Chattanooga's Very Un-official blog

Summer of Taco (tm) kick off

2009-05-05T07:10:00.000-07:00

Introducing The Summer of Taco from Chattarati on Vimeo.

This summer, Chattarati is setting out to do something completely unheard of in the annals of Chattanooga history. Epic in its scope, eternal in its consequences, we call it The Summer of Taco™.

Over the course of three months, we’ll dispatch hundreds of tortillas and Dos Equis, not to mention thousands of gratuitously awarded™ symbols, all in the service of a very noble cause, we think.

We want to find Chattanooga’s best taco, and we want you to help us.

video courtesy the fine folks at Chattarati.com with assistance from Donald Sayers.

yes, it is me on the the preiview image. no, I was not drugged, just euphoric from taco bliss.

Whiny little frogs

2009-04-09T06:09:00.000-07:00

I'll be the first to admit that I am sick and tired of professional athletes 'retiring' for a year or two then returning to the sport. But the french cycling press and authorities are behaving like little children. They are singling out their favorite texan bad-ass, Lance Armstrong, not for failing a doping test but because he questioned the credentials of the tester. Imagine you get pulled over by an unmarked police vehicle and ask to see the officers badge. Lance didn't refuse, he just asked for verification before he gave this stranger his blood or urine. But because Lance has kicked so much ass in the cycling world French authorities are now threatening his eligibility to race in the upcoming Tour De France (which Lance has won 7 times.)

MIA

2009-04-03T11:00:00.000-07:00

I would apologize for neglecting the site, but its been busy, deal. Not to much to say other than trying to come up with 'professional' banter is a heck of a lot harder than going on a tirade about what ever happens to piss you off today. That being said, maybe by being more attentive here, inspiration will strike for other projects.

Chief Cooper has finally crossed the line.
http://chattarati.com/2009/03/03/chief-cooper-tells-sergeants-not-to-communicate-with-robert-t-nash/
As a citizen I am demanding (formal letters will become soon ladies & gentleman) that the Mayor & city council investigate the accusations against the Chief. He has been accused of specific actions that are easily verified or proven false. What ever the case is, and now that Littlefield has won his re-election, I will be surprised if we don't hear of Cooper's upcoming retirement/resignation. Actually this memo answers a lot of questions concerning Det. Freeman and raises some disturbing questions in my mind concerning the case of Officer Jeannie Snyder. How is it that this memo went to apparently multiple parties back in Feb. but we are just now hearing about it in April. And only because of a pissed off radio show host. RTN, I never listen to the radio anymore so I can't say I'm a fan or anything but I hope you tear someone a new a**hole over this mess.

ARGHHH. writers block

2009-03-11T06:55:00.000-07:00

Here it is my first opportunity to write and be read by the general public & what do I get? Writer's block. Never have had a problem before to write but now everything seems to petty or not relevant enough to work up into a piece. I keep looking for that one thing that will break the flood gates and get my verbal diarhea flowing again. I'm trying anything at this point. Here I am ready to run but no where to go. Every idea I have seems trite & over-done.

btw: my latest tattoo pic, enjoy

Newest INK

2009-02-23T11:49:00.001-08:00

With Saturday, comes sweet sweet catharsis. Stopped by Sacred Ink which just opened last week over on Market st. Located just north of the bridge across from the horrendously expensive bridgeview condos. The place is headed by Tom DePriest, check out his site tomdepriest.com for some examples of his work. I walked in off the street and in under 5 minutes he had free-handed a bad-ass, new skool skull & cross-bones (like from a poison warning.) This thing was slick! Sadly he was booked for the rest of the evening but he passed me over to Josh. Let me say I was a little unsure, Tom has a rep., but I looked thru Josh's book and liked what I saw. I also was able to talk to him for a bit between sessions and learned he has an impressive art background. He took Tom's sketch, lined it out & made a few alterations at my request, and went to work. Any doubts I had went out the window after about 15 mins. Some of the prettiest line work I've ever seen, definitely the best on my person. He told be 45 mins to an hour at first, but it turned out to be closer to 1.5, due to the extensive shading work. I can't stop pulling up my sleeze today to look at it. I hate that I have to cover it at work. This is some great art work. As if that wasn't enough, combined with a very welcoming 'professional' service atmosphere Sacred Heart just won my business for the near future. Can't wait for this to heal up so I can go back for some larger pieces.

BTW: this place has NO flash on the walls, almost all their work is custom. They are still in the process of completeing work on the shop itself. But even after they are done, word is still no flash pages. I might have to donate some art of mine, see if they'll display it. Sort of hoping for some vicious sculptures and art. Something to inspire/scare some of the random johnnies that walk in off the street.

Anyway, I'll stop rambling now and just tell you to check it out.

Stop by,
say hi,

stay around,
sit down,

no pain,
no gain.

Lost in the numbers

2009-02-18T12:40:00.000-08:00

Someone please explain this to me. When the school board voted to renew/extend Scales contract, I lost count of the number of times he or one of his cronies mentioned the increasing graduation rate under his watch.

'“Dr. Scales believes in providing a quality education for all children and works diligently toward that goal. Our student scores continue to improve, our dropout rate is going down and we are graduating more students,” Vice Chairman Wilson said in the memo. ' courtesy of chattanoogan.com, 'Wilson Asks New 4-Year Term For Dr. Scales posted June 4, 2008'

Now today on the chattanoogan.com, we here the judges giving a different view. Our (hamilton county) graduation rate is about 10% lower than the state average. So if our current situaiton is so dismal, what was it a year or 2 ago? Look at the chattanoogan.com opinion page for a new post from yours truly asking for an explanation.

Hump day smiles

2009-02-13T10:29:00.003-08:00

after getting worked up way to early, I decided I needed something fun. Hope you enjoyed today's 'heroes'

The web of local politics

2009-02-13T07:11:00.000-08:00

I have had my eyes opened recently by an individual (who appears to be trying to taunt or ridicule me but whatever) who thinks that Hamilton county & Chattanooga city are not influenced by one another. These 2 local government entities work hand in hand EVERY single day. To think that the actions of one aren't affected or influenced by the decisions of the other is naive to say the least. Now I'm not saying the county is just a front for the city's agenda (or vice versa) but when 2 groups work in the same area on the same issues and with the same citizens, overlap is inevitable. I truly hoped that there weren't people this ignorant still running their mouths but apparently they are still out there and still as ridiculous as ever.

2 quick points:

-No question, that is asked with honest intent to learn, is ever a waste of air. (i hope you don't take this tone with children who are trying to learn)

-What's more the job of mayor is constantly in flux. There is no day-to-day job plan. What plan could account for a recession, local crime and any natural disaster that might occur. These are all things that the mayor must be ready to deal with on the spot. What could we possibly learn about a person by asking his morning routine? But I'm willing to give him the benefit of the doubt, so let's examine a generic work day for a gov't bureaucrat or elected official. They arrive at work at 8 am, have a cup of coffee before the morning meeting, goes to lunch, answers citizens questions (we wish politicians did this), or whatever job function they get paid to do, until time to go play a round of golf, followed by happy hour at the 19th hole and then a council meeting to close the day.

So instead of asking a question that actually tells me about the person and their values, it is this person's opinion that I should ask fluff questions so that hard answers that lead to the possibility of accountability can be avoided. Both candidates are spouting education enhancements on their platforms, so their opinions on school board business is definitely not a waste of time or of the air we breathe.

btw: the reason I posted this here instead of chattarati is that this is a bit wordy for a comment box.

Maybe we should send him after pro athletes next?

2009-02-05T10:00:00.000-08:00

Well suffice to say Obama has thoroughly angered a lot of executive types through out the nation. His proposed salary limit has so-called business analyst running scared. No sooner did he express his intent to follow up on his campaign promise to limit compensation ( to a paltry $500,000) for executives in companies that receive bail out funds, than the 'experts' start crying about losing top talent to other firms. If these executives were actually top talent then their companies wouldn't be receiving TARP funds in the first place. If the limit causes an exodus in old-hands then so be it. Get some young blood (fresh out of college, go getter who sees half a million as one heck of a pay check) in there to try and breath fresh life into the business. Hopefully by the time they become the old hands the company won't be pulling an Oliver Twist at the Federal government's doorstep.

