There are currently 19,068 reported cases in the US and 240 reported deaths. That's an increase of 5,660 cases and 59 deaths.
New York has 8,310 cases and 42 deaths.
Washington has 1,524 cases and 83 deaths.
California has 1,169 cases and 20 deaths.
Here in New Jersey we have 890 cases and 11 deaths.
The finally opened the testing center at Bergen Community College today and it was utter bedlam. There were hundreds of cars lined up and being screened for the requirements to be testes, a cough and temperature of at least 99.6 degrees.
I give the folks that were staffing that place, nurses, technicians, police, national guard, all the credit in the world.
Elsewhere New York and California have increased restrictions on travel to essential personnel only. Illinois is expected to follow. Governor Murphy says he's going to "tighten the screws" in New Jersey but hasn't clarified exactly what that means.
The publicity around the packed Florida beaches apparently got to Governor DeSantis and he shut them all down saying "The Party is Over."
I suppose it is possible to embarrass a Republican into doing the right thing. Who'd have thunk it?
The director of the National Institute of Health, Dr. Francis Collins, says there may be as many as 70,000 reported cases by next Friday but would actually be a good thing because it wouldn't mean that the outbreak has exploded but rather that we're finally catching up on the test front.
In the meantime Trump and his Fox News allies are denying they ever said things that we have on video tape that they said.
But it doesn't matter because the GOP under 80 IQ trailer park base is going to believe what they're told. They'll probably claim the video has been faked.
Not being in the middle of this and not being able to DO SOMETHING is driving me crazy. I suppose I'll just have to wash my hands, practice social distancing and stay in my house.
Friday, March 20, 2020
Thursday, March 19, 2020
The Corona Virus March 19, 2020
The numbers are really spiking as widespread testing takes hold. This thing may just be completely out of control despite all of the suppression being attempted.
There are currently 13,408 reported cases in the US and 181 reported deaths. That's an increase of 4,438 cases and 36 deaths.
New York has 5,366 cases and 22 deaths.
Washington has 1,225 cases and 69 deaths.
California has 952 cases and 18 deaths.
Here in New Jersey we have 742 cases and 9 deaths.
The New Jersey numbers are increasing faster than anywhere but New York and at the current rate may pass California and Washington.
There isn't much else to say. I've been in my house essentially six days straight. OK, I cheated on Sunday and got a dozen bagels but that's been it.
We're ordering food online for delivery from local supermarkets. The first delivery is supposed to arrive Monday from ShopRite. I say "supposed to arrive" because I really don't know what to expect. If a delivery arrives I don't know if it will be complete.
Our next delivery is supposed to be next Sunday from Stop & Shop. The same caveats and concerns apply.
If it turns out the delivery services on unreliable then we're going to have to venture out to the supermarket or spend lots of shekels getting restaurant delivery. It's not clear to me which is the better option.
In the meantime there are pictures of packed Florida beaches. The governor there has refused to close them and spring break types don't seem to be concerned about flocking to them despite dire warnings.
We're about to pay a steep price because of (1) the lack of testing fuck-up in Washington and (2) far too many people just not taking this seriously enough.
There are currently 13,408 reported cases in the US and 181 reported deaths. That's an increase of 4,438 cases and 36 deaths.
New York has 5,366 cases and 22 deaths.
Washington has 1,225 cases and 69 deaths.
California has 952 cases and 18 deaths.
Here in New Jersey we have 742 cases and 9 deaths.
The New Jersey numbers are increasing faster than anywhere but New York and at the current rate may pass California and Washington.
There isn't much else to say. I've been in my house essentially six days straight. OK, I cheated on Sunday and got a dozen bagels but that's been it.
We're ordering food online for delivery from local supermarkets. The first delivery is supposed to arrive Monday from ShopRite. I say "supposed to arrive" because I really don't know what to expect. If a delivery arrives I don't know if it will be complete.
Our next delivery is supposed to be next Sunday from Stop & Shop. The same caveats and concerns apply.
If it turns out the delivery services on unreliable then we're going to have to venture out to the supermarket or spend lots of shekels getting restaurant delivery. It's not clear to me which is the better option.
In the meantime there are pictures of packed Florida beaches. The governor there has refused to close them and spring break types don't seem to be concerned about flocking to them despite dire warnings.
We're about to pay a steep price because of (1) the lack of testing fuck-up in Washington and (2) far too many people just not taking this seriously enough.
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
It Takes a Leader and We Ain't Got One
It all begins with a leader. We need a true leader to get us out of this corona virus mess. Someone who can effectively rally the troops and get them to do what needs to be done. I don’t see anyone at the national or state level that has the kind of leadership ability that we need right now.
Alexander made the point
I am not afraid of an army of lions led by a sheep; I am afraid of an army of sheep led by a lion.
What I see all around is a lot of hesitation, obfuscation and just plain inability to make the hard decisions and we all know that will get people killed.
New York and New Jersey are perfect examples.
Bergen County is the hardest hit county in New Jersey. The Bergen County Commissioner “stepped up” and ordered all non-essential business, including the malls, closed. Less than eight hours later he backed down after an uproar that his “direction was confusing.” Less than 24 hours after that Governor issued the exact same directive for the entire state but almost two days were lost.
DeBlasio in New York City dug in his heels and refused to close the schools despite the fact it meant teachers had to travel in from Westchester (which was the biggest epicenter at the time), Long Island, New Jersey and Connecticut. So of course those teachers had the opportunity to bring the virus home with them.
When he finally got around to closing the schools, or, more accurately, was forced to do so based upon an agreement between the governors of New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, he swung the other way and declared people should prepare for a “shelter in place” order within 48 hours only to be overruled by Governor Cuomo.
Add the clown in the White House into this mix and it would be hysterical if it was fiction but sort of infuriating because it’s reality.
It's the Keystone Cops trying to lead us through the most difficult situation in recent memory.
And, no, I'm not looking for a totalitarian Hitler like figure. I would take a Dwight D, Eisenhower, a John Kennedy or a Robert Kennedy but I ain't got squat.
The Corona Virus March 18, 2020
Things are really spiraling out of control in New York and especially in the city. I said that DeBlasio was making a really big mistake by keeping the schools open and I'm sure that has something to do with the terrible numbers coming out of New York.
Now he wants to do a shutdown in place but Cuomo isn't thrilled about that idea. I don't know why. It sounds like a good way to go to me.
There are currently 8,970 reported cases in the US and 145 reported deaths. That's an increase of 2,644 cases and 39 deaths.
New York has 3,037 cases and 21 deaths.
Washington has 1,075 cases and 66 deaths.
California has 820 cases and 14 deaths.
Here in New Jersey we have 427 cases and 5 deaths.
You've heard of the thin red line right? That's the point where you figure you're dead already so it doesn't matter any more.
New York and New Jersey are expanding critical care and hospital capacity (New Jersey is reopening several closed hospitals). Both have requested help from the Army Corp of Engineers to create even more additional capacity with a focus on critical care units.
Of course "asking for help" from Washington and actually getting it are two different things. I also think things have gone farther "faster" than in Europe or at least I hope they have. It's difficult to really tell.
I have to put "faster" in quotes because everything seems to be moving at a glacial pace while all of civilization seems like it's crashing down on our heads.
The graphs are really ugly but to put things in perspective. If you took all of the reported cases in the US and overlayed them onto the worst hit county in New Jersey, Bergen County, that comes out to 0.96% of the population. Unfortunately the number is rapidly climbing.
I have to keep telling myself things like that because I live in Bergen County and I'll never see 70 again.
Of course the problem with exponential curves is everything looks OK until suddenly it doesn't.
Now he wants to do a shutdown in place but Cuomo isn't thrilled about that idea. I don't know why. It sounds like a good way to go to me.
There are currently 8,970 reported cases in the US and 145 reported deaths. That's an increase of 2,644 cases and 39 deaths.
New York has 3,037 cases and 21 deaths.
Washington has 1,075 cases and 66 deaths.
California has 820 cases and 14 deaths.
Here in New Jersey we have 427 cases and 5 deaths.
You've heard of the thin red line right? That's the point where you figure you're dead already so it doesn't matter any more.
New York and New Jersey are expanding critical care and hospital capacity (New Jersey is reopening several closed hospitals). Both have requested help from the Army Corp of Engineers to create even more additional capacity with a focus on critical care units.
Of course "asking for help" from Washington and actually getting it are two different things. I also think things have gone farther "faster" than in Europe or at least I hope they have. It's difficult to really tell.
I have to put "faster" in quotes because everything seems to be moving at a glacial pace while all of civilization seems like it's crashing down on our heads.
The graphs are really ugly but to put things in perspective. If you took all of the reported cases in the US and overlayed them onto the worst hit county in New Jersey, Bergen County, that comes out to 0.96% of the population. Unfortunately the number is rapidly climbing.
I have to keep telling myself things like that because I live in Bergen County and I'll never see 70 again.
Of course the problem with exponential curves is everything looks OK until suddenly it doesn't.
The Imperial College Report
The Imperial College in the United Kingdom has issued a "not for public release" report on the corona virus which of course has been leaked to the public. It has a lot of disturbing conclusions.
Two fundamental strategies are possible: (a) mitigation, which focuses on slowing but not necessarily stopping epidemic spread – reducing peak healthcare demand while protecting those most at risk of severe disease from infection, and (b) suppression, which aims to reverse epidemic growth, reducing case numbers to low levels and maintaining that situation indefinitely.
Both of these strategies relate to the rate of reproduction number R. Essentially mitigation looks to lower R without necessarily getting it below 1.
Suppression looks to bring R below 1 which would result in an eventual decrease in the number of cases over time.
We find that that optimal mitigation policies (combining home isolation of suspect cases, home quarantine of those living in the same household as suspect cases, and social distancing of the elderly and others at most risk of severe disease) might reduce peak healthcare demand by 2/3 and deaths by half. However, the resulting mitigated epidemic would still likely result in hundreds of thousands of deaths and health systems (most notably intensive care units) being overwhelmed many times over. For countries able to achieve it, this leaves suppression as the preferred policy option.
I think everyone with more than half a brain has pretty much come to that conclusion as well.
We show that in the UK and US context, suppression will minimally require a combination of social distancing of the entire population, home isolation of cases and household quarantine of their family members. This may need to be supplemented by school and university closures,
So yes, we are well on the way to implementing a suppression strategy. How far we’ll have to go remains to be seen.
Overall, our results suggest that population-wide social distancing applied to the population as a whole would have the largest impact; and in combination with other interventions – notably home isolation of cases and school and university closure – has the potential to suppress transmission below the threshold of R=1 required to rapidly reduce case incidence.
This is basically what New York, New Jersey and Connecticut are trying but it’s way to early to see how effective it will be. Over the last three days New Jersey has announced 80, 89 and 162 new cases as testing has ramped up.
They’re putting 18 months on the table as the time frame that suppression techniques will need to be in place since that’s probably the best time frame that we can hope to have a vaccine.
The major challenge of suppression is that this type of intensive intervention package –or something equivalently effective at reducing transmission – will need to be maintained until a vaccine becomes available (potentially 18 months or more) – given that we predict that transmission will quickly rebound if interventions are relaxed.
The other question is how long will it take for the initial actions to be effective? There isn’t a lot of good news there either.
... it is difficult to be definitive about the likely initial duration of measures which will be required, except that it will be several months.
And then a reiteration of the 18 month window and a suggestion for triggered adaptation rather than arbitrary fixed durations.
To avoid a rebound in transmission, these policies will need to be maintained until large stocks of vaccine are available to immunise the population – which could be 18 months or more. Adaptive hospital surveillance-based triggers for switching on and off population-wide social distancing and school closure offer greater robustness to uncertainty than fixed duration interventions and can be adapted for regional use
Yeah, lots of luck organizing that without a ridiculously strong and competent central authority. So we're pretty much fucked. Not only can you bid farewell to hockey and basketball but I wouldn't hold out much hope for baseball or football either.
I Could Shoot Someone on 5th Avenue
I'm utterly shocked that despite the stock market collapse, screwing the pooch on virus preparation and shortly about to usher in a nasty recession, that Trump's poll numbers haven't suffered one bit.
Whatever Trump says his faithful nod their heads in agreement and cheer. Even when the evidence of their own eyes should tell them he's lying right to their faces; they just don't seem to get it.
The timeline of statements by Trump on the virus are incredible. If I hadn't heard them myself.
Jan. 22: “We have it totally under control.”
Jan. 24: "China has been working very hard to contain the Coronavirus. The United States greatly appreciates their efforts and transparency. It will all work out well. In particular, on behalf of the American People, I want to thank President Xi!" Jan. 29: “Just received a briefing on the Coronavirus in China from all of our GREAT agencies, who are also working closely with China. We will continue to monitor the ongoing developments. We have the best experts anywhere in the world, and they are on top of it 24/7!”
Jan. 30: “We think we have it very well under control. We have very little problem in this country at this moment — five. And those people are all recuperating successfully. But we’re working very closely with China and other countries, and we think it’s going to have a very good ending for it. So that I can assure you.”
