Bringing Hope

Although the FBI reports that murders nationwide have 'leveled off', a Northeastern University study suggests quite the opposite for the black youth. Although the complete study will be released next Monday, some of the statistics which have been reported are alarming. For example, last year "426 black males between the ages of 14 and 17 were killed in gun crimes", which is up 40% from 2000. "An estimated 964 in the same age group committed fatal shootings in 2007 — a 38 percent increase from seven years earlier". Northeastern criminologist James Alan Fox, who co-authored the study, commented, "there is an urgency for reinvestment in children and families. In essence, we need a bailout for kids at risk."

My Take: This is a horrific trend, which seems to only be getting worse. The author's of this study suggest that is the Bush's administration's fault for moving funding away from 'hometown security' to 'homeland security'. What?!? This is not about government funding, money could not solve this issue. This is about families. This is about parenting. You can not blame the government for something you can't take care of on your own, in your own home. Bill Cosby, in his controversial speech, said "if there was parenting, he wouldn’t have picked up the Coca Cola bottle and walked out with it to get shot in the back of the head. He wouldn’t have. Not if he loved his parents. And not if they were parenting! Not if the father would come home. "

Barack Obama reiterated the same concepts in his Father's Day Speech, where he said "We know the statistics - that children who grow up without a father are five times more likely to live in poverty and commit crime; nine times more likely to drop out of schools and twenty times more likely to end up in prison." He gave suggestions to the congregants on how to improve these unacceptable situations, the first was by setting an example of excellence for the children. "If we want to set high expectations for them, we've got to set high expectations for ourselves." This example of excellence is one reason I am excited he did win the election, and will be the 44th President of the United States. What better example of being an involved and loving husband and father, setting a 'high expectation' for himself and achieving it. I hope and pray that this will make a difference in the lives of the black youth, and that in 10 years from now, Northeastern University will have better statistics to report.

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas!

Thank you for making this past year more interesting, and challenging me to learn more! It has been a GREAT year! Hope you all have a wonderful Christmas!

One more reason to hate President Bush

Behind the major media's and American public's back, President Bush and the power-hungry Vice President Cheney 'have waged a clandestine operation inside the White House' which has involved thousands of our troops and private Presidential meetings kept of his public calendars. What has been their top-secret effort that they didn't want public attention for?

Read Here and comment on your thoughts.

Pull out your SPF!

WARNING! This post may contain insane rantings of a biologically uneducated mom. Proceed at your own risk.

The sun may have an effect on our climate. Shocking, I know. Disturbing, I understand. Stop hyperventilating, let me explain. The sun, the ultimate source of light and heat for our solar system, also has cycles and systems and 'climate changes'. These changes can in turn effect our cycles, temperatures, and 'climate changes'. Many aspects of the sun may effect these changes such as sunspots, solar winds, solar magnetic fields. The solar output is considered one of the extraterrestrial factors that effects 'global warming'. Now, I am not talking about E.T.-phone-home, it is referring to outside-earth-contributors. Others listed were variations in the Earth's orbital characteristics, and interstellar dust. There are also a variety of internal factors, such as: volcanic emissions, continental drift, atmosphere/ocean heat exchange, surface reflectivity, atmospheric chemistry-including the fabulously trendy carbon dioxide variations.

Before you discount me as a lunatic and burn me at the stake, (which would be bad for our environment), let me assure you I am not attempting to single-handedly discredit Al Gore after the debate is obviously over regarding global warming. I am humbly, and merely suggesting there are more causes for the cyclical changes of our earth. And that the human contribution to these astronomical events is most likely minimal. Why on earth would we assume we have the absolute power of controlling the temperatures, tide levels, ice caps, etc? However, I do believe in doing our parts to keep our earth clean, minimize pollution of air, water, and land. As it has been mentioned before, we are stewards of this earth, and will be held responsible for our actions.

A few articles I read here, here, and here.

New Gambling Cushion

The Nevada Gaming Commission Control Board has approved a new measure which will be applied to all Casino's and Gambling facilities, beginning January 1, 2009. This measure was in response to the recent financial crisis which is hitting Las Vegas and Reno particularly hard. There are several controversial items within the Cushion measure which have raised major opposition from Casino owners. Peter Bernard, Chairman of the Nevada Gaming Commission, responded with the age-old saying "Desperate times call for desperate measures". These are several of the 'desperate' measures:

• Casino's, and any gambling institutions, are required to provide each occupant a minimum of $50 to begin play. "This allows all those who want to gamble, the opportunity." said Bernard. "We don't want to exclude or discriminate anyone who is willing to participate." It also provides an opportunity to finance any spending above the initial $50.


• If a gamer loses everything, he is considered a "bankrupted player", his debt is wiped clean and he is extended another $50 to try again. A player can be considered 'bankrupt' up to three times, then he will no longer be eligible for the $50 beginning bonus, but he is allowed to try again in another establishment. Peter Bernard would like the slogan for Las Vegas to be changed to "Failure is not an option in Vegas".


• If a gamer is considered a "successful player", meaning he has made more than what he has put into the game, he will be taxed on his earnings. The tax will begin at 60%, and will gradually escalate as the earnings get higher. Half of the collected tax will be used to break even the "bankrupted player's" losses, while the other half will be collected by the Nevada Gaming Commission, who has sole authority to determine where the remaining money is spent.

The Nevada Gaming Commission felt that these measures among more, which are included in the Gambling Cushion guidelines, are necessary to level the playing field and remove the risk. Dennis K. Neilander, Chairman of the Gaming Control Board feels that when there is risk, there will be losers. "Gambling in Nevada always had it's risks. That is what we're trying to eliminate. Sure, some players may win. But at the end of the day, there are losers, and we just can't let them leave Nevada feeling like that."

