The Conservative Voice of America

Reflections...

2009-08-03T20:25:00.000-07:00

So many thousands there are, working very hard to unravel the mysteries of Obama's health care plan. And, they are doing one heck of a job! As one of the many who have read HR 3200, the health care bill in the House, I find so much to be anxious about; so much to be afraid of. However, with anger and dismay roiling inside me, I had to take a break, and just think of other things for a minute. Not that the bill itself is a travesty waiting to happen, and perhaps I should stay the course, and inform the public further regarding the dirty details, I simply had to catch my breath.

So, I went to my front porch and sat and watched nature unfolding before me. Occasionally, while watching the birds flitting about, and the leaves of the trees shaking as if to break the tethers holding them to their assigned places on the branches above me, I would hear another sound. This sound was not of natures making, rather, of natures urging. It was different, and seemed out of place, but it persisted none the less. I leaned forward and looked up, and there I saw "old Glory", securely fastened to the overhanging roof. It was she who had been snapping, almost snarling, as if trying to waken me from a slumber. I gazed at this symbol of America, and thought of the days when I carried her on the parade grounds of Fort Hood, Texas, and Fort Gordon, Georgia, and even in Frankfurt, West Germany. I was proud to have been selected to carry the "colors", and did so with the greatest of reverence.

A car passed by, and I wondered if the occupant inside ever thought for a minute about our flag, and the storied history associated with it's inception into the public consciousness of America. Fourth of July parades, Independence day celebrations came into my mind, and I thought of my grandsons, and their learning how to properly show respect for the flag of their country.At first, they would uncover, removing their caps, and place their right hands over their hearts, somewhat in awe, and somewhat in confusion too.

Time has passed, and they now understand why it is they pause in honor, and the same pride I always feel, courses through their minds and hearts also. They know of the Declaration of Independence, and the Constitution in an abstract way, but it is the flag itself that provokes their sense of wonderment, their pride in their country. The flag is beautiful to see any time at all, but especially moreso, when carried by men or women in the uniforms of our country's military. They are these same men and women who are at times called upon to defend their country from the intentions of evil throughout the world. An evil which cares not; an evil which threatens; and an evil these men and women know must be defeated. This lesson too, has been impressed upon these young minds, and they carry the message with them at all times.

Old Glory, has always been a source of pride, and a constant warning to those same people harboring evil thoughts about America. She flies high, and proudly so, a reminder that it is we who are embraced of her, and we, who embrace her willingly, as have many others throughtout the last 233 years of this country's history.

Yet, her travels have not always been the easiest kind, nor have her many victories come without a cost in human life. Freedom, we are told, comes not easily, and certainly not without a price to pay. Those best understanding this simple concept would tell you so, and someday, in God's Heaven above, we shall have the opportunity to meet these patriots, and ask them this simple question: Why did you sacrifice all? Their answers will surprise you, and humble you, still, we will know what they say, and why they answer us this way.

I urge you to read the famous American comedian, Red Skelton's recounting of how his grade school teacher explained the Pledge of Allegiance to he and his fellow students: I--me, a committee of one, PLEDGE--dedicate all my worldly goods to give without self-pity, ALLEGIANCE--My love and my devotion, TO THE FLAG--Our standard, Old Glory; a symbol of freedom, wherever she waves, there is respect because your loyalty has given her a dignity that shouts, Freedom is everybody's job!

Further along, Red said, " Since I was a small boy, two stars have been added to the flag, and two words have been added to the Pledge of Allegiance: "Under God." Wouldn't it be a pity if someone said that is a prayer, and that would be eliminated from schools too?

"Old Glory's name derives from one Captain William Driver, who was a shipmaster from Salem, Massachusetts, in 1831. He flew a brand new flag of twenty four stars from the Charles Doggett, a brig, and upon first raising her, proclaimed: Old Glory! Captain Driver's flag was recovered by Union soldiers in 1862, from his home in Nashville, Tennessee. He, and they took his beloved "Old Glory" and hoisted it over the capitol building in Nashville, replacing a smaller standard raised first by Union soldiers. They cheered together.

And what of Francis Scott key? The flag he saw by the dawn's early light was a flag constructed by Mary Young Pickersgill, "a maker of colors". This flag was commissioned by Major George Armistead, commander of Fort McHenry. He wanted a flag large enough to be seen by the attacking British, and he got exactly what he wanted. The flag sewn together by Mary and her 13 year old daughter, Caroline, measured 30 by 42 feet and cost a whopping $405.92. The British could not miss this flag, and neither did Francis Scott Key, either. When dawn broke, the "flag was still there!" So too, was Key's place in American history.

As the health care debate rages on, and may we savor victory soon, I leave you with two things to ponder over:

First, from Ruth Apperson Rous, and her work titled: "I Am The Flag", "... Americans, I am the sacred emblem of your country. I symbolize your birthright, your heritage of liberty purchased with blood and sorrow...Eternal vigilance is your price of freedom...Guard me well, lest your freedom perish from the earth...Dedicate your lives to those principles for which I stand " One nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all." Ms. Rous' admonitions are well taken, and keenly timely, aren't they

?Second, "The American's Creed" This was penned by William Tyler Page, a descendant of John Page, of Virginia, who had come to America in 1650. Another ancestor, Carter Braxton, had signed the Declaration of Independence. Yet another ancestor was John Tyler, the tenth president of the United States. The Creed is as follows:"I believe in the united States of America as a government of the people, by the people, for the people, whose just powers are derived from the consent of the governed; a democracy in a republic; a sovereign nation of many sovereign states; a perfect union, one and inseparable; established upon those principles of freedom, equality, justice, and humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes.I therefore believe it is my duty to love it; to support it's Constitution; to obey it's laws; to respect it's flag, and to defend it against all enemies."This American Creed, written in 1918, is the summary of the fundamental principles of the American political faith. We must advance, not retard these precepts, and remember why they were written at all. You won't be hearing any of the preceeding at any of the next scheduled "apology tours", and you certainly won't be hearing them during the contentious debates(?) in our Congress, either.

Those are my thoughts this fine day, as my flag unfurled above my head, snaps and snarls. It warns me, and us, that we, as red Skelton warned, must not allow God to be taken from us and our Pledge. It beckons that we also see, as francis Scott Key saw, that the flag will still be there, not just there, but there in all it's glory. It cautions us too, that our government is comprised of people just like us, and we are the ones who are the authorizing power in America. We have nothing to be ashamed of, lest we lose our will and our determination.

None of that will happen any time soon, will it?

"Sic Semper Tyrannis!" (Thus Always To Tyrants!).

Gee, Who Would Have Believed It Would Be This Easy?

2009-01-24T02:52:00.000-08:00

Calling the role has never been easier, has it?

That squishiness you hear is the sound of Republicans beating down the door of the Liberal palace, and demanding entrance into the festive party going on inside. That "sucking sound" you hear, (apologies to Ross Perot) is the sound of Republican elites, and assorted Rinos, drawing the life blood from the Republican party we once revered. The stampede has begun, and responsibility is a casualty of the mad dash to the circle of the "I wanna be loved too" crowd.
With only a few good men left, such as Congressman Mike Pence, and Senator John Cornyn, our party is largely bereft of adult leadership.

Still struggling with the notion of ridding the party of the dreaded NASCAR bunch, those gun lovin', Bible toting southern "hicks", northeast (it pains me to say) Republican wise men, want to recast the party in their vision of what is best. Kinda' like Obama wantng to "remake " America, I believe. The battle goes on, for OUR hearts and souls. Wait a minute there! That's MY heart, and MY soul they're talking about. Funny, nobody bothered to tell me we were in an important life and death struggle, how about you?

"No pastels!", Reagan warned us, and he was right on. Therefore, as I see it, the party, litterally, is up for grabs. This is one party I don't want to miss, nor should any of you either. It's there for the taking, what say we "git 'er done!" in the words of one of those same southern "hicks" so despised, but. yet, so loved by all of us. It makes me want to go out and buy a brand spanking new pickup truck, complete with gun rack and Bible. But should it be a Ford, Chevy, Dodge, or maybe a growling Toyota? The only auto manufacturing facilities making real money, and not with the help of "bailout" money, are those in, you guessed it---the Southern US! Let's be careful, we don't want to be called bigots, or snobs or racists of some kind, do we? No, that's best done by the Libs, and now, their willingly abetting partners, the former Republicans in good standing.

How about those defenders of the poor, and the oppressed? Today, President Obama stood proudly beside the "real" president, Greg Craig, and defiantly, and proudly asserted he was closing Guantanimo. Of course the very next thing to do was to suspend all actions taken against those poor detainees in the hell hole known simply as Gitmo. Like me, I'll bet you can't wait for those two hundred, help, I've fallen down, and can't get up, defenders of Islam, to be broought stateside, and placed in federal prisons. I know, I know, they will liven up those dreary places with their version of "here's why I hate America", ringing off the walls. Do you think it probable that real Americans incarcerated in those same facilities, won't take up the same kind of message? Nothing like having the next generation of home grown terrorists, cultivated right there within the walls of Sing Sing, or Leavenworth, is there?

And to think, we have none other than the merciful Obama to thank for all this. In the short space of seventy two hours, the man we were asked to just "give a chance", has outdone himself, and compromised the safety of America. All in two fell swoops of the presidential pen on two remarkable executive orders. (explained to an adoring public by Monsieur Gregg Craig, the one who knows what Obama thinks best, but can't articulate very well)

In short, The One, but not the Only, has done more to assure us of yet more acts of terror, and of uncertain days in our nation's schools. Will Obama be the next president to be told, while reading to a class of second grade students, that our nation is under attack once again? Don't ask, and I will not tell. Oops! That's another concern for another day, isn't it? Forgive me my insensitive nature. Just habit.

Take heed in the words of Omar Khayyam, in his Rubaiyat. The poem, "The moving finger writes, and having writ moves on" It goes on, "nor all your piety, nor wit, shall lure it back to cancel half a line, nor all your tears wash out a word of it" Brilliant in it's cociseness, and so prophetic indeed. We may cry, yes, but our tears shall not wash away, nor may we convince Obama, to cancel his executive orders. His finger has written, and it moves on to the next promise, the next act of defiance against America.

The Poet, The Preacher, And Little Else

2009-01-20T18:59:00.000-08:00

There was something borrowed, something old, but little new today at the inauguration of Barack H. Obama in Washington DC. For those who expected to get more, they'll have to settle for having gotten less.Let's be clear here. As inaugural speeches go, this one fell woefully short on substance, and most importantly, offered no visions for all Americans to wrap their hands, and their hearts around. The lofty oratorical skills prominently on display during his campaign, eluded President Obama on this, his most important day. One might suggest that anyone attempting to wring the kind of speech to last, while in the grasp of an ideology foreign to the best interests of his country, was doomed to failure from the get-go. And that would be a fair criticism.

President Obama, it has been said, wrote this speech himself, while ignoring the reality that even a lawyer, which he is, in defending himself, would have a fool for a client. There is absolutely nothing wrong at all with wanting to give one of the more memorable inauguration speeches in this country's storied history. This, I believe I could do. Not because I might be the better at it, but simply, because I would have history, and it's lessons on my side. How easy, how Reaganesque it would be to state emphatically that it is the greatness of America, and it's many citizens, which point the way out of the doldrums. Reagan's telling us that ""...We have every right to dream heroic dreams..." is one such vision that lingers still in the minds of those who heard him on that January day, in 1981, at his own first inauguration. In saying this, my very thoughts were validated, as I am sure, were yours also.

Yes, there were moments during Obama's speech, when he borrowed, literally, from Reagan. I find no fault in that, for anything evoking the memory of one of America's most venerable patriots, is welcome. Obama though, is no Reagan. Let that be understood. In his second inaugural address, Reagan opined that "...We will ever be vigilant, and never vulnerable...". How is that for a vision of hopefulness, and of determination?

In reading through the many previous inaugural addreses, made by the presidents past, it was never about them, but about us, and about America's rightful place in the world. And that brings us to today.

The poet, Elizabeth Alexander, gave to us her poem "Praise Song For The Day". It seemed to be little more than a recital of past sins, and of former grievances, as now having found their day forward to the sun shining brightly above. In his benediction, the "rhyming reverend, Joseph Lowery, said to a laughing audience, "We ask you to help us work for that day, when black will not be asked to get in back, when brown can stick around, when yellow can be mellow, when the red man, can get ahead, man, and when white will embrace what is right." This was more a political speech, rather than a benediction. Besides, who needs the likes of the Reverend Lowery? We have no need, nor desire to be lectured to on this very important day. Or were they admonitions of a sort?

The swollen crowds got their last chance to greet former President Bush one last time, and they did so gleefully with a one fingered salute, or to be fair, were the salutes given from the ends of arthritic stricken hands? Just wondering.

The appointed hour came, and the opportunity to strike conciliatory chords disappeared in but an instant. Then again, there is always the next inauguration, isn't there? Sarah, are you still there?

Today was a day of major disappointment, but not a disapponting day. Mount Rushmore is safer than ever, and the granite blocks will have to wait for better days. Engravers go home!

A moment of continuity assured, was cast aside in favor of a so-called "New Day Beginning". The only historical lapses are those never recorded by the people making what would become history. Yet, we are told, that we must "recast America". Into what, and from what?

Wouldn't you have loved to have heard Sarah give a similar speech? A speech truly drawing the strings of a divided country closer unto itself?

From The Mouths Of Babes

2009-01-14T14:15:00.000-08:00

Bet you thought I was going to dazzle you with a few utterances made by Hillary, or Janet, or Madelyn, or any of the other talented Liberals in America. No, these comments came from the mouth of a young lad of seven years. In addition to his being a bit fearful of losing some of his freedoms due to his class mates talkitiveness, he is interested in being home schooled, or so he says. I smiled at first, but halfway through the second smile, my mind turned seriously in the direction of Why Not?

Traditional schooling certainly has merits, and God knows they, the teachers, do a good job, or try to at least. This young first gader was full of questions. He wanted to know if I could be his teacher, to which I replied, "Of course!" He went all the way through grade school, and high school, wanting to know whether or not the work would be hard for him. In all honesty, I told him the work would be as hard, probably much harder than he currently experiences at his public school. I assured him that he would become much smarter, and would be in a better position to go on in life as a successful young man.

He went further. He asked me about college, and would I be his college teacher. No, was my reply. When you are ready for college, it is they who will come looking for you. They will do this for they can see you would be a very valuable asset to their school. Wait a minute, I thought. here we were but five minutes from his school, and already he was asking questions about college. Where did all this come from, I wondered?

Of course, in admitting that he would henceforth refer to me as Mister Pop Pop, his home school teacher, I sensed that he was very serious indeed. My sister, the one who likes to stick her pin into every bubble of youthful opportunity, squashed the idea by telling him that I could not be his teacher, for I was not qualified to teach. At this, I also smiled, but the smile gave way to thoughts of why the heck couldn't I be his teacher? Secretly, I have been doing just that for several years now, so, why not continue on pace?

Here we are. He, willing to be taught, and I, willing to teach. First, we set up a "home school" schedule for us both. Within that schedule, he gets to learn, and to play at appropriate times. He shall learn things not taught at his traditional school, things left behind so many years ago in the curricula of those times. No one may scoff at this idea, not even my sister who is herself, well qualified to speak of such things.

He shall first learn of the US Constitution, and he will learn that it is the law of the land. He shall also, learn that this revered document is not a "living "screed as many would have him believe. It is the most formal of declarations, one designed by free men, for free men. Never should this document, so consistent in it's assertions, be disavowed, or changed by the whimsical fantasies of men who do not completely understand it's relative importance to the vitality of our country, America. His shall be a respectful holding to the tenets therein laid out for him, and all other Americans as well.

He will fully know and understand the Bill of Rights, what they mean, and most importantly, why they were written in the first place. he shall understand "enumeration" as a principle, and how it relates to what government may, as well as may not, do. He shall learn that government exists for the sole purpose of defending our country in times of crisis, and assuring us we have the infrastructure upon which the wheels of commerce turn freely. He shall learn to look down upon government as being the provider of benefits to please him. His understanding shall be that it is he, who will best determine what benefits, and of which kind, shall be his. And those same benefits will be of his design, and not of surrogate others who purport to act only in his interest.

This young lad, by virtue of his enhanced understanding of things, will, in the future, be moved to act in the interests of others less fortunate than himself, and not because some one else made that decision for him, and those same others. His will be a life of purpose, a sense of which will not escape his knowledge any time soon.

In the fullness of adult maturation, will his having held to the principles of successful accomplishment become apparent to him. He shall teach others, and they too, will come to understand that his interests are their interests, and their country's interests. Many will they be, who follow his lead, and for that, shall we, as a people, be forever grateful. His teachers, all of them, will look upon him and his disciples with gratuitous pride, and perhaps the wisp of a knowing smile will emerge. Yes, the smiles shall also come, and they will be telling.

Be not afraid to dream the large dreams, I shall counsel him. By this time though, shall his own realization of the value of following your dreams, and your heart, be very well known. Others who have dreamed thus, did so for a person just like him, and for countless others. This would make them very happy. It is making me very happy just to dream as I am doing this minute.

And now? I've got to be getting back to the "home school" phase of this little man's education. He just now, walked into my room and requested my presence in his "classroom" across the hall. It has already begun...

Lincoln "Logs"

2009-01-08T21:10:00.000-08:00

Today. I was struck! No, not by lightning, nor anything else so sinister, but, struck I was. I received an email offer that solicited my money in exchange for a new coin. Not any old coin mind you, but an absolutely genuine Lincoln/Obama silver dollar coin. The coin is a non-circulating, of Liberian origin, coin. The offer is dazzling, and quite persistent in it's appeal to one who might be moved to collect such a treasure.

So, there I sat, struck by the striking of this magnificent coin, with it's message of direct linkage of these two men in all their presidential glory.I was struck by something else as well. The price. For only 19.95 dollars, you may have this inflated, valueless coin as your very own.Then I got to thinking. I wondered what old Honest Abe would have thought or said about this generosity? Well, let's take a closer look, and see what we find.

In 1832, after suffering the only defeat of his career in a run for the Illinois legislature, Lincoln said ths to his supporters, and to all the people of his district: "...Considering the great degree of modesty which should always attend youth, it is probable I have already been more presuming than becomes me..." He further noted that "...so soon as I discover my opinions to be erronious, I shall be ready to renounce them." This most humble man knew his limitations, and always seemed to be apologetic in discussing his decisions; his understandings.

And what of his ambitions? "Every man is said to have his peculiar ambition. Whether it be true or not, I can say for one that I have no other so great as that of being truly esteemed of my fellow men, by rendering myself worthy of their esteem." This, said in his concluding remarks of that day. March 9, 1832, tells us precisely how grounded Lincoln was. He held himself not above others, rather, labored at their will, and with their trust in him so paramount in his mind.

That Liberian coin I spoke of earlier, has of course, Lincoln on the obverse side, and Obama on the reverse(in glorious color no less). Upon hearing the president-elect's economic speech today at George Mason University, Virginia, one may not help but contrast the views of the young Lincoln, and the views of the young Obama. Lincoln held himself to the propiety of his actions, as they related to the good being done for the Union, or the country. He spoke often of each man in Congress, along with himself, as being accountable in specific and not general terms. None of them might escape history, nor the remembrances thereof. Obama speaks from the lofty perch of one with his party's goals in mind, and not the greater goal of betterment for all the people, all the country.

Today's economic speech was more a blueprint for disaster, than a plan for economic recovery. Government is at the apex of the menu tree, seen as the only means of correcting what is merely a market correction reacting to disastrous government decisions relating to social mandates forced upon the financial markets. Lncoln would have recognized his mistake, had he made one so profound, and would also have renounced his mistake, and himself.

Today, Obama's plan became ever more clear. Our leftward drift has become a pall mall dash in reach of the tentacles of an unforgiving socialism. Our collective futures are now officially at risk, and we have ony a blithe recognition made by members of the loyal opposition. Our tabula rasa has now been written upon, and on it are the instructions for economic decay, loss of sovereignty as a nation, and loss of pride. Pride in our country, it's ideals, it's traditions, and it's institutions.

In his annual message to Congress on December 1, 1862, Abraham Lincoln was preoccupied with his idea of "remunerative emancipation", however, he concluded his message with a warning: "Fellow citizens, we cannot escape history. We, of this Congress, and this administration, will be remembered in spite of ourselves. No personal significance, or insignificance, can spare one or another of us."Lincoln was speaking of events leading up to his signing the Emancipatiion Proclamation into national law one month later. He full well understood the implications of adherence to his humble nature, and his responsibilities to the country at large. He spoke for all men, for he was one of them. His words that followed may be used to underscore our current dilemma:" "...We shall nobly save, or meanly lose, the last best hope of earth...and God must forever bless."

In short, although Lincoln and Obama share the same state, they do not share Lincoln's vision for a UNITED America, an America of promise for all it's citizens, and not the selected few. Obama's range of vision is comparable to a horse running his race with blinders, not at the side, but covering it's eyes completely. This horse must lose, as it may not see it's way to progress of any kind, especially the kind America desperately needs right now.

No, I think I'll pass on that fantastic offer of the two-headed coin of improbability..

The Hard Pressed Press

2009-01-07T18:21:00.000-08:00

With news this week from France, comes the revelation that President Sarkozy sees the following: "...from this current crisis, will a new world emerge." Of course, Sarkozy was referencing the many riotous actions occurring in many of France's cities. Cars ablaze, shops looted, and all in the name of displeasure over Israel's actions taken against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The press, although not underplaying the mayhem, did grossly under report the many events of national distress so evident to a casual observer.

Of course, there were similar occasions of boistrous denunciation of Israel here in America, notably in Florida. A woman, obviously in support of the Palestinians, was heard to say that " We need bigger ovens!", a reference to the Nazi extermination devices found in every liberated concentration camp in Second World War Germany. Nice talk coming from Americans one might think, but were these people really Americans, or were they merely pretenders wearing the image hiding Burkhas? Nor was Oklahoma City free of the dissenting protestors. About 200 mostly Islamic (Americans?) paraded in front of Oklahoma's capitol building also.

CAIR (Council on American Islamic Affairs) members were also visible, both on the streets, and on the tube. Quite naturally, the protests were framed by references made to the civilian casualties suffered by the Palestinians. Is it appropriate to wonder why there were not similar protests against the Palestinians when they were sending their child suicide bombers into Israel over the past many years? The press in it's haste to provide only the news they deem worth reporting, are caught within the horns of an 800 pound dilemma. TV, and youtube videos are better sources of instant news, though in the case of television, the networks also have an agenda of their own. They will simply not report real news when it is happening, unless a "fair" balance can be struck between warring parties.

Europe burns! But that is not the real story. Why can't everyone just "get along" they ask rhetorically? Today, a man, a real man, is tempted to ask where are this generation's "Horace Greelys"? Greely, a noted editor of the New York Tribune, a man who looked more like Benjamin Franklin, than did Franklin himself, is most known for having advised "Go west, young man, go west, and grow with the country!" Today, some 143 years later, fewer and fewer young men, and women too, are going in any direction which would allow them to "grow with their country".

So long as the press is held to agendae which support goals other than simple trruthful reporting, we shall never really know exactly what is happening within our world, unless it meets the standards of a Liberal template. You may thank God for the internet, and not Al Gore, you may thank yourselves for a willingness to seek out other reputable sources of honest news reporting. And they are many. Witness the failing circulation numbers of major American news papers, and the truth junps out at you. They are failing, because they fail to hold to the harsh standards imposed by men like Horace Greely. Call him what you will, he none the less established himself as a man of some distinction, and moral character, in the newspaper world.

When journalism students put aside their beliefs that they should do something "good" for the world upon graduation, and remember that their responsibility, their sole responsibility, is to the ferreting out of the "truth" in any story they are asked to cover, and report it that way, then may they become the doers of universal good.

When holding elected office, I actually feared the local, and regional press. In my idyllic state of mind they, the press, were bent on getting to the bottom of whatever it was they were pursuing as being newsworthy. Later, I learned whom it was I could trust, and who they were, that had something else in mind. Luckily, these days you don't need a trained eye to determine which reporters are in honest pursuit of the truth, and which are in it for personal, or devious reasons. It is no accident that the press has lost it's nose for the truth. The heavy scent of Democrat stink is more than not wafting from every room they occupy.

It really doesn't matter where they go. They may go west as Greely advised, but they are already there in the pressrooms of the Los Angeles Times. Or, they may go east to New York, but they are already there also, in the press rooms of the New York Times. My compass tells me to advise them to go north! All the way to the north pole, where they may commiserate with an advancing, and not declining polar bear population. They are called "cubs" as young journalists, are they not? The pole is befitting of their relegation to the darkest place on earth in winter.

That should be easy enough, for they have successfully kept us in the dark for years now.

Pity the press? Nope!.Don't forget to check out the Brussels Journal folks, That's where the real news is these days.

Amazing! Barack Now More Popular Than Puff

2009-01-06T15:10:00.000-08:00

As dragons went, Puff was clearly the most famous this side of King George, but Barack Obama has caught, and passed poor old Puff by. The furor this week over Paul Shanklin's portrayal of Reverend Al Sharpton's dismay over Democrats favoring Obama over Sharpton, way back when, was palpably noticeable.. Remember Joe Biden proclaiming Obama to be "clean, and articulate"? It seems Sharpton too, takes a shower often, and he fancies himself as being articulate in a special way. Shanklin's parody, done for Rush Limbaugh's radio show, was set to the tune of "Puff The Magic Dragon". You may remember this hilarious spoof, spawned by a Los Angeles Times writer named David Eherinstein, himself a black, when he wrote his now famous piece" Barack: The Magic Negro" in March of 2007.

Suddenly, this week, it seems that Liberals and even Republicans, certain Repblicans that is, have heard this song for the very first time. They are all appalled, naturally, and all are accusing Republicans of being '"racists". Seems to me, I've heard that old familiar refrain before..Nasty racist Republicans!

This satirical gem spoofed Al Sharpton, and every man, and woman in America knew it then, and and knows it now. The piety and the commensurate claims of foul play do not resonate with me, nor should they with you either. If Republican elites wish to hold hands dancing around the Democrat May Pole, then let them, and let them leave us alone.

Here's the sordid truth: It was the Democrat party which heavily opposed the 13th, 14th, and the 15th amendments to the US Constitution, in doing so, they opposed freedom, and citizen status for former slaves, along with voting rights..Some advocates for black Americans, wouldn't you say? Then, in 1965, it was Republians once more who guided the voting rights act through a wary Congress full of opposition Democrats. Why would anyone settle for the slice of bread not buttered?

Today, Senator Harry Reid dened the seating of the newly appointed Senator, Roland Burris, to replace Barack Obama in the US Senate. Reid believes he has the sole power to determine who sits, and who doesn't. The truth is, he favors one of two white potential appointees, and not the black man appointed by Governor Rod Blagojevich, of Illinois. Putting the taints aside, isn't it clear that the party of racists, the Democrat party, are free to do whatever they want to? And that includes charging Republicans with being the only racist party in town.

Remember Obama telling anyone within earshot that "...they will tell you I have a funny name, that I don't look like those other men on the dollar bills..."? Are we going to stand idly by and allow that kind of false representation to accrue to honest, law abiding, non-racist Republicans? John McCain thought we were a bit too harsh in our condemnation of the man and his policies, In John's mind,he could not separate fair and honest criticism from a denunciation of someone who happened to be black only. And John paid a terrible price for his lack of understanding.

Sorry, Puff old pal. You've been replaced by another dragon. This one does not breathe smoke and fire but the net effect of his actions, his very promises, are quite beyond the reach of anything you could do to harm us. The new dragon will live on the hill of course, with the kinds of protection you could only dream of.

I feel clean, how about you? Remember that Harry Reid thinks we are a bunch of "smelly tourists", fouling the air of the halls of Congress. The only stench in Washington, lies in the warped minds of these traitors to the Constitution. To think that there are many good, decent Conservatives, some of whom, who happen to be black, or hispanic, or Asian. That is the real sin here, and it is original. It belongs to Democrats, and their Liberal pals

Ever The Children

2009-01-03T21:25:00.000-08:00

Remember President Clinton's statement: "I must get back to work for the American people!"? As impious as his claim was, the idea that when caught wanting, all one must do is to proclaim that he needs to get back to work in a wholesome manner for the "people", or the "children". Ah yes, the children. To most politicians, children are the cloak of goodness to surround themselves with, during their moments of political crisis. Whenever you hear someone, almost tearfully, stating that what they are attempting to do is rooted in their interest of America's children, then beware, for they are taking you for a ride, and not necessarily on the old yellow bus.

If politicians had the true best interests of children in mind (as they certainly should) then the results of their decision makng would look a lot different, wouldn't they? How stupid do they believe we are? If our children's future mattered greatly to them, then why are not obstacles to a child's growth removed from it's path? Why are not these same children given an honest to God superior education, as children once received in America?

No, politicians use the children as foils for their grandiose schemes. At the same time as they purport to act in a child's best interest, they, by virtue of actions taken, are accomplishing what many accuse them of: dumbing down the population systematically, and quite efficiently. A close look at your child's curricula tells you all you need to know. The very things which would promote citizenship, and civic awareness, just can't be found any more.

Many schools, and those school's administrators, and even teachers, are duty bound in a professional way, to present countervailing views when discussing controversial topics. A current example is Al Gore's documentary film "An Inconvenient Truth". No mention is made of Lord Moncton's famous opposition theory, nor will it be allowed in our schools, for it does not fit the educational template of Liberal academia. That is but a single example. and the list goes on.

The utter tendentiousness, and vaingloriousness of these people bodes ill for our children, and for America's future as a great nation. Everything seems to be vested in an internationally inspired attempt to control not only the minds of people, but how best to control what the people think, and what the people do. True globalists want to train your children for jobs they deem necessary for global success, and for global supplanting of a nation's very sovereignty.

In 1837, Horace Mann, the famed Massachusetts education reformer, asserted that "...the more you educate the children of a community, the better off the community will be in the long run...."With this simple statement of obvious fact, universal public education caught on, and America was on her way. It is reasonably doubtful that Horace Mann would sign on to education in America as meeting his goals for an educated, and an informed populace. His dreams were the dreams of a nation realized. His dreams proposed healthy, invigorating curricula that not only educated the masses, but turned them into worthy citizens as well.

When it comes to thoughts of a school carrying out the traditions of Horace Mann, Hillsdale College, located in southern Michigan, cvomes to mind as a prime example. The college's mission is based on two important principles: 1. Academic excellence, and 2. Institutional independence. Hillsdale accepts no government monies, and thereby, maintains it's freedom as an educational institution. Hillsdale was President Ronald Reagan's favorite college, and he is revered there by all. Would it surprise you to know that Hillsdale has the temerity to teach, as a core subject, The US Constitution? Hillsdale students, and graduates are precisely the sort of people Horace Mann envisioned as being leaders in this country. So, all is not lost, at least in that southern corner of Michigan.

"...Teach your children well..." goes the song. Since 1965, when government began investing heavily in America's schools, government has also applied pressure to accept more and more uniform testing of our children. The government's 10% stake in the average school budget provides ample reason for this unhealthy intrusion into a schools affairs, and we get what we have today: Failing grades, failing students, and a largely failing educational system that was once the envy of the world. There is more than enough blame to go around, but pardon me if...

...I take time to get back to work for the American people. It is really that important. To your children, perhaps, but mostly important to me, your duly elected representaive of the people.

An Obama Survival Kit

2009-01-01T19:11:00.000-08:00

We're down to nineteen days and counting. Let me repeat something I've said before. Let us all pray for America, for ourselves, and for our President-to-be. It is desired, and it is hoped, that the changes promised to us during the recent campaign, will not come to any fruition. Now, it is up to each of us, individually, to make our mark; to take a principled stand.

The arrogance of youth may be one of the most critical things to deal with this coming year. However, the presidency, and especially it's long history, can also be one of our greatest allies in the looming struggle. Many are the men who vainly attempted to do things not consistent with their current reality, and many are the men who perished on the rocky coasts of their dreams. Not even Mister Obama may be that blissfully unaware of past presidential history. The stakes are simply too great to allow glaring mistakes to be made. Eventually, the sheer magnitude of what exactly awaits him, will be perhaps our best, last hope for salvation.

