Strollerderby : abc news

Husband Loses Job, Wife Loses Respect For Him

Brett Singer — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 22:00:00 GMT

We all know how tough it is out there. The number of jobs is shrinking by the day, and layoffs are common. Many families still follow the traditional model where the husband is the breadwinner and the wife takes care of the children and housekeeping duties. Nothing wrong with that. But let's say dad loses his job. He didn't quit because he missed out on a promotion, nor was he fired for making photocopies of his butt. He was laid off. It happens. Mom should be supportive, right? Flexible. Do what needs to be done to keep the family together.

Well, yes. Of course. But in the case of this couple that was profiled on ABC's Good Morning America, wifey has lost respect for her fella. She's not attracted to him anymore. In fact, they are sleeping in separate beds.

The wife in question, Eleanor Hemmert, had this to say about her husband Rick: "It's the respect. I wish I could say something different, but I've lost so much respect for him. And I think the dynamics with a man and a woman is a woman has to respect her husband. And if she doesn't, that relationship just goes away."

In an illustration of what I meant when I questioned a passage from Kate Gosselin's book, Eleanor also said: "That's one of the basic things that little girls grow up thinking - that the man is going to put the roof over her head, he is going to support the family." And when it doesn't happen, you get angry. Expectations can be bad when the person is inflexible.

I'm not in their marriage, so I don't know what else is going on. But this couple chose to put themselves on TV, so I'm commenting. Anytime I hear a woman complain that her husband isn't doing the manly work that she expects her man to be doing, it really irks me. If a woman were told to stay home and get pregnant, and that her place was in the kitchen, preferably barefoot, would she like that? Or that it was perfectly reasonable to pay her less money than a man who does the same job? Granted, those things happen all the time. But they're wrong. So is this woman's attitude.

Of course, Husband Rick isn't helping matters. "I think it is in every man's DNA to be the breadwinner. It's very humbling for me. It changes the dynamic of our relationship immensely. There is a wedge that has appeared. I feel the anger. I feel the tension. This house is not as joyous as it should be."

See, that's a choice. It's not in any man's "DNA" that he has "to be the breadwinner." It's in his mind, and the mind of his wife. Sometimes things change. Is it unpleasant? Sure. Is it worth ruining your marriage for? No way.

I understand that it's probably very frustrating for any couple when the primary breadwinner loses their job. But it's not like Mr. Man decided to quit being a salesman in order to pursue his dream of being a rodeo clown. Wife Eleanor is also complaining that she has to work more hours now, and that Rick cooks dinner poorly. But is that really fair? If he's just sitting around the house all day with his feet up, I can see being annoyed about that. But that's different from being so furious about something that was outside of you and your husband's control that you can't even sleep in the same room anymore.

Their daughter Elizabeth is "picking up" the tension between mom and dad. While both husband and wife are angry at each other and feel "underappreciated", their daughter is "suffering silently," says ABC News. "If the kids sense that you are unhappy and you don't talk to them about it, they may incorrectly blame themselves," they say. Good advice. Maybe the Hemmerts will take it.

Source: ABC News

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Bronx Students Question Obama Through Poetry

Brett Singer — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 22:16:00 GMT

It's one thing when Rush Limbaugh attacks the idea that Obama is going to bring "change" to our country. Of course Limbaugh doesn't want change – as far as he's concerned, everything is fine. But it's a little different when high school students from the Bronx wonder whether or not our new President is really going to be all that different from those who held the office before he did.

These kids are a little bit older than those we usually talk about on Babble, but this video kept my attention from beginning to end. The poetry the students recite is pretty raw; to put it mildly, this isn't exactly Robert Frost territory:

Calling Mr. Obama, Calling Mr. Obama
Please Mr. President
Come In
…
Do you understand where I'm coming from Mr. President?

When one student says this in an interview:

"Just because your skin is dark doesn't mean your morality, your ethics are different from any other person."

That got to me. It's not cynicism, it's reality. When life isn't good, and everyone is talking about "change" this and "change" that, it's not unreasonable to wonder whether or not the problems in your life are going to get some of that "change." Combine that feeling with the general angst of being a teenager, and you get some pretty strong words.

The video isn't embeddable, so click here to watch it. If nothing else, it's certainly a different perspective on Obama's election.

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It's Official: White House To House First Grandmother

Morning News – Drunken Jokers With Bionic Limbs And Flying Cars

Brett Singer — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Happy Friday, everyone!

Comments on yesterday's Morning News got pretty heated. I considered doing nothing but stories about puppies, rainbows and sunshine today, but decided that was no fun. And as it turns out, the "Crossfire"-esque commenting has morphed into an interesting back and forth between persons of differing political persuasions. Thank you to everyone from both sides of the aisle who weighed in; check out the debate here.

