Week-End Reading

Here's some of today's news for you reading enjoyment.

• The house is a-rockin' ...: I'm sure you're heard or read (or felt) all about this morning's excitement by now. The rumblings weren't detected at Diary Central but that might be because The Diarist is a heavy sleeper.
  

• Simply hedging their bets?: Though not exactly admitting to a design flaw, Apple has decided to appease the pitchfork-and-torch-wielding mob with freebies. Can't say I blame 'em, though it shouldn't have taken a grassroots effort to get them to do what should have been done last month when the issue was first discovered.
  

• New major development in SE living: The Washington City Paper is reporting that the run-down Skyland Shopping Center's days are numbered. The site is currently home to an AutoZone, Blimpie's, CVS, USPS warehouse, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Hill Top Cleaners, New York Fried Chicken, Murry's, Shoe City, Squashallbeefs Sports, Sports Zone, Kelly's Carry-Out, Discount Mart, Field's Music, Beauty World, and Alabama Express Liquor. We'd rather that this hadn't been the Charlie Foxtrot that it's been the past 10 years, but we are glad that Middle River East is finally getting some much needed redevelopment.

Shoes On Other Feet

A common Liberal talking point is to paint conservatives as racist. Yes, some within the Republican party have made bigoted comments. But it seems often all that it takes to get one painted as a racist is to show any push-back to Obama, his agenda, or his policies. It's a good thing that the Democrats run such a tight ship, keeping their party members in line with the Liberal vision of a new America.

Huh? What's that?

It's interesting that Obama's flagging numbers on the economy have been driven not by white Republicans or white Independents but rather by white Democrats.

Since April, white Democratic approval of Obama's handling of the economy is down 20 points, from 80 percent to 60 percent. And, nearly as many white Democrats now strongly disapprove of how he's dealing with the issue as those who strongly approve (25 strongly disapprove; 28 strongly approve).

Hmm. I wonder how this narrative is going to fit into the Liberal propaganda machine?

Have You Heard The One About ...

Okay, here's an oldie-but-goodie for you:

Q: Which came first, the chicken or the egg?

A: The party-pooping scientist!

Letterman Takes On iPhone Issues

Last night, David Letterman's Top 10 list took on Apple's iPhone 4 issues.



What does this have to do with D.C.? Well, nothing at all ... but you knew I would find a connection somehow. I honed in on Number 6 and thought that this wasn't so much a sign that you purchased a bad iPhone than you purchased the Limited-Edition Achmed iPhone. (This entertainer was filmed at the Warner Theatre ... ah-HA!)

One More Obstacle Down

Yep, kids, you can't stop progress, no matter how hard you try. Now, sing along with me!

Why Waste Your Time Doing The Same-Ol'-Same-Ol'?

Anytime these people want to come punk a real karaoke joint, they are more than welcome. Members of the cast of Les Misérables and The Altar Boyz as well as one of the most prolific recording artists alive have already paid us multiple visits. We know how to handle you entertainment types. So c'mon - we're ready with open arms for any other celebs to pay us a visit.

The Problem With Mandates

It's one thing to demand a significant and expensive change. It's another to refuse to pay for the changes you demand.

A new storm water management fee is costing commercial property holders in the District, but the city's largest property owner and the instigator of the levy -- the federal government -- has suggested it is exempt.

[...]

D.C. Water said it expected the federal government, as the largest property owner in the city, to owe $2.1 million in fiscal 2010, the first full year of billing, and $3.2 million in 2011, about 19 percent of what the utility needs to collect that year.

D.C. Water, formerly known as WASA, is mandated to improve the system by a federal consent decree it agreed to in 2003 after being sued by the Environmental Protection Agency and environmental advocates.

The GAO apparently believes that this $2.1 million tab is a tax. Bumpkiss. It's a bill. The District is has to pay for the upgrades and, like any reasonable entity, is passing a portion of the fees to its customers.

Worse comes to worst, the GAO could find a way to roll the amount due into currently available funding and call it a day.

We Need More, Not Less

We Love DC is reporting that the Townhouse Safeway at 1800 20th Street, NW will be closing on 07 August 2010.

I have shopped in this store, especially when I worked for a small law office nearby. It was great for a lunch-time stop, for when I needed office snacks, or for when I needed to grab something to make for dinner that night. There is a lot of value in neighborhoods having small "boutique" grocery stores like this. Yes, you will have far more selection in your full-sized stores. But, in a city environment, those stores are really only practical for major grocery shopping days. Neighborhoods need these little corner stores for the day-to-day needs.

I agree if a major retailer is the one running the store the prices should be in line with the full-service stores, all company-specific discounts (read: club cards) should be honored, and a good mix of necessities should be kept on hand. It's a shame that Safeway couldn't make this trial work (and expand on it). They seriously whiffed at the plate here.

My One Glaring Gripe With Washington, D.C.

You won't learn my political affiliation here. I'm not sure that more than three people in my life actually know how I'm registered. What I will tell you about my political philosophy is this: strength and progress comes from having many voices in the room. Differing points of views, dissenting opinions, and constructive arguments is how we get what is best for the community as a whole. Nothing good comes from echo chambers.

This has been the District's major flaw since Home Rule and will continue to be so long as District residents cling to a party that has consistently failed them, with very few exceptions.

The Democratic Party has gripped the city's government in a stranglehold that would make most of the world's governing regimes blush. The city has seen five mayors since self-governance ... all of them Democrat (though one of them governed like he was a Republican). All seven Council Chairmen have been Democrat. Over half of the At-Large Councilmembers have been Democrat. All individual Ward Councilmembers have been Democrat. Out of the thirteen current City Councilmembers, two are Independent (with very left-leaning tendencies to the point that they might as well be Democrats).

Where is the diversity of ideas? Where is the public discourse that only comes from multi-party governance? Where is the exchange of ideas necessary for the internal checks and balances of representative government?

What has been so great about this Democratic rule that we, the city, allow them to keep control?

Please, somebody tell me. Because all I've seen in my short life has been backroom dealings, cronyism, and other such "entitled" behaviors from those who are supposed to be working for us, not lording over us.