\In attempting to make friends of your enemies, you lose your friends. In attempting to do more than the country will allow,you risk losing your constituency as well. It has been correctly said that the presidency is a very lonely, and unforgiving place. It has always been thus, and today is certainly no exception to that cold, hard fact. If anything recent presidential history suggests that the men who occupied the Oval Office were more than not interested, keenly so, in their public approval numbers. Only a true leader, a person of infinite wisdom, and guidance from somewhere other than the assembled masses, leads in a manner sure to bring a future acclaim, albeit not a current one. To such leaders are left not their intuitions, nor their inclinations, simply an informed knowledge of what it is that must be done now, this day.

Ronald Reagan exemplified that better than anyone in the last hundred years. He led America, we may not have understood where it was he was leading us, but we followed nonetheless, convinced we were by his ebullience, and his superior grasp of the problems confronting America. We trusted him, and we trusted his judgment. Our trust was never misplaced, was it?

Today, even President Bush, God bless him, a man of incontrovertible faith in the American spirit, seems to be on a mission of belated attending to his presumed legacy. It was much more than sufficient, that he led us through perilous waters, infested with the sharks of his personal destruction. For having done that alone, he should be assured of his place in our country's history, and not worrying about what went wrong with his "compassionate Conservatism"

.To survive the perils of an Obama administration, the man must be confronted with constant calls for doing only the things a president must do to protect our country, and it's institutions from harm done by enemies both within, and without our territorial borders. Any attempts to wreak havoc with the status quo, must be resisted forcefully, and with immediacy. By this, I mean attempting to socially re-engineer our society, and to supplant that which has made America great, with governmental changes left behind in Britain long ago. When America took it's place on the world stage, it did so not with blind confidence, but with the knowledge that we belonged there, side by side with all other worldly powers. This was in America's best interests, and praise the leaders with the foresight to see through the fog of countervailing opinion.

Ultimately, the question is: Will Mister Obama stride onto the stage with confidence, or will he too, be humbled by the complexities, and the history of the presidency? If the latter, then there is hope indeed. The former, will be determined by the amount of power and influence his base of support has upon his decision making.

Either way, we must be on guard, and cautiously optimistic that in the end, history will extract a correct behavior from him. Perhaps he has raised the bar to higher levels than he may actually achieve. What then?The dirty secret is that his surrogates, and the obliging MSM have already begun his re-election campaign for 2012, calmly asserting that we shouldn't expect much to change in the first four years of his administration. This acknowledgement of difficulty recognized is a slight indication that history has already begun to take it's toll on his plans, his goals, and his sun rise awareness beginning to creep in.

Let's not forget that 2012 is an important year for us. Hey, that's our year, the year of Sarah. Gentlemen, start your engines!.

21 Days And Counting

2008-12-30T19:06:00.000-08:00

This post will be very short tonight. There is but one thing on my mind, and, I hope, yours as well.Today, two of President Bush's advisers carefully spelled out the starting points for the presidents plunge into mediocrity as this country's president( their opinions, not necessarily mine). The president's incoming aptitude for the job was compared to Sarah Palin's supposed lack of fitness to hold such high office. To think the president would have surrounded himself with such less than loyal men, is most difficult to understand. Typical Bush bashing, I thought, as I read the story. It concluded with the observation that Mister Bush had never sought a just and lasting peace between Israel, and Hamas, with the events this week in the Gaza Strip sorely underlining his failures, and any hope for a lasting, and favorable legacy.

Putting aside the presidents faults, alleged, perceived, and actual, he has it within his grasp to do something quite meaningful indeed. The nagging question is: Will he do it?

On this Christmas last, I spent more than a few moments contemplating the fate of Ignacio Ramos, and Jose Compean. Their families, too, were in my thoughts, and in my prayers. I still have not reconciled myself to the fact that these two men are suffering along with their families and friends, for actions taken against an illegal drug smuggling alien. Quite in spite of what I would guess to be hundreds of thousands of requests to commute the sentences of these two Border Patrol agents, and actually pardon them, nothing yet has been done, and time is running out quickly.

Yes, I have been sorely disappointed with President Bush, and his performance. But! I would be the first to congratulate him if he will simply do the correct thing here. Issue full pardons before his time runs out. His failure to do this will only serve to confirm the negative assessments made by those very close to him, and that would be a terrible shame.

If you have not already done so, then send your requests, if you agree, to comment@whitehouse.gov

Ignacio and Jose would be most thankful, as would be their families, and that is the very least we, in good conscience, can do for them at this time.

Happy New Year, everyone, let's make sure it is a good one for the Ramos, and Compean family as well.

Life In The Midst Of Turmoil

2008-12-25T17:27:00.000-08:00

Today, Christmas day 2008, is seasonable enough, although forces are at work trying to diminish the significance of this day. Nativity scenes across the world, are beng desecrated, and the likenesses of the baby Jesus are being stolen. In one particularly bizarre incident, a bottle of beer was left where once the baby Jesus did lay. Secularists, atheists, and especially, non-believers are the cause of these acts of depravity in our town squares, and in our cities. Worse, they are engaging in acts of scornfulness, directed at those who truly believe in the existence of God.

As such, they are not a real threat to us, for their numbers are small. However, when a goverment body looks askance at these acts, without any real comment, they in effect, are condoning these behaviors, and abetting them. It seems no one knows what to do, and so, nothing is done at all. The proposition 8 opponents in California, exemplify this attitude by virtue of their constant attacks on the Mormon Churches of California.

Away in a manger, no food, no bed, nothing of material comfort for the baby Jesus. Yet, he does not cry, simply looks up at the stars, and sees the Star of The East, the star announcing his birth to a skeptical world. the Wise men came, drawn to the place of the baby's birth. King Herod, himself, was vitally interested, for he saw in the baby Jesus a threat to his hold on the Kingdom, to his very power.

Stillige Nacht, the Christmas carol given to us by Germany many years ago, stressed the calm of the evening, and the brightness too. Round yon virgin, lay mother and child. Tenderness abounded, and earth had at last, a new King, the son of God!

Good King Vaclav, also known as Wenceslas, was the King of Bohemia in the tenth century. A Catholic, Wenceslas looked out one evening from his castle window, and espied a poor man gathering winter fuel. So taken by this scene was Wenceslas, that he went out with gifts of food and other comfort for the man who had gathered the winter's fuel for his family's warmth. The feast of Saint Stephen is celebrated on December 26th in Czechoslovakia, and though no refrence was made to the Nativity scene in the lyrics, it has become one of the most popular Christmas carols, signifying man's inherent goodness, and his willingness to share his own gifts with others less fortunate.

If you think seriously but for a minute or two, you may understand how Christmas carols extoll the common virtues of generosity, and personal sacrifice. All these gifts, given by only God to man, are the soothing balms which never fail to inspire feelings of completeness, and of joy in us. What a contrast to the devilish actions of the defilers, and the antagonists of the Mormon Church. I, for one, do not fret over these people's actions, because, ultimately, they will answer to their God, our God, in spite of their throwing off the shackles of personal responsibility.

Yes, today is the most beautiful day of the year! Warmth is felt without the fire beside you. Joy is in the heart, and a Baby's birth is celebrated once more. Jesus came into this world pennieless, and He left it the same way. He never traveled more than 200 hundred miles from His home, and never acquired the higher learning of those most critical of Him, and His mission to save us. No other man in recorded history has had as profound an effect on the fortunes of man himself, than Jesus has.

It is "free will" that leads many of us to doubt, and to sin. Why is it that anger, is always an important component of the makeup of people who deny their place at the table of God? Why too, is it that when such people lie on their death beds, that they somehow are confronted by their personal demons, and realize that mere uncompromising faith would have saved their eternal lives?

The one thing that believers are not, is weak. Weak of mind, and weak of faith. This is why the tables turn for us, and why others of no faith sit alone.

Celebrate the Baby Jesus' birthday today. Do it with firmness, and with great faith in eventual outcomes. None of us likes to say, "I told you so!", for the apparentness of the moment of epiphany for all, is in itself a holy and glorious realization.

Merry Christmas, to one and to all. And remember that Ebenezer Scrooge himself, a cold-hearted man who despised Christmas, came around to his own belated understandings, through the impoverished Cratchitt family, and especially young, and lame Tiny Tim. It was not too late, even for Scrooge himself, nor is it too late for all the non-believers wreaking havoc around the world. Each has their own Jacob Marley to contend with, and each, certainly is worthy of final redemption.

Say prayers for them all, the Baby in the manger would smile knowingly at that act of human generosity, and human understanding.

When In The Course Of Human Events...

2008-12-24T21:26:00.000-08:00

Long ago, Thomas Jefferson opened up discussion with his partner Framers, by penning this most famous of phrases. In doing so, he set into motion the mechanics of revolution against an oppressive King George, and his policies of taxation without fair return to the original colonies in America.

What followed, is known history to most of us. To some others, it is as vague an understanding, as is trying to understand the laws of nature themselves. The former, quite naturally, are those who have captured Jefferson's vision for this new country. The latter, unfortunately, could probably never understand the importance of that phrase, nor it's significance to our history as a country.This is what we must contend with, both today, and tomorrow also. Yet, there are eerie parallels preceeding the revolutionary period, and another time in the long ago history of man.

Christ studiously avoided pronouncing himself as the Messiah for all of his life. he did this to the end, when he stood before Pontius Pilate, awaiting his judgement. It was only then that he acknowledged himself to be a king, and the son of God Almighty.

Robbin Webber, a writer, authored a column in "The World News and Prophecy", in 2006. The title was: "This is the Way: When in the course of human events..." Robbin saw the connection between Jefferson's time, and the period of the "Jubilee", when Jews were emancipated from debt; were given back land lost, as well as other lost freedoms. The Jubilee was a time of census taking, which occurred every 50 years on the Biblical day of atonement, Yom Kippur. This was a glorious state of revolution, for things denied were returned to rightful owners.

The Jews yearned for the coming of their new king, that they might reclaim lost lands, and lost glory as a nation of peoples. Generally speaking, it was Christ, who through his miraculous acts of allowing the blind to see once more, and healing the sick, was thought to be the "Messiah" or new king for the Jewish people. Unfortuntely, the people were not themselves impressed with the idea of Christ being the Son of God. They in effect, through their denials, brought about his eventual downfall, and crucifixion. It became a matter of believing, or not believing in the "Second Coming of Christ. From that day forward, many have chosen to not have the strength that such faith requires.

And the world waits, and waits some more.

Jefferson, and his fellow compatriots worked determinedly to establish the most unique, and the most intriguing form of self governance the world had ever seen. Their vision has survived a tumultuous history of war, ravages of nature, and of man himself---but barely so. We too, as the ancient people, seem to be in a perpetual state of denial regarding the fate of our country. The "Second Coming" will one day be upon us, but will we be ready, and be accepting?

Nations come, and they fade away into the vastness of a dark and foreboding history of mankind. For whatever reason, the skeptics among us often hold sway, and deter us from eternal truths, and eternal salvation. These same skeptics populate our seats of current day government, and we, the people, await the second coming of a saner approach to solving our problems, which by Biblical standards, are not so severe, but nonethless equally as important ot those suffering under the yokes of oppression.

The Liberty Bell was to be rung, to announce liberty at hand throughout our country. Today, that bell, sits alone in a protected environment in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It's pealing of righteous liberty for all has been muted by the actions of the few, against the many. Still, it stands as a symbol of the greatness; the firmness of the convictions held by brave men those many years ago.

So, yes, there is an interesting parallel here. We are at a cross road of decision making for ourselves. For those of us who believe in the original "Second Coming", we too, believe that any nation which professes itself to be a great nation, must endure the hardships, and render the sacrifices to be made in the name of goodness.

In the article, Robbin pondered whether or not the original phrase "when in the course of human events..." had lost it's meaning, and it's ultimate purpose as a guide to continuous prosperity as a people of this, the greatest nation in the history of the world.

All that is required is "Faith". faith in onesself to be the good and caring citizen. Faith in the collective abilities of those who lead us, to do so in full accord with the Founding principles

A Camel And The Loss Of Faith

2008-12-23T17:10:00.000-08:00

much as for the acquisition of raw power? With power, others may be influenced to believe as they believe. Power is intoxicating, and too often wielded poorly, with calamitous effects on the unknowing. Does the Madoff scandal come to mind?

Ordinary people manage to eke out a survivable existence based solely on their commitment to honest labor, and honest dealings with those with whom they trade. Devoid of such honesty, mortal life loses quite a bit of it's lustre, and it's appeal for us. Moments of despair are foisted on us by virtue of our own actions, actions that do not satisfy the standards of christian beliefs.

Christ, during a rare moment of anger, entered the Temple of the money changers, and drove out those who sold, and those who bought in the Temple. Christ sternly announced that, "...you have made it a den of robbers!" ( Mark 11:15-17 RSV)

Robber. Greed. Money Changers. All may be found today on Wall Street, in New York City. The ancient money changers were more business like than their contemporary counterparts, and they had to face an irate Christ in their temple. Todays money changers are not frightened of the likes of Congressman Barney Frank. No, they appeal to us through Barney for more and more money that their ship of capitalist state may stay afloat and on course. Now, not a soul is bashful about stepping forward and asking, at times demanding, more of our financial resources. With this money firmly in hand they go on about their lustful way. Company revenues underwritten with this infusion of new money, are now pronounced as fit vehicles for rewarding executives with seasonal bonuses and perks we could only dream of.

Greed is deadly to the soul. It is deadly to the health of a nation, And when we acquiesce to the greedy one's demands, we too, are accomplices, abeting the evil that surely follows.Many years ago, Liberalism, Classc Liberalism, was indistinguishable from modern day Conservatism. The Founders themselves were of the Classic Liberal mold, and a country was born, thrived, and became the envy of the world. In mid-century, it was John Kenneth Galbraith who preached in behalf of Liberalism, and we were on our way to a new kind of Liberalism---Modern Liberalism. At one time Liberals believed in liberty, individual liberty, and freedom too. Property rights were an important cog in this spinning wheel. Entrepeneurship was not only encouraged, it was looked upon with pride. Stocisim, and stiff upper lips guided a nation forward, but then came the rocks inhabited by the Sirens of greed, and of corruption. The end was near for Classic Liberalism.

Ali Baba, and his merry band of maurading Congressional thieves are working assidulously to dominate our every doing, our every thing in life. The money changers, too, from on high look down on us, contemptful of our very existence it seems. they will exchange "Holiday" greetings with one another this year, and pass us by on the sidewalks we share. Theirs will be an example of Godlessness on parade, for they have given up on Christ, and given up on the most meaningful things in life itself.

We are religiously instructed to tithe our meager monies in the name of goodness, and we do so. But no one ever told us we would be told that tithing doesn't always stop at our home, and in our pockets. Tithing, a metafor for taxation, is said to be noble in and of itself. The only thing noble about this is, the self styled noble aristocracy which seeks to enlist us as Knights of someone elses round table. All this, in the name of a new God, the god of wealth and power acquisition, for the privileged few, but not for the ordinary folk.

Wish yourself a very Merry Christmas this year. So great a number of people, bound inescapably to the gentried set, and not a peep is heard. It is long past the date when we should have taken more direct action against these people. The time is here, the time is now!

So, to Barney, and Chris, and Chuckie, and Nancy, and Harry, it is time for you to pull the Christmas sleigh through the darkened night.In your travels, may you gain the wisdom, and the strength to admit your failings, and tell us you seek repentance. Do it now!

Ophiophobia Anyone?

2008-12-21T20:44:00.000-08:00

At home alone, I sit in the comfort of my surroundings, and reflect on life. Not any life in particular, but my life, and the lves of those I love. But! When it becomes apparent that we are not really alone behind our closed doors, my thoughts turn to what others are thinking of at this same time. In Sweden, for example, social reconstructionists are applauding that country's efforts to bring in outside foreign "workers" to answer their declining demographic status. You see, the Swedes, growing older, need the strong backs of someone, anyone, to care for them as they retreat into retirement. The result thus far? Rock throwing at buses has increased 66% in just one year! No one seems to know why, but the fickle finger of Swedish fate points it's forgiving finger at the immigrantt population new to the Swedish scene. Rapes of young Swedish women are also up, and the hand wringers fret foolishly, and wonder what has gone wrong.

Anti-semitism is on a steady rise in Europe, and in the sub-continent in Spain. Apologists in high places merely wish for the "Jewish" problem to go away, possibly Israel as well. Somewhere, there are other people smiling, one might think. Now, is not the time for their active participation in the demise of Europe, for the Europeans are doing that quite famously on their very own.

Here in America, we people are thinking of similar things. How to recover our grasp on our country, and how but to simply feed, and clothe our families. The grandeur of America stands as a symbol of a mighty people, and a strong and proud country. Our motto ought to be: "Laborare est orare", to labor is to pray. While we are at it, in keeping with the Latin frame of reference, we should also remember: "Soli Deo Gloria", The glory is in God alone.

Fitful men are hard at work, honest labor they believe, devising plans for the remaking of America. The night grows darker, and so do our chances for retainment of our values, and our way of life.Europeans are also fitfully working. Doggedly, they pursue a new and improved colossus of a revised European Union. This new Union based on the language precepts of the Lisbon Treaty, assure them of one simple new fact of life. They will lose, effectively, their national sovereignties. That is ok though, for the benefits heavily outweigh the negatives of membership they are told by the European elitists at the helm. Funny thing happened on the way to the dance however. The Irish (you can always count on the Irish to screw things up) decided that this newest version of the EU was not necessarily in the best interest of their country. As a result they are being labeled as being obstructionists by those in Europe who obviously know better than the Irish, what the best interests of Ireland really are.

Does any of this sound somewhat familiar? Hmmm...now that I think of it, these people might just as well be in Washington, where we are being told that they, the elitists (US version) know so much better what it is that is in our best interests.Amazingly, these squabbling Europeans are being held up on false idol pedestals by the elitists, and we are told we must emulate their work, and seek their forgiveness for eight long years of cowboy diplomacy by that evil one, himself, George Bush.

We are told further, that soon we will come to be loved and appreciated for whom we have become under the guidance of a much more understanding Barack Obama.

To our left, across that pearl water expanse known as the Pacific Ocean, the Chinese too, wait for signs that America is imploding upon itself. Then at the right moment, and not a minute sooner, they will pick up the pieces of a new Roman decay, and build anew right on top of Old Glory!

Unless.........we summon the ghost of Colonel Christopher Gadsden for an encore performance. You might remember the Colonel. He was the man from South Cariolina who presented that famous yellow flag, with the menacing likeness of a coiled eastern rattlesnake, over the words; Don't Tread On Me, to the secretary of the US Navy. As menacing as the snake appears, a rattler won't attack without provocation, after that, all bets are off.

We need a similar flag to represent us. Perhaps a yellow likeness with one of the fiercest descendants of that same snake, coiled and waiting, just waiting. The wording would be a little different however. This time the flag will read: Don't Tread On Us!!

Wall Street Good At..What Else?...Building Walls

2008-12-20T21:27:00.000-08:00

ABC News is good for something after all.

The good fellow news gatherers of the much maligned MSM, have done themselves proud. They almost sound like responsible, and quite reputable members of the Fourth Estate. Should we applaud them, or boo them? Personally, I believe they are just rubbing our noses in the scummy mess created by Liberals and their MSM handlers.

In the western looking canyon atmosphere of New York City's financial district, aka Wall Street, the monied men in business suits are showing us how to do it, to US that is. ABC News asked 16 of the banking institutions receiving federal TARP money (bail-out money) how they planned to use that money, and whether they were gong to pay executive bonuses this year from those same funds.

Not surprisingly, only one of the 16 banks gave a straight answer to what must have seemed like a loaded question. American Express Group told that it would be paying 100 milion in bonus money to 168 employees. However, they cautioned that the bonus money would come from company revenues, and not from capitally invested federal TARP funds. Here I pause to offer a sigh of relief. They actually answered a question truthfully!

The other 15 recipients of TARP funds ranging from the 150 billion extended to American Express Group ( Exactly what is a GROUP anyway?) to Marshall and Isley on the lower end of federal largesse at 1.715 billion, all said the same thing. They were going to use federal money to extend loans to "credit worthy customers", assist mortgage holders who were having poblems repaying loans, BUT they would not use federal money to pay executive bonuses, rather, they would be paying the bonuses with company revenue money.

Let's see, two revenue streams, one federal, one company, each with a seperate purpose in mind. Nothing like clean books I always say. Still, something stinks in Denmark.

Anytime you read or hear the word "federal" used to describe a sum of money, large or small, think of it as YOUR money being spoken of. Money that you didn't specifically agree to be used in the manner the feds want to use it. Here's another way to look at this:

We, you, all of us here at TS, and others across America, are the benefactors, and not the beneficiaries, of this kind of federal thinking. For example, should these banking institutions NOT have received YOUR money where then, would the money have come from to pay these executive bonuses? From company revenues? But I thought we were told these companies were too big to fail, and that WE had to bail them out. Without money, how could they have justified paying exhorbitant bonuses to these top execs? Face it, this was all going to be done in spite of your objections, or mine. not that it was a fait accompli, simply that these institutions were TOO BIG to fail.

Weren't we the magnanimous ones? We came through right when our country needed us most, didn't we?

Congress, taking it's cue from Wall Street, afforded themselves a pay raise this week. I suppose this was because they too, were too big to fail, and here we came with buckets of additional money to their rescue. Now,don't you go looking for proclamations of acclaim for your actions taken in behalf of all those too big to fail, there won't be any, any time soon.

We the "suckers" got suckered by people just like us. People whom we pass on the street each day, people we keep re-electing to public ofice, and we keep coming back for more of the same.So, during this Christmas season, this holiday period, I will be going to Walter Reed Army Hospital with my grand children to commiserate, and honor the true brave souls who too, were suckered by those many who sent them to their places of personal enlightenment in a faraway land, and then were critical of them, and of their mission. As a matter of fact, we'll be doing this on January 20th, 2009, when not too far away others will be assembed to hear from the ONE, and the ONLY.

Wall Street builds additional walls, behind which decisions are made as to how best to use the funds we so graciously provided them with. These are walls that must be breached. We are Joshua, and those walls are no impediment to our energies, and to our will. Those walls will tumble down!

Merry Christmas everyone! May your days be bright and fulfilled of promise. Please say prayers for our fighting soldiers, especially those with bleak futures ahead of them. We will carry your thoughts with us.

Enough Is Never Enough

2008-12-19T20:08:00.000-08:00

Rod "Blago" Blagojevich, the embattled Illinois governor has vowed that he will not step down from office, and will fight on to remain in office, in spite of an impeachment panel's moves to do just that---get him out of there. Oh, and by the way, the panel insisted that they will not impede, nor do anything to prevent federal prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald's efforts to bring an indictment in the corruption scandal raging in Illinois, and by extension, in Washington, DC.( know what I mean?)

Unfortunately, Mr. Fitzgerald seems to have already done what the impachment panel has promised it won't: namely, destroy the case against Rod and others. The jury pool is tainted they say, but how can you determine that from among all the stench invested in "the Chicago way" of doing things political?

Aren't there bigger fish to fry, you protest? Of course there are, so let's begin with a few of the most egregious out there. For the sake of sanity, not brevity, I'll list them in numbered order:

1. Caroline Schlossberg Kennedy, or is it Caroline KENNEDY Schlossberg?No less than former president Bill Clinton pronounced her as "qualified" to be a US Senator.Where does that leaveSarah Palin's qualifications in the former president's mind. I wonder? Hey! Let's not go there!

2. Bill Clinton himself.His library's list of money donors was released today. There are few surprises on the list: Saudia Arabia, Brunei,Kuwait, Oman and Qatar are all there, along with the usual suspects, i.e. the Hollywood elites, and sundry others.How's that for a potential conflict list, Hillary?

3. Barrack Obama
Enough said.

What a boring cadre of list seekers these are. There must be different fish in another section of the pond. Let's go look together. Ahah! Who are those funny men with the strange looking hats on? Oh, they are Amish people you say. Boy! I'll bet they would like to be on someone's list, wouldn't you think? Don't I remember them from somewhere? Some movie perhaps about nine years ago, I believe. Yes! Harrison Ford and kelly McGillis were the featured actors, and in the end Harrison was busy helping all the men with the funny hats, to build a new barn. I remember it clearly now.

Well, they've made someone's list. In fact, a county Supervisor's list in Jackson County, Wisconsin. It seems these Amish have the gall to build their own homes in accord with their traditons, and do not feel it necessary to abide by county and local building codes when constructing their new homes. That is just too much for Gary Olson, the Supervisor in question. He believes they must comply in spite of their religion's dictates, and has taken them to court to force compliance. Next thing you know, he'll threaten to huff, and puff, and blow their homes down. Simultaneously, other cases have been bought against more Amish folk in Wisconsin, and New York State. Inasmuch as the Amish never defend themselves, advocates have taken up their cause, in their behalf, and strong legal arguments have been put forward, defense attorneys agree.

Now we have the new Devil, and he is the Amish people! How dare they protest on simple grounds of religious beliefs? The world waited, and the world was given the "Annointed One". The Amish stay in the background of daily life, ask for nothing, but now get a dose of political reality in the form of a zealous county Supervisor in Wisconsin, of all places. And I thought they were famous only for their cheese, and cows.

Harrison Ford, old though he may be, must surely be seeing a sequel in his film future. The movie "Witness" starring he and Kelly, is the best choice for sequelization. We, I mean he, could call it "Next Witness Please!", or how about, "The Kingdom of The Crystal House Crunchers"? "Star wars" doesn't fit here too well, does it?

Hey! wait a minute! Instead of Amish advocates, how about enlisting the opponents of California's Proposition 8 in the defense of these affable farmers? Couldn't they stir things up a bit? Let's see, Rick Warren? Nah, he'll be too busy figuring out what in the heck Obama wants him to come to Washington for. How about John McCain, the man with time on his hands, and a certain willingness to cross the furrowed earth, if not in Washington, then certainly in Wisconsin's fertile farmland? Sorry, "I have to cross an aisle here today, and the traffic is not so bad here." John will say.

All in all, the Amish will have to reconcile themselves to this new day in America, or will they?Just as Ramos and Compean have not lost their lustre as American patriots, neither shall the Amish have to relinquish their tenacious hold on their religious principles (there's that word, principle, again)

The Liberals are hell bent on taking taking God and religion out of America, and now, the Amish have been added to their list of things to wrench from the hands of a proud, and free people. I pray the stink rising from the fields of Wisconsin are the remnants of a dying, and rotting corpse of Liberalism itself, and not the sacred beliefs of proud Americans.ps. might not the Amish affix the holiest of names, and call their individual home sites "Holy Houses, or Places"? That seems to work effectively against the Liberal "dhimmi" in Iran and other places in the near east.

Oh Grand Unifier, where are you when needed most?

Enough said!

Conservatism Is...

2008-12-18T12:05:00.000-08:00

There are those who call themselves "Compassionate conservatives", but who are really Liberal more than not. There are those who say they are Conservative, but like the actors who do not live up to the billing, stray unavoidably from true Conservative principles often times. There are so-called "social" Conservatives, with a tendency to engage in profligate spending of public money to that end. Then there are the "fiscal" Conservatives, who are derided for lacking a social conscience caught in the rat trap because they dared to NOT spend the public moneys, and are labeled as being without a "social conscience".

This year in particular, the "Republican party elders" offer that it is time to redefine Conservatism, for it is no longer a winner for them as a party. None other than Colin Powell, has said recently that the republican party should "fire" Rush Limbaugh, purportedly, because Rush was a bad influence, and the party should disassociate itself pronto. Newt, among others, I think, believes that the Reagan Era is long gone, and rather effete, if not down right antithetical to modern day Conservative view points.

You get the picture. We lost an election by giving these people exactly what they demanded in a candidate for the presidency this year, and somehow, it is the Conservative base's fault for that loss. It was not so much that Conservatives acceded, Conservatives were unable to convince the party of the need for a principled individual to represent the party in 2008. Instead, Washington insider elitists got their wish, and when their wish bore not the fruits of victory, they looked elsewhere for someone to blame, ergo, the Conservative base.

We do not have to go back to the Founders discussions when implementing their vision for the greatest country ever to represent a people. We have only to travel back some 28 years to the nascent days of the man who was to become Conservatism's most eloquent spokesperson. Ronald W. Reagan was this man. Initially, he was not held in the highest regard, but how he prevailed over the rebirth of true Conservatism. His Conservatism was, and still is, contemporary with the Founders visions for America. Conservatives got a belated taste of Reagan's principles with the ascendancy of Sarah Palin to the vice president role in this recent election.

Many things Sarah is, and some things she is not One thing she is however, is a Conservative in the classic mold. In other words, when Sarah speaks, the world listens, and the Liberals denigrate her, her family, and hence, all Conservatives nation wide. Liberal fear is the root cause of this media hysteria, and the blatherings of the ONE, and the SECOND (Joe Biden). There is a fundamental reason for all this, and it is Conservatism itself.

So, what is Conservatism? If a reasonable man were to search his very soul, he would doubtless find his thoughts transforming themselves into very Conservative mouthings indeed! The very foundation of America was built upon Conservative ideas, Conservative ideals, and most importantly, Conservative principles of self governance.

How difficult is it to understand the nature of man himself? A yearning to be free, and especially free of the constraints of federal government. It has always been the other way around hasn't it? Government has always been constitutionally constrained from intrusions into personal life through the "enumeration of powers" as set forth by the Framers as a safeguard against a tyrranical government one day usurping the collective power of the people. States were left as the custodians of the bulk of the power, for the people, of the people, and by the people themselves. You wouldn't recognize this today, nor would the Framers either.

Conservatism as both a political, and personal philosophy, requires that no government, or group of individuals may impress their desires on those so governed, without the consent of the governed. Conservatives abide by the principle that we are free to succeed, or to fail in the manifold things we choose to do for ourselves, those things being both moral and legitimately engaged in. Liberty! Liberty is a Conservatives life blood, and it courses through the veins of our self sufficiency with the same effect that Warfarin, or Lipitor does in the veins of our mortal existence. Absent that liberty, our mortal existence remains very questionable.

Conservatism, Liberal protestations aside, is the most passionate of all political ideologies when it comes to individual rights, liberty and freedom. Charitable examples include the extending of a helping hand to those truly in need, and teaching those so afflicted to survive on their own that they too, may enjoy the fruits of their own labors. Conservatves teach others how to dirty their hands in honest labor, not do the work for them, thereby lessening their self dignity, and sense of worth or value to themselves and their families.

Since the 1994 Congress took their seats, there has been a steady reduction of dependency on government, especially through the Welfare Reform efforts of that congress. It is the Republican party which has lost it's ideological way, and not Conservatism. What is it that Rush always says defiantly, "Conservatism works every time it's tried!" How true

Ask yourself these questions: Do you simply want to go home at the end of a day of hard work, and be alone with a loving family? Do you want to simply be left alone to try alternative methods of advancing your family's future? Do you cherish your country's beliefs, and are willing to defend those beliefs with the sacrifice of your own life, if necessary? Do you believe in a future for your children and grand children uncomplicated by messy, and intrusive government mandates regarding your personal behavior? Do you believe in Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness?

If your answers are yes, then come on and confess, you are a Conservative!

The jolly Green Giant Is Headed Your Way

2008-12-17T20:00:00.000-08:00

Now that Barack Hussein Obama (it's ok to use his middle name now) has named Steven Chu, a professor at the University of California, at Berkeley, Ca,, as his energy secretary, Lisa Jackson, chief of Staff to Jon Corzine, Governor of New Jersey, as his administrator of the EPA, Carol Browner, former EPA head under Bill Clinton, as his White House energy and environmental policy "tsar", and finally, Nancy Sutley, Deputy mayor for energy and environment in Los Angeles, as his White House Counsel on environmental quality, well, we are in for one heck of a ride.