Diane Sawyer appeared to be drunk during the Inauguration coverage on ABC. Was she celebrating Obama's victory? Is she a McCain voter trying to forget? No one knows. While it's not completely certain that she was nipping at the sauce, this video makes a darn good case for it.

Caroline Kennedy (Schlossberg) did indeed bail on her quest to be a Senator without the hassle of actually winning an election. The New York Times is reporting that "Problems involving taxes and a household employee" were uncovered during the vetting process, so she bowed out. Whenever information like this is "suddenly" discovered, I always wonder how it is that nobody knew about it until it was too late. As in, Ms. Kennedy (Schlossberg) must have known that she had a tax issue, right? Also, it's still unclear if New York Governor David Paterson would have picked Kennedy (Schlossberg) or not. Um, it kind of doesn't matter anymore, folks. Let it go. Paterson will reportedly announce his choice today; convention wisdom says Andrew "HUD? What's a HUD?" Cuomo will get Hillary Clinton's old seat. (Hillary is now officially Secretary of State, by the way – she started work yesterday.) UPDATE: I was wrong, wrong, wrong -- the Times is reporting that Governor Paterson has selected Kirsten Gillibrand as Hillary Clinton's replacement in the Senate. Ms. Gillibrand is a congresswoman from upstate NY who is mother to two young children and has been endorsed by the National Rifle Association, according to the Times. I'm mentioning the mom thing because this is a parenting web site, and the NRA endorsement because that makes her a potentially controversial choice, since most Democrats aren't big NRA folks. (Gillibrand's official bio page is getting jammed with web traffic, but here's Google's cached version.)

Interesting tidbit about the Roberts Oath Flub (Flubgate, anyone?) – a certain Senator Barack Obama voted against the Chief Justice's confirmation in 2005.

In business news, the Securities and Exchange Commission is investigating the "conflicting reports" regarding Steve Jobs health. First he said he wasn't that sick, then he said he was leaving for six months, blah blah blah. Personally, I thought "hormone imbalance" sounded pretty serious when it was first announced. If only the SEC had been equally diligent about Bernie Madoff, poor Kevin Bacon wouldn't be reading the script for "Footloose 2". (I'm only joking about "Footloose 2." I hope. Kevin is looking for work though, so if you hear of anything, give him a ring.)

A very cool medical story from England: 19-year-old British college student Evan Reynolds now has a bionic hand. Reynolds lost his appendage three years ago, and can operate his new prosthetic limb by thought. ''It's so sensitive I can grip a bottle of water or a paper cup without crushing it and even swing a racket," he says. ''All I have to do is imagine picking something up or gripping it and the fingers and thumb move automatically." Like I said: very cool.

Oh, and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the nominations for the 81st Academy Awards. Some were surprised that Heath Ledger got a Best Supporting Actor nod for his performance as The Joker in "The Dark Knight", but the real surprise to me was Robert Downey Jr.'s nomination for "Tropic Thunder." Not only is it a comedy, it was also a controversial one as I recall (that whole "retard" thing). Personally, I think Ledger will win. If he does, it won't be undeserved -- he gave an incredible performance. Brad Brevet says that Kate Winslet's nomination for "The Reader" is "fishy"; I admit that I couldn't read the full post, which actually quotes Academy voting rules. I was surprised that Clint Eastwood didn't get some love for "Gran Torino," but hey, you can't win 'em all.

The mother who named one of her children Adolf Hitler wants her kids back. "The parents insist they're not racists and want only to honor the heritage of the Third Reich," says the Daily News. What can one say to that?

Finally, someone has actually made a flying car! Terrafugia, the company that makes the vehicle (called the "Transition") calls it a "roadable aircraft," which doesn't exactly trip off the tongue. It goes 500 miles on a full tank of regular unleaded gasoline, and features folding wings. Bottom line: IT IS A CAR THAT FLIES. It also costs $194,000 and probably requires a good-sized garage with access to a ready supply of fuel. So it's not exactly ready for mass consumption. However, IT IS A CAR THAT FLIES. Did I mention that?

Have a great weekend!

Image: Times Online

(Late) Morning News: Finally!

Sasha and Malia Get Bored

Live Inaugural Tweets From A Working Mom, And Video

A Prom? At the White House? Awesome!

Video and Pics: Lego Inauguration

Malia & Sasha Obama Sporting Some Recessionista Style

Obama/Spider-man Comic Book Sold Out, Reprint Planned

Sarah Palin Says Leave My Kids Alone

Obama Wants Kids To Have a Normal Life – Good Luck With That

Sasha and Malia Beanie Baby Dolls

Morning News - Obama, Limbaugh, Cheese

Brett Singer — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Hello and welcome to Morning News! I'll be your Morning Newsperson for today, and possibly for tomorrow as well. Madeline will return after that.

