CLEVELAND (TDB) -- Jim Brown is in the middle of a scrum in New York, where a city councilman says the retired Cleveland Browns great's new snack food company OG Nation stands for "original gangster." The company markets beer and says in ad copy "Lagers have been around for 2,000 years dating back to the days of the original gangster Egyptians." The gist: Brown is trying to make cash off the thug culture.
Gothamist has the latest from New York. It notes the Arizona-based company headed by the Cleveland Browns legendary No. 32 is reportedly getting ready to market a "Thug Chips" line of pretzels, pork rinds, dips and potato chips.
Brown's company called the attacks worse than a cheap shot.
"This is the most insidious kind of racism, because it masquerades as piety, when it's really just political grandstanding. Jim Brown has worked tirelessly for decades to give a voice to the disenfranchised, dispossessed and marginalized members of our society. This is Amer-I-Can Foundation, Jim Brown has crusaded tirelessly against gang involvement, preaching self-empowerment through education. These people who are accusing him of 'marketing the gang lifestyle' demonstrate their complete ignorance of the cause he has been championing for so long. What have they been doing to foster greater equality of opportunity in our society?"
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Too Hot For NYT And Wash Post? Here's The Rejected Cheney Impeachment Op-Ed
CINCINNATI (TDB) -- Three House Democrats serving on the Judiciary Committee prepared this Op-Ed piece that calls for hearings on the the impeachment of Vice President Dick Cheney. Newspapers refused to print it. Co-author U.S. Rep. Robert Wexler, FL-19, now has it posted on his official House Web site. His writing partners are Reps. Louis Gutierrez of Illinois, and Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin.
Wexler agrees with the impeachment measure's prime sponsor, Cleveland U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich, that Congress has an institutional obligation to study allegations that Cheney steered the U.S. into the Iraq War, harmed national security and violated civil liberties. The impeachment resolution has been languishing in the House Judiciary Committee since early November.
The Op-Ed is seven paragraphs long and hardly seems inflammatory. Its last paragraph says Cheney's critics should be given a chance to make their case:
"Holding hearings would put the evidence on the table, and the evidence -- not politics -- should determine the outcome. Even if the hearings do not lead to removal from office, putting these grievous abuses on the record is important for the sake of history. For an administration that has consistently skirted the Constitution and asserted that it is above the law, it is imperative for Congress to make clear that we do not accept this dangerous precedent. Our Founding Fathers provided Congress the power of impeachment for just this reason, and we must now at least considering using it."
Here is the complete text of the Kucinich resolution on impeaching Cheney. Booman Tribune has more about the Op-Ed and the paper's that wouldn't print it.
Wexler agrees with the impeachment measure's prime sponsor, Cleveland U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich, that Congress has an institutional obligation to study allegations that Cheney steered the U.S. into the Iraq War, harmed national security and violated civil liberties. The impeachment resolution has been languishing in the House Judiciary Committee since early November.
The Op-Ed is seven paragraphs long and hardly seems inflammatory. Its last paragraph says Cheney's critics should be given a chance to make their case:
"Holding hearings would put the evidence on the table, and the evidence -- not politics -- should determine the outcome. Even if the hearings do not lead to removal from office, putting these grievous abuses on the record is important for the sake of history. For an administration that has consistently skirted the Constitution and asserted that it is above the law, it is imperative for Congress to make clear that we do not accept this dangerous precedent. Our Founding Fathers provided Congress the power of impeachment for just this reason, and we must now at least considering using it."
Here is the complete text of the Kucinich resolution on impeaching Cheney. Booman Tribune has more about the Op-Ed and the paper's that wouldn't print it.
Cincinnati Store Has A 'Festivus' Sale: Just 8 More Shopping Days To Go
CINCINNATI (TDB) -- Premier Pianos has an ad in today's Cincinnati Enquirer (page A-9) for a "Festivus Piano Sale!" with all in-stock instruments marked down for "this very special event!" This could be a sign that Festivus -- which was born on Dec. 18, 1997 in an episode of Jerry Seinfeld's TV sitcom -- is becoming commercialized. Or maybe not. It might be a typo in the newspaper because Premier Piano's Web site at the moment is calling it a "Festival" sale. Or maybe the Web site is wrong -- a spellcheck device could have mistakenly corrected Festivus to Festival.[UPDATE: 12:29 pm -- The Festivus sale ad is on page 5A of today's Cincinnati Post, which indicates it probably is the real thing.]
Festivus takes place Dec. 23, and anything you want to know about it is in this 3-minute video clip. Festivus is celebrated with lusterless aluminum poles in place of trees. Presents should be items you don't want and neither does the person who receives the gift -- chap sticks forgotten in pockets from last winter are said to make wonderful Festivus presents. Wagner Cos. in Milwaukee is selling Festivus poles. And the photo of the world's first Festivus pole lot is courtesy of its online portal.
An Atheist Group Is Angry At Ohio Gov. Strickland: Can You Pass Its Bible Quiz?
COLUMBUS (TDB) -- Wisconsin's Freedom From Religion Foundation is peeved at Gov. Ted Strickland for issuing an order that allows Nativity displays in Ohio's state parks. The Madison-based organization is comprised of atheists and agnostics who insist the Constitution demands a high wall separating church and state. The group also contends there is quite a bit of scientific bunk, sexism and violence endorsed by the Christian Bible, and considers God a "troublemaker." It offers this 50-question Bible quiz whose purpose seems to be to put the Good Book in about as bad a light as possible.
The answers are available here. A passing score is 20-29; the average is 15 correct. Here's sample question, along with the answer, from the quiz that seems timely for the group's Yuletide clash with Ohio's governor, who happens to be an ordained Methodist preacher.
"What Christmas tradition is expressly forbidden in the Bible? a. Singing carols house-to-house. b. Exchanging gifts. c. Christmas trees. d. Kissing under the mistletoe.
Answer: C. Many other Christmas traditions have their roots in pagan practices, such as the holy wreath, a fertility symbol. Even the date of Christmas, near the winter solstice, is linked to sun worship. Modern Christians have stolen Christians from the pagans. 'Thus saith the Lord. Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them. For the customs of the people are vain; for one cutteth a tree out of the forest; the work of the hands of the workman with the axe. They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with hammers, that it move not . . . They are altogether brutish and foolish.' (Jeremiah 10:2-8)"
The answers are available here. A passing score is 20-29; the average is 15 correct. Here's sample question, along with the answer, from the quiz that seems timely for the group's Yuletide clash with Ohio's governor, who happens to be an ordained Methodist preacher.
"What Christmas tradition is expressly forbidden in the Bible? a. Singing carols house-to-house. b. Exchanging gifts. c. Christmas trees. d. Kissing under the mistletoe.
