PhillyChimp

The Democrats, like, cleaned house.

Or something.

So this space has mostly been used for now and then political comments by Will. It occurs to me, perhaps the time is right to increase the sports content of the space?

I was reading the Letters section in the DN today and I came across this 'gem':

YOUR editorial, "Smoke in our eye," asks: "Is there any excuse for Philadelphia not finally joining the 21st century on this health issue?"

Yes, there is an excuse, and a very good one. Smoking bans have usually passed in other areas not on the basis of sound science but on the basis of massive spending by special interests. For example, in Washington State last year, the American Cancer Society invested over a quarter-million dollars to "buy" ban-petition signatures through paid gatherers.

Here in Philadelphia, it's more subtle, but just think about how many expensive TV commercials you've seen with cute little children coughing from thick clouds of smoke. The fact that by far the main venues to be affected by a ban will be bars and strip clubs doesn't slow the use of the "Save the children!" propaganda card.

Smoking ban laws are bad laws not just because they eat away at our social structure and freedoms or because they cause economic damage, but because they are based on lies. If you're an American who cares about the integrity of our government and our system of laws you should take the time this week to let your councilfolks know that you don't want Philadelphia to follow the misguided path laid by some of our neighbors.

Michael J. McFadden, Philadelphia

So, let me get this straight, McFly...I mean McFadden, smoking bans pass becuase 'special interests' like the American Cancer Society invest money in getting them passed? That is to say that the American Cancer Society works to get smoking bans passed becuase they have an interest in the ban.

Why could that be? Perhaps the ACS thinks the bans might, I dunno, fight cancer.

But maybe you're right, McFly...I mean McFadden, the big, evil anti-cancer lobby can't be allowed to keep influencing government like this. After all, somebody needs to stand up for the little guy - somebody needs to stand up for cancer.

Above average Jane has been profiling the Democratic contenders for the 8th congressional district. While I'm supporting Patrick Murphy, I urge you all to check out her profiles just to get more information.

Wondering why the president is digging in such as he is on the issue of the port transfer?

Here's a hint:

Last month, Bush nominated David Sanborn, who heads DP World's European and Latin American operations, to head the U.S. Maritime Administration. Trent Duffy, a White House spokesman, said Sanborn did work for the company, but "we're told he had nothing to do with the transaction."

Gee....when the Prez's top advisor works for the company buying the ports it sure looks like our port security is getting sold out for some old good fashoined nepotism.

Sooooo, a bunch of meatplant workers won the powerball jackpot.... talk about bringing home the bacon!.....badumching!

Casey? With polls showing a double-digit lead over a powerful incumbent, one might puzzle over the fact Bob Casey Jr. doesn't show much aggression or, for that matter, much of a pulse. Don't.

Casey is Casey. The plan so far is rely on his name and the fact he isn't (technically) Rick Santorum. Hey, so far it's enough.

The danger is being seen as "Santorum lite," and the puzzle is why more isn't done to dodge the danger.

lol. Wow. I love John Baer.


Seriously though, I like Casey. I will most definately vote for him in november. But he needs to start acting more like a progressive. It's almost not enough technically not be Rick Santorum.....almost.

Sorry to not have commented on this sooner. Let me just say that I'm really, really excited that Joe is throwing his hat back in the ring. As a loyal Hoeffel supporter and former Hoeffel intern, I've been waiting for him to bring back his brand of thoughful, progressive activism. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and the Country all need it. Go, Joe, go!