For an outstanding post co-written by PYY friends Mustang and Leslie, go over to Blunt Politics. It's lot of stuff to reflect on and digest.
And I am sure she won't mind if you leave a comment, under my lengthy filibuster.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Another Blast From The Past
I have certainly made known my extreme fondness of great music over the past few years. One of the best artists I have ever heard is one who is not extremely well-known in America. I partly think that is because many have thought him to be very close to the style of Mark Knopfler, the frontman for Dire Straits.
Let me say, I think Knopfler is a very talented artist worthy of all accolades he has received heretofore. But I think that when you listen all of the music, Chris Rea has a much more versatile sound. I think he does much better at blending more traditional folksy blues-based rock, with excellent brass accompaniment.
I know I have featured Mr. Rea's music before, but I think he is well worth another one. First up is a song that has such an outstanding arrangement that it will have you tapping your foot right along. See what you think:
The same perfect mixture of brass and strings is also present in this next tune. Even the Colonel might want to go out dancing after hearing this one:
Enjoy.
Let me say, I think Knopfler is a very talented artist worthy of all accolades he has received heretofore. But I think that when you listen all of the music, Chris Rea has a much more versatile sound. I think he does much better at blending more traditional folksy blues-based rock, with excellent brass accompaniment.
I know I have featured Mr. Rea's music before, but I think he is well worth another one. First up is a song that has such an outstanding arrangement that it will have you tapping your foot right along. See what you think:
The same perfect mixture of brass and strings is also present in this next tune. Even the Colonel might want to go out dancing after hearing this one:
Enjoy.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Friday Funnies
The abuse that younger brothers sometimes suffer at the hands of their older brothers is not always fun. But there is redemption:
Enjoy.
Enjoy.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Summit Talk
I have been home today, sick with a wicked sinus infection. And the highlight of my day has been watching the theatrical stage of what is being asked to pass for a bipartisan healthcare summit.
And let me say, what an incredible waste of time and money it was.
Time keepers have been noting that the President has been talking three times the amount of the GOP membership. The Democrats in total have dominated it around twice as long. They are the ones who cried foul over minority rights for the entire time the GOP was in power, but they show no inclination to lead by example. In fact, all we have gotten today was another fine lecture as to what "we the people" need.
Never mind that there has been nothing accomplished here today. I find the saddest thing in this is, the American people are clearly against the bill in this current form. Period. No ifs, ands, or buts, they oppose it. But they are going to impose their will anyway.
We had Nancy Pelosi saying this would create 4 million jobs, with 400,000 almost immediately. So, Nancy, how's that going to happen? Is the government going to grow that much under this flawed plan?
We have watched trillions of dollars spent over the last year, we have seen nothing positive come out of any monies spent. We have seen dirty backroom deals for votes, and have watched with disgust. We the people have been powerless to effect any change on what the government is trying to impose.
But once again, this is what the American people got for representation when we voted for these arrogant elitists in 2008. Now we are facing the biggest crisis in the history of our nation, not related to a war. And believe me, all of us are going to be paying dearly for this.
And let me say, what an incredible waste of time and money it was.
Time keepers have been noting that the President has been talking three times the amount of the GOP membership. The Democrats in total have dominated it around twice as long. They are the ones who cried foul over minority rights for the entire time the GOP was in power, but they show no inclination to lead by example. In fact, all we have gotten today was another fine lecture as to what "we the people" need.
Never mind that there has been nothing accomplished here today. I find the saddest thing in this is, the American people are clearly against the bill in this current form. Period. No ifs, ands, or buts, they oppose it. But they are going to impose their will anyway.
We had Nancy Pelosi saying this would create 4 million jobs, with 400,000 almost immediately. So, Nancy, how's that going to happen? Is the government going to grow that much under this flawed plan?
We have watched trillions of dollars spent over the last year, we have seen nothing positive come out of any monies spent. We have seen dirty backroom deals for votes, and have watched with disgust. We the people have been powerless to effect any change on what the government is trying to impose.
But once again, this is what the American people got for representation when we voted for these arrogant elitists in 2008. Now we are facing the biggest crisis in the history of our nation, not related to a war. And believe me, all of us are going to be paying dearly for this.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Hypocrisy Revisited
And so it goes, another fine flip-flop has been noted, and brought to you by the party in power. Let's take a look at Democrats back in the Nuclear Option debate of 2005:
Now it's different.
Do you see? This is what we are talking about. It's this kind of elitist pandering that insults the average person's intelligence. If it was wrong then (and it was), it's wrong now.
ADDENDUM:
Want to see the deterioration of the unemployment numbers, take a look at this. Press play.
(HT: Boortz)
Now it's different.
Do you see? This is what we are talking about. It's this kind of elitist pandering that insults the average person's intelligence. If it was wrong then (and it was), it's wrong now.
ADDENDUM:
Want to see the deterioration of the unemployment numbers, take a look at this. Press play.
(HT: Boortz)
Not A Test
Well, we cannot say we didn't see it coming. Overall, we must be ready to accept that this government (especially this Congress) is out of touch with all but a minority of the people.
With such a low showing in the latest Rasmussen poll, I have to wonder: Who are the 10% of people, who really think their Congress is doing a good job?
Who could they be?
I bet most are either:
A) The government.
B) Those who are dependent on government.
Big government needs itself. Because they are the causes of the problems, they say need to be fixed. It's a co-dependent, unusual, symbiotic relationship. One begets the other.
The people who need big government are those people, who the government has thoroughly convinced that they need their services.... or they cannot survive. They are the tools, they are the weapons. Without them, the government believes they have no other purpose.
But in the meantime, big government sticks it to the people who are working hard to not be dependent on the government, but on themselves. Can anyone who thinks government is the answer to everything tell me, how this is the slightest bit fair?
If you haven't read Mustang's post today, I would recommend that you do so. Take a look at the taxes that we are required to pay to run a government. Even with this multitude of revenue sources, the government still spends far more than it brings in.
Right now, big government is telling us that it needs to be bigger. They want you and me to believe that they know what's best for us all and that is to spend more money.
Spend, spend, spend.
Borrow, borrow, borrow.
Print, print, print.
Then, tax. tax, tax.
Almost all growth that has taken place since Obama took office has been generated by money that the government has borrowed. Government has grown and so have Democratic special interest lobbying firms.
They have spent trillions that have produced no results. They have been lining the pockets of the union bosses, the Soros-styled bankers clique, and the legal industry, so it comes as no surprise that nothing has materialized in the private sector.
Get ready America. Because if you do not kick these people out of office and replace them with more competent leadership, your taxes are going to raise to pay for all of this squandering .
All of it.
By re-electing this bunch, you will be surrendering power unto them, almost unlimited. They will feel empowered to run over all of us and will not stop. Reinforcing the current political model is not the message that needs to be sent. Things need cleaned up and fast.
This is not a test of the emergency broadcast system.
This is real.
With such a low showing in the latest Rasmussen poll, I have to wonder: Who are the 10% of people, who really think their Congress is doing a good job?
Who could they be?
I bet most are either:
A) The government.
B) Those who are dependent on government.
Big government needs itself. Because they are the causes of the problems, they say need to be fixed. It's a co-dependent, unusual, symbiotic relationship. One begets the other.
The people who need big government are those people, who the government has thoroughly convinced that they need their services.... or they cannot survive. They are the tools, they are the weapons. Without them, the government believes they have no other purpose.
But in the meantime, big government sticks it to the people who are working hard to not be dependent on the government, but on themselves. Can anyone who thinks government is the answer to everything tell me, how this is the slightest bit fair?
If you haven't read Mustang's post today, I would recommend that you do so. Take a look at the taxes that we are required to pay to run a government. Even with this multitude of revenue sources, the government still spends far more than it brings in.
Right now, big government is telling us that it needs to be bigger. They want you and me to believe that they know what's best for us all and that is to spend more money.
Spend, spend, spend.
Borrow, borrow, borrow.
Print, print, print.
Then, tax. tax, tax.
