I'm Sorry

Had what almost turned into a heated exchange today. An individual (who shall remain nameless) stated they were amazed Obama apologized stating he was the first (and I am paraphrasing here) senior political type, let alone a President, in a long time, to ever have apologized after making a mistake.

I replied this wasn't the first time he has had to do this. However, this time seemed to be different to the extent he "did" claim responsibility for the acts. Being the picky bastard I am, instead of all the hemming and hawing, why didn't the man just say "I made a mistake. I'm sorry, this kind of thing will not happen again on my watch." And be done with it.

More importantly, what was he really apologizing for? That the individual (in this case Tom Daschle) was an apparent "tax cheat", that he couldn't in good conscience have him in his cabinet? If that is the case, then what we really have here is a good stab at misdirection. Yes, Daschle is a problem as far as his tax concerns go. And by all means be sorry for not being "on top of that", Mr President. But there is a bigger issue here. One he has yet to have his feet held to the fire for, and yes, graced us with yet another "apology".

You have Daschle, Timothy Geithner (the new Tresury Secretary), Nancy Killefer (picked for performance chief - she stepped aside), New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson (pick for Commerce Secretary - he stepped aside). And these are people Obama picked to be part of his administration. Still to come is Senator Judd Gregg, Republican of New Hampshire, considered to be the top contender for commerce secretary (after the Richardson "oops"). The problem here is the possible conflict of interest due to Gregg's stock holdings. Want to bet how long this one lasts before we have yet another apology?

Then there are those pesky (former) pals/cronies/family members who either said something far too embarrassing: Grandma being afraid of blacks, Rev Wright Damning America, Ayers trying to blow up America. But of course they don't matter because Obama either apologized for them and or threw them under the bus.

And here is the point. If this man is so smart. If he is so politically astute. If he is such a leader of men and in tune with what needs to (supposedly) be changed in D.C. and America, how come he can't even select members of his who are able to pass muster for the positions he want them to fill. In other words, Obama is looking to be ( or most likely; always has been) grossly incompetent in his ability to judge a persons character.

As an everyday citizen, this might not be all that big of a deal. It would perhaps effect said individual and his or her immediate family, friends, or co-workers. But on the world stage, the President of the United States, now more then ever, needs to be a sound judge of whom he will be dealing with. Be it face to face, or after dissemination of information, he must be able to make judgments based on instinct (leadership is a trait and part of that entails the correct "reading" of others). With out this, we end up with a person who will "apologize" ... to the American people for making poor choices in his picks of potential cabinet members ... to the Arab world for our "not being perfect".

You have to wonder what kind of apology is he going to give us after the next international terror attack (assuming it was due to lack of American military interaction), or worse yet the next domestic terror attack. I, for one, hope that day never comes. But if it does, there will be no apology coming from him which will ever be good enough.

Our President ...

... until such time as he shall be proved otherwise. Every person who has held the office has had the chance of rising to the times and demands of the office, or has willfully managed to fall far short of that goal. Barack Hussein Obama will be no different.

So we have the man ... this unproven entity as the new leader of the free world. Don't get me wrong, I dislike all that he stands for, based on what little of his real beliefs have come to light. And his lack of experience is downright shocking (Granted, others have had minimal executive experience ... but how did their tenure turn out?). Still, are we no better then the scum on the left who were banging their sippy cups through out the Bush Presidency?

In short, I will give him a chance. If he is as bad as many make him out to be (myself included) it will show up in his actions (or lack there of) soon enough. In any case, it is a moot point, he has assumed the office. Only time can tell.

But I will add this. The second he shows himself to be what many of us suspect he truly is ... the second he allows this country to become less then what he has the capability to stop or avoid ... the second he appeases those who would bring down not only this nation, but our very way of life ... then, and only then, will he no longer be "our president".

My gut tells me we will not have too long to wait, but we shall see.

Glory To God In The Highest

... 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!!

Little Blaggo in Fantasyland

The Chicago Tribune covered besieged Governor Blagojevich's afternoon press conference today. And it begged, begged to be frisked, so who am I to refuse.

Gov. Rod Blagojevich said today he "has done nothing wrong" and will not resign in the face of federal corruption charges.

"I will fight. I will fight. I will fight until I take my last breath," he said. "And I'm not going to quit a job that people hired me to do because of false accusations and a political lynch mob."

However, his last sentence says nothing about the federal prosecutor's charges. As far as any fighting goes ... I have the feeling ol' Roddy boy was the one stuffed into his locker back in his school days, for not turning his lunch money over quick enough to the local bully.

Blagojevich, however, did not get into the specifics of the political corruption charges he faces, saying he's "not going to talk about this case in 30-second sound bites ... on the TV news."

"I am dying to answer these charges. I am dying to show you how innocent I am," he said.

Be careful what you wish for. Illinois politics, especially those with strong ties (and not very friendly ones at that) to "The Chicago Machine ™ " are quite capable of granting that particular wish. If youse knows what I mean.

"I intend to answer every allegation that comes my way. However, I intend to answer them in the appropriate forum -- in a court of law. And when I do, I am absolutely certain that I will be vindicated," Blagojevich said.

And right there he contradicts himself. Oh, wait, he didn't say he was going to give the whole story, or even the truth. Just that he was going to answer every allegation. I am quite sure his lawyer(s) will provide him with all the "answers" he needs. Though when I read the above the first time I mistakenly thought he WAS going to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but ... then a re-read the last sentence. I had misread vindicated. Could have sworn it was VENTILATED.

The governor went on to quote from the poem "If" by Rudyard Kipling: "If you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs and blaming it on you. If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you and make allowance for their doubting too. If you can wait and not be tired by waiting or being lied about, don't deal in lies. Or being hated. Don't give way to hating."

Hmmmm, this IS from the Chicago Tribune? That staunch bastion of heartland American conservatism ... ummmm didn't they support Obama, are in lockstep with the LA Times, and their patriarch, Colonel McCormick is dead ... never mind.

McCain Thinks the RNC are meanies!

RNC Blaggo commercial. McCain doesn't like it.

Personally, I don't see what all the hubbub is about.

Con-artist ... err scammer ... ahh, the Democratic "Frankenstein's Monster" (or is that Feinstein's??) , clapped together from parts of FDR, LBJ, Jimmy Carter, with (more then) a dash of Clinton, says HE has not talked with Illinois next Governor to be incarcerated, Rod "I never saw a c-note I didn't like" Blagojevich. Of course Obama is telling the truth *wink* *wink* *nudge* *nudge*. And to prove it watch as yet another sacrificial lamb is tossed under the bus. In this case, my money is on Rahm Emanuel.

That John "Why can't we just get along" McCain, has issues with the above video (and I would suspect all the other RINO's do as well), speaks as much to his loss in the last election as anything. We are tired of the tried and failed practice of reaching across the aisle in the spirit of harmony, only to end up being bitch slapped.

Just once it would be nice to see someone with an *R* (or an *I*) "reach across the aisle" ... with a closed fist, and send a few Democratic teeth toward the Congressional or Senate floor, like so many chiclets. Followed by a hearty "Bi-partisan *this* bitch!!" (Yeah, I have an active fantasy life ... your point is??)

Oh well, it could be worse. Imagine, if you will, what might have happened had Madam Hillary been the presidential lady in waiting. She tends to take "tossing someone under the bus" literally, rather then figuratively.

(h/t to Eric at "BitsBlog")

LOL Rod !!!

It seems Fran over at Eternity Road has caught the "LOL Bug" from Charles Hill.

Taking this tomfoolery a bit farther melding with todays news, I give you this:

h/t Eternity Road

A History Lesson: "Remember Pearl Harbor"

Sixty Seven years ago today. We, as a people, as a nation, came together.

"We have witnessed this morning the attack of Pearl Harbor and
a severe bombing of Pearl Harbor by army planes, undoubtedly Japanese. The
city of Honolulu has also been attacked and considerable damage done. This
battle has been going on for nearly three hours. One of the bombers dropped
within 50 feet of (...???taunty-tower...???). Its no joke. Its a real war."

Heard over WCAE (Pittsburgh) at 4:15 pm, Dec 7th, 1941

United in a common cause, against forces which sought to bring down the freedoms and liberties we had come to enjoy.