Have you heard?

Before

After

Friday, December 12 while some women and children were working on scrapbooking and crafts in the late evening, the fire alarms sounded at the "Wasilla Bible Church". All the occupants were evacuated safely, but the building suffered around $1 million worth of damage. Federal officials have determined that accelerants were found around the exterior. Currently, there have been no determinations if it is connected to Sarah Palin. She reportedly commented to the Assistant Pastor that "she was sorry if the fire was connected to the 'undeserved negative attention' the church has received since she became the vice presidential candidate Aug. 29."

My Take: Have you heard about this story? I have watched CNN for the past 3 days and also the national nightly news and have not heard more than a quick closing remark. "Oh by the way, Sarah Palin's church suffered fire damage over the weekend....Now for the Person of the Week". I would like to pose this obvious question, what if it was heaven forbid, Pres. Elect Obama's former church, Trinity United Church of Christ? What would the press coverage be then? Both of their churches were in the news during the campaigns, both controversial for different reasons. Yet, someone deliberately sets Sarah Palin's church, which she still attends, on fire while people were present, and there is little outcry. Even the congregants and Pastors have given few interviews, made zero accusations, and have not demanded more press attention. They have quietly continued worshipping in a nearby high school, and began raising funds to rebuild their damaged 2 1/2 year old building. What a sad event for a small, close-knit community, which deserves more interest than a one-lined filler story between Gov. Blagojevich and more cabinet positions being filled. I am actually frustrated with myself for giving attention first to the "McCain's non-endorsement of Sarah Palin", rather than something actually newsworthy. I am only human.

Pseudo-Slam for a Non-Candidate

In a flurry of news reports, a big headline this morning is "McCain Declines to Back Palin for 2012". WHAT?!?! Old Man Winter isn't going to endorse the Veep candidate he was 'so proud of'? He thinks she's incompetent? He is now blaming her for his Presidential loss? She would be the hand basket that would bring this country to hell?

Is this what he is saying?!?!?

No.

In his actual words he said in response to the question if Sarah Palin could count on his support in 2012, "I can't say something like that. We've got some great other young governors. I think you're going to see the governors assume a greater leadership role in our Republican Party." He continued his slams against his former running-mate by saying she 'invigorated the campaign' and he has "great appreciation for her and her family". He continued his non-endorsement by saying "Have no doubt of my admiration and respect for her and my view of her viability, but at this stage, again ... my corpse is still warm, you know?" According to the witch doctor in Princess Bride, McCain is just a 'mostly dead' corpse.

My Take: Palin isn't running, yet. Who knows if, in her words, that 'door will open' for her. It is in 4 years and the President Elect hasn't even taken office!!! Why on earth would the media be asking him about whether or not he would endorse a former running mate, who may or may not be running!? And if he did give her a ringing endorsement, come four years if she is running, he is locked in. He can't change his mind, even though 4 years has transpired, without being labeled a flip-flopper. I think McCain did a fabulous job not completely answering the ridiculous question, complimenting Palin and yet leaving the door open for much better candidates. (He mentioned Tim Pawlenty and Jon Huntsman.) Then directing the attention where it needs to be, on the next 4 years and working with the 44th President, Barack Obama. He said it best: "I think we should try to be working constructively together...Will there be areas of disagreement? Of course. We are different parties and different philosophy. But the nation wants us to unite and work together". (Article Here)

Getting the boot

President George W. Bush has become great at dodging things. I doubt he thought he'd ever have to dodge a pair of shoes. Muntazer al-Zaidi, an Iraqi journalist based out of Cairo, hurled not one, but two shoes at President Bush's head while shouting in Arabic, "This is your farewell kiss, you dog!" during a press conference in Iraq. Throwing shoes is almost an unforgivable sign of disrespect in the Arab world, and images were seen of Iraqi's throwing their shoes at Saddam statues after being liberated from his tyranny. Iraqi officials condemned his act, and asked his employer, al Baghdadiya television, for his resignation. Those close the reporter has stated he has "always hated President Bush" and has made several disparaging comments about the U.S. President Bush referred to the incident as a 'bizarre moment' and said he 'is not insulted'. Even while coming up from the first-shoe-ducking, he had his cowboy smile on his face.

My take: When I first saw it, I laughed. It was too preposterous to be true! A shoe? Really? Then after watching it being replayed on every news station, I found it very sad. A few thoughts occurred to me. First, although it is most likely the reporter used his shoe to display an Arabic tradition of shame, I also think there is a possibility there was a little less to it. All the reporters must have gone through security, and could not bring any questionable items. Not that I think he would bring a weapon in, but I think he would be limited to what he was wearing for items to throw. And his jacket or tie wouldn't make it to the podium. Shoes seem the logical choice for aerodynamics and speed. I doubt that was his main reason, but who knows.

Secondly, and most importantly, the really important story is being missed here! What was Bush doing over there in the first place? To visit the troops one last time before leaving office, and to sign the US-Iraq security agreement which Bush's National Security Adviser, Stephen Hadley has described as "a unique [pact] in the Arab world because it was publicly debated, discussed and adopted by an elected parliament." He continued, "the trip proved that the U.S.-Iraq relationship was changing with Iraqis rightfully exercising greater sovereignty and the U.S. in an increasingly subordinate role." According to the A.P., "the bilateral agreement calls for all American troops to be withdrawn by the end of 2011, in two stages. The first stage begins next year, when U.S. troops pull back from Baghdad and other Iraqi cities by the end of June." I see this as a huge step, not just for the U.S. but also for Iraq. Why is this not the lead story? I could see it now... "Bush signing a 'time-table for withdrawal'". The "Shoe Incident" might be today's headlines, but the reason behind President Bush's trip is much more significant and should be more recognized.