Feb. 2: “Well, we pretty much shut it down coming in from China. … We can’t have thousands of people coming in who may have this problem, the coronavirus. So we’re gonna see what happens, but we did shut it down, yes.”
Feb. 7: “Nothing is easy, but [Chinese President Xi Jinping] … will be successful, especially as the weather starts to warm & the virus hopefully becomes weaker, and then gone.”
Feb. 10: “I think the virus is going to be — it’s going to be fine.” Feb. 14: “We have a very small number of people in the country, right now, with it. It’s like around 12. Many of them are getting better. Some are fully recovered already. So we’re in very good shape.”
Feb. 19: “I think it’s going to work out fine. I think when we get into April, in the warmer weather, that has a very negative effect on that and that type of a virus. So let’s see what happens, but I think it’s going to work out fine.”
Feb. 24: “The Coronavirus is very much under control in the USA. … Stock Market starting to look very good to me!”
Feb. 25: “You may ask about the coronavirus, which is very well under control in our country. We have very few people with it, and the people that have it are … getting better. They’re all getting better. … As far as what we’re doing with the new virus, I think that we’re doing a great job.”
Feb. 25: “CDC and my Administration are doing a GREAT job of handling Coronavirus, including the very early closing of our borders to certain areas of the world.” Feb. 26: “Because of all we’ve done, the risk to the American people remains very low. … When you have 15 people, and the 15 within a couple of days is going to be down to close to zero. That’s a pretty good job we’ve done."
Feb. 26:
Q: This is spreading — or is going to spread, maybe, within communities. That’s the expectation.
A: "It may. It may."
Q: Does that worry you?
A: "No. ... No, because we’re ready for it. It is what it is. We’re ready for it. We’re really prepared. ... We hope it doesn’t spread. There’s a chance that it won’t spread too, and there’s a chance that it will, and then it’s a question of at what level."
Feb. 27: “Only a very small number in U.S., China numbers look to be going down. All countries working well together!”
Feb. 28: “I think it’s really going well. We did something very fortunate: we closed up to certain areas of the world very, very early — far earlier than we were supposed to. I took a lot of heat for doing it. It turned out to be the right move, and we only have 15 people and they are getting better, and hopefully they’re all better. There’s one who is quite sick, but maybe he’s gonna be fine. … We’re prepared for the worst, but we think we’re going to be very fortunate."
Feb. 28: “It’s going to disappear. One day, it’s like a miracle, it will disappear.”
Feb. 29: “We’re the number-one travel destination anywhere in the world, yet we have far fewer cases of the disease than even countries with much less travel or a much smaller population.”
March 4: “Some people will have this at a very light level and won’t even go to a doctor or hospital, and they’ll get better. There are many people like that.”
March 5: “With approximately 100,000 CoronaVirus cases worldwide, and 3,280 deaths, the United States, because of quick action on closing our borders, has, as of now, only 129 cases (40 Americans brought in) and 11 deaths.” March 6: “We did an interview on Fox last night, a town hall. I think it was very good. And I said, ‘Calm. You have to be calm. It’ll go away.' ” March 7: “It came out of China, and we heard about it. And made a good move: We closed it down; we stopped it. Otherwise — the head of CDC said last night that you would have thousands of more problems if we didn’t shut it down very early. That was a very early shutdown, which is something we got right."
March 8: Retweets a story about Surgeon General Jerome Adams playing down the risk of coronavirus for Trump personally.
March 9: “So last year 37,000 Americans died from the common Flu. It averages between 27,000 and 70,000 per year. Nothing is shut down, life & the economy go on. At this moment there are 546 confirmed cases of CoronaVirus, with 22 deaths. Think about that!”
March 10: “And it hit the world. And we’re prepared, and we’re doing a great job with it. And it will go away. Just stay calm. It will go away.” March 11: “I think we’re going to get through it very well.”
March 12: “It’s going to go away. ... The United States, because of what I did and what the administration did with China, we have 32 deaths at this point … when you look at the kind of numbers that you’re seeing coming out of other countries, it’s pretty amazing when you think of it.”
March 13: Says Food and Drug Administration “will bring, additionally, 1.4 million tests on board next week and 5 million within a month. I doubt we’ll need anywhere near that.” March 14: “We’re using the full power of the federal government to defeat the virus, and that’s what we’ve been doing.” Also retweeted supporter Candace Owens who cited “good news” on coronavirus, including that, “Italy is hit hard, experts say, because they have the oldest population in Europe (average age of those that have died is 81)."
March 15: “This is a very contagious virus. It’s incredible. But it’s something that we have tremendous control over.”
March 16: “If you’re talking about the virus, no, that’s not under control for any place in the world. ... I was talking about what we’re doing is under control, but I’m not talking about the virus.”
March 17: “We’re going to win. And I think we’re going to win faster than people think -- I hope.”
Jesus H. fucking Christ. This has got to be the absolute worst person to have in charge in this sort of situation. He lives in a bubble of self adulating delusion.
Plus, we still don't have enough testing going on so we don't even really know the full extent of this thing.
He has completely blown it yet I will bet dollars to donuts that his fans will never understand or believe how badly he has fucked up. Even now, he seems more concerned about the economic fallout than the health risks. Yes, the economy is important but it doesn't do the dead much good.
Whatever Trump says his faithful nod their heads in agreement and cheer. Even when the evidence of their own eyes should tell them he's lying right to their faces; they just don't seem to get it.
The timeline of statements by Trump on the virus are incredible. If I hadn't heard them myself.
Jan. 22: “We have it totally under control.”
Jan. 24: "China has been working very hard to contain the Coronavirus. The United States greatly appreciates their efforts and transparency. It will all work out well. In particular, on behalf of the American People, I want to thank President Xi!" Jan. 29: “Just received a briefing on the Coronavirus in China from all of our GREAT agencies, who are also working closely with China. We will continue to monitor the ongoing developments. We have the best experts anywhere in the world, and they are on top of it 24/7!”
Jan. 30: “We think we have it very well under control. We have very little problem in this country at this moment — five. And those people are all recuperating successfully. But we’re working very closely with China and other countries, and we think it’s going to have a very good ending for it. So that I can assure you.”
Feb. 2: “Well, we pretty much shut it down coming in from China. … We can’t have thousands of people coming in who may have this problem, the coronavirus. So we’re gonna see what happens, but we did shut it down, yes.”
Feb. 7: “Nothing is easy, but [Chinese President Xi Jinping] … will be successful, especially as the weather starts to warm & the virus hopefully becomes weaker, and then gone.”
Feb. 10: “I think the virus is going to be — it’s going to be fine.” Feb. 14: “We have a very small number of people in the country, right now, with it. It’s like around 12. Many of them are getting better. Some are fully recovered already. So we’re in very good shape.”
Feb. 19: “I think it’s going to work out fine. I think when we get into April, in the warmer weather, that has a very negative effect on that and that type of a virus. So let’s see what happens, but I think it’s going to work out fine.”
Feb. 24: “The Coronavirus is very much under control in the USA. … Stock Market starting to look very good to me!”
Feb. 25: “You may ask about the coronavirus, which is very well under control in our country. We have very few people with it, and the people that have it are … getting better. They’re all getting better. … As far as what we’re doing with the new virus, I think that we’re doing a great job.”
Feb. 25: “CDC and my Administration are doing a GREAT job of handling Coronavirus, including the very early closing of our borders to certain areas of the world.” Feb. 26: “Because of all we’ve done, the risk to the American people remains very low. … When you have 15 people, and the 15 within a couple of days is going to be down to close to zero. That’s a pretty good job we’ve done."
Feb. 26:
Q: This is spreading — or is going to spread, maybe, within communities. That’s the expectation.
A: "It may. It may."
Q: Does that worry you?
A: "No. ... No, because we’re ready for it. It is what it is. We’re ready for it. We’re really prepared. ... We hope it doesn’t spread. There’s a chance that it won’t spread too, and there’s a chance that it will, and then it’s a question of at what level."
Feb. 27: “Only a very small number in U.S., China numbers look to be going down. All countries working well together!”
Feb. 28: “I think it’s really going well. We did something very fortunate: we closed up to certain areas of the world very, very early — far earlier than we were supposed to. I took a lot of heat for doing it. It turned out to be the right move, and we only have 15 people and they are getting better, and hopefully they’re all better. There’s one who is quite sick, but maybe he’s gonna be fine. … We’re prepared for the worst, but we think we’re going to be very fortunate."
Feb. 28: “It’s going to disappear. One day, it’s like a miracle, it will disappear.”
Feb. 29: “We’re the number-one travel destination anywhere in the world, yet we have far fewer cases of the disease than even countries with much less travel or a much smaller population.”
March 4: “Some people will have this at a very light level and won’t even go to a doctor or hospital, and they’ll get better. There are many people like that.”
March 5: “With approximately 100,000 CoronaVirus cases worldwide, and 3,280 deaths, the United States, because of quick action on closing our borders, has, as of now, only 129 cases (40 Americans brought in) and 11 deaths.” March 6: “We did an interview on Fox last night, a town hall. I think it was very good. And I said, ‘Calm. You have to be calm. It’ll go away.' ” March 7: “It came out of China, and we heard about it. And made a good move: We closed it down; we stopped it. Otherwise — the head of CDC said last night that you would have thousands of more problems if we didn’t shut it down very early. That was a very early shutdown, which is something we got right."
March 8: Retweets a story about Surgeon General Jerome Adams playing down the risk of coronavirus for Trump personally.
March 9: “So last year 37,000 Americans died from the common Flu. It averages between 27,000 and 70,000 per year. Nothing is shut down, life & the economy go on. At this moment there are 546 confirmed cases of CoronaVirus, with 22 deaths. Think about that!”
March 10: “And it hit the world. And we’re prepared, and we’re doing a great job with it. And it will go away. Just stay calm. It will go away.” March 11: “I think we’re going to get through it very well.”
March 12: “It’s going to go away. ... The United States, because of what I did and what the administration did with China, we have 32 deaths at this point … when you look at the kind of numbers that you’re seeing coming out of other countries, it’s pretty amazing when you think of it.”
March 13: Says Food and Drug Administration “will bring, additionally, 1.4 million tests on board next week and 5 million within a month. I doubt we’ll need anywhere near that.” March 14: “We’re using the full power of the federal government to defeat the virus, and that’s what we’ve been doing.” Also retweeted supporter Candace Owens who cited “good news” on coronavirus, including that, “Italy is hit hard, experts say, because they have the oldest population in Europe (average age of those that have died is 81)."
March 15: “This is a very contagious virus. It’s incredible. But it’s something that we have tremendous control over.”
March 16: “If you’re talking about the virus, no, that’s not under control for any place in the world. ... I was talking about what we’re doing is under control, but I’m not talking about the virus.”
March 17: “We’re going to win. And I think we’re going to win faster than people think -- I hope.”
Jesus H. fucking Christ. This has got to be the absolute worst person to have in charge in this sort of situation. He lives in a bubble of self adulating delusion.
Plus, we still don't have enough testing going on so we don't even really know the full extent of this thing.
He has completely blown it yet I will bet dollars to donuts that his fans will never understand or believe how badly he has fucked up. Even now, he seems more concerned about the economic fallout than the health risks. Yes, the economy is important but it doesn't do the dead much good.
Biden as the Democratic Nominee
There are a few other things going on besides the corona virus although I have to admit they seem sort of trivial next to the possibility of approaching eternity.
With victories tonight in Illinois and Florida I don't see how Biden doesn't bring home the nomination.
Next up is who gets the VP nod?
Biden has hinted broadly that it will be a woman which I think is a good idea. A black woman from the south would probably be best.
Think Stacy Abrams from Georgia or Val Demings from Florida. Kamala Harris wouldn't surprise me either.
With victories tonight in Illinois and Florida I don't see how Biden doesn't bring home the nomination.
Next up is who gets the VP nod?
Biden has hinted broadly that it will be a woman which I think is a good idea. A black woman from the south would probably be best.
Think Stacy Abrams from Georgia or Val Demings from Florida. Kamala Harris wouldn't surprise me either.
Tuesday, March 17, 2020
The Corona Virus March 17, 2020
There are currently 6,326 reported cases in the US and 106 reported deaths. That's an increase of 2,553 cases and 37 deaths over the course of about a day and a half.
New York has 1,706 cases and 13 deaths.
Washington has 1,014 cases and 53 deaths.
California has 698 cases and 12 deaths.
Here in New Jersey we have 267 cases and 3 deaths.
The governors of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut have gotten together (what a concept!) and effectively shut down all non-essential businesses and instituted a "voluntary" curfew from 8 PM to 5 AM. It's a funny kind of voluntary since they're making it very plain if you're caught on the street without a good reason they're going to be taking a dim view of that.
Murphy has shut down all the malls and even the casinos until further notice.
