Spring Has Spung ... The Muse is Snoozing

It has been slow round these parts. The winter of our discontent has (finally) past, and spring is firmly entrenched. The Cubs appear to have started their yearly slide into the middle part of the division, after perhaps their best start in the last 50 years. This either proves male Chicagoland baseball fans (of the northsiders) are hopeless romantics/optimists ... or that we are in the end forever branded as someone who succumbs to "Cub-teasers". Well, the season is still young, and if they bounce back anything is possible. *sigh*.

More to follow, as I gather what little wits I have, and a few stray thoughts.

New Beginnings

Spring. When we are witness to natures annual rebirth. The cycle of life is shown to continue as evidenced by new buds of grass and flower, along with new young of animals large and small. It is also, if you are adherent to any of the Christian faiths, a time of spiritual rebirth as well.

Easter signifies, not only an ending (of sorts), a ransom paid to insure mans passage into a heavenly afterlife, but a new beginning as well. The law of the old testament has been superseded by that of the new.

It is considered a time of spiritual renewal/beginnings as well. This being exemplified by the recent activities of his holiness Pope Benedict XVI, baptizing into the faith Magdi Allam, deputy director of Italy's largest newspaper,who just happens to have been Muslim. It will be interesting to see what repercussions will result from this newest planting in the garden of the faithful. That both converted and converter have displayed admirable amounts of courage in so public an act, speaks highly of both.

And not being totally without reflection, I got to thinking about what caused me to come back to the Christian faith. Though past failings, prevent me from returning “completely” to the faith of my birth, accepting there is a God, and as it follows, a son who was ransomed for us all, is not . Fact is, there were many questions I had, most beginning with “WHY”, which turned me from my faith. But some things kept calling me back. I believe in there being a reason for everything and only with the passage of time, have I begun to accept, that though this is true, I am not entitled to know what these reasons are. As is so often said to the “under 21 crowd” living under this roof, “I need to stay in my own pay-grade”.

However, once in awhile, I am privileged in gaining some bit of understanding. Something which after hearing and or reading, makes too much sense not to be of value. So in keeping with this (if somewhat belated) Easter theme, I ask you to read this. (And note, even though both the late Dr. Scott and his wife grace the top of the page, the transcript itself is in his own words, and is what he spoke about on numerous occasions during his telecasts.)

I may not have agreed with everything Dr. Scott ever said. But this has the ring of truth. Its logic is sound. Even if you don't believe for what ever reason, perhaps if nothing else it will get you thinking. And if perchance, a seed planted, takes root and sprouts ... isn't this the time of year for that after all?

Am I Blue

As noted in a recent post at Dustbury, James Lileks has a home, once again, on the print side of things at the Minneapolis Star Tribune. Being the curious sort I am, took a look over there to see what was on his mind for his re-entry into “ye olde byline mode”, and was pleasantly surprised.

The column itself was framed around the remnants of Blue Laws. Those bits of codified custom, which at one time prohibited the sale of darn near everything on Sunday. It was, at least according to no less an authority then GOD, that we were to “keep the sabbath holy”. We were to give that day and (all) our energies and efforts over to Him which created us, in giving thanks and praise, and NOT by increasing our paycheck or helping some corporate entity to increase their's.

But that, in and of itself, was not the picture James was painting that day. Or at least not the complete owner of his canvas. He went on to opine about a quieter, gentler time. One of visiting grandparents, of shared simple joys. Hu boy, did he bring back memories.

I have to agree with him. Sunday in our neck of the woods, was not as effected by blue laws (the Chicago metro area, and it's sophisticated ways, beating back much of the Illinois blue laws, well before I was able to recall such things). To be sure, depending on where you lived, some bars would be closed, and (even to this day) automobile salesmen were not to be found. Still, you could go to Sears, or (pre-Sears) K-Mart. But for the most part, shopping was done on Saturday. Sunday was for finishing yard work (if needed), and for going to grandmas.

The day almost always started with the obligatory Sunday Mass. The family was always trying to make the 10:30, but most often that had left the station by time we were ready, and we would inevitably end up at the 12:00. Then it was a quick trip home to change out of our Sunday best, and into more comfortable attire. And off to grandmas we went.

If the weather was warm (read that as anything above freezing, with no major rain going on), the kids were sent outside. If inclement, we would find ourselves in the basement, watching the old black and white tv, or playing old 78's on the old record player. Meanwhile, our parents, grandparents, and assorted aunts and uncles would be upstairs. And they could be found talking about the local dirt, any current family drama, or whatever it was adults talked about. This would be augmented with the sounds of the Cubs (back when WGN carried ALL the games) the Bears, golf, or bowling, depending what was in season or on the air at the time. Of course it was all “in living color” as the grandparents had 25 inches of television goodness. As we grew a bit older, we would be allowed to watch (in silence) Though seen and not heard wasn't something done 100% of the time, adult conversations were just that, adult. Grandma would always spend some time with us, and we could always ask questions when there was a break in conversation. We were not ignored, but we did know our place, and our pecking order.

And much like Lileks, when “The Wonderful World of Color” blazed across the set, we knew it was nearing time to head back home. Though I seem to recall the end of Bonanza was usually when coats and kids were gathered up, good byes tossed about like grandma's Hersey kisses, and we drove the two lane highways back to our little bit of suburban heaven.

That, my friends, was Sunday. A day of prayer. A gathering of family. Rest and relaxation, good food, hugs. For the most part, no worries, no pressures (at least none which couldn't wait until tomorrow). A day in which to recharge.

And yes, I miss that. In this “every day is like every other day” world, one (even if they worked the day 9-5 shift) often has very little time to recharge. We are always on the go. Trying to make ends meet, with the ends pulling further apart despite all our best efforts. Sunday, just doesn't seem to be the same.

Do (or did) the blue laws in and of themselves really make a difference? In my mind that is a yes or no kinda thing. The laws in and of themselves ... no they didn't. Ahhhh but the intent and spirit behind them, that's another thing entirely. Being older (the “and wiser” part is still up for debate), I wonder if the intent wasn't as much to control as to prevent human nature from sinking to the lowest point possible before reaching an equilibrium of sorts. The “equilibrium being turning Sunday in to “just another day of the week”, rather then a “day of rest”. After all, God being God, doesn't need one ... He's God, fer cryin out loud. I would like to believe He did that for us, because he, better then anyone, knows our limitations. And, in so doing, sought to make life a bit easier for us. But humans being human, we went and botched it up.

Perhaps in this regard, the old way(s) of doing things were not all that bad after all. And I can live with out going shopping on Sunday. Heaven knows my paycheck doesn't go that far into the week as it is.

When It Comes To Snow, 6-10 Inches Is More Then Enough!

Happy first day of Spring!! Getting the light weight jackets out? The spring and summer clothes ready to jump into as you take your evening walks after a nice dinner? Perhaps even start thinking about heading to the golf course or lake? Perhaps you are just itching to start on this years version of your garden.

Well, if you are unfortunate to live here in the northern part of the Peoples Republic of Illinois. you need to back up a bit there bucky ....

"The National Weather Service forecast offices in Chicago, Davenport, and Milwaukee have issued a Winter Storm Watch for the entire WIFR viewing area beginning Thursday night and lasting through Friday evening. The only county excluded from the Winter Storm Watch at this juncture is Whiteside County.

