When people pay attention, the shit flies.
I don't even feel like getting in all up in a tizzy about this stuff today, so I'll just drop some quick hitters.
Cook County workers have the option to check a box and select a charity from a list to donate a portion of their paycheck to. However, it seems that the County actually takes a 3% skim off that donation and hides it away in its own charitable fund, the Cook County Charity Fund. I'm not really going to lay this at Stroger's feet even though he sent out the letter encouraging workers to participate. The 3% skim is noted in the fine print of the payroll deduction form and has been in existence since 1989. It's just another example of business as usual. The Man will assure you that nothing untoward has happened and no attempts have been made to obfuscate; however, when you are doing the same thing as the unscrupulous car salesmen and mass marketing scam artists, you have to consider that you aren't much better.
Believe it or not, Emil Jones also gets a mention today. Yes, the man also called Obama's political mentor. He was accused of calling Delmarie Cobb, a black woman and a Clinton delegate, an "Uncle Tom" on Sunday. There were witnesses, but defenders claim the comment was in jest and misconstrued. Same old, same old. I'm sure Obama is happy about this turn of events.
In more Obama news, running mate Joe Biden's links to Tony Rezko are getting more attention. Biden has a relationship with attorney Joseph Cari Jr., who served as Midwest field director for Biden's failed 1988 presidential election bid and also was a confidant of Biden while Biden contemplated a 2008 run. Cari is a long-time friend of Biden and, among other things, was the DNC National Finance Chairman (1993-94) and the Finance Chair of the US Senate Democratic Campaign Committee in 1995. Cari also admitted to being part of an $850,000 kickback scam that is allegedly part of a larger fund raising operation for Gov'na Blago and overseen by Rezko.
Happy Monday! Rejoice in the wonders of humanity.
8.25.2008
8.22.2008
And So It Goes
Emil Jones III gets the nod from The Gang to take his father's spot on the Nov. 4 ballot.
The Trib quoted Emil Jones Jr as saying, "He's well qualified for the position. As the constitution says, 21 years old, resident, must reside in the district. All the other things are extra, and he has all the tools necessary. He knows the process."
He also added that his son has been schooled in IL politics since he was a child and showed a picture of Jones III attending a Senate committee hearing as a boy.
None of this is comforting. All the other things are extra? Is this really how we want to think about governing?
He's breathing and he fits the minimum qualifications. But wait, there's more! His father is a standout "Chicago" politician. That's right folks, he knows how to "play the game". Young Emil has learned at the seat of The Man.
You can go fuck yourselves. It seems your fucking of the citizens is done for the day.
The Trib quoted Emil Jones Jr as saying, "He's well qualified for the position. As the constitution says, 21 years old, resident, must reside in the district. All the other things are extra, and he has all the tools necessary. He knows the process."
He also added that his son has been schooled in IL politics since he was a child and showed a picture of Jones III attending a Senate committee hearing as a boy.
None of this is comforting. All the other things are extra? Is this really how we want to think about governing?
He's breathing and he fits the minimum qualifications. But wait, there's more! His father is a standout "Chicago" politician. That's right folks, he knows how to "play the game". Young Emil has learned at the seat of The Man.
You can go fuck yourselves. It seems your fucking of the citizens is done for the day.
8.21.2008
Who's da Mastah
Actor Julius Carry died on Tuesday.
The man was all over TV. Carry made appearances in everthing from Hill Street Blues and Benson to The Hughleys and The Unit (see the full list at IMDB). He was also a principal on a short lived show called "Doctor Doctor" from 1989-91.
Carry was the greatest kung-fu thug ever - Sho'nuff, The Shogun of Harlem.
Busta Rhymes even tossed him a little tribute in this video for "Dangerous".
And remember kids....direct-a yo feets-a to Daddy Green's Pizza.
The man was all over TV. Carry made appearances in everthing from Hill Street Blues and Benson to The Hughleys and The Unit (see the full list at IMDB). He was also a principal on a short lived show called "Doctor Doctor" from 1989-91.