Almost all growth that has taken place since Obama took office has been generated by money that the government has borrowed. Government has grown and so have Democratic special interest lobbying firms.
They have spent trillions that have produced no results. They have been lining the pockets of the union bosses, the Soros-styled bankers clique, and the legal industry, so it comes as no surprise that nothing has materialized in the private sector.
Get ready America. Because if you do not kick these people out of office and replace them with more competent leadership, your taxes are going to raise to pay for all of this squandering .
All of it.
By re-electing this bunch, you will be surrendering power unto them, almost unlimited. They will feel empowered to run over all of us and will not stop. Reinforcing the current political model is not the message that needs to be sent. Things need cleaned up and fast.
This is not a test of the emergency broadcast system.
This is real.
Monday, February 22, 2010
TEA Partiers Are Pro-Government
Allow me to start off with a real "Facebook" approach to this post by saying that it's gray outside and I am ready for the weather to make a positive turn, soon. Now that I have said that, let me say that in the midst of yesterday's dismal lethargic morning I did find time to listen to a few minutes of Meet The Press -- just before I took my nasally congested grandson home to his mother.
The inherently arrogant and smug David Gregory aptly demonstrated why he has earned his adjectives. Here is the wording of his question to Rep. Mike Pence:
Pence was his usual professional self. He gently corrected the most prevalent misconception that the elitist leftist establishment wants everyone to believe, which is the TEA Party members are anti-government. They are not.
The interesting thing is that these are the same people, who think we are utterly clueless. But at the same time, they openly and naively fall for the inherent myth that government is a panacea to all of our problems .... and that we as a culture are incapable of living without them.
To anyone stumbling onto this blog by happenstance, let's be clear on something. I am a proud American and I am not anti-government. I do not advocate of overthrowing anything at all, despite the image Bozo Gregory wants you to believe.
I do want the same structural framework that was built by the founding fathers to be restored. I want the federal government to take care of things that effect out nation on a macro level that cannot be done on the state level. No more, no less.
They need to protect our borders, be responsible for the common defense, protect out interests abroad, and settle disputes between the states. They do not need to be involved in every aspect of our lives.
We want Washington to be accountable for their actions and want them to stop their ever increasing hunger and thirst for more of our money, and power over us. We want better and smarter government, one that truly meets the needs of the people and not the interests of the politicians who lord over us.
How is that anti-government?
The inherently arrogant and smug David Gregory aptly demonstrated why he has earned his adjectives. Here is the wording of his question to Rep. Mike Pence:
MR. GREGORY: Congressman Pence, you spoke at the, the gathering of conservatives this week. Dick Armey spoke there as well, then the leader of this tea party movement. Is the tea party movement, an--as an anti-government movement, is it part of the Republican Party?
REP. PENCE: Well, I don't know. You know, E.J. did that anti-government thing. Look, and the president said this week, he said something about, "You've got these people who are against government," you know. In...
MR. GREGORY: Well, they're not pro-government, that's fair, right?
REP. PENCE: Right, no. The American people aren't against government, they're against big government. They're, they're tired of borrowing and spending and bailouts and takeovers. And the people that you characterize...
MR. GREGORY: But my question is about are they part of the Republican Party, do you believe?
REP. PENCE: The people that you characterize, the tea party movement, are a group of--I was there at 9/12 on the National Mall. I've spoken to tea party rallies and town hall meetings. David, I'm telling you, these are decent, God-fearing, hard-working, everyday Americans...
MR. GREGORY: Right.
REP. PENCE: ...who just know we can't pile this mountain range of debt on our children and grandchildren.
Pence was his usual professional self. He gently corrected the most prevalent misconception that the elitist leftist establishment wants everyone to believe, which is the TEA Party members are anti-government. They are not.
The interesting thing is that these are the same people, who think we are utterly clueless. But at the same time, they openly and naively fall for the inherent myth that government is a panacea to all of our problems .... and that we as a culture are incapable of living without them.
To anyone stumbling onto this blog by happenstance, let's be clear on something. I am a proud American and I am not anti-government. I do not advocate of overthrowing anything at all, despite the image Bozo Gregory wants you to believe.
I do want the same structural framework that was built by the founding fathers to be restored. I want the federal government to take care of things that effect out nation on a macro level that cannot be done on the state level. No more, no less.
They need to protect our borders, be responsible for the common defense, protect out interests abroad, and settle disputes between the states. They do not need to be involved in every aspect of our lives.
We want Washington to be accountable for their actions and want them to stop their ever increasing hunger and thirst for more of our money, and power over us. We want better and smarter government, one that truly meets the needs of the people and not the interests of the politicians who lord over us.
How is that anti-government?
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Another Blast From The Past
No special themes this week. Just a few tunes that I heard this past week, ones went through my head a little now and then when it was quiet.
From the mid-60s, comes this classic:
From the very same time period, they don't get any better than this one:
Enjoy.
From the mid-60s, comes this classic:
From the very same time period, they don't get any better than this one:
Enjoy.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Out Of Focus
The Alabama professor being charged with Capital Murder (for the shooting deaths of her peers) seems to be painting an odd picture of herself.
So let me see if I can get this one right: I am sorry that I shot those people, who I do not remember shooting. Does that sum it up?
Just asking.
But more importantly, I cannot get over the irony of people saying: She seemed so very normal -- never did we think she was even slightly capable of this. She gave us no indication at all.
We find that an incompetent or corrupt group of law enforcement officials screwed up a case against her, for killing her brother. We learn of allegations of a bomb sent to Harvard. And if that wasn't enough, we learn that she assaulted a waitress over a booster seat.
We are educated, we are enlightened and intellectual beings...far above so many of the peasants and plebeians who do not understand our special powers of wisdom.
But honestly, we never knew. We never made the connection.
We did not see a thing.
The Alabama university professor charged with fatally shooting three colleagues is remorseful but does not recall the shooting, her defense attorney said Friday.
So let me see if I can get this one right: I am sorry that I shot those people, who I do not remember shooting. Does that sum it up?
Just asking.
But more importantly, I cannot get over the irony of people saying: She seemed so very normal -- never did we think she was even slightly capable of this. She gave us no indication at all.
We find that an incompetent or corrupt group of law enforcement officials screwed up a case against her, for killing her brother. We learn of allegations of a bomb sent to Harvard. And if that wasn't enough, we learn that she assaulted a waitress over a booster seat.
We are educated, we are enlightened and intellectual beings...far above so many of the peasants and plebeians who do not understand our special powers of wisdom.
But honestly, we never knew. We never made the connection.
We did not see a thing.
Friday Funnies
This week we send you to one of my very favorite blogs on the web, Mustang's Social Sense for a few words on paranormal activity.
Enjoy.
Enjoy.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Governmental Gait
I want the federal government's power stripped down to as little as necessary, just as much as the next man. But there are times when I think people want to take it just a little too far, too quickly.
This is a prime example.
You have to crawl before you can walk. Baby steps. then big steps. You can't run until you walk.
You cannot bite off too much, too fast. You will not be able to swallow it all and will need to spit it back out.
As long as we move in the right direction and make reasonable efforts to rid ourselves of the dead weight, we can restore that which has been lost for so many years. We must understand that too much shifting can and will over-correct the system..... and can have an overly shocking effect on it.
This act by Rep. Pitts is ridiculous. Maybe it can be revisited some years from now. But until the time is right, we must allow the system to absorb the changes we seek to make initially, or we will get a runoff.
This is a prime example.
South Carolina Rep. Mike Pitts has introduced legislation that would mandate that gold and silver coins replace federal currency as legal tender in his state.
You have to crawl before you can walk. Baby steps. then big steps. You can't run until you walk.
You cannot bite off too much, too fast. You will not be able to swallow it all and will need to spit it back out.
As long as we move in the right direction and make reasonable efforts to rid ourselves of the dead weight, we can restore that which has been lost for so many years. We must understand that too much shifting can and will over-correct the system..... and can have an overly shocking effect on it.
This act by Rep. Pitts is ridiculous. Maybe it can be revisited some years from now. But until the time is right, we must allow the system to absorb the changes we seek to make initially, or we will get a runoff.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
John Mellencamp For Senate?