I don't know if you heard anything about it, but we had one of those peaceful transfers of power on Tuesday. We do it every four years whether we want to or not. This time around there was a tad more pomp and circumstance, with 10 Inaugural Balls. I only saw the Neighborhood Ball, where Jay-Z had the most powerful performance of the night; Sting also sang well but looked like he slept in an alley. Note to Gordon Sumner: if you are performing at a public event of this magnitude, at least TRIM the beard, 'k?

Adorable first daughters Sasha and Malia spent the big night watching "High School Musical 3" and getting a scavenger hunt-tour of the White House; the final clue led them to the real-life Jonas Brothers, who were hiding in a closet. So much for that normal childhood thing. Today it's back to school for both; they were allowed to sleep in on Wednesday.

President Obama did not take the day of and got right to work on Wednesday, signing executive orders to close Guantánamo Bay "within a year", and also putting a freeze on salaries for many White House aides. Smart move -- in this economy, he's not likely to lose anyone to the private sector.

Speaking of the economy, the financial markets ended the day up slightly after a big drop on Inauguration Day. Some say this is because "the market" doesn't like our new President, others blame "macro forces", and use big scary finance words that I don't fully understand. Bottom line: the economy still sucks, and it's going to take time for it to recover.

Folks who thought Sarah Palin would shrink from view after the election were wrong, wrong, wrong. The AP has an article about how the Alaska Governor would like some privacy for her children and the L.A. Times reports on a new energy plan she is proposing in the Alaska State legislature. Bonus: if you read the comments you will see that Palin still has plenty of supporters out there. Palin 2012, anyone?

In other political news, Caroline Kennedy may or may not have withdrawn from the race to replace Hillary Clinton as the junior Senator from New York. (Is it a race if its just one guy deciding who wins?) The New York Post (an ultra-conservative tabloid owned Rupert "Fox News" Murdoch) is reporting that Kennedy (what happened to "Kennedy Schlossberg?") pulled herself out of the running because she heard that New York Governor David "SNL Hasn't Been Funny Since John Belushi Left" Paterson was going to pick someone else. BUT the New York Daily News (a less conservative tabloid owned by Mort "I Gave My Money to Bernie Madoff and All I Got Was This Lousy T-shirt" Zuckerman) is reporting that sources close to Caroline whose last names are also Kennedy say that she hasn't dropped out at all. UPDATE: NY1 is reporting that it is indeed official -- Caroline Kennedy will not take Hillary Clinton's place in the Senate. Whether or not she will start using the last name "Schlossberg" again has not been determined. In the words of the great Kent Brockman, only time will tell.

Glenn Harlan Reynolds writes in the Wall Street Journal that he appreciates the "tone" our newly minted President has displayed; Reynolds says that by "reaching out to conservative columnists, and by going out of his way to say that he thinks George W. Bush is 'a good man,' Mr. Obama has made some efforts to transcend the nastiness that has emanated from much of the Democratic Party over the past eight years." Hey, if Obama can be gracious about Chief Justice Roberts messing up the Oath of Office, I think he can be kind to just about anyone. (The President re-took the Oath, by the way. Can't be too careful these days.)

Speaking of nastiness, conservative radio host Rush Limbaugh isn't hopping on the Peace Train. He says that he has four words to describe how he feels about the leader of the free world: "I hope he fails." No really, that's what he said. Listen in:

And just to get away from politics and all things Inaugural, we leave you with this: French officials are investigating a possible scam by a woman in Paris who was selling "magic cheese" that she claimed could be used as cosmetics. Those French. Always good for a laugh.

Read more:

(Late) Morning News: Finally!

Sasha and Malia Get Bored

Live Inaugural Tweets From A Working Mom, And Video

A Prom? At the White House? Awesome!

Video and Pics: Lego Inauguration

Malia & Sasha Obama Sporting Some Recessionista Style

Obama/Spider-man Comic Book Sold Out, Reprint Planned

Sarah Palin Says Leave My Kids Alone

Obama Wants Kids To Have a Normal Life – Good Luck With That

Sasha and Malia Get Bored

Brett Singer — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 20:00:00 GMT

One of the things I've grown to like about the Obamas is that I find them relatable as a family. Barack and Michelle take the kids to school in the morning. They appear to be involved in their daughter's lives in a positive way. The girls give their dad a hard time. It's very sweet.