Carry was the greatest kung-fu thug ever - Sho'nuff, The Shogun of Harlem.
Busta Rhymes even tossed him a little tribute in this video for "Dangerous".
And remember kids....direct-a yo feets-a to Daddy Green's Pizza.
8.20.2008
More of the same in IL Politics
Senate President Emil Jones is retiring at the end of his term in early January. Ho hum. I should be happy that an ally of the great gov'na Blago is stepping aside. Perhaps he knows something.
Jones officially announced his retirement on Monday.
Jones wants his son, Emil Jones III, to replace him.
Sound familiar?
It is up to the Democratic committeemen to decide who replaces Jones on the November 4th ballot as the Democratic candidate. Let's face it, that spot for the 14 District Chicago seat is owned by the Democrats unless something dire happens, so this amounts to a royal appointment.
Jones would have great impact as to how that selection gets made even without a vote.
The primary is long gone and the timing of this move leaves other potential candidates in the lurch. Perhaps a stronger Republican would have tossed his or her hat in the ring if Jones was never going to be on the ballot. Perhaps a Democrat would have chosen to run in the primary. Perhaps the winner of the primary would actually be representing the Democratic voters in the Nov. 4 election.
Jones has a history. Don't we all. Let's review....
Emil Jones III was granted an administrator-level state gig as a regional manager at the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity with an annual pull of almost $60,000. He has no college degree. That's making the most of opportunity.
Jones advocated a 7.5% pay raise for himself and his senate pals. This comes after the July 1 cost-of-living increase of 3.8% they were granted. Said Jones, "I need a pay raise. I need a pay raise." Two years ago Jones didn't allow a vote to reject pay raises until after the election, at which time Jones and Co. defeated a move to reject pay raises. I guess he'll have to settle for his state pension.
Jones will be eligible for over $500,000 of the $1.6 million of his campaign funds to be converted to personal use, if taxes are paid, according to a state law enacted in 1998.
Jones blocked mandatory disclosure of subcontracts while his stepson's firm was the beneficiary of
state contracts.
Jones supported ComEd rate hikes last year while other politicians took contributions from utilities during the negotiations.
Jones' office received a federal subpoena in 2003 alleging that his state staff performed campaign work on state time.
This is how it's done people. Don't turn your back on them and check your pockets when you walk away. I won't claim the man never did a lick of good, but let's keep our eye on the till here.
The State of Illinois is facing serious financial turmoil and a rat's nest of inefficiency. These fuckers are the problem, not the solution.
Jones officially announced his retirement on Monday.
Jones wants his son, Emil Jones III, to replace him.
Sound familiar?
It is up to the Democratic committeemen to decide who replaces Jones on the November 4th ballot as the Democratic candidate. Let's face it, that spot for the 14 District Chicago seat is owned by the Democrats unless something dire happens, so this amounts to a royal appointment.
Jones would have great impact as to how that selection gets made even without a vote.
The primary is long gone and the timing of this move leaves other potential candidates in the lurch. Perhaps a stronger Republican would have tossed his or her hat in the ring if Jones was never going to be on the ballot. Perhaps a Democrat would have chosen to run in the primary. Perhaps the winner of the primary would actually be representing the Democratic voters in the Nov. 4 election.
Jones has a history. Don't we all. Let's review....
Emil Jones III was granted an administrator-level state gig as a regional manager at the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity with an annual pull of almost $60,000. He has no college degree. That's making the most of opportunity.
Jones advocated a 7.5% pay raise for himself and his senate pals. This comes after the July 1 cost-of-living increase of 3.8% they were granted. Said Jones, "I need a pay raise. I need a pay raise." Two years ago Jones didn't allow a vote to reject pay raises until after the election, at which time Jones and Co. defeated a move to reject pay raises. I guess he'll have to settle for his state pension.
Jones will be eligible for over $500,000 of the $1.6 million of his campaign funds to be converted to personal use, if taxes are paid, according to a state law enacted in 1998.
