A Coffee Party With Mitchell Howie ::

From Noor Gillani

Come to the next Coffey Party meeting in Madison at the Kenny Mango Coffee House (97 Hughes Rd) on Saturday, May 8, at noon to 2 p.m. and bring your friends. Our special guest will be Mitchell Howie, a Democrat running for US Congress. He will discuss his platform and answer questions during the first hour. Then we will have open civil discourse in a non-partisan spirit among grassroots citizens.

The Coffey Party is a great way to respond to the Tea Party, always through civil discourse and action. It is a national movement which is fast growing. America needs organization of citizens in a sane, civilized, humane manner to counter the weight of those in wealth and power draining our national coffers, and those right-wing Tea Party types who are ill informed and misled, and who would turn our nation over to the likes of Palin and Limbaugh and Beck etc. We mustn't permit it and have an OBLIGATION to stand up and resist and to take back our nation and re-orient it on the path to human rights, moral social justice, non-violence and back on the path of our traditional ideals of democracy and fair play for ALL. The Coffey Party is a grassroots non-partisan way to reach consensus in the best interest of the nation which is what we ALL want, Dems and Repubs. Let us unite at the grassroots and let that influence our dysfunctional congress.

Noor Gillani

A Steve Raby Event ::

I'm just passing this on for informational purposes. I've yet to decide who to back in the Democratic primary. I hope that I will be able to attend this.

The Bad Weather Ends ::

At least for now. I understand there was damage in Arab and Albertville, but I have not heard an injury report yet. Hopefully there were none that were serious although the property damage sounded pretty bad. Arab seems to be hit by tornadoes pretty regularly!

Wet Weather In The Forecast ::

Looks like rain for sure tomorrow with predictions of up to 1" of rain. Just when I'm getting my lawn mower out of the shop!

Outlet Mall Shopping ::

I was off work last Monday and the wife wanted to run down to Boaz to search for socks. For some reason she's very particular about her foot covering so I humored her and we took off, fighting the road construction from Albertville to Boaz. We hadn't been to the outlet stores in several years and guess what? They're almost all gone and virtually the entire outlet area is deserted. What used to be huge parking lots teeming with people were almost empty. I had heard reports that some stores were closing, but the scope was truly astounding and I believe that this occurred before the economy meltdown of the past couple of years.
As an aside, we did find one store that had some socks the wife bought after I convinced her to buy twice as many as she originally picked up, and she loves the new ones so hopefully we will not go on the great sock search for quite some time because I imagine that this little shop will be gone before long.

Earth Day Celebration ::

Takes place this morning at Hayes Nature Preserve starting at 10am. This is usually a pretty interesting event so come on out!

Teh Crazies! ::

It being April 15th and all, I decided to drive by the post office on Governor's Drive just to see how big the tea party gathering was. As I approached and saw the parking lots and how full they were there was no doubt that this was an impressive sized crowd and, as it turns out, it was. I just drove by without stopping, but there were a lot of people assembled with stands from several of the far right politicians running for office and it looked like there was a speaker's stage set up. There was also a pretty impressive police presence. I saw at least 5 Huntsville police cars. I was hoping for some sort of counter protest, but I suppose that would have just brought more attention to teh crazies. Come to think of it, I never saw any tv trucks either. That surprises me.

I wish the progressives could command crowds like this!

A Benefit For A Musician ::

Time has once again snuck up on me and I had forgotten that there is a benefit show Sunday, April 11, at the Bandito right off Huntsville's South Memorial Parkway to help with some extremely serious medical expenses incurred by local musician Lisa Busler.

Here's the blurb that was in the Huntsville Times:

Local musicians are coming together Sunday for a benefit for former Huntsville musician Lisa Busler, who is having severe medical problems, at Bandito Southside, 11220 S. Memorial Parkway.

The benefit starts at 5 p.m. and will include artists Microwave Dave, Dave Anderson, Toy Shop, Marge Loveday, Mike Roberts, Ally Free, Rob Aldridge, Dan Hardin, Kira Hughes, Turner Family Band, Tasha Jones, Jonathan Giles, Sean Hopkins, Scott Kennedy, Jerry Pearson, Scott Morgan, Lisa Graf Malone, Bobby Blount, Andrea Carden, Walker Street Opry, Neeve Weinberger, Summer Johnson, Christina Lynn, Dawn Osborne Trio and Hugh Messenger.

Robert Salinas will be the host. The benefit will include a plant sale. Donations are accepted at Redstone Federal Credit Union through the Lisa Busler Benefit Fund. For more information, call 489-3232.

That's a great lineup and I hope to see you there. It's a great time of the year to toss down a cold adult beverage, buy some plants, listen to some great music, and help a deserving person who need our help!

The Moonbuggy Races ::

are continuing today at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center. If you get a chance, you should stop by for an hour or two to cheer the high school and college kids home. Their enthusiasm is great, as are their technical and creative skills. The team leading the pack going into Saturday's event is a high school team making its first appearance here and yesterday's drivers consisted of high school freshmen. This should present a nice challenge to the more experienced teams!

Chicken And Egg Festival ::

This happens this weekend over in Moulton. I've never had the opportunity to go and I will be working this weekend, but the festival sounds like it would be a hoot! Go, if you can, and enjoy it!

What Are The Chances Of Eliminating The Tax On Groceries?

From the Mobile Press Register:

Editorial: Lawmakers won't let go of grocery tax
By Press-Register Editorial Board
April 02, 2010, 5:48AM


YOU NEVER know what will pop out of the mouth of one of our Alabama legislators.

During debate in the House on the annual effort to remove the state?s 4 percent sales tax on groceries, Rep. Mac Gipson, a Republican from Prattville, apparently got confused and thought he was dealing with some big tax-and-spend bill in Washington, D.C.