Adding to their overall normalness, Sasha and Malia got bored at the HBO Concert on Sunday. From NYMag.com:

"…while our president-elect, seated stage right, showed steely resolve by nodding and singing along through even the most terrible performances, heroes Sasha and Malia Obama bravely broadcast their non-enjoyment by looking completely bored (Malia) or falling asleep on their mom's lap (Sasha)."

New York Magazine even calls the First Daughters "America’s Adorable New Statler and Waldorf." Cute.

In other Sasha and Malia at the HBO Concert news:

- Sasha was seen "squirming and then having a chat with Michelle before they both disappeared for the duration of John Mellencamp’s 'Ain’t That America.' We’re guessing potty break." (It also doesn't appear to be a song that she cares too much about, although both are reportedly "big fans of Beyoncé, Usher, and Kal Penn.")
- Denzel Washington waved to the girls after his speech.
- "Michelle tried unsuccessfully to get Malia and Sasha to sing along" to Garth Brooks’s censored rendition of "American Pie" ("good ol' boys SINGING whiskey and rye"? I don't think so.) NYMag says, "Think it’s a little before their time?" Maybe, but my 3 year old knows that tune.

Anyway, for the moment, I can't get enough of these two kids. It'll fade but let's enjoy it for now.

Source: NYMag (1, 2)

Inauguration Coverage Information

Linda Ellerbee Says Kids Should Skip School To Watch Inauguration

Parents Criticize Schools for Celebrating Inauguration

Obama/Spider-man Comic Book Sold Out, Reprint Planned

Obama Says His Kids Are Cooler Than He Is

The Obama Kids First Day Of School

Sasha & Malia Had Their Own Ball on Inauguration Night

Live Inaugural Tweets From A Working Mom, And Video

Brett Singer — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 16:22:00 GMT

I wrote about this already but I'm following the stream now while I watch the coverage on television so I thought I'd point it out again.

JuJu Chang from ABC News is posting tweets (is it "tweeting"? If you know, tell me. I feel old.) live from the Capitol. It's fun to get a perspective from someone on the ground. For example:

people r standing on newspapers or cardboard to keep their feet warm in the crowd

It gives a personal touch, adding a nice element to the proceedings. Plus you can check out the tweets periodically, or just watch the TV coverage and then catch up when its all over. You can also read blog posts from JuJu Chang at ABC.com.

I'm tweeting (man, does that need a new term - can I say "twittering"?) while I watch, but I'm just in my living room, which is inherently less interesting.

UPDATE: here's a video report from the Mall:

If anyone wants to share their feelings about this while they watch, please do. We'd love to hear from you.

Linda Ellerbee Says Kids Should Skip School To Watch Inauguration

Parents Criticize Schools for Celebrating Inauguration

Obama/Spider-man Comic Book Sold Out, Reprint Planned

Obama Says His Kids Are Cooler Than He Is

The Obama Kids First Day Of School

Kids to Obama: Read Books, Eat More Ice Cream

Morning News: Bush Says "We had fun!"

It's Official: White House To House First Grandmother

Inauguration Coverage Information

Brett Singer — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 03:48:00 GMT

Like most people (except for maybe Ann Coulter) I plan to watch the Inauguration tomorrow (or today, depending on when you are reading this). The thing is, I don't feel like watching the build-up. (Think of it like the Super Bowl – the game is more important than the people talking about the game for hours on end. The Inauguration is more important, of course, although Arizona Cardinals fans might disagree. But I digress.) I realized that I didn't know exactly what time the swearing-in ceremony was. It wasn't too tough to find, but I wanted to share the information with our readers, along with a couple of other tidbits that I thought you might find interesting.

Anyway, whether you are keeping the kids home to watch the ceremony or if you are at work and they are at school, I thought it would be helpful to provide a quick roundup of the event and also tell you what time Barack Hussein Obama (that's his official Presidential name, not a political commentary – I actually kind of like saying it now that he's won) will be sworn in using the Lincoln Bible.

1. What Time Is The Swearing In Ceremony?
If you only want to see the Big Event, it is scheduled for 11:30am. I would suggest leaving the TV on in case it starts a little later than that, but according to pic2009.org, the swearing-in starts at 11:30am. Before the President-elect becomes the President there will be musical performances by The United States Marine Band, Aretha Franklin, and the Boys and Girls Choruses of San Francisco. Biden gets sworn in as Veep, and then Itzhak Perlman, Yo-Yo Ma Gabriela Montero and Anthony McGill will play music by John Williams. (I don't think they will play the Star Wars theme, but that would be fun.) THEN Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr. will make it official using Lincoln's Bible from 1861.

