Enjoy the silence?

Can anyone explain to me why the only bit of news worth mentioning out of Iraq in the past few days has been the shifting of power from US to Iraqi forces in Anbar province?
Surely something has to be going on worth making the Associated Press news wire.
Is the secular fighting over? Can the troops come home?
No, it's just convention week for the RNC — and no news out of Iraq is good news, some might suggest.
OK, one ridiculous conspiracy theory a day is enough for me.

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The broken, the beaten and the damned

OK, I know I said I was going to stick to posting election/convention news only over at Aurora Votes, but I'm just saddened by the display seen in downtown Denver today and felt that this was a far more appropriate venue to make the following point:


To the kids protesting in downtown Denver with no discernable cause, chanting "No presidents, no wars" and deliberately trying to cause traffic issues: There is no revolution. It might be cute to light a joint and scream about how we live in a police state, but where were you a week ago? A month ago? A year ago? No, you just want some media attention; unfortunately, some small amount will be given to you before everything is said and done. If you want to expand your mind and spirit, learn shame — it may make you rethink your actions.

To the other protesters with actual causes: Good for you, but make damn sure you're voting this November — otherwise, you're perpetuating a culture of revolt that is not grounded in a desire for real change, an ugly exercise in futility.

To the police officers: Good luck, be gentle.

Maybe everyone should just meditate.

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End-of-summer "vacation"

Sliced Bread will be kicking back in the pool for the next week as I divert my efforts to covering politics over on our Aurora Votes blog. That will be followed by a lengthy decontamination process to remove the stench of hippie protesters and liberal elitism (together, they're a mixture of days-old patchouli and and fresh caviar) after braving downtown Denver in the beginning, middle and end of convention week. By that, I mean I'm going to Cripple Creek to enjoy some mountain air and maybe find a poker table.

Check out Aurora Votes throughout the weekend as we occasional provide updates from Denver and our own brand of political analysis. I'll be updating you on the big blogger and VIP gathering at Elitch Gardens on Saturday evening -- assuming the rich, delectable catering doesn't send me to bed early with a full stomach.

Until then, the Dude abides.

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