I was at the capitol this morning attending to a little business, and I was again distressed to see that the trees are back in the capitol building. I don't know how or when the tradition started, but the trees have been in Pierre since at least the Janklow administration. I remember Dottie Howe being in charge of the project in the 80's; and she may well have been in charge of it longer than that. My youth recalls a tastful display of maybe twenty trees with a large tree in the center. I even remember going up to the capitol to see them, and actually thinking that they were a beautiful addition to our statehouse.
But my how times have changed. The 70 and 80's saw a decrepit capitol refurbished to the tune of several million dollars, bringing it's natural beauty out in time for the 1989 SD Centennial. After restoration was complete the capitol was appraised at a value of over 100 million dollars; an amount which has almost certainly increased. But even if the state had that kind of money, the building could never be replaced as it stands. Much of the woodwork in the Senate and House chambers is of African Mahogany, a tree which has since become extinct. Pillars in the rotunda are made of scagliola, a process which has been described to me as an almost lost art. Not to mention the amount of original artwork in the building whose artists have passed away many generations ago.
And the trees have changed as well. Instead of a tasteful display, it seems that every organization or group in the state is represented; the display has engulfed not just one, but three floors. Every corner of the building which looks as if it can hold a tree, now holds two. And the first thing that greets the eyes when entering the rotunda is a sign which says "Fire Extinguishers provided by Smith's fire extinguishers." You see despite all it's ammenities, there is one thing the capitol doesn't have, and that is a fire supression system; at least not one capable of extinguishing a forest fire. And a forest fire is essentially what we would have if one of these tree would go up. Because even though they are beautiful on the outsite with flocking and electric light, on the inside these trees are dry and brittle and extremely flammable.
I wonder what the state would say if one began to stack piles of kindling around the capitol and decorate them with gasoline and matchstick. Because this, in my opinion. is what we do every year at Christmas time. I am a little dissappointed that our government feels that this is an appropriate risk to take with our state history. I can't imagine that any insurance policy would cover the loss of this landmark due to such negligence. I don't know what the solution is, but there must be a better one than the current plan.
You may think I am a scrooge, but I am a scrooge who cares more about over 100 years of history, than he does about a pile of tinsel and pine needles.
Rusty
Monday, November 24, 2008
Friday, November 14, 2008
Who will be the new ED of the Republican Party?
No word from the Republican Party on what will be happening with staff at the HQ, but I would say the fact that current ED Max Wetz is preparing to sell his house is a (welcome) sign that he is not planning to stay in Pierre much longer. So as Mr. and Mrs. Wetz prepare to leave our fine city, I have to ask, "Who will be the next person to sit in the director's chair ?"
Hopefully the party will take it's time choosing a successor; because the current hiring policy has produced results such as passing on several well qualified candidates to hire Max Wetz, hiring Jewall Breard with absolutely no other candidates being considered, and hiring an entire staff that felt no need in the toughest election cycle in a generation to work one minute past five o'clock.
This is re-boot time for the party. They did it with James Bond and look how well it turned out. I say fire everybody and start fresh. Get a little old lady to answer the phones and get the mail. See if you can get a sample of Jason Glodt's DNA for cloning. Then, if that fails, solicit resumes from across the state. We have some great people in South Dakota that would be awesome at this job. Take a look at ten or twenty of them, no hurry. We know what happens when we hurry! (see above) And then after careful consideration hire the best candidate for the job. 2010 is a big year, we can't afford to have another third rate ED (I know, I'm being generous.)
I and many other Republicans will be sitting on the edge of our seats awaiting a decision. Please don't let us down.
Rusty
Hopefully the party will take it's time choosing a successor; because the current hiring policy has produced results such as passing on several well qualified candidates to hire Max Wetz, hiring Jewall Breard with absolutely no other candidates being considered, and hiring an entire staff that felt no need in the toughest election cycle in a generation to work one minute past five o'clock.
This is re-boot time for the party. They did it with James Bond and look how well it turned out. I say fire everybody and start fresh. Get a little old lady to answer the phones and get the mail. See if you can get a sample of Jason Glodt's DNA for cloning. Then, if that fails, solicit resumes from across the state. We have some great people in South Dakota that would be awesome at this job. Take a look at ten or twenty of them, no hurry. We know what happens when we hurry! (see above) And then after careful consideration hire the best candidate for the job. 2010 is a big year, we can't afford to have another third rate ED (I know, I'm being generous.)
I and many other Republicans will be sitting on the edge of our seats awaiting a decision. Please don't let us down.
Rusty
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
New 3rd Party Candidate from South Dakota threatens to steal votes from John Mcain!
A new third party candidate has appeared on the scene and threatens to steal votes from John McCain in several key demographics. Check out this news report on Buzzard Gulch, SD resident Joad Cressbeckler. Is there trouble in store for McCain?
Rusty
Rusty
Monday, August 11, 2008
The Tim Johnson/Steve Jarding Cartoon Battle Royale!
I saw a post at the Dakota War College showing that PP and l3wis at South DaCola were discussing PP's cartooning ability and his politics. PP's cartoon inspired me to put a thought that I have had rolling around in my head (involving the ultimate puppetmaster) on virtual paper. I have to give them both their propers, as it is hard as hell to make a digital cartoon. Here it is:
I suppose it is still better to do it his way, as it would be hard to represent Cartman as a stick figure; and that is the extent of my artistic ability on paper.
So, let me know what you think!
Rusty
I suppose it is still better to do it his way, as it would be hard to represent Cartman as a stick figure; and that is the extent of my artistic ability on paper.
So, let me know what you think!
Rusty
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
You've got to keep it on the down low!
I have been reading PP's rants about the South Dakota Conservative Action Council, today particularly focusing on the propaganda arm of the organization. Upon reading a few points in the article, some of the gears in my head started to turn. You see, I started getting propaganda emails from the SDCAC shortly after their doors opened; and I have never assigned any importance to them. I tend to see them in my email box, open them, curse about their spaminess, and then delete them.