This cast of characters will be shepherding Obama's policys regarding America's future energy needs. Needless to say, our future appears to be one of greater dependence on foreign sources for the desperately needed oil of our country's economy. Further, it seems there will be more corn put into bio-fuels, and less corn into the tummys of the "hungry" Americans we hear so much about these days. Soon enough, we will be replacing the age old "aw shucks!", with a revised phrase to use called simply: "less shucks!" Compact fluorescent bulbs, notwithstanding their personal environmental perils, will be the order of the day, and I do mean ORDER! How in heaven's name are all the soon to be laid off workers in this free falling economic mess going to read the want ads, looking for new jobs?

Meanwhile, the American Petroleum Institute has submitted a new report regarding the nation's recoverable oil and natural gas supplies. This study recognizes the rather dire nature of our country's willingness to develop coastal areas, the ANWR, and proven western reserves. Without boring you with the details, let us focus rather, on what is in store for us as innauguration day approaches. Obama has announced repeatedly that he is not even lukewarm to the idea of America securing it's energy independence. In fact, with the four appointments noted above, so-called renewable energy schemes are to be put into place almost immediately. Doubtless, this will make the "greens" ecstatic, but Americans will continue to suffer in the face of a worsening economy. What can we do?

First, the president-elect must determine whether or not such policys are fully warranted. By this, I mean are the prospects of massive unemployment something to gloss over? When tens of thousands of American workers might find well paying jobs in the oil industries efforts to bring oil and gas to us, from within America's borders, should we not invest in that promise of needed employment relief? If the intent by Obama is to actually spend the trillions, not billions, of dollars he has proclaimed he would, then where is this money to come from? The Fed can print only so much valueless paper, and then the bottom falls out. Back at the ranch, the revenues flowing into federal coffers as a result of a committed drive to secure energy independence, would sky rocket.

Although the ONE and his administration seem to have no questions, there are answers waiting for the relevant questions to be asked. Perhaps, that's it. No person with an IQ of 100 can escape undetrstanding this, why then, is not the solution as apparent to them, as it is to the common people among us? It just might be a matter of policy after all, might it not? A policy of degrading this nation's wealth, and it's standing in the world of nations.

Many on the political scene have commented on the hypocrisy of Liberalism and it's goals. however, only one has spoken at length about what all this means for America. That person is Sarah Palin, and I surely hope she speaks out soon on these plans for the demise of a once proud, soon to be, nation. She understands better than most Washington insiders, that a man needs not only dignity, but an opportunity to dirty his hands at honest labor. At the end of a day of honest toil, that man wants nothing more than to be able to go to a warm, and comforting home, with his family beside him. Still, this incoming administration denigrates, and demonizes the great American dream.

Remember this, victims are not born victims, they are cleverly made into victims by those whose sole interest is in the preservation of political power. Haven't we had enough of this contemptful thinking? Let's create the jobs, and not the long welfare lines. Let's invest once more in the America we all love, and forget about the communal community of nations ideal about to be forced upon us.

America is at the precipice. Shall we simply fall over, or should we resist with the determination, and the resolve of the early pioneers? Such valiant people knew not the perils in their paths, they had a greater goal for themselves, and for their families, and ultimately, for America itself.

Drill baby, drill, has been a recent battle cry. First, we must "drill" that sentiment into the heads of the incoming administration. After all, this is America. Nothing is impossible here, a tad difficult possibly, but certainly, not impossible. Watch out jolly green giant, something's headed your way. Remember the battle cry of Larry the Cable Guy? Git 'er done!!

A Day To Wonder

2008-12-16T15:50:00.000-08:00

Many are the cares, many are the woes
facing each one of us day in day out
never it seems are the moments when
each one of us is tired and without
but a glimmer of hope that lies just ahead
around the corner and up on the hill
under a shade tree so bushy and tall
are the children Jack and his Jill
they laugh and they play joyfully so
in their world all is right or so it seems
these children two with eyes that shine
realizing no more than their dreams...

Yes, our children dream, and they have their dreams of future days and nights. In a perfect world theirs would be the fruits of our labors in their behalf. In a perfect world, they, none of them, would ever think of asking for anything save that which was rightly, and justly earned. But a perfect world is only a vision of what ought to be, and not what actually is. A perfect world being a simple idea that motivates people, is still but a dream, although one worth striving for, wouldn't you say?

Jesus Christ's birthday, Christmas, is one such example of an idea whose time is put before us as a sign of hope and of peace for all. It is much more than that though. To believe in Christmas, to believe in anything at all, is to exercise your faith in the inherent goodness of man, and in the guidance of a loving, and just God. Before any child is left alone to dream the dreams of children many, they must understand the implicit necessity of embracing faith in themselves, their parents and their God. By extension, they must have faith in the governments established, and in their resolve to be good citizens. At times, they must stand and question, loudly, and boldly, when they are witness to acts not in the best interests of themselves, their parents, and especially their country.

The task, not the chore, of educating our children will always bear fruitful results, providing that education is offered to them in meaningful ways. Our sincerity is their adopted sincerity. Our determination is their commitment to similar feelings of wanting to know more, and more about their world to come. Our shared love for the ideals set forth by the Founders, becomes their enlightened view of how to act and how to react to threats that threaten their way of life.
In time, the torch is passed, and comfort is derived by the teachers among us, from the newest examples of youthful accomplishments.

David, with but a sling, slew the Goliath, and the Jews were saved. Washington survived the winter at Valley Forge, crossed the Delaware, and a nation's future was born amid the swirling snows. Lincoln persevered, and carried the conscience of a nation across his strong shoulders, and a nation was saved from itself. Later, Johnny came marching home proudly, and a nations rightful place in the world was secured. A man named Churchill defied an onslaught from the east, and stirred the minds and hearts of Americans all. Another man named King lighted the way out of darkness, and another named Reagan taught a nation how to believe in itself, and in it's simple goodness. All these exampes of men bound by the common thread of faith, are illustrious, profoundly so, and more than worthy of being studied and honored by our children. They too, will one day add their own precious examples of accomplishments underwritten by a faithful resolve to do the correct things.

All being ephemeral, the fame and the famous too, pass away to other places, to other destinies. Jesus Christ is the lone exception. He survives in the mind, the heart, and in our souls. Each new day is a new day of promise, a new day of sacrificing for the better good. let this not be lost on anyone, principally our leaders, and especially our children. Glory in the highest is our constant refrain, and our greatest hope. May it never be said of us that we have failed. That we selfishly ignored the requisites of faith, and good will toward others. Above all, that we sacrificed the future for the peace of the moment.

In the movie, "The Bishp's Wife", the homily written for the Bishop by the Angel of God, stressed that a single stocking was hung, and that stocking was the stocking hung for the baby Jesus. There was nothing in that stocking on Christmas Eve. The question posed was, "What will you put in the stocking for your Lord, Jesus Christ?"

An empty stocking hangs from the mantel. It awaits you, and your faith in all that is good. What will each put into the stocking hung with the greatest of care?

Has Anyone Noticed?

2008-12-08T22:11:00.000-08:00

That Al Gore hasn't been heard of or from, for some time now? There must be a reason for this. Wait a second, I've got to turn the heat up a bit, as it is getting colder by the day. Now, back to Mister Gore. I spent some time surfing (no, not that kind) this weekend, and I was able to come up with some very fascinating information.

My grandchildren have been taught to be close to being professional skeptics when at school. They question virtually everything being taught them, for they believe that school should be a place where you are taught HOW to think, and not WHAT to think. Admittedly, this sometimes causes problems for them, but they have also developed a thicker skin than most when it comes to teachers dominating the class rooms with THEIR versions of what is truth, and what is not.

Mostly, the children, most of them, don't bat an eye when they are fed the liberal pap that passes for a solid education.. Instead, they leave their schools on any given day, indoctrinated into believing just about anything that is told to them. Gone, it seems, are the days of standing upright, and questioning anything that just doesn't make sense.How easy it is to turn a skull full of mush into a predictably correct frame of mind. take for example, the matter of being taught that global warming is upon us, and that man himself, is mostly to blame for that unfortunate circumstance we find ourselves in.

Put aside the matter of polar bear depletion, ozone layer depletion, and glacier depletion on Mount Kilimanjaro, in Africa. As it turns out, man alone is not responsible for all this. In fact, man is quite incapable of destroying this planet, or any other all by himself. And, this is where the fun begins.

First, there is the not so simple matter of developing a sustainable hypothesis, utilizing observable phenomena, and other scientifically derived facts. When constructed, this hypothesis must withstand the tests applied to it, that enable one to safely conclude that the theory, or hypothesis is true. Proponents of the theory, i.e. Al Gore, will then parade their particular version of what they believe to be a truth before a wide eyed public. Opponents, on the other hand, will insist that not enough is known to be that accepting of the theory as being uncontestably factual.

This is where enlightened children come into play.When they are told, for example, that the debate is over, they will protest that there has been no real debate at all. At least not a debate where they were permitted to be partners in the gathering of factual data. Such children who rise defiantly, will assert that testing models are woefully incomplete, taking into account only data recorded for perhaps the last one hundred years, and therefore, scientifically, and geologically incomplete. Children who are trained properly, look at all the facts available, and not just the so-called facts that underscore the tests so necessary to determining the sole truth, the inescapable truth.

Assuming this is being discussed in a science class, a reputable science class, taught by reputable teachers, the students will protest that there is no consensus in science as they are being led to believe. Even the great Einstein himself, the greatest classical physicist the world has known, admitted to making a mistake or two on his quest to discovering a unified field theory. Sure, he may have been wrong about quantum mechanics, but that did not sufficiently tarnish his legacy, nor his value to the public discourse about matters foreign to most of us. To this day he stands alone as a man of his time, a man of significant importance to our eventual understanding of complex cosmological matters.

From the science class, the questioning minds next turn to the civics class, where the minds of the children turn to questions of politics, and to questions of economics. There is a correlation between what is learned(?) in previous classes, and what is learned(?) in succeeding classes. Before you know it, these children possessed of the audicity to merely question that which is being taught, sense an empowerment of the mind. Their minds. The connections, starkly before them, stand out like beacons of light, and they learn in spite of, not at the behest of, teachers who themselves have a vested interest in the outcome of their efforts.

It has been said that theories may never be proven, only disproven. The great man, Einstein, famously apologized to Sir Issac Newton. he did so in a curiously intimate manner saying, as if to himself, "Newton, verzeih mir" [Newton, please forgive me]. This was Einstein's way of apologizing to Newton for having disturbed the classical purity of Newton's theory of gravity His great respect for his hero, Newton, led him to do this in spite of his knowing he had discovered something Newton had not, or could not, have discovered for himself.

The question begs: will Al Gore similarly apologize for foisting upon us his hoax of a theory? Not likely will he do this.Therefore it is for the inquiring minds of the next generations of mini Einsteins to sit in judgement of all theories , good, valid, but especially those theories that serve a unique purpose, such as the discrediting of America's free market system by charlatans such as Mister Gore..It is not that we can not do this ourselves, we should always question motives, and intentions. It is simply that the children have so much more time to do so much more. Would we want it any other way, really?

History? What History?

2008-12-05T22:04:00.000-08:00

Certainly, it is bad enough when America's school administrators, and teachers refrain from imbuing their (our) students with a proper sense of shared history.History, like a chain, is comprised of constituent links, each as strong as the others, both succeeding, and preceeding it. The strength of the chain itself relies on the willingness of individual links to do their job efficiently. Such chains tether a country's citizens to themselves, much as a similar chain will anchor a ship at sea, or to the dock of it's port of call.

Occasionally, there are links that fail, and the chain itself is doomed. So too, are each individual links, the many components thereof, which fade into the darkness of the sea, in this particular case, the darkness of an unforgiving world's history. This is exactly what came across my mind when I watched Senator "Chuck" Schummer, of New York, while he listened to an exasperated young woman giving testimony before a Senate commitee hearing in Washington DC, on October 1st, 2003. The woman, Suzannah Gratia-Hupp, a Texas state representative, detailed the horror she experienced when her parents were shot by an obviously deranged killer. Her concluding statement was perfect. She told the assembled Senators that her 2nd ammendment right was put into place for the express purpose of protecting her, from them, the Senators of the federal Government, and all others in positions of unlimited power, and influence

.Long ago, the English philosopher, John Locke (a man who profoundly influenced Thomas Jefferson) argued that the PATRIARCHA, the brain child of Sir Robert Filmore, was intellectually, and morally wrong. In Lockes First Treatise of Government, he assailed the idea that Kings descended from Adam, and thereby possessed a Devine right to their thrones, they, being the descendants of Adam, to whom God had given the earth. This "Jure Divino", the devine right of kings all, would be the eventual downfall of all governments, Locke asserted. A prescient man this John Locke. He must have known there would be the likes of the Chuck Schummers in the world to come after his passing.

Today, it seems that our children's history begins at the moment of their birth. We can thank our educational institutions for that misguided concept. Many of us believe ourseves to be the whole chain, and of only one link, we are that link, and that chain. So too, must it be for Chuck Schummer and his Liberal brethren, that they believe themselves to be not a link in the chain of America's history, but they themselves to be THE CHAIN.

Remember the wise man who stated: Those who forget, or neglect history, are doomed to make the same mistakes over, and over again? To the list of disagreeable ingredients in this boiling stew, add arrogance and a dash of impunity. What you get is a stew alright, but beware, for the stew will poison you and your mind.

Is it any wonder many of our children think this way? There will be no future historians to write of them, for their history will be written in the very next generation by similarly unprepared generation (whatever letter you desire).With no chain of generational links, our ship will drift to sea, and face the storms that shall come---the storms of ignorance and of decay. The rotting corpse of a once great and proud peoples will wash ashore on some distant isle, and the island's people will be perplexed. But they will go on their way, for they possibly have a chain. One that stirs the pride of the people in themselves. One that safely tethers them to their future. The buzzards will circle, and one day they too, will be gone, as are the traces of a once great civilization

What history? Perhaps the answer lies in paying attention to the opinions of men like John Locke.

He Reached Into His Pocket, And Found A Little Less...

2008-12-04T20:37:00.000-08:00

...of that most priceless of things dearest to him---His freedoms! This afternoon, my youngest grand son told me that, tomorrow, he would be taking a bus to the middle school nearby. I of course, asked him why, and his answer was revealing. "I am going to the Holliday Concert, Pop pop." I thought things over for a minute, and softly said,"You mean a Christmas concert, don't you?" The young man looked at me and said once again, "No! It is a Holliday Concert. You are not the boss of the school, they just call it a Holiday Concert, that's all."How I wished he might have told his teacher that he would just sit out this "Holiday" concert, and wait for the "Christmas" concert, and then he would go to that one instead.

At this point, I knew it was not a distinction I was going to be able to make with ease. The distinction between Christmas, and Holliday concerts.Several hours later, i was still agitated by what he had told me, and I got to thinking about something said by Charlton Heston, actor, and American Patriot a while back. It was in Washington DC, on December 6, 1997, on the occasion of the twentieth anniversary of the Free Congress Foundation.

During his remarks to the assembled guests, Mister Heston said the following:"A cultural war is raging across our land, storming our values, assaulting our freedoms, killing our self-confidence in who we are, and [in] what we believe." Mister Heston, then asked those who owned guns to raise their hands. "I wonder how many of you own guns, but chose not to raise your hands? How many of you considered revealing your conviction about a constitutional right, but then thought better of it?"If so, then you are the victim of the cultural war being waged against traditional American freedom of beliefs and ideas. You have been assaulted and robbed of the courage of your convictions. Your pride in who you are, and what you believe in has been ridiculed, ransacked, and plundered! It may be a war without a bullet, or bloodshed, but with as much LIBERTY, LOST. you, and your country are LESS FREE!

"Holliday concert, or Christmas concert? Which will it be?

In Holland, Geert Wilders, a Dutch Parlamentarian, wages a lone battle against what he views as an immigration policy that dooms the Dutch to eventual Islamification of the land of Peter and the dike. Of windmills, and colorful tulips dotting the countryside.In England, citizens worry that they too, are being overwhelmed, and sense their country is quite in the same mess as Holland. In these countries, there are ministries serving the needs of MULTICULTURALISTS. So too, in Canada, but mere hundreds of miles to the north, do these same denizens of the cold winter nights live and thrive, not at the will of, but at the expense of, the people they purportedly serve.

The year is 2008 AD, and not 2008 the common era, as the History Channel refers to it as being.

How better to illustrate this post than to accompany it with that calendar year 2008 shot of Sarah Palin, with her shotgun resting across those strong, and unyielding shoulders. This, my grand son shall see, and he will gain a greater appreciation for the freedoms remaining; for those freedoms yet to be taken back in the name of the PEOPLE of America.This young lad will forcefully exclaim, "Merry Christmas!" to his fellow students, and to his teachers also. In time he too, will come to understand that there are things very much worth fighting for;Things that other young Americans are both fighting for, and even dying for, all in our name.

What will it be for you? A Holliday Concert, or a Christmas Concert?

Merry Christmas everyone, and to all, a good night!

Jaywalking Again!

2008-11-26T12:13:00.000-08:00

Senator Harry Reid has extended an invitation to Senator John McCain that John just can't refuse. Harry wants John to join him in conferring legal status on millions of people illegally here, in America. Of course, the sooner the better. Early Spring is the target time, and John seemingly, can not agree more. John, the wolf in Conservative clothing, is only weeks away from a failed presidential bid, and apparently, could not resist the stroll across the aisle, to help his pals from the Left. Really, there ought to be a law against this kind of jaywalking.

Isn't the real reason John lost the election, simply one of his being the lesser of two Liberal candidates, ergo, a foregone loser? You could tell he knew that, by the manner in which he exchanged leering glances at Sarah Palin while at campaign(?) stops this Fall. She was doing real damage to Obama's chances, and John had to rein in his running mate, lest she assist him in winning the role he truly didn't want to play---President!

Now, that may seem a rather harsh assessment of John's efforts, but what else are we left to conclude? By "we", I mean Conservatives, and not rank and file Republicans, who had as much to fear in a successful Sarah, as did the Democrats. Decisions, decisions! What is a man to do? Get back to the comfy confines of a Senate chamber, and begin plotting the next across the aisle trips, all in the best interests of the "American People", that's what.

Also on the agenda, is the not so small matter of passing the "Censorship Bill" under the auspices of "fairness" in broadcasting. Put aside the fact that in spite of Conservative talk radio, Obama clearly won the election. Why then the need to stifle free speech, unless the real reason is to secure a tight monopolistic control over ALL speech in America? Will John once more cross the crowded aisle to support this brazen Liberal attempt to diminish even more of our liberties?

Will John be, at all, a voice of reason, or simply a voice in the Senate wilderness? I heard today, that in the year 2013, a new vote will be found in the Franken recount effort. A vote held in the hands of a dead hunter in the wilds of Minnesota. That vote reduced the difference numbers to 50 or so, but unfortunately, Al had passed away the year previous. You've got to admire such resolve, don't you?

Meanwhile, Obama, through his Cabinet, and staff appointments, is reminding us just how much better Sarah Palin was qualified to be our next President. Whatever happened to the "audacity of hope, and of change"? In Obama's mind, "change" equates to more of the same old, same old. Trillions in debt is America, and the clock, ticking away our freedoms, looks just like the clock of Atomic Doom. Remember that one? The clock she ticks, and America's chickens are fleeing the coop! Reverend Wright didn't quite put it like that, but it will do for now, for today.

Now, back to the conflicted ones among us, they are as confused as am I. One heck of a mess to try to explain, but I'll try.

The Vaccuum Of Hope

2008-11-24T19:53:00.000-08:00

So, here we are some 57 days until the Presidency changes hands. Ordinarily, this period of time,
separating the orderly transfer of power from one party to another, is benign, even melancholy for most outgoing presidents, and a wistful anticipation of great things to come by the incoming president. These times however, are extraordinary. There is precious little President Bush can or should do, to alleviate economic pressures confronting America. In effect, his presidency is now over, not officially, but effectively, over. The incoming president, Barack Obama, can not officially do anything at all. Nothing.

He could, though, through his articulation of his policy plans, instill a sense of encouragement in the minds of average Americans. He has largely chosen to ignore the healing effects this would have, and instead, has kept himself busy appointing Clinton retreads as his new Cabinet members. One might say this is personal policy, versus the healing of his country's ills, a public policy opportunity. Secrecy is the rule today, it seems, at least as far as the public gaining an insight into just who is this man we have elected?

The secrecy extends from not only knowing just when he was in Reverend Wright's church, listening to the poisonous homilies therein, and further, not being able to see one of his college thesis papers. His health records remain a mystery, save for the one page letter offered by his doctor. All this, and then there is the matter of just exactly where was this man born anyway? Is he legal in the sense that he meets the fundamental requirement of being a native born American.

If someone were to ask me: Where were you born? I would be able to tell them specifically, the place, the date and time, and any other supporting information essential to know. It is a matter of city, and state official record. I can furnish not only the state certificate, but the hospital of birth certificate as well. It really is no big deal, but in Obama's case it apparently is a VERY big deal, because the Supreme Court of the United States will be hearing a case on December 5th, regarding this matter. Wouldn't it be much simpler to just go back to the house, and retrieve the same type of documents I, or any one of you, possesses, and show them to the interested parties? "My gosh, what is all this fuss about ?" Obama could say, absolutely destroying the credibility of his challengers.

But, no. We are left to wonder why such mysteries are allowed to persist. Why anyone of good, and jolly spirit would permit this to go on. Why, indeed? The man, The One, wants so much to be considered as being of the mold of President John F. Kennedy. Does this mean he desires, or does not mind, the conspiracy theorists soon to converge upon him? Of course, there are no good or even simple reasons for this. Just lots of unanswered questions to ponder. We don't have time for that, the American people that is, we are in the throes of diminishing opportunities, and financial ruin descending, we need much, much more than all the mysteries surrounding this man.

Questions deserve accurate answers not subtle hints. Why are not the birth places of the prior 43 presidents a matter of unanswerable difficulty? Why should it be only this one? Our chances, apparently, of knowing as much as we should about this man, are equivalent to being able to accurately predict the winner of the next Kentucky Derby. Just can't be done!

No, I won't be one of those hanging on each of the One's words come next January 20th. I'll be too busy researching whatever records I may have access to, in order to find suitable answers for myself, to the questions that nag. And that's just not right. I should be able to appreciate the significance, and the importance of the moment, but will be denied, and that's not my fault either.

Let's have a Happy Thanksgiving, none the less, and give thanks for that which appears about to be lost. I have my family, but America needs so much more, doesn't she?

It Got Me To Thinking

2008-11-22T15:55:00.000-08:00

Amid warnings that we are in for a severe winter, I wondered, “Just where the heck is Al Gore when you need him most? I mean I could sure use some extra heating oil, and Thanksgiving isn’t even here yet. It would be nice if the man behind the Global Warming hoax actually presented himself front and center to explain what in God’s name is going on here. His earlier invention, the internet, has been largely useless in terms of finding the man. I want answers, and I want them now!

Well, I’ll have to turn to lesser things, such as pulling out my copy of the US Constitution, and reading once more the words of Alexander Hamilton, and James Madison. These two men spent many a cold night in the late 1700s answering their own questions, and the questions of those who opposed the Constitution’s adoption by the colonies. Their work, known as the Federalist Papers, pre-supposed the value of constitutional government, and their articulately stated opimions and views hold forth to this very day. An amazing byproduct, is that the keen intellect, and prescience on display back then, has not replicated itself unto this very day. Say what you will about Liberal influences in our public education system, the fact remains that these men were perfect not only for their time, but, boy, could we use men like that today.

Quite tellingly, Hamilton in his concluding remarks, said: “I answer in the next place, that I should esteem it the extreme of imprudence to prolong the precarious state of our national affairs, and to expose the Union to the jeopardy of successive experiments, in the chimerical pursuit of a perfect plan.” Further, Hamilton reasoned that: “I never expect to see a perfect work from imperfect man.” All men that is, who desire finding the “perfect plan” Hamilton admonishes us: “The result of the deliberations of all collective bodies must necessarily be a compound, as well as of the errors and prejudices, as of the good sense and wisdom, of the individuals of whom they are composed.”

Finally, Hamilton, in a moment of pure candor, quotes another writer: “To balance a large state or society, whether monarchical or republican, on general laws, is a work of so great difficulty, that no human genius, however comprehensive, is able by the mere dint of reason and reflection, to effect it. The judgements of many must unite in the work, experience must guide their labor, time must bring it to perfection, and the feeling of inconveniences must correct the mistakes which they inevitably fall into, in their first trials and experiments.”

These were not simply words of caution, they were instructions to those willing to listen. It is hoped, but not likely, that Barack Obama hears these words from his ancestral forefathers. Social experiments, over the years, have failed miserably when done on the grandest of scales. So too, will this be the fate of most of the program changes Obama has promised to us in the name of “change”

Since the Founding of America, many Congresses, and Presidents have tinkered their way around constitutional constraints, mostly with abysmal results. Today is no exception, save one fact: The current Congress, and the incoming President, seem hell bent on casting aside the wisdom of men like Madison, and Hamilton. All this in the name of what? Certainly not a better America, for America is greater when men disavow themselves of the notions that THEY can do better.

Madison and Hamilton wrote by the light of flickering candles at night, and by the strength of their publicly stated convictions during the light of day. Before the current crop decide to “change” America, it would be better if they first ask themselves, “What would Madison and Hamilton have said?”

What Ever Happened To Johnnie Mack Brown?

2008-11-19T18:28:00.000-08:00

Some years ago, The Statler brothers, a country music group recorded the song, "Do You Remember These". In the song, the brothers were lamenting the passing of the good old days, and all the old cowboy heroes of the time. Further into the song, they recalled things such as "movie stars on dixie cup lids", and girls with "cooties" in their hair. Ah yes, the good old days, long gone, but not forgotten. The Statlers wondered what ever happened to Johnnie Mack Brown? Well, the election is over, and now someone will surely record a song lamenting the passing of the "current" good old days. "Whatever happened to Johnnie McCain", will be the query of all who remember the good old election campaign days of summer. Or will they? Will anyone remember John, as he crosses the aisle just one more time, and not for old times sake, either.

As it turned out, John was a major disappointment to all Republicans. Certainly, he will be accorded status for a valiant run, but in the end, will it make any difference? Hopefully, McCain will not allow himself to be used by the Obama administration, but indications are that he has already begun to cross that notorious "aisle" once more. Never could trust a maverick could we? To think that McCain forced Sarah Palin to embrace that same "maverick" tag, was demeaning to a decent Conservative, but she will recover. Her star, in it's ascendancy, will pass John's falling star on it's way down. Then, and only then, will Republicans be able to pick up the pieces and move on.

Often times, as a wolf in the wild must do to save itself, the party will gnaw off the gangrenous paw, just to ensure it's living for another day in the wild. It was a nice ride John, and it was even pleasurable to hear you extoll the virtues of Ronald Reagan, and claim you were a true, blue Conservative. But we knew it was not true at all. You used us, just as you have allowed the Liberals to use you in certain ways. Remember? Feingold, Kennedy et al? You were so proud of your reaching out in a bi-partisan way in behalf of the American people, to get something done, that needed not be done.

You couldn't find the aura of a gentleman to wrap yourself in when given the opportunity to defend your running mate on national television. That's ok though, because Sarah doesn't need you any more, she's on her own, and doing well. For all your qualities, John, you just didn't measure up when the real fight of your life commenced. Everyone is wondering why, and they grow fewer in numbers with each passing day. So, let's hoist our mugs aloft, and salute the man himself. He has earned at least that small amount of respect, but a new day of promise is upon us, a day with a woman front and center. This is Sarah's time, so let it begin.

How Decisions Are Made

2008-11-17T21:41:00.000-08:00

This past week was pleasant in bucolic Greenville, South Carolina. Then, all hell broke loose. At the St. Marys RC Church, some 150 years old, Father Jay Scott Newman, placed a message to parishoners in the weekly church bulletin: "Voting for a pro-abortion politician, when a plausible pro-life alternative exists, constitutes material cooperation with intrinsic evil, and those Catholics who do so, place themselves outside of the full Communion of Christ's Church, and under the full judgment of Divine Law." He added further, that such persons should not receive Holy Communion, until they are reconciled to God in penance. Additionally, he advised his parishoners that they must pray for the president-elect, and cooperate with him whenever "conscience permits."

There you have it. The good shepherd tending to his flock of God's children, as he saw the need to so do. His parishoners agreed by a 9-1 margin with his message, and then the hammer fell. Somehow, the press got hold of his church bulletin's message, and it became, of course, national news. The ensuing heat generated by the story, prompted a statement by Monsignor Martin T. Laughlin, administrator of the Diocese of Charleston, South Carolina. In his statement, Msgr. Laughlin allowed that the "churches clear moral teaching on the evil of abortion had been pulled into the partisan political arena." He went on to say that, "Father Newman's statements do not adequately reflect the Catholic Church's teachings." Interestingly, he also said that "Man has the right to act in CONSCIENCE, and in freedom, so as to make moral decisions...and guided by the AUTHORITATIVE teaching of the Church." Sounds very clear to me, how about you?

Coincidentally, on November 13, 2008, the US Conference of Catholic Bishops, through their Catholic Campaign for Human Development sub-committee chairman, Roger Morin, severed their financial relationship with ACORN, citing an embezzlement FINDING, and other acts of impropriety. This action provoked no outrage, no editorial dissection of motive underlying the action taken, nor any word at all. Nothing like good clean decisions made in the best interests of the Church, and it's benefactors. Gosh, that was easy enough, and they didn't have to go very far back in time to come to a just conclusion.

Here is the dilemma, On the one hand, a monetary decision is made in good faith, one consonant with good business practice. All's well, that ends well. Then, there is father Newman, guided by HIS conscience, and by centuries of Church teaching. From the first century Didache, to Pope John Paul II, in his "Evangelium Vitae" (Gospel of life), it has been eminently clear that abortion is FORBIDDEN, as is murder. The law of retribution, Lex Talionis, stresses that abortion calls for STRICT penalties. Moses himself, said so, and here some 1900 years later, so too, did father Newman advise his flock regarding the evils of abortion, and how to select in good conscience, one person of a better moral understanding of the evil, than another not so held to the mandates of HIS church's teachings. This is clear to me, how about you?

I suppose the central point is that the Church hierarchy, in it's haste to make the matter go permanently away, chose to make Father Newman a scapegoat. Of course, Father Newman would not agree with me, but I, in good conscience have made that distinction not for him, but for me. How is it that a sound business practice, absent historical significances, may be almost unilaterally made in but a minute or two, by the same people who, with two millennia of teaching and precedent, struggle with such a simple task?

Father Newman obviously, acted in good faith with his conscience and training as guides before writing his admonition to HIS parishoners. he should be praised, silently, if one must, but praised for holding firmly to the tenets of Canon Law. It truly is that simple. Why have others made it so difficult? You may supply your own answers here.

And now, there are new things to teach those who will save us from ourselves...

The Chill Of Winter Has Arrived...

2008-11-16T17:19:00.000-08:00

...And with it, a certain realization.

The chill you feel in the air is not necessarily a product of northerly winds this Fall. The chill we feel, is the chill put upon the spirits of proud Americans who fear their country is being taken from them by the forces of change. At least half of all Americans are in this, together with another sizable group who simply wanted to be a part of history in the making. It is this latter group that is so fascinating. In particular, Douglas Kmiec, a professor of law at Pepperdine University, seems to be representative of the lot. A practicing Catholic, Kmiec nonetheless became a vocal supporter of Barack Obama, and headed up Obama's Catholic outreach effort to secure the Catholic vote in America. He, as a former member of the Reagan and Bush administrations, had earlier supported Mitt Romney's candidacy, but when John McCain became the party nominee, he felt the need to look elsewhere for someone to support.

So, he found Barack Obama, a man whom he believed not to be religious, but a man with Christian beliefs. With this in mind, Mr. Kmiec certainly was aware of Obama's disregard for human life surviving a botched abortion. Apparently, the various significant points of law in play concerning this was an override to the application of not only common sense decency, but of the moral laws to which we are all subject. In professor Kmiec's case, he has said that he is lost if the decision to bar him from receiving Holy Communion persists.