"Yesterday, December 7, 1941 - a date which will live in infamy - the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.

The United States was at peace with that nation and, at the solicitation of
Japan, was still in conversation with its Government and its Emperor looking
toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific. Indeed, one hour after
Japanese air squadrons had commenced bombing in Oahu, the Japanese
Ambassador to the United States and his colleague delivered to the Secretary
of State a formal reply to a recent American message. While this reply stated
that it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotiations, it
contained no threat or hint of war or armed attack.

It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan makes it obvious
that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks ago.
During the intervening time the Japanese Government has deliberately sought
to deceive the United States by false statements and expressions of hope for
continued peace.

The attack yesterday on the Hawaiian Islands has caused severe damage to
American naval and military forces. Very many American lives have been lost.
In addition American ships have been reported torpedoed on the high seas
between San Francisco and Honolulu. ..."

From FDR's "Day of Infamy" address to congress (and the nation), Dec 8th, 1941

It took the better part of four years to bring the Axis to it's knees. And would have been longer had we not resorted to using the newest and most frightening addition to the nations arsenal, the atomic bomb, on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. But we did what needed to be done, despite the cost in lives, resources, and monies. And we didn't stop until the job was finished (Including the post war reconstruction of Japan and Germany.)

Which brings us to today. Better then seven years since the towers fell. Still
we are not even close to ridding the world of it's current cancer. Much like the axis of old, it too seeks to extinguish the light of liberty, freedom, and individual free will, from all mankind.

We (collectively) bicker, posture, and "nuance" regarding just whom the enemy "really is". We ignore the enemies own "manifesto" which states repeatedly, it's objective is to see itself as THE world wide dominating force. Islam planly states there can be no other. And it will achieve that end through any means fair or foul.

It seems even when History , through the grace of God, is deemed to repeat
itself; and there are more then enough folks alive who have either directly or indirectly took part in this "history lesson". So why ... why do we, as a nation, as a culture, so willfully chose to ignore this?

"Remember Pearl Harbor!!" and the lessons learned from the World War which followed.

UPDATE: added a link under "Remember Pearl Harbor!" . Audio clips from around the nation can be found there. Take a minute to listen, as history was made.

Happy Days Are Here Again??

Well, it would seem the public has spoken. (Yes, I know there is the manipulated votes, the agenda driven media, and more which may have tilted the election. But let's put that aside. Realistically with no "power" to bring about any formal investigations that will produce positive results, all of that is best left for future historians to unearth. It won't happen on our watch.)

To the President-elect: Congratulations and good luck. You (or your handlers) correctly read the mood of a large enough chunk of the country. Your ability to win the hearts and minds of those you needed to get you to the office of the President, if nothing else, was masterfully done. Judging from your track record (at least that part of it we are able to see) this has been your goal since at least your Harvard Law School days.

Now don't get me wrong, I despise most everything Senator Obama stands for. Hell, generally anything exiting his mouth is suspect from the get go. But, unlike those on the other side of the political street, I refuse to stoop to the juvenile name calling and such, now he has made it to office. Don't like it done to President Bush, same standards should apply to Obama.

That being said, I would give most everything I own, if I had the control of a major metro newspaper chain. You see we have taken a 77 year leap back into the past. This is not 2009 it is 1933. President-elect Obama will be this generations FDR. (That he will, most likely, be this generations Jimmy Carter as well, will be conveniently ignored by the media.) This re-emergence of FDR calls for balance. We need, and I would humbly apply for the position of "Col. McCormick" Owner/Publisher of the once great conservative beacon, "The Chicago Tribune" (Yeah, I know ... it isn't even close to what the Col. published or envisioned ... and more's the pity.) We need a strong media presence to counter (hell, just to monitor) the flow of fecal change which will shortly be streaming out of Washington. Some how I don't see Fox news being able to handle that task.

We shall see. Dusting my crystal ball off for the next post. One thing for sure the next 2 to 4 years are going to be anything but dull.

The country is in shaky economic straights, it has elected an extremely leftist leaning incoming President, one who envisions making mass social-economic changes. Yep, 1933 ... "Happy Days Are Here Again" ... NOT!

Murtha IS a *FLB and ...

Normally don't talk about folks running for Congressional or Senate seats outside of the People's Republic of Illinois. But in this case I'll make an exception.

There is a battle for Western Pennsylvania's Congressional District. The incumbent, John Murtha, who has been in the news more then once, coming across with something far less then positive toward either his constituents or on other occasions, his comrades in arms, members of the United States Marines.

Well, it would appear the Marines are not taking his actions and or words lightly. Indeed, at least one former Marine has spoken publicly, calling Murtha a "*fat little bastard".

One final note on this piece of scum ...

Talking with a number of friends, some of whom are retired Marines, the following important distinction was made. All Marines, wither retired or finishing one or more enlistments and returning to civilian live, are "Former Marines". There are NO "Ex-Marines" ... with two exceptions ... Lee Harvey Oswald, and John Murtha.

I think that says it all.

Methane Happens

I found the following here, and after reading same, thought it warranted commenting on.

"MIT scientists baffled by global warming theory, contradicts scientific data

Scientists at MIT have recorded a nearly simultaneous world-wide increase in methane levels. This is the first increase in ten years, and what baffles science is that this data contradicts theories stating man is the primary source of increase for this greenhouse gas. It takes about one full year for gases generated in the highly industrial northern hemisphere to cycle through and reach the southern hemisphere. However, since all worldwide levels rose simultaneously throughout the same year, it is now believed this may be part of a natural cycle in mother nature - and not the direct result of man's contributions."

What's this? You mean to tell me once "the real scientific method ™ " is applied to a given concern and religiously adhiered to, results are often time achived that go against "feelings" and "wishes"? Emotinal fodder others would have you believe is the truth?

Even though their "truth" (reached via consensus) HAS to be right? Why man is the ultimate evil and despoiler of this planet. Man alone has the power to change the flow and direction of rivers, denude pristine forests, cause eco-systems conniption fits, and of course make Moose and Polar Bears long for the days when all they worried about was Governor Palin looking for more meat for her family.

The article goes into a bit more detail about what their collected data told (or rather didn't tell) them, and ends as follows:

"One thing does seem very clear, however; science is only beginning to get a handle on the big picture of global warming. Findings like these tell us it's too early to know for sure if man's impact is affecting things at the political cry of "alarming rates." We may simply be going through another natural cycle of warmer and colder times - one that's been observed through a scientific analysis of the Earth to be naturally occuring for hundreds of thousands of years."

In short, though theories abound, hypothesizes happen. But unless real science is applied to the whole of the question. We will never come close to ever finding an answer. And to have individuals (Yeah Al Gore, you asshat, I am talking to you!) and groups with agendas which must be met regardless of existing facts/factual data (or the lack there of) not only hurts in finding valid answers and data, it makes it that much harder to get the public to believe it.

Still, if this is to be believed, it is nice to see some real data being gathered is causing scientists to start questioning instead of blindly accepting what is being passed off as gospel.

The Whole Truth?

Well, this finally made it to Drudge.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit challenging Barack Obama's qualifications to be president.

U.S. District Judge R. Barclay Surrick on Friday night rejected the suit by attorney Philip J. Berg, who alleged that Obama was not a U.S. citizen and therefore ineligible for the presidency. Berg claimed that Obama is either a citizen of his father's native Kenya or became a citizen of Indonesia after he moved there as a boy.

So far so good. Nice brief synopsis. Makes one want to know more or read on. which is a good thing.

Obama was born in Hawaii to an American mother and a Kenyan father. His parents divorced and his mother married an Indonesian man.

Oh REALLY???? Do you have legitimate proof? As of yet, the Obama camp has only shown a "certificate of live birth" on their site which has at the very least been strongly questioned as to its authenticity, and at worst is an out right forgery! To date, they have not come forth with a certified (preferably original copy of the hospital records) birth certificate.

Then there is the issue of Constitutional guidelines as to what qualifies one to be "American born". Due to the age of Obama's mother at the time of his birth, and the law as written in effect at that time Being born in Hawaii (assuming that is true for the moment) would still disqualify him, due to his mother's age at the time of his birth.