But here is the thing, I never get junk spam emails in this particular account. I have kept this account off of the radar screen of all but the most trusted senders. I don't get emails at this account offering to boost the size of my whatsits or to provide my wife with more pleasure in her hoo-hah. I have never had an offer to consolidate my debt, see my credit score or have an exciting vacation to a tropical destination. I have never even recieved an email from my own mother at this account. In fact the only real email I have ever recieved at this account is from the South Dakota Republican Party and it's candidates and auxilleries.
So my conclusion is that #1. The SDCAC alledgedly bought or recieved my email address from the state party or someone affiliated with it. Or #2. I am a completely insane, crackpot, conspiracy theorist. And considering the fact that I write a blog, I would say the chances are about 40/60.
SO my question is, "Has anyone else had a similar expierience with an email address from the SDCAC?" Drop me a line and let me know.
But here is the thing, I never get junk spam emails in this particular account. I have kept this account off of the radar screen of all but the most trusted senders. I don't get emails at this account offering to boost the size of my whatsits or to provide my wife with more pleasure in her hoo-hah. I have never had an offer to consolidate my debt, see my credit score or have an exciting vacation to a tropical destination. I have never even recieved an email from my own mother at this account. In fact the only real email I have ever recieved at this account is from the South Dakota Republican Party and it's candidates and auxilleries.
So my conclusion is that #1. The SDCAC alledgedly bought or recieved my email address from the state party or someone affiliated with it. Or #2. I am a completely insane, crackpot, conspiracy theorist. And considering the fact that I write a blog, I would say the chances are about 40/60.
SO my question is, "Has anyone else had a similar expierience with an email address from the SDCAC?" Drop me a line and let me know.
The lights are ON and somebody is home!
The news broke a few weeks ago that Jason Glodt was back on the staff at the Republican Party in Pierre, and he is back to his old winning ways. A cruise by Republican HQ last night showed that Glodt was deeply entrenched in his office; no doubt plotting his strategy for Republican Victory. Old Rusty was heading to the Legion for a nightcap when I spotted him, and this was at 11:00PM. Glodt has picked the party up on his back, and is attempting to carry us on to our previous highs, last reached when Jason was the Executive Director.
But I think Glodt must be pretty lonely on these long, hot nights, as the rest of the staff at Republican HQ doesn't seem to join him very often. A personal visit or call by the HQ after 5:00PM on most days is met with a locked door or an answering machine. As one of over 100 employees on the 2002 Victory campaign I can tell you that Glodt's hours are a lot more realistic than the rest of the staff's. We made $1500 a month and worked 80+ hour weeks doing the thankless work of preparing for a massive get out the vote effort. We did all that and still lost the election by 524 votes.
I don't know what the current staff's wages are, but I am sure they are all making well over the pittance that Victory staff made in 2002. If Max Wetz is making $50000 a year and working 40 hours a week, he is pulling in about $26 an hour. A 2002 Victory Staffer did 10 times the work in the course of a day and made about $4.50 an hour. My point: WE ARE NOT GETTING OUR MONEY'S WORTH!
When will Chairman Karl Adam and the rest of the leadership at at the party insist on getting an honest days work from the HQ staff? Until I see some kind of action taken, I will be withholding my funds; and I encourage everyone else to do the same. Apparently the only voice that they will listen to will be our checkbooks.
Unfortunately, I am also going to steel myself for the agony of defeat that is on the horizon in November. If I am wrong, Jason Glodt will be the man that we will all have to thank; if I am right, their will be plenty of people around to take the blame.
But I think Glodt must be pretty lonely on these long, hot nights, as the rest of the staff at Republican HQ doesn't seem to join him very often. A personal visit or call by the HQ after 5:00PM on most days is met with a locked door or an answering machine. As one of over 100 employees on the 2002 Victory campaign I can tell you that Glodt's hours are a lot more realistic than the rest of the staff's. We made $1500 a month and worked 80+ hour weeks doing the thankless work of preparing for a massive get out the vote effort. We did all that and still lost the election by 524 votes.
I don't know what the current staff's wages are, but I am sure they are all making well over the pittance that Victory staff made in 2002. If Max Wetz is making $50000 a year and working 40 hours a week, he is pulling in about $26 an hour. A 2002 Victory Staffer did 10 times the work in the course of a day and made about $4.50 an hour. My point: WE ARE NOT GETTING OUR MONEY'S WORTH!
When will Chairman Karl Adam and the rest of the leadership at at the party insist on getting an honest days work from the HQ staff? Until I see some kind of action taken, I will be withholding my funds; and I encourage everyone else to do the same. Apparently the only voice that they will listen to will be our checkbooks.
Unfortunately, I am also going to steel myself for the agony of defeat that is on the horizon in November. If I am wrong, Jason Glodt will be the man that we will all have to thank; if I am right, their will be plenty of people around to take the blame.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Gloucester Girls Are Easy!
Firstly I would like to apologize for the short lapse in blogging. I have been computerless for the last week due to some technical difficulties. But, I am back on the net now and ready for business.
I have been watching the news today and saw a press conference with the mayor of Gloucester, Massachusetts talking about the "Pregnancy Pact" scandal that is taking place in that community. As I watch, I don't think that I have seen a better argument against schools and governments providing birth control to students.
Some schools and state health officials are saying that they could have prevented some of these pregnancies if only they had been allowed to provide birth control to students. But I see this as placing the school in jeopardy of liability. If I am 15 and I get a prophylactic from the school nurse and it breaks, resulting in a pregnancy, who is responsible? I did the right thing and got a condom, my parents had no clue (because it was confidential they couldn't be notified) and now my 15 year old girlfriend is knocked up because budget cuts only allowed for generic brand condoms and not the Trojan Jr. Magnums that I needed. The school has provided me with all the tools I needed to get the job done, refused to tell the folks, and now someone has to pay for this kids upbringing.
To make an analogy, if I needed a gun for "protection," and the local gun store owner gave it to me for free, and didn't tell my parents; and then I go out and shoot my best friend, who do you think is responsible. I think we could easily guess that the anti-gun lobby would be after the gun store owner quick, fast, and in a hurry! I also think we agree that sending a 15 year old boy out on the town with a rubber and just enough knowledge on how to use it to be dangerous could give new meaning to the words "loaded gun."
