Would you buy a two-seater egg shaped car?

I probably would not. 70 mpg sounds nice, but with this global warming a moped will probably do in Denver most of the year. They are a LOT cheaper! But I would, at some point, consider a more economical vehicle.

I'm thinking about a vehicle that will run on biodiesel, is somewhat sporty and has a back seat on the sedan model. I think they made a pickup model. I'd like to try some used vegtable oil that has been cleaned up. But maybe I'd better try commercialy marketed biodiesel when it becomes available.

There's a 1981 Rabbit pickup going for about 1500 bucks, with about 7 bids submitted on Ebay... Then again, maybe the moped would come with a warranty.

Viagra threatens Limbaugh plea deal

I LOVE it! The only problem with this is that jerk may once again jeopardize the online prescription industry. I'm NOT trying to say that's the safest way to go, but for some of us, it is an aid. Whatever kind of pill I get, I only take ONE or TWO. If they don't act right, I throw 'em out.

Definately, with Viagra one should only take ONE at a time. I can just visualize Rush taking his usual handful of pills and then having to go to the E.R. with an erection that won't quit. It would serve the S.O.B. right!

Can Lieberman survive Iraq?

He'd better! I like Joe! I don't think the primary of his senate race is as contested as the Time article makes it sound. I'm sure he'll survive! I like Joe and I don't think he's one of those Democrats like Senator Nelson from Nebraska who is really a Republican. Lieberman is a died in the wool Democrat who just happens to be strong on the War on Terror... You CAN have differences with your party, you know!

Speaking of Nebraska, I like Senator Hagel... I'm sure I might have some major differences with him on domestic issues, yet I like his candor and he is not affraid to criticize the Bush Administration and the way the war is being conducted.

Both men are moderates and seasoned Senators.

Treason?

Some moderate Republicans call that word a bit strong. I don't know the details of what the New York Times reported so I would not be in a position to call it. I say if they were just talking about a method that our government was using and not the specifics, then it is not a problem. IF they disclose something about a specific transaction that was monitored, or give out sensitive information, it is grossly wrong.

I thought it was well known that they monitor large transactions going overseas. It is a delicate balance between national security and privacy. Most of us little guys are just worried that these "powers", once gained, could be abused.

I do not believe at this time there were any ulterior motives in the government. In times of war they do, unfortunately, get some extra powers. But this "9/11 justifies everything without questioning" is a slippery slope to stand on! These tactics should be watched carefully. I could go along with criticizing the NYT for a lack of discretion. Treason? Only if it is proven that published information does directly aid a terrorist group. I'll wait for them to sort out the details...

A crude comparison...

This is not to imply that I didn't listen to Ward Churchill in his fiery exchange with Sean Hannity. I did! The point was made comparing "collateral damage" from our wars on civilians to the "little Eichmans" in the W.T.C.. No doubt the collateral damage is wrong, sad and everything else! No doubt that American torture and mistreatment of prisoners is wrong as well.

Most of us have enough sense to realize that the terrorists INTENDED to kill as many civilians as possible, whereas the Pentagon and our forces just made some stupid mistakes. Yes, I agree we should look at the way those who are disenfranchised think about us. It would be a big help. But Churchill's radical words are no help to finding a sensible solution to world problems.

On the other side is Sean Hannity frothing at the mouth about those who are not in lockstep with the Administration. If you question the actions of the Pentagon and our leaders, you are UNPATRIOTIC, Period!!!! Sean, I hate to tell you this, but questioning our leaders and government is VERY AMERICAN!!! We would NOT be America without this debate.

I say that these two can go on to hate each other, but they are not going to solve any problems. They are viscous attack dogs at each other's throats. I did enjoy the yelling match, however, and I'd call it a draw!

The Supreme Court gets involved...

NEWS ALERT: Supreme Court agrees to consider forcing the Bush administration to regulate carbon dioxide, a gas linked to climate change, from motor vehicles.

While I would cry "Judicial Activism" on almost any other topic, this is one topic where I would LOVE for them to force the Administration to get off it's butt. I just feel that it would be more appropriate for the Congress to write legislation and then have Bush sign it. If he does not sign then they should override his veto.

It would probably be more along the lines of the Constitution for them to decline taking action on this. THAT sends the wrong message. Civilization is WAY late taking action. The Bush Administration has sat on it's hands. Light a fire under them!