Apparently, there is a "grass roots" movement to draft the leftist Hoosier rock singer to run for the seat that will be vacated by Evan Bayh. It appears that it all started on a Facebook page that now has swelled to 600+ fans and was started by this bozo. His name is John Patterson, but that's not the important thing.
It would appear that his eyes and his overall appearance in his photo are possible indications of a serious drug abuse history. So taking this guy too seriously is not what I would be willing to do anytime soon. But even at that, the real thing I would note in all of this is where he lives. His Facebook page says he lives in Kansas.
Here is his blog. Be sure to check out the video. It is a natural sleep-aid when you suffer from those occasional bouts of insomnia.
But enough ad hominem, let's get back to the idea of Mellencamp running for the Senate.
Mellencamp was a known hood in and around the Seymour area for years before he became a household name. Not only will he object to his entire life being scrutinized for that kind of past behavior, but he may not want his family to know some of the escapades he pulled. And we all know that the media will look hard at little things like police records.
But even at that, the big question remains as to how much substance this guy can present intelligently? It's one thing to shout out leftist propaganda to drunken and drugged rock fans at a concert and get a rousing ovation. But it's quite another to present cogent arguments complete with solutions, to the problems we are now facing as a nation.
If anyone has any doubt as to how effective this man will be in government, one only needs to zero in on Al Franken.... who (in my opinion) has mostly been an utter embarrassment.
It would appear that his eyes and his overall appearance in his photo are possible indications of a serious drug abuse history. So taking this guy too seriously is not what I would be willing to do anytime soon. But even at that, the real thing I would note in all of this is where he lives. His Facebook page says he lives in Kansas.
Here is his blog. Be sure to check out the video. It is a natural sleep-aid when you suffer from those occasional bouts of insomnia.
But enough ad hominem, let's get back to the idea of Mellencamp running for the Senate.
Mellencamp was a known hood in and around the Seymour area for years before he became a household name. Not only will he object to his entire life being scrutinized for that kind of past behavior, but he may not want his family to know some of the escapades he pulled. And we all know that the media will look hard at little things like police records.
But even at that, the big question remains as to how much substance this guy can present intelligently? It's one thing to shout out leftist propaganda to drunken and drugged rock fans at a concert and get a rousing ovation. But it's quite another to present cogent arguments complete with solutions, to the problems we are now facing as a nation.
If anyone has any doubt as to how effective this man will be in government, one only needs to zero in on Al Franken.... who (in my opinion) has mostly been an utter embarrassment.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
The Skinny On Evan Bayh
I have to say that there's still some level of shock still being felt in Indiana over Evan Bayh's stunning announcement yesterday. I mean this guy has made more news in the last 24 hours than he did his entire career. And.... he has the country asking the questions that we here at PYY and other blogs have been asking all along.
If you haven't been here before, you may not be aware that I ran this piece awhile back, called On Notice: Evan Bayh. In it, I describe how I once thought I knew the Senator but how I found out that I really didn't think I did.
So as you may guess, there are a lot of thoughts running rampant right now. Here are some that I have heard..... and some that are my own:
1. Why didn't he make this known sooner... when the bad legislation was being handled? On several occasions, he had a chance to take better control of the debate and possibly get more cooperation from the other Blue Dogs. They had to know the bills being forced down our throats were crap.
2. He must really be angry to have left the party so high and dry. With the deadline only 24 hours from his announcement, he left the Dems in a major panic. They were just as floored as the rest of us were, but they were the one who suffered the damage... much worse than us.
3. He may truly be sincere about wanting to leave for the right reasons. I am not usually apt to trust politicians, but who knows?
4. If he is doing this for the right reason, he could help the country by getting a message out there for the remainder of his term, and beyond.
5. He'll never leave the Democratic Party, mainly because of his father. But I wonder, would he consider working for TEA Party causes as a Democrat? I doubt it. But that's the only thing that has a chance of rendering some kind shift back to common sense.... anytime soon.
6. As a disenfranchised Democrat who embraces the values of common sense accounting, other centrist Democrats may feel more liberty to buck the progressive power base..... without becoming a member of the GOP. (Plus: Since the TEA Party is not about political party, he could really help on the solutions end of the problems. He's not dumb.)
7. Some people may be thinking that Coats had some inside information, which is why he so suddenly jumped into the GOP race, just before the big news.
8. I am not supporting Coats. I will work in the primaries as a Republican for whoever adopts the ideology of following the Constitution, and nothing but the Constitution. He will be the one who believes in termlimits and states' rights. I will not support Coats because he has been working as a lobbyist and represents the old guard GOP establishment. And if that isn't enough, he doesn't even live here.
9. All of this could be wrong. He may have read my "On Notice" post and realizes that LA Sunsett was ready to work against him.... feverishly. But I doubt it.
So there you have it folks, I wrote this as a public service to you all. To those who are far removed from the area, I am your source... your man on the street pounding the pavement to get you these bits of hard data.This is why we have become most trusted name in Indiana political news and one of the most reviled.
We are PYY.
If you haven't been here before, you may not be aware that I ran this piece awhile back, called On Notice: Evan Bayh. In it, I describe how I once thought I knew the Senator but how I found out that I really didn't think I did.
So as you may guess, there are a lot of thoughts running rampant right now. Here are some that I have heard..... and some that are my own:
1. Why didn't he make this known sooner... when the bad legislation was being handled? On several occasions, he had a chance to take better control of the debate and possibly get more cooperation from the other Blue Dogs. They had to know the bills being forced down our throats were crap.
2. He must really be angry to have left the party so high and dry. With the deadline only 24 hours from his announcement, he left the Dems in a major panic. They were just as floored as the rest of us were, but they were the one who suffered the damage... much worse than us.
3. He may truly be sincere about wanting to leave for the right reasons. I am not usually apt to trust politicians, but who knows?
4. If he is doing this for the right reason, he could help the country by getting a message out there for the remainder of his term, and beyond.
5. He'll never leave the Democratic Party, mainly because of his father. But I wonder, would he consider working for TEA Party causes as a Democrat? I doubt it. But that's the only thing that has a chance of rendering some kind shift back to common sense.... anytime soon.
6. As a disenfranchised Democrat who embraces the values of common sense accounting, other centrist Democrats may feel more liberty to buck the progressive power base..... without becoming a member of the GOP. (Plus: Since the TEA Party is not about political party, he could really help on the solutions end of the problems. He's not dumb.)
7. Some people may be thinking that Coats had some inside information, which is why he so suddenly jumped into the GOP race, just before the big news.
8. I am not supporting Coats. I will work in the primaries as a Republican for whoever adopts the ideology of following the Constitution, and nothing but the Constitution. He will be the one who believes in termlimits and states' rights. I will not support Coats because he has been working as a lobbyist and represents the old guard GOP establishment. And if that isn't enough, he doesn't even live here.
9. All of this could be wrong. He may have read my "On Notice" post and realizes that LA Sunsett was ready to work against him.... feverishly. But I doubt it.
So there you have it folks, I wrote this as a public service to you all. To those who are far removed from the area, I am your source... your man on the street pounding the pavement to get you these bits of hard data.This is why we have become most trusted name in Indiana political news and one of the most reviled.
We are PYY.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
An Apple For The Teacher?
Or more like a headache?
I have met and come to know many public school teachers throughout my life. Many of my relatives on my mother's side of the family chose teaching and law as their careers. Mustang, a good blog friend and personal friend, also spent years teaching students in government schools in addition to his many years of military service.
The stories they tell are sometimes near unbelievable.
Here is an interesting article from the Indy Star about being a dean in an inner-city school.
This is how it starts, this is pretty much how it ends. Only the names have been changed in this fast ride and glimpse through the world of a public school educator.
I will be surprised if someone doesn't complain about the dean praying on school property. But maybe if the secular progressives (who are so against a school mentioning anything that remotely sounds like a Judeo-Christian deity) were to sit in the seats of one of these people, they might soon be found at the nearest church..... seeking some kind of spiritual awakening.