We don't even have to entertain the suggestions (Though they should have been looked into by a true watch dog of the government, what used to be known as "the press". Sadly, they are only interested in Palin's cloths budget.) of Obama having been born in Kenya. Or, so it has been suggested, that his step father from Indonesia, formally adopted Obama, thus making him a citizen of Indonesia. If so, then where is his documents of (re) naturalization upon coming to the US? (or proof showing none were ever needed in the first place)

The above blockquote is the height of media hubris, by suggesting none of this need to be looked into at all.

Internet-fueled conspiracy theories question whether Obama is a "natural-born citizen" as required by the Constitution for a presidential candidate and whether he lost his citizenship while living abroad.

Conspiracy theories???!!! Paaaalease, give me a break! The only reason I have jumped on this is because Obama (or his campaign) have been notoriously mute about any of this, as has been the majority of the media. Had this been a conservative or Republican the media drums would be beating long and loudly, until such documentation was produced. No, there is no major agency cover up here. Though I would by into the media being complicit in what is (or isn't) here, by their collective silence.

Surrick ruled that Berg lacked standing to bring the case, saying any harm from an allegedly ineligible candidate was "too vague and its effects too attenuated to confer standing on any and all voters."

What is too vague? What is too attenuated? Straight up, either the man IS or IS NOT qualified to run for the Presidency. It is as simple as that. And YES, that in and of itself would "confer standing on and and all voters".

Me thinks the judge was either bought off, or is scared of repercussions from the Obamaites, or wanted to wash his hands of this whole mess, punting it up to SCOTUS for the final word.

Oils Well That Ends Well

With gas nearing the four dollar a gallon mark, here in the hinterlands of Illinois, a small cul-du-sac off the main drag in the bitter heartland of this great nation, kinda thought it time to get a few thoughts together regarding same, so here goes.

But first, a joke:

There was an old man sitting on his porch listening to his radio while watching the rain fall. Over the radio came a loud warning siren and the announcer said ... "Evacuate the area! A Flood is coming!" Right after the warning the water started coming over the porch and into the house.

The old man moved to the second floor looking out the window, when a rescue boat came and the people on board said,"You can't stay here the flood is here!" Please come with us."

The old man replied, "No, God will save me." So the boat left. A little while later the water was up to the second floor, so the man climbed up onto the roof. This time a helicopter flew over head and through a loud speaker said "You are going to drown if you stay here! Please come with us!"

The old man again replied,"God will save me." So they flew off to get others stranded.

An hour later the water was up over the roof and sweeps the man into the flooding water, where he drowns and goes to heaven. When he awakens, he is extremely mad and disappointed. When he sees God he asks him, "Why didn't you save me?"

God replied, "You arrogant man! I sent you a warning, then a boat, then a helicopter!! Yet you willingly refused my help so obviously offered, then have the gall to say I ignored your pleas."

There are ever increasing demands placed on our countries need for all types of energy. The nations industries need for (natural) resources to produce products for other companies and the general public. And an ever increasing desire to become truly independent of foreign sources.

The increase in power to meet the needs of families as they find more ways to improve their lifestyle with bigger televisions/entertainment systems/computers. More labor saving devices, larger refrigerators, deep freezers for the bulk buying from Costco, Sam's Club, or even buying meat/poultry in bulk from the local butcher (thus getting it at a cheaper per pound rate). Lawn and garden equipment to keep the homestead looking sharp. Then there is the cost of keeping the family wheels on the road.

Keeping our industrial engine running (with power) and, as noted above, resources to produce the products we need and want. Cheap enough energy (read fuel) to transport produce, products, and people from points "A" to points "B".

There has been a mad and not very well thought out rush to turn to bio-fuels as, if not "the answer", an answer to at least part of this concern. Sadly, it is now being realized this is at the very least a short sighted foolish "solution". The physical demands, land requirements, resulting drastic changes in commodity prices, threaten to not only weaken an already shaky economy, but will end up causing more instability in parts of the world which can ill afford it, due to people already lacking for the minimal basics in foodstuffs seeing the trickle offered now to come to a complete stop.

Add to this, the dirty little secret that bio-fuel is in the end no more friendly to the environment, due to energy(s) used in the manufacture of same, as well as the waste produced, and in the loss of efficiency in mpg (meaning more will be needed to meet the same miles driven by good ol regular gas), as to make it a loss all the way 'round.

But what are we to do cry the people?

Returning to the "joke" at the beginning of this post. We have been given the answer (at least for the next 100-500 years). That we have through our arrogance refused to take advantage of it, means we only have ourselves to blame for where we are now.

Yes, the progressives/liberals/tree huggers actions, along with the media doing their thing to muddy the waters (and sell papers and air time at the best prices possible), are instrumental in why we are where we are. But we of the more conservative/adult/responsible side of the street are at fault as well.

Folks, we are enablers! When we should have told the kids to shut up and leave the management of our energy needs to the adults. Instead, we gave in to their cries of "nuclear power is evil" (cause it might go "melty" or "boom"). So we gave up on that by regulating it to the point of near extinction.

Then there was the move to remove the poisons exiting the exhausts of the hundreds of thousands of happy motorists in this country. First is was lead. Then, lead by the eco-wienies out in la la land ... err California, a new environment friendly fad came to the fore. Cafe blends. Yes, now we had to have different blends of petrol for not only different times of the year (winter and summer) but for different areas of the country as well. The fly in this ointment was at the same time as these demands were being placed in effect, there were fewer and fewer refineries to produce same. Thus, the cost for production went up as demand began to exceed production. (And of course the evil oil companies were prevented from economically building new refineries, that would not be environmentally friendly .... or should that be in a more politically incorrect (but far more honest light) manner, stated as "Yes, we sure do need more refineries, preferably built close to the raw material (oil), but not in my back yard!!"

Last but not least there was the push to prevent new drilling for oil. Wither it was on land, or off shore, it was deemed verboten. Every reason in the environmental bible was given, from harming plant and animal life, to raping Mother Gia. And we, gave in.

We, like the fictional pastor above, have asked for help. To be delivered from our energy dependent bonds.
And our prayers have been answered in more way then one.

People, the water is up to our necks. We have been tossed a life preserver. Let us take hold and use what has been given to the best of our abilities. Lest we face our own final judgment, as our civilization crumbles upon the dust heap of history. And when, in some future time and place the truth is unearthed, that we in fact had the means to continue on, but willfully chose to ignore what was given. Said "Thanks , but no thanks." Then we will be judged, much like the fictional old man as being arrogant willful fools, most deserving of our fate.

"Wrigley to be sold to Mars for $23 billion"

Well, they said it couldn't be done ... but the word is out Wrigley is going to Mars!! Yes, it was thought the "friendly confines" would be sold to someone who would perhaps update the park a bit, or worst case scenario, bring in the wrecking ball and start anew. But take it (and one would assume the surprisingly strong Cubs as well) to the fourth planet from the sun? Sheesh, we finally have a chance at getting to the World Series, and it takes aliens or the God of War (the tribune headline wasn't clear which "Mars") to prevent the long suffering Northsiders from getting a pennant. However, knowing the way the Cubs have a knack of "snatching defeat from the jaws of victory", one wonders if, after reading the above, it would be typically followed by "Well, we'll have to find a way to get them back for next season ... there's always next year!!"

Yes, my tongue was firmly planted in cheek. Though the Headline for this article (as it appears in total, on top of this post as well) at first blush, could appear to be describing the venerable home of the Cubbies. In fact it is referring to the Wrigley Co. home of "Wrigley's Spearmint", "Juicyfruit", "Doublemint", and "Big Red" gums.

Although William Wrigley Jr, states Wrigley gum will not be lost in the shuffle, nor will they be moving out of the Chicagoland area. Indeed, there appears to be a very good chance more jobs will be added as parts of the Mars candy company will be produced alongside the world famous Wrigley gum. Still, it is kinda sad to see another Chicagoland icon absorbed into a larger corporate (and even larger icon) entity.

Here is the Chicago Trib's article on same. Or here , in case the Tribune article requires a subscription.

