911 Emergency...or Not

So, I already have issues with this wonderful "service" called "9-1-1." See, in theory, it's a great idea. You are having an emergency--fire, heart attack, vandalism, rape, etc--and you dial this number, get a dispatcher, tell them the nature of your emergency and they dispatch the appropriate people.

In actuality, this doesn't seem to happen as frequently as we'd like. You dial 9-1-1 and get a busy signal. Or the phone rings off the hook. Or you're on hold for an eternity. The list can go on and on. But, what's highly unacceptable is this situation.

Since I know you all have a phobia of links, I'll summarize. A college student was being attacked--like stabbed attacked--in her apartment, so she called 9-1-1. The police didn't show up for 48 minutes. Wait, it gets better! The 9-1-1 dispatcher said that he did not hear anything that would indicate an emergency.

Let me rephrase: The EMERGENCY LINE DISPATCHER took an EMERGENCY CALL from someone being STABBED TO DEATH and did not hear anything that would indicate an emergency.

I can see where there may have been some confusion, I suppose. I mean, 21-year olds call 9-1-1 all the time to report being attacked, when in fact, they're just prank calling to waste time.

Forty-eight minutes.

Needless to say, she was dead by the time the police got there and her fiance--who had been at work--had come home to discover her dead on the floor of the apartment. If I were her fiance, I'd be askin' for the name of that dispatcher and suing him til the end of eternity. THAT is worth a lawsuit. Negligible homicide, accessory after the fact, wrongful death... I'm sure there's a bunch of things that could be tacked on to that lovely little suit.

But, let's look at this on the grander scale.

If dispatchers are now able to determine that a person calling in isn't really in danger, despite what they're saying, why should we have a 9-1-1 call center? Seriously! If someone's stabbing me and I'm saying, "Send the freaking police!" I probably don't mean send them in an hour. I probably mean send them five minutes ago. And while I'm lying here being stabbed, go ahead and send an ambulance, too.

Much easier to just dispatch than to not and have your pants sued off--or have people like me sit here and type about how stupid you are. Really. They record those 9-1-1 calls, you know. And, just in case you didn't realize it, SHE WAS SCREAMING. I can't imagine why should would be screaming if she was only being stabbed--I mean, that's not a real emergency, is it? It's not like she was in pain or anything.

Whatever. Do it right or don't do it at all. I can't say anything more on this because I'm starting into broken record syndrome. Don't worry, though, I'm sure I'll have another blast of stupid for you soon.

Teacher, Don't Teach!

Alright. Another loyal friend sent me this article yesterday. Believe it or not, I was a classroom teacher for one whole school year. Yeah, I was ready to kill people by the end, starting with myself. Worst. Experience. Ever.

As a first year teacher, I had the great stress of having a degree for highschool and teaching only sixth graders. I had the other wonderful insight that kids are dumber these days. Oh, and they don't want to work to get the grades they think they deserve. So, to facilitate learning, I would try different, brain-engaging activities, only to be yelled at by Administration that my methods wouldn't possibly work (even though I'd been following the research on brain-based learning). When my students pulled up at grade level and above on their standardized tests, they started to leave me alone.

In summation of that horrid and awful experience, the worst part of classroom teaching was the parents who thought they could do a better job, but didn't want to actually do it themselves.

I think happy bunny has something to say:


Yep. Cram it. I don't go to your place of employment in a tizzy and tell you that you don't know how to do your job because of some event in which a child has told me they were "abused" in class. Since when does a child rule the house? Lemme link the article here.

Okay. We knew this was going to be a potentially bad situation because a) it's kids and b) it's about slavery. So, these two black girls were bound and made to sit under a desk--to DEMONSTRATE how the slaves were brought over to America. Neither of the girls seemed upset by this. Any teacher knows that if a student declines to participate, you move to another volunteer. That's just standard. NEITHER of the girls had any complaints during class.

When the one got home however, she "burst into tears" over the ordeal. That's a long time to wait. Even if history is last period of the day, that's still a long time to hold back a flood of tears--why wouldn't you do it, say, during class or after class...? So, then the mother of this child goes on to say that the child was "so embarrassed" she didn't go to school the next day.

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot?!

That child has way too much power in her house. I couldn't get out of going to school even if I was throwing up! "Don't you feel better? Now get to class!"

The NAACP got involved in this, though, they insist it isn't a race thing. Darn tootin' it is! Slavery only affected those with dark skin. Funny, huh. So, yeah. It is a race thing--otherwise, the ACLU would have been involved instead. "No child, regardless of color, should be bound."

DUH?

I think that was the point of the HISTORY LESSON.

Just because you ignore it doesn't mean it will go away. We've tried that with the Holocaust. But you know what? I think we may actually be successful in erasing slavery from our nation's history. Know why? Because people are friggin' idiots. If we don't teach kids about racism, they'll never have to endure it.

Bull.

If we -don't- teach them about slavery and don't get it through their incredibly thick skulls what it was actually like to live during that time, they won't know or understand why the laws in place are worded the way they are. They won't appreciate the hard-fought battles by men like Frederick Douglass to get blacks the right to vote and the recognition of being humans and citizens of the United States.

What we are teaching these kids, however, is that the government and every white person in the world OWES them. "You're black! Your ancestors were slaves! We owe you for the wrongs our ancestors did!" I think I've commented on this before and said, "Nah. I don't owe you anything."

Here's a good thing to think about: if that teacher had been black and used that same technique, would this student "feel embarrassed" by the demonstration? I don't think so. In fact, this teacher's name was Bernstein. Sounds Jewish to me... whose civil liberties and rights trumps whose?

I think we should do away with the NAACP. Yeah, I do. Because it's not serving the purpose for which it was initially established. I also think we need to get rid of the ACLU for the same reason. Both of these organizations have managed to make most people feel the same way about them as the KKK. Probably because both of those groups have turned into a sort of KKK.

Still, you don't see the Klan rushing into ever incident where a white person is being attacked because they're white (like this one). You don't see the KKK jumping in and saying that a white person's rights have been violated because blah blah blah. Of course, you don't see the NAACP or the ACLU burning effigies on peoples lawns, either, but that isn't the point. Do I think the NAACP and ACLU are good organizations? In concept and theory, but not in practice. Do I think the KKK is a good organization? Obviously not. It was, however, an organization with which to draw a conclusion and parallel.

Don't sue me over it.

Speaking of suing, the parents of the girl who was "embarrassed" by the history demonstration are considering filing a civil suite against the teacher. I think she should counter-sue for damages and added stress to her job. SHE has grounds. They do not. It's not like the student was in Kindergarten. She was in seventh grade. That's Junior High or Middle School or whatever the heck you call it now. Life isn't going to be all rosey and "fair" and ya may as well get used to that idea. Oh, and you can't just sue your way out of everything.

"But they're just children!"

Yes, and when I treat them like children, you yell and complain to me that your child feels babied. Maybe...and this is just a weird idea--MAYBE you should take some freaking responsibility and rear your own child and allow the teacher to teach--which, ya know, is what the degree is in. Teachers are not babysitters. If you don't like how your child is disciplined (or even THAT your child is disciplined) at school, then discipline them at home so they don't have to be disciplined at school. Really, THAT is best for EVERYONE. The teacher--the other students--it's condusive to learning. It takes the stress off the teacher to control your spawn and teach them what they need to know.

Oh, by the way, the two girls that were bound with tape at the wrists and feet were not the only two black students in Mrs. Bernstein's class. Oh, and also the NAACP said they don't think she gets it, since she didn't admit to any wrong doing and only apologized that the child was "embarrassed."

I say: "Good on Mrs. Bernstein. She didn't do anything wrong."

...and people wonder why there's an increase every year in crime...