Things are clearly a bit out of control in the tri-state area and both Cuomo and Murphy have requested help from the Army Corp of Engineers to begin converting areas, including currently closed hospitals, into overflow care units in order to free up space in the main hospitals for virus victims.
Even if they manage to increase capacity significantly you can't just clone doctors and nurses.
New York appears to have taken down the area on it's website where they were listing known cases by county. I'm not sure if that means they're going to start playing things close to the vest or they just don't want to bother updating it when no matter what they do it's probably going to be inaccurate.
Even Trump has changed his tune and appears to be taking this seriously at last. Like clockwork the GOP propaganda arm, Fox News, stopped calling the virus some sort of hoax and began saying how serious things are.
Hopefully the morons who have been ignoring all of the instructions about "social distancing" and "hygiene" will start listening.
I'm trapped in my house with my wife and two daughters. Luckily there's enough room to remain relatively separate because if there wasn't it wouldn't take long for us to get on each others nerves.
I have no idea where this is going. I set up home deliveries of groceries. Whether I'll actually get anything or not is anyone's guess.
No one seems to know how much testing is actually being done or if they know they're not saying. They keep talking about testing facilities at Bergen Community College and PNC Arts Center but so far it's only talk.
Mike Pence indicated on the weekend that by the end of the week a million test kits would be distributed. If that's in progress I haven't heard anything about it.
The Stock Market is pretty much in the trash can for the foreseeable future and the politicians seem to be more focused on the economic aspects of this mess than the health ones.
They're considering giving $1,000 cash to every adult as a stimulus. That would be very nice but it doesn't do me any good if I'm dead or stuck in my house.
New York has 1,706 cases and 13 deaths.
Washington has 1,014 cases and 53 deaths.
California has 698 cases and 12 deaths.
Here in New Jersey we have 267 cases and 3 deaths.
The governors of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut have gotten together (what a concept!) and effectively shut down all non-essential businesses and instituted a "voluntary" curfew from 8 PM to 5 AM. It's a funny kind of voluntary since they're making it very plain if you're caught on the street without a good reason they're going to be taking a dim view of that.
Murphy has shut down all the malls and even the casinos until further notice.
Things are clearly a bit out of control in the tri-state area and both Cuomo and Murphy have requested help from the Army Corp of Engineers to begin converting areas, including currently closed hospitals, into overflow care units in order to free up space in the main hospitals for virus victims.
Even if they manage to increase capacity significantly you can't just clone doctors and nurses.
New York appears to have taken down the area on it's website where they were listing known cases by county. I'm not sure if that means they're going to start playing things close to the vest or they just don't want to bother updating it when no matter what they do it's probably going to be inaccurate.
Even Trump has changed his tune and appears to be taking this seriously at last. Like clockwork the GOP propaganda arm, Fox News, stopped calling the virus some sort of hoax and began saying how serious things are.
Hopefully the morons who have been ignoring all of the instructions about "social distancing" and "hygiene" will start listening.
I'm trapped in my house with my wife and two daughters. Luckily there's enough room to remain relatively separate because if there wasn't it wouldn't take long for us to get on each others nerves.
I have no idea where this is going. I set up home deliveries of groceries. Whether I'll actually get anything or not is anyone's guess.
No one seems to know how much testing is actually being done or if they know they're not saying. They keep talking about testing facilities at Bergen Community College and PNC Arts Center but so far it's only talk.
Mike Pence indicated on the weekend that by the end of the week a million test kits would be distributed. If that's in progress I haven't heard anything about it.
The Stock Market is pretty much in the trash can for the foreseeable future and the politicians seem to be more focused on the economic aspects of this mess than the health ones.
They're considering giving $1,000 cash to every adult as a stimulus. That would be very nice but it doesn't do me any good if I'm dead or stuck in my house.
Sunday, March 15, 2020
The Corona Virus March 15, 2020
There are currently 3,773 reported cases in the US and 69 reported deaths. That's an increase of 803 cases and 11 deaths.
Washington has 769 cases and 42 deaths.
New York has 746 cases and 6 deaths.
California has 431 cases and 6 deaths.
Here in New Jersey we have 108 cases and 2 deaths.
New York City is finally shutting down its school system. Most towns in Northern New Jersey are going into a sort of shutdown with more and more restrictions. So far the virus appears unimpressed.
One big question relates to the amount of testing occurring. It's clearly not as available as people would like. Mike Pence has promised over a million test kits distributed next week.
That would be good but given this administration hasn't done anything right yet you'll excuse me if I take a wait an see attitude.
What isn't clear about the case numbers is are they reasonably accurate or way under due to a testing ceiling? I'm pretty sure they're limited by a testing ceiling I just don't know by how much.
In the meantime Republicans continue to make light of the situation and their adoring adherents are listening to them. This is allowing things to spiral out of control.
I went out for a dozen bagels this morning and the bagel would normally have all of its tables full. They were all empty. I wasn't brave enough to try the supermarket. I'll try it either tomorrow or Tuesday.
My itchy throat seems to have subsided so that's good.
Washington has 769 cases and 42 deaths.
New York has 746 cases and 6 deaths.
California has 431 cases and 6 deaths.
Here in New Jersey we have 108 cases and 2 deaths.
New York City is finally shutting down its school system. Most towns in Northern New Jersey are going into a sort of shutdown with more and more restrictions. So far the virus appears unimpressed.
One big question relates to the amount of testing occurring. It's clearly not as available as people would like. Mike Pence has promised over a million test kits distributed next week.
That would be good but given this administration hasn't done anything right yet you'll excuse me if I take a wait an see attitude.
What isn't clear about the case numbers is are they reasonably accurate or way under due to a testing ceiling? I'm pretty sure they're limited by a testing ceiling I just don't know by how much.
In the meantime Republicans continue to make light of the situation and their adoring adherents are listening to them. This is allowing things to spiral out of control.
I went out for a dozen bagels this morning and the bagel would normally have all of its tables full. They were all empty. I wasn't brave enough to try the supermarket. I'll try it either tomorrow or Tuesday.
My itchy throat seems to have subsided so that's good.
Saturday, March 14, 2020
The Corona Virus March 14, 2020
There are currently 2,970 reported cases in the US and 58 reported deaths. That's an increase of 681 cases and 8 deaths. I've changed the nomenclature to "reported" since apparently I'm getting a mix of "presumed positive" and "confirmed positive" on the website I'm monitoring but it seems that a very high percentage of "presumed" become "confirmed."
Washington has 642 cases and 40 deaths.
New York has 613 cases and 2 deaths.
California has 368 cases and 5 deaths.
Here in New Jersey we have 69 cases and 2 deaths.
Things are slowly but surely shutting down. The problem is these are all local decisions. There is little or no direction from the top either at the federal or state levels other than the basic guidance that's been around for weeks.
The Mayor of Teaneck, which appears to be something of an epicenter here in Bergen County, has asked everyone to self quarantine. How many will listen is anyone's guess.
My gym has closed down so I've ordered an indoor exercise bike. It should be here in about a week. That cursing you hear will be me trying to put it together.
Mayor DeBlasio is still insisting on keeping the schools in the city open. I think this a big mistake which is going to cause problems all across the tri-state area.
The test numbers are beginning to go up which may partially explain the rising numbers but that remains to be seen.
Northern Italy is in a shutdown mode. France and Spain are in partial shutdown modes. I suspect New York City needs to do something similar.
In the meantime it's allergy season so I've got itchy eyes and a slight runny nose. I keep hoping that's not a sore throat that I feel coming on or things could get sticky.
Washington has 642 cases and 40 deaths.
New York has 613 cases and 2 deaths.
California has 368 cases and 5 deaths.
Here in New Jersey we have 69 cases and 2 deaths.
Things are slowly but surely shutting down. The problem is these are all local decisions. There is little or no direction from the top either at the federal or state levels other than the basic guidance that's been around for weeks.
The Mayor of Teaneck, which appears to be something of an epicenter here in Bergen County, has asked everyone to self quarantine. How many will listen is anyone's guess.
My gym has closed down so I've ordered an indoor exercise bike. It should be here in about a week. That cursing you hear will be me trying to put it together.
Mayor DeBlasio is still insisting on keeping the schools in the city open. I think this a big mistake which is going to cause problems all across the tri-state area.
The test numbers are beginning to go up which may partially explain the rising numbers but that remains to be seen.
Northern Italy is in a shutdown mode. France and Spain are in partial shutdown modes. I suspect New York City needs to do something similar.
In the meantime it's allergy season so I've got itchy eyes and a slight runny nose. I keep hoping that's not a sore throat that I feel coming on or things could get sticky.
Friday, March 13, 2020
The Corona Virus March 13, 2020
There are currently 2,289 confirmed cases in the US and 50 reported deaths. That's an increase of 526 cases and 9 deaths.
Washington has 568 cases and 37 deaths.
New York has 421 cases and 0 deaths.
California has 295 cases and 5 deaths.
Here in New Jersey we have 50 cases and 1 death.
Governor Murphy is looking at closing all schools and will probably do so early next week.
New York City continues to keep its schools open so children can get meals and their parents have someplace to leave them when they go to work but the pressure is mounting to close them.
Hoffman La Roche has announced a new COVID-19 detection test for its copas 8800 and 6800 devices that should reduce test time giving the 8800 a theoretical capacity of over 4,000 tests per day and the 6800 a theoretical capacity of over 1,400 tests per day.
There are some 110 of these devices installed and Roche is cranking up production of the kits so if this can get into full swing it will help a lot.
President Trump has declared a state of emergency so that will free up money for additional test kits but at the same time he insisted that all of the tests won't be needed.
The man is an idiot.
Personally I'm staying home the next couple of days and then I'll see.
Washington has 568 cases and 37 deaths.
New York has 421 cases and 0 deaths.
California has 295 cases and 5 deaths.
Here in New Jersey we have 50 cases and 1 death.
Governor Murphy is looking at closing all schools and will probably do so early next week.
New York City continues to keep its schools open so children can get meals and their parents have someplace to leave them when they go to work but the pressure is mounting to close them.
Hoffman La Roche has announced a new COVID-19 detection test for its copas 8800 and 6800 devices that should reduce test time giving the 8800 a theoretical capacity of over 4,000 tests per day and the 6800 a theoretical capacity of over 1,400 tests per day.
There are some 110 of these devices installed and Roche is cranking up production of the kits so if this can get into full swing it will help a lot.
President Trump has declared a state of emergency so that will free up money for additional test kits but at the same time he insisted that all of the tests won't be needed.
The man is an idiot.
Personally I'm staying home the next couple of days and then I'll see.
Thursday, March 12, 2020
The Corona Virus III
All schools are closed in Bergen County; Broadway has shutdown across the river; the Archdiocese of Newark has suspended mass and closed all of its schools. The NBA, NHL and NCAA have suspended their seasons. MLB has delayed the season opener by at least two weeks.
March Madness won't happen this year. Disneyland in California has closed. Trump got on TV last night and in a disjointed, and apparently error strewn rambling talk stopped most travel between the US and Europe.
I say "error strewn" because staff members had to issue corrections after the speech. Apparently the idiot can't even read a teleprompter.
These are all good moves but without adequate testing it’s just not enough.
Hopefully we’re buying enough time to get test capacity up to snuff but I just don’t see a sense of urgency from Washington. Congress and the White House seem more concerned about the economic fallout. The numbers start hitting millions of infected and thousands of dead and the recent economic loses will look like boom times.
March Madness won't happen this year. Disneyland in California has closed. Trump got on TV last night and in a disjointed, and apparently error strewn rambling talk stopped most travel between the US and Europe.
I say "error strewn" because staff members had to issue corrections after the speech. Apparently the idiot can't even read a teleprompter.
These are all good moves but without adequate testing it’s just not enough.
Hopefully we’re buying enough time to get test capacity up to snuff but I just don’t see a sense of urgency from Washington. Congress and the White House seem more concerned about the economic fallout. The numbers start hitting millions of infected and thousands of dead and the recent economic loses will look like boom times.
The Corona Virus II
Things are deteriorating rapidly.
According to the latest numbers the US now has 1,747 cases and 41 deaths. That’s an increase of 415 cases and 2 deaths since yesterday.
The good news is that’s a linear increase but the bad news is testing is still not as exhaustive as it needs to be.
In New Jersey the cases went up from 23 to 31 including 2 that cannot be traced back to a foreign traveler so they’re probably true instances of community spread.
I’ve decided to skip the gym tomorrow, stay home and play video games.
But I can’t do that for months or a year or more. I’ll probably eventually decide to continue with my life and just take my chances. Unfortunately suffocating to death doesn’t sound like a real good way to go.
According to the latest numbers the US now has 1,747 cases and 41 deaths. That’s an increase of 415 cases and 2 deaths since yesterday.
The good news is that’s a linear increase but the bad news is testing is still not as exhaustive as it needs to be.
In New Jersey the cases went up from 23 to 31 including 2 that cannot be traced back to a foreign traveler so they’re probably true instances of community spread.
