Wednesday Morning Jane

By CJP | August 6, 2008

Good morning, Janes! Even though the opening ceremonies aren’t until Friday, the Olympics kicked off this morning, with USA vs. Norway women’s soccer. A few early developments: We learned Brandi Chastain, the color commentator, is no longer a blond. We also learned that the Americans may not win the gold, since Norway scored twice in the first five minutes.

Not to worry ladies. In the words of the Olympic founder, Pierre de Coubertin,”The essential thing is not to have conquered but to have fought well.” (And to make the cover of Sports Illustrated.) And in the words of CJP, here’s your Morning Jane…

Top Domestic Story: Campaign 2008

• Despite both candidates’ talk about fighting special interests, McCain and Obama each has wealthy donors at the heart of their campaigns. The New York Times says Obama courts big-money supporters with phone calls, notes and meals, while the Washington Post writes about a McCain friend who brought in large donations from a Rite Aide manager and Arab business owners who have never given politically before.
• Speaking of cash, we thought Barack Obama’s $5 million Olympic ad buy was a little excessive, until we heard about John McCain’s plans to spend $6 million during the Games. Because McCain is using public funds for the general, he needs to spend all of his primary funds before the RNC convention. [AP]
• The Denver City Council has passed an ordinance barring protesters from carrying buckets of poo during the DNC convention. The protest group “re-create 68″ protested the decision, naturally, saying they’ve already promised not to carry poo as a part of their activities. [USA Today]

Top International Story: Joey Cheek, the American gold medalist for speed skating, had his Chinese visa revoked hours before he was to leave for Beijing. Cheek has been an outspoken critic of China’s role in Darfur and said, “I didn’t see it coming.” Dana Perino said the White House would protest the decision. [AP]

Troops in Mauritania have staged a coup and overthrown the government in the tiny African nation. After the country’s president fired several top Army officials, soldiers retaliated by arresting him and the Prime Minister and forming their own governing council. [BBC]

If you travel with a laptop, you may not have to take it out of your bag at airport security anymore. The TSA has issued a new rule, specifying which “checkpoint friendly” bags will do. You’ll have to buy the new, TSA-approved design, with no snaps, buckles, pockets or zippers, on sale this month. [ Washington Times]

Katie Holmes- Pegging her jeans, cutting her hair, possibly preggers? [Daily Mail]

Topics: Morning Jane

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