Alabama and Mississippi are the only states that fully tax food, with no credits or rebates for impoverished families. State legislators everywhere else in the country have decided that taxing groceries unfairly penalizes families that use a high percentage of their meager incomes to purchase food.

Rep. Gipson, however, thinks that giving the poor a break on the food tax and replacing the revenue by taking a tax break away from the well-to-do is a Washington, D.C.-style strategy to redistribute wealth.

"The whole bill is a redistribution of wealth," he said. "Washington is doing such a good job of that I don?t know that we need to get involved with that."

He was referring to a bill written by Rep. John Knight, D-Montgomery. Rep. Knight wants to let Alabamians vote on a constitutional amendment that would drop the sales tax on groceries ? for everyone ? and replace the lost revenue by eliminating a state tax deduction for individuals with annual incomes of at least $150,000 and couples with incomes of more than $300,000.

Alabama has a regressive tax system that takes wealth from the poor and uses it to fund state services. In most state capitals, this is considered unfair and unproductive, because it hinders low-income families? efforts to rise from the bottom and achieve economic security.

Rep. Gipson evidently believes that reducing the tax burden on those who can least afford to pay is a socialist share-the-wealth scheme. We wonder whether this champion of the unfettered free market ever supported a tax break or subsidy for businesses or agricultural interests. If so, he really doesn?t mind redistributing the state?s tax burden, as long as the redistribution serves his favorite interests.

Rep. Knight?s argument for change is much better than Rep. Gipson?s strained defense of the status quo. Alabama?s upside-down structure is indefensible; it hurts the poor and it denies state government dependable revenue streams.

But that doesn?t mean the Legislature will approve Rep. Knight?s bill, or do anything to reform the tax structure. It appears most lawmakers would rather have a regressive tax system than a balanced, reliable one.

Let's look at some odd things in Alabama law. Do you know that if you buy vegetable seeds that there is no tax? Next time you buy some check your receipt and you'll see that you haven't paid whatever the tax percentage is on that. Or, even worse, if you're a new mother and buy formula you pay full tax on your the formula you buy for your baby, but, if you're a farmer with a new calf and buying formula for this calf, then you don't pay tax on that. Hardly seems fair, does it?

Links For Candidates ::

I really need to look at the sidebar more often as I didn't realize that I still had a link up for the Vivian Figures senatorial campaign. Man, wasn't that a waste of web space? Anyway, I've added the Democratic candidates for governor and the 5th congressional district over on the left although I can't find a campaign site for either Steve Raby or David Maker. As soon as I can find one for each of them I will put it up.

I guess that it's about time to get energized!

From This Morning's Huntsville Times ::

More specifically, from the police beat report:

Big Cove Road: A home was burglarized between 10:30 p.m. Wednesday and 8 a.m. Thursday. Four pairs of panty hose were stolen.

There must be some sort of back story to this, but we'll probably never know!

A Benefit Show ::

Hopefully an upside of health care reform will be that musicians can actually get medical attention! If you would like to help someone in need of covering bills then the show is at Bandito on South Parkway Sunday afternoon and evening.



I'll be stopping in and helping!

Marge Loveday ::

Marge will be performing at Carsons in Hampton Cove tonight from about 8pm 'til 12pm. Come out and listen to some good music. I think I'll show up around 9pm.

Roland Martin On Artur Davis ::

Watch the YouTube video. Martin gets it exactly right and I hope that Artur Davis realizes that he has been called out and he has created a huge problem for himself!

Health Care Reform ::

We have health care reform in spite of Artur Davis. I will continue to pound him because of his "no" vote on the package and I will certainly fulfill my promise to him to not vote for him in his race for the governor's office!

From Mitchell Howie ::

Forwarded by Pam Miles:

When Parker Griffith votes against the People of North Alabama

By: Mitchell J. Howie



I had a conversation the other day with a gentleman named Robert Hughes in Muscle Shoals. Mr. Hughes asked me if I were in Congress, would I vote for the healthcare reform bill being debated.


I talked with Mr. Hughes about my concerns that, even though the bill reduces the federal government's budget deficit, it might not have the muscle to bring down costs for healthcare for most families in North Alabama. I also had some concerns that with 30 million new, federally-subsidized customers, and no public option or Medicare-for-all, this bill might end up being a give-away to the big insurance corporate interests that got our healthcare system into this ditch to begin with.

I told Mr. Hughes that there were some things about the bill that I did like. In 2010, seniors whose drug costs put them into Medicare Part D's donut hole, will get a $250 rebate to help offset those costs. Next year, seniors in the donut hole will only pay for half of their prescription drug costs, and over the next ten years the hole will shrink. In a decade, all prescription drugs covered by Medicare Part D will be paid for 75% by the program, and the donut hole will be closed.

As I talked with Mr. Hughes, I thought about the fact that, under the provisions of the bill, Alabamians will no longer be able to be denied coverage by their insurance companies, because of pre-existing conditions, and they'll be able to seek preventative care without worrying about exorbitant copays. Pulling this all off while reducing the deficit sounds like a pretty good deal. In fact, once the Congressional Budget Office's final estimate on the merged package being considered by the House of Representatives this weekend came out, I set aside my reservations and decided that if I were in Congress today I would find myself voting for this bill and voting for the small businesses and families of North Alabama.

I would be voting to reduce the federal budget deficit by $130 billion over the next ten years and over a trillion over the next. I would be voting to insert a degree of protection into the healthcare coverage of 430,000 of our neighbors in the fifth congressional district, while bringing another 51,000 into the ranks of the insured. I would be voting to ensure that the thousands of individuals in North Alabama who, today, can be denied coverage because of their pre-existing conditions, are not left without care when they need it the most. And I would be voting to bring $23.4 million in new investment to North Alabama's 18 community health centers.

The fifth district's current Republican Congressman, Parker Griffith, on the other hand has made it clear that he will not be supporting the bill. He has become something of a mascot for Republican opposition to healthcare reform, since his political party flip flop in December, despite the fact that the National Republican Congressional Committee aired a TV ad just a year and half ago, citing an independent review that accused Griffith of misconduct and profiteering off of his patients.

