Saturday, June 30, 2007

Dr. Lee deForest died today – 46 years ago

U.S. inventor Dr. Lee deForest was born on August 26, 1873 in Council Bluffs, Iowa. He said, “While theoretically and technically television may be feasible, commercially and financially it is an impossibility.” {1} [Well, some doctors don’t know everything!]... Dr. deForest died in 1961 in Hollywood, California.

English writer Margery Louise Allingham was born on May 20, 1904 in Ealing, London, England. She said, “If one cannot command attention by one's admirable qualities, one can at least be a nuisance.” {2} [Attention is attention is attention.]... Ms. Allingham died in 1966 in Colchester, England.

English writer Nancy Mitford was born on November 28, 1904 in Belgravia, London. She said, “An aristocracy in a republic is like a chicken whose head has been cut off; it may run about in a lively way, but in fact it is dead.” {1} [That may explain a lot of things.]... Ms. Mitford died in 1973 in Versailles, France.

U.S. writer Lillian Florence Hellman was born on June 20, 1905 in New Orleans, Louisiana. She said, “Cynicism is an unpleasant way of saying the truth.” {1} [Or was that sarcasm?]... Ms. Hellman died in 1984 in Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts.

U.S. guitarist Chester Burton “Chet” Atkins was born on June 20, 1924 in Luttrell, Tennessee. He said, “Once you become predictable, no one's interested anymore.” {1} [But we so LOVE predictions!]... Mr. Atkins died in 2001 in Nashville, Tennessee.

U.S. comic Buddy Hackett was born as Leonard Hacker on August 31, 1924 in Brooklyn, New York City, New York. He said, “I've had a few arguments with people, but I never carry a grudge. You know why? While you're carrying a grudge, they're out dancing.” {1} [Dancing requires lightness.]... Mr. Hackett died in 2003 in Malibu, California.

{1} Source: www.brainyquote.com
{2} Source: http://thinkexist.com

Friday, June 29, 2007

Katharine Hepburn died today – 4 years ago

U.S. actress Katharine Hepburn was born on May 12, 1907 in Hartford, Connecticut. She said, “Enemies are so stimulating.” {1} [Just so long as they’re not too irritating.]... Ms. Hepburn died in 2003 in Old Saybrook, Connecticut.

English writer Elizabeth Barrett Browning was born on March 6, 1806 in Durham, England. She was the wife of Robert Browning. She said, “He lives most life whoever breathes most air.” {1} [So let’s get huffing and puffing.]… Ms. Browning died in 1861 in Florence, Italy.

Lady Jennie Jerome Churchill, the mother of Winston Churchill, was born on January 9, 1854 in Brooklyn, New York City, New York. She said, “Treat your friends as you do your pictures, and place them in their best light.” {1} [And some of us need a bigger spotlight than others.]... Ms. Churchill died in 1921 in London, England.

Swiss artist Paul Klee was born on December 18, 1879 in Münchenbuchsee, Switzerland. He said, “A line is a dot that went for a walk.” {1} [And a circle is a dot that can’t walk a straight line.]... Mr. Klee died in 1940 in Muralto, Switzerland.

U.S. actress Jayne Mansfield was born as Vera Jayne Palmer on April 19, 1933 in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania. She said, “If you're going to do something wrong, do it big, because the punishment is the same either way.” {1} [Ostracized is ostracized.]... Ms. Mansfield died in 1967 in a car crash.

U.S. actress Lana Turner was born as Julia Jean Mildred Frances Turner on February 8, 1921 in Wallace, Idaho. She said, “My life has been a series of emergencies.” {1} [And that’s why she always kept an ambulance waiting.]... Ms. Turner died in 1995 in Century City, Los Angeles, California.

U.S. actress Rosemary Clooney was born on May 23, 1923 in Maysville, Kentucky. She was the aunt of U.S. actor George Clooney. She said, “In the final analysis, it's true that fame is unimportant. No matter how great a man is, the size of his funeral usually depends on the weather." {3} [Talk about “fair weather” friends.]... Ms. Clooney died in 2002 in Beverly Hills, California.

{1} Source: www.brainyquote.com
{2} Source: http://thinkexist.com
{3} Source: www.born-today.com

Thursday, June 28, 2007

James Madison died today – 171 years ago

U.S. President (4th) James Madison was born on March 16, 1751 in Port Conway, Virginia. He said, “It will be of little avail to the people, that the laws are made by men of their own choice, if the laws be so voluminous that they cannot be read, or so incoherent that they cannot be understood." {1} [Amen! Amen!! Amen!!! Amen!!!! AMEN!!!!!]... Mr. Madison died in 1836 in Montpelier, Virginia.

U.S. astronomer Maria Mitchell was born on August 1, 1818 in Nantucket, Massachusetts. She said, “The eye that directs a needle in the delicate meshes of embroidery will equally well bisect a star with the spider web of the micrometer.” {2} [Way to go, ladies!]... Ms. Mitchell died in 1889 in Lynn, Massachusetts.

U.S. writer Rod Serling was born on December 25, 1924 in Syracuse, New York. He was famous for “The Twilight Zone.” He said, “There is nothing in the dark that isn't there when the lights are on.” {2} [Boo!]... Mr. Serling died in 1975 in Rochester, New York.

{1} Source: www.born-today.com
{2} Source: www.brainyquote.com

Wednesday, June 27, 2007

Harriet Martineau died today – 131 years ago

English journalist Harriet Martineau was born on June 12, 1802 in Norwich, England. She said, “The sum and substance of female education in America, as in England, is training women to consider marriage as the sole object in life, and to pretend that they do not think so.” {1} [I think times have changed.]... Ms. Martineau died in 1876.

U.S. actor Jack Lemmon was born on February 8, 1925 in Newton, Massachusetts. He said, “It's hard enough to write a good drama, it's much harder to write a good comedy, and it's hardest of all to write a drama with comedy. Which is what life is.” {1} [Amen!]... Mr. Lemmon died in 2001 in Los Angeles, California.

English singer, songwriter, & bass guitarist (for “The Who”) John Entwistle was born on October 9, 1944 in Chiswick, London, England. He said, “When I was six years old I was forced by my mother to learn piano, which I hated. However, it loosened up both my left and right hands.” {1} [That’s too bad about the piano. It’s a great instrument. I know.]... He died in 2002 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

{1} Source: www.brainyquote.com

Tuesday, June 26, 2007

Ford Madox Ford died today – 68 years ago

English novelist & poet Ford Madox Ford was born as Ford Hermann Hueffer on December 17, 1873 in Merton, Surrey, England. He said, “Only two classes of books are of universal appeal. The very best and the very worst." {1} [Wonder which one he thought he wrote?]... Mr. Ford died in 1939 in Deauville, France.

U.S. senator (South Carolina) Strom Thurmond was born on December 5, 1906 in Edgefield, South Carolina. He said, “Mr. Gore, I knew Harry Truman, ... I ran against Harry Truman. And Mr. Gore, you are no Harry Truman.” {2} [Hmmmm. I think I've heard something like that before.]... Mr. Thurmond died in 2003 in Edgefield, South Carolina.

{1} Source: www.born-today.com
{2} Source: http://thinkexist.com

Monday, June 25, 2007

Bob Schieffer's Center

On last Sunday’s (June 17) “Face the Nation,” Bob Schieffer said that we might need to have a third party to “get to the center.” On this Sunday’s (June 24) “Face the Nation,” he mentioned “the center” again. News flash, Bob. There is no center. Take any issue and tell me where “the center” is. There are mixtures of positions on issues, but no “center.” I suspect that what he meant was a “compromise”: you give up something and I give up something. No one is fully satisfied, but we “move on." Well, my position is that there are some issues about which there can be no compromise. Are there any for you?

Johnny Mercer died today – 31 years ago

U.S. songwriter Johnny Mercer was born on November 18, 1909 in Savannah, Georgia. He said, “You must have been a beautiful baby, 'Cos baby just look at you now.” {1} [Thanks, Johnny.]... Mr. Mercer died in 1976 in Bel-Air, Los Angeles, California.

Scottish writer Margaret Oliphant Oliphant was born on April 4, 1828 near Musselburgh, East Lothian, Scotland. She said, “Temptations come, as a general rule, when they are sought.” {1} [That could explain a lot.]... Ms. Oliphant died in 1897 in Wimbledon, London, England.