Answer: C. Many other Christmas traditions have their roots in pagan practices, such as the holy wreath, a fertility symbol. Even the date of Christmas, near the winter solstice, is linked to sun worship. Modern Christians have stolen Christians from the pagans. 'Thus saith the Lord. Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them. For the customs of the people are vain; for one cutteth a tree out of the forest; the work of the hands of the workman with the axe. They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with hammers, that it move not . . . They are altogether brutish and foolish.' (Jeremiah 10:2-8)"
Friday, December 14, 2007
Will Ohio's Cities Catch The Wave? Investors Now Snapping Up Homes In Detroit
CINCINNATI (TDB) -- Hamilton County officials are projecting that 6,200 foreclosure cases -- with large numbers of the volume in Cincinnati -- will be filed this year. It's a gloomy statistic that is mirrored across Ohio . But there could be some bright days coming after the storm. The foreclosure crisis has created a red hot real estate market in Detroit, where existing home sales are sizzling.
Residential sales are up 4% percent over November 2006 in the Motor City, and Crain's Detroit Business reports "November's numbers continued the hot streak for the city, which saw residential sales increase month-over-month for eight months in 2007." In the wealthy suburbs like Oakland County, sales are down by as much as 15%.
Detroit? It was supposed to be dead, worse off than Cleveland and Cincinnati, or any of its other Midwestern manufacturing sisters like Toledo and Akron. But there are people who see opportunity, value and deals in the market.
"The increase is attributable to a combination of demand from young, urban pioneers and out-of-town investors, said Darralyn Bowers, president of Southfield-based ERA Bowers and Associates, which does a majority of its sales in Detroit. She said data indicates a high level of cash buyers, meaning a lot of the sales are by people investing in residential real estate. 'We may not appreciate what an opportunity Detroit property is right now, but some people are. When this passes, we'll see tremendous fortunes made.'
Residential sales are up 4% percent over November 2006 in the Motor City, and Crain's Detroit Business reports "November's numbers continued the hot streak for the city, which saw residential sales increase month-over-month for eight months in 2007." In the wealthy suburbs like Oakland County, sales are down by as much as 15%.
Detroit? It was supposed to be dead, worse off than Cleveland and Cincinnati, or any of its other Midwestern manufacturing sisters like Toledo and Akron. But there are people who see opportunity, value and deals in the market.
"The increase is attributable to a combination of demand from young, urban pioneers and out-of-town investors, said Darralyn Bowers, president of Southfield-based ERA Bowers and Associates, which does a majority of its sales in Detroit. She said data indicates a high level of cash buyers, meaning a lot of the sales are by people investing in residential real estate. 'We may not appreciate what an opportunity Detroit property is right now, but some people are. When this passes, we'll see tremendous fortunes made.'
How Much Money Does Ohio Get From Uncle Sam? The Answer Is Here
CINCINNATI (TDB) -- USAspending.gov is the new federal Web site that lets citizens see where their money is going. It's an amazing tool. Who knew that Ohio's $9.57 billion share of federal assistance programs (Medicare etc.) is 3.92% of the entire total? Who knew that Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland gets $195 million in federal funds, about $35 million more than Ohio State University, the nation's largest school.
The National Taxpayers Union supported creation of the federal spending database, which is mandated by the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act passed last year. Two 2008 presidential candidates, Republican John McCain and Democrat Barack Obama, were strong advocates and co-sponsors. NTU said the database would not have been possible before the Internet Age and rise of search engines -- what some are calling the era of Google Government.
"In the past, it was not feasible to have a centralized listing of the kinds of organizations and activities that received government monies. The effort needed to calculate, coordinate and print such a listing would have been enormous, and the final product may well have required a forklift to transport."
The National Taxpayers Union supported creation of the federal spending database, which is mandated by the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act passed last year. Two 2008 presidential candidates, Republican John McCain and Democrat Barack Obama, were strong advocates and co-sponsors. NTU said the database would not have been possible before the Internet Age and rise of search engines -- what some are calling the era of Google Government.
"In the past, it was not feasible to have a centralized listing of the kinds of organizations and activities that received government monies. The effort needed to calculate, coordinate and print such a listing would have been enormous, and the final product may well have required a forklift to transport."
An Inconvenient Chill: NASA Says Saharan Dust Clouds Cooled The North Atlantic
CINCINNATI (TDB) -- While everyone seemed focused on global warming, two NASA researchers studying the amount of dust in the Earth's atmosphere have found that sea surface temperatures in the North Atlantic cooled. An unexpected big chill took place between between June 2005 and June 2006. NASA reports that satellite photos "provide evidence that the chilling effect of dust was responsible" for much of a temperature drop in the North Atlantic. The dust clouds were blown into the atmosphere from African deserts -- including the vast Sahara -- and reflected sunlight away from the Earth's surface.
The result: Fewer hurricanes than predicted.
Scientists William Lau and Kyu-Myong Kim at the Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md., are publishing data that suggests the dust acted like a sun shade, and the cooling led to fewer hurricanes in 2006, when only five occurred. In 2005, when Katrina struck, there were 15. Many researchers saw climate change as increasing the number of storms and making them more violent. Lau and Kim report that climate patterns are complex, and that heat in one spot can cause a chill in another. Lau said the 2007 hurricane season is another in which forecasts for an above normal number of storms have proven incorrect. The American Geophysical Union's Research Letters distributed some of the data this month. There is a $9 to purchase the entire article online.
While the NASA scientists don't refute global warming, they show there is a lot to learn about climate and atmospheric mechanisms. They calculated that dust caused a 30% to 40% drop in sea surface temperatures between 2005 and 2006 early in the hurricane season. They said dust could be a factor in temperature shifts like El Nino.
The result: Fewer hurricanes than predicted.
Scientists William Lau and Kyu-Myong Kim at the Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md., are publishing data that suggests the dust acted like a sun shade, and the cooling led to fewer hurricanes in 2006, when only five occurred. In 2005, when Katrina struck, there were 15. Many researchers saw climate change as increasing the number of storms and making them more violent. Lau and Kim report that climate patterns are complex, and that heat in one spot can cause a chill in another. Lau said the 2007 hurricane season is another in which forecasts for an above normal number of storms have proven incorrect. The American Geophysical Union's Research Letters distributed some of the data this month. There is a $9 to purchase the entire article online.
While the NASA scientists don't refute global warming, they show there is a lot to learn about climate and atmospheric mechanisms. They calculated that dust caused a 30% to 40% drop in sea surface temperatures between 2005 and 2006 early in the hurricane season. They said dust could be a factor in temperature shifts like El Nino.
Ohio Lawsuit Filed Over Chiquita Ties To Terror: Labor Union Says Shareholders Damaged
CINCINNATI (TDB) -- The 1.9-million member Service Employees International Union contends Chiquita Brands International Inc.'s board engaged in rogue activities when the Ohio-based multinational funded a right wing terrorist group in Colombia. Democratic Hamilton County Commissioner Todd Portune's private law firm represents the union, and Portune is signed on as a litigator in the case.
