Jason Whitlock says some things that will more than likely get him condemned from some circles, in this reality check examination. But he says what he says, because he believes it to be true.
Sometimes, reality is a bitter pill to swallow. One certainly can choose not to swallow it and remain sick, the patient's bill of rights guarantee us all that choice in the medical world. But to remain in denial about the illness and not taking the medicine, doesn't make the illness go away.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Thursday, November 29, 2007
French Delegation Honors American War Heroes
A French delegation was in Indianapolis honoring some brave men that fought on French soil. PYY both lauds the gesture, itself, and the words that were said:
Beautifully said, Monsieur.
And before Flocon beats me to it, I want to point some historical background out from this short article.
Here's the remote history:
Now, the more recent history:
I have been very hard on M. Chirac, in many of my postings, over the last three years here. But do not think that this good deed will go unnoticed and unthanked.
In my view, a big "merci beaucoup" is in order here. It first goes to M. Chirac for making this possible. Not only that, I think another goes to the French government and the French people, as well. I know these men must have felt good to receive this award, in the twilight of their lives. Suffice it to say, you have made some old guys smile inside.
Vive le France.
To the French, the veterans are heroes who helped free France from the Germans, said Jean-Baptiste de Boissiere, the consul general of the French consulate in Chicago, who presented the medals. “You saved us and we will not forget,” he said.
Beautifully said, Monsieur.
And before Flocon beats me to it, I want to point some historical background out from this short article.
Here's the remote history:
Napoleon Bonaparte established the Legion of Honour in 1802 as the highest award given by the French Republic for outstanding service to France.
Now, the more recent history:
In 2004, French President Jacques Chirac opened the door for veterans to apply for the honor in recognition of the 60th anniversary of the Invasion of Normandy.
I have been very hard on M. Chirac, in many of my postings, over the last three years here. But do not think that this good deed will go unnoticed and unthanked.
In my view, a big "merci beaucoup" is in order here. It first goes to M. Chirac for making this possible. Not only that, I think another goes to the French government and the French people, as well. I know these men must have felt good to receive this award, in the twilight of their lives. Suffice it to say, you have made some old guys smile inside.
Vive le France.
News In Brief (And The Usual Opinionated Commentary)
Another Government Schools Outrage Moment
Take a look at the linked story and see why I have a problem with most government schools. The old saying goes "a little child shall lead them", but what if an adult misleads a child?
U.S. Reduces Emissions In 2006
According to the article, they are down. Forecast for today in Indianapolis is sunny with a high of 39 and a low of 26. Yep, it must be working already. Keep it up folks, maybe Al will go away now.
CNN Instigating Chavez Assassination?
To my good friend Flocon: This is paranoid. It meets the psychiatric definition. ;)
Humanity At Its Worst
Wait until you read this one. You may not want to. It defies all reason as to how someone could do this.
Massachusetts Proposal Seeks To Outlaw Spanking
There is a reason they are called moonbats. As I have said several times before, the person that coined that term should be rewarded with royalties. This one will not pass. But that doesn't mean there will not come a day, when it will. If not in the People's Republic of Massachusetts, it'll pass somewhere. You can bank on it.
A Few Good People
A few good words by Victor Davis Hanson.
Take a look at the linked story and see why I have a problem with most government schools. The old saying goes "a little child shall lead them", but what if an adult misleads a child?
U.S. Reduces Emissions In 2006
According to the article, they are down. Forecast for today in Indianapolis is sunny with a high of 39 and a low of 26. Yep, it must be working already. Keep it up folks, maybe Al will go away now.
CNN Instigating Chavez Assassination?
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez said on Wednesday CNN may have been instigating his murder when the U.S. TV network showed a photograph of him with a label underneath that read "Who killed him?"
The caption appeared to be a production mistake -- confusing a Chavez news item with one on the death of a football star. The anchor said "take the image down" when he realized.
To my good friend Flocon: This is paranoid. It meets the psychiatric definition. ;)
Humanity At Its Worst
Wait until you read this one. You may not want to. It defies all reason as to how someone could do this.
Massachusetts Proposal Seeks To Outlaw Spanking
There is a reason they are called moonbats. As I have said several times before, the person that coined that term should be rewarded with royalties. This one will not pass. But that doesn't mean there will not come a day, when it will. If not in the People's Republic of Massachusetts, it'll pass somewhere. You can bank on it.
A Few Good People
A few good words by Victor Davis Hanson.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
An Interesting Trans-Atlantic Discussion
It's going on over at Social Sense, here.
Be sure to read the comments, you'll recognize a PYY regular named Flocon (of Shall We Talk?), as one of the participants.
Be sure to read the comments, you'll recognize a PYY regular named Flocon (of Shall We Talk?), as one of the participants.
Phooey On The Polls
Newsbusters has a piece about Hillary's pollster complaining about unfavorable polls.
Here is the poll, Mark Penn is having trouble accepting.
Naturally, it isn't what he wants to hear so he denigrates the polling process used by Zogby and makes it the subject of the argument. Never mind that if the poll had been favorable to Sen. Clinton, this whole conversation would have never occurred.
Here is Zogby's response to Mr. Penn's criticism.
The bottom line here, is this:
Hillary's campaign is bleeding. It hasn't bled out yet, but it is actively bleeding and will do so, if they do not get a handle on it now. She is losing ground in Iowa, where many people (close to her) advised her to write off. She is losing ground nationally, maybe not as fast as Iowa, but support is beginning to erode.
I think the more she talks, the more people are not connecting with her. She comes across as polished, rehearsed, and seems to want to take on all of the softball interviews and reject those that want to ask the tough questions that need to be asked. Look at how Russert was demonized by her campaign for asking tough questions and how her campaign effectively brow beat Blitzer into easing up by making this a gender issue.
This is giving people the impression, she is weak. Not because she is a woman, but because Hillary the person is weak. Her talking out of both sides of her mouth is catching up to her.
At the same time, Obama is coming across as more sincere, despite his weaknesses in his ideology. He answers the questions posed to him with far less tap dancing. I may disagree with the vast majority of his answers and will not support him based on that alone, but make no mistake, people are connecting with him better. He firmly believes the wrong answers he gives are right and will not try to BS his way out of them, at least not to the degree that Sen. Clinton does.
I sense more desperation from the Clinton campaign these days. It's in her voice, her facial expressions, her body language, and now it's coming from her surrogate attack dogs like Mark Penn. Is this ropa-dopa, Ali-style? I doubt it. But, if it is, now is the time to punch back. She is absorbing too many blows right now and is swinging into the air, by sending people like Penn out to discredit a widely respected polling operation like Zogby.
Presaging the kind of press control a President Hillary Clinton might try to impose, a member of her inner circle scolded Joe Scarborough today for having the audacity to mention a poll with results unfavorable to Clinton.
Here is the poll, Mark Penn is having trouble accepting.
Naturally, it isn't what he wants to hear so he denigrates the polling process used by Zogby and makes it the subject of the argument. Never mind that if the poll had been favorable to Sen. Clinton, this whole conversation would have never occurred.
Here is Zogby's response to Mr. Penn's criticism.
The bottom line here, is this:
Hillary's campaign is bleeding. It hasn't bled out yet, but it is actively bleeding and will do so, if they do not get a handle on it now. She is losing ground in Iowa, where many people (close to her) advised her to write off. She is losing ground nationally, maybe not as fast as Iowa, but support is beginning to erode.
I think the more she talks, the more people are not connecting with her. She comes across as polished, rehearsed, and seems to want to take on all of the softball interviews and reject those that want to ask the tough questions that need to be asked. Look at how Russert was demonized by her campaign for asking tough questions and how her campaign effectively brow beat Blitzer into easing up by making this a gender issue.
This is giving people the impression, she is weak. Not because she is a woman, but because Hillary the person is weak. Her talking out of both sides of her mouth is catching up to her.
At the same time, Obama is coming across as more sincere, despite his weaknesses in his ideology. He answers the questions posed to him with far less tap dancing. I may disagree with the vast majority of his answers and will not support him based on that alone, but make no mistake, people are connecting with him better. He firmly believes the wrong answers he gives are right and will not try to BS his way out of them, at least not to the degree that Sen. Clinton does.
I sense more desperation from the Clinton campaign these days. It's in her voice, her facial expressions, her body language, and now it's coming from her surrogate attack dogs like Mark Penn. Is this ropa-dopa, Ali-style? I doubt it. But, if it is, now is the time to punch back. She is absorbing too many blows right now and is swinging into the air, by sending people like Penn out to discredit a widely respected polling operation like Zogby.
Iran Proposes Alternative To Annapolis
In a move that is not at all surprising, the Iranian government has proposed an alternate meeting.
From this opening statement in this very short article, most intelligent people can effectively surmise that the meeting Iran is proposing will not have peace as a long-term objective.
Translation: These groups are planning to come to Tehran within the next week or two and they are all the Palestinian groups that are struggling to destroy Israel.
In other words:
The strip of land in question (which was once barren and fruitless before 1948) belongs to the Palestinian people and there is no process or deal that is acceptable, short of all Jews vacating it permanently, so that the Palestinian militant groups can turn it back into a barren and fruitless war zone, once again.
As much as I would like to applaud the efforts of the Annapolis conference, I cannot get very optimistic. As long as the current government in Iran is in power, there will be no peace in the Middle East. Pledging millions of dollars in 2006 is nothing new. Ask them about the billions that have been pumped into Hezbollah and others, since the regime was installed in 1979.
As long as oil is a necessary commodity throughout the world, these people will have funding for terror operations. As long as states such as Iran and Saudi Arabia use their huge oil revenues to finance this hatred, it will not go away anytime soon.
Iran said on Tuesday that it had invited Palestinian militant factions to a meeting in Tehran aimed at countering a US-hosted Middle East peace conference seeking to kickstart the peace process.
From this opening statement in this very short article, most intelligent people can effectively surmise that the meeting Iran is proposing will not have peace as a long-term objective.
"These groups are planning to come to Tehran within the next week or two and they are all the Palestinian groups that are struggling for the freedom of their land," government spokesman Gholam Hossein Elham told reporters.
Translation: These groups are planning to come to Tehran within the next week or two and they are all the Palestinian groups that are struggling to destroy Israel.
In other words:
The strip of land in question (which was once barren and fruitless before 1948) belongs to the Palestinian people and there is no process or deal that is acceptable, short of all Jews vacating it permanently, so that the Palestinian militant groups can turn it back into a barren and fruitless war zone, once again.
Iran is one of the most vocal backers of Palestinian militant groups like Hamas and Islamic Jihad and pledged millions of dollars in 2006 to the then Hamas government crippled by a Western aid cut.
The Islamic republic does not recognise Israel and its President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has provoked outrage by calling for the Jewish state to be wiped off the map.
As much as I would like to applaud the efforts of the Annapolis conference, I cannot get very optimistic. As long as the current government in Iran is in power, there will be no peace in the Middle East. Pledging millions of dollars in 2006 is nothing new. Ask them about the billions that have been pumped into Hezbollah and others, since the regime was installed in 1979.