2. Can people bring strollers to the ceremony?
To coin a phrase – No You Can't. Strollers are actually the only item that relates to babies and/or children that is on the Prohibited list. Personally, I can't imagine going anywhere near the Capitol tomorrow, but I don't even like parades. Bringing little kids there would make me very nervous, but you won't be alone if you do decide to bring the kinderfolk – there are reportedly quite a lot of families and children making the trip. Also worth noting: cameras are fine, but tripods and camera bags are not.

3. The Inaugural Poet Is a Mom
Elizabeth Alexander will read an Inaugural Poem. In December, she was asked how she planned to avoid having her text blow away in the wind, something that happened to Robert Frost, the first Inaugural Poet, at John F. Kennedy's 1961 Inauguration. (According to the Times, the poem was "awful" – "Summoning artists to participate / In the august occasions of the state / Seems something artists ought to celebrate".) Frost's work, "Dedication", was written on a piece of paper that literally blew away, so the poet had to go with "Gift Outright." Anyway, when asked what she planned to do, Ms. Alexander said, "I am going to have many copies of the poem tucked away. I really am. In a boot. I’m serious. I will have backups. I’m a mom." That made me smile. (Source: NY Times)

4. Inauguration Coverage From a Working Mother
ABC News Correspondent JuJu Chang is blogging about her experience covering the Inauguration and various balls at JuJu Juggles. Updates are also being posted (or "tweeted", as the kids like to say) at twitter.com/jujujuggles, where I found out that outgoing Vice President Cheney hurt his back moving boxes and will attend the ceremonies in a wheelchair. (Why was he moving his own boxes?) JuJu is also a mom, and on the blog you get to see her very cute son helping her pack. You can read more about JuJu at TVNewser.

So there you have it – a little info about the events and some mom-related angles as well. Despite what some commenters said at this post, I am excited about Obama's election and do feel that this is a historic occasion. I'm not keeping my kids home from school, but if you choose to do so, have fun. Wherever you are, make sure you're watching TV at 11:30am. That's when the real history will be made.

Parents Criticize Schools for Celebrating Inauguration

Obama/Spider-man Comic Book Sold Out, Reprint Planned

Obama Says His Kids Are Cooler Than He Is

The Obama Kids First Day Of School

Kids to Obama: Read Books, Eat More Ice Cream

Morning News: Bush Says "We had fun!"

It's Official: White House To House First Grandmother

Should Autistic Children Be Separated From Other Kids?

Brett Singer — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 21:30:00 GMT

The Disabled Politico blog raises an interesting question regarding Magi Klages, the 8-year-old girl who was kicked out of her Brownie troop after an incident that stems from her autism.

Basically, they wonder if having a separate "disabled kids' troop" is a good idea. "Regardless of the intention, the segregation of children with disabilities teaches all children the wrong message." I tend to agree. But a commenter on the site counters with the following: "Mainstreaming is a wonderful concept. The execution leaves a lot to be desired."

I remember a public service ad that aired many years ago starring Tony Danza (formerly of 'Taxi' and other roles). The tag line was the following: "How do you treat a person with a disability? Like a person!" In the ad, if I recall correctly, the disabilities were of the "in a wheelchair" rather than the "bites self" variety. I feel strongly that everyone deserves a chance to be in whatever situation they want to be in. Obviously it won't always work, and not just with autism. If I had wanted to join the track and field team in high school, that wouldn't have worked either, because I was a really slow runner and in less than stellar physical condition. (As opposed to the speedy Adonis I am now.) And another commenter on the site points out that Magi, "already was in an integrated troop, then her parents took her out of that one and put her in a segregated troop, then the segregated troop's leader kicked her out." Interesting point, that.

I admit to being not completely convinced that either solution is perfect. On the one hand, segregation is wrong, yes? Everyone should be given the same opportunities. On the other hand, what if a child really won't thrive in a particular environment? Is it fair to expect them to stick it out just because we think it's "the right thing to do"? And to slingshot back the other way, how long can you separate a kid from the mainstream before mainstreaming them becomes too great a challenge? What do you think? Is it better to keep "special needs" kids separate from everyone else? Or does that send the wrong message to everyone, special needs or no?

Source: disaboom.com

They Say – Most Toys Are Toxic

Denis Leary Puts Autism Comments In Context

Girl Diagnoses Herself With Autism

Can Music Help Cure Autism?

Kindergartners Vote An Autistic Classmate Out of the Class

Rare Condition Makes Boy Look Like Werewolf

Brain Wave Study Sheds Light On Autism

Autistic Girl Kicked Out Of Girl Scouts

Brett Singer — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 19:00:00 GMT

This is messed up.

Magi Klages, an 8 year old autistic girl, has been a Girl Scout since she was 6. According to ABC News, her "Brownie troop grew too large". So they put her in a smaller troop with only four other girls, all of whom have special needs.