According to the union's civil lawsuit, Chiquita's top officials "instituted a corporate culture that encouraged unlawful and irresponsible activity." It names 11 current and former directors or executives as defendants, describes them as negligent in the management and administration of the affairs of the company, and seeks unspecified damages for breach of fiduciary duties.
Chiquita is based in Cincinnati. In March, the company agreed to a pay a $25 million fine after pleading guilty to federal charges that it made $1.7 million in payments to a violent paramilitary organization. The company said the money was to protect its employees and operations from extremists. The Justice Department brought the charges nine months ago, and said the payments took place from 1997 until early 2004.
SEIU said it owns shares in publicly traded Chiquita. It said the defendants had a duty to ensure that the company did not break any laws. The case is A 0711383 in Hamilton County's Court of Common Pleas.
Chiquita produces, distributes and market bananas and other produce in Europe and North America. It has about $4 billion in annual sales in some 70 countries. According to the lawsuit:
"The individual defendants, in light of their positions of control and authority as directors and/or officers of the Company, were able to and did, directly and indirectly exercise control over the criminal acts described herein. That conduct involves knowing, willful and repeated violations and obligations as officers and directors of Chiquita. Furthermore, Chiquita's Board effectively ratified the illegal conduct of Chiquita's officers, employees and . . . by failing to take any legal actions on behalf of the company against them . ."
Those named include:
Roderick Hills, who served on the board from 2002 until May 2007. He chaired the company's audit committee.
Fernando Aguirre, president and CEO since 2004.
Morten Arntzen, a director since 2002.
Steven P. Stanbrook, a director and audit committee member.
Robert W. Fisher, a director since 2002 and a one-time action COO.
Durk Jager, a board member since December 2002.
Jaime Serra, a director since 2003.
Clare Hasler, a board member since October 2005.
Jeffrey D. Benjamin, a director from March 2002 until his resignation in February 2007.
Cyrus F. Friedheim Jr., former CEO and chairman.
Robert Olson, who served as the company's general counsel.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Jailed Ohio Politico Bob Ney: Was He Secret Agent Double-Oh Crook?
CLEVELAND (TDB) -- Former Republican U.S. Rep. Bob Ney is locked up in a federal prison on corruption charges involving a Washington lobbying scandal. Between his dirty deeds, the Ohioan may have been a go-between in a secret and unsuccessful peace initiative between Iran and the United States.
Trita Parsi, a Johns Hopkins adjunct prof who heads the National Iranian-American Council, presents some cloak-and-dagger details in a 384-page book published by Yale University Press. The book is called Treacherous Alliance: The Secret Dealings of Israel, Iran and the United States, and Parsi contends Ney was the conduit who got a back-channel peace feeler from Tehran delivered to the White House. The Iranians wanted to become America's buddies, and the story turns up on page 247 in a passage about secret dealings.
There is more about the unusual route of the peace feeler, which Parsi says was real but has yet to be confirmed. Others detect the scent of a self-promoter and note that Parsi has been close to Ney over the years.
Cleveland Plain Dealer columnist Tom Suddes points out that Ney does have Iranian connections -- he taught English in that nation until shortly before the Shah fell. Suddes doesn't try to throw much cold water on Parsi's claim that Ney was involved in international intrigue. Suddes writes:
"According to Parsi, not long after Baghdad fell to coalition troops in 2003, Iranian officials channeled a peace feeler to Washington . . . Iran feared Washington's inner-circle war hawks might keep the feeler from Bush, so the Iranians sent a copy of their offer to Ney. Ney, Parsi wrote, had one of his U.S. House employees hand-deliver the Iranian message to Karl Rove, Bush's White House Rasputin. Rove -- according to Parsi -- vowed to deliver the 'intriguing' message to the president. To State Department officials, the Iranian offer, according to Parsi, 'was a no-brainer' because Iran was offering the United States, then at high tide militarily, big concessions. But nothing ever happened at the Washington end."
Parsi contends Vice President Dick Cheney and former Defense Secretary Don Rumsfeld intervened. They would not consider a deal. Why? Iran was just too evil.
Trita Parsi, a Johns Hopkins adjunct prof who heads the National Iranian-American Council, presents some cloak-and-dagger details in a 384-page book published by Yale University Press. The book is called Treacherous Alliance: The Secret Dealings of Israel, Iran and the United States, and Parsi contends Ney was the conduit who got a back-channel peace feeler from Tehran delivered to the White House. The Iranians wanted to become America's buddies, and the story turns up on page 247 in a passage about secret dealings.
There is more about the unusual route of the peace feeler, which Parsi says was real but has yet to be confirmed. Others detect the scent of a self-promoter and note that Parsi has been close to Ney over the years.
Cleveland Plain Dealer columnist Tom Suddes points out that Ney does have Iranian connections -- he taught English in that nation until shortly before the Shah fell. Suddes doesn't try to throw much cold water on Parsi's claim that Ney was involved in international intrigue. Suddes writes:
"According to Parsi, not long after Baghdad fell to coalition troops in 2003, Iranian officials channeled a peace feeler to Washington . . . Iran feared Washington's inner-circle war hawks might keep the feeler from Bush, so the Iranians sent a copy of their offer to Ney. Ney, Parsi wrote, had one of his U.S. House employees hand-deliver the Iranian message to Karl Rove, Bush's White House Rasputin. Rove -- according to Parsi -- vowed to deliver the 'intriguing' message to the president. To State Department officials, the Iranian offer, according to Parsi, 'was a no-brainer' because Iran was offering the United States, then at high tide militarily, big concessions. But nothing ever happened at the Washington end."
Parsi contends Vice President Dick Cheney and former Defense Secretary Don Rumsfeld intervened. They would not consider a deal. Why? Iran was just too evil.
Ohio Again Beckons Hollywood: State Re-Establishes Its Film Office
COLUMBUS (TDB) -- The official press release is here. But the film community is wondering what Christina Grozik likes to watch with her popcorn. She's been picked to lure movie makers back into Ohio. Turns out her favorite flick is 1994's The Shawshank Redemption. It's a prison film based on a Stephen King story that was shot around Mansfield and the old state pen there. Some give Shawshank two thumbs up as one of the best American movies ever. Grozik is a huge fan and has put it on a list of the all time greats.
She used to be a wheel at Cleveland's Film Commission and explained to The Plain Dealer's pdq a couple years ago what made Shawshank her favorite. The Daily Bellwether dug out her review:
"Best scene: Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins) locks himself in the warden's office and plays a record on the loud speaker for the whole prison facility to hear. The way the faces of the prisoners light up when they hear the intensely soothing sounds of the two Italian women singing . . . it can't be expressed in words.
"Why this picture belongs in pdq's ultimate collection: I think the tag line of the film says it best: 'Fear can hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free.' It's an intelligent film with incredible cinematography and amazing performances, not to mention the fact the film was shot in Ohio. I believe the movie is magical in many ways. It sends a powerful message that beauty is contained within us, and no matter what difficulties you encounter, you should never let anyone take that beauty away from you."