Look, I know that not all Democrats are bad public servants. I also know that primates have the ability to write masterpieces and that non-Timex watches can tell time ... sometimes we get lucky and put good people into office.

But it would be nice if we, the residents of the District of Columbia, try something different. Look at all of the candidates running for office, not just the Democratic ones. Judge them by what they say they will do for us. Hold them to those promises. And stop electing people based on their party affiliation or what they did decades ago or the fact that they're the longest serving member on the Council currently.

Let's get some real diversity in our city government. Let's get a real exchange of ideas and solutions. Let's make our local media cover all of the candidates so that we, as the voting public, can make truly informed decisions on who we want in our government.

Let's make our government work for us, with our best interests in mind. Let's have a government as diverse as our city is becoming. Let's be the model and the envy of the world.

Finish Him!

The new Mortal Kombat game will have all the blood, all the violence, all the special moves, and all the fatalities we've come to know and love of the series.

Plus, it's introducing a new friendship move!

I Hope You're Well-Stocked

So, this is how the zombie apocalypse begins.

"We're glad that everyone is alive, despite being 'undead'," Sgt. Stewart said.

Guess I'll be loading up on bottled water, ammunition, and SPAM tonight.

And Now For Something Completely Different!

I figured that I should give you a feel-good story today to balance my other offerings. So, here it is:

"Soccer's octopus oracle Paul to retire"

Paul, the octopus who became a pop culture sensation by correctly predicting the outcome of as many World Cup matches as he has legs - all seven of Germany's games plus the Spain-Netherlands final - is going to retire.

You really couldn't ask for much more after a performance that would make Nostradamus blush. Well, I guess he could go into entertainment ... nah.

Hurray! Sustainable ... Clothing?

Okay, if this doesn't gross you out, then I doubt very much would.

Using a bathtub mixture of yeast, bacteria and sweetened green tea, designer Suzanne Lee produces extremely thin sheets of bacterial cellulose. When wet, they're pliable, and can be shaped into clothing. The seams are simply "sewn" by squeezing two sheets together.

Yes. Clothing made of bacteria. You know, that stuff you spend your Saturday mornings cleaning off your bathroom surfaces. I would have typed up an appropriate zinger, but Mark really has all the snark you need.

This may come as a surprise to some, but mankind is actually very, very good at growing clothing. We call it cotton. Through slightly less direct methods, we call it wool and silk. And if we're really scraping the barrel, feel free to sweep up the floor after my quarterly haircut.

That, of course, could give rise to a new fashion trend ... the "Moe Hair Suit".

Obama's Asshattery Continues

As if this news wasn't bad enough, the Obama administration announced that it's only the beginning of the Federal government's intrusion into state rights.

The Justice Department hasn't ruled out filing a second lawsuit challenging Arizona's immigration law if evidence shows racial profiling at work, Attorney General Eric Holder says.

Ignore the fact that the Arizona law specifically states that law enforcement is not permitted to racially profile. Still, Holder believes Arizona is way off base with this new law.

"The Arizona statute, if you look at the guts of it, really puts in place a whole variety of things that are inconsistent with what we have decided to do as a federal government," Holder said.

Of course the Arizona statute is inconsistent with things the Federal government has decided to do ... which would be nothing at all. The fact that Arizona has been forced to do something due to the Fed's inaction should force Holder (or someone) to re-evaluate the Federal government's response to the immigration problem. Instead, they all chose to bury their heads in the sand. That's right, they've decided to follow The Clancy Doctrine.

At least other state governors are alarmed at the Federal response to Arizona.

Democratic governors expressed "grave" concerns to White House officials this weekend about the Obama administration's suit against Arizona's new immigration law [...]

Thank the gods that some people in authority in this country find this toxic. Way to stick up for Arizona, people.

[...] warning it could cost the party in crucial elections this fall, The New York Times reported late Sunday.

Oh. I'm sorry. I thought for one moment there that you were more concerned about the precedent being set here. I mean, If Obama's Federal government could step all over state rights, wouldn't you think that (maybe, perhaps) a future, enterprising Republican Federal government might think they could do the same? I guess not.

At least the Justice Department is pursuing cases with merit, right?

Right?!

Musical Musings: Mario Spinetti And Such

It's been a hot minute since I last wrote about him, but [1/1] is currently playing on my iPod and it got me thinking about Mario Spinetti. I haven't played his EP in a while and almost forgot how much I love it.

That, of course, got me reminiscing about my experiences with Mario and his music.

It got me thinking about my boys (First and Second Brain), how I don't spend enough one-on-one time with Second, and how much I miss First.

It got me thinking about that recording session in NYC and how much I want to do that for a living.

It got me thinking about a good friend of mine who is doing it for a living, how I don't chat with him enough, and how much I miss him.

And it took me back to Mario. While I would never have the conceit to consider myself a good friend (or even a friend), I'm glad to know him. I'm thankful for the few times we did talk. I wish I could know him better. I understand that he is a busy teacher and an even busier entertainer. Still, it would be nice to have a few minutes once a week to catch up with him to see how things are going.

Because he truly is one of the good people and his music is definitely worth the time to check out.

Week-End Reading

Here's some of today's news for you reading enjoyment.

• Bans are illegal ... except in Virginia: CNN is reporting that a federal judge has ruled that DOMA is unconstitutional "because it interferes with an individual state's right to define marriage". U.S. District Judge Joseph Tauro stated that "irrational prejudice plainly never constitutes a legitimate government interest". This ruling could find state judges striking down state laws banning SSM and thus open the door to a Constitutional Amendment banning recognition for same-sex marriage.
  
  But in the meantime, some states are finding creative ways to ban SSM. If you wish to be legally recognized as "married" in Virginia, you apparently have to be legally married in Virginia. The Commonwealth apparently will not recognize marriages performed in other states. (Someone should introduce Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli to this little bit of light reading.)
  

• Office etiquette: The DC Careers Examiner has a list of five things you shouldn't share at the workplace. I'd like to add a five more items to the list, if I may: flatulence, your spouse's cooking, your political opinions, the latest thing on the internet that you found side-splitting-ly hilarious, and unsolicited stories about your vacation/kids/grandkids/pets.
  