Point is, they don't have it too easy and this article is only about one. There are so many others who deal with this kind of a day, everyday.
Give this a read, when you get a moment.
I have met and come to know many public school teachers throughout my life. Many of my relatives on my mother's side of the family chose teaching and law as their careers. Mustang, a good blog friend and personal friend, also spent years teaching students in government schools in addition to his many years of military service.
The stories they tell are sometimes near unbelievable.
Here is an interesting article from the Indy Star about being a dean in an inner-city school.
Michael Robinson held up his hand and asked the speed-talking Manual High School student standing before him to hold on for a few seconds.
Then he bowed his head.
Give me the strength to change what I can and the patience to accept what I cannot," he said. "Amen."
He then looked up, sighed and smiled.
"How can I help you?"
The student, a freshman named Dakota, spent the next few minutes complaining in rapid-fire fashion about a teacher who had confiscated her hoodie. Along the way, she denied she had been smoking, despite the heavy cigarette odor surrounding her, and talked conspiratorially about a teacher who is "out to get me."
This is how it starts, this is pretty much how it ends. Only the names have been changed in this fast ride and glimpse through the world of a public school educator.
I will be surprised if someone doesn't complain about the dean praying on school property. But maybe if the secular progressives (who are so against a school mentioning anything that remotely sounds like a Judeo-Christian deity) were to sit in the seats of one of these people, they might soon be found at the nearest church..... seeking some kind of spiritual awakening.
Point is, they don't have it too easy and this article is only about one. There are so many others who deal with this kind of a day, everyday.
Give this a read, when you get a moment.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Another Blast From The Past
Mardi Gras celebrations are in full swing in this, the final weekend before Lundi and Mardi Gras. Put that with the win of their beloved Saints football team in the Super Bowl last weekend and you can be sure, there will be some partying going on tonight.
One of my favorite New Orleans artists is a man who grew up in the Gert Town neighborhood and is one of the smoothest piano players, I have ever heard. He's jazzy, he's R&B, he's just plain good. This weekend we celebrate the music of Mr. Allen Toussaint.
Sunday is also Valentines Day. So to kick this off, here is a tune about the "Sweet Touch Of Love":
This next one really showcases his talent as a musician. It is a cover of an old tune that Louis Armstrong made famous way back in 1928 and this version really captures the musical culture of the Big Easy:
Taking it on home is this one:
Enjoy.
Happy Valentine's Day to everyone. And to all of the revelers in Mardi Gras, have fun but stay safe.
One of my favorite New Orleans artists is a man who grew up in the Gert Town neighborhood and is one of the smoothest piano players, I have ever heard. He's jazzy, he's R&B, he's just plain good. This weekend we celebrate the music of Mr. Allen Toussaint.
Sunday is also Valentines Day. So to kick this off, here is a tune about the "Sweet Touch Of Love":
This next one really showcases his talent as a musician. It is a cover of an old tune that Louis Armstrong made famous way back in 1928 and this version really captures the musical culture of the Big Easy:
Taking it on home is this one:
Enjoy.
Happy Valentine's Day to everyone. And to all of the revelers in Mardi Gras, have fun but stay safe.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Friday Funnies
The video is a bit grainy, but who could forget Dean Martin's weekly roast. One of the weekly features was when the resident drunk of the party got to speak about the guest of honor.
In this episode the guest roastee was Sen. Hubert H. Humphrey:
Enjoy.
In this episode the guest roastee was Sen. Hubert H. Humphrey:
Enjoy.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Recommended Blogs
As I get busy in life and try to capture what little time I can to blog, I often times do not get around to all of the blogs on my blogroll. It's not because I am mad at them or anything. It's because the life issues that I must contend with are real and usually translate the the loss and/or gain of money needed (mostly the loss). And since the blog doesn't contribute anything to the cash flow, its priority is limited.
But as I look to maximize what little time I have had the past couple of days, I remembered to check out one of the better blogs ion the internet.
Global American Discourse is written by an intellectual Japanese gentleman who is very well apt to tech what he knows. If you have a moment, check out his site. If nothing else read his piece on the recent Ukranian election. You can tell the man loves political freedom.
But as I look to maximize what little time I have had the past couple of days, I remembered to check out one of the better blogs ion the internet.
Global American Discourse is written by an intellectual Japanese gentleman who is very well apt to tech what he knows. If you have a moment, check out his site. If nothing else read his piece on the recent Ukranian election. You can tell the man loves political freedom.
Various And Sundry Items
NYT: Snowstorms Proof Of Global Warming
They don't use these exact words. But if you read today's daily climate piece, one gets the distinct impression that this is indeed the message.
This isn't a single episode. Two years in a row government meetings on global warming were postponed by ice storms. This year, two major blizzards within a week shut down the entire government.
As I have said before, I am not an overly religious man. But we must consider that there is a message in all of this. Someone is trying to tell somebody, something.
Former Indiana Senator Coats Seeks To Unseat Bayh
He says he's getting encouragement from national Republican leaders. This statement alone would make me nervous, since he is telling us all that he is the favorite of the current Republican establishment. I don't know about you all, but I don' think that makes a compelling case for why I should support him. The establishment is what got us into this mess.
That's strike one.
Then there is this little problem with carpetbagging, he hasn't lived in Indiana for years. He has been working for lobbying firms in Washington.
That's strike two and three.
I think it will be up to the tea party movement to let him know that we appreciate the time he spent representing us, but his candidacy is not what we need right now. We need someone that will reform Washington not take us back into the past, and establisment cadidates are those who seek the same old thing that failed before---the reassertion of the GOP establishment.
Rand Paul Working Hard To Win Kentucky Senate Nomination
Speaking of anti-establishment campaigns, Rep. Ron Paul's son is running a hard-nosed primary campaign against the current GOP establishment candidate. The last poll I can find was from Public Policy Polling back in December and shows Dr. Paul way ahead.
Business as usual is not what this country needs, not from Dems or the GOP. In my view, the GOP is every bit as guilty of the mess we are in right now. They have been Dem Lite for way too long. It's time to get government out of our lives and into the issues that affect us as a nation. Hopefully Kentucky will see this and send a message to this effect, by nominating and electing Dr. Paul to the U.S. Senate.
TEA Party: What It Is, What It Isn't
This is an excellent essay that summarizes the objectives and make-up of the TEA Party and seems to validate much of what I said in my Progressively More Confused post, from yesterday. The primary misconception is that the progressives want people to believe is that we are a bunch of whackos, hell-bent on destroying the republic and initiating anarchy. That is the lie that they are advancing because they are scared.
Read this essay over a RCP. It's not very long and very much to the point.
They don't use these exact words. But if you read today's daily climate piece, one gets the distinct impression that this is indeed the message.
As the first blizzard howled last weekend, the Virginia Republican Party put up an advertisement on the Web — titled “12 Inches of Global Warming” — criticizing two Virginia Democrats, Representatives Rick Boucher and Tom Perriello, who voted for the federal cap-and-trade legislation last year. The advertisement urges voters to call Mr. Boucher and Mr. Perriello to ask if they will help with the shoveling.
Speculating on the meaning of severe weather events is not new. Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and a deadly heat wave in Europe in the summer of 2003 incited similar arguments about what such extremes might — or might not — say about the planet’s climate.
But climate scientists say that no single episode of severe weather can be blamed for global climate trends while noting evidence that such events will probably become more frequent as global temperatures rise.
This isn't a single episode. Two years in a row government meetings on global warming were postponed by ice storms. This year, two major blizzards within a week shut down the entire government.
As I have said before, I am not an overly religious man. But we must consider that there is a message in all of this. Someone is trying to tell somebody, something.
Former Indiana Senator Coats Seeks To Unseat Bayh
He says he's getting encouragement from national Republican leaders. This statement alone would make me nervous, since he is telling us all that he is the favorite of the current Republican establishment. I don't know about you all, but I don' think that makes a compelling case for why I should support him. The establishment is what got us into this mess.
That's strike one.
Then there is this little problem with carpetbagging, he hasn't lived in Indiana for years. He has been working for lobbying firms in Washington.