She used to be a wheel at Cleveland's Film Commission and explained to The Plain Dealer's pdq a couple years ago what made Shawshank her favorite. The Daily Bellwether dug out her review:
"Best scene: Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins) locks himself in the warden's office and plays a record on the loud speaker for the whole prison facility to hear. The way the faces of the prisoners light up when they hear the intensely soothing sounds of the two Italian women singing . . . it can't be expressed in words.
"Why this picture belongs in pdq's ultimate collection: I think the tag line of the film says it best: 'Fear can hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free.' It's an intelligent film with incredible cinematography and amazing performances, not to mention the fact the film was shot in Ohio. I believe the movie is magical in many ways. It sends a powerful message that beauty is contained within us, and no matter what difficulties you encounter, you should never let anyone take that beauty away from you."
Cincinnati Reds Manager Dusty Baker: Steroid Report Says He Knew More Than He Let On
CINCINNATI (TDB) -- Reds manager Dusty Baker was in San Francisco with the Giants and Barry Bonds during the height of baseball's steroid scandal. Now the Mitchell report suggests the Reds' new field boss knew something was up in California -- but kept quiet. In the past, Baker has implied that reports of baseball steroid use were overblown, and he has likened the concerns to a witch hunt.
But Baker discovered from his light-hitting outfielder Marvin Benard that there was truth to some of the steroid use allegations surfacing after the BALCO raids in 2003. Benard, a Nicaraguan, was a Baker favorite during his seasons in San Francisco. Benard admitted to Baker that he had used steroids. Baker kept the information to himself and didn't pass it up the chain of command.
Former Sen. George Mitchell's 409-page report about the use of performance enhancing drugs in Major League Baseball has this to say about the Reds' skipper:
"Dusty Baker was the manager of the San Francisco Giants in 2003 when the news of the BALCO raids broke. Baker advised my investigators in an interview that he was close to Marvin Benard and was 'completely shocked' when he became aware of the allegations that Benard used steroids. After Baker learned of the allegations, he asked Benard if they were true. According to Baker, Benard admitted he has used steroids previously but said that he had stopped. Baker did not report the Benard admission to anyone in Giants management or the Commissioner's Office."
Mitchell does not accuse Baker of a cover up. But it appears he is saying that Baker had learned of a problem and did nothing. Benard played nine seasons, 891 games, with the Giants. He had a .271 average.
But Baker discovered from his light-hitting outfielder Marvin Benard that there was truth to some of the steroid use allegations surfacing after the BALCO raids in 2003. Benard, a Nicaraguan, was a Baker favorite during his seasons in San Francisco. Benard admitted to Baker that he had used steroids. Baker kept the information to himself and didn't pass it up the chain of command.
Former Sen. George Mitchell's 409-page report about the use of performance enhancing drugs in Major League Baseball has this to say about the Reds' skipper:
"Dusty Baker was the manager of the San Francisco Giants in 2003 when the news of the BALCO raids broke. Baker advised my investigators in an interview that he was close to Marvin Benard and was 'completely shocked' when he became aware of the allegations that Benard used steroids. After Baker learned of the allegations, he asked Benard if they were true. According to Baker, Benard admitted he has used steroids previously but said that he had stopped. Baker did not report the Benard admission to anyone in Giants management or the Commissioner's Office."
Mitchell does not accuse Baker of a cover up. But it appears he is saying that Baker had learned of a problem and did nothing. Benard played nine seasons, 891 games, with the Giants. He had a .271 average.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Ohio State Rep. Tom Brinkman: Is He In The OH-02 GOP Race?
CINCINNATI (TDB) -- State Rep. Tom Brinkman appears ready to jump into the OH-02 Republican primary against Jean Schmidt. He's a term limited anti-taxer and straight shooting maverick Republican who refuses to accept or seek the endorsement of the Hamilton County Republican Party in his home base. Brinkman, who lives in Cincinnati, considers his independence a matter of principle. He is not everybody's cup of tea. But he is about as genuine and unvarnished as an elected official can be. With Brinkman what you see is what you get -- no new taxes, no abortion rights, no Big Brother government, no unions, no gay rights, no restrictions on the Second Amendment.
The Bellwether had a session with Brinkman last March, and he said he was interested in running for the OH-02 seat. Indeed, there seemed to be little doubt he was going to jump in the race with hopes of ending Republican U.S. Rep. Jean Schmidt's congressional career. In the photo above (courtesy of Charles Foster Kane), Brinkman ceremonially cut off Schmidt's head at a 2006 fundraiser sponsored by COAST, a Cincinnati-area anti-tax group he helped found. COAST has been among Schmidt's sharpest critics.
Brinkman's own Web portal is here. It gives a sense of his political philosophy. A Brinkman campaign could have the aura of a Ron Paul type candidacy -- connecting with Republicans who feel their party has forgotten its roots, corporatized, and been swallowed by the RINOs -- Republicans In Name Only.
Matt Hurley at Weapons of Mass Discussion has more about Brinkman and OH-02. Matt's conservative-leaning blog seems to be turning into the semi-official GOP voice of Ohio as the 2008 election year approaches, which shows that his hard work and spirited interest in his own political party is paying off.
Pope Benedict On Climate Change: Ideology Should Not Trump Science
CINCINNATI (TDB) -- Pope Benedict XVI says "humanity today is rightly concerned about the ecological balance of tomorrow." He wants scientists and experts to deal with the problems of global warming.
Britain's Daily Mail has an excerpt of the pontiff's remarks in a message to world leaders, an excerpt that the newspaper spins as showing Benedict does not believe in global warming, or dismisses it as a serious problem. Some conservatives have seized upon the Daily Mail's report to argue that the pope favors people over polar bears. Others believe Benedict's words are far more temperate. He does, however, deliber a clear warning against the use of "ideological pressure to draw hasty conclusions" and suggests pro-environmental actions be measured against the well-being of humanity. He wants things weighted -- meaning that the developed world is more responsible for damaging the climate and thus should bear the costs and sacrifices necessary to ease any crisis. He seems to be saying that ideologues should have little say in the debate over global warming.
"It is important for assessments in this regard to be carried out prudently, in dialogue with experts and people of wisdom, uninhibited by ideological pressure to draw hasty conclusions, and above all with the aim of reaching agreement on a model of sustainable development capable of ensuring the well-being of all while respecting environmental balances. If the protection of the environment involves costs, they should be justly distributed, taking due account of the different levels of development of various countries and the need for solidarity with future generations. Prudence does not mean failing to accept responsibilities and postponing decisions; it means being committed to making joint decisions after pondering responsibility on the road to be taken."
The Vatican has been concerned about climate change and says mankind must respect the environment. The pope's remarks released for the United Nation's Bali conference on global warming appear to reinforce his view that all governments have a moral duty to cooperate on conserving the planet.