...and doesn't the NAACP have more important things to do than investigate a history demonstration about slavery?

Okay, I'm done....beating a dead horse at this point...

Shut Up

Hey, don't complain. I started a business and got busy with that...then got sick. Not my fault I haven't updated since before Thanksgiving. Deal with it.

Now, onto wonderful examples of human stupidity and whatnot.

From my current place of residence: Jamiel's Law is in danger of not being added to the ballot in May 2009. Ya gotta love L.A., really. See, we have Special Order 40--which protects illegal immigrants from police so they can report crimes without fear of being deported.

So. Let's see here... For those of you following along at home (or the office)... NOT contacting INS for papers to say you're allowed to be in this country is...dun-du-du-dun! A FELONY! It's a Federal crime for which the penalty is being sent back to your own blinking country.

Jamiel's Law would allow police officers to arrest undocumented gang members before they commit a crime.

Hello?

Knock-knock. Who's there--excuse me, "Who it is?" Please. Por favor who? Please go BACK TO YOUR OWN COUNTRY.

I understand your desire to be in the land of the free and the home of the brave, but ya know what? You're futzing around with it and making it the land of people who can't speak English because they're not here legally and therefore can't go to school to learn it!

I'm all for immigrants. My ancestors were immigrants. Ya know what? They went through the proper channels to become citizens. You're broke and can't afford it? Tough luck! Life sucks, doesn't it? Get a job in your own county and save money. Oh, boohoo, you don't get paid a lot in your country. Guess what? Cost of living SUCKS here. You're in for a real eye-opener.

Back to this article.

So, the police, under Special Order 40, cannot arrest and deport undocumented people ("illegals" for those of you like me who are politically INcorrect) until they commit a crime. Guess what? Here's a news flash: ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION IS A CRIME!

They've already committed a crime, baby. Lock 'em up and send 'em back! I don't care if they came from China. Lock 'em up and send 'em back. Do it the right way. Undocumented lives in the US are breaking Federal Law. Federal Law trumps State & Local in most cases. If these folks have jobs, they have social security cards. Those social security cards are most likely fakes since they're UNDOCUMENTED. Soooo...that means it's a FEDERAL CRIME.

Are we understanding this here?

In California (at least, Los Angeles), there is a law that actually protects felons (welcome to America!) from the penalty that goes along with their crime--so that we can fight crime.

Two wrongs do not make a right. But, I guess if they help ya sleep at night...

Maybe I really -should- run for office. I'd have to run under a platform, though, that isn't Libertarian. I don't know if I could live with my conscience if I ran under Republican or Democrat. Why is it that politicians don't seem to think about the laws they're putting into action? Oh, right...that paycheck.

Take that check and cram it. Have a nice day.

Double Jeopardy?

Legal situations are always touchy. Especially as an outside person looking in. Especially when I am the outside person. Now, this article could just be shoddy journalism (lord knows there's a ton of that on CNN.com), but my mind chooses to give the author the benefit of the doubt (something I know I shouldn't do) and take what's there at face value.

Read this.

Note especially where, when, and for what he was convicted.

Feel free to correct me, if you want. I don't really care. But, to me...it seems this man's had some basic Constitutional rights violated, here. Namely, Double Jeopardy as seen in the following:

No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the Militia, when in actual service in time of War or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offence to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.

The way this particular article reads, it looks like the civilian court and the military court found this guy guilty of the same crimes. I can understand why they'd want to try him twice--he raped and killed a civilian and raped and killed/attempted to kill a couple of Army personnel. According to the article. That's three people. If you re-read the first part of that article, the civilian court convicted him on two counts of murder and five counts of rape (which is impressive for having three known victims). Then the following year, a court martial also found him guilty of two murders, one attempted murder, and three rapes. That equates to the two military personnel and the civilian.

Now, don't get me wrong. Y'all should know by now how I feel about murderers and rapists and the death penalty. But, I'm also a very big supporter of the US Constitution. It's there for a reason. It's there so the government can't tell us to just bend over and take it--even though they try. The government can get away with a lot. Know why? Because they rely on the fact that Americans, as a whole, are uninformed. With the way trends are for the education of the youth of America, I'd say the government is trying to make it so that very few are even literate in this country. That way, when the citizens willingly give up their rights because they don't know any better, the power-hungry Federal Government will just pat them on the heads and send them on their merry little way.

I, for one, don't plan on allowing that to happen. What am I going to do about it? I'll write my congressmen. I'll petition Mr. Obama. I'll even run for office, if I have to. Ooooh...yesh, I said it. I'll run for OFFICE, if I have to. I'll make sure my Libertarian view of government gets broadcasted the world over. So, if you don't like the fact your rights are slowly being stripped from you, do something about it.

READ the Constitution.

KNOW your rights.

WRITE your congressman.

Don't settle for the standard answers. Make them accountable for their decisions. Let them know they can't just make arbitrary decisions that affect your life. Let them know that they can't just overwrite the Constitution. And I'm not talking about minority groups here. I'm talking about US CITIZENS. I'm talking about reading the articles of the Constitution of our country and the Amendments. Know them. Understand them. That way when someone says to you, "Hey, don't you think Schwartzenegger should run for President?" You can say (with confidence, knowledge, and accuracy), "Yes, but sadly, he can't. He doesn't meet the qualifications. Neither does RA, but give her a few years and she'll be a-okay!"

Vote RA/Cthulu in 2012! You'll be glad you did.

CA's Prop 8

I was going to avoid this topic. But, I've decided to just go with it. Especially after my darling SO sent me this little article.

*takes a deep breath*

GET AN EFFING CLUE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thank you.

Now. Let's move on.

For those of you not living in California, Prop 8 directly affects the Supreme Court (CA State) ruling that same-sex marriages should be legal. Now. California already recognizes same-sex partnerships the same way they recognize marriage.

THE SAME WAY.

There's not a difference. If you want to wear rings, wear 'em! A little piece of paper means jack. Trust me, I have one. I still retain my rights as a human and I'm still entitled to whatever state law allows me. JUST LIKE YOU!

Just because I voted for Prop 8 to be passed because I believe that marriage is between a man and a woman doesn't mean I hate you. It does mean that I disagree with your lifestyle, but you know what? Talk to me for five minutes and you'd figure that out. I'm sorta the "love the sinner, hate the sin" kinda person. Ya know, like Jesus.

So, what's really got my dander? The Musical Theatre community. They actually decided to boycott the director because he chose to vote for Prop 8 (or against it...not sure which it's supposed to be, really. Never did get a straight answer). By the way? Prop 8 passed, meaning that same-sex marriages aren't recognized as legal marriages in the state of CA. This upsets people because...they didn't get their way, I guess....see all previous statements of having the same benefits as marriage.

It's getting to the point in this country where "religion, race, gender, or creed" is actually being reversed. You're "intolerant" if you disagree with a "minority." Screw these so-called minority groups. I'm not coddling you. GROW UP! You're just as dumb as the rest of us. I don't care if you're gay. I don't care if you're Muslim. I don't care if you're pink with purple polk-a-dots. You don't get special treatment. You're a dog gone AMERICAN. We have 25 amendments to our Constitution that give you more freedoms and liberties than you can get anywhere else in the world. Just because my ancestors were (mostly) white doesn't mean I owe you anything. My ancestors didn't even live in the United States until well after the Civil War. To boot, they didn't even own slaves. I owe you zipp-o.

Even if they did, there's a law in place that prohibits them from continuing that practice. I owe you nothing--not even an "Oh, I'm sorry that nearly 200 years ago, some distant relative of mine beat the snot out of a distant relative of yours. I can see where this has caused such painful trauma in your life."