Welcome to the U.S...S.R?

The House passed the Auto-Bail Out last night, which now moves on to the Senate. This bill would grant the big 3 auto companies $14 billion, and create the new position of "Car Czar". What's that, you say? A "Car Czar"? Were we transported to the 18th Century Russia? The Car Czar will provide the necessary oversight of the three automakers, can force them into Chapter 11 bankruptcy if they don't meet the requirements, and aid in business restructuring. Who could serve as Car Czar? Here are a candidates that have been suggested:

Michael the Rich: As current mayor of New York City, he is a savvy businessman and listed as Forbe's 8th Richest American. He is a switch hitter, both Republican and Democrat, that is. He has explained his 'fiscal conservative'-ness in this way: "means improving the efficiency of delivering services by finding innovative ways to do more with less" and "And most importantly, being a fiscal conservative means preparing for the inevitable economic downturns — and by all indications, we've got one coming". (2007)

Mitt the Great...Turnaround: Former Presidential Candidate, Former Governor of Massachusettes, Former Chairman of the Salt Lake Olympics, Former VP of Bain & Co., Former... lots of things. While leading a spin off company, Bain Capital, their average annual internal rate of return on realized investments was 113 percent. In 1990, Bain & Co. was facing financial collapse. As CEO, Romney managed an effort to restructure the firm's employee stock-ownership plan, real-estate deals and bank loans, while increasing fiscal transparency. Within a year, he had led Bain & Company through a highly successful turnaround and returned the firm to profitability without layoffs or partner defections.(reference) He is also known for the great turnaround of the SLC Olympic Games, which before he arrived was under corruption investigation and was close to an embarrassing collapse. He turned it around, with a high revenue of $100 million, and donated his salary to charity.

Iacocco
+

Michael J. Jackson
+

Henry Kissinger?

Iacocca-Michael J. Jackson-Kissinger Combo: According to automotive insider, Jack Young, this would be the perfect combination of qualities. He stated, "the ideal candidate would possess the manufacturing skills of Lee Iacocca, former president and CEO of Chrysler, who is credited with reviving the company; have the retail abilities of Michael Jackson, CEO of AutoNation, the largest chain of auto dealerships in the country; and have the diplomatic skills of former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger to negotiate with the auto unions "to realign and restructure their compensation and benefits package to enable domestic manufactures to be competitive."

I am against the Auto-Bailout, just as I was completely against the Financial Bailout. And how is that 'necessary piece of legislation' working out? Don't know what the companies are doing with the money? Sect. Paulson isn't using it for what was promised? Is anyone surprised!?!? Why on earth do we believe this will save the car companies? Is it because there will be over-sight from a CAR CZAR?!?!? I think the language used is foreshadowing of upcoming years of our free-market system. It is not coincidence that a communistic term 'czar' is being used, because a communistic theory is being applied! Although I think that the names floating around of who would be the Car Czar would be great assets to help these failing companies, it should NOT be a governmental position!

Christmas Carol

Blagojevich is Going to Jail!

In the tune of 'Santa Claus is Coming to Town!'

You better watch out,

Your phone has a bug.

There is little doubt,

You're a narcissistic thug.

Blagojevich is going to jail!

He screwed the Tribune

And eventually the Cubs

A Children's Hospital

Also got his snub.

Blagojevich is going to jail!

He looks like Erik Estrada

But Elvis is his man.

Obama's seat brought him nada,

But to be thrown in the can!

Oh, he better watch out

He has no friends.

Will corruption in Chicago

Finally end?

Blagojevich is going to jail!

In spreading the Christmas cheer, I thought we could share a quote from the always generous Governor Rod Blagojevich. "If . . . they’re not going to offer anything of any value, then I might just take [Obama's vacated Senate seat]. It is a [expletive] valuable thing, you just don’t give it away for nothing.” In response to President Elect Obama's appreciate for considering his 'Candidate #1', Blago said, "They’re not willing to give me anything except appreciation. [Expletive] them!" That's the Christmas Spirit! Thank you for reminding us Rod that the true meaning of Christmas is found in bribery, corruption and 'bleeping' expletives.

Retroactive Judiciary

"Hey, I remember this glove....good times, good times..."

"You mean the law applies to me?"

Today, OJ Simpson was sentenced to 15 years in prison for 12 criminal charges of kidnapping and armed robbery. He will be eligible for parole in 6 years. In September of 2007, he held two memorabilia dealers at gunpoint in a Las Vegas hotel, then took his/their stuff when he left. In his defense, he claimed, "This was the first time I had an opportunity to catch these guys red-handed who were stealing my property. I did not mean to hurt anyone, I did not mean to steal anything, just my own stuff. I just wanted my personal things back… I'm sorry. I didn't mean to hurt anybody." The judge and jury seemed to disagree with him.

This begs the question, is this a conviction and sentencing based solely on this act or what he should have been found guilty of 13 years ago? Is this a retroactive sentence? My humble opinion is, he is an arrogant, self-absorbed man who believed that laws and rules don't apply to him. He got away with murder (literally!) in 1995, and believed that he do whatever pleased him without any consequences. Yet, I don't think the punishment fits this crime. I won't complain though! The judicial system must be blind, but she has a great memory.

Islam Doll

Reportedly, Fisher Price's "Little Mommy Real Loving Baby Cuddle and Coo" doll has a wider vocabulary than 'mama' and 'dada'. This baby doll isn't new, so my apologies if you've already heard about this story! Along with typical baby vernacular and cooing, some have reported (and posted on Youtube) the doll saying "Islam is the light" or "Satan is king". Fisher Price is also producing more possibly controversial dolls:

Mormon Missionary Duck: Although a duck, it stays clear of water unless used for baptismal purposes. This land abiding duck is well-manufactured with clean cut lines and oozes innocence and compassion. Instead of quacking, the duck gives a long introduction beginning with "Good afternoon. We're two representatives of..." The Mormon Missionary Duck contains two ducks per package.

