Aaron Boone is not a beloved figure in Boston.
In fact, in these parts he is known as Aaron "F#%&^n" Boone after he hit this homerun off Tim Wakefield in Game 7 of the 2003 American League Championship Series to send the New York Yankees to the World Series. The morning after the Red Sox came within five outs of going to the World Series was the quietest ride I've ever experienced on the T.
Well, the Red Sox did get even the following year.
As for Boone, since that homerun, he has bounced around playing with the Cleveland Indians, the Florida Marlins, the Washington Nationals before signing a contract with the Houston Astros this past off season.
However, during spring training, a routine medical exam revealed he had a defect in his aortic valve and required open heart surgery. Many thought he had played his last major league game. Today, only five months after the surgery, Boone returned to major league action starting at first base for the Astros during an afternoon game against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field.
At the risk of offending Red Sox Nation, I am happy for Aaron Boone today.
Besides we Aarons have to stick together.
Not only do we share the same name we are both 36 years old. I cannot imagine having to face not only the prospect of not being able to do what I love but to have my life end prematurely. Oh, I can understand it intellectually but unless I actually face it I can never truly know it in my heart. Well, it looks like Aaron Boone is getting a second chance.
But for the grace of G-d go I.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Does Our Health Care System Cause Divorce?
Does America's health care system cause family breakdown?
Well, Nicholas Kristoff of The New York Times would have you believe that it does. In an article titled, "Until Medical Bills Do Us Part," Kristoff writes about an anonymous female friend who was compelled for financial reasons to divorce her husband after he was diagnosed with early onset dementia:
M. still helps her husband and, quietly, continues to live with him and care for him. But she worries that the authorities will come after her if they realize that they divorced not because of irreconcilable differences but because of irreconcilable medical bills. There were awkward questions from friends who saw the divorce announcement in the newspaper.
“It’s just crazy,” she said. “It twists people like pretzels.”
It is a heartbreaking situation without a doubt. I am curious though how wide spread it actually is. If there are a critical mass of married couples divorcing because of health care costs then something should be done because it is not the sort of choice families in need of long term health care ought not have to make.
Yet I am not sure how instituting a national health care system addresses this problem.
In Canada, most long term health care facilities are not covered by Medicare. It's paid out of your own pocket. Now Canadians can claim a Medical Expenses tax credit on their federal individual income tax return. (Many years ago, I used to work for the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency when it was known as Revenue Canada and had to assess, amongst other things, eligible medical care expenses.) There is a similar medical expenses tax credit in this country that covers nursing homes and long term health care facilities. Perhaps these existing mechanisms can be improved to ease the financial burden families face in paying for long term health care.
Yet I need more evidence to be convinced our health care system causes or contributes to divorce and family breakdown.
Well, Nicholas Kristoff of The New York Times would have you believe that it does. In an article titled, "Until Medical Bills Do Us Part," Kristoff writes about an anonymous female friend who was compelled for financial reasons to divorce her husband after he was diagnosed with early onset dementia:
M. still helps her husband and, quietly, continues to live with him and care for him. But she worries that the authorities will come after her if they realize that they divorced not because of irreconcilable differences but because of irreconcilable medical bills. There were awkward questions from friends who saw the divorce announcement in the newspaper.
“It’s just crazy,” she said. “It twists people like pretzels.”
It is a heartbreaking situation without a doubt. I am curious though how wide spread it actually is. If there are a critical mass of married couples divorcing because of health care costs then something should be done because it is not the sort of choice families in need of long term health care ought not have to make.
Yet I am not sure how instituting a national health care system addresses this problem.
In Canada, most long term health care facilities are not covered by Medicare. It's paid out of your own pocket. Now Canadians can claim a Medical Expenses tax credit on their federal individual income tax return. (Many years ago, I used to work for the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency when it was known as Revenue Canada and had to assess, amongst other things, eligible medical care expenses.) There is a similar medical expenses tax credit in this country that covers nursing homes and long term health care facilities. Perhaps these existing mechanisms can be improved to ease the financial burden families face in paying for long term health care.
Yet I need more evidence to be convinced our health care system causes or contributes to divorce and family breakdown.
Thoughts on Levi Johnston's Spread in Vanity Fair
Vanity Fair could be described as a ritzier version of The National Enquirer.
How else does one explain giving Levi Johnston, the ex-fiancée of Bristol Palin, a cover story with a photo spread?
While the issue won't be out until September 8th they do have an excerpt on their website.
Johnston claims, amongst other things, that Palin was an absent mother and that it was left to him to cook barbecued chicken or steak on the grill. Oh the humanity.
He also claims that Sarah and Todd Palin were planning to adopt his and Bristol's child.
Of course, this isn't the first Vanity Fair has set its sights on the former Alaska Governor. Earlier this summer, Todd S. Purdum (Dee Dee Myer's husband) wrote a piece on Palin titled, "It Came From Wasilla." You know the piece where Palin was accused of having post-partum depression and narcissistic personality order.
But I guess you can't blame Vanity Fair for knowing its audience of middle-aged, middle to upper class, urban dwelling white liberals who hate Sarah Palin and will believe anything they are told about her.
I think it's worth reading my column, "Sarah Palin is the Israel of American Politics" to gain some insight into this mindset.
How else does one explain giving Levi Johnston, the ex-fiancée of Bristol Palin, a cover story with a photo spread?
While the issue won't be out until September 8th they do have an excerpt on their website.
Johnston claims, amongst other things, that Palin was an absent mother and that it was left to him to cook barbecued chicken or steak on the grill. Oh the humanity.
He also claims that Sarah and Todd Palin were planning to adopt his and Bristol's child.
Of course, this isn't the first Vanity Fair has set its sights on the former Alaska Governor. Earlier this summer, Todd S. Purdum (Dee Dee Myer's husband) wrote a piece on Palin titled, "It Came From Wasilla." You know the piece where Palin was accused of having post-partum depression and narcissistic personality order.
But I guess you can't blame Vanity Fair for knowing its audience of middle-aged, middle to upper class, urban dwelling white liberals who hate Sarah Palin and will believe anything they are told about her.
I think it's worth reading my column, "Sarah Palin is the Israel of American Politics" to gain some insight into this mindset.
Brown Wanted Release of Lockerbie Bomber
It has been revealed that British Prime Minister wanted Libyan terrorist Abdel-Baset al-Megrahi to die a free man.
All I can ask is why? Why would Brown entertain the idea of freeing a man responsible for the deaths of 270 innocent civilians? Now Brown can say that decision was up to the Scots but if the Prime Minister makes his position known on the matter he must surely know the Scots would have taken his point of view into consideration when rendering that decision.
Some of have speculate al-Megrahi's release was motivated by British commercial interests in Libya. One must also consider the possibility of placating the Muslim population in Scotland. Granted they comprised less than 1% of the population in the 2001 Census but it is fastest growing segment of their population and its youngest. It is a constituency they cannot ignore.
Conservative Party leader David Cameron has called for a public inquiry into the matter.
All I can ask is why? Why would Brown entertain the idea of freeing a man responsible for the deaths of 270 innocent civilians? Now Brown can say that decision was up to the Scots but if the Prime Minister makes his position known on the matter he must surely know the Scots would have taken his point of view into consideration when rendering that decision.
Some of have speculate al-Megrahi's release was motivated by British commercial interests in Libya. One must also consider the possibility of placating the Muslim population in Scotland. Granted they comprised less than 1% of the population in the 2001 Census but it is fastest growing segment of their population and its youngest. It is a constituency they cannot ignore.
Conservative Party leader David Cameron has called for a public inquiry into the matter.
Liberal Leader Ignatieff Seeks Fall Election in Canada
Michael Ignatieff, the leader of Canada's Liberal Party, is seeking a fall election.
This strikes me as a monumental error on Ignatieff's part.
If the Liberals compel an election it will be Canada's third since 2006 and fourth since 2004. The last three elections have produced three minority governments (one Liberal and two Conservative.) The last thing Canadians want right now is another vote.
The last election took place in October 2008 which gave Stephen Harper and the Conservatives another minority government. The government nearly fell a month later when Finance Minister Jim Flaherty released an economic statement that offered a bleak picture of Canada's economy and offered little government action. Thoughts of a coalition government were dancing in the heads of the Liberals and the NDP.
