I hear fireworks...
...it kind of sounds like someone is popping popcorn over the Puget Sound. I'm pretty sure fireworks are illegal this time of year around these parts, but not many people seem to care, apparently. Woah, I think I just heard a mortar...ah, and another one. So I've been meaning to post all day, but I've been avoiding it. I've been on my computer so much lately that it almost felt like a chore. The New Years post almost feels obligatory--even... [read more]

Bryan Suits News! Goodbye Seattle, and hello LA!
See LSU for more details.... [read more]

No surface street Petition
ATTENTION ALL WASHINGTON STATE TRUCKERS, AND TRAVELERS. The State Of Washington has formed an advisory committee to determine the fate of the viaduct thru the City of Seattle. This advisory committee does not have near enough representation from the Trucking Industry, or citizens outside of King County. The decisions that this advisory committee will make does not affect just the people of Seattle and King County. This is an I-5 Corridor issue. If a surface street option is adopted, and... [read more]

Tyranny and the Creation of Tyrants
In the comments section of an earlier thread (and elsewhere on SoundPolitics and other blogs), some libertarians and some Ron Paul supporters refer to President Lincoln as a tyrant and voice strong opposition to the Lincoln's war policy, his governmental philosophy, and his actions to defeat the pro-slavery secessionists in the Civil War. I don't agree with this characterization of Lincoln and the other early leaders and founders of the Republican Party, but I've discussed that issue elsewhere. In my... [read more]

RE: Carnation Sextuple Homicide
I lead my life on generally Christian terms. And I think it is generally noble to want to preserve life. But I think there are certain heinous crimes that cross the line by so far, that they change the ethics of capital punishment in to those of self defense. Frankly, I can't find a single good reason that Joseph McEnroe or Michele Anderson should not be subject to the death penalty, and as soon as possible. Not only was this... [read more]

And the U-N-D-I-S-P-U-T-E-D Heavyweight Champ Is...
Like a determined prize fighter, yesterday the state Supreme Court connected again--this time landing a punch right in our face. It assaulted all of us who care about fairness, decency, and open government that is. In a split decision the Court decided that the government is not compelled to release information that falls under the umbrella of attorney-client privilege. I think most people were like me in that they pictured attorney-client privilege protecting individuals--not government agencies. Boy were we ever... [read more]

Where's the Shark? Did I miss him signing off?
Is he on Sabbatical or something?... [read more]

Not too far from here...
So as the family continues packing up the house to move over to the ten acres (FYI, 30-day escrows are miserable), there has obviously been a lot of sorting and tossing going on. In every room that we've packed, there has been a Good Will pile, a trash pile, and a "keep" pile. There may even occasionally be a "give to the baby cousins" pile. Among the rubble, we realized that we had two vacuums that didn't work. Today's assignment... [read more]

Toby Nixon announces he will not run for State Representative in 2008
Former 45th District State Representative Toby Nixon issued the following statement to his friends and supporters today: "I appreciate the many inquiries and expressions of support I have received over the past few weeks from many friends in the community and around the state. After much careful consideration and consultation with my family and advisors, I have decided to not seek election to the state House of Representatives or any another office in 2008. I have made a number of... [read more]

Bring Five Grassroots Effort
"Bring Five Grassroots Movement" It occurred to me that faith-based voters have more similarities than differences. There are differences in right-to-life issues such as abortion and assisted suicide. There is more agreement than not in issues like a good basic education for all children, support for families, a viable economy that creates jobs, and a tax system that does not penalize marriage. Even on the abortion issue, many people from all sides can support adoption and support for the mother... [read more]

Ron Paul on Meet the Press (12/23/07)
Here's a link to the entire video: Meet the Press interview with Ron Paul Here's the first part of four off of YouTube; please take a few minutes to watch at least this clip: Are you scared yet? Two minutes in, and I was packing my bags, ready to run for the hills. God save us if this man gets even close to winning the nomination. So what is it exactly about this interview that freaks me out more than... [read more]