Pick a God, any God! Fisher Price has also produced a line of Hindu God Hand Puppets. Packaged in groups of 10, your combinations for fun is endless! Energize your yoga and meditation rituals with the Krishna God literally at your finger tips. Only available to those in the Brahmin varna.

Tickle me, Buddha! This cuddly God giggles when you rub his belly, as found in many China King Buffets. Be careful with this adorable doll, because it might be great grandma reincarnated, punishment for her past life. Just don't lose one, because Karma is a...

Sister Mary Catherine Porcelain Doll: Her exterior looks fragile, but she is virtually indestructable. Underneath that flowing robe, is a discipline paddle for those uncontrollable kids. But don't worry kids, you only have to pull her out twice a year, for Easter and Christmas Eve. She is great for snack time! She doubles as a wafer and wine dispenser!

FLDS Doll: This beautifully old-fashioned doll is widdled down from oak, and adorned with home-spun clothing. She knows how to make home-made bread, chop wood, and fluff the bangs. Don't let that lean frame fool you, she was made with birthing hips. The FLDS doll comes in sets of 5 girl dolls and one old-man doll.

We're bringing Saxby back

Admittedly, I don't know his platforms or voting record. I know he is a Republican from Georgia who just won a run-off election against Democrat Jim Martin. An initially tight election, the runoff he won with a 57% majority. I honestly don't know the differences between him and his rival, except for their parties. And yet, that is why I am relieved he won. You have probably heard the term 'filibuster proof Senate' in the news, but like majority of Americans (like my hubby) have no idea what it means. A filibuster is a speed bump along the road of passing a bill.

"He's just a bill. A lonely old bill."

Let's keep it relatively simple. When a bill is introduced, several things can happen. One, the Senators can sign a Unanimous Consent Agreement, in which all the Senators agree to set a timeline on debate. This is the most common. Yet, with controversial bills, not all Senators want a timeline, they would rather drag it out, which helps defeat it. This is where a filibuster comes in. A filibuster is an indefinite debate on bills. They can just talk, and talk, and talk, and talk... the bill loses it's momentum and eventually dies.

So why were the Democrats wanting the magic number 60?

The answer lies in another foreign word, cloture. Cloture is a vote to end the yammering. Since 1975, the number needed to obtain cloture is 60. And if one party has 60 or more seats, they are considered a Super Majority, (cue heroic theme song) because in essence they can conduct business and pass bills with the minority's hands tied. Currently, there are 58 Democratic seats in the Senate, one still being contested (Minnesota).

Long story short: I am relieved we have one more in number for the Republicans. The Democrats don't have a shoe-in every time a bill is presented. Of course, we might have a few 'maverick' Democrats or 'maverick' Republicans (I think the word has worn out it's welcome!) who won't vote party line. What will be interesting is to see what Republican's do being the under-dogs. Will they become the 'me-too' party? Or will they stick to core Republican principles: small government, tax relief, free market, etc? As I have said before, we will see!

Behind closed doors

President Elect Barack Obama confirmed the furry of rumors surrounding his choice for Secretary of State. He has officially announced Senator Hillary Clinton as his administrations Secretary of State. In his prepared statement, he described her as "tough and smart and disciplined". And continued in saying, "I was always interested—after the primary was over—in finding ways we could collaborate." Their subdued demeanor may reflect a new tone in their originally rocky relationship.

But those behind the scenes, have a much different story, reports the newest leaked information to the always reliable New York Times. Neither President Elect Obama or Sen. Clinton minced words in regards to their opponents during the 'rough and tumble' primaries. President Elect Obama as a candidate openly criticized Senator Clinton's 'foreign policy' experience saying "What exactly is this foreign policy experience? Was she negotiating treaties? Was she handling crises? The answer is no." According to those close to him, nothing has changed. "He has felt stuck between a rock and a hard place, both being the hard-nosed and pushy Senator Clinton", an anonymous aid confessed. During a heated private conversation between the two former rivals, he reportedly 'offered her the position of the the First Dog, a pit bull in pantsuits' and she retorted 'you're nothing more than a [censored] a suit with a preacher's voice and chicken legs'.


Why would he chose her, you may ask. "He felt he had no choice. Her aides leaked his consideration of her as Secretary pre-emptively". And with the media's automatic praise of his 'choice', he felt he had 'no choice'. Clinton aides also hint that this is the 'natural stepping stone' to the office of the President, as in days of Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe, etc. She will be the third woman Secretary of State, 'undoubtedly regretfully not the first', sighed Obama, who finds her thirst for power distasteful. "That is the only explanation I could find for her sticking with a chronically cheating husband", President Elect Obama expressed to US Weekly. He jokes, "My wife would have had my manhood hanging from the mailbox if I even considered it. Literally!" We will see if Sen. Clinton, or soon to be Secretary Clinton will do something similar with his manhood. All jokes aside, President Elect Obama is definitely collecting a 'team of rivals' which could be powerful or powerfully disasterous.

Is it just me, is this a step back for women's rights?

Sure, she can't be President, let's just make her his Secretary?