But Harper responded by having Governor General Michelle Jean prorogue Parliament. This shifted the focus to Liberal leader Stephane Dion who had just lost the election a month earlier. Dion would remind Canadians why he and the Liberals lost the election with a poor quality video addressing the decision to prorogue Parliament. Within days Dion was out and Ignatieff was in. Any thoughts of a coalition government with the NDP or yet another election were put on hold.
Ignatieff threatened to bring down the Conservative government in June but a meeting with Harper put that threat on ice. Unfortunately for Harper, Ignatieff has him by the gonads. Harper and the Tories have been propped up by the Liberals. If Ignatieff decides to move a vote of non-confidence there's no way Harper is going to persuade either the NDP or the Bloc Quebecois to stand in Ignatieff's way. They've opposed Harper from the outset.
In some way, I can understand Ignatieff's thinking. On one hand, it isn't in Ignatieff's interests to trigger an election and win it if he ends up inheriting a bad economy. On the other hand, if he waits for the economy to recover then Harper gets the credit. Ignatieff doesn't want to govern in a recession but he would if economic indicators pointed to a not to distant light at the end of a tunnel.
Of course, all of this assumes Ignatieff can beat Harper. It remains to be seen if Ignatieff will resonate with the Canadian electorate any more than Stephane Dion did. Ignatieff might be able to trigger an election but what if he triggers an election in which he doesn't prevail?
This strikes me as a monumental error on Ignatieff's part.
If the Liberals compel an election it will be Canada's third since 2006 and fourth since 2004. The last three elections have produced three minority governments (one Liberal and two Conservative.) The last thing Canadians want right now is another vote.
The last election took place in October 2008 which gave Stephen Harper and the Conservatives another minority government. The government nearly fell a month later when Finance Minister Jim Flaherty released an economic statement that offered a bleak picture of Canada's economy and offered little government action. Thoughts of a coalition government were dancing in the heads of the Liberals and the NDP.
But Harper responded by having Governor General Michelle Jean prorogue Parliament. This shifted the focus to Liberal leader Stephane Dion who had just lost the election a month earlier. Dion would remind Canadians why he and the Liberals lost the election with a poor quality video addressing the decision to prorogue Parliament. Within days Dion was out and Ignatieff was in. Any thoughts of a coalition government with the NDP or yet another election were put on hold.
Ignatieff threatened to bring down the Conservative government in June but a meeting with Harper put that threat on ice. Unfortunately for Harper, Ignatieff has him by the gonads. Harper and the Tories have been propped up by the Liberals. If Ignatieff decides to move a vote of non-confidence there's no way Harper is going to persuade either the NDP or the Bloc Quebecois to stand in Ignatieff's way. They've opposed Harper from the outset.
In some way, I can understand Ignatieff's thinking. On one hand, it isn't in Ignatieff's interests to trigger an election and win it if he ends up inheriting a bad economy. On the other hand, if he waits for the economy to recover then Harper gets the credit. Ignatieff doesn't want to govern in a recession but he would if economic indicators pointed to a not to distant light at the end of a tunnel.
Of course, all of this assumes Ignatieff can beat Harper. It remains to be seen if Ignatieff will resonate with the Canadian electorate any more than Stephane Dion did. Ignatieff might be able to trigger an election but what if he triggers an election in which he doesn't prevail?
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Thoughts on the NL West
There were several moves made yesterday by three contending teams in the NL West - the division leading Los Angeles Dodgers as well as the San Francisco Giants and Colorado Rockies who are tied for the NL Wild Card entering September.
The Giants signed pitcher Brad Penny who was released by the Boston Red Sox on August 26th at his request. Penny was demoted to the bullpen when Tim Wakefield returned to the starting rotation and Penny made it known he was not happy. However, Penny had been struggling losing his last four decisions with an ERA over 9.00. Overall, Penny was 7-8 with a 5.61 ERA with the Red Sox. Penny should still add some depth to an already strong starting rotation and will be eager to face the Dodgers, a team that let him go at the end of the 2008 season.
The Dodgers made two deals yesterday. First, they acquired slugger Jim Thome from the Chicago White Sox in exchange for minor league infielder Justin Fuller. The Dodgers then added a starting pitcher by obtaining Jon Garland from the division rival Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for a player to be named later.
Thome, who turned 39 on August 27th, has been a DH in recent years and with James Loney enconsed at first base look for Thome to be largely confined to a pinch hitting role. He might not get many at bats but in a 2-2 tie in the bottom of the 9th inning he could make those at bats count. As for Garland, he struggled with the D'Backs going 8-11 with a 4.29 ERA this season. However, suddenly finding himself in a playoff race and being backed by a more potent offense could give him the chance to have a winning record by season's end.
The Colorado Rockies also added a starting pitcher by obtaining Jose Contreras from the Chicago White Sox for minor league pitcher Brandon Hynick. Contreras had an awful year with the Chisox going 5-13 with a 5.42 ERA. However, Contreras might be an interesting fit in Denver. At 37, he could play something of a mentoring role to fellow Latino starting pitchers Ubaldo Jimenez and Jorge de la Rosa. Jimenez, in particular, has pitching mannerisms similar to Contreras.
Trading both Thome and Contreras would seem to indicate the White Sox have thrown in the towel for the 2009 season. The Chisox have lost eight of their last nine games and have fallen six games back of the Detroit Tigers in the AL Central Division which has now become a two team race between the Tigers and the Minnesota Twins.
But getting back to the NL West, it looks like the Dodgers will win the division barring a major collapse which leaves the Wildcard spot. Between the Giants and Rockies, I have to favor the Giants. Yes, I picked the Giants to win the World Series this year.
The Giants signed pitcher Brad Penny who was released by the Boston Red Sox on August 26th at his request. Penny was demoted to the bullpen when Tim Wakefield returned to the starting rotation and Penny made it known he was not happy. However, Penny had been struggling losing his last four decisions with an ERA over 9.00. Overall, Penny was 7-8 with a 5.61 ERA with the Red Sox. Penny should still add some depth to an already strong starting rotation and will be eager to face the Dodgers, a team that let him go at the end of the 2008 season.
The Dodgers made two deals yesterday. First, they acquired slugger Jim Thome from the Chicago White Sox in exchange for minor league infielder Justin Fuller. The Dodgers then added a starting pitcher by obtaining Jon Garland from the division rival Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for a player to be named later.
Thome, who turned 39 on August 27th, has been a DH in recent years and with James Loney enconsed at first base look for Thome to be largely confined to a pinch hitting role. He might not get many at bats but in a 2-2 tie in the bottom of the 9th inning he could make those at bats count. As for Garland, he struggled with the D'Backs going 8-11 with a 4.29 ERA this season. However, suddenly finding himself in a playoff race and being backed by a more potent offense could give him the chance to have a winning record by season's end.
The Colorado Rockies also added a starting pitcher by obtaining Jose Contreras from the Chicago White Sox for minor league pitcher Brandon Hynick. Contreras had an awful year with the Chisox going 5-13 with a 5.42 ERA. However, Contreras might be an interesting fit in Denver. At 37, he could play something of a mentoring role to fellow Latino starting pitchers Ubaldo Jimenez and Jorge de la Rosa. Jimenez, in particular, has pitching mannerisms similar to Contreras.
Trading both Thome and Contreras would seem to indicate the White Sox have thrown in the towel for the 2009 season. The Chisox have lost eight of their last nine games and have fallen six games back of the Detroit Tigers in the AL Central Division which has now become a two team race between the Tigers and the Minnesota Twins.
But getting back to the NL West, it looks like the Dodgers will win the division barring a major collapse which leaves the Wildcard spot. Between the Giants and Rockies, I have to favor the Giants. Yes, I picked the Giants to win the World Series this year.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Patrick Sets Massachusetts Special Election for January 19, 2010
Earlier today, Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick set a special election for January 19, 2010 to fill the seat vacated as a result of Ted Kennedy's death last week.
The primaries for this election will take place on December 8th.
Patrick is looking however to name an interim Senator and will try to get the blessing of the Massachusetts legislature. You will recall the Massachusetts legislature took this power away from then Governor Mitt Romney when it was feared he would appoint a Republican in the event John Kerry won the 2004 Presidential election.
Personally, I don't have a problem with Patrick naming someone on an interim basis. I just want to live in a state where it would have been O.K. for Romney or any other Republican to do the same.