I’ve decided to skip the gym tomorrow, stay home and play video games.
But I can’t do that for months or a year or more. I’ll probably eventually decide to continue with my life and just take my chances. Unfortunately suffocating to death doesn’t sound like a real good way to go.
Monday, March 09, 2020
Biden or Sanders?
If you had told me four or five months ago that we'd be down to a choice between two geriatric white dudes I would have said that you were out of your mind.
But now I suspect we’re faced with a choice of either Sanders or Biden. I’m going to speculate that the stock market carnage over the past couple of weeks has significantly reduced Sanders’ chances.
When people have lost lots of value in their investments and 401Ks telling folks you’re going to raise their taxes, even if you’re saying overall they’ll be better off, is a really hard sell. So I have to believe it’s going to be Uncle Joe.
Another couple of months of economic chaos and we’ll have a full blown recession, assuming that’s not guaranteed already (and that may be the least of our worries).
If that happens, and it looks pretty bad right now, I don't think anything is going to save Trump, not even a gaffe a day from Biden.
Biden is 77 and should be smart enough to understand that he will need to rely heavily upon his cabinet and vice president.
So I’m thinking the VP choice could be REALLY important. I’m also almost certain that it has to be a woman. A Latina would be best but I’m not aware of any with enough stature right now. It won’t be Warren because she smells too much like Sanders. Given that Harris jumped on Biden’s bandwagon so quickly I have to believe she’s one likely choice.
Beyond Harris, I'm not sure. I think Klobuchar is too similar. I suppose Kirsten Gillibrand is a possibility but you don't want both candidates from the Northeast. Julian Castro would be an interesting choice if Biden decides not to go with a woman.
There's also Stacey Abrams from Georgia. She has a trifecta going for her. She's female, Black and from a state that the Democrat would love to see go purple or even blue this time around.
I suppose we'll see what we see assuming the virus doesn't get us first.
But now I suspect we’re faced with a choice of either Sanders or Biden. I’m going to speculate that the stock market carnage over the past couple of weeks has significantly reduced Sanders’ chances.
When people have lost lots of value in their investments and 401Ks telling folks you’re going to raise their taxes, even if you’re saying overall they’ll be better off, is a really hard sell. So I have to believe it’s going to be Uncle Joe.
Another couple of months of economic chaos and we’ll have a full blown recession, assuming that’s not guaranteed already (and that may be the least of our worries).
If that happens, and it looks pretty bad right now, I don't think anything is going to save Trump, not even a gaffe a day from Biden.
Biden is 77 and should be smart enough to understand that he will need to rely heavily upon his cabinet and vice president.
So I’m thinking the VP choice could be REALLY important. I’m also almost certain that it has to be a woman. A Latina would be best but I’m not aware of any with enough stature right now. It won’t be Warren because she smells too much like Sanders. Given that Harris jumped on Biden’s bandwagon so quickly I have to believe she’s one likely choice.
Beyond Harris, I'm not sure. I think Klobuchar is too similar. I suppose Kirsten Gillibrand is a possibility but you don't want both candidates from the Northeast. Julian Castro would be an interesting choice if Biden decides not to go with a woman.
There's also Stacey Abrams from Georgia. She has a trifecta going for her. She's female, Black and from a state that the Democrat would love to see go purple or even blue this time around.
I suppose we'll see what we see assuming the virus doesn't get us first.
The Corona Virus
No, the virus hasn't gotten me. As least not yet. Who knows what tomorrow may bring?
What the hell is going on? Clearly we are learning about the disadvantages of a global family and the ability to travel worldwide.
If the virus had emerged back in the 19th century it would probably have never made it out of China. But these days, with people jetting all over the place, it was almost certain to escape its original breeding grounds.
So now what? The cases in the US have topped 600 with concentrations around Seattle and Westchester county in New York. World wide the numbers are over 100,000 with over 3,000 deaths. There have been 22 deaths in the US mostly at a nursing home near Seattle.
The older you are the harder you're hit by this thing. One positive note is that children seem to weather the illness fairly well. If you're over 80 though it can be touch and go.
No one is really sure what the death rate is because no one is really sure we have a handle on how many cases there have actually been. As testing becomes more common expect the number of cases in the US to skyrocket.
The stock market has absolutely imploded over this thing. I stopped looking at the numbers because it's just that bad.
In the meantime Trump has gone to his standard response. He's blustering, bullying and alternately blaming anybody and everything for the stock market and the virus and claiming that the virus is a hoax or at least not nearly as bad as the media is making it out to be,
He should tell the stock market that. That he can't claim is a hoax or fake news.
So what happens now? Beats me but the potential for catastrophe is there. If 10% of the population catches this thing that will mean 33 million patients. If 2% die that would be 660,000 deaths. That's more than the total military deaths in the Civil War and more than the total military deaths in World War II.
The scary part is that it could get even worse than that.
What the hell is going on? Clearly we are learning about the disadvantages of a global family and the ability to travel worldwide.
If the virus had emerged back in the 19th century it would probably have never made it out of China. But these days, with people jetting all over the place, it was almost certain to escape its original breeding grounds.
So now what? The cases in the US have topped 600 with concentrations around Seattle and Westchester county in New York. World wide the numbers are over 100,000 with over 3,000 deaths. There have been 22 deaths in the US mostly at a nursing home near Seattle.
The older you are the harder you're hit by this thing. One positive note is that children seem to weather the illness fairly well. If you're over 80 though it can be touch and go.
No one is really sure what the death rate is because no one is really sure we have a handle on how many cases there have actually been. As testing becomes more common expect the number of cases in the US to skyrocket.
The stock market has absolutely imploded over this thing. I stopped looking at the numbers because it's just that bad.
In the meantime Trump has gone to his standard response. He's blustering, bullying and alternately blaming anybody and everything for the stock market and the virus and claiming that the virus is a hoax or at least not nearly as bad as the media is making it out to be,
He should tell the stock market that. That he can't claim is a hoax or fake news.
So what happens now? Beats me but the potential for catastrophe is there. If 10% of the population catches this thing that will mean 33 million patients. If 2% die that would be 660,000 deaths. That's more than the total military deaths in the Civil War and more than the total military deaths in World War II.
The scary part is that it could get even worse than that.
Wednesday, February 12, 2020
More on Sanders and Medicare for All
Why won't Sanders put a reasonable budget for Medicare for All on the table?
If you read his "Options to Finance Medicare for All," and even if one accepts all of his numbers, they only add up to about $1.62 trillion per year. That already includes a 4% taxable income surcharge on everyone that pays taxes. Current Medicare, which covers 60 million of the 330 million in the US, spent $740 billion in 2018. You can add to that the famous 20% of Part B not covered which is another $67 billion currently paid by the patient.
So that's $800 billion for current Medicare. Sanders is talking about expanding 60 million to 330 million plus adding a whole bunch of things, dental and routine vision for instance, that aren't covered by current Medicare.
That's going to drive expenses up by a lot. I don't think $2.4 trillion to $2.6 trillion or even higher a year is unreasonable as an estimate.
That would leave him almost $1 trillion a year or more short. Until he puts a M4A budget on the table I don't want anything to do with him.
If you read his "Options to Finance Medicare for All," and even if one accepts all of his numbers, they only add up to about $1.62 trillion per year. That already includes a 4% taxable income surcharge on everyone that pays taxes. Current Medicare, which covers 60 million of the 330 million in the US, spent $740 billion in 2018. You can add to that the famous 20% of Part B not covered which is another $67 billion currently paid by the patient.
So that's $800 billion for current Medicare. Sanders is talking about expanding 60 million to 330 million plus adding a whole bunch of things, dental and routine vision for instance, that aren't covered by current Medicare.
That's going to drive expenses up by a lot. I don't think $2.4 trillion to $2.6 trillion or even higher a year is unreasonable as an estimate.
That would leave him almost $1 trillion a year or more short. Until he puts a M4A budget on the table I don't want anything to do with him.
Medicare for All
Medicare for All is a great idea but is it practical?
Well, I suppose it all depends upon what "practical" means.
My whole problem with M4A is that the term implies different things to different people and I suspect that most of those people are in for a rude surprise when they find out what’s really feasible and what it’s going to take to make it happen.
I'm pretty sure that “for profit” healthcare wouldn’t go away even with Medicare for All. We would get rid of the middle man and be in a position to negotiate better prices but anyone who thinks medical groups aren’t going to make profits is kidding themselves.
Doctors certainly aren’t going to start working for free.
Elizabeth Warren at least tried to quantity M4A and may have sabotaged her campaign by doing so. Bernie Sanders is being a bit dishonest by not quantifying it and allowing people to believe whatever they want to believe.
If I was running against Sanders I would do everything I could to pin him down on (1) what he envisions will be included in M4A, (2) what he estimates the yearly funding needs to be and (3) how he intends to raise those funds. Until he does that he’s just waving his hands in the air.
Well, I suppose it all depends upon what "practical" means.
My whole problem with M4A is that the term implies different things to different people and I suspect that most of those people are in for a rude surprise when they find out what’s really feasible and what it’s going to take to make it happen.
I'm pretty sure that “for profit” healthcare wouldn’t go away even with Medicare for All. We would get rid of the middle man and be in a position to negotiate better prices but anyone who thinks medical groups aren’t going to make profits is kidding themselves.
Doctors certainly aren’t going to start working for free.
Elizabeth Warren at least tried to quantity M4A and may have sabotaged her campaign by doing so. Bernie Sanders is being a bit dishonest by not quantifying it and allowing people to believe whatever they want to believe.
If I was running against Sanders I would do everything I could to pin him down on (1) what he envisions will be included in M4A, (2) what he estimates the yearly funding needs to be and (3) how he intends to raise those funds. Until he does that he’s just waving his hands in the air.
Tuesday, January 14, 2020
Joe Judge as Giants Head Coach
What do I think of Judge as the Head Coach of my Giants? I don't think anything yet.
Like everyone else I was surprised and, like everyone else, I was impressed with his first news conference. I have two concerns so far.
First, I'm hoping the choice wasn't made because Judge is just going to be an extension of Gettleman going with whatever decisions are made by the GM. I suppose we won't really know about this one until the draft.
Second, Judge seems to be surrounding himself with old buddies. This is not necessarily a bad thing. It's good to have people around you that you trust but it can lead to group think if everyone is too similar.
I'm really hoping Judge can get Jason Garrett to take the OC job. That would go a long was toward calming my second fear.
Like everyone else I was surprised and, like everyone else, I was impressed with his first news conference. I have two concerns so far.
First, I'm hoping the choice wasn't made because Judge is just going to be an extension of Gettleman going with whatever decisions are made by the GM. I suppose we won't really know about this one until the draft.
Second, Judge seems to be surrounding himself with old buddies. This is not necessarily a bad thing. It's good to have people around you that you trust but it can lead to group think if everyone is too similar.
I'm really hoping Judge can get Jason Garrett to take the OC job. That would go a long was toward calming my second fear.
CFP Final
LSU - 42 (1) vs Clemson - 25 (3)
What is there to say? Once Burrow and company figured out Clemson's 3-1-7 defense it was all over. Burrow threw for 5 touchdowns and ran for another. Lawrence was just over matched, this time. I'm certain they'll meet again at the next level.
The game was well worth the wait but they need to figure out a better was to schedule things. Ah well, on to next year.
What is there to say? Once Burrow and company figured out Clemson's 3-1-7 defense it was all over. Burrow threw for 5 touchdowns and ran for another. Lawrence was just over matched, this time. I'm certain they'll meet again at the next level.
The game was well worth the wait but they need to figure out a better was to schedule things. Ah well, on to next year.
Monday, January 06, 2020
The Inmates are Running the Asylum
The Trump administration has got to be the most incompetent group of clowns ever to try and run a country.
Let's start with the assassination of Iranian general Qasam Soleimani. I'm not passing judgement on Trump's decision to take this guy out. Soleimani was an evil fuck as anyone who had anything to do with IEDs in Iraq can attest.
But then we get the astounding pronouncement from somewhere with the array of Trump "advisors" that the option to assassinate Soleimani was never meant TO BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY!!!
WTF guys? You don't put an option in front of an incompetent crazy like Trump and HOPE that isn't the one he picks.
Let's continue shall we.
Then the Iraqi parliament passes a resolution saying it wants all foreign troops withdrawn. This seems like a reasonable request and I'm not sure why they didn't do it years age.
The US army responds that it is preparing to withdraw. The fast response surprised me a bit but I thought maybe the Pentagon decided to agree before Trump did something stupid.
Now we hear from Secretary of Defense Mark Esper that the letter about withdrawing “was inconsistent with where we are right now.”
What the hell does that mean?
Well, apparently, according to General Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the letter was a draft and IT WAS A MISTAKE IT WAS SENT OUT!?
With these guys incompetence has reached an art form.
Let's start with the assassination of Iranian general Qasam Soleimani. I'm not passing judgement on Trump's decision to take this guy out. Soleimani was an evil fuck as anyone who had anything to do with IEDs in Iraq can attest.