An area of low pressure is expected to develop and pass about 75-100 miles to our south Thursday night through Friday. Snow will develop as we near the midnight hour Thursday night, and continue, heavily at times, through at least Friday afternoon.

Computer model projections still suggest that more than a half inch of water is expected to fall during this storm, which equates to 5-10 inches of snow. While 10 inches seems a bit on the high side, given the longer days, stronger sunlight, and warmer ground, it's entirely plausible that many areas could stand to pick up as much as 6 inches from this storm, with locally higher amounts in spots."
Source: WIFR

Yep, that's right, MORE *&#@()#*%&&* SNOW!!! Damn it!!! I Want my global warming and I want it now Al Gore you lying asshat you!!!

Forcast: 4"-6" of Glow Bull Warming Overnight

"Oh the weather outside is frightful ... " Sheesh, we have the second snowiest winter on record locked already, and it looks like it ain't over yet. The following pictures are a good job by my wife Deb (aka, "The Admiral") at showing the white stuff coming down. But these have to be the biggest flakes we have seen in quite some time.

This one is ONE FLAKE on my hand

And here is the driveway just outside of the garage. A lot of what you see are individual flakes. The larger clumps are of 3-4 together.

It took a bit to get this post finished, what with dinner and all. There is now about 2 inches of the white stuff on the ground (that is on top of the *old* snow). The latest forecast is for 4"-7" here in the hinterlands of northern Illinois, through tomorrow.

Can we have that glow bull warming stuff now?????

Ok, so this is about 3 months too late ... better late then never!.

Fact is, I finally went to Ms. Clowry's site tonight. Hey, anyone who can make a "bumper" which sounds just a tad bit smoky, has got to be worth looking into. (And judging by her outstanding musical/vocal talent, it won't be my last ... this lady rocks!!) Thanks to being constantly promoted by WGN over night radio talkers, Steve and Johnnie. (Monday 2-5 am, Monday thru Thursday nights, 11pm-5am ... shameless plug - Harbor Master)

The big thing which got my attention, was a song written by Christa Wells, and performed by McClowry, called "Before The Tree Comes Down". Take a minute or two to listen to it (the full length version) here.

Done listening? (Wiped the moisture from your glasses? This one will raise the level of humidity in your room, guaranteed!) Yeah, it does pull at the heart. Especially if you have served, or you have loved ones serving now.

But wait! There's more!!

Profits from the sale of "Before the Tree Comes Down" are pledged to the charity The Armed Forces Foundation. Please help us support them with the purchase of this song via iTunes.

Source: Lisa McClowry's website

I don't know what her political views or slant is, and guess what, I don't care. The willingness to lend her considerable talents in the production of this song, along with providing all proceeds towards those which the song is about, says it all. She "gets it". And for this if nothing else, may require me to go and actually visit a music store and purchase a new cd or three.

And as for The Armed Forces Foundation, their mission statement says it all:

"The Armed Forces Foundation is a national nonprofit organization under the Department of Defense’s America Supports You Program. The Foundation is dedicated to promoting the morale, welfare and the quality of life of the United States Armed Forces community."

Source: The Armed Forces Foundation website

And for those who chose to donate to this group and help advance their mission, this is very good to know:

According to an independent financial audit of 2007, the Foundation proudly gives 96 cents for every dollar donated directly to the troops through financial assistance and support programs. With an operating budget of over three million dollars, the Foundation is committed to fiscal responsibility by performing independent third party audits on an annual basis. The Foundation is happy to provide the public with audit papers and answer any questions if needed.

Source: The Armed Forces Foundation website

Please, check out the song, and if so inclined, at least take a look at what good works The Armed Forces Foundation is doing for our countries service members and their families.

Remember When ...

The good readers and commenters over at the Rott, started waxing nostalgic today. I was no exception, contributing as much as my five active brain cells would allow. Sitting here in the snow covered bunker, at Snugg Harbor central, the memories were reluctant to fade away in to the cobwebbed recesses of my mind (such as it is). And so let's return to those days of yesteryear ... when men were men an women were all the happier for it!! (And kids were told to "shuddup and eat, before your dinner gets cold, then you can talk.").

Remember when:

Paychecks were a LOT smaller, but they seemed to go alot further.
Yes, they have gone up, ostensively due to inflation, but have they realistically kept pace to the increased cost of "basics", such as gas (auto), utilities, basic food items - meats, dairy, produce, bread? The cost of a new home, car, appliances (not even speaking about *top of the line*, just good quality for the dollar spent items)?

The price you paid for a night out did not require you to get a second (or third) mortgage on your house.
A *nice* dinner for two might set you back 10-20 bucks (including tips and a before dinner drink). A movie (with a popcorn and sodas) between 5-10 dollars more. And that was back in the 70's, go back a tad bit further, to the 60's, and a ten spot could get you through the whole night. As for kids, well a Saturday matinee was all of a dollar. That included two movies, a couple of cartoons, a newsreel, coming attractions, the national anthem, and of course, a soda and popcorn. Plus, if you were sneaky, you could get into the *other* show after yours was over, and see that too.

There were no "Soccer Moms".
Our (summer time) days were, for the most part, our own. Yes, there were swimming lessons at the park district, and for a couple of years "day camp" (again, via the park district). But, we were expected to get to and from them on our own. It was only a mile or so to the public pool, and or pick up point for the day camp. We were around 10 years of age, so off we went. As a rule, there were no mom taxi services. Dad had the only car. It wasn't the responsibility of the parents to jam pack your day with activities, you were left to your own devices. If you elected to get into trouble, and happened to get caught, you paid the penalty(s) for same. Which ranged from parents assuming the role of drill instructor, and burning your ears off. Or you faced "The Wrath of Dad" ™ , You did NOT want to face the wrath of dad because your bottom was the prime focus of his wrath, and this was long before ANY parent needed to worry about things like Child Protective Services. Needless to say, we found plenty enough forms of "satisfactory" entertainment to keep us busy during the summer months.

Bagging the Grass
Meant you had to go and retrieve all the lawn trimmings after cutting the grass, and place same into paper or plastic trash bags ... and not dividing up a pile of "natures own" in to sandwich baggies?

Going to the "Five & Dime Store"
Where you could still get stuff (in my case, penny candy that still cost a penny) for five or ten cents? Comic books were 10 and then 12 cents each for the longest time. The special annuals were a quarter and maybe came out once or twice a year. Soda was in cans, but the way to get it out of the machine was by bottle. If you were smart you went around with your wagon, and collected as many as you could to turn in to the grocery store to collect the deposit. Then took that money to the five and dime. Ahhhhh capitalism in action!!!

Having a paper route.
Be it a daily or weekly paper, you were given a stack by the route manager, and expected to fold/roll em up, rubber band em, and deliver each to the subscribers on your route. You were also expected to get the subscription money when it came due. This was done rain or shine. There was no car. There was maybe a bike if you were lucky. That was how you made money before getting a "real job".

The floor is now open. Anyone else care to wonder down memory lane?? Come on down, it's nice down here!

At Least 12" of Global Warming Outside ...