Texas Governor (30th (1925-1927) & 33rd (1933-1935)) Miriam Amanda Wallace "Ma" Ferguson was born on June 13, 1875 in Bell County, Texas. She said, “English was good enough for Jesus Christ and it's good enough for the children of Texas.” {2} [What can I say?]... Ms. Ferguson died in 1961 in Austin, Texas.

French oceanographer Jacques-Yves Cousteau was born on June 11, 1910 in Saint-André-de-Cubzac, Gironde, France. He said, “Water and air, the two essential fluids on which all life depends, have become global garbage cans.” {1} [Where’s a good liner when you need one?]... Mr. Cousteau died in 1997 in Paris, France.

{1} Source: www.brainyquote.com
{2} Source: www.born-today.com

Sunday, June 24, 2007

Sara Orne Jewett died today – 98 years ago

U.S. writer Sara Orne Jewett was born on September 3, 1849 in South Berwick, Maine. She said, “Yes'm, old friends is always best, 'less you can catch a new one that's fit to make an old one out of.” {1} [Bless ‘em all.]... Ms. Jewett died in 1909.

U.S. President (22th & 24th) Grover Cleveland was born on March 18, 1837 in Caldwell, New Jersey. He said, “In the scheme of our national government, the presidency is preeminently the people's office.” {1} [Then I’m moving in tomorrow.]... Mr. Cleveland died in 1908 in Princeton, New Jersey.

U.S. actor Jackie Gleason was born on February 26, 1916 in Bushwick, Brooklyn, New York City, New York. He said, “The second day of a diet is always easier than the first. By the second day you're off it.” {1} [I wouldn’t know: I don’t diet... but I try to eat healthily.]... Mr. Gleason died in 1987 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

U.S. actor Brian Keith was born on November 14, 1921 in Bayonne, New Jersey. He said, “In other words...you can't be a misogynist and expect women to appreciate you." {2} [Ya’ think?]... Mr. Keith died in 1997 in Malibu, California of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

{1} Source: www.brainyquote.com
{2} Source: www.born-today.com

Saturday, June 23, 2007

Jonas Salk died today – 12 years ago

U.S. microbiologist Jonas Salk was born on October 28, 1914 in New York City, New York. He said, “I pictured myself as a virus or a cancer cell and tried to sense what it would be like.” {1} [Hmmm. I wonder if that could work for pollen?]... Mr. Salk died in 1995 in La Jolla, California.

{1} Source: www.brainyquote.com

Friday, June 22, 2007

New Apple iPhone Inadequate For My Needs - But I'll Still Take One

The new Apple iPhone will be inadequate for my needs - but I'll still take one - if someone gives me one to try out. I doubt if it will sell more than a few hundred - million, billion, whatever. Its screen appears too small for my serious internet surfing. And it won't even brush my teeth - oh, wait a minute. It does vibrate, doesn't it?

David O. Selznick died today – 42 years ago

U.S. movie director David O. Selznick was born on May 10, 1902 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He said, “There are only two classes - first class and no class.” {1} [Talk about a classless society.]... Mr. Selznick died in 1965 in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California.

U.S. actress Judy Garland was born as Frances Ethel Gumm on June 10, 1922 in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. She said, “I've always taken 'The Wizard of Oz' very seriously, you know. I believe in the idea of the rainbow. And I've spent my entire life trying to get over it.” {1} [Rainbows, like dreams, cannot be touched. But they’re real just the same.]... Ms. Garland died in 1969 in Chelsea, London, England.

U.S. dancer, actor, & singer Fred Astaire was born on May 10, 1899 in Omaha, Nebraska. He said, “The higher up you go, the more mistakes you are allowed. Right at the top, if you make enough of them, it's considered to be your style.” {1} [I guess some days, I’ve had lots and lots of style.]... Mr. Astaire died in 1987 in Los Angeles, California.

{1} Source: www.brainyquote.com

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Niccolo Machiavelli died today – 480 years ago

Italian writer Niccolo Machiavelli was born on May 3, 1469 in Florence, Italy. He said, “Benefits should be conferred gradually; and in that way they will taste better.” {1} [Bits of freedom are not liberty, but license.]... Mr. Machiavelli died in 1527 in Florence, Italy.

U.S. football coach (Notre Dame) Frank Leahy was born on August 27, 1908 in O'Neill, Nebraska. He said, “When the going gets tough, let the tough get going.” {1} [I’ve always thought that this quote meant that the tough don’t give up. But, perhaps it means that the tough find another way around the problem.]... Mr. Leahy died in 1973 in Portland, Oregon.

U.S. actor Carroll "Archie Bunker" O'Connor was born on August 2, 1924 in the Bronx, New York City, New York. He said, “I have heard show business characterized as a refuge for childlike persons in flight from all things harsh and real.” {1} [And here I thought show business – scripted things – was real life... Oh, my!]... Mr. O’Connor died in 2001 in Culver City, California.

{1} Source: www.brainyquote.com

Wednesday, June 20, 2007

Herbert Bayard Swope died today – 49 years ago

U.S. journalist Herbert Bayard Swope was born on January 5, 1882 in St. Louis, Missouri. He said, “I can't give you a sure-fire formula for success, but I can give you a formula for failure: try to please everybody all the time. " {1} [Amen. Amen. Amen... Now if I could just remember that.]... Mr. Swope died in 1958.

U.S. economist Bernard Mannes Baruch was born on August 19, 1870 in Camden, South Carolina. He said, “Every man has a right to his opinion, but no man has a right to be wrong in his facts.” {2} [Now if we could just figure out what the facts are.]... Mr. Baruch died in 1965 in New York City, New York.

U.S. actress Estelle Winwood was born on January 24, 1883 in Lee, Kent, England. She said, “My advice to actresses is don't worry about your looks. The very thing that makes you unhappy in your appearance may be the one thing to make you a star.” {2} [And that’s why I’ll never have cosmetic surgery.]... Ms. Winwood died in 1984 in Woodland Hills, Los Angeles, California.

U.S. writer & radio host Clifton Fadiman was born on May 15, 1904 in Brooklyn, New York City, New York. He said, “To feel at home, stay at home.” {3} [So get out there an explore.]... Mr. Fadiman died in 1999 on Sanibel Island, Florida.

{1} Source: www.quotationspage.com
{2} Source: www.brainyquote.com
{3} Source: http://thinkexist.com

Tuesday, June 19, 2007

Barack Obama Lies?

It appears that the following email has been circulating for a while:


Checked this out with snopes! The bio was very interesting and revealing.

Who is Barack Obama?
Probable U. S. presidential candidate, Barack Hussein Obama was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, to Barack Hussein Obama, Sr., a black Muslim from Nyangoma-Kogel, Kenya and Ann Dunham, a white atheist from Wichita,Kansas.

Obama's parents met at the University of Hawaii. When Obama was two years old, his parents divorced. His father returned to Kenya.

His mother then married Lolo Soetoro, a radical Muslim from Indonesia.

When Obama was 6 years old, the family relocated to Indonesia. Obama attended a Muslim school in Jakarta.

He also spent two years in a Catholic school.

Obama takes great care to conceal the fact that he is a Muslim. He Is quick to point out that, "He was once a Muslim, but that he also attended Catholic school."

Obama's political handlers are attempting to make it appear that Obama's introduction to Islam came via his father, and that this influence was temporary at best.

In reality, the senior Obama returned to Kenya soon after the divorce, and never again had any direct influence over His son's education.

Lolo Soetoro, the second husband of Obama's mother, Ann Dunham, introduced his stepson to Islam.

Obama was enrolled in a Wahabi school in Jakarta. Wahabism is the radical teaching that is followed by the Muslim terrorists who are now waging Jihad against the western world.

Since it is politically expedient to be a Christian when seeking Major public office in the United States, Barack Hussein Obama has joined the United Church of Christ in an attempt to downplay his Muslim background.

Let us all remain alert concerning Obama's expected presidential candidacy.

Please forward to everyone you know. The Muslims have said they plan to destroy the US from the inside out, what better way to start than at the highest level.

********************************************************************

Notice that it starts out with, "Checked this out with snopes!" Well, I don't see how it could have been checked out with Snopes, since Snopes discredits a lot of what the email states. If you don't like a particular politician, state the factual reasons: don't fabricate things. That only lowers the level of discourse and avoids the real issues.

John Emerich Edward Dalberg-Acton died today – 105 years ago

English historian John Emerich Edward Dalberg-Acton (known as Lord Acton) was born on January 10, 1834 in Naples, Italy. He said, “Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely." {1} [It may take much less than absolute.]... Mr. Dalberg-Acton died in 1902 in Tegernsee, Bavaria.