Britain's Daily Mail has an excerpt of the pontiff's remarks in a message to world leaders, an excerpt that the newspaper spins as showing Benedict does not believe in global warming, or dismisses it as a serious problem. Some conservatives have seized upon the Daily Mail's report to argue that the pope favors people over polar bears. Others believe Benedict's words are far more temperate. He does, however, deliber a clear warning against the use of "ideological pressure to draw hasty conclusions" and suggests pro-environmental actions be measured against the well-being of humanity. He wants things weighted -- meaning that the developed world is more responsible for damaging the climate and thus should bear the costs and sacrifices necessary to ease any crisis. He seems to be saying that ideologues should have little say in the debate over global warming.
"It is important for assessments in this regard to be carried out prudently, in dialogue with experts and people of wisdom, uninhibited by ideological pressure to draw hasty conclusions, and above all with the aim of reaching agreement on a model of sustainable development capable of ensuring the well-being of all while respecting environmental balances. If the protection of the environment involves costs, they should be justly distributed, taking due account of the different levels of development of various countries and the need for solidarity with future generations. Prudence does not mean failing to accept responsibilities and postponing decisions; it means being committed to making joint decisions after pondering responsibility on the road to be taken."
The Vatican has been concerned about climate change and says mankind must respect the environment. The pope's remarks released for the United Nation's Bali conference on global warming appear to reinforce his view that all governments have a moral duty to cooperate on conserving the planet.
Uncouth Cash Drawers: Big Retailer Markets 'Money Pot' Panties To Teenybopper Girls
[UPDATE: 8:34 pm, 12/13/07 10 -- Wal-Mart is pulling the money pot pink panties from its stores. Jill Zimon Miller reports that FOX News jumped on the story and gave the chain a wedgie. Parents were complaining. JMZ's report is curious about the fate of the undies: Will they wind up someplace where people can't read the words?]
CINCINNATI (TDB) -- Jill Miller Zimon has the lowdown on the low down discount chain that is selling pink panties with "Who needs credit cards" emblazoned over the nether region. Outraged or offended? She has links to file complaints at the chain's corporate headquarters.
Jill says the panties are rude and crude and flash an inappropriate message for young females and agrees: "There's nothing quite like telling adolescent girls that they don't need to worry about finances since they have their very own moneypot between their legs."
CINCINNATI (TDB) -- Jill Miller Zimon has the lowdown on the low down discount chain that is selling pink panties with "Who needs credit cards" emblazoned over the nether region. Outraged or offended? She has links to file complaints at the chain's corporate headquarters.
Jill says the panties are rude and crude and flash an inappropriate message for young females and agrees: "There's nothing quite like telling adolescent girls that they don't need to worry about finances since they have their very own moneypot between their legs."
Burning Up Tobacco $$$: States Spend Less Than 3% On Prevention
CINCINNATI (TDB) -- A new study shows that states are spending just a tiny fraction of $246 billion in tobacco settlement funds on public health programs to prevent smoking in the United States. The report by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids says most states "still fail to fund the prevention programs at minimum levels recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and altogether, the states are providing less that half what the CDC recommended."
The report says Ohio ranks 14th among the 50 states in spending settlement funds on prevention and cessation programs. But the $44.7 million budgeted is just 72% of what the CDC recommends. The report says nearly one-fourth of Ohioans are smokers, and they rack up $4.37 billion a year in medical expenses.
The report says Ohio ranks 14th among the 50 states in spending settlement funds on prevention and cessation programs. But the $44.7 million budgeted is just 72% of what the CDC recommends. The report says nearly one-fourth of Ohioans are smokers, and they rack up $4.37 billion a year in medical expenses.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
OH-05 Latta v. Weirauch Election Results: They're Available On The Daily Bellwether
Ohio Republican Party: The Democrats gave it all they had in OH-05 and still took a licking. There is no spin in that statement, just the truth.
BULLETIN: At 9:26 p.m. it appears that Republican Bob Latta holds a nearly 10 point lead with more than half the vote counted. Those are unofficial results. It does not look like Weirauch can win. Latta is on his way to becoming Ohio's newest congressman and the GOP has held OH-05. Short version: Latta wins.
9:39 p.m. -- The Associated Press reports Latta beat Weirauch.
COLUMBUS (TDB) -- Ohio Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner's Web site is posting the results in Ohio's 5th Congressional District as the votes are counted. Follow the returns as they are reported from all 16 counties by clicking here.
The Wood County Board of Elections in Bowling Green also is posting live results. It has county-by-county and districtwide totals. Wood County is the most populous in OH-05, and under Ohio law keeps the running total for the district.
The vote count will be updated throughout the evening in the special election between Republican State Rep. Bob Latta and Democrat Robin Weirauch.
BULLETIN: At 9:26 p.m. it appears that Republican Bob Latta holds a nearly 10 point lead with more than half the vote counted. Those are unofficial results. It does not look like Weirauch can win. Latta is on his way to becoming Ohio's newest congressman and the GOP has held OH-05. Short version: Latta wins.
9:39 p.m. -- The Associated Press reports Latta beat Weirauch.
COLUMBUS (TDB) -- Ohio Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner's Web site is posting the results in Ohio's 5th Congressional District as the votes are counted. Follow the returns as they are reported from all 16 counties by clicking here.
The Wood County Board of Elections in Bowling Green also is posting live results. It has county-by-county and districtwide totals. Wood County is the most populous in OH-05, and under Ohio law keeps the running total for the district.
The vote count will be updated throughout the evening in the special election between Republican State Rep. Bob Latta and Democrat Robin Weirauch.
Cleveland Federal Reserve Bank: Board Member's Bio In Doubt
CINCINNATI (TDB) -- Some keen-eyed numbers crunchers have noticed that the official biography of a prominent Ohio Republican doesn't seem to add up. Cincinnatian Phillip R. Cox serves on several corporate boards of directors, along with the governing bodies of the University of Cincinnati and the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland. Both Diebold Corp., the voting machine manufacturer from Canton, and the
University of Cincinnati say that Cox is a college graduate. He is reported to have picked up a diploma in 1968. Some of the bios say he was awarded a B.S. degree is political science and psychology from Xavier University.
That appears to be inaccurate. Has a case of resume padding been uncovered? Cox went to Xavier -- where he played football -- but is considered a non-degreed alum. Apparently, he was supposed to finish in 1968 but may have changed majors, dropped out, or earned credit hours in classes that didn't lead to a diploma. It is unclear why Xavier does not consider him a graduate.
