The stories that made the blogosphere buzz...
10) GOP politicians join the blogosphere - Jim Gilmore, George Allen, Brandon Bell, and Marty Williams all started their own blogs in the 2nd half of 2007 in an attempt to help conservatives catch up to liberals in terms of how loud their digital voices were heard.
09) The quick rise and fall of Virginia Oddsmaker - This was everyone's favorite Virginia blog for one hot second (including me), then inexplicably collapsed for no known reason.
08) The near-implosion of Roscoe Reynolds' campaign - When Roscoe angrily dodged questions about his questionable campaign consultants on a local TV show, the ensuing words that were typed by bloggers were deafening.
07) Blogs United - Some thought it went well, others did not. Many people believe that there will not be another bipartisan conference of this kind with bloggers due to their mostly-partisan nature. To this, I (and others) say "nay", but many disagree with me.
06) Joe Stanley/ODBA - Joe Stanley, a political consultant, likens the ODBA to Satan's Children (well, to sum it all up) and then links a false ODBA website to the NAMBLA website. Ben Tribbett at NLS (and friend of Stanley's) attempts to set up Daily Whackjob (Whackette in particular) as the fall guys for this revelation, and then attempts to smear the ODBA itself.
05) Blogging Ethics - Was the buzzphrase for most of the spring and summer as bloggers argue over what constitutes "good" blogging ethics.
04) SWAC vs. The World, the Hanger/Sayre primary - Conservative bloggers who supported Scott Sayre in the 24th Senate District primary got into it with other conservative bloggers, liberal bloggers, the Staunton News-Leader...the tension and ill feelings were quite palpable for a while.
03) Election '07, Dems Take State Senate - Riding momentum from the 2006 national elections, strong grassroots work in the Tidewater area, and a growing "blue" trend in NoVa, the Dems took control of the State Senate and made a few gains in the House of Delegates.
02) Abuser Fee Uproar - Most people hate it, the Dems blame the GOP, the GOP blames the Dems, Gov. Kaine applies fee to Virginia drivers only, and the ensuing debacle that occurred.
01) The Virginia Tech Massacre - I don't think this needs any description as to why it was so important.
Any other stories that hit the blogs this year that you feel warrants inclusion, any stories here that need to be excluded? What's your take?
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
When Senators Have Nothing Else To Do
Sen. John Kerry wrote a letter to NFL Commissioner regarding the fact that the game between the New England Patriots and the New York Giants will be shown on NFL Network on Sunday evening, instead of on NBC where it can be seen by many more people without having to subscribe to the NFL network. Both teams have clinched playoff spots, but the game is notable as the Patriots look to become the first team since the 1972 Miami Dolphins to go undefeated in a regular season, and the first team to go undefeated since the schedule was expanded to 16 games in 1978.
In fact, Sen. Kerry is threatening to hold Senate hearings against the NFL if they don't make this broadcast more available.
"I remain deeply troubled that today as many as 250,000 Massachusetts households, and millions of Patriots fans nationwide, may be denied access to this historic sporting event," Kerry wrote.
Err, deeply troubled? We've got military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, rumblings about the economy, a Senate that will be back in session full-time in a few weeks, divisive feelings across the political spectrum, Russia selling a missile defense shield to Iran, and we're coming up on an election year.
With all of that going on in the world, what "deeply troubles" John Kerry is that not enough people will see the New England Patriots (who also happen to play in Foxborough, Massachusetts...the same state from which Kerry hails) finish an undefeated season.
Now, tell me Sen. Kerry, would you be as troubled if it was...oh, let's say, the Washington Redskins that were on the cusp of an undefeated season?
Yeah, I didn't think so...
In fact, Sen. Kerry is threatening to hold Senate hearings against the NFL if they don't make this broadcast more available.
"I remain deeply troubled that today as many as 250,000 Massachusetts households, and millions of Patriots fans nationwide, may be denied access to this historic sporting event," Kerry wrote.
Err, deeply troubled? We've got military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, rumblings about the economy, a Senate that will be back in session full-time in a few weeks, divisive feelings across the political spectrum, Russia selling a missile defense shield to Iran, and we're coming up on an election year.
With all of that going on in the world, what "deeply troubles" John Kerry is that not enough people will see the New England Patriots (who also happen to play in Foxborough, Massachusetts...the same state from which Kerry hails) finish an undefeated season.
Now, tell me Sen. Kerry, would you be as troubled if it was...oh, let's say, the Washington Redskins that were on the cusp of an undefeated season?