English writer Jerome Klapka Jerome was born on May 2, 1859 in Walsall, England. He said, “It is always the best policy to speak the truth, unless, of course, you are an exceptionally good liar.” {2} [Uhhhhhh, nope.]... Mr. Jerome died in 1927 in Northampton, England.

IBM president Thomas John Watson, Jr. was born on February 17, 1874 in Campbell, New York. According to Wikipedia, he probably DID NOT say, "I think there is a world market for maybe five computers." [But they were so big back then!]... Mr. Watson died in 1956 in New York City, New York.

English writer William Gerald Golding was born on September 19, 1911 in Newquay, Cornwall, England. He wrote “Lord of the Flies.” He said, “An orotundity, which I define as Nobelitis a pomposity in which one is treated as representative of more than oneself by someone conscious of representing more than himself.” {2} [Uhhhhhhh, yeah.]... Mr. Golding died in 1993 in Perranarworthal, Cornwall, England.

{1} Source: http://en.wikipedia.org
{2} Source: www.brainyquote.com

Monday, June 18, 2007

Trichotillomania – Do you have it?

Do you have trichotillomania? If you do, I don’t think I’d tell many people about it (except professionals). I’d let them discover it for themselves. According to Wikipedia, “Sixty-five percent of those afflicted are female.” I guess that’s because they have more of what it needs. It’s estimated that 0.5-3.5% of the population has it. Since there are about 6,600,000,000 people in the world, that’s from 33,000,000 to 231,000,000 people. Wow!! But don’t worry: it can be reduced or controlled. There’s even a learning center for it founded in 1991 by Christina Pearson.

What is it, you ask? Well, it's not fear of "trichotillo." You’ll have to “Google” it to find out. You think I give away everything I know?

Максим Горький died today – 71 years ago

Russian writer Maxim Gorky was born as Aleksei Maksimovich Peshkov on March 28, 1868 in Nizhny Novgorod, Russian Empire. He said, “When everything is easy, one quickly gets stupid.” {1} [Hmmmmm!]... Mr. Gorky died in 1936 in Moscow, USSR.

English writer Samuel Butler was born on December 4, 1875 near Bingham, Nottinghamshire, England. He is best known for his utopian satire “Erewhon.” He said, “It was very good of God to let [Thomas] Carlyle and Mrs. Carlyle marry one another and so make only two people miserable instead of four." {2} [Oh, my!]... Mr. Butler died in 1902.

U.S. actress Ethel Barrymore was born as Ethel Mae Blythe on August 15, 1879 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She said, “You grow up the day you have your first real laugh - at yourself.” {1} [And I’ve been laughing ever since.]... Ms. Barrymore died in 1959 in Los Angeles, California.

U.S. writer Djuna Barnes was born on June 12, 1892 near Cornwall-on-Hudson, New York. She said, “The priceless galaxy of misinformation called the mind.” {1} [Perhaps there is some “star of hope.”]... Ms. Barnes died in 1982 in New York City, New York.

U.S. writer I.F. Stone (Isidor Feinstein Stone), also known as Izzy Stone, was born on December 24, 1907 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He said, “If you live long enough, the venerability factor creeps in; you get accused of things you never did and praised for virtues you never had." {2} [Oh, my!]... Mr. Stone died in 1989 in Boston, Massachusetts.

Australian songwriter and singer Peter Allen was born as Peter Allen Woolnough on February 10, 1944 in Tenterfield, New South Wales. He said, “Forgiveness is a funny thing, it warms the hearts and cools the sting.” {1} [Just as long as there is accountability.]... Mr. Allen died in 1992 in Leucadia, California.

{1} Source: www.brainyquote.com
{2} Source: www.born-today.com

Sunday, June 17, 2007

The Roswell Connection ... Again and Again

Well, I guess it was bound to happen. I recently received this email:


THIS MAY EXPLAIN A WHOLE LOT

Many will recall that on July 8, 1947, witnesses claimed that an unidentified object with five aliens aboard crashed onto a sheep and cattle ranch just outside Roswell, New Mexico. This is a well-known incident that many say has long been covered up by the U.S. Air Force and the federal government.

However, what you may NOT know is that in the month of March, 1948, exactly nine months after that historic day, George W. Bush, Dick Cheney, Donald Rumsfield [there is no ‘i’], Bill O'Reilly, Rush Limbaugh, Condole[e]zza Rice, and Dan Qua[y]le were all born.

This is what happens when aliens breed with sheep.

This piece of information may clear up a lot of things!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*******************************************************************

I hate to repeat myself – actually I don’t -, but...

I'm sure there are many reasons to criticize these people (along with most other politicians), but lying about the facts is not the way to do it. According to Wikipedia,

George W. Bush was born on July 6, 1946.

Dick Cheney was born on January 30, 1941.

Donald Rumsfeld was born on July 9, 1932.

Bill O'Reilly was born on September 10, 1949.

Rush Limbaugh was born on January 12, 1951.

Condoleezza Rice was born on November 14, 1954.

Dan Quayle was born on February 4, 1947.


P.S. Besides, “exactly nine Months after that historic day” of July 8, 1947 would be April 8, 1948. There’s nothing like getting it ALL wrong, is there?

Also see: http://thethoughtsofroger.blogspot.com/2007/06/roswell-connection.html

Who Was Singing on the Day You Were Born?

Maybe your mother, but that's another story... But seriously, have you ever wondered what was the most popular song when you were born? Well, check out this site:

http://www.joshhosler.biz/NumberOneInHistory/SelectMonth.htm.

You might even recall a few tunes - and other memories - that you thought you had forgotten. Cheers!

Joseph Addison died today – 288 years ago

English writer Joseph Addison was born on May 1, 1672 in Milston, Wiltshire, England. He said, “We may lay down a maxim, that when a nation abounds in physicians, it grows thin of people.” {1} [Was he saying what I think he was saying?]... Mr. Addison died in 1719 in London, England.

U.S. Senator (from Michigan) Lewis Cass was born on October 9, 1782 in Exeter, New Hampshire. He said, “People may doubt what you say, but they will believe what you do." {2} [Unless they have preconceived notions to uphold.]... Mr. Cass died in 1866 in Detroit, Michigan.

English writer Arthur Christopher Benson was born on April 24, 1862. He said, “Very often a change of self is needed more than a change of scene.” {3} [That’s mostly true, but beautiful scenery can so inspire one.]... Mr. Benson died in 1925.

English writer Dorothy Miller Richardson was born on May 17, 1873 in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, England. She said, “If there was a trick, there must be a trickster." {2} [That’s just too easy.]... Ms. Richardson died in 1957 in Beckenham, Kent, England.

{1} Source: www.brainyquote.com
{2} Source: www.born-today.com
{3} Source: http://thinkexist.com

Saturday, June 16, 2007

Credit "piggy-backing"

You pay someone to get a piece of someone else's credit score. It boosts your own score. We love it. What's not to love? (Well, some are claiming that it might be fraudulent.) Anyway, can we now do the same for ethics? There must be someone out there who needs an ethical boost.

Screaming Lord Sutch died today – 8 years ago

English musician & politician David Edward Sutch (or Screaming Lord Sutch) was born on November 10, 1940 in Hampstead, North West London, England. He never said anything worth repeating – at least as far as I could find. (Actually he probably did, but nobody wrote it down or taped it. He did sing some words though.) Mr. Sutch died in 1999 in Harrow, Middlesex, England.

German rocket scientist Wernher von Braun was born on March 23, 1912 in Wirsitz, Province of Posen, Prussia. He said, “I have learned to use the word ‘impossible’ with the greatest caution.” {1} [Just remember that it’s impossible to do and to be everything.]... Mr. von Braun died in 1977.

{1} Source: www.brainyquote.com

Friday, June 15, 2007

Why is Dow advertising so much?

Dow Chemical Company has been running an ad that says something to the effect that, “The human element (Hu) is fundamental.” Well, how clever. I’m always suspicious of too much advertising from companies that we rarely think about. I figure it’s intended to get us to have a more favorable impression of them – i.e. for public relations. So what might DOW be trying to counter?

Well, Dow Chemical Company manufactured silicone breast implants, dioxin, napalm, Agent Orange, and yellow or white phosphorus (source: EPA). Most, if not all, of these things were not very popular (that’s an understatement) after they were used. Some are not even human-friendly. Some could even be classified as “un-human” (think: inhumane). (Google the words "white phosphorus used".) So, is Dow trying to counteract bad publicity?