If you're gay, great! I owe you nothing. You don't owe me anything for being straight, why do I owe you something for your choices? You're not "born gay." You make that choice. I have plenty of gay friends and I know that somewhere in their lives, they made the choice. I'm not buying your crap of "I was just born this way." Take some dog gone responsibility and stop making -me- have to pay for your crap.

Make your choice then deal with the consequences. Like a HUMAN BEING.

Alcoholism is a choice.
Obesity is a choice. There are very few situations where it is not.
Lesbianism/Gay-ism/bi-sexualism is a choice.

Make your choice and DEAL with it!

I understand, not everyone can be mature and accept responsibility. But, someone's gotta start somewhere. Don't make me link every previous blog entry. (( you can search my site for more... just use the handy search function. It's right there to the right. ))

It's My Blog--I'll Rant About What I Want

So, I've decided. I'm sick of employers lying to me or leading me around by a chain or setting me up in places that I have no business being in.

I've decided that I like me. I've interviewed myself and have found that I am highly appropriate for the job. Therefore, I have hired myself and am no longer "unemployed." The next person that asks me that...I'm going to sock 'em.

I make soaps. And lotions. And aftershaves. And, well, a bunch of stuff. Check it.

Now. Why is this a rant?

Because.

I had a job opportunity that paid really good money come up a few weeks ago. Probably about three or so, now. I turned down a job I -wanted- for this job because it paid what I needed and had the hours I could deal with. I mean, it's not every day you get offered $18/hr simply because you understand the in's and out's of pay-per-click. I did all the agency tests--scored a 98% on grammar and spelling; 75+wpm; 13,000+ kpm; 95% on call-center listening skills; 90% on reading comprehension (which, this one I didn't understand as the questions had little to do with reading comprehension and more to do with abstract application); 89% on Excel; and an 89% on Word--and that's without using my keyboard shortcuts that stay the same throughout all versions of those stupid programs. So, as you can see, my office skills are quite valuable.

Week one: I continued looking for other jobs, just in case something happened. I called in to find if there were any temp positions I could work while I waited for my background check to clear. I was told to keep open for this job and that they should contact me within the week. Reluctantly, I agreed. I started looking for only certain kinds of positions--such as management/assistant management, or corporate development.

Week two: Still hadn't heard anything, so I gave a call. No answer. Left a message. I had also sent an e-mail earlier in that day. Waited through the weekend and the beginning of the following week. Finally, on the last day of week two, called and talked to the girl. "They're not sure if they're going to hire more people, now." She told me.

It took all my energy and intestinal fortitude to not scream into the phone, "WERE YOU GOING TO TELL ME!?!?!!?!?!"

Some "sure thing."

That put me back at square one. Not really interested in doing admin work. I'm a management-level-ready employee. I was a management candidate for a retail chain prior to my moving. In fact, had the retail manager in CA not had his thumb up his rear, I'd probably would have been a retail manager. I was one of the best sales reps in the company. Again with employer lies!

I suppose having managed a classroom of 30 brats doesn't count for "management." Or the fact that the one volunteer position I hold is an Assistant Manager position. Obviously, I've no clue how to tell people what to do.

I was a manager when I worked in Food Service, too...while I was in college. Again, it doesn't seem to make a difference.

So, now I can proudly say, I'm the owner. I'm the manager. I'm the CEO, CFO, President, VP, etc., etc. Next time someone wants to try to pay me for work, they'd better offer me a pretty high salary. My skills are not commensurate with "grunt" work. Sorry, folks. That's just how it is.

I refuse to work at a job that does not require any sort of brain power. I will not be happy. I will not be entertained. I will not continue to show up. Challenge me. That's part of what I like about owning my own business! I get to challenge myself!

...and cuddle my cat...

Freedom of the Press vs. Reality

Many of us wonder how the paparazzi can get away with literally chasing down celebrities and printing half-truths or even 1/4 truths. They, of course, all claim "Freedom of the press." This is under the First Amendment of the Bill of Rights.

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

No where in this does it say "separation of church and state," nor does it say "go ahead and print whatever you want!"

When the Founding Fathers drew up this "living document," they had come from England. Who controlled England? The Catholic Church. Or the Anglican Church, depending. It was against the law (and punishable by death) to worship any other God than the God of the King or Queen. The colonists wanted to escape this crap and establish a country that did not dictate morality to its people.

At that time, if someone spoke out against the Church or against the ruler, they were jailed and often killed. They were forced to print only "good" news about the leaders. Again, the colonists wanted people to feel they could voice their opinions without threat of, ya know, death. They wanted to make this country a "Democracy within a Republic." They wanted to establish guidelines by which everyone could live and exercise their rights.

With the exercising of those rights comes... RESPONSIBILITY. Go figure.

This brilliant newspaper owner demonstrates this point for me. Go ahead and watch the video. I'll wait.

Keep watching.

Should be done now.

Did you notice what I did?

The "protesters" all seemed to be of the same race. The ones who "didn't think it was a big deal" also seemed to be of the same race. These two races have been in conflict in the US for...oh, a few centuries. Yes! You're brilliant. You can see that our newly-elected President is a black man. Congratulations, you can see.

But you so critically fail since it's evident you are not color-blind. If the Constitution is the "living document" you want me to believe it is, then you better start bendin' the other words to fit what's actual, mate. Don't claim one amendment and disregard another one.

No person except a natural born citizen, or a citizen of the United States, at the time of the adoption of this Constitution, shall be eligible to the office of President; neither shall any person be eligible to that office who shall not have attained to the age of thirty five years, and been fourteen Years a resident within the United States.

Did you catch all that? Re-read it if you have to. The rules for a Presidential candidate are they must be 35, lived in the US for 14 years, and be a natural-born citizen.

There's no gender factor.

There's no race factor.

So you know what, folks? Our President is a black man.

GET THE HECK OVER IT!

When we stop seeing our President as a black man and start seeing him as an individual capable of leading our country, then our country will have grown up. I'm so sick of these states who voted for McCain complaining that a black man's in charge. GROW UP! Y'all are driving me crazy with your crap. Skin color does not dictate intelligence. Circumstances do not dictate intelligence. Oh, yeah. You heard me. Just because you grew up in Harlem doesn't mean you get the right to tell me that I'm racist because I tell you you're stupid and can't form a coherent sentence.

Frederick Douglass is one of my favorite historic people. Know why? Because he educated himself and went on to help get that 13th Amendment signed--and the 14th...and the 15th... Frederick Douglass was a great orator. He ranks right up there with William Jennings Bryan. Don't tell me you didn't have a way to get a better paying job and had to steal and join a gang to get by. That's a choice. That's also a cop-out. Even James Earl Jones will tell you that.

Give it up, people. If I have to spend the next four years telling you all that you're racist idiots...so help me, this blog is going to sky-rocket in views.

>_>

<_<

On second thought...carry on. I could use the page hits.

Kicked Off a Bus

My SO sent me a video link for today's blog. Normally, I prefer to read my articles--mostly because I can pick up on falsehoods more easily. Did you catch it in that one? I'll give you a hint.

But, this particular thing...I dunno how I really feel about it, but I know it was, in fact, stupid.

The girl's 9.

Is she really that big of a disciplinary problem that you made her get off the school bus in the middle of absolutely NOWHERE!?! C'mon! What were you thinking? Oh, right. You weren't.

Now, I have an issue with bus drivers, as it is. I had to ride the bus to school every day from the time I was in 6th grade til I was finally able to drive my senior year of high school. It wasn't fun. I had the psycho bus driver who actually made me late to school one day because he was telling me a story.

I really didn't care about his crazy, psycho-ex girlfriend. The man was disgusting enough that I never really imagined him having a crazy, psycho-current girlfriend. I was almost an hour late to school that day. He also decided to drop off a personal package to someone while he was driving us home. We tried very hard to get him fired, but it never worked.

