There are no sour grapes in this post. The election is behind us and the next several years will show us what we just elected. My question, in light of the way the current congressman and women are acting, is who said we elected them to be experts? At anything? The way the 535 congressmen and senators have been acting seems to imply they were elected because of their brilliance and ability to manipulate, I mean manage, health care - financial markets - the automobile industry - energy .... When in fact the majority of them made it to Capitol Hill as lawyers.
I mean no disrespect to lawyers. How does a lawyer know what is best for the economy? How does a lawyer understand health care and what is right for the masses? Quite simple - THEY DON'T! Apparently winning an election is the first step in manipulating the future of the millions.
If this is not the case - please explain Nancy Pelosi to me, and she is one of the few non-lawyers on the hill. What background does she have to carry the influence that she wields? She has no background in health care, energy, manufacturing, finance (other than her own family wealth). In fact - her biography only lists that she graduated college. No specialty - no further study ... But she is directing how her party, and the rest of congress, should be taking on these issues that have huge implications for today and tomorrow. Not to complain to much about Pelosi, she is but an example of the 'I am in - now what can I change' gang known as the legislative branch of government.
I am 100% opposed to term limits as We, the people, should be smart enough to vote those out of office that do not represent us well. I am opposed to un-educated voters being allowed, often hand delivered, to vote. Differences are what makes us strong - so this is not about those that disagree with me being blocked from voting. I just believe that people caught up in the hype are not capable of rational thought. Without rational thought - how qualified are you to even vote?
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Enough is enough - I say Merry Christmas
Turn the other cheek has long been a part of my language. It comes from my christian upbringing and reminds us to offer forgiveness and an opportunity when we are wronged. As a Catholic I continue to try and practice this most subtle and selfless gesture. However, in a world (USA) where christians and catholics are constantly berated and joked about (everything from CNN to Jerry Seinfeld and Bill Maher - absolutely no relation to me) how many cheeks should we turn? That was a rhetorical reference - I know that I must continue.
The latest attack, or should I say annual attack on the faith of roughly 85% of the US population (Christianity) has started again. If you have not seen the story in Washington state take a look here. From my point of view - if you don't want to celebrate the birth of our savior - don't do it. That is one of the things that makes this country great. Worship your own lord or belief system, but you don't have the right to disparage my lord and faith in the process.
I know everyone had a laugh at the 'Festivus for the Rest of Us' episode of Seinfeld, but the message behind it is truly hurtful and wrong. Christmas is a christian holiday - it is not about Santa Claus and snowmen. That being said, I defend the right of the writers, actors and producers to their freedom of speech. I also have the right to turn off the television, personally boycott the writers, actors, producers, sponsors ..... You get the point.
My family thinks I am nuts sometimes. The only way I can speak my mind is to speak with my wallet. I refuse to purchase certain products, I refuse to watch movies with certain actors/actresses in them and I turn off most professional sports (another post on that one) only because it is my way of excercising my freedoms. I do it without stepping on anyone's rights - I just wish more people would follow through on this type of action.
In the end - this is the season.... It is the season for forgiveness, for preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ. Take the time to prepare yourself. I wish each of you a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year.
The latest attack, or should I say annual attack on the faith of roughly 85% of the US population (Christianity) has started again. If you have not seen the story in Washington state take a look here. From my point of view - if you don't want to celebrate the birth of our savior - don't do it. That is one of the things that makes this country great. Worship your own lord or belief system, but you don't have the right to disparage my lord and faith in the process.
I know everyone had a laugh at the 'Festivus for the Rest of Us' episode of Seinfeld, but the message behind it is truly hurtful and wrong. Christmas is a christian holiday - it is not about Santa Claus and snowmen. That being said, I defend the right of the writers, actors and producers to their freedom of speech. I also have the right to turn off the television, personally boycott the writers, actors, producers, sponsors ..... You get the point.
My family thinks I am nuts sometimes. The only way I can speak my mind is to speak with my wallet. I refuse to purchase certain products, I refuse to watch movies with certain actors/actresses in them and I turn off most professional sports (another post on that one) only because it is my way of excercising my freedoms. I do it without stepping on anyone's rights - I just wish more people would follow through on this type of action.
In the end - this is the season.... It is the season for forgiveness, for preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ. Take the time to prepare yourself. I wish each of you a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Wow! When did that happen?
I spent a couple of days with my son and his class at 'Outdoor School' - Camp Hashawa last week. I remember spending a week there ... many years ago. This time was different. I was the parent, the mature one, the chaperone - what a difference 20 years makes to your vision. I truly enjoyed spending the time with my son and his classmates but something happened on the trip that I have been quietly willing to happen. You know how it is when you can see something (potential) and you nudge it along (encouragement)? What do you do when it actually jumps up and hits you in the face?
I have to be honest that when the potential was reached in front of my eyes - I was truly blown away. What am I talking about? My oldest son has a knack for having others follow him. I first saw this on the baseball field - every kid would look to see what my son was doing. Then, they would try to emulate him. This followed on the soccer field - everyone on the team would take their lead from him. I gently nudged (encouraged) him to grasp the opportunity before him and become the leader. He resisted! In fact, he became even more quiet and reserved.
I have to admit that I try to push my children up to their comfort limit - sports, school, manners - you name it - I will push them up to the point that it gets in the way. So when my son drew back at being the team leader I stopped pushing. He really is a great kid/person and I just figured things would work themselves out. Perhaps I had misread his leadership qualities....