... and more forecast for the rest of the day. And after spending better then 15 hours at the polls yesterday (election judging) ... Well, Misha talks about Super Tuesday Hangovers here, with voting and monitoring the ongoing results via television and radio. Try spending all that time at the polls ... people, it ain't pretty. The high point of the day was seeing a number of young people coming out and voting for the first time. They were excited and really wanted to be a part of things. I only wish there had been more of them.

We had about 40-50% turnout. And were busy for the majority of the day, despite the beginnings of a major storm starting to dump snow by around noon.

Off to go and start to shovel out the drive. Going to try and use the snowblower...but don't know if it will be up to the task, it's better then a foot deep now.

Wonder if we can get a pizza delivered for dinner tonight?

Super Tuesday Thanks and more.

First off, (as at least a partial explanation as to why I haven't posted any comments today) ... Man, I am beat! Spent all day from 5am til quarter to 9 tonight as an election judge. It was a strong turnout across the board. Our little town prob had better then 40-50 % voter turnout. Won't get into the numbers as far as who was ahead of who, will leave that up to the papers on the morrow. But my guess it Illinois is going to go more or less along the predicted lines. Stong Obama, and McCain.

Secondly, a big welcome aboard to all the good people who have stopped by, thanks to Misha's "Rott-a-lanch"! Hope you enjoy your visit/stay... your comments are always appreciated. I promise to reply once I catch my breath (see first comment above....didn't get any sleep the night before...work nights...tried but no zzzzzzzz's).

In the mean time, Valentine's Day is fast approaching. If you haven't picked up something for your sweetie fella's ... perhaps a new exciting fragrance is just the ticket!

Don't Smoke em' If You (Still) Got em'

"We lay it down as a fundamental, that laws, to be just, must give a reciprocation of right; that, without this, they are mere arbitrary rules of conduct, founded in force, and not in conscience."

-- Thomas Jefferson (Notes on the state of Virginia, 1782)

Hi, My name is Guy, and I am a smoker. I have been dancing with darling nicotine since 1971. Should I stop? Perhaps. For a fact it would allow my lungs to operate in a (much) more efficient fashion. It would allow for a sharp drop in my over all chances of succumbing to either lung cancer and or a heart attack in what ever alloted time is left me on this earth. My clothes (and I) would generally smell a whole lot better. The actions taken by my state (and 23 others ... if one believes the propaganda) would not directly effect me as I would no longer feel the need for a smoke while having an adult beverage at a bar or after a meal (or cup of coffee) dining out.

Everything stated in the above paragraph is true ... except for the last sentence.

The actions taken by the Peoples Republic of Illinois does effect you wheither or not you smoke or have never seen tobacco in its processed state in your life.

Some religions in their doctrine condemn/forbid/strongly admonish the use of intoxicants (of which, tobacco is one). That is their belief/choice. If I belong to any one of those, I have the choice to either follow said doctrine or not, and suffer the consequences for doing so.

For reasons of safety, smoking is prohibited in certain businesses/areas. If you deal with oxygen, for example, it is not a bright idea to be smoking in the general area. In the military you do not smoke while on watch (that lit butt makes a great target).

Courtesy/civility/rules of decorum dictate, if one has any social etiquette/manners at all, that you refrain from smoking during a number of social gatherings/occasions. As a rule, one does not smoke in church (at the very least during services/mass). At formal gatherings of civic/fraternal organizations you will not be allowed to puff. It is polite to ask (or it was, when you could still smoke in restaurants) the patrons next to you, if they mind if you smoke. It was not required, but was the civil thing to do.

In short, the almighty state has decided for you, what is not only in your best interest, and by implication, that it knows better then you do what is best/socially acceptable/morally-ethically correct. That you do not have a choice as an individual to manage your affairs be they physical/social/mental/moral/business related/leisure related.

No, smoking in and of itself, may not be the best thing one can do. But it IS a legal substance (for adults). The state is hypocritical enough to realize this and tax the substance accordingly ... to make a tidy profit off the sale of same.

I am more concerned about the precedence set here. (And a strong argument could be made this was already started with the helmet/seatbelt laws of years past.) We all are, as fully functioning adults allowed to make choices. Some may not be the best (no seatbelt for example) but the bottom line is we as citizens of a supposed free society are supposed to be able to make these choices... and then live with whatever consequences are the result of these actions. This is not, nor has it ever been, the responsibility of the state to make these choices for us. Or why even establish a legal majority (the age of 18 or 21 depending on location) if the state seeks to be the final abater in all matters.

For the sake of this post we will stick to smoking. If I am an owner of a bar and I decide to restrict smoking on my premises, then I should be able to do so and financially live or die with that choice. My patrons will dictate as to wither or not it was a smart business move. Conversely, if I elect to allow smoking the same should apply. If enough people are going to frequent my establishment to drink and smoke, then I will make money. If not, then perhaps I need to back up and regroup... re-think my business plan ... and go from there. But (assuming it isn't illegal) it is not any of the states business to tell me how to run my business. And this goes for all laws which dictate (short of those dealing with safety issues ... fire codes/food prep/storage and the like) same.

The more we allow for the state to intrude into our personal affairs, in the long run, the less freedom we will have. The less freedom of choice. The less we will be able to be adults. We will become wards of the state. Bowing to their will.

The first of this year the bar was lowered, yet again, regarding personal freedom. Another of your choices as to how you desired to live (enjoy?) your life was taken from you. It may have been for all the best intentions. But the next time the state cares to intrude (and rest assured there WILL be a "next time") it has become that much easier for the state to do so.

Need an example:
"I am sorry Mrs. Smith, I would love to sell you the super size fries with your order, but your body fat card says you don't qualify for them." No, the state would never go after over weight people ... would they????

Let There Be Peace On Earth ...

... And let it begin (as it was and ever shall be) with this:

And it came to pass, that in those days there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that the whole world should be enrolled. This enrolling was first made by Cyrinus, the governor of Syria. And all went to be enrolled, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem: because he was of the house and family of David, to be enrolled with Mary his espoused wife, who was with child.

And it came to pass, that when they were there, her days were accomplished, that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him up in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were in the same country shepherds watching, and keeping the night watches over their flock. And behold an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the brightness of God shone round about them; and they feared with a great fear.

And the angel said to them: Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, that shall be to all the people:

For, this day, is born to you a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord, in the city of David. And this shall be a sign unto you. You shall find the infant wrapped in swaddling clothes, and laid in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army, praising God, and saying:

Glory to God in the highest; and on earth peace to men of good will.

And it came to pass, after the angels departed from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another: Let us go over to Bethlehem, and let us see this word that is come to pass, which the Lord hath shewed to us. And they came with haste; and they found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger.

And seeing, they understood of the word that had been spoken to them concerning this child. And all that heard, wondered; and at those things that were told them by the shepherds.

But Mary kept all these words, pondering them in her heart.

And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God, for all the things they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

Luke 2 verses 1-20 Douay-Rheims American Edition Bible (1899)

From all of us here at "The Harbor", A Very Merry Christmas and the Happiest of New Years!!

Tis The Season Part 2

Once again the holiday season is upon us.

