ACORN, The Faux Hegelian Crooks and Academic Posers and the Political Oafs of Illinois

Since morality is an experiment analogous to the scientific method, Dewey rejects any a priori moral limits on action; moral knowledge can only come in the process of experience. Dewey calls his method “naturalistic empiricism” (EN, 1a), and describes proper experimentalism as providing “a map of the road that has been traveled” (EN, 29). Dewey acknowledges as problematic that the retrospective method of traditional empiricism tends to accept the facts of past experience as given: “British empiricism, with its appeal to what has been in the past is, after all, only a kind of apriorism. For it lays down a fixed rule for future intelligence to follow.”26Instead of a purely retrospective empiricism, Dewey goes to great lengths to outline a dialectical experimentalism as opposed to a one-sided empiricism.27Always concerned

http://www.allacademic.com//meta/p_mla_apa_research_citation/0/6/7/4/0/pages67408/p67408-11.php

I watched a bit of ACORN free-fall while channel surfing the Cable, during my laundry rituals this morning and amused myself with the always pie-eyed loudmouth, hip-hop Academic Michael Eric Dyson on Morning Joe. Dyson scatted loudly about race and the nuanced "Oh,No You Didn't" race machine-gunning of all manner of topic.

This dope was given an academic posting at the PC Self-Conscious DePaul University, a Sun Times column that was mercifully short-lived and launched himself on to the national scene at Georgetown University and gigs on CNN and the MSNBC Took-Shed ( staffed by more Tools than True Value Hardware.

Dyson went all Mumia on Morning Joe and Mika with 'You gotta understand' litanies that support failed President Jimmy Carter's moronic assertion that any opposition to President Obama is intrinsically racist and reaction against the election of America's first black President. Race is place for the helpful Hegelian Man Dyson.

Dyson and most extreme leftist Academics float on the clouds of Faux Hegelianism.

Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel was a 19th Century German Philosopher who developed the system of ideas that 'pump up' the State. Hitler, Stalin, Mussolini, Mao, Kaiser Wilhelm, Tojo, Tito, Castro, Hugo Chavez, John Dewey, Roger Baldwin, W.E.B. Dubois, and Michael Eric Dyson are Hegelians, or at least faux Hegelians.
Hegel was the granddaddy of Totalitarian schemers and the polar opposite of liberal thinkers. Thus:

The worship of power is an old religion, and Hegel, to go no farther back, is full of it; but like traditional religion his system qualified its veneration for success by attributing success, in the future at least, to what could really inspire veneration; and such a master in equivocation could have no difficulty in convincing himself that the good must conquer in the end if whatever conquers in the end is the good.
– George Santayana, Winds of Doctrine, I

In fact, so powerful was Hegel's system of thought that the entire philosophical foundation of the University of Chicago is Germanic Hegelianism and most rooted in Hegel was the man who screwed up American Public Education John Dewey. Hegel influenced Marx and Marx tried to stop Adam Smith style free market thought through Hegel's The State as Absolute Truth. All a priori truths -ethics morals and religious conviction are excised by John Dewey in his mad rush and crush on 'free inquiry.' Everything is absorbed by Hegel's Absolute -The State.

Hegelianism is at the core of what we call modern American Progressives ( Emma Goldman, Roger Baldwin & etc.) Progressives seek to ensure that every human thought, activity and inclination be absorbed into the One Absolute -The State ( Government -witness the great 1919 Progressive Victory Prohibition and its children State controlled Vice -Gaming, Smoking, Banking, Industry, Health, Sex, Abortion, Eugenics, Voting, Education, ad infinitum!) Thus,. . .

Perhaps one of the most influential parts of Hegel's Philosophy of Right concerns his analysis of the contradictions of the unfettered capitalist economy. On the one hand, Hegel agreed with Adam Smith that the interlinking of productive activities allowed by the modern market meant that “subjective selfishness” turned into a “contribution towards the satisfaction of the needs of everyone else.” But this did not mean that he accepted Smith's idea that this “general plenty” produced thereby diffused (or “trickled down” ) though the rest of society. From within the type of consciousness generated within civil society, in which individuals are grasped as “bearers of rights” abstracted from the particular concrete relationships to which they belong, Smithean optimism may seem justified. But this simply attests to the one-sidedness of this type of abstract thought, and the need for it to be mediated by the type of consciousness based in the family in which individuals are grasped in terms of the way they belong to the social body. In fact, the unfettered operations of the market produces a class caught in a spiral of poverty. Starting from this analysis, Marx later used it as evidence of the need to abolish the individual proprietorial rights at the heart of Hegel's “civil society” and socialise the means of production. Hegel, however, did not draw this conclusion. His conception of the exchange contract as a form of recognition that played an essential role within the state's capacity to provide the conditions for the existence of rational and free-willing subjects would certainly prevent such a move. Rather, the economy was to be contained within an over-arching institutional framework of the state, and its social effects offset by welfarist state intervention

http://plato.stanford.edu/entries/hegel/

Hegel defies common sense and the true sense of the human community. Progressives have done more to vanish the Humanities than any 3rd Century Vandal could have dreamed of doing. Why burn a library when you can burn away the Human Voice! " You Lie!" No, I don't!

That is why faux Hegelians like Dyson find such warmth in Hegel's illogical blanket. If it deifies sense -hey it works. The eye is valuable, but it is not intrinsically essential in and of its self. The eye is good for seeing stuff, but take the eye out of the human being and it is useless. A Hegelian like Dyson takes something that might have value and turns it into an absolute. Racism is valuable to racists whether they are leading the Aryan Nation, or commenting loudly on Morning Joe.

Hegelians love ACORN. Hell they founded it. According to Hegel the only things that matters is the complete subjugation of everything needed to help feed its appetite for Power an that Power's ability to feed the State is absolute. Hookers, Pimps and sex-slave traffickers have a place under the Mighty Oak. Until the last two weeks anyway.

Federal Funding to ACORN was dumped. More on the way.

Our two Illinois Senators voted to stand with ACORN. Makes perfect Hegelian sense.

Dick Durbin* is a Hegelian's Dream Candidate - everything and anything fits Durbin handsomely, but common sense. Senator Roland Burris . . .that says it all.

ACORN lost its funding after years of being a haven for 60's radicals and a money laundering operation that benefits elected officials.

When the Faith, Patriotism, Decency and Honesty of American citizens can be tagged as essentially and absolutely racist in all matters, Hegelian thought is afoot.



*

Senator Mike Johanns (R-NE) introduced an amendment to the HUD and Transportation appropriation bill to strip ACORN of all federal funding. A week ago, Johanns wouldn’t have gotten the amendment to the floor. Today, however, after three straight days of BigGovernment.com’s video exposés of ACORN offices in Washington DC, New York City, and Baltimore offering assistance to pimping, tax evasion, and trafficking in underage Salvadorean girls, Johanns not only got his vote — but he got an impressive bipartisan showing. The Senate passed the Johanns amendment 83-7.

