkin Donuts) where immigrants want to join America and become part of the American culture, rather than destroy it.
1
Do you really mean they only do online prdering in Spanish? haahah I support you!
Posted by: salempc at October 10, 2006 05:37 PM (6X24U)
2
They don't only do online ordering in Spanish, but there's a link from their front page that says (I presume) to "Click here to order in Spanish" and the whole site turns everything to Spanish.
Posted by: Ogre at October 10, 2006 05:39 PM (oifEm)
3
Well, I stopped ordering from them awhile ago. Their sauce is too sweet. And I can get better pizza around the corner at work.
But, I will not order from them for anything else, like staff meetings!
Posted by: William Teach at October 10, 2006 11:09 PM (doAuV)
4
Well I never order from Pappa Johns. Actually we as in all the oldies here try to keep our money in the local economy. Including the purchase of gas for the cars. LOl. Locally we have several refineraries and tend to purchase their products. i.e. sinclair sunco, phillips.
LOl
Posted by: patty at October 11, 2006 12:56 AM (EJVBR)
5
My motto's long been: "Shoot through the door, it's Domino's."
Having a Spanish menu available, as you say, Ogre, only makes nonassimilation easier and adds to the illusion that we are a bi-lingual country, which we are not.
I still become angry when I hear "for English, press one" or "para espanol..."
Pizza-wise, I grew up in and spent too many years as an adult living in New York, so it's virtually impossible for me to pick up a phone or get on-line to order pizza from a chain establishment -- I'm still looking for a good mom & pop type pizza place here in Charlotte that delivers.
Posted by: Seth at October 11, 2006 08:59 AM (r1vdM)
6
I really liked their deep dish pizza. No more. And Patty, I like doing that, too, and I'll be doing it more often now.
Seth, I HATE those "for English press one." HATE them.
Posted by: Ogre at October 11, 2006 11:11 AM (oifEm)
7
I could have a good rant here. But I'll control myself. I agree with you... but certain items I just can't stop buying. I love juicy juice for my kids and just won't stop buying them because they are in english and spanish. At least they have english on there as well. Sigh. Versus my experience at Taco Bell in Tamiami where they had to find a cook that could take my order in English. I am not joking.
Posted by: vw bug at October 11, 2006 07:34 PM (G9CFD)
8
Oh, Tamiami's been gone for awhile. After Andrew, everything south of Palm Beach was surrendered.
Posted by: Ogre at October 11, 2006 07:38 PM (oifEm)
Posted by: Doug Craig at October 15, 2006 01:23 PM (v5jF0)
10
Oh, certainly. That's why I say that I would never ask government to stop this company from doing what they're doing. Instead, I think free people who are interesting in keeping America in existence should boycott them -- because at least right now, they're still free to do so.
Posted by: Ogre at October 15, 2006 09:22 PM (QmGzr)
11
You mean people who speak spanish have to work for a living just like us anglo's, i never knew that, let's just send them all back to Spain!!!!! Oh by the way, I was being sarcastic!
Posted by: matt at October 16, 2006 03:02 AM (oeRAA)
12
No, Welfare checks can be used for Pizza delivery.
Posted by: Ogre at October 16, 2006 09:37 AM (QmGzr)
Meximerica Continues
There is no border between these two countries, so why do politicians now pretend that there is? Oh sure, at one time there was, but it is no longer. THERE IS NO BORDER. Get that through your heads, and everything else will make sense.
So now Mexico is complaining (although Fox claims he's not) to the UN that the US is considering building a fence on it's own land. If that doesn't make sense to you, read the first paragraph of this post again.
We have no fence, we have no border. A law was passed to build a fence, but then it was given no funding. Then it was given some funding, but the funding was used for other things. And now Bush may even veto the fence completely.
So, what's your plan for voting this year? Do you want to vote for the Republicans, who don't want a southern border, or would you select the Democrats, who don't want a southern border? Yes, either way, there will continue to be literally NO BORDER to this country. The federal government has absolutely failed at it's primary purpose -- national defense. Anyone want to explain to me why we shouldn't abolish the federal government now?