• Another step closer to a vaccine: The Wall Street Journal reports on some positive news for people with HIV. According to the article, "U.S. government scientists say they have discovered three powerful antibodies, the strongest of which neutralizes 91% of HIV strains, more than any AIDS antibody yet discovered." But they aren't stopping there. They hope that this new discovery will also help lead them towards a cure for the common cold. (Seriously.)

Wow! Is Someone Actually Listening?!

Remember this post from a couple of days ago where I expressed dismay at the news of a "big box only" development proposal? It seems that nothing is set in stone quite yet.

"Everything I have heard, there are other pieces to that puzzle, because it couldn't just be a Wal-Mart," [Ward 5 Councilmember Harry] Thomas told Housing Complex after one of his town hall meetings. "You're talking about one big box store on that corner. I don't think that would fit the needs of the residents. ...Whatever it is, I don't think it's going to be a traditional Wal-Mart. No one has signed a deal. What I think you have is Wal-Mart being a potential anchor for Wal Mart [sic] as a mixed-use development there."

Now this alone is good news but it gets even better.

Thomas also mentioned that there are other contenders for the space, naming Lowe’s as a store that could potentially be interested in coming to the District.

I don't really care, honestly, what business anchors the spot so long as the mixed-use opportunity isn't squandered. If we're going to develop the area, let's do it right.

Ruh-Oh!

The Obama Administration recently officially announced that the United States was suing the State of Arizona over its recently passed immigration law. This move was first announced last month by an administration official while on official business in Ecuador.

To say it's raised some eyebrows would be a drastic understatement. In fact, I just read that it's become such a hot potato that the White House is already starting to warm up the "Hope and Change" Bus for another turn around the neighborhood.

The White House has said the decision to challenge Arizona's immigration law was out of its hands, left completely up to Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. and the lawyers at the Justice Department.

Now correct me if I'm wrong but I have always been led to believe that the President sets the agenda and that the President directs his staff to act on issues he wants addressed. But, even eighteen months into his Presidency, I'm willing to give President Obama the benefit of the doubt. I'm sure that if the White House says that Holder is acting on his own, then it must be the case.



*cue dramatic music*

A Convention With A Place To Rest

Thank the gods this is over!

The JBG Cos. and Marriott International have reached an agreement in principle to allow construction to begin on the District's planned $550 million convention center hotel this fall.

The District, with Marriott as a partner, has been trying to build a dedicated convention center hotel since before the Walter E. Washington Convention Center opened in 2003. The project appeared ready to begin last year until JBG, a Chevy Chase-based developer, sued the city alleging an irregular procurement process, halting the project.

The Walter E. Washington Convention Center has been losing business to its closest rival, the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center since the Maryland venue was finished. The Gaylord is larger and, more importantly, has a hotel on the premises. The hotel, more than any other reason, is what has made the Gaylor such an attractive venue. The people at the Washington Convention Center have been screaming for years to have a world-class hotel next door to lure and keep people coming to D.C. instead of running off to other venues.

And now, finally, the District will get competitive again.

Congratulations to everyone involved for doing what's right.

Maybe I Should Be Adrian's Friend, Too

It's no secret that I'm not a fan of Mayor Adrian Fenty. While he has done a fine job of continuing (and finishing) projects begun under the Anthony Williams administration, while he picked his school chancellor wisely, and while his (controversial) choice for Police Chief has been (in my opinion) a decent success, I still think the man is a huckster and the second coming of The Night Owl.

Seriously, D.C., do we honestly need more of the same political crap that made the city a national punchline for most of the past 30 years? I think not. And I hope that, come voting time, you think not too.

Levi Lied? Oh-NOES!

People Magazine is reporting that Levi Johnston is apologizing to the Palin family for saying "things about the Palins that were not completely true".

Wait. What?

You mean this Vanity Fair article could contain fallacies? Are you saying that this UsMagazine.com article might be a tad bit off the straight-and-narrow? Am I to believe that this interview with 70news.com plays with the facts a bit?

Levi Johnston admits lying about the Palin family?!

Why ... I ... I don't know who to believe anymore.

A Little Geekery

Follow these instructions explicitly:

1. Go to Google's search site.
2. Type "How to find Chuck Norris" in the search box.
3. Click the "I'm Feeling Lucky" button.

Mmm hmm! Tru dat!

"Who Are You?"

"Someone like you. Someone who'll rattle the cages."

I know, I know. Everyone loves Batman. Iron Man's made it good too. Even peons like Dave Lizewski are getting some love. But please, please, PLEASE ... for the love of all that's good and holy in this universe ... do not let this become the next big thing. Because the last thing we need in this world is another arms escalation. And, besides, we already know how well it's gonna play out.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Federal Money And Attention Spent Wrongly

You have got to be kidding me with this nonsense.

The Justice Department has decided to file suit against Arizona on grounds that the state's new immigration law illegally intrudes on federal prerogatives and will seek a preliminary injunction to stop the legislation from taking effect, law enforcement sources said Tuesday.

The lawsuit, which three sources said could be filed as early as Tuesday, will invoke for its main argument the legal doctrine of "preemption," which is based on the Constitution's supremacy clause and says that federal law trumps state statutes. Justice Department officials believe that enforcing immigration laws is a federal responsibility, the sources said.

You know, they're right on one point - enforcing immigration laws is a federal responsibility ... a responsibility at which the Federal Government is failing miserably.

Arizona has written the law in a way that complements existing federal laws, not replaces them. And anyone with an 8th grade education can see that the Arizona law will not infringe on American's lives, rights, or liberties. It is only those who are in our country illegally who need worry ... and then only if they break the law.

Look, I understand why people want to live and work here. You'll be hard-pressed to find another country that offers the freedoms and the possibility of achieving your dreams that America offers. But we have rules on how one comes here and becomes an American. Many of us have the benefit of birth to American parents on American soil. Some of us have been blessed to have followed the rules and became naturalized Americans. But far too many people are breaking those rules ... spitting in the face of every person who followed our laws and demanding that they be treated the same way.