$21 million shove

2009-02-03T07:34:00.000-08:00

Wow, as a skinny, pale 'nerd' I should be living high on the hog for all the shoving i received as a child. Don't get me wrong, I agree with the greeter suing the shit out of Det. Freeman, but 21 million?

And am I the only one who thinks that it looks like the attorney has been building a case against the CPD for a while now, and has just been waiting on the proper plaintiff & circumstance's. Flores obviously been collecting a record of CPD's leniency and inconsistent behavior concerning officer incidents. I hope barring all the politics that are sure to come out during the trial, that the greeter is able to get restitution for this incident. Not 21 million but enough.

Wamp doesn't disappoint

2009-01-28T06:17:00.000-08:00

Let's hear it for Corker. The sorry s.o.b. is actually living up to his republicrat ideals and calling out Wamp for ear-marking $25 million for the TVA ash clean-up. Wamp's reasoning, he doesn't believe TVA customers should pay for the clean up. Instead he wants EVERY citizen to share in the costs. So let's make that clear, under his proposal our fellow citizens, nationwide, will share the cost. We (TVA customers) won't get away from it, we'll just force a portion of it onto our fellow citizens. THIS IS AS HYPOCRITICAL AS ANYTHING I'VE EVER SEEN COME FROM WAMP. Yet another reason I will do whatever I can to ensure he does not become our next governor.

the daily commute

2009-01-26T05:02:00.000-08:00

Please, please Chattanooga learn to freakin' drive. It seems like people get behind the wheel and lose all perspective. People are impatient, distracted, rude and all to often dangerous. I hear complaints all the time about traffic but, after 2 years in Orlando, it takes a lot more than a little whining to touch a nerve. What really gets my attention are the crazed soccer moms and professional shoppers. I have to control myself, especially when I see one of them going down the road, applying make-up, talking on the phone, while trying to drink there coffee and puff on a cig. I tried to take a picture this morning as proof but realized that would be hypocritical if I took photos on my phone while driving. Suffice to say left hand held both coffee and cigarette, while draped over steering wheel. In crook of left shoulder & ear was her cell phone. Vanity mirror flipped down with lights shining, face stretched to within inches of mirror while with her right hand she attempted to apply something to her eyes. While driving down ashland terrace, thru red bank, up morrison springs and onto 27, she continued this process. As she reached the top on the ramp she hit the gas and took off. Now I was going 70 (5 over) & she blew around me like a bolt. And what was she driving you ask? A brand new lexus suv, still had the dealership temp tag.

I have lived & worked in two much larger cities than Chattanooga, specifically Nashville & Orlando. Both have their own problems but most of those can be directly attributed to population. But what is funny is that in both towns people seemed to adapt to the local traffic patterns and we all move along. The only time I ever got nervous on the road was when I saw a fully loaded-down tourist mini-van or suv. Inevitably they would be in the wrong lane or almost miss their exit, then at the last minute STOP in the middle of the road & turn on their blinker or try to dash across 4 lanes at once. Now especially on the highways (the I-4 parking lot & the 408), it was even considered briefly to ticket anyone in the inside lane for not doing at least the speed limit. If you were in the fast lane you went 10 over, PERIOD. You did not pass on the right, EVER. With 99% of the population following these simple guide lines, a populace many times larger than Chatt & our outlying communities was able to get to work each day. Not to say there were no problems but back ups, detours, accidents, bad weather, ... all were accepted and people moved on. You learned to be a responsible driver, you listened to traffic reports & choose your routes accordingly. That's probably why radio in Orlando was such big business, because so much of the population listened daily. Little shit rolled off your shoulders, and everyone sanity was maintained.

So with my bitching out of the way I give you my rules for the road:

1. Inside lane = at least 5 mph over the limit*

2. Cell phones are only to be used with hands-free devices (outlawing entirely is a joke)

3. NEVER pass on right

4. If you are not going to at least do the speed limit, stay off interstates and highways.*

5. NO MULTI-TASKING

6. Blinkers aren't the law everywhere but they are polite, use them!

*~ except in bad weather

And my personal rule of thumb never more than 5 mph over or under the speed limit.* I chose to follow this rule for a couple reasons. Most importantly I don't like cops, nothing personal I just don't need a ticket or any other extra expense right now. My preference is never to break more than one law at a time and if I speed, well that just draws more attention to me than I like. Also because by limiting my speed I conserve gas. Not a lot I'm sure but I do get a few extra miles out of a tank if I control the ball bearing in my right ankle. And by limiting my speed I have a firm frame of reference as to how long trips take. If I know my speed then the only other variables are distance and traffic. Both of with can be measured and anticapated. Not exactly but you learn how to compare rush hour to morning drive.

Back with a Vengeance

2009-01-21T05:23:00.000-08:00

Superintendent Scales showed uncanny reasoning and prowess when he elegantly stated that the new HCSB (Hamilton county school board) budget process would be rife with politics. Well no shit Sherlock. Since when has any spending of public funds not been political. Just because of a few elections in 2010, doesn't change the fact that the HCDE budget (or lack there-of) is a mess. I'm just loving this budget committee fiasco that has been formed. The Board already knows that it must make cuts. But because they are a bunch of pantie wastes, instead of doing the job they were elected to do they appoint a committee of 'private' citizens to suggest the cuts and ultimately take the blame for making the tough choices.
Let's look at our time scopes into the near future. The budget committee (BC) has presented the budget with x school closings and x layoffs. They'll go before the cameras & microphones, tell a weepy story of tough choices made in our children' best interests. Then election time rolls around and the HCSB lays all the blame for the cuts and out of work teachers squarely on the committee's shoulders. Never mind that the mess is one they, the board, has been slowly amassing for years. They keep wanting more magnet schools and more technology they're spending is from some fantasy funding they don't have. Yeah, we have lottery funds but it can only be spent on building and scholarships.
Here is a radical idea, it requires a constitutional amendment but it is so worth it. How about we take the lottery building funds and use it to pay teachers' (no administrators, only classroom teachers) salaries, to buy books and to repair our current schools instead of building new ones? You know, spend it responsibly. I know that is a foreign concept to most politicians but keeping a BALANCED budget is possible.
But just so Scales isn't disappointed, who else is for a nice, friendly game of throw the bums out. Let's get together for these next elections and wipe out the lot of them and start from scratch with individuals who actually give a shit.

Ex-letters

2009-01-09T05:45:00.001-08:00

Girls, explain this to me. Why does one of yours like to pour salt in old wounds? My ex-fiance likes to shoot me an e-mail or facebook message every couple months, my question is why?

First off let me explain; we started dating in college, after 18 months I graduated and moved to Florida. We tried long-distance and it seemed to work for the 1.5 years I was in FL. We got engaged and started planning. I moved back to TN 2 months before her graduation. I was sick and tired of being lonely and was ready to be back. I spent my weekends in murfreesboro with her. 2 weeks after returning she starts acting real frumpy, being very down trodden. She soon dumps me. One of the biggest reasons I came back was for her. I missed her and thought she missed me. Not to mention her biggest concern about marriage (that she told me) was moving to FL and leaving her family. I was willing to give up a well paying job with a multi-national corporation in a beautiful city to make her happy. She just apparently was to 'scared' to admit she was having doubts. If she had said that a couple months sooner I wouldn't have been in a hurry to come back like I did. I think I would have eventually anyways, but I could have made better plans and saved myself a lot of frustration.

Anyways back to my point, why does she insist on keeping sending me messages. I tried at first to be friendly. Maybe she still needs some sort of closure or validation over a guilty conscience. But whatever the reason, she shoots me these messages asking all sorts of friendly questions. So I respond politely never even bringing up the past, trying to show no hard feelings (they are there but that is my issue to deal with not hers.) But each time I respond, this seemed to be enough and its quite again for another month or two.