*77 Direct Link to Help – Not Always

A while back I received an email that said:

YOU MUST KNOW *77

I knew about the red light on cars, but not the *77. It was about 1:00 p.m. in the afternoon, and Lauren was driving to visit a friend. An UNMARKED police car pulled up behind her and put his lights on. *Lauren's parents have always told them never to pull over for an unmarked car on the side of the road, but rather to wait until they get to a gas station, etc. *

Lauren had actually listened to her parents advice, and promptly called *77 on her cell phone to tell the police dispatcher that she would not pull over right away. She proceeded to tell the dispatcher that there was an unmarked police car with a flashing red light on his rooftop behind her. The dispatcher checked to see if there were police cars where she was and there weren't, and he told her to keep driving, remain calm and that he had back up already on the way.

Ten minutes later 4 cop cars surrounded her and the unmarked car behind her. One policeman went to her side and the others surrounded the car behind. They pulled the guy from the car and tackled him to the ground. The man was a convicted rapist and wanted for other crimes.

I never knew about the *77 Cell Phone Feature, but especially for a woman alone in a car, you should not pull over for an unmarked car. Apparently police have to respect your right to keep going to a safe & quiet place. You obviously need to make some signals that you acknowledge them (i.e. put on your hazard lights) or call *77 like Lauren did.

Too bad the cell phone companies don't generally give you this little bit of wonderful information.

*Speaking to a service representative at ** Bell ** Mobility confirmed that *77 was a direct link to state trooper info. So, now it's your turn to let your friends know about *77.

Send this to every woman (and person) you know; it may save a life.

*******************************************************************

Well, this would be wonderful, if it were true. But, according to http://www.shopoakpark.com/info-cellnumbers.html, this is true only in Maine, New Hampshire, & Rhode Island. The website lists the other emergency cellular phone numbers to call in other states. Be safe.

To Flash or Not To Flash, That is the Question

The following is circulating on the internet:

Don't Flash Headlights At Any Car With No Lights On!!

Police officers working with the DARE program have issued this Warning:

If you are driving after dark and see an on-coming car with no headlights on, DO NOT FLASH YOUR LIGHTS AT THEM ! This is a common Bloods member "initiation game" that goes like this: The new gang member under initiation drives along with no headlights, and the first car to flash their headlights at him is now his "target" He is now required to turn around and chase that car, then shoot and kill every individual in the vehicle in order to complete his initiation requirements. Police Depts across the nation are being warned. Their intent is to have all the new bloods nationwide drive around on Friday and Saturday nights with ! their headlights off. In order to be accepted into the gang, they have to shoot and kill all individuals in the first auto that does a courtesy flash to warn them that their lights are off.

Make sure you share this information with all the drivers in your family!

Please forward this message to all your friends and family members to inform them about his initiation ritual.

SR Dispatcher Tracey Sharber
Kentucky State Police
Post 3 Bowling Green

***********************************************************

Well, this seems to be false, according to Snopes. The internet can - yes, that's CAN - be a great source of information. But, before we scare eveyone to total isolation in our homes, let's check out the veracity of claims before transmitting them. As with all allegations, once made, they're very difficult, if not impossible, ever to retract.

Rosalia de Castro died today – 122 years ago

Spanish writer Rosalia de Castro was born on February 24, 1837 in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. She said “Great breakthroughs are always followed by great catastrophes.” {1} [Is this the law of unintended consequences?]... Ms. de Castro died in 1885 in Padrón, near Santiago, Spain.

U.S. President (11th) James K. Polk was born on November 2, 1795 in Pineville, North Carolina. He said “There is more selfishness and less principle among members of Congress than I had any conception of, before I became President of the U.S.” {2} [Hmmmm. I wonder if anything has changed?]... Mr. Polk died in 1849 in Nashville, Tennessee.

U.S. singer Ella Fitzgerald was born on April 25, 1917 in Newport News, Virginia. She said, “It isn't where you came from, it’s where you're going that counts.” {1} [Amen!]... Ms. Fitzgerald died in 1996 in Beverly Hills, California.

Canadian actor Hume Cronyn was born on July 18, 1911 in Ontario, Canada. He was married to Jessica Tandy. He said, “The whole business of marshaling one's energies becomes more and more important as one grows older.” {2} [And that pretty much applies to everything.]... Mr. Cronyn died in 2003 in Fairfield, Connecticut.

{1} Source: http://thinkexist.com
{2} Source: www.brainyquote.com

Thursday, June 14, 2007

Jorge Luis Borges died today – 21 years ago

Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges was born on August 24, 1899 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He said, “In general, every country has the language it deserves.” {1} [Look at what happens when people don’t take the time to educate the children to speak – and think – well.]... Mr. Borges died in 1986 in Geneva, Switzerland.

English writer G. K. (Gilbert Keith) Chesterton was born in May 29, 1874 in London, England. He said, “Art, like morality, consists in drawing the line somewhere.” {2} [Good points.]... Mr. Chesterton died in 1936 in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, England.

U.S. lyricist Alan Jay Lerner was born on August 31, 1918 in New York City, New York. He wrote many songs with Frederick Loewe. Together they created “Brigadoon”, “Gigi”, “My Fair Lady”, and “Camelot”. Wow! Mr. Lerner said, “Coughing in the theater is not a respiratory ailment. It is a criticism.” {1} [Perhaps sneezing is the ultimate criticism.]... Mr. Lerner died in 1986 in Manhattan, New York City, New York.

{1} Source: www.brainyquote.com
{2} Source: http://thinkexist.com

Wednesday, June 13, 2007

Enron Was Not Part of the Free Market

I read some interesting statements about Enron today. Perhaps you will enjoy them, too.

Reviewing the book "The Big Ripoff: How Big Business and Big Government Steal Your Money" by Timothy P. Carney, Thomas E. Woods, Jr. wrote in "Ripping Off the Taxpayers":

Carney’s coverage of the Enron scandal is the proverbial chapter that’s worth the price of the book. Opponents of the market economy had a field day when Enron’s financial shenanigans came to light. A liberal San Francisco Chronicle columnist, claiming that “the Enron scandal makes it clear that the unfettered free market does not work,” summed up what so many were saying in 2001 and 2002. He added that “Enron makes that whole Ayn Rand ‘Fountainhead’ thing look a little silly, too. Who is John Galt? Ken Lay.” (John Galt appears in Atlas Shrugged, not The Fountainhead, but never mind.)

The Cato Institute’s Jerry Taylor was closer to the truth when he described Enron on balance as “an enemy, not an ally of free markets. Enron was more interested in rigging the marketplace with rules and regulations to advantage itself at the expense of competitors and consumers than in making money the old-fashioned way — by earning it honestly from their customers through voluntary trade.” Building on this observation, Carney shows that Enron, far from being a creature of the free market, was a strong supporter of a variety of government regulations, and reached the heights it did largely thanks to government favors. Even some of its strange accounting practices had been approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission (thereby giving the public a false sense of security regarding Enron’s actual health).

Thus, Ken Lay, the wicked capitalist, made high-profile appeals in favor of the Kyoto Protocol on global warming, describing it as “a tremendous opportunity to stimulate realistic climate solutions.” He wrote in an e-mailed message that Kyoto would “do more to promote Enron’s business than almost any other regulatory initiative outside of restructuring the energy and natural gas industries in Europe and the United States.” Since Enron was primarily an energy broker, it could easily become the major trader of CO2 credits that Congress would very likely have created in order to help American industry come into compliance. On top of that, since Enron owned natural gas pipelines and dealt mainly in natural gas — far cleaner than coal or oil in terms of CO2 emissions — the Kyoto restrictions would give it a competitive edge.

Enron, Carney shows, was on the receiving end of countless waves of government subsidies. It also manipulated the bizarre regulatory thicket that was the California energy market in grotesquely anti-social ways that enriched Enron at the expense, quite literally, of everyone else. The whole story has to be read to be believed. But it’s one that could not have occurred in a free market.
{1}

Wow!

{1} Source: http://www.fff.org/freedom/fd0702h.asp

Martin Buber died today – 42 years ago

German theologian Martin Buber was born on February 8, 1878 in Vienna, Austria. He said, “An animal's eyes have the power to speak a great language.” {1} [Now if they could just write it, I’d really be amazed.]... Mr. Buber died in 1965 in Talbiyeh, Jerusalem.