As long as oil is a necessary commodity throughout the world, these people will have funding for terror operations. As long as states such as Iran and Saudi Arabia use their huge oil revenues to finance this hatred, it will not go away anytime soon.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Ask LA
Hi. I am LA Sunsett. Many know me as, LA.
Once upon a time, there was a blogger named Nickie Goomba, who sadly passed away awhile back. He had an occasional segment called Ask Maria (his wife), where she would give advice to readers that needed help solving some difficult problems they faced.
Nickie is gone, the blog is gone, and to the best of my knowledge, Maria is not helping people anymore. So, to fill the terrible void, I am stepping up to the plate, offering my services to people desperately need help with some of the problems they face in the world today.
Here is the very first installment of Ask LA:
Dear LA,
I am so hurt and confused and do not know what I should do. I feel so betrayed by those that I have felt close to for a long time. They say one thing to my face and when my back is turned, they stick a knife in it. They tell me how they support me in my daily struggles, yet when my back is turned, they openly subvert my causes by befriending those that are my enemies.
Just the other day my friend Syria led me to believe they thought a meeting in Annapolis was not going to benefit me and wanted no part of it. But, again, when my back is turned and least expected it, I saw their delegation on the news disembarking from an airplane at Andrews AFB. The news people said that they had not been expected to attend, but surprised everyone by showing up anyway.
Please help me, LA. I am at my wit's end. What should I do?
Sincerely,
Hamas
Dear Hamas,
It's tough when friends do this to you and believe me, I know how you must be hurting over this. But you must understand that this is not your fault. You are the victim and you need to act like it.
The first thing you must do is, lob a few rockets into Israel and try to kill some innocent people. Everyone knows that Israel and the imperialist United States are purposely trying to alienate your friend Syria from you.
When that is done, you might want to execute a few people from the Fatah organization, as they are working against you too. They are conspiring with Israel and the U.S. to hurt you. Issuing some strongly worded threats might not hurt, either.
But whatever you do, do not look inward towards yourself to find the answers. Like I said, none of this is your fault. You have the perfect right to blame all of your hardships on Israel and the U.S., as they are infidels and rats. You have the right to do whatever makes you happy and damn those that have taken issue with your feelings, your suicide bombings, and your deliberate killings of innocent people (to include children).
This within itself, will not be enough to complete the healing process. But it is a good start. Seek professional help as soon as you can, I recommend a good Iranian therapist.
Best of luck,
LA
Once upon a time, there was a blogger named Nickie Goomba, who sadly passed away awhile back. He had an occasional segment called Ask Maria (his wife), where she would give advice to readers that needed help solving some difficult problems they faced.
Nickie is gone, the blog is gone, and to the best of my knowledge, Maria is not helping people anymore. So, to fill the terrible void, I am stepping up to the plate, offering my services to people desperately need help with some of the problems they face in the world today.
Here is the very first installment of Ask LA:
Dear LA,
I am so hurt and confused and do not know what I should do. I feel so betrayed by those that I have felt close to for a long time. They say one thing to my face and when my back is turned, they stick a knife in it. They tell me how they support me in my daily struggles, yet when my back is turned, they openly subvert my causes by befriending those that are my enemies.
Just the other day my friend Syria led me to believe they thought a meeting in Annapolis was not going to benefit me and wanted no part of it. But, again, when my back is turned and least expected it, I saw their delegation on the news disembarking from an airplane at Andrews AFB. The news people said that they had not been expected to attend, but surprised everyone by showing up anyway.
Please help me, LA. I am at my wit's end. What should I do?
Sincerely,
Hamas
Dear Hamas,
It's tough when friends do this to you and believe me, I know how you must be hurting over this. But you must understand that this is not your fault. You are the victim and you need to act like it.
The first thing you must do is, lob a few rockets into Israel and try to kill some innocent people. Everyone knows that Israel and the imperialist United States are purposely trying to alienate your friend Syria from you.
When that is done, you might want to execute a few people from the Fatah organization, as they are working against you too. They are conspiring with Israel and the U.S. to hurt you. Issuing some strongly worded threats might not hurt, either.
But whatever you do, do not look inward towards yourself to find the answers. Like I said, none of this is your fault. You have the perfect right to blame all of your hardships on Israel and the U.S., as they are infidels and rats. You have the right to do whatever makes you happy and damn those that have taken issue with your feelings, your suicide bombings, and your deliberate killings of innocent people (to include children).
This within itself, will not be enough to complete the healing process. But it is a good start. Seek professional help as soon as you can, I recommend a good Iranian therapist.
Best of luck,
LA
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Another Blast From The Past
Many that read PYY know well my love for rock and roll music. I have presented a wide variety of rock music here in this weekly feature, for some time now. But what many may not realize is I also have a profound love of New Age music. I find it very relaxing and soothing.
One of my favorite New Age CDs is about 10 years old and is a compilation of various artists. It is entitled, Pure Moods. I find the entire CD to be very good and it has contributed greatly to many periods where decompression from stress, was the order of the day. With the madness of the holiday upon us, I thought I would share with you a few of my favorites from this release.
Enigma is the name of a musical project that has had some success. They have two cuts on this CD. This particular one made it to #1 in 24 countries. It is called, Sadeness:
Enya has become one of the more recognizable names in this genre. She hails from Ireland, where she is immensely popular. Here is one of her better known hits, Orinico Flow (Sail Away):
If you watched the 80s series Miami Vice, you know Jan Hammer. He did the musical theme for the show. This cut, was one that was played from time to time at the end of the show, when Sonny would be very pensive and reflective about someone he knew, who usually got killed or some other bad thing. It's called, Crockett's Theme:
If you know 80s music, you no doubt remember the musical duo, the Eurhythmics. Annie Lennox provided the vocals and behind the avant garde music that accompanied them, was a man named Dave A. Stewart Here he is in a very good relaxing jazz piece, with Candy Dulfer playing sax. The song is called, Lily Was Here:
Relax and enjoy.
One of my favorite New Age CDs is about 10 years old and is a compilation of various artists. It is entitled, Pure Moods. I find the entire CD to be very good and it has contributed greatly to many periods where decompression from stress, was the order of the day. With the madness of the holiday upon us, I thought I would share with you a few of my favorites from this release.
Enigma is the name of a musical project that has had some success. They have two cuts on this CD. This particular one made it to #1 in 24 countries. It is called, Sadeness:
Enya has become one of the more recognizable names in this genre. She hails from Ireland, where she is immensely popular. Here is one of her better known hits, Orinico Flow (Sail Away):
If you watched the 80s series Miami Vice, you know Jan Hammer. He did the musical theme for the show. This cut, was one that was played from time to time at the end of the show, when Sonny would be very pensive and reflective about someone he knew, who usually got killed or some other bad thing. It's called, Crockett's Theme:
If you know 80s music, you no doubt remember the musical duo, the Eurhythmics. Annie Lennox provided the vocals and behind the avant garde music that accompanied them, was a man named Dave A. Stewart Here he is in a very good relaxing jazz piece, with Candy Dulfer playing sax. The song is called, Lily Was Here:
Relax and enjoy.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Noose, Reaction, Repeat
Here is the article reporting this.
Standard procedure, find the noose and then start the investigation. But let's read on. for the standard reaction:
Hey, I agree with her. I find nothing wrong with what she said.
But here's the point I want to make:
The act is discovered, the investigation begins. At some point the investigation will be over, we hope we can learn who did it, and prosecute them. But as we have learned before, the person responsible may not have racist intentions. And yes, I am going to point back to the recent GWU incident, where the person that filed the complaint was actually the one that did the deed.
It happens. That's why it's wise to keep quiet until the whole story is better known.
But more than this, we must take something into consideration. We have to, if we want to have any realistic chance of getting this to stop (or at least slow it considerably).
Once many years ago, the Klan staged a rally at the Indiana State House. People raised hell. They didn't want them to be here. I didn't want them to be here. But in the mix of things, there was little that could be done about it. Why? Because it was their constitutional right to look stupid on government property.
What happened?
There was a counter rally held just a few blocks away on Monument Circle. Both rallies spilled over and into each other and presto, chango, abracadbra, we had Indianapolis on CNN Headline News hourly for the next 24 hours. Networks and local news outlets carried it too. Publicity and exposure led to more notoriety.
To sum it up, they got what wanted. Attention. And you know what? They came back the next year. But, the outcome was different.
A scene wasn't made about their visit. It was mentioned in passing on the news. The counter rally was held several miles away, this time. They got very little attention. Both rallies drew about 20-30 people to see the Klan, the rest were the protesters. Protesters gone, scene not made, trouble averted. Attention not gained.
Fast-forward to today and this noose crap.
Whether these acts are motivated by racists or instigators, the more attention we give to these people, the more they are going to do this. I said it then and I am saying it now: Don't give this stuff the time of day and it will go away faster. As long as they can get this kind of outrage and provoke this kind of response, they're going to keep it up.
Unless of course, you don't really want this to go away, because your job depends on it.
A note with racial overtones and a knotted rope found in an East Baltimore firehouse early yesterday triggered a probe by the city's fire and police departments, and the FBI has begun its own preliminary investigation into possible civil rights violations.
Standard procedure, find the noose and then start the investigation. But let's read on. for the standard reaction:
In a written statement, Mayor Sheila Dixon said she was "outraged by this deplorable act of hatred and intimidation. ... Threats and racial attacks are unacceptable anywhere -- especially in a firehouse."
Hey, I agree with her. I find nothing wrong with what she said.
But here's the point I want to make:
The act is discovered, the investigation begins. At some point the investigation will be over, we hope we can learn who did it, and prosecute them. But as we have learned before, the person responsible may not have racist intentions. And yes, I am going to point back to the recent GWU incident, where the person that filed the complaint was actually the one that did the deed.
It happens. That's why it's wise to keep quiet until the whole story is better known.
But more than this, we must take something into consideration. We have to, if we want to have any realistic chance of getting this to stop (or at least slow it considerably).
Once many years ago, the Klan staged a rally at the Indiana State House. People raised hell. They didn't want them to be here. I didn't want them to be here. But in the mix of things, there was little that could be done about it. Why? Because it was their constitutional right to look stupid on government property.
What happened?
There was a counter rally held just a few blocks away on Monument Circle. Both rallies spilled over and into each other and presto, chango, abracadbra, we had Indianapolis on CNN Headline News hourly for the next 24 hours. Networks and local news outlets carried it too. Publicity and exposure led to more notoriety.
To sum it up, they got what wanted. Attention. And you know what? They came back the next year. But, the outcome was different.
A scene wasn't made about their visit. It was mentioned in passing on the news. The counter rally was held several miles away, this time. They got very little attention. Both rallies drew about 20-30 people to see the Klan, the rest were the protesters. Protesters gone, scene not made, trouble averted. Attention not gained.
Fast-forward to today and this noose crap.
Whether these acts are motivated by racists or instigators, the more attention we give to these people, the more they are going to do this. I said it then and I am saying it now: Don't give this stuff the time of day and it will go away faster. As long as they can get this kind of outrage and provoke this kind of response, they're going to keep it up.
Unless of course, you don't really want this to go away, because your job depends on it.
Happy Thanksgiving
Today is the day set aside for giving thanks for the many blessings and fortunes we have. I have always maintained that being thankful is more than just saying "thank you", more than setting aside a day to eat turkey and watch football.