Now here's where things gets really interesting. Former Republican Gov. Bob Taft appointed Cox to the University of Cincinnati board of trustees in 1999, soon after Taft took office in his first term. The state school considers Cox a graduate of Xavier, its crosstown rival. This is what U.C. says on its Web site about its GOP-appointed trustee:
"Mr. Cox is a frequent speaker for companies, universities and civic organizations throughout the country, and has been the keynote speaker for scores of national and local organizations. He is well known for his dynamic and motivational speaking style. A native of Cincinnati and a graduate of Xavier University, Mr. Cox worked briefly for General Mills before founding the firm he now heads. He is chairman of the Cincinnati Business Committee (CBC) and serves on a variety of boards, including the Federal Reserve Bank, Cinergy, Cincinnati Bell, Touchstone Mutual Funds, Bethesda Hospital and the Cincinnati Museum of Natural History. In addition, he recently accepted a position on the board of the Cincinnati Center City Development Corporation, an organization charged with the promotion and oversight of business development in the City of Cincinnati."
Has Cox embellished his resume? There is evidence he did not. The Bellwether checked with the governor's office and learned that Cox's November 1998 bio on file when he was vetted for the Bob Taft appointment to the University of Cincinnati board of trustees says Cox "attended" Xavier University. In other words, he did not claim to be a grad.
But somewhere along the way he picked up a degree, a B.S. in political science and psychology. Perhaps U.C. decided to pump up his academic credentials. After all, how would it look for a major state university to have a trustee --indeed, a former chairman of its board of trustees -- who didn't have a sheepskin?
University of Cincinnati say that Cox is a college graduate. He is reported to have picked up a diploma in 1968. Some of the bios say he was awarded a B.S. degree is political science and psychology from Xavier University.
That appears to be inaccurate. Has a case of resume padding been uncovered? Cox went to Xavier -- where he played football -- but is considered a non-degreed alum. Apparently, he was supposed to finish in 1968 but may have changed majors, dropped out, or earned credit hours in classes that didn't lead to a diploma. It is unclear why Xavier does not consider him a graduate.
Now here's where things gets really interesting. Former Republican Gov. Bob Taft appointed Cox to the University of Cincinnati board of trustees in 1999, soon after Taft took office in his first term. The state school considers Cox a graduate of Xavier, its crosstown rival. This is what U.C. says on its Web site about its GOP-appointed trustee:
"Mr. Cox is a frequent speaker for companies, universities and civic organizations throughout the country, and has been the keynote speaker for scores of national and local organizations. He is well known for his dynamic and motivational speaking style. A native of Cincinnati and a graduate of Xavier University, Mr. Cox worked briefly for General Mills before founding the firm he now heads. He is chairman of the Cincinnati Business Committee (CBC) and serves on a variety of boards, including the Federal Reserve Bank, Cinergy, Cincinnati Bell, Touchstone Mutual Funds, Bethesda Hospital and the Cincinnati Museum of Natural History. In addition, he recently accepted a position on the board of the Cincinnati Center City Development Corporation, an organization charged with the promotion and oversight of business development in the City of Cincinnati."
Has Cox embellished his resume? There is evidence he did not. The Bellwether checked with the governor's office and learned that Cox's November 1998 bio on file when he was vetted for the Bob Taft appointment to the University of Cincinnati board of trustees says Cox "attended" Xavier University. In other words, he did not claim to be a grad.
But somewhere along the way he picked up a degree, a B.S. in political science and psychology. Perhaps U.C. decided to pump up his academic credentials. After all, how would it look for a major state university to have a trustee --indeed, a former chairman of its board of trustees -- who didn't have a sheepskin?
OH-02 Dem Steve Black: Another Campaign Manager Departs
CINCINNATI (TDB) -- Just two months ago, Democrat Steve Black was touting the arrival of a new campaign manager who had a wealth of experience. But Joel Coon is now gone, The Daily Bellwether has learned. Black is a Cincinnati lawyer who switched from Republican to Democrat and is challenging physician Victoria Wulsin in the OH-02 primary next March.
Coon was brought in to replace Mary Huttinger, who for a time was signed on with Black. If that sound like musical chairs hang on to your seat: Huttinger was Wulsin's campaign manager in 2006 when she won the Dem nomination. The Black-Wulsin winner gets to run for the southern Ohio U.S. House seat that currently is held by Jean Schmidt, who beat Wulsin but now has a challenger in the GOP primary.
Black's campaign has not publicly announced Coon's leave taking after about three months on the job. Coon was reached by phone today and confirmed he has moved on.
"I would rather not get into the reasons why I left. I have absolutely nothing bad to say about Steve Black. He's a good candidate. He has the highest integrity. Leaving -- it was something I had to do. Steve can beat Jean Schmidt. He's a very good candidate."
Coon was a former John Edwards campaign aid involved in rural issues.
While Coon is out, The Bellwether hears that former Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee executive director John Lapp is in as the ad man for Black campaign. Lapp joined the political consulting firm McMahon Squier Lapp and Associates after 2006 elections and is considered an architect of the Dems' victory that ended GOP control of the House. At the DCCC, Lapp was in charge of a $60 million budget. He knows Ohio River politics -- he worked for former U.S. Rep. Ken Lucas who held a Kentucky House seat on the opposite side of the river from OH-02. He was Lucas' campaign manager, then his chief of staff. Lucas retired to keep a promise about term limits.
Coon was brought in to replace Mary Huttinger, who for a time was signed on with Black. If that sound like musical chairs hang on to your seat: Huttinger was Wulsin's campaign manager in 2006 when she won the Dem nomination. The Black-Wulsin winner gets to run for the southern Ohio U.S. House seat that currently is held by Jean Schmidt, who beat Wulsin but now has a challenger in the GOP primary.
Black's campaign has not publicly announced Coon's leave taking after about three months on the job. Coon was reached by phone today and confirmed he has moved on.
"I would rather not get into the reasons why I left. I have absolutely nothing bad to say about Steve Black. He's a good candidate. He has the highest integrity. Leaving -- it was something I had to do. Steve can beat Jean Schmidt. He's a very good candidate."
Coon was a former John Edwards campaign aid involved in rural issues.
While Coon is out, The Bellwether hears that former Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee executive director John Lapp is in as the ad man for Black campaign. Lapp joined the political consulting firm McMahon Squier Lapp and Associates after 2006 elections and is considered an architect of the Dems' victory that ended GOP control of the House. At the DCCC, Lapp was in charge of a $60 million budget. He knows Ohio River politics -- he worked for former U.S. Rep. Ken Lucas who held a Kentucky House seat on the opposite side of the river from OH-02. He was Lucas' campaign manager, then his chief of staff. Lucas retired to keep a promise about term limits.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Nurses Blanket Iowa With Ad: Cheney Would Be Dead Without Gov't Healthcare
CINCINNATI (TDB) -- A nurses' union is running print ads in newspapers across Iowa pointing out Vice President Dick Cheney's access to publicly-funded health care has likely kept him alive. It says he has a bad heart but doesn't have to pay big bucks or face insurance company scrutiny for medical care. The nurses contention: Cheney receives medical procedures that most Americans cannot afford and, "If he were anyone else, he'd probably be dead by now."