What sort of schizo, hair-brained lunacy is this? Can she not make up her mind as to why she needs to keep in contact. We live 100 miles apart so its not likely to bump into one another, is this just her way of staying 'friends.' If so it sucks, friends carry on conversations not just send one sided messages every couple months. Please, please someone clue me in! I know my Y-chromosome makes it difficult to explain things to me but will someone, anyone, please try.

Update - today 3-5-09, I received a padded letter from my ex. Not an email, a first class package with my old fraternity letters & some pictures she took on her last visit to Chattanooga.

Dept. of Incompetents

2009-01-08T06:54:00.001-08:00

Chattanooga's Police

What has happened to law enforcement? Gone are the days of Mayberry & respectable law enforcement, now we live in the era of corruption & greed. All it takes is turn on the news, when they aren't describing the proliferation of crime, to witness an extensive history of moral corruption in law enforcement. The endless debate of a few bad apples ruining the bunch is moot. When ever a so-called honest officer turns his back on his duty to protect a law breaker then he becomes one too. The officers who claim lack of respect is why they are edgy are blowing smoke. Attitude reflects leadership- as individuals in a position of authority it is your responsibility to EARN the trust of the public by enforcing all laws equally and justly. I purposefully failed to say fairly because 'fair' is to subjective of a term.
Now if you are one of the truly honest officers then let me say thank you. You might annoy me sometimes but that in no way lessens my respect for the work you do. To the rest of you, if you decide toharass me make sure you in no way violate my rights. Because I know what they are & I have no problem standing up for them, even in court if necessary.

Have you completed your DDF's?

2009-01-07T07:14:00.001-08:00

What are DDF's you ask? Daily Dick Flexes... No kidding, think of it as kagels ?sp? for dudes. The theory is that by 'flexing' the muscles in your penis, just like any muscle will increase blood flow, and just as muscles are stressed during exercise and then repair themselves to become stronger. By applying the same theory to the love muscle your are supposed to experience longer lasting erections, as well as be able to train yourself to 'release' on command. There is supposedly growth as well but I think that is just wishful thinking on the part of the guys who came up with this. But since the theory is sound, the penis is just one big muscle after all, it might be worth a shot.
All you are supposed to do, while sitting and standing (different muscles are engaged based on posture), is flex/contract/whatever & release the muscles in the area at a slow, steady pace. Contract for 5 seconds, release for 5 seconds, is one rep. 25 reps, 2-3 times a day.
What will scientists decide to research next, better asshole control to prevent passing gas in public?

No More Resolutions

2008-12-31T05:15:00.001-08:00

Am I the only one that thinks that new year resolutions are a farce created to promote spending more money on wasted gym memberships, exercise equipment that becomes laundry racks & other self-help/fitness bullshit? Don't get me wrong I'm all for improving oneself, especially when it comes to health & fitness, but what kind of weak-willed sap needs the excuse of a new year to get in shape.

Signs that your fat-ass needs exercise

if you can't see your own genitalia without a mirror

you spend more time eating and watching TV than you do with physical activity; this includes walking

your ass circumference is more than twice your waist circumference

you don't look at a weight scale because you find it depressing

you have to fold a fat roll out of the way to fasten your pants

you think spandex and stretch cotton are acceptable work pants material

Don't let this be you

I can think of a lot more but you get the idea. If you are out of shape don't make excuses, try making a change. Cut the desserts, second helpings and excuses. Nothing is wrong with wanting to better yourself but it shouldn't be a once-a-year thing.

True self-improvement is a year-round, life-long commitment.

Propoganda That I Support

2008-12-23T04:47:00.000-08:00

Morning my fellow Chatt-ites. I want to talk about rights. The gov't (both Republicans & Democrats) have allowed torture to be carried out under the auspices of the 'war on terror.' The one thing I truly believe in, as an American and an individual, is liberty & freedom. Anytime the gov't increases security, we end up having to sacrifice another right so that they can prevent 'another 9-11.' I truly grieved for the people involved in the tragedy, but am not willing to give up the rights granted to every American out of fear of the unknown. We are better than that. Whenever we allow the gov't to twist our laws we lose our own identity.

So with that said, I joined the American Freedom Campaign . Yeah I know its run by a bunch of lawyers who just want to be able to sue the gov't for all their transgresses, but that doesn't mean they're not right. Their end motivation might be less than honorable but their chosen battle is one that's worth fighting for. I think the federal gov't, specifically the people in office who allowed, and even authorized, any ILLEGAL methodology, should be held responsible and prosecuted according to our laws. No torture, no abuse, just fair & legal prosecution matched against truthful defense. In front of a jury of our fellow Americans, as granted by our Constitution.

Check out their page, if you agree sign up. If not well, don't complain as we gradually become a fascist state.

American Freedom Campaign

hypocritical S.O.B.'s

2008-12-22T08:01:00.000-08:00

Congress is giving themselves a $4,700 pay raise. When average citizens are being laid off left & right, these a-holes think they have done enough to merit a raise. Even the officials at our state colleges are taking pay cuts. Here is a novel idea for the congressmen & women, you want to whine about executive pay then look in the mirror. Of course the executives don't listen to you about pay cuts when you're doing the same thing you admonish them for. Damn you congress, I hope Santa leaves you nothing but a lump of coal in your christmas stocking.

Rock 105 vs. KZ 106

2008-12-19T09:50:00.000-08:00

Am I the only one that is confused about the bashing going on with these two stations. The other evening I heard 105 play a little spot with a few highlights. In short, Pat Benetar making the rock gods roll over in their graves, those 'heretic M*F*ers', their own words (although I do agree with that assessment), and they closed with 'that's why they call them K Z 1-o-sux.' Did someone steal some talent, bit, playlist,... whatever. I used to listen to both before I moved away. I have never heard of anything like that. Most of the time, even in larger markets: such as Nashville or Orlando, stations try to not even mention any other station or in anyway even reference one another. I am curious as to what has happened to cause this? Any ideas?

chrondo leads to Wendy's

2008-12-19T09:17:00.001-08:00

homestyle chicken club sandwich for lunch. damn those things could be addictive.

Fatty Fun Time

While my mind is otherwise occupied I wanted to relate a new term I heard on the radio Wednesday night. 'Chrondo' as used to describe situation; guy & girl agree to sex in exchange for bag of said chrondo. Guy agrees, coughs up chrondo. Girl takes his chrondo and his dignity, places in back pocket and walks away. Guy, foolish enough to call radio and tell them this story. Equals my word for the week - Chrondo.

Chatt state vs. UTC

2008-12-19T07:21:00.000-08:00

Funny experience i wanted to make note of. I just called both CSTCC & UTC to inquire about enrollment. Now I attended UTC for 2 years right after high school before transferring and graduating from MTSU. I called admissions at both. At Chatt state, the lady was extremely pleasant, she inquired as to my intentions so that she could better assist me. She got my info and told me she would have a packet with the application & catalog in the mail within 3-4 business days (its almost x-mas so I'll understand if it takes a few extra days.) She answered my questions and gave me the info I needed to get my transcripts sent from MTSU. Overall top marks for customer service skills. Then I called UTC for the same info & same questions. All I got from the lady in the adult services center was to go online & check the web page. I asked about getting a catalog but apparently they don't want to send those until you've paid your application fee (Chatt State has a fee too, but that didn't stop her from including it with the application.) She hung up before I was able to finish writing down the web page address without giving me any name or number to call in case of questions. Sadly, very poor marks on customer service.

Let me explain why this irks me. Customer service skills (whether internal or external, customer vs colleague) are basic and universal. ANY job that requires you to deal with people can be better performed by applying this skill set. From construction to food service to retail, the list goes on... Its amazing how a little courtesy , respect and patience can improve a work environment and customer satisfaction.