A time for some, of stress ... of heightened hustle and bustle. A hectic time of crowded airports/bus depots/train stations. Of malls and shopping centers fulled to overflowing. A kneeling of many at the alter of the almighty dollar, and what it can buy. A seemingly endless string of parties, starting around Halloween culminating on New Years Eve. Others are found exclusively glued to their televisions (the larger and higher def picture the better) watching the procession of gladiators at both the college and professional levels peeking at nearly the same time as the New Years bacchanal.

As it so happens, we have other distractions to fill in the empty spots in all the above. Lo, there is positioning going on in both major political spheres. Bloodletting of another kind, though not altogether different, from the bread and circuses listed above. At least the followers of the gridiron share an overall love of the sport, with the majority able to appreciate individual high achievers regardless of team or league. Not so with the politics of the land. The polarization of the voting populi appears to increase with each passing election cycle. Spurred on by politicians on both sides and media outlets of all stripes.

Then there is the specter of war. Of haves and have nots (and at first blush not quite in the way you would expect). Of philosophies and cultures diametrically apposed ... each wanting to see the other exist no more. For God Is On OUR SIDE!!! Evil runs rampant world wide ... and with few exceptions, too many who claim to be good men, do little or nothing.

Once again the holiday season is upon us

And it came to pass that in those days there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that the whole world should be enrolled. This enrolling was first made by Cyrinus, the governor of Syria. And all went to be enrolled, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem: because he was of the house and family of David. To be enrolled with Mary his espoused wife, who was with child.

And it came to pass that when they were there, her days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her first born son and wrapped him up in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger: because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were in the same country shepherds watching and keeping the night watches over their flock. And behold an angel of the Lord stood by them and the brightness of God shone round about them: and they feared with a great fear. And the angel said to them: Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy that shall be to all the people:

For, this day is born to you a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord, in the city of David. And this shall be a sign unto you. You shall find the infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army, praising God and saying:

Glory to God in the highest: and on earth peace to men of good will.

And it came to pass, after the angels departed from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another: Let us go over to Bethlehem and let us see this word that is come to pass, which the Lord hath showed to us. And they came with haste: and they found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger.
And seeing, they understood of the word that had been spoken to them concerning this child. And all that heard wondered: and at those things that were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these words, pondering them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

Book of Luke , The Douay-Rheims Bible

Most would post the above quote on Christmas (and that may happen here as well). But perhaps if the above was remembered as "the real reason for the season" not only on the High Holy Day itself, at the very least, the time from All Souls Day forward (the day after Halloween, for those who don't follow the Catholic catechism). Who knows, maybe a trend would develop and the rest of the year would be covered as well. For if those who believed in God were in the habit of at least acknowledging him daily, and being civil towards their fellow men, there would be a lot less pettiness, and strife. As to those of a more humanistic nature ... would it not make sense to reach for and develop the more positive aspects of human nature (if that is your "god")? rather then the base animal instincts we all have in common?

What about letting the other guy have that parking space you were both hell bent on getting to? If nothing else, wouldn't the extra walk (hopefully hand in hand with your significant other ... or perhaps your genetic hostages ... be of greater value then that parking space? Making an effort to see the other fella's point of view ... and debating in a calm civilized manner ... wouldn't that add validity to your character if not garner more people to your cause? Watch that sporting event ... perhaps doing it with your dad (if you are lucky enough to still have him around) or a son or a father in law? (bonding is a good thing) By all means (if it is possible to do so with out going into debt up to your wazoo) get something of worth for those who are special in your life. But don't put the gift buying above the idea behind it all. That the greatest gift of all was given to mankind, just a few short weeks away.

And finally, that there will always be conflict ... and at times the embers of mans darker nature will burst into the firestorm of war. Even in the time of year when "Peace on Earth goodwill towards men" should be the byword. Perhaps if those whose malignant philosophies and or governments seek to rise against us, can see our respective cultures and nations making an honest effort to live as men and women of faith. Maybe, just maybe it will give some of them pause... and wouldn't that bring the chance for real Peace that much closer?

Sheesh

Well, I am alive and kicking (what, I don't know, but still kicking none the less). The house has a new roof and gutters (and not a minute too soon, as the rain, she is a falling). The oldest is in his freshman year of highschool, and the youngest in homeschool mode (sixth grade). And guess who gets to be his torturer err ... molder of mind mush, ie: teacher, yeap, that would be me as well.

Anyhow, things have been busy in real life, to the extent blogging has been at a min. (Did I mention, I tried to switch to a linux OS for this beast ... as in partition the drive and have XP on one and a flavor of linux on the other) ? Well that was almost a done deal. But for two tiny little concerns, it would have happened.

1. Flash is all but impossible to load on a 64bit linux box (and not too much better on the 32, but workable if you are good at following directions.)

2. XP does not play nice with dual booting of the drive. This was the straw that not only broke the camels back, it took that sucker and hid it out in the desert somewhere. Ended up having to slick the drive and re-install XP (and we all know how much fun THAT is).

So, that is where my head, heart, body and soul have been the past month or so. Sorry, for being away. Plan to be here much more often, especially now that the good Senator from TN has tossed his hat in the ring at long last.

And as I feel I owe you good people something for being away, check out the next post. It seems Russ is at it again, and we are all the better for it.

Still Here, Pondering While Attending to Real Life

Well, time flies when you are dealing with real life. Sorry for lack of content over the past week or two. There have been things which needed to be done around the house, puters which needed to be either updated, moved, or purchesed (or monitors ... they always go out when least expected).

We had a good friend, blogger, and fellow traveler over at the Harbor last weekend. A good time was had by all and from all accounts they enjoyed themselves as much as we did in having this all to short time together.

The house needs a new roof and so we have been experiencing the joys of getting estimates for same. I think we have pretty much decided on which company we are going with ... should have the final answer on Monday.

And the oldest yard ape still in residence, starts his first year of high school in about a week. To think he is but 4 short years away from either the Marines or maybe the Navy. I remember when he was just starting grade school ... it can't have been that many years already.

As to why haven't there been any posts (aside from the above reasons) ... frankly, there hasn't been anything really striking my rant bell.

The tragidy in Minn has been in the news and on many blogs. And though my heart goes out to the victims and their familes. Two factors most likely seem to be the primary agents. The amount of heavy equipment, building materials, debree, and traffic far exceeded the maximum weight the bridge was either designed to support or (due to age/structural integrety degrading) no longer able to support, due to a combination of age, sttuctural degradation, lack of proper maintenance. Or possible design flaw(s). My bet is age and degradation. But most folks are well aware our national roadways/bridges are in a steady state of decline. The funding for maintaining same never seems to be there in the amount(s) needed to get the jobs done, or get them done right.

The continuing political circus is shaping to be as crazy/stupid/vapid/void of any real content as it has been for at least the past 4 election cycles. Obama is fast becoming a "suit with no substance". Edwards is a "hairpiece with no style". And "Her Thighness" , a female version of the Titanic in search of an iceburg.

On the GOP side of the street ... Rudy seems to be leading the pack with Romney behind. McCain is fast becoming an asterisk, and the second tier folks are waiting for an opening. Then there is the 800 lb gorilla in the room ... Sen Thompson. Baring some sort of major stupidity from him or his camp, expect to see him be the real threat to Rudy.

