You know what's sad? Germany's economy sucks, there are no jobs and yet Schoeder's party, which has presided over this failure, still got 33 percent of the vote. Anti-Americanism and promises to keep government programs alive - still a winning message.

But let's focus on the important stories of the day...

The Patriots suck eggs today.

The Marlins really blew chunks yesterday in the top of the 9th. Took a shutout into the 9th, then gave up 10 runs. Not good, not good at all.

My playoff hopes are fading like a SnoCone in the Sahara.

Slublog said: Anti-Americanism and promises to keep government programs alive - still a winning message.

It works for the Demos here as well.

Somewhat true, at times.

Hey, we're back to a three-point game, but the Pats are sucking again. The interception was great, but...oh, crap. Quarterback sack.

"Fringe groups" is just wrong. I think you don't understand the role of SPD, CDU, FDP and Greens in German politics???

I think you don't understand the role of SPD, CDU, FDP and Greens in German politics???

Court jesters? Professional fools?

Squanderers of public largess par extrordinaire?

Worst I've seen the patriots play in ages.

Maybe they're not all that.

It was a terrible game for the Pats. No super bowl if they keep playing like that.

Of course, now I'm watching the Dolphins and the Jets, and Miami's game is making the Patriots look good.

That Pats game was FUGGGGG-LEEEE.

Oh, and Ace? You can take back what I wrote you about the Eagles. Granted, it was San Fran, but they beat the shit out of them like Wayne Brady and a hooker.

I think that after the Falcons last week, they may have issues with anger.

Cheers,
Dave at Garfield Ridge

No, fugly is having the choice between watching the Bengals blow out the Vikings, or the Steelers blow out the Texans.

Yawn.

At least I'll be able to see the Redskins pathetic efforts on Monday in glorious high definition.

I mean, look at that. Miami might as well not have a defense.

A fumble on the goal line?

That's pretty bad.

Harry, please don't tell my you're a Skins fan.

I wouldn't wish that on anyone.

I wish I wasn't.

But I am.

(sigh)

Well, thank heavens we have established the relative importance of European politics and American football.

I was an exchange student in Germany many years ago. I suspect that we underestimate the resevoir of goodwill that Germans have for America. Sure, it's masked by their need to assert themselves and define their country as something other than a conquered American stooge. But I think the goodwill is still there.

You're right, Michael: The goodwill is still there. Too bad it is masquerading as neo-nazism.

More importantly, Carolina was redeemed today and the Red Sox have been harkened back to reality.

It's great to be a sports-fan. It's great to be an American, too.

P.S. How 'bout that German pope?
Huh? Huh? This proves my theory that Germans love German popes (and David Hasselhoff).