Rule 1~ BE RESPECTFUL; yes sir/ma'am, please, thank you can make any conversation more pleasant. also (especially for lower level, non-supervisory employees) they appreciate a respectful tone because it is so rare when dealing with the public.

rule 2~ when opening the conversation, openly ask for help, 'I was hoping you could help me out or point me in the right direction,...' When you elevate someone's importance and then ask for help, whether they realize it or not, you're stroking their ego. My making it seem like you need THEIR help, they get a little superiorty buzz. Even if it is completely false, most people like to help, when it is easy & they are asked nicely. Even if it is just to direct you to someone else, you have made a positive impression. And if the time ever comes again that you need their help again, they will remember and that usually speeds up your service. NEVER DEMAND ASSISTANCE, 99% of the time it will just immediately alienate the other party and cause hurt feelings. Think back with your own experiences, do you continue to frequent a restaurant where the servers are rude?

rule 3~ PATIENCE - understand that sometimes help takes time. Just because you don't get an immediate response is not a personal snub towards you. There are always times that whoever you asked may not know. If they need to look it up or get an answer from someone else, that is perfectly fine. Give them time. Same goes for assisting someone else yourself. Take the time to get the right answer. If you need additional time, tell the customer. They'll appreciate the candor and understand that you are trying your best.

There is a lot more to good customer service than that but by following these simple guides you'll find that your experinces take on a more positive tone and the individuals you are dealing with will appreciate it.

BEWARE THE INTENT OF A PATIENT MAN

Gaming Nostalgia

2008-12-12T07:12:00.001-08:00

It seems every time I turn my Wii on and check out the new virtual console or Wii ware offerings i find some piece of gaming goodness that I have missed since my brother pawned the SNES years ago. After Super Mario RPG and Megaman 2, now they bless us with Secret of Mana. For those unfortunates who never played this wonderful game for the SNES, it is a RPG in a long running Japanese series. Only 2 were ported, to my knowledge, to the US but all are outstanding stories and depth exercises. Unlike final fantasy style turn based combat, here your fights are 'real time.' Personally I just find it more satisfying when I get to run my character around the screen avoiding attacks and looking for openings for a swift attack of my own. The combat system has multiple weapon types and magic as well. Defensive & offensive spells to go along with status ailments that directly affect your characters speed, accuracy, and such. One of the most fun features is leveling up your weapons to allow access to special moves, such as multiple sword slashes, crazy leap attacks, spear thrusts and the like. To use these moves you have to take the time to charge up a power meter. To do so drastically slows your speed and opens you up to attacks from multiple on screen enemies. trying to defend and attack against a swarm of cute little killer rabites is endlessly entertaining. If you go the other way and just start slashing away, you'll find your attacks are less effective and often time miss. Once you learn to balance these options you'll find yourself exploiting weaknesses in the enemy AI that allows for some nearly unbeatable combinations, especially after you power up your magic.

I loved this game so much that I kept the SNES cartridge after the console was gone in hopes of stumbling across one, and being able to replay this timeless classic.

THANK YOU NINTENDO & SQUARE

Big3 bailout - Corker's plan - reactions/replies

2008-12-12T05:44:00.000-08:00

People need to realize that the only reason Corker ii making such a stink about THIS bail out is because now they (republicans) know that any new problems that might crop up will be blamed on the president elect and the democrats. So it allows them to drag their feet and pose for the camera a little. Before 'making a tough decision to stave off economic ruin' or in simpler terms, cave in to union demands.

2 types of workers "entitled" and appreciative

2008-12-12T05:01:00.001-08:00

Inspiration struck with a blog topic on my way in to work this morning, when it comes to easy jobs there are two types that mostly take these positions. The worker who feels they are 'deserve' an easy job & those that appreciate the fact that they have an easy job. I know my job is not difficult, stressful sometimes but never difficult. There is no task that I have to handle that is in any way taxing on my capabilities. That isn't cocky, just confident and knowledgeable in what I am capable of. Before I go further let me quickly list my previous work experience:

age 15 - concession stands at ball field
16 children's restaurant server, host, game tech, performer
18 cement - lab tech, customer service, 'grunt' for tech services
21 property science lab - quality control tech
22 waiter in college town bar & grill
23 ready mix concrete- intern, management trainee, customer service (call center), quality control field tech, human resource asst
25 retail dept head for furniture/seasonal home goods/arts
25 retail asst manager independent record store
26 to present~ bureaucrat paper pusher

like I said stressful sometimes but not taxing in the least.

For the a-holes that have an easy job but still slack off. GROW UP. People everywhere are begging for work these days. Appreciate your good fortune and take pride in doing a good job... it's not like its hard to do.

Wise folks count their blessings, fools count their problems.~ Michael Franti

A human has no more than two hands,... to take something one must first drop what one is holding.~ 'Elfen Lied', volume 57, page 3

Councilman Pierce not guilty

2008-12-11T06:42:00.000-08:00

If you aren't familiar with the case go read the article on the chattanoogan.com, times free press or just turn on the local news.

Open letter to Mr. Pierce,

I am not a resident of your district and rarely agree with your choices as a member of the city council, but my hat is off to you sir. Unlike many constant complainers you not only publicly voice your opinion on the state of our local neighborhoods and the impact crime has on them (whether or not the drug dealer is liked by his neighbors/customers) but are also willing to take a stand against the flagrant lack of respect these criminals demonstrate towards public safety & law enforcement. While I do not believe you showed the best judgement in allowing this drug dealer to provoke a response from you, I can't honestly say I would behave any differently from what the allegations levied against you stated that you did.
For the individuals who are shocked that you were acquitted, I ask for them to read the court records. After reading Mr. Jones testimony and the behavior of his 'cheering section' no one should be surprised that you were acquitted. IF the allegation are true than I think your reputation would have been better served to admit to them, but as I wasn't there so I'll defer the judgement to the jury of your peers who decided that you were not guilty. But next time, roll up your window...

Call in Gay?!?

2008-12-10T07:57:00.000-08:00

First read this from Chattarati.com, I'll wait...
http://chattarati.com/2008/12/09/come-on-chattanooga-call-in-gay/#more-846

Done?

When will people grow up. In a nation that was founded on the principle of truth, liberty & justice FOR ALL, we are bombarded everyday with hateful speech and attempts to steal the rights of our fellow Americans. Even for those of us who are straight, these efforts to steal rights should be met with outrage & disgust at every turn. If the government decides to treat any segment of our populace as second rate citizens for ANY reason, we should fight it tooth and nail. How long before they decide that agnostics or atheists, don't deserve equal protections. We don't believe in religion the same way that the evangelists do. Does that mean we are less deserving of our rights than they?

That being said, a walk-out or boycott is counter-productive. Instead I encourage vigorous legal action. The first time a right is denied to a GLBT, they need to turn around, get a lawyer and challenge the constitutionality of this heinous & hateful law in the supreme court. It is sad that it has come to this but given the obvious bias of the Californian voting populace. I am severely disappointed in the self-proclaimed progressives of the Golden state.

Good luck to ALL my fellow Americans.

my obession with vampires

2008-12-04T08:34:00.001-08:00

My dad made an interesting comment the other day. He asked what i was reading on & when I mentioned vampires & werewolves he just snickered and said 'figures.' Now I know I have always enjoyed monster themed movies, books, & such (especially vampires), but then I asked myself, Why? Once I actually thought about it, my interest makes a lot of ...sense.

First, I have an EXTREMELY active imagination & the thought of something more out there besides logic and normality appeals to that side of me.

Second, and most prominently, vampires are 'durable' unlike me. When do you hear about a vampire with a chronic illness, besides thirst ;). I guess in my mind the costs are HUGELY outweighed by the advantages. Anyone with any lifetime illness, especially ones that force changes in habits and lifestyle, can vouch for how much ending their pain would be worth (conversely how many suicides/euthanasia can be directly contributed to illness).

The whole immortality thing I could do without but as part of a package deal, again the advantages (many lifetimes of experiences & knowledge) eclipse the potential drawback (possible eternal boredom). Of course that is determined by the individuals personality and choices, where others see isolation and boredom, I see never-ending discovery. Strength, insight & any other abilities are just part of the deal.