Ancient Greek military commander Alexander the Great was born on September 20, 356 BC in Pella, Macedon. He said, “I am dying with the help of too many physicians.” {1} [Stick with one, that way you know whom to blame.]... Mr. the Great died in 323 BC in Babylon.

{1} Source: www.brainyquote.com

Tuesday, June 12, 2007

Judge Roy Pearson Sues Dry Cleaners for $65 Million

All for a pair of pants. Does anyone still think the "justice system" doesn't need reforming? This ridiculous case needs to be stopped... now! Besides, he's besmirching the good name of Pearson.

Beware Those Camel Spiders in Iraq – Not

What about those huge Camel Spiders in Iraq? Well, according to Snopes, there are many untruths (lies?) about them:

“Camel spiders (so named because, like camels, they can be found in sandy desert regions, although they aren't technically spiders) grow to be moderately large (about a 5"-6" leg span), but nowhere near as large as dinner plates; they can move very quickly in comparison to other arthropods (a top speed of maybe 10 MPH), but nothing close 25 MPH; they make no noise; and they capture prey without the use of either venom or anesthetic. Camel spiders rely on speed, stealth, and the (non-venomous) bite of powerful jaws to feed on small prey such as other arthropods (e.g., scorpions, crickets, pillbugs), lizards, and possibly mice or birds. They use only three pairs of legs in running; the frontmost pair (called pedipalpa) is held aloft and used in a similar manner to the antennae of insects. Camel spiders shun the sun and generally hide during the day, coming out at night to do their hunting.

“Although the creatures shown in the photograph above [view here] appear to be far too big for camel spiders, they look misleadingly large because of their closeness to the camera, which creates an illusion of exaggerated size. (Note their size in comparison to the uniform sleeve which appears in upper right-hand portion of the picture.)”


So don’t worry ... too much.

I’m Exhausted Just Thinking About It.

1. Go to http://www.google.com/.
2. Click on "Maps" at top left.
3. Click on "Get directions" at top center.
4. Type "New York, NY" in the first box (the "from" box above “Search the map”).
5. Type "London, UK" in the second box (the "to" box above “Get directions”).
6. Press the “Get Directions” tab.
7. Scroll down to step #21 (may vary) on the left side.

Jury Duty Scam

What would you do? A person calls you, saying he/she is a court official. You are told that you may be arrested since you didn’t show up for jury duty. You don’t remember getting a summons and say so. You are then told to give your social security number and date of birth for verification and cancellation of the arrest warrant. Do you do it? No way. So what do you do? Call the court yourself.

It is said that “The scam has been reported so far in 10 states, including Michigan, Ohio, Texas, Arizona, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Oregon, Washington, and Colorado. This (scam) is particularly insidious because they use intimidation over the phone to try to bully people into giving information by pretending they're with the court system. The FBI and the federal court system have issued nationwide alerts on their web sites, warning consumers about the fraud.”

Check it out on Snopes
and at the FBI.

Leo Buscaglia died today – 9 years ago

U.S. writer Leo Buscaglia was born on March 31, 1925 in Los Angeles, California. He said, “Don't smother each other. No one can grow in the shade.” {1} [Plants are treated better than some people.]... Mr. Buscaglia died in 1998 in Glenbrook, Nevada.

U.S. writer William C. Bryant was born on November 3, 1794 in Cummington, Massachusetts. He said, “Weep not that the world changes -- did it keep a stable, changeless state, it were cause indeed to weep.” {2} [So get out there and change it.]... Mr. Bryant died in 1878 in New York City, New York.

Austrian writer Karl Kraus was born on April 28, 1874 in Gitschin, Bohemia. He said, “Democracy means the opportunity to be everyone's slave.” {1} [Think about it and remember that the United States is a constitutional republic, not a democracy.]... Mr. Kraus died in 1936 in Vienna, Austria.

U.S. political activist Saul David Alinsky was born on January 30, 1909 in Chicago, Illinois. He said, “Once you accept your own death, all of a sudden you're free to live. You no longer care about your reputation. You no longer care except so far as your life can be used tactically to promote a cause you believe in.” {3} [Amen!]... Mr. Alinsky died in 1972 in Carmel, California.

Canadian actress Norma Shearer was born on August 10, 1902 in Montréal, Québec, Canada. She said, “It is impossible to get anything made or accomplished without stepping on some toes; enemies are inevitable when one is a doer.” {1} [But you can watch what kind of shoes you’re wearing.]... Ms. Shearer died in 1983 in Woodland Hills, Los Angeles, California.

U.S. fashion designer Bill Blass was born on June 22, 1922 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He said, “When in doubt wear red.” {1} [Unless you have a compelling reason to wear black.]... Mr. Blass died in 2002 in New Preston, Connecticut.

{1} Source: www.brainyquote.com
{2} Source: www.notable-quotes.com
{3} Source: http://thinkexist.com

Monday, June 11, 2007

What Should Pets Eat?

William Campbell Douglass II, MD wrote:

"The only appropriate food for your pet is raw animal food, i.e. the flesh of other animals, whether they be fish, fowl, or mammal."

"Animals love rotten fruit, rotten vegetables, and rotten meat. They delight in rolling in the poop of other animals, licking their butts and other dogs' butts. Sorry for this repulsive elucidation of the secret life of your pet, but it’s time you came out of the laboratory and your immaculate kitchen to learn what your pet really wants: fresh (or rotten) raw animal tissue-the bones, the blood, the fat, the liver, the whole disgusting mess.

"Fortunately, these animals are highly resistant to bacterial infection, especially of the intestinal tract - IF they have been raised on the proper raw diet. It's not that hard to do, either.

"For a balanced diet, dogs and cats only need raw meat and raw animal fat. It's that simple. My two cats, Paint and Pistol, never had a thing to eat but raw chicken liver during their entire lives. They were never sick. They never went to a vet."


Hmmm. What do you think?

President Bush's Resignation Speech

On May 20, I received the following:

We all have our disagreements with President Bush. Immigration, U.S. Attorney firings, Iraq, and Darfur are all hot topics these days. The following "speech" was recently written as a joke. While satirical in nature, all satire must have a basis in fact to be effective. An excellent piece by a person who does not write for a living:

The speech George W. Bush SHOULD give:

Normally, I start these things out by saying "My Fellow Americans." Not doing it this time. If the polls are any indication, I don't know who more than half of you are anymore. I do know something terrible has happened, and that you're really not fellow Americans any longer.

I'll cut right to the chase here: I quit. Now before anyone gets all lathered up about me quitting to avoid impeachment, or to avoid prosecution or something, let me assure you: there's been no breaking of laws or impeachable offenses in this office.

The reason I'm quitting is simple. I'm fed up with you people. I'm fed up because you have no understanding of what's really going on in the world. Or of what's going on in this once-great nation of ours. And the majority of you are too damned lazy to do your homework and figure it out.

Let's start local. You've been sold a bill of goods by politicians and the news media. Polls show that the majority of you think the economy is in the tank. And that's despite record numbers of homeowners, including record numbers of MINORITY homeowners. And while we're mentioning minorities, I'll point out that minority business ownership is at an all-time high. Our unemployment rate is as low as it ever was during the Clinton Administration. I've mentioned all those things before, but it doesn't seem to have sunk in.

Despite the shock to our economy of 9/11, the stock market has rebounded to record levels and more Americans than ever are participating in these markets. Meanwhile, all you can do is whine about gas prices, and most of you are too damn stupid to realize that gas prices are high because there's increased demand in other parts of the world and because a small handful of noisy idiots are more worried about polar bears and beachfront property than your economic security.

We face real threats in the world. Don't give me this "blood for oil" thing. If I was trading blood for oil, I would've already seized Iraq's oil fields and let the rest of the country go to hell. And don't give me this "Bush Lied - People Died" crap either. If I was the liar you morons take me for, I could've easily had chemical weapons planted in Iraq so they could be "discovered." Instead, I owned up to the fact that the intelligence was faulty. Let me remind you that the rest of the world thought Saddam had the goods, same as me. Let me also remind you that regime change in Iraq was official US policy before I came into office. Some guy named "Clinton" established that policy. Bet you didn't know that, did you?

You clowns need to understand that we face a unique enemy. Back during the cold war, there were two major competing political and economic models squaring off. We won that war; but we did so because, fundamentally, the Communists wanted to survive, just as we do. We were simply able to outspend and out-tech them.