As a tax payer and citizen I look on myself as a shareholder in my government. And as with any company the values of my shares go up or down with the raising or lowering of my taxes. If I owned stock in a public company, and they were going to start giving free samples of their potentially harmful product to unsupervised minors I would be calling my broker telling him to sell, sell, SELL! But I can't sell my stock in my government; in fact every year I have to buy more whether I like it's value or not. I do not want any company that I own a part of to take part in any obviously risky behavior and I demand that my government not engage in these actions as well.
I think that a problem we have as conservatives is that we attack problems like this based on morals and dogma, and not simply from a fiscal standpoint. This gives liberals the opportunity to bring in their emotionally charged opinions as well and we end up with an argument based on feelings and not on facts.
The bottom line is that a school giving condoms to kids without their parent's permission opens the school (i.e. us as taxpayers) to potential liability from families faced with the expense of raising unplanned pregnancies, or worse the treatment for a dangerous STD. If the school in Gloucester did not provide pregnancy tests and stick their nose into the citizen's private business this story would be about 17 stupid teenagers in a small fishing village, but because the government got involved it is now a minor local crisis that government must spend money to solve.
As a side note, do you think there is any coincidence to the fact that Pregnancy Pact has the same initials as PP? Because that guy needs to make some kind of an agreement with someone or he will have to build an addition onto his house. Just kidding Pat!
Rusty
I have been watching the news today and saw a press conference with the mayor of Gloucester, Massachusetts talking about the "Pregnancy Pact" scandal that is taking place in that community. As I watch, I don't think that I have seen a better argument against schools and governments providing birth control to students.
Some schools and state health officials are saying that they could have prevented some of these pregnancies if only they had been allowed to provide birth control to students. But I see this as placing the school in jeopardy of liability. If I am 15 and I get a prophylactic from the school nurse and it breaks, resulting in a pregnancy, who is responsible? I did the right thing and got a condom, my parents had no clue (because it was confidential they couldn't be notified) and now my 15 year old girlfriend is knocked up because budget cuts only allowed for generic brand condoms and not the Trojan Jr. Magnums that I needed. The school has provided me with all the tools I needed to get the job done, refused to tell the folks, and now someone has to pay for this kids upbringing.
To make an analogy, if I needed a gun for "protection," and the local gun store owner gave it to me for free, and didn't tell my parents; and then I go out and shoot my best friend, who do you think is responsible. I think we could easily guess that the anti-gun lobby would be after the gun store owner quick, fast, and in a hurry! I also think we agree that sending a 15 year old boy out on the town with a rubber and just enough knowledge on how to use it to be dangerous could give new meaning to the words "loaded gun."
As a tax payer and citizen I look on myself as a shareholder in my government. And as with any company the values of my shares go up or down with the raising or lowering of my taxes. If I owned stock in a public company, and they were going to start giving free samples of their potentially harmful product to unsupervised minors I would be calling my broker telling him to sell, sell, SELL! But I can't sell my stock in my government; in fact every year I have to buy more whether I like it's value or not. I do not want any company that I own a part of to take part in any obviously risky behavior and I demand that my government not engage in these actions as well.
I think that a problem we have as conservatives is that we attack problems like this based on morals and dogma, and not simply from a fiscal standpoint. This gives liberals the opportunity to bring in their emotionally charged opinions as well and we end up with an argument based on feelings and not on facts.
The bottom line is that a school giving condoms to kids without their parent's permission opens the school (i.e. us as taxpayers) to potential liability from families faced with the expense of raising unplanned pregnancies, or worse the treatment for a dangerous STD. If the school in Gloucester did not provide pregnancy tests and stick their nose into the citizen's private business this story would be about 17 stupid teenagers in a small fishing village, but because the government got involved it is now a minor local crisis that government must spend money to solve.
As a side note, do you think there is any coincidence to the fact that Pregnancy Pact has the same initials as PP? Because that guy needs to make some kind of an agreement with someone or he will have to build an addition onto his house. Just kidding Pat!
Rusty
Monday, June 9, 2008
Scooped! Instead a Gribble of an idea: Name Your Mayor!
Last week I thought I would be breaking an interesting story about politics here in South Dakota, but as often happens my conscience got the better of me and I decided to call the subject for their permission. I got denied, only to see the story appear on another blog a few hours later; this was followed by an 11:00PM phone call to let me know I could go ahead with the story. Despite the disappointment I'm glad I asked, so as not to upset a friend; hopefully it will result in some juicy tidbits down the line.
Now I am reduced to some fluff from the Capitol Journal that I happened to catch this morning. The first annual Mayor's Race was held at the Oahe Speedway this weekend. Apparently these races between local civic leaders are all the rage in the drag racing world; but this is the first time that Oahe has hosted such an event. Mayors from Blunt, Gettysburg and Highmore were listed participants of the race as well as a sub for Pierre Mayor Dennis Eisnach. I can only assume that other mayors were present, but lacked the star power to be mentioned in the Capitol Journal.
The final was between the mayors from Blunt and Gettysburg, with Gettysburg mayor Jack Axsom winning due to a false start on the final match-up. I was really hoping that the Blunt mayor would have won, because he has a much more interesting name. Imagine how it would have spiced up the News from Blunt to have included the story:
Now I am reduced to some fluff from the Capitol Journal that I happened to catch this morning. The first annual Mayor's Race was held at the Oahe Speedway this weekend. Apparently these races between local civic leaders are all the rage in the drag racing world; but this is the first time that Oahe has hosted such an event. Mayors from Blunt, Gettysburg and Highmore were listed participants of the race as well as a sub for Pierre Mayor Dennis Eisnach. I can only assume that other mayors were present, but lacked the star power to be mentioned in the Capitol Journal.
The final was between the mayors from Blunt and Gettysburg, with Gettysburg mayor Jack Axsom winning due to a false start on the final match-up. I was really hoping that the Blunt mayor would have won, because he has a much more interesting name. Imagine how it would have spiced up the News from Blunt to have included the story:
Sunday supper guests of Mayor Dennis "Swede" Larson were Mayor and Mrs. Jack Axsom of Gettysburg. For dinner Mayor Axsom ate the dust from the tires of Swede's Monte Carlo. Following dinner, punch and cookies were served, and a good time was had by all.
Sorry Blunt, for now we can only dream about next year. Also an open question for comments:
If your mayor could have a nickname, what would you like it to be?