The seven Senators supporting ACORN:

Dick Durbin (D-IL)
Roland Burris (D-IL)
Robert Casey (D-PA)
Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY)
Patrick Leahy (D-VT)
Bernie Sanders (I-VT)
Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI)

http://www.cdobs.com/archive/featured/durbin-burris-vote-to-continue-funding-acorn,65681

Lisa Madigan - Genius

A disposition to preserve, and an ability to improve, taken together, would be my standard of a statesman. Edmund Burke

’Tis with out judgment as our watches, none go just alike, yet each believes his own. In poets (Politicians) as true genius is bur rare, true taste as seldom is the critic’s share…” (lines 9-12).

“But you who seek to give and merit fame, and justly bear a critic’s noble name, be sure yourself and your own reach to know, how far your genius, taste, and learning go…” (lines 46-49). Alexander Pope Essay on Criticism



"Politics is more difficult than physics."
- Albert Einstein
Physicist (1879 - 1955)


Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan is a genius. The fact that her father is the Illinois Speaker of the House matters not; it don't hurt none, but it matters not. It only matters to people who tend to be smarmy and bitter in the first place.

Politics is not a science; it is an Art. It is a skill that is mastered over years of practice in the same way that a poet, or a plumber becomes one with the craft.

Many plumbers have sons and daughters in the trade, but damn few poets hang out a sign that reads- Oscar Wilde & Sons - Preferred Posey. To the Gay Absolutist and the Homophobe - Oscar had kids, before he buggered off with Lord Douglas. None of the Kids went into the business, however.

Politicians pass the Art on to their children - each in her/his own way. Lord Randolph Churchill greatest accomplishment in his years on earth had to be the psychological abuse and torment he passed on to Winston Churchill, who would go on to serve and save Western Civilization.

Mayor Richard J. Daley, the exact tempermental polar opposite of Lord Randolph, was a 'take the kids to work' politician, much like the artiste plumber, whose children can not wait to draw a union card, cut and thread pipe and then dope it up!

Adlai Stevenson was another very good Artist. We have many political father and sons shops here in the 19th Ward - most are pretty damn effective mechanics.

Mike Madigan is a master politician and his daughter Lisa Madigan is a political genius.

Attorney General Madigan followed a wonderful man, Republican Jim Ryan and a political hack, our Junior Senator from Illinois into the job. Lisa Madigan learned from both of her predecessors.

It was the cow-pie of Roland's Burris's brief,but far too long tenure in the U.S. Senate that prompted most 'columnists' to hold Lisa Madigan up as challenger to Burris. It will be Chris Kennedy. That will be an absolute howl to witness!

Lisa Madigan understands that her management of Attorney General in the toxic Illinois atmosphere will allow her to chose her Office in her own Time.

In fact, I expect Attorney General Madigan to make a string of indictments against the many Foxes in the Taxpayers Hen house over the next few semesters, that will make national headlines and power alliances on both sides of political aisle.

Fight for the Governorship! Fight with Roland! Their bones will bleach like roadkill outside of Carbondale in August.

Lisa Madigan is a genius. Her old man is a great mechanic, but the girl is a genius!

Monday, July 6, 2009
MADIGAN SUES CHICAGO FURNITURE RETAILER
Read more »


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Thursday, July 2, 2009
***CONSUMER ALERT***CONSUMER ALERT***
MADIGAN: 4 MILLION BABY FLOATS RECALLED DUE TO DROWNING RISK
31 Reports of Children Falling Into Water When Float Seat Splits
Read more »
Inflatable Baby Floats Recalled

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Thursday, July 2, 2009
DuPAGE COUNTY MAN SENTENCED ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CONVICTION
Read more »


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Tuesday, June 30, 2009
MADIGAN: TICKETMASTER AGREES TO SHUT DOWN DECEPTIVE TICKET BROKER WEB SITES
New Guidelines Result from Attorney General’s Investigation of Exorbitant Hannah Montana Ticket Prices
Read more »


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Monday, June 29, 2009
***CONSUMER ALERT***CONSUMER ALERT***
ATTORNEY GENERAL MADIGAN AND AARP WARN CONSUMERS ABOUT DEFECTIVE WOMEN’S ROBES LINKED TO SIX DEATHS
More than 2,500 Dangerous Robes Still in Illinois Homes
Read more »
Photo of Product

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Friday, June 26, 2009
MADIGAN, I-SORT PARTNERS ANNOUNCE RESULTS OF QUINCY AREA SEX OFFENDER COMPLIANCE CHECKS
Read more »


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Thursday, June 25, 2009
MADIGAN FILES LAWSUIT AGAINST WHEELING TRAVEL COMPANY FOR FAILURE TO PROVIDE REFUNDS TO CONSUMERS
Attorney General Urges Consumers to Be Alert for Fraud During Summer Travel Season
Read more »


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Tuesday, June 23, 2009
MADIGAN, TJ MAXX REACH AGREEMENT TO ENSURE PROTECTION OF PERSONAL DATA FOLLOWING MASSIVE SECURITY BREACH
TJ Maxx Parent Company to Implement Comprehensive Data Security System
Read more »
Attorney General Lisa Madigan is no Dan Lipinski and certainly no Todd Stroger. The fact that her Dad is Illinois Speaker of the House of Representatives matters not - it don't hurt none, either.

In fact, The Illinois Attorney General is a genius.

A genius understands her times and her abilties to make the most of those times.

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Monday, June 22, 2009
ATTORNEY GENERAL SUES DECEPTIVE IMMIGRATION SERVICES PRACTICE FOR FAILURE TO PROVIDE PROMISED SERVICES
Read more »


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Thursday, June 18, 2009
MADIGAN REACHES AGREEMENT WITH US CREDIT FIND TO PREVENT PHONE CRAMMING
Read more »

Jim Durkin Had Burris Pinned to the Mat - Was it Empathy That Let Roland Up?

"The more I look at it, it looks like he perjured himself before the Illinois House of Representatives and withheld important information," said Rep. Jim Durkin, (R) Western Springs.
Durkin says the perjury investigation could potentially lead to third degree felony charges against Burris. Burris' attorney says he believes the transcripts should help vindicate Burris in all the

http://abclocal.go.com/wls/story?section=news/politics&id=6833175&rss=rss-wls-article-6833175

Now, There's a Distraction! Roland Burris was bouncing and wiggling within Jim Durkin's cradle move and Durkin was tipping Roland's tiny shoulders to the mat for a pin, back in January*.

The Ref wanted Roland Burris to be confirmed and lob President Obama's Stimulus Birdie over the sway-backed net of good government. Click my post title for more Illinois Cartoons from Tamara Holder. It seems that Blago and Obama use the same play book!

But, Roland was let up! It's not fair! Have Some Empathy!
You see Durkin is a wrestler and Burris a badmiton player.