That's strike two and three.
I think it will be up to the tea party movement to let him know that we appreciate the time he spent representing us, but his candidacy is not what we need right now. We need someone that will reform Washington not take us back into the past, and establisment cadidates are those who seek the same old thing that failed before---the reassertion of the GOP establishment.
Rand Paul Working Hard To Win Kentucky Senate Nomination
Speaking of anti-establishment campaigns, Rep. Ron Paul's son is running a hard-nosed primary campaign against the current GOP establishment candidate. The last poll I can find was from Public Policy Polling back in December and shows Dr. Paul way ahead.
Paul is up 44-25 on Grayson. 39% of likely primary voters have a favorable opinion of him to 13% unfavorable while 22% view Grayson positively to 15% unfavorable.
Paul is winning the votes of conservatives by a 47-20 margin, while Grayson holds a 36-34 lead with moderates. Paul is having a particularly good amount of success with folks who think that the Republican Party in Washington has become too liberal- his lead with them is 54-18. Paul’s support is universal across demographic lines, as he is up with men, women, voters in every region of the state, and every group of the GOP electorate broken down by age.
Business as usual is not what this country needs, not from Dems or the GOP. In my view, the GOP is every bit as guilty of the mess we are in right now. They have been Dem Lite for way too long. It's time to get government out of our lives and into the issues that affect us as a nation. Hopefully Kentucky will see this and send a message to this effect, by nominating and electing Dr. Paul to the U.S. Senate.
TEA Party: What It Is, What It Isn't
This is an excellent essay that summarizes the objectives and make-up of the TEA Party and seems to validate much of what I said in my Progressively More Confused post, from yesterday. The primary misconception is that the progressives want people to believe is that we are a bunch of whackos, hell-bent on destroying the republic and initiating anarchy. That is the lie that they are advancing because they are scared.
Read this essay over a RCP. It's not very long and very much to the point.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Tragic Reminders
They happen all too often, if you ask me.
At this time almost 32 years ago, I was stationed in Ft Riley Kansas. One evening I got a call from my Commander, who notified me that my sixteen year-old brother had been killed. He and a couple of his pals were in the house, one of them got a hold of my dad's .22 caliber Derringer and accidentally shot/killed him.
As long ago as it was, it still is fresh in my mind.
This becomes especially true when stories like this are reported.
Even after all these years, it still makes me sick. But even so, the gun did not shoot anyone. The human that made the fatal error did.
This is a sad situation to be sure. Not only is the young man gone from this life, the family stands a good chance of thorough collapse after the initial trauma begins to wear off. I know mine did.
Even though I was out on my own seeing the world, it was never the same afterward.
At this time almost 32 years ago, I was stationed in Ft Riley Kansas. One evening I got a call from my Commander, who notified me that my sixteen year-old brother had been killed. He and a couple of his pals were in the house, one of them got a hold of my dad's .22 caliber Derringer and accidentally shot/killed him.
As long ago as it was, it still is fresh in my mind.
This becomes especially true when stories like this are reported.
Hamilton County Sheriff Doug Carter said 16-year-old Carson Wallace and his younger brother had been having a snowball fight in the family's yard just before the shooting.
Carter said they ran into the garage and the 14-year-old picked up a shotgun there, thinking it was unloaded. He aimed it at his older brother Carson and pulled the trigger.
Carson was shot in the stomach and later died during emergency surgery at Methodist Hospital.
Sheriff Carter knows the family and says the 14-year-old boy looked at Carson "as his hero."
Carter said the two boys were avid hunters and that both had been trained in gun safety.
Even after all these years, it still makes me sick. But even so, the gun did not shoot anyone. The human that made the fatal error did.
This is a sad situation to be sure. Not only is the young man gone from this life, the family stands a good chance of thorough collapse after the initial trauma begins to wear off. I know mine did.
Even though I was out on my own seeing the world, it was never the same afterward.
Tuesday, February 09, 2010
Progressively More Confused?
I am amazed that many progressive elitists are unable to grasp a minimal understanding of the current public anger. Just by listening to their comments in the media:
....and other blogs' comments section:
....it's becoming more apparent they are either missing a key component, or they are acting out in an avoidant manner. Maybe it's because they want to block some perceived trauma from their collective psyches and they are repressing negative emotion. from some less than favorable feedback.
But I bet it's far more than that. Most likely... it is fear. It's fear of the message, which they clearly they perceive is one of intolerance and social injustice.
Take the list the progressive commenter on Z's blog for instance and note how he felt it necessary to use a variety of fallacies, to describe his perceived message of the Tea Party Movement. Lets' take a closer look at it and see if we can dispel any inherent myths that have been ingrained into the commenter's mind, one that seems prone to misinterpretation. Let's use his own words and learn the real message, shall we?
1. American exceptionalism means we can whack anyone who doesn't give us their resources or refuses to finance our debt.
Nowhere will we find a tea party member that feels this is a valid belief. The truth is, tea partiers believe in using the military judiciously to protect the citizens of the U.S. from further attacks (like the ones on 9/11/01). This is merely a weak attempt by the progressive, to twist the objectives and paint America as a exploitative imperialist nation.
2. Tax cuts. But spend like Bush and Reagan, deficits are irrelevant.
He's wrong again. Tea party followers are for tax cuts and cuts in spending. There's no arguing that Bush and Reagan did this, but he only brings this up to displace the attention from the issue at hand. (But, but, but..... Bush and Reagan did this and that....etc.)
Bottom line here, we aren't talking about Reagan and Bush, and he knows it. That's why he tries to switch topics.
He doesn't believe that we should cut spending either. In fact, the moment that any spending is cut, he will cry foul. He will call the implementers of these cuts insensitive and immoral. He will start telling us all, just how people will soon be suffering..... homeless and starving in the streets.
3. Stop the homos.
From what?
I find nothing that would indicate tea party members are angry haters of gays and want to them stop anything. But, I will state that many are tired of having the gay lifestyle shoved down out their throats. Many do not want to hear about other people's sex lives, even if they are heterosexual. This isn't prudish, this isn't discrimination. And just because many aren't signing onto support gay marriage, it does not follow that tea partiers hate gay people.
4. Stop free expression.
There is no evidence of this either.
In fact, it has been the progressives who have tried to silence the tea party movement at almost every turn. They have used ridicule and insults in a weak and feeble attempt to silence us. They have called us racists, homophobes, and the White House has even gone as far to declare war on a media outlet, to stop extensive fair coverage of this movement. That is bullying, something progressives have always been fond of doing (to those who merely disagree with their ideology).
5. Figure out how to deport the illegals.
The writer of this point is right on this one. He even uses the proper nomenclature. But don't let him fool you, he doesn't care that they are illegal. He feels they have a right to invade our country by cutting in line and are entitled to be on the welfare rolls when they get here.
Why? Because we are a rich country and we owe them something they are not able to attain in their country. This is the entire of the progressive movement, simple wealth redistribution. Take from the rich and give to the poor -- even to those who have the ability to work, but will not help themselves.
How much money has been given to Mexico over the years to develop their economy? Is it developed? If not, why isn't it?
I am sorry, but people who are here illegally are not my problem. There are people who are American citizens that need help and cannot get it because the system is saturated with illegal aliens. That's not conjecture, it is fact. Ask any inner-city healthcare worker. It's out of control and tea party members are wanting to stop it.
I doubt the commenter will understand this thinking. He (and others like him) may not want to understand. They will not open their eyes to seeing that Washington is out of control, drunk with power, and needs to be kept packed with fresh meat to be more successful.
The tea party mentality isn't hard to figure out at all.
It is a spontaneous movement that rose out to communicate displeasure with the way the government was acting. The reason they still exist is because Washington didn't listen. Now, Washington needs to be turned back over to the people and the states that make up this union.
We understand that no system of government is perfect, and there may be problems associated with a wholesale turnover like the one we desire. But we also know that there will be an evaluation period followed by an evaluation. It's called an election. If they do not do as they say, we can (and will) work to vote THEM out.