Ah well, more again later. I have an idea about a major audio project if I can find the book .... more on that as I get more info. Keep safe, have a good week end, and keep your powder dry.

Pictures From A Friend

I received the following photos in an email from a good and long time friend, who lives far, too far, away.

Real Life Happens

As my first mate mentioned on her site, this has been a busy month. And none of it is really good news.

Due to major family illness we are in the process of moving from our current residence to be with my in-laws. They are great people, (that would be the silver lining in all this) being there to help out with the house and all that is involved with it's upkeep, along with being there for my mother-in-law as she continues her recovery, is what family is for.

Won't bore you with all of life's other ups and downs. Everyone has them, and we are no exception.

Suffice to say, the Harbor is NOT going away. I will be back as soon as the dust settles. Though with lots more things on the honey-do list, I expect posting time to be hap hazard until a rhythm is established.

Spring is here...

The grass has ris
I wonder where
The flowers is.
(author unknown)

Spring training is all but over. Here in the hinterlands of northern Illinois (flyover country R us), we have a week of near 50 degree weather to look forward to. And the air has that "scent of spring", a musky hint of thawing ground and things arising from a deep winter slumber.

And time for some spring cleaning here at the Harbor. No major changes just a cleaning up of the blogrolls, perhaps an updated look for the archives. stuff like that. Expect major posting to be when ever I get the chance, as we are still having to deal with real life (more on that as the dust sets).

And speaking of someone who might need a hand. Any of you good people out there who are well versed in the ways of Word Press ... Mike over at The Cigar Intelligence Agency could really use a hand right about now. He has just changed his site over from MT to Word Press due to some security issues. He is a good guy and his site provides not only the best in cigar reviews (along with adult beverage suggestions), but he has been known provide some great conservative commentary as well.

So if you are a Word Press guru and have some time drop him a line. And even if you're not, check out the "CIA", you won't be sorry.

Life Happens No Matter How Hard You Plan

Despite, the forecast of snow for today and tomorrow, Spring is officially here. And along with the renewal of life, the traditional theme of this time of year, there sometimes also comes changes. Right now change seems to be the operative word here at the Harbor.

Due to a family medical emergency, and a (pending) short distance move resulting from same. Posting will be light for the next couple of days or so. But, I am not closing up shop!

There is the continuing saga of *Future Tense* which still needs to be brought to life, the search for "The Mythical Moderate Muslim" ™ will continue on as well. (Though if it goes on beyond a couple more installments, I may have to partner up with Mutual of Omaha-those of you readers out there who are old enough to remember "The Wild Kingdom" will get that reference.) Along with all the above, there some other changes of an audio nature in the very early stages of development, that I will be letting y'all know about if and as it firms up. (It is something I am excited about but as with most everything the devil is in the details-logistics rule over all.).

So, please check back often. This little corner of the net has been my place to vent, rant, and share bits of life with those of you who stop by and drop anchor. I don't have plans to stop doing so anytime soon!

A follow up to the last post

The NY Times article on Dr Sultan made mention of Annaqed as the website where she initially started posting her views. I have looked at the English version of the site, and they will be added as of today to the blogroll. There is some good reading there, much of which tends to debunk the myth about Islam being a religion of peace. They (the sites contributors) use the Koran (and other sources) to back this up. Take a look around you won't be disappointed.

Twenty-Four Years Ago Today

Remembering the past here. Actually things which happened yesterday on the 24th.

I was managing a pizzeria in the backwaters of the metroplex (Okay, it was located in Grand Prairie, Tx ... more correctly referred to as the armpit of the metroplex ... but I digress.). And was a weekend warrior in the Naval Reserves. Owned a home, had a couple of cars, could walk to work ... life was pretty good.

The wife, however, wasn't feeling at all well that day. Indeed, she had been home from work the day before as well. But she was up and about and said she would give me a call, as I headed off to work that afternoon, if she needed anything. Got to work around 2pm (The manager didn't have to be there for the lunch rush, but did have to close up each night, which was often past midnight.) and got busy with the prep for the evening to come. It was a Wednesday so we should have a good night, but not quite up to the madness one had to face on the weekend.

Howard, my boss and the owner of the pizzeria, was there and I let him know how my spouse was feeling. That there was a possibility I might have to address some medical concerns at home. We were good friends, he had been my supervisor while he was in the Navy, so was more then accommodating when family issues came up. And as fate would have it they did.

I was past the worst of the dinner rush, it was about 7:30, when the phone rang and I got the call to come home now!! Guess it was more then false cramping and spasms after all. This was serious. Howard told me to get my butt home and he would handle the rest of the night. I was off like a shot.

Arriving home, I was greeted by a highly agitated wife. Not being totally ignorant, it was readily apparent this was not going to be something treated by a few Tylenol and a hot soak. So off to the hospital (just a few minutes down the road) we went. The adrenals were pumping, having never seen anyone going through periods of intense pain and spasms with brief respites and the whole thing repeating. She was checked in while we were directed to a room so she could be monitored. The nurses checked her out, took her vitals and all I could do was stand by, watch and be as supportive as possible. We had been married for about four and a half years, but this ... this was a first. Finally, the doctor showed up. He examined her with calm efficiency. But that was almost his undoing as he went to check on one thing or another, and must have hit a real sensitive spot. Now I am a retired Sailor, and can cuss with the best of them. But she let out with some language which caused the paint to start peeling. At that point the exam came to a speedy conclusion. It was about 9pm and the night was far from over.

The pain was getting worse, much worse. I was talking to her, trying to comfort in anyway I could. At one point because her back was hurting so bad she had me massaging it by rolling a frozen can of soda up and down her spine. That didn't seem to help. So we dealt with her pain as best we could. The night moved on. The doc had been back a couple more times and after assessing the situation ... said there wasn't much more he could do we would just have to wait this thing out and see what happens. By this time I was getting frustrated, midnight had long since passed, as had one, two, three, four ... she was not getting better. Finally, they had (the doctors) elected to give her some pain medication. There was not much else they could do. The monitors had shown elevated heart levels, respiration, but other vitals seemed ok. And still we waited.

It was now past 7am on the 25th. Things were reaching a climax. If her condition didn't improve in the next hour radical steps were going to be taken. By 7:30 that morning it was all over ...

February 25th 1982 was, if memory serves, not a terrifically cold or unpleasant day. Living in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex winter's hold is only tenuous at best. Internationally, the world was dealing with governments going through changes. Communism, as evidenced by the goings on in Poland, was heading into the twilight of it's hold over the nations of Eastern Europe, and ultimately Russia. There was talk about the US Navy ships "monitoring" activities off the coast of El Salvador and Nicaragua. Later in the year Great Britain would send it's ships, planes, and men to a small group of islands and turn the attention of the world to the south Atlantic and the Falkland Islands. But as February was coming to a close the world, for the most part, was clam.

The sporting news was of little interest as well. Just a month before, the San Francisco Giants beat the Cincinnati Bengals 26-21 at the Silverdome in Michigan. And with that, we waited for the boys of summer to start their spring training.

We had seen On Golden Pond, and Stripes. Listened to Olivia Newton John, Hall & Oates, Kim Carnes.

It would never be the same, none of that would matter in the same ways it did just one day earlier. I had enough presence of mind to remember a phone call must be made. Got on the phone with my folks at sometime after 7:30 that morning, in tears.