Back to Outdoor school. One of the sessions the kids worked on was teamwork. The kids would participate in a series of obstacles that required them to work together in order to complete a task. Now, 7th grade boys do not communicate all that well to begin with. You typically have one or two that 'know what to do' and they beat the others into submission. Whether they are correct in knowing what to do or not does not seem to matter - their way will be tried first. At one of the stations that very thing happened. One boy was set in his ways on how to get things done and he took the team down the wrong path. Not surprising as it had happened in two other stations previously. What happened next blew me away. As a parent - I was to observe and keep the kids on task. We were not to teach them or give them the answers - just watch and nudge.
After taking a few steps the wrong direction, my son stepped up and said 'Everybody stop'. They listened. Cool! But then he took control of the group and told each child what they needed to do to get the job done. Not in a bully way. He did it like the leader I knew he could be. He spoke calmly, quietly but authoritative that he saw the answer - had played it through in his mind and that if they did not act now, they would not get the job done. WOW!
I think I popped 2 buttons on my shirt as my chest swelled with pride. Not that he understood how to solve the problem - he does that routinely. He had asserted himself when it was needed. No prodding to do it. No rewards for doing it. He just did it.
BTW, after he did it he slid right back in to his normal spot. He does not like the attention of being the leader. He would rather sit one step behind (just like his old man) and just keep with the group. That being said, I saw the way the other boys looked at him. When he did it, and as they went on throughout their time. They looked up to him.
My son is a leader. I am so happy that I got to see it.
I have to be honest that when the potential was reached in front of my eyes - I was truly blown away. What am I talking about? My oldest son has a knack for having others follow him. I first saw this on the baseball field - every kid would look to see what my son was doing. Then, they would try to emulate him. This followed on the soccer field - everyone on the team would take their lead from him. I gently nudged (encouraged) him to grasp the opportunity before him and become the leader. He resisted! In fact, he became even more quiet and reserved.
I have to admit that I try to push my children up to their comfort limit - sports, school, manners - you name it - I will push them up to the point that it gets in the way. So when my son drew back at being the team leader I stopped pushing. He really is a great kid/person and I just figured things would work themselves out. Perhaps I had misread his leadership qualities....
Back to Outdoor school. One of the sessions the kids worked on was teamwork. The kids would participate in a series of obstacles that required them to work together in order to complete a task. Now, 7th grade boys do not communicate all that well to begin with. You typically have one or two that 'know what to do' and they beat the others into submission. Whether they are correct in knowing what to do or not does not seem to matter - their way will be tried first. At one of the stations that very thing happened. One boy was set in his ways on how to get things done and he took the team down the wrong path. Not surprising as it had happened in two other stations previously. What happened next blew me away. As a parent - I was to observe and keep the kids on task. We were not to teach them or give them the answers - just watch and nudge.
After taking a few steps the wrong direction, my son stepped up and said 'Everybody stop'. They listened. Cool! But then he took control of the group and told each child what they needed to do to get the job done. Not in a bully way. He did it like the leader I knew he could be. He spoke calmly, quietly but authoritative that he saw the answer - had played it through in his mind and that if they did not act now, they would not get the job done. WOW!
I think I popped 2 buttons on my shirt as my chest swelled with pride. Not that he understood how to solve the problem - he does that routinely. He had asserted himself when it was needed. No prodding to do it. No rewards for doing it. He just did it.
BTW, after he did it he slid right back in to his normal spot. He does not like the attention of being the leader. He would rather sit one step behind (just like his old man) and just keep with the group. That being said, I saw the way the other boys looked at him. When he did it, and as they went on throughout their time. They looked up to him.
My son is a leader. I am so happy that I got to see it.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
No wonder we are where we are
I am no genius when it comes to ... just about anything. With that disclaimer how hard is it to pass a U.S citizenship test? Personally, I found it to be a relatively simple test - take a look at the questions and see for yourself. Apparently, I am not a normal citizen of the country as 'elected officials' only scored 44 per cent. 'Ordinary' citizens scored 49 per cent. This information was taken from the article 'US officials flunk test of American history, economics, civics' . If the education, or awareness of our country is this abysmal - there is no question as to why we find ourselves continuing to elect officials that really have no idea what they are supposed to do, let alone become self declared experts on foreign policy, financial issues, health care or even the role of government.
Instead of electing people who understand the history of our country, its role in the world or even a strong discipline in an area that matters to the general population, we seem to elect people who will cater to a particular need or cause. Where does this get is .... Refer back to my previous post .
This most recent election brought to the forefront the concern over 'qualifications' to become President or Vice President. Personally, I think anyone wishing to run for office should be required to take the test, pass it with at least an 80% (that was a B in grade school) and their scores and answers published for all to see. Not that it will matter much as we are increasingly becoming a society of hand outs. That is the general population increasingly sits back and puts their hand out looking for what their elected official will give them.
Go back to my previous post on taxation and see where you fit. In the end, if you find yourself not wanting to pay for someone elses beer will you do something about it or just complain and threaten to move if your candidate doesn't win ... like Alec Baldwin promised to do.
Instead of electing people who understand the history of our country, its role in the world or even a strong discipline in an area that matters to the general population, we seem to elect people who will cater to a particular need or cause. Where does this get is .... Refer back to my previous post .
This most recent election brought to the forefront the concern over 'qualifications' to become President or Vice President. Personally, I think anyone wishing to run for office should be required to take the test, pass it with at least an 80% (that was a B in grade school) and their scores and answers published for all to see. Not that it will matter much as we are increasingly becoming a society of hand outs. That is the general population increasingly sits back and puts their hand out looking for what their elected official will give them.
Go back to my previous post on taxation and see where you fit. In the end, if you find yourself not wanting to pay for someone elses beer will you do something about it or just complain and threaten to move if your candidate doesn't win ... like Alec Baldwin promised to do.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Are we reaching the tipping point?