Back on March 6th, he was tapped by his Republican Party bosses to deliver a rebuttal to the President's Weekly Message. Disappointingly, but not surprisingly, he took an opportunity that could have been used to talk about our district, to parrot the same half-truths and talking points that Republicans have offered in place of solutions since the healthcare reform debate began, over a year ago. In place of real solutions, Congressman Griffith and the Washington Republicans offer more tax cuts for the rich, and incentives for insurance companies to cover the healthy and the wealthy, while working families struggle against the status quo.

My own grandfather, Dr. Virgil Howie was a doctor in the fifth district who knew what service was about. He had one of the first medical practices to have an integrated waiting room, and during the 1950s and 1960s, he and the rest of my family faced death threats for his support of civil rights protesters. It is to continue this tradition of service that I am working for the opportunity to serve Alabama's fifth district in Congress, to ensure that the provisions of this bill can be put in place in a way that supports our neighbors and their small businesses, rather than the insurance companies.

It's my belief that North Alabama needs a Congressman who is committed to service, and who will look at issues like healthcare reform in terms of what they can do for the folks right here in North Alabama, not for how they can be exploited for political points. When the healthcare reform bill has passed, that will provide some glimmer of hope that Congress might find its way back to solving problems. North Alabama can help put service back in Washington by electing a Congressman who's committed to service and solving tough problems.

So if Mr. Hughes is reading this today, I'd like to let him know, if I were in Congress today, in light of all of the benefits that this bill will bring to our community, I would have no sane choice but to vote for this bill. However, I'm not in Congress today; Parker Griffith is. And when Parker Griffith votes against this bill, he's voting against North Alabama.

Mitchell J. Howie

107 North Side Square

Huntsville, Al. 35801

Artur Davis' Position On Health Care Reform ::

I called Davis' Birmingham office this afternoon to ask if his position had changed on his decision to not support the pending health care reform legislation given the CBO mark-up of the long-term costs and savings. The nice lady who answered the phone was emphatic that Davis' position had not changed and that he would not be voting for the bill. I was equally emphatic in stating that if he voted against health care reform that I would never support him in his bid for the governorship and that I would very actively campaign against him. I guess we'll see what happens!

The Unemployment Benefit Extension ::

Senator Jim Bunning of Kentucky saw fit to hold up H.R. 4691 which, among other things, extended unemployment benefits to millions who have been out of work for months and rely on these benefits for everyday life. Yesterday, under intense pressure from both Democrats and republicans, Bunning allowed the bill to come to the floor for a vote and it passed 78 to 19 with 3 not voting. I'm sure this caused a great sigh of relief from all those affected, but guess who one of the 19 nay votes just happened to be? None other than our junior senator, Jeff (Beau) Sessions. At least Shelby had the good sense to vote yea for his constituents who absolutely do need the help.

I surely wish that we could have found a candidate in the last election cycle who could have, at least, given Sessions a run for the office!

Griffith Take Some Heat ::

Parker Griffith is getting some well deserved criticism of his mailing last week of a thinly disguised campaign mailer which was sent at the taxpayer's expense. The Huntsville Times has picked up on this and there have been several stories on broadcast news. Griffith should become a junior member of "The Gang That Couldn't Shoot Straight"!

A Mailing From Parker Griffith ::

I got a slick 4 color mailer today from Griffith. I imagine that he's feeling the heat and wants to toss some red meat to the repub base in the 5th district. Here are the questions:

1. Do you support adding nearly a trillion dollars to the national debt to provide health insurance to the uninsured in order to establish government-run health care for for everybody?

Yes

No

2. What is your biggest concern about the health care package?

more debt _____

more government intrusion _____

taxpayer funding of abortion _____

other ______

3. Do you support personal and business tax cuts to spur economic growth?

yes _____

no _____

4. Do you support the deployment of a missile defense system to protect all of the citizens of the United States of America?

yes _____

no _____

The mailer was addressed to resident and below that is this disclaimer:

This mailing was prepared, published and mailed at taxpayer expense.

It is provided as a service to 5th Congressional District constituents.

printed and mailed in Alabama.

I really would like to know just how much this mass mailing cost! I think I'll call Griffith's local office Monday morning and ask and hopefully get to bypass filing a FOIA request. Let's all call and express our displeasure at our tax dollars being spent on such a biased mailing.

Parker Griffith And Health Care Reform ::

I thought that I had unfriended Griffith on Facebook, but somehow he's snuck back in with his postings with the latest being his kiss-up to John Boner Boehner and being named to sit on Boehner's "Truth Squad". Here's his posting from Facebook:

Proud to be tapped to sit on Leader Boehner’s “Truth Squad” for tomorrow’s health care summit to fact-check misstatements from the Democrats.

I guess they figure that the best offense is a good defense since the repubs are the ones requiring the fact checking. I'm looking forward to tomorrows little get together!

Sunday Catblogging ::

Mother cat with her 3 nine week old kittehs:

Tragedy At The University Of Alabama-Huntsville Campus ::

Looks like 3 dead and 3 injured from what I'm seeing on the news right now with the alleged shooter being a UAH faculty member who had been denied tenure.

One thing that disturbs me, other than the obvious, is why Liz Hurley saw fit to give air time at Huntsville Hospital to an alleged UAH student who had nothing to add to the story, but she advocated that students who had pistol carry permits be allowed to carry their weapons on campus. Surely only the delusional could see this as a solution to the problem of an act of violence!

A CNN Poll ::

Amazing that anyone thinks she is qualified for anything!

Still More Rain! ::

Coming down hard this morning and I'm beginning to despair of getting my yard projects done! I surely hope this spring is not as wet as 2009, but it's beginning to look that way.