There is a link to the ad available here. It was created to rally support for the National Health Insurance Act, an AFL-CIO-supported measure that would expand Medicare to cover all U.S. residents. The ad contends national politicians enjoy topflight care subsidized by the public at a time when millions of citizens have to fend for themselves. The nurses contend Cheney's history of heart problems -- four heart attacks -- and prognosis could lead to a denial of a claim for coverage in the private health insurance market. Said Rose Ann DeMoro, executive director of the California Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee:
"All Americans deserve the kind of care that our Vice-President, President and Congress already have, but none of the candidate proposals can give it to them. All the current Democratic proposals keep the insurance companies at the apex of power and deny Americans the chance for guaranteed health care, and the Republican proposals are far worse."
There is a link to the ad available here. It was created to rally support for the National Health Insurance Act, an AFL-CIO-supported measure that would expand Medicare to cover all U.S. residents. The ad contends national politicians enjoy topflight care subsidized by the public at a time when millions of citizens have to fend for themselves. The nurses contend Cheney's history of heart problems -- four heart attacks -- and prognosis could lead to a denial of a claim for coverage in the private health insurance market. Said Rose Ann DeMoro, executive director of the California Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee:
"All Americans deserve the kind of care that our Vice-President, President and Congress already have, but none of the candidate proposals can give it to them. All the current Democratic proposals keep the insurance companies at the apex of power and deny Americans the chance for guaranteed health care, and the Republican proposals are far worse."
OH-05 GOP Bob Latta: Cuban-American Who Opposed Border Fence Gives Him $$$$
BOWLING GREEN, Ohio (TDB) -- A South Florida congressman who was one of six GOP U.S. House members voting last year against the border fence with Mexico has sent a $1,000 check to Bob Latta's OH-05 congressional campaign. U.S. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart is a Cuban-American who has generally supported President George Bush's immigration reform policies. The House approved the fence by a wide margin in September 2006. Bush's reform proposals have been rejected in Congress because they were seen as offering amnesty to about 12 to 14 million illegal immigrants -- most from Central America and Mexico -- believed to reside in the U.S.
Latta has portrayed himself an immigration hardliner. He has called illegal immigrants "a slap in the face" to resident aliens living in the United States with proper documents allowing entry. Latta says he favors the fence along the Mexican border. It is not clear why he would accept financial support for his campaign from someone who opposes the fence along the Mexican border.
U.S. Rep. John Boehner, R-Ohio and the House minority leader, has described the bill that Diaz-Balart voted against last year as critical to securing U.S. borders.
"With more border patrol agents, additional fencing and border infrastructure, and more state-of-the-art surveillance, this bill will make a real difference in securing America's borders."
Latta has portrayed himself an immigration hardliner. He has called illegal immigrants "a slap in the face" to resident aliens living in the United States with proper documents allowing entry. Latta says he favors the fence along the Mexican border. It is not clear why he would accept financial support for his campaign from someone who opposes the fence along the Mexican border.
U.S. Rep. John Boehner, R-Ohio and the House minority leader, has described the bill that Diaz-Balart voted against last year as critical to securing U.S. borders.
"With more border patrol agents, additional fencing and border infrastructure, and more state-of-the-art surveillance, this bill will make a real difference in securing America's borders."
Ohio's Bizzyblog: Bob Latta Backed Tax Increases 'Hurt The State Of Ohio'
CINCINNATI (TDB) -- Bizzyblog's Tom Blumer is in full attack mode against Democrat Robin Weirauch, whom he paints as an untrustworthy liberal in a lengthy series of posts on the eve of Dec. 11's OH-05 congressional special election. But it looks a lot like smoke and mirrors. Just 20 months ago, Bizzyblog denounced the tax increases supported by State Rep. Bob Latta, Bob Taft, Jean Schmidt and other Ohio Republicans as actions that "so hurt the state of Ohio and its economy."
Weirauch's campaign against Latta has largely been based upon the idea that Ohio's economy is down and needs to be pushed forward by jobs and growth. Bizzyblog seems to be supporting Latta, who approved the tax policies that Bizzyblog says cost Ohio jobs and growth. Again, Bizzyblog says the Taft-era tax policies -- which Latta supported -- hurt the state's economy.
In fact, in April 2006 Bizzyblog said U.S. Rep. Jean Schmidt, a Republican who holds the OH-02 House seat in southern Ohio, had been receiving warranted and relentless criticism for supporting Bob Taft-era tax increases while serving in the state legislature. Latta, of course, voted the same way Schmidt voted. Here's a pertinent excerpt from Bizzyblog:
"Jean Schmidt has been relentlessly criticized, and with more than a little justification, for supporting the Taft-era tax increases that have so hurt the State of Ohio and its economy during her time as a state representative."
Please note what Bizzyblog reported: "the Taft-era tax increases that have so hurt the State of Ohio and its economy. . ."
The complete text is available by poring through this Bizzyblog item. It is difficult to comprehend why Bizzyblog would defend Latta, who cast votes for Taft-era tax increases that he believes have damaged the state and harmed its economy.
Weirauch's campaign against Latta has largely been based upon the idea that Ohio's economy is down and needs to be pushed forward by jobs and growth. Bizzyblog seems to be supporting Latta, who approved the tax policies that Bizzyblog says cost Ohio jobs and growth. Again, Bizzyblog says the Taft-era tax policies -- which Latta supported -- hurt the state's economy.
In fact, in April 2006 Bizzyblog said U.S. Rep. Jean Schmidt, a Republican who holds the OH-02 House seat in southern Ohio, had been receiving warranted and relentless criticism for supporting Bob Taft-era tax increases while serving in the state legislature. Latta, of course, voted the same way Schmidt voted. Here's a pertinent excerpt from Bizzyblog:
"Jean Schmidt has been relentlessly criticized, and with more than a little justification, for supporting the Taft-era tax increases that have so hurt the State of Ohio and its economy during her time as a state representative."
Please note what Bizzyblog reported: "the Taft-era tax increases that have so hurt the State of Ohio and its economy. . ."
The complete text is available by poring through this Bizzyblog item. It is difficult to comprehend why Bizzyblog would defend Latta, who cast votes for Taft-era tax increases that he believes have damaged the state and harmed its economy.
Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland: Orders Nativity Scene Restored At State Park
CINCINNATI (TDB) -- State officials confirmed today that Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland -- an ordained Methodist minister -- personally issued an order that restored a Nativity scene to a state park lodge. Nativities are traditional at Christmas, as are legal disputes about their placement on public property. Strickland said he wanted the issue handled with "common sense." He also said holiday scenes at other state parks should remain in place.
While there is no threat of a lawsuit of legal action against the state yet, officials said they were certain the Democratic governor would not back down.
The display had been removed by park workers last week after a complaint, or inquiry, asserted a display of Christ in a manger was an inappropriate exhibition and promotion of Christian religious material on public property. Reports said there was a demand that non-Christian items be added. The display was at Shawnee State Park Lodge and Resort, which is in Scioto County where the governor was reared in southern Ohio.