I have always felt that thankfulness is a state of mind. That is to say, it is an attitude that one has, as a manifestation of a value system that promotes sincere appreciation for the things we have. It lives within us.
Today, I can relate the many things that I am thankful for, in my life. The list is long and would sound monotonous, if I posted it. So, I won't. It is a list filled with things both great and small.
But if I am truly thankful, I will pause periodically throughout the year and think about these things I have and will feel the same feeling towards them on Mar 22, as I profess that I do today. And, I do.
And although I said I would not bore you with the generic details of the things I have to be thankful for, I will make one exception: I am truly thankful for all of you that read this blog. Thank you all for visiting, my little corner of the world.
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone.
I have always felt that thankfulness is a state of mind. That is to say, it is an attitude that one has, as a manifestation of a value system that promotes sincere appreciation for the things we have. It lives within us.
Today, I can relate the many things that I am thankful for, in my life. The list is long and would sound monotonous, if I posted it. So, I won't. It is a list filled with things both great and small.
But if I am truly thankful, I will pause periodically throughout the year and think about these things I have and will feel the same feeling towards them on Mar 22, as I profess that I do today. And, I do.
And although I said I would not bore you with the generic details of the things I have to be thankful for, I will make one exception: I am truly thankful for all of you that read this blog. Thank you all for visiting, my little corner of the world.
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Indianapolis Council Discussing Plans To Repeal County Income Tax
Here's a story for my newly acquired post-election local readers. It seems the Indianapolis City-County Council wants to repeal their hefty county income tax increase, before Republicans take over. This was but one of the reasons they were soundly defeated in the election, earlier this month.
From the Indy Star article comes this snippet:
After ramrodding this thing through against the wills of vast majority of the people, now they want to repeal it. Can we say, "sour grapes"?
This goes to show the kind of sabotage that often takes place in politics when a party loses and has to hand the reins of power over to the other party. It also shows the level of maturity that sore losers often have.
It's not that I am against the repeal, I am not against it at all. It should have never been voted in to start with. But instead of giving the GOP a chance to repeal it, they are merely wanting to throw a wrench into what would otherwise be a smooth transition from Democratic control to Republican. Not only that, according to the Indiana Barrister, it's illegal.
I-l-l-e-g-a-l, which means not lawful. Or against the law.
But I guess the Democratic members of the council shouldn't worry about legalities of said action, a few of them have been known for breaking and bending laws, for the entire four years they have been in control.
From the Indy Star article comes this snippet:
With just weeks left before Republicans take control of the Indianapolis City-County Council, Democrats on the council are discussing attempts to repeal or "sunset" the county income tax increase they pushed through in August.
After ramrodding this thing through against the wills of vast majority of the people, now they want to repeal it. Can we say, "sour grapes"?
This goes to show the kind of sabotage that often takes place in politics when a party loses and has to hand the reins of power over to the other party. It also shows the level of maturity that sore losers often have.
It's not that I am against the repeal, I am not against it at all. It should have never been voted in to start with. But instead of giving the GOP a chance to repeal it, they are merely wanting to throw a wrench into what would otherwise be a smooth transition from Democratic control to Republican. Not only that, according to the Indiana Barrister, it's illegal.
Repealing the tax would be illegal because the law says it can only be voted on once in a calender year. The new talk is amending the proposal so it can sunset. That may still run against the law and intent of the legislature. If they wanted to sunset the tax they should have done so when it was first passed.
I-l-l-e-g-a-l, which means not lawful. Or against the law.
But I guess the Democratic members of the council shouldn't worry about legalities of said action, a few of them have been known for breaking and bending laws, for the entire four years they have been in control.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Recommended Reading
AC at Fore Left has some thoughts on the Nada Prouty case and the repercussions. She's the Hezbollah plant recently discovered in the CIA.
The AP is protesting the trial of one of its award-winning photographers. A lot of it certainly shrouded in mystery, which makes a person wonder.
If you are at all concerned about Europe, here is an article you will not want to miss or dismiss. It's called Germany, The Soft Underbelly Of Europe.
Hugo Chavez is quickly becoming the fool of the world political scene. First, he insults the Spanish people for their choice of a former PM, runs his mouth so much at a conference that the King of Spain has to tell him to "shut up", and now this little bit of showmanship.
The AP is protesting the trial of one of its award-winning photographers. A lot of it certainly shrouded in mystery, which makes a person wonder.
If you are at all concerned about Europe, here is an article you will not want to miss or dismiss. It's called Germany, The Soft Underbelly Of Europe.
Hugo Chavez is quickly becoming the fool of the world political scene. First, he insults the Spanish people for their choice of a former PM, runs his mouth so much at a conference that the King of Spain has to tell him to "shut up", and now this little bit of showmanship.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Monday Morning Quarterback
Indianapolis 13 - Kansas City 10
It wasn't pretty, but a win is a win.
In one sense, it was a courageous performance by a team that is so very depleted by injuries. Colts fans would have some solace in that fact, had they lost. But, they didn't. And in the same sense, there has to be some sense of pride in the way the Indy defense put enough pressure on KC's backup QB and held Priest Holmes to just 55 rushing yards, keeping the game a low scoring affair.
In another sense, one has to see that the injuries have partially sapped some of the life out of the Super Bowl champs, as is evidenced by their mid-season slump. And what about Adam Viniateri? Mr. Automatic has had his own personal demons to exorcise, missing two more field goals. Despite the fact there have been players moved up from the practice squad to fill in for the injured, the Colts must continue to find ways to win, like they did today.
The Colts have a short week coming up. They play Atlanta (in Atlanta) on Thursday night (Thanksgiving). If you happen to watch the game on the NFL network that evening, be sure to wave to Mrs. Sunsett. She will be there at the game, while she is in town visiting her son (leaving me to fend for myself in a lonely world of laundry incompetence).
Dallas Holds Off Washington
Washington had a realistic chance of pulling this one out, until Campbell threw that interception with 1:39 left in the game. By all appearances, the Cowboys seem to be the team to beat in the NFC. This doesn't mean a lot if you know the NFL very well, as the NFC is clearly the weaker of the two conferences.
The only team that will seem to pose difficulty for Dallas will seemingly be Green Bay. Both are 9-1 and both square up in Dallas on Nov. 29. The team that wins that one could be in the driver's seat for home field advantage, if both win next week. (Me? I am pulling for the team with the old man, Brett Favre. Old men tend to root for other old men.)
Looking at the schedule, GB seems to have the easier schedule the rest of the way out. The only team they must beat that has a realistic chance to beat them is Detroit (twice, at home and on the road). On the other side, Dallas must beat Detroit (in Detroit) and Washington again, this time on the road.
The Chase For The BCS Championship
I got to watch some college games Saturday, so I thought I'd make some comments on the NCAA season.
I caught Texas Tech, as they throttled the Oklahoma Sooners in what was termed as a stunning upset. Having seen Tech play earlier in the season, I have to disagree with that terminology, as they are a very explosive offensive team and Oklahoma (in my view) is usually overrated.
The big game coming up next weekend will be #2 Kansas (the surprise team of the year) pitted against #4 Missouri, at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. Kansas can seal a BCS Championship bid with a win, on Saturday. Right now, LSU (#1) is looking to be the opponent of the Jayhawks. But from the way things are looking, they might need to get past Georgia in the SEC Championship game, if things play out right.
Many people have argued that Kansas has played no one of any real value on their way to their undefeated record. I have been able to catch some of their play this year and they have a very solid football team. Despite Nebraska not being the perennial powerhouse they once were, Kansas was able to beat the Huskers, 76-39, earlier in the season. The real test will come against Missouri and whoever their opponent will be in the Big 12 Championship game (against either Oklahoma or Texas).
Oklahoma has to play Oklahoma State next weekend and Texas plays Texas A&M. Right now, the Longhorns and the Sooners are tied for their division lead, with Texas owning the tie-breaker by having beaten Oklahoma in their head-to-head clash, earlier in the year. Oklahoma State isn't nearly as talented as Oklahoma, but in intra-state rivalries, the records usually get thrown out because of the fierce rivalry for state supremacy.
If anyone is ripe for an upset, it will be LSU going to Georgia in the Georgia Dome, for the SEC title.The Bulldogs must get past Georgia Tech next Saturday, but the important thing to note is, Tech is not a conference opponent. The only thing this game will settle, will be bragging rights for the state. (GT is not the team many thought they'd be this year, but again, the records will thrown out.)
The real problem with the Bulldogs' scenario is, they need help from Kentucky, who plays Tennessee this weekend. If the Vols win, they will be tied with Georgia and own the tie-breaker, by virtue of their head-to-head clash earlier. (I am not sure how this will play out. But I do not think the Vols are as capable of beating LSU, as the Dogs. I think Georgia is playing better than Tennessee right now and would win a rematch, if they could have one.)
LSU will need only to beat Arkansas next week to advance to the SEC title game. That shouldn't be much of a problem for the Tigers, as the Razorbacks are a mediocre team, at best.
Overall, this has been an exciting NCAA season. The teams are not etched in stone for the BCS Championship, like they have been in years past. Gone are the names that usually dominate the college game and manage to get voted into the game (the worthless voting that takes place in the partial determinations of who gets to play for a title). Still in the hunt for a title berth are Kansas, LSU, West Virginia, and Missouri. Ohio State despite being upset by Illinois (the Big Ten runner-up) last week.
Personally, I am hoping that Kansas or Missouri can get a berth. I am sick of Ohio State and LSU, as both have won a title recently and seem to be the sports media darlings of college football.
It wasn't pretty, but a win is a win.
In one sense, it was a courageous performance by a team that is so very depleted by injuries. Colts fans would have some solace in that fact, had they lost. But, they didn't. And in the same sense, there has to be some sense of pride in the way the Indy defense put enough pressure on KC's backup QB and held Priest Holmes to just 55 rushing yards, keeping the game a low scoring affair.
In another sense, one has to see that the injuries have partially sapped some of the life out of the Super Bowl champs, as is evidenced by their mid-season slump. And what about Adam Viniateri? Mr. Automatic has had his own personal demons to exorcise, missing two more field goals. Despite the fact there have been players moved up from the practice squad to fill in for the injured, the Colts must continue to find ways to win, like they did today.
The Colts have a short week coming up. They play Atlanta (in Atlanta) on Thursday night (Thanksgiving). If you happen to watch the game on the NFL network that evening, be sure to wave to Mrs. Sunsett. She will be there at the game, while she is in town visiting her son (leaving me to fend for myself in a lonely world of laundry incompetence).
Dallas Holds Off Washington
Washington had a realistic chance of pulling this one out, until Campbell threw that interception with 1:39 left in the game. By all appearances, the Cowboys seem to be the team to beat in the NFC. This doesn't mean a lot if you know the NFL very well, as the NFC is clearly the weaker of the two conferences.
The only team that will seem to pose difficulty for Dallas will seemingly be Green Bay. Both are 9-1 and both square up in Dallas on Nov. 29. The team that wins that one could be in the driver's seat for home field advantage, if both win next week. (Me? I am pulling for the team with the old man, Brett Favre. Old men tend to root for other old men.)