Yeah, I didn't think so...
Romney vs. Huckabee
An article by Laura Meckler and Elizabeth Holmes at the Wall Street Journal's website discusses the difference between the two GOP frontrunners in Iowa, Mitt Romney and Mike Huckabee.
They are very contrasting figures. Romney is a northern-bred fiscal conservative who comes from a business and political background, has a carefully polished image, and relies on many tactics of the business world (PowerPoint presentations and the like) to accentuate his points.
Huckabee, in comparison, is a southerner (born and raised) who was raised in a working class family, wears his faith on his sleeve due to his past as a Southern Baptist minister, and uses "good ol' boy" humor, southern charm, and biblical references to make his case to the public.
Interestingly enough, I can identify with both men on a personal level. I'm the son of a firefighter and grew up middle class, just like Huckabee. However, much like Mitt Romney, I am more of a northerner by birth, I tend to keep my religion to myself unless it's brought up by someone else, and I like a good suit.
While Huckabee says things in a down-home, folksy manner that appeal to the common man, Romney has experience and leadership advantages over
If asked to choose between the two, Romney would be the man I would vote for. He's produced results in the business world and the political realm by using sound fiscal prudence and intelligent decision-making skills.
Huckabee, in my opinion, has not proven himself to be a fiscally prudent executive based on his record as Governor of Arkansas and may continue to expand government, which is the opposite of the true solution. His foreign policy knowledge and stances are rather weak, as is his stances and history on illegal immigration.
But alas, outside of Iowa, I don't think the Huckster's momentum will carry him to many more victories. Between Romney and Giuliani's strength in other states, and the resurgence of John McCain and Fred Thompson, Huckabee needs some meat behind his campaign talk...relying on religion and the FairTax alone does not make one a qualified candidate, in my opinion.
They are very contrasting figures. Romney is a northern-bred fiscal conservative who comes from a business and political background, has a carefully polished image, and relies on many tactics of the business world (PowerPoint presentations and the like) to accentuate his points.
Huckabee, in comparison, is a southerner (born and raised) who was raised in a working class family, wears his faith on his sleeve due to his past as a Southern Baptist minister, and uses "good ol' boy" humor, southern charm, and biblical references to make his case to the public.
Interestingly enough, I can identify with both men on a personal level. I'm the son of a firefighter and grew up middle class, just like Huckabee. However, much like Mitt Romney, I am more of a northerner by birth, I tend to keep my religion to myself unless it's brought up by someone else, and I like a good suit.
While Huckabee says things in a down-home, folksy manner that appeal to the common man, Romney has experience and leadership advantages over
If asked to choose between the two, Romney would be the man I would vote for. He's produced results in the business world and the political realm by using sound fiscal prudence and intelligent decision-making skills.
Huckabee, in my opinion, has not proven himself to be a fiscally prudent executive based on his record as Governor of Arkansas and may continue to expand government, which is the opposite of the true solution. His foreign policy knowledge and stances are rather weak, as is his stances and history on illegal immigration.
But alas, outside of Iowa, I don't think the Huckster's momentum will carry him to many more victories. Between Romney and Giuliani's strength in other states, and the resurgence of John McCain and Fred Thompson, Huckabee needs some meat behind his campaign talk...relying on religion and the FairTax alone does not make one a qualified candidate, in my opinion.
Monday, December 24, 2007
Merry Christmas From The Podium
Merry Christmas To All of the Readers of The Podium.
May this glorious time bring you peace, joy, and love. The Podium will resume blogging on December 26th :)
Peace and Love, Phil C.
IHT's Early Odds on the Presidential Candidates
A lot of BS being shucked around in this one, but worth a look anyway. This is the International Herald Tribune's odds on who will be the 44th President of the United States as of right now.
Hillary Clinton: 3-1
Barack Obama: 7-2
Mitt Romney: 5-1
John McCain: 8-1
Rudy Giuliani: 10-1
John Edwards: 10-1
Mike Huckabee: 12-1
Fred Thompson: 20-1
All Other Republican Party Candidates: 25-1
All Other Democratic Party Candidates: 40-1
Hillary Clinton: 3-1
Barack Obama: 7-2
Mitt Romney: 5-1
John McCain: 8-1
Rudy Giuliani: 10-1
John Edwards: 10-1
Mike Huckabee: 12-1
Fred Thompson: 20-1
All Other Republican Party Candidates: 25-1
All Other Democratic Party Candidates: 40-1
A Little Christmas Playlist :)
The Christmas Playlist at Podium HQ, because the term "mixtape" is apparently out of style, I named artists if a particular version is what I was looking for :)...