Mom asked what was wrong ... why was I calling ... why was I in tears. I answered the only way I could.

"Mom, I have a son! You're a grandma now. He's got fingers and toes ... and he is over eight pounds ... and he is resting with his mother."

Happy 24th birthday Stephen James Sochor.

You are my first born. That you have managed to survive all my mistakes, (not being half the man my father was) is much more a credit to you then it ever could be to me. May you have the wisdom to learn from the mistakes I made and take on board what ever may have been done right. May your next 24 years be full of life, and may you always rise to the top, a winner.

Watch This Spot

Due to family commitments, and the odd hours of the job, posting may be limited to the weekends. But I don't intend to stop. And as I am able, the "Future Tense" story line will be continued, so stay tuned.

Out Of The Ashes

Depending on how things go in the next week or so....there appears to be a light at the end of the tunnel...we shall see if it is, in fact, the *end* of said tunnel...or the light of an oncoming train. If it ain't a choo-choo, expect to see posting resuming at the Harbor.

Have Had Better Weeks

Sorry for the lack of posting....the grind of daily life....and afew other things has brought about little posting this week...hope to see this change in the next day or so. In the meantime, I am still going to be live on Radio CIA..."The Smoke Filled Lounge" tonight at 9 Central Time....hope to see you there...and will be on Yahoo Messenger for those who want to yak look for Navvet1955.

The Smoke Filled Lounge...

...that's where you'll find me tonight thanks to Radio CIA. We will be playing a mix of standards done by original artists and new voices as well. Add in some jazz, blues, and a few other odds and ends....and there you have it. It starts at 9 goes to midnight, or whenever I fall over. So, if you want to kick back and mellow to music which has stood the test of time, indeed is experiencing something of a renaissance, click here, around 9 tonight and stop on by.

I Remember When...

As the good Mrs Du Toit notes, what was accepted as normal has been forever lost to us. It has been replaced with a post Sept 11, 2001 version of same. At some point in our future this too will be relegated to the trash bin of history. And whether or not evil brought about this change, or just the passage of time did the deed ($2.20 a gal for gas??? Why I remember when it was .22 cents a gal!) I remember spending a dollar to see a Sat matinee and that included the cost of the movie, a drink, and a box of popcorn. Today, if you get out alive for less then 20 dollars, you are doing good. So in one sense *what's normal* is constantly changing. It's the sudden unexpected "changes", rudely thrust upon us, which gives one pause. This brings about a major change to what is considered normal. How we react to this *new* normal, has consequences.

As such (the new normal), the war goes ever onward....but in a broader sense, it is not against *just* terrorism, but a much longer battle, that of good against evil. It sounds trite, but at least on the modern stage (within the last 200-300 years) with the possible exception of the Russians rattling against the ChiComs, there seems to be a consistent light against dark, a push and pull going on. Fran has noted our current woes are a case of those who, if not all in agreement with *the rule of law*, at least stand with the side of life/light vice our adversaries, who follow darkness/death...even in the very nature of their philosophy. Looking at other flavors of extremists, be it animal rights groups, environmental wackos, extreme political activists, would fall on the side of darkness, and you won't have any argument from me on that. Look deep enough (or not deep at all in most cases) and you will see a group who places value anywhere BUT on individual human life ... and so they (collectively) side with darkness, regardless how benign they appear to be.

If you look at it that way, yes, we will be fighting this battle forever. The current foe may (with determination, patience, and lots of luck) fall to the wayside...in defeat or marginalized to the point of becoming meaningless, but there *will be* someone or something else taking its place. (Remember how everyone seemed to think the world was finally going to be able to have a group hug and sing Kumbia after the USSR and it's satellites fell? Swords into plowshares seemed to be the plan of the day.) Certainly we should hope for the best, and dreaming about a better world, free of strife (at least on a national level), is in itself not a bad thing. The wise man, however, prepares for the worst. In this case it happened that a recognizable and easily identifiable menace (the Reds) was replaced with one not so well defined or contained. The old ways of dealing with such (evil) changed with the changing of the threat. Thankfully our President recognizes this (though it took a bloody wake up call to do so). And I hope we will see this fight to it's completion, there is no other viable alternative, if we seek to remain a nation and a culture.

For there are those (and they are many) who would ask the following, and answer with a resounding yes. Are we going to allow our government(s) to trade our hard fought freedoms (to a greater or lesser extent) for a greater sense of security? Are we going to fall into the tar pit of appeasement, having the arrogance to believe our adversaries follow the same basic philosophy(ies) that we embrace? Are we to attack this a purely a legal issue...let's catch all the offenders and place them on trial. Any, or all of the above, either runs the risk of seeing this country progress closer to self destruction, as more power without checks and balances is given to the state at the expense of individual freedom, or we go to far in the other direction, emasculating our nation, to the point of impotency. It then becomes a matter of time before our national identity is stripped away from us, and we either become governed by some group/nation which has a stronger identity of self, we dissolve in to city-states, or into out and out anarchy.

Radio CIA part Dux

Well, it's Friday night and the music is easy! Come on over to Radio CIA at 9pm (CDST) for the standards sung by old and new, jazz, mixed in with a bit of the blues. Will also be on Yahoo IM look for navvet1955 that will be me. And sorry Kim, there will be some Sinatra now and again...but plenty of Connick, Buble, Basie, Peterson, Kent, Monheit to go around. Hope to see y'all there.

Brothers

He's a year and three months to the day younger then I am. Years ago, when we were barely out of the three cornered pants stage, he was "Gar". Though there was a difference in age, if you looked at our pictures taken until we were nearing ten years of age, the first thing out of most folks mouths was, "My, they are cute, are they twins." we looked that much alike at the time.

It was many years later, when talking with mom, I found out how much my little brother idolized me, and in a number of ways sought to emulate me. (Though why he would choose this stumblbum, is still a mystery to me.) That he had joined the choir in high school, and actively pursued joining the Armed Forces after high school, due more to my actions then (according to mom again) anything else.

He ended up finally finding his own *self*. Went to college, got married, got his degree (computer geek), and went out into the world to seek his fame and fortune. I didn't see as much of him (or the family) as I would have liked being in the Navy kept me either overseas or stationed many states away from him. But we talked from time to time. Discussing sports, politics, life's ups and downs.

Now, he is in a position to enjoy life...and is doing so. And life as it is want to do, continues on...and in doing so, sent another birthday in my brother's direction. Today he is 49. Can it be that long ago we played at being Superman, jumping off the stairs of our basement onto piles of newspapers stacked on the floor? Or we wrestled in piles of freshly raked leaves? When did we go our separate ways in how we look at the world and its problems and the solutions needed to address same? Yet, all the while, never forgetting we were brothers and we could discuss things and disagree, but never had to personally "attack" the other (one of the nicer things about being brothers). And how on earth, did time pass so quickly that "Frick & Frack" suddenly grow into the men we are today?

Thank you Gary. For being the kind of brother only a fortunate few are lucky enough to have. For having the courage of your convictions to go your own way, but to never forget your family...(what you did for dad and mom was the highest example of a son honoring his mother and father...were I but half the son you are in that regard, I would be a happy man). You wear many hats, father, son, friend, confidant, but I am the luckiest of all...you are my brother.