She was kicked out on the first day after she "threw a fit...biting herself and running out of the circle." The troop leader told Magi's parents that she was a "danger" to the other members and would no longer be welcome.

Her mother, Michele Klages, is understandably upset. Michele says that Magi was, at worst, only a danger to herself, and that reactions like Magi's are not unusual for autistic children.

A Girl Scouts of America spokeswoman, Michelle Tompkins, said that Magi being kicked out of the troop was "terrible". A spokeswoman for the local chapter of the Girl Scouts (Wisconsin Southeast) did not respond to ABC News, according to the article.

The Scouts and Magi's parents are looking for a new troop for Magi, which is probably for the best. But it seems extremely unfair to boot the little girl out after the first day. I'm not saying the other children weren't scared; I wasn't there of course, but I can imagine the situation and I'm sure it was uncomfortable. But the first day? I'm not saying there should be a "three strikes" policy or anything like that, but give the kid a chance. According to ABC News, "the Girl Scouts has been historically open to anyone and prides itself on its anti-discrimination policies." I guess not everyone got the memo.

Source: ABC News via Disabled Politico (thanks to a reader for the tip!)

Girl Diagnoses Herself With Autism

Can Music Help Cure Autism?

Kindergartners Vote An Autistic Classmate Out of the Class

They Say: More Children Have Allergies

Rare Condition Makes Boy Look Like Werewolf

How Gross Are the Grocery Carts Your Kids Suck On? Um, Pretty Gross.

Jen Chaney — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 15:28:00 GMT

Most of us assume that grocery cart handles are pretty germy things. How disgusting are they? Researchers at the University of Arizona found that they contain more saliva, bacteria and fecal matter than most public toilets.

Yes, I'm talking about the same shopping cart handle your kid recently wrapped his mouth around like a pacifier. Ewwwwww doesn't even describe it.

But as our own Madline Holler mentioned this week and ABC News reported yesterday -- some grocery stores are trying to make those nasty-ass carts much more sanitary. How? By installing car-wash-like machines that spray them with a sanitizing mist, thereby eliminating 99 percent of germs. It's like giving your shopping cart a Purell shower just before you head to the cereal aisle.

On one hand, I think this is a great idea. If these grocery receptacles are truly that filthy, then getting rid of the yuck factor -- especially during cold and flu season -- is a healthy, wonderful thing to do. On the other hand, part of me says, really? Have we become so uptight that we have to make our grocery carts lather, rinse and repeat? Last I checked, kids have been drooling and sneezing on these things for several decades and somehow, we've all survived.

So far only 20 stores nationwide -- including the one in Chevy Chase, Md., not far from my home, that is featured in the ABC News piece -- have these apparatuses. With the economy in its current state, I doubt many grocery chains are going to invest in these machines right now. But if you could have one in your local store, would you want it? Or do you think we're taking our obsession with cleanliness a little too far?

Add a comment and let us know. But please, disinfect your hands before you type.

Image: PureCart Systems Via ABC News

Today, a Good Cry With Sherri Shepherd

Madeline Holler — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 21:04:00 GMT

We'll go back to making fun of The View's dingbat mom Sherri Shepherd after today. And also screeching at the TV screen over Elisabeth Hasselbeck's wisdoms.

But today, let's see if you can hold back the tears during Sherri's recounting of what Barack Obama's win means to her and her son and no more limitations.

(Though, we're also as incredulous as Barbara that it took her up until late last week to decide on a candidate). Now grab a tissue.

Also, don't forget to take a look at Hasselbeck's gracious acceptance of Obama's win.

Video: You Tube, ABCNews

They Say: Bad News For Gov. Palin

Madeline Holler — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 21:28:00 GMT

There's no such thing as a safe tan.

Even though she made it through getting chided earlier this week for installing a tanning bed in the governor's mansion (she paid for it herself, remember), the whole apparatus and tanning process could bring her this much closer to her running mate, John McCain, who has survived several bouts of skin cancer.

Here's the deal (from Yahoo!):

The link between skin cancer and damage from ultraviolet light from the sun or tanning booths is well known but the review published in the journal Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research suggests that even a little exposure is dangerous.

"The signals in the cells that induce sun tanning appear to be DNA damage," said Dorothy Bennett, a cell biologist at St. George's, University of London, who wrote one of the papers.

"DNA damage is the first step in getting a mutation in cells that could lead to cancer, so there can't be anything like a safe tan."

Guess it's back to the bronzing beads.

Morning News: Palin's Deep Dark Savage Beauty Secret!