For a long time (20 years or half of my life) I have been worried about the impending end of democracy. Yes, I know that is a bold statement but it is backed with a deep rooted concern over the direction I, and many others, have seen this great country going. It is human nature to reach for what is within your grasp, but the outright stealing of the resources of this democracy is something that is appalling to me. This is not a political statement - it is a statement of concern.
When groups are pitted against each other (socio-economic, religious, race based or political) in order to gain a majority favor - everyone loses. There is a line in the movie 'Miracle' that I truly wish more people in this country would consider. In an effort to get the U.S. Hockey team more focused on working as a team Herb Brooks, played by Kurt Russell, says something to the point of " it's about time you starting thinking more about the name on the front of your jersey, than the name on the back" . That line has stuck with me since I first heard it as a montra for our country. John F. Kennedy uttered something along the same lines that seems to have been lost as something from yesteryear, but could not hold more true today "Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country".
Whether those asking are the homeless, homebound or homeowner. Factory worker or factory owner. Victim of malicious crime or perpetrator of that crime. Ask what you can do to make the world and this country a better place.
Along that line, there is another evil within our midst that has been subtle in its growth. That growth has found its way into our way of thinking could not be more wrong. Reading a book that my children are working with in school (elementary and middle school ) - I found it square in the middle of the text. There was a time when the United States of America was a melting pot. That melting pot welcomed every view - everyone was welcome and everyone was encouraged to bring their particular flavor to the pot. That pot would meld the disparate beliefs, customs, and heritage into something that was unique in the world - America. Now, we are told to welcome the same but not to encourage the blending. This creates, as my kids book illustrates, a tossed salad model. Each contributing to the overall flavor of the bi-product but without attempting to blend together. This is not America. This divides American's rather than uniting them.
Where do we go? Are we at a the tipping point? Is the end of the democratic republic close at hand? I just hope I am wrong in my conclusion of where we are in Tytler's Circle.
When groups are pitted against each other (socio-economic, religious, race based or political) in order to gain a majority favor - everyone loses. There is a line in the movie 'Miracle' that I truly wish more people in this country would consider. In an effort to get the U.S. Hockey team more focused on working as a team Herb Brooks, played by Kurt Russell, says something to the point of " it's about time you starting thinking more about the name on the front of your jersey, than the name on the back" . That line has stuck with me since I first heard it as a montra for our country. John F. Kennedy uttered something along the same lines that seems to have been lost as something from yesteryear, but could not hold more true today "Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country".
Whether those asking are the homeless, homebound or homeowner. Factory worker or factory owner. Victim of malicious crime or perpetrator of that crime. Ask what you can do to make the world and this country a better place.
Along that line, there is another evil within our midst that has been subtle in its growth. That growth has found its way into our way of thinking could not be more wrong. Reading a book that my children are working with in school (elementary and middle school ) - I found it square in the middle of the text. There was a time when the United States of America was a melting pot. That melting pot welcomed every view - everyone was welcome and everyone was encouraged to bring their particular flavor to the pot. That pot would meld the disparate beliefs, customs, and heritage into something that was unique in the world - America. Now, we are told to welcome the same but not to encourage the blending. This creates, as my kids book illustrates, a tossed salad model. Each contributing to the overall flavor of the bi-product but without attempting to blend together. This is not America. This divides American's rather than uniting them.
Where do we go? Are we at a the tipping point? Is the end of the democratic republic close at hand? I just hope I am wrong in my conclusion of where we are in Tytler's Circle.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Where is the integrity? Loyalty?
I clearly remember the nervousness that I lived with when I was going through the purchase of my first new home. I followed that up several years later when my wife and I decided to 'move back home' and purchase our second new home closer to the in-laws and out-laws. It was very clear, from a financial perspective, what we were up for and I was honestly scared regarding paying it all back. The rules of .28 and .32 were etched in my mind and those numbers seemed way to high. The 28 % of my gross pay could be allocated to paying off my mortgage? And all of my long term debt must fit within 32%.
When I looked at the numbers it was clear that 1) I could not afford much and 2) How was I ever going to be able to spend that much money on those debts. All these years later - I still panic (slightly) when I look at those values - but those numbers are now only mine. The industry has thrown out those 'recommendations' and allowed people to run the numbers way above what could be considered sane. History is prologue.
Today I heard, not that I was completely surprised, that the government is making it easier for those that can't afford their homes. Take a read at the article 'Are you an idiot to keep paying your mortgage?' and tell me what is wrong with this picture. Basically, those of us who care about our word, save for our futures, make wise decisions with taking on obligations are going to support those that can't seem to live within their means.
I understand the way the market turned - I really do. I have lost most of my retirement (401K), but I am not standing on the corner looking for a handout. My loss is my loss - I get that. Why doesn't everyone else need to play by the same rules?
When I looked at the numbers it was clear that 1) I could not afford much and 2) How was I ever going to be able to spend that much money on those debts. All these years later - I still panic (slightly) when I look at those values - but those numbers are now only mine. The industry has thrown out those 'recommendations' and allowed people to run the numbers way above what could be considered sane. History is prologue.
Today I heard, not that I was completely surprised, that the government is making it easier for those that can't afford their homes. Take a read at the article 'Are you an idiot to keep paying your mortgage?' and tell me what is wrong with this picture. Basically, those of us who care about our word, save for our futures, make wise decisions with taking on obligations are going to support those that can't seem to live within their means.
I understand the way the market turned - I really do. I have lost most of my retirement (401K), but I am not standing on the corner looking for a handout. My loss is my loss - I get that. Why doesn't everyone else need to play by the same rules?
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Farewell Chuck
It is a sad day for my family as we prepare to say farewell to one of the good ones. Charles E. (Chuck) Gagen was a family friend for well over 25 years, but he was called home Tuesday evening.