- "O Holy Night" - My personal favorite
- "Let It Snow" - Boyz II Men and Brian McKnight
- "Hark, The Harold Angels Sing"
- "Angels We Have Heard on High
- "Adeste Fideles" (O Come All Ye Faithful)
- "12 Pains of Christmas" - Bob Rivers (brilliant "12 Days of Christmas" parody)
- "Santa Baby" - Madonna
- "The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don't Be Late)" - Alvin and the Chipmunks
- "Jingle Bell Rock" - Brian Setzer version
- "All I Want For Christmas Is You" - Mariah Carey
- "Silent Night"
- "O Holy Night" - My personal favorite
- "Let It Snow" - Boyz II Men and Brian McKnight
- "Hark, The Harold Angels Sing"
- "Angels We Have Heard on High
- "Adeste Fideles" (O Come All Ye Faithful)
- "12 Pains of Christmas" - Bob Rivers (brilliant "12 Days of Christmas" parody)
- "Santa Baby" - Madonna
- "The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don't Be Late)" - Alvin and the Chipmunks
- "Jingle Bell Rock" - Brian Setzer version
- "All I Want For Christmas Is You" - Mariah Carey
- "Silent Night"
What Did I Tell You?
The "reverse migration" of illegal immigrants has already begun.
I was advocating this "solution by attrition" over at Daily Whackjob in a heated discussion I was having with others over illegal immigration. I stated that if you take away the jobs/handouts available to illegal immigrants, and that if you make them believe that we're going to actually get serious as a nation on immigration control, they'll start to leave on their own.
Now, the article admits that part of the reason is the slowdown of economic growth has some illegals worried that the number of jobs available are going to shrink. This, combined with states cracking down on employers of illegal aliens, does not make many places that were once safe havens for illegal immigrants very appealling anymore.
Want to know who else has stated this theory as part of the solution to the illegal immigrant problem? Fred Thompson, of course.
I was advocating this "solution by attrition" over at Daily Whackjob in a heated discussion I was having with others over illegal immigration. I stated that if you take away the jobs/handouts available to illegal immigrants, and that if you make them believe that we're going to actually get serious as a nation on immigration control, they'll start to leave on their own.
Now, the article admits that part of the reason is the slowdown of economic growth has some illegals worried that the number of jobs available are going to shrink. This, combined with states cracking down on employers of illegal aliens, does not make many places that were once safe havens for illegal immigrants very appealling anymore.
Want to know who else has stated this theory as part of the solution to the illegal immigrant problem? Fred Thompson, of course.
Redskins Take Matters Into Their Own Hands
The Redskins came into the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome last night with a sense of purpose, drive, desire, and momentum.
Combining a grinding running attack with a timely passing game and a punishing defensive effort, the Washington Redskins walked out of last night's game 32-21 winners over the Minnesota Vikings.
Clinton Portis ground out 76 yards and a rushing touchdown against the top-ranked rush defense in the NFL, and also threw a touchdown pass to Antwaan Randle-El in the 2nd quarter. Todd Collins, starting again in place of the injured Jason Campbell, had a magnificent performance. Collins completed 22 of 29 passes for 254 yards and two TD's, with no interceptions.
The receiving corps had one of their better days overall, as well. Santana Moss caught 4 passes for 71 yards and a touchdown, and Antwaan Randle-El had 5 catches for 66 yards and the aforementioned touchdown reception from Portis.
The defense forced 3 turnovers, including two interceptions off of the arm of Vikes QB Tavaris Jackson, and stuffed rookie sensation Adrian Peterson to just 27 yards on 9 carries. Peterson, as you may recall, set an NFL single-game record with 296 yards rushing against the Chargers earlier this year.
The Redskins (8-7) did not turn the ball over once, and even led 25-0 at halftime. When the Vikings (8-7) closed the gap to 25-14 in the 4th quarter, the Redskins marched down the field and scored another touchdown to make the game 32-14 with less than 6 minutes to go and solidified their victory. A Viking touchdown with less than 2 minutes remaining in the game rounded out the scoring.
This is their 3rd win in a row, and also a big win as the Redskins HAD to beat Minnesota to keep their hopes alive for the playoffs. Now, they control their destiny, as a victory against the 13-2 Dallas Cowboys next week at FedEx Field will give them a playoff berth. In fact, if the Skins lose next week, they're still in the playoffs if Minnesota loses next week, as well.