Campain Button or Reset Button ... the choice won't be yours for long

A few years back, Robert H. Bork penned a bit of non-fiction, "Slouching Towards Gomorrah". One of the most interesting thrusts of his book, as bought up in a review by Diane West at Public Interest, in it's entirety here, reads as follows:

In a concise, illuminating critique, Bork explains how the Founding Fathers, in their pretensions to near-infallibility, overlooked the fallibility of human nature. That is, while granting the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness to all men, the Founders took for granted their own inherited moral capital - i.e., the Judeo-Christian tradition and classical thought - and made no provision for its perpetuation.

Indeed, we some twelve years after the books release, continue to bear witness to this. Look at the hoops those who are avowed statists/progressives/marxists, go through in order to get (the collective) us to become more accommodating of diversity for diversity's sake, tolerant accepting of all "faiths", the dumbing down/indoctrination of our future generations in the schools/colleges, and finally, (because of the above marginalizing of religions) the bowing to the State as the one supreme entity.

However, it doesn't end here, with the hubris of so called leaders from either side of the political spectrum demanding "We The People" humbly bow down before them, excepting their view of what's best for us. No, both sides (though perhaps arriving at it from different directions) have a much larger vision of what needs to be done. They, quite simply, are planning and perusing nothing less then the "globalization of humankind".

It is not some conspiracy lurking in the dark shadows of some one two kings shy of a full deck. Nor the wishful thinking of an Illuminati fearing anti-mason nutjob. Noted author Jerome R Corsi's May 19, 2006 column for Human Events gives a brief but enlightening synopsis of what has already happened, and what, most likely is to come.

This is nothing really new, President Bush's lack of success with his (supposed) immigration reform and securing of the borders, give credence to Corsi's work. And now there is this. Yes, the GOP candidate for president, Senator McCain, looks to be wanting to change the paint job on the 'ol "Straight Talk Express" to "The North American Union Express."

McCain proposed a new organization, the League of Democracies, to "harness the vast influence of more than 100 democratic nations around the world to advance our values and defend our shared interests."

"Our great power does not mean we can do whatever we want whenever we want, nor should we assume we have all the wisdom and knowledge necessary to succeed," the presumptive Republican nominee told the Los Angeles World Affairs Council. "We need to listen - we need to listen - to the views and respect the collective will of our democratic allies."
Source: Foon Rhee - The Boston Globe March 27, 2008

Why stop at the new borders of the Unión Norteamericana ... err ... I mean, North American Union? When we can, according to John McCain, (Are we going for the "third time is a charm" thing here?) form yet another League of Nations... ahhh ... United Nations ... damn ... "League of Democracies" ... yeah, that's the ticket!! After all we are the little kids on the block age-wise. All those Euro-pee-ans are soooo much more sophisticated and cultured then we is and all. It might be best if we just get rid of that pesky constitution once and for all. Lets get on board this one world thing. We can still have our own "nation" (note those were finger quotes around nation). But on the oft chance we happen to elect a leader that gets a bit too uppity, why the "real leaders" will be able to slap em down.

And make no mistake, tho they may be fools, these are not idiots. It will be done using the tried and true tools the libs (and their masters, the communists) have used for years . Incramentalism. First comes the various "U's" (European. Asian. North American), eventually to be followed by one big (not so) happy Union, Federation, Republic ... whatever is decided on at the time.

You believe in the constitution as written? Forgettaboutit! It will have been gutted (if not out rightly removed in toto). You believe in God? Not a problem, just don't expect any of the moral framework we hold to be based on what has been observed of the human condition over the past couple thousand years to be of worth... and as long as YOU don't force your moral guidelines on us, then you can keep your religion ... but we will be watching.

Guns????? You MUST be kidding!!!

Education??? The best and brightest will get a shot ... the rest of you ... eat your alloted caloric intake, drink your happy juice, and be quick about it! Your shift starts in 15 minutes.

America? "I remember gramps talking about that ONCE ... just before he went to "the home".

As for the here and now. We don't have the options the founding fathers (and a generation or so afterward) had. There is no place else to head off to ... to start over. We have only two choices.

Drink the kool-ade, while mentally and physically masturbating our freedoms away, and of course enjoy the ride.

Or

Hit the reset button.

I am ready for the button. What say you??

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?

A New Star in the Heavens

As noted over the news wires, Sir Arthur C. Clarke passed from this life and onto the next great adventure on Wed. (Tuesday our time) It has been noted around the interweb as well. I feel this gentleman says it best. He will be missed.

I started my long love affair with reading around 40 years ago. (It can't have been that long ago, can it??) Shakespeare and Bradbury, turned the spark into a flame. A flame which was fed and nurtured by the likes of Asimov, Heinlein, Tolkien, yes and most definitely, Arthur Clarke.

The big four in my mind where (and probably always will be) Asimov, Bradbury, Clark, and Heinlein. They also were at least partially to blame for my love of all things aviation related ... space related ... and for a youthful optimism in the hope man would (will, damnit!!) one day soon, be able to free himself form this little blue marble. That we will be able to travel easily to other worlds. We will explore, advance our talents to the fullest, and become all that human kind is able to be.

Clarke helped to continue this dream and for that, even though I never met or corresponded with the man, I am forever in his (and the afore mentioned colleagues) in his debt. He was indeed one of the giants of his genre.

Your pen may have finally been silenced, but your written legacy will live on long after. Rest easy, sleep sound, be at peace Sir. You've earned it more then a thousand times over.

VP or Not VP, That is the question

I made mention of who would be a good vice presidential running mate for Senator McCain here. However, that man about town, McGehee, feels (and rightly so) we delegates of the GOMLP (that's Get Off My Lawn Party for all you late comers out there *grin*.) should post our preferences at our respective sites, in order to get the conversations going, juices flowing (Ok, in light of former NY Governor Spitzer's "flowing juices" concerns, perhaps that's not such a good thing.), and on the off chance someone is actually reading this bit o' fluff on the interweb, see if we can arrive at some respectable choices for VP.

Some have suggested Alaska's Governor, Sarah Palin, would make a great choice and potential future presidential candidate as well. I would come back to the "continental 48", and offer either Duncan Hunter, or former Lt Governor of Maryland, Michael S. Steele, as fine high caliber running mates. Both would represent the more conservative (and increasingly muffled) voice of the Republican party. But more to the point, speak to the views and viewpoints of the majority of Americans (despite what the lame brain ... err main stream media would have you believe) in this country, particularly those in the heartland and the south.

So, what do y'all think?

Will We Have A McCain Mutiny?

Well it seems we have a Republican finalist in place. Arizona Senator, John McCain, locked the nomination by virtue of his walking away with Texas, Ohio, RI, and VT, in yesterdays primaries. As I have written in the past, the man gives me much cause for concern. His willingness to bend our first amendment rights in order to meet his needs/wants/desires, is by itself, reason enough to wonder about his political character. That he would, and has, side with leaders of the progressive movement in this country (otherwise known as the Democratic Party) if for no other apparent reason then to snub his own parties goals or agendas, comes across not as one who is a "maverick", but rather a petulant child who needs to be the center of attention ... and when not getting their way ... proceeds to curl up in a ball and turn blue.

Then there are the two things he has in common with the current holder of the office of Commander-in-Chief. The first, both seek to have our borders open to all able to walk across same. "Illegal Immigrant" is in not in either one's lexicon. That is going to cost us, and not just in dollars and cents. But in real human blood, sweat, and tears.

The second one, is their stance on the War on Terror. (This is kinda amazing to me, in that you would think a secure, non-porous border would be one of the top items on ones list of things to do, in order to effectively fight this foe, at least regarding being able to monitor the coming and goings of those who are of a questionable nature.) Both President Bush, and ostensively, Senator McCain, at the very least are aware of the potential price we pay if we chose to ignore the threat posed by "radical Islam". That neither seem to want to (or are able to) acknowledge Islam in and of itself IS the threat, and the more vocal/radical elements are nothing more then folks moving at a faster pace then the rest of the Muslim crowd, is perhaps a subject for another day. Still, they seem to have at least a basic grasp of the concept. We can't bargain with those who seek to kill us, and are less then honorable in their (history of) bargaining.

This last point is (if there is any politically speaking) McCain's saving grace.