We do not need a face....or any designated leader, for that matter.
We are a committee of many who have differing views within the entity, but yet we recognize the need to stop the madness of the big things, before we can debate the little ones. We also need to think about each and every issue that affects us, and we must look at the answer to each problem as the one that provides for the most freedom.
We must have laws and they must be obeyed. But we must re-embrace the foundations of freedom, ones that allow us the most choices for our own lives.
That's all.
....and other blogs' comments section:
I'm not sure what the specific ideology of the Tea Party is because the movement clearly isn't monolithic. I think it goes something like this:
1. American exceptionalism means we can whack anyone who doesn't give us their resources or refuses to finance our debt.
2. Tax cuts. But spend like Bush and Reagan, deficits are irrelevant.
3. Stop the homos.
4. Stop free expression.
5. Figure out how to deport the illegals.
If you would like to correct me I'd be willing to read it since this "movement" is nebulous at best
....it's becoming more apparent they are either missing a key component, or they are acting out in an avoidant manner. Maybe it's because they want to block some perceived trauma from their collective psyches and they are repressing negative emotion. from some less than favorable feedback.
But I bet it's far more than that. Most likely... it is fear. It's fear of the message, which they clearly they perceive is one of intolerance and social injustice.
Take the list the progressive commenter on Z's blog for instance and note how he felt it necessary to use a variety of fallacies, to describe his perceived message of the Tea Party Movement. Lets' take a closer look at it and see if we can dispel any inherent myths that have been ingrained into the commenter's mind, one that seems prone to misinterpretation. Let's use his own words and learn the real message, shall we?
1. American exceptionalism means we can whack anyone who doesn't give us their resources or refuses to finance our debt.
Nowhere will we find a tea party member that feels this is a valid belief. The truth is, tea partiers believe in using the military judiciously to protect the citizens of the U.S. from further attacks (like the ones on 9/11/01). This is merely a weak attempt by the progressive, to twist the objectives and paint America as a exploitative imperialist nation.
2. Tax cuts. But spend like Bush and Reagan, deficits are irrelevant.
He's wrong again. Tea party followers are for tax cuts and cuts in spending. There's no arguing that Bush and Reagan did this, but he only brings this up to displace the attention from the issue at hand. (But, but, but..... Bush and Reagan did this and that....etc.)
Bottom line here, we aren't talking about Reagan and Bush, and he knows it. That's why he tries to switch topics.
He doesn't believe that we should cut spending either. In fact, the moment that any spending is cut, he will cry foul. He will call the implementers of these cuts insensitive and immoral. He will start telling us all, just how people will soon be suffering..... homeless and starving in the streets.
3. Stop the homos.
From what?
I find nothing that would indicate tea party members are angry haters of gays and want to them stop anything. But, I will state that many are tired of having the gay lifestyle shoved down out their throats. Many do not want to hear about other people's sex lives, even if they are heterosexual. This isn't prudish, this isn't discrimination. And just because many aren't signing onto support gay marriage, it does not follow that tea partiers hate gay people.
4. Stop free expression.
There is no evidence of this either.
In fact, it has been the progressives who have tried to silence the tea party movement at almost every turn. They have used ridicule and insults in a weak and feeble attempt to silence us. They have called us racists, homophobes, and the White House has even gone as far to declare war on a media outlet, to stop extensive fair coverage of this movement. That is bullying, something progressives have always been fond of doing (to those who merely disagree with their ideology).
5. Figure out how to deport the illegals.
The writer of this point is right on this one. He even uses the proper nomenclature. But don't let him fool you, he doesn't care that they are illegal. He feels they have a right to invade our country by cutting in line and are entitled to be on the welfare rolls when they get here.
Why? Because we are a rich country and we owe them something they are not able to attain in their country. This is the entire of the progressive movement, simple wealth redistribution. Take from the rich and give to the poor -- even to those who have the ability to work, but will not help themselves.
How much money has been given to Mexico over the years to develop their economy? Is it developed? If not, why isn't it?
I am sorry, but people who are here illegally are not my problem. There are people who are American citizens that need help and cannot get it because the system is saturated with illegal aliens. That's not conjecture, it is fact. Ask any inner-city healthcare worker. It's out of control and tea party members are wanting to stop it.
I doubt the commenter will understand this thinking. He (and others like him) may not want to understand. They will not open their eyes to seeing that Washington is out of control, drunk with power, and needs to be kept packed with fresh meat to be more successful.
The tea party mentality isn't hard to figure out at all.
It is a spontaneous movement that rose out to communicate displeasure with the way the government was acting. The reason they still exist is because Washington didn't listen. Now, Washington needs to be turned back over to the people and the states that make up this union.
We understand that no system of government is perfect, and there may be problems associated with a wholesale turnover like the one we desire. But we also know that there will be an evaluation period followed by an evaluation. It's called an election. If they do not do as they say, we can (and will) work to vote THEM out.
We do not need a face....or any designated leader, for that matter.
We are a committee of many who have differing views within the entity, but yet we recognize the need to stop the madness of the big things, before we can debate the little ones. We also need to think about each and every issue that affects us, and we must look at the answer to each problem as the one that provides for the most freedom.
We must have laws and they must be obeyed. But we must re-embrace the foundations of freedom, ones that allow us the most choices for our own lives.
That's all.
Monday, February 08, 2010
Murtha
I don't usually speak ill of the dead too much. After someone dies, there is nothing that can be done or said, to change the fate of the dearly departed....either in relation to his image or as it applies to his eternal rest.
But I need to say something here, as part of my process.
I do not want to feel the ill I currently feel towards Jack Murtha.
But I do.
I am bitter about the way he treated those Marines without knowing the entire story. While many of his foes in Washington are saying nice things about him only because he is dead, I won't do it.
So what if he was once a man of valor serving this great nation as a modern day knight in the U.S. Marine Corps? Once a Marine always a Marine.... and this Marine turned his back on his brethren. I don't say that he should support someone who commits atrocities for the hell of it, but he sold these men up for his political advantage.
So let me summarize this in plain terms:
I do not celebrate his death. However, I am not going to be a hypocrite.
I am not going to say a bunch of stuff that I cannot say in good faith, about a man that lost his soul in Washington politics. You are all free to to if you wish. But I cannot do it and maintain any sense of integrity.
If I am wrong, may God forgive me. I will answer for it. But right now, it just isn't in me.
But I need to say something here, as part of my process.
I do not want to feel the ill I currently feel towards Jack Murtha.
But I do.
I am bitter about the way he treated those Marines without knowing the entire story. While many of his foes in Washington are saying nice things about him only because he is dead, I won't do it.
So what if he was once a man of valor serving this great nation as a modern day knight in the U.S. Marine Corps? Once a Marine always a Marine.... and this Marine turned his back on his brethren. I don't say that he should support someone who commits atrocities for the hell of it, but he sold these men up for his political advantage.
So let me summarize this in plain terms:
I do not celebrate his death. However, I am not going to be a hypocrite.
I am not going to say a bunch of stuff that I cannot say in good faith, about a man that lost his soul in Washington politics. You are all free to to if you wish. But I cannot do it and maintain any sense of integrity.
If I am wrong, may God forgive me. I will answer for it. But right now, it just isn't in me.
Mon AM QB
Saints 31 - Colts 17
I guess if I had to choose a very short statement as to why the score reads this way, two words would come to mind: Outcoached and outplayed. New Orleans was a better team on both sides of the ball this night.
It was important for Indy to get off to a fast start because of New Orleans early game jitters, having not been there before. And they did. But once the Saints were able to settle into a routine, the momentum shifted their way.
The 4th and one goal line stand by the Colts at the end of the first half was a great momentum stopper, after the Saints had dominated the time of possession in the 2nd quarter. But New Orleans got it back with their defense making a key stop and ended up kicking a FG.
Then, the onside kick to start the 2nd half was a gutsy call that caught the Colts off guard, one that led to the first lead of the night for the Saints. I thought that really let the air out of Indy's sail.