Interesting Dialogue

I found this Youtube video, made by a Professor of Theology, Scripture and Catholic Thought at John Paul the Great Catholic University, about being 'appaled at anti-Mormon slurs'. After posting this video to his website, there has been a long discussion back and forth. I've commented a few times, but it has been interesting to 'people watch'. How do people respond? How do people explain their views? With facts or opinions or passionate beliefs? Just thought I'd pass along the website, if you're interested.

http://singinginthereign.blogspot.com/2008/11/catholics-appalled-at-anti-mormon-slur.html

Menu a la Plymouth

Built in 1621, La Plymouth has been an American tradition for fine dining. Surrounded by rough hewn beams, cobblestone flooring, the atmosphere is pilgrimesque. The food is inspired by early American and Wampanoag Indian's recipes. You can begin by sampling our variety of nuts and dried fruits, great for getting your digestive track moving! Our entrees are old-fashioned and vary from the sea (Cod, Eel, Clams, Lobster) to the air (Wild Turkey, Goose, Duck, Crane, Swan, Partridge, Eagles) and to the land (Venison, Seal). Baked goods are made from wheat flour and indian corn. You won't find any modern creations like Pumpkin Pie, cranberry sauce, and sweet potatoes. Just good old fashioned Thanksgiving cooking!

Click here to learn more about the real First Thanksgiving!

Name Calling

(I wish I would have seen this cartoon earlier. It is hilarious!)

Change. Hope. Words promised by our now President Elect Obama. From all the interviews and press conferences I have seen, he has remained positive, upbeat and gracious. Especially in regards to his rivals. Yet, from his supporters and pundits I have not seen the same generosity. Where is the unifying language? Where is the 'healing' that needed to take place? I guess this post is just a warning to those on both sides, I am absolutely fed up with the negative name calling and divisive banter. How many of you have had a conversation with someone you disagree with, listen intently, even considering possible common grounds. And then they use words like "idiot" or "mental patient" in referring to President Bush, and you completely close off and continue in defensive mode. I know I do! You don't need to tear someone down to prove your point. You don't need to assign playground labels to invalidate them. Stick to issues and facts and personal experiences, and we'll be a whole lot more productive!

Grim Reaper

With a dark concealing hood and a deadly scythe, the Grim Reaper lethally selects it's victims. Which one survives, which one falls into an eternal sleep? The Grim Reaper has the ultimate and eternal choice. In some English literature, characters have been known to outwit or bribe the deadly decider out of their fate. Until now, the Grim Reaper has remained anonymous, it's identity legendary. Until now...

Many sectors of our economy are on their death beds, gasping for air, pleading to be saved. The arch angel of death, hovering over with morbid satisfaction of the ultimate power he has been given. Which company survives, which one slips into the blackness of bankruptcy or complete collapse? Our Congress, and Secretary of Treasury have taken on the roll of the economic Grim Reapers. Will the 'Big 3' auto-companies die from their self-inflicted hemorrhaging? Will Citi-Group kick the bucket as Behr Sterns did, or receive 'life-sustaining' aid as AIG or other major companies had? Instead of leaving this decision to the free-market, the Reapers swooped in and is picking and chosing who must stay and who must go. "They are too big to fail" they chide, as they pull more money out of our shrinking pockets to fill these corporations. Who else will be too big to fail? These morbidly obeise companies should die of natural causes, instead of prolonging their agony and bleeding us dry.

(We needed a little eye-candy during this Obituary!)

Did you know that our new "Joe Black" has proposed to lend $7.4 trillion funds to rescue the suffering financial system? I thought $700 billion was the absolute and ultimate ceiling to government financial aid, I should have known better. $7.4 trillion is not a made up number, like zillion or kabillion. Where is this money going to come from? Us, the tax payers. And who is it exactly going to? According to Bloomberg.com, "as regulators commit far more money while refusing to disclose loan recipients or reveal the collateral they are taking in return, some Congress members are calling for the Fed to be reined in." Only some Congress members think the 'Fed [needs] to be reined in'? Where are the others? I would argue all of the American people know the Fed must be reined in! Congressman Scott Garrett states, "The time has come that we consider what sort of limitations we should be placing on the Fed so that authority returns to elected officials as opposed to appointed ones." Sorry Scott, I don't know if I trust either the elected or appointed officials. What now? Get your finances in order. Save your money, especially while taxes are relatively low. Store food and other necessaties before historic inflation kicks in. Enjoy low gas prices while they last. Pay off debt. Balance your checkbook, the way you wished the government would balance theirs.

Really?! Already!?!?

Thursday, November 20th Ludlum Elementary School in Long Island, New York renamed the school to Barack Obama Elementary School. The school board passed this student organized proposition in a 5-0 vote, Thursday night, which once announced, the audience stood and cheered. An observer noted, "It was very well received...very poignant." I hate to break it to the young kids, steal their Christmas, Barack Obama is not our President, yet. He does not have a Presidential track record, yet. He does not have a legacy, yet. Granted, he has worked very hard and will have a place in history, regardless of how effective his Presidency is. Before he has even sat behind the grand desk in the Oval Office, a school is being named after him. He is being compared to Lincoln, FDR and Kennedy. His legacy is being created before he takes office!

Are these so far off?

Have you been diagnosed?

Bushitis: is the painful inflammation or irritation with the current administration. Bushitis can be acute, yet once exposed can spread rapidly.

Symptoms include: painful headaches, uncontrolled verbal spasms and vomiting, fatigue, dillusionary thinking, sore joints, erectile dysfunction, fever, stuffy attitude, and anal seepage.

Treatment: removal from infected areas, most especially MSNBC and the New York Times; no vaccines currently available.

Concerns of epidemic: It has become a worldwide disease, cases being found in Cuba, Venezuela, France, Iran, Russia, China, Canada, Mexico, etc. Although the original strand of Bushitis will be treated in the next few weeks, those affected will still suffer from the symptoms for years to come.