Roland boinked for Obama. Jim Durkin continues to grapple for Illinois.

ROLAND BURRIS TIMELINE

09/22/08 - campaign fund-raising document entitled “Call List” that included a list of more than 100 potential contributors. Burris' direct law office number is beside his name with a note: “Will talk after Nov. 4 election.”
11/13/08 - conversation between Rob and Burris - Burris says, “I will personally do something OK? And it will come to you before the 15th of December."
12/09/08 - Gov. Blagojevich arrested
12/30/08 - Gov. Blagojevich appoints Burris to Senate seat
01/05/08 - Senator Burris submits sworn affidavit - “Prior to the December 26, 2008 telephone call from Mr. [Sam] Adams, Jr., there was not any contact between myself or any of my representatives with Governor Blagojevich or any of his representatives regarding my appointment to the United States Senate.”
01/08/09 - Senator Burris testifies before impeachment committee
02/04/09 - Senator Burris submits amended sworn affidavit to IL House Panel - “I recall that Governor Blagojevich’s brother, Rob Blagojevich, called me three times to seek my assistance in fund-raising for Governor Blagojevich.

*“An army of asses led by a lion is better than an army of lions led by an ass” George Washington

Here in Illinois the public imagination is too often overwhelmed by the number and quality of asses in public service. Mindless trimmers and fatuous dummies flock to elected office and seek out the news media.

Most public servants are solid women and men. The best of them appear in crises and get things done.

Republican James Durkin is one such Illinois Representative. When he picked apart Roland Burris and his three attorneys during the Impeachment hearings of Rod Blagojevich, Roe Conn and his posse laughed at Durkin on WLS. 'I can not believe this guy is lawyer!'

However Durkin was the only serious challenge to Burris by any political Party's official.

Today, it appears that Jim Durkin is a the lion among the asses.

"I can't believe anything that's coming from Mr. Burris, at this point," said State Rep. Jim Durkin (R-Western Springs). "... I think it would be in the best interest of the state if he resigned."

"If you have that much of a memory problem, maybe you shouldn't be in the United States Senate, on a capacity basis," added state Republican leader Tom Cross (R-Oswego.)

The comments come in the wake of the Feb. 5 amended affidavit that Burris, a Democrat, quietly sent to Impeachment Investigative Committee Chair Barbara Flynn Currie (D-Chicago.)

In the new affidavit, Burris said that former governor Rod Blagojevich's brother, Robert Blagojevich, called him three times seeking fundraising assistance.

In addition, Burris said he spoke with three other close associates of the governor and a labor leader with ties to the Blagojevich administration about being appointed to the Senate. Burris previously acknowledged only having spoken to one such friend.

"We talked about transparency, we talked about ethics," Durkin said at the downtown Chicago news conference Sunday afternoon. "The fact is, we're getting a continuously changing story from Mr. Burris."

Durkin said he would ask the now-dormant impeachment committee to refer the matter to Sangamon County State's Atty. John Schmidt, a Republican. Durkin and Cross said that if the committee does not seek the criminal investigation, they might ask for one themselves.

Posted by pathickey at 1:30 PM

http://hickeysite.blogspot.com/search?q=jim+durkin

Burris at O'Hare Last Night - Should He Not Stay in Washington? The Cop and Hector

Picking up my Daughter from her flight to O'Hare from Boston was a hoot. God, I do so love waiting at O'Hare. The American Airlines Flight 1087 was delayed handsomely and O'Hare Terminal was leaking like my basement. Tunnels from Pedways to the Hilton were flooded and maintenance crews were placing Yellow plastic PISO MOJADOs all over the joint.

I ran into Officer Al Hartigan* from St. Cajetan's Parish performing his offices with quiet and gracious good humor - 'THEY LOST MY BAGS!!!!!; Where's the Phone that Brings Shuttles to You?; Gate 3? Gate 3? Are you deaf? Gate 3?; Is this O'Hare? How Come my Bags Say ORD?; Pick up my Bags and get them on the Cart? Where's Mayor Daley's Lounge?'

I ( were I Officer Hartigan) would have pulled my service revolver and shot and killed ( reloaded and emptied another cylinder) each one of the over-dressed Botoxed, middle-aged Denver De-Planing Women -Harpies One and All who demand that Officer Hartigan watch their bags while they went into the Hilton 'for twenty minutes.' All this despite the repeated - Homeland Security Alert is Orange - Any Unattended Bags - Report to the nearest Chicago Police Officer.' These 'unattended bags' needed cavity searches - badly.

Yet, with quiet good humor Officer Al Hartigan, CPD soldiered on.

I also met the Salasa* family from Garfield Ridge. Hector worked for Cook County until last November - he is not a cousin of Todd Stroger. While Officer Al peeled off to check on Terminal 2, Hector and I played with his two year old daughter Mia whose head of hair had more curls than $1,500 Irish Step-Dancer wigs that parents shell out for Competition. Mia is a hard core peek-a-boo player and kicked my fat, wrinkled, pale Irish ass at each gambit. She invariably 'I Saw Me'd!' I am slow.

Following that humiliation my spirits soared as the delicate and diminutive frame of the Junior Senator from Illinois flapped his black cashmere topcoat tails at Hector and me, like a baby Starling fallen from the nest, while his tall athletic and handsome green wool topcoated body guard/go-fer Blue Toothed demands to know at what Gate Senator Burris Car would appear by magic and design.

Grinning like a guy who pee'd on my carpet at my party several years ago and attempting to Puppy-Nose-Nudge forgiveness - you know the look, folks - Senator Burris professionally ignored me and Hector! He had a car at Gate Three! His Go-fer was off for the bags!

Yes! I love the way Burris*** hissed out the 'Yes!' at the City Club of Chicago a few days ago. The guy is a cartoon character and I hope and pray that he remains our Senator for the full two years. We, Illinois voters, really need our noses rubbed in this Burris/Blag Business.

Welcome, back home, Senator! What the Hell are you doing here?

Forty Minutes later, Nora's plane landed. Hector's guests arrived from Puerto Rico. Curly Headed Mia was wiped out and sleeping in her stroller. Officer Al Hartigan was still beset by 'Take my Bags! and Who Do I Sue?'

The rain let up; the maintenance guys had all the flooding cleaned up; and Roland Burris will be our Senator for two more years! Yes!!!!!!!!!!!!


* The Officer Hartigan's name has been changed by slight vowel movements - does that sound right?

** Hector's Family name sounds like Salasa.

*** You CAN NOT Make up stuff about Roland Burris!

The son of embattled Illinois Democratic Senator Roland Burris was hired five months ago to a $75,000 a year job under then-Governor Rod Blagojevich.

The Chicago Sun-Times reports Roland Burris II is a senior counsel for the state's Housing Development Authority. That agency's mission includes overseeing mortgage programs for low-income home buyers and anti-foreclosure initiatives.