There is now speculation that former Congressman Joe Kennedy, Ted's nephew, will seek the seat. Kennedy is presently the Executive Director of Citizen's Energy, the non-profit corporation that takes oil from Hugo Chavez. But if Kennedy opts not to run it is widely believed Democratic Congressmen Ed Markey and Michael Capuano might throw their hats in the ring. Their fellow Massachusetts Democratic Congressman Stephen Lynch as well as Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley are expected to run whether or not Kennedy gets into the race.
As for the GOP, your guess is as good as mine. Mitt Romney isn't running. That's no surprise. I don't think he'd win which would jettison any ambitions for the White House.
As for Joe Kennedy, I can understand the sentiment in his favor but I don't think he should get the seat just because of his surname. I mean what chance would he have if his name were Joseph Patrick?
The primaries for this election will take place on December 8th.
Patrick is looking however to name an interim Senator and will try to get the blessing of the Massachusetts legislature. You will recall the Massachusetts legislature took this power away from then Governor Mitt Romney when it was feared he would appoint a Republican in the event John Kerry won the 2004 Presidential election.
Personally, I don't have a problem with Patrick naming someone on an interim basis. I just want to live in a state where it would have been O.K. for Romney or any other Republican to do the same.
There is now speculation that former Congressman Joe Kennedy, Ted's nephew, will seek the seat. Kennedy is presently the Executive Director of Citizen's Energy, the non-profit corporation that takes oil from Hugo Chavez. But if Kennedy opts not to run it is widely believed Democratic Congressmen Ed Markey and Michael Capuano might throw their hats in the ring. Their fellow Massachusetts Democratic Congressman Stephen Lynch as well as Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley are expected to run whether or not Kennedy gets into the race.
As for the GOP, your guess is as good as mine. Mitt Romney isn't running. That's no surprise. I don't think he'd win which would jettison any ambitions for the White House.
As for Joe Kennedy, I can understand the sentiment in his favor but I don't think he should get the seat just because of his surname. I mean what chance would he have if his name were Joseph Patrick?
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Liberal Democrats Ousted in Japan
Japan's Liberal Democratic Party have been ousted in parliamentary elections.
Yukio Hatoyama, leader of the Democratic Party of Japan, is poised to become Japan's next Prime Minister in September.
Do these elections represent a sea change in Japan?
I don't think they do.
Although the Democratic Party of Japan is to the left of the LDP it must be remembered that many in the DPJ were formerly with the LDP including Hatomaya. If the DPJ achieves any kind of success in office it will likely take over the role the LDP has played since 1955.
On the other hand, the LDP was out of power between 1993 and 1996. Yet the last non-LDP coalition went through three Prime Ministers in three years and couldn't stamp out an identity for itself. Now one could make the case the LDP has had three Prime Ministers since Junichiro Koizumi left office in 2006. But the LDP is a known quantity in Japan even if its brand name is diminished at the moment. Unless the DPJ can come up with a leader (be it Hatomaya or someone else) with the kind of popularity Koizumi had while in office methinks the LDP will be back by 2012.
Yukio Hatoyama, leader of the Democratic Party of Japan, is poised to become Japan's next Prime Minister in September.
Do these elections represent a sea change in Japan?
I don't think they do.
Although the Democratic Party of Japan is to the left of the LDP it must be remembered that many in the DPJ were formerly with the LDP including Hatomaya. If the DPJ achieves any kind of success in office it will likely take over the role the LDP has played since 1955.
On the other hand, the LDP was out of power between 1993 and 1996. Yet the last non-LDP coalition went through three Prime Ministers in three years and couldn't stamp out an identity for itself. Now one could make the case the LDP has had three Prime Ministers since Junichiro Koizumi left office in 2006. But the LDP is a known quantity in Japan even if its brand name is diminished at the moment. Unless the DPJ can come up with a leader (be it Hatomaya or someone else) with the kind of popularity Koizumi had while in office methinks the LDP will be back by 2012.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Harper Appoints NDP Premier as Canadian Ambassador to the U.S.
Last night, I found out that Manitoba Premier Gary Doer had resigned after 10 years on the job.
Today, Prime Minister Stephen Harper has appointed Doer as Canada's new Ambassador to the United States.
While it is unusual for a Conservative Prime Minister to appoint an NDPer to a diplomatic post it is not unheard of. Brian Mulroney appointed former Ontario NDP leader Stephen Lewis as Ambassador to the UN in 1984.
I think it's a gesture to President Obama. Appoint a left of centre politician to the post. Smart. It also increases the probability of Harper gaining a political ally in Manitoba. Whoever the NDP chooses to fill Doer's shoes is going to have a tough time. Doer governed as a moderate centrist and was largely successful because of that image. After all, he was thrice elected Premier. Now that he will leave office, the Conservatives in Manitoba have their best chance in getting back to power in a decade.
Today, Prime Minister Stephen Harper has appointed Doer as Canada's new Ambassador to the United States.
While it is unusual for a Conservative Prime Minister to appoint an NDPer to a diplomatic post it is not unheard of. Brian Mulroney appointed former Ontario NDP leader Stephen Lewis as Ambassador to the UN in 1984.
I think it's a gesture to President Obama. Appoint a left of centre politician to the post. Smart. It also increases the probability of Harper gaining a political ally in Manitoba. Whoever the NDP chooses to fill Doer's shoes is going to have a tough time. Doer governed as a moderate centrist and was largely successful because of that image. After all, he was thrice elected Premier. Now that he will leave office, the Conservatives in Manitoba have their best chance in getting back to power in a decade.
Former NHL Coach Appointed to Canadian Senate
Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper has appointed former NHL coach Jacques Demers to Canada's Senate.
Demers coached several NHL teams including the St. Louis Blues, the Detroit Red Wings, the Montreal Canadiens and the Tampa Bay Lightning. He guided the Canadiens to the Stanley Cup in 1993. They are the last Canadian team to win the Stanley Cup.
Several years ago, Demers admitted he could not read or write. If it was anyone other than Demers, Harper would have been lambasted for his appointment. However, Demers is a beloved figure in Canada so I think there will be few objections.
In recent years, Demers has served as a hockey color commentator on RDS, Canada's French language sports channel.
Demers coached several NHL teams including the St. Louis Blues, the Detroit Red Wings, the Montreal Canadiens and the Tampa Bay Lightning. He guided the Canadiens to the Stanley Cup in 1993. They are the last Canadian team to win the Stanley Cup.
Several years ago, Demers admitted he could not read or write. If it was anyone other than Demers, Harper would have been lambasted for his appointment. However, Demers is a beloved figure in Canada so I think there will be few objections.
In recent years, Demers has served as a hockey color commentator on RDS, Canada's French language sports channel.
What if Chelsea Clinton Interviewed The Bush Twins?
I am in Canada for a few days. Before I went to bed I watched the Canadian Parliamentary Channel (CPAC), the Canadian equivalent of C-SPAN and saw a most interesting interview.
Catherine Clark, the daughter of former Tory Prime Minister Joe Clark, interviewed Liberal MP Justin Trudeau, the son of the late Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau.
It's an interesting interview because the two of them have experiences and insights few others have. I mean imagine being in a conversation with someone who lived in the same house you did. It would be kind of like Chelsea Clinton interviewing the Bush twins.
Catherine Clark, the daughter of former Tory Prime Minister Joe Clark, interviewed Liberal MP Justin Trudeau, the son of the late Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau.
It's an interesting interview because the two of them have experiences and insights few others have. I mean imagine being in a conversation with someone who lived in the same house you did. It would be kind of like Chelsea Clinton interviewing the Bush twins.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Dominick Dunne, 1925-2009. R.I.P.
Dominick Dunne, movie producer turned investigative journalist, died today of bladder cancer. He was 83.
Dunne was best known for the articles he wrote for Vanity Fair. He spent most of the last three decades covering legal proceedings such as the trials of Claus Von Bulow, the Menendez brothers, O.J. Simpson and William Kennedy Smith, nephew of the late Ted Kennedy. He also wrote an article about the trial of John Thomas Sweeney, the man who murdered his daughter actress Dominique Dunne in 1982.