They Say: Country Livin's Not So Safe For Kids

Photo: abcnews.com

Morning News: Sarah P. Soothes Some, Induces Spit-Takes in Others

Madeline Holler — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 13:00:00 GMT

If you like Sarah Palin, then you think she nailed her first one-on-one interviews as a vice presidential candidate. Everybody else is doing spit-takes. Today in Morning News, we'll set you up with video links and transcripts and a fantastic essay on the sisters of the traveling Palin.

You know, it's almost the weekend and we need to lighten up a little, too. We have uncovered the most overpaid Hollywood actress -- she's a mom. We would also like to announce the birth of a new baby -- he IS the greatest. And, finally! Someone has determined where the most beautiful people live (settle down, Cleveland, you didn't win). Also, we hand you the one key to a happy marriage. (PS: Not a key to a happy marriage? Changing large animal diapers.)

OK, progressives, you've been warned. Finish your coffee before reading more.

In our Daily Palin, it's all about her interviews with Charlie Gibson, which they're sprinkling around the network -- last night on World News and Nightline. This morning Good Morning America and the later 20/20. You can watch short clips or read the transcripts all over the ABC site (reading makes her sound more steady than she actually appears in the clips.) Here's the clip [via CNN] that has the war weary apoplectic -- she says war with Russia might be necessary.

Now, if you're wondering about these droves of Palin supporters -- who are they? what's their deal ? -- we think this is one of the best pieces written so far trying to articulate it. Basically, these women don't care what wave of feminism we're in or really much about the history of the women and power or even history of really anything. They just know that Sarah's like them! And they're good people! Good people who are good to other people! Also, Palin does not wield a big brain around and smash others over the head with it. Palin works hard. Laughs easily. Cares about her hair. She doesn't put her kids above all else (you're surprised, but this is an important matter to many.). Charlie could press her on the Bush Doctrine (as he did), she could flail (as she did), and these supporters wouldn't care one bit. Why? Because they don't know what the Bush Doctrine is either! The upshot? Sarah Palin is the candidate you'd most want in your book club (just like W. was the candidate you'd most want to have a beer with).

Obama, this guy's got some tips for you. Sounds like you might try some.

Good God-planned-global-warming! That wasn't Morning News ... that was Morning Commentary! Pardon us, please. Dragging ... self ... from Palin ... vortex.

... Guess who the most overpaid celebrity is? Her movies earn $1 for every dollar she's paid. A few years ago, she brought in $8 for every dollar she took home. It's Nicole Kidman. How embarassing. But her new baby probably doesn't care. Jennifer Garner and Tom Cruise came in second and third.

Not embarrassing is this news: Laila Ali gave birth to a son in late August. His name is Curtis Muhammad Conway. Prediction: considering his DNA, "CJ" (for Curtis Junior) will be a bad-ass.

Do you look around and say, "Damn, the world has gotten ugly"? Then you clearly don't live in Miami. Travel + Leisure ranked the city No. 1 in most beautiful residents. Dead last? Philadelphia (again! Second year in a row ... the City of Brotherly Bags Over Their Heads?).

Is your marriage falling apart for reasons you can't explain? Maybe you should see a financial adviser rather than a marriage counselor. Financial soundness is apparently the key to a happy partnership.

Finally, we know you're sick of the diapers -- what parent isn't. But here's a little perspective. Some horses in the U.K. are now required to wear equine Depends and, well, at least you don't have to change those!

Morning News: The Daily Grind of Sex and Politics ... and Lipstick on Pigs

Morning News: Fully Caffeinated With a Hint of Sarah Palin

Photo: NY Times

Political Nanny: Elizabeth Edwards Supports Husband, Wants Privacy

Madeline Holler — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 05:04:00 GMT

Elizabeth Edwards has posted comments on her husband's affair -- and how it is being reported on -- in her Daily Kos diary.

You can read the full entry here. This is how she begins:

Our family has been through a lot. Some caused by nature, some caused by human weakness, and some – most recently – caused by the desire for sensationalism and profit without any regard for the human consequences. None of these has been easy. But we have stood with one another through them all. Although John believes he should stand alone and take the consequences of his action now, when the door closes behind him, he has his family waiting for him.

She knew about the affair after it ended in 2006 and said, as a couple, the began he healing process. She said the painful process was oddly made easier with her diagnosis in March 2007. She also does not believe allegations that John fathered a daughter with Rielle Hunter.

Political Nanny: Edwards Admits He Cheated on Elizabeth

Photo: HarryWalker.com

Political Nanny: Edwards Admits He Cheated on Elizabeth

Madeline Holler — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 20:42:00 GMT

Hold you nose when you read this: John Edwards, former candidate for the Democratic nomination for president, told ABC News that, indeed, he had an affair with Rielle Hunter, the woman whom the National Enquirer named as the mother of a John Edwards love child.

