http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2008/07/01/obama-clark-just-somebody-on-a-cable-show/

Gavin, say goodbye to Clark as a VP candidate. Awesome…

“I’m happy to have all sorts of conversations about how we deal with Iraq and what happens with Iran,” the presumptive Democratic nominee told reporters at a press conference in Zanesville, Ohio.

“But the fact that somebody on a cable show or on a news show like Gen. Clark said something that was inartful about Sen. McCain I don’t think is probably the thing that is keeping Ohioans up at night.”

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2008/07/01/obama-takes-swipe-at-moveon/

As I explained to my republican uncle a year or so ago, MoveOn and DailyKos are so 2003 and look where that got “us” as a country.

In a speech designed to combat charges he lacks patriotism, Obama sharply condemned organizations that use “these old, threadbare arguments” to level criticisms and specifically pointed to MoveOn.org’s controversial newspaper ad last fall that attacked the top U.S. general in Iraq, David Petraeus.

“All too often our politics still seems trapped in these old, threadbare arguments – a fact most evident during our recent debates about the war in Iraq, when those who opposed administration policy were tagged by some as unpatriotic, and a general providing his best counsel on how to move forward in Iraq was accused of betrayal,” Obama said.

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2008/07/04/polls-white-house-race-remains-tight/

A landslide victory is 8-12% points.  The election will be decided by more than 6% points once mccain is forced to share the same stage with Obama.

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2008/07/03/mccain-and-obama-put-it-on-the-line/

I wonder who throws the dice for the old man.

NOTE: 

On Monday – that’s like forever ago – I picked up the International Herald Tribune.  This day’s newspaper had at least 10 US and worldwide inflation articles.  Yes, 10. I still don’t see shiat regarding inflation on US news/economic websites though I don’t have daily access to the internet or much time available once I get my hand on a keyboard.  WTF? 

Did you know, the US won’t have to RAISE interest rates as I’ve begged since the European Central Bank made concessions recently that should slightly help our inflation issue? 

Also, did you know, India’s inflation has climbed to an unbearable 11+%?  Modern day caste system at its best.  Say goodbye to global demand for oil when their economy crashes shortly.

Lastly, unless the Chinese decide to finally allow their currency to be unpegged, we’ll be buying American goods cheaper than the shady Chinese equivalents.  Interesting.  What up now, Gordon?

1) The internet is not way better than Siena. If you’re planning a trip to Italy, go to Siena for at least a few days.

2) Ok, calling Italian women gross was too broad of a stereotype.  But, it’s definitely a million euros a dozen.

3) As previously noted, the food continues to get better each meal.  I’m not kidding.  It’s amazing to see how capitalism/greed has killed American “fine” or casual dining.  When it takes less than 30 minutes to make multiple fresh pasta dishes and feed a group of people, there’s no reason an Italian restaurant in America should buy noodles from Sysco because it’s easier and quicker.  Seriously, my favorite eateries in Chicago have been put to shame by the simplest hole in the wall restaurants in Tuscany.  Maybe that’s too deep of a thought but you’ll understand the distaste for American food and “passion” behind this post if you get a sampling of some Tuscan food.

4) Judging by the cars you see on the highways, Italians/Europeans definitely think Ford first.  If not first, then second or third.  I see how Ford turned a profit in Q1.  Amazing – Ford should release their standard 4 door European car that I’ve been seeing everywhere in America.  It’s efficient but large enough for a family.  No, it’s not the ugly Ford focus we’re used to in the states…it actually looks decent.  Ford, this isn’t rocket science – you figured things out in Italy/Europe.  Now duplicate the business model of making decent/efficient cars in America.

5) A week in Tuscany is enough but not too much.  I’m definitely looking forward to the Amalfi Coast and rumored intense drive.

6) I’m enjoying eating once a day…maybe twice at the most.  Best diet ever equals good food in healthy portions and 82 degree weather.  Wine – which I could previously do without – can definitely make a good second meal on its own.

7) Our English hot air balloon tour guide says Italians mock freedom of speech.  Ha – hail Mussolini, eh? That didn’t work out so well.

8 ) Not having the internet readily available is fcking nuts.  Screw the tv but I would trade electricity and/or running water for the internet.  I guess if I’m trading electricity for the internet the computer wouldn’t turn on.  So, I would trade running water for the internet.  When your time runs out – as is the case now (again) – it sucks.