Fastforward to this charming driver. The little girl changed seats without permission. He made her get off the bus. In the middle of nowhere. Along a highway. I know where Route 20 is in Pennsylvania. It's not where you leave a nine year old little girl. Heck, it's not the place you leave a 25 year old woman!

I'm curious if there are going to be child endangerment charges brought against him. "He'll never drive a bus here again!" they say. Okay, so what if he moves to Maryland? Will they know what happened? Probably not. So, if we're willing to charge parents with abuse for spanking their kids, why aren't we charging this deplorable fellow with child endangerment?! She could have, ya know, been abducted...or hit by a car...or shot at...I can name a few hundred things, but the rest of the list isn't quite as pleasant.

Never drive in PA again.

There's 49 other states out there.

Serena, the little girl, is still shaken by this. I would be, too! If I was left stranded along the interstate with no way to call my parents, I'd be terrified! I wouldn't want to get on another bus as long as I lived! Dude, Whiskey Tango Foxtrot!?! Serve this guy, already. He deserves more than a suspension of duties.

Finally Over

So, the political stuff is finally over. Thank God. Sarah Palin can go back to Alaska and be a soccer mom; John McCain can go back to having no idea how much real estate he owns; Joe Biden can chomp on his bull-dog bone; and Barack Obama can start getting used to being hailed, since he's the chief.

It's now time for those who voted for McCain to nit-pick and get all moany about how the country's going someplace hot in a handbasket.

I just ask that you not talk to me about it. Because I don't care.

I stared at the ticket for a good long time. I almost voted for Bob Barr, but I decided that I liked Obama just enough to vote for him. Since I couldn't actually hear Sarah Palin speak to make a decision on whether or not she'd make a suitable VP, I decided to vote for the ticket that had a strong pairing.

In my not so humble opinion, that was Obama-Biden.

"But RA!" I hear you whine. "Obama is pro-choice!"

Indeed he is. No one's perfect. But, ya know what? I actually did a little research on the candidates. I know, I know--a responsible American who thinks for themselves! Yes, I'm real. Now, I did some research and I discovered something interesting. Obama is pro-choice not because he thinks killing babies is the right thing to do. He's pro-choice because...

PEOPLE ARE GOING TO DO IT ANYWAY

If women are going to go out and kill their unborn children, possibly causing damage to themselves, then offer them the opportunity to make an informed decision about it and have it done safely. Obama may be pro-choice, but he's also pro-abstinence. Something that Jamie Lynn should learn about.

Is this our only problem with Obama?

No.

I think our biggest problem with Obama is his skin color. We've come a long way in the past 200+ years, but there's still people out there who don't think a black man should be leading our country. I think there's still a bunch of people out there who don't think a woman should be leading our country, either. In fact, I know there are. Look at how the media--and even the Republicans--treated Palin.

I can't say if the woman is brilliant or not. They would never let her speak. The media would talk over her during broadcasts, the candidates would cut her off, etc. She never really got the chance to shine or crash. And if she did, they were few and far between. I never heard about either. Well, except for that prank phone call. And her dress code.

So.

Which scares you more? A black President, or a female President?

"Yes, we can!" "Change has come to America."

Roll Save vs. Stupid: CRITICAL FAIL

Big thanks to RB for today's rant. I suppose he was tired of my blathering on and on about needing money to go to Tennessee in February. So, he sent me this. Don't worry about the comic part...scroll down.

It would appear that Christian Children's Fund failed their saving throw versus stupid. Gary Gygax, creator of the popular role-playing game, Dungeons & Dragons, actively supported CCF while he was alive. Sadly, Mr. Gygax passed away this past year. He was very vocal about charities and supporting the causes of hunger and homelessness.

Brilliantly, GenCon decided to hold an auction of some memorabilia and donate 100% of the proceeds to Gygax's favorite charity. The total was $17, 398--that's seventeen thousand dollars. That's what average Americans spend on cars. This was to be a gift to the Christian Children's Fund.

They declined to accept the gift.

Christian Children’s Fund made the decision to decline the gift from Gen Con, LLC as the request presented to us gave the appearance that CCF (the organization) was an endorser or supporter of a gaming convention, which CCF was not. As many non-profit organizations, CCF is selective in its endorsements or support in order to maintain the integrity of its name and logo. We cannot lend our name to an event for which we have no involvement. This decision should in no way be interpreted as CCF holding an opinion on Mr. Gygax, gaming enthusiasts or the game Dungeons and Dragons.

WHISKEY TANGO FOXTROT!?!

I want to just say that I agree with the author of this blog, who thinks the wording probably requested a logo from the charity and to be an official sponsor of the auction. I also agree with the author of that blog when he says, "To decline the entire gift is more than a little weird."

Yeah. See, I'm sitting here at 30, remembering back to my Jr. Church days. Dungeons & Dragons was evil and vile! How dare you pretend you're a Paladin out to seek Divine Protection and Intervention to fight off the demons! Because, you know, no Christians would -ever- do that. They would -never- seek Divine protection to fight demons.

Whateve.

I'm a proud Christian and a proud half elven rogue--or gnomish bard. I'll make sure to witness to you and stab you with my SNEAK ATTACK!!!!

So.

Instead of getting upset (like the rest of us did), GenCon decided to find another charity that would appreciate a $17K donation: Fisher House Foundation. Order of the Stick's creator, Rich Burlew, wrote a great news story on this issue. He was a lot more kind than myself and other gamers like me. Kudos to Rich. But, he suggested e-mailing CCF and letting them know how you feel about this situation. The fact that a CHARITY chose to REJECT the generous donations of people because they play Dungeons & Dragons.

Because, that's what it comes down to. The children starving all over the world don't really care from where the money comes that will keep them fed. They don't even know from where it comes! The only people that care is the charity organization.

But, don't despair! There are several other charities that will gladly take your money. Burlew recommends Plan USA, and of course, GenCon chose Fisher House Foundation.

You're a charity. The old adage is very true: Beggars Can't Be Choosers.

Many Thanks

So, thanks to my friends for supporting me. As of 9:45pm, PST, I was gifted all the money I needed (plus a little extra) for registration for Band With A Mission. I'm just waiting to receive confirmation for my date of [b]February 23, 2009[/b].

I'll still be taking donations for air fare to Nashville and the hotel room. Ideally, I'd like to leave in the morning on the 21st and return sometime on the 24th of February. I can get $75 off the hotel room at Hampton Inn and Suits, but that doesn't really tell me what it is per night.

So!

This is not a rant. This is still...a shameless plug.

Shameless Plug

Okay.

I'm doing it.

I'm asking for money.

I was contacted by someone from Band With a Mission to perform in Nashville, TN in February for some music execs. Thing is, it's a total of $226 to register. I currently have $173. You can do the math from there.

I'll be honest. This is one of my dreams. It's -just- in reach, too. I just need to register, then I can worry about tickets and a hotel room and whatnot later. Closer to February. I should have a job by then.

So, this is me, giving a heart-felt begging to you to help support me. If you're curious just what you'd be supporting, there are some links below to some samples. Enjoy.

My True Love, from Phantom
O mio babbino caro, from Gianni Schicci
No One Knows Who I Am, from Jekyll & Hyde
The Lord's Prayer, by Albert Hay Mallot
My Immortal, originally by Evanescence.

If you like any of these, do me two favors: 1) Donate. If you can't donate, then move to number 2. 2) Lemme know which three you think are "best."

Thanks for your support!

GoP LOLZ

So, a friend of mine sent me a link to this lovely post and forum comments. I sort of quirked a brow and snickered at most of the first-page comments. Then I decided to follow links.

Psychotic Friend: I figure there's something in here worth a blog rant.
Rogue Assassin: heh.
Psychotic Friend: I mostly figure you'll tear into the girl who's reporting this for being a lying little $h1t.
Rogue Assassin: Heh... yeah, I could blog about it.