In an interview to be broadcast tonight on Nightline, Edwards said he did have an affair with the filmmaker. But that he did not love her.

Edwards denies that he's father of Frances Quinn, Rielle's baby girl. But he has not taken a paternity test. From ABC News:

Edwards said he knew he was not the father based on timing of the baby's birth on February 27, 2008. He said his affair ended too soon for him to have been the father.

Um, John, are you totally sure about that?

Though it likely doesn't need reminding, Edwards has been married for a billion years to the very popular Elizabeth Edwards, who is battling cancer. The two have four children together.

If you're baffled (or pissed) that this story has been in the news, skim this for strong arguments for why it's with the ink/bandwidth.

Magazine Releases Photos of Edwards and Alleged 'Love Child'

Who's on the Birth Certificate of Edwards' Alleged Love Child?

Political Nanny: Did John Edwards Father a Love Child?

Photo: ABC News

72-Year-Old Gives Birth to Twins

Madeline Holler — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 12:31:00 GMT

She's officially the oldest woman to give birth in the world. At a spry 72-years-old, Omkari Panwar, mother of two and grandmother of five, gave birth to a set of twins earlier this month.

Mom gave birth to the boy and girl via c-section in her home state of Uttar Pradesh in northern India. The pregnancy was extremely difficult and she's not doing so well now either.

The 75-year-old father says the couple is very happy, even though their fellow villagers range from stunned to disgusted by the fact that this couple underwent IVF at such a late, late time in their lives.

From ABCnews.com

Singh was reluctant to speak because he has received negative publicity for his wife's having children at such an advanced age. ... "The desire for a male child has always been there, but God did not bless us with a male child," he said of the son who is a product of in vitro fertilization. "Now, we are very grateful to God, who has answered our prayers."

The babies are doing well, despite being a month premature. The pregnancy was quite difficult, according to reports, and the mother had been on bedrest for eight months of the pregnancy.

Wow. I usually get behind these aging mamas, but in this case, I think I'm irritated at the whole male heirs thing. In any case, it's all between her and her doctor (who thought she was 65, incidentally ... sure, big difference). Incidentally, they used their life savings AND took out a loan to pay the doctor for the IVF treatments, etc. What a lucky male heir (and daughter) they produced!

Britain's Oldest Mum Still Old, Still a Mum

Photo: worldrecordsacademy.org

Attack of the Monkey Children

Brett Singer — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 20:00:00 GMT

When your children get older and (finally!) move out of the house, what are your plans?

a)   Move to a smaller place
b)   Turn their room into a casino
c)   Adopt a monkey

No, I didn't make that last one up. Amazingly, there are people that, when confronted with so-called "empty nest" syndrome, decide that the thing to do is to adopt a monkey.

Now, before you think, "aw, how cute, a monkey as a pet" or even, "what a horrible idea, having a monkey as a pet", you need to know one thing: many of these monkeys are not treated as pets. They are treated as children. They call them – monkids.

Tonight at 10pm on ABC, "Primetime: The Outsiders" will profile Lori and Jim Johnson, a couple of lunatics humans from Orlando, Florida who have a capuchin monkey named Jessy as a…pet child. Lori had "adopted" the primate prior to marrying Jim; Lori told ABC News that "living with Jessy was 'all part of the deal' and that [Jim] 'signed up for both' when he married Lori." I know love is hard to find, but if a woman tells me on the first date that she has a monkey that she dresses in children's clothing, that said monkey eats at the table with her, and that she treats said monkey as if she were her daughter, including referring to the monkey as "my daughter", I'm thinking there's no second date, much less a wedding. But hey, who am I to judge? Check out these pictures. They certainly look happy. Well, "mom" does. Hard to tell how the monkey feels about all this.

This story was actually reported on by the Orlando Sentinel back in April; here's the story, and video (via BoingBoing). According to the Sentinel, there are 15,000 people in the U.S. who own/live with/adopt monkeys, despite the fact that the practice is illegal in 20 states. There's even a magazine that caters to monkey owners/adopters/parents (sheesh, what exactly do you call these people?)

For a slightly different take, let's be sure to mention Angelle Sampey, a successful professional motorcycle racer with a monkid. According to ABC News, she wanted to have kids, but didn't feel that she could while pursuing a pro racing career. "I can't race and, you know, bear a child… And I thought adopting a monkey as a surrogate child would be a good thing to do." So no empty-nest for her; the monkey is instead of a human child.

Myself, I think I'd just get a dog.

So tonight at 10pm, ABC. Have fun.

images: abcnews.com

Your baby is ugly