We are to assume that the professor is, and has been cognizant, of the Catholic Church position regarding abortion. In both legal, and non-legal terms, it is murder. It is not "infanticide", which seems to be a mind cleansing definition in the minds of the elites among us Fortified with years of such religious awareness, and certainly in possession of his cognitive faculties, the professor nonetheless made the conscious, and deliberate decision to support a man with ideas so foreign to almost all practicing Catholics in America.

He claims that in a conference call with the Pope himself, that if the Pope said, "Douglas, you are wrong!", he would tear out the first 174 pages of his Obama support manifesto. Here, Kmiec offers a glimpse into the soul of the Obama supporters who "went along for the ride into history in the making". The "latter group I spoke of earlier, is filled with the Douglas Kmiecs of the world. People of sometimes clear vision, who push that vision aside purposefully, when confronted by a charismatic wolf in sheep's clothing. We should not condemn these people, we should offer prayers for them, that they return safely to the path of moral conviction.

Remember this: Those same forces are still out there, attempting to steal elections in Georgia, and in Minnesota. They will find their Douglas Kmiecs, and they will mesmerize them into signing up for the "cause". America is not lost, but America is in a state of mortal flux. Conservatives will win the day, and they will do it with purposeful dignity.

The children call, I must get to them knowing the charlatans are but mere minutes away...

The Fight Has Begun

2008-11-14T09:47:00.000-08:00

Rahm Emanuel has apologized to an Arab acquaintance for remarks made by his father, which suggested that Rahm, a Jew, would be supportive of Israel, hence, so would Barack Obama. Not yet in office, Obama's appointments are busy stirring the pot of boiling world stew. One may only imagine what other such seasoning may be added to this roiling brew come January 20th, 2009. Add to this development, the converging upon Minnesota of outside Liberal lawyers, Move On loyalists, the NEA, and, of course, Acorn membership, for the unselfish purpose of "stealing" the election of Norm Coleman, twice certified. We should have faith that the Minnesota Secretary of State, Mark Ritchie, a former Acorn head, will discharge his Constitutional duties flawlessly, and with the highest degree of fidelity. Yeah, right!

The oft quoted Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the US House, promised "civility", and a true spirit of bi-partisanship two years ago. Now, as forecast, Washington Congressional Democrats are on the brink of begining an investigation into the soon to be former, Bush administration for foul deeds done over the past eight years. Nothing like a partisan in wolf's clothing is there? Clearly, the democrats desire a filibuster proof Senate, and are willing to traverse any road, legal or otherwise, that will secure that goal for them.

Obama, in his haste to "act" presidential, rather than to "be" presidential, is sure to make many mistakes leading up to his inauguration in some 67 days from today. Of a sudden, William Ayres, has found his voice, and is not bashful at all in recounting his former life as a terrorist. In the newest version he simply engaged in activities that were possibly not legal, but his intent was not to hurt people. Well, bless his little terrorist heart! More than likely, we'll be hearing from the rest of Obama's pals, and sooner than later.

When the Democrats are finished, President Bush won't have to worry about his legacy at all. In fact, he, if they are successful, will turn out not having been our president at all! I like clean slates, don't you? It gives us a fresh new start on the road to despotism, and to Socialism itself. Jeremiah Wright's "chickens" having come home to roost, are but a portent of what awaits America during the next four years.

All this, the foregoing, is not refutable, simply taken as the promises of Obama himself to all Americans, voting and non-voting Americans. Legal, and non-legal Americans, and anyone else favorable to the Obama Crusade.

As we descend into the dark, and gloomy winter of 2008, let us remember that what the Germans could not do at Bastogne, Belgium, in the winter of 1945, so too, will the Democrats not be able to do, to a prepared, and informed rest of us. That's us, as in US citizens! The battle has started, are we similarly prepared to beat back the advancing forces of Socialism? The answer is a resounding, YES!

And now, back to the little people whose futures depend on us.

Fairness, to be or not to be?

2008-11-08T21:02:00.000-08:00

Now that the election is over, you may bet the "Fairness Doctrine" advocates will rouse themselves from their slumbers, and move forward vigorously to reinstate that infamous assault on free speech. In short, the doctrine was founded on a particularly solid point. Some sixty years ago, the FCC decided that it was in the public interest to require broadcast stations to air contrasting points of view vis a vis editorial positions taken by STATIONS, in political matters. This made sense, because if a particular candidate for political office believed himself to not being properly, and accurately portrayed in a broadcast stations editorial pronouncements, well, then he felt a need for equal time to correct what he viewed as being inaccuracies, or untruths. As a rule, this made good sense, and the FCC promulgated rules of it's own to ensure "fairness" on broadcast air waves.

However, since Ronald Reagan's deregulation in the 1980's, and the eventual overhaul of the Fairness Doctrine" itself, there hasn't been much of a perceived need to reinstate the doctrine. That is, until Democrats, and Liberals decided for themselves that stations with Conservative talk shows were not truly fair and balanced in their programming standards. As a result, Congressional Democrats are now calling for the doctrine's reinstatement, creating a new standard of "Fair and Balanced" programming. The dirty truth is that these talk shows thrive on audience participation, and have been wildly successful business enterprises as a result. On the other hand, Liberal talk shows have been tried, but have failed for good reasons. They just don't work! Liberal views depend not so much on audience participation to make their shows work well, for Liberalism itself, is intellectually undefinable, making it virtually impossible to succeed.

The whole point behind these calls for the doctrine's reinstatement, is to stifle free speech, and eliminate the "competition " as it were. This is most puzzling, for there are only a handful of such "Conservative" talk shows on radio. They are eminently successful because all discussions are IDEA based, and not of some nebulous quality that would allow for public indoctrination. These shows are but a part of a broadcast stations daily menu, and do not reflect the views of the station itself. That is true fairness itself. Additionally, these stations are independent business enterprises, and must make money from advertiser willingness to pay that money. On each of these shows furthermore, Liberal points of view are encouraged and sought after. On many, liberal callers are often put to the "front of the line", though oftentimes to the dismay of their Conservative counterparts. All in all, it is an entertaining format, and not one detrimental to the public good at all.

And another thing, with the Democrats recent election showing, it would appear that they were able to somehow convince a number of voting Americans to see things their way. To me, that signals a disturbing move attempted by Democrats in Congress, to purge the air waves of anything that they do not favor as a voice of political expression. Although we could hold up the example of the MSM, and the print media, as not being the respectable "news" organizations they purport themselves to be, I won't do that just now. Suffice it to say that if we do nothing, we will lose our only voices of reason, at least as we see them to be.

The Liberals have most of it, don't they? A willing and compliant press, our country's public education system, and power in the Congress! What more can they possibly need? Total control it would appear to be. Mark Levin says famously that "Tyranny is at the bottom of the slippery slope upon which we stand. Tyranny, despotism, socialism, and Marxism await those blinded by the guile and the intentions of the ruling class: Washington elitist politicians of the Democrat stripe!

Are we going to stand idly by, and watch our First Amendment stripped from the US Constitution?

NO, a resounding NO!!

And now, back to the education of those who will ultimately save us from ourselves. They vitally need instruction on that same Constitution, you know, the Constitution they are not receiving training on in America's public schools. Yeah, that one.

What Happened To The Good News?

2008-11-06T19:25:00.000-08:00

Let's see here: Our country elects it's first black Liberal as president, and the DOW plunges 370 points. I suppose this was in honor of the "changes" to come in the market place. Within the next two months, it is said that sports agents will hurry to take advantage of this current years tax rates, allowing the boys of summer, fall and winter, (did I mention spring?) to keep more of their hard earned money before it is retrned to the suckers who pay inflated ticket prices to see their heroes on the fields of play. No self respecting sportsman would pass up that opportunity would he/she?

We need change, was the unrelenting mantra of Obama, and his delerious supporters. So far, all we have gotten are the two invitations sent to Rahm Emanuel, congressman, Illinois, and Robert Gibbs. The former has accepted the White House Chief of Staff position, and Gibbs will likely do the same, accepting the White House Press secretary's appointment. Wow! more change that just doesn't smell like change. In Emanuel Obama is getting a hard knuckled politician who once sent a dead fish to a political foe. Then there is the story of Emanuel's tirade in Chicago directed at politicians he felt had disrespected him. You know, where he sat at a table with a steak knife in hand and said"Dead!", after each of the recalcitrants names were mentioned. Republicans have less to fear from Emanuel, than do Congressional democrats who defy Obama's legislative plans.

meanwhile, the bufoonish Tom Brokaw was heard on the Charlie Rose television show saying that, "Obama is an enigma, we don't know much about him other than the two biographies he has written." Well, Mr> Brokaw, you are a journalist, are you not? You could have, provided that you wanted to, assigned a reporter or two to find out just who in the name of God was this candidate named Obama. But you didn't. You were too busy advancing the cause of the Messiah, and now are trying simply to cover your a**! Others in the MSM are filing their own mea culpas, in the hope that the tarnish so encrusted on their reputations, may be removed before the public starts asking serious questions. You people got exactly what you wanted, and now will have to live with the consequences. I wonder to what will they attribute the greatest one day fall after a presidential election of the DOW since 1900? Oh, I know. The failed economic policies of the Bush administration. Yeah, that's it. Mr. President, you deserve all the ridicule having come your way since election 2000! Your unwillingness to fight the good fight was not only beneath the presidency, as you insist, but apparently beneath your ability to do so: engage the enemy on his turf. Similarly, John McCain's campaign chieftains should beware their laying blame for McCain's loss at the feet of Governor Sarah Palin. McCain himself didn't have the fire in his belly either. In that regard, he is more like President Bush, than not.

I spoke with Obama voters today, and politely asked them to give me reasons for the need to change, and remake America. Needless to say, these were exceedingly brief, and very quiet conversations that never really got off the ground. So much for the intelligent among us.

Meanwhile, things were very routine for those whose futures depend on each of us. The rain, looming threats of snow, the wind, and play. Their day of "hope" will come, but will it be too late for them? This, I ask of myself, and anyone else within earshot.

Now, back to those with mundane worries. They are looking forward to Christmas already. This year will be as last year, but what about next year and the years to follow?

What's Next?

2008-11-05T18:42:00.000-08:00

We have a new President-elect. His name is Obama. We are told to rejoice for the choices made, and for the history of the moment. We are admonished to be gracious, and to congratulate this man for his victory over the reluctant John McCain. This we are told, but this I deny.

True Conservatives, constantly on guard against enemies of our Constitution, now have their work cut out for them. No, I can not offer congratulations, nor be gracious in advance of the carrying out of the many promises made by Obama. Carry them out is his intent, and our warning. In spite of the Democrat claims of racial divides being created, let us remember that it was THEY who injected race into every available cavity of the now past election period. For Conservatives, it was never about race, certainly not the party of Thomas Sole, Walter Williams, Ken Blackwell, Michael Steele or Condy Rice, and Clarence Thomas. Conservatives have always been the ones discussing issues in terms of their Constitutional relevance, and not in terms of being made to simply feel "good" about Liberal decisions made without concern for Constitutional limits on those decisions made.

No. Conservatives must band together more tightly, and rid the movement of those who sought to redefine it. Rid them by letting it be known they are not welcome at the discussion table when the rebirth begins. Republicans, elitist, and simply RINO, are the cancer that has riddled the Conservative movement of it's life sustaining nourishment. Let the ridding begin!

For all their likeability, neither George Bush, nor John McCain have led the movement in a positive way. President Bush, over an eight year period, allowed the Liberals, and the MSM to define him as a bumbler, and a clod unworthy of the presidency he "stole" from Al Gore, and John Kerry. President Bush felt that fighting back against these negative forces was beneath the Presidency itself, and so, he became to many Americans that which they were told he was: unfit for the job. John McCain, obviously so proud of his "maverick" status, and a fierce military warrior of whom the country was rightfully proud, similarly did not have the desire nor the fire in his belly to combat the enemies of our Constitution: Liberals. Yes, they are to be praised for their service to America, but also faulted for their lack of visionary leadership.

Obama, today, appealed to the roughly half of America that did not vote for him. He acknowledged that their votes went not his way, and he was reaching out for our support in the long days ahead. I believe Obama to be a man of his word, and his words are what frighten the hell out of me, and I am sure many other Americans as well. This man who proclaimed himself to be a "uniter" has fallen back to the default position of dividing this country thoroughly, and with purpose. Last night he told adoring supporters there would be many failures in the next year, and beyond to the fourth year of his presidency. This a prerequisite step to campaigning for a second term before he has begun his first. He spoke of the need to sacrifice on the part of all, which provoked looks of bewilderment in the adorers eyes. Don't worry though, it will all be blamed on the terrible presidency of George Bush and those awful, nasty republican supporters of his.

True, he does not have a fillibuster proof Senate to assist in the implementation of his plans for "change", and the "remaking" of America. But, with Republicans like Arlen Spector, and Lindsay Graham, even that is not so certain a brake on the wheels of destructive power about to be unleashed. This is a situation we all knew could happen, but did not anticipate ever happening to an enlightened public. Well, the lights are on full glare now, and the scene is not so pretty out there. That which America asked for, America is about to get. Do not come to my door looking for a sympathetic voice with which to commiserate, I'll be too busy, as was the Hollander, Peter, with my fingers, if not my hand in the hole in the dike about to be breached.

Over half of Americans who voted yesterday, I suppose were voting as they would for Warren Sapp on "Dancing With The Stars". The shallowness, the very real contempt for our country's history was on display yesterday, and half the world laughed with glee as America got it's comeuppance in a big way. The other half, well, they have lost a world leader to whom they looked up, and were saddened.

I caution these Leftists who want to make victims out of a majority of Americans. You can not succeed. You will not be allowed to succeed, for if history is the guide it is portrayed to be, you will be the ones deposited on the ash heaps where you belong. You want a fight, a protracted struggle? You've got it, in spades.

The lessons to be taught to those who survive our ignorance, are many, and extremely important. Back to school with them, and with their futures in mind...

Time To Mention The "S" Word?

2008-11-03T13:23:00.000-08:00

We all love America, don't we? What's that you say, "perhaps not all of us"? If we are to believe the MSM, and it's sycophants of the Left, this election is over, and the only thing left to consider is the extent of the landslide before us. But, not so fast there!

OK, we must assume that the election of Barack Obama is a foregone conclusion. Give the man his due. He has made many promises to us all, and I for one, believe he will keep them. Let's list them right here:

1. Obama has promised to wage war on capitalism, and destroy industries, and thereby
deprive tens of thousands of working Americans of their jobs and their dignity.
2. Obama has promised to redistribute America's wealth, your earned money, and give
it to those Americans who have not paid income taxes, as a "tax break".
3. Obama has promised to reduce America's military to unrecognizable third world levels.
4. Obama has promised abortion on demand for every freedom loving American.
5. Obama has promised to nominate jurists ala Ginsberg, and Breyer to the Supreme Court.
6. Obama has vowed that it is patriotic to pay the huge tax increases he has in mind for us

Say what you want to about John McCain, he can not make nor keep such promises. Barack Obama however, there is a man of his word. He has every intention of keeping his promises, if, and when he is elected.

Therefore, maybe it is time to speak of the unthinkable----SECESSION!
In the early 1800's, southern states worried over their lack of real clout in the Congress. It began as a states rights struggle between the northern tier of states, and the southern states. Eventually, slavery became a central and defining issue, and it wasn't long until South Carolina, on September 24, 1860 issued a Declaration of Causes of Secession. The die was cast, and soon, six more southern states followed South Carolina's lead, and themselves seceeded from the Union. The Civil War was upon us, the rest so to speak, is history. Viewed in the context of the moment, one might, or might not have agreed with those who headed the Confederacy. Hundreds of thousands of Americans died fighting for whatever their beliefs were at the time. The purpose here, is not to rehash the War of the States, nor to examine what was done, how it was done, and why it was done. Simply the fact that it WAS done by citizens who believed in their grievances against a central government.

So, here we are some 148 years later, living in expectancy of a central government's attempt to destroy this once proud nation. Led by a man not of great vision, but a man of greater promises than we wish to bear. Would it be surprising then, if there were calls for secession once more? After all, are we not a divided nation? Red and Blue? Clearly, inside these two Americas, are individuals who are light years apart in their understanding of what it means to be American. What it is exactly that makes them happy, and productive citizens. Our future, bleak though it may be, is too precious to leave to chance.

As they say in Blue New York, I would leave in a New York minute for any other place that held firmly to the founding ideas, and to the promise of glory, and freedom for the individual. Admittedly, it is not easy to say these things, but surely others are thinking similar thoughts. If a simple majority of Americans believe in the above referenced "Obama promises", and can change the way all Americans live, well, then maybe it is time for some serious thinking along these lines. If Blue America likes the promises offered, then let them have them.For the rest of us in Red America, possibly a new start can be had. It would be a terribly complex divorce, but one possibly worth enduring.Make no mistake, we are definitely two entirely different countries, two entirely different cultures.

Is there anyone bold enough to make the first move out there? Time will tell, and that time may soon be upon us. In fact, it may be only 23 hours from now. I seem to remember Hollywood types who threatened to move out of the country if George Bush won his elections. Never could count on them to follow through on their solemn vows, could we? It's a different America now, and one with different Americans who are truer to their word. We could share the same Constitution, but Consitutional values would be decidedly different in Red America. No parsing of words, no mistake as to original intent. Just Founders ideals living on in perpetuity. No false arguments as to OUR Constitution being a "living" document!

Now, back to those who know not what awaits them, should the chips fall the wrong way.

Lest we forget

2008-11-02T17:56:00.000-08:00

On the eve of this years presidential election, we should pause in reflection of past events that have shamed the American justice system. Notably, the incarcerations of three Americans for doing nothing but their duty in protection of people such as you and I. We all remember Ignacio Ramos, and Jose Compean, US Border Patrol agents convicted of a crime against an illegal alien on US soil near the Mexican border. Yes, their trial charges included "conspiring to cover up their crime". We may also recall the prosecutor granting immunity to the illegal alien upon his return from Mexico to testify at trial. We are familiar with the repetitive offenses committed against US law by this individual. So, who is it that are still in custody, and denied their freedom by zealous federal prosecutors: Ramos and Compean, that's who!

The third individual, Stephanie Mohr, of Prince George's County, Maryland, is currently serving the fifth year of a ten year sentence. She was convicted of violating the civil rights of, once again, an illegal alien. Upon confronting two men on a roof top, she and her partner in accord with law, and police standards, placed them under arrest. One suspect made a move as if to flee, and Stephanie let loose her canine which was trained to bite and hold, again, in compliance with department standards. Nothing came of it at the time, however, at the midnight hour, one of that cadre of zealous illegal alien first prosecutors charged Stephanie with a civil rights crime against an illegal alien. After a hung jury deliberation, the unsatisfied prosecutor plowed forward with a new trial, and a jury more potentially in favor of poor illegal aliens. This time, Stephanie was convicted, and is currently serving the fifth year of a ten year sentence.

I have sent mail to President Bush, and to Vice President Dick Chaney, asking for the pardoning of these three US law enforcement personnel. Won't you take a few minutes to review these cases, and call upon the President, and Vice President to do what must be done?

Remember. Ignacio, Jose, and Stephenie are continually denied their freedom. While we still have ours, let's do the right and proper thing in calling for the President to do what came so easily for former President Clinton.The nature of the crimes didn't bother President Clinton, neither did the appropriateness of granting pardons to individuals who did not deserve them. In this case, there is no way in which to justify what has happened to, and continues to happen to, Ignacio, Jose, and Stephanie. PS her five year old daughter would approve, as would Ignacio's and Jose's children.

And now, back to those whom we hold close to our hearts. our children and grand children, those who will save us from ourselves, and from others...

Something Missing here

2008-10-31T13:07:00.000-07:00

Having caught parts of Senator Obama's infomercial before the World Series game, I was struck by how depressing, and insulting he whole thing was. In it, Obama portrays Americans, and I add ALL Americans, as pathetically helpless when faced with moments of despair in their lives. The somber, and macabre nature of this portrayal diminishes us all, and is not representative of the real America this man lives in. For someone who casts himself as "his brothers keeper", Obama has never found the time nor the grace to assist his own family during moments of crisis in their lives. From his half-brother George, living in a hut in Kenya, to his Aunt living in a Boston slum. Obama has mentioned them freely n his books, and in his public discourse. Yet, apparently he can not bring himself to help "lift their boats". All the while, he proclaims to be the one, the Messiah, who will come to the aid of every poverty stricken American who so desperately needs his compassion. What a bunch of unmitigated crap!

The true America, and the true American, are concepts unknown to Obama. One has but to listen to that Iraqi war veteran scolding Obama for belittling our Military personnel's sacrifices over the past five years. If the "little guy" gets it, then why can't Obama get it? Why? Because he is too busy denigrating the country big enough to grant him a stage, yet small enough to casually dismiss isolated shortcomings such as the parade of pitiful people allowing themselves to be used as extras in Obama's video telling us that America is more like the country of Jeremiah Wright's disdain, or of William Ayre's contempt. "America is not what it once was, or could be", he told that little seven year old school girl. How scornful may one man be?

Obama's greatest kill lies in his ability to inaccurately tell us what America is truly all about. He can't, because he doesn't himself know. He is nothing more than a very, very Liberal politician, selling a very Liberal vision for the America he wants to "change"! He won't, or can't, tell us what exactly it is he wants to change America from, or to. Of course, I do not believe he hates America, but there is something about the America he, and we, live in that is not to his liking.

Lies have become a hallmark of the Obama campaign. No need to go into detail here, we all know what they are. This man who can not generate an ounce of compassion for a newborn baby in critical need of a doctor's services, wants us to believe that he is nonetheless, a man of supreme compassion. This man who desires to lead America's military can not generate an ounce of respect for all those men and women put into harms way by he and his running mate, Joe Biden. This man who cherishes only our vote, and little more, must not willingly be enabled to implement his Socialist plans for what would then be a former Democracy, in the formerly greatest country on earth.

I believe I know now just what it is that frustrates me most, as I am sure it does many other Americans. Obama possesses not an iota of a sense of American history. The many instances of bravery, and sacrifice made by others completely escapes him. His view of America is a view of OTHER people who live in this country. He sat in the pews of Trinity Church for 20 years, and heard only the fulminations of his radical pastor Wright. He was mentored by William Ayres, and Saul Alinsky, went to the one million man march at the side of Louis Farrakhan. For all of his graduate work, he seemingly never was introduced to any American history programs that meant anything at all to him. The question is not why he wants to lead us, but rather, why would WE permit this man to sit at the helm of government in the first place. I shudder at the thought.

We listened, well, some did, in rapturous fascination as he threw stones at the feet of America while in Berlin, speaking to Euro-Fascists. How is it that Nicholas Sarkozy, of France, extolled the greatness of America, and it's willingness to sacrifice for the greater good of the whole world? And still, this man, Obama, has said nothing at all about the greatness of America, and of Americans in general. Could it be that he sees no greatness, past or present, merely a country needed to be "changed" for the most nebulous of reasons. Let us "hope" such a man, and his promise of unwarranted change will be denied this Tuesday coming. God Bless America! God save America!

So I Said To Him...

2008-10-20T19:02:00.000-07:00

..."I just want to spread the wealth around, and that's a good thing". Once upon a time, I thought the two most feared words in the English language were: OH-OH! How wrong I was. There are actually now thirteen words to fear the most, and they have come from the mouth of Barack Obama.

This pretender wants to redistribute America's wealth in the form of brand new welfare programs that would positively be of benefit to no one other than those whom he sees fit to be the recipients of such ill gotten monies. The wealth of America's citizens belongs to those who have worked hard for that wealth, no matter who they might be. For any one individual to presume that only he shall guarantee possession of someone elses money, is as Socialistic as it gets. In fact, it goes well beyond that. It is pure tyranny. It is undisguised communism. So many other things it is, but one thing for sure, it is not American, in fact, it is as un-American as anything that has ever happened in this great country of ours.

Take a good close look everyone, for these elitists are set to "change" America in ways we can not begin to fathom. First, let's look at a few basics: We are told that he is going to tax this and tax that, and at this rate, and at that rate. What became of the necessity to tell us first why there is a need to tax at all? There is no mention of hearing, "this is my budget, and this is the amount of money required to satisfy the budgetary needs of my budget. Therefore, I propose taxing this way, and that way in order to meet those needs". No, there is absolutely no mention of defined budget goals, and costs. By setting up class standards, and thereby garnering sufficient support for punitive, and confiscatory methods to separate the "wealth" from those who earned it, and redistributing it to those not paying taxes, is nothing more than a new welfare program for America. We can not afford Obama, and America does not need another Hugo Chavez in the White House.

There was a lot of talk today about Colin Powell's announcement of support for Obama. That doesn't matter to me, I believe my vote cancels his, and there we go. To think that the MSM and the Liberal Democrats supporting Obama would analy examine Joe the plumber quite unlike they have Obama himself, is no surprise at all. After all, that is what they do. Think of Sarah Palin, think of John McCain. Nobody does it as well as the MSM do they? As a former staff sergeant in the US Army, I am ashamed of my former General Powell's sophomoric defense of his support for Obama. Joe the plumber has a more genuine appeal for average Americans, and is certainly much more honest when expressing himself. This then, is the "October surprise" we have waited for, and we weren't disappointed, were we?

So, for all you Communists, and Socialists out there, remember this: we are on to you, and you will not destroy America, nor her institutions, nor her Founders dreams for us all. We shall fight you on the beaches, we shall fight you in the streets, and we shall fight you in the air above our heads, as Winston Churchill said so many years ago in the British house of Commons, when Britain was in her darkest hours.

The MSM and the Liberals have attempted to shut down honest discourse, and disagreement by seriously, not frivolously, charging anyone with the gall to speak up, with being RACIST! This is not about race, except within the eyes of the MSM and the Liberals This is about America's future, our future, and the futures of our children and grandchildren. If this is not enough incentive for any of you, then what the hell are you going to do? All the defections by supposedly "reliable republicans" was predictable, for they have been Republicans in name only, RINOS, they are called. They will have no effect on me, nor anyone close to me. They are seen for whom they are, Beltway Insiders jockeying for position in an Obama administration. Dream on, you traitors to America!

Now, back to those in our care, they need us as never before...

Slowly, But surely...

2008-10-10T19:08:00.000-07:00

It appears that John McCain has heard the voices after all. At a campaign stop in Wisconsin, he actually named names. He is responding to the calls of very ordinary Americans who want nothing more than to hear their voices through his voice. Of course, it didn't hurt that Sarah Palin had already begun to respond in her own inimitable style. Proof of this lies in the ever increasing vitriol heaped upon her by the likes of Madonna, and by Whoopi Goldberg also. Madonna doesn't want Sarah living on "her" street, and Whoopi claims that Reverend Wright only dislikes America, but he is not a "hater" per se. The more McCain piles it on, the more likely it is that some of this disturbing stuff about the Democrat"s destroying the American financial system will finally resonate with voters.

The gloves must be taken off, and thrown aside. McCain has one last opportunity this week coming, to take Obama up on his challenge to confront him with his Ayre connection. This last debate may very well be a true defining moment for the Republican challenger, and we hope he will dish it out much as his former Vietnamese captors gave it to him many years ago. He bore up quite well under all their tortures, and survived to become the man he is today. Once again, if he can not bring himself to be that combative, then give the ball to Sarah, and get out of the way please. This much is owed to loyal Republican supporters. This we hope he realizes with all his heart.

Let the trials begin! Senators Dodd, Schummer, Reid and Obama himself, along with Representatives Frank, Pelosi, et al must be called to accountability for their roles in the destruction of America's economy. This must be done while under oath, and subject to perjury rules, for the good of the country. Once again, let me ask you to look into the eyes of your trusting children, and grand children, and tell me this is not the proper course of action to bring forward.

Now, back to the education, and to the protection of those who will survive us...

Promises, Promises...

2008-10-05T13:44:00.000-07:00

John McCain promised to "name names" when it came to pork laden bills that would be put on his Presidential desk for signature. He promised he would never sign such a bill, didn't he? Yet, when he had his chance to "walk the walk", he caved in and approved with his signature, the pork laden bailout bill approved this past week in the Senate. Over 150 billion dollars worth of sweet pork were added to the bill, and this pork he could, and did, swallow. Can the man be trusted at all to do what he has said he would do in behalf of Republican Conservatives when elected President? His weak excuse was that he was but "one" of a hundred Senators, and though the bill was bad in his estimation, he voted for it nonetheless. He had no choice; he just couldn't pull the trigger. Talk about reaching out across the aisle! Speaking of which, on Friday, McCain announced that there is a place for Al Gore in his administration, given his unfathomable knowledge, and leadership on the "global warming (hoax)". What exactly, does McCain see in this man? A British judge's ruling that there were too many untruths in his movie,"An Inconvenient Truth", led to the taking out of British schools this fairy tale of a movie. This does not speak well for McCain's ability to surround himself with quality advisors, does it?

It appears that McCain as President, would not just have a difficult time when it comes to Supreme Court appointees, but that he would once again "reach across the aisle" to mollify Democrats, and approve only those who met Democrat standards for such judicial appointments in the first place. So, what is a good Conservative to do? Well, we do have options after all don't we? Call it the "Carter effect". Jimmy Carter, the nutty peanut farmer from Georgia, really blessed America with his Presidency didn't he? One thing is for sure. He guaranteed America the Presidency of Ronald Reagan, and thus began a return to the promise of solid Conservative leadership. Reagan's poise in office, his speaking directly to the American people, was largely instrumental in resurrecting America's image in the world as a true leader of free peoples everywhere. It began with Reagan, we endured both the Republican father and son team who did little to distinguish themselves as Republicans in the Conservative sense. We might, yes, might, (although that is looking less likely with each passing day) have to endure another such unremarkable Republican in John McCain. What then?

Actually, things might not be so bleak. Lately, the single voice in the political wilderness soothing Conservatives fears is none other than Sarah Palin. How painful it has been to watch this woman forced to mouth the less than inspiring words of her running mate. You just know she wanted to go well beyond saying what she was limited in saying during her debate with the prolific liar of the Senate, Joe Biden. How do I know this to be fact, you might ask? Anyone at all who has watched any film concerning Alaska, knows that the people who inhabit Alaska, are among America's most sturdy. Simply living in Alaska presents challenges many of us in the "lower forty-eight" will never have to worry about. Despite the many zany media "elites" who have tried their best to defame, ruin, or otherwise raise questions about herself and her family, they have failed miserably! Sarah went directly to the American people with her message of hope and prosperity for all American citizens. Above all, Sarah has stood tall. With but a wink of her eye, she acknowledges our questions, and assures us that she hears US!

This next Reagan will not be a Reagan at all. She will be a Palin carrying out the dreams of the"Gipper". She will lead the Conservative movement in America, and we will be there in force to support her. She'll name names alright, and those being named will suffer in silent shame for their dirty deeds. She will lead as true leaders do, giving America it's promise once more; giving her all for the country she shamelessly loves. Mostly, she will come to be highly regarded as someone beyond "qualified", to be the next President of the United States of America. I want to think that Sarah would reach "across the aisle" to do only one thing: slap some sense into the heads of these traitorous, and unpatriotic people who are dragging America down.

God bless Sarah Palin, and God bless America!

Keep Your Eyes On The Bouncing Ball!

2008-09-26T20:25:00.000-07:00

It really doesn't matter, does it? I mean, who won the presidential debate tonight? Here we are barely three hours removed from discussion regarding the financial market crisis, and everyone is concerned as to who, exactly, won the debate. Was it John McCain, or was it Barack Obama?

Do not be deceived by the mere passage of time, nor the lack of continuing discussion on this more important issue before us. Did you, as I did today, call any of your Congressional representatives in Washington, or for that matter, President Bush, to express your concerns for their proposed plan to save the markets? In speaking with a representative from Congressman Mike Pence's office, I brought up the matter of inquiry, and investigation into the fundamental reasons underlying the market crisis. "Will there be such a call for accountability?", I asked. The young man said he was not aware of any plans, but the question was an excellent one. Clearly, Congress, and the President, want to put the matter firmly behind them, and move on to the next most pressing issue. I say we should keep the pressure on our representatives, and the President himself. After all, would your father have given you a sum of money, an extremely large sum of money, just because you had asked for it? No, he would not. Among other questions he would ask you, would be what exactly did you need it for, and would you please account for any mistakes you might have made getting yourself into such a grand mess. That we would owe to the man we hoped would bail us out of our difficulty.