I first met Chuck as a teenager and was fascinated by the man. At that time, Chuck was a good bit older than me - and my father. That never seemed to get in the way. Whether it was talking after mass, carrying on with the guys (mostly my dad's friends) or cleaning my clock on the squash court - Chuck was a man among men. I went to school with two of Chuck's children (Terry and Patrick) but I got to know him through the Knights of Columbus. As a child, I was taught manners so I knew him as Mr. Chuck. There was no way around it - Chuck was one of those guys that carried on the practice of the past, that of teaching and enforcing respect, manners, discipline and a deep respect for women.
Chuck helped me grow as a teenager, though he never knew it. I watched, learned, practiced and grew by watching him and the group he was with. That group was indeed a special group (Tim N., Jack S., John C., Dick M. ....) - one that I am proud to have known. It was through that group that Chuck was the first person to announce that I had arrived as a man. Through a meeting with several of the above mentioned, Chuck congratulated me. I turned, shook his hand and said 'Thanks Mr. Chuck.'. He held my hand tight and with that stern voice welcomed me to the club with a 'Drop the mister Dennis, my name is Chuck'. From that point forward - I was one of the guys.
That moment meant more to me than most will ever understand. Why? Because at that moment, I was one of the few - the select - that were responsible for setting the example. I was now part of something much larger than I knew.
Out of respect to Chuck, and several of the other genuine men that have gone before him I wanted to share just a few words. In life - you taught me, encouraged me, counciled me and guided me. In death you remind me, encourage me and motivate me - to be more, to many ... with a purpose.
Let us always remember: we are constantly observed, our faith judged and our order appreciated.
Thank you Chuck! I am a better man for knowing you.
I first met Chuck as a teenager and was fascinated by the man. At that time, Chuck was a good bit older than me - and my father. That never seemed to get in the way. Whether it was talking after mass, carrying on with the guys (mostly my dad's friends) or cleaning my clock on the squash court - Chuck was a man among men. I went to school with two of Chuck's children (Terry and Patrick) but I got to know him through the Knights of Columbus. As a child, I was taught manners so I knew him as Mr. Chuck. There was no way around it - Chuck was one of those guys that carried on the practice of the past, that of teaching and enforcing respect, manners, discipline and a deep respect for women.
Chuck helped me grow as a teenager, though he never knew it. I watched, learned, practiced and grew by watching him and the group he was with. That group was indeed a special group (Tim N., Jack S., John C., Dick M. ....) - one that I am proud to have known. It was through that group that Chuck was the first person to announce that I had arrived as a man. Through a meeting with several of the above mentioned, Chuck congratulated me. I turned, shook his hand and said 'Thanks Mr. Chuck.'. He held my hand tight and with that stern voice welcomed me to the club with a 'Drop the mister Dennis, my name is Chuck'. From that point forward - I was one of the guys.
That moment meant more to me than most will ever understand. Why? Because at that moment, I was one of the few - the select - that were responsible for setting the example. I was now part of something much larger than I knew.
Out of respect to Chuck, and several of the other genuine men that have gone before him I wanted to share just a few words. In life - you taught me, encouraged me, counciled me and guided me. In death you remind me, encourage me and motivate me - to be more, to many ... with a purpose.
Let us always remember: we are constantly observed, our faith judged and our order appreciated.
Thank you Chuck! I am a better man for knowing you.
Monday, November 10, 2008
MANDATE?
To follow up on my previous post ... I had to do a little looking, but remember very clearly the gubernatorial election of 2002 in the state of Maryland. Robert Ehrlich ran for office with a very definitive method of raising revenue though the use of slots. The entire election seemed to be focused on slots and what it would mean to the state. For or against slots - it really does not matter (I was against them then, and am against them now - more in a future post about state run gambling), he won handily. Now, the vote came down roughly 4 points above Kathleen Kennedy Townsend. 4% is not a huge margin, but in a lopsided state like Maryland (heavily democratic) when a Republican wins - you should be able to read MANDATE. This was not to be.
The press hounded Ehrlich and refused to acknowledge that his win, with slots as a key piece of his plan, was a statement on where the citizens wanted to see the country move. As soon as a Democrat was elected to the office of governor - the press immediately jumped on the slots bandwagon and have 'campaigned' for their passage. WHAT A CROCK!
So now, Barack Obama wins with about a 6% lead in the popular vote, the media are calling for complete change in every position the Bush administration has taken. I fear that change is all we are going to have left. Mr. Obama will be the president of the United States. The people have voted and the tranfer of power will occur. This is one of the things that makes this country great. Mandate should not be use in this case. If it is - I think it is time for the rest of the country to wake up and call for the other mandate that was voted in - Proposition 8 in California.
Prop 8 was voted for approval but immediately there were protests held ... If the people vote and the votes are meant to show the opinion of the people - why the protests? Why the media continuing to give credit to the opposition? The people spoke and the liberal media did not like what they said. Therefore, something needs to be done to get what they want - it really is that simple
Face it - the media is biased. It is time for the rest of us to stand up and call them on it.
The press hounded Ehrlich and refused to acknowledge that his win, with slots as a key piece of his plan, was a statement on where the citizens wanted to see the country move. As soon as a Democrat was elected to the office of governor - the press immediately jumped on the slots bandwagon and have 'campaigned' for their passage. WHAT A CROCK!
So now, Barack Obama wins with about a 6% lead in the popular vote, the media are calling for complete change in every position the Bush administration has taken. I fear that change is all we are going to have left. Mr. Obama will be the president of the United States. The people have voted and the tranfer of power will occur. This is one of the things that makes this country great. Mandate should not be use in this case. If it is - I think it is time for the rest of the country to wake up and call for the other mandate that was voted in - Proposition 8 in California.