Other consequences: Bad economy, cancer, global warming, my car's heater not working, gas prices, uninsured population, sky-rocketing college education prices, McRib only available at Christmas, California fires, future earthquakes, Britney Spears coming out with another album, birth of the anti-Christ, Philadelphia Phillies winning 2008 World Series, Armageddon...Actually blame anything wrong with your life or wrong with the world on Bushitis.

Alternative Energy

"I don't mean to kvetch about this foreign oil thing, but I am becoming a meshuggener! I'm tired of listening to the constant megillah from the Washington schmos who shove their platforms up our tuchus! Oy vey! Alternative energy, is there an alternative worth all this energy?"

Discuss amongst yourselves!

Tyranny for Tolerance

This may not be my most thoroughly researched and well-thought-out post. My mind is overwhelmed with thoughts, concerns and fears that will be settled once I voice them. So please indulge me.

Over the past 10 days since the election, there has been a feeling of hope, pride and excitement resonating throughout the country. People on both sides have felt it, and see great possibilities for our country. However, there has been another movement that has exploded on the west and now east coasts. It takes it's forms in protests, propoganda posters, and angry shouts from a crowd of hundreds. I have previously posted about the passing of Proposition 8 thinking that it will soon die down, and yet the back-lash has continued. Who are they assigning the blame? The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or better known as the Mormons, of course! Although Mormons made up 2% of the voting population in California, it is their fault. Why not blame the Catholics? Why not blame the 70% of black voters, or 53% of Latino voters?

I find it horribly ironic that whords of people are lining the streets in California, Utah, and New York protesting for tolerance, while holding banners and posters which exploit things that Mormons hold sacred. Pleading for understanding and equality, they use inflammatory language such as 'bigots' and 'hate'. It is upsetting to see places of worship turned into targets for protest. How valid is their argument when they can not practice it themselves? Where is the tolerance for our beliefs? Where is the acceptance for us as a people? Using tyranny to promote tolerance is contradictory and impedes any healing our country desperately needs.

PSA for AIG

Here is Edward Liddy. This unfortunate man is the CEO of AIG, an international insurance and financial services organization.

Without your help, he will no longer be able to afford simple necessaties such as corporate retreats at 5 star hotels, or spa packages, or someone feeding him grapes while lounging by a platinum plated pool filled with Cristal while listening to a live accoustic performance by John Mayer. Your first donation of $85 billion was clearly not enough. We are not asking much. It will only cost you $4756.46 each second of every day for an entire year, to pay the total needed funding of $150 billion.

Don't hesitate, pick up the phone and call our hotline:
1-866-SCREW-ED.
Have your credit cards ready, and generously give of the money you don't have.

Barstool Economics

Suppose that every day, ten men go out for beer and the bill for all ten comes to $100. If they paid their bill the way we pay our taxes, it would go something like this:

The first four men (the poorest) would pay nothing.
The fifth would pay $1.
The sixth would pay $3.
The seventh would pay $7.
The eighth would pay $12.
The ninth would pay $18.
The tenth man (the richest) would pay $59.

So, that's what they decided to do. The ten men drank in the bar every day and seemed quite happy with the arrangement, until one day, the owner threw them a curve.'Since you are all such good customers, he said, I'm going to reduce the cost of your daily beer by $20.Drinks for the ten now cost just $80.The group still wanted to pay their bill the way we pay our taxes so the first four men were unaffected. They would still drink for free.But what about the other six men - the paying customers? How could they divide the $20 windfall so that everyone would get his 'fair share?'They realized that $20 divided by six is $3.33. But if they subtracted that from everybody's share, then the fifth man and the sixth man would each end up being paid to drink his beer. So, the bar owner suggested that it would be fair to reduce each man's bill by roughly the same amount, and he proceeded to work out the amounts each should pay.!And so:

The fifth man, like the first four, now paid nothing (100% savings).
The sixth now paid $2 instead of $3 (33%savings).
The seventh now pay $5 instead of $7 (28%savings).
The eighth now paid $9 instead of $12 (25% savings).
The ninth now paid $14 instead of $18 (22% savings).
The tenth now paid $49 instead of $59 (16% savings).

Each of the six was better off than before. And the first four continued to drink for free. But once outside the restaurant, the men began to compare their savings.'I only got a dollar out of the $20, 'declared the sixth man. He pointed to the tenth man, 'but he got $10!''Yeah, that's right,' exclaimed the fifth man. 'I only saved a dollar, too. It's unfair that he got ten times more than I!''That's true!!' shouted the seventh man. 'Why should he get $10 back when I got only two? The wealthy get all the breaks!'*'Wait a minute,' yelled the first four men in unison. 'We didn't get anything at all. The system exploits the poor!'The nine men surrounded the tenth and beat him up.

The next night the tenth man didn't show up for drinks, so the nine sat down and had beers without him. But when it came time to pay the bill, they discovered something important. They didn't have enough money between all of them for even half of the bill!And that, boys and girls, journalists and college professors, is how our tax system works. The people who pay the highest taxes get the most benefit from a tax reduction. Tax them too much, attack them for being wealthy, and they just may not show up anymore. In fact, they might start drinking overseas where the atmosphere is somewhat friendlier.

David R. Kamerschen, Ph.D.Professor of Economics,
University of Georgia
For those who understand, no explanation is needed.
For those who do not understand, no explanation is possible

Another post from a bigot

Proposition 8 passed. There is now an amendment to the California State Constitution which reads, "Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid and recognized in California". I discussed my view on this before the election, here. Although it is a victory, I believe it is short lived. The ACLU and a gay rights advocacy group has already initiated more legal proceedings, petitioning the Supreme Court the following:

"Contending the initiative was invalid because it improperly altered fundamental principles of the state Constitution. Taking away the right to marry from gays and lesbians violated the constitutional commitment to equality for all because straight couples can still marry. Proposition 8 should be struck down because it prevents courts from enforcing equal protection rights."