That's not the case this time. The soldiers of our new enemy don't care if they survive. In fact, they want to die. That'd be fine, as long as they weren't also committed to taking as many of you with them as they can. But they are. They want to kill you. And the bastards are all over the globe.

You should be grateful that they haven't gotten any more of us here in the United States since September 11. But you're not. That's because you've got no idea how hard a small number of intelligence, military, law enforcement and homeland security people have worked to make sure of that. When this whole mess started, I warned you that this would be a long and difficult fight. I'm disappointed by how many of you people think a long and difficult fight amounts to a single season of "Survivor."

Instead, you've grown impatient. You're incapable of seeing things through the long lens of history, the way our enemies do. You think that wars should last a few months, a couple of years, tops.

Making matters worse, you actively support those who help the enemy. Every time you buy the New York Times, every time you send a donation to a liberal, cut-and-run Democrat's political campaign, well, dammit, you might just as well FedEx a grenade launcher to a Jihadist. It amounts to the same thing.

In this day and age, it's easy enough to find the truth. It's all over the Internet. It just isn't on the pages of the New York Times or on NBC News. But even if it were, I doubt you'd be any smarter. Most of you would rather watch American Idol.

I could say more about your expectations that the government will always be there to bail you out, even if you're too dumb to leave a city that's below sea level and has a major hurricane approaching. I could say more about your insane belief that government, not your own wallet, is where the money comes from. But I've come to the conclusion that were I to do so, it would sail right over your heads.

So I quit. I'm going back to Crawford. I've got an energy-efficient house down there (Al Gore can only dream) and the capability to be fully self-sufficient. No one ever heard of Crawford before I got elected, and as soon as I'm done here pretty much no one will ever hear of it again. Maybe I'll be lucky enough to die of old age before the last pillars of America fall.

Oh, and by the way, Cheney's quitting too. That means Pelosi’s your new President. You asked for it. Watch what she does carefully; because I still have a glimmer of hope that there're just enough of you remaining who are smart enough to turn this thing around in 2008.

So that's it. May God bless what's left of America. Some of you know what I mean.


*** End of Text ***

Well, I totally support free speech, even if it wasn’t in the Amendments to the U.S. Constitution. So these are my thoughts. The recommended resignation statements are in quotes and italicized. My thoughts directly follow in bold type.

"you're really not fellow Americans any longer."

You mean that I'm not an American anymore if I don't agree with you?

"I'm fed up with you people."

The feeling's mutual for a lot of people. Get over it.

"you have no understanding of what's really going on in the world."

Just because I don't agree with you doesn't mean I don't "understand."

"the majority of you are too damned lazy to do your homework and figure it out."

That may be true, but name-calling probably won't change it.

"most of you are too damn stupid to realize that gas prices are high because there's increased demand in other parts of the world"

Prices are high because they charge whatever the market will bear.

"the rest of the world thought Saddam had the goods"

That's because that's what they were being told. The British "assessment" of Iraq was based on plagiarized material. Check it out.

"You clowns"

Thanks for being so flattering.

"need to understand"

No, I don't NEED to understand anything. I can make up my own mind.

"Every time you buy the New York Times, every time you send a donation to a liberal, cut-and-run Democrat's political campaign, well, dammit, you might just as well FedEx a grenade launcher to a Jihadist."

Now, that statement's just plain stupid.

"if you're too dumb to leave a city that's below sea level"

I think I know to whom you are referring. And they probably don't thank you for calling all of them "dumb." They probably just cashed in on the politicians' past efforts of bailing out people.

"your insane belief that government, not your own wallet, is where the money comes from."

This is true in a general sense. Actually the "money" comes from government printing presses and credit creation. The "tradeable value" comes from working people.

Now rather than call people names, let's get busy and solve our perceived problems ... together.

William Gilmore Simms died today – 137 years ago

U.S. writer William Gilmore Simms was born on April 17, 1806 in Charleston, South Carolina. He said, “I believe that economists put decimal points in their forecasts to show they have a sense of humor.” {1} http://thinkexist.com [Someone could put a few more commas on my paycheck.]... Mr. Simms died in 1870 in Charleston, South Carolina.

U.S. actor John Wayne was born on May 26, 1907 in Winterset, Iowa. He said, “Talk low, talk slow, and don't talk too much.” {2} [Enough said.]... Mr. Wayne died in 1979 in Los Angeles, California.

{1} Source: http://thinkexist.com
{2} Source: www.quotationspage.com

Sunday, June 10, 2007

Dr. Edward Everett Hale died today – 98 years ago

U.S. religious leader & author Dr. Edward Everett Hale was born on April 3, 1822 in Roxbury, Massachusetts. He said, “If you have accomplished all that you have planned for yourself, you have not planned enough." {1} [Well, I guess it’s back to the drawing board.]... Mr. Hale died in 1909 in Boston, Massachusetts.

U.S. actor Spencer Tracy was born on April 5, 1900 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He said, “Come to work on time, know your lines, and don't bump into the furniture." {1} [And exit when they say, “Exit.”]... Mr. Tracy died in 1967 in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, California.

U.S. writer Louis L'Amour was born as Louis Dearborn LaMoore on March 22, 1908 in Jamestown, North Dakota. He said, “One never realizes how much and how little he knows until he starts talking." {1} [And that’s why I write it all down… here and there.]... Mr. L’Amour died in 1988 in Los Angeles, California.

English comic Les Dawson was born on February 2, 1933 in Collyhurst, Manchester, Lancashire, England. He said, “I went to my doctor and asked for something for persistent wind. He gave me a kite.” {2} [I don’t get it...... just kidding.]... Mr. Dawson died in 1993 in Whalley Range, Manchester, England.

U.S. singer Ray Charles was born as Ray Charles Robinson on September 23, 1930 in Albany, Georgia. He said, “I never wanted to be famous; I only wanted to be great." {1} [I’ll take a bit of both, please.]... Mr. Charles died in 2004 in Beverly Hills, California.

{1} Source: www.born-today.com
{2} Source: www.amusingquotes.com

Saturday, June 9, 2007

Charles Dickens died today – 137 years ago

English writer Charles Dickens was born on February 7, 1812 in Landport, Portsmouth, Hampshire, England. He said, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” {1} [Well, make up your mind.]... Mr. Dickens died in 1870 in Gad's Hill Place, Higham, Kent, England.

U.S. temperance enthusiast Carry Nation was born on November 25, 1846 in Garrard County, Kentucky. She said, “Men are nicotine-soaked, beer-besmirched, whisky-greased, red-eyed devils." {2} [She really, really, REALLY needed to get out more.]... Ms. Nation died in 1911 in Leavenworth, Kansas.

Italian playwright Ugo Betti was born on February 4, 1892 in Camerino, Italy. He wrote the play “Corruzione al Palazzo di Giustizia.” (Yeah! Admit it. You never saw it either.) He said, “All of us are mad. If it weren't for the fact every one of us is slightly abnormal, there wouldn't be any point in giving each person a separate name." {2} [Well, I would like to have a name anyway.]... Mr. Betti died in 1953 in Rome, Italy.

{1} Source: www.brainyquote.com
{2} Source: www.born-today.com

Friday, June 8, 2007

Douglas William Jerrold died today – 150 years ago

English writer Douglas William Jerrold was born on January 3, 1803 in London, England. He said, “Dogmatism is puppyism come to its full growth." {1} [Does that mean that catechism is kittenism full grown?]... Mr. Jerrold died in 1857 in London, England.

Arabian religious leader Mohammed was born on January 30, 570 in Mecca, Arabia. He was the founder of Islam. He said, “Riches are not from abundance of worldly goods, but from a contented mind.” {2} [In that case, I am a very rich dude… just don’t ask me for a loan.]... Mohammed died in 632 in Medina, Arabia.

U.S. author & patriot Thomas Paine was born on January 29, 1737 in Thetford, Norfolk, England. He said, “A long habit of not thinking a thing wrong gives it a superficial appearance of being right.” {2} [Just because it’s always been done, doesn’t make it the right thing to do.]... Mr. Paine died in 1809 in New York City, New York.

French writer George Sand (pseudonym) was born as Amantine-Aurore-Lucile Dupin on July 1, 1804 in Paris, France. She knew Frédéric Chopin... someway. She once said, “Don't walk in front of me, I may not follow. Don't walk behind me, I may not lead.” {1} [And don’t fly above me, I... can’t think of anything.]... Ms. Sand died in 1876 in Nohant, France.