1
One of the biggest problems we have down in that neck o' the desert is that all too many businesses, large and small, have absolutely no qualms about hiring illegal Mexicans -- I remember reading a WSJ article back in the mid-late 1980s that talked about how the locals didn't even consider their bailiwick the U.S., but rather "The Border". MacDonalds franchises were even adding jalapenos to their burgers and local retailers were accepting pesos.
The Dems see our lack of border security as a plus to multiculturalism while Republican politicians see it as a way to supply cheap labor for business.
Then there's this North American Union that's being negotiated behind our backs, which will definitely eliminate even the pretense of a border. Bush being neck deep in the planning, I can see why he doesn't want to build a wall he figures will only come down anyway once he and the rest of the politicians involved have thus compromised our sovereignty.
Posted by: Seth at October 11, 2006 09:09 AM (r1vdM)
2
That's exactly right -- almost ZERO politicians actually support having a border -- so we're screwed because there's really nothing we can do about it as peons...err... citizens.
Posted by: Ogre at October 11, 2006 11:12 AM (oifEm)
Wilson, NC to Crush Business
In yet another example of utterly out of control government in North Carolina, the city of Wilson has proposed destroying all internet, telephone, and cable businesses in town. Oh, they haven't said that, but when government, who has literally no limits on expenses, decides to go into business to "sell Internet, cable television and phone service to city residents and businesses," then how can anyone compete with them?
They can't. When government does not have to make a profit, they can charge anything they like and run every potential "competitor" out of business.
Oh, but it will be utopia, because the town will have fiber optic cable running everywhere. No, the cost doesn't matter because this is government, where cost NEVER matters. Supporters paint this rosy Utopian picture of doctors having "live consultations" and students can learn from everywhere in the world. Libraries will suddenly be available and oh, this will be better than when we introduced electricity. Seriously, that's how they're selling this.
In reality, this is nothing more than a power grab by government. If they can run a bunch of businesses out of town and profit from the consumer by creating a monopoly, this government sees no need to stop. But they actually have the audacity to claim this move will create jobs! Sure, after you run all the other businesses out of town, government will need to hire some people. And knowing government inefficiency, they'll hire more to do a worse job than will be fired from businesses going bankrupt.
Wilson, NC, say hello to your socialist utopia. That system of government has never once succeeded in all of human history. Let us know how it works out for you folks.
1
Think "Big Dig" gone hi-tech, LOL.
I can already see the money pit and bureaucracy-builder that would be, letting politicians take on a complex project in an area that belongs to the private sector.
No matter how much tax revenue they earmark for that kind of project, and no matter what their time estimate for completion is, count on it ending up costing a whole hell of a lot more and taking at least five times as long as they project, if not longer.
Contractors will rip us off, traffic will be severely disrupted and don't even be surprised if it becomes a major bond issue.
Posted by: Seth at October 11, 2006 09:21 AM (r1vdM)
2
But "It's for the children" and "our future." Sorry bastards.
Posted by: Ogre at October 11, 2006 11:16 AM (oifEm)
That 1 Muslim
I previously mentioned that the crack staff here at Ogre's Politics and Views would scour the world and attempt to follow that ONE radical Muslim around the world as he did his diabolical deed -- since, after all, Islam is a religion of peace and there's only one Muslim who's violent.
This week we see he's left England and headed to France to stone little girls. Where in the world will That One Muslim go to next?
1
Hello,
This is a great blog. I'm going to be sure to link yours to mine. Would you mind doing the same for me?
Thank you very much.
My site:
www.americanlegends.blogspot.com
Take care,
Mark
Posted by: J. Mark English at October 09, 2006 07:07 PM (+OxYx)
2
Link whore much?
Anyway . . . I LOVE THIS VIDEO! Thanks for posting it Ogre.
Posted by: oddybobo at October 10, 2006 01:32 PM (mZfwW)
3
It's a good way to lift your spirits when all you read is bad in the press.
Posted by: Ogre at October 10, 2006 01:40 PM (oifEm)
As IÂ’ve said countless times on my own blog, I am not a very political animal. I have my opinions on things of a political nature but I rarely express them, and I very seldom post on anything political because I donÂ’t feel as if IÂ’m well enough informed on particular issues. I do have an opinion on whether or not there should be a fence along the border between Mexico and the States, and it has always seemed like a very good idea to me.
