August 29, 2003
finally friday
As one would assume, the last few hours before a long holiday weekend tend to pass more slowly than the weekend itself will.
Lots to do this weekend - having folks over tonight for drinks, snacks and games, going to the Orange International Street Fair tomorrow, and to a birthday Luau Sunday. After all that excitement, there'll still be a whole weekend day left for relaxing. Gotta love the long weekends.
I've taken an unintentional break the last couple days after posting some rather long pieces. I didn't get nearly the comments I thought I would on them; usually my more controversial pieces tend to get a more intense response. So to artificially foster some discussion, here are some things I honestly believe, but haven't ever written about in depth:
I'm sure I'll eventually write longer essays on those topics, as well as other "moral" topics including nudity, sexual repression, and religion. Until then, have a great weekend!
August 27, 2003
ten commandments on slate
Slate has a great article on the Ten Commandments, very similar to my point of view. That's not the reason it's great, though. This is the first time I can remember a fairly major media group (Slate is MSN owned) having an opinion/feature article written by an Atheist and with an atheist/anti-religion point of view. Check it out.
chris clark's birthday
Happy Birthday to Chris Clark, who turns the big 2-5 today.
Someday, he'll update his website again.
Ten Commandments monument moved
Cnn (among others) is reporting the good news: Ten Commandments monument moved.
I knew it was a matter of time, but I'm still glad one man's inability to separate his feelings from the law aren't going to hold this up any longer.
August 26, 2003
Why does God need defending?
As I write this, Justice Roy Moore of Alabama is still fighting the removal of the 5,300 pound monument of the 10 commandments, one he placed there in the middle of the night two years ago and has since refused to remove, defying a court order in the process. He claims that not only is it his right to have the washing machine-sized tribute in the rotunda of a state building, but his duty as a citizen of Alabama and chief justice to insure it stays there.
In his defense are hundreds of protesters, who've spent the last week camping out, holding vigils, and praying in an attempt to halt the removal of the ten commandments. "Praying" is a key word here - some groups of protesters have been holding round-the-clock prayer circles, somehow convinced that their feelings will convince their God to change His all-knowing mind about what will happen. If not that, perhaps they're looking to show the world how much they love God, and how far they're willing to go to defend Him.
That begs the question, however - why does God need defending?
In the great Christian tradition, God is all-knowing, all-seeing, and all-powerful. He created all of us, and set into motion the entirety of existence, with a plan laid out and often invoked by his believers. This would lead me, an atheist, to believe that if the protesters think they're doing what God would want them to do, then they also believe God can darn well do it on His own if He wants to.
Then why are they there? Why are they praying, and what are they hoping to accomplish?
As in many other aspects of life, Christians often pray for things. They pray to God asking for more money, or for an outcome they'd favor, or for His intervention in something. This is fine and good until you realize that an all-knowing, all-powerful God already knows what's going to happen, what the result He wants is, and has the power to achieve that result.
Think about this a moment - when you pray to an omnipotent God asking for something, you're effectively saying "God, no matter what Your plan is, please alter it fit in my request". If these Christians think God is all powerful, and all knowing (and few Christians would argue otherwise), you'd think they would realize that He already has the best interests in the Universe planned out, and won't change that because you ask for it.
My point in all this? If you believe in the Christian God, go home. Sit down. Take a load off. You've shown the world what you believe, and we've heard you. You don't need to be out there anymore. If you really think you're doing God's work, ask yourself this: why can't God do it Himself?
August 24, 2003
An open letter
An open letter to Justice Roy Moore of Alabama
Dear Justice Roy Moore,
It's hard for me to turn on the news without seeing mention of your fight in Alabama to keep the ten commandments statue from being removed from the state judicial building. You've got prayer circles, protesters for both sides, and massive media coverage down there in Montgomery, and I've been keeping up with the latest developments, as an interested party.
You've said you're more than willing to allow the state to pay thousands of dollars in fees every day as a protest for not removing the statue, and you have your supporters praying, crying and singing around the clock in an effort to keep the statue in place. You hold the highest legal office in the state, yet you seem unwilling or morally unable to follow the law set forth by that same state's highest courts. This is a problem, considering the oath you took to uphold the law, and you need to realize that regardless of your feelings, you're breaking the law with what you're doing.
In addition to my issues with you not doing the job you were elected to do, I disagree with your fight, your beliefs, and your gall in what you've done and are doing. In the United States of America, we have the freedom of religion, or no religion, if we choose. Through hundreds of years of court law, this right has been expanded into a broad separation between church and state, in order to insure that the rights of every American, regardless of their beliefs (or lack thereof), to not feel government pressure to follow one religion over another are upheld.
Of course, this is a very general description, and courts have decided on various aspects in the spectrum of church-state separation rights throughout history, as you well know. The 9th circuit court recently ruled that the phrase "Under God" in the pledge of allegiance is unconstitutional, while challenges about the phrase "In God We Trust" as our national motto are judged unworthy to be heard. Some people say it's not a big deal, and everyone can ignore a motto or pledge as patriotic minutia that doesn't impact us on a daily basis.
Your statue, on the other hand, is a very different case. First off, on a strictly physical level, your statue is a 5,300-pound granite monument in the state appellate courts building. Unlike a motto, that can't be ignored. It's seen by everyone walking into the building, and by your own admission it's the basis for the laws you judge upon in your courtroom. The statue depicts the stone tablets Moses brought down from the mountain, inscribed with God's laws for his people, according to Judeo-Christian tradition. You've said the purpose of the statue is to remind people who see it that those laws are the basis for our laws, and about the presence of God.
If everyone in your state was a Christian who believed in the legal basis for the ten commandments and needed to be reminded regularly about the omnipresent god in which they believe, then you may have good reason to keep your statue in place. However, that's simply not the case. There are a fair number of non-Christians in Alabama, and a fair amount of Christians who know the ten commandments aren't relevant to justice today. More than that, when these people see a statue such as yours in a government building, there is good reason to assume, as you've said yourself, that these ten commandments will be used in judgment. All of a sudden, we have good reason to question your statue - the rights of non-Christians in your state are being taken away through the assumption that they will be judged by laws from a religion in which they're not a part.
Regardless of your feelings about the ten commandments, there's no getting around the fact that they're a largely religious group of laws. Let's break them down from, Exodus 20 (texts supplied by ReligiousTolerance.org) :
1st Commandment; Verse 3: "Thou shalt have no other gods before me."
Justice Moore, how is this anything but Christian preference? It says, no holds barred, that the only god allowed is the Judeo-Christian God. This doesn't just go against case law, this flies in the face of the Constitution. Not only that, worshiping other gods is not illegal, therefore this isn't the basis for any law on our books.
2nd Commandment; Verse 4: ."Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth."
Again, this is not an illegal activity, strictly a religious one. It has nothing to do with the law, and serves only to show that non-Judeo-Christian beliefs are wrong. Further, doesn't your church have 'likenesses" of things in heaven, namely Christ, in it's walls? Why fight so hard for a law you don't even follow?
3rd Commandment; Verse 7: "Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain."
Well God Damn, this is getting silly, isn't it? When this becomes illegal, let me know.
4th Commandment; Verse 8: "Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy."