Prop 8 was voted for approval but immediately there were protests held ... If the people vote and the votes are meant to show the opinion of the people - why the protests? Why the media continuing to give credit to the opposition? The people spoke and the liberal media did not like what they said. Therefore, something needs to be done to get what they want - it really is that simple
Face it - the media is biased. It is time for the rest of us to stand up and call them on it.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Mandate? I don't think so
Now that the presidential election of 2008 is almost behind us the news media is headed off on their own again. 'The election of Barack Obama signifies a mandate for change.' - Where do they come up with this stuff. Yes, Mr. Obama won the election, but I don't think you can call less than 6% popular vote a mandate. Personally, I fear what this country has in store for it with the democratic controlled House, Senate and Oval Office - what we can't afford is a media that begs at their feet encouraging even more sweeping change.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
StarOffice 9 and the weblog extension
I just downloaded the latest version of StarOffice 9 and found a new extension that adds in weblog publishing. While still not the prolific blogger, I find the ability to just publish from a document a much simpler method. More to follow.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Palin ready ... or not?
Perusing the news this afternoon while eating lunch the headline:
Ex-chief diplomat says Palin not ready for top job
jumped right out at me. What is interesting is that - if you read the article at http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081031/ap_on_el_pr/palin_eagleburger you find that he also states that he could name a number of Vice President's that he saw in the same situation. He states that given a little time in the job, he thinks she would be able to assume the Presidency if called upon to do so. So, don't read too much in to titles.Who are you?
I feel compelled to share a bit more about how I came to be the person I am and characterize this blog by what is really behind it. Some who are reading this may think I am a strong McCain supporter. You could not be more wrong. John McCain was not my choice - no, he is far from the representative that I was interested in electing to the office of President. That being said, he is the strongest candidate for that office at least on the areas that I care deeply (national security, the sanctity of life, individual rights, responsibility) about. Again, I said he is the best still standing.
The media in this country took away my chance to vote in the primary for the candidate that I thought would be best for this country. How? Why? They did it by backing John McCain and Barack Obama and by the time it was my turn to vote .... well, the choices had been dwindled down. Yes, the media did it. So why would the media back John McCain and Barack Obama? And what happened to that support (at least for McCain)? Quite simply put - John McCain was the closest thing to a Democrat that the Republican party had to offer and they saw this as the closest to an acceptable outcome as possible. Once the rest of the candidates were run off - the press' true colors came through and they showed that even an 'isle crosser' from the Republican party would not be acceptable. Why Obama? Because he is the most liberal candidate to ever step forward ... in the history of this great country. The press loves this and is the sole reason they continue to block and tackle for the candidate as he inches closer to the most powerful and most prestigious job in the entire world.
Why does any of this matter? If you have children you already understand this. Take the position of parent as you watch your child or children grow. When they are small you encourage them to take steps, you follow behind to pick them up when they fall. When they are taking steps on their own, completing sentences without your assistance and beginning to find and make friends your job as parent takes on another role. Now, you are looking out for who/what will interact with your child and you do things help to shape who your child is. I am specifically referring to monitoring and at times controlling who your child interacts with. We all know the 'Do not talk to strangers' part of this, but what is even more important is the investigating that we all do to know who our children are associating with. Who do they play with on the playground? Who do they eat lunch with at school? What are their parents like? What circle does my child run with?
This continues throughout the life of your child. Why? It is the associations that we have in life that make us the people we are. We all have found good and bad in people and we make judgement calls as to whether or not to continue the relationship. As a child we can't understand why we are or are not allowed to play with certain kids. As adults we understand that we are 'the company that we keep'. Character matters and part of that character is understanding who we should and should not associate with.
Back to politics .... or did we never leave. Barack Obama's associations are not ones that I wish for my children to have. To that end, they are not associations that I wish for my country to have. To many - comments such as these would be considered negative but the inverse could not be more true. It is simple honesty and innocent report of facts that should measure the tenor of the commentary.We need to grow up and be the parents. We need to stand up when we see something that is wrong in our society. We need to find ways to fix what is broken. We need to participate to insure we have the opportunity.
God Bless the United States of America!
The media in this country took away my chance to vote in the primary for the candidate that I thought would be best for this country. How? Why? They did it by backing John McCain and Barack Obama and by the time it was my turn to vote .... well, the choices had been dwindled down. Yes, the media did it. So why would the media back John McCain and Barack Obama? And what happened to that support (at least for McCain)? Quite simply put - John McCain was the closest thing to a Democrat that the Republican party had to offer and they saw this as the closest to an acceptable outcome as possible. Once the rest of the candidates were run off - the press' true colors came through and they showed that even an 'isle crosser' from the Republican party would not be acceptable. Why Obama? Because he is the most liberal candidate to ever step forward ... in the history of this great country. The press loves this and is the sole reason they continue to block and tackle for the candidate as he inches closer to the most powerful and most prestigious job in the entire world.
Why does any of this matter? If you have children you already understand this. Take the position of parent as you watch your child or children grow. When they are small you encourage them to take steps, you follow behind to pick them up when they fall. When they are taking steps on their own, completing sentences without your assistance and beginning to find and make friends your job as parent takes on another role. Now, you are looking out for who/what will interact with your child and you do things help to shape who your child is. I am specifically referring to monitoring and at times controlling who your child interacts with. We all know the 'Do not talk to strangers' part of this, but what is even more important is the investigating that we all do to know who our children are associating with. Who do they play with on the playground? Who do they eat lunch with at school? What are their parents like? What circle does my child run with?
This continues throughout the life of your child. Why? It is the associations that we have in life that make us the people we are. We all have found good and bad in people and we make judgement calls as to whether or not to continue the relationship. As a child we can't understand why we are or are not allowed to play with certain kids. As adults we understand that we are 'the company that we keep'. Character matters and part of that character is understanding who we should and should not associate with.