Rumblings???

I don't completely understand the fuss made over it, but the New York Times quotes General Casey on troop withdrawls this year. As much as we all would like them to come home, I'll have to agree with Bush that timetables are counterproductive and send the wrong message to terrorists. But we do need some kind of genuine exit strategy!!! Let us hope the drawdown is NOT linked to our upcoming elections. It is way too important that some degree of success be achieved prior to exit. Yes, I know it is expensive and tedious.... But we've got to prevail!

Also, on another note, I hear some cease-fire has been reached with Taliban fighters in Pakistan and Afghanistan. UBL may be pulled out of a hat!!! I'd really like to see what he looks like now!!!

These items may lift the Republicans in November. I hope voters are more sophisticated than to evaluate just the news of the moment - look at long term results!!! I also hope the good news may lift my sagging investments for a year-end ralley!

U.S. preparing for possible N.K. missile strike...

Shoot it down! This is the best way to let the wind out of their sails. Of course, it will only enbolden them if we miss. Aim well!

Sandler: 'I Like Being a Moron'

Adam, I do too! Being a MORON is now COOL, thanks to you!!!! Albeit a NICE MORON! You make a good role model!

U.S. soldiers' bodies mutilated, booby-trapped...

Muther fuckers!!!! Jihad assholes! : Referring to the subspecies of animal that did this act! It's sad what happened, but I have the feeling this will only continue.

The choices are few...

AP: Bush gives Iran ultimatum on uranium. I'm skeptical that anything will work. They've tried kissing Iran's butt. THAT didn't work. Now, I suppose they'll try something in the U.N. security council. You know how well THAT works; remember Iraq??? So, I'm not sure this ultimatum will work, but hey, there's not too much else to try!!! It comes to a point, late in the Bush administration that you have to worry, considering the failures of the past.

All the dying trees....

A drive through the Rockies and over the Continental Divide reveals a lot of dead or dying evergreen trees. Spruce or Pine beetles, I think. Some of the forests look too thick, so this may be nature's way of thinning. It's ugly as hell, but so are burn areas.

I remember the start of this devastation in the 1980's. Some of those areas now don't look so bad. The needles are long gone and some of the trees have fallen down.

I get depressed driving through the mountains. We drove over Berthod Pass and the old ski area is gone. No lodge is there, either. Just a parking area with some porta-potties. Yuck!

A convenient timetable...

In the movie, "An inconvenient Truth", they talk about how the world has ten years to avert climatic disaster. While I wholeheartedly agree with those trying to raise flags on global warming, the ten year timeline seems rather arbitrary.

I'd say at the pace they're going, maybe they could begin to actually DO something in ten years. Then, it may take a while for the changes to start working. In other words I would say; You can't turn this bus around on a dime!

Also, we have no way of telling how much of what is going on is just being accelerated by man's activity. Maybe we are in a natural warming cycle which is occurring despite our activity.

I really am NOT trying to minimalize the efforts of Al Gore and others. They are doing a good thing. But for now, we should also concentrate on getting the levees fixed well in New Orleans. Personally, I feel they should evaluate the permanent abandonment of large portions of that city and other low coastal dwellings along the Gulf Coast. Let's also work on getting people OUT of FEMA trailers ASAP. Everyone should move to higher ground even if that is just a few feet!

RED MEAT!

They should get that guy that announces "It's what's for dinner!" on the beef commercial. The "menu" includes a tough stance on illegal immigration (no comprehensive reform), gay marriage and standing tough in the war on terror!

Attempts will be made to boil these issues down to the simplist term: "You are either with us or against us!" Anyone who suggests an alternative will be considered "weak"!

Those who are angry, frustrated and bitter about "business as usual" in this Country had better look carefully at the candidates, their records and truthfullness of campain advertising. Take the time to question the candidates and look for candor and directness. Look carefully, not only at their words, but their records as well.

I'd like to suggest C-span as an alternative to the cable news channels. As clever as television ads may be, do your absolute best to put them in perspective. They are designed to manipulate you!

Why they should scuttle the Flag Burning Amendment.

Burning the American Flag, in America is a repulsive and stupid act. No doubt! People should kick the ass of those they catch doing it! But change the Constitution???