Ron Paul vs. Lincoln and Reagan
"Whoever would understand in his heart the meaning of America will find it in the life of Abraham Lincoln." - President Ronald Reagan, first inaugural address, January 20, 1981 Ron Paul claims to be in the "true conservative" and "true Republican" tradition, but that claims flies in the face of reality. I watched his interview on Meet The Press this past Sunday (see excerpts from Lauren Applebaum's report, below), and I urge everyone to view the online video or read... [read more]

Like Hogs at the Trough
Recently Tim Eyman said it would be "like hogs at the trough" when the state Supreme Court struck down the cap on property taxes earlier this year. He was referring to the opportunity for local government swine to gorge themselves on the new feed made available by the court's decision. As a New Year's resolution, please remember that every time we pass a property tax levy (or extend one) we create another trough. You need only look to the trough... [read more]

Posting From Iraq
I noticed a few of you have asked for some news from Iraq so here we go. First of all, we here in Iraq are suffering from the same phenomenon that has been gripping much of the US as of late.......the lack of global warming......We have had below freezing temparatures as of late which makes the porta johns extremly cold in the mornings, especially right after the wash them and you have to break the ice away from around the... [read more]

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year form TrueSoldier
I wish you all a joyous and MERRY CHRISTMAS and may your New Year be filled with prosperity. It's been a long time since I posted last as I have earned a promotion (yes I am still in Iraq) and with any promotion comes more duties and responsibilities. I am doing quite well and looking forward to taking some vacation time in Feb with my wife and children. As we head into the holidays over the next two weeks please... [read more]

No More Incandescent Bulbs??
I don't like this one bit. And I didn't hear about it anywhere but in Michelle Malkin's blog. She reports that the energy bill foisted onto the public by the Democrat congress (and signed by President Bush--sigh) on Tuesday contains "a provision that mandates the phase-out of the 125-year old incandescent bulb in the next four to 12 years in favor of a new generation of trendy, supposedly energy-efficient Gorebulbs." No way. I HATE those compact flourescent bulbs (CFLs). The... [read more]

The Faith of Politics
Every human being has faith in something. Whether one places faith in creation or evolution, eternal life or nihilism, the sovereignty of God or the wisdom of man, eternal life or ultimate nothingness, every human being fashions his or her life in adherence to a particular internalized set of absolutes. The notion that one can live apart from any kind of faith is nonsense. Even those who assert that they have no faith at all are, in fact, affirming a... [read more]

Huckabee is Confusing: Maybe because he sticks to his guns
I just read a great article from Opednews.com: Limbaugh, Hannity Irk Base on Huckabee, Highlight Top-Down Clash (it's a 2-page article) Apparently major conservative talk-show hosts like Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity think there is something more sinister (liberal?) to Mike Huckabee than he is letting on. Rush has even compared the Huckabee following to the Ross Perot "cult-like" following. Bottom line: they're confused, and they're trying to confuse you, as well. How does this happen? Well, lack of real,... [read more]

Oh Christmas Tree!
I had some business down at the King County Administration Bldg this afternoon and was pleased to see a very lovely Christmas tree in the lobby. Let's hope the Port Commission will take note (or that the same craziness that enveloped them last year doesn't infect the KCC.... [read more]

Patty Murray to chair Senate Appropriations??
From: http://www.outsidethebeltway.com/ God Help US!!! A group of Senate Democrats has begun quietly exploring ways to replace the venerable Sen. Robert Byrd (D-W.Va.) as chairman of the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee, believing he's no longer physically up to the job, according to Democratic senators and leadership aides familiar with the discussions. Under one scenario being circulated in Democratic circles, the 90-year-old Byrd would be named "chairman emeritus," and Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) would become "acting chairwoman" for the remainder of... [read more]

Clinton politics: Say whatever you think people want to hear
"Well, the first thing she intends to do, because you can do this without passing a bill, the first thing she intends to do is to send me and former President Bush and a number of other people around the world to tell them that America is open for business and cooperation again," - Bill Clinton in response to a question from a supporter about what his wife's "number one priority" would be as president. A spokesman for the George... [read more]