Back to politics .... or did we never leave. Barack Obama's associations are not ones that I wish for my children to have. To that end, they are not associations that I wish for my country to have. To many - comments such as these would be considered negative but the inverse could not be more true. It is simple honesty and innocent report of facts that should measure the tenor of the commentary.We need to grow up and be the parents. We need to stand up when we see something that is wrong in our society. We need to find ways to fix what is broken. We need to participate to insure we have the opportunity.
God Bless the United States of America!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
A lesson on taxation
I was recently sent an email from a friend that I thought was simple enough that most people could understand. I have pasted it below verbatim:
UNDERSTANDING ECONOMICS (OR) BAR STOOL ECONOMICS
Suppose that every day, ten men go out for beer and the bill for all 10 comes to $100. If they paid their bill the way we pay our taxes, it would go something like this:
The ten men drank in the bar every day and seemed quite happy with the arrangement, until one day, the owner threw them a curve.
Since you are all such good customers, he said, I'm going to reduce the cost of your daily beer by $20. Drinks for all of you will now cost just $80. The group still wanted to pay their bill the way we pay our taxes so:
The first four men were unaffected, they still pay nothing and will drink for free. The other six men -the paying customers had to decide how to divide the $20 windfall so that everyone would get his "fair share". They realized that $20 divided by six is $3.33, but if they subtracted that from everybody's share then the fifth and the sixth man would each end up being paid to drink his beer. So, the bar owner suggested that it would be fair to reduce each man's bill by roughly the same amount, and he proceeded to work out the amounts each should pay. And so,
Each of the six was better off than before and the first four continued to drink for free. But once outside the restaurant, the men began to compare their savings.
"I only got a dollar out of the $20" declared the sixth man he pointed to the tenth man "but he got $10" "Yeah, that right" exclaimed the fifth man 'I only saved $1 dollar too" "It's unfair that he got ten times more than I" That's true! shouted the seventh man. "Why should he get $10 back when I got only $2".
"The wealthy get all the breaks!!!
" Wait a minute' yelled the first four men in unison "We didn't get anything at all. The system exploits the Poor" We didn't get anything at all" The nine men surrounded the 10th and beat him up.
The next night the tenth man didn't show up for drinks, so the nine sat down and had beers without him.
But when it came time to pay the bill, they discovered something important. They didn't have enough money between all of them, for even half of the bill!!
And that, boys and girls, journalists and college professors, is how our tax system works. The people who pay the highest taxes get the most benefit from a tax reduction!! Tax them too much, attack them for being wealthy and they just may not show up anymore.
In fact, they might start drinking overseas where the atmosphere is somewhat friendlier.
For those who understand, no explanation is needed. For those who do not understand, no explanation is possible-they will go ahead and vote for Obama.
UNDERSTANDING ECONOMICS (OR) BAR STOOL ECONOMICS
Suppose that every day, ten men go out for beer and the bill for all 10 comes to $100. If they paid their bill the way we pay our taxes, it would go something like this:
- The first four men (the poorest) would pay nothing
- The fifth would pay $1
- The sixth would pay $3
- The seventh would pay $7
- The eighth would pay $12
- The ninth would pay $18
- The tenth man ( the richest) would pay $59
The ten men drank in the bar every day and seemed quite happy with the arrangement, until one day, the owner threw them a curve.
Since you are all such good customers, he said, I'm going to reduce the cost of your daily beer by $20. Drinks for all of you will now cost just $80. The group still wanted to pay their bill the way we pay our taxes so:
The first four men were unaffected, they still pay nothing and will drink for free. The other six men -the paying customers had to decide how to divide the $20 windfall so that everyone would get his "fair share". They realized that $20 divided by six is $3.33, but if they subtracted that from everybody's share then the fifth and the sixth man would each end up being paid to drink his beer. So, the bar owner suggested that it would be fair to reduce each man's bill by roughly the same amount, and he proceeded to work out the amounts each should pay. And so,
- The fifth man, like the first four, now paid nothing (100% saving)
- The sixth now paid $2 instead of $3 (33% savings)
- The seventh now paid $5 instead of $7 (28% savings)
- The eighth now paid $9 instead of $12 (25% savings)
- The ninth now paid $14 instead of $18 ( 22% savings)
- The tenth now paid $49 instead of $59 ( 16% savings)
Each of the six was better off than before and the first four continued to drink for free. But once outside the restaurant, the men began to compare their savings.
"I only got a dollar out of the $20" declared the sixth man he pointed to the tenth man "but he got $10" "Yeah, that right" exclaimed the fifth man 'I only saved $1 dollar too" "It's unfair that he got ten times more than I" That's true! shouted the seventh man. "Why should he get $10 back when I got only $2".
"The wealthy get all the breaks!!!
" Wait a minute' yelled the first four men in unison "We didn't get anything at all. The system exploits the Poor" We didn't get anything at all" The nine men surrounded the 10th and beat him up.
The next night the tenth man didn't show up for drinks, so the nine sat down and had beers without him.
But when it came time to pay the bill, they discovered something important. They didn't have enough money between all of them, for even half of the bill!!
And that, boys and girls, journalists and college professors, is how our tax system works. The people who pay the highest taxes get the most benefit from a tax reduction!! Tax them too much, attack them for being wealthy and they just may not show up anymore.
In fact, they might start drinking overseas where the atmosphere is somewhat friendlier.
For those who understand, no explanation is needed. For those who do not understand, no explanation is possible-they will go ahead and vote for Obama.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Preparing for the 'unfiltered' Obama
I personally think the idea of buying up all of the air time so that a politician can 'sell' his message to the world is a great idea. I find it humorous that Mr. Obama is the one doing it. Why? Hasn't he had the time that he wanted without ever spending a dime already? With the main stream media taking the cues and input from his campaign and running with every positive story he thought important, what could he have possibly missed?