Looking at the schedule, GB seems to have the easier schedule the rest of the way out. The only team they must beat that has a realistic chance to beat them is Detroit (twice, at home and on the road). On the other side, Dallas must beat Detroit (in Detroit) and Washington again, this time on the road.
The Chase For The BCS Championship
I got to watch some college games Saturday, so I thought I'd make some comments on the NCAA season.
I caught Texas Tech, as they throttled the Oklahoma Sooners in what was termed as a stunning upset. Having seen Tech play earlier in the season, I have to disagree with that terminology, as they are a very explosive offensive team and Oklahoma (in my view) is usually overrated.
The big game coming up next weekend will be #2 Kansas (the surprise team of the year) pitted against #4 Missouri, at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. Kansas can seal a BCS Championship bid with a win, on Saturday. Right now, LSU (#1) is looking to be the opponent of the Jayhawks. But from the way things are looking, they might need to get past Georgia in the SEC Championship game, if things play out right.
Many people have argued that Kansas has played no one of any real value on their way to their undefeated record. I have been able to catch some of their play this year and they have a very solid football team. Despite Nebraska not being the perennial powerhouse they once were, Kansas was able to beat the Huskers, 76-39, earlier in the season. The real test will come against Missouri and whoever their opponent will be in the Big 12 Championship game (against either Oklahoma or Texas).
Oklahoma has to play Oklahoma State next weekend and Texas plays Texas A&M. Right now, the Longhorns and the Sooners are tied for their division lead, with Texas owning the tie-breaker by having beaten Oklahoma in their head-to-head clash, earlier in the year. Oklahoma State isn't nearly as talented as Oklahoma, but in intra-state rivalries, the records usually get thrown out because of the fierce rivalry for state supremacy.
If anyone is ripe for an upset, it will be LSU going to Georgia in the Georgia Dome, for the SEC title.The Bulldogs must get past Georgia Tech next Saturday, but the important thing to note is, Tech is not a conference opponent. The only thing this game will settle, will be bragging rights for the state. (GT is not the team many thought they'd be this year, but again, the records will thrown out.)
The real problem with the Bulldogs' scenario is, they need help from Kentucky, who plays Tennessee this weekend. If the Vols win, they will be tied with Georgia and own the tie-breaker, by virtue of their head-to-head clash earlier. (I am not sure how this will play out. But I do not think the Vols are as capable of beating LSU, as the Dogs. I think Georgia is playing better than Tennessee right now and would win a rematch, if they could have one.)
LSU will need only to beat Arkansas next week to advance to the SEC title game. That shouldn't be much of a problem for the Tigers, as the Razorbacks are a mediocre team, at best.
Overall, this has been an exciting NCAA season. The teams are not etched in stone for the BCS Championship, like they have been in years past. Gone are the names that usually dominate the college game and manage to get voted into the game (the worthless voting that takes place in the partial determinations of who gets to play for a title). Still in the hunt for a title berth are Kansas, LSU, West Virginia, and Missouri. Ohio State despite being upset by Illinois (the Big Ten runner-up) last week.
Personally, I am hoping that Kansas or Missouri can get a berth. I am sick of Ohio State and LSU, as both have won a title recently and seem to be the sports media darlings of college football.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
When The Dishonorable Tarnish The Reputations Of The Honorable
Mustang is rightfully accusing a member of the chain of command of being unfit to be in the position he is in. And believe me when I say this, his accusation is not without good cause.
You can read about it here.
I (like commenter Tad at Mustang's post) think this needs to be called into action by good people protesting the lack of honor, among those who are in a prominent place in the chain of command and in elected positions.
Note-When you are done (and only when you are done) reading Mustang's piece, then it would be good to read this recent op-ed. (HT on this article goes to Greg)
You can read about it here.
I (like commenter Tad at Mustang's post) think this needs to be called into action by good people protesting the lack of honor, among those who are in a prominent place in the chain of command and in elected positions.
Note-When you are done (and only when you are done) reading Mustang's piece, then it would be good to read this recent op-ed. (HT on this article goes to Greg)
Warrantless Searches Proposed In Boston?
Here's something I think is important to be watching, on the horizon. The article is a bit misleading, but let's examine it anyway.
Looking at this from a constitutional perspective, this does not fare well in the area of individual rights. I know it's a slippery slope argument, as many are these days. But this is troubling for more than just one reason. let's read on:
Personally, I cannot be convinced that a lot of parents who live in high crime areas are going to consent to this. I do not think they're too worried about their kids having a gun, nor am I inclined to believe there is a sense of helplessness great enough for them to turn to the police for help. One thing is, these parents may be involved in something themselves, therefore reluctant to cooperate. The other thing is, many of these parents are in denial that their little angels would be involved in something like this, therefore, they too would be reluctant to cooperate.
Basically, I believe uncooperative parents will far outnumber those that cooperate, by a very large margin.
My theory here is, most will be leaving. And if I am right in my theory, it's going to be a huge waste of time (and money).
But the bottom line here is not whether or not this is prudent and effective policy. Despite the intentions and efficacy of the aforementioned strategy, it comes down to one very important detail, summed up best here:
I find it very difficult to argue against this stated claim.
Crime has been an issue in Boston and many other large cities, for as long as I can remember. Throwing out the constitution to fight it, really isn't acceptable to me.
In my view, it is comparable to the old principle put forth by those that support gun rights: If you take guns away from law abiding citizens then only criminals will have them. Likewise, in this scenario, it can be effectively argued that the only ones that will consent for their kids' rooms to be searched will be those that probably will not have anything to hide, anyway.
Make no mistake here, I do not take this position for the purpose of being known as "soft on crime". I take this position because the government likes to set precedents to strip freedoms away from its citizenry. This policy may not be intended for abuse here, but who is to say it won't be abused by the police down the road?
That's what I think the founding fathers had in mind when they wrote:
Those with a legal background can feel free to correct me on this, but I do not see how just living in a high-crime neighborhood constitutes probable cause. But as long as people consent to the search, it cannot be ruled unconstitutional.
All of this would be unnecessary if parents would search their own kids' rooms and take appropriate actions, if they found a weapon (of any kind). Therefore, this program would not be needed. It's a sad day when we believe that the government can parent our children better than we can.
Boston police are launching a program that will call upon parents in high-crime neighborhoods to allow detectives into their homes, without a warrant, to search for guns in their children's bedrooms.
Looking at this from a constitutional perspective, this does not fare well in the area of individual rights. I know it's a slippery slope argument, as many are these days. But this is troubling for more than just one reason. let's read on:
The program, which is already raising questions about civil liberties, is based on the premise that parents are so fearful of gun violence and the possibility that their own teenagers will be caught up in it that they will turn to police for help, even in their own households.
Personally, I cannot be convinced that a lot of parents who live in high crime areas are going to consent to this. I do not think they're too worried about their kids having a gun, nor am I inclined to believe there is a sense of helplessness great enough for them to turn to the police for help. One thing is, these parents may be involved in something themselves, therefore reluctant to cooperate. The other thing is, many of these parents are in denial that their little angels would be involved in something like this, therefore, they too would be reluctant to cooperate.
Basically, I believe uncooperative parents will far outnumber those that cooperate, by a very large margin.
In the next two weeks, Boston police officers who are assigned to schools will begin going to homes where they believe teenagers might have guns. The officers will travel in groups of three, dress in plainclothes to avoid attracting negative attention, and ask the teenager's parent or legal guardian for permission to search. If the parents say no, police said, the officers will leave.
My theory here is, most will be leaving. And if I am right in my theory, it's going to be a huge waste of time (and money).
But the bottom line here is not whether or not this is prudent and effective policy. Despite the intentions and efficacy of the aforementioned strategy, it comes down to one very important detail, summed up best here:
"I just have a queasy feeling anytime the police try to do an end run around the Constitution," said Thomas Nolan, a former Boston police lieutenant who now teaches criminology at Boston University. "The police have restrictions on their authority and ability to conduct searches. The Constitution was written with a very specific intent, and that was to keep the law out of private homes unless there is a written document signed by a judge and based on probable cause. Here, you don't have that."
I find it very difficult to argue against this stated claim.
Crime has been an issue in Boston and many other large cities, for as long as I can remember. Throwing out the constitution to fight it, really isn't acceptable to me.
In my view, it is comparable to the old principle put forth by those that support gun rights: If you take guns away from law abiding citizens then only criminals will have them. Likewise, in this scenario, it can be effectively argued that the only ones that will consent for their kids' rooms to be searched will be those that probably will not have anything to hide, anyway.
Make no mistake here, I do not take this position for the purpose of being known as "soft on crime". I take this position because the government likes to set precedents to strip freedoms away from its citizenry. This policy may not be intended for abuse here, but who is to say it won't be abused by the police down the road?
That's what I think the founding fathers had in mind when they wrote:
The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.
Those with a legal background can feel free to correct me on this, but I do not see how just living in a high-crime neighborhood constitutes probable cause. But as long as people consent to the search, it cannot be ruled unconstitutional.
All of this would be unnecessary if parents would search their own kids' rooms and take appropriate actions, if they found a weapon (of any kind). Therefore, this program would not be needed. It's a sad day when we believe that the government can parent our children better than we can.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Another Blast From The Past
In the 80s, I knew a lot of rock music fans that virtually shut down and lost their interest in the evolution of the styles.
Some got stuck in the 70s forever (and are still there); they started listening to bands like Def Leppard (whom I never liked) and other 80s hair bands. Some devolved themselves into the dark world of Ozzy and those that eventually became part of the heavy metal sound (wasn't too fond of that craze either). And others, fled the rock scene altogether for that 1980s resurgence of country music.
The New Wave scene, somehow, became synonymous with punk rock and many simply wouldn't give the newer, avant garde acts much of a chance. Their concept of new wave was limited to bands like the Clash, the Sex Pistols, the Voidoids and other loud obnoxious sounds. This weekend's featured artists were overlooked by many that made this kind of mistake, a mistake of taking a look at the name and instantly writing them off as punk.
This weekend PYY presents the music of Duran Duran.Their sound is unique, based in a 80s modernity, with emphasis on a higher tech presentation. Their lyrics were deep, pensive, and in some cases phenonomal.
First up is a song that many of you may recognize if you are a fan of the James Bond movies. The song comes from the 007 movie of the same name. Here is A View To A Kill:
In the 80s, MTV advanced the careers of many of these nouveau artists like our featured act. In the same rush to put out the music, there was equally a rush to get a video out. Here is a song that helped popularize the MTV video. It's a sensual little tune/video that everyone wants to see, as we are ready to embark on the winter months. It's simply called, Rio:
The next two songs were my two personal favorites, the first one deals with the trials of losing a person's youth and innocence. As we all go through life, we come to a point where we all must realize our own mortalities and must accept the fact that our minds might stay young, but our bodies and sensibilities don't always. It is a critical stage of our overall development and at this stage, many struggle to save a marriage and/or relationship. This song gives the impression that the writer is trying to save something that his partner may not want to salvage. Here is Come Undone:
When the world we live in turns into chaos, complicated by personal trauma or overwhelming challenges that threaten our abilities to maintain some form of sanity, we seek a return to some sense of normalcy. This song deals with this very thing. It's called Ordinary World:
Enjoy.