I'm a person of few words when it comes to IM conversations. Deal. Point is, he's right.

Mostly.

I can tear into Miss Todd for being a complete moron (or praise her for being one of the best secret campaigners for Obama), or I can lay into the American populace who will read this story and realize that she's an idiot and for that reason only vote for Obama.

I'm not against Obama.

I'm not against McCain.

What I'm against is the American public thinking (or, more appropriately, not thinking) that the only important issue is...the color of the skin of our leader.

Be honest. With yourself. Heck, I don't expect you to be honest with me. I can't get employers to be honest with me, why would I expect you to be?! Now. Back on topic. Be honest with yourself. The color of our President's skin matters to you. It is a yes or no question. It has no qualifiers. Are you ready to accept and embrace change and allow a black man to lead us? I ask this assuming that my reading population is white. If you're actually black, you don't get to answer this question. I have a different one for you. Drill down into the candidates and look at their stance on the issues and then think about how those issues will affect you. That's how the political system is supposed to work in this country. You get a chance to have your voice heard--and yes, every vote counts. Even if you do a write in for Mickey Mouse, your voice still counts. It's not a "throw-away" vote. It's your right and duty as an American citizen (unless, of course, you've been convicted of a felony...then you don't get the right to vote). Speak up, America! Let your voice be heard!

Now.

The other question for the blacks that read this blog. If you're voting for Obama, why are you voting for him? Because of his skin color? Be honest.

So, let's go back to our original story of this poor McCain Campaign volunteer being mercilessly attacked just out of view of the surveillance cameras at the walk-up ATM. The alleged attacker saw a bumper sticker/campaign button/lights in the sky which enraged him so much that he gently scratched a backwards "B" on her cheek. Everyone says that it looks like what you would do to yourself in the mirror...and smacks of Morton Downey, Jr. (Please, folks. MORTON Downey, Jr. NOT Robert Downey, Jr. Besides there being a pretty significant age difference and status of life, Robert's a better actor and is quite good looking...despite his drug problem. And speaking of drug problems, he's at least acknowledged it's a problem and doesn't try to hide it...like, say, Mary Kate Olson).

Digression. It happens.

So, this girl thinks that she can run a smear campaign on Obama. But, the problem is, it all comes down to race. McCain's even said some things that allude to race. Oh, what. NOW you want a link, eh? Here's the YouTube video that's brought a lot of controversy to his credibility. I know of at least one person, personally, (and a myriad of internet people) who heard the phrase, "Brown Noise." Now, pardon me, but if you're running for an important position such as, say, PRESIDENT, the last thing you want to do is say something that could even hint at racism. Was it "ground noise" or "brown noise"? Either way, that was probably not the best choice of phrases.

From the news I've seen/read/heard/taken in by osmosis, this political event has been less about the issues at hand (abortion, gay marriage, the war in Iraq) and more about gender and skin color. Conservative Republicans seem to think that Obama lacks the ability to lead this Nation--mostly because he's black. In their minds, they see America turning into a ghetto with "bling bling" everywhere.

Here's a newsflash: IT ALREADY IS. Sadly, the education system in this country has reduced what would be well-educated people into blithering idiots. You know why there's no appreciation for the likes of Poe and Lovecraft? Because no one can understand what the heck they're saying. Imagery is lost on the current crop of Americans--and it's only going to get worse as teachers are disempowered. Texas just laid off a bunch of teachers. Let's make America an even DUMBER place and wonder why crime goes up.

Vote for whomever you want to vote for in November.

Just. Know the issues.

Obama-Biden

McCain-Palin

And some others...

Bob Barr - Libertarian Party
Mike Gravel - Libertarian Party
Chuck Baldwin - Constitution Party
Ralph Nader - Independent Party
Cynthia McKinney - Green Party

Don't see your party? OnTheIssues.org Go forth and be informed.

Oh, No! The VP is Dressing Professionally!

Since I've been pretty hard-core job searching, I have done a good amount of research on just what it means to "dress professionally." The particular link there is to a consulting firm. If you really read that dress code, you will either feel eternally grateful that you are not subject to such policies, or you will think (as I did), "Dang! That's an awesome policy."

So, why should we hold our Nation's leaders and potential leaders to anything less than a database consulting firm?

My point is in this article. Because we have nothing better to do with our time than harass McCain and Palin about things that don't actually pertain to politics, we have to pick on them about housing and clothing.

See, Mrs. Palin said that she was a "regular hockey mom." The Republican party funded a shopping spree at Sacks Fifth Avenue, among other top of the line expensive places. Why? Because she's a hockey mom.

You can't be respected if your clothes don't match your position. What may be good for a governor of a state is not good for the potential second in command of the Nation. You dress for your position--or the position you want. Sarah Palin wants the position of Vice President. That's how she's dressing.

"But, spending that kind of money with our economy?!"

Yeah.

Because you know what? I'm gonna share a little story with you.

In 1929, the stock market crashed. Big time. It plunged the country into the Great Depression. During that time, people couldn't find jobs fast enough, inflation went through the roof, and just trying to get by gave way to interesting foods (like scrapple). During all this, one man made millions--and one community thrived because of it.

The best way to help the economy, he thought, was to give people jobs so they can return the money to the economy. And that's what he did. Milton S. Hershey commissioned the building of the Hotel Hershey, the Community Center, Senior Hall of the Milton S. Hershey School, the Hersheypark Stadium, the Hersheypark Arena, and a windowless, air conditioned office building for the factory.

The economy in Derry Church, PA didn't know there was a "Great Depression."

So, why is it that we should be upset about the Republican party--yay, even Sarah Palin--spending money during the down time for the economy? She's putting money BACK into the pockets of those working. That's how economy works. You pay for goods and services. Those business make money which they use to pay their employees. Those employees are then able to use that money to spend and it's a great cycle.

Besides, would you vote for McCain/Palin if he wore an Armani suit and she wore something from Target? Probably not. The fact of the matter is, a well-tailored suit not only looks impressive, it's also very empowering. It commands respect. Unless of course, you're me.

Apparently, my little cheap-o suit from the Goodwill just doesn't cut it for commanding respect. If I were running for VP or President, you better believe I'd have my butt in a top-of-the-line charcoal or navy suit from Sacks or Macy's. Heck, I'd go to Italy and have them tailor made to my particular, odd proportions.

So, how about we focus on the issues, mkay?

Mkay.

See... I wanna know what the stance is on the death penalty. And abortion. And God in public. And my right to not have to prove that I'm not a terrorist when I fly. The list can go on and on. When are our boys and girls coming home from Iraq where we should have never been in the first place? When are we going to nuke the crap out of bin Laden?

That's what makes the Presidential and Vice Presidential candidates. Their stance on the issues. Not the price tag on the clothing or how many houses they happen to own. Let's focus on what really matters.

No Scrubs!

Okay.

My secret's up. Most of you know it anyway. I'm a girl. That's right, the attitude and opinions expressed within this blog are (mostly) those of a 30 year old girl. Why am I coming out about this now?

Because.

Boys? We need to talk.

Just because you think I'm hot doesn't mean I care. What I mean is, when I'm walking and I'm dressed in heels and a skirt-suit, don't honk at me. Don't whistle at me. Don't hang out of the passenger's side window and holler at me.

I swear, I lost count of how many guys honked, cat-called, slowed down, and hollered to me while I walked a mile or so in heels and a skirt-suit. I was on my way to an interview for a position I wasn't sure I even wanted (not that I have any better idea as to what that position is now that I'm home from said interview).

So, for those of you who have no idea what I look like. I'm a red head. I'm 5'5" short and about 145lbs. Most of my friends are really nice and say "You don't look that heavy!" Stop the flattery. Yes I do. I'm just happy to be back in size 10's, thank you very much.