The reason I'm against it is simple. I refer you to the story of an American P.O.W. in a North Vietnamese prison during that war. The guards came to him with a newspaper photo showing war protesters burning the flag: "see, your own people are against the war..." Where as the prisoner replied: "All this picture shows is that in America we have the freedom to speak our minds!" The guards were dumbfounded!

Again, don't do it! Burn the flag, that is!

Poll: Most still think Iraq war a mistake...

What did you expect? After Mr. al-Z got bumped the poll numbers rose, but we've had other "Mission Accomplished" and "Victory" speeches mixed in with the killing. No matter whether you think war was a mistake or not, WE ARE THERE!!! Git-R-Done! AND, I might add, learn from your mistakes and DO NOT enter any more conflicts in this manner in the future.

Republicans demand special session on illegal immigration!

This is a response to a Colorado Supreme Court decision barring what was submitted from being on the ballot. I guess the rejection was due to the measure adressing two topics somehow! Most of us would like to find a way to restrict services only to legal residents. This is for sure! So the Republicans are going to try to force the issue in a special session where they can overturn the ruling with a 2/3 majority. Assuming it does get put on the ballot, I will consider voting for it. It depends on how it is worded, of course. But I do believe that it is necessary for us to take care of our own, first! Yeah, you should probably be some emergency treatment for 'em, but all this other stuff which is being doled out does need to stop! I hope this does not become a political fight... Since they are in control, the state Democrats should consider some bipartisanship. Unless the measure contains something radical I don't know about, most of us will support it.

It can't be THAT easy... Can it???

I go off on these fantasies. One would be moving to and residing in Canada. I see a few ways this could be accomplished. One would be to be in one of the professions that are high demand. Actually, they are more like trades: pipe fitters, electricians and truck drivers, etc... Then there is the investment angle. Put $400 K in a government account and you are in. Or, you could buy a business up there and immigrate to run it. That one intrigues me. Unfortunately most of 'em are in Quebec. But there are a couple of small businesses which I could afford. A florest shop and sushi restaurant in Montreal. I have no experience in running either, and Je Ne Parle Francais! But if they'd accept an old Anglophone as their owner, maybe!!!

Bush Backs Iraqi Leader in Surprise Visit

Good! This is a positive move! Their leader(s) need all the support they can get. But please, Mr. President, get the HELL out of there and come home safely! We're NOT ready for "Dead Eye Dick" to assume the throne!

Tropical Depression heads for Florida!

Oh NO! Stop it. NO Hurricanes. Last year was enough!

Abu Musab al-Zarqawi is now history!

This is GREAT news! We need some good news out of Iraq! I'm not sure what effect this will have, however we can hope. Not only is that prick responsible for killing Americans, the vast majority of those he killed were Iraqi's...

Look, we are there and we have got to persist and win that thing. Hurry up so the troops can come home!

I can live with it....

Bill Ritter is "Pro Life", but as Governor he would uphold the laws as they are. This is not to imply that I am "Anti Life", however the debate has gotten so polorized that one would think it boils down to that. He is personally opposed to abortion and I am opposed to most of it. Where Bill distinguises himself is that he wants to reduce unintended pregnancies. THAT is his primary solution to the problem, not criminalizing abortion. He wants to restore some funding to Planned Parenthood by the State.

He also believes that as a Catholic, marriage is to be between a man and a woman, however is not for pushing state amendments or changing the Federal Constitution. He believes some recognition and civil rights outht to be extended to same-sex couples. A sensable approach. Also, I do not believe he is anti-gay because he campaigned in one of Denver's gay bars when running for D.A.. Sure he was trying to get votes, however I don't think Beauprez would be seen in one!

I hate to just give blanket support to all Democrats. However, I thought that many of our Democratic legislature's bills were ones I could support. Though I'm sure I might have vetoed a few as well, I think Gov. Owens vetoed too many. I look for balance between the two parties. If Colorado goes overboard with liberalism, maybe I'll have to examine some moderate Republicans. I think I've tried to build a case for the moderate stance of Bill Ritter. In any case some will try and paint him as a left-wing extremist. If this were the case, then why are some Republicans breaking ranks to endorse him? Colorado is a moderately conservative state and would never elect a really liberal governor.

AP: U.S. to Give Iran Nuclear Technology

What? What KIND of technology? In exchange for? The article says in exchange for them stopping enrichment. I'm kinda skeptical... I hope you can understand why.

Prioritize, prioritize, prioritize......