Bullshit.

You want to be an American? You want to be part of our rich national tapestry? You want to partake of our wealth and our freedoms? Then do the right thing ... the hard thing ... and follow our goddamn laws.

As for our Federal Government - shame on you! It is your responsibility to protect our borders and our sovereignty. It is your job to enforce our immigration laws. If you were performing your duties, your citizenry wouldn't have to pass local laws to do what you're supposed to be doing.

Do your goddamn job already!

A Sad Day In District Development

There are more than a fair number of people who are pleased to hear that Wal-Mart is "expected" to sign a lease to open its first store within the District of Columbia. They tout that this will offer more employment in the city and more inexpensive (read: cheap) goods for those with lower incomes. They say that this is a victory for those who feel socially marginalized and who haven't been able to enjoy in the economic bounty that the District has been seeing. To that I guess I can't argue very much.

But I can't help but question whether it's a better deal than what was planned to be there before the economy went belly up.

See, New York Avenue NE is one of the worst roads in the District. It's supposed to be The Grand Gateway into our city from the north. Right now, it's a stretch of desolation, depression, and destruction. And it needs the kind of development that Arbor Place would have brought ... mixed-use development ... to help it become The Grand Gateway that has long been envisioned.

I can't for the life of me understand why housing couldn't be included into a Wal-Mart development. Surely apartments could be added on top of a Wal-Mart. Or surrounding an expansive parking lot of Wal-Mart. Or encasing a parking structure (or two) of Wal-Mart. Certainly, our city officials can find a way to work with Wal-Mart, the Schaeffer's, Abdo Development, and the financial institutions to make lemonade out of this proposed lemon.

Because, seriously, what would you rather see while driving into the District down New York Avenue ... this or this?

I Don't Know What It Is ...

... but this commercial for AT&T is visually stunning. Now if only I could figure out what they're trying to say.

Song To Ponder

I Really Need Some Advice

It's unlike me to be this paralyzed. I mean, I do tend to take an inordinate amount of time to make a decision because I want to weigh all the factors and consequences. But this time ... I'm stuck.

I've invested a lot into a project, but I've been thinking for some time that it just isn't going to make it in the market. Because I've put so much into it, it's hard for me to look objectively at where reality actually stands.

To those of you who have walked away from something to which you've dedicated a lot of personal resources, no matter how easy or difficult it may have been, how did you walk away?

I seriously need some advice here.

A Blessing In Disguie?

If I hadn't recently renewed my AT&T contract, which disqualifies me from smartphone discounts until May 2011, I probably would have been one of the early adapters to the new iPhone 4.

I guess now I'm glad I did.

It appears that while the iOS 4 is a thing of beauty even if it still lags behind other smartphone OSes in some areas, the iPhone 4 hardware, while still a thing of beauty, is a major step backwards for Apple.

So I suppose that I will gladly wait until next year, when my contract is up for renewal, to see if Apple fixes the design flaws in the iPhone 4 ... or releases the new-and-improved iPhone 5.

Initial Thoughts On iOS 4

I downloaded and installed the latest, greatest iPhone operating system (iOS 4) late yesterday afternoon. I haven't played with it much, but what I have played with makes me smile. For instance:

• Folders means no more unlimited scrolling screens of apps! It was such a pain in the ass to have to scroll 8 screens over to play Zombie Farm. Creating folders is quick and painless. I can now dump those native apps that I never use (*coughcoughStockscoughcough*) into a folder and never see them again if I don't want to. And, I only have one screen now ... oh, yes!
• Multitasking ... that is all.
• More customization! Any time I am granted my gods-given right to be *mostly* unhindered me, I am a happy man. So it's a major positive step that Apple has loosened its grip a bit more on what I think my iPhone should look like.

But I have one major gripe (at least for now). I had recently bought an alarm clock/iPhone dock for my nightstand. And it works beautifully. Or at least it did until I upgraded to iOS 4. Now my music won't play through the system.

Not cool, peeps. Not cool at all.

Why Liberals Irritate Me

I've stayed out of political discussions for quite a long time. I used to run a politically-themed blog, but it was exhausting and stressful. And I'm not the kind of guy who thrives on those types of conversations ("screaming at the wind" is how I described it in my final post on that long-dead blog). But Eugene Robinson, who is typically one of those Liberals I can't stand, opined today on last night's Presidential speech on the Great Gulf of Exxico Oil Slick (thanks, Craig Ferguson). Mr. Robinson said:

Less than a minute into President Obama’s Oval Office address, my heart sank. For the umpteenth time since the Gulf of Mexico oil spill began, an anxious nation was informed that Energy Secretary Steven Chu has a Nobel Prize. Obama’s speech pretty much went down hill from there.

[...]

We can all applaud Chu’s accomplishment. But here’s the thing: Chu is a physicist, not an engineer or a biologist. His Nobel was awarded for the work he did in trapping individual atoms with lasers. He’s absurdly smart. But there’s nothing in his background to suggest he knows any more about capping an out-of-control deep-sea well, or containing a gargantuan oil spill, than, say, columnist Paul Krugman, who won the Nobel in economics. Or novelist Toni Morrison, who won the Nobel in literature.

Or President Obama, who won the Nobel in peace, for that matter.

See, they are all smart people. And that is the problem with Liberals. Most of them are smart ... went to college, got a degree or two, became very important people with very important jobs ... and they won't hesitate to make sure that you know how smart they are. So smart, in fact, that they know what's better for you than you do.

It doesn't matter that they don't have your life experience. It doesn't matter that they don't live in your neighborhood. It doesn't matter that they don't know the variables in your personal universe. They have degrees. They have awards. They have elevated social positions. They can look down from on high and divine what is best.

But, Diarist, the President and his people have meetings and commissions. Liberals seek out knowledge and understanding. They must have a better idea of how to do things than I do!

See, I have to disagree with you there. Yes, it's true that Liberals tend to be more intellectually curious than the rest of us but, from my experience, it isn't out of a desire to learn or know more. They are simply looking for justifications to their pre-conceived notions ... voices of agreement with their pre-planned agendas. Is it any accident that last night's speech dealt more with the President's energy agenda and less with addressing the catastrophe at hand? I think not.