But his successful run to the Oval Office will not be won on this alone. Both Democratic contenders are by all accounts going to give him quite a race, regardless who wins their party's nomination. He will have to do at least a couple of things (barring any major turns in the war). First, he needs to legitimately mend the fences he all but ran through the wood chipper, with conservatives. One way to start the mending would be to bring on board a strong conservative running mate for VP. Duncan Hunter would be my choice. He is a young, strong conservative from a state whose last major political voice (Pelosi, The Governator, and Boxer don't count) was none other then Ronald Regan. It might also be enough to swing that state in his column come the general election. (But my prognostication has been so poor, even I wonder about that ... still...) Then there is former Lt Governor of Maryland, Michael S. Steele, yet another strong conservative voice.

McCain has a long way to go to not only unify the GOP, but in winning the general election. Time will tell if he is honest enough with the conservative Republicans (and conservatives in general), to get them to turn out in large enough numbers come November.

I wonder if he will be honest enough with himself to be the kind of man his son sees him as.

“I think he is less [of a] maverick and more principled. He’s not going to pander and he’s not going to give in because it’s politically intelligent or just because it’s popular to go that way. Granted he is an elected official, and he is the voice of the people, but when it comes down to what he believes is best for the country, he does what he feels is right,” Midshipman Jack McCain, February 13, 2008

I have to admire both his sons. Both are in the millitary, by choice. Based on what I have read, they sound like solid centered individuals, who love their dad and are proud of him. It came across in the linked interview, and it did change my opinion of McCain just a bit. If those closest to him are as positive about him with out being *gushingly so*, then perhaps there is more to the man then what we have seen. And maybe this is what McCain needs to share with the rest of the country. Perhaps it is time to drop the "Maverick" and become instead, the principled senior statesman ready and willing to lead this country. If that means you have to secure the borders to defend against all enemies foreign and domestic, then so be it. If that means you have to repeal the BCRA (because our candidate is man enough to admit mistakes) because the Constitution, specifically the "Bill of Rights", is not to be trifled with. This would go a long way towards mending fences and establishing credibility with conservatives.

We shall see.

Lessons We Refuse To Learn

Sadly, it seems the specter of the continuing breakdown of a civil society has touched the lives of faculty and students at Northern Illinois University. As most of you may know by now, at least five students are dead along with the perpetrator. A twenty something year old white male opened fire in a campus auditorium. initial reports state he fired upwards of twenty times, and is alleged to have had both a shot gun and pistol (of some sort) on his person.

My heart goes out to all who were injured, may their (physical and emotional) wounds be light and heal quickly. For those who lost family and or friends on this Valentine's Day, you have my sincerest condolences.

This was not something which should be (or so it would seem) an ever increasing occurrence. We are supposed to be a civilized society, a nation, a people ruled by law. And so we (collectively) wonder why, why is this happening. What is generating the kind of mindset which causes people to take out their pain their anger/rage, perhaps even their vengeance, on the innocent.

We have gun laws. There are literally thousands of them "on the books" at the local, state, and federal level. Some were written with the best of intent, others written for nothing more then to either make the authors of same "feel good" or to actively seek to control the access, availability, or sale of same to the general public. In most cases, a number of existing laws are not actively (or routinely) enforced. And some, are on the face of it plainly unconstitutional. But the sad fact is they either are not working or are unworkable.

We have "Gun Free Zones". The idealists who see guns (at best) as tools of wanton destruction and death, with no redeeming social or moral value, and at worst feel they are "just plain evil", see the total banning of firearms from any given area (school, mall, city of Chicago) as the perfect solution. If people don't have guns or access to same, then we will be safe. Our LEO's will take care of any concerns. Virginia Tech, Eastside Mall, and now NIJ victims would beg to differ with you, if they still had the breath of life in themselves to do so.

And to be strictly fair to NIU, they do not in any of their literature state they are a "Gun Free Zone" in the strictest sense of that phrase. Indeed, their policy is as follows:

3-1.5 Dangerous Weapons: 1.5a Possession, use, sale, or distribution in any residence hall, building, or grounds under university control of: fireworks, firearms, shotguns, rifles, hand guns, switchblade knives, any type of ammunition, explosives, and all other serious weapons. 1.5b Misuse of martial arts weaponry, BB guns, pellet guns, clubs, knives, and all other serious weapons. Students who wish to bring firearms to the campus must obtain written permission from the chief security officer of the university. Firearms must be stored at the University Security Office except with written permission of the chief security officer of the university. At no time will any of the above dangerous weapons be allowed in the university residence halls.

The Student Code of Conduct
Northern Illinois University
(Effective August 8, 2006)

So no, by strict definitions, it is not a gun free zone. But by design it may just as well have been.

Is there one perfect solution to all this? No, there is not. We are human after all and there will never be a "one size fits all" cure for our all too numerous ailments of our imperfect human nature. However, I will leave you with this:

"One difference between savagery and civilization is a little courtesy. There's no telling what a lot of courtesy would do." - Cullen Hightower

and temper the above with this, of equal importance:

"An armed society is a polite society." - Robert A. Heinlein

The first quote is true enough. There are far too many savages, their numbers steadily increasing (here and abroad). Courtesy (and manners) seem to be dying, the precursor to our civilizations demise. The second quote, well were that in place, would go a long way in reviving both of those. Most importantly it very well may have allowed the students and faculty of NIU to have had a typically quiet and unremarkable Valentine's Day, and for some, to have lived to see the morrow.

There's an Ill Wind Blowing ... NOT!

Political Correctness continues its encroachment on our freedoms and in (how we go about) our daily lives. One of it's biggest segments of the population in which to exert its control has been (and continues to be) our public schools. No grade level is immune. And any behavior is subject to scrutiny.

Which brings us to this.

Middle school issues ban on intentional flatulence

By Holly S. Anderson
VillageSoup/Knox County Times Senior Reporter

CAMDEN (Feb 1): The Merriam Webster Dictionary definition for flatulence is brief: "flatus expelled through the anus." And while it's a natural bodily function, it seems some Camden-Rockport Middle School eighth-grade boys are taking it to new heights and making a game of seeing who can expel the loudest and grossest flatus.

Leave it to a bunch of eighth grade boys to come up with this! (Bless em!!) At least they didn't take it to "the varsity level" by attempting to "light em off". Yep, boys are like this, especially at this age. It's funny, it's fun, and there are no extra parts or equipment needed to pull it off. The girls will think it is gross, and the teachers will find it highly disruptive if done during class (big bonus points there!). At that age what's not to like, indeed, enjoy about this?

(And an aside to all you dads out there....admit it, you wouldn't be mad at your son for doing this...well, maybe upset that YOU didn't think about doing it when you were in eighth grade...but still. The young lad is bonding with his peers...a small pungent step forward in the male rites of passage...but still a step forward.)

According to this week's Fire Cracker school newsletter though, the joke's on the boys as the penalty for "intentional farting" is now a detention.

"Strange, but true, thanks to a bunch of 8th grade boys, intentional farting has been banned from CRMS," the newsletter said. "It started out as a funny joke and eventually turned into a game. This is the first rule at CRMS that prevents the use of natural bodily functions. The penalty for intentional farting is a detention, so keep it to yourself!"

Johnny: "But.....but...I just can't keep it to myself!!! The beans and wienies for lunch were just ooooooo.....too much.......*bbbbbbbbbrrrrrrrrrriiiiiiiippppppppp*"

Principal/Fart-Hall Monitor: "All right Mister!! That's the third time this week, and it's only Tuesday! You are on double secret probation!!!!"

And would someone explain to me exactly the correct verbiage/sentence structure for "This is the first rule at CRMS that prevents the use of natural bodily functions." Shouldn't it read WHICH prevents instead of THAT prevents? And are the potential farting felons the start of a trend? If so, what's next, misdemeanor booger flinging?

According to a group of seventh-grade students milling around downtown following Friday's storm-related early release, the eighth-graders' escapades are well known in the school. "They would do it in science class and other places," said Jordan Tyler. "It's a natural occurrence and we all do it 16 times a day."

Imagine so. "Wow, did you hear Billy let one rip in Mrs. Rottencrotch's class today? It was awesome!!! And had great hang time too....you could still smell it at the end of the period." "Man, his colon must be diseased!"

When questioned where he learned that information, Tyler and the other students all said it was true, though they couldn't remember where they heard it.