This is actually one that's somewhat enforced in some places in the country - various states and counties have laws about businesses being open on and selling alcohol on Sundays. Ignoring the fact that Saturday is the sabbath day, this also only serves to impose Judeo-Christian values for day-of-the-week reverence on the non-Christian and Christian non-observing masses.
5th Commandment; Verse 12: "Honor thy father and thy mother."
Good advice. But by no means is it law, or is it something all Christians do. The wide-reaching definition of the word "honor" here also adds to the confusion as to why you think this is the basis for law in the United States.
6th Commandment; Verse 13: "Thou shalt not kill."
Well here we go! For the most part, the 6th commandment is law in most circumstances. It gets even more specific when we realize that the Hebrew word that this is translated from, "ratsach", more closely means "murder" than "kill". Regardless, this is the law. Good for you, Justice Moore! We found one! We'll ignore the fact that a higher percentage of Christians than other groups tend to support the death penalty...
7th Commandment; Verse 14 "Thou shalt not commit adultery."
More good advice. If you're in a relationship, especially a married one, cheating is bad form. Is it illegal? It is in the military, and it's grounds for divorce, but it won't get you arrested. This commandment has been the basis for some laws thoughout history, true enough. But like the others, it's not solely confined to Judeo-Christianity - most societies and cultures have this rule, a rule against murder, and a rule against the 8th commandment...
8th Commandment; Verse 15 "Thou shalt not steal."
What do you know, another good idea that happens to be the law, for the most part. Originally, however, this refered almost exclusively to the theft of human beings, i.e. slavery. If the 8th commandment was the basis for early law in the United States, it surely wasn't followed until the mid 19th century.
9th Commandment; Verse 16 "Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor."
This is probably the most appropriate piece part of Exodus 20 that could be in a court of law, if you were to replace "thy neighbor" with "anyone", as well as stopped displaying it on large granite monoliths with the other nine commandments. If that doesn't happen, however, then you get the problems I mention above.
10th Commandment; Verse 17 "Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house."
We were going so good there for a while, then we got here. Coveting or envying your neighbor's house (meaning all of his things, including his wife) isn't illegal, hell, it's pretty much a mainstay of the American capitalist concept of "keeping up with the Jones's". This, like most of the rest of the commandments, didn't inspire any laws we've ever had in the United States of America.
Well, that's that. By the numbers, that leaves five commandments that are strictly religious law (the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th and 10th), two commandments that are almost the law (the 4th and 7th), and three commandments that are the law (the 6th, 8th, and 9th). Of those three, none are exclusive to Judeo-Christianity, and all were practiced long before the bible was written in cultures all over the world. Justice Moore, I'm afraid it's getting more and more difficult for me to see your point about the ten commandments being the basis for law in the United States of America. It's time you do your job as a legal representive of the people of this country, and follow the law.
August 23, 2003
party poker winner!
Number of Tournaments entered at Partypoker.com: 1
Number of Tournaments in which I've won money at Partypoker.com: 1
I placed second in my first $10 buy-in tourney, winning $20 + my original $10. Before when I've played there, I've always played general play tables, meaning I'd usually play until my money was gone, not a particularly good way to go about it. The tournament system means you buy in chips at a table, and players are eliminated until there's only one left. The top three spots win. So far, I'm doing well. I'll let you know how the $30 buy-in goes tonight.
Update: Won 8th place, losing my $30 winnings. Oh well.
August 21, 2003
email problems
If anyone out there tried to email today, you likely failed - my email server was down almost all day. It seems to be up and running again, however. Go crazy. If this happens again, remember you can always IM or ICQ me.
In other news, OtherTimelines.com has some interesting collabrative alternate fiction work, done in timeline form. There's a lot to sift through, but some real gems too.
August 20, 2003
Governor Candidate Cheryl Bly-Chester wanted me to let everyone know that the Secretary of State left off some of her information on the original listing of candidates, so here it is:
Cheryl Bly-Chester
Email: CherylBlyChester@aol.com
Website: http://cherylblychester.org
BOR SOS 2
Time for another edition of "Bill O'Reilly is a Lying Sack of Shit". Today, we look at his New York Daily News article about Fox News' critics and the Franken issue. From the article:
In a few weeks, the Fox News Channel will celebrate its seventh birthday ... From virtually nothing, the organization that employs me has risen up to become one of the most powerful news agencies in the country.
From virtually nothing? News Corp was one of the largest worldwide media companies in 1996. That's hardly "nothing".
The accusation that Fox is a conservative network is pure propaganda.
Yours, or someone else's?
Poll after poll has demonstrated that Fox's audience is across the board, ideologically and demographically. The latest survey taken by Mediamark Research finds that more ultraconservative viewers watch CNN than Fox.
That's very nice. It also has nothing to do with whether Fox is a "conservative" network, only who your viewers are. Many of us watch Fox for a laugh and to keep tabs on what you're saying. You're very good at changing the subject.
But facts don't matter to the Fox haters who are, themselves, primarily ultraliberal.
I thought you just said they make up your viewing audience? And which facts don't matter?
Now Fox News is striking back by putting the demonizers on notice that they will be held responsible when they violate trademarks or launch defamatory personal attacks on Fox personnel.
Because Fox News never uses personal attacks, right Bill? Right?
It is simply a sorry joke to see a political activist like Al Franken labeled a satirist by The New York Times. Attempting to smear and destroy the reputations of those with whom you politically disagree is not satire.
Have you ever read a dictionary, Bill? Here are the two definitions Webster's has for "satire":
1 : a literary work holding up human vices and follies to ridicule or scorn
2 : trenchant wit, irony, or sarcasm used to expose and discredit vice or folly
Sounds like Franken is absolutely a satirist. Perhaps your beef is with the New York Times? Why haven't you mentioned all the other media organizations that also call him a satirist, including your own?
Fox News has become the highest-rated news network on cable because we feature lively debate and all honest voices are welcome. We don't do drive-by character assassinations, and we don't denigrate opposing points of view by launching gratuitous personal attacks.
This quote is the whole reason I wrote this edition of "Bill O'Reilly is...". Fox News doesn't do "drive by character assassinations" or use "gratuitous personal attacks"? May I quote from your very own legal brief on the issue of Franken's book? Fox News said "Franken is neither a journalist nor a television news personality, he is not a well-respected voice in American politics; rather, he appears to be shrill and unstable. His views lack any serious depth or insight." He was also called a "parasite" and "intoxicated or deranged". I suppose, however, that none of those are personal attacks or character assassinations though, are they Bill? Bill?
But this is a growing trend in America, where the exchange of ideas often degenerates into verbal mud wrestling with intent to injure.
See the above quote from your own organization.
This country is a better place because Fox News has succeeded. Now there is a wider range of thought and expression available 2-4/7.
I agree. A wider variety of voices is just about always a good thing.
But the country is worse off because of the brutal repercussions of that success. A nation that prides itself on diversity of opinion and acceptance of differing political points of view is being subjected to an orgy of media defamation and sometimes outright hatred.
So you're OK with the voice you have, but disagree with the right of everyone else to have theirs? That's not very American, Bill.
Thanks for reading today's edition of "Bill O'Reilly is a Lying Sack of Shit". We welcome your comments or bookings on your Fox News show.
August 19, 2003
pledge in colorado
In the news: Judge blocks Colorado Pledge of Allegiance law.