Now I know some Evangelists might submit the loss of soul issue but I don't see the mind and body as exclusive or separate entities. It is only with both that the supposed soul is defined. By radically altering the body, my soul might be changed but so long as my mind is still mine then the changes are superficial only.

So to all the lonely vampires/nosferatu/undead (whatever), I'M WAITING!!!

Sadly this is where my sense of reality steps back in and tells me to stop dreaming. There is no magical cure. I must face facts and deal in my own reality.

"Get busy livin' or get busy dyin'. That's the god-damned truth" Shawshank Redemption

Hope springs eternal

Next day... can't forget one other important note, I have an unhealthy fascination with violence. Go figure.

a day that shall live in infamy... define irony... anyone?

2008-11-21T12:10:00.001-08:00

Fuck you, Masashi Kishimoto. How the hell could you kill Kakashi. (volume 425, out now) The man had been tagged as the next Hokage until Naruto's rein. Kakashi was the man, not superhuman (at least no more than any Naruto character), not invincible just bad ass. He has been a constant support for Naruto and all the other Konoha shinobi.(last sentence, total admittance to dork-dom royalty) FFFFUUUUUCCCCCKKKKKKKK. this sucks!!!!! As much as I hate bringing characters back from the dead, this would be a time when I might let you get away with, 'he wasn't REALLY dead' trick. But honestly to little, to late. Time to move on. One more time for good measure...

Fuck you, Masashi Kishimoto.

R.I.P. Kakashi-sensei

Tired... so, so tired

2008-11-20T12:16:00.000-08:00

Yet again our freaking, stupid school board finds another way to waste tax dollars. This time it's for a completely un-necessary trip to Nashville for a meeting. I'm sorry but don't ya'll already have a meeting room here in town. Doesn't Chattanooga have restaurants, Christmas lights, hookers, gangs,... whoops lost track. Why, when they are already $20 million in the hole, are they wasting more money at a $300 a night hotel. The real reason is actually very simple, by moving the meeting outside of Chattanooga, they don't have to worry about any of their constituents over hearing how they plan to screw us next year. We, the voters, have been lied to & cheated and our children are being robbed of a decent chance for an education. Now its time for everyone to man up and get rid of these dill weeds. File the lawsuit, start a petition whatever it takes to effect change. I e-mailed Tim Price (of the Back on Track team) and volunteered my time. What about you? Even if you don't want to get involved on the political side, you can still volunteer at your local school itself. I'm sure they would love to have an extra set of hands to help out.

New nom nom goodness

2008-11-20T11:53:00.001-08:00

I just discovered a new site of nerd-dom. thestream.tv is a live streaming tv network. First off let's be clear most shit on tv is reruns, see where I'm going... The nice kick about thestream is the archives. The shows are available to watch whenever. So if you fond out you missed something, Alison Haislip's guest appearances, you can go back and see them. Alison's tag just got me to see it. After watching I love the blatant product placement mixed with "hip" topics. It seems like at least a few of them get the irony and behave accordingly. Think of this as G4 lite, but with language. You don't get the all encompassing fan boy label, but you still have plenty of quick-thinking, self-deprecating dorks to keep the shows moving and some eye-candy to get the repeat viewers, Nikole Zivalich (sounds like a pen name) is a hottie. But yeah I'll stop blabbing now, log on, check it out, its funny.

Everyday Heroes

2008-11-17T09:05:00.000-08:00

HILAND PARK, Fla. -- In a desperate attempt to prevent his power from being turned off, a father chained himself to the meter outside his home saying his daughter, who requires a feeding tube and other electrical equipment, could die without electricity.

Tony Duncan chained himself to the meter Thursday fearing what will happen to his 5-year-old adopted daughter Makayla if they lose power. Gulf Power officials said the Duncans have not made payments on their electricity bill since July and owe about $2,000 and gave them until Friday morning to come up with the money. But an anonymous donor heard the news reports and paid the bulk of the bill.

Tony Duncan said he has been out of work for more than a year because he had several strokes and seizures and has been unable to collect unemployment or find a new job because of his medical condition.

After news reports of their plight, the Duncans have also received other pledges and job offers.

c/o: http://www.local6.com/news/17985428/detail.html
*****************************
With so much bad news and pessimism its refreshing to find stories of love and compassion. To the utility, extenuating circumstances require extreme measures. Learn from this event and work up a solution to help and just be a good neighbor.

Innocent until PROVEN guilty

2008-11-13T13:21:00.000-08:00

Here in Chattanooga, Brian Rutherford was accused of child abuse and murder. After tons of testimony the jury made a swift decision, not guilty on all charges. After reading all the different accounts and even the mother's own words, I never saw any indication of abuse by Mr Rutherford, maybe neglect but not abuse and definitely not murder. The mother is ultimately responsible for her childs well-being. I don't know if charges are being prusued against her, but from the multiple accounts of her callousness and even blantant drug use in front of the child, she doesn't exactly paint a picture of responsibility. I am glad for Brian and his family and hope they are able to move past this hoorific event. For Mrs Carpenter, Sierra's mother, I hope she at some points admits her complacency and neglect (if not out-right abuse) that led to this incident. Note to all parents, your children are YOUR RESPONSIBILTY. Getting high and passing out while your child cries out is unexcuseable. Please grow up.

Long promised ink pics

2008-11-10T09:12:00.001-08:00

Here are my 2 most recent tattoos. Nothing fancy but the beginings of a killer collage of ink on my left leg.

Dave ~ 6-08 3.5 hrs Chad ~ 10-08 50 mins

Both done at Standard Ink on North Shore

Brighter/Darker tomorrow

2008-11-07T04:54:00.000-08:00

Even though TN showed up loud and proud as the republican strong-hold it has become, we have ourselves a black democrat president. Even though I voted third party, I have to admit that I am a little excited at the prospect. I doubt anyone would argue that our society and culture has matured in many unforeseen ways. I like to think that this a sign that maybe we have been doing something right for the last 50 years. I know we'll never get rid of the profiteers and instigators, but maybe we can pull their soapbox right out from in-under them. If we truly mature and grow then the ammo of hate-crimes these leaches feed off of will fade away right in front of them. But I also must give voice to another thought, we've already had some dumb-ass skin head plan to kill him. Hopefully this tips off the other tards out there that this is a dumb idea and will accomplish nothing positive. good luck America.

Voting for a ... meal?

2008-11-04T05:25:00.000-08:00

What is happening here? Al morning on the 92.3 am I hear about free coffee, ice cream, donuts and hot dogs being given away from various businesses in exchange for voting. This is like a tactic from a century ago. Instead of bread and soup lines, we have starschmucks and krispy kreme. As if we weren't already the most obese nation in the world, this is going to look great on the news outlets around the world. We're going to look like gluttons no matter what, but could we at least have some healthy bribes. Its time for panera and smoothie king to step up to the plate with smoothies and bagels. That's what I'm talking about. Actually now I'm hungry again, looks like the toaster strudel has left me wanting. If I voted early can I still get the grub?

Halloween tricks & treats

2008-10-28T10:43:00.001-07:00

When I was little I loved Halloween. Got older, thought I was to cool. Now I can't wait. I have a couple pumpkins ready to carve and a killer costume idea. A couple parties to hit & plenty of fun to be had. The breathalyzer costume will be a wing man onto itself. You heard me breathalyzer! cardboard box, paper towel roll, and spray paint. Can't wait

Respecting (some) Laws

2008-10-28T09:56:00.000-07:00

I'm going to be a little hypocritical here, sorry deal with it.
What has happened to our town. Now I'll be the first to admit that there has always been violence in our mountain town, but damn! Am I the only one that has noticed that in the past few years, the number of violent crimes has boomed. It seems rare these days to turn on channel 9 or log on to chattanoogan.com and NOT here about another stabbing, shooting, robbing incident. Brawls in school, knife fights on the corner seem like the norm. Why?
I present this theory, lack of respect/fear. I'm not going to list ideas around the old farts that are out there mis-behaving. They are old enough to know better and are set in their ways. Education is rarely effective on adults, prison terms are all they understand. Leave them to it and lets concentrate on correcting the behavior of children & young adults. By targeting the behavior before it becomes pattern we stand a better chance of correcting it.
Now for the respect/fear portion, parents listen up. You goofed. When little Johnny or Jenny started acting up you bribed them to behave. So what did they learn, not shit. They end up acting like the world owes them something. Everyone remembers the JFK phrase, 'not what your country can do for you , but what you can do for your country...' What should have happened more ooften was mommy & daddy acting like PARENTS and telling the kid if he/she wanted something then they would have to save up and buy it themselves. This will teach a world of lessons that will benefit the child for the rest of their life. Not the least of which will be respect for hard work & appreciation for the work of others.
If people weren't always looking for shortcuts to their desires, a lot of pain & suffering could be avoided.
side note: what kind of message does vandalizing political signs send?