The people of America deserve, no, the people of America have a fundamental right, to an explanation of how this country got itself into these dire straits. It seems there is culpability a'plenty to go around, and we demand answers before our "servants" in Washington sweep that culpability under congressional rugs. How important is this? Well, we all know the old saw about history repeating itself, don't we? Take the brooms and vacuum cleaners away, and let us see the unvarnished truth emerge. As I said last evening, there may not be enough room on post office walls for all the pictures of those with direct complicity in all this.

Please, do not take this lightly, for the information we seek will not be voluntarily forthcoming. Call your Representative at 202-224-3121, The Capital Office, and the President, at 202-456-1111. Register your concerns, and your demands for full, and complete accountability. Remember, your acting expeditiously will have lasting meaning for your children, and for your grand children. We, if Congress does not, owe this much to those who are in our care. There is nothing more important in any of our lives at this time. Stand up, and be accountable to all who love, and depend on you.

Now, back to those who sleep blissfully, unaware of the surprises in store for them, should we default in our role of being responsible citizens, and parents.

What Happened?

2008-09-25T19:57:00.000-07:00

What a risk one takes by simply taking a few weeks off!

The financial house of cards has fallen. All that remains is to put the rotting carcass in a hole far from the sensitive noses of the public, and cover it with the worthless remnants of the politically correct mortgages that had no chance of being repaid. Ever!

Whatever the cost to those burdened with their own mortgages to repay, this unanticipated new cost has the potential to be a real back breaker. Fear not however, our US Congress is hard at work fashioning a remedy sure to please everyone. Well, almost everyone that is. Isn't it funny how merely watching the unfolding drama can make you race for the bottle of Tums? Wait a minute though, for there is a sinister component to all this. We are assured by Democrat spokesmen that there is after all, a way out. Just give them more control over the US economy, and over you as well. The party pinata has been broken, and what lies on the floor are the broken promises, and the dashed hopes of responsible Americans. Americans who played by the accepted rules of personal responsibility. Gone is the veil of political correctness, long used as a lever to extract more, and more concessions from a public convinced of it's own culpability by those who have profited in unholy ways from this mess of their own creation.

Let's call a spade a spade here. A pig rolling merrily in the slop of it's home will raise a stink no matter how much perfume, or lipstick is applied. Democrats bear the responsibility for this collapse, and have since the Carter years in the White House. The names, and photos of Clinton, Raines, Johnson, Gorelick, Frank, and Dodd should be on display in every US Post Office in America. Don't forget Schummer, and Rangel either, but are we running out of post office wall space here? Never before has there been such an open view into the workings, and machinations of greedy politicians whose sworn oaths to the Constitution, and to the American people, mattered so little by the few, to the many.

Billions have been lost in the financial markets, and tens of millions of that total are safely placed in the bank accounts of managers who violated their public trust positions. Of course, these latter millions were taken before the "crash" of the markets, therefore, ineligible to be accounted for by Democrat rules for corruption. To Democrats, corruption is as the oxygen bottle to someone with emphysema; an inhaler to an asthmatic patient. It is a means of sustaining ill gotten wealth, and power. Have you ever noticed how seemingly penniless people go to Washington to represent(?) us, and suddenly they are filing income statements reflecting piles of money far beyond their meager salaries? In a word, it is the individual who corrupts the system, and not the other way around. No accountability, and of course, no investigation of the underlying reasons, and individuals, who are to blame for the mess we now find ourselves in. To demand such accountability, and investigations would be downright unAmerican, or so we are told.

For those of you still enamored of Barack Obama, and the Democrat Party, especially those of you with children and grand children, answer this question : Can you look those children you love directly in the eyes and not sense a feeling of having failed their best interests with your voting record? Go ahead, do it now. I just did, and it makes one want to cry. I'll do my best to resecure the guarantees of nothing more than an opportunity for them to chase. That is the promise of America, and my promise to them.

Now, back to those whose struggles are just beginning...the children, God Bless Them All!

Morning Is Broken...

2008-09-12T20:58:00.000-07:00

...So went the song by Cat Stevens. If only Homeland security could exercise the same authority over Hurricane Ike, as it did four years ago over Cat Stevens airline flight into the US. He was denied entry because his name was on a federal "watch" list. What? Cat Stevens on a federal watch list? Not exactly. When a man changes his name to Yusuf Islam, as Stevens did, don't you think he might just arouse a little bit of suspicion? Certainly. Now, if only we could get Ike to change it's name to something a bit more insidious, Homeland Security might be able to deny access to the US mainland in the morning.

In a short six to seven hours, Galveston, Texas, may not exist, we are warned by the weather Service. The city of Houston also lies in the path of Ike, and in a while, a lot of Texas may indeed be "Broken in the morning". Lost, momentarily, in the rush to calamity, is the effect this storm may have upon the oil supplies to much of America. Approximately one fourth of this nation's refinery capacity lies in the path of Ike. Once again, the shortsightedness of our nations Congressional representatives looms as a direct threat to our ability to adequately, and efficiently, deliver our economy's life blood. As it is, our economy is already on life support, guaranteed by a Congress reluctant to buck "Big Enviro", and their unhealthy plans for America.

Were we able to have built new refineries within the past thirty plus years, such facilities may have been located in less hurricane threatened areas of our country, but no, we can't have that, can we? So, in effect, what we have now facing us is a disaster plan developed by our government, and ready for implementation. The plan is disaster itself, promised, and ably forecast by those charged with protecting our country. All that is left, is to once again blame "Big Oil" for somehow not planning adequately for the future safety of their facilities, nor being ready in the midst of one hundred mile an hour winds, to keep the pipelines open, and delivering their product to market. Is there a phrase that approximates, "laughable sadness"?

Jeremiah Wright would probably say right now that, "America's chickens are coming home to roost!" Truth be told, America's "chickens" have never left the Congressional coop in Washington, D.C. Somehow though, the mess they are responsible for creating has, itself, indeed come home to roost. The mess is an economy crippled for lack of decisive action by those charged with the responsibility to protect that economy. The mess is what we find ourselves mired in on a daily basis as we go to work, and return to a home that might not be there waiting for us. The mess we find ourselves in, is a mess for which we share at least some of the responsibility. The mess we are in, is one we most definitely can repair, if only we dare to not return those charged with our protection, back to their "roost" in Washington.

Cock-a-doodle-dooo! Morning has come, and morning is very much broken.

Seven Years Later

2008-09-11T17:49:00.000-07:00

Tonight, I found myself glued to the television set once again. It was little different than that fateful morning of September 11, 2001. This time however, the History Channel provided the real time images of jetliners crashing into the World Trade center buildings, one after the other. The scenes were all too real, and I was transfixed as the destruction unfolded before my eyes. The visceral reactions were exactly as they were on that day. Tonight though, there was something more, something which only amplified the feelings of the moment: seven years of subsequent history.

People fleeing the carnage, ran toward the many cameras recording the event. First responders, police, and firemen, were all running in the opposite direction, toward the unfolding conflagration. Screams, shouting, moans of disbelief, each in turn served to describe what was to become the single worst attack on mainland America, ever. In America's worst disaster inflicted by unseen enemies, the very finest of American ideals came to the fore. Servants charged with preserving the public safety, did just that. Given the hellish circumstances, one can only look with pride upon these individuals, and their commitment to others unknown to them.

I recall feelings of awestruck wonder, and shortly thereafter, a rage building within me as we were told that Islamic extremists had carried out this attack at the heart of America's might, our financial center in New York City. In passing days, more details emerged, and the picture became clearer. President Bush acted with determination, and with resolve. There was an enemy to be defeated, an enemy to be punished for the murder of almost three thousand of our neighbors. The passing years have been testimony to that determination, and to that resolve.

It was said by supporters of former president Bill Clinton, that if only this had happened on his watch, a legacy might have been born. Not long after, it was Senator Jay Rockefeller who drafted a memo detailiing that there was political "cash"to be gleaned by attacking President Bush on his handling of the war against terrorism. Through the ensuing years, Democrats have held tenaciously to that disgustingly unpatriotic tenet, and today, they have effectively painted themselves into a corner of no return. Their congressional displays of arguing for the rights of terrorists, and their false condemnation of procedures that would safeguard the lives of ordinary Americans has been despicable, and deplorable.

Todd Beamer's call of,"Let's roll!"became a rallying cry for decent, and patriotic citizens everywhere. After democrat Caucus meetings, "Let's Roll!" took on a different meaning altogether. From Senator Harry Reid's assertive pronouncement that "the war is lost.", to the calls to "bring home the troops!", to the idiotic statements by Representative John Murtha, claiming that American service people were killing innocent civilians, none of these reflect a supportive cast of politicians for the aims of a wounded America to simply defend herself.

Somewhere in this curious mix, there are a handful of so-called Republicans. They too, deserve the enmity they have earned. If absolute power is that important, then let's hope they never gain that power; only our undying opposition to their aims, and selfish goals.

Yes, 9-11, 2008 has been a day of sober reflection. It brings into sharper focus, the importance of this year's presidential election. Do we want a man who is prepared to lead the world stage, or a man who is content to lead America only, on a smaller, but more important stage. The choice is not that complex, in fact, it is relatively simple, wouldn't you say?

Meanwhile, back at the ranch...

2008-09-10T17:41:00.000-07:00

Let's not forget the efforts of the "no drill" Democrats to deny Americans, and American businesses the fruits of honest labor. The minority Republican House members have spent their summer vacation on the floor of a darkened, and silent House Chamber. This was done to emphasize the need for the Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, to reconvene Congress that it might get on with the development of a comprehensive energy plan for all Americans. This has not been done, and the reasons beg for some kind of explanation.

Colonel Edwin L. Drake's first oil well, dug to a depth of 70 feet, or so, in Oil Creek, Titusville, Pennsylvania, is accepted as the first commercial oil well ever built in the United states. The product, known as "rock oil", sold for about 40 dollars a barrel, and was used for medicinal purposes, there of course being no automobiles in August, of 1859. Colonel Drake's discovery was replicated around the world, but it was the United States which perfected the refining techniques, and gave as a gift to the world, this new product which ushered in a new age of commercial development. With it all, national economies grew significantly. The world was moving ahead, and societies changed radically. Fortunes were made, and were lost too, but still, there was no turning back the clock on the powers unleashed. A review of this period in history offers a look at unprecedented growth, and a substantial rise in standards of living for average people. This continued well into the second half of the twentieth century, then, something changed.

Congress has impeded the search for oil since 1980, when it imposed a moratorium on drilling off the coast lines of America. The first President Bush made it two out of the three branches of government to ban drilling, with his executive order issued in 1990. Since then, a crisis began to brew in an unwatched pot of congressional stew. Today, the pot is boiling over, and yet, the Democrat Congress is unrelenting in it's opposition to allowing America to seek out meaningful ways to achieve energy independence. An unwitting byproduct of this obstinacy, is the falling value of the US dollar, and much higher prices for the gas, and oil products Americans need just to maintain a suitable standard of living for themselves. The American dream has become the American nightmare for many, and there is plenty of blame to go around.

Why do Democrats want to destroy the American dream? What reasons are there for such an arrogance associated with simply supplying ourselves with the needed life blood of our economy?

On Monday, September 15, 2008, the Minerals Management Service will decide what the five year plan for size, timing, and location of federal areas for off coast drilling, will be. These considerations for leasing are of the greatest importance. We must support them, and can do so by visiting the Partnership For Energy This is very important, and we must stand with those who share our concerns for the future of America.

Now, back to the children, they are learning quickly what it means to be here in the land of the brave, and the home of the free.

Sarah And The Math Teacher

2008-09-08T19:16:00.000-07:00

Let's see, in the short space of one week, the math world has been turned upside down. If I remember my algebra correctly, unbalance one side of an equation, and it is no longer an equation. However, the Democrats are intent upon preserving this "political equation", therefore, as they continue to load their "left" side with false allegations, and smears of Sarah Palin, well, then the "right" side must also be grown with something of equal import. That "something" as it turns out, is increasing poll numbers for McCain-Palin. Of course, there is no numerical equivalence between trash talking, and playing it straight. The Democrats are learning that sorry lesson with each passing day. Why? Because, as Laura Ingram has said, "Hurricane Sarah has made landfall, and she is a category 6! The famous Saffir-Simpson scale, developed in the 1970's will itself, have to be upgraded to include this remarkable lady's power. Think of a category 5 storm, with it's winds in excess of 156 miles per hour. The raw power of a category 6 storm, (Sarah) is about to unleash it's fury on an unexpecting, and unprepared Washington D.C. area. Fortunately, storms of this magnitude are local in nature, but their effects are felt country- wide. Don't you wonder if Al Gore, and the Doomsday Left, will attribute this to global warming?

Typically, hurricanes are robbed of their strength when having made landfall. What is unique about this coming storm however, is that it will gain strength when positioned over washington D.C. What Al Gore's forecasters will fail to take into account, is the upward draft of hot air above the Capital building. This will not only strengthen this storm, it will intensify it in an ungodly fashion. Or is that Godly? Call it "The Washingtonian Effect" if you must, but give full attribution to Sarah, please.

In recent weeks, I have mused as to why I have been drawn to the Weather Channel. Now, I know with certainty. Their format is perfect for viewing, and they even have weather specials, and weather history videos. Above all, they now have Sarah, and so do we. Can anyone tell me where to purchase an age appropriate weather station for my grandson? Don't worry, I'll make the necessary modifications to allow measurement of the new Category 6 hurricanes. This, I can do safely from my home some 175 miles from Washington D.C.

Batten the hatches! Head for the storm cellars, or climb into your bathtub. Sarah is on the way; her projected path leads directly to you know where.

P.S. Don't worry, the math and weather books can be rewritten by the soon to be out of work history revisionists. We will submit the draft, and we shall approve the final product.

Revisiting The Past.

2008-09-06T18:49:00.000-07:00

A while back, I commented on the point that there may be two Americas. The passage of time has not diminished the possibility at all. In fact, a case can be made that the two Americas paradigm has existed for decades now. Proof of this abounds in the political discourse disguised as nothing more than one side fighting the other on internet sites. The sheer bombast, and vitriol evident in these discussions takes it's toll on all parties. For the very most part, I believe the Daily Kos exemplifies what I am saying here. In avoiding the tendency to establish moral equivalence, as is the wont of a virtuous politician, I conclude it is precisely the Left in America which bears responsibility for this unbounded change in voice. One has only to read the postings on Liberal blogs replete throughout the internet to arrive at the same conclusion.

It is not a matter of people possessing changed values, it is a matter of the ease with which a person gains his ephemoral fame. Heretofore, people were in effect, disenfranchised. Their voices were difficult to hear, because there was no suitable forum within which to announce their views, assuming they had responsible views. No, today, we are witness to a phenomenon of our own creation. Much like the chaos associated with Doctor Gregory House's operating room, raucous voices shout their opinions out, each trying to outdo the other. Lost in this operating room scenario, is the patient himself. The patient? America.

But! There is another facet in this gleaming jewel of discord. The politicians. They, being the elitists they are, take full advantage of these angry conveyors of messages. From them, they accept quite readily, all the money given to promote causes harmful to America. Think of any "ism" at all, and you will find a group with a very self centered purpose that serves their aims well, but not necessarily the aims of a free society, notably, America's aims. We may shrug our shoulders, and say we can't fight all these people, all these groups. Yet, we can do much to prevent the steady erosion of core values, and core principles. Individually, we may indeed be small in number, but certainly, not small in stature, nor influence. It takes, fortunately, just one person, a person with conviction of thought, and a sense of righteous purpose to be the " stick in the spokes " of enemies of America; enemies of American ideals.

Sadly, this means that we must accept this division of our peoples as being firmly entrenched. So be it! I suppose it is analogous to the difference between old fashioned boxing, and today's enhanced version combining martial arts,and boxing. This, of course, reflects the change in public appetite where we demand substantially more action, and more mayhem. If life teaches us anything at all, it is that we always get what we ask for. Is this truly what we are asking for?

In an Arctic setting, the two sides would likely be more concerned with simple survival. Chances are they would work seamlessly toward that life saving goal. How true it is that when we are environmentally comfortable, our senses of purpose suffer. Just as a fisherman who has caught his limit for the day, our minds turn to other things that will sate our appetites. In the case of politics, too many of us are a bit too comfortable, a bit too oblivious to the harm we do to others, and to our country.

Hopefully, the day will come when we are better able to understand the life saving nature of identifying valid common goals, much as in the Arctic setting previously discussed. First, however, is the necessity to point fingers squarely at the objects of social, and political, disdain. Second, is the obligation one must assume to point the way forward to reasonable success. Third, is the firmness of personal commitment which always precedes success in any given endeavor. The recipe is simple, so too, is the implementation of procedural willingness.

I have received my storm updates from the youngest grandson, and he has received my updates for his next life lesson. The tasks never end, they only become more complex, and more fulfilling.

Let The Battle Begin.

2008-09-05T18:59:00.000-07:00

In 1848, Karl Marx, the father of Communism, wrote the Communist manifesto. In it, he argued that capitalism would produce internal tensions that would ultimately destroy it. To that end, began the endless forays into creating classless societies. Virtually all countries in the world were involved in Marxist philosophy to at least some extent. Most notably, the rise of Communism in the Soviet Union was in fact, the enduring legacy of this man who was more socialist, than a true philosopher. Today, his ideas live on, and are embraced by politicians of the Left.

There are few who would deny social justice for all,. and fewer yet, who would advocate anything but equality, and freedom for all in America. Many will protest that this is not true; that there are certain class distinctions preventing a common path to individual success. That today, there are people of the political class who are enamored of Marxist ideas, is not as unthinkable as one might think. Then, as apparently now, these movements took the form of labor organizational politics. Herein, the key word is organizational. To think these Marxist influences would ever be a part of American presidential campaign politics is utterly unthinkable, but , believe me, they are very much real.

For example, Barack Obama has promised us that, "...I won't just ask for your vote as a candidate, I will ask for your service, and your active citizenship when I am president of the United States. This will not be a call issued in one speech, or program; this will be a cause of my presidency."---Barack Obama. Sounds good, doesn't it? There can't be anything to fear in such thoughts, or dreams for all Americans, can there? If you think not, then put aside the sleeping pills, and wake up. This man has plans for you, and for your school age children, that send chills up the collective spines.

This man, after all, is an experienced community( here comes that word again) organizer. My children, nor my grandchildren will not, I stress, will not, become Obama's social lab rats. If they choose to volunteer their services in quality, long standing charitable organizations, then so be it. However, the key word here, choose, is one associated with freedom of choice, my choice, and not some government agency's choice. This idea is so foreign to American sensitivities; to American traditions. America has long been associated with charitable outpouring to others who are the victims of natural disasters. It has ever been a choice to do so, and Americans have always responded well, better than any other country in the world. Let's not CHANGE that American tradition.

Obama's plan for Universal Voluntary Public Service must be defeated. The best, and the only way to do this, is to defeat the man himself in his quest to be our next president. If you do not mind your child being subjected to indoctrination techniques that have their founding interest in pure Marxist beliefs, then be advised. I do! I do not want your child, as an agitator for social change, attempting to indoctrinate my children regarding any of the socialist agenda put forth by Barack Obama, or his supporting class.

The warning is clear, and compelling. The time is now. This is our moment, and this is still America.

And now, back to the education tasks ahead, they are gaining more, and more importance it seems, with each passing day.

OK John, I give up,,,

2008-09-04T20:33:00.000-07:00

The conventions are now relegated to history, and we pause for some reflection on the last two weeks. In truth, the contrasts between the Democrat and Republican parties are more stark than imagined. The Democrats tried hard, they really did, but in comparing the individuals representing both parties, the Republicans came out ahead. For sheer personal American accomplishment, there is no comparison at all. The Republicans share much in the American values held dearest by all, and it was quantified in the telling of the tales of the two candidates. One is left to wonder why the Democrats could not ante up the stakes, and be more competitive in this race to the highest offices in the land. As compelling a speech as was John McCain's, there are still some questions not fully answered. Immigration reform, global warming, and less reliance on foreign oil are chief among these concerns. Bask in the glow Mr. McCain,you have earned the nomination, and the hearts of many a person who may have had doubts about your ability to carry the day.

McCain's speech was a bit odd, in that as a nominee of the Republican party, he scolded both Democrat, and Republican congressional types for their wasteful spending ways. This tactic merely affirmed his status as a "maverick". It would be unwise to assume that "Conservative chickens" have come home to roost as a result of Sarah Palin's speech last evening. Mr. McCain hopefully, understands this, and will be more mindful of the fragile nature of such support as he campaigns his way to Washington in November.

Listening to the speech, I was carefully parsing his words, and liking much of what I was hearing. Then, toward the end of the speech, a hush gathered over the hall as Mr. McCain slowly, and deliberately, recounted the story of his life as a prisoner of war. Clearly, this was his shining moment. He stressed that yes, he was fearful, but felt the need to show fellow prisoners that he could take the punishment administered by his Vietnamese captors. He confessed that the enemy had "broken' him, and that it was a fellow prisoner who resuscitated his belief in himself, and in his county. Was this a calculated move? I do not think so, for sincerity cloaked the image of this man standing alone on the grandest of stages. It was a moment befitting of someone exiting a Catholic confessional booth. He told us of his finding meaningful love for the country that did not abandon him, and that he would not ever abandon America, so long as he was drawing a breath of life sustaining air. A moment of contrition wears well on an honest man.

His most meaningful words to me, were his stating that Americans do not turn from history, but make history. So, in a nut shell, this man made his points well, and has earned my support. As much as I feared this man, I now fear him less. Yes, I give in to you, John McCain. I will back you all the way to the White House. The next day though, I shall be watching for signs of your firm commitment to the Conservative cause. God Bless you, and Sarah Palin!

A Star Is Born.

2008-09-03T20:59:00.000-07:00

Sarah Palin's meteoric ascendancy to the national stage ended in Minnesota on Wednesday evening. The only thing missing, was the tortured response of some typical, would be beauty queen in a national competition, to a silly question posed. Poise was the defining word to describe her speech while accepting the Republican nomination for vice president, and she did it wearing a skirt. The talking heads were all quick to tell us that her speech was written for her, although she delivered it well. I can't seem to remember those same heads saying the same thing about a man's speech. I wonder why? Is attribution simply a man's thing?

The truth is that this woman seriously frightens Liberals. Let's just say she DELIVERS well. In contrasting her speech, and senator Biden's similar speech in the prior week, it is easy to see why Republicans fare so well in their appeal to average Americans. In a Republican speech, you will hear references made to the greatness of America. You will hear God's name spoken in proper context. You will hear honest concerns for the welfare of the people, and not admonitions coming before the taxation storms hit. Conversation will be perceived as honest, and devoid of hyperbole. Most importantly, you will sense the respect for America as being the one last, best hope for mankind. We didn't hear any of this last week, but that wasn't surprising at all.

In Sarah Palin, we get America's future, and not it's past. We get a directness of style that is very becoming. Most of all, we get the feel that with people such as her in national office, America's future is bright. Her words are uplifting, and illuminating, offering promise for our children's tomorrows. On the other side we get: "Just words, just speeches." However, words do mean things, very important things to very many people.

The ironies continue on. God, in his covenant with Abraham, included Sarai, his wife who God renamed as Sarah. Sarah, God promised would be the mother of nations, and that kings would come in homage to them. Tonight, Sarah Palin took the torch of peace, and held it high above herself, her family, and above an appreciative American audience. In Sarah, you know she will not be bashful about the modern kings, and princes of darkness, who wish America harm. They will be confronted sternly, and with firm resolve. This she will do at the side of John McCain. This is her way, and the way of all Americans who love their country.

So, tonight the future seems brighter for the children, and the grandchildren. Tomorrow, school begins again, and so too, does the Liberal indoctrination attempts. Ask yourself, are your children safe tonight? Will they be as safe tomorrow night? Get involved, you are the primary education tool your child respects most, and listens to first. McCain got the"big stick" Teddy Roosevelt was speaking of 107 years ago, and the sticks name is Sarah.

A Corner Turned?

2008-09-02T17:56:00.000-07:00

Slowly, almost mystically, a feeling emerges in the conscious mind. As the Democrats pounce on the daughter of Sarah and Ed Palin, we are witness to the strength of the Palin family. It is eerie how much one is reminded of the story of Theodore Roosevelt, a famous Republican president at the turn of the last century. Roosevelt, you may recall, was the man forced upon William McKinley as a running mate in the election of 1900. Roosevelt proved to be a wise choice, for his strength as a campaigner was evident from day one. The Republicans won in a landslide, running on prosperity restored to America, and a very successful war with Spain. Sound familiar?

Fast forward to September, 2008. Candidate John McCain, in a surprise move selects a woman, Sarah Palin, to be his vice presidential running mate. Some have said that the Conservatives forced her upon McCain, much like Roosevelt was forced upon McKinley. The two, Roosevelt, and Palin, share the same love of the outdoors, the same no nonsense approach to governance, and both surely share the same tenacious approach to solving problems. The first, a man, the second, a woman. I'm not asking for Mount Rushmore considerations here, but, in America anything is definitely possible. In America, the improbable has a habit of becoming the very possible.

Let the hordes of MSM messengers have their way. It will backfire on them in the end. As we like to say here in New Jersey, "Teddy and Sarah, Puhfect together!" Ironically, it was on september 2, 1901, that Teddy Roosevelt, speaking at the Minnesota State Fair, offered that famous advice: "Speak softly, and carry a big stick, and you will go far." Well. McCain now has his big stick. Sarah Palin! Oh, and by the way, they are in Minnesota, aren't they? Cooincidence or fate?

Meanwhile, there are those on the Left who say America is weak, and in a state of disrespect around the world. They say America is a downright mean country. They also say that America needs "change", and "hope". They say the American military wantonly kills defenseless women and children on foreign fields of battle. They fret over the "rights" of enemy combatants, and utilize the courtrooms of America to advance their twisted view of " world citizenship."

This is all said about an America we love. An America that has lead the world in it's agonizing march toward peace, and democracy. They say they want to lead our America, and I say there is a country in this world fit for their leadership visions. I do not know where that country is, but I do know that it is not the United States of our America!

The children await, they learn well, and a new school year is upon us...

It Won't Be Long Now

2008-09-01T16:33:00.000-07:00

Sarah Palin's 17 year old daughter is pregnant, and the left are swirling about the political pool like starved piranas. Before the Daily COS, and others like them take a first bite, let's take a closer look at things: 1. The daughter is not going to abort the life of this child to be. 2. She is going to marry the boy friend, and create a loving family for the child, and for themselves. 3. None of this will be sufficient for the party of abortion on demand, and they will continue to nibble until they think they have destroyed the daughter, the father, the child, and of course, Sarah Palin herself. What fools!

Obama himself won't touch this issue with a ten foot pole. He will simply let his surrogates do all the dirty work. He will not charge them with orders to do so, but believe this: he will not make an attempt to stop them either. They, with their shorter poles, and lesser minds, will go on the attack immediately. And you thought this was going to be a clean campaign? Thank God an innocent child will be born to see the light of an imperfect day! Thank God this young woman has been raised by parents who believe in the sanctity of human life. Can you imagine what is being said in the chambers of Planned Parenthood this minute?

So, yes, a mistake was made, but see how a proper decision has also been made? Actually, this may all be a blessing in disguise. The subject is one that needs a hearing in the public forums across America, and this might just jump start such a discussion. Once again, the secular nature of modern America is called into question, and along with it, Roe v. Wade. Americans at large are ready for this debate to begin, especially since Madam Speaker Pelosi provoked a fracas with the Catholic church. She did this, you remember, when telling Tom Brokaw that the church doctors(?) have for at least fifty years accepted that human life begins in the first trimester of pregnancy. She was sternly scolded by many Bishops across America who corrected her understanding by telling her that life begins at the moment of conception, and not a second later. Some Catholic she is, wouldn't you say?

If only we could focus on real significant issues, such as Obama's intent to repeal tax cuts, enact taxation on all Americans with his plan to increase capital gains taxes, new spending plans approaching one trillion dollars, and a definite weakening of the US Military. These are real issues of concern, and guess what? It doesn't make you a racist to oppose those plans, not at all. It just makes you a good American. Someone who believes in foundational principles of good governance, and the best we can offer to our children, and grandchildren, and to the America we all love

A Day Of Work, A Day Of Apprehension

2008-08-31T19:19:00.000-07:00

There was much to do, and so little time within which to do it. However, today, having been beautiful, and sending out little signals of an imminent change of seasons, was cautiously embraced. Tonight, I heard a benediction from the Democrat convention's opening night. A man, I assume him to having been clergy, was speaking of things dear to Liberal hearts. Minimum wages, concern for the down trodden, and other Liberal talking points were replete throughout his benediction(?) offerings to the assembled masses. So, the Left is now politicizing religion as a counter to the very Conservative leanings of the Evangelicals, who are, for the most part, of the Right in America. The appeal is obviously to those same Evangelicals, in the hope that they might see the light, and lean leftward in their thinking. This is one serious election period!

Then, there was talk by someone that presupposed that there would be great disappointment, and possibly riots, shuld Obama not win this election. Also, it was asserted that should, in fact, he lose, then this would be affirmation that America is indeed, a racist nation of ingrates. In other words, the "race card" is already being played against all those Americans who do not share Obama's, and the Democrats, positions. How insidious is this? Where is it written that this is his election to win?

Those of us committed to a set of Conservative values, must turn the mirror aside, and concentrate on the preservation of the values we hold dear. It, of course, is not a bit racist to simply disagree with the shared philosophy of the Democrats. It is not racist to fight against anyone who would devalue our standards, and change the face of the America we know, and love. Anyone who holds to ideas, and ideals, foreign to the best interests of ordinary Americans, is to be defeated in their attempt to speak for us. This includes not only the Democrats, but even wayward Republicans, aka RINO.

When the push to convince us becomes too burdensome, I go to the Heritage Foundation website,and listen to Ronald Reagan yet again offer the uplifting words we all need to hear. Do this my friends, do it now, and every time you feel yourself in need of a reason to reinvigorate. It works each time it is tried.

It Never Fails, Does It?

2008-08-29T17:18:00.000-07:00

There is a company in Waukesha, Wisconsin that manufactures telecommunications and data equipment. It's name is Black Box. We have used their products successfully many times over. The theory was, at the time, that one needed not know what was inside the box doing the job for you. As long as things were moving along smoothly, nobody cared to ask just what was inside those "miracle" boxes. It was a brilliant marketing strategy that worked well for the consumer, and for Black Box also.

So, after last night's Obama speech, I was reminded of that little mystery box. It seems that all the Democrat strategy is inside a similar little box. A box, unfortunately, from which only approved strategies, and words,"just words", may be selected for public pronouncement. Now, without seeming confrontational, I confess to feeling a little sorry for rank and file Democrats. You know, old time Democats such as Scoop Jackson, Kennedy era, and FDR era Democrats also. That Democrat party was not a party beholden to the far left, nor was it "owned" by any single individual. Today's Democrat party is not that loosely structured. This, is bad, not only for the Democrats, but for America as well. George Soros is the keeper of the keys to that lttle box, and the posted sentries guarding it are egalitarian, and Marxist like in their makeup. Truthfully, there are many decent, and patriotic Democrats in America today. However, the Democrat "bread" needs it's "butter", and so, a deafening silence ensues. Caught between the proverbial "rock and a hard place", today's Democrats are leaders unwilling to lead; leaders who can't efficiently lead, because the extreme organizations who support them, in effect, rule them.