Friday, May 30, 2008
News of note for the city of Pierre
Some interesting info from Tony Mangan, news director at KCCR. First, from the political side of things the River Cities Transit will be prviding free rides to the polls on election day for anyone living in the Pierre/Fort Pierre area. River Cities is the local cab company here in Pierre and anyone interested in a ride may call them at 945-2360. Kudos to River Cities for this great community service. If the local cab company in your town isn't doing this yet, encourage them to do so.
Second, apparently Pierre has attained saturation on quick service submarine sandwich retaraunts (Pierre, pop. >15,000, has three Subways and a Quizno's.) Despite the existence of no less than three other national sub chains that could have been attracted to our fine community; someone has decided to take a step outside the box and bring a couple new franchises to town.
The planned Shooting Star strip mall project announced the they will be housing both a Papa Murphy's and (my personal favorite) an Arby's. This will be Pierre's second attempt at a paternally named pizza chain, and our first Arby's.
It is too bad Arby's couldn't get here sooner, as I understand that the only reason PP relocated the family was so that they could be closer to the fix of juicy roast beef on a kaiser roll.
Curses to you Arby's!
Rusty
Second, apparently Pierre has attained saturation on quick service submarine sandwich retaraunts (Pierre, pop. >15,000, has three Subways and a Quizno's.) Despite the existence of no less than three other national sub chains that could have been attracted to our fine community; someone has decided to take a step outside the box and bring a couple new franchises to town.
The planned Shooting Star strip mall project announced the they will be housing both a Papa Murphy's and (my personal favorite) an Arby's. This will be Pierre's second attempt at a paternally named pizza chain, and our first Arby's.
It is too bad Arby's couldn't get here sooner, as I understand that the only reason PP relocated the family was so that they could be closer to the fix of juicy roast beef on a kaiser roll.
Curses to you Arby's!
Rusty
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Get your colors at the Dakota Voice
I would like to send a shout out to Bob at the Dakota Voice for taking the next step regarding the John McCain shirts I mentioned in the previous post. While he chose to use less colorful language in his design, it still maintains the overall flavor of what I was looking for. And the best part is you can actually buy them and rock them around your neighborhood. Check them out here:
http://www.dakotavoice.com/2008/05/new-mccain-2008-t-shirts-expressing-our.html
Thanks Bob, glad there is someone out there besides myself keeping the faith.
Rusty
http://www.dakotavoice.com/2008/05/new-mccain-2008-t-shirts-expressing-our.html
Thanks Bob, glad there is someone out there besides myself keeping the faith.
Rusty
A return from the desert!
First I would like to apologize to the five loyal readers of the Gribble Report for my lengthy hiatus. Ever since John McCain became the Republican nominee I have been in a general malaise regarding my feelings about the future of the party. I felt bamboozled, as I do more so everyday when he makes a speech about greenhouse gasses and how he wants to reach out to the other side of the aisle. It sickens me.
But as we have approached the South Dakota Primary on June 3rd, the juices have begun to flow. I am getting excited about my city and county races. We even have a House primary here in district 24. All of these have united to get me fired up about politics again.
I will be supporting John McCain in November as the lesser of two evils, and for those of you who feel the same way as I do, I have come up with a new slogan:
But as we have approached the South Dakota Primary on June 3rd, the juices have begun to flow. I am getting excited about my city and county races. We even have a House primary here in district 24. All of these have united to get me fired up about politics again.
I will be supporting John McCain in November as the lesser of two evils, and for those of you who feel the same way as I do, I have come up with a new slogan:
John McCain
F**K IT!
Please let me know what you think. If it is a big hit I may move on to the ordering t-shirts process. Other than that project I am also eagerly awaiting the outcome of the Legislative primaries and the preparation for the general election showdown.
As mentioned earlier on this page the Republican political director has moved on. My first question now as we get ready for the season is how will the party fill the void? It is undoubtedly a very crucial position that will advise and oversee the Republican candidates in the general campaign. Has the party been interviewing? Is someone hired? Will the job stay as a permanent position or will it morph back to it's more familiar one and done format?
I think that this position could be one of the most crucial jobs in South Dakota politics as we are facing a year when many observers feel that we could lose the State Senate and take major hits int the House. The right person could help us staunch the bleeding; the wrong, who knows?
Another dilemma (for me anyway) on the ballot this year in District 24 is Corey Landeen, Republican House primary challenger and Director of the South Dakota State Employee's Organization. He seems like a nice guy, but I just don't know if I can vote for someone who's job description includes the word lobbyist. I have to assume that he would be doing both jobs, and I don't feel like that represents my best interests. It seems like a conflict.
Anyway, enough for now. I don't want to bore the loyal reader(s) that I may have left for too long; but rest assured that I am back, and I plan to hang around for awhile.
Rusty
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
A little bird told me...
I am still running down the who's and where's, but I have info from a reliable source that a SD Republican Party staff member is moving on to new employment. I don't want to jinx it, so I will keep the name under my hat until I have more information. But be on the look out for some change at the HQ. Finally!
Friday, February 22, 2008
Hillary Clinton campaign spending out of control!
Hillary's campaign spending looks like the budget for a 5-star vacation, with $100,000 on parties in Iowa and $25,000 on luxury suites at the Bellagio in Las Vegas. Check out the entire story here:
(http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/22/us/politics/22clinton.html?ei=5065&en=0e0a0772289a2b92&ex=1204347600&partner=MYWAY&pagewanted=print)
As much as I look, I don't see any $30,000 checks to Dick Kelley, so she hasn't achieved full efficiency at wasting money. But at this pace it won't be long, watch your mailbox Dick!
(http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/22/us/politics/22clinton.html?ei=5065&en=0e0a0772289a2b92&ex=1204347600&partner=MYWAY&pagewanted=print)
As much as I look, I don't see any $30,000 checks to Dick Kelley, so she hasn't achieved full efficiency at wasting money. But at this pace it won't be long, watch your mailbox Dick!
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Morbid obesity leads to ruin among Republicans!
After reading an article about today at the Dakota War College about former Rapid City Alderman and Pennington County Republican Party executive director Mike Schumacher. (check it out here: http://dakotawarcollege.com/?p=3618 ) I was struck by a strange trend as of late.