Still being ahead at the end of the 3rd, one might be tempted to think that Manning could be in position to take it home in the 4th, like he has done so many times this years. He didn't help himself much though. By throwing that interception at a critical juncture late in the 4th, that sealed it.
But after all is said and done, we all can see one thing that is very clear to us. There is a new sheriff in town, his name is Drew Brees. He was clearly the man in this game and may be the QB to stop in the next few years.
Now is the time that I must get ready to go to work and prepare to see all of the long faces, all day. I will hear about the refs and the non calls on holding Freeney. I won't mention that the Colts got the benefit on the other side of the ball as well. (I thought the refs did a pretty good job last night, overall.)
I will hear anger at Manning for the interception on what could have been the game-tying drive. I won't mention that the Colts defense didn't make the key stops when they needed to, like they did all year long. I won't say that the defense failed to create turnovers like they are accustomed to doing late in the game in key situations.
No sir. I am going to just keep my mouth shut. And when the time is right, I will tell them all to look forward to next year when most of the Colts will be back.....and ready to make another run at the title.
Despite being the avid Colts that I am, I realize one thing that many of my fellow avid fans may not. When all is said and done, this is just a ball game. It's just entertainment. The disappointment is understandable in some ways, but there are more important things in life--with the main thing being getting the bulk of the crooks out of our government.
So onward we go, my fellow NFL fans. Mon AM QB will be back next year, ready for another exciting football season.
I guess if I had to choose a very short statement as to why the score reads this way, two words would come to mind: Outcoached and outplayed. New Orleans was a better team on both sides of the ball this night.
It was important for Indy to get off to a fast start because of New Orleans early game jitters, having not been there before. And they did. But once the Saints were able to settle into a routine, the momentum shifted their way.
The 4th and one goal line stand by the Colts at the end of the first half was a great momentum stopper, after the Saints had dominated the time of possession in the 2nd quarter. But New Orleans got it back with their defense making a key stop and ended up kicking a FG.
Then, the onside kick to start the 2nd half was a gutsy call that caught the Colts off guard, one that led to the first lead of the night for the Saints. I thought that really let the air out of Indy's sail.
Still being ahead at the end of the 3rd, one might be tempted to think that Manning could be in position to take it home in the 4th, like he has done so many times this years. He didn't help himself much though. By throwing that interception at a critical juncture late in the 4th, that sealed it.
But after all is said and done, we all can see one thing that is very clear to us. There is a new sheriff in town, his name is Drew Brees. He was clearly the man in this game and may be the QB to stop in the next few years.
Now is the time that I must get ready to go to work and prepare to see all of the long faces, all day. I will hear about the refs and the non calls on holding Freeney. I won't mention that the Colts got the benefit on the other side of the ball as well. (I thought the refs did a pretty good job last night, overall.)
I will hear anger at Manning for the interception on what could have been the game-tying drive. I won't mention that the Colts defense didn't make the key stops when they needed to, like they did all year long. I won't say that the defense failed to create turnovers like they are accustomed to doing late in the game in key situations.
No sir. I am going to just keep my mouth shut. And when the time is right, I will tell them all to look forward to next year when most of the Colts will be back.....and ready to make another run at the title.
Despite being the avid Colts that I am, I realize one thing that many of my fellow avid fans may not. When all is said and done, this is just a ball game. It's just entertainment. The disappointment is understandable in some ways, but there are more important things in life--with the main thing being getting the bulk of the crooks out of our government.
So onward we go, my fellow NFL fans. Mon AM QB will be back next year, ready for another exciting football season.
Saturday, February 06, 2010
Another Blast From The Past
Tomorrow is the Super Bowl which means it will be "Super Sunday", part of a "super" weekend. So in the super spirit of unnecessary superlatives, it only stands to reason that we have a "super" theme.
In fact it's only logical that we start it off with Supertramp (a great live performance):
The temp in Miami on Sunday should be in the 60s with sunny skies. I know many of us would love that where we live right now, but the best we'll have to settle for is a couple of songs about sunshine:
This was probably a different kind of sunshine. But why argue over nomenclature when it's still a good tune?
Enjoy.
Go Horse!
In fact it's only logical that we start it off with Supertramp (a great live performance):
The temp in Miami on Sunday should be in the 60s with sunny skies. I know many of us would love that where we live right now, but the best we'll have to settle for is a couple of songs about sunshine:
This was probably a different kind of sunshine. But why argue over nomenclature when it's still a good tune?
Enjoy.
Go Horse!
Friday, February 05, 2010
Friday Funnies
Ever wonder how they produce the news? While surfing around the internet, I stumbled onto this little gem:
WARNING: Some R-Rated Language
Give it a look, I found it very informative.
WARNING: Some R-Rated Language
Give it a look, I found it very informative.
Thursday, February 04, 2010
An Anniversary Worth Noting
I rarely toot my own horn too often here, but once in awhile I think it's okay to do it. Today marks an important anniversary that I want to share with the best readers in the entire blogosphere.
No, it's not my anniversary for PYY. That was last month and I really don't care much about that. It's not my wedding anniversary. Although that one is important, it's not one that I bring up here on the blog. The same goes for my work anniversary, I have been there so long that no one will care much about that one either.
The significant event of this date in history is very personal. But it is definitely something I wanted others to know with the hopes that it may be of help to those that are in the same boat I was in, just one year ago today. February 4, 2009 was the day that I quit smoking and became tobacco free. After being diagnosed with a chronic disease that may someday take my life (and still, may not), I decided that it would be a good thing to stop and I did.
I must say that at first it was hell. I tried the Chantix, but the artificial hallucinogenic dreams weren't acceptable. And while it did help with reducing the cravings, it still wasn't as effective as I would have liked. So once my prescription ran out, I went cold turkey.
Like I said, it wasn't easy but I am a stubborn man (just ask Mrs. Sunsett and she will confirm it). So I dug into a "cannot fail" mentality and as time wore on, it got easier and easier. Eventually the cravings became rarer, and easier to resist when they did occur.
This is where I am now. Occasionally I get one, I resist it, and it quickly goes away.
Nobody can say I am one of those preachy ex-smokers, who target and harass smokers to do as I have. In fact I rarely bring it up, unless someone asks about it. So I will not overindulge in that kind of activity today, except to ask my readers to just think about where they are in their lives with tobacco. And if anyone is a smoker, please allow me to say one thing to you: If I can quit, anyone can.
My good friend Mustang quit awhile back and the last time I asked him, he reported that he is still tobacco-free. That makes me glad because despite all the ridicule he throws in my direction, all of the castigation he sends my way, and the many times he has subverted my cause by killing any influence I have ever had with you good people, he is one of my best friends in the world and I want him to be around for awhile.
In other words, he is not allowed to die before me.
And neither are any of you.
So if you smoke.... please consider quitting. After one year of quitting, the stats show a dramatic drop in smoking-related deaths. You'll feel better and your loved ones will too.
This may be the last thing I ever say about this topic. So if it applies, take a chance and do it now.
No, it's not my anniversary for PYY. That was last month and I really don't care much about that. It's not my wedding anniversary. Although that one is important, it's not one that I bring up here on the blog. The same goes for my work anniversary, I have been there so long that no one will care much about that one either.
The significant event of this date in history is very personal. But it is definitely something I wanted others to know with the hopes that it may be of help to those that are in the same boat I was in, just one year ago today. February 4, 2009 was the day that I quit smoking and became tobacco free. After being diagnosed with a chronic disease that may someday take my life (and still, may not), I decided that it would be a good thing to stop and I did.
I must say that at first it was hell. I tried the Chantix, but the artificial hallucinogenic dreams weren't acceptable. And while it did help with reducing the cravings, it still wasn't as effective as I would have liked. So once my prescription ran out, I went cold turkey.
Like I said, it wasn't easy but I am a stubborn man (just ask Mrs. Sunsett and she will confirm it). So I dug into a "cannot fail" mentality and as time wore on, it got easier and easier. Eventually the cravings became rarer, and easier to resist when they did occur.
This is where I am now. Occasionally I get one, I resist it, and it quickly goes away.