Some got stuck in the 70s forever (and are still there); they started listening to bands like Def Leppard (whom I never liked) and other 80s hair bands. Some devolved themselves into the dark world of Ozzy and those that eventually became part of the heavy metal sound (wasn't too fond of that craze either). And others, fled the rock scene altogether for that 1980s resurgence of country music.
The New Wave scene, somehow, became synonymous with punk rock and many simply wouldn't give the newer, avant garde acts much of a chance. Their concept of new wave was limited to bands like the Clash, the Sex Pistols, the Voidoids and other loud obnoxious sounds. This weekend's featured artists were overlooked by many that made this kind of mistake, a mistake of taking a look at the name and instantly writing them off as punk.
This weekend PYY presents the music of Duran Duran.Their sound is unique, based in a 80s modernity, with emphasis on a higher tech presentation. Their lyrics were deep, pensive, and in some cases phenonomal.
First up is a song that many of you may recognize if you are a fan of the James Bond movies. The song comes from the 007 movie of the same name. Here is A View To A Kill:
In the 80s, MTV advanced the careers of many of these nouveau artists like our featured act. In the same rush to put out the music, there was equally a rush to get a video out. Here is a song that helped popularize the MTV video. It's a sensual little tune/video that everyone wants to see, as we are ready to embark on the winter months. It's simply called, Rio:
The next two songs were my two personal favorites, the first one deals with the trials of losing a person's youth and innocence. As we all go through life, we come to a point where we all must realize our own mortalities and must accept the fact that our minds might stay young, but our bodies and sensibilities don't always. It is a critical stage of our overall development and at this stage, many struggle to save a marriage and/or relationship. This song gives the impression that the writer is trying to save something that his partner may not want to salvage. Here is Come Undone:
When the world we live in turns into chaos, complicated by personal trauma or overwhelming challenges that threaten our abilities to maintain some form of sanity, we seek a return to some sense of normalcy. This song deals with this very thing. It's called Ordinary World:
Enjoy.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Understanding Americans
To my American readers, Flocon is trying to understand Americans again. Not sure I did much to contribute to a better understanding, but I left my two-cents worth.
I am sure he won't mind, if you do too.
I am sure he won't mind, if you do too.
North Korean Gratuity?
From the "just-when-you-thought-you'd-heard-it-all" department, here comes a real gem:
Then we read:
Just between you and me, I don't think we'll be sipping cognac and swapping spit with Kim Jong-il, anytime soon. To say they are cooperating with the U.S. in the fight against terrorism, after getting caught with supplying a Syrian (a known sponsor of terror) operation to build a nuclear development facility, doesn't exactly fit in with the characteristics of an ally.
Unless, there's a hidden deal somewhere, whereby we gave them an out. By this I mean, entering into a covert agreement for the specific purpose of destroying their material (after sending it to Syria).
(Never mind, just thinking out loud, as I often do. Forget I said anything.)
In an extremely rare public expression, North Korea officially thanked the United States for helping the crew of a North Korean cargo ship hijacked by pirates off the Somali coast late last month, describing the rescue as a symbol of Washington-Pyongyang rapprochement.
Then we read:
This case serves as a symbol of the DPRK [North Korea]-U.S. cooperation in the struggle against terrorism," the North's state-run Korean Central News Agency said.
Just between you and me, I don't think we'll be sipping cognac and swapping spit with Kim Jong-il, anytime soon. To say they are cooperating with the U.S. in the fight against terrorism, after getting caught with supplying a Syrian (a known sponsor of terror) operation to build a nuclear development facility, doesn't exactly fit in with the characteristics of an ally.
Unless, there's a hidden deal somewhere, whereby we gave them an out. By this I mean, entering into a covert agreement for the specific purpose of destroying their material (after sending it to Syria).
(Never mind, just thinking out loud, as I often do. Forget I said anything.)
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Gaza Uber Alles
As a follow-up to my rant on the Saudis and their policies toward their brethren in Gaza, here's a singing group that you may have missed along the way, courtesy of the Hamas organization.
For a listen as to what the musical and performing arts are like in Gaza, and of course that crazy Hamas sound, you can click here.
Wearing blue camouflage fatigues and crooning about Islamic holy war, the five members of Hamas's Protectors of the Homeland police band are trying to boost morale in Gaza with an arsenal of anti-Israel numbers.
For a listen as to what the musical and performing arts are like in Gaza, and of course that crazy Hamas sound, you can click here.
The PYY Community Ego-Centric Citizen Award
Meet Chris Carlos. His is a story that defies reason.
If you are from the Atlanta area, you may recognize that last name. But now, he is becoming famous for something else other than liquor distribution and tax problems.
From ABC comes this report:
Now, you may have read or heard somewhere that Atlanta and northern Georgia are in a critical water shortage. So, I think it should go with out saying, what this means to people in this area.
Some sense of community Mr. Carlos must have that he feels the need to do what ever he damn well pleases, regardless of the situation in the community. How utterly selfish and self-important he must feel, for him to think he is entitled to disregard any conservation measure that doesn't suit him.
This qualifies him for the PYY Community Ego-Centric Citizen Award.
If you are from the Atlanta area, you may recognize that last name. But now, he is becoming famous for something else other than liquor distribution and tax problems.
From ABC comes this report:
Neighbors are outraged that the man, who lives in his five bedroom, seven bathroom home alone, has used enough water to fill a dozen standard swimming pools, while the rest of the city is so thirsty for water.
"I think it's absurd. I really do," said resident Ken Scott.
In fact, last month Chris Carlos used 15 percent more water than he did in October 2006, fueling more frustration.
Now, you may have read or heard somewhere that Atlanta and northern Georgia are in a critical water shortage. So, I think it should go with out saying, what this means to people in this area.
Some sense of community Mr. Carlos must have that he feels the need to do what ever he damn well pleases, regardless of the situation in the community. How utterly selfish and self-important he must feel, for him to think he is entitled to disregard any conservation measure that doesn't suit him.
This qualifies him for the PYY Community Ego-Centric Citizen Award.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
The Saudi High Life
Here is an interesting story. It's not too surprising when you think about it.
Instead of funding schools that teach kids that Israel and the U.S. are responsible for the sufferings of the Palestinian people, you'd think they could build schools that teach kids how to control their own destiny, feed kids, and create jobs with ventures that employ the people that live in Gaza and the West Bank.
But no. They would rather use every bit of oil revenue on the countless palaces, jet liners, and other extravagant purchases, while their brethren suffer.
Now, I am no socialist by any stretch of the imagination. In fact, I pretty much loathe it. But, they are so far ahead of people they claim to have a kinship with and yet they do not invest their vast surplus into real people with real lives. What little money is given, quickly ends up in terrorist hands, because of the network they were able to build (because the area has been kept so impoverished).
I would think all of the good socialists of the world would be appalled at this. If they are, it rarely gets said. But, just let something happen in Gaza or the West Bank and we'll all hear our share of how it's America's and Israel's policies that make these people hate us so much. Never mind that Saudi Arabia's royal family is living the high life and using passive techniques to withhold aid from people, in order to oppress them.
In the annals of excess, it could be a new high: a more than $300 million dollar, super-sized luxury airplane, bought and outfitted solely for the private comfort of a Saudi Arabian billionaire.
Instead of funding schools that teach kids that Israel and the U.S. are responsible for the sufferings of the Palestinian people, you'd think they could build schools that teach kids how to control their own destiny, feed kids, and create jobs with ventures that employ the people that live in Gaza and the West Bank.
But no. They would rather use every bit of oil revenue on the countless palaces, jet liners, and other extravagant purchases, while their brethren suffer.
Now, I am no socialist by any stretch of the imagination. In fact, I pretty much loathe it. But, they are so far ahead of people they claim to have a kinship with and yet they do not invest their vast surplus into real people with real lives. What little money is given, quickly ends up in terrorist hands, because of the network they were able to build (because the area has been kept so impoverished).
I would think all of the good socialists of the world would be appalled at this. If they are, it rarely gets said. But, just let something happen in Gaza or the West Bank and we'll all hear our share of how it's America's and Israel's policies that make these people hate us so much. Never mind that Saudi Arabia's royal family is living the high life and using passive techniques to withhold aid from people, in order to oppress them.
Happiness Is A New Tax
It's kind of difficult to make the case for lower taxes when you make speeches like Mike Huckabee did in this short video. It's one thing to go along with something because there is no other choice. But to make it sound like you would be happy to sign a bill that raises taxes on people that are already taxed enough, it's quite another.
He may have just killed any dark horse chance he ever had. Granted, this was awhile back, when he made this plea. But, you never know what lies in the archives of the past and what can surface down the road, when you are in the public eye.
This is precisely why I will never run for anything, to include township trustee. If someone ever found out about that weekend in Tijuana when I woke up on a park bench after a bender, I would never live it down.
He may have just killed any dark horse chance he ever had. Granted, this was awhile back, when he made this plea. But, you never know what lies in the archives of the past and what can surface down the road, when you are in the public eye.
This is precisely why I will never run for anything, to include township trustee. If someone ever found out about that weekend in Tijuana when I woke up on a park bench after a bender, I would never live it down.
Monday, November 12, 2007
A Veterans Day Story
Today is the federally observed holiday honoring our veterans. Because the actual holiday fell on a Sunday, it is today that some people get a day off with pay. Originally, this day was set aside as a day to honor the armistice of WWI, better known back then as Armistice Day.
So today, I want to link my readers up with a story about what appears to be the last surviving veteran of what was then known as the Great War.
Here is a story about Frank Buckles, American.
Have a Happy Safe Veteran's Day.
So today, I want to link my readers up with a story about what appears to be the last surviving veteran of what was then known as the Great War.
Here is a story about Frank Buckles, American.
Have a Happy Safe Veteran's Day.
Monday Morning Quarterback
Colts Rally Falls Short
A night marked by blown pass patterns and errant throws, it looked like the Colts were about to pull off one of their signature comebacks. But for whatever reason, Adam Vinatieri missed one that he's made hundreds of times before.
The first half was a horrible half for the Colts, but not all that surprising when you consider that three receivers were out, two of them starters. Harrison and Clark are two key receivers that are very important key players that set the tone for the Colts' passing game. One is a deep threat that is usually double covered, freeing up a spot for Clark to get short passes underneath secondary coverage. As it was, Wayne was the only deep threat last night, but with so many bench receivers in the game, the Cots were forced to use him on both sides and in the slot.
The Colts Defense really didn't play all that bad. It was 23-7 at the half, but 13 of those points were a result of the usual special teams' woes that have plagued the Colts. One kickoff return and a punt return, both for TDs, were enough to cost the Colts the game. The defense played very well in the 2nd half, not giving up any more points. But in the end, it was the offense that fell short.
There were some instances, I felt like Manning was trying to do way too much, by forcing throws that a veteran QB has no business trying to throw. Two of his key targets being out is no excuse for poor throws right into the arms of a defender.
Next up is the KC Chiefs, at home. The goal for the Colts right now is to get people healthy again, win the next game, then win their division. Colts fans will likely worry about being two games behind New England for home filed advantage in the playoffs. They cannot worry about that. They have to win their games against the teams they still have to play, including three division games. Keep in mind that the Colts won the Super Bowl last year without a bye week in the playoffs. One game was on the road in front of a hostile crowd in Baltimore.