The Toyota Recall ::

I drive a 2004 Toyota Matrix and would not hesitate to buy another Toyota, but I'm curious about something. The recall of the Toyota vehicles is making huge news, but the Matrix is exactly the same car as the Pontiac Vibe, other than the body, so why is there no push to recall them? I suspect that at one of the Toyota suv models is also marketed as a Pontiac, but I'm not sure of that.

Interesting Drive Home ::

I was heading home this evening and was between Owens Crossroads and New Hope when I saw a hawk swooping over the road in front of me. It flew into the median, snagged a mouse, and took it's supper home.

I love nature!

The Haiti Relief Show ::

Everyone had a great time last Sunday evening and the music was great with the added benefit that I saw a lot of people I had not seen in ages. I didn't take a camera with me and I was sorry that I didn't, but I will not make that mistake again.

I don't know what the total figure of money raised will be but the preliminary figure I was given yesterday was around $8500 which is not bad at all for an event that was put together in about a week and everyone who was involved should be proud of their effort!

Benefit For Haiti ::

Happening this afternoon and evening--see below. Hope to see you there!

Huntsville Supports Haiti Relief ::

I will be there!

A Huntsville Concert For Haiti Relief ::

Looks like plans have been finalized for a show this coming Sunday, January 24, at Lowe Mill with music by Microwave Dave (not sure if the nukes will be there), Kush, and Ken Watters. There will also be a silent auction of donated art works. The event begins at 4pm and will run as long as the enthusiasm holds out!

If any of the details change, I'll pass them on, but I plan to be there and hope that there is a large turnout for this. Proceeds will go to Wyclef Jean's foundation for Haiti relief, Yéle Haiti. I'll try to get some photographs posted after the event.

I Wonder ::

just how many people in North Alabama would agree with Pat Robertson about the cause of the earthquake in Haiti? Here's the video from Media Matters:



Pat Robertson is a excuse for a human being and should seriously call into question the sanity of anyone who supports him in any way!

Here is a pointed response video snagged from YouTube:

A Greek Restaurant In Huntsville ::

I had to pick up a prescription this morning at the Rite-Aid on the corner of Whitesburg and Airport and noticed a Greek restaurant across the road named Taziki's. I did a quick Google on the restaurant and see that it is classified as quick ethnic food which basically means that you order in a line and the food is delivered to your table. Unfortunately I don't think it offers my favorite Greek dish of fried baby squid, but I guess I'll have to try it out shortly and see how they do with lamb.

Happy New Year ::

Wishing everyone a very Happy New Year!

Ernest Nunley-One Fat Cowboy ::

I got this from an anonymous poster earlier today:

Ernest is fine. He was in Walker Louisiana last night and heading into Baton Rouge today. Thanks to all well wishers. I hope others post his sightings.

Here's my earlier post before Ernest's heart attack. The post should explain Ernest's quest.

Tuesday Stuff! ::

Ron Sparks today did exactly what I expected him to do and announced that he will remain in the Alabama governor's race. I thought before his announcement that this would be the correct move for him especially since he doesn't live in the 5th district. The republicans in the race would have pounded him on this alone and Sparks would have started out in a hole. Sparks has statewide name recognition and that will only improve with his campaign for governor.

That being said, I am still on the fence with who I plan to support in the governor's race.

I had a bite to eat this evening at the Bandito Burrito on South Parkway and listened to Marge Loveday play and sing for a while. If you get a chance to see her at any of the local music venues, I highly recommend that you do.

Diana Krall Sings Jingle Bells ::

Parker Griffith Turns Tail ::

and runs from those who elected him! I can't say that I'm surprised and I really think that he has painted himself into a corner given that he will probably face to repubs in the primary. Now we have to find a credible Democrat to make the run although time is already short.

I hope that everyone who gave some bucks to Griffith asks for them back. I donated some time to his campaign so I'm out that, but at least it was an eye opening experience!

Remembering Frank Zappa ::

on his birthday:

Light Rain Falling ::

Maybe it's beginning to taper off soon. The road I live on runs alongside the Paint Rock River for a bit before deadending at a private farm, but the river is higher than I have ever seen it and one owner of a get-away trailer is lucky it didn't get any flood damage. Actually he may be lucky that it hasn't floated down the river!

Our Heisman Trophy Winner! ::

Great news! University of Alabama's Mark Ingram has won the Heisman Trophy for 2009!

Our congratulations to Mark Ingram and the entire Alabama football team!

Alabama vs. Florida ::

Today is the big day which will probably determine the national college football championship for 2009. I normally don't care at all about football, but I have been following Alabama closely this year and I'm looking forward to a great game later this afternoon.

My First Christmas Card ::

of the season came from Netflix! How bad is that?

Happy Thanksgiving To All! ::

Don't have much to say today other than "Happy Thanksgiving". Here is a photograph I shot in downtown, such as it is, New Hope last year.

A Salute To Veterans ::

From the sixth graders in New Hope, Alabama! Click the photograph to see it full size.

Parker Griffith's Statement ::

on his no vote on the health care bill:

“I voted against the proposed health care legislation today because a public option has remained the foundation of the bill’s aim. This bill is bad for our patients, bad for our North Alabama hospitals, and bad for our nation's bottom line.

“Improving the best health care system in the world to include the millions of Americans without access to affordable care is a worthy goal, but we cannot do it by reforming a system around a scarcity. As the House and Senate come together, I am hopeful that we see a reform package that aggressively addresses the growing problem of physician shortages in America and increases access to those without insurance without adding trillions to our growing debt."

Laid Off ::

I found out a couple of days ago that my next door neighbor has been laid off. She worked at SCI for 27 years and would have been eligible for full retirement benefits in 3 more years. I can't say that I'm at all surprised given what I've heard over the years about how crappy SCI is to their employees.