Dunne also wrote novels. After covering William Kennedy Smith's trial, Dunne developed an interest in the Martha Moxley case. She was murdered in 1975 and it was believed that Michael Skakel, a nephew of Robert F. Kennedy, was somehow involved but could not be proven. His interest in the Moxley case inspired the novel A Season in Purgatory. Although the story was fictional the novel played a significant role in renewing interest in the Moxley case which would eventually lead to Skakel's arrest and conviction for that crime. In 2002, Skakel was sentenced to 20 years to life for Moxley's murder.
Needless to say, Dunne was not a favorite of the Kennedys. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. holds Dunne responsible for Skakel's conviction and told Larry King that Dunne was a gossip columnist, not a journalist.
However, Dunne was ordered to apologize to and compensate former Congressman Gary Condit who brought forward a lawsuit against Dunne when he implicated him in the 2001 disappearance of Chandra Levy, an intern with whom Condit had an extramarital affair. Ingmar Guandique was charged with Levy's murder last March.
Dunne is survived by his son, actor Griffin Dunne and his sister-in-law, writer Joan Didion.
Dunne was best known for the articles he wrote for Vanity Fair. He spent most of the last three decades covering legal proceedings such as the trials of Claus Von Bulow, the Menendez brothers, O.J. Simpson and William Kennedy Smith, nephew of the late Ted Kennedy. He also wrote an article about the trial of John Thomas Sweeney, the man who murdered his daughter actress Dominique Dunne in 1982.
Dunne also wrote novels. After covering William Kennedy Smith's trial, Dunne developed an interest in the Martha Moxley case. She was murdered in 1975 and it was believed that Michael Skakel, a nephew of Robert F. Kennedy, was somehow involved but could not be proven. His interest in the Moxley case inspired the novel A Season in Purgatory. Although the story was fictional the novel played a significant role in renewing interest in the Moxley case which would eventually lead to Skakel's arrest and conviction for that crime. In 2002, Skakel was sentenced to 20 years to life for Moxley's murder.
Needless to say, Dunne was not a favorite of the Kennedys. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. holds Dunne responsible for Skakel's conviction and told Larry King that Dunne was a gossip columnist, not a journalist.
However, Dunne was ordered to apologize to and compensate former Congressman Gary Condit who brought forward a lawsuit against Dunne when he implicated him in the 2001 disappearance of Chandra Levy, an intern with whom Condit had an extramarital affair. Ingmar Guandique was charged with Levy's murder last March.
Dunne is survived by his son, actor Griffin Dunne and his sister-in-law, writer Joan Didion.
Another Day, Another Met Done For The Season
Only 24 hours after the New York Mets announced their ace starter Johan Santana was having season ending elbow surgery another one of their starting pitchers will also have season ending surgery.
Mets lefty Oliver Perez will undergo surgery on his right knee. Truth be told, Perez is probably relieved his season is over and so are Mets fans. Perez had an awful season going 3-4 with a 6.82 ERA in 14 starts. He walked 58 batters in only 66 innings pitched.
With Santana, Perez along with John Maine on the DL plus the recent release of Livan Hernandez (who as of today is once again a member of the Washington Nationals) the only member of the starting rotation at the beginning of the season that is still standing is Mike Pelfrey. After Pelfrey the rotation consists of Tim Redding, Bobby Parnell, Nelson Figueroa and Pat Misch, who has never won a major league game since his debut with the San Francisco Giants in 2006. Not exactly Tom Seaver, Jerry Koosman, Gary Gentry and Nolan Ryan.
I bet the Mets now wish they had signed Pedro Martinez to a one-year deal. Martinez, now a member of the first place Philadelphia Phillies, beat them at Citi Field this past Sunday with a little help from Eric Bruntlett. Can you say unassisted triple play? Can you say a nice summary of everything that has gone wrong for the New York Mets this season in a single at bat?
Mets lefty Oliver Perez will undergo surgery on his right knee. Truth be told, Perez is probably relieved his season is over and so are Mets fans. Perez had an awful season going 3-4 with a 6.82 ERA in 14 starts. He walked 58 batters in only 66 innings pitched.
With Santana, Perez along with John Maine on the DL plus the recent release of Livan Hernandez (who as of today is once again a member of the Washington Nationals) the only member of the starting rotation at the beginning of the season that is still standing is Mike Pelfrey. After Pelfrey the rotation consists of Tim Redding, Bobby Parnell, Nelson Figueroa and Pat Misch, who has never won a major league game since his debut with the San Francisco Giants in 2006. Not exactly Tom Seaver, Jerry Koosman, Gary Gentry and Nolan Ryan.
I bet the Mets now wish they had signed Pedro Martinez to a one-year deal. Martinez, now a member of the first place Philadelphia Phillies, beat them at Citi Field this past Sunday with a little help from Eric Bruntlett. Can you say unassisted triple play? Can you say a nice summary of everything that has gone wrong for the New York Mets this season in a single at bat?
Ellie Greenwich, 1940-2009. R.I.P.
Songwriter and record producer Ellie Greenwich died today in New York City of a heart attack. A few days ago she had been hospitalized with pneumonia. She was 69.
Greenwich and her former husband, Jeff Barry, were a songwriting powerhouse from 1962 to 1966. They co-wrote songs like "Be My Baby", "Baby I Love You", "Then He Kissed Me", "Da Doo Ron Ron", "Hanky Panky", "Doo Wah Diddy Diddy". Greenwich and Barry also collaborated with Phil Spector on songs like "Chapel of Love" and "River Deep Mountain High."
They wrote all these songs in New York City's Brill Building. Greenwich and Barry weren't the only husband and wife team of songwriters. The Brill Building could also brag about Carole King and Gerry Goffin as well as Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil.
Greenwich was also instrumental in discovering Neil Diamond. She and Barry would produce several of his early hits like "Cherry Cherry" and "Kentucky Woman."
In 1985, a musical based on Greenwich's life called Leader of the Pack (yes, she and Barry produced that song too) made it to Broadway.
Although "Baby I Love You" and "Be My Baby" were made famous by The Ronettes I'm partial to the cover versions recorded by Andy Kim in 1969 which were produced by Barry. Here's a clip of Kim lip synching "Be My Baby." The female back up vocalist on this record (although not in the video) is none other than Ellie Greenwich.
Greenwich and her former husband, Jeff Barry, were a songwriting powerhouse from 1962 to 1966. They co-wrote songs like "Be My Baby", "Baby I Love You", "Then He Kissed Me", "Da Doo Ron Ron", "Hanky Panky", "Doo Wah Diddy Diddy". Greenwich and Barry also collaborated with Phil Spector on songs like "Chapel of Love" and "River Deep Mountain High."
They wrote all these songs in New York City's Brill Building. Greenwich and Barry weren't the only husband and wife team of songwriters. The Brill Building could also brag about Carole King and Gerry Goffin as well as Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil.
Greenwich was also instrumental in discovering Neil Diamond. She and Barry would produce several of his early hits like "Cherry Cherry" and "Kentucky Woman."
In 1985, a musical based on Greenwich's life called Leader of the Pack (yes, she and Barry produced that song too) made it to Broadway.
Although "Baby I Love You" and "Be My Baby" were made famous by The Ronettes I'm partial to the cover versions recorded by Andy Kim in 1969 which were produced by Barry. Here's a clip of Kim lip synching "Be My Baby." The female back up vocalist on this record (although not in the video) is none other than Ellie Greenwich.
Major new social networking site debuts - republicanville.com
From the Politics on the Rocks gang - this new social networking site is going to encompass everything, from twitter to facebook to other new features still being implemented that you will be be pleasantly surprised to see. It launched Tuesday and will be ramping up fast as improvements are made. No longer will conservative political activists need to log into multiple new media sites, but will be able to access them all from this one site.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Edward M. Kennedy, 1932-2009. R.I.P.
Massachusetts Senator Edward M. "Ted" Kennedy died early this morning after a 15 month battle with brain cancer. He was 77.
I had a feeling his time was coming soon. Earlier this month, he was too ill to attend either the funeral of his older sister Eunice Kennedy Shriver or to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom bestowed upon him by President Obama. It had been hoped the President would take time out of his Martha's Vineyard vacation to meet with Senator Kennedy but those plans were scuttled.
Kennedy was first elected to the U.S. Senate in a special election in 1962 and would be re-elected to eight more full terms, most recently in 2006. He would unsuccessfully challenge Jimmy Carter for the Democratic Party nomination in 1980. Yet there can be no question that Kennedy's challenge hurt Carter considerably in the 1980 Presidential election.