There was a demand that the Nativity scene include a Hindu swastika and a Zorastrian statue. Park manager Bill Griffin took down the display rather than add the non-Christian symbols. Strickland ordered the Nativity put back in place and said he wanted traditional displays to remain in place.
The Huntington News in West Virginia has a report about the Nativity flap today. Strickland's spokesman, Keith Dailey, said the governor was convinced the Nativity scene is appropriate:
"Gov. Strickland believes that Nativity scenes are an establishes and appropriate part of our holiday season. If someone locally suggests a symbol for Zorastrianism, for example, be included, the governor disagrees. He thinks we need to approach this with as much common sense as we can."
While there is no threat of a lawsuit of legal action against the state yet, officials said they were certain the Democratic governor would not back down.
The display had been removed by park workers last week after a complaint, or inquiry, asserted a display of Christ in a manger was an inappropriate exhibition and promotion of Christian religious material on public property. Reports said there was a demand that non-Christian items be added. The display was at Shawnee State Park Lodge and Resort, which is in Scioto County where the governor was reared in southern Ohio.
There was a demand that the Nativity scene include a Hindu swastika and a Zorastrian statue. Park manager Bill Griffin took down the display rather than add the non-Christian symbols. Strickland ordered the Nativity put back in place and said he wanted traditional displays to remain in place.
The Huntington News in West Virginia has a report about the Nativity flap today. Strickland's spokesman, Keith Dailey, said the governor was convinced the Nativity scene is appropriate:
"Gov. Strickland believes that Nativity scenes are an establishes and appropriate part of our holiday season. If someone locally suggests a symbol for Zorastrianism, for example, be included, the governor disagrees. He thinks we need to approach this with as much common sense as we can."
Ohio's Boehner On Pakistan: Our Aid Has Been 'Well Spent'
CINCINNATI (TDB) -- House Republican leader John Boehner has declared himself a leading advocate for sending more military aid to Pakistan's Musharraf. Boehner, an Ohio congressman from Butler County, says the $10 billion already sent to support the war on terror has been "well spent." Others see Musharraf as a questionable ally -- vice President Dick Cheney met with the Pakistani strongman last winter and urged him to take more action against terrorist havens inside Pakistan.
Meanwhile, Pakistan's tribal areas still remain a haven for al-Qaeda, and the Taliban are destabilizing Afghanistan from bases in Pakistan. The U.S. National Intelligence Estimate issued in July (full text available at the link) warned al-Qaeda has reconstituted itself in Pakistan. The report calls Osama bin Laden's movement once again a serious threat to the U.S. homeland. That report came out prior to the NIE saying that Iran had no active program to develop a nuclear weapon.
Meanwhile, Pakistan's tribal areas still remain a haven for al-Qaeda, and the Taliban are destabilizing Afghanistan from bases in Pakistan. The U.S. National Intelligence Estimate issued in July (full text available at the link) warned al-Qaeda has reconstituted itself in Pakistan. The report calls Osama bin Laden's movement once again a serious threat to the U.S. homeland. That report came out prior to the NIE saying that Iran had no active program to develop a nuclear weapon.
Sunday, December 09, 2007
Al Gore In London: Global Chill From A Case Of The Big Head
CINCINNATI (TDB) -- Britain's Daily Mail is reporting that Al Gore seemed insufferably boring and big headed during a recent charity appearance in London. It was the kind of review that dogged him during his days as a public official. In London, Gore was described as delivering a lousy speech that left supporters cold; he picked up a fat fee and wouldn't mingle with the crowd that paid to see him talk about global warming. If so, it might be a reversion or resumption of the kind of moody moments that Nobel winner Gore was known for during his U.S. political career as vice president and senator.
Over the years, as a newspaper reporter who covered Gore every now and then, I witnessed such episodes. Once, on the military airfield tarmac at Fort Campbell -- as troops returned from Operation Desert Storm in the early 1990s -- Gore turned aloof and wouldn't speak. It was a joyous welcoming ceremony and heart-lifting moment to see soldiers come home from war and reunite with loved ones. Gore, however, was absolutely stony. He was Tennessee's U.S. Senator at the time, and he seemed like a grouch. It was a puzzling performance. Another time he came to inspect flooding along the Ohio River in 1997. He was vice president, did a quick photo op and mostly stayed away from people in their damaged homes. The Secret Service reportedly was concerned about his safety -- that debris in the Ohio River was hazardous. Cops, fire crews, relief personnel, even clowns from Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey, were comforting those in shelters or battling the flood waters. But Gore beat it out of town, and it was a moment that raised eyebrows.
Then, a few years later as he campaigned for the presidency, he stopped at a Montessori school near downtown Cincinnati. It was a stultifying appearance, only adding to his reputation at the time as a wooden man or robot. Now the report from London, which sounded too familiar:
"Paul Hetherington, media manager for Water Aid, said: "Pictures couldn't be taken and people were being moved out of the main hall so they wouldn't experience the event. It was very disruptive. We had to apologise to people who were invited. We wanted to say thank you for all the support that many people had given us, but some of them were asked to leave. Many guests were invited by the hosts, so why should the speaker have any control over these guests and removing the media? It defeated the object of trying to raise awareness of the cause."
A Gore spokesman apologized for the limited availability at the London event.
Over the years, as a newspaper reporter who covered Gore every now and then, I witnessed such episodes. Once, on the military airfield tarmac at Fort Campbell -- as troops returned from Operation Desert Storm in the early 1990s -- Gore turned aloof and wouldn't speak. It was a joyous welcoming ceremony and heart-lifting moment to see soldiers come home from war and reunite with loved ones. Gore, however, was absolutely stony. He was Tennessee's U.S. Senator at the time, and he seemed like a grouch. It was a puzzling performance. Another time he came to inspect flooding along the Ohio River in 1997. He was vice president, did a quick photo op and mostly stayed away from people in their damaged homes. The Secret Service reportedly was concerned about his safety -- that debris in the Ohio River was hazardous. Cops, fire crews, relief personnel, even clowns from Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey, were comforting those in shelters or battling the flood waters. But Gore beat it out of town, and it was a moment that raised eyebrows.
Then, a few years later as he campaigned for the presidency, he stopped at a Montessori school near downtown Cincinnati. It was a stultifying appearance, only adding to his reputation at the time as a wooden man or robot. Now the report from London, which sounded too familiar:
"Paul Hetherington, media manager for Water Aid, said: "Pictures couldn't be taken and people were being moved out of the main hall so they wouldn't experience the event. It was very disruptive. We had to apologise to people who were invited. We wanted to say thank you for all the support that many people had given us, but some of them were asked to leave. Many guests were invited by the hosts, so why should the speaker have any control over these guests and removing the media? It defeated the object of trying to raise awareness of the cause."
A Gore spokesman apologized for the limited availability at the London event.
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