Justice Served? ::

From al.com (via Yahoo News):

ALBERTVILLE, AL. - A Marshall County woman who made national news after she was arrested for having her 13-year-old daughter ride in a cardboard box atop her van began today serving five days in the City Jail here after she pleaded guilty to endangering her child.

City Judge James D. Walker sentenced Jackie Denise Knott, 37, of Albertville to 90 days, but suspended 85 days and placed her on two years probation. He also fined her $500 and ordered her to attend parenting class and drivers education school and serve 40 hours of community service.

The actual time to be served seems awfully light to me given the scope of the child endangerment involved!

BBQ! ::

My neighbor, Mike, competes in competition BBQ events kinda as a hobby unrelated to his full time commercial plumbing business. His business has been a little slow lately and he has been setting up his smoker at Keller's Grocery just inside Marshall County and selling pulled pork, chicken, ribs, and fixins on the weekends. A couple of weeks ago I got his chicken kabobs for lunch and they were fabulous. Today I got a slab of ribs which were extremely good and which I would highly recommend.

Mike has no web site and does not advertise his BBQ business. He has a phone number, but I'm hesitant to pass it on without his OK so if you happen to be between Huntsville and Guntersville on Hwy 431 and pass by Keller Grocery, just inside the Marshall County line, stop by and try out his food. I'll guarantee that you will not be disappointed and I would further posit that a trip down just pick up some of Mike's cooking would be well worth the trip. He also has cole slaw and tater salad, but I haven't tried those yet. Maybe next weekend!

Joe Bonamassa ::

Joe will be playing in Birmingham at 8pm tonight at Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center - Jemison Concert Hall. I surely wish I could make it, but if you're in the Birmingham area and like some high energy blues and rock check it out.

Tony's New Mexico Book ::

Tony Triolo spent several days in New Mexico with another mutual friend this past summer and he has produced a book of his work. The book is available for preview and purchase at this link. Take a look!

Parker Griffith's Response On Net Neutrality ::

I received this e-mail today from Griffith's office:

Thank you for taking the time to contact me with your concern. I welcome any opportunity to communicate with North Alabamians when I cannot be home and speak to constituents face to face.



In your message, you expressed your opinion on the concept of Net Neutrality. Like you, I recognize the powerful role the internet plays in our society and economy. Just recently, I signed on to a letter addressing broadband policy to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Genachowski. You may be pleased to hear that in this letter I urged the FCC to reiterate, and not repudiate, its commitment to competition, private investment, and a restrained regulatory approach.



Like you, I believe in a transparent process and stand ready to work with both sides in Congress to ensure that we maintain a free and open environment for all Americans.

I have asked for a clarification on what Griffith considers to be "a restrained regulatory approach", and made the point that most of the world has much better and faster internet access at a lower cost. I eagerly await his response especially since so few of us are offered any sort of ISP competition.

Parker Griffith And "Net Neutrality" ::

I understand that Parker Griffith signed a letter to the FCC this past Friday expressing his opposition to the concept of Net Neutrality. Griffith once again chooses to represent the huge telecom and cable companies at the expense of the constituents who elected him. I just sent Griffith an e-mail expressing my outrage and asking to explain his position. You can also send an automated e-mail to Griffith expressing your support for Net Neutrality at this link.

Here's a copy of the automated e-mail that's sent to Griffith:

Oct 19, 2009

Representative Parker Griffith
Cannon House Office Building, Room 417
Independence Avenue and 1st Street, SE
Washington, DC 20515-0105

Dear Representative Griffith,

An open Internet provides the foundation for innovation, free speech
and democracy in the United States and around the world. But Washington
lobbyists are more concerned with corporate profits than with a
free-flowing Internet. They have convinced some members of Congress
that Net Neutrality is bad for business, but don't be fooled.

We, the undersigned, demand rules that protect Net Neutrality by
keeping the Internet free from blocking, censorship and discrimination.
It's vital that the FCC move forward on its rulemaking to safeguard the
open Internet. Hundreds of millions of Internet users -- people like us
-- need Net Neutrality now.

Some members of Congress have fallen prey to phone and cable company
lobbyists and are pressuring you to pull back from your rulemaking
plans. These lawmakers aren't representing the public interest, and
they don't speak for us. Please stand firm in support of Net
Neutrality. Millions of Americans -- the folks whom Congress was
elected to represent -- are with you.

Sincerely,

Beau Sessions Believes In Rape! ::

I just saw the Daily Show bit about the republicans voting against the Al Franken bill designed to protect employees of government contractors who are victims of heinous crimes. Here's the clip:

The Daily Show With Jon Stewart	Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c
Rape-Nuts
www.thedailyshow.com
Daily Show Full Episodes Political Humor Ron Paul Interview

Our own Jeff Sessions comes out forcefully for rapists and, once again, embarrasses humanity and the state of Alabama! I have long been under the impression that "officers of the court" are supposed to seek truth and justice. Hypocrisy, thy name is Jeff Sessions!

[This video was a pain to post--I snagged it from Crooks & Liars and it had several html errors in it which I had to fix--my brain is too tired after this workweek to be trouble shooting html!]

The Life Cycle Of A Blog Post ::

From Wired magazine. Pretty cool!

Signs Of Fall ::

I guess that one of the signs was the weather alert yesterday, but I drove down to the Lake Guntersville Dam a short while ago and noticed that the leaves are starting to change and the squirrels and chipmunks are scurrying around looking for plant kingdom nuts. I do believe that this is my favorite time of year and I'm going to try to go fishing tomorrow if the weather will co-operate!

A Darwin Award In The Offing ::

From WAFF news:

ALBERTVILLE, AL (WAFF) - A woman was arrested after police discovered a teenager inside a cardboard box on the roof of a vehicle.

Jackie Denise Knott charged told police she had a good reason. Albertville police said the mother told them she was trying to carry a cardboard box, but it wouldn't fit in her minivan. She claimed her daughter was just making sure the box was secure on the van roof.