What's the deal with extremely overweight Republicans rushing to self-destruct these days?First you have Ted Klaudt molesting his step daughters, then Heath Tople begins stalking an ex-girlfriend, and finally Mike sending fraudulent emails. And on top of this they all did it numerous times; and all at great personal cost. Heath and Ted have both lost their freedom, and Mike has risked his livelihood. It will be interesting to see how things end up for Mike, I hope better than they look for the other two.
I for one have re-newed my gym membership; and if I am ever in a position to hire an executive director of a county party I will be looking for a possessor of an Ichabod Crane-like physique.
What's the deal with extremely overweight Republicans rushing to self-destruct these days?First you have Ted Klaudt molesting his step daughters, then Heath Tople begins stalking an ex-girlfriend, and finally Mike sending fraudulent emails. And on top of this they all did it numerous times; and all at great personal cost. Heath and Ted have both lost their freedom, and Mike has risked his livelihood. It will be interesting to see how things end up for Mike, I hope better than they look for the other two.
I for one have re-newed my gym membership; and if I am ever in a position to hire an executive director of a county party I will be looking for a possessor of an Ichabod Crane-like physique.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Ted Klaudt files appeal with Supreme Court
As dissappointing as it is for a Republican such as myself, Ted Klaudt is again attempting to circumvent his rightful punishment. I will be very interested to hear what his reason for an appeal will be. I hope that the Supremes will see through his BS and uphold his jail time. If anything, I think that we as citizens should be appealing for a longer sentence. Check out the article here:
http://www.capjournal.com/articles/2008/02/13/breaking_news/doc47b3603b19abd166693021.txt
http://www.capjournal.com/articles/2008/02/13/breaking_news/doc47b3603b19abd166693021.txt
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Patrick Davis- Hard Working Republican
Reading a post on http://www.dakotawarcollege.com/ regarding Joel Rosenthal's poor treatment of former South Dakota Republican Party Executive Director Patrick Davis made me wonder where Joel's analysis comes from. I found the culprit at:
http://online.wsj.com/public/article/SB120208699551139387.html?mod=blog
One thing that I find conspicuous about this article is the way that they couch Patrick Davis' and his resume (Although Rusty looks forward to the day he will have a drawing of himself in the Wall Street Journal.) They seem to insinuate that he has had very little political expierience with this statement:
"Mr. Davis spent a career running traditional campaigns and independent efforts by interest groups. After college, he accepted a $20,000-a-year job with the 1992 reelection bid of President George H.W. Bush. After Mr. Bush lost, Mr. Davis couldn't find a political job in Washington. He worked for two years in sales at Crate & Barrel. Eventually, he began working for an arm of the Republican Party that oversees campaigns for the U.S. Senate, then for an anti-abortion group in South Dakota." ;courtesy of the Wall Street Journal.
As Patrick has show at: http://dakotawarcollege.com/?p=3531
He has had a much more involved career than the Wall Street Journal seems to indicate. Patrick didn't go from Crate and Barrel to a career of working for working for "an arm of the Republican Party that oversees campaigns for the U.S. Senate, then for an anti-abortion group in South Dakota." He was the Executive Director of the Republican Party of South Dakota. Following this employment he left in 1999 to become a Regional Political Director with the National Republican Senatorial Committee. In 2003 he became the National Political Director for the NRSC, during the 2004 Election cycle; overseeing an increase of four seats in the US Senate. He then formed Patrick Davis Consulting, LLC. Joel does an accurate job of reporting this, but Patrick deserves better.
I feel that the Wall Street Journal does a great disservice to Patrick, insinuating that his career has been so inconsequential. Patrick has carried water for the elephant on more than one occasion; and I think that he deserves the credit that he is due. He has worked harder than most, and should be recognized for it.
Patrick has shown that he is a Republican workhorse. Any attempt to define him otherwise is a smear job that is undeserved.
Even though I disagree with his choice of candidate, I still recognize the fact that he has done work he deserves credit for. Usually I look to the Wall Street Journal as a bastion of journalistic integrity. I think they have done a great disservice to some one that I consider a great Republican. Shame on you to anyone who wants to profess otherwise.
http://online.wsj.com/public/article/SB120208699551139387.html?mod=blog
One thing that I find conspicuous about this article is the way that they couch Patrick Davis' and his resume (Although Rusty looks forward to the day he will have a drawing of himself in the Wall Street Journal.) They seem to insinuate that he has had very little political expierience with this statement:
"Mr. Davis spent a career running traditional campaigns and independent efforts by interest groups. After college, he accepted a $20,000-a-year job with the 1992 reelection bid of President George H.W. Bush. After Mr. Bush lost, Mr. Davis couldn't find a political job in Washington. He worked for two years in sales at Crate & Barrel. Eventually, he began working for an arm of the Republican Party that oversees campaigns for the U.S. Senate, then for an anti-abortion group in South Dakota." ;courtesy of the Wall Street Journal.
As Patrick has show at: http://dakotawarcollege.com/?p=3531
He has had a much more involved career than the Wall Street Journal seems to indicate. Patrick didn't go from Crate and Barrel to a career of working for working for "an arm of the Republican Party that oversees campaigns for the U.S. Senate, then for an anti-abortion group in South Dakota." He was the Executive Director of the Republican Party of South Dakota. Following this employment he left in 1999 to become a Regional Political Director with the National Republican Senatorial Committee. In 2003 he became the National Political Director for the NRSC, during the 2004 Election cycle; overseeing an increase of four seats in the US Senate. He then formed Patrick Davis Consulting, LLC. Joel does an accurate job of reporting this, but Patrick deserves better.
I feel that the Wall Street Journal does a great disservice to Patrick, insinuating that his career has been so inconsequential. Patrick has carried water for the elephant on more than one occasion; and I think that he deserves the credit that he is due. He has worked harder than most, and should be recognized for it.
Patrick has shown that he is a Republican workhorse. Any attempt to define him otherwise is a smear job that is undeserved.
Even though I disagree with his choice of candidate, I still recognize the fact that he has done work he deserves credit for. Usually I look to the Wall Street Journal as a bastion of journalistic integrity. I think they have done a great disservice to some one that I consider a great Republican. Shame on you to anyone who wants to profess otherwise.