Of course, Kennedy would never attain the office held by his brother John and that was sought by brother Robert before being cut down by an assassin's bullet. This was in no small part due to his personal behavior be it his temporary expulsion from Harvard College, Chappaquiddick, the incident involving his nephew William Kennedy Smith not to mention his alcoholism and his carousing with women. However, he became more grounded after his second marriage to Victoria Anne Reggie in 1992.
Kennedy was simultaneously a fence mender and a ferocious partisan. He was enormously helpful to President Reagan with regard to developing his relationship with Mikhail Gorbachev. But he did everything he could to successfully damage Reagan's appointment of Robert Bork to the Supreme Court. Kennedy was also helpful to President Bush where it concerned No Child Left Behind. But he did everything he could to damage our efforts in Iraq including his infamous comment about Abu Ghraib prison in May 2004 when he said, "Shamefully we now learn that Saddam's torture chambers reopened under new management, U.S. management."
Nevertheless, his passing leaves an enormous void in the U.S. Senate that will not be easily replaced. A special election will be held within the next six months to fill the now vacant Senate seat. Shortly before his passing, Kennedy had called on Massachusetts lawmakers to amend the law to allow Governor Deval Patrick to name a successor immediately upon his death. Ironically, Kennedy had saw to it that Patrick's predecessor, Mitt Romney, would not have such a power in the event John Kerry was elected President in 2004. Ted Kennedy didn't want Romney appointing a Republican to the U.S. Senate so lawmakers in Massachusetts took that power away from him. You have to give Senator Kennedy props for being a masterful politician.
Universal health care, of course, was an issue that was dear to Senator Kennedy. In light of how poorly received Obamacare has been received look for President Obama to use Senator Kennedy's passing to sell his health care proposals in the coming days and weeks. In emphasizing the legacy of Ted Kennedy, President Obama will make the case that the passage of universal health care will represent that final piece of his legacy. It will be shameless and exactly how Senator Kennedy would have wanted it.
Now that Edward Kennedy is gone, 81-year-old Jean Kennedy Smith is the last surviving sibling of the Kennedy clan.
I had a feeling his time was coming soon. Earlier this month, he was too ill to attend either the funeral of his older sister Eunice Kennedy Shriver or to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom bestowed upon him by President Obama. It had been hoped the President would take time out of his Martha's Vineyard vacation to meet with Senator Kennedy but those plans were scuttled.
Kennedy was first elected to the U.S. Senate in a special election in 1962 and would be re-elected to eight more full terms, most recently in 2006. He would unsuccessfully challenge Jimmy Carter for the Democratic Party nomination in 1980. Yet there can be no question that Kennedy's challenge hurt Carter considerably in the 1980 Presidential election.
Of course, Kennedy would never attain the office held by his brother John and that was sought by brother Robert before being cut down by an assassin's bullet. This was in no small part due to his personal behavior be it his temporary expulsion from Harvard College, Chappaquiddick, the incident involving his nephew William Kennedy Smith not to mention his alcoholism and his carousing with women. However, he became more grounded after his second marriage to Victoria Anne Reggie in 1992.
Kennedy was simultaneously a fence mender and a ferocious partisan. He was enormously helpful to President Reagan with regard to developing his relationship with Mikhail Gorbachev. But he did everything he could to successfully damage Reagan's appointment of Robert Bork to the Supreme Court. Kennedy was also helpful to President Bush where it concerned No Child Left Behind. But he did everything he could to damage our efforts in Iraq including his infamous comment about Abu Ghraib prison in May 2004 when he said, "Shamefully we now learn that Saddam's torture chambers reopened under new management, U.S. management."
Nevertheless, his passing leaves an enormous void in the U.S. Senate that will not be easily replaced. A special election will be held within the next six months to fill the now vacant Senate seat. Shortly before his passing, Kennedy had called on Massachusetts lawmakers to amend the law to allow Governor Deval Patrick to name a successor immediately upon his death. Ironically, Kennedy had saw to it that Patrick's predecessor, Mitt Romney, would not have such a power in the event John Kerry was elected President in 2004. Ted Kennedy didn't want Romney appointing a Republican to the U.S. Senate so lawmakers in Massachusetts took that power away from him. You have to give Senator Kennedy props for being a masterful politician.
Universal health care, of course, was an issue that was dear to Senator Kennedy. In light of how poorly received Obamacare has been received look for President Obama to use Senator Kennedy's passing to sell his health care proposals in the coming days and weeks. In emphasizing the legacy of Ted Kennedy, President Obama will make the case that the passage of universal health care will represent that final piece of his legacy. It will be shameless and exactly how Senator Kennedy would have wanted it.
Now that Edward Kennedy is gone, 81-year-old Jean Kennedy Smith is the last surviving sibling of the Kennedy clan.
I Pity The New York Mets
I never thought I would say it but I feel sorry for the 2009 New York Mets.
After disappointing finishes to the 2007 and 2008 seasons, it was thought the Mets would take the NL East in 2009.
As of this writing, the Mets are 57-68 and 16½ games behind the Philadelphia Phillies. The only team looking up at the Mets this year is the Washington Nationals.
The principle reason the Mets are languishing is because they are missing their best players.
First baseman Carlos Delgado had surgery on his hip in May and hasn't been heard from since.
Shortstop Jose Reyes injured his right calf in late May and re-injured it while on a rehab assignment.
Centerfielder Carlos Beltran has been on the DL since June with a bone bruise on his right knee.
Earlier this month, third baseman David Wright sustained a concussion after being hit by a pitch on the helmet by San Francisco Giants pitcher Matt Cain. Believe me it isn't pretty. A lot of players are never the same after getting hit on the head with a pitch. Just ask Dickie Thon or Ellis Valentine.
And if that wasn't enough, the Mets announced today that ace starting pitcher Johan Santana will miss the rest of the 2009 season as he will be undergoing surgery to remove bone chips in his elbow.
I haven't even mentioned the injuries to starting pitcher John Maine or set up man J.J. Putz. Nor did I mention the bizarre circumstances that led to the firing of assistant general manager Tony Bernazard last month. Let's just say it's not a good idea to challenge your players to a fistfight.
Talk about being born under a bad sign.
Oh well. Wait until next year.
After disappointing finishes to the 2007 and 2008 seasons, it was thought the Mets would take the NL East in 2009.
As of this writing, the Mets are 57-68 and 16½ games behind the Philadelphia Phillies. The only team looking up at the Mets this year is the Washington Nationals.
The principle reason the Mets are languishing is because they are missing their best players.
First baseman Carlos Delgado had surgery on his hip in May and hasn't been heard from since.
Shortstop Jose Reyes injured his right calf in late May and re-injured it while on a rehab assignment.
Centerfielder Carlos Beltran has been on the DL since June with a bone bruise on his right knee.
Earlier this month, third baseman David Wright sustained a concussion after being hit by a pitch on the helmet by San Francisco Giants pitcher Matt Cain. Believe me it isn't pretty. A lot of players are never the same after getting hit on the head with a pitch. Just ask Dickie Thon or Ellis Valentine.
And if that wasn't enough, the Mets announced today that ace starting pitcher Johan Santana will miss the rest of the 2009 season as he will be undergoing surgery to remove bone chips in his elbow.
I haven't even mentioned the injuries to starting pitcher John Maine or set up man J.J. Putz. Nor did I mention the bizarre circumstances that led to the firing of assistant general manager Tony Bernazard last month. Let's just say it's not a good idea to challenge your players to a fistfight.
Talk about being born under a bad sign.
Oh well. Wait until next year.
Thoughts on Martha's Vineyard
With President Obama and his family in Martha's Vineyard this week I thought I've been thinking about my only trip to the island.
In May 2001, my older brother Ezra paid me a visit in Boston. During his stay, we decided to take a day trip to Martha's Vineyard. It was about a week before Memorial Day so the crowd was modest (hence not too much traffic) and the weather was pleasant and comfortable.
We took a bus from Boston to Hyannis. Once in Hyannis, we boarded a smaller bus that took us to Woods Hole. From there we took a boat to Martha's Vineyard. The ride took about 20 minutes. There were also boats available for Nantucket.