Hmmm, a single, or perhaps incident done a couple of times during the course of a week gets embellished as only a story can in junior high (as we used to call middle school, back in the day). Perhaps not as big a deal as originally thought? Nope, that can't stop the PC crowd...."We gotta nip this in the bud Andy" {/Fyfe}

One of the other students, Kyle Ruger, said the act by the boys was funny, but he had mixed feelings about whether it was appropriate.

I bet this kid is well on his way to being completely "pc-whipped" before he finishes high school. Sad very sad. Then again, perhaps he is just learning how to hedge his bets...and has a future ahead of him in politics.

Jordan Knowlton minced no words when she expressed how she felt, saying, "It's gross."

"See, I told ya it would gross out the girls!!!"

Remy LeVine said he was in the class when CRMS science teacher Brad LaRoche talked to all the eighth-grade boys about the issue, as well as the consequences

Which was hard to do, I am sure, between the giggles, snorts, and outright laughter, and (I would dearly hope) more then a couple of stray non-pc farts!!

Attempts to reach CRMS Principal Maria Libby Friday afternoon were unsuccessful and school Superintendent Patricia Hopkins said she had not heard anything about the issue or the alleged suspected result, though she did get a good chuckle out of the news.

Nice to see the Superintendent got a (deserved) chuckle outta this...perhaps there is a ray of sanity in that school system. But chances are the Superintendent is a mother of more then one son who has "tooted his horn" more then once around the house. And she knows, or well remembers what eighth grade boys are like.

I ... *poooooooooot* .... excuse me!!! ... hope so.

Journalistic Excellence, Not if The Public Can Help It!

On somewhat of a tangent, deep into this crapstain of a political season, it appears to be time to look at one of the quivering lipped "messengers of truth" ™ . I know this is already a day or two old, and as such might be considered old news, but I can't pass it up.

Roy Peter Clark has a column up over at Poynter, where he takes a long heartfelt look at a recent Sacred Heart University poll: "Americans Slam News Media on Believability." along with the "slings and arrows of outrageous fortune" flung at the media by (*gasp*!!) us, the public at large. Have a tissue or two handy, after reading it you may need it. I was all misty eyed myself. Oh, us heartless uncaring, unknowing, heathens! We are (collectively), the most ungrateful a bunch of bastards as ever there were. Why, after all the media has tried to do to for us!!

Over at NRO, Kevin D. Williamson responds and does better then I. At least he is able to pick out what he considers to be the "killer paragraph". After re-reading Clark's bit of offal, in hopes of finding something on which to point and laugh at opine, I threw up my hands in despair. It reads even worse the second (or third or fourth!!) time. It is as damning a bit of evidence, in that maybe, maybe, the pollsters over at Sacred Heart University, as well as the public at large, are spot on in their perceptions of the media. If nothing else, it shows us (the ungrateful biased media critics that we are) how thin skinned (at least some of) the media is, or how poor their research skills are. Specifically, in the case of Clark's piece, if not poorly researched, then intentionally lacking in readily available evidence as to what might constitute our perception of "media bias". (Ok, I'll drop a clue, how about the "evil solder stories" willingly endorsed by The New Republic, as a recent example of not only bias, but piss poor fact checking, for starters, Clark?? ... And this is going with the Williamson line of thought about sticking to just the print media ...damn, this is too easy!)

But in the end, all this inquiring mind wants to know is whither or not Clark is able to get his sippy cup filled (on tearful demand), and has a ready supply of teething biscuits.

The Maverick from Arizona

Senator John McCain. First, let me get this out of the way, Senator McCain was a POW, and served Honorably in the United States Navy. His service to his country is not now nor has ever been in question by me. And I flat refuse to go there. . The man is as dangerous to this country as any Democrat, and as disingenuous towards the Constitution as Mike Huckabee would be...

Taken from "State of the Union and Primary Pleasantries"

I have posted about McCain and his less then stellar actions in the past. And on my opinion(s) of the man. Being he is in the running (and currently tied for the lead in the Florida Primary) for the Republican nod for President, perhaps a look at a couple or three posts from the past would be in order. This man is not to be trusted! His only saving grace, and it is questionable as to whither or not he will stay the course, is his supposed stand on the War on Terror.

With all the war of words about the Swift Boat Vets for Truth and their ad depicting Kerry in a less than favorable light (Truth hurts don't it Kerry). Aside from the whining and pseudo legal garbage put out by the DNC (and others for the Kerry Konvoy), one voice spoke out, which judging by his past actions isn't too surprising at first look. Yes, I am talking about Arizona's own Senator John McCain.

There has been talk over the years about his checkered political past (Keating Five ring a bell?), including the election ads cure-all (that didn't)which bitch-slaps ignores that pesky first amendment, the CFR. But, his statements concerning the ad placed by the Swifties, is not really about his being a "maverick", or even being an independent thinker.....it goes deeper.

As most folks know Senator McCain was a POW during Viet Nam. There have been other sites and other comments, over the years, suggesting he got the majority of his wounds by not following procedure upon ejecting from his aircraft over the middle of Hanoi. I would humbly suggest until you have done the same, you might want to pipe down about that....ejecting from an aircraft even in optimal conditions is not failsafe....and though I have concerns about the Senator, that isn't one of them.

He landed in the middle of " the Western Lake" and was removed from it by one Vietnamese. Thus started his 5 1/2 year stint as a prisoner of war.
And, on his fourth day of captivity and believing he was going to die, McCain chose instead to deal with his captors. I said, "O.K., I'll give you military information if you will take me to the hospital."**. Even this almost failed to work, until the Vietnamese realized he was the son of a senior Naval Officer. Now, only those who have been in that part of hell experienced by POW's of Viet Nam, would have any honest insight to what McCain was exposed to....the rest of us can imagine...based on what we have read or heard from other POW's. Is he a turncoat to his fellows based on his own admissions in so far as he claims to have freely violated the Code of Conduct all service members are bound to? I don't want to address that concern...indeed it is not as important as another question I do have.

Was Senator McCain broken so hard that he can never exorcise the demons his actions past and present would indicate he still faces? If he were just a small town mayor, or a little bureaucrat in a dimly lit office, that may not be much of a concern...certainly others have matters of self worth and conscience they must face constantly...But how many are US Senators....and past (and possible future) contenders for the highest office in the land?

Fact: McCain actively sought to dismiss and marginalize attempts of finding out whether there were American POWs/MIAs still alive in Viet Nam and possibly neighboring countries

Fact: After keeping his distance from Massachusetts Senator John Kerry for a number of years, obstinately due to Kerry's well documented anti-war stance, He has been alleged to have "Made his peace" with Kerry while on a trip to Kuwait.

Fact: The very enemy which caused him physical and mental damage, became the beneficiary of his actions in bringing about more open trade as one of a number of US Senators seeking to help open relations with Viet Nam.

Fact: When fellow vets attempt to present their side of the ongoing saga that is the Kerry attempt to rewrite (Kerry's) history of the Viet Nam war, he summarily dismisses them and calls upon the Bush administration to do the same.

The bottom line is there is more to Senator McCain then meets the eye. Based on what has appeared in print (US News and World Report, Congressional Record[s], McCain's own statements, "The Nightingale", etc) he is a man who seeks to put Viet Nam well behind him....even if the costs are far greater than just the personal well being and mental health of one Senator John McCain.

It is one thing to allow Kerry to dodge and weave as he puts on his "Visions of Viet Nam Heroics Pornshow ™" and attack those without credentials or affidavit's to back up their accusations. But the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth are NOT in that group Senator McCain. They have the poof, they have been there, been wounded, and seen their comrades in arms die there.

You have talked about courage. You have talked about falling short of what you would consider to be honorable conduct. You have the chance here to do what would be considered to be the honorable thing, in really listening to what the Swift Boat vets have to say. And, in doing all of what is in your power to ensure the current Commander in Chief is returned to office for another four years. We are at war Senator, and though he is not perfect, President Bush has the clarity of vision to recognize the evil we are fighting for what it is. Perhaps, in finding the courage within yourself to drop the blinders and see the truth, you will be able to eliminate some of the demons who dine on your soul daily.