Sunday, February 3, 2008
What is wrong with Arlen Specter?
As today is Super Bowl Sunday, I thought that a football related post would be in order. Luckily Senator Arlen Specter has provided the fodder by launching his own investigation into new allegations of Spygate, the New England Patriots taping scandal.
As a sports fan of the highest magnitude, I think that the Senate should stay out of our national past times. I do wish that sports, mostly baseball, would institute better drug testing policies; Baseball has had a lackluster history of dealing with scandals under Commissioner Bud Selig, but I don't think that congressional hearings are going to be the answer.
As far as Spygate, I felt that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell did an excellent job of dealing witht the issue. The incident was investigated, punishment was levied, and Spygate was put to rest; that was until now when the Pats are on the verge of a perfect season. Now Arlen wants to launch an investigation.
Do we really need Congress to police our sporting events, on top of all the other things they manage to get their grubby little fingers on? If there is anyone out there, I'd appreciate your comments!
As a sports fan of the highest magnitude, I think that the Senate should stay out of our national past times. I do wish that sports, mostly baseball, would institute better drug testing policies; Baseball has had a lackluster history of dealing with scandals under Commissioner Bud Selig, but I don't think that congressional hearings are going to be the answer.
As far as Spygate, I felt that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell did an excellent job of dealing witht the issue. The incident was investigated, punishment was levied, and Spygate was put to rest; that was until now when the Pats are on the verge of a perfect season. Now Arlen wants to launch an investigation.
Do we really need Congress to police our sporting events, on top of all the other things they manage to get their grubby little fingers on? If there is anyone out there, I'd appreciate your comments!
Saturday, February 2, 2008
The Gribble Report endorses Mitt Romney
Since everyone and their dog (including my favorite ex-candidate Rudy) have been falling all over themselves to endorse the pseudo-Republican John McCain, I decided to throw the (very) tiny bit of weight that the Gribble Report carries behind the only real conservative still in the race.
I hope that you appreciate this Mitt, it will probably get you my mom's vote
I hope that you appreciate this Mitt, it will probably get you my mom's vote
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Time for a fresh perspective at Republican HQ
A note at http://www.dakotawarcollege.com/ about Max Wetz and his new wife (last I knew also an employee of the South Dakota Republican Party) having purchased a house in Pierre. PP theorizes that this could mean a long term stay at the party for Max.
This idea caused me to question a few things that are happening in our party in the last several years. In the 80's and 90's it seemed that the party had a natural selection approach to staffing that followed two very basic principals:
1. We hired young, hungry people, that wanted to prove themselves and paid them way less than they probably deserved and worked them like dogs for a few years. At the end of this time period the staffers left with their expieriences to make their way in the world (some in politics, others in the private sector), make real money, and generally further the Republican way of life. It was a great way to develop future party leaders. This is where we have seen people like Lance Russell, Patrick Davis, Hugh Weber, Herb Jones, and most recently Jason Glodt come from. All of these people have gone on to sucess in different areas of the political spectrum.
2. If you did not exceed the standard that was set for you, you also left. You left completely of your own volition, and made room for the young turks that were chomping at the bit to get your job so that they could prove that they had what it took to join the ranks of the people in #1.
After the performance of the party during the last election cycle, some of the staff at Republican HQ are looking a little long in the tooth. With the loss of seats in the House and Senate in 2006 and the upcoming important national elections we may be facing, you would think we would be looking for fresh horses to carry us through the 2008 season. The fact that we still have the same Executive Director and Political Director (Amanda Dotson) shows that this is the team that we are planning on going forward with.
Amanda has been with the party since at least 2002 and Max since 2005. We have not had a stellar record of performance lately. These are good people, but they seem tired to me; like they are just punching a clock and taking home a check at a 9 to 5 job (If you wish to verify this, go by the party office after 5:00 any day and you will see that no one is there.) These are not the hungry young people that the party needs right now.
I hope that we will see some changes coming soon from the Republican Party. We need fresh legs with a fresh perspective if we are going to maintain control of the Legislature and have a chance at winning races for our Congressional seats.
An addition for the fact concious:
A post in the comments at www.dakotawarcollege.com questioned my facts, so I did some verifying. Here is what I found:
The links below show that in 2005-06 the make up of the house was 51R-19D. In 2007 it was 50R-20D.
The Senate was 25R-10D in 2005-2006 and is now 20R-15D.
But thank for keeping me honest!
http://legis.state.sd.us/sessions/2006/hourost.htm
http://legis.state.sd.us/sessions/2007/hourost.htm
This idea caused me to question a few things that are happening in our party in the last several years. In the 80's and 90's it seemed that the party had a natural selection approach to staffing that followed two very basic principals:
1. We hired young, hungry people, that wanted to prove themselves and paid them way less than they probably deserved and worked them like dogs for a few years. At the end of this time period the staffers left with their expieriences to make their way in the world (some in politics, others in the private sector), make real money, and generally further the Republican way of life. It was a great way to develop future party leaders. This is where we have seen people like Lance Russell, Patrick Davis, Hugh Weber, Herb Jones, and most recently Jason Glodt come from. All of these people have gone on to sucess in different areas of the political spectrum.
2. If you did not exceed the standard that was set for you, you also left. You left completely of your own volition, and made room for the young turks that were chomping at the bit to get your job so that they could prove that they had what it took to join the ranks of the people in #1.
After the performance of the party during the last election cycle, some of the staff at Republican HQ are looking a little long in the tooth. With the loss of seats in the House and Senate in 2006 and the upcoming important national elections we may be facing, you would think we would be looking for fresh horses to carry us through the 2008 season. The fact that we still have the same Executive Director and Political Director (Amanda Dotson) shows that this is the team that we are planning on going forward with.
Amanda has been with the party since at least 2002 and Max since 2005. We have not had a stellar record of performance lately. These are good people, but they seem tired to me; like they are just punching a clock and taking home a check at a 9 to 5 job (If you wish to verify this, go by the party office after 5:00 any day and you will see that no one is there.) These are not the hungry young people that the party needs right now.