Drivers in Albertville couldn't believe what they saw Wednesday morning. A minivan was driving down U.S. Highway 431 with a large cardboard box on the roof. But it wasn't the box that raised concern - it was the 13-year-old sitting inside of it.

Many drivers called police and officers quickly pulled Knott over. Albertville police arrested her and charged her with endangering the welfare of a child. Officers said her reasoning behind her actions was astonishing.

"The box was too large to get in the van, so more or less, she needed a paperweight," said Albertville Police Officer Jamie Smith.

Officers asked Knott about the safety of the child and she responded.

"She told the officers she had the box tied to the roof with a wire close hanger," Smith said

The child was not hurt. She was turned over to a relative's custody at the scene and DHR is investigating.

"For the child's sake, more than anything, nothing turned out bad," Smith said. "Obviously a gust of wind, an 18-wheeler passing by could have thrown the box off the top of the van. It could have turned out very bad."

Knott was transferred to the Albertville jail where she posted a $500. WAFF 48 News tried contacting her, but were unsuccessful.

Once again I'm speechless!

Alabama Football ::

Both Alabama and Auburn won today and both are now 5-0 overall. Why isn't Auburn ranked any higher than they are?

5:30 am ::

And it's raining on this Friday morning already.

Parker Griffith Jumps On The Xenphobia Bandwagon ::

From the Sept. 30 issue of The Huntsville Times:

U.S. Rep. Parker Griffith, D-Huntsville, returned from a personal tour of a U.S.-Mexican border crossing saying the U.S. has "failed in our fundamental duty to secure our borders."

"Every day, individuals that are a threat to our communities and our nation attempt to enter this country illegally," Griffith said in a statement released by his Washington office. "We must do more to stop them."

I have to shake my head whenever I hear the politicians demonize the undocumented aliens residing and working here simply because they will not acknowledge that the problem could be easily solved on the employment level if there was any sort of will to do so. Employers love the cheap labor that pads their profit margins! If anyone truly wanted to end illegal immigration all that would be required would be meaningful sanctions for companies and individuals who hire the undocumented!

I also think that a very meaningful argument can be made that our undocumented residents, in general, provide a net economic benefit to our economy, but that is a topic for another day.

Birther Infomercial To Air In Huntsville ::

I've been seeing some information on this for the past day or so, but without any details until those supplied by Justin Elliott at Talking Points Memo. Here are some highlights (?) of the informercial:



Here are the cities where it's running:

*

Chattanoga, TN
*

Memphis, TN
*

Shreveport, LA
*

Springfield, MO
*

Abilene, TX
*

Lubbock, TX
*

Macon, GA
*

Savannah, GA
*

Huntsville, AL
*

Jacksonville, FL
*

Tallahasseee, FL

I caught a glace at a schedule a few minutes ago, but I can't seem to find it right now. I believe that this ran locally sometime in the early morning hours this morning, Friday. Anyone happen to catch it?

We're #37! ::

Also, North Alabama Healthcare For All has a Facebook page up. Just go befriend everyone there right now!

A Snippet From The New Clinton Memoir ::

Hitting home:

* In 1997, when Senate Republicans were opposing Clinton's pick for CIA chief, Anthony Lake, Clinton told Branch he considered Senator Richard Shelby, an Alabama Republican (who had once been a Democrat) and a leading Lake detractor, to be a dogged and spiteful man. Clinton added that Shelby was supported by two GOP "know-nothings" on his Senate committee, Jon Kyl of Arizona and Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma.

Inane "Best Of" Awards ::

Newspapers seem to love these things for some reason, but I've got to agree with this weeks selection of Angel's Island coffee shop as the best around. I don't buy coffee out much this time of year, but I've always found Angel's coffee, service, and ambiance to be first class. I will occasionally stop into a Starbucks, but I often find the coffee stale and the service spotty, at best.

Congratulations to Angel and wishing her the best. I'll have to stop in soon for a large cup of decaf!

The vote is now open for best landscape services in huntsville! Ho Hum!

Rep. Joe Wilson (Idiot-SC)

Although I am a resident of Alabama and I have not lived in South Carolina for many years I still own a bit of property there and I have no compunction about expressing my feelings to those who purport to represent the interests of S.C. in Congress. I have e-mailed Wilson in the past with concerns and, to his credit, he responded to my concerns however unsatisfactorily, but his actions last evening were beyond the pale and I immediately sent an e-mail to my representative, Parker Griffith, urging him to both sponsor and support a motion of censure for Joe Wilson's blatant disrespect for the office of the presidency. I don't expect much from the DINO!

Why A Public Option is needed ::

at the very least! From MoveOn and R.E.M:

Utah Phillips ::

Gone, but hardly forgotten:

Saturday Kitteh Blogging ::

Been gone for a while due to a nasty cold, but thankfully no aches, pains or fever so I guess I didn't have the pig bug.

Roger Alan Wade ::

At the KaffeKlatsch tomorrow evening. This should be a raucous show. I may try to get in early.

A Bumper Crop Of Peppers ::

Each year I plant peppers, primarily Habañeros, with the occasional Jalapeño. This year I planted a few more Jalapeño plants than Habañero, but I'm getting more of both varieties than ever. I did a bunch of jars of Habañero pepper jelly last weekend and I have enough peppers left to do quite a few more. I've been giving away Jalapeños as fast as I can pick them. I will make some more jelly this weekend since I have several people asking for some.

I Couldn't Agree More!

Medicine in this country - for the most part, is nothing more than guesswork in a white coat.

-George Carlin

A Water Tragedy Or An Exercise? ::

I was down at Ditto Landing a couple of hours ago and the rescue squad was gearing up to go out. I didn't ask what was going on and they were in no hurry so either they were preparing for an exercise or for a recovery effort. I hope it was an exercise!