I don't have a witty ending to this post. I just needed to get that off my chest.

Being Left Behind

At one point in my life, I was riding on the wave of technology. I was up-to-speed on the latest-and-greatest and updated my tech just about every three years.

But that was over five years ago.

These days, I'm using a Power Mac G4 as my desktop, a Power Book G4 as my laptop, and an iPhone 3Gs as my phone.

As you can see, everything except for my iPhone has been obsolete for at least four years. Also, everything except for my iPhone has been a hand-me-down.

My desktop is running along just fine and does everything I need it to do. I haven't used the desktop as my primary computer in a couple years ... it exists primarily to house my digital music catalog. My laptop, however, is dying a slow death and seriously needs to be replaced.

Which is where I find myself today. I'm very picky about my tech. As you can see, I've made my bed with Apple. I know exactly what I want and need in a new laptop. The problem is that I can't afford to buy it outright, I can't get financing through Apple, and I can't add any more credit through my current cards.

I know how I got into this predicament. I was in a relationship in which we racked up a lot of debt. Some of it was solely mine. Some of it was solely his. Most of it was ours shared. But I've ended up being the one left holding the tab on the vast majority of it. I've enrolled in a Debt Reduction Plan to get the interest rates back down to a manageable 9.25% (from a criminal 28.99%) on each of my two credit cards. Even with that, it's going to take me almost five years to pay off what is owed. That's left me in a bind in many areas of my life (i.e. selling the current condo and buying something in an area I want to live, saving money, replacing older things with newer things, et cetera).

But back to the tech issue. I have no choice but to ride the back of my laptop (and then desktop) until I'm in a financial place to get what I need to replace the laptop.

It's just irritating that I'm left in this position ... a position that I am not solely responsible for being in.

I Just Got Lost ...

... and slept right thru the dawn. And the world spin sadly on.

Much To Think About

Over the past couple months I have been thinking about my current romantic relationship, how it affects me, and how it affects my other relationships. While I have no answers to anything, I do know that changes have to be made and that the person I'm seeing is going to have to make some compromises.

For the past year or so, I have sacrificed my non-romantic personal life in order to help fascilitate the growth of my romantic personal life because the person I'm seeing is against everything that I did in my non-romantic personal life prior to our seeing each other.

Now I know that's a bit dramatic. It's also a bit too broad and a bit unfair to the person I'm seeing because not everything I used to do in my non-romantic personal life is off-limits now. It's just that I feel that I can't do any of those things without the company of the person I'm seeing. Perhaps that's an unfair assessment, but it's the way I'm made to feel about it all.

In my humble and honest opinion, it's not healthy to spend every free moment with the person with whom you are romantically engaged. People need things outside of each other ... friends, activities, etc. I need things outside of my romantic relationship. Otherwise, I begin to feel stiffled and resentful. And I really don't want to feel that way.

So what is it that I'm saying? I don't know. I'm still trying to think this thing through.

A Song For You

A Brief Lesson In Hockey

No penalty. No suspension. $1000 fine.



No penalty. No suspension. No fine.



Five minute boarding and game misconduct. Two game suspension. $232,645.40 fine.



Are we all clear?

So You Want To Be A Capitals Fan

I've noticed a trend now that the 2010 Winter Olympics are over and we have a few games under our belt. I'm guessing that the hockey games during The Games has turned a bunch of people on to the sport that probably had never given it a first thought before. And that's fine. Hockey is an exciting game and one of the most accessible. The more the merrier.

However.

If you are going to attend a game (which you should ... hockey is best witnessed live), there are some things you need to know.

The General Must-Follows

These rules are universal. They are the most basic of the basics and are followed in every hockey rink all over the world. If you walk away with learning only five things from this post, learn these five!

1. You don't have to know the rules to have a good time.
   
   It's true. There will be enough hard-core fans sitting immediately around you. Don't be afraid to ask what's going on. Trust me, we love to talk about the game and help new fans get acclimated.


2. Practice the "Puck In Play" rule.
   
   The "Puck In Play" rule is simple ... when the game is on, you stay put. It doesn't matter where you are or what you need to do. You can wait until a break in the action. See, hockey is a fast-paced game and, very literally, you can blink and miss an important play (like a goal). So every second that the puck is in play is important to hockey fans. We do not take kindly to the asshole who made us miss our favorite player score on our most hated team. You don't want to be that asshole so don't be.


3. Sit back in your seat!
   
   This goes in hand with the "Puck In Play" rule. When you lean forward in your seat, you take away a large amount of visual real estate. Sit back in your seat so the people behind you can see the whole ice as well.
   
   But, Diarist, the people in front of me are leaning forward.
   
   The tap them politely on the shoulder and ask them to sit back. If they hit you with the same lame excuse, tell them to tell the people in front of them to sit back. And so on. We all want to see the game so please let us.


4. Keep the chatter to a minimum.
   
   You are permitted to cheer as much and as enthusiastically as you wish. You are permitted to discuss the rules of the game or the strategies being used. But blathering on and on about work or personal life is irritating and prevents those around you from enjoying the game. If you wish to catch up with your buddies and discuss how that chick (or guy) the other week gave you crabs, please don't come to the game. No one wants to hear that.


5. Know your limit.
   
   Alcohol is served at the game during the first two periods. You are more than welcome to have some beers or cocktails. But know when to say when.
   

The Capitals Optionals

The next set of rules are specific to the Washington Capitals experience at Verizon Center.

1. Properly enjoy The National Anthem.
   
   It happens at the start of every game. Sometimes the Canadian National Anthem is performed as well. When the anthem(s) start, stand up. You are encouraged to sing, though it's not mandatory. Many people in the crowd will shout RED at "And the rockets RED glare ...". It is okay to do that. Some people will shout O at "Oh say does that ...". It is not okay to do that. The O is a Baltimore tradition that was begun at (and for) Oriole games. We are not Baltimore. We are not the Orioles.