I hope that we will see some changes coming soon from the Republican Party. We need fresh legs with a fresh perspective if we are going to maintain control of the Legislature and have a chance at winning races for our Congressional seats.
An addition for the fact concious:
A post in the comments at www.dakotawarcollege.com questioned my facts, so I did some verifying. Here is what I found:
The links below show that in 2005-06 the make up of the house was 51R-19D. In 2007 it was 50R-20D.
The Senate was 25R-10D in 2005-2006 and is now 20R-15D.
But thank for keeping me honest!
http://legis.state.sd.us/sessions/2006/hourost.htm
http://legis.state.sd.us/sessions/2007/hourost.htm
Monday, January 21, 2008
Dakota Radio Group brings more of the same to State Capitol's radio
This isn't really a political post except for the fact that it pertains to radio in the state capitol. For years Pierre South Dakota has dwelt in the steamy, smelly armpit of the state when it comes to format choices on your radio dial. We only get about five choices on the FM dial (including NPR) and the AM stations vary depending on the weather and what time of day it is (we have two stations that are based in this town.
For some reason two of these stations (95.3 KLXS and Dakota Radio Group's River 92.7) have seemed to always have a similar format. In the 90's they were both classic rock, in the aughts (2000's) they were both equally horrible as top forty alternative pop crap stations. Finally 95.3 chose a format that, in my opinion, made them the more listenable when they became BOB-FM. A format of not having a format. Playing music the way on might program an ipod play list (ex. country song, 70' rock song, rap song, 80's hair band song, etc, etc, etc.) All different, and if you don't like the song that is playing the next on will be nothing like it.
Lately, Dakota Radio group had an opportunity to buy a new frequency when 100.1 became available in the Pierre area. They bought it and set up a new transmitter, and had an opportunity to bring something new and exciting to Pierre. You'll never guess what the cutting edge minds at Dakota Radio Group came up with as a format. The exact same thing as BOB-FM, or as one of there ad salespeople told me this weekend "It's just like BOB-FM, but only better."
I understand that radio is a business, and that Dakota Radio Group did this because they figure they can sell some advertising, and maybe steal a few customers away from the competition. But I say they screwed up here. We have very little choice in radio as it is, why bring in more of the same. Is there a rule that you can't be innovative in the radio business in Pierre.
Anyway, I'll close this rant by sending a great big BOO to Dakota Radio Group for their lack of creativity and making a decision that in no way enriched our community in any way. Stop piling on the crap and be original!
For some reason two of these stations (95.3 KLXS and Dakota Radio Group's River 92.7) have seemed to always have a similar format. In the 90's they were both classic rock, in the aughts (2000's) they were both equally horrible as top forty alternative pop crap stations. Finally 95.3 chose a format that, in my opinion, made them the more listenable when they became BOB-FM. A format of not having a format. Playing music the way on might program an ipod play list (ex. country song, 70' rock song, rap song, 80's hair band song, etc, etc, etc.) All different, and if you don't like the song that is playing the next on will be nothing like it.
Lately, Dakota Radio group had an opportunity to buy a new frequency when 100.1 became available in the Pierre area. They bought it and set up a new transmitter, and had an opportunity to bring something new and exciting to Pierre. You'll never guess what the cutting edge minds at Dakota Radio Group came up with as a format. The exact same thing as BOB-FM, or as one of there ad salespeople told me this weekend "It's just like BOB-FM, but only better."
I understand that radio is a business, and that Dakota Radio Group did this because they figure they can sell some advertising, and maybe steal a few customers away from the competition. But I say they screwed up here. We have very little choice in radio as it is, why bring in more of the same. Is there a rule that you can't be innovative in the radio business in Pierre.
Anyway, I'll close this rant by sending a great big BOO to Dakota Radio Group for their lack of creativity and making a decision that in no way enriched our community in any way. Stop piling on the crap and be original!
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Ted Klaudt sentenced to 44 years of being cornholed
After what seems like forever, Ted Klaudt has been sentenced to 44 years in the State Penitentiary. And for a change he has been taken into custody by law enforcement (I guess that they finally decided to take things off Klaudt's schedule.) He will now be escorted to Meade County to be sentenced for the crimes he committed there.
Considering that he could have been sentenced to 100 years I think he is getting off a little light. I know with his health and age 44 years is probably a life sentence, but why not send a message. Someone (probably family) actually suggested that his "good works" should be considered in his sentencing. A lot of legislators have done a lot of good things, and I don't think any of them would deserve any leniency when it comes to crimes of this magnitude.
Anyway, it shouldn't be long and Ted will be in the pen, taking his punishment. And as I have said before, I hope he has a long healthy future in front of him. I for one will have no problem paying my share of his health care.
Hopefully he will run into some friends of mine in there, as I do know a few guys in the pen (and I'm talking about lonely guys with no future.) Maybe they will be lucky enough to run into Ted and let him know what it's like to have your innocence taken from you against your will.
Too bad a judge can't pass down that sentence. It is certainly deserved.
Rusty
Considering that he could have been sentenced to 100 years I think he is getting off a little light. I know with his health and age 44 years is probably a life sentence, but why not send a message. Someone (probably family) actually suggested that his "good works" should be considered in his sentencing. A lot of legislators have done a lot of good things, and I don't think any of them would deserve any leniency when it comes to crimes of this magnitude.
Anyway, it shouldn't be long and Ted will be in the pen, taking his punishment. And as I have said before, I hope he has a long healthy future in front of him. I for one will have no problem paying my share of his health care.
Hopefully he will run into some friends of mine in there, as I do know a few guys in the pen (and I'm talking about lonely guys with no future.) Maybe they will be lucky enough to run into Ted and let him know what it's like to have your innocence taken from you against your will.
Too bad a judge can't pass down that sentence. It is certainly deserved.
Rusty
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Romney Wins, Giuliani Strategy Looking More Realistic
Mitt Romney wins the Michigan primary and Giuliani's strategy to wait until the later states is looking like it may pay off for him. So far none of the candidate on the Republican side looks like a clear front runner. I for one think this may prove fortuitous for the one candidate that I (and the late Gerald Ford) think could win this election.