Martha's Vineyard is divided into several different small towns. Our boat landed in the town of Tisbury. We weren't interested in taking any of the tour buses and instead opted to walk around. There was a privately owned beach that was open to the public that we walked along. Ezra must have taken 100 pictures. I don't know if he ever developed them all. I can't say I blame him for taking so many pictures. There was something special about that beach. If I were ever to walk along a beach arm in arm with a woman that beach on Martha's Vineyard would be the one. After that we ambled into town where we spent the balance of the afternoon before making our way back to Boston.
I've never been back there since. Not that I wouldn't go back but I would not recommend going to Martha's Vineyard for a day trip. When I want to get away from Boston for the day I usually take a train up to Walden Pond or to the North Shore. I remember how exhausted Ezra and I were when we got back to my apartment late that evening and can't imagine how exhausted we would have been during peak season with heavy traffic.
Martha's Vineyard (and the Cape in general) is much better suited for an overnight or weekend respites. Of course, if you're the President of the United States and have between $35,000 and $50,000 to spend you can stay on the island for the whole week. Hey, what's $50,000 of his own money when President Obama tells Congress to spends trillions of ours.
Or put it this way. If Sgt. Crowley wanted to have another beer with President Obama and Professor Gates I don't think he could afford the glass.
In May 2001, my older brother Ezra paid me a visit in Boston. During his stay, we decided to take a day trip to Martha's Vineyard. It was about a week before Memorial Day so the crowd was modest (hence not too much traffic) and the weather was pleasant and comfortable.
We took a bus from Boston to Hyannis. Once in Hyannis, we boarded a smaller bus that took us to Woods Hole. From there we took a boat to Martha's Vineyard. The ride took about 20 minutes. There were also boats available for Nantucket.
Martha's Vineyard is divided into several different small towns. Our boat landed in the town of Tisbury. We weren't interested in taking any of the tour buses and instead opted to walk around. There was a privately owned beach that was open to the public that we walked along. Ezra must have taken 100 pictures. I don't know if he ever developed them all. I can't say I blame him for taking so many pictures. There was something special about that beach. If I were ever to walk along a beach arm in arm with a woman that beach on Martha's Vineyard would be the one. After that we ambled into town where we spent the balance of the afternoon before making our way back to Boston.
I've never been back there since. Not that I wouldn't go back but I would not recommend going to Martha's Vineyard for a day trip. When I want to get away from Boston for the day I usually take a train up to Walden Pond or to the North Shore. I remember how exhausted Ezra and I were when we got back to my apartment late that evening and can't imagine how exhausted we would have been during peak season with heavy traffic.
Martha's Vineyard (and the Cape in general) is much better suited for an overnight or weekend respites. Of course, if you're the President of the United States and have between $35,000 and $50,000 to spend you can stay on the island for the whole week. Hey, what's $50,000 of his own money when President Obama tells Congress to spends trillions of ours.
Or put it this way. If Sgt. Crowley wanted to have another beer with President Obama and Professor Gates I don't think he could afford the glass.
Red Sox Acquire Billy Wagner From Mets
The Boston Red Sox have obtained the services of left-handed reliever Billy Wagner from the New York Mets in exchange for two players to be named later.
Wagner has pitched in the majors since 1995 with the Houston Astros, Philadelphia Phillies and the Mets. He has saved 385 career games and has saved 30 or more games in a season eight times. Wagner saved 27 games with the Mets in 2008 before an elbow injury last September ended his season and forced him to have Tommy John surgery. He became expendable when the Mets signed free agent Francisco "K-Rod" Rodriguez to a three-year contract in the offseason.
The 38-year-old southpaw was expected to miss the entire 2009 season but he recovered far faster than anyone anticipated and he did appear in two games for the Mets earlier this month before today's trade.
Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon is less than enthusiastic about the addition of Wagner:
What has he done? Has he pitched this year? Is he ready to pitch or is he not? I think our bullpen is good where we're at right now. Don't get me wrong. But I guess you could always make it better. It's kind of like the [Eric] Gagne thing, I guess.
Papelbon is, of course, referring to the trade deadline deal that brought Eric Gagne to the Red Sox from the Texas Rangers during the 2007 season. Earlier this decade, Gagne was the best relief pitcher in MLB. He saved 84 consecutive games between 2002 and 2004 and won the NL Cy Young Award in 2003. However, Gagne was plagued by injuries in 2005 and 2006 and the Dodgers eventually released him. He started the 2007 season with the Rangers and appeared to be regaining his old form having saved 16 games for Texas at the time of the trade.
But Gagne had never pitched in a set up role and he was a complete bust. He gave up 14 runs in 18 and two thirds innings pitched and blew the only three save opportunities he was given. Gagne didn't stop the Red Sox from winning the 2007 World Series but his stint in Boston was mercifully shortlived. After a poor season in 2008 with the Milwaukee Brewers, Gagne is now pitching with the Quebec Capitales of the independent Can-Am League.
Now I'm not saying Wagner is necessarily on the road to pitching in Quebec City. Wagner is expected to pitch as a left-handed set up man to compliment Hideki Okajima, the Sox only other lefty reliever. Yet Wagner, like Gagne, is untested as a set up man and might not be suited to it.
Yet I can't help but think that Papelbon is objecting because he's worried the Red Sox might have plans to replace him with Wagner in the closer's role. On the surface that would appear absurd. Paps is healthy while Wagner is just coming off Tommy John surgery. Papelbon is also almost a decade younger than Wagner. Although Papelbon's 29 saves is tied for 4th in the AL (along with former teammate David Aardsma of the Seattle Mariners) he has struggled at times this season. Red Sox fans are accustomed to Papelbon having a one-two-three inning and that hasn't happened a lot in 2009. He's lost a little off his fastball and is learning he can't rely on the strikeout all the time.
Above all else, Papelbon's contract expires at the end of the season. Perhaps he is worried the Sox will not make a great effort to re-sign him and will instead offer arbitration to Wagner for considerably less. Again that assumes Wagner pitches with any kind of effectiveness. But even if Wagner is fabulous in August and September, I think the Red Sox would be crazy to let a 28-year-old closer walk in order to keep a 38-year-old closer who might have one or two good seasons left. On the other hand, perhaps the Red Sox have acquired Wagner in part to light a fire under Papelbon during the stretch drive. If that was one of Theo Epstein's motivations in getting Wagner it's working.
Wagner has pitched in the majors since 1995 with the Houston Astros, Philadelphia Phillies and the Mets. He has saved 385 career games and has saved 30 or more games in a season eight times. Wagner saved 27 games with the Mets in 2008 before an elbow injury last September ended his season and forced him to have Tommy John surgery. He became expendable when the Mets signed free agent Francisco "K-Rod" Rodriguez to a three-year contract in the offseason.
The 38-year-old southpaw was expected to miss the entire 2009 season but he recovered far faster than anyone anticipated and he did appear in two games for the Mets earlier this month before today's trade.
Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon is less than enthusiastic about the addition of Wagner:
What has he done? Has he pitched this year? Is he ready to pitch or is he not? I think our bullpen is good where we're at right now. Don't get me wrong. But I guess you could always make it better. It's kind of like the [Eric] Gagne thing, I guess.
Papelbon is, of course, referring to the trade deadline deal that brought Eric Gagne to the Red Sox from the Texas Rangers during the 2007 season. Earlier this decade, Gagne was the best relief pitcher in MLB. He saved 84 consecutive games between 2002 and 2004 and won the NL Cy Young Award in 2003. However, Gagne was plagued by injuries in 2005 and 2006 and the Dodgers eventually released him. He started the 2007 season with the Rangers and appeared to be regaining his old form having saved 16 games for Texas at the time of the trade.
But Gagne had never pitched in a set up role and he was a complete bust. He gave up 14 runs in 18 and two thirds innings pitched and blew the only three save opportunities he was given. Gagne didn't stop the Red Sox from winning the 2007 World Series but his stint in Boston was mercifully shortlived. After a poor season in 2008 with the Milwaukee Brewers, Gagne is now pitching with the Quebec Capitales of the independent Can-Am League.
Now I'm not saying Wagner is necessarily on the road to pitching in Quebec City. Wagner is expected to pitch as a left-handed set up man to compliment Hideki Okajima, the Sox only other lefty reliever. Yet Wagner, like Gagne, is untested as a set up man and might not be suited to it.