Breaking for now...

Halloween Stunt on 153

2008-10-24T08:39:00.000-07:00

http://www.chattanoogan.com/articles/article_137652.asp

I love Halloween, women get to dress slutty and get a way with it. Guys stage horrificly gruesome scenes and get praised as creative & festive. Props to the guys at Goodyear for shocking the mouth breathers out of their daily rut. I have a ton of pumpkins waiting to be carved, not to mention multiple scare sites to visit and judge before I take my niece around to them. I love to remeber the days that outr neighborhood was flooded with kids running door to door in their costumes. Sadly over the past few years that trend has died, at least in my neighborhood. I think last year we had something like maybe 2 dozen kids all night. 20 years ago it would have been closer to 200. Oh well, times & tides. I hope that this year is different. I already have my costume ready for a buddy's bash & door sitter to pass out teeth rotting goodness... if anyone shows up that is. Otherwise I suspect I'll be finishing off candy up until x-mas.

New Ink

2008-10-21T11:37:00.001-07:00

I got my batman logo. As soon as it heals and I get a decent pic, I'll post it here. I think I might have finally found a reason to get a flickr account so tat I catalogue my ink, but I'll wait on that for now. Anyways thanks to Chad over at Standard Ink for the great work. I'll be heading back over there in a month for touch-ups and another month after that for my captain america shield. As usual it hurt some but as always the resulting endorphin kick made it soooooo worth it. I read the stories of some pansies crying out and not wanting to finish it but I can't imagine. People its simple relax, concentrate on your breathing and whatever you do, DON'T TENSE UP!! If you stay relaxed there is no reason you shouldn't enjoy the whole experience.
t-shirt design in an ad for Tattoo magazine
"It's all about the pain,
the jewelry and ink are just souvenirs"
fuckin' a.

22,000+

2008-10-21T11:12:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that for a change I am proud of Chattanooga. Even if most of the sheep voted republicrat, at least we are seeing an increase in voter turn-out. I also want to give credit to the election commission, or at least the staff at the Northgate location. No badgering from the volunteers was a welcome relief after the primary (next to TJ Max) where the a*hole working decided to educate me as to which party I should support. The people working were friendly and courteous. Even with the long line, it moved at a steady pace, I made it from the food court to the front of the line in only about 20 minutes.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Now for election outcomes. First off even though McCain will probably take TN, we all realize that Obama will most likely when the election. What worries me is how long it will take some jack-ass to attempt to shoot his ass. I sincerely hope it doesn't happen but am preparing myself for the headline now. I just hope it is a black guy that shoots him, otherwise all you old-timers thought MLK's death sparked riots. If Obama is assassinated by a white guy, then there will be outbreaks of violence like our generation has never seen.

A "waste" of a vote...

2008-10-16T05:30:00.001-07:00

Why do some a*holes insist that voting for an independent candidate is "wasting" my vote. Anytime someone has the courage to express their views, that expression (be it a vote, a speech or even a blog) is never a waste. Personally I feel the 2 major candidates are a much bigger waste of a vote. No matter who is elected we (the American people) are still screwed. Neither of these guys give 2 shits about us. One wants to create a socialist, entitlement society & the other wants to keep sending us to die for a bunch of people who hate us because our society has prospered while theirs has been shattered by in-fighting. I'll "waste" my vote on someone I actually think could shake up the DC power structure and represent my views in how our nation is run. After that mess last night, I am more sure than ever that I will be voting independent.

Let's here it for Barr '08

btw: I'm a traditional republican but the ultra-conservative direction of the party in recent years has called even that belief into question.

Downtown Privelge Parking

2008-10-13T12:30:00.000-07:00

Check out this woderful little blog from chattarati.com

http://chattarati.com/2008/10/13/no-parking-but-i-work-for-the-mayor/

If all us lowly taxpayers have to pay the hugely increased parking rates, what makes her special? Surely not her crooked politico father's influence. You all remember him for grabbing headlines in the TN waltz scandal. Or maybe it was her previous film notoriety that beckons a personal pass...

by the end of the week, I'll update with my own rendition of Missy's parking pass for all us taxpayers.

Me and my ink obession

2008-10-13T11:08:00.001-07:00

What is going on with me recently? Maybe its my med's or maybe its just boredom but I have tattoos on the brain EVERYDAY. Any time I see any art work I immediately contemplate where it should go on my body. What's funny is I only have 2 so far, obviously this won't last.

My next few (in no particular order):
~~old skool Batman logo -- top of (R) foot or outside ankle
~~Captain America's Shield -- " (L) "
~~stitches spelling out "indolentia" (latin - freedom from pain) -- left side abs/love handles (if I had them) running from bottom of rib cage to top of pelvic bone

still undecided:
~~grim reaper/death classic pin-up style (chick with hood and scythe) -- most likely (R) calf
~~back piece, something big, maybe something with the 4 elements and beasts representing them ( fire/phoenix, water/shark, air/raptor, earth/open to suggestions)

My first 2 tat's were:
~~Betty Page/Lady Justice (blindfolded, sword & scales) -- (L) calf
~~snake in the sun (my own design) based off classic tribal sun & snake emblem on necklace I've worn since college -- (R) shoulder blade

The Sinks

2008-10-13T10:33:00.000-07:00

I finally got to have a go at the Sinks disc golf course located on Access Rd across from the Dupont plant. I took my brother in law out there for both of our first games at the site. I ended up passing my Birdie putter and Gator mid-range to him, and playing with just an Orc driver. BTW drivers are mostly useless on the tight narrow cut holes. There's a couple where you can rock but this course is all about the psych-out factor. There are so many trees expertly located creating narrow pathways, it is easy to get frustrated and bomb-out a hole before you even start. The multiple pads and pins are great for keeping a fresh challenge. We mixed up our choices and really had a good time thru. Enough so that we went back and played another 8 holes. Only complaint I have is marking the path from net to the next tee is non-existent. YES, I GOT LOST AND WENT FROM HOLE2 to HOLE12. If some is needed to come in with a chain saw and take care of this allow me to volunteer now.

Come on Marti, how dumb do you think the people of Brainerd are?

2008-10-09T10:07:00.000-07:00

http://www.chattanoogan.com/articles/article_136674.asp

So after getting the boot about not living in Brainerd in the first place, she has rented an apt. Now we (the voters) are supposed to believe that she's the best possible person to represent Brainerd. If the people of district 6 are foolish enough to be duped by this ploy then they need to take a hard, long look in the mirror and ask themselves, Why?

downer

2008-10-08T10:23:00.001-07:00

For some reason I have become rather pessimistic these last couple weeks. Worrying about shit beyond my control, frustrated and at the same time belligerent, general all round mild paranoia. I thought this was why i had to take fuckin' anti-depressants. I'm attributing it to additional work stress and my upcoming treatment. But I know that's just a cop out for the parentals. Truth being my drug intake has been altered and its playing hell on me, but if I mention it to the Dr(ug peddlers) they'll just call it another side affect to be medicated for. I'm sick of fucking pills. I'm on something that works on my gut and allows a touch of normalcy. If it means being a bit edgy, I'll cope.... or maybe I'll go postal and gut someone....

Politicians servin' it up!!!