May you have the happiest of days (I know you are doing your level best to do just that ~Avec le gusto à Paris, vivent votre vie !~) And may you see many more!

My Son, A Real Good Sport

Those of you who follow this bit of Naval lint know, there are a couple of other members of my family who either have their own blog or have had, and will have again. My better half used to sound off when the mood struck her...and in the not too distant future, will do so again. However, there is another member of the family who is more then willing to share his thoughts. Stephen, my oldest son, college student in good standing, and man about town up in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is the owner/operator of "Just Another Young Pup".

He talks about life, sports, love, sports, college, sports, jobs, sports, his search for "truth-justice-and the American way", and...did I mention sports? He loves all athletics...but baseball, ahhh baseball is where his heart will always be. I think if he could lease a condo across the street from the "friendly confines", (That's Wrigley Field for y'all not infected with the incurable Cubbies virus!) he would do so in a New York minute. Anyhow, he addresses the current sad state of affairs in the NLB steroid battle. Check out his latest entry, you will be glad you did.

UPDATE Limbaugh is reporting at this hour, Raphael Palmeiro may be recalled by congress to face possible charges of PERJURY for his testimony regarding his use of steroids. Karma strikes quickly!!

Radio CIA

Well Mike, at The Cigar Intelligence Agency has been kind enough to offer me a spot on his radio station at Live 365....and will be *live* there in about 20 minutes....9pm CST. I'll be pushing the standards, jazz, and a bit o the blues. Stop on by and have a listen. Tis good for the digestion if nothing else *grin*. Next week will be starting an hour earlier...8pm....but dinner and such pushed it back a bit.

A Quick Note

No, I have not gone quietly into the night. Due to an obligation or two, and being less then hale and hearty, posting has been non-existent over the past week. I hope for this to change in short order.

1. There is a post in the works for here. Perhaps more then one as I had a *nice little chat* with a solicitor from the RNC, over the phone, last night. I think his ears are still burning.

2. Mike, over at The Cigar Intelligence Agency, is back on the net air waves. He has the best in country, jazz, blues, classic rock, and other surprises here.

3 My Friends at American Dinosaur, have moved into their new digs at Munu. Two others, A Sailor In The Desert and The Steiner Aid are almost set up or progressing toward that goal, as well.

So there is the current "word of the day" from the Harbor. Shall be posting soon, sorry for the unexpected break in the action.

The LLP, The Alliance, and Being Cute

As both my readers have noticed by now, there have been some additions to "the rolls" on both sides of the page. Eric, as mentioned in these parts earlier, has recently set up a community, Life, Liberty, Property, whose main thrust is in giving an outlet to the SCOTUS -ing* of the Fifth Amendment. (*There, I just created a new word...feel free to use it...but remember where youse got it from *grin*.) The community has grown over the past weeks, and I am honored to be part of the group...check any of the fellow travelers out...an eclectic group...but well worth the read.

The other (and newest addition) is my bit of Naval lint has been added to the ranks of "The Alliance". I thought about this over the past year, for their reason for existing seemed (at the time) somewhat harsh. Surely, the good Professor Reynolds would at some point or another see fit to grace my digs with an "instalanch" ™ © . If only for my rendering of the ultimate in lawn grooming equipment :



...but, it was not to be. Even "the Rott" has honored me on occasion. If the good Emperor Misha, in his benevolence, can find time to toss crumbs to his minions, you would think Reynolds, while looking down from his academic ivory tower, could occasionally stop looking at the co-eds, and toss a crumb to the peasants.

So, with more then a year under my belt, I tossed the Reynolds colored glasses aside...and the truth set me free. I read, nay, inhaled the words of goodness and light over at the archives of The Alliance. Thanks for taking me on board, but does the initiation really require me to memorize the complete gift list(s), at all establishments FrankJ and SaraK are registered at? And, Harvey's complete stack of 3x5 cards he uses as his mixology guide?

Last but certainly not least, I have been uniquely honored, by one of the younger but feisty and full of promise for the future generation, bloggers out there. "The Kate" has been around for awhile now, and is always a pleasure to read. She is always questioning, looking at the world around her world, and trying to make sense of it all. Her blog "The Running Conservative", is always a daily stop.....check it out. You will note I have a new *button* on the right hand side of the blog...it seems Kate thinks for some unknown reason, I am cute, and as such have qualified to be this months *Cute Person of The Month* (CPOTM). I think she just hasn't seen the gray hair and wrinkles....and as anyone who has met her knows, she is far, far, cuter then I.

A Closer Look

I wanted to do something in the last post...but it didn't happen. As posts are often want to do, it had a mind of it's own, and went merrily along on it's own separate way.

Those of us, of conservative bent, or who tend to see things as "black and white" when it comes to our take on matters constitutional, societal, defense of the nation, and the "American way of life" ™ , usually say things and or make statements causing progressives, liberals, statists, and assorted moonbats out there, to have major cases of "the vapors". The current (and ongoing) anti-Islamic fervor is no exception.

I have not been quiet on my expressing my anger toward those who seek to destroy my country if given the opportunity to do so. Indeed invective used in espousing my feelings toward the followers of "The Religion of Peace" ™ is quite possibly as high as it has ever been....with the exception of my rants on the left's favorite Vietnam vet, John "The 'D' in my grade point average stands for 'Determined' "Kerry. None the less there is more to this than meets the eye.

You see, I used to work for the Kuwaiti Officer in charge of their F/A18 procurement program, in the Washington, DC area. It was a "contracted" job, and lasted for about six months. Not, to go into details of the job, as that is not the point, but many of my daily dealings put me in constant touch with those of the Muslim faith. As far as I know, these were people looking to do the best they could for not only themselves, but for their country, in the carrying out of their duties and jobs. To the best of my recollection there was not any overt "racism" (don't know what else would be the equivalent....of reacting/referring to "us infidels") as there were numerous times when conversations were held in their native tongue, and being unfamiliar with same, I was left out of the mix so to speak. Many a time, I entered the outer foyer of their mosque in the performance of my duties. And again, was at worst treated with indifference (as would befit minor staff personnel), at best was greeted with a hearty hello. As with any group of folks, there appeared to be the usual mix of good, bad, and indifferent people. In short, all in all I did not come away with a negative experience. This was well before 9/11.

This experience is what makes it so hard for me to understand why there hasn't been an outpouring of Muslims decrying what is being done, in their faiths name, but the so called radical sections...the Wahabists in particular...but their are other off shoots as well. I can't for the life of me understand why, at least a few of these people wouldn't be calling out for change with in not only their religion, but in their fellow so called moderate or "pro western" Arab and Muslim nations in actively seeking the destruction of the cancer within their midst. Are they scared? Are their hands collectively tied (and why or by whom?)? Or is there something more insidious going on here. That even the so called moderates though abhorring the evil and violence done by the militant Islamists, they, in their heart of hearts, give tacit approval for their actions. And if so, is this due to envy, jealousy, toward (for) the seeming unlimited wealth, political and military strength, of the western powers...specifically the United States?