Yet I can't help but think that Papelbon is objecting because he's worried the Red Sox might have plans to replace him with Wagner in the closer's role. On the surface that would appear absurd. Paps is healthy while Wagner is just coming off Tommy John surgery. Papelbon is also almost a decade younger than Wagner. Although Papelbon's 29 saves is tied for 4th in the AL (along with former teammate David Aardsma of the Seattle Mariners) he has struggled at times this season. Red Sox fans are accustomed to Papelbon having a one-two-three inning and that hasn't happened a lot in 2009. He's lost a little off his fastball and is learning he can't rely on the strikeout all the time.
Above all else, Papelbon's contract expires at the end of the season. Perhaps he is worried the Sox will not make a great effort to re-sign him and will instead offer arbitration to Wagner for considerably less. Again that assumes Wagner pitches with any kind of effectiveness. But even if Wagner is fabulous in August and September, I think the Red Sox would be crazy to let a 28-year-old closer walk in order to keep a 38-year-old closer who might have one or two good seasons left. On the other hand, perhaps the Red Sox have acquired Wagner in part to light a fire under Papelbon during the stretch drive. If that was one of Theo Epstein's motivations in getting Wagner it's working.
Federal Deficit to Hit $1.6 Trillion
According to the Obama Administration and the Congressional Budget Office, the federal deficit is expected to hit $1.6 trillion this year.
Another $9 trillion will have to be borrowed to finance the deficit. Consequently, the national debt will be an estimated $23 trillion by the end of 2019.
In fairness, President Bush bears some responsibility for this state of affairs. The Wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have played no small part in the rise of our deficit despite their necessity. But let us also remember that President Bush presided over the biggest expansion of government seen since LBJ even if we are to exclude defense spending. Lest we forget the Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit which is estimated to cost over $1 trillion over the next decade. This is more than twice its original expected cost. Let's also not forget the $700 billion bailout put forward by President Bush last fall.
Yet this is accelerating under President Obama's watch. It is curious that these numbers are being announced as President Obama is playing golf in Martha's Vineyard. Needless to say it will tee off a lot of people. It doesn't make for very good politics. As sure as the sun rises in the east, if President Bush were on the links as these sort of numbers were being released then Obama would have pounced on him no sooner than the ink had dried.
In fact, do you remember the "fiscal responsibility" summit at the White House last February? President Obama blasted the "casual dishonesty" of the federal budget during the Bush Administration. He said, "We cannot simply spend as we please and defer the consequences to the next budget, the next administration and the next generation.” Yet this is precisely what is happening under President Obama's watch.
Having written all that I will say that I harbor no illusions that the size of the federal government will ever be reduced. It didn't happen with Reagan. It didn't happen with either Bush and it sure as hell isn't going to happen now and we are all to blame to some degree. As long as there are unlimited wants and politicians (Democrat and Republican alike) who are in favor of re-election the size of the federal government will never be reduced. At best, one can perhaps slow the growth of federal spending but one can never reduce it in absolute terms. There is no such thing as small government in a land of 300 million people. Perhaps we get the government we deserve.
Nonetheless, it is difficult to see how President Obama can justify Obamacare under the current circumstances. Yet I'm sure that won't stop him.
Another $9 trillion will have to be borrowed to finance the deficit. Consequently, the national debt will be an estimated $23 trillion by the end of 2019.
In fairness, President Bush bears some responsibility for this state of affairs. The Wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have played no small part in the rise of our deficit despite their necessity. But let us also remember that President Bush presided over the biggest expansion of government seen since LBJ even if we are to exclude defense spending. Lest we forget the Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit which is estimated to cost over $1 trillion over the next decade. This is more than twice its original expected cost. Let's also not forget the $700 billion bailout put forward by President Bush last fall.
Yet this is accelerating under President Obama's watch. It is curious that these numbers are being announced as President Obama is playing golf in Martha's Vineyard. Needless to say it will tee off a lot of people. It doesn't make for very good politics. As sure as the sun rises in the east, if President Bush were on the links as these sort of numbers were being released then Obama would have pounced on him no sooner than the ink had dried.
In fact, do you remember the "fiscal responsibility" summit at the White House last February? President Obama blasted the "casual dishonesty" of the federal budget during the Bush Administration. He said, "We cannot simply spend as we please and defer the consequences to the next budget, the next administration and the next generation.” Yet this is precisely what is happening under President Obama's watch.
Having written all that I will say that I harbor no illusions that the size of the federal government will ever be reduced. It didn't happen with Reagan. It didn't happen with either Bush and it sure as hell isn't going to happen now and we are all to blame to some degree. As long as there are unlimited wants and politicians (Democrat and Republican alike) who are in favor of re-election the size of the federal government will never be reduced. At best, one can perhaps slow the growth of federal spending but one can never reduce it in absolute terms. There is no such thing as small government in a land of 300 million people. Perhaps we get the government we deserve.
Nonetheless, it is difficult to see how President Obama can justify Obamacare under the current circumstances. Yet I'm sure that won't stop him.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Holder Appoints Special Prosecutor to Probe Alleged CIA Prisoner Abuse
Attorney General Eric Holder has appointed federal prosecutor John Durham to look into the legality of interrogation techniques used by the CIA against terror suspects overseas during the Bush Administration.
This is a big mistake.
The Obama Administration can insist all it wants that it will "look forward and not backward." It is a completely disingenuous statement as this is nothing more than a political exercise masquerading as a judicial inquiry intended to discredit the Bush Administration.
This announcement serves only to placate Obama supporters who want Bush and Cheney's heads on a stick as well as the to appease the Muslim world. In so doing this announcement will also cause morale to sink not only within the CIA but in the U.S. military. The Obama Administration is making it crystal clear that combatting terrorism committed in the name of Islamic fundamentalism is not a priority.
Policy decisions like this make me wonder who the Obama Administration views as a greater enemy to America. The Bush Administration or al-Qaeda?
Or ask yourself this question. Is placating Obama supporters and appeasing the Muslim world really worth the price of our national security?
This is a big mistake.
The Obama Administration can insist all it wants that it will "look forward and not backward." It is a completely disingenuous statement as this is nothing more than a political exercise masquerading as a judicial inquiry intended to discredit the Bush Administration.
This announcement serves only to placate Obama supporters who want Bush and Cheney's heads on a stick as well as the to appease the Muslim world. In so doing this announcement will also cause morale to sink not only within the CIA but in the U.S. military. The Obama Administration is making it crystal clear that combatting terrorism committed in the name of Islamic fundamentalism is not a priority.
Policy decisions like this make me wonder who the Obama Administration views as a greater enemy to America. The Bush Administration or al-Qaeda?
Or ask yourself this question. Is placating Obama supporters and appeasing the Muslim world really worth the price of our national security?
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Sweden's Shame
Several days ago, the Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet published an article accusing Israeli Defense Forces of harvesting the organs of Palestinians.
While Borsin Bonnier, Sweden's Ambassador to Israel, condemned the article Sweden's government has refused to condemn the article citing free speech. But it goes far beyond free speech. When Borsin Bonnier, Sweden's Ambassador to Israel, condemned the article the Swedish government let the Ambassador hung out to dry claiming her remarks were "designed for an Israeli audience." Members of the Swedish opposition have called for Bonnier's removal adding that she should be "taught the basics of freedom of speech."
Yet Avigdor Lieberman, Israel's Minister of Foreign Affairs, pointed out to an audience in Norway during the Mohammed cartoon row the Swedish government sent a letter of protest to Denmark. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called upon the Swedish government to condemn the article.
Anti-Semitism has become far more overt in Sweden as it has across Europe in recent years. Like everywhere else in Europe, Sweden's Muslim population has grown by leaps and bounds and the Swedish authorities are afraid of offending them as you can read here and here. Last February, local authorities in Malmo barred spectators from a Davis Cup tournament match between Sweden and Israel for fear of anti-Israel protests. The International Tennis Federation was not amused and has banned Malmo from hosting any Davis Cup events for the next five years.
Curiously, Donald Bostrom says he has "no clue" if the claims made against the IDF are true.
Well, the IDF didn't massacre 500 Palestinian civilians at Jenin.
Nor did the IDF shoot Mohammed al-Dura.
Yet these claims are believed because people who hate Jews and/or Israel want to believe them.