Basically, Colorado passed a law requiring students and teachers to say the Pledge of Allegiance every day. Students could opt out, but teachers could not. A judge came through and blocked the law, but now it's on appeal. Some of the scarier quotes from the article:
"The court's action is dramatically out of step with the desires and practices of most Coloradans who value and respect the Pledge of Allegiance" - Bill Owens, Governor.
"This is a gross insult to the patriotism of most Coloradans. It's bad jurisprudence. I'm confident it will be overturned on appeal" - John Andrews, State Senate President.
I've said this before, and I'll say it again. Don't you find it amazingly unAmerican to require a pledge of allegiance in an otherwise "free" country? Not only is it unpatriotic to make such a requirement, the pledge itself is absurd. You're pledging to a flag, and while it's a symbol of the United States and what it represents, it's still a piece of cloth. Better ways to show how American you are would be to vote, participate in your local government, serve on a jury, and watch/question what your government and politicians are doing. Feel free to have reverence toward the flag, but forcing allegiance just reeks of totalitarianism to me.
August 18, 2003
atheist meetup tomorrow
Tomorrow's the third Tuesday of the month, meaning it's time for the Atheist Meetup for August. We're hoping to have a larger turnout than we've ever had before. So far 10 have RSVPed, compared to the usual 4 or 5. Should be a good time.
If you're an atheist, you should make it to your local event. If you're in OC or LA or SD, come to the Orange County event and make it huge with us. Check out the discussion (and post some more) at Atheistweb.
whoops
If you're a regular reader, or just someone who happened by the site last night or today, you may have noticed that you weren't getting Insignifica - when I renewed the domain name, appearently my registar thought I wanted it parked with them, meaning DNS settings messed up. However, they should right themselves over the next 24 hours, and everyone can further enjoy insignifica's rich, hearty goodness.
August 15, 2003
saturday is a fine day
Saturday is a fine day...
for ADVENTURE!™
It's been a long time since I've gone on a Michael Doss ADVENTURE!™ - Chris and I rode to various places in OC on bike, before that there was a inadvertant walking tour of Newport. I haven't had one in a while because I've been in the middle of moving, but now I'm all moved in. This time the ADVENTURE!™ is by car, and the following are some options:
I'm open to other suggestions as well. Santa Cruz and Las Vegas would require an overnight stay, so they're considerably less likely options. Where do you think I should go? Wanna go with me?
August 14, 2003
black flag on my morning
For a country that loves it's flag so much, it sure doesn't seem to care about anyone else's...
Here's my other posts about flags, specifically the American one - not too hard to see how I feel about them.
August 13, 2003
list of governor candidates
Somewhat breaking news: California's list of 135 certified governor candidates is now available.
For the complete list, in alphabetical order, click "more..."
IRIS ADAM Natural Law
P.O. BOX 5065
IRVINE, CA 92616
BUSINESS: (949) 824-5480
E-MAIL: iris4nlp@yahoo.com
WEBSITE: www.irisadam.com
Business Analyst
BROOKE ADAMS Independent
7 COSTA DEL SOL
DANA POINT, CA 92629
BUSINESS: (949) 500-4211
E-MAIL: brookeforgovernor@hotmail.com
WEBSITE: www.brookeforgovernor.com
Business Executive
ALEX-ST. JAMES Republican
915 L ST., # C173
SACRAMENTO, CA 95814
BUSINESS:
E-MAIL: sirknightarc@yahoo.com
WEBSITE: www.StJames2003.org
Public Policy Strategist
DOUGLAS ANDERSON Republican
207 W. LOS ANGELES AVE., #132
MOORPARK, CA 93021
BUSINESS: (805) 527-9898
E-MAIL: doug4gov@yahoo.com
WEBSITE: www.Andersonforgovernor.org
Mortgage Broker
ANGELYNE Independent
P.O. BOX 3864
BEVERLY HILLS, CA 90212
BUSINESS: (310) 285-9399
Entertainer
MOHAMMAD ARIF Independent
11520 JEFFERSON BLVD., SUITE #201
CULVER CITY, CA 90230
BUSINESS: (310) 313-1525
E-MAIL: 4calgov@mohammadarif.com
Businessman
BADI BADIOZAMANI Independent
9185 MALER RD.
SAN DIEGO, CA 92129
BUSINESS: (858) 382-2200
E-MAIL: badi@badiozamani.com
Entrepreneur/Author/Executive
VIK S. BAJWA Democratic
3000 SANTA ROSA AVE.
SANTA ROSA, CA 95407
BUSINESS: (707) 544-6464
E-MAIL: govbajwa@aol.com
Businessman/Father/Entrepreneur
JOHN W. BEARD Republican
5510 CLEON AVENUE
NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA 91601
BUSINESS: (818) 831-9000
E-MAIL: j.beardjr@g2online.com
Businessman
ED BEYER Republican
501 N. EL CAMINO REAL # 200
SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672
BUSINESS: (949) 212-1530
E-MAIL: edbeyer@electedbeyer.com
WEBSITE: www.electedbeyer.com
Chief Operations Officer
VIP BHOLA Republican
5429 CAHUENGA BLVD.
NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA 91601
BUSINESS: (818) 508-1500
E-MAIL: vip@viplaw.org
Attorney/Businessowner
CHERYL BLY-CHESTER Republican
1000 SUNRISE AVE., SUITE 9B #122
ROSEVILLE, CA 95661
BUSINESS: (916) 721-8339
Businesswoman/Environmental Engineer
AUDIE BOCK Democratic
P.O. BOX 11073
OAKLAND, CA 94611
BUSINESS: (510) 655-6580
E-MAIL: bockisbetter@yahoo.com
WEBSITE: www.bettercalifornia.org
Educator/Small Businesswoman
JOEL BRITTON Independent
4229 S. CENTRAL AVE.
LOS ANGELES, CA 90011
BUSINESS: (323) 233-9372
E-MAIL: 74642.326@compuserve.com
Retired Meat Packer
ART BROWN Democratic
6625 VARIEL AVE., STE. 200
CANOGA PARK, CA 91303
BUSINESS: (818) 887-2400
E-MAIL: art@fthemovie.net
Film Writer/Director
JOHN CHRISTOPHER BURTON Independent
414 SOUTH MARENGO AVE.
PASADENA, CA 91101
BUSINESS: (626) 449-8300
E-MAIL: office@johnburtonlaw.com
Civil Rights Lawyer
CRUZ M. BUSTAMANTE Democratic
1700 L STREET
SACRAMENTO, CA 95814
BUSINESS: (916) 441-1175
Lieutenant Governor
PETER MIGUEL CAMEJO Green
520 3RD ST., SUITE 201
OAKLAND, CA 94607
BUSINESS: (800) 471-7244
E-MAIL: info@VoteCamejo.org
WEBSITE: www.votecamejo.org
Financial Investment Advisor
TODD CARSON Republican
1645 SUPERIOR
COSTA MESA, CA 92627
BUSINESS: (949) 574-7112
E-MAIL: carsont@svn.com
Real Estate Developer
WILLIAM "BILL" S. CHAMBERS Republican
P. O. BOX 6351
AUBURN, CA 95604-6351
BUSINESS:
Railroad Switchman/Brakeman
MICHAEL CHELI Independent
P.O. BOX 1143
SANTA ROSA, CA 95401
BUSINESS: (707) 579-3499
Businessman
D. (LOGAN DARROW) CLEMENTS Republican
528 PALISADES DRIVE, #533
PACIFIC PALISADES, CA 90272
BUSINESS: (310) 795-2509
E-MAIL: Logan@Freenation.tv
Businessman
GARY COLEMAN Independent
256 SOUTH ROBERTSON BLVD., #335
BEVERLY HILLS, CA 90210
BUSINESS: (310) 497-8201
Actor
MARY "MARY CAREY" COOK Independent
1220 SOUTH BOYLE AVE.
LOS ANGELES, CA 90023
BUSINESS: (323) 981-1700
Adult Film Actress
ROBERT CULLENBINE Democratic
2875 RAMONA ST.
PALO ALTO, CA 94306
BUSINESS: (408) 316-2227
E-MAIL: cully700@yahoo.com
WEBSITE: www.bobcan.com
Retired Businessman
SCOTT DAVIS Independent
566 HAWTHORNE AVE., SUITE 1000
PALO ALTO, CA 94301
BUSINESS: (650) 329-8372
E-MAIL: info@DavisForGovernor.org
WEBSITE: www.DavisForGovernor.org
Business Owner
ROBERT "BUTCH" DOLE Republican
1762 HOURET CT.
MILPITAS, CA 95035
BUSINESS: (408) 957-4300
Small Business Owner
BOB LYNN EDWARDS Democratic
39791 PASCO PADRE PKWY, SUITE C
FREMONT, CA 94538
BUSINESS: (510) 770-0500
WEBSITE: www.bobedwards.com
Attorney
WARREN FARRELL Democratic
2982 LAS OLAS CT.
CARLSBAD, CA 92009
BUSINESS: (760) 753-5000
E-MAIL: warren@warrenfarrell.com
WEBSITE: www.warrenfarrell.com
Fathers’ Issues Author
DAN FEINSTEIN Democratic
1220 LA PLAYA
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94122
BUSINESS:
No Ballot Designation Requested
LARRY FLYNT Democratic
8484 WILSHIRE BLVD., 9TH FLOOR
BEVERLY HILLS, CA 90211
BUSINESS: (323) 651-5400
E-MAIL: larryforgov@lfp.com
Publisher
LORRAINE (ABNER ZURD) FONTANES Democratic
11718 BARRINGTON COURT #235
LOS ANGELES, CA 90049
BUSINESS: (310) 288-1667
E-MAIL: abner@abnerz.com
Film Maker
GENE FORTE Republican
PMB 179, 316 MID VALLEY CENTER
CARMEL, CA 93923
BUSINESS: (831) 484-7516
E-MAIL: gene@forteforgovernor.com
WEBSITE: ForteForGovernor.com
Executive Recruiter/Entrepreneur
DIANA FOSS Democratic
1571A LINCOLN AVE.
SAN JOSE, CA 95125
BUSINESS: (408) 971-7986
E-MAIL: diana@mooseyard.com
No ballot designation requested
RONALD J. FRIEDMAN Independent
20750 VENTURA BLVD., #105
WOODLAND HILLS, CA 91364
BUSINESS: (818) 346-3500 ext. 226
E-MAIL: rfriedman@ron4gov.com
Physician
LEO GALLAGHER Independent
5699 KANAN RD., Suite #436
AGOURA HILLS, CA 91301
BUSINESS: (800) 791-0021
E-MAIL: gallagherforgov@aol.com
Comedian
GEROLD LEE GORMAN Democratic
1907 OLYMPIC DR.
MARTINEZ, CA 94553
BUSINESS: (925) 228-1197
Engineer
RICH GOSSE Republican
205 MARK TWAIN AVE.
SAN RAFAEL, CA 94903
BUSINESS:
E-MAIL: richgosse@comcast.net
WEBSITE: www.richgosse.com
Educator
JAMES H. GREEN Democratic
P.O. BOX 460815
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94146
BUSINESS: (415) 648-3380
E-MAIL: james@jamesgreengovernor.com
WEBSITE: www.jamesgreengovernor.com
Firefighter Paramedic/Nurse
JACK LOYD GRISHAM Independent
C/O BLAZE HURLEY
2336 SILVER RIDGE AVE.
LOS ANGELES, CA 90039
BUSINESS: (323) 666-6823
E-MAIL: jackloydjones@hotmail.com
WEBSITE: Grishamforgovernor.com
Musician/Laborer
GARRETT GRUENER Democratic
731 SANSOME STREET, 5TH FLOOR
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94111
BUSINESS:
WEBSITE: www.gruenerforgovernor.com
High-Tech Entreprenuer
JOE GUZZARDI Democratic
P. O. BOX 2507
LODI, CA 95241-2507
BUSINESS: (209) 331-7605
Teacher/Journalist
IVAN A. HALL Green
P.O. BOX 720563
REDDING, CA 96099
BUSINESS: (530) 275-5526
E-MAIL: info@ivanhall.com
WEBSITE: www.ivanhall.com
Custom Denture Manufacturer
KEN HAMIDI Libertarian
7349 CROSS DR.
CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA 95610
BUSINESS: (916) 729-6992
E-MAIL: kenh3@faceintel.com
WEBSITE: www.governorken.org
State Tax Officer
SARA ANN HANLON Independent
15409 GROVEHILL LANE
LA MIRADA, CA 90638
BUSINESS: (562) 477-1428
Businesswoman
C. STEPHEN HENDERSON Independent
P. O. BOX 684
CARMEL VALLEY, CA 93924
BUSINESS:
E-MAIL: misterhendo@hotmail.com
WEBSITE: geocities.com/tjl8002000
Teacher
RALPH A. HERNANDEZ Democratic
2718 BARCELONA CIR.
ANTIOCH, CA 94509
BUSINESS: (925) 757-8943
District Attorney Inspector
JOHN J. "JACK" HICKEY Libertarian
243 FERNDALE WAY
EMERALD HILLS, CA 94062-3905
BUSINESS: (650) 368-5722
E-MAIL: jackhick@cwnet.com
WEBSITE: http://users.cwnet.com
Healthcare District Director
JIM HOFFMANN Republican
1257 CROM ST., APT 242
MANTECA, CA 95337
BUSINESS: (209) 825-5210
E-MAIL: d3jhoffmann@aol.com
Teacher
ARIANNA HUFFINGTON Independent
1158 26TH ST., #428
SANTA MONICA, CA 90403
BUSINESS:
E-MAIL: arianna@ariannaonline.com
Author/Columnist/Mother
S. ISSA Republican
411 E. HUNTINGTON DR., SUITE 107 #364
ARCADIA, CA 91006
BUSINESS: (213) 313-8683
E-MAIL: sissa4california@yahoo.com
Engineer
MICHAEL JACKSON Republican
P.O. BOX 8609
LONG BEACH, CA 90808-0609
BUSINESS: (310) 813-8982
E-MAIL: michaeljackson.forcalgov@verizon.net
Satellite Project Manager
TREK THUNDER KELLY Independent
1320 PACIFIC AVE.
VENICE, CA 90291
BUSINESS: (310) 581-2863
E-MAIL: trek@trekkelly.com
Business Executive/Artist
EDWARD "ED" KENNEDY Democratic
P. O. BOX 1593
WEAVERVILLE, CA 96093
BUSINESS
E-MAIL: Kennedygov@accessbee.com
WEBSITE: www.kennedygov.com
Businessman/Educator
D.E. KESSINGER Democratic
3240 PACHAPPA HILL
RIVERSIDE, CA 92506-2166
BUSINESS: (909) 686-2138
E-MAIL: kessinger@kessinger.com
Paralegal/Property Manager
KELLY P. KIMBALL Democratic
23632 CALABASAS RD., SUITE 203
CALABASAS, CA 91302
BUSINESS: (818) 223-0900
E-MAIL: kelly@buttmonkeybeer.com
Business Executive
STEPHEN L. KNAPP Republican
68 MARIPOSA AVE.
LOS GATOS, CA 95030
BUSINESS: (408) 354-4134
Engineer
ERIC KOREVAAR Democratic
1720 TORREY PINES ROAD
LA JOLLA, CA 92037
BUSINESS: (858) 729-1824
E-MAIL: noonrecall@voteforeric.com
WEBSITE: www.voteforeric.com
Scientist/Businessman
JERRY KUNZMAN Independent
P.O. BOX 21555
RICHMOND, CA 94820
BUSINESS: (510) 232-6272
WEBSITE: www.nasaproracing.com/norcal/jerry/jerryforgovernor.com
Chief Executive Officer
DICK LANE Democratic
1266 SANDIA AVE.
SUNNYVALE, CA 94089
BUSINESS: (408) 617-1888
E-MAIL: lane@lane-for-governor.org
WEBSITE: www.lane-for-governor.org
Educator
GARY LEONARD Democratic
1539 CURRAN STREET
LOS ANGELES, CA 90026
BUSINESS: (213) 580-4064
E-MAIL: echobark@aol.com
Photojournalist/Author
TODD RICHARD LEWIS Independent
8205 SANTA MONICA BLVD., #1-438
WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA 90046
BUSINESS: (310) 339-6827
Businessman
CALVIN Y. LOUIE Democratic
838 GRANT AVE., SUITE 402-7
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94108
BUSINESS: (415) 397-6411
WEBSITE: www.calvinlouieforgovernor.com
CPA
FRANK A. MACALUSO, JR. Democratic
P.O. BOX 448
VISALIA, CA 93279
BUSINESS: (559) 624-2600
E-MAIL: fmacaluso@starband.net
WEBSITE: www.macforgov.com
Physician/Medical Doctor
PAUL "CHIP" MAILANDER Democratic
P.O. BOX 3204
RANCHO SANTA FE, CA 92067
BUSINESS: (619) 297-9342
E-MAIL: box3204@cox.net
Golf Professional
ROBERT C. MANNHEIM Democratic
P.O. BOX 550
AGOURA HILLS, CA 91376-0550
BUSINESS: (818) 991-1100
E-MAIL: rcm@mannheim4cagov.com
Retired Businessperson
BRUCE MARGOLIN Democratic
8749 HOLLOWAY DR.
WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA 90069
BUSINESS: (310) 652-0991
E-MAIL: bmargolin@aol.com
Marijuana Legalization Attorney
PAUL MARIANO Democratic
1000 WEST ARLINGTON
MARTINEZ, CA 94553
BUSINESS: (925) 335-8038
E-MAIL: MarianoPaul@hotmail.com
Attorney
GINO MARTORANA Republican
1448 DRAPER ST.
KINGSBURG, CA 93631
BUSINESS: (559) 897-8032
E-MAIL: Ginos@theworks.com
Restaurant Owner
MIKE P. MCCARTHY Independent
11 HIGUERA STREET
SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA 93401
BUSINESS: (805) 544-1900
Used Car Dealer
BOB MCCLAIN Independent
P.O. Box 3053
OAKLAND, CA 94609
BUSINESS: (510) 502-7047
WEBSITE: www.bobmcclain.com
Civil Engineer
TOM MCCLINTOCK Republican
1029 K STREET, SUITE 44
SACRAMENTO, CA 95814
BUSINESS: (916) 448-9321
E-MAIL: Tom@TomMcClintock.com
WEBSITE: www.tommcclintock.com
State Senator
DENNIS DUGGAN MCMAHON Republican
30 BEACHMONT DR.
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94132
BUSINESS: (415) 731-0299
E-MAIL: info@ourcalifornia.com
WEBSITE: www.ourcalifornia.org
Banker
MIKE MCNEILLY Republican
1300 SUMMIT DRIVE
BEVERLY HILLS, CA 90210
BUSINESS: (310) 858-1010
E-MAIL: venus9x@aol.com
Artist
SCOTT A. MEDNICK Democratic
23632 CALABASAS RD., STE. 203
CALABASAS, CA 91302
BUSINESS: (818) 223-0900
E-MAIL: scott@buttmonkeybeer.com
Business Executive
CARL A. MEHR Republican
3533 MERCER CT.
SAN DIEGO, CA 92122
BUSINESS: (858) 453-4607
E-MAIL: cmehr@san.rr.com
Businessman
JONATHAN MILLER Democratic
8430-D CENTRAL AVE.