"John McCain, Haunted by Demons?" August 12th, 2004 - Snugg Harbor

This was followed by this(which referred to the blockquote above):

I received more than a few comments about this post when it appeared a number of months ago. The major piece of legislation co-authored by the good Senator has been in the news and making major waves throughout the blogsphere over the past few weeks. Perhaps it is as good a time as any to take a walk down memory lane...The main point of my post still stands. Senator McCain in all good conscience needs to step down from his senate seat and retire. I have the greatest respect for the senators Naval service, and for his time spent as a POW. But, I posit his time in hell, has at the very least affected his powers of reasoning. It's not his fault, and it may not be fair (as things in life often are) but his actions as a Senator, and the legislation he has backed or sponsored, as well as his actions as a member of the Senate fact finding committee on the issue of POWs/MIAs are questionable at best.

"Revisiting Senator McCain"- March 3rd, 2005 Snugg Harbor

And finally, there is this:

I have been following, with interest, not only the hub-bub about the BCRA and the FEC as it relates specifically to blogging and bloggers at large, but about the exploits of it's more notable author, Senator John McCain.

Ed Morrissey at Captain's Quarters has been on this item and the Senator like a good hunting dog...ferreting out bits and pieces of the truth along with giving us larger swatches about one of the main players in this madness.

But I am noticing something else here.

Yes there was the Keating Five scandal, and though he came out of it with little more than a slap on the hand (and a hope that the voting public has short memories), McCain did admit he was wrong. This major incident was spun over the years as his main personal reason for the BCRA. That, there exists a possibility legislators could become corrupted by the large amounts of money out their in corporate coffers and PAC land. The average voter across the nation (assuming McCain's ambition for power and the presidency are as strong as they ever were) could, if spun right, believe McCain has learned his lesson.

But wait you say, what about information currently being brought to light about his ties with Cablevision and their contributions to the Reform Institute. In fact looking at the cronyism prevalent at the Reform Institute, and McCain's ties to same, if this is the actions of an active "reformer", one might wonder when wolves became just another subspecies of chicken.

Okay, lets not look at the above. After all it's been many years since Keating...and one can't fault a fella from back sliding. Oops, it seems Mark R. Levin, dug up a bit more about McCain getting monies from outside sources at different times from 1989 through 2002.

So, what is the big deal here? To me it is simple, and Mr. Levin brings it to light in this fashion:

"Of course, I don't believe the mere receipt of campaign contributions is corrupting. In fact, it's evidence of representative government at work. The public has every right to try to influence the direction of their government. But McCain believes this activity to be corrupt, yet he took the money anyway."

And that appears to be McCain in a nutshell....the man is a hypocrite.

This brings me back to McCain's recent statements about the FEC and the BCRA not effecting, or having any effect on, individual bloggers. Judging on how the man is able to apparently talk reform out of one side of his mouth while feathering his campaign coffers or providing "capital" shelter for his cronies. You have got to wonder not only about John McCain's ability to prevent the erosion of YOUR first amendment rights, but his willingness to do so as well.

March 10th, 2005 -Snugg Harbor

Is this the man you want to see as Commander-in-Chief ? He is nothing more then a liberal in GOP clothing on every issue other then (perhaps) the War on Terror. At least with Obama, you know what you are getting. Senator Obama is upfront about what he is and what he stands for. (Though I can't see myself voting for him either. Not even close to my political stance.) But with McCain ... only John and God know what is going on in that muddled mind of his. If he gets the nomination, be afraid, be very afraid.

** original link no longer exists...updated with a more current item from Newsmax.com archives-Harbor Master

Are You Ready To Make A Choice?

A well regulated Militia being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms shall not be infringed. Second Amendment-United States Constitution

We all have choices to make. Some are simple, daily, repetitive ... what to wear to work, what's for dinner tonight, is there anything worth watching on the boob tube.

At other times we face decisions of a bit more complex nature. Is this really the right car for me and my family. Who "is" the best person for the job. Should I stand (and maybe "die"), metaphorically, on this hill, or concede to the wishes of my wife.

Then there are the occasional really tough choices. Like; Should I risk losing the best friend I ever had by telling them what they really need to hear, or just agree with them and keep their friendship (assuming they are in some sort of self destructive state/situation).

Then there are the real life or death kinds of choices. And not just in a physical sense. The ones that can spiritually wound or even kill (or lead to the death of your soul)

We all make choices.

I, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God.

The Oath of enlistment/re-enlistment of the Armed Forces

Some of us feel that this oath, once taken, is taken for life. That our sacred oath demands we are duty bound to the oath even after enlistments and office holdings have expired. That one is honor bound to it ... for life. That there are ideals and beliefs which once realized, are worth the total investment of self. Even to the point of "that last full measure of devotion".

“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God.” Oath of Office

Some of us don't. They take political gambles with your first amendment rights, and lose. They allow for the further encroachment of our property rights. Seek to obliterate our borders, sovrenty, and national security. And now, an out and out attack on the linchpin of the Constitution, the Second Amendment..

And Some of us plan on supporting the Constitution as it was originally intended, especially if elected to higher office.

In one respect, the cave dweller over in Afghanistan has it correct. We are comfortable here in the west, especially in America. We have been blessed with a prosperity and abundance of riches, and standard of living, no other nation on earth as realized. And (the collective) we have come to expect our government to take appropriate action when needed. That the government will take care of what ever needs to be taken care of. It can mass an army large enough to meet our defense. It can through sanctions, diplomatic meetings, behind the scenes arm twisting, bend the rest of the world to our ends (or come up with a mutually agreeable compromise). But what this has done, over the course of the past 60-70 years, is to accelerate, in a negative way, a shift in personal responsibility.

It's easier to let someone else do it. To defend you. To pay a larger burden of the expense of running the government which is providing you with welfare (tax the rich make em bleed...I don't have enough...they have too much). To let the police take care of all vestiges of crime. (We don't NEED guns....that's what the cops are for anyhow.)

No it isn't! With perhaps one exception. It is quite possible that in the process of defending you ...your son/daughter/husband/wife will pay for your comfort. This would be perhaps the only legitimate extension to the federal government. But as to the others. Living off the dole, due to the (successful) efforts of others? Granting the police more and more power to battle crime when the moral code(s) used to define just what constitutes *a crime* become more and more nebulous, to the point where even ones thoughts are suspect? All the while, you are asked (cajoled, scared, lied to) to give up (some, and only for a short time if possible) personal freedoms to achieve these ends.

I guess it is at least partially due to human nature things are as they are. But ask yourself this ... at what price freedom?

At what point do I ... must I ... make a choice to let things continue in the direction they are going. At which personal line in the sand, after many such lines have been drawn, and crossed, do I say "that's it, that's enough. You have gone too far into what is MINE by divine right (or natural law if you prefer). I don't know what the answer is for you. Never the less, the time is fast approaching when a choice (or choices) will have to be made.

Are you ready? Will you be ready? To Make A Choice? Or will you let others make it for you?

Update changed the link to "the Second Amendment" above and moved other link to end of post. -Harbor Master.
Update2Seems someone in Congress also gets it. Head on over and add your two cents... A choice in the right direction

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????

The Scary GOP

December 15, 2007 7:43 PM

ABC News' Raelyn Johnson reports: Elizabeth Edwards, wife of Democratic hopeful John Edwards, lamented with Iowa caucus goers about her fear of the Republican Party. Elizabeth Edwards, wife of Democratic hopeful John Edwards, lamented with Iowa caucus goers about her fear of the Republican Party. "Republicans should scare us in a lot of ways," Edwards said as she was introducing her husband at a town hall in Dubuque, Iowa.

Sheesh ... You, or your husband, (or any of the other wanna-be potential presidents) may annoy me. Ya'll may even make me want to toss the nearest blunt object at hand towards the tv. Sadly, if it were not for the fact that so many in this country actually buy into what ya'll are saying, a bright future as comedians would be awaiting you all. But scare me, not even on your best day. So how is it that a number of the current crop of GOP presidential hopefuls, cause you to break out in a cold sweat? Did one of them hide her husbands curling iron? Or did another tell Elizabeth she doesn't look 10 pounds heavier on television ... she looks 25 pounds heavier???