Jones blocked mandatory disclosure of subcontracts while his stepson's firm was the beneficiary of
state contracts.
Jones supported ComEd rate hikes last year while other politicians took contributions from utilities during the negotiations.
Jones' office received a federal subpoena in 2003 alleging that his state staff performed campaign work on state time.
This is how it's done people. Don't turn your back on them and check your pockets when you walk away. I won't claim the man never did a lick of good, but let's keep our eye on the till here.
The State of Illinois is facing serious financial turmoil and a rat's nest of inefficiency. These fuckers are the problem, not the solution.
8.17.2008
8.14.2008
Javelin
It's some kind of track and field event. I'm not sure of the particulars. What is important to know is that Leryn Franco competes in that event. Keep alert for this momentous competition.
8.13.2008
Fatburger is Coming
Crain's Chicago informs us that Kanye is bringing Chicago's first Fatburger restaurant to Orland Park and his company has rights to open 10 Fatburgers in Chicago.
The name says it all, not that it's much worse than some other joints. I suppose we should be grateful for their candor.
Let's take a look:
Fatburger: 520 calories, 270 fat calories, 29 g of fat (11 g saturated), 90 mg cholesterol, 880 mg sodium, 32 g carbs, 7 g fiber, 3 g sugar, 30 g protein
Fat Fries: 550 calories, 240 fat calories, 26 g fat (4.5 g saturated), 0 mg cholesterol (thanks for the cholesterol free oil), 75 mg sodium, 72 g carbs, 8 g fiber, 0 g sugar, 8 g protein
They do offer Skinny Fries, which have 60 less calories, but 840 mg of sodium. I can only assume the 75 mg for the Fat Fries is a misprint.
Fatburger uses "100% pure lean beef", so that's something, and they make to order (no heat lamps, thank you).
Lest you want to go the turkey or veggie route:
Turkeyburger: 550 calories, 280 fat calories, 31 g fat (8 g saturated), 130 mg cholesterol, 900 mg sodium, 38 g carbs, 5 g fiber, 2 g sugar, 30 g protein
Veggieburger: 430 calories, 110 fat calories, 12 g fat (3.5 g saturated), 15 mg cholesterol, 1180 mg sodium, 45 g carbs, 12 g fiber, 8 g sugar, 35 g protein
This doesn't even count bacon or cheese and it isn't clear what is assumed for other toppings and condiments. The Grilled Chicken competes with the Veggieburger on fat calories. The trade off is high sodium and fiber ( for the veggie) vs higher cholesterol and less sodium (for the chicken). The chicken packs "only" 740 mg of sodium for its 360 calories. The hot dog only has 380 calories, but sneaks in 200 fat calories and 990 mg of sodium.
The Kingburger and Sausage and Egg Sandwich are hardly worth discussing. If you choose those options, you don't really want to know what the stats are. The Fat Salad Wedge is just a lettuce wedge with diced bacon, tomatoes and dressing and comes in at 70 calories. I'm betting nobody is eating that. Maybe with a side of chili or some onion rings.
According to the menu, Great Addons include bacon, egg, chili and cheese. I'm wondering if I can get bacon, egg and cheese on the Kingburger with the 1/2 pound of beef. Chili would just make it hard to eat.
I bet the shakes are good, but ranging from 700-880 calories each, I'm not sure where I would put that. Maybe my ass. I've been sitting alot at work and I could use some extra cushion.
Happy munching Orland Parkers.
The name says it all, not that it's much worse than some other joints. I suppose we should be grateful for their candor.
Let's take a look:
Fatburger: 520 calories, 270 fat calories, 29 g of fat (11 g saturated), 90 mg cholesterol, 880 mg sodium, 32 g carbs, 7 g fiber, 3 g sugar, 30 g protein
Fat Fries: 550 calories, 240 fat calories, 26 g fat (4.5 g saturated), 0 mg cholesterol (thanks for the cholesterol free oil), 75 mg sodium, 72 g carbs, 8 g fiber, 0 g sugar, 8 g protein
They do offer Skinny Fries, which have 60 less calories, but 840 mg of sodium. I can only assume the 75 mg for the Fat Fries is a misprint.