2008-10-02T13:25:00.001-07:00

man I love youtube. For all the closest politicos out there, here is a political battle we can all get behind!

http://tinyurl.com/3rj5q9

The mid-west steps up...

2008-10-02T11:40:00.000-07:00

One Month in Corral for Disorderly Woman
Tuesday, September 30, 2008

32-year-old reportedly shows up for sentencing still wearing the costume.

(Middletown, OH) -- Saturday night, people in the 3100 block of Wilbraham Road called police to report a woman wearing a cow costume was chasing kids, and blocking traffic. Michele Allen also allegedly urinated on the porch of one neighbor.When officers arrived, they told her to go home. But later that night, they found her again, in the 2400 block of Verity, standing in traffic. This time, officers say, Allen smelled of alcohol and swore at them.She was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct.Allen plead guilty, Monday morning, in Middletown Municipal Court, and sentenced to a month in jail.

http://www.700wlw.com/pages/localNews.html?feed=119585&article=4324072

Wamp...

2008-09-30T06:22:00.000-07:00

Now I have disagreed with almost all of Wamp's time in office (nothing personal, I just disagree with his views) but when I saw that he had voted against the bailout, not just a moniker but a DESCRIPTION, I was forced to admit agreement. I still don't know if I would vote for him, but at least he is showing allegiance to his town & their feelings.
The bail out will probably still happen but if by rejecting it in its current state maybe we can get a plan that actually forces some responsibility and accountability by the banks & corporations. Key points with according to local polls, letters, editorials, & ....; require some reimbursement from the recipients, limit CEO compensation, tax any windfall profits, and most importantly show the taxpayers how this bailout helps them. No generalizations & cut the fear mongering panic inducing rhetoric. Piss on you Mr Alexander, the most irresponsible thing you could say was we would not being able to cash paychecks. This kind of idiocy is the crap that causes runs on banks, gas and other essentials. Instead of crying wolf you should be encouraging voters to stay calm and to save/spend/invest as prudent. This will allow markets to adjust themselves accordingly and minimize any potential panic. The world is not on the brink of failure, with responsible stewardship there is no reason that the average taxpayer should be stricken by this situation.

93 gut bombs

2008-09-29T04:46:00.000-07:00

Now I learned a long time ago krystals are a guilty pleasure to enjoy in small quantities. Otherwise you'll learn just how the gut bomb nickname was earned. We've all done it, most of us more than once, but the point is we learn. Now according to krystalsquareoff.com these gluttons consumed 710 of the mini-marvel burgers in 8 minutes. The winner ate 93. I almost feel sorry for these unfortunate souls and the hell they must be going through this morning, then I read that this is not their first time doing this. Once I could understand, but repeating this every year. Do these guys not learn or what. Now my pity switched to their toilets. Not even inanimate objects should be subjected to the foul torture they were face with last night & this morning.

Here are the results to Saturdays 8 minute eating frenzy.

1. Joey “Jaws” Chestnut, San Jose, Calif. - 93 Krystals

2. Pat “”Deep Dish”” Bertoletti, Chicago, Ill. - 85 Krystals

3. Takeru Kobayashi, Tokyo, Japan - 84 Krystals

4. “Humble” Bob Shoudt, Philadelphia, Pa. - 76 Krystals

5. Tim “”Eater X”” Janus, New York, N.Y. - 64 Krystals

6. Hall “Hoover” Hunt, Jacksonville, Fla. - 63 Krystals

7. Juliet “The Lovely” Lee, Germantown, Md. - 55 Krystals

8. Crazy Legs Conti, New York, N.Y. - 49 Krystals

9. Rich “”The Locust”” LeFevre, Henderson, Nev. - 47 Krystals

10. Juris “Dr. Bigtime” Shibayama, Murfreesboro, Tenn. - 43 Krystals

11. Eric “Badlands” Booker, Long Island, N.Y. - 41 Krystals

12. Kyle “12th Eater” Brogdon, Hixson, Tenn. - 10 Krystals

reprinted from krystalsquareoff.com

Last night of Nightfall

2008-09-26T05:25:00.000-07:00

Fall is finally here and as summer's last dig before it takes some months off, we get to have one more night of entertainment. I could rant about the great music and blah bla-bla-bla blah, but I have resolved to be honest. So the fact is the music is an excuse for me. I don't really enjoy the acts but they make for a decent distraction. I (and I suspect I have a few cohorts) really go just to hang out with friends, have a couple drinks, crowd watch and check out some of the different bikes that always turn out in force. It's usually a relaxed atmosphere and that is what really appeals to me. So cheers to the coming cold weather and I hope to see you tonight.

Blame Who For The Financial Mess? reprinted from the chattanoogan.com

2008-09-25T11:15:00.000-07:00

Blame Who For The Financial Mess?
posted September 25, 2008

"Clinton Signs Legislation Overhauling Banking Laws"By Reuters, November 12, 1999
"President Clinton signed into law today a sweeping overhaul of Depression-era banking laws. The measure lifts barriers in the industry and allows banks, securities firms and insurance companies to merge and sell each other's products."This legislation is truly historic," President Clinton told a packed audience of lawmakers and top financial regulators." "We have done right by the American people." (Italics added)"The bill repeals parts of the 1933 Glass-Stegall Act and the 1956 Bank Holding Company Act to level the domestic playing field for the United States financial companies and allow them to compete better in the evolving global financial marketplace.

"Analysts and industry leaders say the measure will probably fuel a wave of mergers as companies compete to build financial supermarkets offering all the services customers need under one roof."Financial stocks were winners on Wall Street today, with J.P. Morgan & Company, Citigroup, American Express and Merrill Lynch all posting big gains. That helped the Dow Jones industrial average end up 174.02 points at 10,769.32."The Senate approved the final bill by 90 to 8 on November 4 and the House followed suit by a vote of 362 to57. Congress had previously made almost a dozen unsuccessful attempts over the last 25 years to revise the statutes, which had increasingly come to be viewed as anachronisms."The world changes (and Lord knows we need change)(parenthesis mine) and Congress and the laws have to change with it," said Senator (Republican) Phil Gramm of Texas, chairman of the Banking Committee and one of the bill's prime sponsors."Supporters of the legislation say it will also benefit consumers, providing them with greater choice and convenience and spurring competition that will lead to lower prices."With this bill," Treasury Secretary Lawrence H. Summers (you know, the one blaming the Bush Administration) (again parenthesis mine) said, "the American financial system takes a major step forward toward the 21st Century-one that will benefit American consumers, business and the national economy." (right!) (yep, mine) Opponents (including the Independent Bankers Association of America) said it would have the opposite effect, creating behemoths that will raise fees, violate customers' privacy by sharing and selling their personal data, and PUT THE STABILITY OF THE FINANCIAL SYSTEM AT RISK. (Italics and caps, mine)"The privacy issue was a key factor in the long and often heated negotiations that produced a compromise bill, and President Clinton made clear he still wanted to see more done to safeguard consumers' personal financial information. (ID thefts increased 1000 fold afterward.) (Mine)."President Clinton said the Treasury and White House would put together a legislative proposal to take to Congress next year that would extend the privacy provisions of the legislation.(end of article)Now someone please tell me how the governor of Texas, at that time, can be held responsible for the problems we have in the financial structure of the economy. This was a prime example of "If it ain't broke, don't break it." But you know the politicians - they can't leave well enough alone.By the way, as a retired banker, I was totally against this bill as were most of my community bank colleagues.
Terry Bridgman
Rossville
-------------
Thank you Terry for doing your research and presenting a very real explanation. Even though your biase is very pronounced you presented verifiable facts that really show the why today's corporate scape-goating versus yesterday's corporate ass-kissing just further demonstrates the two-faced hypocrisy that DC is overflowing with.

cheap short term road repair

2008-09-25T10:35:00.000-07:00

Can someone please tell me why the hell, Mountain Creek Rd, Pineville Rd and others, instead of repairing the numerous ruts, pot holes and other deformities. Local crews have instead sprayed a tar coating and spread loose gravel on top. Driving over it even at low speed makes your floor board & wheel wells sound like a machine gun. At anything at forty mph or over and traction becomes a thing of the past.
When it first happened I thought it was just some prep work for some actual road repair. But now the week is nearing its end and the crews are nowhere to be seen. If this is a cost cutter repair job, I pray its limited to these few roads. Earlier it was suggested to me that it might be a safety idea (forcibly reducing travel speeds) but that seems a little, well really stupid because some fools will still try to push the speed some and with the loose surface, the chance of losing traction and having a wreck seems even more likely.