They have been playing solid football all-around over the past 3 weeks, ever since Sean Taylor's funeral and the injury to Jason Campbell, it seems this team is turning tragedy into triumph. After falling to 5-7, the Redskins won 24-16 over Chicago, 22-10 over the Giants, and now an 11 point victory over the upstart Vikings, none of these wins have been flukes, and they have all come against good football teams.
With the Cowboys having wrapped up the division, and Terrell Owens injured, many suspect that this gives the Redskins (who nearly beat the Cowboys in Dallas) a good shot at winning and earning their 2nd playoff trip in the last 3 years.
History tells us that this could be a Redskins win, as well...any time the Skins and Cowboys play a game that has anything beyond the rivalry at stake, and the game is in Washington...the Skins win.
- 1972 NFC Championship - Redskins 26, Cowboys 3
- 1982 NFC Championship - Redskins 31, Cowboys 17
- Dec. 1992, Skins need to win to earn playoff berth - Redskins 20, Cowboys 13
- Dec. 1997, Last game at RFK - Redskins 37, Cowboys 10
- Dec. 2005, Skins need win to keep playoff hopes alive - Redskins 35, Cowboys 7
Need I go on? I didn't think so. This Redskins team is refocused, re-energized, and ready to roll!
HAIL TO THE REDSKINS!!!
Combining a grinding running attack with a timely passing game and a punishing defensive effort, the Washington Redskins walked out of last night's game 32-21 winners over the Minnesota Vikings.
Clinton Portis ground out 76 yards and a rushing touchdown against the top-ranked rush defense in the NFL, and also threw a touchdown pass to Antwaan Randle-El in the 2nd quarter. Todd Collins, starting again in place of the injured Jason Campbell, had a magnificent performance. Collins completed 22 of 29 passes for 254 yards and two TD's, with no interceptions.
The receiving corps had one of their better days overall, as well. Santana Moss caught 4 passes for 71 yards and a touchdown, and Antwaan Randle-El had 5 catches for 66 yards and the aforementioned touchdown reception from Portis.
The defense forced 3 turnovers, including two interceptions off of the arm of Vikes QB Tavaris Jackson, and stuffed rookie sensation Adrian Peterson to just 27 yards on 9 carries. Peterson, as you may recall, set an NFL single-game record with 296 yards rushing against the Chargers earlier this year.
The Redskins (8-7) did not turn the ball over once, and even led 25-0 at halftime. When the Vikings (8-7) closed the gap to 25-14 in the 4th quarter, the Redskins marched down the field and scored another touchdown to make the game 32-14 with less than 6 minutes to go and solidified their victory. A Viking touchdown with less than 2 minutes remaining in the game rounded out the scoring.
This is their 3rd win in a row, and also a big win as the Redskins HAD to beat Minnesota to keep their hopes alive for the playoffs. Now, they control their destiny, as a victory against the 13-2 Dallas Cowboys next week at FedEx Field will give them a playoff berth. In fact, if the Skins lose next week, they're still in the playoffs if Minnesota loses next week, as well.
They have been playing solid football all-around over the past 3 weeks, ever since Sean Taylor's funeral and the injury to Jason Campbell, it seems this team is turning tragedy into triumph. After falling to 5-7, the Redskins won 24-16 over Chicago, 22-10 over the Giants, and now an 11 point victory over the upstart Vikings, none of these wins have been flukes, and they have all come against good football teams.
With the Cowboys having wrapped up the division, and Terrell Owens injured, many suspect that this gives the Redskins (who nearly beat the Cowboys in Dallas) a good shot at winning and earning their 2nd playoff trip in the last 3 years.
History tells us that this could be a Redskins win, as well...any time the Skins and Cowboys play a game that has anything beyond the rivalry at stake, and the game is in Washington...the Skins win.
- 1972 NFC Championship - Redskins 26, Cowboys 3
- 1982 NFC Championship - Redskins 31, Cowboys 17
- Dec. 1992, Skins need to win to earn playoff berth - Redskins 20, Cowboys 13
- Dec. 1997, Last game at RFK - Redskins 37, Cowboys 10
- Dec. 2005, Skins need win to keep playoff hopes alive - Redskins 35, Cowboys 7
Need I go on? I didn't think so. This Redskins team is refocused, re-energized, and ready to roll!
HAIL TO THE REDSKINS!!!
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