I will be looking forward to see what the "Liberal Media" will say about this. I think we will see a new round of endorsements for Senator John McCain (the dinosaur of the Republican Party) that I think has no chance to win. I could support Giuliani or Romney (Huckabee is a little too fiscally moderate for me) but McCain is definitely on the outs with me as a candidate.
I guess we will see what happens in South Carolina. Huckabee will probably win, but thanks to the last two contests he won't have a mandate.
Watch this space for more updates as Super Tuesday approaches.
Rusty
I will be looking forward to see what the "Liberal Media" will say about this. I think we will see a new round of endorsements for Senator John McCain (the dinosaur of the Republican Party) that I think has no chance to win. I could support Giuliani or Romney (Huckabee is a little too fiscally moderate for me) but McCain is definitely on the outs with me as a candidate.
I guess we will see what happens in South Carolina. Huckabee will probably win, but thanks to the last two contests he won't have a mandate.
Watch this space for more updates as Super Tuesday approaches.
Rusty
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Klaudt out and about.
Saw on the news today that Ted Klaudt will not be appearing at another sentencing due to alledged heart pain. I smell something fishy.
Here is my theory. I think that Ted is afraid to go to jail and is feigning heart problems to avoid sentencing and jail time while he gets up the courage to kill himself. Giving him the opportunity to control his own destiny and go out on his own terms. Given the nature of his crimes it definately seems like he likes to be in control.
I hope he's on suicide watch where ever he is. I don't want him to miss one miserable minute of the rest of his life once someone in law enforcement or the judiciary gets his butt back to SD to face the music. We're counting on you to protect and serve.
Rusty
Here is my theory. I think that Ted is afraid to go to jail and is feigning heart problems to avoid sentencing and jail time while he gets up the courage to kill himself. Giving him the opportunity to control his own destiny and go out on his own terms. Given the nature of his crimes it definately seems like he likes to be in control.
I hope he's on suicide watch where ever he is. I don't want him to miss one miserable minute of the rest of his life once someone in law enforcement or the judiciary gets his butt back to SD to face the music. We're counting on you to protect and serve.
Rusty
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Budget cuts ahead, SDSEO wants to be last on the chopping block
The governor made his State of the State address today and some lawmakers have suggested that state employees may not recieve a wage increase this year. And just like I would expect a union to do, the SDSEO cried foul; suggesting that state employees should not face life without a raise. I have a problem with this due to the fact that Governor Rounds also suggested that there should be cuts in several other sectors of the government.
First and foremost on my list, law enforcement. If there is going to be cuts in the State of South Dakota I would hope that all of us (including state employees) would agree that belt tightening should come in the form of salaries and not public safety. If the legislators can dig up more money I hope they will use it to (as I think Andy Garcia would say it) protect the citizenry and property of the people of the State of South Dakota.
State employees fill an important role in our world, and I only wish them the best, the economy in Pierre depends on their income. But I think they (at least the stand up state employees that I know) would be willing to make a sacrafice this year for the greater good.
Rusty
First and foremost on my list, law enforcement. If there is going to be cuts in the State of South Dakota I would hope that all of us (including state employees) would agree that belt tightening should come in the form of salaries and not public safety. If the legislators can dig up more money I hope they will use it to (as I think Andy Garcia would say it) protect the citizenry and property of the people of the State of South Dakota.
State employees fill an important role in our world, and I only wish them the best, the economy in Pierre depends on their income. But I think they (at least the stand up state employees that I know) would be willing to make a sacrafice this year for the greater good.
Rusty
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Thanks to www.dakotawarcollege.com for the welcome
Thanks to PP for the added attention to the Gribble Report. I thought that I would have to work a little harder for my first real attention. And as things are in the blogosphere I have already been called out by an anonymous poster. As I replied at PP site I will try my best to be more entertaining. When you have to compete with other established bloggers I realize the bar is set higher. I will try my best to meet that expectation. Look for more to come here soon.
Rusty
Rusty
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Ted Klaudt avoiding Prison, claiming weak heart.
I made a few comments regarding this issue at http://www.dakotawarcollege.com/ and it has actually got me so upset that I have decided to start my own blog. Not just to address this issue, as I stated in my new profile description I will post on many different topics, this will just be the first and as a result the one that no one will probably ever read. But here it goes...
I am still in complete shock that Ted Klaudt still has his freedom and no one in the MSM or the government is making any kind of noise about it. Is South Dakota law enforcement on the scene to make sure this fat piece of crap isn't trying to escape or, what I think would be even worse, killing himself.
Ted Klaudt did some horrible things to some innocent people that he was assigned to protect. Not to mention took advantage of all of us as voters with his lies and deceit. Usually I feel like Republican elected officials take it on the chin when they do something even moderately questionable; let alone the heinous crime of child molestation. Ted Klaudt took the pussy way out, and tried to fight his crimes in court. Up until now I see him as being largely unapologetic. Now he is hiding in North Dakota.
Ted Klaudt needs to get to jail as soon as possible. And I hope when he gets there he lives a long, long time. He will probably be allowed to serve his time in some manner that will protect him from the kinds of punishment that less known child molesters suffer at the hands of inmates in any criminal justice system. But I hope not. I hope he spends the rest of a long miserable life paying the price for what he did to innocent children in his care.
We need to get him back home as soon as possible.
I am still in complete shock that Ted Klaudt still has his freedom and no one in the MSM or the government is making any kind of noise about it. Is South Dakota law enforcement on the scene to make sure this fat piece of crap isn't trying to escape or, what I think would be even worse, killing himself.
Ted Klaudt did some horrible things to some innocent people that he was assigned to protect. Not to mention took advantage of all of us as voters with his lies and deceit. Usually I feel like Republican elected officials take it on the chin when they do something even moderately questionable; let alone the heinous crime of child molestation. Ted Klaudt took the pussy way out, and tried to fight his crimes in court. Up until now I see him as being largely unapologetic. Now he is hiding in North Dakota.
Ted Klaudt needs to get to jail as soon as possible. And I hope when he gets there he lives a long, long time. He will probably be allowed to serve his time in some manner that will protect him from the kinds of punishment that less known child molesters suffer at the hands of inmates in any criminal justice system. But I hope not. I hope he spends the rest of a long miserable life paying the price for what he did to innocent children in his care.
We need to get him back home as soon as possible.
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