But then we get the astounding pronouncement from somewhere with the array of Trump "advisors" that the option to assassinate Soleimani was never meant TO BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY!!!
WTF guys? You don't put an option in front of an incompetent crazy like Trump and HOPE that isn't the one he picks.
Let's continue shall we.
Then the Iraqi parliament passes a resolution saying it wants all foreign troops withdrawn. This seems like a reasonable request and I'm not sure why they didn't do it years age.
The US army responds that it is preparing to withdraw. The fast response surprised me a bit but I thought maybe the Pentagon decided to agree before Trump did something stupid.
Now we hear from Secretary of Defense Mark Esper that the letter about withdrawing “was inconsistent with where we are right now.”
What the hell does that mean?
Well, apparently, according to General Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the letter was a draft and IT WAS A MISTAKE IT WAS SENT OUT!?
With these guys incompetence has reached an art form.
Sunday, December 29, 2019
CFP Semi-finals
Well, it seemed liked forever but December 28th has finally arrived. I decided my car could no longer be relied upon so I bought myself a 2020 Subaru Forester as a Christmas present. So, I'm officially broke.
December 28th, 4 PM - Peach Bowl, Atlanta
LSU - 63 (1) vs Oklahoma - 28 (4)
Oklahoma had no chance. With multiple missing defensive stars they were almost helpless against Joe Burrow and company. Burrow threw for 7 TD passes in the FIRST HALF.
December 28th, 8 PM - Fiesta Bowl, Glendale
Ohio State - 23 (2) vs Clemson - 29 (3)
Here's my call on this game over at the Washington Post.
"Clemson hasn't faced an opponent like Ohio State but I'm betting that once they get over the initial shock Lawrence and company will pull it out."
So Ohio State builds a 16-0 lead and then wow, wow and wow. A targeting call after review on third down leads to a Clemson touchdown. A roughing the kicker penalty leads to a 99 yard drive and a Clemson touchdown. A catch, fumble and run for a touchdown gets negated after review eliminating an Ohio State touchdown.
Can I call them or can I call them. On to New Orleans. What a great game.
January 13, 8 PM - New Orleans
LSU (1) vs Clemson (3)
I'm going with LSU.
December 28th, 4 PM - Peach Bowl, Atlanta
LSU - 63 (1) vs Oklahoma - 28 (4)
Oklahoma had no chance. With multiple missing defensive stars they were almost helpless against Joe Burrow and company. Burrow threw for 7 TD passes in the FIRST HALF.
December 28th, 8 PM - Fiesta Bowl, Glendale
Ohio State - 23 (2) vs Clemson - 29 (3)
Here's my call on this game over at the Washington Post.
"Clemson hasn't faced an opponent like Ohio State but I'm betting that once they get over the initial shock Lawrence and company will pull it out."
So Ohio State builds a 16-0 lead and then wow, wow and wow. A targeting call after review on third down leads to a Clemson touchdown. A roughing the kicker penalty leads to a 99 yard drive and a Clemson touchdown. A catch, fumble and run for a touchdown gets negated after review eliminating an Ohio State touchdown.
Can I call them or can I call them. On to New Orleans. What a great game.
January 13, 8 PM - New Orleans
LSU (1) vs Clemson (3)
I'm going with LSU.
Sunday, December 08, 2019
CFP Final Ranking
OK, so I was wrong and committee decided that LSU's crushing of Georgia combined with Ohio State's struggles with Wisconsin in the first half merited moving LSU back to #1. I disagree but it's their decision.
So the CFP teams will be:
#1 - LSU (13-0)
#2 - Ohio State (13-0)
#3 - Clemson (13-0)
#4 - Oklahoma (12-1)
Rounding out the top ten we have the following bridesmaids:
#5 - Georgia (11-2)
#6 - Oregon (11-2)
#7 - Baylor (11-2)
#8 - Wisconsin (10-3)
#9 - Florida (10-2)
#10 - Penn State (10-2)
I'm glad to see that Wisconsin wasn't penalized for losing to Ohio State and will represent the Big 10 in the Rose Bowl against Oregon which ain't a bad prize.
The CFP will be as follows:
December 28th, 4 PM - Peach Bowl, Atlanta
LSU (1) vs Oklahoma (4)
December 28th, 8 PM - Fiesta Bowl, Glendale
Ohio State (2) vs Clemson (3)
I'm going to go with LSU and Clemson which will set up a massive shoot-out for the championship game on January 13th in New Orleans.
So the CFP teams will be:
#1 - LSU (13-0)
#2 - Ohio State (13-0)
#3 - Clemson (13-0)
#4 - Oklahoma (12-1)
Rounding out the top ten we have the following bridesmaids:
#5 - Georgia (11-2)
#6 - Oregon (11-2)
#7 - Baylor (11-2)
#8 - Wisconsin (10-3)
#9 - Florida (10-2)
#10 - Penn State (10-2)
I'm glad to see that Wisconsin wasn't penalized for losing to Ohio State and will represent the Big 10 in the Rose Bowl against Oregon which ain't a bad prize.
The CFP will be as follows:
December 28th, 4 PM - Peach Bowl, Atlanta
LSU (1) vs Oklahoma (4)
December 28th, 8 PM - Fiesta Bowl, Glendale
Ohio State (2) vs Clemson (3)
I'm going to go with LSU and Clemson which will set up a massive shoot-out for the championship game on January 13th in New Orleans.
Saturday, December 07, 2019
CFP Ranking Week #5 Scores
The Championship Weekend results.
Utah - 15 (5) vs Oregon - 37 (13)
Baylor - 23 (7) vs Oklahoma - 30 (6) 1 OT
Georgia - 10 (4) vs LSU - 37 (2)
Virginia - 17 (23) vs Clemson - 62 (3)
Ohio State - 31 (1) vs Wisconsin - 21 (8)
It's Friday night and Utah won't be going to the CFP or the Rose Bowl. It will be Oregon to the Rose Bowl and the door may now be open for the winner of Baylor vs. Oklahoma.
Well, it's now close to 4 PM on Saturday, my car's transmission has conked out (again), Oklahoma has eliminated Baylor and now has to wait and see what happens with LSU and Georgia.
If the guys that fixed my transmission just a few months ago don't repair it this time for free I'm scrapping my car. It's 12 years old with 141,000 miles and I can afford a new one. That's doesn't mean I'm not really annoyed.
It's pushing 8 PM and LSU has made a statement over Georgia 37-10. Clemson has intercepted Virginia in the end zone a few minutes ago.
It's 8:40; Clemson is taking care of business over Virginia 17-7 but Wisconsin leads Ohio State 7-0 and has the ball.
Ohio State, trailing 14-0 and deep in their own territory, just ran a fake punt for a 1st down. Can you spell momentum change? Clemson is up 31-7 at halftime; Ohio State squandered the fake punt by fumbling at the Wisconsin 5 yard line.
Ohio State cut the lead to 14-7 but Wisconsin answered with a TD in the last 30 seconds of the half and went into halftime ahead 21-7.
Isn't this getting interesting?
I think it's safe to say that Clemson will beat Virginia as they're pulling away big time at 45-14 at the end of the 3rd quarter. But Ohio State and Wisconsin is not so obvious.
We're really down to two possibilities. Either Ohio State comes back to beat Wisconsin or Wisconsin upsets Ohio State.
In the first case I have to think that LSU goes to #1, Ohio State goes to #2, Clemson stays at #3 and Oklahoma gets the #4 spot.
If Wisconsin wins, then I think we get LSU at #1, Clemson at #2, Ohio State at #3 and Oklahoma at #4.
Personally, I think Ohio State comes back to win and, if they come back big enough, could even hold the #1 spot.
Ohio State had a huge 3rd quarter and now leads 24-17. Clemson finished off Virginia 62-17.
Ohio State utterly dominated Wisconsin the second half outscoring them 24-0 and coming back to win 31-21. I have to believe Ohio State will hold the #1 spot so I guessing the four playoff teams will be:
#1 - Ohio State (13-0)
#2 - LSU (13-0)
#3 - Clemson (13-0)
#4 - Oklahoma (12-1)
Utah - 15 (5) vs Oregon - 37 (13)
Baylor - 23 (7) vs Oklahoma - 30 (6) 1 OT
Georgia - 10 (4) vs LSU - 37 (2)
Virginia - 17 (23) vs Clemson - 62 (3)
Ohio State - 31 (1) vs Wisconsin - 21 (8)
It's Friday night and Utah won't be going to the CFP or the Rose Bowl. It will be Oregon to the Rose Bowl and the door may now be open for the winner of Baylor vs. Oklahoma.
Well, it's now close to 4 PM on Saturday, my car's transmission has conked out (again), Oklahoma has eliminated Baylor and now has to wait and see what happens with LSU and Georgia.
If the guys that fixed my transmission just a few months ago don't repair it this time for free I'm scrapping my car. It's 12 years old with 141,000 miles and I can afford a new one. That's doesn't mean I'm not really annoyed.
It's pushing 8 PM and LSU has made a statement over Georgia 37-10. Clemson has intercepted Virginia in the end zone a few minutes ago.
It's 8:40; Clemson is taking care of business over Virginia 17-7 but Wisconsin leads Ohio State 7-0 and has the ball.
Ohio State, trailing 14-0 and deep in their own territory, just ran a fake punt for a 1st down. Can you spell momentum change? Clemson is up 31-7 at halftime; Ohio State squandered the fake punt by fumbling at the Wisconsin 5 yard line.
Ohio State cut the lead to 14-7 but Wisconsin answered with a TD in the last 30 seconds of the half and went into halftime ahead 21-7.
Isn't this getting interesting?
I think it's safe to say that Clemson will beat Virginia as they're pulling away big time at 45-14 at the end of the 3rd quarter. But Ohio State and Wisconsin is not so obvious.
We're really down to two possibilities. Either Ohio State comes back to beat Wisconsin or Wisconsin upsets Ohio State.
In the first case I have to think that LSU goes to #1, Ohio State goes to #2, Clemson stays at #3 and Oklahoma gets the #4 spot.
If Wisconsin wins, then I think we get LSU at #1, Clemson at #2, Ohio State at #3 and Oklahoma at #4.
Personally, I think Ohio State comes back to win and, if they come back big enough, could even hold the #1 spot.
Ohio State had a huge 3rd quarter and now leads 24-17. Clemson finished off Virginia 62-17.
Ohio State utterly dominated Wisconsin the second half outscoring them 24-0 and coming back to win 31-21. I have to believe Ohio State will hold the #1 spot so I guessing the four playoff teams will be:
#1 - Ohio State (13-0)
#2 - LSU (13-0)
#3 - Clemson (13-0)
#4 - Oklahoma (12-1)
Wednesday, December 04, 2019
CFP Rankings Week #5
There were no real surprises.
#1 - Ohio State (12-0)
#2 - LSU (12-0)
#3 - Clemson (12-0)
#4 - Georgia (11-1)
#5 - Utah (11-1)
#6 - Oklahoma (11-1)
#7 - Baylor (11-1)
#8 - Wisconsin (10-2)
#9 - Florida (10-2)
#10 - Penn State (10-2)
So, on to Championship Weekend.
Utah (5) vs Oregon (13), Friday 8 PM.
Baylor (7) vs Oklahoma (6), Saturday 12 PM.
Georgia (4) vs LSU (2), Saturday 4 PM
Virginia (23) vs Clemson (3), Saturday 7:30 PM
Ohio State (1) vs Wisconsin (8), Saturday 8 PM
Oh boy. There are so many possibilities for chaos here.
The first question becomes what happens if Utah wins and Georgia loses? Could Utah jump Georgia? If Utah and Georgia lose is it possible the winner of Oklahoma-Baylor leapfrogs them both? What happens if Wisconsin beats Ohio State?
Ohio State handled Wisconsin pretty easily during the year 38-7. I don't see the change of venue making that big a difference so I think Ohio State stays #1.
I'm going to go with LSU over Georgia. The LSU defense may still be a bit questionable but I think their offense is going to put up points even against Georgia.
Dabo Swinney has Clemson motivated and pissed cause they don't get no respect. I think Virginia is in serious trouble.
Baylor gave up 17 unanswered points to Oklahoma in the forth quarter of their 1st game. I think this time around Baylor gets revenge.
As for Utah and Oregon, I just don't know enough about the two teams to hazard a guess.
#1 - Ohio State (12-0)
#2 - LSU (12-0)
#3 - Clemson (12-0)
#4 - Georgia (11-1)
#5 - Utah (11-1)
#6 - Oklahoma (11-1)
#7 - Baylor (11-1)
#8 - Wisconsin (10-2)
#9 - Florida (10-2)
#10 - Penn State (10-2)
So, on to Championship Weekend.
Utah (5) vs Oregon (13), Friday 8 PM.
Baylor (7) vs Oklahoma (6), Saturday 12 PM.