Fatburger uses "100% pure lean beef", so that's something, and they make to order (no heat lamps, thank you).
Lest you want to go the turkey or veggie route:
Turkeyburger: 550 calories, 280 fat calories, 31 g fat (8 g saturated), 130 mg cholesterol, 900 mg sodium, 38 g carbs, 5 g fiber, 2 g sugar, 30 g protein
Veggieburger: 430 calories, 110 fat calories, 12 g fat (3.5 g saturated), 15 mg cholesterol, 1180 mg sodium, 45 g carbs, 12 g fiber, 8 g sugar, 35 g protein
This doesn't even count bacon or cheese and it isn't clear what is assumed for other toppings and condiments. The Grilled Chicken competes with the Veggieburger on fat calories. The trade off is high sodium and fiber ( for the veggie) vs higher cholesterol and less sodium (for the chicken). The chicken packs "only" 740 mg of sodium for its 360 calories. The hot dog only has 380 calories, but sneaks in 200 fat calories and 990 mg of sodium.
The Kingburger and Sausage and Egg Sandwich are hardly worth discussing. If you choose those options, you don't really want to know what the stats are. The Fat Salad Wedge is just a lettuce wedge with diced bacon, tomatoes and dressing and comes in at 70 calories. I'm betting nobody is eating that. Maybe with a side of chili or some onion rings.
According to the menu, Great Addons include bacon, egg, chili and cheese. I'm wondering if I can get bacon, egg and cheese on the Kingburger with the 1/2 pound of beef. Chili would just make it hard to eat.
I bet the shakes are good, but ranging from 700-880 calories each, I'm not sure where I would put that. Maybe my ass. I've been sitting alot at work and I could use some extra cushion.
Happy munching Orland Parkers.
8.10.2008
Diamonds on the Soles of My Shoes?
Nope. Not at all.
Hey, I get it. Life's a hassle. Pets are a pain. Poop is poopy. Walking is tiresome.
Fortunately, putting pictures on the web isn't very difficult.
Welcome to the interzone, my scofflaw pal!
Let's review the evidence:
Cheers to you. You managed to have your dog off-leash, leave feces in the park where we like to cavort, and you parked in a no parking zone because, in order to do all this wonderful stuff, you actually drove your pudgy little dog to the freakin' park. Can't blame you. Wouldn't want dog shit in my yard either.
Hey, I get it. Life's a hassle. Pets are a pain. Poop is poopy. Walking is tiresome.
Fortunately, putting pictures on the web isn't very difficult.
Welcome to the interzone, my scofflaw pal!
Let's review the evidence:
Look, a pooch. He seems to be fertilizing the park. Very curious.
I wonder what this happy-go-lucky person is doing.
Oho! It's a happy reunion.
Come on pooch, let's roll out. Our doody is done here.
Let's have a quick review of the local signage. It certainly seems clear. You know, just in case you were unaware of societal conventions.
Cheers to you. You managed to have your dog off-leash, leave feces in the park where we like to cavort, and you parked in a no parking zone because, in order to do all this wonderful stuff, you actually drove your pudgy little dog to the freakin' park. Can't blame you. Wouldn't want dog shit in my yard either.
8.08.2008
No friend of ours
It's too freakin' hot.
Off to work in the morning these days I feel like a shylock on the way to see what's taking that guy so long. I'm hot, don't have the tie on yet, shirt open at the chest, cuffs undone, suit jacket over the shoulder....angry.
The lengths I go to avoid breaking a sweat. It'll spoil me for the day.
Off to work in the morning these days I feel like a shylock on the way to see what's taking that guy so long. I'm hot, don't have the tie on yet, shirt open at the chest, cuffs undone, suit jacket over the shoulder....angry.
The lengths I go to avoid breaking a sweat. It'll spoil me for the day.
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