The interesting thing is Burris II got the job six weeks after the IRS slapped a $34,000 lien on him and three weeks after a mortgage company filed a foreclosure suit on his Chicago home.

Illinois State Republican Rep. Jim Durkin of Western Springs says the fact that Burris faces foreclosure but is working at a housing-related state agency "reeks of hypocrisy."

Burris to 2010 or $50 Million to Play Progressive? -Burris.

I like Lisa Madigan. The Illinois Attorney General is smart, well-spoken, good-humored and a tough as nails.

But, I like her Sphinx of a Father, Speaker Mike Madigan - the only adult and the only public servant in the long battle with Emil (ComEd & Anyone Else) Jones and Rod (It's Golden) Blagojevich.

Jones and Blagojevich fought each other to the trough at every opportunity. Speaker Madigan quietly took steps to save Illinois millions of dollars.

Today, Madigan's Spokesman Steve Brown offers the best reason to leave Roland Burris where he is in the U.S. Senate. The ineffective instrument of Blagojevich's punishment of the citizens of Illinois, Burris allowed his vanity to sell off what, if any, dignity he had left. Every person, every voter in Illinois gets Burris. We also get the voices for Special Election.

Jan Schakowsky wants the Senate probably more than Burris and would prove as thigh tinglingly inspirational.

SEIU wants . . .the end of the American middle class.

Hogs at the trough want greater snout room.

Special Election in Illinois will let those dreams come true.

Lisa Madigan is an astute lawyer under political pressure. Mike Madigan is a public servant. Mike Madigan has it right.

Steve Brown, a spokesman for House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago), raised concerns about a special election's price tag but had not seen the attorney general's opinion.

"I don't know the opinion paves the way for anything," said Brown, whose boss is the attorney general's father. "You have an appointment process in place for 130 years, and no one has really complained about it. The reality is it's $50 million. Does anyone suggest where we find that money? That's really the critical question.

Yep, we can live with Burris.

Roland Burris Goes Old School(yard) on Durbin and All Illinois Weenies!

Nothing is more sobering and life affirming than the delicate dance involved when a quick kid zips the skimmer with nifty propeller off of the slow fat kid. The fat kid was given the swell hat by Aunt Gert who lives with 'Her Friend' and a monkey and who has done all that she can to help young Delmer - or Young Dick - be sure to get bullied and sassed by the guys whose parents and relatives actually care about protecting their children.

Most parents or relatives might say to young Delmer -or Dick -,

'Hey look, Dick, I know you like that beanie with the prop, but it might be better to leave it next to your Big Boy's Book of Elves and Wizards on the dresser here at home.'

Nope Delmer's -or Dick's - Mater and Pater encourage self-esteem and young Delmer -or Dick - sallies out wearing a hat that says VICTIMIZE ME!!!!

The hat gets snatched and Delmer -or Dick -pathetically whines 'Give it back!'

The point of taking the hat in the first place was to signal disapproval of both the swell hat/beanie and the tubby self that wears it.

'Give it back! It's mine!'

This we know - He has it and will keep it.

Roland Burris grabbed Dick Durbin's hat ( Senator by appointment and legally proper) and he's keeping it!

Stay put Senator! Keep the Golden Beanie ( US Senate Seat - You snatched it!) Keep the weenies in the State of Illinois whining and crying for a Special Election.

'Roland, Give it Back! It's Golden! Give it!'

Jan Schakowsky Loved Blago and Begged Blago for the Senate Seat -Special Election? What's Special About Jan's Wants and Needs?

What's Jan Shakowsky stuffing in that rad coat pocket? And looky there, she's making a fist at the poor man, like he's 'The Help!' MMmm, MMmm ,Mmmmmmmmm.

I say, 'Senator Burris keep that Golden Seat.' You wanted it; you got it; it's yours.

Many low-minded folks are tossing out high minded whines about a 'Special Election.' Well, tell the Illinois Legislature to amend the Illinois Constitution.

As it is now - The Governor appoints the vacancies and Blago and later Gov. Quinn appointed a dandy vacancy - Senator Roland Burris.

The G is chatting up the Junior Senator - we shall see. As it is, 'Senator, Sit Tight!'

Jan Schakowsky's gaping flannel-mouth has shrilled for appointment to the U.S. Senate seat, because the wacky Congress Person from Progressive Land could not get elected Statewide. For every Keith Olbermann and Rachel Maddow there are literally hundreds of voting little people who have been treated like 'the help' ( undocumented aliens at that) by the oafish Schakowsky, whose people skills end at her betters and those who out-rank her, in my limited and empirical opinion.

Nevertheless, Jan wants to be THE PEOPLES SENATOR and has been cawing for that seat since last Spring.

Even some Washington Insiders, like Chris Cillizza and the folks at the Detroit Examiner seem wise to Schakowsky - you don't need to be a Phi Beta Kappan on this one:

An Illinois Senate Special (Again)?: As appointed Sen. Roland Burris continues to spin his wheels in a -- so far -- unsuccessful attempt to distance himself from impeached governor Rod Blagojevich, the political machinations of those who would like to replace him grow more complicated. Witness Rep. Jan Schakowsky's (D) statement on Wednesday calling for Gov. Pat Quinn (D) to end Burris's temporary term and call for a special election to replace the embattled senator. "Whether or not Senator Burris resigns, the best way to put credibility back into the process is through a special election," said Schakowsky. Schakowsky has made no secret of the fact that she would like to be in the Senate and probably knows that she would not likely be Quinn's pick to replace Burris if he resigns. (The frontrunner, if Quinn goes in that direction, would be state Attorney General Lisa Madigan since by appointing her to the Senate Quinn would eliminate a potential gubernatorial primary challenger.) It's an interesting tactic but one that isn't likely to succeed because Quinn is not inclined to hand off the chance to eliminate a potential rival simply because Schakowsky says he should.

Teeheee heeeeeeee BWAAAAAAAAAAAAAHAHAHAHAHAAAHH! Ain't Jan a Doosy?!!!!!!


Here's from Detroit!

Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.) is another potential primary opponent. Giannoulias and Schakowsky play well with labor unions, a constituency whose support is a critical factor in the Illinois Democratic primary. However, the GOP says Schakowsky raised $30,000 for ex-Gov. Blagojevich and introduced him when he announced his gubernatorial candidacy in 2001. They are also quick to say that Schakowsky's husband was a major Blagojevich backer.

Good thing Jan's got all the loopy coralled up there near the nice part of the Lake! She's got a job for life but wants more - that's politics I guess. Ho-hum.

http://www.examiner.com/x-2874-Detroit-Polling-Examiner~y2009m2d16-Illinois-2010-A-Political-Odyssey-Part-I

Illinois Junior U.S. Senator Ellis Albert Swearingen ( if Burris Quits Get the Real Deal)

Illinois Governor Pat Quinn -

Ladies and Gentleman, after an exhausting search over the last fifteen minutes, I have determined to appoint a temporary U.S. Senator to replace my friend of many years Roland Burris.