Free Public Forum to Discuss Access to Government Information
The Herald and the Washington Coalition for Open Government will present a special program focusing on Washington's Public Records and Open Meetings laws from 6:30 to 8:30 PM on Wednesday, January 9 at the Monroe/Sky Valley Family YMCA, 14033 Fryelands Blvd. in Monroe. A panel of expert presenters will fuel the discussion on securing and preserving the public's legal right to access the records and proceedings of the government agencies created to serve the people of the state. The panelists... [read more]

Minor League Boats for a Major League Route
We desperately need new ferry boats for the PT-Keystone route. However, we need the right boat. I fear that in the rush to do *something*, the wrong boat for the job will be ordered. We appear to be ready to put a minor-league boat on a major-league route. Pierce County will soon be loaning WSF a boat. The Steilacoom-II class ferry is well suited for the Steilacoom-Anderson Island route. This boat may be immediately available as a substitute and provide... [read more]

Pedro Celis of Redmond Named Co-chair of Romney Campaign in Washington
http://www.mittromney.com/News/Press-Releases/WA_Steering_Committee_Co-Chair GOVERNOR MITT ROMNEY ANNOUNCES WASHINGTON STATEWIDE STEERING COMMITTEE CO-CHAIR Boston, MA (December 14) -- Today, Governor Mitt Romney announced the endorsement of Dr. Pedro Celis, Ph.D. as a Co-Chair of Romney for President's Washington Statewide Steering Committee. Celis will play a critical role in building grassroots support for Governor Romney in the state. As the former National Chairman of the Republican National Hispanic Assembly, Celis will also help expand the Governor's support in the Hispanic community as a member... [read more]

Have you looked at your car tab bill lately
I am floored at what the state is doing with our car tabs. Here is the rundown for our 2000 Honda Civic $300 Filing fee 18.00 RTA Tax $30.00 Tab fee $10.00 weight based fee (right on a Honda Civic) $0.75 License service fee (supports the computer system) $20.00 replacement plate fee (If you want to keep your same plate number) $4.00 Plate Reflectorization fee: Funds road, street and highway maintenance and improvements Boy they sure figured ways around the... [read more]

Darcy Burner is back!
Darcy Burner is back. Sponsoring toy lead testing. [read more]

Steve Beren on KGNW Radio Friday December 14
Listen live - Steve Beren on KGNW Radio Friday December 14 Steve Beren will be on "Live From Seattle" with Thor Tolo (KGNW Radio 820 AM, Seattle) for one hour on Friday night December 14. In the Seattle area, tune to 820 AM for one hour beginning at 6:00 pm PST. Outside of the Seattle area, go to www.kgnw.com and click on "LISTEN LIVE" for one hour beginning at 6:00 pm PST (9:00 pm EST). About "Live From Seattle" and... [read more]

Steve Beren responds to McDermott vote against Christmas
Steve Beren responds to McDermott vote against Christmas Statement by Steve Beren, 12/13/07 www.berenforcongress.com www.steveberen.com John Iwasaki of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer reported yesterday (Wednesday 12/12): "Rep. Jim McDermott supported House resolutions this fall to recognize the Islamic holiday of Ramadan and the festival of Diwali, celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains. But the Washington Democrat drew the line at Christmas. McDermott voted Tuesday against a resolution to recognize the importance of Christmas and the Christian faith. The resolution, sponsored by... [read more]

A Streetcar Named Desire
Can anybody tell me what the heck is going on? There seems to be more far more public emotion invested in the SLUT than I understand....... [read more]