Nobody can say I am one of those preachy ex-smokers, who target and harass smokers to do as I have. In fact I rarely bring it up, unless someone asks about it. So I will not overindulge in that kind of activity today, except to ask my readers to just think about where they are in their lives with tobacco. And if anyone is a smoker, please allow me to say one thing to you: If I can quit, anyone can.
My good friend Mustang quit awhile back and the last time I asked him, he reported that he is still tobacco-free. That makes me glad because despite all the ridicule he throws in my direction, all of the castigation he sends my way, and the many times he has subverted my cause by killing any influence I have ever had with you good people, he is one of my best friends in the world and I want him to be around for awhile.
In other words, he is not allowed to die before me.
And neither are any of you.
So if you smoke.... please consider quitting. After one year of quitting, the stats show a dramatic drop in smoking-related deaths. You'll feel better and your loved ones will too.
This may be the last thing I ever say about this topic. So if it applies, take a chance and do it now.
Wednesday, February 03, 2010
Of Notable Note
Once again, we have just observed something that is too obvious to ignore. We have heard the story of Mr. Rahm Emanuel calling someone retarded, which is not an endearing term these days. We then saw Sarah Palin type out a Facebook posting condemning it and calling for Mr. Emanuel's dismissal.
As we know, it is unlikely that Rahm will be going anywhere...anytime soon. But it does show that Mrs. Palin can type, hit the send button, and the White House goes into full-speed damage control.
All hail the "power of the pen" and may it forever be protected.
As we know, it is unlikely that Rahm will be going anywhere...anytime soon. But it does show that Mrs. Palin can type, hit the send button, and the White House goes into full-speed damage control.
All hail the "power of the pen" and may it forever be protected.
The Wonder Of It All
It's a cliche, it's a hymn. But most of all it accurately describes what I think about, when I watch the Democrats and hear them speak right now. In the midst of their obvious incompetence and numerous cases of malfeasance, this public beating of the proverbial dead horse is getting old, and quick.
For the people of Illinois, it's going to be getting real old -- real fast.
Already, so soon after yesterday's primary election, the winner on the Democratic side has begun his campaign by campaigning against George Bush. In fact, the Democrats who are now in office are still campaigning against him.
I would say to political junkies like myself (and people who just generally care about the state of the country), this will be the only viable strategy any Democrat will be able to mount in the 2010 Midterms on a national level. They have nothing else. They are in charge and they still are doing business for their own benefit.
Adult children tend to blame their parents for how they turned out as human beings, and for some it's justifiable. But for the most part, it is an overused excuse that is not valid after the age of 19. I say this because it takes a year to learn to be good at anything.
Likewise, politicians tend to blame the man/woman before him/her. He/she will do this as long as people will permit it and especially when they want to divert attention away from any valid criticism sent their way.
It's time to stop.
It's time for the politicians to stop. It's time for the people say, it's time to stop. Some of them have and the pols have not listened. And since the politicians aren't listening, it's time for the people to act by using the ballot box to make them stop.
It's time to stop blaming Bush, Reagan, Carter, and Clinton. It's been a year now and none of them are still in the picture. It's time to look at the present and the future, not the past. It's time to fix the problems, not assign blame. And if they cannot do the job, we have to find people who can.
But to the Scott Browns, the hopefully Mark Kirks, and others who will be seeking to unseat the current Democratic control, I must issue one caveat to all of this populist groundswell:
The same forces that brought you into it, can take you out of it.
So, you had better do what you say you are going to do, or you will lose big the next time you must face the voters.
For the people of Illinois, it's going to be getting real old -- real fast.
Already, so soon after yesterday's primary election, the winner on the Democratic side has begun his campaign by campaigning against George Bush. In fact, the Democrats who are now in office are still campaigning against him.
I would say to political junkies like myself (and people who just generally care about the state of the country), this will be the only viable strategy any Democrat will be able to mount in the 2010 Midterms on a national level. They have nothing else. They are in charge and they still are doing business for their own benefit.
Adult children tend to blame their parents for how they turned out as human beings, and for some it's justifiable. But for the most part, it is an overused excuse that is not valid after the age of 19. I say this because it takes a year to learn to be good at anything.
Likewise, politicians tend to blame the man/woman before him/her. He/she will do this as long as people will permit it and especially when they want to divert attention away from any valid criticism sent their way.
It's time to stop.
It's time for the politicians to stop. It's time for the people say, it's time to stop. Some of them have and the pols have not listened. And since the politicians aren't listening, it's time for the people to act by using the ballot box to make them stop.
It's time to stop blaming Bush, Reagan, Carter, and Clinton. It's been a year now and none of them are still in the picture. It's time to look at the present and the future, not the past. It's time to fix the problems, not assign blame. And if they cannot do the job, we have to find people who can.
But to the Scott Browns, the hopefully Mark Kirks, and others who will be seeking to unseat the current Democratic control, I must issue one caveat to all of this populist groundswell:
The same forces that brought you into it, can take you out of it.
So, you had better do what you say you are going to do, or you will lose big the next time you must face the voters.
Tuesday, February 02, 2010
Congressional Fool: Rep. James Clyburn
I know the words congressional and fool are repetitive these days. But still, I'd like to feature one of them in today's post and tell you all why I think it to be so. Take a look at our featured article:
Spending Our Way Out Of Recession
I wonder, does anyone ever stop for a moment and think about the spending being the CAUSE of the recession? At least at this point in the game, we see that not much has improved thus far, yet we are still hearing clarion calls for more, more, more.
But that's not the half of the stupidity, as Clyburn further states:
1. We must spend on education. Great idea, we'll have the most educated unemployed workforce in the world.
2. We must control the deficits. Another great one Jimmy. Let's just keep spending more money and we'll be sure to get those deficits down. While we are at it, why don't increase the debt limit again, just to be sure we will have enough money to pay the lobbyists and contributors that have you on their payroll. GE is one of the top contributors.
3. At the same time, we must increase jobs. How's that working, Jimmy? We have 26,000,000 people out of work right now, that's close to 18%. I know that the unemployment rolls are showing 10%, but 8% have lost their unemployment compensation and have stopped looking for credible employment. You can't say they don't exist.
Bottom line here, James Clyburn (D-SC) is a fool. And so are those who think we can spend our way out of a recession with government money. This includes 2/3 of our legislative body.
He is but one of many, but he is one their mouthpieces. So let's celebrate the idiotic statements of the Current House Majority Whip, shall we?
Spending Our Way Out Of Recession
The U.S. government must spend its way out of the recession, the Democrats' third-ranking House leader stressed Monday.
Rep. James Clyburn (D-S.C.), the House majority whip, said that trying to find greater savings in the budget, which was released by President Barack Obama this morning, wouldn't help alleviate the recession.
"We've got to make some decisions here as to what's in the best interests of our country going forward," Clyburn said during an appearance on Fox News. "And I think the best interest is to invest in education, control these deficits, while at the same time trying to get people back to work."
I wonder, does anyone ever stop for a moment and think about the spending being the CAUSE of the recession? At least at this point in the game, we see that not much has improved thus far, yet we are still hearing clarion calls for more, more, more.
But that's not the half of the stupidity, as Clyburn further states:
1. We must spend on education. Great idea, we'll have the most educated unemployed workforce in the world.
2. We must control the deficits. Another great one Jimmy. Let's just keep spending more money and we'll be sure to get those deficits down. While we are at it, why don't increase the debt limit again, just to be sure we will have enough money to pay the lobbyists and contributors that have you on their payroll. GE is one of the top contributors.
3. At the same time, we must increase jobs. How's that working, Jimmy? We have 26,000,000 people out of work right now, that's close to 18%. I know that the unemployment rolls are showing 10%, but 8% have lost their unemployment compensation and have stopped looking for credible employment. You can't say they don't exist.
Bottom line here, James Clyburn (D-SC) is a fool. And so are those who think we can spend our way out of a recession with government money. This includes 2/3 of our legislative body.
He is but one of many, but he is one their mouthpieces. So let's celebrate the idiotic statements of the Current House Majority Whip, shall we?
Monday, February 01, 2010
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)