Upon listening to the uplifing speech offered by Governor Sarah Palin, of Alaska, the point regarding the "little box" was driven further home. Her selection to be John McCain's vice presidential nominee, was it appears, a masterful stroke by the master of masterful strokes. Her words echoed the words of free Americans. Not bashful, she outlined a stark contrast with the Democrat vice presidential candidate, Senator Joe Biden, of Delaware. I suppose the focal point here is one of openness, and of fresh winds blowing across the land. Such freedom is not available to the Democrats for fear of antagonizing not their base, but the Socialist minded organizations that support them with money, and with an uncontrolled frenzy at that.

In truth, American Conservatives have their concerns with a McCain candidacy. His positions vis a vis drilling at ANWR, and meaningful immigration reform, and let's not forget the global warming hoax, are especially disconcerting. I have found that many Conservatives have made their concerns known regarding these matters, by calling, and by writing, to Senator McCain. With but a few days more than two months 'till election day, it would behoove Mr. McCain to listen well, and carefully, to these potential supporters.

Thus far, the unfolding scene offers hope, and the brightest of futures for Republicans. It would be a crying shame to toss it all away, especially since it has been his adherence to Conservative values that has gotten him this far. We do not require soaring words, just the right words, spoken firmly, and honestly. We do not require a backdrop of Grecian columns from which to hear these words. We need but look into the eyes of this man, and see not his "soul", rather his commitment to the foundational principles upon which the United States of America was built.

Do all this, Mr. McCain, and you will find us all in there fighting to secure your election. We depend on you; America needs you. Are you ready?

Gosh, What An Awful Country

2008-08-28T19:20:00.002-07:00

I was kind of feeling well , having worked all day, and accomplishing quite a lot. Then, tonight, I tuned in to listen to Senator Obama's acceptance speech, and suddenly, the good feelings were all gone. Obama was seriously busy, telling all of America just how failed a country we are. Soup lines are humming, the homeless pull themselves up, and clap their hands in joyful appreciation. Ca-ching! Ca-ching! The future of our children, and grandchildren groans under the anticipated weightiness of Obama's projected spending plans. The crowd roars it's approval, and smiles rapturously. The Messiah speaks of ending our dependence on "foreign" oil by retooling oil companies, so that the future cars being built, will serve us well. He promises those who volunteer in service to America, will be rewarded with college educations. He stresses the notion that somehow he is ready to debate John McCain on the matter of who is best suited to be our next commander-in-chief. Really? Is he prepared to do all that?

Cutely, he tries to take credit for success in Iraq, and hand it to Democrats who have washed their hands of the war so long ago. He tries to take the idea of failed patriotism off the discussion table, by asserting that he will not engage in such acts. The Second Ammendment, and gay rights are foremosst among his concerns. Let us not forget the abortion divide, which seperates so many of us. Surely, we can find common ground upon which to stand.

Something across America is indeed stirring Mr. Obama. You protest this election is not about you, but about the people of America. Yet, your proposals are directed against those same people you claim to support. His concern for the child torn from the arms of an illegal immigrant mother, tugs at the heartstrings of us all, or so he believes. The children, the families, the veterans, the cities to rebuild, these are all his promises to us.

The speech, now over, leaves one breathless with anticipation. Tomorrow, his words will be parsed, and picked apart. Over, and over again, will the expected realities be fleshed out, and put into proper contextual relationships. Give the man credit. He does deliver an excellent speech. What remains, just as importantly, will be matching the soaring rhetoric with soaring deeds. Emotion sags now, and we return to a sense of normalcy. Truly, are we better off now than we were but mere minutes ago? Time and the buzzards will tell.

Next, is the John McCain show. Whom will he select for his vice president? Who indeed? May we expect similar promises, and intentions? Or, will we be treated to a more earthly show, one that deals directly with current problems, and with future potential problems?

The speech was not ordinary, but neither was it extraordinary. It falls somewhere in the middle. Remember, tomorrow is a new day. A day of anticipation. A day of wondering, and also a day of work ahead. The pundits are front and center now, so good night to all.

2008-08-28T19:20:00.001-07:00

The Denver Flop

2008-08-26T19:06:00.000-07:00

Let's see here, Nancy Pelosi in trouble with her church, the Catholic Church, Obama sensing that he can explain his association with William Ayres via an explanatory ad, Democrats for Hillary still angry with the party elders, and last, former President Bill Clinton relegated to making a speech regarding foreign policy, and irked at not being allowed his choice of a subject to speak on. Nary a charge made against the Republican John McCain, just Michelle Obama telling us how much she loves her country, while quoting the radical Saul Alinsky liberally throughout her speech. Meanwhile, the MSM continues to do the dirty work at the Liberal laundramat, cleansing all the gaffes, and not reporting on anything of real substance.

Wait a minute, weren't we anticipating all this? Of course we were, and we weren't surprised, not one bit. The funny thing though, is that with all the hoopla surrounding the Democrat convention, the selection of Joe Biden as a running mate, and all the focused attention, Obama hasn't really elevated his poll numers at all. This must be disconcerting to the Messiah, and all his followers. Of course, sometimes things happen in very funny ways. This week is no exception. What is unfathomable, is the inability of John McCain to capitalize on the weakness of the Democrats. What would Reagan say, I wonder?

For Conservatives, the time is now to encourage Mr. McCain to more firmly establish his conservative credentials. It is also time for Conservatives to begin to build an action plan to ensure a fitting vice president candidate is selected. There is no other way to go. Hopefully, Mr. McCain will follow the lead of Congressional Republicans, and hold the Democrats feet to the fire, lit by the promise of drilling more of our country's oil from areas identified as being ripe for drilling our way to some form of energy independence. The matter of immigration reform hangs heavily, and thoughts of Ramos and Compean come to mind. This whole thing is so backward, and shameful. Mr. McCain has also to divorce himself from the global warming hoax, and get on with a sensible approach to whatever the real problems are.

Can't wait for tonight. Hillary is set to make her grand appearance with a speech of total support for Mr. Obama. Time will tell, won't it?

Why Didn't Someone Tell Me?

2008-08-23T19:31:00.000-07:00

There has been a little, and I mean little, talk recently of this being China's century. However, I did not realize that they had caught, and surpassed us. They are the new "Shining City Upon The Hill", according to none other than Senator Obama. Yesterday, he informed us that China indeed, was a country with superior infrastructure, superior rail lines, superior airports, and superior harbors. How in God's name did they sneak up on us, and just push the greatest country aside?

Of course, they haven't caught us at all in anything, in spite of Senator Obama's pronouncement from on high. What the Chinese have, has been built on the backs of slave labor, and yes, even their schools fall down during earthquakes. These sweet leaders of the century even showed the world how far they have come by building a dissent, and protest area in Beijing near the Olympic village. Set aside for the moment, the fact that of 77 applications submitted to use this grand free speech facility, all 77 have been rejected. The games end tomorrow, and all the world, and Liberal America will marvel at the Chinese prowess in building the finest Olympic setting the world has ever seen. I can't wait until Senator Obama comments on this huge success. In fact, I'm beginning to get a clearer picture of his grandiose dreams of "change".

Meanwhile, back in the halls of the US Congress, House Republicans are still at it, insisting that Speaker Pelosi return with her Democrat allies, and get on with the passage of a comprehensive energy bill to ease the financial burdens on hard working Americans. It is rumored that she will reconsider drilling off the coast of America, but first, there is the small matter of attaching pork spending ammendments to such a bill. In other words, yes, she supports drilling, but only if the Congress will support her calls for non-related spending items. She doesn't support off-coast drilling at all, just wants to give the appearance she does, then blame those rascally Republicans for not passing the energy bill.

So, in spite of Senator Obama's claim, the Chinese haven't caught us, the House Speaker doesn't truly support easing the burdens on working Americans, and everyone can just go to hell, carrying that familiar old hand basket. Is there a light at the end of the tunnel? Yes! And that light is on the front end of an east-bound train that threatens to plow under the hopes, and the changes, promised us all by the man who ought to know: Barrack Hussein Obama!

Advanced Math For Dummies

2008-08-20T16:30:00.000-07:00

Teacher promised an extra 10 points if I nailed this analysis just right. So, here goes:

This exercise will be for the sake of argument only. Any resemblance to any individual, or to any organization, is not accidental, simply purposeful.

In 2007, US auto owners used 142 billion gallons of gasoline to power their way to work, to play, and to wherever else they chose to travel. As we have learned, 2008 has proven to be a very expensive year for any kind of travel. This is due to rapidly rising crude oil costs this year. 58 percent of the cost of a gallon of gas reflected the cost to purchase the crude itself in 2007. Next, 27 percent of the cost of a gallon of gas during that period was spent to market, and distribute the gasoline product. Within that 27 percent, was the cost to refine, and the profit for shareholders also. Federal, state, and local taxes accounted for the remaining 15 percent.

Understanding the proportions of cost, and of profit, are essential to understanding the following:
Doctor Mark J. Perry, professor of economics at Michigan State University, has calculated that one company, Exxon Mobil, will pay 40 billion dollars in income taxes this year. This marks the first time in US history that a major corporation will have paid more than the bottom 50 percent of all US taxpayers in income taxes. Of course, this is noteworthy precisely because Exxon Mobil reported earnings of 11.68 billion dollars in the second quarter of 2008. Predictably, Congressional Democrats fulminated over this obscene display of greed, and some began the chant of enacting a " windfall profits tax" on oil companies. Representative Maxine Waters let the "future cat" out of the bag with her statement that the Federal government should nationalize, or, take over the oil companies.

In fiscal 2008, federal receipts are anticipated to be 2.533 trillion dollars. This reduces to 7.03 billion dollars per day! Compare Exxon Mobil's take of 1.29 million dollars per day, and we begin to wonder just which entity is the largest, and the richest? First, we must qualify the question with the observation that Exxon Mobil, and it's employees, worked hard to earn their share, while the Federal government produced exactly nothing, except tax bills for every American, and for Exxon Mobil as well. Meanwhile, with Congressional Democrats doing everything within their power to cripple America's economy; working with their environmental supporters to see to it that oil companies simply disappear from the landscape. None of this is understandable, nor is any of it in the best interest of America itself. So, why do they do it, why do they persist?

Perhaps there is a parallel available to help explain this contradiction masterminded by Democrats. It is quite a tale, and particularly "Grimm" at that. This "Golden Goose", aka "Big Oil", is won by little Dummling, the youngest of three brothers. Along the way to home, many try to steal a golden feather from the goose, but wind up stuck to each other, aka 'Democrats". Little Dummling eventually wins over the Princess who has never laughed, and of course, they live happily ever after. Little Dummling, known also as the American people, is the big winner, and he along with the Golden Goose continue to work their brand of economic magic. What of the democrats who are stuck together? They must live the rest of their lives stuck not only together, but stuck with the blind greed that motivates their every attempt to steal just one "Golden Feather".

Wouldn't it be utterly pointless to cite any moral here? Dummling isn't quite the simpleton everyone believed him to be, and the Goose? She's just fine, and producing just like always.

A Farewell Party?

2008-08-17T20:24:00.000-07:00

As summer winds down to it's last few days, we tend to thimk of the Labor Day holiday. This years celebration promises to be somewhat different from past years observations. First, we have to be aware of losing the many byproducts of oil which have been staples of our every day needs, and desires. Roads that will suffer from the lack of asphalt to fill potholes, and to make needed repairs to our highway infrastructure, even backpacks our children carry the books of learning in, are threatened with extinction. The list of products is too numerous to post here, but, as you will find, if the No Drill Democrats have their way, say good bye to oil. The funny thing is, not one windmill, nor any other alternative energy product will replace these oil based products. Not one!

Democrats will explain that we must act now to save the earth. Curiously, they have "painted" themselves into a corner. You see, paint, too, relies heavily on oil for it's creation. In other words, the Democrats are using what remains of our paint to put themselves into this untenable position. Talk about idiocy here! What next, will they use to convince us of our errant ways? Clay paint?

Do not for one moment believe that this is not a calculated strategy on the part of Democrats in the Congress. I refer back to a previous post, wherein, I spoke of the statistical impossibility of individual members of the Democrat Party thinking so very much alike on this issue. Even their supporters back home have bought into this thinking, and are in lock step with the doggedly held to position of Ms. Pelosi, and Senator Harry Reid. This is but blind obedience, and not a pretty picture of critical thinking by people who think otherwise in their daily pursuits of simple problems.

We are now hearing of the change in heart of certain individuals who have seen the light. Translated: The polls back home indicate a public weary of those who stand in the way of viable, and cheaper energy resource development. I wonder if de Tocqueville, in his passion for the past, and his hope for the future, ever conceived of such obstacles to this country's future? But of course he did! He held reservations of pure democracy, tyrannical rule by a majority of politician government types, and they bothered him. In the seminal words of one of America's most famed religious leaders: "Americas chickens have come home to roost." You didn't know that poor old Alexis had so much in common with Reverend Jeremiah Wright, did you?

I suppose we'll have to think of other ground breaking possibilities. Hey, I'll bet the Chinese have an answer to the "missing" back pack. It may be wood, and burdonsome for our little kids to lug around, but think of the brighter side: In the cold of winter, we can burn them to keep warm, and have the Chinese send over even more to take their place. Better check the paint, however, wouldn't want to put the kids health to risk, would we? The possibilities are endless. Put those hybrid cars to pasture, let's think " Rick Shaws"! Formerly used by the social elite in Asia, they are now readily available for the common man to use, especially since the Chinese seem to have so very many "cars" on their newly developed roads. Are these roads blacktopped, I wonder? You just know there must be one heck of a business for the dying American entrepeneur somewhere in that unfolding mess.

Let's see, I'll have to stop by the local high school to see if there is going to be a heavier emphasis in the wood shop courses being taught there. Now, if we could only get the Sierra Club to relent, and be a bit more coopeative...the future is bright once more, I think, but then, what do I know?

The Bear And The Eagle

2008-08-12T20:25:00.000-07:00

The bear, not above a little petty larceny, strode into a neighboring part of the woods, and looked about for prey. High above, a lone eagle soared on the wind, and kept a watchful eye on the goings on below. The bear, not the least intimidated, foraged it's way forward, laying waste to the underbrush, and anyone, or thing, that lay in it's path. The eagle observing all this, glided in circles, just taking in the unfolding scene. Soon, the bear called in others of it's clan, and began a systematic purging of the forests inhabitants. This, they did with great efficiency, and total impunity. Who wuild stop them?

The eagle, sensing an unfolding tragedy of great proportions, flew lower, and sought a perch from where it could see things more clearly. From a vantage point just above a clearing, the eagle knew something had to be done, or the forest would be denuded of all life. With it's shrillest cry, the eagle scolded the rampaging bears, but they simply ignored the loud protestations drifting downward from the canopy overhead. All the rest of the forest's animals were frolicing in a faraway place, oblivious to what was happening. The eagle flew away, and shrieked for someone to help drive the bears off, and back into their home grounds. Soon, a tall forest ranger appeared, and demanded that these senseless acts of violence cease. He faulted no one, and assessed blame on both parties, those doing the ransacking, and those whose homes were in tatters. This he did from a faraway place where he too was enjoying some late summer fun. The bears laughed themselves silly, and knew they were as safe as can be. The mighty bear had once again awoken, and was on the march through habitats reserved for others. History, inexorably, was repeating itself, and nobody seemed to care.

Is there a moral here? Probably not, but rest assured that there are those who will, in a time of need, always do the right thing. Just now, we seem to be having a little trouble finding those people of character, and unflinching bravery. People who planned a successful surprise attack against an enemy force just across a frozen river many years ago. People who decided that the best way to save the greatest number of enemy, and friendly forces, was to do the unthinkable, and unleash the terror of a new force of nature on the enemy. People whose eyes did not blink, as they challenged the intentions of a demonic enemy, but a mere ninety miles away. People who got up from the bargaining table in Iceland, and walked out, leaving an enemy to ponder what to do next. All these people had a common character trait. They were honest, and decent people who shined the light of liberty brightly upon the frozen tundra of ignorance. They did not gamble, they led our country during it's darkest hours. Theirs is a lasting legacy to those who would follow in their footsteps.

The bear, and the eagle, will forever test one another. Other animals will come to the fore, The right ones will lead, and we shall follow triumphantly, as truth, and freedom are once again restored to the inhabitants of the forest.

What A Difference A Day Makes

2008-08-11T21:03:00.000-07:00

In the very short time span of twenty-four hours, the world has been turned upside down. With the Russian military machine pushing it's way into the Republic of Georgia, old fears return. Was it only seven years ago that President Bush described to us his epiphany moment? He had looked into the eyes of Vladimir Putin, Russia's President, and concluded that he had, "seen his soul." He further described Putin as a man who he believed to be trustworthy, and straight forward. So much for clairvoyance!

Not one to take his eyes off the bigger picture, and in spite of rapidly falling oil prices, the world oil market is holding on, but only tentatively so. Russia's actions underscore the vulnerability of this market as the oil pipeline from Azerbaijan, to the Turkish port of Ceyhan has been interrupted largely as a result of this military adventure. America is at a decided disadvantage, and is able to only offer moral support to the Georgians who have supported our military efforts in Iraq. And don't think for a minute that these same Georgians do not expect more than words from an important ally. So, what do we do?

First, our military resources are stretched thinly across the globe. Secondly, any military assistance should be supportive, but in only providing materiel, and not manpower. To think that this has upstaged the Olympic show in Beijing, is bad enough. It is the outright gall of Mr. Putin, now the Prime Minister of Russia, but in control none the less, that is so infurating. The revisionism continues with some asserting that this is our comeuppance for having bombed the hell out of the Serbs during the Kosovo war. Russia does not like what it views as the arrogance of Nato, and the EU. Thus, a ready made excuse to march with impunity all the way to Tibilisi, the capital of Georgia.

The pipeline I mentioned earlier, is 1109 miles long, and supplies the world with 1.2 million barrels of oil per day. Just a trickle one might say, but a portent of things that might be in our future. In Saudia Arabia, with it's 10,000 miles of pipeline, and 10.5 to 11 million barrels of oil per day production, the dangers of terrorist attack are none the less. Any disruption there would cripple the world's economy in mere days, and oil prices would soar. Osama Bin Laden has said in January of 2006 that, "The war against America and it's allies will not be confined to Iraq." Do you find that to be a threat? A threat manifesting itself in a war on oil production? The Saudis are the most important oil producer, being a guarantor of liquidity in the market. Their ability to crank up production an additional 2.5 to 3 million barrels of oil per day, is what keeps prices stable.

Meanwhile, back here on terra not so firma, the Democrats are still boycotting the halls of Congress while they enjoy a taxpayer paid five week vacation. If they do not come back to Washington immediately, and if Ms. Pelosi does not permit a vote on lifting the OCS drilling ban, well, we just might be staring down the double barrels of economic suicide.

There you have it. Russian militarism on display, resecuring former subject states, and the US Congress enjoying a day at the beach! But don't worry, there is still some good tv to watch, the Olympics, you know. America is doing well, and not so, if you include the in-laws of the US Olympic men's volleyball team. Gold medals, and a slain tourist. How do we maintain our interest?

The American Exceptualism watch goes on, and still, all we hear are the endless, and sad laments of just how not so great America is. Wake up people!

Are There Two Americas?

2008-08-10T17:14:00.000-07:00

It Becomes increasingly more difficult to argue that America is a land of people united in a common cause. In fact, it would be simpler to say that there are definitely two sets of people embracing two radically different belief systems. How else to explain the one group that has consistently held that the war in Iraq was ill conceived, and ill fought? How else to explain why one group does everything in it's power to dismantle the oil based economy upon which our nation depends for it's very survival? This is cleverly exercised in the name of ridding America of not just it's dependency on foreign oil, but on something called an "addiction" to that resource. Everywhere one looks, there are "code words" associated with any change this group wants to implement. This group's supporters are themselves coalesced into organizations promoting specific agendae of their own, i.e. the environment, individual behavior not desired, loss of freedoms incrementally so, and on, and on.

This might be something to be ridiculed if it were not for the fact that each member of this group, those elected, and those supporting them, virtually thinks, and acts alike. It doesn't seem possible at all, that so many people arrive at the same conclusions spontaneously. It is not possible, not even probable. Give me 20 people, and I'll give you twenty not so similar thoughts on any subject, unless we speak of politics. Then, if I take the same twenty people, all Democrats, and question them on the various aspects of government, or positions held by the other half of the people, there seems to be an instantaneous unanimity. Why is that?

Thinking people realize that the reasons are clear enough. The Elitists, who develop these political positions, lead very well indeed. It is no accident that for the last eight years, references have been made to "red and blue states". Since that time, each new position taken by the other group, known as Republicans, has been denigrated, and argued against unanimously. Meanwhile, the people, and our system of government itself, are the poorer for all this bickering among the two groups.

Today, there are the traditionalists, the Republicans, and the new kids on the block, the Democrats. It has been said of the Democrats that they are Marxist, and Socialist in their thinking. Actions do speak louder than words, and therefore, it is difficult to argue against that assessment of the Democrats. The other day, I heard Bill Bennett asserting that John McCain was the sixth most Conservative member of the US Senaste. If that is the case, then the rest of the Senators are are frighteningly Liberal. John McCain is no classic Conservative, not even close! This is the man who prides himself on "reaching across the aisle", you may recall. Now, his ill gotten fame as a member of "the gang of fourteen", flexing their collective muscles regarding judicial appointments, has been copied by Senator Lindsay Graham, a member of the new, though smaller, "Gang of Ten". These ten Democrats and Republicans are going to develop a compromise plan for an energy policy. This policy, if approved by the Senate, will give to Barack Obama exactly what he wants. So much for precedent, Mr. McCain.

With representatives such as these, who needs a government? Some years back, there was a movement in New Jersey, Southern New Jersey, to secede from the state. South Jerseyans felt that they were not being represented in Trenton. They wanted out. Of course, the movement died, and the state is still one with itself. It woud not surprise me if we one day soon hear calls for the secession of "Red States" from the Union. Not only would it not be surprising, it would be almost logical, given the differences between the two parties, the two groups of people. This is like a bad marriage, needing little more than a legal divorce that the two parties might go on with their respective lives, quite in accord with their beliefs of right and wrong.

Radical, you say? Maybe, but then again, maybe not. Stranger things have happened, and will continue to happen, as long as men with differing ideas of freedom cling tightly to their Bibles, and to their guns. There is more decorum on the fields of sport battles being fought in the name of sportsmanship. In what name is this current battle of different ideologies being fought? Think long and hard about that. It is that important, that relevant.

It's All About Sensitivity

2008-08-08T20:01:00.000-07:00

I was thinking about the Democrat's five week vacation today. I did this while hard at work, doing my small part of contributing to the welfare of America's economy. I had random thoughts also, of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's contributions to the welfare of our nation's economy. It is closing in on midnight just now, and I still have to come up with but one of her contributions.

Wait though. It isn't because the woman hasn't tried. She simply hasn't had fortune on her side. What a shame for her; what a blessing for America. While waiting patiently for this single accomplishment to reveal itself to me, I thought of her past near misses. She tried desperately, but unsuccessfully to have that man of distinction, Alcee Hastings, appointed as House Intelligence Committee Chair. Almost succeeded too, until those rascally Republicans publicly noted that Mr. Hastings was the same former Federal judge impeached, and removed from office. They even had the temerity to note that Ms. Pelosi, herself, had voted for his impeachment. Scratch one!

Next on the list of august names for appointment, was one John Murtha. He seemed a logical choice to be the Democrats new Majority Leader. Then came the revelation of his past. An unindicted co-conspirator in the Abscam scandal of years ago, and his seeming unrepentance. Scratch two!

Who can forget William Jefferson, aka "Cold Cash Jefferson". She wanted him appointed to the Homeland Security Committee. The vote was unanimous! Unfortunately, Republicans didn't think he was a good fit for that committee seat. No doubt because he couldn't protect his domicile from the prying eyes of federal investigators. Wouldn't want his hands gripping a nuclear trigger, would we? Scratch three!

Not since Henry Clay, has the US House had such an individual as it's Speaker. In Clay's defense, he merely presided over the declaration of war in 1812. He also pushed his agenda of support for the development of America's transportation infrastructure. He saw a need, and developed an action plan of implementation. Contrast that with Speaker Pelosi's action plan for American energy independence. Can anyone spell vacation?

So many Democrats who think they really are the president! Wasn't it Senator Obama who referred to himself as having been a Senator LAST YEAR? How about Speaker Pelosi's defiant trip to Damascus, Syria, to meet with President Bashar Assad, and convey warmth, and the fuzzies, while carrying good tidings from Israel in hand. She sure showed President Bush how to get it done, didn't she?

Heaven help us if the Democrats decide that the Twenty-fifth ammendment to the Constitution should be revisited, especially as it relates to presidential succession. As third in line, Ms. Pelosi must feel that close, just a heartbeat away from the grandest chair in the office. Talk about breaking glass ceilings! Is Susan B. Anthony turning in her grave, or just turning the page in this woeful tale of two Americas?

Perhaps we shouldn't be so harsh, nor so negative here. It is possible isn't it that the Speaker is back home where she left her heart, in San Francisco? I can see her now, prodding the city elders to reverse their "Sanctuary City Policy". You know, because in August this year, Edwin Ramos, a beneficiary of that lofty status, murdered a father and his two sons after a traffic dispute. What a wonderfully caring woman, wife, and mother.

Life goes on, except in the cases of the murdered Bologna family members. A wife and a mother is left to singly prod Mayor Newsom and his brethren on the matter of ridding the city of this sanctuary policy, and the murderous illegal thugs as well. Life does go on, and it is time once again to check on the progress of the children.

Ominous Clouds On The Eastern Horizon

2008-08-07T13:32:00.000-07:00

There has been much talk today regarding the possibility of a military strike against Iran's nuclear facilities. Whether this is done unilaterally by the US military, or done by Israeli forces with full support of the US, is unknown at this time. Questions revolve around the lack of public support of the Israeli government by it's citizens, and the relative unwillingness of President Bush to plunge America into another war prior to his leaving office in January. What has not changed however, is that Euro style diplomacy, whose stalwarts insist that we continue talking, has failed miserably over the last five years. Iran sees this lack of resolve as being merely supportive of it's need for time to pass, unconsequentially for them, that they may continue on the path to development of sophisticated nuclear arms. When so equipped, they would obviously be more than a simple threat to Israel, and to the region as a whole.

Think for a minute of the disruption of the flow of crude oil from Saudia Arabia, Kuwait and other lesser producers, should the Iranian's threat to close the Straits of Hormuz materialize. Iran though, is an oil based economy with a vital need for the continual flow of money into their treasury. At best, this is but speculation, however, constant vigilance is the order of the day, and we had better not ignore the very real nature of such a threat to world stability by a rogue nation. Yes, Iran is a rogue state, that is undeniable.

On other fronts, the price of crude rose somewhat today. Has the effect of announcing support for drilling off the coastal shelf reached it's zenith? Isn't it time for more dramatic announcements, such as the congress reconvening to consider a truly historic move to self sufficiency? Ought not this session offer to the world, and to the American people, viable, and reachable goals toward that end? Of course, it should. But, will that happen...? Apparently not as long as the environmental lobby has a stranglehold on the extreme Left of America. Just thinking out loud here.

As the "American Exceptionalism Watch" continues on sans any candidate daring to speak flatteringly of America, and of the American people, we watch, none the less.

What more evidence do we require than what candidate Obama told a seven year old boy today? Quote: "America is no longer what it could be, what it once was." What in God's name did he mean by that statement? Aside from being historically, and grammatically incorrect, it provides yet a convincing display of just how much this man thinks of the country that has given so much to him, and to his family. Most of us are grown weary of the tearing down of Americanism, and American ideals. Most of us, also, hope he continues talking just like that right into the first Tuesday of November. Simply because Republicans will vote on the first Tuesday, and Democrats on the next day, Wednesday, is no reason to abandon our civic responsibilities, none what so ever.

Under the heading of: Keeping it in the family, Michelle Obama asked questions of other children. One, aged seven, advised that, " We should finish what we started in Iraq" Art Linkletter had to smile at that bit of advice, I think. These two people, in spite of their seeming ignorance, and profligate ways, are a reminder to us all that the job will be hard, but definitely winnable. I know those charges under the mantel of my influence are terribly more sophisticated in their world views. Their age range? 6-16 years. The six year old knows that there are only fifty states, and has stopped loking for the other seven. He knows a "breathalizer" is a test administered by police to drunk drivers. He knows there is no such thing as an "inhalator", rather an inhaler. He uses them both, and he knows better than the presumptive Democrat candidate. The others, in no order, realize the fallacy of "Global Warming", and will challenge anyone to scientifically prove otherwise. Caution! They know their science, and p.s., they want to drive cars as big as mine, and live the good life, an American life full of hope, and the realization of dreams. Go on, make their day, if you dare.

Everything Seemed So Normal...

2008-08-06T18:56:00.000-07:00

...until I turned the radio on today.

And what a day it was! The morning began like so many others, and yet, it turned out to be an extraordinary beginning to a day filled with business accomplishment. Problems were solved with relative ease, and everyone seemed happy, and contented. Even the weather cooperated, as the sky was a bright blue, and the sun was warm, but not too hot. Then, between visits to one account, and then the next, I ruined everything. I turned the car radio on.

The first thing I heard, was the voice of Paris Hilton. She was gasping that she was "hot", and that she approved this message. Of course, this was in response to the clever John McCain ad linking the fawning celebrity of Ms. Hilton, and Britney Spears to his opponent, Senator Obama. This begat the modest fury of Mr. Obama, who always seems to become angry when confronted with the truth in any form. "Why not?", I thought to myself, meaning the entry of Ms. Hilton into the presidential race. The descension into the nether regions had already begun weeks earlier, and the race desperately needed a "shot in the arm". No! Perhaps that is a bad choice of words, given whom it is we are talking about here, but let it stand.

Then, my own state's governor, Jon Corzine, emphasized that he was definitely opposed to any off shore drilling of New Jersey's coast line. I wonder if that has anything to do with his new support for Senator Obama? Senators Menendez, and Lautenberg, and most New Jersey congressional reps. agree with the same sentiment. It's enough to make one blue, but then we are "Blue", are we not?

My business day followed a normal course, but I wonder how it went for "Big Bad Oil"? Remember hurricane Katrina? Of course we do, how could we forget people like Mayor Ray Nagin, of New Orleans, the custodian of 400 unused school buses? How could we forget Governor Kathleen Blanco's spine stiff resistance to the idea of allowing the federal government to oversee the disaster with it's greater resources? both the governor and the mayor won, but it was the people of Louisiana who ultimately lost through the ineptitude of it's elected leaders.

Meanwhile, out in the gulf of Mexico, there was relatively insignificant damage to the hundreds of oil rigs as a result of Katrina's ferocious assault on that fateful day. Spillage too, was not of concern. Only the disruption of supply to the consuming public, and the concommitant rise in fuel prices, gave rise to concern. How do we suppose all this happened as it did? In the first place, people who were not fit to lead during emergencies, wrapped their political hands more tightly around their corrupt version of "local control". Oil companies, assessed the damage to their property, and put into place actionable plans to quickly, and safely restore service to the public. Theirs was not only a fiduciary responsibility to their share holders, but a shared responsibility to the United States as well. Not much has been said of those efforts, the press has been, and was, consumed with the political fallout only. The press apparently succeeded, for the mayor won his reelection bid, and meanwhile, the rigs continued to almost silently deliver the life blood of commerce to the economic engine of America. So, were there "good" and "bad" guys in all this? Let's leave that to the historians for the moment.

Simply put, Governor Corzine, and his political pals are happily united in their attempt to wean America off it's "oil addiction". God, how I hate that term! Are you addicted to air? Are you addicted to food for sustenance? Are we addicted to pursuing healthy living? Or are we simply addicted to the likes of the men and women who currently populate the halls of Congress?

Doctor Phil, where are you when America needs you most? More to the point, we need someone like Judge Judy, and her gavel of doom for the innane, and almost insane people, who stridently, and with implied impunity, want to steer America eastward into a common bond with the Eurocrats they most admire. Well, it is not going to happen on our watch, is it? As Dirty Harry used to say invitingly, "Go ahead, make my day!"