Wilkommen ... or however you spell it

2008-09-24T13:19:00.000-07:00

First off VW, yeah for Chatty. There its done everyone please quit patting yourself on the back and get back to work. All it took to get them to come is millions in tax breaks and tax-payer supplied infrastructure. For all the local politicos are crowing we had better see the f***in' second coming once they open their doors.

Welcome ...

2008-09-24T12:20:00.000-07:00

This blog is my tribute to Chattanooga. Not that there isn't problems with our town but no city is perfect and out of all the time I've spent in other cities, Chattanooga is the only city that I feel like calling home.

As time goes I hope to expand it greatly and play host to reliable information for our little metropolis. I welcome all comments, suggestions, submittals, whatever. I just want to get people involved and interested. Check back often as I am just getting started and still have a lot to add.

Here's to you Chatt-town.

A day in the life of Doad

2008-09-18T08:41:00.001-07:00

I HATE CROHN'S. I am one of the tens of thousands (if not more) whom are stuck dealing with this day-to-day. For those who are un-informed, crohn's disease causes problems in the digestive tract. It can be located anywhere from the stomach to the bowels. Typical suffers have to deal with constant feelings of being bloated and having to go to the restroom MANY times a day. There's a lot more to it, but I won't elaborate all that here. Suffice to say google crohn's and you'll come across a ton of informational resources and holistic cures. So far I have tried acai berry juice, aloe pills & pro-biotics. As well as entirely removing certain foods & additives from my diet. The holistic stuff has failed entirely for me, but I have found that by cutting out MSG's (preservatives) and switching to low fiber diet that my digestion has improved. But sadly my intestinal tract isn't so agreeable. My case is concentrated on my large intestines, specifically the last turn of my large intestines. What should be the diameter of a quarter is closer to a sharpie, thanks to a build up of scar tissue. This SUCKS, it hurts on & off at irregular intervals and makes it difficult to absorb nutrients. Thus I am constantly fighting anemia and have to overdose on vitamins so that I am able to get the bare minimum absorbed. As well the medicines I take to keep it from getting worse are immuno-suppressants so I have to be careful about any infection because my body has a difficult time dealing with them. On the psychological side the constant restroom breaks and pain, make depression a very common partner. I deal with it daily.

Now that I am done whining, this disease has caused me to change my outlook on life. I'm lucky enough to have some wonderful health care professionals looking out for me, and a extremely understanding family, not to mention some supportive friends. I've come to appreciate family & friends more than ever. Once I accepted that my life will never be normal and that colon cancer strickens 95% of crohn's sufferers by the time they are 50, I came to relax about the future. Worrying about my golden years and retirement became a thing of the past. I put a cap of 50 yrs on my life span. Now don't think that is a bad thing, hell by the time I hit that stage I want to be able to say I've lived a full life. I'm sure I might have some regrets but those are like guilt, a bag of fucking bricks that all you need to do with is let go. On my good days, I make it a point to not lay about all day. I have opened myself to new interests and experiences. I figure as long as I can stay happy & productive than the rest of the bullshit will take of itself.

thumbs way up

2008-09-15T08:10:00.001-07:00

rented a couple movies on recommendation & speculation this weekend.
First "OTIS" funniest, most twisted shit I ever watched. Stone sober and still laughing like a maniac. Satire on the whole torture movie craze. 4 out of 4 pit stained wife beaters, fave quote "rectum, you fuckin' killed 'em"
Then was "Shadowboxer" great acting from Stephen Dorf & Cuba Gooding Jr. Could have done without the full frontal and ass nudity, but at least they practiced safe sex. still 3.5 condom covered wangs out of 4.
Then the Sunday I got to go a christening for my nieces. Told it would be 15-20 minutes ... 1.5 hours later I walked out, kept expecting the roof to cave-in on my agnostic ass the entire time. Even worse I left my phone at home so no sudoku or tunes. Nothing against church or anything but isn't it a bit hypocritical to have your children baptized if you and them NEVER go to church? Great Grandfather's christening gift better have kicked ass.

Tired Of Republi-crats, Cookie Cutter Arguments And Lies

2008-09-11T11:30:00.000-07:00

I know I'm not the only person who is tired of the campaigns already. Now it's time for everyone else to speak up as well. Every time I check Chattanoogan.com I come across another left-wing radical or right-wing extremist spewing more filth and lies into the public forum. I am a huge supporter of free speech and believe every person deserves a voice, but can we at least be honest with each other and end the lies.Congress, this is my biggest pet peeve against all politicians today. Yes, the Republicans controlled congress during Bush's first term and managed to preside over some of the worst corruption scandals in recent memory. Before anyone starts whining about Clinton's term in office let's compare his biggest scandal with just one of Bush's. Ol' Slick Willie was fooling with an intern and tried to cover his tail, but he never exposed a CIA operative's identity. Let's see, adultery vs. treason, which one deserves impeachment.
But let's not forget that Democrats have controlled Congress the past four years, and what do we have to show for it? No improvement, just more debt, more partisan back room political deals, and still no end to the senseless deaths our soldiers are facing each day in Iraq and Afghanistan. Now we the taxpayers are being stuck with the bill for Fannie and Freddy's bail out. How many more times will we sit back and watch the federal government throw away our hard-earned money, so that the people who run these companies don't have to face the consequences of their decisions.Now with the election fast approaching, both sides are accusing the other of inexperience and any other dirt they can find or fabricate. What that says to me is that both sides are fools for choosing candidates based not on experience, values or morals but on image. I'd say we need to start from scratch but I don't think I could handle another primary season the likes of which just ended.Man, woman, black, white, Democrat, Republican. They are all poor choices who have no place running our country. And certainly they have no right to proclaim they represent the American people.In the words of a very wise man, vote none of the above, or least let's all ditch the major parties and their chosen flunkies and find an third candidate that actually represents our choices and values.

McCain, or a republicrat crony, has pulled a fast one on the jackass party

2008-08-29T10:35:00.001-07:00

Picking a woman was probably his best chance. One thing that the dem's had with either Hilary or Obama was the whole breaking barriers message. Now McCain jumped in to the same party, but he will appeal to many moderate voters and some closest prejudice pigs, by including a woman but not in the top power slot. Lets face it America has not grown beyond sexism (or racism), although I really want to believe we are trying. So this is the perfect half-way step the GOP needed to grab some swing votes.

As for Alaskan oil fields... here we come!!! Am I the only that sees the only reason the push is on now for more drilling is that new technologies are finally coming together and presenting a threat to big oil. They want to get to as much oil as possible asap, before we all finally get electric (or whatever else) cars and the price of oil plummets. Don't give up, hold out on drilling and force the new tech to market sooner.

Pepper & Stoopid 2nite

2008-08-29T05:59:00.001-07:00

The countdown is on. After work I hit the road to ATL and a show featuring not one but TWO bands I've been waiting to see for years. Meeting up with Swing and a few others down there. this will be a beast!

My first blog... i'm all a-tingle

2008-08-28T11:52:00.000-07:00

What to blog about... I got it social networks. I've tried all the biggies and some of the not so biggies. Even fluttered about with twitter and I like the idea it is to limited in scope so here I am. I can rant about shit and not have to worry about who gets their hands on it. Yeah I know its the internet but, I'm not exactly advertising my posts on myspace. I'm a bit of a lay about anyway, so much that my old elementary school teachers thought I was developmentally disabled, until I tested into the top 5% of middle schoolers in the state ... in third grade. Eat that bitches. Anyway back to my point, no one expects this kind of motivation from me.