Senator Burris's score of days as Junior Illinois Senator do him credit.

Everyone with a silken vested interest in anything and especially those people who see an opportunity to make a great deal of money have co-opted the Illinois and National press for a Special Election. It's Progressive -Grassroots!

I am the Man who mowed his lawn when George Ryan hired illegal Swedish Immigrant Girls to cut his lawn; therefore, I want to appear to be nodding toward the Illinois Constitution.

In that spirit, I have taken nuanced approach of attempting to do both - appoint a temporary U.s Senator and Hold a Special Election - Cake and Eat It, Illinois!

My appointment as this month's second Junior Senator from Illinois - businessman and entertainment venture capitalist - Ellis 'Al' Swearingen!

( The Senator Designate Stares long and ironically at ever earnest and forthright Illinois Governor)

Senator Designate - Al Swearingen-

I wouldn't trust a man who wouldn't try to steal a little. ( longer pause as Quinn drifts)

I'm declaring myself conductor of this meeting as I have the bribe sheet.

Announcing your plans is a good way to hear god laugh.


You want a donkey's attention, you bring a f%^&ing pole down between his ears.


Change ain't lookin' for friends. Change calls the tune we dance to. Pain or damage don't end the world, or despair, or f%^&' beatings. The world ends when you're dead. Until then, you got more punishment in store. Stand it like a man -- and give some back.


In life you have to do a lot of things you don't f%^&ing want to do. Many times, that's what the f%^& life is... one vile f%^&ing task after another.

If I bleat when I speak, it's because I've just been fleeced. Sometimes I wish we could just hit 'em over the head, rob 'em, and throw their bodies in the creek.

Governor Pat Quinn -

Thank You Al, Senator! Illinois this is a breath of fresh air! Temporary of Course! Until The Peoples Election! The Special Peoples Election for Jan Schakowsky! I mean hey! Jan Schakowsky* wants her raps - she was all over Blago all Summer and fall! Jan wants to fungo some out to Left Field! Fresh Air People! This is Illinois! I mean - Fair is Fair and Jan wants to abuse and insult some of 'The Help' on the Senate Side of Congress! That's what SEIU and the Boiled Beets Progressives Demand! It is what the Sun Times would do!

*

At the time, I made it very clear that Senator Burris should not have accepted the appointment from former Governor Rod Blagojevich. The Illinois State Legislature and Governor Quinn could put this all to rest by calling for a special election to allow the people of Illinois to decide who will serve out the 22 remaining months in President Obama's unexpired senate term. Under the 17th Amendment, the Governor has a right to end the temporary term at any time and call for a special election. Whether or not Senator Burris resigns, the best way to put credibility back into the process is through a special election.

Jan Schakowsky - Really, really, really, really wants this Senate Seat! I'll bet Fitzy has her and Convict Bob Creamer on tape saying so! Tee-hee.

Whitey Demands That Burris Resign

In an act of Crime Imitating Politics ( Mirror Images Production), FBI Top Ten Fugitive James 'Whitey' Bulger issued a demand that Illinois Junior Senator Roland Burris resign immediately.

Burris is expected to stand pat. Bulger is expected to remain at large. I am having Mrs. Marie Callender's Turkey Pot Pie* for dinner:

The innards of the pie are pretty close to what’s pictured on the box: you’ve got decent chunks of white meat turkey (not sure if some of those are chopped and formed), carrots, peas, onions, and celery. Although the box picture shows at least 2 pieces of celery, I actually only found miniscule pieces in my pot pie. The same goes for the onion. It’s not a terrible loss though, as the turkey, carrots and peas are around. They’re cooked pretty nicely as well.

The turkey pot pie sauce was a little too salty for my tastes, but I’m sure that’s a personal preference thing. It tastes pretty much what you’d expect a pot pie sauce to taste like. The pie is also much more filling than those other tiny Swanson pies.

I’m actually pleasantly surprised they didn’t futz with the formula as much as I thought they might have done. These are still a pretty good deal if you can get them on sale, and I’d definitely keep one or two in the freezer for those days when I don’t feel like cooking lunch.

Aliases: Thomas F. Baxter, Mark Shapeton, Jimmy Bulger, James Joseph Bulger, James J. Bulger, Jr., James Joseph Bulger, Jr., Tom Harris, Tom Marshall, Ernest E. Beaudreau, Harold W. Evers, Robert William Hanson, "Whitey"



DESCRIPTION


Date of Birth: September 3, 1929 Hair: White/Silver
Place of Birth: Boston, Massachusetts Eyes: Blue
Height: 5'7" to 5'9" Complexion: Light
Weight: 150 to 160 pounds Sex: Male
Build: Medium Race: White
Occupation: Unknown Nationality: American
Scars and Marks: None known
Remarks: Bulger is an avid reader with an interest in history. He is known to frequent libraries and historic sites. Bulger may be taking heart medication. He maintains his physical fitness by walking on beaches and in parks with his female companion, Catherine Elizabeth Greig. Bulger and Greig love animals. Bulger has been known to alter his appearance through the use of disguises. He has traveled extensively throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, and Mexico.



CAUTION

JAMES J. BULGER IS BEING SOUGHT FOR HIS ROLE IN NUMEROUS MURDERS COMMITTED FROM THE EARLY 1970s THROUGH THE MID-1980s IN CONNECTION WITH HIS LEADERSHIP OF AN ORGANIZED CRIME GROUP THAT ALLEGEDLY CONTROLLED EXTORTION, DRUG DEALS, AND OTHER ILLEGAL ACTIVITIES IN THE BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS, AREA. HE HAS A VIOLENT TEMPER AND IS KNOWN TO CARRY A KNIFE AT ALL TIMES.


CONSIDERED ARMED AND EXTREMELY DANGEROUS



IF YOU HAVE ANY INFORMATION CONCERNING THIS PERSON, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL FBI OFFICE OR THE NEAREST U.S. EMBASSY OR CONSULATE.


REWARD

The FBI is offering a $2,000,000 reward for information leading directly to the arrest of James J. Bulger. N.B. Mr. & Mrs Rod Blagojevich are not eligible for this reward at this time. I don't know why. The G is mean Mother%^&^*ers.

August 1999

*http://www.bloglander.com/cheapeats/2007/01/29/marie-callender-pot-pie/

Forget the Special Election - 1. Senator Burris is Just That - Senator 2. The Governor Appoints Vacancies - Gov. Quinn, Appoint a Republican!

There is a great deal of talk about replacing Senator Burris only a score so of days into his appointed term of office. My pal John Rubery, Illinois' Marathon Pundit with a National reputation for insight and raising poignant political issues to the fore, wants a Special Election:

Sheesh. The people of our state could have been spared this. Forgive me for repeating myself, but since the mainstream media isn't doing it's job, I have to yell this out again: After Rod Blagojevich was arrested for allegedly attempting to sell Barack Obama's Senate seat, Durbin called for a special election to decide Obama's replacement. But Durbin, who at first not want to spare the people of Illinois this mess, was more concerned about keeping this seat in Democratic hands. So Durbin the coward flip-flopped. It's sickening.
Burris: Resign now.