NEWARK, CA 94560
BUSINESS: (510) 456-7800
E-MAIL: info@millforCA.com
WEBSITE: www.millerforcalifornia.com
Small Business Owner
DARRYL L. MOBLEY Independent
P.O. Box 3728
DANVILLE, CA 94526
BUSINESS: 925-901-4951
E-MAIL: voteformobly@familydigest.com
WEBSITE: www.voteformobly.com
Businessman/Entrepreneur
JEFFREY L. MOCK Republican
P.O. BOX 3012
COMPTON, CA 90222
BUSINESS: (310) 537-8038
Business Owner
JOHN "JACK" MORTENSEN Democratic
811 TRAVIS ST.
FOLSOM, CA 95630
BUSINESS: (916) 337-2021
E-MAIL: JMforGov@cs.com
Contractor/Businessman
DORENE MUSILLI Republican
P.O. BOX 1610
BOYES HOT SPRINGS, CA 95416
BUSINESS: (707) 996-7022
E-MAIL: jdm@vom.com
Parent/Educator/Businesswoman
PAUL NAVE Democratic
545 OAK AVE.
SAN ANSELMO, CA 94960
BUSINESS: (415) 454-1111
WEBSITE: www.paulnave.com
Businessman/Prizefighter/Father
ROBERT C. NEWMAN II Republican
29455 LIVE OAK CANYON RD.
REDLANDS, CA 92373
BUSINESS: (909) 798-3644
E-MAIL: Newman4governor@aol.com
WEBSITE: www.Newman4governor.org
Psychologist/Farmer
LEONARD PADILLA Independent
816 H STREET, SUITE 244
SACRAMENTO, CA 95814
BUSINESS: (916) 558-6915
Law School President
RONALD JASON PALMIERI Democratic
911 LINDA FLORA DR.
LOS ANGELES, CA 90049
BUSINESS: (310) 471-1881
E-MAIL: law ofcsrjp@aol.com
WEBSITE: www.RonaldJasonPalmieri.com
Gay Rights Attorney
GREGORY J. PAWLIK Republican
15101 SUNSET BLVD.
PACIFIC PALISADES, CA 90272
BUSINESS: (310) 230-2439
E-MAIL: gpawlik@coldwellbanker.com
Realtor/Businessman
HEATHER PETERS Republican
1601 CLOVERFIELD BLVD.
2ND FL., SO. TOWER
SANTA MONICA, CA 90404
BUSINESS: 310-899-6884
E-MAIL: heather@peters4gov.com
WEBSITE: http://peters4gov.com
Mediator
CHARLES "CHUCK" PINEDA JR. Democratic
P.O. BOX 277435
SACRAMENTO, CA 95827-7435
BUSINESS: (916) 366-0188
E-MAIL: cpjr66@aol.com
WEBSITE: www.pinedaforgovernor.com
State Hearing Officer
BILL PRADY Democratic
4024 RADFORD AVE., BUILDING 8
STUDIO CITY, CA 91604-2101
BUSINESS: (818) 655-5805
Television Writer/Producer
DARIN PRICE Natural Law
P.O. BOX 2894
MCKINLEYVILLE, CA 95519
BUSINESS: (707) 616-5382
E-MAIL: vote@priceforgov.com
University Chemistry Instructor
BRYAN QUINN Republican
1762 WHISPERING WILLOW PLACE
SAN JOSE, CA 95125
BUSINESS:
E-MAIL: quinn4gov@aol.com
WEBSITE: www.quinn4gov.com
Businessman
JEFF RAINFORTH Independent
1714 H STREET, # 8
SACRAMENTO, CA 95814
BUSINESS: (916) 446-3061
E-MAIL: oprev@aol.com
WEBSITE: www.jeff4gov.com
Marketing Coordinator
DANIEL C. "DANNY" RAMIREZ Democratic
1069 HEBER AVE.
CALEXICO, CA 92231
BUSINESS: (760) 357-3006
E-MAIL: dcramirez@aol.com
WEBSITE: www.dannyramirez.com
Businessman/Entrepreneur/Father
CHRISTOPHER RANKEN Democratic
P.O. BOX 323
PACIFICA, CA 94044
BUSINESS: (415) 272-9100
E-MAIL: campaign@ranken.com
WEBSITE: www.ranken.com
Planning Commissioner
REVA RENEE RENZ Republican
672 EL CAMINO REAL
TUSTIN, CA 92780
BUSINESS: (714) 381-3382
E-MAIL: TheDeva@Adelphia.net
WEBSITE: www.davasbar.com
Small Business Owner
DANIEL W. RICHARDS Republican
8311 HAVEN AVE., #200
RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA 91730
BUSINESS: (909) 980-6868
E-MAIL: drichards@cbcInlandEmpire.com
Businessman
KEVIN RICHTER Republican
416 HEARTLAND PLACE
MANTECA, CA 95337
BUSINESS: (925) 567-6513
Information Technology Manager
KURT E. "TACHIKAZE" RIGHTMYER Independent
2420 S. NANCY ST., 3
WEST COVINA, CA 91792
BUSINESS:
E-MAIL: beeivyl@aol.com
Middleweight Sumo Wrestler
DAVID LAUGHING HORSE ROBINSON Democratic
P. O. BOX 20849
BAKERSFIELD, CA 93390-0849
BUSINESS: (661) 664-3098
E-MAIL: horserobinson@hotmail.com
Tribal Chairman
NED ROSCOE Libertarian
4457 PARK ROAD
BENICIA, CA 94510
BUSINESS: (707) 751-3267
E-MAIL: nroscoe@cigarettescheaper.com
WEBSITE: www.smokersparty.com
Cigarette Retailer
SHARON RUSHFORD Independent
445 WASHINGTON STREET
SANTA CLARA, CA 95050
BUSINESS: (408) 557-8580
Businesswoman
GEORGY RUSSELL Democratic
2400 W. EL CAMINO REAL #610
MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA 94040
BUSINESS: (650) 527-3419
E-MAIL: georgy@georgyforgov.com
WEBSITE: www.georgyforgov.com
Software Engineer
JAMIE ROSEMARY SAFFORD Republican
7530 SHADOW OAKS LN.
GRANITE BAY, CA 95746
BUSINESS: (916) 791-2173
Business Owner
DAVID RONALD SAMS Republican
28720 ROADSIDE DRIVE, SUITE 198
AGOURA HILLS, CA 91301
BUSINESS: (818) 707-7022
E-MAIL: davidsams@davidsams.com
WEBSITE: www.davidsams.com
Businessman/Producer/Writer
DARRIN H. SCHEIDLE Democratic
1464 GRAVES AVE., #107-159
EL CAJON, CA 92021
BUSINESS: (619) 593-0800
E-MAIL: dscheidle@save-california.us
WEBSITE: www.save-california.us
Businessman/Entrepreneur
MIKE SCHMIER Democratic
1475 POWELL ST.
EMERYVILLE, CA 94608
BUSINESS: (510) 652-5450
E-MAIL: Mike@MikeForGov.org
WEBSITE: www.MikeForGov.org
Attorney
GEORGE B. SCHWARTZMAN Independent
P.O. BOX 541
6965 EL CAMINO REAL # 105
CARLSBAD, CA 92009
BUSINESS: (858) 759-4015
E-MAIL: gschwartzman@san.rr.com
Businessman
ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER Republican
3110 MAIN STREET, SUITE 300
SANTA MONICA, CA 90405
BUSINESS: (310) 664-9002
Actor/Businessman
RICHARD J. SIMMONS Independent
333 S. HOPE ST., 48TH FLOOR
LOS ANGELES, CA 90071
BUSINESS: (213) 617-5518
E-MAIL: rsimmons@smrh.com
Attorney/Businessperson
BILL SIMON Republican
400 CAPITOL MALL, SUITE 2580
SACRAMENTO, CA 95814
BUSINESS: (916) 446-8866
Businessman
B.E. SMITH Independent
STAR ROUTE
DENNY, CA 95527
BUSINESS: (530) 629-4356
E-MAIL: besmith@snowcrest.net
Lecturer
RANDALL D. SPRAGUE Republican
2923 HARBOUR SHORE LANE
ELK GROVE, CA 95758
BUSINESS: (916) 691-4589
E-MAIL: sprague@aol.com
WEBSITE: www.sprague4gov.com
Discrimination Complaint Investigator
CHRISTOPHER SPROUL Democratic
BUILDING 1004B O'REILLY AVENUE
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94129
BUSINESS: (415) 533-3376
E-MAIL: sproul@sbcglobal.net
WEBSITE: www.sproulforgovernor.com
Environmental Attorney
LAWRENCE STEVEN STRAUSS Democratic
11900 VENTURA BLVD
STUDIO CITY, CA 91604-2606
BUSINESS: (818) 769-5297
E-MAIL: lstrauss@bestcounsel.com
Lawyer/Businessperson/Student
TIM SYLVESTER Democratic
19772 RAWHIDE ROAD
SONORA, CA 95370
BUSINESS: (831) 421-9727
WEBSITE: www.timforgovernor.org
Entrepreneur
A. LAVAR TAYLOR Democratic
6 HUTTON CENTRE #880
SANTA ANA, CA 92707
BUSINESS: (714) 546-0445
E-MAIL: ltaylor@taylorlaw.com
WEBSITE: www.taylorlaw.com
Tax Attorney
DIANE BEALL TEMPLIN American Independent
1016 CIRCLE DR.
ESCONDIDO, CA 92025
BUSINESS: (760) 807-5417
E-MAIL: dancewithdiane@kw.com
WEBSITE: www.dianetemplin.com
Attorney/Realtor/Businesswoman
PATRICIA G. TILLEY Independent
900 G STREET #200
SACRAMENTO, CA 95814
BUSINESS: (916) 325-9005
E-MAIL: pgtilley@earthlink.net
Attorney
BRIAN TRACY Independent
462 STEVENS AVENUE, SUITE 202
SOLANA BEACH, CA 92075
BUSINESS: (858) 259-1482
E-MAIL: briantracy@briantracy.com
WEBSITE: www.Tracyforgovernor.com
Businessman/Consultant
WILLIAM TSANGARES Republican
1770 N VERMONT AVE.
LOS ANGELES, CA 90027
BUSINESS: (213) 910-1501
E-MAIL: billy@ekay.com
Businessperson
PETER V. UEBERROTH Republican
1071 CAMELBACK ST.
NEWPORT BEACH, CA 92660
BUSINESS: (949) 720-9646
WEBSITE: www.peterforgovernor.com
Businessman
MARC VALDEZ Democratic
2151 2ND AVE.
SACRAMENTO, CA 95818
BUSINESS: (916) 444-6666
E-MAIL: mvaldez@sierraresearch.com
WEBSITE: http://marcvaldezcalgov.blogspot.com
Air Pollution Scientist
JAMES M. VANDEVENTER, JR. Republican
107 SOUTH CROFT AVE. # 6
LOS ANGELES, CA 90048
BUSINESS: (310) 466-9310
E-MAIL: VoteVandeventer@aol.com
Salesman/Businessman
PAUL W. VANN Republican
18400 VON KARMAN AVE., SUITE 500
IRVINE, CA 92612
BUSINESS: (949) 713-9639
E-MAIL: governor@pacbell.net
WEBSITE: www.paulvannforgovernor.com
Financial Planner
BILL VAUGHN Democratic
P.O. BOX 1064
LAFAYETTE, CA 94549
BUSINESS: (925) 284-4518
E-MAIL: vaughnse@value.net
Structural Engineer
VAN VO Republican
14241 EUCLID ST., #C 110
GARDEN GROVE, CA 92843
BUSINESS: (714) 554-1325
Radio Producer/Businessman
CHUCK WALKER Republican
740 WHISPERING PINES DR.
SCOTTS VALLEY, CA 95066
BUSINESS: (831) 438-4856
E-MAIL: chuckw@chuckwalkerforgov.com
WEBSITE: www.chuckwalkerforgov.com
Business Intelligence Analyst
MAURICE WALKER Green
1400 CARPENTIER STREET, #428
SAN LEANDRO, CA 94577
BUSINESS: (510) 208-4808
E-MAIL: maurice.walker@acgov.org
Real Estate Appraiser
NATHAN WHITECLOUD WALTON Independent
1010 MYRTLE WAY
SAN DIEGO, CA 92103
BUSINESS: (619) 291-9019
WEBSITE: www.nathan.walton.com
Student
DANIEL WATTS Green
540 WEYBRIDGE DR.
SAN JOSE, CA 95123
BUSINESS:
WEBSITE: www.wattsforgovernor.com
College Student
C.T. WEBER Peace and Freedom
1403 LOS PADRES WAY
SACRAMENTO, CA 95831
BUSINESS: (916) 445-1865
Labor Official/Analyst
JIM WEIR Democratic
13993 DOWNWIND CT.
GRASS VALLEY, CA 95945
BUSINESS: (530) 272-2203
E-MAIL: jim@rstengineering.com
WEBSITE: www.rstengineering.com/governor
Community College Teacher
LINGEL H. WINTERS Democratic
ONE MARITIME PLAZA, SUITE 1040
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94111
BUSINESS: (415) 398-2941
E-MAIL: sawmill2@aol.com
Consumer Business Attorney
MICHAEL J. WOZNIAK Democratic
P. O. BOX 2221
OAKLAND, CA 94621-0121
BUSINESS: (510) 483-8858
E-MAIL: michael@wozniak.com
WEBSITE: www.vote4woz.com
Retired Police Officer
JON W. ZELLHOEFER Republican
P.O. BOX 34
TECOPA, CA 92389
BUSINESS: (831) 596-5430
E-MAIL: jon@zellhoefer.com
WEBSITE: www.zellhoefer.com
Energy Consultant/Entrepreneur
franken and fox news
In the news: Fox News sues Al Franken for using "Fair and Balanced" in book title
Man, I don't like Fox News, and this isn't helping their cause. People sue/get sued for copyright/trademark issues all the time, that's fine. But in their brief against Franken, Fox News said:
"Franken is neither a journalist nor a television news personality, he is not a well-respected voice in American politics; rather, he appears to be shrill and unstable. His views lack any serious depth or insight."
The filing also calls Franken a "parasite" and "intoxicated or deranged" (in regard to his spat with Bill O'Reilly a few months back). This is a legal filing, folks, not a Fox News feature story. What do these insults have to do with using the term "fair and balanced" in a book title? Why resort to personal attacks?
My only explanation is that Fox News knows no other way of handling themselves. Their journalistic prowess is so weak that like a poor debater, they have to resort to insult and childish behavior and changing the subject to get their point across. One good aspect, however, is that the book jumped from number 489 to number 4 on Amazon.com's best seller list. If I were Franken, I'd be very happy at Fox News' inability to contain themselves.
August 11, 2003
governors and domokun
Hello, and welcome to another wonderful Monday.
My recent move is just about 100% complete, I think I still have a TV tray at my mom's house, and I better get that quick because she's outta there tomorrow. For those of you that know me, housewarming parties (emphasis on parties - we don't need gifts) are shortly forthcoming.
Again, for those that know me, we're gonna be having the first poker tournament in the coming weeks at my new place. We're aiming for 10-15 players. Let me know if you're interested.
All sorts of gubernatorial fun going on - we're looking at ~190 candidates, pending approval. That's a LONG list to read through. It's also causing some counties to up their cost estimates because of the paperwork needed. USA Today has a great article on why the recall is such a bad idea, especially considering traditional Republican political views.
In local news, it's warm - not as stifling as I've experienced, but enough to make you want to take the elevator instead of the stairs and not to park in the sun. It's much worse in Europe, though. They're recording some of the highest temperatures since they've been recording.
Apparently, Wil has a Domokun he can dance around with. I wonder if it's as cool (or big!) as my Domkun:
My girlfriend made that one for me last Christmas. It's awesome.
Finally, this is entry number 900 on Insignifica - Can't wait for 1000. We'll have a party. You can come!
August 07, 2003
response to bush and marriage
No One of Consequence, a semi-regular poster here (especially to my political comments) penned the following well-written response to my "Bush and Marriage" posting from a few days back:
I agree entirely that the government should be out of the marriage business. But, there should be no government incentive to get to married at all. Why have "economic units"? Why should you and your girlfriend get some benefit from the government simply for being together? If you and I both make $30K a year, why should your taxes be any less or more than mine just because one of us is married?