Georgia (4) vs LSU (2), Saturday 4 PM
Virginia (23) vs Clemson (3), Saturday 7:30 PM
Ohio State (1) vs Wisconsin (8), Saturday 8 PM
Oh boy. There are so many possibilities for chaos here.
The first question becomes what happens if Utah wins and Georgia loses? Could Utah jump Georgia? If Utah and Georgia lose is it possible the winner of Oklahoma-Baylor leapfrogs them both? What happens if Wisconsin beats Ohio State?
Ohio State handled Wisconsin pretty easily during the year 38-7. I don't see the change of venue making that big a difference so I think Ohio State stays #1.
I'm going to go with LSU over Georgia. The LSU defense may still be a bit questionable but I think their offense is going to put up points even against Georgia.
Dabo Swinney has Clemson motivated and pissed cause they don't get no respect. I think Virginia is in serious trouble.
Baylor gave up 17 unanswered points to Oklahoma in the forth quarter of their 1st game. I think this time around Baylor gets revenge.
As for Utah and Oregon, I just don't know enough about the two teams to hazard a guess.
Sunday, December 01, 2019
CFP Rankings Week #4 Scores
The final scores after week #4. Top ten loses are in italics.
Ohio State- 56 at Michigan - 27 (13)
Texas A&M 7 at LSU - 50
Clemson - 38 at South Carolina - 3
Georgia - 52 at Georgia Tech - 7
Alabama - 48 at Auburn - 45 (15)
Colorado - 15 at Utah - 45
Oklahoma - 34 at Oklahoma State - 16 (21)
Wisconsin - 38 (12) at Minnesota - 17
Baylor - 61 at Kansas - 6
Rutgers - 6 at Penn State - 27
So, Wisconsin wins the Big 10 West and will meet Ohio State next week. That could be interesting. In the meantime Alabama lost a wild one to Auburn so they are pretty much out of contention. Baylor will get another shot at Oklahoma and LSU will play Georgia after both had big wins.
So, Alabama should fall out of contention and Utah should move into the bridesmaid slot. I see no reason for LSU and Ohio State to switch places and none for Clemson and Georgia to switch places either.
#1 - Ohio State
#2 - LSU
#3 - Clemson
#4 - Georgia
#5 - Utah
#6 - Oklahoma
Ohio State- 56 at Michigan - 27 (13)
Texas A&M 7 at LSU - 50
Clemson - 38 at South Carolina - 3
Georgia - 52 at Georgia Tech - 7
Alabama - 48 at Auburn - 45 (15)
Colorado - 15 at Utah - 45
Oklahoma - 34 at Oklahoma State - 16 (21)
Wisconsin - 38 (12) at Minnesota - 17
Baylor - 61 at Kansas - 6
Rutgers - 6 at Penn State - 27
So, Wisconsin wins the Big 10 West and will meet Ohio State next week. That could be interesting. In the meantime Alabama lost a wild one to Auburn so they are pretty much out of contention. Baylor will get another shot at Oklahoma and LSU will play Georgia after both had big wins.
So, Alabama should fall out of contention and Utah should move into the bridesmaid slot. I see no reason for LSU and Ohio State to switch places and none for Clemson and Georgia to switch places either.
#1 - Ohio State
#2 - LSU
#3 - Clemson
#4 - Georgia
#5 - Utah
#6 - Oklahoma
Tuesday, November 26, 2019
CFP Rankings Week #4
So Ohio State did move to number one. Penn State dropped to #10 and Oregon dropped all the way to #14. I had seen a prediction that Alabama would regain the #4 spot which made absolutely no sense to me so I'm glad it didn't happen.
#1 - Ohio State (11-0)
#2 - LSU (11-0)
#3 - Clemson (11-0)
#4 - Georgia (10-1)
#5 - Alabama (10-1)
#6 - Utah (10-1)
#7 - Oklahoma (10-1)
#8 - Minnesota (10-1)
#9 - Baylor (10-1)
#10 - Penn State (9-2)
Games for the top 10 this week.
Ohio State at Michigan (13)
Texas A&M at LSU
Clemson at South Carolina
Georgia at Georgia Tech
Alabama at Auburn (15)
Colorado at Utah
Oklahoma at Oklahoma State (21)
Wisconsin (12) at Minnesota
Baylor at Kansas
Rutgers at Penn State
So many big games and so little time. Wisconsin and Minnesota will decide who wins the Big 10 West and earns another shot at Ohio State. Ohio State has clinched the Big 10 East but has yet to play Michigan. Alabama gets Auburn and Oklahoma has to play Oklahoma State.
Oh there are so many interesting possibilities not only this week but the following week on Championship Saturday.
#1 - Ohio State (11-0)
#2 - LSU (11-0)
#3 - Clemson (11-0)
#4 - Georgia (10-1)
#5 - Alabama (10-1)
#6 - Utah (10-1)
#7 - Oklahoma (10-1)
#8 - Minnesota (10-1)
#9 - Baylor (10-1)
#10 - Penn State (9-2)
Games for the top 10 this week.
Ohio State at Michigan (13)
Texas A&M at LSU
Clemson at South Carolina
Georgia at Georgia Tech
Alabama at Auburn (15)
Colorado at Utah
Oklahoma at Oklahoma State (21)
Wisconsin (12) at Minnesota
Baylor at Kansas
Rutgers at Penn State
So many big games and so little time. Wisconsin and Minnesota will decide who wins the Big 10 West and earns another shot at Ohio State. Ohio State has clinched the Big 10 East but has yet to play Michigan. Alabama gets Auburn and Oklahoma has to play Oklahoma State.
Oh there are so many interesting possibilities not only this week but the following week on Championship Saturday.
Monday, November 25, 2019
CFP Rankings Week #3 Scores
The final scores of the games after the week #2 rankings. Upsets are in italics.
Arkansas - 20 at LSU - 56
Penn State - 17 at Ohio State - 28
Clemson - Bye
Texas A&M - 13 at Georgia - 19
Western Carolina - 3 at Alabama - 66
Oregon - 28 at Arizona State - 31
Utah 35 at Arizona - 7
TCU - 24 at Oklahoma - 28
Minnesota - 38 at Northwestern - 22
Things went about as expected except for Oregon. QB Justin Herbert had an off night and I didn't know that Herm Edwards was the ASU head coach and now I do.
The Ohio State - Penn State game was a bit of a disappointment. I never felt that Ohio State was in jeopardy despite giving away three fumbles including a sure early touchdown. They were clearly the better team and clearly have a better defense than LSU. The offense, not so much.
LSU had no problem with Arkansas and Alabama (*cough, cough*) won a 66-3 squeaker (*cough, cough*) over Western Carolina.
I think the win over Penn State should put Ohio State back in 1st so let's say the top six will be like this:
#1 - Ohio State
#2 - LSU
#3 - Clemson
#4 - Georgia
#5 - Alabama
#6 - Utah
I honestly think Ohio State is the more complete team and I would love to see LSU and Ohio State in the final. Of course Clemson and Georgia might have something to say about that.
Arkansas - 20 at LSU - 56
Penn State - 17 at Ohio State - 28
Clemson - Bye
Texas A&M - 13 at Georgia - 19
Western Carolina - 3 at Alabama - 66
Oregon - 28 at Arizona State - 31
Utah 35 at Arizona - 7
TCU - 24 at Oklahoma - 28
Minnesota - 38 at Northwestern - 22
Things went about as expected except for Oregon. QB Justin Herbert had an off night and I didn't know that Herm Edwards was the ASU head coach and now I do.
The Ohio State - Penn State game was a bit of a disappointment. I never felt that Ohio State was in jeopardy despite giving away three fumbles including a sure early touchdown. They were clearly the better team and clearly have a better defense than LSU. The offense, not so much.
LSU had no problem with Arkansas and Alabama (*cough, cough*) won a 66-3 squeaker (*cough, cough*) over Western Carolina.
I think the win over Penn State should put Ohio State back in 1st so let's say the top six will be like this:
#1 - Ohio State
#2 - LSU
#3 - Clemson
#4 - Georgia
#5 - Alabama
#6 - Utah
I honestly think Ohio State is the more complete team and I would love to see LSU and Ohio State in the final. Of course Clemson and Georgia might have something to say about that.
Tuesday, November 19, 2019
CFP Rankings Week #3
Looks like the committee wasn't as concerned over LSU getting reamed by the Ole Miss running QB as I was as they're still #1. The only change was to drop Minnesota to #10 and kick Penn State and Oklahoma up one notch.
#1 - LSU (10-0)
#2 - Ohio State (10-0)
#3 - Clemson (11-0)
#4 - Georgia (9-1)
#5 - Alabama (9-1)
#6 - Oregon (9-1)
#7 - Utah (9-1)
#8 - Penn State (9-1)
#9 - Oklahoma (9-1)
#10 - Minnesota (9-1)
Games for the top ten this week.
Arkansas at LSU
Penn State at Ohio State
Clemson - Bye
Texas A&M at Georgia
Western Carolina at Alabama
Oregon at Arizona State
Utah at Arizona
TCU at Oklahoma
Minnesota at Northwestern
Obviously the biggest match will be Penn State at Ohio State. It's all on the line for Penn State and perhaps for Ohio State as well. I'm going with Ohio State in this one and a win should put them back at #1.
Texas A&M at Georgia could also be interesting and maybe (*cough, cough*) Western Carolina can beat Alabama (*cough, cough*). Well, at least Mac Jones will get in an extra week before Auburn.
#1 - LSU (10-0)
#2 - Ohio State (10-0)
#3 - Clemson (11-0)
#4 - Georgia (9-1)
#5 - Alabama (9-1)
#6 - Oregon (9-1)
#7 - Utah (9-1)
#8 - Penn State (9-1)
#9 - Oklahoma (9-1)
#10 - Minnesota (9-1)
Games for the top ten this week.
Arkansas at LSU
Penn State at Ohio State
Clemson - Bye
Texas A&M at Georgia
Western Carolina at Alabama
Oregon at Arizona State
Utah at Arizona
TCU at Oklahoma
Minnesota at Northwestern
Obviously the biggest match will be Penn State at Ohio State. It's all on the line for Penn State and perhaps for Ohio State as well. I'm going with Ohio State in this one and a win should put them back at #1.
Texas A&M at Georgia could also be interesting and maybe (*cough, cough*) Western Carolina can beat Alabama (*cough, cough*). Well, at least Mac Jones will get in an extra week before Auburn.
Saturday, November 16, 2019
CFP Rankings Week #2 Scores
The final scores of the games after the week #2 rankings. Top ten team loses are in italics.
LSU - 58 at Mississippi - 37
Ohio State - 56 at Rutgers - 21
Wake Forest - 3 at Clemson - 52
Georgia - 21 at Auburn - 14 (12)
Alabama - 38 at Mississippi State - 7
Arizona - 6 at Oregon - 34
UCLA - 3 at Utah - 49
Minnesota -19 at Iowa - 23
Indiana - 27 at Penn State - 34
Oklahoma - 34 at Baylor - 31 (13)
The only top 10 team to lose was Minnesota so the Gophers lost their top ten position, their undefeated season and the hog in one afternoon. Oklahoma looked like they were in trouble for a while but ultimately pulled the game out.
Alabama lost Tua Tagovailoa for the rest of the season with a dislocated hip and possible posterior wall fracture. I say possible because the reports are inconsistent. Doctors say he'll fully recover but as a guy who had multiple shoulder dislocations let's just say I find that "fully" a tad questionable. I hope I'm wrong.
LSU at Ole Miss was a crazy affair including 94 points, over 1300 yards in total offense and over 200 yards rushing by the Mississippi QB John Rhys Plumlee. LSU won but it puts a bit of a question mark on its run defense. Joe Burrow also had a short span of being human when he threw two picks in the 4th quarter. I say "short" because he also threw for 489 yards and 5 TDs.
So what happens to the top six?
I've given up trying to understand how the committee thinks but what might happen is Ohio State going back to #1.
Let's go with that and say it will look like this.
#1 - Ohio State
#2 - LSU
#3 - Clemson
#4 - Georgia
#5 - Alabama
#6 - Oregon
LSU - 58 at Mississippi - 37
Ohio State - 56 at Rutgers - 21
Wake Forest - 3 at Clemson - 52
Georgia - 21 at Auburn - 14 (12)
Alabama - 38 at Mississippi State - 7
Arizona - 6 at Oregon - 34
UCLA - 3 at Utah - 49
Minnesota -19 at Iowa - 23
Indiana - 27 at Penn State - 34
Oklahoma - 34 at Baylor - 31 (13)
The only top 10 team to lose was Minnesota so the Gophers lost their top ten position, their undefeated season and the hog in one afternoon. Oklahoma looked like they were in trouble for a while but ultimately pulled the game out.
Alabama lost Tua Tagovailoa for the rest of the season with a dislocated hip and possible posterior wall fracture. I say possible because the reports are inconsistent. Doctors say he'll fully recover but as a guy who had multiple shoulder dislocations let's just say I find that "fully" a tad questionable. I hope I'm wrong.