It's also imperative to consider that many championship teams get into a funk in the middle of the season, the Colts are no exception here. Time to regroup, refocus, and if necessary, work a little harder.
A night marked by blown pass patterns and errant throws, it looked like the Colts were about to pull off one of their signature comebacks. But for whatever reason, Adam Vinatieri missed one that he's made hundreds of times before.
The first half was a horrible half for the Colts, but not all that surprising when you consider that three receivers were out, two of them starters. Harrison and Clark are two key receivers that are very important key players that set the tone for the Colts' passing game. One is a deep threat that is usually double covered, freeing up a spot for Clark to get short passes underneath secondary coverage. As it was, Wayne was the only deep threat last night, but with so many bench receivers in the game, the Cots were forced to use him on both sides and in the slot.
The Colts Defense really didn't play all that bad. It was 23-7 at the half, but 13 of those points were a result of the usual special teams' woes that have plagued the Colts. One kickoff return and a punt return, both for TDs, were enough to cost the Colts the game. The defense played very well in the 2nd half, not giving up any more points. But in the end, it was the offense that fell short.
There were some instances, I felt like Manning was trying to do way too much, by forcing throws that a veteran QB has no business trying to throw. Two of his key targets being out is no excuse for poor throws right into the arms of a defender.
Next up is the KC Chiefs, at home. The goal for the Colts right now is to get people healthy again, win the next game, then win their division. Colts fans will likely worry about being two games behind New England for home filed advantage in the playoffs. They cannot worry about that. They have to win their games against the teams they still have to play, including three division games. Keep in mind that the Colts won the Super Bowl last year without a bye week in the playoffs. One game was on the road in front of a hostile crowd in Baltimore.
It's also imperative to consider that many championship teams get into a funk in the middle of the season, the Colts are no exception here. Time to regroup, refocus, and if necessary, work a little harder.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Meet The New Mayor Of Indianapolis, Greg Ballard (And Some Of The Challenges He May Face)
Almost one month ago, the Indy Star published an article that gave its readers a short biography of the man that just this week defeated the two-term incumbent, Bart Peterson. Because he had very little money to get his message out, this is the only real review of who this man was/is.
Today, in the same newspaper, we can learn more about this man that beat the odds, so heavily stacked against him. Here is an interview he gave after his upset victory.
It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out this election was a tough road for the new mayor. In fact, just a couple of months ago, it was considered next to impossible. At the very least, most political aficionados thought he would score a "moral" victory by just making the race close. By doing this, many had hoped that it would merely send a message to those in power that they had better get their acts together, or the next time they would be out of power. But apparently, the voters thought four more years (for a spend-aholic government) was too long of a period to waste, hoping that the elected officials would get the message. So, they left nothing to chance.
The news of Ballard's victory may have been shocking to many people, but those of us who can gauge discontent in the electorate, it is not. One other person that gets around town is a man that knows the pulse of the city's political climate, very well. He is a fine American that just happens to be a black, a conservative, and a Muslim. His leanings are mostly Libertarian and believe me when I tell you, if he were to run for an office that I could vote in, I'd give him a good look.
Abdul Hakim Shabazz is not someone that you will hear the ideology of Louis Farrakhan expressed in any other terms, than divisive and dangerous. He has his own morning radio talk show on WXNT AM 1430 and covers many stories here in central Indiana, at the city, state, and national levels. I listen to him on my way to work and I have to say, he accurately predicted that Ballard had a real chance of winning this election. He sums his afterthoughts up well:
But before we look to the future and some real possibilities that a new administration and council may have to offer the people of Indianapolis, let's look at some of the other things that Mr. Shabazz has noted.
First, here's a stunt that is rumored to be in the works from outgoing Democrats:
This is one problem I have with outgoing governments, they often try to sabotage the incoming crew by creating scenarios that make it difficult for the new group to implement their policies. This is why I think, barring emergency and other serious pressing matters, the old government should not have the authority to enter into situations that will affect the new government. And if they do, the new government should be able to repeal those acts and rescind any contracts that are deemed to not be necessary, once in office.
Then, there is a coming racial component within the local Democratic Party, with the old guard still wanting to cling to what little bit of power, they can. Here is Mr. Shabazz's take on this situation that may be brewing.
Finally, when doing the post-election analysis, there are a lot of things to consider. Again Mr. Shabazz has an excellent take on things. Here is his view and this is one area I would highlight in his analysis:
One lady, I know and work with, did not stay home. She is a lifelong Democrat and pretty much votes a straight ticket, every election. She told me after the election, she had never in her life voted for a Libertarian, but voted for every single one in which there was one running in her district. And that included mayor.
Normally a vote for a Libertarian, means one less vote for a Republican and gives some advantage to the Democratic candidate. But in this case, it didn't. Although she couldn't bring herself to vote for a Republican, she also couldn't bring herself to compromise her conscious and vote for the Dems.
So, there you have it. It's more complicated than this in many respects, but this is it in a nutshell. As I have said before, the election (as tough as it was for Ballard to win) is over. Now the real task is to govern and govern well. Ballard will not make everyone happy, it's not possible in politics; there will always be a long supply of critics, no matter what happens. But since he had no support from his party, he will not owe any favors to anyone. He is free to govern according to his conscious and according to the will of the people that gave him this opportunity.
I truly hope he does this, or we will back to square one, in four short years.
Today, in the same newspaper, we can learn more about this man that beat the odds, so heavily stacked against him. Here is an interview he gave after his upset victory.
It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out this election was a tough road for the new mayor. In fact, just a couple of months ago, it was considered next to impossible. At the very least, most political aficionados thought he would score a "moral" victory by just making the race close. By doing this, many had hoped that it would merely send a message to those in power that they had better get their acts together, or the next time they would be out of power. But apparently, the voters thought four more years (for a spend-aholic government) was too long of a period to waste, hoping that the elected officials would get the message. So, they left nothing to chance.
The news of Ballard's victory may have been shocking to many people, but those of us who can gauge discontent in the electorate, it is not. One other person that gets around town is a man that knows the pulse of the city's political climate, very well. He is a fine American that just happens to be a black, a conservative, and a Muslim. His leanings are mostly Libertarian and believe me when I tell you, if he were to run for an office that I could vote in, I'd give him a good look.
Abdul Hakim Shabazz is not someone that you will hear the ideology of Louis Farrakhan expressed in any other terms, than divisive and dangerous. He has his own morning radio talk show on WXNT AM 1430 and covers many stories here in central Indiana, at the city, state, and national levels. I listen to him on my way to work and I have to say, he accurately predicted that Ballard had a real chance of winning this election. He sums his afterthoughts up well:
I took a few hours off this morning to recuperate from the Election. As I said before, the victory of Greg Ballard over incumbent Bart Peterson was no big shocker. Anyone who paid attention to the rather angry electorate saw this coming. However this is not about past election results, but the new world we enter into today.
But before we look to the future and some real possibilities that a new administration and council may have to offer the people of Indianapolis, let's look at some of the other things that Mr. Shabazz has noted.
First, here's a stunt that is rumored to be in the works from outgoing Democrats:
If Mayor-elect Greg Ballard wants to cut city spending he may find that problem more difficult than he thinks. Sources tell me the Peterson administration is in the process of entering into contracts with vendors that will last well into the Ballard Administration.
This is one problem I have with outgoing governments, they often try to sabotage the incoming crew by creating scenarios that make it difficult for the new group to implement their policies. This is why I think, barring emergency and other serious pressing matters, the old government should not have the authority to enter into situations that will affect the new government. And if they do, the new government should be able to repeal those acts and rescind any contracts that are deemed to not be necessary, once in office.
Then, there is a coming racial component within the local Democratic Party, with the old guard still wanting to cling to what little bit of power, they can. Here is Mr. Shabazz's take on this situation that may be brewing.
Finally, when doing the post-election analysis, there are a lot of things to consider. Again Mr. Shabazz has an excellent take on things. Here is his view and this is one area I would highlight in his analysis:
Since Tuesday I've discovered that a number of Black pastors told their flocks to stay home on Election Day. This would explain why in many areas of town where Democrats were counting on heavier voter turnout, it never materialized. Even the polls showed a significant number of Black voters still undecided about whom to vote for.
So instead of voting for Greg Ballard, they stayed home. I am not surprised at this.
One lady, I know and work with, did not stay home. She is a lifelong Democrat and pretty much votes a straight ticket, every election. She told me after the election, she had never in her life voted for a Libertarian, but voted for every single one in which there was one running in her district. And that included mayor.
Normally a vote for a Libertarian, means one less vote for a Republican and gives some advantage to the Democratic candidate. But in this case, it didn't. Although she couldn't bring herself to vote for a Republican, she also couldn't bring herself to compromise her conscious and vote for the Dems.
So, there you have it. It's more complicated than this in many respects, but this is it in a nutshell. As I have said before, the election (as tough as it was for Ballard to win) is over. Now the real task is to govern and govern well. Ballard will not make everyone happy, it's not possible in politics; there will always be a long supply of critics, no matter what happens. But since he had no support from his party, he will not owe any favors to anyone. He is free to govern according to his conscious and according to the will of the people that gave him this opportunity.
I truly hope he does this, or we will back to square one, in four short years.
PYY Sunday Reader
Here is a collection of some articles, stories, and essays that I think are worth a read on your Sunday.
Today is Veterans Day in the United States. A deep heart-felt thank you to all veterans that read PYY. It's no big secret that one of my favorite veterans in the world is my good friend, Mustang. At his site, Social Sense, he has a piece you may want to read.
Every time I pass a flag flying in the wind, I immediately think of how men, braver than me, have paid a price, so that flag can fly high and proud. Their sacrifices have not gone unnoticed and are much appreciated. So, if you see a vet today, give him/her a special thanks for their contributions to the freedom we are all so very fortunate to enjoy. Many people have longed for this kind of freedom and cannot attain it.
October is still alive in Amerloque's heart. As always, he displays the natural talent of painting a lucid and picturesque image of life in Europe. His prose is always a delight to read and just by reading the descriptions of his life, it will make a person want to experience this place, he now calls home. If you are like me in this respect, you will not want to miss his latest communique to the cyberworld.
War is never a good thing. It may be necessary at times, and there are times when it it may not be. As a soldier, sailor, or marine, you always hope that the cause you are asked to fight for is noble, cannot be settled any other way, and is well-planned out with well-defined objectives. From most of his writings, you can gather that Flocon is (and has been) highly critical of the Iraq war. Now, he is questioning the wisdom of an extended operation of Afghanistan. The questions he asks and the points he tries to make in this essay are all fair, and worthy of some thought and consideration.
Hugo Chavez is very prone to miscalculation. Evidently, he assumes that he can say whatever he wants to anyone, at anytime. This especially rings true when he assumes that everyone that is critical of American policy will instantly want to hear his disrespectful socialist diatribes. Well, not everyone is willing to listen to some third-world dictator, and hack in the making, bad-mouth a former constitutionally elected leader of their nation. The King of Spain was one such person.