Living in Texas I see a lot of illegals and every time I see someone thatÂ’s clearly Hispanic in front of me in the grocery store, paying for their food with a LoneStar Card (plastic food stamps) or presenting a WIC form, I have to wonder how much of that is going to sustain illegal cousins, brothers, aunts, uncles, etc. IÂ’m not naive enough to think that the only nationality that can use our Southern borders as a crossing is Mexican, but letÂ’s be honest here for a minute; arenÂ’t they the main concern?
With voluntary participation of private landowners, Texas will use $5 million to begin placing hundreds of surveillance cameras along criminal hotspots and common routes used to enter this country. Perry said the cameras will cover vast stretches of farm and ranchland located directly on the border where criminal activity is known to occur, and “not the neighborhoods where families will continue to enjoy their privacy.”
“Landowners will be able to monitor and defend their property from those who might endanger their families. We will make the video feed available to state, local and federal law enforcement agencies so they can respond swiftly and appropriately,” Perry said. “And we will post this video on the Internet – in real time – so that concerned Americans can help protect our nation through online neighborhood watch programs.”
The video will be available 24 hours a day and cameras will be equipped with night vision capabilities. When citizens witness a crime taking place, they will be able to call an 800 number and be routed to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
1
I like to leave a comment that you posted for May first.
Frist of all yes you probably worked for less dollars but did you actually do a good job. I am a manager and where I work I would rather have a hispanic person do the job because most americans are lazy or do not do it right..and yes maybe mexicans have wic and food stamps but so do the lazy americans that dont want to work and it is werid cause the pay with wic and food stamps, but can have thier nails and hair done..im wondering why am i paying for your fucking food if your ass can afford all this...ever heard of a job. Also yeah maybe there are illegal immigrants but because they want to better themselves does not make them criminals like most americans for either drugs, killing or molesting. Plus to end this I would like to say....THIS IS NOT AN AMERICAN COUNTRY!!
Posted by: Amy at October 10, 2006 06:52 PM (z7dAP)
2
"Most Americans are lazy?" Now how is that not making a broad generalization?
The different is that the Americans are citizens. The welfare program, as much as I disagree with it, is designed so that AMERICANS can pay for OUR SOCIETY, not so Americans can pay for the entire world to eat for free.
Welfare was also designed to help AMERICANS be productive, not to give non-American citizens cash and food to take home to their non-American friends.
And Yes, they ABSOLUTELY ARE criminals. That's what the whole "illegal" part of "illegal alien" means. THEY ARE CRIMINALS. If you cannot see that then you're completely blind. THEY ARE BREAKING THE LAW.
You're right, this isn't an American country any more. Political correctness and compassion has turned it into a 3rd world country. There used to be a unique American culture that the world envied. It is gone.
Thanks for stopping along.
Posted by: Ogre at October 10, 2006 07:01 PM (oifEm)
The eastern world it tis explodin',
violence flarin', bullets loadin',
you're old enough to kill but not for votin',
you don't believe in war, what's that gun you're totin',
and even the Jordan river has bodies floatin',
but you tell me over and over and over again my friend,
ah, you don't believe we're on the eve of destruction.
Don't you understand, what I'm trying to say?
Can't you see the fear that I'm feeling today?
If the button is pushed, there's no running away,
There'll be no one to save with the world in a grave,
take a look around you, boy, it's bound to scare you, boy,
but you tell me over and over and over again my friend,
ah, you don't believe we're on the eve of destruction.
Yeah, my blood's so mad, feels like coagulatin',
I'm sittin' here, just contemplatin',
I can't twist the truth, it knows no regulation,
handful of Senators don't pass legislation,
and marches alone can't bring integration,
when human respect is disintegratin',
this whole crazy world is just too frustratin',
and you tell me over and over and over again my friend,
ah, you don't believe we're on the eve of destruction.
Think of all the hate there is in Red China!
Then take a look around to Selma, Alabama!
Ah, you may leave here, for four days in space,
but when you return, it's the same old place,
the poundin' of the drums, the pride and disgrace,
you can bury your dead, but don't leave a trace,
hate your next-door-neighbour, but don't forget to say grace,
and you tell me over and over and over and over again my friend,
ah, you don't believe we're on the eve of destruction.