I never cease to be amazed at the stupid things people do on the water. I love being on the water and I have always placed safety first. The only close call I ever had was an outboard fire from a split fuel line once, but it was not a big problem. The wife was prepared to abandon ship, but a cooler head, mine, prevailed. Cost me $2.00 to fix that problem. I have always felt that panic is the leading cause of marine deaths.

As an aside, I spent 4 years in the US Navy and never set foot on a ship!

Iris Dement ::

Our Town:

The Past 2 Weeks ::

Have not been terribly good ones. A co-worker's mother passed away and another had a heart attack although he is back at work now. Hopefully things will get better, but in the meantime here's one of my favorites, Neko Case:

Bad News ::

But it's not as bad as I thought when I heard about it yesterday. A co-worker stopped me in the hallway and told me than another co-worker in a different division had had a massive heart attack the night before. Now D. is only, I would imagine, in his early 40's and this sort of thing happens to younger people, but later in the day we found out that he is doing much better and the problem, although serious, may not have been as serious as first thought so we'll be waiting 'til Monday for more news.

The doctors seem to think that the heart attack was caused by an infected tick bite which caused fluid build-up around the heart. As one who lives in what passes for "the country" these days I often get several ticks on me in a day of working in the yard so I will be even more extra careful in spraying myself down and finding the little insects!

1st Pepper Harvest ::

My pepper plants are wildly prolific this year and I just harvested my first batch of Jalapeños along with a couple of Habañeros although I will have tons more Habañeros soon. I started growing peppers several years ago with no clear direction in mind so I scratched my head when I had a basketful of ripe Habañeros and Jalapeños trying to decide what to do with them. I eventually found a recipe for Habañero pepper jelly so I make a few dozen jars each year.



I primarily use the jelly as a glaze for cooking,it's especially good on chicken, but I generally wind up giving most away and everyone likes it (some people absolutely love it!). I just get a kick out of making it although it is time consuming and expensive to make. I guess it's kinda a once or twice a year hobby!

Parker Griffith's Plan For Health Care ::

Is that he has no plan. Here is his response to my e-mail urging his support for single-payer:

Thank you for taking the time to contact me with your concerns. As your representative, I value maintaining an open dialogue with my constituents, especially on issues as important as health care.



As you know, the question of how to improve our health care system has divided lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. As a physician who spent 30 years treating patients from across North Alabama, I have a different perspective on this issue than others in Congress. I am concerned that the current health care legislation falls short of meeting its goals of reducing costs, increasing access, and protecting a patient's right to choose. Because this piece of legislation would have such a large and lasting impact on our nation, I want to make my position on this issue clear.



Our first priority is to make sure that we do nothing to harm our current system. We have the best health care system in the world, but we must reduce costs and increase access to the system. To meet these challenges, we must encourage greater competition in the health care market. One of the best ways to do this is by allowing individuals to purchase health insurance across state lines and by requiring providers to cover pre-existing conditions. While I believe it is necessary to increase competition in the health care market, I do not favor a government-sponsored health care option. I believe that a public option would result in less consumer choice and too much government involvement in health care.



Along with increasing competition in the health care market, any effective and sustainable reform must also be carried out in a fiscally responsible manner. As a fiscally conservative member of the Blue Dog Coalition, I am committed to supporting reform that takes into account our growing deficit. Expanding access to health care is vital, but we must not do so at the expense of our children's and grandchildren's futures.



One of my main priorities during the health care debate is to encourage Congress to take a thoughtful and bipartisan approach to reform. Wide-sweeping reform cannot be passed overnight. All our options must be carefully considered before finally settling on a package that is in our nation's best interest. To encourage this type of approach, I recently introduced legislation, H. Res. 643, which requires any major reform bill to be available to the public and Members of Congress at least a week prior to the final vote on the bill.



As the debate over health care reform continues, the key for Congress and the American people is to remain focused on health care reform's primary goal: improving our current system of care while also saving families, small businesses and the government much-needed money. Again, I appreciate your input on this issue. For more information on the health care debate, I encourage you to visit my website at http://griffith.house.gov where you can view daily news updates regarding health care reform as well as read my health care principles and correspondence with other constituents on this issue.



Sincerely,

Parker Griffith
Member of Congress The office of Representative Parker Griffith of the 5th District of Alabama is not responsible for any electronic transmissions that are not sent from the dr.griffith@mail.house.gov email address.

I added a bit of emphasis to a couple of his points, but Griffith obviously has no desire for any meaningful change. The constituents of North Alabama who cannot afford health care, and there are far more than most people think, should be outraged at Griffith's stand on health care reform. He stated at his health care town hall meeting that he felt that health care was a right and I agree with that, but he certainly shows no leadership in making that right available!

A Health Care Reform Poll On Parker Griffith's Web Site ::

I went to Parker Griffith's web site to express my displeasure with his stance on health care reform and came across this poll:



Time to rally the troops and turn the tide on the outcome shown here!

A Product Of The California School System ::

This child certainly got left behind!

Sunday Kitteh Blogging ::

Arbus resting on the garage windowsill.



I'm either slowly cleaning up the garage mess or, quite possibly, making it worse!

Bought A Lemon? ::

I've seen this car several times and wondered just what the backstory was. Someday maybe I'll get to talk to the owner and find out just what went on.

Love Fest 2009 ::

I spent some time last Sunday afternoon and early evening down at Huntsville's Lowe Mill enjoying the first annual Love Fest. This was a benefit to collect school supplies and money to buy school supplies for school children whose parents have a tough time buying the necessities for the coming school year.



Entertainment was provided for the entire family with some attractions for small children and poetry readings and music for the older attendees. Music was provided by the reggae band Kush which was joined for this event by local horn player Ken Watters. The event was a rousing success and we're already looking forward to next year.

Bobby Bright Dodges Questions ::

Not to mention being a fashion disaster!



It's about time he learned that actions have consequences!

Good Music For A Good Cause ::

It's called "Love Fest 2009" and will happen this coming Sunday evening at Lowe Mill on Seminole Drive.