Part of me wants to take the fight directly to those who seek to hasten our end....and include all of this faith. Because with few exceptions (and they *are out there*) there has been precious few who have publicly stood up to be counted in denouncing the evil within the ranks of Islam. And I really wonder if those with whom I came in contact with those many years back, were really our friends (in the geo political sense), and would have honestly wanted to develop a friendship with Americans in general. Or if we were being duped. I hope not. I hope they are as disgusted about this as any man or woman with a conscience should be. And I hope that soon....very soon... they find their respective voices...time is quickly running out...and a large part of the American public has all but run out of patience with all folks of this faith. Just as we need to stand up and be counted in not only the WoT, but the ever worsening war for the heart and soul of the American spirit. So to do those of the Muslim faith need to make hard choices as to where their loyalties lie. The clock is ticking, and the alarm due to sound in very short order.

Journalism: To Be Or Not To Be (part 2)

While the folks on the American Heritage Foundation panel, (and thanks to Captain Ed for providing a link to the video of this) debated whether or not journalists and bloggers were friends or something less' an important point, and one which reflects on not only the question(s) debated, but highlights the bias even some of those who are "pro blogs" seem to carry. And that is "Journalism is a profession".

A "profession"? Merriam Webster (on-line) doesn't address this use of the word until the forth entry

"4 a : a calling requiring specialized knowledge and often long and intensive academic preparation"

WordNet ® 2.0, defines it as "n 1: the body of people in a learned occupation; "the news spread rapidly through the medical community" [syn: community] 2: an occupation requiring special education (especially in the liberal arts or sciences)"

Merriam-Webster's Medical Dictionary says, "1 : a calling requiring specialized knowledge and often long and intensive academic preparation"

And American Heritage offers the more current usage (and in my opinion, the most watered down version) as their first choice, "1. An occupation or career: “One of the highest compliments a child can pay a parent is to choose his or her profession� (Joan Nathan).". They give the traditional meaning of the word after that; "2. An occupation, such as law, medicine, or engineering, that requires considerable training and specialized study."

One wonders who wrote, and edited all print media, prior to the introduction of a "professional curriculum" at the University level? Were said authors not part of a profession up until the moment a graduate with degree in hand was hired by some paper version of a daily crier out there? In fact, up until forty or fifty years ago, a college degree was not required to become part of this august body of wordsmiths. Indeed, if you had the proper amount of bulldog determination, the presence of mind to accurately recount and record facts of an event, and could stand the pressure of your peers competing along side of you, it was all you needed. In short, you paid your dues, hoping for "the one story which recognized you as a full fledged member of the press...the one with *your* by-line".

The point, and what the "professionals" conveniently forget, is the final arbiter of the quality, and veracity of any given source, be it a blog, "The New York Times", any TV or radio outlet, or your local bird cage liner, is the public. They will chose to take on board what any of these outlets comment upon or report. If you do not have the integrity to report the events of the day truthfully, and completely as you are able, if you refuse to limit your editorializing to the editorial/op-ed page or specific columnist's comments, you will lose readers, listeners, and viewers. And no diploma on the wall is going to change the public's mind.

We as bloggers, already fall under the same scrutiny. If we profess to put forth "the truth" and or "the facts" on any given event or topic, and are less then straightforward in reporting same (or fail to provide retractions/corrections as soon as we are able), our readership will fall off, and we will become nothing more then "white noise on the net".

The media needs to realize folks out here in the blogosphere will sink or swim as viable journalistic entities just the same as they do, based on accuracy of their reporting of fact. We don't lose advertising revenue (though for some of the largest blogs, this would also be true), we lose readership. This is also true for those bloggers who emulate what can be found on any editorial or op-ed page. They will inspire, enrage, captivate, or annoy based on their ability to not only get their point(s) across, but to do so with at least some sort of style. You mainstream folks know this. For example, like em or hate em, be it Krauthammer or Coulter, they have a style and use of wordplay all their own. They sell as much because of how they write, as they do based on content. The same will hold true with blogs and bloggers.

So to answer the questions proffered above. Yes (as also mentioned in part 1 of this screed), I am a journalist. I am as much a part of the media as any pamphleteer, or one horse town paper was of old. As with any outlet, I have a right to espouse my editorial stance/point of view, in the form of commentary or editorializing. I also have the ability to present hard news when, and as I see fit. If I want to keep my integrity, as a (potentially) viable source for information, it is my responsibility to present same as straight forward, factual, and unbiased, as possible.

This is no different (or shouldn't be) then any other media outlet. That a number of them (those of the fourth estate and other main stream media outlets) have fallen far short of this ideal is sad. To that end, I am an adversary of any media outlet which elects to misinform the public in their alleged reporting of fact. I have no animosity toward those who do their level best, who can look themselves in the eye each morning while brushing their teeth or shaving. These would be journalists and reporters of fact. And bloggers have as much right to march along side them as not.

Journalist: To Be Or Not To Be That Is The Question (part 1)

Going over the blogroll today, I stopped at Captain's Quarters. Due to his tireless efforts in accurately "reporting" on any given topic piquing his interest, and while wearing his "pundit hat", stating his case clearly and concisely, leavening it with his personal passion, Ed Morrissy has not only risen through the ranks of the blogosphere, but is starting to gain more then a little recognition in traditional media circles (and public speaking as well).

At the end of his post, the good Captain links to a recent event, sponsored by The Heritage Foundation, he was privileged to be a part of. The topic was "Bloggers and Journalists, Friends or Enemies?". After watching the file, (It's a long one, but well worth the time spent, check it out.) and came a way with some thoughts and concerns of my own regarding Blogs, Bloggers, MSM, "Journalists", and the interplay (or lack there of) between them all.

As both of my regular readers know (and you know who you are *grin*), Snugg Harbor has been, and will continue to be my version of a Hyde Park soapbox, a pamphleteer, along with giving a voice to the Curmudgeon on the other side of this keyboard. And as such, I would guess this blog falls squarely into the camp of political/social commentator, a salt water pundit if you will.

But does that make me a journalist? What are the requirements....the "real" requirements for this designation.

American Heritage defines it as, "1. One whose occupation is journalism. 2. One who keeps a journal."

Wordnet 2.0 says, "1: a writer for newspapers and magazines 2: someone who keeps a diary or journal".

And rounding things out, we have Merriam-Webster, who define it as,

"1 a : a person engaged in journalism; especially : a writer or editor for a news medium b : a writer who aims at a mass audience 2 : a person who keeps a journal".

Okay, that is rather broad based, perhaps we should take a look at how "journalism" is defined. Back to Merriam-Webster,

"1 a : the collection and editing of news for presentation through the media b : the public press c : an academic study concerned with the collection and editing of news or the management of a news medium 2 a : writing designed for publication in a newspaper or magazine b : writing characterized by a direct presentation of facts or description of events without an attempt at interpretation c : writing designed to appeal to current popular taste or public interest"

Well, under the second most accepted definition, sub definition "b" seems to be closest to what I was taught. I won't insult you by including the "American Heritage Dictionary's" input, suffice to say, you have to go down to their third definition before you arrive at the same thing Merriam-Webster has for number two.

I bring up the above definitions, because there seems to be a misconception perpetrated on the public at large that "Journalism is a profession much like a lawyer, or even a doctor." It (journalism) is a career, and carries with it (or so I was ta