Chairman Park Helms and Light Rail Budget of Knowing-Which Is It?
A guest editorial by Mark A. Palmer
At the October 3, 2006, county commissioners meeting Mecklenburg County Commission chairman Parks Helms admitted that he was aware of the light rail overruns months ago. Chairman Helms could not understand why city council members were so surprised when they heard this. Chairman Helms went on to say that he felt no reason to inform the county manager or the county commissioners.
I asked Chairman Helms, “Why did he not inform county commissioners or the public?” Chairman Helms said, “That the county commissioners and the public do not need to know.” Chairman Helms went on say,” I told Ron Tober to fix it.”
Days later, Chairman Park Helms is now changing what he said. The Charlotte Observer reported Thursday, October 5, 2006 that Chairman Park Helms spoke too vaguely a day earlier of knowing for several months about cost overruns on the light rail.
This is opposite from what Chairman Park Helms said during the county meeting. By responding to what County Commissioner Jim Puckett said that Mayor Pat McCrory, City Council, MTC, and Chairman Helms were not aware of cost overruns. Chairman Park Helms made it that he was aware of overruns and Ron Tober kept him informed.
Citizens of Charlotte are yet again duped and uninformed by an elected official.
What is puzzling is how Mayor Pat McCrory and various city council members have been warned numerous times that light rail does have major over runs. At the John Locke Transit Town Meeting over a year ago, several city council members listened as two of the top knowledgeable transit people spoke about light rail. They shared in detail problems of cost, budget overruns, flaws, etc.
Still, this is a very common situation, where “virgin” transit agencies and councils do not have the experience in doing major capital projects, as is the case in Charlotte. They want to move the dirt before they have the proper staff or plan and control system. In Charlotte’s case there is almost no real oversight staff at all.
The bid for the stations was in September 2005, which was same time that a major hurricane hit the Gulf that brought construction costs to a high. You would think this would set off major alarms to CATS, City Manager Pam Syfert and Mayor Pat McCrory.
1
Why does anyone think that they are going to get anythign else from Parks Helms?
Posted by: Lemuel Calhoon at October 08, 2006 06:55 PM (Q3LSg)
2
Because he's the gift fairy -- if you vote for him or donate money to his campaign, he'll give you all the taxpayer cash you want! After all, he is the one who said, "Well of COURSE we're tax and spend liberals. That's what we're supposed to do -- tax people and spend their money."
And that's pretty close to a direct quote.
Posted by: Ogre at October 09, 2006 12:51 AM (QmGzr)
Turtles in Action
So, I'm at the zoo last weekend, minding my own business, winding my way through the massive numbers of fat people who all decided to visit the zoo on the same day (seriously, there were literal piles of obese people there that day); and I was peeking through some leaves to see if I could spot any birds, and what should I spot, but two turtles.
Now, my first thought was, "Gee, that one turtle sure is moving a lot for a turtle." Then I noticed the other turtle. All the adults nearby who noticed all looked at one another as if saying, "Are you seeing what I'm seeing?" No nearby kids asked and questions, but I had the camera ready. After all, how often do you get to see two turtle going at it? Seriously.
(Click to enlarge)
And I don't know why, but when I snapped this shot, I thought, "You know who would really get a kick out of this picture? Tammi." Why did I think that? I have no idea. We'll have to wait for Tammi to stop by and see what she has to say about it.
1
How do turtles have sex?
In
.
.
.
.
Out
.
.
.
in
.
.
.
.
out
Where are the photo's of poo slinging monkeys?
Posted by: William Teach at October 06, 2006 05:31 PM (IRsCk)
2
Didn't you post the photo of the poo flinging monkeys already?
Here: http://www.thepiratescove.us/?p=2927
Posted by: Ogre at October 06, 2006 05:35 PM (oifEm)
3
Ummm.....well.....ughh....Yeah.
There are so many comments that come to mind, but none of which are very flattering to me so I'll just keep 'em to myself. However, what the heck is that green stuff there on the ground?
And I do have to admit, the "facial expressions" are priceless - which also leads to sooooo many things I'm just not gonna write down. :-)
But dang it Ogre!!! Where my mind has gone now......turtle sex. Funny stuff!!