While Borsin Bonnier, Sweden's Ambassador to Israel, condemned the article Sweden's government has refused to condemn the article citing free speech. But it goes far beyond free speech. When Borsin Bonnier, Sweden's Ambassador to Israel, condemned the article the Swedish government let the Ambassador hung out to dry claiming her remarks were "designed for an Israeli audience." Members of the Swedish opposition have called for Bonnier's removal adding that she should be "taught the basics of freedom of speech."
Yet Avigdor Lieberman, Israel's Minister of Foreign Affairs, pointed out to an audience in Norway during the Mohammed cartoon row the Swedish government sent a letter of protest to Denmark. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called upon the Swedish government to condemn the article.
Anti-Semitism has become far more overt in Sweden as it has across Europe in recent years. Like everywhere else in Europe, Sweden's Muslim population has grown by leaps and bounds and the Swedish authorities are afraid of offending them as you can read here and here. Last February, local authorities in Malmo barred spectators from a Davis Cup tournament match between Sweden and Israel for fear of anti-Israel protests. The International Tennis Federation was not amused and has banned Malmo from hosting any Davis Cup events for the next five years.
Curiously, Donald Bostrom says he has "no clue" if the claims made against the IDF are true.
Well, the IDF didn't massacre 500 Palestinian civilians at Jenin.
Nor did the IDF shoot Mohammed al-Dura.
Yet these claims are believed because people who hate Jews and/or Israel want to believe them.
Vicki Cruse, 1969-2009. R.I.P.
Vicki Cruse, a champion aerobatic pilot, was killed yesterday during a training flight in preparation for the World Aerobatic Championships being held at the Silverstone Circuit in Northamptonshire, England. She was 40.
I am in the midst of re-reading Susan Butler's East to the Dawn: The Life of Amelia Earhart. While Earhart is best known for flying solo across the Atlantic and her ill-fated attempt to circumnavigate the globe, she was also an accomplished aerobatic pilot and competed in the sort of airshows Cruse did. Only back then they were generally called "air rodeos." When participating in these shows in the early 1920s while based in Los Angeles, Earhart would largely ascended to high altitudes but also could perform stunts such as barrel rolls, loops and tailspins. Later in her career she participated in long distance aviation races.
Accidents were a common occurrence in the 1920s and Earhart "ditched" more than her share of aircraft. She never sustained any serious injuries. However, some of her fellow colleagues weren't so lucky, both male and female. Given the hazards involved with flying it was thought that commercial airplanes would never be a viable business.
Of course, airplanes became much safer and commercial flight became a viable business venture notwithstanding the current state of the airlines. Yet the inherent risk in flying is always there whether aboard a private, commercial, military or sport aircraft. Even the most experienced of pilots can make a mistake or have their equipment abruptly fail.
According to a witness at the airshow, "She flew straight up in the air and then straight back down again. But she dropped straight into the ground....There was no way anyone was getting out of the wreckage."
Cruse won the U.S. National Aerobatic Title in 2007 and was President of the International Aerobatics Club at the time of her death.
I am in the midst of re-reading Susan Butler's East to the Dawn: The Life of Amelia Earhart. While Earhart is best known for flying solo across the Atlantic and her ill-fated attempt to circumnavigate the globe, she was also an accomplished aerobatic pilot and competed in the sort of airshows Cruse did. Only back then they were generally called "air rodeos." When participating in these shows in the early 1920s while based in Los Angeles, Earhart would largely ascended to high altitudes but also could perform stunts such as barrel rolls, loops and tailspins. Later in her career she participated in long distance aviation races.
Accidents were a common occurrence in the 1920s and Earhart "ditched" more than her share of aircraft. She never sustained any serious injuries. However, some of her fellow colleagues weren't so lucky, both male and female. Given the hazards involved with flying it was thought that commercial airplanes would never be a viable business.
Of course, airplanes became much safer and commercial flight became a viable business venture notwithstanding the current state of the airlines. Yet the inherent risk in flying is always there whether aboard a private, commercial, military or sport aircraft. Even the most experienced of pilots can make a mistake or have their equipment abruptly fail.
According to a witness at the airshow, "She flew straight up in the air and then straight back down again. But she dropped straight into the ground....There was no way anyone was getting out of the wreckage."
Cruse won the U.S. National Aerobatic Title in 2007 and was President of the International Aerobatics Club at the time of her death.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Obama is Wee-Weed at Obamacare Critics
In his weekly radio & internet address, President Obama is wee-weed at those who disagree with Obamacare.
Obama called for "an honest debate, not one dominated by willful misrepresentation and outright distortions."
In other words, those who disagree with Obama are "bearing false witness."
I don't think this serves the President well. Questioning the sincerity of others simply because they have the temerity to think on their own is most unwise. For instance:
As every credible person who has looked into it has said, there are no so-called death panels, an offensive notion to me and the American people. These are phony claims meant to divide us.
So all of a sudden Camille Paglia isn't a credible person anymore? Or Michael Cannon of the Cato Institute? Paglia and Cannon don't think these claims are phony. Given that amount of discord that Obamacare has generated it is clear the President doesn't speak for all the people all of the time and he should not pretend otherwise.
If President Obama genuinely wants to improve our health care system then he needs to explain how Obamacare will improve upon the existing system instead of questioning the honesty and integrity of those who have raised legitimate objections.
Obama called for "an honest debate, not one dominated by willful misrepresentation and outright distortions."
In other words, those who disagree with Obama are "bearing false witness."
I don't think this serves the President well. Questioning the sincerity of others simply because they have the temerity to think on their own is most unwise. For instance:
As every credible person who has looked into it has said, there are no so-called death panels, an offensive notion to me and the American people. These are phony claims meant to divide us.
So all of a sudden Camille Paglia isn't a credible person anymore? Or Michael Cannon of the Cato Institute? Paglia and Cannon don't think these claims are phony. Given that amount of discord that Obamacare has generated it is clear the President doesn't speak for all the people all of the time and he should not pretend otherwise.
If President Obama genuinely wants to improve our health care system then he needs to explain how Obamacare will improve upon the existing system instead of questioning the honesty and integrity of those who have raised legitimate objections.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Larry Knechtel, 1940-2009. R.I.P.
Most people have never heard of Larry Knechtel.
But you've almost certainly heard his music.
If you're familiar with Simon & Garfunkel's "Bridge Over Troubled Water" you will know the song's fabulous piano part especially the intro which served as the foundation as one of the greatest rock n' roll songs ever recorded. It was Knechtel who played the piano on that recording back in 1970. He died yesterday at the age of 69. The cause of death has not been released.
Primarily a studio musician, Knechtel worked with acts such as Elvis Presley, Duane Eddy, The Beach Boys, The Doors, The Fifth Dimension, Elvis Costello, Johnny Rivers, Harry Nilsson, Randy Newman, Kenny Rankin and Hank Williams, Jr. In more recent years, Knetchel played keyboards with the Dixie Chicks (O.K., they can't all be good.)
Knechtel was also a member of the '70s soft rock group Bread. His best known contribution was the guitar solo in - what else? - "Guitar Man." Here's a clip of Bread playing this song live back in the early 70s. Knechtel is wearing the striped shirt.
When listening to our favorite songs it is easy to get lost in the music and overlook those who made the beauty possible. Our lives would have no soundtrack without the likes of Larry Knechtel.
But you've almost certainly heard his music.
If you're familiar with Simon & Garfunkel's "Bridge Over Troubled Water" you will know the song's fabulous piano part especially the intro which served as the foundation as one of the greatest rock n' roll songs ever recorded. It was Knechtel who played the piano on that recording back in 1970. He died yesterday at the age of 69. The cause of death has not been released.
Primarily a studio musician, Knechtel worked with acts such as Elvis Presley, Duane Eddy, The Beach Boys, The Doors, The Fifth Dimension, Elvis Costello, Johnny Rivers, Harry Nilsson, Randy Newman, Kenny Rankin and Hank Williams, Jr. In more recent years, Knetchel played keyboards with the Dixie Chicks (O.K., they can't all be good.)
Knechtel was also a member of the '70s soft rock group Bread. His best known contribution was the guitar solo in - what else? - "Guitar Man." Here's a clip of Bread playing this song live back in the early 70s. Knechtel is wearing the striped shirt.
When listening to our favorite songs it is easy to get lost in the music and overlook those who made the beauty possible. Our lives would have no soundtrack without the likes of Larry Knechtel.
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