Still, it was a beautiful day. A day replete with promise, and for hope also. Lift the glasses to the sky, and let us announce that, We The People have had enough, and we are going to take back what rightfully belongs to every man, woman, and child...Freedom! Freedom from tyranny, freedom from despotism, freedom from socialist elements in our society, and above all, freedom to pursue our guaranteed RIGHT to happiness!

The children are patiently waiting, and I must go to them....children everywhere.

Economics In A Nutshell

2008-08-05T16:16:00.000-07:00

Who are these people who have attained sage status, albeit unworthily so? Why, they are the current era's crop of university trained economists. Experts, they are referred to as being. Why then, are each of them seemingly, "Surprised", at the sudden figures they pore over? All this, while exclaiming that the news they are reporting qualifies to be placed in the "Unexpected" category. Never, it seems, are they satisfied with the results of economic activity on a day to day basis. Meanwhile, the economic engine that is American made, and born, hums along sniffing it's nose at the gloom and doom prognosticators who can't seem to get anything right.Why do we suppose that it is that way?

To begin with, there are several schools of economic thought vying for, no, make that clamoring for, their prominent place in the public psyche. Traditional economists who tell us not so much what their version of economics means in terms of balanced federal budgets, and the wisdom of tax levying strategies designed to keep us "whole" as a country, omit something very important to the boiling stew. They spend an inordinate amount of time trying to convince us that the "new Kid On The Block", supply side economics, does not fufill it's promises to the people, and to the government either. Increases in tax revenue flowing toward the treasury, are an anomaly, and not verification of the supply side argument when implemented.

One need not possess a graduate degree to understand what it all means in the end. Much like the statement by Senator Obama which proclaimed that if American drivers just "inflated their car's tires to the standards set by the auto industry", why then, we would save the equivalent of three and a quarter billion barrels of crude oil per year. False argument, false premise. First, there is an assumption that all Americans are driving vehicles with under inflated tires It seems we, as Americans, just can't get a break from politicians who apparently believe we are that dumb! Congressional don't- drill- types use this technique to look down upon us from even further on high.

As the economists relate to the economy, they are blind mathemeticians at best. They construct a tidy left side of an equation, completely omitting the right side all together. For example: If money raised by taxation is a part of an equation, it should appear thusly: TMR= ? The question left unanswered, is just how much money do the Congress, and the President plan on spending? That figure, when known, is inserted on the right side of the above equation, and Voila!, a balance is struck. Well, sort of. Truthfully speaking, the cart has been put before the horse. The government decides what it is going to spend, then tries to develop a taxation scheme to "pay" for it. Home budgeters do not have this luxury. They work with a finite set of dollars to spend, THEN make plans to accomodate the perceived needs. Why, there may even be times when spending itself is simply not an option for most homeowner families.

So, until the economists, and the government types understand that any equation contains TWO equal parts, there will continue to be the gasps of "I'm surprised!", and "This was certainly unexpected!" Bear in mind that the entrepeneur, in addition to pursuing his dream, must also keep a wary eye on things done governmentally, and his ears to the ground, listening for the encouraging sounds of propulsion for his ideas. Smart cookies, these American entrepeneurs. Hmmm...the idea of a political entrepeneur is beginning to sound just a little better to me.

For a better idea of basic economics, go to: www.whereisallmymoneygoing.com A word of caution, you won't find the answer to your question there either. Might be worth a Google prize though.

Now, back to the educational chores, and to my newest best friend in the whole wide world.

Entrepeneurship And Risk

2008-08-04T20:24:00.000-07:00

So, what's it going to be? Do we talk of the political entrepeneur, or of the social entrepeneur, of the businessman turned political entrepeneur? Not at all. There is only the individual who has discovered a certain truth, and is willing to risk all to bring his idea to fruition in the marketplace. All other entrepeneurial categories are mere calculations designed to bring something to the individual, rather than to society, generally speaking The true entrepeneur is one who has virtual belief in his idea, and doggedly pursues his goals for himself, and for society. It is the free market that provides him with the tools to further his goals, and not some government agency's largesse with taxpayers money. Of course, financing the implementation is always of the highest necessity, however, it is belief in the idea that fosters the notion that good things will come his way. Society, and the consuming public can not help but see the worthiness of the individuals idea. They will see what I also see, and they will come, he believes with firmity.

The closest analog to understanding how government involves itself in an entrepeneur's affairs, is the following example: Earlier this year, Senator John McCain proposed a 3 million dollar "reward" for anyone coming up with a battery that would power the nation's automobiles. At first glance, the incentive seems to be an excellent idea. Upon closer examination though, does this incentive match itself with a prevailing need? A need not currently being met by the business community as a matter of normal business course? First, one must accept the argument that the need exists outside the political desire to be an agent of change. The premises are always getting in the way of purer, and better understanding, it seems. Believe me, if the need were actually there, then someone, or something, i.e. established business, would already have begun work on the idea. The reason? Simple, business employs forecasters of it's own who are paid for their unique ability to take into account every market dynamic, inccluding the availability of raw materials to continue business as usual. Therefore, put the battery idea on hold for a bit, and let's drill for available oil resources to keep our economy going

When business, lead footed, and tied to the traditional manner, avoids the responsibility to think in clearer terms, and bring beeded innovation to it's approach, then the entrepeneur steps in, the one with the clarity of thought, and the knowledge that new methods will not only bring that needed change, but do it in a way that changes the traditional business approach also. All this is born of a keen knowledge of the free market, and a determination to show newer approaches to those tied to the aforementioned business traditions. These are the people who will let us know when the battery idea is a good thing to chase after.

Perhaps the best example of this is the computer revolution. When the "PC", threatened to supplant "Big Blue", as IBM was known back then, how indeed could a bunch of long haired youngsters overturn this business behemoth? Well, they not only did exactly that, they revolutioned the manner in which the world today, now conducts business with itself. This example alone, underscores the value of the entrepeneur to his society, and to the world's citizens.

Hail to the entrepeneur! This exalted hero; this individual equipped with but a dream, and steadfastness of purpose. These people who work for the most part alone, enduring trying times of uncertainty, and times of momentary failure. Without them, America would certainly not be the exceptional nation it is. Without them, we would be but ordinary in the eyes of the rest of the world. This country needs a National Entrepeneurs Day to celebrate. I propose it here, and now.

Now, back to those budding young entrepeneurs who will show us the way out of our dilemmas. The assumption still exists that they will have a future within which to lead by example...

Economics And The Entrepeneur

2008-08-03T18:23:00.000-07:00

Over the years, much has been said, and written about the good old American entrepeneur. Phrases such as , "can do", and "made in a garage", have been put on the broad shoulders of men and women with the names: Ford, Jobs, Buffet, Gates, Allen, and Winfrey. Such success, startlingly so, has always held that you too, can add your name to this august list. You may do this by allowing your creativity, steadfastness of purpose, and determination to guide you on your way to the top. Most of us though, are acutely aware of limitations, especially our own, which eventually control our destiny. We may have to settle for just being on the low end of the millionaires list. For most, it is absolutely nothing more than, "chasing the dream". Nothing wrong with that, it is what gives us the drive to awaken early, and plunge into a work day fully charged; prepared for the kind of success we instinctively know is but a few moments away.

In time, after a failure or two, or even after modest returns on our investment of self, something occurs to us. Direction may have to be changed, even the dream itself. Those who truly benefit, are the ones whose minds are susceptible to these directional needs, and those who are willing to admit they have made simple mistakes. Malleability is the key ingredient in the makeup of a man or woman who wants to grasp the brass ring of accomplishment, and hold tightly to it. Sure, not everyone will arrive at the doorway to riches, but just the trip there has rewards of it's own for them. It is what has been learned that is the best barometer of personal success. The application of wisdom derived from these lifes lessons is a form of guarantee that prepares one for the next hurdle to cross. I have learned, and I shall continue my trek into the wilderness. I shall find comfort in knowing what it is that works, and just as importantly, what doesn't work.

The American entrepeneur is a person doggedly in pursuit of self defined goals for himself. The word "quit" is of little matter, or consequence to him or her, however, it may be the greatest stimulator when someone else advises you to "hang it up", or "quit". Certain words are not members of the entrepeneurs lexicon, and can not be tolerated. The path is never easy, nor well traveled, but this is not on the mind of a driven person. They search the sky for clues as to where to travel next, make a decision, and go for it!

Were it only that simple,--success that is. Aside from mechanical obstacles, and the lack of cooperation of formulaic designs, there is yet the greatest hurdle to overcome. Government interference in the affairs of these people. I shall elaborate on some of the more important aspects in the next post.

Meanwhile, a joyous return to those who may yet have answers for the most vexing problems facing us all...the children, of course.

A Study In Contrast

2008-08-01T19:28:00.000-07:00

For the sake of discussion, let us assume that Senator John McCain decides to go to the ANWR for a visit. Previously, the Senator has said he is opposed to drilling for oil in the approved one tenth of one percent of the total acreage which constitutes the Refuge. His claim is that the area is "pristine" and should be left alone. As his campaign moves along, sputtering, and at times, devoid of direction, it is clear he needs to contrast himself with Senator Obama much more vividly. What better way to do this than to announce that he is going on a fact finding mission to the ANWR. Never having visited the area, that would make extraordinary good sense, one might believe. He might, upon completion of his trip, announce to the general public that he has decided to support drilling for oil there. This, he bases on his discussions with oil company executives who also support the idea because the promise of success is real to them. With the North Slope daily average of oil delivered down to approximately 750,000 barrels per day, this region of America has much to offer to the American public. The question is: will he do it?

Today, House Republicans defied Speaker Pelosi's desist commands, and remained in Congress while many others went home on August vacation. At this minute, they are still there, speaking individually, encouraging the President to call Congress back for a special session to deal with a true, and comprehensive energy policy for the American people. Senator McCain has an opportunity here to demonstrate his leadership qualities, by supporting the Republican House members with his presence.

With the House Speaker having recently proclaimed that she wants to "save the planet", and with Senator Obama announcing that he wants to change "the world", all that Senator McCain has to do is proclaim that he wants simply to rescue "ordinary Americans" from the specter of higher, and higher, fuel and food prices. It is really that simple, isn't it? But, will he do it?

Something is terribly awry in our country, and it is difficult to put your finger on just what it is, exactly. Evidence points to something so nebulous, yet, so exact in it's implications for us all. In previous posts, I have talked of creeping socialism, and even Marxism as being root causes. Still, it is a horrible exercise to think that we are under attack from enemies within our own country. One, however, may not exclude certain possibilities. One must study ALL possibilities, and sift through them searching for the elusive truth. Just today, for example, Senator Salazar from Colorado objected to Senator McConnells escalating benchmark prices for a gallon of gasoline to trigger the implementation of an ammendment allowing off shore drilling to begin. Incrementally, at trigger prices ranging from $4.50 cents, to $10.00 a gallon, Senator Salazar continued to object, thus killing the ammendment on the Senate floor. Why this steadfast objection to solving our country's energy woes? As I say, nothing must be exempted from being a possible explanation for such stupidity, or worse, an alternate agenda.

In subsequent posts, I shall explore all facets of this dilemma, and strive to come up with answers. Let the chips fall where they may!

Now, back to what I do best...educating the children.

The Deck Is Stacked...

2008-07-31T20:17:00.000-07:00

...but the cards seem all the same. Why is it that when the going gets tough, some choose to play with caution, while others straighten out their arms, and play not the hand dealt them, but the hand they walked through the door with? I have played solitaire, war, canasta, pinochle, and other such games with the same store purchased deck we have always relied on. Then, in walks a tall stranger with other things on his mind, and suddenly, the rules change. Specifically, this newest of "games" is called the Race Card Game. All one needs do, is play this card at any time; any point in the game, and there you have it! He wins, because we are not only the losers, but LOSERS as well. There is no complex strategy involved in this game. Simply play your Race Card at propitious moments. (or when you appear to be in dire trouble of some sort)

Let's see here. Were I blindfolded, and had to guess just who it was that was playing fast and loose with the cards, hmm, who might it be? John McCain? Nope. President Bush? Nope, again. Ah! Karl Rove, that evil former advisor to the president? Nope, still. But that leaves only Senator Obama, and he is very much above board, is he not? Let's see, I have one nope left. That's it! Eureka moment at hand, people!

The Great Uniter, when confronted with antagonistic displays of insensitivity to his remarks, or his comportment whether on the national, or world stages, throws down his Race card almost defiantly. Not a sole on the Republican side has uttered a single word that would impugn this "post racial" candidate for the presidency. At least not in terms of singling him out as being "different from the others". (his words, not mine or anyone else's)

When some people of some substance disagree with Senator Obama's positions vis a vis any legitimate issue of importance to the American public, well, that's not racism, that's simply an honest disagreement. If the Senator can not struggle beyond his seeming inability to coherently discuss such issues, then perhaps this stage is not for him. As far as I can tell, white America has gotten past the so-called racial divide that seperates two peoples, but we are constantly being dragged back to the edge of the abyss. This is not in the best interest of anyone at all, least of all every American struggling to live out the promised dream of opportunity for all, regardless of the color of our skins. As a qualifier, I submit that there will probably always be those few intent on perpetuating a view of a less tolerant America. This though is to be expected in a country where freedom is the rule, and not the exception. This divide has been crossed, and has been acknowledged to be a part of the inglorious past. It must not though, be allowed to become a permanent fixture in the minds of succeeding generations.

Come on Senator, throw away those bad, bad cards, and let us play a fresh game with an unstacked deck. Who knows? You still might be the winner, providing you play your cards well, and within the rules of the game at hand.

Such a sad day it has been, but now, back to the really important task at hand, educating the children...

Remember The Bloom Coming Off The Rose?

2008-07-30T19:15:00.000-07:00

Well, after listening to yet another of Senator Obama's rambling explanations, it appears that a very serious discussion regarding "Reparations" may be on his presidential list of things to do. At first blush, this would seem to be a rather silly thing to do. Then again, on reflection, it wouldn't be silly at all, merely "Ludicrous", (if you know what I mean). It seems that in speaking to a group of minority journalists representing many such minority groups, the Senator affirmed his support for the Congressional apology passed yesterday, and went further. He noted that the government should back up the apology with "Deeds". The word "Deeds" means reparations, it seems. When questioned later by an enterprising reporter, Senator Obama eschewed concise answers, and chose to wallpaper the answer with obfuscations, and wordy, but not satisfying meaning at all.

Are these the vicissitudes, along with the others, that he has in mind for America? It surely seems so, doesn't it? Let's face it. America has had trying times in her 232 year history. Mostly, America has had the gloriousness of accomplishment, and world leadership that only she could have provided to a world starved for that leadership. Sure, when we are at work, the grass at home grows unabated, the trash piles up, and the dog or cat leaves a mess that must be cleaned. This maintenance, any responsible person does at the end of a long day of arduous toil. Honest toil, intended for the welfare of the family left momentarily behind. The point is, that although there may be moments of past ingloriousness to contend with, the truth is that America has always been the one place most sought after by those in the world seeking a new beginning for themselves, and for their families. We take out our trash, and tidy up the place. We always have.

Even Martin Luther King, arguably the greatest black leader ever, wanted only a form of affirmative action for "his people" who were socially, and economically deprived. He saw the truth, that reparations as such, were not an idea promoting the best solution to vexing problems. So, here we are at a crossroads of sorts. We can lift one boot at a time from the sticky mud of the past, and progress forward, or we can stand idly by, and sink lower into the abyss of nothingness.

Remember this:When Washington refers to America, anyone in Washington that is, they are referring to you, and to me. It is we who are this country. "They" work for us, and not the other way around. This country belongs to us all, those of us who are legal citizens. Those of us who care to preserve the "Shining City Upon The Hill" must do so. Our chores lie before us. The day is nearing end. Are we up to the challenges ahead? Go ahead, ask yourself that question.

...now, back to the very important task of educating those who will save us from ourselves...

Did You Ever Wonder?

2008-07-28T18:36:00.000-07:00

How are virtually all attempts to do what this country always does best, continually thwarted by certain individuals? Although there seems to be neither rhyme nor reason for the placement of obstacles in the path of development, the practice goes frustratingly on, and on.

Of course, the development I speak of is the drilling for oil by major American oil companies, and the building of refineries to process that crude oil into marketable products for use by the average American. So, why is it that these companies are increasingly stopped from serving the public necessities which power the economic engine of our country? Why indeed? Putting aside for the moment, the spectacular claims by the Sierra Club for example, that anything big is something BAD, let us examine the strategy which put us into the conundrum we find ourselves faced with. I firmly believe that "Big Enviro" is quite at odds with the goals of America to not only be energy independent, but to progress as a nation embracing the free market system. A system that gave to us unprecedented prosperity, and a very high standard of living. This is nothing to be ashamed of, rather, something to be proud of: American exceptionalism.

On April 19, 1972, after five months of arguments, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that the Sierra Club lacked legal standing, in the landmark case: Sierra Club v. Morton. The court's ruling found that the Sierra Club lacked standing to sue against the development at Mineral King, near Sequoia National Park in California. The intent was to develop a ski resort financed by the Disney Corporation. The Sierra Club lost on appeal, however, the court found also that though the Club itself lacked standing, it might file suit on behalf of any individual member who claimed the Forest Service's decision to allow development, affected their aesthetic, or recreational interests. In other words, find an affected individual member, and the full power and resources of the Sierra Club will be brought to bear against others who saw development as necessary, anywhere, any place. The Club lost the battle, but won the war!

Associate Justice William O. Douglass, in his dissent famously proclaimed that inanimate objects, in fact, had such standing, and needed but a willing voice to support such legal standing. He then engaged in a sidebar discussion regarding the court's not attempting to supplant the judgement of the peoples representatives(e.g. Congress, and the presidency). His closing remarks are the faint echos we hear today whenever Big Enviro takes a stand against almost any form of industrial progress: "Perhaps they will not win. Perhaps the "bulldozers" of progress will plow under all the aesthetic wonders of this land..." Thus began the age of popular resistance to American industrial progress, and the assault on the American free market system.

So, the next time you pull up for your gasoline to take you to wotk, to play, or to the grocery store, remember, this is how it all began. Solar panels for your car roof anyone? Say goodbye to plastic too, that is, if you are willing to merely sit back and be a spectator to the passing scene.

None of our esteemed politicians are going to buck their most powerful backers. None! We do however, have a card up our sleeve. Push it all into the pot, and bet on a brighter future for yourselves, and for your children and grandchildren. If our representatives care not to represent us, then let's put them out to pasture with their government( our tax dollars) pensions. May they pass mercifully into oblivion.

I Was Reminded.....

2008-07-26T19:26:00.000-07:00

Upon reading Obama's speech to the adoring crowds in Germany for the third time, I was reminded of something else. Hearing him apologize for the "Sins of the Father". the names of Ignacio Ramos, and Jose Compean leapt to the forefront of my mind. These two former US Border Patrol Agents are still in prison after having been found guilty of violating some kind of right(?) belonging to one Aldrete Duvilla. Mister Duvilla, a Mexican drug smuggler, was granted immunity for testifying for the US Government in the case against Ramos and Compean. In effect, he was given a "get out of jail" card by Johnny Sutton, the US Attorney in Texas. Ramos and Compean were convicted, and sentenced to 11 and 12 years respectively in federal prison. Duvilla? He was subsequently caught once again, doing what he has done best: Drug smuggling into the US from Mexico!

While serving his sentence in a medium security facility in Mississippi, Ignacio Ramos was assaulted by 4-5 hispanic males, being kicked about his body, and taunted mercilessly. It is true that the federal government protects their agents at the border about as well as they do in their prison facilities. We must not forget these two men, and a certain sheriff from Texas, also doing hard time for merely doing his job. If the government were serious about enforcing our immigration laws, serious about border security, and the safety of American citizens, then these men would be free, and embracing their certificates of honorable service. President Bush most certainly could have pardoned them all, but has not chosen to do so. Three years, and counting!!

So, on this day when ordinary Americans find modest joy in repairing something, building something, visiting with friends and relatives, these three men are still denied the same ordinary joys the rest of us take for granted. We should all be ashamed, myself included. No, let's listen instead to the very ordinary, very average politicians who still try to convince us that our money is their money. I'll not bother with my local representative, rather, I will call, and email the President himself once again, asking for pardons for these men charged with protecting us, now charged and convicted, and sentenced for crimes against people who had no legal right to be in America in the first place. Let's see you top that, Obama!

Remember, we all have Second Ammendment rights. This was affirmed recently by the US Supreme Court. Protect yourselves, and demand the pardoning of these three men. Do it now!

Ich-Bin-Ein-Beginner!...Merci, Merci Beaucoup!

2008-07-24T19:56:00.000-07:00

Well, the day has come, and the day has passed. The Obama speech in Berlin could easily have been written by a high school senior, and delivered by let us say, a survivor of the atrocities in Darfur. Alas, the Exceptional America, and Americans watch goes on, waiting for another day of different promise. Did you, as did I, feel kind of creepy listening to this man put America down yet again? America has nothing to apologize for, especially not to the German audience reveling at the feet of the "Messiah". America, with all her faults, is great, not less so. This youngster who would be king, I mean president, is an absolute embarrassment to those of us left behind to do the chores. You know, cinching up our belts as the thickness of our wallets recedes; left to wonder why he and his Democrat pals in Congress want to inflict greater hardships on average Americans who want only cheaper, more affordable gas for our cars. The same cars that take us to work each day for a benevolent government's benefit, certainly not ours.

Did you wonder why the man who anguished so visibly over the average American's inability to speak a foreign language, did not attempt to communicate with the German crowd in their language, German? German is truly an easy language to learn. If you but take the time, and invest in the effort. Then again, now that we find him to be a citizen of the "world", provokes the old adage concerning the chicken and the egg. Will he be an American citizen working with the rest of the world, or will he be a world citizen first?

This is the moment indeed. I can't claim credit for that, for he uttered that phrase no less than sixteen times in his speech today.But yes, this is the moment. This is when the Obama run has reached it's zenith. He's a nice chap, gives a good speech, but absolutely, is not ready for prime time.

This man told the crowd he was there not as a candidate, simply as "A Proud American Citizen". He said this, then proceeded to wrap America's tragedy, 911, and clothe it in a worldly garb. This was an American tragedy, and not the world's!! Next, he managed to slip in the usual leftist gripe about our country, by accusing us of being responsible for the world's climate change woes. Leftist, Marxists do this you know. They construct a hypothesis, conveniently disregard the scientific necessity to test the theory, and proclaim it as fact. Undeniable fact, by the way. No one dare to question the validity of such claims, for it is "consensus" that trumps all.

I invite any and all to tell me what is it that we have done to deserve this ultimate disrespect by these Liberals in America, and now, I guess, the world as well? America is 59 trillion in debt, and the debtometer creeps upward with each passing day that Congress convenes. Well, WE can stop this insanity. We must! For God's sake, look into your children's eyes, your grandchildren's eyes. What do you see? The youngest want only the security we may give to them. The older ones who understand such things, are left feeling powerless to curb our sublime stupidity; our crass denial of a future bright for them. Come on people! This is our country, and not the other way around...

2008-07-24T15:48:00.001-07:00

Pinnochiobama, The Newest Craze

2008-07-23T19:33:00.000-07:00

Not even Walt Disney could have come up with a cartoon character like this. He soars through the air on "O" Force Obama, offering small snippets of wisdom(?) to the still adoring masses. I'll bet he can't wait to get back to the bad old USA. Hey, was that Katie Couric I saw pressing Obama for an explanation on his holding to opposition to the "Surge", when irrefutable evidence screams that the "surge" has, in fact, worked well? Even the best cake will crumble when held that tightly, and you won't have to worry about eating it either. So, hungry he will be, unless of course, that pile of freshly roasted "crow" suddenly begins to look appetizing. Hopefully, the Great Stammerer returns home in one piece, ready for the real election season to begin.

If only Carlo Collodi were still alive. He would be fascinated by the current day version of his famous wooden child, Pinnochio. Who is playing the part of Doctor Gepetto, I wonder? And who might be the Blue Fairy in this political sequel? Poor Pinnochio, he only wanted to be a little human boy. Today's Pinnochio, Obama, merely wants to be the president of the world's greatest, and most powerful nation. I find the vision of Collodi's puppet wanting only to be the little boy, more appealing, and certainly more charming than the Obama characters wanting it all at once. Remember the admonition about holding your cake too tightly!

In the clearness of evening, it is sad to have to add lying to the list of Obama credits. It seems no one can find any thing regarding "his" Senate Banking Commitee membership, as he said on radio just today. Come to think of it, this is a ready made tale for the old "Mouseketeer". It combines fantasy with a lack of veracity. Sure ingredients for a successful Hollywood fairy tale. Then again, perhaps only a certain Japanese animated movie maker can appreciate this for what it really is: Hutspah!

I'm feeling much better about things today, and I can't wait for tomorrow's touring "gaffe show" to move on. The world is just so much safer a place, I can feel it in my empty wallet. Berlin!! Must this show really go on? Just asking.

If You Remove "IR" From Giraffe...

2008-07-22T19:05:00.000-07:00

Why, I believe that would be "gaffe". Do I win a prize? No, but fret not, for the annointed one comes away prize-less also. People are beginning to talk about the stuttering, stammering candidate who manages, successfully, to say very little while saying a lot...of gibberish that is. From the orchestrated not for the press events coming from the Middle East, it is difficult to tell exactly what is going on. After having slapped the military faces, living and dead, by claiming credit for any Iraq success, Mister Obama will be on his way to adoring crowds of America haters in Europe. Perhaps a second printing of his book, "The Audacity of Hope', is in order. I have a reccomendation: Change the title to simply,"Audacity". Now, there is a choice for truth in advertising.

Regarding the removal of "ir" from giraffe, one is left simply with the phonetic equivalent: I-are. And yes, HE is. Egotist, narcissist, and whatever else comes with, or rhymes with, arrogance. My apologies Glen Campbell, but by the time Obama gets to Phoenix, he'll find no one waitin'. Was it Will Rogers who said that the best way to expose a fool, is to let him speak on, and on, and on...if not, then I wish he had said it. Critical conversation in America has now shifted to just how dangerous a threat Obama is to the American way of life, and for very good reason. If we can't afford his prospective programs, then we can't afford him!

Things are looking so bad, I will not allow the grandson to listen to any more of Obama's words. They lack precious insight, are not born of wisdom, and most importantly appear to be no more than off the cuff ramblings. Let's see what happens in Germany. Yesterday, I spoke of the Berlin location for Obama's speech. If you can't have the most historic site(Brandenberg Gate), why, then let's get the next most important site, right? The Victory Column! Oh, this column has great historical significance indeed! Formerly, this beautiful column sat in front of the Reichstag, Germany's parliament building. However, in 1939 it was moved to it's current location by none other than a man known simply as, Adolph Hitler. This colum was dedicated to Germany's victories over the Danes, the Austrians, and the French in the latter part of the nineteenth century. Hitler most loved this column, and thought it appropriate in it's present setting. This was to be the site of the new capital of Germany, or Germania.

I suppose they do not teach world history at Harvard either. Super Unspoken Gaffe!

I know, it is late, and we all can't wait to hear this dazzling speech forthcoming. So, enough with the politics, and on with the grandson's swimming lessons. Gotta teach him to keep his head above water, you know... yes, pun intended...

Less Than Four Months,And Counting

2008-07-21T18:55:00.000-07:00

Let's see. Today, Condi Rice, and Colin Powell seem to have found so many favorable qualities in the "Messiah". Personally, I could care less. I am counting on the infinite wisdom of my fellow Americans to lead us out of the looming mess awaiting us with an Obama presidency. Meanwhile, poor President Bush just can't catch a break. Why? Well, the presumptive president Obama having been quoted today as telling a reporter that, "I will have to deal with these people for the next 8-10 years!". Does that mean 8 as president, and the next two as some other president's Secretary of State? The arrogance express rolls on. Has anyone noticed that Obama's plane does not have an American flag painted on it? From what I can gather, only a big "O" on the tail. Wow! His own Presidential Seal, Air Force One awaiting a big new paint job, and God knows what's in store for the White House itself.

The real prewsident, meanwhile, can not bring himself to caution Mister Obama about his acting like the de facto sitting president when in discussion with Middle Eastern leaders. I guess this is President Bush's war to lose, and Obama's to win. Timidity begets yet more of the same. As good as the President has been in the war on terror, as commited as he has been in the face of Congressional opposition, he apparently does not have the stomach for this latest assault on his plans, and his stewardship of this war. It shows, glaringly so, and he has only himself to blame.

Hopefully, Mister Obama will come up with a gaffe or two, or three, when he arrives in Germany to speak at an alternate venue, not the Brandenburg Gate as he had hoped. Even the Germans couldn't agree with the first choice. More on the alternate venue tomorrow, you'll be surprised.

Ever notice that Chris Matthew's show, Hardball does not necessarily mean he is throwing "hard ball questions" at people he interviews? Tom Brokaw's new show should be called "softball", in honor of his questioning of Al(the sky is falling) Gore this week. The best Tom could do in questioning Gore, was ask him if it was necessary for him to have purchased a 10,000 square foot home. Gore's response was predictable, "I'm not perfect, I have my weaknesses". But, "I have solar panels on the roof, and all my electricity is "green derived". Yeah, and I am still watering my lawn during this rainless period of time. Looks good, too.

The "Exceptional America, and Exceptional American" watch is in it's second day, and counting. Now, if I could jusst figure some way to pull grandson number two away from his map of America...poor kid. Who knows, he may still find those seven mystery states. Tjis time, I'll allow him to figure it out on his own.

Let The Fun Begin1

2008-07-20T19:29:00.000-07:00

Well now, Senator Obama is in Kuwait, after his foreign policy gathering credibility trip to Afghanistan. No doubt the fawning media types will be appropriately astonished after hearing of Maliki's agreement that obama's timetable of sixteen months for US troop withdrawal sounds good to him. Wow! they must be saying. This man's got it right, he is so prescient you know! How is it that this man who unabashedly brags that he never supported this "War", suddenly seems to know how to win the Democrats unwinnable war? (Please, no overdosing on Tums, or other stomach calming meds, please!) The very best thing Conservatives can do is to wait out this trip to the Middle East, plug our ears with cotton, and hum the Star Spangled Banner to ourselves.

Think about it. There is no way possible that Obama can not resist the opportunistic urge to seize this war he didn't want, and make himself look the Savior, one step up from his present status as a mere Messiah. Make no mistake either, no Republican, not the President, nor Senator McCain will stand up to this show boating individual. Gotta be nice, respectful, and above the grounded fray. Come to think of it, that's where the real problem lies. We have a president who would not lead a movement, and subsequently, had to lead alone. He wasn't all that good at that, leading a movement I mean. No Republican would step forward to support the president when he surely needed that support from friends. That's what treating Senator Kennedy to pop corn will do to you. After a nice evening , he trashes the joint, and the owner as well. But, we just have to "get along" with those Democrats, don't we? Ronald Reagan didn't ask for support, he led, and others followed. Now we know why Republicans are in such a state of affairs, don't we?

By the way, I have instituted a, "Who will be the first to talk about the greatness of America, and of the American people" watch. This is what makes this election, and the candidates, so reprehensible. They'll talk for hours about polar bears, tiny cars running on ethanol, evil oil executives, and how to extract ourselves and the world from the already upon us end of time. Not once will they speak in glowing terms of the people who make this country work, and always have. No, all we get is the promise of even higher gasoline taxes. The government is losing money it seems, as people are driving less often. So, the watch will go on. Anybody feel like making any predictions?

Grandson number two, at the age of six, is reading tv crawlers aloud warning us of severe storms. He is almost ready for history's great manifestos. You know, the infamous ones. He still hasn't gotten over Obama's pronouncement that there are fifty-seven states, and apparently not the fifty he has learned of. It is so sad to watch a youngster sit there with a frown on his brow, studying his map of the United States, and finding nothing. Come to think of that, that's what he sees in Obama: nothing at all. God, what a smart kid!