I have boobs. Apparently, this is what the guys think sets me apart from other women. I would think that my hair would do it, but no. It's my boobs. Or my butt. I didn't think this particular suit was all that flattering, but I guess from a passing car or a cherry picker, I look pretty hot.

Which is good. Because I was ROASTING! This is Southern California. It is a desert. I think I was starting to limp by the point everyone started making the cat calls and honking because my beautiful silver heels were digging into my feet. I have blisters. I have a gash on the back of my ankle--all this so I could dress professionally for an interview at a company that doesn't seem to know the meaning of "dress professionally."

They also, apparently, don't know how to answer my question of "what exactly will I be doing and what, exactly, is the position?" There are only so many ways to ask this question. I've tried several. I've gotten the same, vague answer.

...and yet!

They want me back tomorrow for a follow up interview.

Back on topic.

Scrubs.

Okay, okay, not that kind. But, still. I'm not sure which has been worse for me. Wearing a skirt suit with nylons and heels--and, let me be very clear here. The particular suit in question today had a light blue skirt that was one inch above my knees. The top was a short sleeved button-down shirt-jacket that was white and light blue plaid. My nylons are always "nude" since I don't tan (see the reference: RED HEAD), and my shoes were silver, pointy-toed heels. My hair was down and that was that. It was a very professional look. If I could have worn "something casual, but nice," I probably would have worn one of my denim mini skirts, nylons, boots and a clingy top. And I probably wouldn't have gotten cat calls in that.

Maybe it was just the section of town...

I dunno. I just know that I stepped off the bus and felt like I was somewhere beyond Thunderdome. I was in a residential area and felt like there were things hiding in the shrubbery, waiting to jump out and attack me. Of course, I have heels. And kick really hard. And, I'm a singer--classically trained. Which, if you can't figure that out, I have a large lung capacity and a very high voice. You attack me, I'll break your eardrums. And your gonads.

So, me. Walking. In a bad neighborhood. Getting catcalls every three minutes. I should be flattered. Maybe the first three times. After that, I was at the point that I wanted to implement the "3-honks a month" rule--you get to use your horn three times in the month. If you waste it, your fault. I also made up my mind that the next person to whistle or holler at me was getting flipped off.

Update

No rant today.

You may have noticed a lack of rant from yesterday, as well.

It's not that there isn't anything going on in the news... I'm just busy. I've got job interviews lined up for Friday, Monday, and Tuesday. Hopefully, one of those is worth while.

While I'm on the topic of jobs...

PUBLIC RELATIONS IS NOT DIRECT SALES!

CUSTOMER SERVICE IS NOT DIRECT SALES!

MARKETING IS NOT DIRECT SALES!

Know what direct sales is? SALES!

And don't lump those all together, mkay? I'm sorry, any job that says it's "Public Relations/Sales/Marketing/Customer Service" is most likely direct sales. What's worse than hearing this now is finding out after wasting 2 hours for an interview that lasts 7 minutes because YOU DON'T DO DIRECT SALES.

I should put that on my resume. NO DIRECT SALES.

If I have to call someone to set up an appointment to go to someone's house to sell them something, I'm not interested. If someone ELSE is setting the appointment FOR me...that's a different story. I'll make your company money. I know that I can sell ice water to a penguin. I've done it.

I hate calling people.

I don't talk on the phone to my friends. Why would I talk on the phone to strangers? Oh, sure, there's a couple of you reading that I call on occasion. How long do we talk, though, really? I mean, before I start repeating myself? Seriously. How long do we talk, though? I repeat myself a lot. See what I mean?

If ya need a job, check craigslist, Monster, or Careerbuilder. Probably that order.

...and a big THANK YOU to my one loyal reader for his generous donation. It will hopefully get me my bartender's certification. Then I'll really have stuff to rant about!

Too Fat to Execute!

Momma, just killed a man. Put a gun against his head; pulled my trigger, now he's dead...Momma! Ooooh oooh ooooh ooooh! I don't wanna die!

Famous song. You know it. Especially if you've seen Wayne's World. It's Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen. It's rather fitting for this very short news article that made me say, "Bwuh?! I don't THINK so!"

Since I know you're not clicking the links, anyway, I'll just copy/paste the article here for your enjoyment. I did say it was short. Long enough for me to make an opinion. Of course, there's not much out there "too short" for an Assassination.

Supreme Court rejects inmate's too-fat-to-execute appeal
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) -- The U.S. Supreme Court has rejected an appeal from an Ohio prisoner who argued he is too obese to be executed. Richard Cooey is scheduled to be put to death Tuesday.

The court denied his request for a stay without comment Monday. Cooey is 5-foot-7 and weighs 267 pounds.

State officials said prison staff examined Cooey's veins and found no problems that would interfere with the execution.

Cooey has one more appeal pending before the court. It argues Ohio's method for lethal injections could cause an agonizing death and violates the constitutional prohibition on cruel and unusual punishment.

Cooey, 41, raped and killed two college students in 1986.

That's right, you read this correctly (and if you follow the link, you get to see a creepy looking guy). He's "too fat" to execute because it will be "cruel and unusual punishment!"

He raped not one, but TWO women AND killed them. Notch his penis twice and let the victims' families make a wish. Not sure what I mean, here. Read this article.

I'm sure it's the prison's fault he's fat, too. I mean, they make him eat 3-times a day and offer exercise routines for all the inmates. I'm sure he could turn around and sue the BoP for not stopping him from over-eating or sneaking food into his cell or not showing up for the exercise classes. People are sue-happy here in America. Because, as I've stated numerous times, we have no responsibility.

He has one appeal left before his execution.

Why?

Why is he appealing this with stupid reasons? Whether you're for or against the death penalty, I really don't care. I'm very for it. It eliminates prison-overcrowding and keeps repeat offenders, such as murderers and rapists, off the streets. If you're convicted, take it like a man (or woman), and own up to your wrong-doings and take the punishment. Quite whining and complaining about how your circumstances set you apart from any other person who's done something as stupid or worse than you. You are unique, just like everyone else. And no one else cares about their personal problems.

You raped and killed two women.

You should not live. THEY didn't get the option to say they were "too fat." And if they did, you didn't listen. Why should I?

Unsympathetic? You betchya!

I'm just a poor boy, no body loves me! (He's just a poor boy from a poor family! Spare him his life from this monstrosity!) Easy come, easy go, will you let me go?

Yes.

We'll let you go.

Straight to the Lethal Injection Table.

Child Pr0n...by Children

Okie dokie. Double-shot today. Too much stupid in the world for me to go without yet another classic rant.

Not class-y. That would imply I had tact. I think you all know by now that I do not.

WHISKEY TANGO FOXTROT, CHARLIE?!

This gem of an article was supplied to me by a friend who, I swear, just wants to see me have a conniption. I don't even think he reads my blog. He just sends me random articles that make my head spin.

So. Let's detail this article for those of you to lazy to right-click "open new tab/window."

A 15-year old girl from Licking Valley (I'm not lying..but, you haven't read the original article, so you don't know...ha! You just have to TRUST ME!) has been held in a juvenile detention center and placed under house arrest for allegedly (because she hasn't been convicted yet) taking nude photographs of herself with her cell phone, then sending them to her friends.

Yes.

Arrested.

This is the clincher: The judge is trying to decide if she should have to register as a sex-offender for the next 20 years.

Again. WHISKEY TANGO FOXTROT!?!

First. She's fifteen. FIFTEEN. FIF-FREAKIN'-TEEN! Why does she even need a camera phone?!

Second. She's fifteen. When have you known a fifteen year old to be perfect? Stupid? Yes. Sex offender?! HARDLY.