Let me set the priorities for the nation. Our leaders can't. Here they are:

1. Border Security and Immigration

2. Rebuilding the Gulf Coast

3. Prioritizing the National Budget: cut as much descretionary spending as possible.

4. Energy independance through clean energy sources to protect the environment (note, this could also WIN the "War on Terror" as we could render countries in unstable regions irrelevant..).

5. Revamping healthcare to lower costs and increase access for more people WITHOUT blowing the budget!

6. Stabilizing Iraq and Afghanistan and getting the hell out of there!

Note: My favorite priority is #4, however all of these are important. You can shift these around to suit your tastes. But they are all the top 6.

I'd rank Same Sex Marriage about 15...

My Senator...

Is NOT Wayne Allard! It's too bad he is the senior Senator from Colorado, but I don't recognize him! He represents that OTHER constituancy. If I had a problem, I would NOT call or write his office. Period!

Ken Salazar is my Senator.

Leave THEM out of it!!!!

Lance Cpl. Matthew A. Snyder died in Iraq! I have always wanted to make it clear that I support the troops and don't want them to be treated like the returning Vietnam vets. What sort of twisted logic associates the dislike of Gays with the job our soldiers are doing??? I would have made this statement even if I was not gay! And by the way, I think it was totally tastless for them to go to Laramie and protest Matthew Sheppard's funeral, as well. I don't really think the Westboro Baptist Church needs any more publicity for people to regard them as irrelevant nuts. Nobody with any degree of decency would take their message seriously; and this includes the vast majority of Christians.

What the "Nuts in Topeka" have suceeded in doing is causing severe pain and sadness to those trying to say goodbye to our fallen heroes. The family is suing the church and I'm going to donate to their fund. You should too!

Click below to view family website:
http://www.matthewsnyder.org/

Bush to support Gay Marriage Ban...

Most people I know are rolling their eyes back in their heads! I think he could do more to help his cause by doing something unpredictable. This is SOOOOOO predictable!

It's a long process to amend the constitution. Is the (heterosexual) tradition of marriage so threatened, requiring altering of that sacred document???? Or is the master politician, Bush, trying to solidify his base??? It would be a stretch to think that this could get through Congress. Then, I don't believe it would get right to the States for ratification by this year's elections. In other words, it will be a long protracted battle. There are some other things, by the way, that need attending to!

Then comes the question that IF it were to pass congress, and that is a very big IF, would it be ratified by the States? I'm sorry, I'll have to study my civics more to fully understand the process. I do know that the topic of Same Sex Marriage gets a lot of conservatives fired up! I dare say this (wedge) issue is what helped bring out the vote and get Bush elected in 2004. Well, that and the attacks by the Swift Boat Vets on Kerry!

Personally, I'm not sure that this issue should EVER have come to the forefront. Yes, changing the defination of marriage could have important social implications. But changing the Constitution will NOT stop people from forming whatever relationship works for them. It's a strange and diverse world and no two relationships are the same; not even two straight marriages....

It will be interesting to examine how Same Sex Marriage will affect societies, such as Canada, where it is legal. I haven't seen where life as we know it has ceased to exist North of the border, eh? Nor have I seen a mass exodus of people coming from there as do from Mexico.

The world will survive!

The latest round of threats from Iran makes one think. Threats on the oil supply can disrupt the world economy. Nuclear threats can destabilize the entire region. At least with Problem # 1, we can have some hope. They might play games with their oil, as Venezuela may also. But it is too big of a cash cow for them to cut off completely.

I'm not looking forward to them attaining a nuclear weapon and missile to carry it. But they would be foolish to launch the thing in the direction of Israel or the United States. Both countries have ample nuclear capabilities and would retaliate. If Israel were nuked, then a lot of Palestinians would go with them.

Unless this thing escalates to mass proliferation of nuclear weapons, I think the world will survive! What needs to be avoided is M.A.D., Mutually Assured Destruction, where missiles are aimed at each other's cities as during the cold war. One one hand, we can't really lecture them as we were the one to use atom bombs, on the other hand, we need to remind them constantly about the horrors of nuclear weapons...

Pakistan bans 'Da Vinci Code'

I think this flick is about total nonsense, anyway. Yet, at least here we can make up our own minds. Even people from the Vatican had gone to see it. I guess they are grown up enough to know that the film is fiction. Pakistan is not...