An Apparent Truth

2008-07-19T16:49:00.000-07:00

So many people of such differing backgrounds, and such a variety of intelligence levels. Yet, if they are Democrats, they are in lockstep belief with their leaders(?) Now, we all understand that one arrives at a conclusion by applying serious thought and investigation before making key life decisions affecting himself, and his family. Therefore, one similarly knows there are going to be as many varieties of thought, as there are people engaged in such an exercise. Again, this is a truism only if the individual is completely honest with himself, and with others. It would appear this is not a necessary character strength if we are talking about typical Democrats. Their leadership is so invested in contrasting themselves, and their party faithful, as being polar opposites of whatever President Bush has said, or has done while in office, that the faithful themselves, are disingenuously parroting the party line du jour.

An example would be the mainstream media's flat out refusal to print anything favorable to this country's progress, whatever that progress might be. "Experts" are always surprised with the daily results when in conflict with their predictions. Noticed that, have you? The "Surge" isn't spoken about any more since the evidence that it has worked well came in. In fact, all references to it have been purged from the web site of Candidate Obama. Coincidence, or simply house cleaning? The Democrats refusal to allow this country to seek out it's salvation from deep beneath us, and off our shores, constitutes a war on our economy, like that or not. The politicization of our judicial system with it's entrenched "henchmen, and henchladies" will lead us nowhere but to a third world status as a nation. Just listen to the drunk with power hordes in Washington as they facilitate with glee, our demise as the once greatest of nations on God's earth. Listen, and do so with a sincere purpose in mind: They are not going to have their way without one hell of a fight on their hands!! Can half of America be that blind to the reality of what is happening here?

I ask you all to know how to spell the word "tyranny", and the word "authoritarian" as well, for soon, they will be the kind of government we will live UNDER, if we do not engage those leading us in that direction. If it is true that a "new broom sweeps clean", then let's all sweep away! Out with them all, Democrats and Republicans alike, who are shameless in their stewardship of our precious votes. I can't see you, but if we merely try, we can hear each other, and that will be a start worth remembering.

Now, back to the education of those who will save us from ourselves. It is truly that important...don't you agree?

Thank God For The Military

2008-07-18T20:05:00.000-07:00

Today was an eventful day. We wotked over in Pennsylvania, and the ride was so refreshing. Beautiful open, rolling land, and the homes were so quaint and beautiful, too. One of our jobs was at a US military facility where everyone, it seemed, was a Conservative at heart. These were intelligent people, who understood quite well just exactly what our nation is facing, in this their time of readiness. God Bless them all!

On the return trip home, we listened to the radio, and heard Nancy Pelosi telling the world how much of a failure President Bush has been throughout his presidency. So imperiously strident was this woman's delivery. So elitist, so snobbish, but then again, this is the same woman who hails from San Francisco, you know, the place where the city fathers decided that the USS Ronald Reagan should not dock a few years ago. I agree with their decision. Why upgrade that city's image with an aircraft carrier bearing the name of one of our greatest presidents? Why indeed? PS: the last time I checked, Congress's approval rating was a mere third of the President's. That ought to be worth mulling over for a few seconds of precious time, wouldn't you think?

We heard too, of Mr. Obama's upcoming trip to Iraq, and Afghanistan. Lest I forget, with an adoring contingent of main stream media types panting breathlessly in his wake. Why, even all the major tv network news anchors will be there for this self described historic event. Then there is the planned trip to Israel, and to Germany. We shouldn't be surprised, for after all, he did say he was going to CHANGE America, then the WORLD! The action plan is in place, waiting for the Messiah to deliver us from...???

Do you know what else? If I were an oil company executive, I would find a promising site for drilling somewere around 150-200 miles off any states coastline. I would do this with impunity, because those distances constitute INTERNATIONAL WATERS! No begging the respective states for permission not theirs to grant. When Obama said today that he had a plan to help auto makers, I thought for a moment he was going to one up Mr. McCain's proposal to drill off shore areas. Then, not to my surprise once more, he told the auto workers union that he would provide 150 billion dollars to invest in alternative fuels, and of course cars nobody wants to buy. Ho hum!! The little man waits, the big man fails to deliver. Hmm? Another 150 billion on top of the 440 billion for his "Civilian National Defense Force". Anybody counting?

Again, it was refreshing to meet these wonderful people today. They honestly give me hope for our future. By the way, it was a scorcher of a day. I was tempted to call Al Gore to ask what was up, but then I realized this is the middle fo July, and "hot" is normal, and not unexpected.

Now, I return to the educational tasks ahead, but now with reinforced resolve...

Don't Say I didn't Warn You!

2008-07-17T18:00:00.000-07:00

So, today we learn yet another of Mr. Obama's grandiose schemes to enslave us all. On July, 2, 2008, he said publicly, that he would, if elected, establish a "Civilian National Security Force". This force would be as strong as the US Military, just as powerful, and funded at the same level. Time for some arithmetic here(apparently not taught at Harvard).

The total US Military budget for 2007, was in the neighborhood of 440 billion dollars. This represents over 3 and one half per cent of the value of our gross domestic product. Therefore, if we are to take Mr. Obama at his word, then where will the money come from to equal this same 440 billion dollars? Next, comes the not so small matter of populating this "Civilian National Security Force". In as much as there are currently over 1 and a half million Americans in the active military, and another almost 1 and a half million comprising the National Guards of the various states, and other reserve units, where will this manpower come from? Sounds a lot like conscription lies in wait around the corner for unsuspecting young Obama supporters.

Then, there is the "Mission Statement" itself. What in God's name will this super charged civilian para military force be charged with doing? What will be it's aims, and it's goals? More importantly, does America really need this? Does our Constitution allow it? There is something called "Posse Comitatus", which was enacted into Federal law in 1878, immediately after the "Reconstruction Act". The Federal government is pohibited from using it's active duty military forces within the United States as a police force. It is simply impermissible. Ergo, we need a civilian equivalent?

Today is the dawn of a new era in political thinking. Lest we forget, do we remember the infamous Gestapo of WWII fame? How about the STASI, that secret police arm of East Germany? Let us not forget the notorious KGB, the Soviet equivalent of all these examples. When a "civilian" security force is created, history teaches that it is the political power of the state, and not the rule of law, which is desired most by those who control such organizations, in this case: the executive branch of government. It would not be incorrect to identify such controlling organizations as being authoritarian, or totalitarian. Talk about your slippery slopes!

Hopefully, Mr, Obama is not intent on bringing to life these examples I have cited. Personally, I believe it simply "sounded" like a good idea. It was in a way, Kennedyesque, if you will. However, it also puts firmly into the glare of an unforgiving spotlight, the naivete, and the not quite ready for prime time character of this man who would be president. For these reasons, we just can not "afford" this man as our next president. God save us!

Looks like my job with the children became a little harder...but we'll manage, we always do.

Just Thinking, That's All

2008-07-16T19:27:00.000-07:00

As I listen to the two presidential candidates speaking more to one another, than to the American people, I think, and I wonder.

John McCain just can't seem to be more political than polite, when addressing groups of people on the campaign trail. For God's sake, if you believe that Senator Obama is as nice, and as bright as you compliment him on being, then throw in the damned towel, and hand him an uncontested victory, John! Meanwhile, Obama's minions smear the hell out of McCain, and he just smiles, and pats Obama on the back...after Obama has denounced the message but not the messengers. What we have here is Dufus number 1, and Dufus number2. Both Dufus' are at this point, bad, bad news for the average American whose vote they covet.

I swear, I can't stand either of them any more. Neither can be trusted, neither offers the real hope we all need. That would be for getting government the hell out of our individual lives. Try hoping for that, people! What truly scares me, is that both come with proposals that will tax us into oblivion in order to "save the planet". We've turned the corner on the fictitious notion of man made global warming, and are instead, sliding into the next period of global cooling. When that happens, who will be there to save us? Hmmm... I've got an idea, but first, back to the education of the little people, you know, those who will save us from ourselves...

Pondering A Panderer

2008-07-14T18:57:00.000-07:00

Senator Barack Hussein Obama, remember the name(as if one could forget).

Today, speaking before Larasa, we were treared to a smearing of US law enforcement by this man who would be president. To a rousing chorus of cheers, he told them that snatching mothers from their breast feeding chores, and children coming home from school to find their parents gone, was all just so wrong. Yes indeed, bad, bad America! Immigration authorities had absolutely no business doing simply, their job, as it were. No instances of such brutal behavior were cited, nor were names, and places identified. One more well chronicled event takes it's place in the panderers hall of shame.

Remember too, this is the same man who has petitioned German authorities to allow his giving a speech at the Brandenberg Gate, where previously, only Presidents Kennedy, and Reagan have spoken in addressing the world at large. The nerve; the gall of this man. Why would he risk embarrassing himself and all the rest of America, knowing full well we all know only two European words: Merci beaucoup! That would not sit well in Berlin at all. Come to think of it, it wouldn't sit so well in France either. Now we know what he meant when he said, "We are going to change America, and the world too." Might I suggest that he might have a serious problem in merely "changing" a diaper, let alone America, and then the world at large.

Meanwhile, the President finally got off his duff, and lifted the presidential ban on off-shore drilling for oil. Courteously, he suggested that Congress too, should cooperate, and lift their ban that this country might work it's way toward energy independence. Had only President Bush done this years earlier, and led a Conservative movement while at it, perhaps, just perhaps, we could have seen our way out of this mess. What is unnerving, is that what makes perfect sense to most Americans, is not on the radar screens of those in Congress. Now, with their backs to the wall, recaltricant Republicans, and Democrats too, are bending however slowly to the will of a greater majority. It is small wonder that only in America might anyone become President. Better be careful of what we wish for however, for more of the same lies just over the horizon.

So go on America, elect the man of "Hope", and of "Change", the America we'll see in but a few years time will lead to an entry into "Poor Richard's Almanac". I don't know if Benjamin Franklin predicted this as being a possibility, but I'll bet he and certain others would be very surprised indeed.

Meanwhile, back to those who will save us...

I'm Embarrassed too!

2008-07-12T21:30:00.000-07:00

I listened with amusement to Senator Obama's speech in Georgia before an adoring crowd from LULA, or something like that. The piece d' resistance of course, was hearing the Senator telling us all that he was embarrassed by Americans in Europe who do not know European languages, and seem only to be able to say,thank you, in French. Such arrogant condescension on display in public only reinforces the belief that he and his wife are truly not proud of the America they call their home. It is true after all, isn't it? When the teleprompter is off, what you see, and hear, is exactly what we will get if this man is elected to be our president. My prediction is that the adoring crowds will still be there, but sooner than later, most of America will come to better know this man who would lead us. By the way, my grandchildren will learn a second language, but it will be a language of their choice, and not the good Senator's.

There will be more gaffes galore, you may count on it. This man simply can not help himself when he stands before a microphone with no script in hand. His soaring rhetoric soars only to the top of his head, and no higher. Another thing I can not help thinking, is comparing his ideas of America with those of former President Reagan. What a difference! Narcissism is not worn well on any man, not even Senator Obama. There is not an ounce of humility in his body, and that is very sad, and very dangerous for us as well.

In a way though, it isn't really that bad, for his every day actions, and words, make my job of educating the children that much easier. Before I forget, will someone tell the Senator to give me a call please? My grandson who will be entering kindergarten this September, still wants to know where, exactly, are the the other 7 States the Senator has visited. He knows his states, knows there are only 50, and is so perplexed by it all. Can anyone help us?...

A Week Of Surprises

2008-07-11T16:03:00.000-07:00

This week has been unique and yet, strangely lacking in something. Visits to the doctor were unremarkable, and work was just fine. I met old friends, and was happy to see rhem. Meals were good, and plentiful. The grandchildren have advanced in their thinking, and in their skills development. Why then, I ask myself, this sudden malaise which has overcome me?

Then, it hit me squarely between the eyes! The Democrat party has certified beyond any doubt, that their interests are not quite in concert with those of average Americans. Talk of bankruptsy within the board rooms of General Motors, the failure today of a major bank whose assets were listed as having been over 32 billion dollars, oil prices nearing 150 dollars a barrel, and not a peep from Congress, the President, nor either of the two presumptive presidential candidates. Iran blatantly provoking tensions in the Middle East with it's missile test displays, invites only a mild rebuke from the same people listed above. Meanwhile, Israel is busy in their war rooms, planning for attacks by Iran, and why shouldn't they be doing that?

Britain's highest ranking member of that country's judiciary, asserting that maybe it is time for "Sharia Light" to be allowed into the English legal system; three year old children blamed for being "racist" because they dared utter the word "Yuk!" whan having put before them food foreign to their tastes, and to their cultural acclimation. Mark Steyn not yet free from the prosecutorial efforts of the Canadian Human Rights Commission, at least not in British Columbia. Editors decrying their country's errant misbehaviors, while suggesting we not celebrate the 4th of July this year, but rather, submerse ourselves in atonement for sins of the fathers against humanity itself. Our own "Kennedy" Supreme Court awash in their vision for us all, and nothing for the vision of the Founders. Much like the evil speculators(so defined by the Democrats), our economy is nearing a very real crisis point.

What is to be made of all this? Can it be that the Democrats are really into the dismantling of American industrial greatness? At the same time they would file suit against OPEC for not supplying more oil, they blithely stand against American self reliance. Holy God above, help us to dismantle these persons whose power has put this greatest of nations in such peril. Although prayer will help, it alone can not take the place totally of our individual involvement. As I heard Senator Obama predict 300 dollar a barrel oil prices leading to 12 dollar a gallon gas prices, and absolutely nothing in the way of a "plan" to deal with this horrible consequence should Iran close the Straits of Hormuz. It would appear neither candidate has an operable plan in place neither on the table, nor in the "fertile" minds above the mouths from which no comforting news flows.

America, wake up!! Is this what you wish for your children? And now, back to the accelerated education of those who, hopefully, will save us from ourselves...

By The Dawn's Early Light!

2008-07-03T19:56:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, July 4, 2008, will be a very special day for many reasons. Not the least, will be spending the morning hours with two equally special grandsons. They, 6 and 14 years old, will once again renew their faith in America, the greatest country in the whole wide world, bar none. I with them both, will wait for the Colors to pass us at our familiar spot along the roadway. Then the three of us will place right hands over our hearts, and stand tall and proudly until the Colors have passed. A simple gesture one might think, but a gesture of unashamed patriotism on full display. This my grandsons have learned well. This is something that touches their hearts, as well as mine. Next, will be the colorful displays, and soldiers galore marching past. Hundreds of like minded people gathered together in celebration of America's glorious birth two hundred and thirty two years ago.

What we celebrate, we celebrate together as a family, and as proud Americans. Our country's history will be reviewed, and if for but a few short hours, relived with pride. Simply to observe the looks in the eyes of these young men will serve to confirm that they know what many of us seem to have forgotten. Your country is yours to serve, and to protect, if need be. Above all, our country is but a mere reflection of the collective works of dedicated men and women, and children too. Independence Day, as we call it, is a not subtle call to continue on with our faith, and our resolve. Where else would you rather live? Where else could you live, and express yourself freely? The First Ammendment is our guarantee of the sanctity of personal thought, and expression. Yet, there are sinister forces aligning themselves to deny us these freedoms, these rights. This then, is the beauty of the American way, for it is not without hard work, and dedication to the ideals outlined by our Founding Fathers that America is preserved for each new generation in turn. In this manner, those such as my grandsons are summoned forth to add to the glory of American idealism. Of this, we may be proud. For this, no offering is too small. No sacrifice too great.

Resolve is fortified by the unpatriotic displays of B. Hussein Obama, for example. He now wears a flag lapel pin, not because he necessarily has discovered patriotism, rather because it politically suits him. If history, recorded history, lays the groundwork for future understanding, then we are left with an unflattering picture of this most Liberal of presidential candidates in American history. The boneyards of history are littered with his ilk, his false promises. America deserves better; America requires better, and she will get it! More will follow in the coming days, but today is reserved for those who BELIEVE in America, and for those who are mindful of those who have preceeded us in America's journey to world greatness.

Now, back to the education of those who will survive us; those who will save us from ourselves...

A Summer of Discontent?

2008-07-01T19:34:00.000-07:00

Today, former General Weasel(?) Clark afforded us his brilliance on the subject of Senator John McCain's fitness to lead this country's military as it's Commander In Chief. So much for the brightness of this faded star. So much for my willingness to sit back, and cede this election to the boy wonder from Chicago. The often times detestable Senator McCain doesn't deserve my vote, but he will get it none the less. Along the way, I will fight his intransigence on matters such as global warming, immigration reform, and certain populist notions concerning his "crossing the aisle" to work with Liberal Socialists and Marxists. Oh, and did I mention the contrived energy crisis as well?

Being a Conservative is not an easy task, for it seems Conservatism has always to assert itself front and center. Make no mistake, John McCain is not a Conservative, nor is President George Bush. It is a shame, because The President, and John McCain, as he will soon see, do not share the views you and I hold dearest. This is a major reason why President Bush finds himself much the lonely man these days. If only he had the understanding, and the courage to lead the Conservative movement. Had he done so, his journey would have been a surer, and a more rewarding travel toward posterity. This much these two men have in common. They allow others to define them individually, and their imprints on the fabric of America will be like so many unseen fingerprints. From their positions of leadership, they could, and could have, taken this country further down the road to instant credibility, and world wide respect. Ronald Reagan's Shining City Upon The Hill has certainly lost a bit of it's former luster. That is not a tribute I could easily wear. Apparently, these two men are in it for themselves alone, and have forgotten the passengers who boarded the bus a while back.

Meanwhile, this is why it becomes even more critical that those who will survive our unwillingness to lead, be taught that the America of the Founders is constantly under attack by Liberal forces both within and without. I am doing my part, are you doing yours?

And now, back to the education of the children who hopefully, will save us from ourselves, and in the process, save America herself.

Operation Chaos A Rousing Success

2008-04-23T21:32:00.000-07:00

And now, it is Rush Limbaugh who is in for the ride of his life. Along with his fellow Conservative commentators, he, and they, will eventually feel the wrath of Democrat politicians upset with their manipulations in primary election voting. This is not to say that what they have done is a bad thing. Indeed, it has been useful in exposing the dangerous proclivities of one Barrack Obama. In spite of enhancing the prospects of Senator Clinton, we have all been treated to an exposure of the aims, and goals of those two candidates. Now, wait for the calls to implement the,"Fairness Doctrine", once more. This too, will be well defended against, for a public that is well informed, is a public that will not tolerate abuse of certain freedoms.

A corner has been turned, and once again we welcome Spring into our midst. Colors abound. Renewed life is evident all about us, and the lure of balmier days beckons to one and to all. The children continue with their growth, and with their understanding. Those who wish to corrupt their increasing knowledge, do so with impunity no longer. These Socialist, country destroying prophets of doom, no longer enjoy a monopoly on the truth, for their truth was, and has always been, based on hideous destructiveness.

Our America, the real America, shall survive their attempts to destroy it through political manipulation, and self-serving means. The children will know better, for this is what they are being taught. Not in our schools do they learn this, but in the comfort of their homes, with the elders leading the way to a more prosperous enlightenment.

And now, back to the education of those who will save us...

People who inspire you

2008-04-09T13:01:00.000-07:00

There is this friend of mine, named Jim. Jim is an example of a comitted person, giving his very best no matter the task lying before him. Under Jim's guidance, my grandson has matured in his ice hockey prowess. This he has done right before my very appreciative eyes. Admittedly, my son has held a different idea regarding the grandson's progress, but it has been Jim who set the standard bar higher, as development went on. Jim also has two very capable sons of his own, and coaches them all at the ice rink he manages. All this has unfolded within the last eight years. We have all watched the young boys grow, and mature. Now is the time to pay homage to a man of critical substance, and wisdom. I salute you, Jim!

Why do I take this time to pay a debt of respect? The answer lies in being able to compare two differing sets of examples. On the one hand, we are witness to the debasing of our country's core values, and long history of exceptionalism, by Presidential candidates whose primary interest is securing for themselves power over all that the American people now do voluntarily. On the other hand, one man is able through his dedication to an embraced set of values, and ideals, establish worthy standards for young people to themselves emulate, and to embrace. This these young people do. They do so for they realize that goals set, and those same goals met, equals success at a very personal level. Presidential candidates seem to think that pandering to the emotions of dependent supporters will enhance their chances. This may be true, but at what cost to those same young individuals being taught the sense of personal responsibility?

I'll take my friend Jim any day, over the pretenders among us. Any day at all. His job is of his own creation, held onto well, and firmly. His is a history of sacrifice, and more than simply a willingness to give of his own time. His is an example of the same American exceptionalism, however his is genuine in the best of the American traditions that separate us as a people from the rest of the peoples of this world.

And now, back to the education of those who will save us from ourselves...

A Day of Confusion

2008-04-02T20:49:00.000-07:00

Today was a day reserved for Senator McCain alone. How this man could go from a discussion of the war in Iraq, to "global warming", is not only beyond the pale, but beyond comprehension itself. The candidate presumptive, is displaying a puerile side of himself that does not exactly inspire confidence. In fact, for each forward stride he makes, he takes two sideways, and then one in reverse. In other words, he is going in circles to a place of no destiny. What a shame!

The weather, beautiful, should have elicited an appreciation for all things, but it didn't turn out that way. Quite frankly, the political mood is not one of anticipation, rather one of just wishing for it all to be over. In picking up my granddaughter at school, she told me proudly that she had engaged a fellow student in debate concerning global warming, or as she referred to it, "global hoaxing". I have been lecturing? her for the past week, encouraging her to speak up. She did, and she was proud. By the way, she won the debate.

And now, back to the appreciated, and rewarding task of educating the saviors...

Becoming more clear by the moment

2008-03-31T19:14:00.000-07:00

Well, it appears that Senator Clinton is going all the way to Denver. She is determined to make a race of that which can't be won. Now, is it she, or Bill who made that decision? Meanwhile, Senator Obama tells us he would not want to "punish" either of his daughters, should they make a mistake, with the having of a child. Heavens no! We can't have that can we? Let us suppose such an obviously unwanted child escaped the desires of both father and daughter, just how would that child feel later in life finding that it was "punishment", for having been simply born. Ah, the value of life goes on, does it not? Gradually slipping away like the outgoing tide.

Today was a busy day, but delightful nonetheless. Much work accomplished, and finding all who vacationed in Lake Placid under the weather in some way or another. I thought vacations were to enjoy. Guess I had better stay away from such desires. Although, I have warned every one not to catch any colds or other bugs thrown their way. Simply step aside, and let them harmlessly be on their merry way.

The youngest grandson is hungry just now, so off we go for rice Krispies!

On Vacation

2008-03-30T19:21:00.000-07:00

A four day vacation is seemingly, better for he who does the vacating, than it is for those one leaves behind. The sojourn was idyllic, and rooted in my quest to bring fresh perspective to old, and tattered issues before us. From the news point of view, the democrat candidates seem to be on a tilt-a-whirl, slowly undulating to exactly where? Pressure builds for Senator clinton to drop out of the race before real harm is done to their chances of re-taking control of the presidency in November. Monday though, will be the best indicator of just where Senator Clinton is prepared to take the party, and the country itself.

The weekend was exciting for the grandchildren in many ways. From a hockey tournament in Lake Placid, to the baseball practice field here at home, both grandsons were quite busy. I spent the bulk of the evening watching video of the hockey tournament, and watched the youngest hard at his first practice of the new season on the local baseball field. In both instances, I marveled at the literal growth of them both, both physically, and in the skill levels they displayed. All in all, it has been rewarding, and a source of pride also.

For the last two weeks, I have been indulging myself in writing, creative writing, and old enjoyments have resurfaced within my heart. The new week will begin shortly, so let us prepare ourselves for the challenges ahead...and for the continuing education of those same grandchildren...

He said, then she said.

2008-03-26T19:35:00.000-07:00

Good grief! How much longer will we be treated to news stories like this? It is alleged that Hillary lied about the snipers firing at her on a plane trip to Bosnia. Next thing you know, she'll be telling us that it was she who was in the Oval Office, and merely delivering the smoking cigars To Bill.

And what of B.Hussein Obama? As we speak, his Pastor the (honorable?) Jeremiah Wright actually dissed the Italians among us. Will it never end?

Then there is Senator McCain remaining far above the fray, sounding more, and more as the liberal populist he really is. During a speech today, he cautioned not that America is great, but that America must pay attention to the haughty elitist Europeans whose support we desperately need in times of looming crisis. WE must adopt a new global standard to combat, are you ready for this? ..Global Warming! With friends like the Senator, we do not need the Europeans at all.

It seems we are in the idiocy period of the campaign. Just think, only seven more months to go!

The grandchildren are away on a deserved holiday, but then there are lesson plans to prepare for their eventual return...

Furious finish to a slow day.

2008-03-24T20:35:00.000-07:00

Easter Monday it is. The news is left to those best suited to report upon it, I am a bit weary. If ever in the hearts of men, there came a true awakening, then today would be that day. The warm residue of thoughts, remaining in the consciousness following Easter Sunday, ought to be inspirational, and of long term significance to us all. My belief is that is exactly what is on many minds. Just simply not enough of those minds, unfortunately. While in the early stages of this years election campaign, it is time to relax, and to reflect. Tomorrow will bring the sudden need to grapple with issues, and problems also. Tonight, I reflect on the meaning , the divine purpose that preceeded my awareness.

Slowly, the day began. There was little work to perform, however, chores await the morning to come. Everyone seemed of good mind and spirit wherever my travels took me this day. In it's final stage, there was a trip to the pediatrician for youngest grandson's "pink eye". No more does one hear conjunctivitis, too long I suppose. All went well, and the day continued on to it's end. By night, there was the friendly convenience store clerk offering me the last two bagels. I took them, and delivered them to my daughter who loves them. A loving gift from her Dad, and the friendly people at the store.

It is now midnight, and sleep awaits, but first a prayer for all in need the world over.
Tomorrow, it will be back to those who are going to rescue us from ourselves...

The Day of Resurection

2008-03-23T18:39:00.000-07:00

Having left early this morning for the cemetary visits, I couldn't help noticing how many people were streaming from the Catholic church at the end of the street. This is a large church, seating well over 1,000 parishoners at a time. Clearly, the numbers exceeded normal Sunday attendance. This brings up the question of Faith. There is little to fear regarding the demise of religion in America, I believe. For so many people to have gone to church today, is a sure indicator of a thriving belief in the Creator. Some may question the motives; some may see it as an expression of fear, rather than belief itself. It really doesn't matter, for on this holiest of days, the people came, and they prayed.

So too is it with the prophets of gloom and doom here in America. Just when they think their prognostications are about to fulfill themselves, along comes yet another profession of faith in all that is good about America. How long will it be before the best of us, the more worthy of us, step forward to reclaim their rightful place in our society? Not long, if events keep stressing our belief in ourselves, and our seeing the correct path ahead of us. Not Senators Clinton, nor Obama may steal our independence from an intrusive government, nor will they steal our self governance concept either. America is too resilient a country to allow any of this to occur on our watch.

Yes, this Easter Sunday was beautifully done. The annual observance of the Resurection has seen to that, and serves as a reminder that all is not lost. Not in death. Not in the hearts of men and women the world over. Certainly not in the minds, and hearts of the littlest among us either.

Now, back to the education of those precious grandchildren...

What was it that I heard?

2008-03-20T20:49:00.000-07:00

On a Sunday eve, I sat down in my favorite chair, and listened intently to a Minister's pleas to his congregants. Expecting guidance in exploring the mystery of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, my mind awaited the assuring words that would help me to understand better my responsibilities to myself, and others. At that moment, the words came in a torrent. The anger in the Minister's voice was frightening. What had I done that was so wrong, I wondered? Intently, I listened to gain an understanding of what was being told to me.

My fear gave way to wonderment, as I realized this man could not possibly be speaking to me, but rather about me, and those of my ilk. This was not healing, it was preaching with an axe in hand. Never had I listened to anything so fundamentally un- christian in it's meaning; it's intent. Who are the believers being so counseled by this "man of God", I questioned? Do they, themselves, feel the better when all is finished? Can my God, the God I know of all the people, be the messenger of love, and hope? What is it that has changed?

These are questions we seek to find answers for, are they not?

Now, back to the real source of love in my life....

Wet and Soggy

2008-03-19T20:26:00.000-07:00

Yes, it was very rainy, and not a pleasant day to be driving. However, life and work demands go on in spite of the inconvenience of nasty weather. Spent the day in Delaware, and then Maryland, meeting nice people along the way, and accomplishing much in the way of work. No matter the rain that storm clouds may bring, there is always a silver lining somewhere to brighten the day.

Listening to news reports regarding the rather considerable hole Senator Obama has dug for himself, I smiled at the prospect of him searching for one of those elusive silver linings. In spite of his speech given at the National Constitution Center on Tuesday, where he earned an "A" for style, and a "D" for substance, the Senator now finds himself virtually in a racial checkmate. One has only to harken back to then candidate Romney's speech about his religion. The Governor found himself in the unenviable position of having to defend his "Mormonism". Great speech, but where did it leave him? Out of the race, that's where. In the case of Obama, he had a grand opportunity on a grand stage, and blew it. I wouldn't want to be in his shoes heading into the Pennsylvania primary upcoming.

The critical difference is that he is the one running for office, I am merely the one sitting back and observing the passing scene. Pressure is one hell of a burden to bear, isn't it? I believe moments such as these are referred to as character building. We'll see.

Now it is time to return to happier pursuits. The grandchildren beckon. I obey.

The Ides of March

2008-03-17T19:19:00.000-07:00

Of a sudden, things are popping. Senator Obama is busy backpedaling away from his Pastor, Jeremiah Wright. He has not officially denounced the racist, anti-American remarks and views of Pastor Wright, but will hold a press conference tomorrow, wherein he will "explain" his continuing relationship with his Pastor. This should be interesting, wouldn't you think? It is rumored that Senator Clinton has some videos to the contrary, showing Senator Obama in attendance at his church when the Pastor made these defiling remarks. Time will tell.

Meanwhile, the anxiety in Britain grows daily over the Labor Party's, and Prime Minister Gordon Brown's efforts to remove the last vestiges of "Britishness" over there. As I have remarked, "Look to Britain for US coming attractions". Having written an essay recently on the cycle of human development in the US, I can attest to the demise of our proud country, in the name of giving power to the Liberals in November. What is particularly galling, is the stated intent to do exactly that, by those very same Liberals. People, Wake Up!

These observations, however diastasteful they may be, have not distracted me from the pleasantness associated with watching my grandchildren perform in school sponsored activities this past weekend. For that, I am singularly grateful.

And now, back to work...

Are these Legitimate Questions?

2008-03-13T12:35:00.000-07:00

Of course they are!

Senator Obama's ties, whether religious, or of a friendly nature, or both, are at last in the forefront of public discussion regarding Pastor Jeremiah Wright. Now, the attacks will come to those who dare to question these ties. The truth, fortunately, or unfortunately, will be known. From that truth we will learn just whether or not the man who would be president is in fact fit, or qualified to be the leader of America.

Once upon a time, it was we the people. Once upon a time, there were men and women who shed their reputations, their fortunes, and their lives too, for this great country of ours. Once upon a time, America was looked up to by it's citizens, if not by the rest of the world. It didn't matter what the rest of the world thought of us, so long as we believed in ourselves. Once upon a time, Democrats and Republicans genuinely had a modicum of respect for each other, no matter the differences politically. Once upon a time was a good time. Things began to change in the seventies however, and picked up again in the nineties. Since those tumultuous time periods, civility has disappeared from the public discourse, and has been supplanted with the "GOTCHA" style of current day political positioning. Clearly, the Democrat Party has refined the technique, and uses it on a daily basis with total impunity.

Once upon a time is just that: Once upon a time in America. We have no one to blame but ourselves for the chasm that now divides us. We have allowed it to thrive, and now we must fight back. Someday, I want to be able to say to my grandchildren: "Once upon a time in America...".

And now, back to the never ending chore...

Should We Share the Anxiety?

2008-03-11T20:06:00.001-07:00

This is a good read for those Americans among us who believe all is well on the international front. We have less to fear from the EU Superstate Sovereigns, than we do to the loss of America's sovereignty should the Democrats take the helm in November.

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