Democrats are getting nervous about the coming 2008 election. And I think there are a lot of good reasons for this. Here are a few that the liberal American Prospect seems to think are possible reasons for the anxiety. I will add that there is a strong anti-incumbent sentiment, with much of it that could conceivably be directed at Congress, next year.
Today is Veterans Day in the United States. A deep heart-felt thank you to all veterans that read PYY. It's no big secret that one of my favorite veterans in the world is my good friend, Mustang. At his site, Social Sense, he has a piece you may want to read.
Every time I pass a flag flying in the wind, I immediately think of how men, braver than me, have paid a price, so that flag can fly high and proud. Their sacrifices have not gone unnoticed and are much appreciated. So, if you see a vet today, give him/her a special thanks for their contributions to the freedom we are all so very fortunate to enjoy. Many people have longed for this kind of freedom and cannot attain it.
October is still alive in Amerloque's heart. As always, he displays the natural talent of painting a lucid and picturesque image of life in Europe. His prose is always a delight to read and just by reading the descriptions of his life, it will make a person want to experience this place, he now calls home. If you are like me in this respect, you will not want to miss his latest communique to the cyberworld.
War is never a good thing. It may be necessary at times, and there are times when it it may not be. As a soldier, sailor, or marine, you always hope that the cause you are asked to fight for is noble, cannot be settled any other way, and is well-planned out with well-defined objectives. From most of his writings, you can gather that Flocon is (and has been) highly critical of the Iraq war. Now, he is questioning the wisdom of an extended operation of Afghanistan. The questions he asks and the points he tries to make in this essay are all fair, and worthy of some thought and consideration.
Hugo Chavez is very prone to miscalculation. Evidently, he assumes that he can say whatever he wants to anyone, at anytime. This especially rings true when he assumes that everyone that is critical of American policy will instantly want to hear his disrespectful socialist diatribes. Well, not everyone is willing to listen to some third-world dictator, and hack in the making, bad-mouth a former constitutionally elected leader of their nation. The King of Spain was one such person.
Democrats are getting nervous about the coming 2008 election. And I think there are a lot of good reasons for this. Here are a few that the liberal American Prospect seems to think are possible reasons for the anxiety. I will add that there is a strong anti-incumbent sentiment, with much of it that could conceivably be directed at Congress, next year.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Another Blast From The Past
There aren't many rock bands that can say they touched three decades with success. This weekend's installment features a band that had hits in the 60s, 70s, and 80s. Pete Townsend, lead guitarist of the Who, was a big fan of these guys and thought their songs were the highest form of poetry.
For a brief moment, early in their existence, they sported a lead singer by the name of Rod Stewart. By now, we all know that didn't work out so well; and after calling themselves the Bo-Weevils, Ramrods, and Ravens, they settled on a name that stuck for the duration.
This weekend, PYY salutes the music of The Kinks.
This first song didn't make the charts in Britain, but made it to #13 in the United States. Here is Well Respected Man:
Next up is a song about the state of the world and its social consciousness, in the 70s. The video isn't the best, but the song is one of my favorites. Here is Apeman:
What Kinks tribute could be complete without their biggest and best known hit of their career. This is about something I was lucky to have never experienced in my wilder days, but a guy I once worked with did. It's a song about an drunken encounter with a tranvestite, the name of the song is Lola:
Finally, we have my favorite song by Ray and the boys, from 1983. This song became their highest rated American hit, and is about nostalgia and progress. If you are old enough to remember the dance halls of the 50s and 60s, you'll love this one. Here is Come Dancing:
Enjoy.
For a brief moment, early in their existence, they sported a lead singer by the name of Rod Stewart. By now, we all know that didn't work out so well; and after calling themselves the Bo-Weevils, Ramrods, and Ravens, they settled on a name that stuck for the duration.
This weekend, PYY salutes the music of The Kinks.
This first song didn't make the charts in Britain, but made it to #13 in the United States. Here is Well Respected Man:
Next up is a song about the state of the world and its social consciousness, in the 70s. The video isn't the best, but the song is one of my favorites. Here is Apeman:
What Kinks tribute could be complete without their biggest and best known hit of their career. This is about something I was lucky to have never experienced in my wilder days, but a guy I once worked with did. It's a song about an drunken encounter with a tranvestite, the name of the song is Lola:
Finally, we have my favorite song by Ray and the boys, from 1983. This song became their highest rated American hit, and is about nostalgia and progress. If you are old enough to remember the dance halls of the 50s and 60s, you'll love this one. Here is Come Dancing:
Enjoy.
Friday, November 09, 2007
When Voter Apathy Turns To Anger
As we see the approval numbers that Congress is pulling in these days, we see that voters are not a bit happy with the performance of their elected officials. As I reported from the heartland this week, the voters were not happy with their leaders in Indianapolis and in turn, they demanded change at the ballot box. I stated in one of my several posts on the Indy municipal election, this was a microcosm of the mood and the feelings of the entire nation.
What the nation's leaders need to desperately realize is something they may not realize, until they are made to realize it. People did not vote for the Democrats, they voted against the GOP. The same thing happened in Indy four years ago. The GOP controlled the city's legislature, they people had enough of their mismanagement and voted for change by voting them out and giving the Dems a chance.
The local Dems, not unlike the national, promised that a new crew would do better and would end the corruption. But what we got here and what we still see in Washington is a worse case situation, much worse. The Dems have taken our support lightly. They have thumbed their noses at the electorate. It now worse, than before.
Today, it apparent to me that as a nation, if we will thumb our noses at them when it's time to vote, we can and will send them back to wherever they came from and replace them with someone else. There is nothing more satisfying than to send a corrupt and/or incompetent politician a clear message, by putting them out of work.
If you doubt my thesis, just watch the news articles and op-eds in the coming months. A good place to start is with this piece, right here.
There will be more like this one, I am sure. I know I plan to say up on it, I would love nothing more than to see an anti-incumbent sentiment swell to the point that something actually gets done. More dissatisfaction will grow and it will manifest itself, at the ballot box.
One of the news talk shows here locally credited the local bloggers for helping get the new mayor elected, since he had no money to get his message out. If this can happen here, it can happen anywhere.
What the nation's leaders need to desperately realize is something they may not realize, until they are made to realize it. People did not vote for the Democrats, they voted against the GOP. The same thing happened in Indy four years ago. The GOP controlled the city's legislature, they people had enough of their mismanagement and voted for change by voting them out and giving the Dems a chance.
The local Dems, not unlike the national, promised that a new crew would do better and would end the corruption. But what we got here and what we still see in Washington is a worse case situation, much worse. The Dems have taken our support lightly. They have thumbed their noses at the electorate. It now worse, than before.
Today, it apparent to me that as a nation, if we will thumb our noses at them when it's time to vote, we can and will send them back to wherever they came from and replace them with someone else. There is nothing more satisfying than to send a corrupt and/or incompetent politician a clear message, by putting them out of work.
If you doubt my thesis, just watch the news articles and op-eds in the coming months. A good place to start is with this piece, right here.
There will be more like this one, I am sure. I know I plan to say up on it, I would love nothing more than to see an anti-incumbent sentiment swell to the point that something actually gets done. More dissatisfaction will grow and it will manifest itself, at the ballot box.
One of the news talk shows here locally credited the local bloggers for helping get the new mayor elected, since he had no money to get his message out. If this can happen here, it can happen anywhere.
Thursday, November 08, 2007
A Case Against EU Expansion
Flocon, a Frenchman and a good friend of PYY, has made his case against further EU expansion.
It's in English and you can read about it here.
It's in English and you can read about it here.
News In Brief (And The Usual Opinionated Commentary)
Bill Clinton Says Hillary Being Swiftboated
Bill Clinton came out hard against those that would dare to criticize his wife. It seems that any criticism against Democrat is now known as swiftboating. Never mind if the criticism is valid or not, according to Democrats it's "not fair". And you thought 12 year olds were the only ones unreasonable.
Obama: Bill's Swiftboat Claim Ridiculous
It's not often I agree with Obama, but in this story he seems to understand the concept of political criticism. Let's just see how he reacts, when the barbs are aimed at him.
Wrong Way Obama?
If you thought Obama gives the nation some direction, wait'll you get a load of this story. If you cannot employ someone in your camp that flies an airplane and cannot read a map, I worry. So, does this mean if we decide to bomb Iran and hit India instead, we will have much credibility?
Georgia Under State Of Emergency
Pakistan is not the only country that's in a mess. The nation of Georgia has joined the ranks of the unstable. I would wager to guess, this is probably because Russia cannot stand a neighbor, once in its sphere of influence, having enough stability to not need assistance from the former oppressive Soviet Republic, now known as Russia.
Chronic Homelessness Down
When we are speaking of the homeless, we can all note that when a Democrat is in the White House, there is none. That's because the media will not report about the problem. Only when a Republican is at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, will we hear how bad it is.
Likewise when the actual numbers drop (under a GOP), we won't hear much about it. But this link tells the story and so far not much from the MSM on this particular story.
Productivity Up
Another story that's MIA in the MSM. I am sure there can and will be numbers gurus coming up with all kinds of counters to the rise. But, these are the numbers nonetheless.
Sarkozy Warns Of Trade War If Dollar Continues Plunge
When I was in Germany in the late 70s, the Dollar was plunging against the German Mark. One the few smart things Carter did when he was President was buy back some of those Dollars. It gave the Dollar an instant boost. I am no economist, but maybe it's time for a bold move like that.
Bill Clinton came out hard against those that would dare to criticize his wife. It seems that any criticism against Democrat is now known as swiftboating. Never mind if the criticism is valid or not, according to Democrats it's "not fair". And you thought 12 year olds were the only ones unreasonable.
Obama: Bill's Swiftboat Claim Ridiculous
It's not often I agree with Obama, but in this story he seems to understand the concept of political criticism. Let's just see how he reacts, when the barbs are aimed at him.
Wrong Way Obama?
If you thought Obama gives the nation some direction, wait'll you get a load of this story. If you cannot employ someone in your camp that flies an airplane and cannot read a map, I worry. So, does this mean if we decide to bomb Iran and hit India instead, we will have much credibility?
Georgia Under State Of Emergency
Pakistan is not the only country that's in a mess. The nation of Georgia has joined the ranks of the unstable. I would wager to guess, this is probably because Russia cannot stand a neighbor, once in its sphere of influence, having enough stability to not need assistance from the former oppressive Soviet Republic, now known as Russia.
Chronic Homelessness Down
When we are speaking of the homeless, we can all note that when a Democrat is in the White House, there is none. That's because the media will not report about the problem. Only when a Republican is at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, will we hear how bad it is.
Likewise when the actual numbers drop (under a GOP), we won't hear much about it. But this link tells the story and so far not much from the MSM on this particular story.
Productivity Up
Another story that's MIA in the MSM. I am sure there can and will be numbers gurus coming up with all kinds of counters to the rise. But, these are the numbers nonetheless.
Sarkozy Warns Of Trade War If Dollar Continues Plunge
When I was in Germany in the late 70s, the Dollar was plunging against the German Mark. One the few smart things Carter did when he was President was buy back some of those Dollars. It gave the Dollar an instant boost. I am no economist, but maybe it's time for a bold move like that.