Seattle P-I: McDermott votes against Christmas
Seattle P-I: "McDermott votes against Christmas" http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/343335_mcdermott13.html Statement by Steve Beren, 12/13/07 www.berenforcongress.com www.steveberen.com It is time for a new exit strategy, one that removes Jim McDermott from office. The time has come for McDermott to go. Of course, this is the same McDermott who opposes our troops and opposes a victory strategy in the war against Islamic terrorism. And this is the same unethical McDermott who puts himself above the law and sees nothing wrong with wiretapping political opponents.... [read more]

GOP holds on- OH-05, VA-01: Special Election Results Thread
Just in from RedState.com blog: Districts Lean R, but Special Elections Are Always Funky By Adam C OH-05 Results here. OH-05 went 61-38 for Bush over Kerry in 2004. [UPDATE 10:45 PM] 100% reporting: Latta (R) 57 Weirauch (D) 43 9:00 PM Eastern (25% reporting): Latta (R) 55 Weirauch (D) 45 [UPDATE 9:25 PM]: The papers are calling it for Latta. He now leads 56-44 with just under half of the votes reporting. This combo of big wins seems to... [read more]

Steve Beren on Lars Larson Show tonight
Lars Larson Show: www.larslarson.com Steve Beren for Congress: www.berenforcongress.com Steve Beren was on the Lars Larson Northwest Show on KXL Radio 750 AM (Portland, Oregon) this afternoon, and it will be re-broadcast on the Lars Larson National Show this evening. Broadcast times vary - check your local listings. (In Seattle, tune to KTTH Radio 770 AM - show airs from 11 pm to 2 am). Lars Larson Show Station Finder: http://www.larslarson.com/stationfinder Lars interviews Beren for 20 minutes on: ** the... [read more]

Get ready to see some communist architecture
Something just clicked for me while listening to Medved. He was discussing the clamp down on Christmas: government wanting to take out any reference to Christmas at the airport, in schools, etc. It got me thinking. Government does this because, apparently, it offends some people. Okay. If we take that premise to its logical (some might say illogical) end you could say just about everything offends someone. Therefore, in an effort to not offend anyone the government should do away... [read more]

The real meaning of the 2006 elections
During the 2006 election campaign, it was often pointed out that Democratic Party candidates would, if elected, seek to cut off funding for our troops, and try to enforce a timeline for retreat from Iraq. Often, the response from many Democrats, many liberals, and many antiwar activists was something along these lines: "No, not at all! We're not against the troops! We won't cut off funds or force a precipitate withdrawal! That charge is a false accusation - just Republican... [read more]

Seattle P-I: McDermott legal fund running dry
SOURCE: SEATTLE POST-INTELLIGENCER http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/342925_mcdermott10.html McDermott legal fund running dry Congressman could be ordered to pay $800,000 Last updated December 9, 2007 11:49 p.m. PT By JENNIFER A. DLOUHY P-I WASHINGTON BUREAU WASHINGTON -- Rep. Jim McDermott's long-running legal dispute with a top House Republican is almost over, but his financial woes may be just beginning. The Washington Democrat is bracing for a federal District Court to hit him with a bill for more than $800,000 in damages and attorneys' fees... [read more]

English transcript of Unvision GOP Debate - part 2
PART TWO OF TWO SOURCE: http://online.wsj.com/public/resources/documents/debate_transcript120907.pdf MCCAIN: Choice and competition is the key to success in education in America. That means charter schools, that means home schooling, it means vouchers, it means rewarding good teachers and finding bad teachers another line of work. It means... (APPLAUSE) It means rewarding good performing schools, and it really means in some cases putting bad performing schools out of business. About three or four weeks ago, I went to a wonderful, wonderful school in... [read more]

English transcript of Unvision GOP Debate - part 1
PART ONE OF TWO Source: http://online.wsj.com/public/resources/documents/debate_transcript120907.pdf REPUBLICAN PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES PARTICIPATE IN A DEBATE SPONSORED BY UNIVISION DECEMBER 9, 2007 SPEAKERS: REP. DUNCAN HUNTER, R-CALIF. FORMER GOV. MITT ROMNEY, R-MASS. SEN. JOHN MCCAIN, R-ARIZ. FORMER MAYOR RUDOLPH W. GIULIANI, R-NEW YORK CITY REP. RON PAUL, R-TEXAS FORMER GOV. MIKE HUCKABEE, R-ARK. FORMER SEN. FRED THOMPSON, R-TENN. [*] MODERATOR: Good evening and welcome to the presidential forum. (inaudible) in Spanish at the University of Miami. Tonight is the Republicans' night. For the... [read more]