Proponents of Prop 8 have said that it is very unlikely that they will be able to undue a constitutional amendment through the legal system. My uneducated guess is that they will work to pass an amendment to repeal the previous amendment. (Like US Constitution's 19th and 21st amendments, prohibition and it's repeal).

The protesters are targeting the Catholic and LDS church sites specifically, calling them "Bigots, bigots, bigots!" as one protester told a reporter. I have seen commentators on CNN and other news shows compare the protest in West Hollywood to the Civil Rights march from Selma to Montgomery. Can you even imagine if Prop 8 was not passed, and it's proponents took to the streets carrying signs and jumping on cars. What would be said of them? At the very least, that they are sore losers. People who belong to my faith have been harrassed, ridiculed, picketed outside their homes. Where is the tolerance for our, and the majorities, differing opinion? We have a long road ahead, and I pray that protests and name-calling will be replaced with tolerance and respect. I typically don't share a quote, scripture or doctrine from my specific religion, I just found this quote to be too perfect not to share. It was given by a leader in our Church, an apostle, Neal A. Maxwell, in 1979. He states:

"This new irreligious imperialism seeks to disallow certain opinions simply because those opinions grow out of religious convictions. Resistance to abortion will be seen as primitive. Concern over the institution of the family will be viewed as untrendy and unenlightened. Let us leave a record so that the choices are clear, letting others do as they will in the face of prophetic counsel".

Read the rest of the article here.

Out of line?

I heard about this story on Glenn Beck, and wanted to look into it. Here is the video, an excerpt from a Sweedish documentary about the US Presidential Election. As you see, Diantha Harris, is an obvious Barack Obama supporter and does not keep the political discussion neutral. What angers me, is when a daughter of a military officer is singled out, and told her daddy will be in Iraq for another hundred years because of the man they were voting for. Before I get worked up, I always try to think, "would it be ok if it was a teacher I agreed with?" What if it was the other way around? What if an elementary school teacher singled out an Obama supporter, and told them that Obama was going to take all of their daddy's money and give it to other people. It is an overexaggeration and wrong. Just like this teacher's actions.

School is a place where kids should be comfortable and confident to voice their opinions and be themselves completely. I don't worry about my kids being exposed to other view points or philosophies when they go to school, because they are being taught right from wrong in the home. But when a teacher singles them out, and belittles their beliefs, it crosses the line. The Superintendent released a statement, which said that this teacher created an "uncomfortable situation" and took "inappropriate actions". She is being investigated, and "appropriate action will be taken."

What if your child was in this situation? What would you do as a parent?

First glimpse...

Between all of the "umm's" and "uhhh's", was the message President-elect Barack Obama delivered in his first press conference today. I have stated, "We will see" if he lives up to his "yes, we can!" And I think we got a small glimpse into an Obama Administration. Here was his basic, prepared message regarding the economy. He gave a list of goals he wants to accomplish during the lame-duck few months.

• Stimulus Plan for the 'middle class'. What about the 'lower class', they deserve it the most right? Or is there no lower class? Just thought it was funny that the term has not been used by either party during the election. It's all about the 'middle class'. He hopes to get this done before he comes into office, but if not, it will be his first item of business. He also spoke about job creation, with unemployement at a new low.
• Aiding small businesses and American companies. He talked specifically about the auto industry needing some help. And to do so with what we currently have, and add to it if necessary. I do not agree with any corporate bail-outs, hence the free-market system.
• Bail Out Review. Make sure what Congress has done is still functioning properly.

My take: I was pleasantly surprised. And no, I did not think he would have the sickle and hammer flags hanging in the background, spouting off socialist or communist rhetoric! He had made the comment several times during his message and question/answer "see what we can do within current legislation" or "do with what you have". And I agree! I was also impressed that when Candee Crowley (I'm so familiar with the CNN commentators now!) asked about national security, and he wouldn't give her a response. Which makes me think he understands more fully what threat our country has been under and that you do need to be more cautious with foreign policy. Also, his response to Iran's President "Immaflamminwhacko" congratulatory letter needs to be 'deliberate'. He did not bash the 'current Bush administration', talked of bi-partisanship. He also showed a personable side, when Lynne asked a question and he wanted to know what happened to her bummed shoulder. The iRobot is human! He has always seemed too polished, and today he seemed human. But my favorite part was when he was asked about THE DOG, the all important presidential pet, and he referred to himself as a mutt. I thought that was great! Why couldn't he be this personable, self-depricating, and natural during the election?
My Conclusion: After a long 'take', here is the moral of the story. I want to give him every benefit of doubt, take him at his word. As far as today's message, I didn't find any red flags. If his actions meet his words from today, he might do well for our country. If his actions start matching his 'spread the wealth' comments, and turning to extreme left, I will be concerned. But so far, so good!

Conservative v. Liberal

The ideological spectrum has crimson red and royal blue. And in the middle there lies burgundy, violet, indigo, lavender, etc. The different issues provide the different tones, tints and hues of the political prism. The concepts of conservative and liberal have become so generalized and categorical, that most people don't fit in the cookie cutter shape that we supposedly belong to. So I'd like to break down the concepts of conservative and liberal into a few categories, and hopefully it will give you an understanding of how you probably don't fit the mold, and that's ok! (Because you're good enough, you're strong enough, and gosh darn it, PEOPLE LIKE YOU!...no coincidence I am quoting a famous Al Franking character from SNL and we still don't know if he will be Minnesota's senator!)