U.S. psychologist Abraham Maslow was born on April 1, 1908 in Brooklyn, New York. He developed a neat “hierarchy of needs.” He said, “If the only tool you have is a hammer, you tend to see every problem as a nail.” {1} [And if the only tool you have is a chainsaw, you see every problem as a rotten tree.]... Mr. Maslow died in 1970 in California.

{1} Source: http://thinkexist.com
{2} Source: www.brainyquote.com

Thursday, June 7, 2007

Hosea Ballou died today – 155 years ago

U.S. theologian Hosea Ballou was born on April 30, 1771 in Richmond, New Hampshire. He said, “Forty is the old age of youth, fifty is the youth of old age." {2} [I just knew I was still in my youth.]... Mr. Ballou died in 1852 in Boston, Massachusetts.

U.S. actor Edwin Booth was born on November 13, 1833 near Bel Air, Maryland. He was the younger brother of John Wilkes Booth. He said, “When you are older you will understand how precious little things, seemingly of no value in themselves, can be loved and prized above all price when they convey the love and thoughtfulness of a good heart.” {2} [Bless the little things. Bless them all.]... Mr. Booth died in 1893 in New York.

U.S. actress Jean Harlow was born as Harlean Harlow Carpenter on March 3, 1911 in Kansas City, Missouri. She said, “When you lie down with dogs, you get up with fleas.” {3} [Does that apply to cats, too?]... Ms. Harlow died in 1937 in Los Angeles, California.

English writer E. M. Forster was born on January 1, 1879 in Marylebone, London, England. He said, “I am sure that if the mothers of various nations could meet, there would be no more wars.” {2} [Bless the mothers. Bless them all.]... Mr. Forster died in 1970 in Coventry, Warwickshire, England.

U.S. writer Henry Miller was born on December 26, 1891 in Manhattan, New York City, New York. He said, “Whatever there be of progress in life comes not through adaptation but through daring.” {2} [So I dare you to progress.]... Mr. Miller died in 1980 in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, California.

{1} Source: www.born-today.com
{2} Source: www.brainyquote.com
{3} Source: http://thinkexist.com

Wednesday, June 6, 2007

CDC Scramble to Cover Their Absence of Securing Safety

CDC Director Julie Louise Gerberding stated on CNN today that the reason that Atlanta personal-injury lawyer (how fortuitous) Andrew Speaker, the TB-infected-person-flying-around-the-world-and-entering-multiple-countries, wasn’t detained anywhere was that the strain of tuberculosis was slow-growing, so it took time to culture it... Well, how about erring on the side of caution? Did he get special treatment because of who he was? His fiancé’s father was a researcher – on Tuberculosis, of all things - at the CDC. Why was he allowed to board planes with so many people? Why wasn’t he detained at the U.S.-Canadian border as a computer warning said to do? We’re supposed to be more vigilant now-a-days, so what happened?

Anne Bancroft died today – 2 years ago

U.S. actress Anne Bancroft was born as Anna Maria Louisa Italiano on September 17, 1931 in the Bronx, New York City, New York. She had been the wife of Mel Brooks. She once said, “The best way to get most husbands to do something is to suggest that perhaps they're too old to do it." {1} [Ah! That old reverse psychology. Don’t fall for it... too often.]... Ms. Bancroft died on June 6, 2005 in New York City, New York.

U.S. patriot Patrick Henry was born on May 29, 1736 in Hanover County, Virginia. He said, “I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past." {1} [Yes, it was so booooooring to study ancient history. I would have rather studied dreams... especially my own.]... Mr. Henry died in 1799 on Red Hill Plantation in Virginia.

English philosopher Jeremy Bentham was born on February 15, 1748 in London, England. He said, “It is the greatest good to the greatest number of people which is the measure of right and wrong." {2} [I don’t agree. Who decides what the greatest good even is? What is the exact number of the “greatest number?”]... Mr. Bentham died in 1832 in London, England.

German psychoanalyst Carl Jung was born on July 26, 1875 in Kesswil, Switzerland. He said, “Everything that irritates us about others can lead us to a better understanding of ourselves.” {4} [Well, I want to understand myself better, so I need to find a lot more irritating people. You think there’s a shortage?]... Mr. Jung died in 1961.

U.S. Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy was born on November 20, 1925 in Brookline, Massachusetts. He was the brother of John and Teddy Kennedy. He once said, “Each time someone stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope.” {4} [Amen! Amen!]... Mr. Kennedy was murdered in 1968 in Los Angeles, California.

U.S. industrialist J. Paul Getty was born on December 15, 1892 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He said, “If you can count your money, you don't have a billion dollars." {4} [Pay me a billion and I'll try.]... Mr. Getty died in 1976 in London, England.

{1} Source: www.born-today.com
{2} Source: www.brainyquote.com
{3} Source: http://thinkexist.com
{4} Source: www.quotationspage.com

Tuesday, June 5, 2007

Stephen Crane died today – 107 years ago

U.S. writer Stephen Crane was born on November 1, 1871 in Newark, New Jersey. A well-known work of his is “The Red Badge of Courage.” He once said, “Every sin is the result of collaboration.” {1} [I wonder where he’d been.]... Mr. Crane died in 1900 in Badenweiler, Germany.

U.S. writer O. Henry was born as William Sydney Porter in September 11, 1862 in/near Greensboro, North Carolina. He said, “Life is made up of sobs, sniffles, and smiles, with sniffles predominating.” {2} [I’ll... (sniffling sound)... to that.]... Mr. Henry died in 1901 in New York City, New York.

U.S. political columnist Max Lerner was born as Mikhail Lerner on December 20, 1902 in Minsk, Russia. He said, “The so-called lessons of history are for the most part the rationalizations of the victors. History is written by the survivors.” {1} [That is so true!] He also said, “The best thing about lying in bed late is that you learn to distinguish between first things and trivia, for whatever presses on you has to prove its importance before it makes you move” {1} [And that’s why I try not to get up early: so that I can discern what is most important in life.]... Mr. Lerner died in 1992 in New York City, New York.

U.S. economist Sylvia Porter was born on June 18, 1913 in Patchogue, Long Island, New York. She said, “One of the soundest rules to remember when making forecasts in the field of economics is that whatever is to happen is happening already.” {3} [So if we’re making money now, we’ll be making money in the future. Sounds good to me.] She also said, “The average family exists only on paper and its average budget is a fiction, invented by statisticians for the convenience of statisticians." {3} [So true! So true!]... Ms. Porter died in 1991 in Pound Ridge, New York.

U.S. critic Alfred Kazin was born on June 5, 1915 in Brooklyn, New York. He said, “If we practiced medicine like we practice education, we'd look for the liver on the right side and left side in alternate years.” {1} [Nothing like trying new things... even if they don’t work.]... Mr. Kazin died in 1998 in Manhattan, New York.

U.S. actor & President (40th) Ronald Reagan was born on February 6, 1911 in Tampico, Illinois. He was married to U.S. actress Jane Wyman and Anne Frances Robbins "Nancy" Davis Reagan – but not at the same time. He graduated from Eureka College in Eureka, Illinois. [I also graduated from Eureka College in Eureka, Illinois. Think I might be president some day?] He once said “All the waste in a year from a nuclear power plant can be stored under a desk.” {2} [Well, we can stop building that storage facility in Nevada. Just buy a big enough desk.] He also said, “Government does not solve problems; it subsidizes them.” {2} [Just look around you.] And, while he was on a roll, he said, “One way to make sure crime doesn't pay would be to let the government run it.” {2} [I wonder why they didn’t think of that?]... Mr. Reagan died in 2004 in Bel Air, California.

{1} Source: http://thinkexist.com
{2} Source: www.brainyquote.com
{3} Source: http://creativequotations.com/one/1213.htm

Monday, June 4, 2007

Dorothy Gish died today – 39 years ago

U.S. actress Dorothy Gish was born on March 11, 1898 in Massillon, Ohio. She was the sister of Lillian Gish. She was in many, many (around 142) movies. She said, "I wanted to be a tragedienne. I only wanted sad parts. When mother read the press notices when I was on the road, saying I was a 'comedienne', the tears rolled down my cheeks. I thought comedians had to have black on their faces or red beards." {1} [Hmmmm.]... Ms. Gish died in 1968 in Rapallo, Liguria, Italy.

U.S. actor Joe E. Lewis was born as Joseph Klewan on January 12, 1902 in New York City, New York. He said, “You only live once - but if you work it right, once is enough." {2} [But some of us just need more time.]... Mr. Lewis died in 1971 in New York City, New York.