DuMond case: Check the facts, please.
Some people have been hinting at the possible demise of the Huckabee campaign because of a "shoestring" campaign team and because of this whole DuMond issue. I really don't think the DuMond case is the end of Huckabee. The truth is, this was brought up six months ago and Huckabee got through it. Yes, it is different now that he's ahead in the polls, but this is simply OLD news that was brought up as a political attack during his... [read more]

Global Warming Lemmings?
Here is an interesting take on the Lemming principle as it relates to Global Warming. I wonder how many times throughout history a perceived majority consensus has led an entire nation astray? A couple notable examples come to mind. The Science of Gore's Nobel I particularly like this paragraph, as it pretty clearing identifies where much of this Global Warming fanaticism is coming from. "Now let's suppose a most improbable, rhapsodic lobbying success for Mr. Gore, Mr. Khosla and folks... [read more]

Swift Kids for Truth - funny stuff!
If you haven't seen the Swift Kids for Truth ads you need to. They will have you rolling on the floor. See them here. Apparently, the dems decided to beat us evil republicans to the punch and parody themselves. These kids are really hilarious. Enjoy!... [read more]

Cantwell Aide in Kiddie Sex Bust
According to The Smoking Gun, James McHaney, aide to U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, was arrested on Friday for Attempted Child Exploitation involving a 13-year-old boy. http://www.thesmokinggun.com/archive/years/2007/1203072senate2.html Senate Aide In Kiddie Sex Bust FBI: Staffer for Sen. Maria Cantwell sought tryst with boy DECEMBER 3--A U.S. Senate aide was arrested Friday after allegedly arranging a lunchtime sexual encounter with a teenage boy, according to federal court records. James McHaney, 28, was nabbed by FBI agents after he arranged the afternoon liaison... [read more]

Rep. Boehner on Supreme Court rejection of McDermott appeal
UPDATE (more complete Boehner quote from Michelle Malkin): Source: http://michellemalkin.com/2007/12/03/dirty-democrat-files-supreme-court-rejects-crazy-hypocrite-jim-mcdermotts-appeal-in-illegal-taping-case/ "As I've said many times: when you break the law in pursuit of a political opponent, you've gone too far. Members of Congress have a responsibility not only to obey the laws of our country and the rules of our institution, but also to defend the integrity of those laws and rules when they are violated. That's why I chose this course of action nearly a decade ago. It was... [read more]

Supreme Court won't hear McDermott appeal
Source: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,314682,00.html Supreme Court Rejects Hearing on Gingrich Tape-Recorded Call Monday , December 03, 2007 WASHINGTON -- The long legal fight between two members of Congress over an illegally taped telephone call ended Monday when the Supreme Court refused to review the case. The court left in place a federal appeals court ruling that Rep. Jim McDermott, D-Wash., acted improperly in giving reporters access to the tape-recorded telephone call of Republican leaders discussing the House ethics case against former House... [read more]

Baghdad Jim gets some karma
The SCOTUS rejected Jim McDermott's Appeal in the case where McDermott illegally leaked the cell phone call of Newt Gingrich, captured over-the-air by Democrat activists in Florida in 1996. Sweet justice for the Seattle hypocrite who loudly cried foul when the NSA program for wiretapping terrorists was in the media spotlight. As always with the Left, it is do as they say, not as they do. Not a chance that this will inspire moonbat voters in McDermott's district to reconsider,... [read more]

Just for fun...
Enjoy, Moms! http://video.yahoo.com/video/play?vid=1202370... [read more]