And we want a special election!

Hold on there, Rubes. 'We' as in the Roland Burris-Papal We - could do without it. We - that's me. Wisconsin Senator Russ Feingold* agrees,'The controversies surrounding some of the recent gubernatorial appointments to vacant Senate seats make it painfully clear that such appointments are an anachronism that must end. In 1913, the Seventeenth Amendment to the Constitution gave the citizens of this country the power to finally elect their senators. They should have the same power in the case of unexpected mid term vacancies, so that the Senate is as responsive as possible to the will of the people. I plan to introduce a constitutional amendment this week to require special elections when a Senate seat is vacant, as the Constitution mandates for the House, and as my own state of Wisconsin already requires by statute. As the Chairman of the Constitution Subcommittee, I will hold a hearing on this important topic soon.'




We do not need a Special Election. Illinois Constitution holds that the power to appoint vacancies in office lies with the Governor.Adopted by Constitutional Convention September 3, 1970 Ratified by vote of the People December 15, 1970 and
became effective upon Admission July 1, 1971. Sorry guys. That is the Constitution.

Now, lawyers might think otherwise - I am sure. Roland Burris was Illinois' Top Lawyer for Years and I do believe that he will sit on the 'Golden Thing' - the U.S. Senate Seat until his term runs out. Why not? He should. It is his right and it is legal.

Now, Governor Quinn painted over Blago's name all over the State Tollway System. Fine. Now, if and when Sen. Burris decides to resign ( as if!), Governor Quinn, the Breath of Fresh Air in Illinois, should appoint a Republican.

He would be an example to our nation and a Governor of Illinois. We have not had one in about eight years, or so.


*http://www.care2.com/causes/politics/blog/fill-senate-vacancies-by-elections-not-gubernatorial-appointments/

Hickey - What I Dream Can Come True!

A beautiful young woman of my acquaintance, asked me 'What goes on in that head of yours?'

Generally speaking - cartoon re-runs; recipes; Sandra Lee Fantasies; staged coups of selected local governments; revenge fantasies; footnotes; memoranda; and day dreams - Los Suenos Impossibles!

I wish Mankind well and individual dip-stick bipeds a personal hornet's nest in their skivvies.

I do not believe that Barbara Flynn-Curry looked at the late memo by Senator Burris that has caused him to be immortal - as a goof. There was no Democrat Plot to conceal - Burris tucked it in like a Kid with a bad report card is all.

I believe that Illinois Rep. James Durkin is the only hero in this Roland Burris mess, but GOP rivals, Democrats Progressives and hack journalists will try to do him some dirt and damn with faint praise.

I can not Believe that the GOP will blow this opportunity to retake a U.S. Senate Seat - but they will.

I believe that Rainier Beer is a fine Domestic Beer - one of my favorites along with Berghoff, Drewerys, Augsburger, Huber, Rhinelander, and Leinenkugle - and it can be captured by men of steely resolve and hearts of oak!

Christ to shield me today
Against poison, against burning,
Against drowning, against wounding,
So that there may come to me abundance of reward.
Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me,
Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down, Christ when I arise,
Christ in the heart of every man who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in every eye that sees me,
Christ in every ear that hears me.

Ma’s math leat sìth, càirdeas, agus cluain—éisd, faic,‘us fuirich sàmhach."

("If you wish peace, friendship, and quietness: listen, look, and be silent)

James 'Popeye' Durkin - 'IllinEYE Can't Stan's Na 'More!'

"I think it would be in the best interest of the state if he resigned because I don't think the state can stand this anymore.'' -- Illinois state Rep. Jim Durkin on Sen. Roland Burris.


Pencil -Neck Wit Eric Zorn is huffing out the Progressive Response - Ban the word 'Goo-Goo' as it makes fun of Progressive Good Government. Whenever there is a problem, the hysterical always have the solution at hand that requires someone else to do something. 'Somebody Do Something!' Eric Zorn offers that Everyone stops/stop saying Goo-goo and Good Government will happen! 'Like Unicorn Dust Showered on our Dandy Dell it will be so! Yes. Yes.' ( finger-tips touching ever so delicately)

Eric, Goo-goo is a word that makes fun of the hysterical.

Eric it is meant to do just that.

“Goo-goo,” as you may know, is a derisive term for advocates of reform. The New York Sun coined it in 1890s as a back of the hand to Good Government Clubs in New York City. Teddy Roosevelt picked it up and was quoted as referring to “those prize idiots, the goo-goos.”

It works well as a slur because the mash-up of the first letters in “good” and “government” is reminiscent both of “goody-goody”—a term for an insufferably well-behaved person—and of the gurgling sound made by infants.

Infants are naïve, trusting and innocent. Cynics apply these same adjectives to those who believe we can reduce graft, fraud, waste, patronage and nepotism in government.

Good Government is Ironic - in that, often, the very worst human beings want to improve government.

'When I see a Reformer, I hold on to my hat and put both hands into my pockets!'

'Kids, that's a Reformer - he'll steal your worst fears.'

Reform comes not from Committee Fiat by the labors of strong people - Illinois Rep. James Durkin is a fine example.

He is a quiet, 'who's he' kind of elected official - like Mary Flowers, Jackie Collins,Ed Maloney and Kevin Joyce among Democrats and Sandy Cole, Sue Bassi, Dan Cronin, Tom Cross across the aisle.

Jim Durkin nailed Roland Burris for allowing his ego to get the better of him by accepting Blago's lure of Senatorial Office. Too bad for Mr. Burris - instead of lasting fame as an effective and honest public servant, he will be treated to eternal scorn, laughter and ignominy as a stooge.

Jim Durkin, like Popeye, spinach-ed up and took a swing for Illinois. It was a knock-out punch.

Eric Zorn is marshaling the forces of napkin scorn to 'do away with another hurtful and nasty old word.'

Give me Popeye over Freddie Bartholomew, or Caspar Milquetoast any day. Goo-Goo. That Kills me.

Il. Rep. Jim Durkin - A Lion in Illinois

“An army of asses led by a lion is better than an army of lions led by an ass” George Washington

Here in Illinois the public imagination is too often overwhelmed by the number and quality of asses in public service. Mindless trimmers and fatuous dummies flock to elected office and seek out the news media.

Most public servants are solid women and men. The best of them appear in crises and get things done.

Republican James Durkin is one such Illinois Representative. When he picked apart Roland Burris and his three attorneys during the Impeachment hearings of Rod Blagojevich, Roe Conn and his posse laughed at Durkin on WLS. 'I can not believe this guy is lawyer!'

However Durkin was the only serious challenge to Burris by any political Party's official.

Today, it appears that Jim Durkin is a the lion among the asses.