{1} Source: www.imdb.com
{2} Source: www.brainyquote.com

Sunday, June 3, 2007

Clean Up Those Emails – They’re “Dirty”

Yes, I know it’s what we want to do: let the whole world know EVERYTHING that we think is important or interesting or funny or clever or ... fill-in-the-blank. So, if you (and I’m in this category) just have to tell us all, you (and I) don’t have to tell us who EVERYONE is. Instead of using the “To:” field, use the BCC field. BCC doesn't mean "Brings Copious Contacts." That's what we're getting now. BCC means “blind carbon copy.” By doing this, none of the other email addresses will appear in the recipient’s email. The next step is to delete ALL of the email addresses in the body of the email to be forwarded. It’s really quite simple: just highlight them and press “Del” (for Delete). An added bonus is that it's easier to find the forwarded message, rather than having to scroll down many pages (in some cases) to find it. We all do have other treasures to find.

There’s one more consideration. Look at the many addresses in emails that are forwarded to you. How many of them do you know? (Yes, I know that you want to know them all. You might miss out on an interesting person. Well, there are trade-offs in life. Get over it.) Remember that spammers can get email addresses by “mining” those many-forwarded emails. And we certainly don’t need any more SPAM, do we? I didn’t think so. Cheers!

The Roswell Connection

I recently received the following email:

******************************************************************************
Subject: maybe not true

I thought you would enjoy this little blurb of nonfiction:

Many will recall that on July 8, 1947 witnesses claimed that an Unidentified object with five aliens aboard crashed onto a sheep and cattle Ranch outside Roswell, New Mexico.

This is a well known incident that many say has long been covered up by the U.S. Air Force and the Federal Government.

However, you may NOT know that in the month of March 1948 exactly nine Months after that historic day:

Albert Arnold Gore, Jr.
Hillary Rodham;
John F. Kerry;
William Jefferson Clinton;
Howard Dean;
Nancy Pelosi;
Dianne Feinstein;
Charles E. Schumer and,
Barbara Boxer

were born.

See what happens when aliens breed with sheep... This piece of Information may clear up a lot of things.
**********************************************************************************

Well, I'm sure there are many reasons to criticize these people (along with most other politicians), but lying about the facts is not the way to do it. According to Wikipedia,

Albert Arnold "Al" Gore, Jr. was born on March 31, 1948.

Hillary Diane Rodham Clinton was born on October 26, 1947.

John Forbes Kerry was born on December 11, 1943.

William Jefferson "Bill" Clinton was born on August 19, 1946.

Howard Brush Dean III was born on November 17, 1948.

Nancy Patricia D'Alesandro Pelosi was born on March 26, 1940.

Dianne Goldman Berman Feinstein was born on June 22, 1933.

Charles Ellis "Chuck" Schumer was born on November 23, 1950.

Barbara Levy Boxer was born on November 11, 1940.


P.S. Besides, “exactly nine Months after that historic day” of July 8, 1947 would be April 8, 1948. There’s nothing like getting it ALL wrong, is there?

William Harvey died today – 350 years ago

English physician William Harvey was born on April 1, 1578 in Folkestone, Kent, England. He discovered the nature of blood circulation. He said, “[M]emory cannot exist without endurance of the things perceived, and the thing perceived cannot remain where it has never been.” {1} [Uh-huh. I see. I guess.]... He died on June 3, 1657 in London, England.

Czech writer Franz Kafka was born on July 3, 1883 in Prague, Austria-Hungary. He said, “Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old.” {2} [Finally, the fountain of youth has been discovered.]... He died in 1924 in Vienna, Austria.

English fashion designer & critic James Laver was born on March 14, 1899 in Liverpool, England. He said, “The same costume will be Indecent 10 years before its time, Shameless 5 years before its time, Outré (daring) 1 year before its time, Smart, Dowdy 1 year after its time, Hideous 10 years after its time, Ridiculous 20 years after its time, Amusing 30 years after its time, Quaint 50 years after its time, Charming 70 years after its time, Romantic 100 years after its time, Beautiful 150 years after its time.” {3} [That doesn’t apply to my wardrobe. Trust me.]... He died in 1975 in London, England.

Irani religious leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini was born on May 17, 1900 in Khomein, Markazi Province, Iran. [No quotes seemed appropriate. It’s my blog and I’ll exclude if I want to... There must be a song in there somewhere.]... He died in 1989.

English actor Robert Morley was born as Robert Adolph Wilton Morley on May 26, 1908 in Semley, Wiltshire, England. He said, “I have little patience with anyone who is not self-satisfied. I am always pleased to see my friends, happy to be with my wife and family, but the high spot of every day is when I first catch a glimpse of myself in the shaving mirror.” {1} [Gives you quite a jolt, does it?]... He died in 1992 in Wargrave, Berkshire, England.

{1} Source: http://thinkexist.com
{2} Source: www.brainyquote.com
{3} Source: www.poemhunter.com

Saturday, June 2, 2007

Timothy Thomas Fortune died today – 79 years ago

U.S. orator, writer, & civil rights leader Timothy Thomas Fortune was born on October 3, 1856 in Marianna, Florida. He said, "Ours is supposed to be a government in which classes and distinctions melt into a harmonious whole. Until we reach this ideal of government, we will be a distracted, contentious people." {1} [Ah, yes! That’s the melting pot theory. I guess the fire went out.]... He died on June 2, 1928 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

French writer Emile-Auguste Chartier was born on March 3, 1868 in Mortagne, France. He was commonly known as Alain. He said, “Nothing is more dangerous than an idea, when it's the only one you have.” {2} [Sometimes a collection of ideas is no better.]... He died in 1951 in Le Vésinet (near Paris), France.

U.S. educator, writer, & musician John Erskine was born on October 5, 1879 in New York City, New York. He said, “Music is the only language in which you cannot say a mean or sarcastic thing.” {3} [Until you add the “right” words.]... He died in 1951 in New York, New York.

U.S. writer & playwright George S. Kaufman was born on November 16, 1889 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He wrote the Broadway shows “The Cocoanuts” (with Irving Berlin) and “Animal Crackers” for the Marx Brothers. He once said, “I understand your new play is full of single entendres.” {2} [It makes it easier to understand that way.]... He died in 1961 in New York City, New York.

Spanish guitarist Andres Segovia was born on February 21, 1893 in Linares, Spain. He said, “The piano is a monster that screams when you touch its teeth." {4} [Well, he must have been playing it the wrong way.]... He died in 1987 in Madrid, Spain.

Israeli-U.S. cognitive psychologist Amos Tversky was born on March 16, 1937 in Haifa, Israel. He said, “Whenever there is a simple error that most laymen fall for, there is always a slightly more sophisticated version of the same problem that experts fall for." {4} [Ain’t that the truth.]... He died in 1996 in Stanford, California.

{1} Source: www.learningtogive.org
{2} Source: http://thinkexist.com
{3} Source: www.brainyquote.com
{4} Source: www.born-today.com

Friday, June 1, 2007

Henry King “Hank” Ketcham died today – 6 years ago

U.S. cartoonist Hank Ketcham was born on March 14, 1920 in Seattle, Washington. He created the “Dennis the Menace” comic strip. He said, “Flattery is like chewing gum. Enjoy it but don't swallow it." {1} (But it tastes so good. And it’s so filling... at least for a while.)... He died in 2001.

U.S. President (15th) James Buchanan was born on April 23, 1791 in Cove Gap near Mercersburg in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. He said, “To avoid entangling alliances has been a maxim of our policy ever since the days of Washington, and its wisdom no one will attempt to dispute.” {2} (How times have changed!)... He died in 1868 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

U.S. educator & philosopher John Dewey was born on October 20, 1859 in Burlington, Vermont. He said, “As long as art is the beauty parlor of civilization, neither art nor civilization is secure." {1} (Huh?)... He died in 1952 in New York City, New York.

U.S. author & activist Helen Keller was born on June 27, 1880 in Tuscumbia, Alabama. She was deaf and blind. She said, “One can never consent to creep when one feels an impulse to soar." {1} (That’s what the eagle said.)... She died in 1968 in Easton, Connecticut.

U.S. theologian Reinhold Niebuhr was born on June 21, 1892 in Wright City, Missouri. He said, “Our age knows nothing but reaction, and leaps from one extreme to another.” {2} (It's so much easier that way.)... He died in 1971.

{1} Source: www.born-today.com
{2} Source: www.brainyquote.com