America really needs to visit its proctologist to have that large stick removed from its rear--oh, wait...it's not a stick. It's the HEAD. Good grief, people!

Oh, and on top of all this... the kids she SENT the pictures to are being considered for trial for possession of child pornography.

I really cannot say how sad this makes me... Not that I feel sorry for these kids for doing stupid, kid things. I say suspend them from school--make 'em work as a caregiver for babies of unwed mothers or something. Community service to make 'em realize that it's not the brightest thing in the world. But, making them register as SEX OFFENDERS!?! I don't think so.

Sending nudie pics of yourself to your peers is one thing. Gettin' it on with a 10 year old when you're 19 or older is another thing all together. I think people need to take a step back. Yes, the girl was warned it was stupid, but you know what? It's her choice to do something stupid. Locking kids in a bubble isn't the answer. Perhaps kicking God out of the public schools wasn't such a bright idea, either. At least when He was still allowed to attend, there was a sense of morals...and kids weren't bringing guns to school...or backtalking their teachers... or... or...

Honestly, I'm surprised they haven't tried to arrest the girl's parents for something like pimping their child or mentally abusing her to the point of making her think that was a good idea, or some other tripe that people try to charge adults with because no one seems to think that kids can be responsible for their own actions. Kinda like this guy. Read the article and see if you catch what I mean about his charges. Don't get me wrong, that guy should be locked away...but, do it for the right reasons. Don't make it an OJ thing.

It really tweaks my gut when I hear about kids--TEENS--who have the ability to think and be rational--be charged with heinous crimes that label them "sex offenders" because some adult somewhere thinks they're the righteous ones. Example: A 16 year old and her 18 year old boyfriend consummated their relationship. The parents were upset by this and brought charges against the 18 year and now, that 18 year old has to register as a sex offender because his girlfriend was "a minor."

GET A FREAKING CLUE, PEOPLE!

Self-righteousness has no place in our courts. Especially when the lives of soon-to-be adults are involved. In 3 years, if she'd have sent nuddie pics to her college friends, no one would even bat an eye. Age is relative. Common sense isn't.

Music and More...at Low Volume

So, apparently... Yahoo! News (if you can believe anything from Yahoo!) delivered us a story of a guy who was fined $150 for playing -rap- music too loudly.

Truly. Very few people like rap music.

It's annoying.

But, you know what? If he's not breaking a noise ordinance (which, I can't imagine he was since it was his car stereo), you don't really have the right to fine him.

Le gasp!

Ya see... there's this document that you may have heard of (and if you haven't, why are you just now starting to read this blog?!) called the U.S. Constitution. And attached to this "Constitution" is another document called "The Bill of Rights." If you're born in America or have become a naturalized citizen or were born abroad to American parents, you're covered by these "mythical" documents.

Your choice of music falls under the category of "free speech," also loosely called "freedom of expression." I don't particularly care for rap music. In fact, I prefer steampunk or power metal. Maybe some industrial or gothic metal. The list goes on, really. But, I think the only "rap" I like is old MC Hammer and very little Eminem. Obviously, I don't like them enough to give them links. It's not my thing, really. I'm a classically trained vocalist. Why do I want to listen to rap? Most of them don't enunciate and half of what they say isn't even actual words...it's slang. "Bling bling"? Sorry. "Lavish." Yes, use intelligent sentences and words with me, please. I will count you among the unemployable otherwise.

Back on topic.

This kid (college student...roughly 18-21) was given the opportunity to reduce the fine to $35 if he spent 20 hours listening to classical music--like Bach, Beethoven, and Mozart.

Now, I adore Beethoven. I love Rachmaniov...Rimsky-Korsikoff, and Tchaicovsky. Through in some Stravinsky, and I'm a very happy Rogue Assassin. But even I--a classically trained musician--could not listen to TWENTY HOURS of classical music.

Excuse me? I need a beat, please.

I don't particularly care for mariachi bands. Especially when they play at 9am in my driveway at my apartment complex. Yes, this has happened. I wanted to see if that trumpet player could play the trumpet after it was shoved up his rear...probably. There's plenty of refried beans to be had. Anyway. Even though they're annoying and they play the same three chords over and over and over and over again... and they're LOUD... fining the people that hired them probably isn't the best thing in the world.

I bet that kid doesn't turn down his music. I bet ya it makes him turn it up louder. It would me. Not because I have an infite amount of cash (I'm a writer. How much do you think I get paid for this? Don't make me have to put in a

button to donate to my paypal account). It's because I, by my very nature, am defiant.

I know.

I can hear you gasping from shock.

The New Symbol of America

...from an e-mail from my SO....

Official Announcement: In Light of the 'Bailout'

The Federal government announced today that it is changing its symbol from an Eagle to a Condom because it more accurately reflects the government's political stance. See, a condom allows for inflation, halts production, destroys the next generation, protects a bunch of pricks, and gives you a sense of security while you're actually being screwed.




Yes, I know this thing has been floating about for awhile and from several different countries. At least it's while Bush is in office and not Clinton. I'm sure there's a sexual reference you can make there. I don't have to do it for you. Just remember this link...

My job here is done.

Nebraska's a Safe Haven

Many states have a "safe haven" law. It's a good thing. It allows for a mother to drop off her newly born baby, no questions asked. It's better than aborting it, in my opinion. There are a lot of women out there who want to have kids and can't. The children can be adopted, at the very least. It also prevents gems of people from doing stupid stuff.

Nebraska's safe haven law, however, needs a bit of tweaking.

In the other states, the cut-off line for abandoning a child at a safe haven is about a week after birth. In Nebraska, you have up til the child is 19.

That's right. NINETEEN!

There are some people who spout off how this is a good thing. It prevents abuse!

Whatever. You really think that someone who is or is planning on abusing their child is going to drop them off at a safe haven? Nooooooooo. They don't do that. That's like, work! And thought! And...*gasp* RESPONSIBLE!

This is America. We don't have responsibility here.

See, people like to think that spanking a child is child abuse. I'm here to tell you. IT AIN'T!

That's why God gave us butts. To apply the Board of Education to the Seat of Knowledge. If spankings squelch personality, my parents squelched mine all over the house.

...and look how NORMAL I turned out!

Besides, what's one man's child abuse is another man's fetish, right? Yeah, I know. You don't want to think about that one...but deep down, you know I'm right.

So, what's the point I'm making? I haven't yet! Do continue to read.

See, in Nebraska, there have been seventeen children abandoned at these "safe havens." Of those seventeen, four are under the age of ten. Of those 17, nine of them belonged to one man and ranged in ages from 1 to 17. Of those 17, one of them... was from another state.

That's right.

If you have a teenager you "just can't deal with" anymore, you can send them to Nebraska--"no questions asked!"

Which is psychologically more damaging? Filing a police report as a minor victim of child abuse or knowing that you parental units abandoned you? Here's the clincher, folks: FOR NO REASON.

There was no evidence of ANY kind of trauma to these kids. The parents simply decided they no longer wanted their responsibility because they couldn't keep their flies closed and their legs together. At seventeen, you're life is suddenly uprooted because your father decided he can't deal with nine of you anymore.

Awww.... my heart bleed's for you....

I don't have kids. Know why?

Because I'm not that responsible. I know this. I like my freedom. I'm selfish, I'm lazy, and I don't need a mini me running around screaming. I have a cat. That's enough. I don't even have parental instincts. I've known this about myself for quite some time. I'd say at least 15 years. "But, Rogue Assassin! You're not that old!" I'm 30. I've known since I was fifteen that I was not cut out to be a parent. I made a decision then and I have stuck to it.

THAT is RESPONSIBLE.