Social Conservative: Traditional family values. Pro-life. Against gay marriage. Against Euthanasia. Pro-Second Ammendment. Against legalizing marijuana or prostitution. Most of those who are regular Church goers fit into this category. Stronger government involvement in preserving the traditional social values.

Fiscal Conservative: Small government. Low taxes. Low spending. Few entitlements. "Pull yourself up by your boot straps". Local and State governments should have more power. Trickle down theory of economy.

Social Liberal: Pro-gay rights. Pro-Choice. Pro-Euthanasia. Gun control. Legalizing marijuana and prostitution will help crime rates. Less government involvement in personal or 'behind closed doors' issues. "It's my choice, my life" mentality.

Fiscal Liberal: Universal health care. Universal social security. Government Entitlements. High regulations on big business. More government involvement in the economic arena.

Isn't it interesting the different roles the government plays in the minds of liberals and conservatives? Both need government for different purposes. Social conservatives need the government to 'keep the order' or 'maintain the values'. Whether through propositions, legislation, or judicial decisions. Yet, fiscal conservatives want the government out of their way, mind your own business. Social liberal's want the government to mind their own business, and stay out of their way concerning moral issues. Yet, fiscal liberals expect the government to step in when the money is tight and unable to make the free market economy work for them. I believe that the majority of the country is a shade of purple, socially conservative yet fiscally liberal. This is apparent when looking at California. How could they elect Barack Obama, yet establish marriage being between a man and a woman? They paid more attention to Obama's liberal fiscal plan and ignored his socially liberal stance on abortion, etc. So to naively say that 'conservatism is dead' is not only wrong, but as a conservative I could counter saying 'liberalism is dead' because Prop 8 passed in 3 'liberal' states, among other social issues. In a time of financial draught, the country leans fiscally liberal. In a time of financial feasting, the country leans fiscally conservative. It is a constant swing of the pendulum, depending on the country's climate. And to suggest that there is no turning back, the country is moving away from conservative principles is also ignorantly wrong. The current Republican party failed in providing true conservative leadership. What conservatives need is a true conservative. Someone who is the base, not appealing to the base. Someone who is willing to stand up for what they personally believe in, not what the Republican party wants to package them as. As for now, support our President. Let's give him a chance to make a difference, but also voice our dissent when he strays from the principles we believe in.

Divide and Conquer

I found this video clip this morning and was absolutely mesmerized as I watched it. This interview was given in 1985. So often on this blog we have talked about socialistic ideas that deeply concern us. Many people see the role of government as that of taking over the care of it's people and giving the people the things that they need. I know that both Sarah and I and many other lovers of history feel strongly about this because we know where it has taken other societies and countries in the past. As I have watch the movement in this country, by both parties, toward constant promises and handouts I am concerned.

I found this video on a liberal political blog. I need to quote him/her here because he/she says it so well.

"What does this tell us? It tells us that we all feel that something is wrong. Both conservatives, liberals, and moderates sense that we are in trouble. We just can’t agree on where the threat is coming from. So who have we been blaming?

Each other.

The Left is attacking the Right and the Right is attacking the Left. Families are arguing with each other and some really vicious attacks are being made." .............
Here’s the thing; if we all feel that something is wrong, then something is definitely wrong.
Why, then, are we blaming each other?
It seems to me that it smacks of the very basic, “Divide and Conquer” theory which has been used over and over again in history :creating or encouraging divisions among the subjects in order to forestall alliances that could challenge the sovereign.

Think about it. While we are at each other’s throats, our economy has crashed, our homes are being foreclosed and more and more people are slipping into poverty. Rather than unite to try to solve the problem, we blame each other and let our country spin out of control."

-A voice cries out-

I really don't think anyone feels we are out of the woods today. Those who voted for Obama are happy he won but I haven't found any yet who feel that everything will be ok now. Obama has some very very difficult things to deal with from terrorism to the economy and much more. We all hope he can do some good but "all is not at ease in Zion".

Most who gather here are Christian. Many are LDS and some of other faiths. We are all aware that in the scriptures we are told that in the last days there will be division.

So what is my point? The election is over. Obama is our president. Maybe we can focus on what the problems that we are facing seem to be and what can be done. Will we always agree? Absolutely not but the discussion will be worth it and I think we can disagree without becoming divided.

Enjoy this clip, I found it fascinating.

Yuri Bezmenov
Uploaded by onmyway02

P.S. Many have used this video as a basis that Obama is a socialist and we are in trouble yet other liberal blogs have used it to show the destructive tactics of the far right. I think it says more about us as a country waking up and uniting.

One day to celebrate...

Yes, he did. We are part of history, and it is a proud moment for the United States. It is proof of the progress our nation has made during it's short history. It is proof that the large majority of the people are color-blind. It is proof that by hard work you can achieve anything. In response to the greatness of his call, and the steep hill he will have to climb to accomplish the change he's promised, I would like to respond with the timeless creed that 48% of the population shares: We will see. Lowered taxes for 95% of the population: we will see. Affordable health care for all: we will see. Ending the war in Iraq: we will see. Affordable college education: we will see. New forms of energy: we will see. Fixing Wall Street and Main Street: we will see. He will listen to those who disagree: we will see. He will be my President too: we will see.

By all accounts, this is the worst time to step into a Presidency. He does indeed have a steep hill to climb, but most of the "Hill" is on his side. My hope is that he will not be considered the 'most liberal President', just as he has been considered the 'most liberal Senator'. My hope is that he recognizes less than half of the country is still concerned about the changes he promised to make, and he leads from the center. The country was established on compromise and finding a middle ground. I pray for him, and his family, and those who will advise him. Our country is no doubt at a cross-roads, and I pray that we will become united without a crisis and he will be a leader for all the citizens of the United States of America. We will see.