Apparently, he has not gotten his message out - so now he is taking a half hour spot on a number of networks to tell the world exactly what he wants us to hear. I will not be able to listen to it as I will be traveling home from a business trip - but I am sure it will be rebroadcast over and over again with his lap dogs carrying it to the finish line. While it is combative to bring it up - I thought McCain-Feingold had a provision that restricted air time as we edged closer to elections ... in an effort to stop what is about to happen. John McCain started working on this years ago because he saw what was possible.
Lastly, Mr. Obama appears to have more money than he could possibly know what to do with it. I wonder how that philosophy (raise as much as possible and make sure you spend all of it) will translate to a Obama presidency? The heir-apparent has already started campaigning to have people stay home from work and skip school to help 'make history'. This is not what this country needs and is 100% focused on Obama the individual instead of the citizen of this great country.
Apparently, he has not gotten his message out - so now he is taking a half hour spot on a number of networks to tell the world exactly what he wants us to hear. I will not be able to listen to it as I will be traveling home from a business trip - but I am sure it will be rebroadcast over and over again with his lap dogs carrying it to the finish line. While it is combative to bring it up - I thought McCain-Feingold had a provision that restricted air time as we edged closer to elections ... in an effort to stop what is about to happen. John McCain started working on this years ago because he saw what was possible.
Lastly, Mr. Obama appears to have more money than he could possibly know what to do with it. I wonder how that philosophy (raise as much as possible and make sure you spend all of it) will translate to a Obama presidency? The heir-apparent has already started campaigning to have people stay home from work and skip school to help 'make history'. This is not what this country needs and is 100% focused on Obama the individual instead of the citizen of this great country.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Where is the honesty?
Not that there are many of you out there reading my posts, but if you have read them you sense that I am rather annoyed with the media in the U.S. . Politics is a simple area to see how one-sided, skewed and self-promoting the media is in this country. There was a time, I have been told, that the media (print, radio, television) actually reported the news. They investigated all aspects of a story and provided that information for the world to consume.
That time is definitely either a dream, a point in history that has been passed by, or simply a creative thought that my parents shared with me as a child and I believed them. The news media, specifically print and television, is so focused on getting their story out there that they often create news instead of merely reporting it. Reading about Sarah Palin (you name the topic) it is very clear that a team of investigators took their charge to dig up information very seriously. This is something that the media should do. However they failed to do the same research on Joe Biden, Barack Obama and John McCain. Perhaps they think that everyone knows how much each of them spends on their wardrobes or how much money they have tied up in family business ....
That being said - it appears that they simply have a plan to report every negative aspect of the governors life in an effort to create/sway public opinion instead of simply reporting it. If they really were about informing the public they would have gone through the same level of investigation and speculation about Joe Biden. Something as simple as :"How can a United States Senator, for several years, be in a position to only be worth $63,000?". Talk about judgement - if he has nothing more that $63K saved after all those years living on the public dime, then how ready is he to be President? Balance a budget? Get us out of this economic crisis that he helped get us in to?
So, until the press decides to act as an unbiased observer and researcher - I will not recommend them for anything other than lining my daughter's rabbit cage and another reason to limit the amount of time my children watch television.
That time is definitely either a dream, a point in history that has been passed by, or simply a creative thought that my parents shared with me as a child and I believed them. The news media, specifically print and television, is so focused on getting their story out there that they often create news instead of merely reporting it. Reading about Sarah Palin (you name the topic) it is very clear that a team of investigators took their charge to dig up information very seriously. This is something that the media should do. However they failed to do the same research on Joe Biden, Barack Obama and John McCain. Perhaps they think that everyone knows how much each of them spends on their wardrobes or how much money they have tied up in family business ....
That being said - it appears that they simply have a plan to report every negative aspect of the governors life in an effort to create/sway public opinion instead of simply reporting it. If they really were about informing the public they would have gone through the same level of investigation and speculation about Joe Biden. Something as simple as :"How can a United States Senator, for several years, be in a position to only be worth $63,000?". Talk about judgement - if he has nothing more that $63K saved after all those years living on the public dime, then how ready is he to be President? Balance a budget? Get us out of this economic crisis that he helped get us in to?
So, until the press decides to act as an unbiased observer and researcher - I will not recommend them for anything other than lining my daughter's rabbit cage and another reason to limit the amount of time my children watch television.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Experience Matters?
Here we sit 15 days before the 2008 election and the political 'analysts' continue to push the 'Sarah Palin is not qualified to be President' message and to a large degree they are correct. She has not been truly tested on the international stage and voters should be informed and concerned. However, the last time I checked she was running for the office of Vice President. Yes, a heartbeat away ... but let's keep the facts straight. Where is the honesty in the reporting of the other side? What qualifies Barack Obama to be President? Other than the now famous quote from former President Bill Clinton 'he is 35 years of age ...', I just don't see it. He has never governed/managed ... ANYTHING. "He is a United States Senator" - so what? What has he done of any real note? Nothing!
What is fair is fair - I just wish the media in this country would be honest in reporting information instead of continuing to try to create it. We just heard Colin Powell come out to support Mr. Obama for President and he cited a few items that should be addressed:
Mr. Powell questions John McCain's judgement in selecting Sarah Palin as a running mate. At the same time condeming Mr. McCain for questing Mr. Obama's judgement with his association with Bill Ayers. If judgement is something that should be considered in the selection of a President (which I think it should) then judgement should be considered from both candidates.
Mr. Powell questions John McCain's ability to find a way through the current economic crisis. What about questioning Barack Obama's connection to those that caused the majority of the current economic crisis?