Posted by: Tammi at October 08, 2006 02:25 PM (3UQTn)
4
I guess the good news is; they....ummm...he appears to be enjoying it.
Tammi, I think the green stuff is a leaf near the lens, it is just blurred due to focus. Right, Ogre?
Posted by: DagneyT at October 08, 2006 09:03 PM (eAMcQ)
5
Well Tammi, at least it made you smile!
And yes, Dagney and Tammi, the green stuff is a leaf. They were trying to hide behind some leaves and I just wouldn't leave them alone.
Posted by: Ogre at October 09, 2006 12:50 AM (QmGzr)
6
Hmmm. I just can't comment. The facial expressions have me cracking up!
Posted by: oddybobo at October 09, 2006 01:44 PM (mZfwW)
Posted by: Ogre at October 09, 2006 01:56 PM (oifEm)
8
Yeah baby, just like that, that's what I'm talking about, I'm Gonna crack that shell, present that shell baby, oh yeah, gimme that shell, all of that shell.
Posted by: Tomslick at October 09, 2006 05:11 PM (ljKqf)
White Straight Male Month
Well, since the Philadelphia (city of Brotherly Love) schools have declared October "Gay and Lesbian History Month, I demand that November be "White Straight Male Month." After all, it's about diversity.
There is no logical reason they should refuse this request. I'm not trying to promote special rights for white straight males, I'm just trying to gain equal rights. If there's going to be a Gay month, then there should be a straight month, otherwise they're trying to repress straight white males.
And, since they're threatening anyone who refuses to cooperate and celebrate "Gay and Lesbian History Month" with fines and jail time, I demand that anyone who opposes White Straight Male Month be fined and jailed as well. After all, doesn't the Constitution require there be equal treatment under the law? I'm only asking that the school district, which I pay for, be more inclusive. The school district does have a "policy requiring equity for all races and minority groups." Since you're have a gay month, they are required, by their own policy, to have a Straight White Male Month.
Now some people might have a problem with Straight White Male month, but you are just going to have to face the fact that there are some straight white males who are part of the community and the council has to support every parent and every student in the school district. After all, it's not exactly a fringe concept, there have been straight white males around for a long time.
Every year there are straight white males who are victims of crimes and assaults in the school district. By celebrating and learning about their unique culture and history, we can teach our children to be accepting of their culture and include diversity across the district.
So, are you holding your breath yet waiting for November?
1
Shouldn't that be Caucasion Heterosexual Male month? Have to make sure we are completely PC about it, you know.
I suggest a march on Raleigh to petition the legislature.
Posted by: William Teach at October 06, 2006 05:34 PM (IRsCk)
2
I think for December we should demand Homosexual Mulsim Terrorist Month.
Posted by: Ogre at October 06, 2006 07:43 PM (oifEm)
Posted by: William Teach at October 06, 2006 09:22 PM (IRsCk)
4
I'm sure this Male Hetero White Guy thing could get off the ground... All it needs is a good blogroll and some very offensive first couple of posts.
Posted by: PrivatePigg at October 07, 2006 03:51 AM (lsTkI)
5
There we go, we'll start a Straight White Male blogroll! Then we can burn stuff if people offend us!
Posted by: Ogre at October 07, 2006 10:47 AM (QmGzr)
6
Don't forget about rioting, looting, petitions, and marches!
Posted by: William Teach at October 07, 2006 03:00 PM (doAuV)
7
Sounds reasonable enough to me, bro. Just a few short years ago, gays and lesbians were horribly discriminated against, and in the case of marriage, in my opinion, they have a little ways further to go before they're on completely equal ground with the rest of us.
That said, it's getting a little carried away when people start trying to legislate them to be "extra special". They're NOT "extra special", any moreso than brunettes, redheads, blondes, black people, white people, or blood type "O+" people are... so why try and legislate them to be? Unfortunately, the far left doesn't realize this sort of thing only serves to backfire on the movement by creating well deserved resentment like one sees here - not that the gays and lesbians deserve it - the small group who've shoved this thing down your throats do.
8
"Equal protection under the law"? I thought the ACLUnatics killed that long ago!