2. DO NOT encourage this guy!
   
   
   I have my reasons.


3. Participate in the group stuff.
   
   Several videos are played during the commercial breaks. Know them and be prepared.
   
   * Unleash The Fury!
   * Victory!
   * "The Hockey Song"
   
   Several chants are done during the course of the game.
   
   * "Ref, you suck!"
   When the refs make a highly questionable call against our team.
   
   * "1 ... (2) ... (etc.) ... It's all your fault!"
   After the Capitals score, immediately following the second announcement of the goal.
   
   * "Who cares?!"
   After the Capitals are scored against, immediately following the second announcement of the goal.
   
   * "Let's go, Caps!"
   Throughout the game, but especially after Horn Guy or Goat leads the cheer. (See my rant against the Capstronaut.)
   

Of course there will be a great many other rules and traditions that will come and go. But these will get you started (and keep you from pissing off the fans who have been going for ever). Follow these rules. And enjoy the game.

Let's go, Caps!

Building A Better Bridge (System)

In case you weren't aware, The District highway system is missing a key element -- a direct connection between I-295 and I-395. This lapse in planning has caused many years of traffic-clogged pain to the residents of Wards 6 and 8 as Maryland and Virginia commuters spill over into the neighborhoods in a bid to maneuver around the congestion to get from home to work to home again. Well, my faithful readers, all of that is about to change. DDOT has begun work to build a new 11th Street Bridge system that will right many of the previous wrongs. Jacqueline Dupree of JDLand has more information here on the new bridges being built. I also ran across the following informational video on Barry Farm (Re)mixed) (via DC Metrocentric).



But, Diarist, this is your back yard, this project has been on the books for a while, and work started a couple months ago. Yet you're just now talking about it. What gives?

I feel a bit mixed about this project, to be honest.

Now don't get me wrong ... the current bridge system is a major disservice to the good people of Anacostia. It cuts our direct access to I-295. It separates the foot traffic from our neighborhood to the city west of the river. And, as I stated above, it floods our neighborhoods with commuter traffic. The new bridge system will rectify those shortcomings, in addition to providing for the new streetcar system that The District is also currently work on.

But the new bridge system will take away the direct access to I-395 which we now enjoy. I know this is a minor quibble, but it is an important one, especially for those of us in Anacostia and her sister neighborhoods who work in The Commonwealth. Instead, we will have to do a little neighborhood congesting of our own. And while my logical side agrees that this is a far better solution to the problem, my emotional side is all in a tizzy that I will be inconvenienced a few extra minutes every commute to Virginia.

All that said, I'm glad to see this project finally started. Git 'er dun!

Snowpocalypse, Snowmageddon, Snowverkill, Snowverit ...

... whatever you want to call it, I think we've reached our limit here in the District of Columbia and surrounding regions. Since I have been basically snowed out of work and am running out of work things to work on (along with the majority of the peeps here), I thought I'd pass some time with some comical (at least in my opinion) takes on our winter weather this year.

Yes, Carol Anne, that is snow in your television set! Bum bum BU-U-U-U-U-UM!

Who's your Winter 2010 Daddy? That's right.

When do you know it's simply too much snow? This is how.

Politicians And Numbers

In an unprecedented moment of honesty, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi tells reporters how many votes in the House she has in support of the Obamacare bill and says that the Senate needs to fix it.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid was reported as replying, "I have a vote for Speaker Pelosi right here." Regrettably, the accompanying picture could not be published.

(Picture taken from this news story.)

What Is A "Superfan"?

This guy is a Superfan. This guy is a Superfan. This gal is a Superfan.

But this guy is not.

I'm not alone in this belief. Many people think that Spaceman (because I refuse to assign him any name that refers to the team) is nothing more than an attention-grubbing idiot. Some people disagree. And I suppose it is their right to do so.

But they're wrong.

What sets Spaceman apart from Horn Guy, Goat, and Screaming Mimi is that his shtick has absolutely nothing to do with the Washington Capitals. In fact, until The Washington Post did that little blurb on him, there was nothing Caps related to him. Now his Post-appointed name adorns the back of his space suit. Thanks, Steinberg. Additionally, the Superfans are Superfans because they are in the forefront of audience participation during the games. They scream louder. They lead chants. They rile the crowd up.

Spaceman? He stands and pantomimes life in space.

Exciting, huh?

Don't get me wrong. I like that the Verizon Center is full during Caps games. I love that people are so excited about this team that they can't contain it. I think it's fantastic to see this once-sleepy-non-hockey town turn into a place where no one wants to come play. Verizon Center rocks at home Caps games the way that RFK Stadium used to rock at home Redskins games. Yes, faithful readers, it's like that now.

But I don't see the point in putting on a Halloween costume that has nothing to do with the team and suddenly declare yourself a Superfan. You want to play dress up? Fine. Get yourself one of these, one of these, one of these, and/or one of these and alter it to fit the associated player. Until then, sit down and take that stupid helmet off.

In Today's News

The United States has a new nation's capital ... of capitalism: David Frum opines on how the financial power of the world's greatest country has shifted from New York to the District.

But as Washington gains, the country loses. It loses something more than its ideals of free enterprise and private ownership. It loses the very American idea of a capital as a specialized locale to which specific tasks are delegated -- not an American Versailles where favors are distributed and attendance is mandatory.

While I agree that the federal government should never be in the business of business, Mr. Frum is a fool to imply that, at least over the past century, it hasn't been the ultimate decision-maker of financial dealings in this country. That the rest of the free-market movers and shakers have finally discovered this was bound to happen.

District metered parking will cost you $2 an hour ... or not: The city is looking at implementing a performance-based parking system.

The District is raising rates at most of the city's 17,000 meters to $2 an hour, expanding enforcement until 10 p.m. in eight "premium demand zones" and enforcing meter parking on Saturdays. The changes are expected to generate up to $7 million a year in additional revenue for the cash-strapped city.

The DDOT may succeed in changing people's commuting behavior. It just might not be the change for which they were hoping. I suspect that we'll start seeing this practiced more.