LSU at Ole Miss was a crazy affair including 94 points, over 1300 yards in total offense and over 200 yards rushing by the Mississippi QB John Rhys Plumlee. LSU won but it puts a bit of a question mark on its run defense. Joe Burrow also had a short span of being human when he threw two picks in the 4th quarter. I say "short" because he also threw for 489 yards and 5 TDs.
So what happens to the top six?
I've given up trying to understand how the committee thinks but what might happen is Ohio State going back to #1.
Let's go with that and say it will look like this.
#1 - Ohio State
#2 - LSU
#3 - Clemson
#4 - Georgia
#5 - Alabama
#6 - Oregon
Tuesday, November 12, 2019
CFP Rankings Week #2
Well I was right about LSU taking over #1 but I'm a bit surprised that Alabama fell all the way to #5 and Georgia was moved up to #4. The LSU-Alabama game was competitive so I'm not sure why Alabama dropped two spots as a result. Minnesota got a lot of love for beating Penn State, enough to kick Florida out of the top ten.
#1 - LSU (9-0)
#2 - Ohio State (9-0)
#3 - Clemson (10-0)
#4 - Georgia (8-1)
#5 - Alabama (8-1)
#6 - Oregon (8-1)
#7 - Utah (8-1)
#8 - Minnesota (9-0)
#9 - Penn State (8-1)
#10 - Oklahoma (8-1)
Games for the top ten this weekend.
LSU at Mississippi
Ohio State at Rutgers
Wake Forest at Clemson
Georgia at Auburn (12)
Alabama at Mississippi State
Arizona at Oregon
UCLA at Utah
Minnesota at Iowa (20)
Indiana at Penn State
Oklahoma at Baylor (13)
Let's start with there ought to be a law against having Rutgers play Ohio State. State is something like a 52 point favorite. The question is can Rutgers keep Ohio State from scoring 100 points? Clemson and Wake Forest could be interesting even though the Tigers are 34 point favorites.
Georgia has a challenge at Auburn and that should be the best game of the top four teams. Minnesota has to try and avoid a big let down at Iowa.
#1 - LSU (9-0)
#2 - Ohio State (9-0)
#3 - Clemson (10-0)
#4 - Georgia (8-1)
#5 - Alabama (8-1)
#6 - Oregon (8-1)
#7 - Utah (8-1)
#8 - Minnesota (9-0)
#9 - Penn State (8-1)
#10 - Oklahoma (8-1)
Games for the top ten this weekend.
LSU at Mississippi
Ohio State at Rutgers
Wake Forest at Clemson
Georgia at Auburn (12)
Alabama at Mississippi State
Arizona at Oregon
UCLA at Utah
Minnesota at Iowa (20)
Indiana at Penn State
Oklahoma at Baylor (13)
Let's start with there ought to be a law against having Rutgers play Ohio State. State is something like a 52 point favorite. The question is can Rutgers keep Ohio State from scoring 100 points? Clemson and Wake Forest could be interesting even though the Tigers are 34 point favorites.
Georgia has a challenge at Auburn and that should be the best game of the top four teams. Minnesota has to try and avoid a big let down at Iowa.
Saturday, November 09, 2019
CFP Ranking Week #1 Scores
The final scores of the games after the week #1 rankings. Upsets are in italics.
Maryland - 14 at Ohio State - 73
LSU - 46 at Alabama - 41
Penn State - 26 at Minnesota (17) - 31
Clemson - 55 at NC State - 10
Missouri - 0 at Georgia - 27
Iowa State - 28 at Oklahoma - 42
Oregon - Bye
Utah - Bye
Vanderbilt - 0 at Florida - 56
The big news was Minnesota's upset of Penn State moving the Gophers to 9-0 for the first time since 1904. Funny, it seems like yesterday.
The LSU vs. Alabama game was everything you could expect resulting in the highest point total ever in the 124 year history of the series.
So, how will this shake things up?
Obviously Penn State will fall out of the top 4 and will I suspect be replaced by Clemson. I think the win over Alabama should send LSU to #1 but given the competitiveness of the game I don't see any reason for Alabama to drop out of the top four. So I'm thinking the top six will look as follows:
#1 - LSU (9-0)
#2 - Ohio State (9-0)
#3 - Clemson (10-0)
#4 - Alabama (8-1)
#5 - Georgia (8-1)
#6 - Oregon (8-1)
But I wouldn't be surprised if Ohio State stayed at #1, Alabama was #3 and Clemson #4. My choices are just my opinion. We'll see Tuesday what the CFB committee decides.
Maryland - 14 at Ohio State - 73
LSU - 46 at Alabama - 41
Penn State - 26 at Minnesota (17) - 31
Clemson - 55 at NC State - 10
Missouri - 0 at Georgia - 27
Iowa State - 28 at Oklahoma - 42
Oregon - Bye
Utah - Bye
Vanderbilt - 0 at Florida - 56
The big news was Minnesota's upset of Penn State moving the Gophers to 9-0 for the first time since 1904. Funny, it seems like yesterday.
The LSU vs. Alabama game was everything you could expect resulting in the highest point total ever in the 124 year history of the series.
So, how will this shake things up?
Obviously Penn State will fall out of the top 4 and will I suspect be replaced by Clemson. I think the win over Alabama should send LSU to #1 but given the competitiveness of the game I don't see any reason for Alabama to drop out of the top four. So I'm thinking the top six will look as follows:
#1 - LSU (9-0)
#2 - Ohio State (9-0)
#3 - Clemson (10-0)
#4 - Alabama (8-1)
#5 - Georgia (8-1)
#6 - Oregon (8-1)
But I wouldn't be surprised if Ohio State stayed at #1, Alabama was #3 and Clemson #4. My choices are just my opinion. We'll see Tuesday what the CFB committee decides.
Tuesday, November 05, 2019
CFP Ranking Week #1
OK, so I was wrong. Ohio State did come in at #1 and Penn State was #4. Here's the first top ten.
#1 - Ohio State (8-0)
#2 - LSU (8-0)
#3 - Alabama (8-0)
#4 - Penn State (8-0)
#5 - Clemson (9-0)
#6 - Georgia (7-1)
#7 - Oregon (8-1)
#8 - Utah (8-1)
#9 - Oklahoma (7-1)
#10 - Florida (7-2)
Games for the top ten this weekend.
Maryland at Ohio State
LSU at Alabama
Penn State at Minnesota (17)
Clemson at NC State
Missouri at Georgia
Iowa State at Oklahoma
Oregon - Bye
Utah - Bye
Vanderbilt at Florida
The biggest game is LSU and Alabama but Penn State is facing Minnesota (8-0) who is ranked 17th.
#1 - Ohio State (8-0)
#2 - LSU (8-0)
#3 - Alabama (8-0)
#4 - Penn State (8-0)
#5 - Clemson (9-0)
#6 - Georgia (7-1)
#7 - Oregon (8-1)
#8 - Utah (8-1)
#9 - Oklahoma (7-1)
#10 - Florida (7-2)
Games for the top ten this weekend.
Maryland at Ohio State
LSU at Alabama
Penn State at Minnesota (17)
Clemson at NC State
Missouri at Georgia
Iowa State at Oklahoma
Oregon - Bye
Utah - Bye
Vanderbilt at Florida
The biggest game is LSU and Alabama but Penn State is facing Minnesota (8-0) who is ranked 17th.
Elizabeth Warren's Medicare for All Plan
I think Warren’s plan gives us something to mull over and it provides a baseline that I think was sorely needed.
That being said, there is one part of it that I’ve rejected before and I’m going to reject again and that’s the wealth tax.
It’s not that I have any issue with taxing the extremely wealthy it’s just that I’m not sure how practical this tax is going to be.
First of all calculating net worth as a basis to levy the tax upon strikes me as fraught with all sorts of potential problems when wealth is not held in liquid assets. Even if we could come up with a reasonable way of calculating wealth in that case do we really want to demand that people sell stocks, bonds, real estate or other non-liquid assets in order to pay a wealth tax?
Second is that its constitutionality is questionable especially with the current SCOTUS. Even if it SHOULD be considered constitutional I don’t feel confident that this SCOTUS will find it so.
I would much prefer adding two or three higher marginal tax brackets and adding a bracket or two to long term capital gains. This is simple and we know with absolute certainty that it’s constitutional.
The polls seem to indicate that a majority of people support Medicare for All But there is a difference between supporting something in principal and supporting a specific approach for implementation.
The big issue is that people tend to be suspicious of change. People who have access to reasonable health care are going to be concerned that any big change is going to screw things up. I suspect a lot of current Medicare subscribers are going to be concerned that opening up Medicare to everyone is going to negatively impact them in some way manner shape or form with the most likely being that it will be harder to get appointments or treatment.
And they may be right. But we won't really know until Medicare for All is implemented.
That being said, there is one part of it that I’ve rejected before and I’m going to reject again and that’s the wealth tax.
It’s not that I have any issue with taxing the extremely wealthy it’s just that I’m not sure how practical this tax is going to be.
First of all calculating net worth as a basis to levy the tax upon strikes me as fraught with all sorts of potential problems when wealth is not held in liquid assets. Even if we could come up with a reasonable way of calculating wealth in that case do we really want to demand that people sell stocks, bonds, real estate or other non-liquid assets in order to pay a wealth tax?
Second is that its constitutionality is questionable especially with the current SCOTUS. Even if it SHOULD be considered constitutional I don’t feel confident that this SCOTUS will find it so.
I would much prefer adding two or three higher marginal tax brackets and adding a bracket or two to long term capital gains. This is simple and we know with absolute certainty that it’s constitutional.
The polls seem to indicate that a majority of people support Medicare for All But there is a difference between supporting something in principal and supporting a specific approach for implementation.
The big issue is that people tend to be suspicious of change. People who have access to reasonable health care are going to be concerned that any big change is going to screw things up. I suspect a lot of current Medicare subscribers are going to be concerned that opening up Medicare to everyone is going to negatively impact them in some way manner shape or form with the most likely being that it will be harder to get appointments or treatment.
And they may be right. But we won't really know until Medicare for All is implemented.
CFP Ranking Prediction
Well. it's that time again. The first official College Football Playoff (CFP) ranking will be released at 9 PM tonight. I'm thinking the top six will look as follows:
#1 - Alabama (8-0)
#2 - LSU (8-0)
#3 - Ohio State (8-0)
#4 - Clemson (9-0)
#5 - Penn State (8-0)
#6 - Georgia (7-1)
I've seen predictions that LSU will be #1 and that's possible but I think the CFP is going to go with Alabama. The two teams are playing Saturday so whoever wins that game will almost certainly be #1 in next week's poll regardless of where they end up today.
I saw at least one columnist saying that Ohio State will be #1 but I can't believe that it won't be an SEC team so either Alabama or LSU.
The same columnist felt that Penn State would be #4 rather than Clemson and I suspect that's more likely than Ohio State at #1. Clemson hasn't looked that good this year and I'm not overly impressed with their schedule.
Still, Clemson will probably finish 12-0, unless they stumble against Wake Forest in two weeks. I don't see them losing to NC State or South Carolina although I suppose you never know.
LSU and Alabama play each other this week and Ohio State and Penn State play each other November 23rd so at least two of Clemson's main rivals will have at least one loss. Georgia already has a loss as does Oregon, Utah and Oklahoma.
Anyway, let the games begin.
#1 - Alabama (8-0)
#2 - LSU (8-0)
#3 - Ohio State (8-0)
#4 - Clemson (9-0)
#5 - Penn State (8-0)
#6 - Georgia (7-1)
I've seen predictions that LSU will be #1 and that's possible but I think the CFP is going to go with Alabama. The two teams are playing Saturday so whoever wins that game will almost certainly be #1 in next week's poll regardless of where they end up today.
I saw at least one columnist saying that Ohio State will be #1 but I can't believe that it won't be an SEC team so either Alabama or LSU.
The same columnist felt that Penn State would be #4 rather than Clemson and I suspect that's more likely than Ohio State at #1. Clemson hasn't looked that good this year and I'm not overly impressed with their schedule.
Still, Clemson will probably finish 12-0, unless they stumble against Wake Forest in two weeks. I don't see them losing to NC State or South Carolina although I suppose you never know.
LSU and Alabama play each other this week and Ohio State and Penn State play each other November 23rd so at least two of Clemson's main rivals will have at least one loss. Georgia already has a loss as does Oregon, Utah and Oklahoma.
Anyway, let the games begin.
Monday, October 21, 2019
Netanyahu Strikes Out
Bibi has again failed to form a government on Israel opening the door for Benny Gantz to give it a try.
I think Gantz has a shot but people may be asking too much to join a coalition. And you thought our government was gridlocked?
I think Gantz has a shot but people may be asking too much to join a coalition. And you thought our government was gridlocked?
Monday, September 30, 2019
To Impeach or Not to Impeach II
As I said before; there are two ways to look at this. One way is theoretical and the other is practical.