On the other hand, you really are a "Pie In The Sky" sorta person, aren't you. You want (as indicated in you liberal, left, social welfare, socialist writings) a colossal, Robin Hoody, maternalistic government that also bows to each individual's personal whim. Not that there has ever been a successful, large-scale socialist society, but one that also respects the individual and doesn't impose rigid social norms has got to be beyond even YOUR wildest imagination.
Why do people give the government more and more power and authority and then complain that the government has too much power and authority.
Instead of just responding there, I thought I'd start a new thread so more people could read it.
No One of Consequence: I agree with your statements regarding marriage. We seem to believe the same things there, for the most part. Don't, however, confuse my leftist politics with your perception of leftist politics in general. Let's break down what you wrote:
You want (as indicated in you liberal, left, social welfare, socialist writings) a colossal...
I'm glad you've read what I've written - it's always nice to know people are reading. I would consider myself a leftist/socialist person, yes. I don't, however, want a "colossal" government, particularly. I support various government programs and want an efficient method of running those programs - I agree that many current programs are run too largely and inefficiently. I don't, however, support getting rid of these programs simply because they're run poorly. I'd prefer to revamp/rework the programs so that more of the money we currently spend on them goes to the people they're set up to help. Many libertarian and conservative thinkers I've known tend to throw out the term "big government" with a very negative connotation. I happen to believe wasteful is bad, but big doesn't have to be.
Robin Hoody, maternalistic government ...
By this I assume you're referring to the "steal from the rich, give to the poor" theme in the Robin Hood legends, and the all-encompassing support mothers traditionally give. I don't advocate theft, however, I realize some libertarian and conservative thinkers believe taxation they don't agree with (or any taxation at all) qualifies as such. My beliefs tend toward the very liberal "community" (or motherly, if you prefer) attitude that everyone in a society has a responsibility to contribute to the welfare (no pun intended) of the community. I have many reasons to feel this way, and I know this is a main sticking point between economic liberal and conservative beliefs. To summarize, I don't view taxation as theft, but I do view it as a responsibility.
that also bows to each individual's personal whim.
I do believe that was the founding father's intention - a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. The rights of the individual in sphere of government was a prime concern of the early leaders in this country. While I understand that one of these considerations was protection against a repressive government, another was the government's service to the individual.
Not that there has ever been a successful, large-scale socialist society...
In the terms of "large scale" that I assume you're talking about, such societies have only existed in the past hundred or so years. That's not a lot of time for good examples, especially when competition for resources adds a great level of greed to the equation. Let me ask you this: Has there been a successful, large-scale capitalist society?
but one that also respects the individual and doesn't impose rigid social norms has got to be beyond even YOUR wildest imagination.
The largest single "theft" of personal liberties has taken place in last 2 years, under a conservative non-socialist government in the United States. Respect for the individual has been totally dismantled in attempts by the Federal Government to ensure "security" for the people in the war on terror. In case your definitions are lacking, conservatives tend to want things to stay the same, and liberals want change. In the major social upheavals of the 19th and 20th centuries, it's been the liberal factions fighting on the forefront for personal freedoms - against slavery and for woman's suffrage, racial civil rights and gay rights. The conservative factions of the times have fought for the status quo and generally against freedoms in these regards.
My point in all this is that I see liberal and socialist doctrine to be fighting more for individual rights than conservative dogma. Freedom involves more than the right to keep all your money, it's about ensuring rights to all citizens. Government provisions don't necessarily mean rights, and keeping your money doesn't necessarily mean freedom.
Thank you again for your thought provoking response. Dialogue and debate are fantastic tools for learning and an important part of the political process, and I'm glad to be able to do such things here. I look forward to yours and everyone else's response.
August 06, 2003
more governor candidates
Just when you thought it couldn't get weirder, it turns out Arnold Schwarzenegger will be running for Governor, as will Arianna Huffington and - get this - Gary Coleman of "Diff'rent Strokes" fame. As CNN put it, the race is "in danger of becoming a farce."
I'm just sad I'll have to watch the circus from the stands instead of squeezing my way out of a tiny car myself.
atheistweb larry flint story
Check out the post on Atheistweb about Larry Flint, new candidate for Governor of California, holding a National Day of Prayer for the death of Bill O'reilly. While I don't wish untimely death on anyone, this is still very funny.
August 05, 2003
not running after all
[reposted from michaeldoss.com]
As many of you who read Insignifica know, I decided not to run for Governor after all. The decision was mainly one of timing; by the time I could set up the website and gather the money, I was getting ready to move, helping my mom move, and doing everything associated with setting up a new apartment. It's not that I don't want to run, I'd love to have my name on the ballot, buck the system, and join the circus. Alas, it wasn't meant to happen.
While I'm against the recall in principal, I think that since it's going to happen, we need to make it a nightmare for the republicans who think they can buy a new election by pushing for signatures outside grocery stores. I'm elated that there could be 200+ people running for the office, and I hope someone liberal and absurd wins - that's one of the reasons I wanted to run. Since I'm not, This space will eventually become what I originally purchased it for, a website for people named Michael Doss. During the election, however, it'll serve as a sounding board for my thoughts. Most of the entries will be cross-post at Insignifica, and that's where discussions will happen.
I want to thank Joz, and Colleen, and Tori, all of whom donated or were just about to. They're good friends and another reason why I would have loved to have run and win. Thanks, ladies.
Now, some links.
Bill Maher's essay/editorial on the recall.
Georgy For Gov - an attractive, liberal girl running like I was going to.
damn the man
After waiting more than a month for the rescheduled date for the Meat Loaf, he's appearently sick, and has cancelled the rescheduled Anaheim show.
Damn.
He played 3 shows in Southern California on this tour - San Diego, Anaheim, and Los Angeles. I had tix to the first two, both in the front row, and both were cancelled. He rarely plays in California as it is, and now it looks like I'm going to have to wait until the Bat out of Hell III tour, if it ever happens, to see him.
Damn.
August 04, 2003
monday once again
Good day and happy Monday to you. If you've been wondering, I've been moving this weekend, meaning no internet access until now (at work), meaning no web updates, email, or my standard presence online. We're just about all moved in, with a few things left to transport. Even with those things, as soon as my couch, desk and refridgerator were all though the door, the toughest parts were done.
I've decided not to "officially" run for governor - if I had the time in the last 2 weeks, I would have put more effort into the fund raising. Between moving and work, however, no such luck. I would have been lost in the shuffle anyway, and I do prefer the spotlight. The beautiful ladies who all donated to my account will all get their money back and a special thanks from me.
Tomorrow's the day - baring intestinal surgery or natural disaster, I'll finally get to see my favorite musician, Meat Loaf. He rarely tours the west coast, and besides his LA show two weeks ago, hasn't been this way in ages. I'm in the front row (of tables, it's a weird theater), so it should be awesome.
Congratulations to DeeDee and Ryan on the birth of their son, Luke. He's the first kid born to our immediate group of friends, and it looks like I lost my best of 2 other birth announcements before Luke was born. Still, I think more will soon be on the way...
That's all for now. I'll hopefully have internet access set up on Friday, and a phoneline on Wednesday, so I'm sure I'll be back online normally soon. Leave a note tell me what you've been up to, loyal reader!