Washington Capitals to the rest of the Southeast Division - "Who's your daddy?": My Caps are 9-1 against its Southeast rivals, holding a 16 point lead over the second-place Tampa Bay Lightning (who they've defeated 12 straight times). Additionally, they're only 3 points off the lead in the Eastern Conference and 6 points off the lead in the league. With 38 games remaining in the season and with the return of several key members from injured reserve, expect to see them climb the leader board as the season progresses. A run for the Stanley Cup isn't out of the question, so long as the solid defense they've been playing lately doesn't waver.

Paper Or Plastic?

As you may, or may not, know, the new year has seen a new tax levied on the people of Washington, D.C. The purpose of this new tax is noble enough (to clean up the Anacostia River) but it is completely misguided and in all likelihood, like all other monies raised by government, will not be used for its intended purpose.

First, let's clear some things up. As stated in the legislation, this new tax was imposed

[t]o protect the aquatic and environmental assets of the District of Columbia; to ban the use of disposable non-recyclable plastic carryout bags; to establish a fee on all other disposable carryout bags provided by grocery stores, drug stores, liquor stores, restaurants, and food vendors; to give the Mayor the authority to implement rules and procedures to collect the fee; to establish a non-lapsing recurring Anacostia River Cleanup and Protection Fund.

Got that? Non-recyclable plastic bags are now banned in the District. A new tax is levied on consumers. The mayor (and apparently, the mayor alone) enforces the rules on tax collection. And a "fund" is created to capture the monies raised by this new tax.

Second, this new tax will be carried out at retail establishments. What exactly is meant by "retail establishments", you ask? Well ...

"Retail Establishment" means any licensee under a Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Basic Business License category Public Health: Food Establishment Retail (D.C. Official Code Sec. § 47-2851.03(10)(J)) license or under an Alcoholic Beverage Regulation Administration off-premises retailer’s license, class A or B.

In other words, you will be taxed at any place that sells food or alcohol. Grocery stores? Check. Liquor stores? Check. Big-box stores? Check. Movie rental stores? Check. Take-outs? Check. Convenience stores? Check. Even restaurants doggie bags are taxed. Do you see the enormity of this new tax?

And let's not forget that you're already being charged for these bags by the stores in the first place. So you're paying for these bags twice. And you get no refunds or price breaks for bringing your own bags.

Big whoop, Diarist. I'll just go to Maryland or Virginia for my shopping needs.

Not so fast there, bub.

Maryland and Virginia lawmakers say they will push for 5-cent fees on disposable paper and plastic bags at stores, after the District this month became the first major city in the nation to impose such a fee.

The reasoning behind this, like the District, is for purely environmental reasons. Maryland and Virginia, like the District, want to do better by Mother Earth and need the money to do so. All good and fine.

Except history has shown us that lawmakers rarely spend money for what it was originally set aside (see Medicare/Medicaid, road tolls, gas taxes, et cetera). And in this present economy I understand that governments are financially hurting, but the people are hurting more. Five cents (per bag) might not be a big deal to our council members yet it is a big deal to the residents in our poorer neighborhoods.

And, let's be totally candid about this. This will do nothing to improve the well-being of the Anacostia River. I suppose that it is within the realm of reason that the District will actually spend all of the money raised by this new tax on cleaning up the Eastern Branch. But the Anacostia doesn't reside solely in the District ... its origins are in Montgomery and Price Georges Counties, Maryland. Good luck trying to get all of those various jurisdictions to play nice. Even if D.C. gets its act together and does its part, it will still have to continually clean up Maryland's mess as it floats downstream. Not to mention all of the creeks, wetlands, parks, sewer drains, and so forth that feed and support the Anacostia

Make no mistake. This is an impossible fight on which the city is embarking. It will take more than just money to fix ... it will take a total attitude adjustment of the people. And a new tax ain't the solution to that problem.

Sports Happenings

I know I'm a bit behind on the chatter here but I wanted to share my thoughts on these stories.

1. Washington Redskins - Some might think that the story is this, this, or maybe even this. Those people would be wrong. The real story is behind the scenes.
   
   Here's my take. Clinton Portis needs to go. Yes, there were seasons when he almost literally carried this team on his back. But past performance doesn't give anyone a license to skate by, especially in the NFL. It certainly doesn't give you license to shoot your mouth off on a radio program. You have a problem with your coach? Talk to your coach about it behind closed doors. You have a problem with your teammates? Talk to your teammates in the locker room. Don't do it publicly. He has become a canker in the locker room and has lost the respect of many of the veteran players. He doesn't produce on the field. He doesn't inspire on the sideline. He doesn't lead in practice. Hell, he doesn't even show up to practice! Sorry, dude, but I think you're done. I'm hoping that one of Coach Shanahan's first moves is to trade Portis.
   
   
2. Washington Wizards - If there are two things I know about the next owner of this franchise, they are the following: he knows how to build a long-term winning team and he won't allow his players to embarrass his team. Odds are that this NBA off-season will see the Wizards go through a change like the Capitals did during the 2004 NHL season lockout ... he will make sure he has front office people who know basketball and they will blow this team up and start building toward a team that will be perennial playoff contenders. Quite frankly, for as much pain as that will bring in the immediate future, it will be the best thing to happen to Wizard fans since they last won the NBA title. Trust me on this, because it leads me to ...
   
   
3. Washington Capitals - I love my Caps. And I love Ted Leonsis. This is an owner who gets it. He respects his fans. He respects the tradition of hockey. And he respects his players. He is every bit as passionate about bringing the championship title to DC as a certain other major league team owner; but, unlike said other owner, he knows what is necessary and required of him to accomplish that. But that's not what I wanted to say about my Caps. What I wanted to say was that, seven days after trading their team captain to the Columbus Blue Jackets, the team finally decided on a new captain. I was too in shock last night to appreciate the choice. But after having some time to sleep on it, I think it was the right one. Firstly, Ovechkin is going to be here for a very long time, quite possibly for his entire career. Secondly, he has been a leader and always gives his all on the ice. Thirdly, well, there's this ...
   