This Ukraine mess changes the equation. If the House didn't begin an impeachment investigation over this then they would be in dereliction of their responsibilities. So it's time to damn the torpedoes, do the right thing and let the chips fall where they may.
But investigating is one thing and voting articles of impeachment is another. I think they would need really hard evidence of wrong doing and that evidence would have to be understandable by the American public without complicated explanations from legal experts.
On the practical side, regardless of how much evidence they come up with, is there any realistic chance of getting the two thirds majority in the Senate for a conviction? I suspect things would have to get really bad for that to happen.
There are a number of ways this could go.
1. The investigation peters out and articles of impeachment are never introduced or they're introduced by one of the wide eyed progressives and they're not approved. I suspect this is the most likely scenario.
2. Articles of impeachment can be passed in the House but the Senate acquits. This is the second most likely outcome.
3. Trump strikes a deal and resigns in exchange for some sort of immunity from something. I don't think there is much chance of this happening. Trump is too much of a narcissist.
4. Pence and the "principal officers of the executive department" invoke section 4 of the 25th Amendment and remove Trump from office. I suspect this is only slightly more likely than Trump resigning.
5. Articles of impeachment are passed in the House and the Senate convicts. The proverbial snowball in hell would have a better chance.
The impeachment process will be an issue in the 2020 elections regardless of what happens. Who it will help and who it will hurt is not at all clear.
This Ukraine mess changes the equation. If the House didn't begin an impeachment investigation over this then they would be in dereliction of their responsibilities. So it's time to damn the torpedoes, do the right thing and let the chips fall where they may.
But investigating is one thing and voting articles of impeachment is another. I think they would need really hard evidence of wrong doing and that evidence would have to be understandable by the American public without complicated explanations from legal experts.
On the practical side, regardless of how much evidence they come up with, is there any realistic chance of getting the two thirds majority in the Senate for a conviction? I suspect things would have to get really bad for that to happen.
There are a number of ways this could go.
1. The investigation peters out and articles of impeachment are never introduced or they're introduced by one of the wide eyed progressives and they're not approved. I suspect this is the most likely scenario.
2. Articles of impeachment can be passed in the House but the Senate acquits. This is the second most likely outcome.
3. Trump strikes a deal and resigns in exchange for some sort of immunity from something. I don't think there is much chance of this happening. Trump is too much of a narcissist.
4. Pence and the "principal officers of the executive department" invoke section 4 of the 25th Amendment and remove Trump from office. I suspect this is only slightly more likely than Trump resigning.
5. Articles of impeachment are passed in the House and the Senate convicts. The proverbial snowball in hell would have a better chance.
The impeachment process will be an issue in the 2020 elections regardless of what happens. Who it will help and who it will hurt is not at all clear.
Thursday, September 26, 2019
Calling the Ukraine, come in Ukraine
Trump is a piece of work. I have said that while I don't necessarily disagree with all of his policies, I consider him a classless buffoon.
But he's canny. He reminds me of a street wise numbers runner who's just smart enough not to say anything anyone can pin on his sorry rear end.
If you look at the partial transcript of Trump's conversation with the Ukrainian president, he doesn't specifically tie military aid to them doing a political favor for him but it's certainly strongly implied.
Only an idiot, or a Republican, can't see what's going on.
But he's canny. He reminds me of a street wise numbers runner who's just smart enough not to say anything anyone can pin on his sorry rear end.
If you look at the partial transcript of Trump's conversation with the Ukrainian president, he doesn't specifically tie military aid to them doing a political favor for him but it's certainly strongly implied.
Only an idiot, or a Republican, can't see what's going on.
Netanyahu gets the First Shot
Despite Blue and White gaining one more seat, Netanyahu's failure to form a government in April and a series of corruption charges pending, Netanyahu was given the nod by Israeli president Rivlin to try and form a coalition government.
Apparently a poll of all the Knesset members showed a plurality choosing Netanyahu and so off we go.
Avigdor Lieberman, head of the Yisrael Beitenu party, has said he will not form a government with the ultra-religious parties and I don't see how Bibi can form one without them unless (1) he comes to some sort of agreement for a unity coalition with Gantz or (2) Lieberman changes his mind.
Both Gantz and Lieberman have insisted they will not join a governement with Likud unless Netanyahu steps down.
Apparently a poll of all the Knesset members showed a plurality choosing Netanyahu and so off we go.
Avigdor Lieberman, head of the Yisrael Beitenu party, has said he will not form a government with the ultra-religious parties and I don't see how Bibi can form one without them unless (1) he comes to some sort of agreement for a unity coalition with Gantz or (2) Lieberman changes his mind.
Both Gantz and Lieberman have insisted they will not join a governement with Likud unless Netanyahu steps down.
The Daniel Jones Era Begins
Well, well, Danny Dimes looked pretty good against the Bucs. He threw for over 300 yards with 2 TDs and no picks. He also ran for 2 TDs including the eventual winner.
Basically the defense blew the game but the Tampa Bay kicker was worse and missed a 34 yard field goal with no time left. That left the Giants with a 32-31 win.
Hey, I'd rather be lucky than good.
On the downside Saquon Barkley suffered a high ankle sprain which will put him out for 4-8 weeks. Wayne Gallman says he's ready for the challenge.
Obviously Jones is going to have some ugly games in the future. It could be a different story against the Redskins Sunday but at least there looks to be some light at the end of the tunnel.
The offensive line still needs some shoring up and the defense has lots of issues starting with the defensive line and the safeties.
This is clearly a throw away year. All we can hope for is that some of the rookies develop.
Basically the defense blew the game but the Tampa Bay kicker was worse and missed a 34 yard field goal with no time left. That left the Giants with a 32-31 win.
Hey, I'd rather be lucky than good.
On the downside Saquon Barkley suffered a high ankle sprain which will put him out for 4-8 weeks. Wayne Gallman says he's ready for the challenge.
Obviously Jones is going to have some ugly games in the future. It could be a different story against the Redskins Sunday but at least there looks to be some light at the end of the tunnel.
The offensive line still needs some shoring up and the defense has lots of issues starting with the defensive line and the safeties.
This is clearly a throw away year. All we can hope for is that some of the rookies develop.
Tuesday, September 17, 2019
Netanyahu on the Ropes
Exit polling in Israel is showing a very close race but the rival Blue and White holding a slight lead. Neither party will get a majority so a second round of coalition bargaining will begin.
It's not clear who Israeli president Reuven Rivlin will ask to form a government. He went with Netanyahu in April and that didn't work out.
It looks as if Avigdor Lieberman's Yisrael Beitenu party, a right of center secular party, might be in a position to play king maker but it's unclear where the other seats will come from.
It's not clear who Israeli president Reuven Rivlin will ask to form a government. He went with Netanyahu in April and that didn't work out.
It looks as if Avigdor Lieberman's Yisrael Beitenu party, a right of center secular party, might be in a position to play king maker but it's unclear where the other seats will come from.
Daniel Jones Time Has Come (perhaps)
Well, after two pretty awful performances all around the Giants are 0-2 and have probably concluded that they're not going anywhere this season with an awful defense and questionable receiving corp.
Therefore they have decided to hand the keys over to Daniel Jones.
I don't think they expect miracles but they're going to see if they have the future franchise quarterback or not.
Good luck Daniel.
As for Eli, I suppose it was too much to ask him to carry the team with so little support around him. I watched both games and he isn't the reason they lost.
They lost due to the lack of anything resembling defense, a fair number of dropped passes and the sort of bad breaks that always seem to plague bad football teams and, make no mistake about it, this is a bad football team.
Still, the future always comes eventually. I was there when Manning replaced Kurt Warner but I'll have to watch this one on television.
Therefore they have decided to hand the keys over to Daniel Jones.
I don't think they expect miracles but they're going to see if they have the future franchise quarterback or not.
Good luck Daniel.
As for Eli, I suppose it was too much to ask him to carry the team with so little support around him. I watched both games and he isn't the reason they lost.
They lost due to the lack of anything resembling defense, a fair number of dropped passes and the sort of bad breaks that always seem to plague bad football teams and, make no mistake about it, this is a bad football team.
Still, the future always comes eventually. I was there when Manning replaced Kurt Warner but I'll have to watch this one on television.
Tuesday, September 10, 2019
Israeli September Election
The disadvantage of a parliamentary system is you can end up with election fatigue.
Netanyahu failed to build a ruling coalition after April's election so they're going to try it again this month.
Netanyahu and Likud are pretty much playing the same hand as the last time around, name dropping Trump every two minutes and promising to annex parts of the West Bank.
This time around however he's identified the Jordan Valley, which runs along the border with Jordan, as the first annexation target and claims this has the support of the Trump administration.
Any US support for a unilateral annexation, which would be widely viewed in the global community as illegal, would be temporary if a Democrat unseats Trump in 2020.
In the meantime, an election rally with a scheduled speech by Netanyahu was delayed as Bibi was ushered off stage to avoid two rockets fired from Gaza. I think I would have stayed on stage and taken my chances considering how close this election appears to be.
Don't expect Blue and White, Netanyahu's main opponent in the election, to run to the negotiating tables either as they have clearly indicated that the security of the state of Israel will be their first concern.
Based on the polls Likud and Blue and White appear neck and neck in the September 17 election but it looks like Likud might have the upper hand in forming a majority coalition.
Israel's president, Reuven Rivlin, will decide which party leader has the best chance of putting together a majority coalition and that party will have a little over a month to form a government.
Netanyahu failed to build a ruling coalition after April's election so they're going to try it again this month.
Netanyahu and Likud are pretty much playing the same hand as the last time around, name dropping Trump every two minutes and promising to annex parts of the West Bank.
This time around however he's identified the Jordan Valley, which runs along the border with Jordan, as the first annexation target and claims this has the support of the Trump administration.
Any US support for a unilateral annexation, which would be widely viewed in the global community as illegal, would be temporary if a Democrat unseats Trump in 2020.
In the meantime, an election rally with a scheduled speech by Netanyahu was delayed as Bibi was ushered off stage to avoid two rockets fired from Gaza. I think I would have stayed on stage and taken my chances considering how close this election appears to be.
Don't expect Blue and White, Netanyahu's main opponent in the election, to run to the negotiating tables either as they have clearly indicated that the security of the state of Israel will be their first concern.
Based on the polls Likud and Blue and White appear neck and neck in the September 17 election but it looks like Likud might have the upper hand in forming a majority coalition.
Israel's president, Reuven Rivlin, will decide which party leader has the best chance of putting together a majority coalition and that party will have a little over a month to form a government.
Saturday, September 07, 2019
The Neil Gorsuch's Book
I see that Neil Gorsuch has written a book, "A Republic, If You Can Keep It," lamenting the loss of civility in public life, but never mentioning Trump's classless activities, while explaining why we should only interpret the Constitution to mean what the 17th century framers were thinking.
Those framers must have had a truly strange prophetic vision to think about semi-automatic rifles, that wouldn’t be invented for more than 100 years, but which they covered as part of the 2nd Amendment, while missing little things like (1) getting rid of fucking slavery, (2) women’s suffrage and their right to control their own bodies, (3) LGBTQ rights and (4) immigration policies that have some vague hint of sanity about them.
How any intelligent, educated person can read the Constitution and not recognize that it is a framework meant to live and breathe as the world changes baffles me. That's one of the reasons that we have thousands upon thousands of pages of constitutional case law.
Honestly Neil, we have a better chance of keeping that Republic without folks like you.
So, Here We Go.
Another NFL season is upon us. The Packers squeaked by the Bears last Thursday by 7-3. The rest of the league gets it in gear this Sunday or Monday.
The Giants are at the Cowboys and I have no idea what to expect. Is Dave Gettleman a genius or a fool? He's probably a little of both so I'm not expecting a big surprise either way.
Manning will be under center and I don't expect to see Daniel Jones unless there is a blowout one way or the other.
There are big questions on offense. Manning's arm strength is clearly questionable despite his work with a major league baseball pitching coach. The wide receiver corps is a bit of question mark as well especially with Golden Tate on suspension.
The bigger question mark to my mind is the defense. It was really the defense that lost games last year. Hopefully it will be a bit better but I don't expect any significant improvement.
So I suppose we shall see what we shall see.
Now excuse me while I find my crying towels for tomorrow.
The Giants are at the Cowboys and I have no idea what to expect. Is Dave Gettleman a genius or a fool? He's probably a little of both so I'm not expecting a big surprise either way.
Manning will be under center and I don't expect to see Daniel Jones unless there is a blowout one way or the other.
There are big questions on offense. Manning's arm strength is clearly questionable despite his work with a major league baseball pitching coach. The wide receiver corps is a bit of question mark as well especially with Golden Tate on suspension.
The bigger question mark to my mind is the defense. It was really the defense that lost games last year. Hopefully it will be a bit better but I don't expect any significant improvement.
So I suppose we shall see what we shall see.
Now excuse me while I find my crying towels for tomorrow.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