I have long admired Mr. Powell. His service to his country and to be honest - his ability to influence individuals with his words. I was fortunate enough to hear Mr. Powell speak at a work event and he was captivating. What I admired was not the words he used, it was the way he used them. I do not fall on the support side of many things Mr. Powell advocates, but his ability to move an audience is incredible.
I always look at individuals for what I can take/learn from them. I then try to find ways to make those things I like part of my own being - redefining who I am. Being is sales - I found a lot to like in Mr. Powell.
What is fair is fair - I just wish the media in this country would be honest in reporting information instead of continuing to try to create it. We just heard Colin Powell come out to support Mr. Obama for President and he cited a few items that should be addressed:
Mr. Powell questions John McCain's judgement in selecting Sarah Palin as a running mate. At the same time condeming Mr. McCain for questing Mr. Obama's judgement with his association with Bill Ayers. If judgement is something that should be considered in the selection of a President (which I think it should) then judgement should be considered from both candidates.
Mr. Powell questions John McCain's ability to find a way through the current economic crisis. What about questioning Barack Obama's connection to those that caused the majority of the current economic crisis?
I have long admired Mr. Powell. His service to his country and to be honest - his ability to influence individuals with his words. I was fortunate enough to hear Mr. Powell speak at a work event and he was captivating. What I admired was not the words he used, it was the way he used them. I do not fall on the support side of many things Mr. Powell advocates, but his ability to move an audience is incredible.
I always look at individuals for what I can take/learn from them. I then try to find ways to make those things I like part of my own being - redefining who I am. Being is sales - I found a lot to like in Mr. Powell.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Tired of the future
How far have we come? Not very far if you ask me. What am I talking about? What ever happened to keeping your word? Standing up for what you believe in? Standing up for those that can't stand up for themselves?
When I was growing up, my parents along with their neighbors taught us to honor your word. Keep your commitments, respect each other and above all understand that you are part of something larger. With the current political situation in the United States it is obvious that the lessons of yesterday have been thrown out the window.
After watching the debates last night and listening to the morning after quarterbacks - either I did not watch the same debate, or I am living in an alternate universe. Neither candidate is clean in this election. They have both been a part of the failed economic decisions that have brought the financial crisis on the world. Yet, they both claim to have done something in the past that should have averted it. Mr. Obama - sending a letter to a chairman DOES NOTHING. If you really believed what you wrote a year and a half ago - why didn't you do something as senator? Mr. McCain - if the Republicans held congress when you signed on to the bill that went down in defeat - WHY COULDN'T YOU GET IT PASSED? Failure to lead is failure to act!
The facts are the facts. The corruption in Washington brought us to this point. Yes, greed on Wall Street played a part, but it is the underhanded actions of the Washington insiders that started this ball rolling. Once moving in a direction they wanted - they were all too willing to support whatever promoted their cause. Now, they want to place the blame on President Bush and anyone who ever voted in support of one of his policies. Well, I hate to break the news to you but for as many failures as the Bush administration has had you can't pile this crisis on them.
This started long ago with well-intentioned individuals trying to bring the American dream to those that were less fortunate. While admirable, it only goes to show the law of unintended consequences is alive and well. Lowering the barrier to home ownership is looking out for the little guy (or girl). Forcing institutions to make risky loans was the wrong approach to take. Now, piling on to those that were told to do it and found a way to make money in the process (which is the goal of business in the first place) is down right immoral.
Stand up for what you believe in! Work towards solutions that help everyone instead of pitting groups against each other! Take the blame for what you did ... or did not do! Honor your words and actions if you want us to support your future plans!
When I was growing up, my parents along with their neighbors taught us to honor your word. Keep your commitments, respect each other and above all understand that you are part of something larger. With the current political situation in the United States it is obvious that the lessons of yesterday have been thrown out the window.
After watching the debates last night and listening to the morning after quarterbacks - either I did not watch the same debate, or I am living in an alternate universe. Neither candidate is clean in this election. They have both been a part of the failed economic decisions that have brought the financial crisis on the world. Yet, they both claim to have done something in the past that should have averted it. Mr. Obama - sending a letter to a chairman DOES NOTHING. If you really believed what you wrote a year and a half ago - why didn't you do something as senator? Mr. McCain - if the Republicans held congress when you signed on to the bill that went down in defeat - WHY COULDN'T YOU GET IT PASSED? Failure to lead is failure to act!
The facts are the facts. The corruption in Washington brought us to this point. Yes, greed on Wall Street played a part, but it is the underhanded actions of the Washington insiders that started this ball rolling. Once moving in a direction they wanted - they were all too willing to support whatever promoted their cause. Now, they want to place the blame on President Bush and anyone who ever voted in support of one of his policies. Well, I hate to break the news to you but for as many failures as the Bush administration has had you can't pile this crisis on them.
This started long ago with well-intentioned individuals trying to bring the American dream to those that were less fortunate. While admirable, it only goes to show the law of unintended consequences is alive and well. Lowering the barrier to home ownership is looking out for the little guy (or girl). Forcing institutions to make risky loans was the wrong approach to take. Now, piling on to those that were told to do it and found a way to make money in the process (which is the goal of business in the first place) is down right immoral.
Stand up for what you believe in! Work towards solutions that help everyone instead of pitting groups against each other! Take the blame for what you did ... or did not do! Honor your words and actions if you want us to support your future plans!
Friday, October 3, 2008
First post
I have been attempting to blog at work, using my company provided service. I found myself wanting to share opinions that are not necessarily ones that should ever be attributed to my employer. So, here I am moving out to blogspot. I don't know how often I will be posting but this is where some of my direct opinions, concerns and passions will show up.
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