   "I had talked to a lot of [players] the last couple of days and they said Alex is the only choice," [Coach Bruce] Boudreau said. "He's our leader, he's our guy. What shows he was ready was when I talked to him two or three days ago, he said he would accept the responsibility but 'only if my teammates want it.' He was already thinking about the team instead of himself, which is what captains do."

   Congratulations, Ovie, on the captaincy. And congratulations, Caps, for getting a quality captain.

A New Year - A New Start

Looking over my posts from the previous year, I've noticed that I didn't post a lot of much substance. So one of my resolutions for this year is to get back to that - being more active on my blog and making substantive posts about what's going on, both in this fair city of ours and in my own personal life. You'll see me rant more about our city government. You'll see me talk about our professional sports teams. You'll see me review television shows and movies I've seen. You'll see me ... well, I think you get the idea.

But I'd like a resolution from you, my faithful (and also perhaps new) readers, as well. I'd like you to resolve to make this blog more of a conversation. I am just as interested in what you have to say as you are in what I have to say. Don't be afraid to comment. We can have a back and forth on things, you and I and even amongst yourselves. One of the things I've always wanted for this site was for it to be like a cyber-water cooler.

So what do you say? Wanna haffa go at it?

New Years Is Coming ...

... so chill out, man. Bring on 2010!

Merry Christmas!

Today is Christmas Eve, which means tomorrow is Christmas Day. I want to focus more on the message of the day than on the day itself because I know that not all of my readers (and most definitely not all of my non-readers) are Christian and not all celebrate Christmas.

So in that light, I wish you all peace and joy and love. Enjoy this time of year and remember to share the love with friends, family, and even strangers.

My final gift to you is a song that I loved as a child. It brings back memories of everything that is right with Christmas.

Merry Christmas, one and all!

A Christmas Shout Out To My "Old Line State" Peeps

I was born in our nation's capital but I was raised in Southern Maryland. In case you didn't know, Maryland is famous for its blue crabs. And what's the first thing you think of when you think of Maryland blue crabs? That's right ... CHRISTMAS!!!

No, seriously.

Penned and recorded by David DeBoy in the summer of 1981, "Crabs For Christmas" is the story of a department store Santa in Houston, TX who is accosted by a Baltimore man. Now this poor man is so very far away from home and wants nothing more than a pile of steamed crabs and a beer for Christmas.

Touching story, no?

Alright, so it's not the Nativity Story. But it's a funny, catchy tune and probably the only Maryland-themed Christmas song out there. And as someone who grew up where the blue crab is king, this song brings a smile to my face and a warmth to my heart. I hope you enjoy it every bit as much as I do and that it finds its way into your regular Christmas music rotation.

Oh! And if you'd like to purchase your very own copy, you can find the CD on David DeBoy's website. (Sorry, folks. There isn't a purchasable digital download of the song.)

More Christmas Music Recommendations

A couple years ago, I listed a countdown of my most and least favorite Christmas tunes. You can find a roundup of my Top Five lists here. With Christmas soon upon us, I've decided that I should offer you some more holiday music to enjoy.

• I'm a big fan of Harry Connick, Jr. He's released a few Christmas albums during his career. My favorite of these is When My Heart Finds Christmas. The album recalls some of the great Christmas songs that were recorded during the 1940's and early 1950's by the likes of Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald. While it was difficult to single one song out, I have been able to do so. His rendition of "The Blessed Dawn Of Christmas Day" is one of the most emotionally delivered songs I've heard.
  
  
  
  
• Bob Dylan is not a singer. What he is is one of the greatest songwriters to have ever lived. He has penned some of the most iconic American music you'll hear. But he is not a singer. That is what makes his album Christmas In The Heart such a disappointment. The album is too richly produced for his weatherd, ragged voice to stand up to. It sounds like a Traveling Wilburys album without the benefit of having the other Wilburys present to record, which wouldn't be completely possible anyway. Still, there is a pearl amongst these swine, the playful romp "Must Be Santa". Writen in the style of "The International Friendship Song", this tune takes off in pure polka style and doesn't stop until the end (as all songs should, I suppose). I defy you to listen to this without wanting to sing along.
  
  
  
  
• Originally released exclusively at Hallmark stores as A Christmas Album and re-released as James Taylor At Christmas, this is yet another album that should be in your Christmas music collection. Like the Harry Connick, Jr. album, it was difficult to pick one song out of so many. But I've settled on "Baby It’s Cold Outside", a duet that pairs James with Natalie Cole. The samba shuffle gives a cozy feel that enhances the playful back-and-forth between James and Natalie. The chemistry between the two singers feels real … you can tell these two had a blast working on this song together.
  
  

A Continuation Of The Discussion

This past Tuesday, the D.C. City Council passed the bill to legalize same-sex marriage in the District. It is the first of three final hurtles to jump before homosexuals can marry in the Nation's Capital. Today, The Washington Post posted an article that explains how some black residents, especially those who lived through and fought during the Civil Right Movement of the 1960's, are none too happy that this struggle is being compared to that struggle. It's something I've heard many times before, from blacks and whites alike. But in this article, one piece jumped out at me like a neon green dot on a grey wall.

"You can choose to be gay or not," Marshall Brown said. "You can never choose to be black or not."

Not so, his son said. "People are born that way," Kwame Brown said. "That could be a generational difference between the way he thinks and the way I think."

"That's a fair argument," the father said when told of his son's view about sexual orientation. But the elder Brown wasn't about to equate gay rights with the civil rights movement.

I'm glad that the Elder Brown can see the merits of the "people are born that way" argument. It was his next statement that gave me pause.

Homosexuals, he said, "can hide it so easily, but we can't hide that we're black."

So here are the big questions that beg to be asked:

• If blacks could have hidden easily their blackness ... that is, if they could have used a cream or other such ways to hide the color of their skin ... would they have settled with the laws of the days before the Civil Rights Movement?
• Would the lighter-skinned among them have sold out those of their brethren who were to the extremes of the color human spectrum in order to just fit in and work with the system that existed at that time?
• Would they have simply accepted their situation or would they have still fought to make things better, equal, and more perfect?

I think I already know the answer. Which makes their arguments all the more ridiculous.