Here's a bigger image of the invitation.

The price of admission is a backpack which will be donated to a Huntsville student and will, hopefully, be filled with supplies when the new school year starts in a few weeks. If you forget to pick up a backpack then a $5 donation will get you in to hear the music of Kush, a wonderful Reggae band, and Ken Watters will be playing with them.

If you've never been to Lowe Mill or experienced The Flying Monkey Arts Center, please, come on down. Lowe Mill is one of Huntsville's greatest assets!

Sessions vs Sotomayor ::

I have been following the judiciary committee hearing very closely, sometimes on tv, but mostly via webcast from Cspan and the embarrassment that is Beau Sessions doesn't disappoint, but I'm truly amazed by the senator from my home state of South Carolina, Lindsey Graham. I kept hoping that Sotomayor would jump up and pinch the little bastard's head off!

BeauSnark! ::

The Sotomayor confirmation hearings begin today so we have ample opportunity to marvel at the oratorical skills of Jeff Sessions!

Someone fire up the TiVo!

Sunday Morning With The Cats ::

Here's Missy, the mom, hanging out by the pepper and tomato plants.





And here is her kitten, now named Arbus, lounging on the garden hose. I don't see how this could be comfortable, but cats seem to like to lounge in what I would consider the most unlikely places!

A Good Friend Needs Some Good Vibes! ::

My friend Bill who lives up in Louisville had an angioplasty yesterday morning and hoped to go home this afternoon, but, alas, there seems to be a complication which we hope is minor and he may get to go home tomorrow but, more likely, Saturday. I'm not particularly religious, but I do believe in the power of good thoughts so I'm hoping that everyone will emit some good vibes for Bill!

Raging Rainstorm ::

I got stuck down on South Parkway this afternoon in a downpour so heavy and wind-driven that I had to stop for about 10 or 15 minutes 'til it abated a bit. I just didn't trust all of those cellphone and texting users all around me to keep themselves safe, much less me so I pulled over thinking that this was a good thing for my yard and for my tomatoes and for my peppers! Got home and there was nary a drop in my yard!

I was still glad to see that someone got some rain!

Over The Rhine ::

Huntsville is a pretty lousy music town. I miss the old TipTop Cafe!

Excitement Down The Street ::

I don't know what was going on but we had fire trucks, police and an ambulance going by a while ago. The ambulance left with sirens screaming so I suppose it's a medical emergency. I hope whoever was inside is OK!

Little Animals ::

I like living out in the country! I had to go to the store a short time ago and crossed the little creek right at Hwy 431. Something was scurrying across the road so I slowed down. As it turned out it was a baby Beaver carrying a freshly cut twig. He is still far too small for an entire tree!

Happy 4th Of July ::

Everyone be safe with those legally purchased miniature explosive devices!

Parker Griffith's Health Care Town Hall Meeting ::

Well, I was able to get to the Davidson Center with time to spare as the event started a few minutes late. Everyone seemed happy with the turnout although I was hoping for more and there were adherents of both sides in attendance.

After an introduction and some opening remarks by Griffith the floor was quickly opened to questions, or what should have been questions but which devolved into long dissertations. There were obviously strong feelings on both sides with those opposed to a government option or single-payer seeming to be the loudest. There were tales of woe when dealing with insurance companies and hospitals, but far too much time was spent on personal statements when the time would have been much better spent asking clear, concise questions of Griffith. Many more people could have been accommodated.

Griffith seemed open to supporting a government option in health care coverage and made it a point to say that he would be introducing legislation to require lawmakers to utilize the government option for their own health care if it becomes law. Seems like more than a bit of pandering to me, but we'll see what happens. I didn't detect any support from Griffith for a single-payer system. This didn't really surprise me, but I will continue to push him to support just such a system.

The cost of health coverage drew some commentary, but I felt that the question of cost continues to be terribly misunderstood. Most people look at their paycheck and only see the premium deduction without also considering what the employer has to pay. My personal deduction is right at $170/month, but the total with what my employer pays is just under $900/month. I also have a health savings account which I use for deductibles and miscellaneous medical expenses which is another $1950/year so I am very aware of what the insurance companies and big pharma get from me each year. These are costs which must be addressed.

I would have also like to have seen more discussion about the lack of competition between insurance companies here in Alabama. Blue Cross has just over 80% of the market sewn up and Griffith said that he would support legislation requiring insurers to compete nationwide. That, coupled with a government option, could help to lower costs, but I am once again skeptical!

One thing that Griffith said was interesting to me. He stated, and later reiterated, that he felt that health care was an inherent right rather than a privilege. I was happy to hear this, but I couldn't help but think that he left unstated "if you can pay for it"! I hope I'm wrong. Maybe I'm just getting too suspicious in my old age!

I hope the town hall meeting becomes a regular event here in Huntsville, but everyone should be more focused with their comments and questions!

A Video Spoof Of The Mark Sanford Affair ::

This is too rich! As a native of South Carolina and as someone who still owns property there I do not hesitate to endorse this spoof of the hypocrisy of Mark Sanford!

Tomato Pie ::

My first stab at this is in the oven right now. My fingers are crossed and if it turns out ok I'll post the recipe.

I thought I knew every way there was to cook tomatoes!

A Restaurant Review ::

The wife wanted to do some shopping over in Madison so we took a quick trip over there late this morning and stopped off in Hampton Cove to eat lunch at The Mandarin House (I think that's the name). It's in the little strip shopping center next to the Wal-Mart and the lunch was great and I recommend The Mandarin House highly. The lunch buffet was sumptuous and fresh and the service was excellent! If you visit don't pass up the coconut shrimp!

Thunder? ::

Blue skies outside with no clouds, but I hear thunder in the distance. Could use some rain.

[update] 10:30 am and still booming. Apparently what I'm hearing are implements of destruction being tested out on Redstone Arsenal.