The Racism Hoax
A noose in Jena Louisiana leads to a brutal beating of a teen. The rest of the story is now well-known, it culminates with massive protests sparked by race baiting activists. Ask the activists why the beating took place, it is blamed on the noose.
Another noose is found at a Columbia University black professor's office door. Again, there is an outcry and protests ensue.
At Ball State University in Indiana, an African-American basketball coach finds a racist hate note, slipped under the door of his office. Didn't hear about it? Here is a search that gives plenty of reaction to that one. The outcome? The coach resigns. But if we read a follow-up, there's more than meets the eye, in this one.
More recently, a swastika was found painted on a door at George Washington University dorm room door. But, the culprit was the student that filed the complaint.
So, now we have to ask ourselves some questions about the nooses in Jena and Columbia, as well as the racial hate note at BSU. Could it be possible that they were planted to incite protests and possibly riots? Has there been any proof that these things weren't hoaxes as well?
Clarence Page has an op-ed piece that you won't want to miss. I recommend reading it before buying into the madness and the frenzy that usually follows something like hanging a noose, at least until you know the entire story.
Racism is big business, at least it is for the likes of Jackson and Sharpton. Something to think about, before jumping on some outrage bandwagon.
Another noose is found at a Columbia University black professor's office door. Again, there is an outcry and protests ensue.
At Ball State University in Indiana, an African-American basketball coach finds a racist hate note, slipped under the door of his office. Didn't hear about it? Here is a search that gives plenty of reaction to that one. The outcome? The coach resigns. But if we read a follow-up, there's more than meets the eye, in this one.
More recently, a swastika was found painted on a door at George Washington University dorm room door. But, the culprit was the student that filed the complaint.
So, now we have to ask ourselves some questions about the nooses in Jena and Columbia, as well as the racial hate note at BSU. Could it be possible that they were planted to incite protests and possibly riots? Has there been any proof that these things weren't hoaxes as well?
Clarence Page has an op-ed piece that you won't want to miss. I recommend reading it before buying into the madness and the frenzy that usually follows something like hanging a noose, at least until you know the entire story.
Racism is big business, at least it is for the likes of Jackson and Sharpton. Something to think about, before jumping on some outrage bandwagon.
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
Terre Haute Elects Republican Mayor
Not only did the city of Indianapolis do what no one expected (by voting out a strong incumbent), another Indiana city has gone against the grain in a huge way.
Terre Haute, Indiana, has been a Democratic strong hold for decades. Not since the late 60s has there been a GOP mayor. I remember when I lived there, the union mentality was so pronounced and so entrenched into the people's value systems, I witnessed a picket line at a drug store chain.
And we all know how unions gravitate to the Democratic Party.
But yesterday another upset occurred, something that no one in that city of 60,000 (or so) would have ever expected. The western Indiana city best known for its strong union presence, home of Indiana State University, and the birthplace of Eugene V. Debs, Socialist Party candidate for President in the early 1900s, elected a Republican mayor named Duke Bennett.
This demonstrates the tide of anti-incumbent sentiment. Incumbent Mayor Kevin Burke became the fourth consecutive incumbent to go down in defeat, something that has happened since 1991. Until yesterday, all of those incumbents were voted out in the Democratic primaries. Until yesterday, the primaries were the points where the elections were decided, because a Democrat was always guaranteed victory in November.
So, to my national and international reading audience, I say look at what some hard work at the grass roots level can do. Whenever people say, "I think there's nothing that can be done about it", maybe it's time to think again. Well-funded machine candidates can lose, if the people choose to vote them out. It's simple, just go to the polls and place a vote. If enough people can do it, the results can be different than in years past.
Terre Haute, Indiana, has been a Democratic strong hold for decades. Not since the late 60s has there been a GOP mayor. I remember when I lived there, the union mentality was so pronounced and so entrenched into the people's value systems, I witnessed a picket line at a drug store chain.
And we all know how unions gravitate to the Democratic Party.
But yesterday another upset occurred, something that no one in that city of 60,000 (or so) would have ever expected. The western Indiana city best known for its strong union presence, home of Indiana State University, and the birthplace of Eugene V. Debs, Socialist Party candidate for President in the early 1900s, elected a Republican mayor named Duke Bennett.
This demonstrates the tide of anti-incumbent sentiment. Incumbent Mayor Kevin Burke became the fourth consecutive incumbent to go down in defeat, something that has happened since 1991. Until yesterday, all of those incumbents were voted out in the Democratic primaries. Until yesterday, the primaries were the points where the elections were decided, because a Democrat was always guaranteed victory in November.
So, to my national and international reading audience, I say look at what some hard work at the grass roots level can do. Whenever people say, "I think there's nothing that can be done about it", maybe it's time to think again. Well-funded machine candidates can lose, if the people choose to vote them out. It's simple, just go to the polls and place a vote. If enough people can do it, the results can be different than in years past.
How To Call A Bluff: The Impeachment Of Cheney
Michelle Malkin has some pretty thorough coverage of yesterday's House debacle, where Presidential candidate and UFO sighter Dennis Kucinich brought forth a motion to impeach VP Cheney.
If there was any doubt how utterly incompetent this bunch of legislators are, this should set your mind straight and help you to see the way, more clearly. I think it was a brilliant piece of calling the hot air society's bluff.
Hat Tip: AC at Fore Left
If there was any doubt how utterly incompetent this bunch of legislators are, this should set your mind straight and help you to see the way, more clearly. I think it was a brilliant piece of calling the hot air society's bluff.
Hat Tip: AC at Fore Left
Some PYY Thoughts On The Oprah Scandal
If you've been in solitary seclusion fasting and praying for world peace, you may have missed this one. But for those that haven't been in a monastery somewhere, I'll leave the redundancy out, as it has been covered ad nauseum in the media.
Here are a few quick thoughts for your consideration:
1. I am not a fan of Oprah.
2. I think her heart was in the right place here, she was sincere in wanting to help these kids.
3. I think she is doing the best she can to rectify the situation, despite the fact that the damage cannot be undone.
4. Repairing the damage is an unusually hard task to undertake, especially when she has no real role models that take responsibility and accept accountability when screwing up. Very few people accept they've made a mistake and usually project blame on anyone else they can. Everyone except themselves.
5. If the media keeps bashing her for this, it may be a long time before anyone tries to do something like this, to help those that need help.
And people wonder why more wealthy people don't get involved in third world charities.
Here are a few quick thoughts for your consideration:
1. I am not a fan of Oprah.
2. I think her heart was in the right place here, she was sincere in wanting to help these kids.
3. I think she is doing the best she can to rectify the situation, despite the fact that the damage cannot be undone.
4. Repairing the damage is an unusually hard task to undertake, especially when she has no real role models that take responsibility and accept accountability when screwing up. Very few people accept they've made a mistake and usually project blame on anyone else they can. Everyone except themselves.
5. If the media keeps bashing her for this, it may be a long time before anyone tries to do something like this, to help those that need help.
And people wonder why more wealthy people don't get involved in third world charities.
Air Sarko Lands In Washington
Probably much to the dismay of some French, Air Sarko l’Américain has landed and plans to "reconquer the heart of America". Just by making a statement like this, he is putting the world on notice that he is the "anti-Chirac", who would never be caught dead saying something like this.
Chirac and those that loved him for standing up to America, the big bully of the world, are surely seething at such a bold gesture being made on the part of the French President. And it has been said that there was a rumbling sound (like a restless sleeper often makes), heard at the site of Charles de Gaulle's tomb, last night.
But this is not only a diplomatic coming out ball for the new French leader. You can bet that things will be discussed along the way. There is a crisis brewing in Iran and I am sure this topic will be brought up in a formal diplomatic setting, once the love and accolades have been exchanged.
It is highly unlikely that any overt military options will be discussed. But you can bet there very well may be some covert and a wide array of political options covered.
Chirac and those that loved him for standing up to America, the big bully of the world, are surely seething at such a bold gesture being made on the part of the French President. And it has been said that there was a rumbling sound (like a restless sleeper often makes), heard at the site of Charles de Gaulle's tomb, last night.
But this is not only a diplomatic coming out ball for the new French leader. You can bet that things will be discussed along the way. There is a crisis brewing in Iran and I am sure this topic will be brought up in a formal diplomatic setting, once the love and accolades have been exchanged.
It is highly unlikely that any overt military options will be discussed. But you can bet there very well may be some covert and a wide array of political options covered.
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
Mayor-Elect Greg Ballard
As much as I have grown to have a genuine disdain for politics, it hasn't always been so. As a political aficionado for most of my years, there is nothing like election night.
But lately, there really hasn't been much to look forward to.
You hear people complain about their elected officials, they rip them a new orifice at every opportunity, they threaten to vote "the bums" out, and then they go vote for them. That's how machines get built.
When the machine wears down and fails to perform adequately, you must get a new one. When a group of elected officials insulate and distance themselves and thoroughly disregard the rights and the will of the people, they must be replaced. The only way to do this is to vote against them.
That's what the city of Indianapolis did tonight. They saw an ineffective, corrupt, and arrogant machine and they traded it in.
Tonight, LTC Greg Ballard USMC (Ret.) became Mayor-Elect Greg Ballard, leader of the nation's 12th largest city. With no party support and no money, he has won one of the biggest upset victories in the history of Indiana politics and one of the largest grass roots campaign ever. With some civic outrage, some will, and some determination he has beaten a machine candidate that had millions to spend.
Not only did the mayor's race fall to the opponent of the mighty Democratic incumbent, the city-county council also changed hands. Rozelle Boyd (former council president), Lonnell Conley (lover of taxation), and Ron Gibson (the one accused of assault on a police officer at Indiana Black Expo, charges were later mysteriously dropped.) were all voted out of office. Other Democratic incumbents were too.
But, Indianapolis residents know that the GOP had their dinosaurs too. A couple of them decided not to run early, because they were tired of not being in control. So, in a sense, it was a double whammy.
Democratic incumbents voted out, GOP incumbents not running, it seems like Indy purged itself of some dead weight today. There was a ballot box revolution. And when all is said and done, this election will go down in the record books and forever be known as one in which the people got mad and did something about, instead of just bitching about it. This is the one that will be known as, the one that made a difference.
This was a true anti-incumbency movement that both got a hold of and gained traction, the closer the election came. It is a microcosm of what could happen on a national level, if people got their collective heads out of the sand. It showed what could happen when someone has the guts to stand up for their wishes and desires. It is the essence of what has always fascinated me about American politics, the fact that people can fire their government and never fire a shot.
So to the new mayor and council members, I say congratulations. You have your work cut out for you. But never forget, why you were sent. People were irritated enough to send someone with no prior political experience, to do their business. They have entrusted you to clean up the stinking mess. And with that in mind, when you govern and make important decisions, you should always keep in mind the ocean tide. The same tide that swept you in, can also sweep you back out.
Note-I misidentified Mr. Borst as Larry, not Philip. Larry was his father the long-time state legislator. It has been struck and corrected. My apologies for the confusion.
A Short History Of Israeli- Palestinian Conflict
It's something all should read, especially if you don't know the history. It's also good to read, if you do.
As usual, Mustang outdoes himself, read it here.
As usual, Mustang outdoes himself, read it here.
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