A great picture of Miss America from Salon.com

This is what I think is a great picture of Miss America. In it she looks like the cutest Miss America they have ever crowned. A nice change form all the make-up and glamour normally associated with pageants. According to the stories I have read, she is the smartest and most poised Miss America ever. Unfortunately, or maybe fortunately, I was one of the 225+ million Americans who did not bother to watch the show.

1:57:21 PM    comment []

Amid corruption and mismanagement, Atlanta's Empowerment Zone empowers little.

Hailed as a golden opportunity for Atlanta, the Empowerment Zone was an opportunity that was wasted. The purpose was to spur business growth in 30 low-income neighborhoods. $100 million in funds, and $150 in tax abatements were squandered do to political infighting, corruption and the normal City of Atlanta stupidity.

The remarks have change from,

"This has got to be the best day in Atlanta history, as far as neighborhoods are concerned,"

by State Rep. Doug Dean (D-Atlanta), when Atlanta was awarded the funds, to,

"the biggest missed opportunity for economic development for poor and working class people,"

by former Atlanta City Council member Mable Thomas, quoted recently.

Now, the Empowerment Zone is being dismantled, funds are being shifted to another program, and the city is hoping that it will quietly die. No need for further embarrassment.

Don't we all miss kickball?

As schools replace kickball with less competitive and more aerobic challenging recess sports, adult leagues are sprouting all over the country. A kickball renaissance is happening. Basically you can be out of shape, drink beer and socialized while having a blast!

I am still waiting for dodge ball leagues!

1:57:10 PM    comment []