"I can't believe anything that's coming from Mr. Burris, at this point," said State Rep. Jim Durkin (R-Western Springs). "... I think it would be in the best interest of the state if he resigned."

"If you have that much of a memory problem, maybe you shouldn't be in the United States Senate, on a capacity basis," added state Republican leader Tom Cross (R-Oswego.)

The comments come in the wake of the Feb. 5 amended affidavit that Burris, a Democrat, quietly sent to Impeachment Investigative Committee Chair Barbara Flynn Currie (D-Chicago.)

In the new affidavit, Burris said that former governor Rod Blagojevich's brother, Robert Blagojevich, called him three times seeking fundraising assistance.

In addition, Burris said he spoke with three other close associates of the governor and a labor leader with ties to the Blagojevich administration about being appointed to the Senate. Burris previously acknowledged only having spoken to one such friend.

"We talked about transparency, we talked about ethics," Durkin said at the downtown Chicago news conference Sunday afternoon. "The fact is, we're getting a continuously changing story from Mr. Burris."

Durkin said he would ask the now-dormant impeachment committee to refer the matter to Sangamon County State's Atty. John Schmidt, a Republican. Durkin and Cross said that if the committee does not seek the criminal investigation, they might ask for one themselves.

'It's Curtains, Senator! Awwwww, Look at Him. . .' - Il. Rep. Jim Durkin'd Snuff Him

Click my post Title for Rep. Jim Durkin's talk about Burris's fibs - it seems.

Jim Durkin was the ONLY elected official during Our Impeachment ( HiJacking) who put the hot coals to Senator Tombstone Burris. Now, as in all things Hopeful and Change-Er -Ific we find that Roland Burris might ahave tweaked the the truth just a ton.
Seems like Burris is curtains - Don't bet on it Roland is too cute to scoot! Reid, Pelosi, Durbin and Todd are enchanted by the cute and fuzzy Junior Senator from Illinois.

But . . . weeks ago . . . Illinois Representative Jim Durkin had Roland Burris nailed to the carpet:

Durkin: At any time were you directly or indirectly aware of a quid pro quo with the governor for the appointment of this vacant Senate seat?

Burris: No sir.

Durkin: Ok. If you were aware of a quid pro quo, what would you have done?

(Burris's lawyer calls it a hypothetical question and inappropriate. Durkin calls it "highly relevant" and what his response would have been. Rep. John Fritchey (D-Chicago) says his response to something that did not occur was "irrelevant" and "speculative." Durkin says its "germane" to the hearing and a "reasonable request" of what he would have done. Burris' lawyer says Burris will respond because he wants to be "clear and open.")

Burris: Rep. Durkin, knowing my ethics, I would not participate in anybody's quid pro quo. I've been in government for 20 years and never participated in anybody's quid pro quo.

Durkin: I guess the point is, would you have gone to the federal authorities if you were aware of that?

Burris: I have no response to that.

Burris will continue as Senator. However, if Jim Durkin keeps pouring it on . . . hold the phone! Burris* it seems does that anyway.



*
Paging Roland Burris: Constituents Finding New Senator Hard To Reachview more from: Politics / LiberalHuffington Post (last week)llinois residents anxious to share their thoughts with newly-appointed Sen. Roland Burris are finding it's not an easy task. Wayne Lovern, of Chatham, said he called Burris' office in Washington five times on

http://regator.com/p/124183255/paging_roland_burris_constituents_finding_new_senator_hard/

United States Senator Roland W. Burris, ( D.IL)

On November 5th Governor Rod Blagojevich publicly stated that we would begin the process to appoint a replacement to the U.S. Senate for President Elect Barack Obama.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 5, 2008

Governor Blagojevich Congratulates President-elect Obama and Discusses U.S. Senate Seat
To fill President-Elect Barack Obama’s Senate seat, Governor will use deliberate process to select suitable replacement

CHICAGO – After congratulating President-Elect Barack Obama on his decisive victory, Governor Rod R. Blagojevich announced today that he will take his time and use a diverse senior staff made up of key members of his administration who will assist him in selecting a suitable replacement for Obama.

“Last night’s victory was bittersweet for Illinois - as we gain a great President, we lose a great Senator. And it goes without saying that our next Senator has big shoes to fill. Because it’s important that the best person for Illinois is selected, I want to be clear that the calendar won’t dictate our search. Instead, I want to ensure that Obama’s successor will understand and fight for the needs of average Illinoisans,” Governor Blagojevich said.

Governor Blagojevich will be looking for candidates that will:

Support the President-Elect’s agenda for the people;
Effectively represent the interests of the state of Illinois in the U.S. Congress;
Work with my administration to achieve our shared goals of ensuring access to affordable healthcare, rebuilding Illinois’ infrastructure, improving the economic security and livelihoods of Illinois workers, and caring for our most vulnerable; and,
Prioritize the average Illinoisan who is too burdened by taxes and economic hardship.


The U.S. Constitution, 17th Amendment, provides that a state legislature may empower the executive of the state to make the appointment.

http://www.illinois.gov/PressReleases/ShowPressRelease.cfm?SubjectID=72&RecNum=7260

Yadda-yadda-yadda . . .

On December 9th Federal Prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald ordered that Governor Rod Blagojevich be arrested at his home.

December 9, 2008 at 2:11 PM | Comments (123)
Gov. Rod Blagojevich and his chief of staff, John Harris, were arrested today by FBI agents for what U.S. Atty. Patrick Fitzgerald called a "staggering" level of corruption involving pay-to-play politics in Illinois' top office.

Blagojevich is accused of a wide-ranging criminal conspiracy, including alleged attempts by the governor to try to sell or trade the U.S. Senate seat left vacant by President-elect Barack Obama in exchange for financial benefits for the governor and his wife. Blagojevich also is accused of obtaining campaign contributions in exchange for other official actions.

Blagojevich was taken into federal custody at his North Side home this morning--one day shy of his 52nd birthday.At a news conference late this morning, Fitzgerald said Blagojevich "has taken us to a truly new low" and went on "a political corruption crime spree. We acted to stop that crime spree."

Fitzgerald also accused Blagojevich of attempting "to sell the U.S. Senate seat" that President-elect Barack Obama vacated.
Robert Grant, FBI special agent in charge of the Chicago office, said the arrest of Blagojevich should serve as notice that "business as usual will no longer be tolerated. That selling your office for personal gain is a thing of the past."

Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn today called on Blagojevich to step aside, at least temporarily, because the governor is "seriously impeded from carrying out his oath of office."

"I think that should certainly be considered by the governor today. I think he knows what he needs to do for the people," Quinn said at a news conference this afternoon.

Quinn would assume control of the governor's office if Blagojevich were to step aside under the Illinois Constitution.

Obama told reporters he was "saddened and sobered" by Blagojevich's arrest.