Posted by: DagneyT at October 08, 2006 09:05 PM (eAMcQ)
9
GTL, I'll put "Brunetts, Redheads, Blondes" down for January, the blacks already have February, so Blood Type O+ month will have to wait until March.
And Dagney, come now -- you know the ACLU -- they will use any law or legal concept when, and only when it suits them!
And by the way, for those who didn't follow the link, about 90% of this post was lifted from their report, I just replaced the "gay" with "straight, white male."
Posted by: Ogre at October 09, 2006 12:49 AM (QmGzr)
10
OMG!
I want a straight white female month too.
No lesbians allowed, no bi's allowed either.
Posted by: Raven at October 09, 2006 08:05 PM (Zvjxh)
11
Ogre, I thought you were a decent man.
Know I find out you are running a racist homophobic hate site. I suggest you cease and desist this outrageous behavior.
The White Straight Christian Male is the root of all evil in this world. How dare you even suggest that we devote an entire month to celebrating our culture. This is an outrage!
Sir, I hope you will heed this warning and start a legal defense fund, post haste. The ACLU has probably begun their legal action.... Good luck my friend......
Posted by: Robert at October 09, 2006 09:54 PM (L1ubU)
12
Ok, April can be straight white female month. What's next for May?
And Robert, I think the ACLU will defend me, won't they? After all, I'm just asking for equal time and equal rights.
Posted by: Ogre at October 09, 2006 10:37 PM (QmGzr)
13
I'm with Raven, btw. I'm looking forward to April!
Posted by: Bou at October 10, 2006 12:32 AM (iHxT3)
14
Oh, did I forget to mention that it's NAKED straight white female month?
Posted by: Ogre at October 10, 2006 12:33 AM (QmGzr)
Arm the Teachers
Well why not? You see, everywhere else this has been tried it has worked. My only complaint about this proposal is that the legislature wants to "ensure the teachers are properly trained" -- and that will just turn into another bloated government program.
You see, if you're a lunatic, but you want to attack people, where is the safest place in America to do so? Yes, in the schools! There are dozens and dozens of laws on the local, state, and federal books that ensure that every single person you will find anywhere near a school will be unarmed! There's nowhere else you can find that is so perfectly safe for a criminal!
Israel had a problem with terrorists in schools a few decades ago. But when is the last time you heard of a school being attacked there? A very long time ago. Why? Because all parents and teachers are permitted to be armed. Therefore, the terrorists now know that one of the most dangerous places to be, if you're a terrorist, in Israel is the school. Wouldn't that be nice to have in America? I wouldn't mind going someplace that was considered SAFE instead of a place that is 100% guaranteed to be safe FOR CRIMINALS.
Hey, here's a radical new concept that hasn't been tried in a long time: freedom! Let's allow people to have some freedom to do what they want to? And then hold anyone responsible for their actions. Yes, it's a radical, strange idea, but it has worked every time it's been tried throughout history.
1
The easy targets are the unarmed targets. The criminals know it and our government does as well.
Posted by: oleblue at October 06, 2006 09:05 PM (Lv180)
2
Exactly right. If criminals thought that even 1 out of 10 teachers were armed, they WOULD think again before they tried this crap.
Posted by: Ogre at October 07, 2006 10:48 AM (QmGzr)
3
They put marshalls on the airplanes, and now, they balk at arming the teachers? I don't think it's a great idea to require teachers to carry arms, but I like YOUR idea of implementing civil liberties in the schools - the RTKBA being one of them obviously. That way these perverts who like to shoot innocent people can ask themselves "feeling lucky, punk?" before they enter a school with weapons and ill intent.
What I'm wondering is, when are we going to outlaw automobiles? We've had way too many crazies mowing crowds of people down in the name of "Allah" lately. The only way I can see this being stopped is to require everybody scrap their automobiles in favor of bicycles.
4
True GTL. I have to tell you, I break those federal laws all the time when I drive through school zones, because I'm simply always armed. And if I have to use those guns to save some school kids and break the federal laws, the laws will simply be ignored.
And then, of course, I'll just run away and claim I don't know anything about any shooting...
Posted by: Ogre at October 09, 2006 12:52 AM (QmGzr)