You don't go out and make nine babies and then just decide it's too much for you to handle. Tough luck! You rear them anyway. Your fault for spawning. Why is it that people like me who have no desire for children whatsoever seem to give a flying futa-load more about YOUR kids than you do?!

I've determined the answer to my question is... We've not been lobotomized.

Clearly, you're missing half your brain. And if you aren't, it would fetch a wonderful price. I'm sure there's many scholars out there who could use an fresh, new, UNUSED brain.

I'm all for stopping domestic violence and child abuse. I have issues with the women who feel "they deserve it." With that kind of attitude, it makes me want to slap you, too! But, for those who actually want out of abusive relationships, I'm all for it. I'm all for slugging the weak men who hit women and children--slugging them in the gonads! I'm sure I don't need to reiterate how to deal with rapists and molesters? Yes...I linked the same article TWICE.

Think you're getting a clue...?

What We Need More Of Is....

Science!

Apparently.

Because, ya know, it took SCIENTISTS to tell us that the American Government could be infringing on our rights as American citizens.

HELLO!?!

They could have saved themselves a lot of money and just read my blog. I mean, yes, I've been lax in updating this little diamond mine on a daily basis, but... I just gave you seven links to articles on the government, the TSA, and/or the violation of rights.

It seems I pay more attention to America and the rights and freedoms granted to me by the Constitution (you know, that document that's twisted for the purposes of the lawmakers?) because I was born here than the politicians do. I shouldn't really have a heart attack and die of NOT SUPRISED, but...I am...

Suprised, that is.

So... the scientists are saying that profiling people at the air port based on their behaviour could prove inaccurate. Um... DUH!? How many people are chipper when they're flying? I mean in post-9/11 times? You have to get up at the BUTT-CRACK of dawn for a 4pm flight so that you are at least three hours early for your flight so you can spend two of those hours in line for someone to illegally search you.

There is no warrant.

There is no probable cause.

The airlines don't have a choice in this matter.

And... if you happen to know someone who uses three buckets of phlegm to say his name, you're most likely on the no-fly list. Or if you've ever complained in public about the TSA. Or mentioned that they're morons. Or refused to follow their procedures because their existence violates your rights as an American citizen.

There's only so many times I can beat this dead horse.

Seriously...

I'm done.

Making Up

Yeah, yeah, I know... I haven't posted since Saturday.

Sue me.

I've been in pretty intense pain most of this week. Get over it. I have a life outside of ranting about politics and stupid people, ya know. Not much of one, but when I am in pain, I'm not going to try to form coherent sentences and complain about the stupidity of those humans surrounding me.

Especially when I'm on pain killers. I'd read back over the blog and be thinking, "Oh Muh Guh, Whu Tuh Fuh?!" And, really, I'd rather not.

I do that as it is.

So!

VP Debates! Tonight! My prediction: Biden is going to absolutely trounce Palin. He'll be polite for the first, mm, 30 minutes. After that, she'll realize really quickly that her pretty face isn't going to get her very far.

Sure, the focus is on the economy. If you've been living under a rock for the past, oh, few weeks, it's a mess. The Dow-Jones is dropping faster than Bill Clinton's pants and coming up more frequently than...well, you can make your own analogy there. But, if the debates shift away from the concern that is actually more of the current President's problem to the issues on the table (such as putting an end to the useless war), Palin's going to fail.

Hard.

Biden's a bulldog chomping at the bit. He's cute in that really fugly kinda way. Palin's the prim and proper poodle. Bulldogs eat poodles for lunch. Biden's going to rip her apart, in my not so humble opinion. One of my friends and I were discussing the campaigns earlier...

Well, not so much the campaigns as predicting the future. We like to think of ourselves as sort of prophets. I suppose he's the Beast and I could be the False Prophet. Now, if I can just find the Anti-Christ, we can bring on the Apocalypse and be done with the whole thing before November 2!

Anyway.

His prediction was that neither McCain nor Obama would survive their first term. When I asked what he meant, he simply reminded me that McCain is, well, old. If he were a lizard, he'd be a wallet...and a belt...a purse, a couple pairs of shoes... Good points all.

And Obama?

He said Eddie Murphy could explain that one. Or was that Richard Pryor?

RIP: Paul Newman

Jan 26, 1925-Sep 26, 2008

Common Sense for $1000, Alex

Cell phones.

They're a great tool to use to call people and chat and stay in contact with people 24/7. Of course, if you haven't contracted brain cancer from all the radiation caused by these cell phones, caused yourself sterility, blown up your car while pumping gas and talking on your cell phone, then you probably have a brain cell or two left in your head that are, hopefully, still functioning.

So...

With said functioning brain cell, I would expect the common sense to not do something, like, say... texting while driving your car. Call me crazy. Call me naive. Just don't call me the Text Driver.

Come ON, people! Why do we have to make a law to OUTLAW this?! Common sense should tell you -not- to text someone while you're driving your freaking car. Is it really that important to text someone while you're on the road? No. What did you do in the days before cell phones and text messaging? You waited until you arrived at your destination and you called the person from a land line.

Or you waited until you saw them in person.

With today's tech-savvy world, we've seem to have lost the ability to, I dunno, THINK. We allow these devices--everything from cell phones to PSP's to whatever else--control what we think, do, and experience. If it's not a movie or music, it's a video game or a computer. If you want a cross-section of how unintelligent our society has become, you simply have to go to Yahoo! Answers or YouTube and read the comments.

Apparently, society has become stupid enough to necessitate a law dictating our own safety.

And it's not for the safety of the drivers who are stupidly texting. It's for the safety of the drivers who have to be even more alert for the idiots.

Do us all a favor and just DRIVE. Better yet... take a bus.

Joining the Military

So.

You've graduated high school and you want to do your duty and serve your county, so you sign up to join the military. Depending on your branch of choice, your basic training can be anywhere from six weeks to twelve weeks then you get to go into your happy position as mook.

Guess what?

If you've been hiding under a rock for the past 7 years, we're involved in a war. Excuse me, two wars...though, no one talks about the one we should be fighting. If you do not wish to have your butt be a target for some crazed person holding a grenade launcher...

DON'T JOIN THE MILITARY.

Conscientious objector my left eye! There was a time when that phrase was useful--and those people weren't in the military. Because the military is about FIGHTING WARS.

You don't have to agree with the orders given by your superiors...sadly, you have to follow them. Unless they violate some ethical code (as in, "You must [insert sex act here] if you want to be promoted"] or something extreme like that, you don't really get a choice.

Defecting to another country will not save you. Especially if you're defecting to CANADA. Of course, in this case, Canada played right into this guy's hands. "He would suffer irreparable harm..." Yes. He'd be hazed. Possibly even have the crap kicked out of him by his unit. Or even shot.

Definitely court-martialed. A dishonorable discharge is really not worth the trouble. It looks terrible on a resume. I doubt anyone's going to ask about your "conscientious objection" to a war that most people agree is stupid, but it's what the US wants. Your objection could have cost your unit their lives.

Be happy they aren't trying you for murder.

Be happy you're not so important in this world to make a huge difference to the success of your mission. You must have been dropped on your head when you were a kid. Seriously, mate. If you're going to join the military, do yourself and your country a favor and just don't sign up if you don't want to get shot at.

Now.

As for Canada's stay on this matter.

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot?!

Send his butt back to America--or, you know what? No. Keep him. We don't want him back. We'll revoke his citizenship and his rights and you can have him. Let him join the RCMP and conscientiously object to some of the things they do. See how long it lasts. And when he defects back into America, we'll kick him right back to you.

Or, hold on to him and say, "No, no...we can't send him back. His psyche may be damaged by the consequences of his stupidity."

Gimme a break. Send him to Iraq. Without a weapon. Let him conscientiously object over there. We have more important things to do... like rip apart Sara Palin and laugh at Ralph Nader.