"I was not aware of what was happening," Obama said. "I had no contact with the governor or his office and so I was not aware of what was happening."Tribune Editor Gerould W. Kern said today that the newspaper delayed publishing some stories at the request of the U.S. attorney's office during the course of reporting on the accelerating investigation of Blagojevich.

http://www.chicagobreakingnews.com/2008/12/source-feds-take-gov-blagojevich-into-custody.html

And Yadda-yadda-yadda . . .

On December 30th Gov. Blagojevich, as portrayed on Saturday Night Live & etc., appoints former Illinois Attorney General Roland Burris to replace President Elect Obama as U.S. Senator from Illinois.

Fitzgerald has not indicted Blagojevich. Governor Blagojevich has not yet been impeached. Roland Burris is the Senate Replacement according to the 17th Amendment of the United States Constitution and the Illinois Constitution.

United States Senator Roland Burris ( D. Illinois).

Now, just what a genius like Harry Reid will do between now and Tuesday when Congress returns to session should be fun to watch.

Reid released a Dec. 30 statement saying that Burris would not be seated.

"It is truly regrettable that despite requests from all 50 Democratic Senators and public officials throughout Illinois, Gov. Blagojevich would take the imprudent step of appointing someone to the United States Senate who would serve under a shadow and be plagued by questions of impropriety," the statement said. "We say this without prejudice toward Roland Burris' ability, and we respect his years of public service. But this is not about Mr. Burris; it is about the integrity of a governor accused of attempting to sell this United States Senate seat. Under these circumstances, anyone appointed by Gov. Blagojevich cannot be an effective representative of the people of Illinois and, as we have said, will not be seated by the Democratic Caucus."

http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/story?id=6570544&page=1

President Elect Obama endorsed Roland Burris for Governor over Paul Vallas and Rod Blagojevich. Fitzy needs more time . . . you think?

Everything seems to be in order.

The Party of Ideas!

Dead White Man - Gaius Sallustius Crispus - Speaks to Voters About Yamheads in Elected Office

( Photo of Two Political Yamheads - Chicago Sun Times)


'We are the Senator!'

WASHINGTON -- Roland Burris, being Roland Burris, put it to me this way Friday when we talked: "We are the senator."

We are? We are not impressed.

http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/blagojevich/index.html

It appears that not only is Roland Burris prone to the Royal/Papal We, a sure sign that an American is prone wearing crowns and gowns without the Mental Health Professionals in attendance, but also is another Lame Ranger: Todd Stroger, Junior Jones, Caroline Kennedy& etc.

Well, Milorad might have picked worse, but he sure as hell could not have selected a more worthy micro-head on which to place the Senatorial laurel wreath- which will fall down onto Roland the First's tiny shoulders sometime on Monday when he intrudes himself into the U.S. Senate.

Roland will pal up in short order, no doubt, with another Lame Ranger - Princess Caroline Kennedy .

A dead white guy, who went by the handle Sallust back in Roman Times, wrote a preface to his study of the Jugarthine War* and it is a pretty solid study of what solid people in political life need to understand.

Sallust is no Maya Angelou, but then again who is?

I. Mankind unreasonably complain of their nature, that, being weak and
short-lived, it is governed by chance rather than intellectual power;
for, on the contrary, you will find, upon reflection, that there is
nothing more noble or excellent, and that to nature is wanting rather
human industry than ability or time.

The ruler and director of the life of man is the mind, which, when it
pursues glory in the path of true merit, is sufficiently powerful,
efficient, and worthy of honor, and needs no assistance from
fortune, who can neither bestow integrity, industry, or other good
qualities, nor can take them away. But if the mind, ensnared by
corrupt passions, abandons itself to indolence and sensuality, when
it has indulged for a season in pernicious gratifications, and when
bodily strength, time, and mental vigor, have been wasted in sloth,
the infirmity of nature is accused, and those who are themselves in
fault impute their delinquency to circumstances. Emphasis my Own


If man, however, had as much regard for worthy objects, as he has
spirit in the pursuit of what is useless, unprofitable, and even
perilous, he would not be governed by circumstances more than he would
govern them, and would attain to a point of greatness, at which,
instead of being mortal,he would be immortalized by glory.


II. As man is composed of mind and body, so, of all our concerns and
pursuits, some partake the nature of the body, and some that of the
mind. Thus beauty of person, eminent wealth, corporeal strength, and
all other things of this kind, speedily pass away; but the illustrious
achievements of the mind are, like the mind itself, immortal.

Of the advantages of person and fortune, as there is a beginning,
there is also an end; they all rise and fall, increase and decay.
But the mind, incorruptible and eternal, the ruler of the human race,
actuates and has power over all things, yet is itself free from
control.

The depravity of those, therefore, is the more surprising, who,
devoted to corporeal gratifications, spend their lives in luxury and
indolence, but suffer the mind, than which nothing is better or
greater in man, to languish in neglect and inactivity; especially when
there are so many and various mental employments by which the highest
renown may be attained.

III. Of these occupations, however, civil and military offices,and
all administration of public affairs, seem to me at the present time,
by no means to be desired; for neither is honor conferred on merit,
nor are those, who have gained power by unlawful means, the more
secure or respected for it. To rule our country or subjects by
force, though we may have the ability, and may correct what is wrong,
is yet an ungrateful undertaking; especially as all changes in the
state lead to bloodshed, exile, and other evils of discord; while
to struggle in ineffectual attempts, and to gain nothing, by wearisome
exertions, but public hatred, is the extreme of madness; unless when a
base and pernicious spirit, perchance, may prompt a man to sacrifice
his honor and liberty to the power of a party.

IV. Among other employments which are pursued by the intellect, the
recording of past events is of pre-eminent utility; but of its merits
I may, I think, be silent, since many have spoken of them, and since,
if I were to praise my own occupation, I might be considered as
presumptuously praising myself. I believe, too, that there will be
some, who, because I have resolved to live unconnected with political
affairs, will apply to my arduous and useful labors the name of
idleness; especially those who think it an important pursuit to court
the people, and gain popularity by entertainments. But if such persons
will consider at what periods I obtained office, what sort of men[13]
were then unable to obtain it, and what description of persons have
subsequently entered the senate, they will think, assuredly, that
I have altered my sentiments rather from prudence than from indolence,
and that more good will arise to the state from my retirement, than
from the busy efforts of others.

Gaius Sallustius Crispus - The Jugurthine War

*

Sallust's Jugurthine War is a brief monograph recording the war in Numidia c.112 B.C.. Its true value lies in the introduction of Marius and Sulla to the Roman political scene and the beginning of their rivalry. Sallust's time as governor of Africa Nova ought to have let the author develop a solid geographical and ethnographical background to the war, however, this is not evident in the monograph despite a diversion on the subject because Sallust's priority in the "Jugurthine War", as with the "Catiline Conspiracy", is to use history as a vehicle for his judgement on the slow destruction of Roman morality and politics.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sallust#Jugurthine_War*