Speaking about Republican candidate Mike Huckabee, who recently surged ahead in Iowa polls, Elizabeth noted, "He seems like a nice charming guy," before saying that Huckabee, "doesn’t believe in evolution and has some nutty views about what it is we should do about ending violence in our inner city — we should make sure all of our young people are armed. Republicans scare me."

One hopes her husband isn't as muddled in his thought process as she is. Looking for "Mike Huckabee kids with guns" on Google came up with a goose-egg. The best one can find on Huclabee's stance on guns and the second amendment is here. Regarding his feelings for (or against) evolution, he answers quite nicely here Decided not to even bother with the "ending violence in our inner-city" (Her inner-city?? She owns it?? And if so, why isn't she and her hubby taking care of the problem ... if it's their inner city and all.) As for the blockquote in toto: It may be a wild guess on my part but I bet if I found a complete audio file of the above, there might be a very good chance things about Huckabee where taken out of context.

She went on to warn about the larger party, saying, "Karl Rove may not be working in the White House anymore but you can pretty much be sure he’s going back in the presidential race... I believe he’s going to be back and he’s going be doing that same kind of Rovian politics that we’ve seen before — the kind of attacks that we saw against Sen. McCain in South Carolina we can expect to see against our nominee, 'swift boating,' all of that kind of stuff again."

Wow, the Dems sure have a fixation of ol' Karl Rove. She seems more afraid of him then Ebanezer Scrooge was of Jacob Marly and his chains. Perhaps if they came up with honest to god solutions to the problems and concerns this country (and to a greater or lesser extent, the world) is facing, the Mr. Rove wouldn't be a concern. Oh, but that's right, all the Dems perport to be interested in are "feelings" and not realistic, concrete solutions. Get over Rove...that is sooooo 2004. (And for that matter, get over Bush as well.)

John Edwards has been spending the last week campaigning in Iowa. Elizabeth joined him recently and has been making her presence felt by speaking at various moments throughout town hall meetings. Actor and supporter Kevin Bacon joined Edwards on Saturday, surprising audiences with a performance from the Bacon Brothers Band, but it’s becoming increasingly clear that this bus tour is being headlined by Elizabeth.

And yet another democrat contender is found to be not only using his wife as a major mouthpiece for his campaign ... in his (Edwards) case he is not hiding behind her skirt, he is hiding underneath it.

Pleading her husband’s case, she told caucus goers that Edwards could survive the Republican attack machine: "We have to have a candidate who stands up, can take the punches and give it back to them."

Boy am I confused. First Mrs. Edwards says her hubby can "survive the Republican attack machine", then in the next breath she states "We have to have a candidate who stands up, can take the punches and give it back to them.". So which is it Mrs. Edwards? You either support your husband with your fist sentence, or you are still looking for a candidate as evidenced by your second sentence.

Ah well, guess when you are constantly living in fear of the "Scary GOP" ™ , you can't be expected to separate fact from fiction. Especially when you have the friendly folks from the media being enablers of your phobia and all.

Now you want to hear something really scary? If I happened to hear of an accounting of Mr Edwards monthly hair care expenses ....now that would be scary!

It Could Have Been Much Worse

"Gun Free Zones" ... "Guns Are Evil" ... "We Must Get Rid Of The Evil Assault/Automatic/Large Caliber Weapons" ... "It's To Protect LEO's" ... "It's To Protect THE CHILDREN" ... the list of excuses goes on and on. In the end there are only two real reasons why others want to limit or completely remove your right to bear arms. (And don't think for a moment once firearms are severely restricted or eliminated, that swords/knifes/crossbows/bows/various martial arts weaponry aren't going to be next, because they will be.)

1. It prevents those in power (doesn't matter which side of the aisle, though it is much stronger anti-arms on the socialist/statist side.) from freely exercising their total grab for power.over those who either disagree or are wanting the power for themselves.

2. Those whose mental/emotional make up is such that they would never (indeed, could never) use a weapon, much less a firearm, against another living being (notice I did not say human ... but you get my drift).

The first group should be removed from any positions of power and or authority/notoriety ... tried, found to be wanting, and removed with extreme prejudice, from society.

The second group are nothing more then sheep, and as such should be protected from the wolfs (of course) but also from themselves. Let them blather all they want, but no sane person in a position of power, should allow for their bleating to count for anything more then they would the incessant whining of a child. Perhaps, the words are heartfelt, and full of emotion, but of no practical value what so ever.

Why bring this up? Well, thanks to there being a sheepdog when needed a hundred or more of the New Life Church's congregation were not gunned down, by a nut job with a damaged outlook on life.

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. -- Jeanne Assam appeared before the news media for the first time Monday and said she "did not think for a minute to run away" when a gunman entered the New Life Church in Colorado Springs and started shooting.

Assam appeared before the media with applause and said "God guided me and protected me." ...

I saw him coming through the doors" and took cover, Assam said. "I came out of cover and identified myself and engaged him and took him down."

Assam had several years of experience in law enforcement and is licensed to carry a weapon. She attends one of the morning services and then volunteers as a guard during another service.

"I give credit to God," Assam said. "God was with me. I didn't think for a minute to run away." ...

He (New Life's Senior Pastor Brady Boyd -hm) called her "a real hero" because Murray "had enough ammunition on him to cause a lot of damage."

Boyd said she was the one who suggested the church beef up its security Sunday following the Arvada shooting, which it did. The pastor credited the security plan and the extra security for preventing further bloodshed.

ABC Channel 7 News Denver ... Thomas Hendrick, News Editor

To the powers that be at the New Life Church in Colorado Springs, good on ya. It may not be even close to what you would want your house of G-d to have to put up with, but you dealt with the reality of things and not the feel good emotional puff. And I would imagine Ms Assam did not take any pleasure in doing what was needed to be done. (Those of us who understand this ... don't need to have it said ... this was for you GFW's out there who think all we do is lust after any opportunity in which to lock and load .... when it could not be further from the truth.) But neither did she shirk her duty, to her employer, to her church, to her community. And because of that, though not spared a tragedy, a total bloodbath was averted. If only there were more sheepdogs ........

A floating turd ...

no matter how many times you flush, always tries to re-surface. You know this to be true. They refuse to exit the crapper... going quietly into the night.

So it would seem to be the case with that traitor err ... decorated Navy zero ... John "EFFEN" Karry(did you know he was in Viet Nam???). Just when you think this turd has finally left the commode, up to the surface he comes.

I have not a single word of kindness or support for this piece of human excrement. He violates what is good and decent about being a Naval Officer. No, I wasn't one, but had the honor and privilege to have served with and under quite a number of dedicated, professional, personally accountable men and woman. Officers who took their oath of duty quite literally to heart. Kerry, isn't worthy of licking their boots, and his actions past and present besmirch them all.

My blood pressure is heading north just typoing this. So to provide a brief refresher you could look at my post on Aug 5th 2004 regarding Kerry (I would link it, but the archives seem to be a bit hinky... though going back to Aug on the monthly Archives seems to work ... at Snugg Harbor ... not at CIA), or more importantly head over to The Patriot Post and read their take on the junior scumbag Senator from Teddy "the floater" Kennedy's personal playground. His recent antics, have caused him to float to the surface of the political cesspool. Can we finally get it right and flush him out to the backwaters of inequity once and for all?

From The Land of Sky Blue Waters ...

Fox News November 29, 2007-- Scientists have found a new threat to the planet: Canadian beer drinkers.

Hmmmm, how can this be?? Are the chemicals in the beer suspect, the brewing process, perhaps it is the "outgassing" when each can or bottle is opened?

The government-commissioned study says the old, inefficient "beer fridges" that one in three Canadian households use to store their Molson and Labatt's contribute significantly to global warming by guzzling gas- and coal-fired electricity.

It's not the beer, it's the evilllllll refrigerators!!!! But I have a solution! instead of using coal-fired or gas generated turbines to produce electricity....Go Nuclear! There, problem solved. Oh, wait a min, it seems nuke power is considered evil too. What to do, what to do...

"People need to understand the impact of their lifestyles," British environmental consultant Joanna Yarrow tells New Scientist magazine. "Clearly the environmental implications of having a frivolous luxury like a beer fridge are not hitting home. This research helps inform people — let's hope it has an effect."

Ah, Joanna ... perhaps you have never wintered over in the Great White North, or even in the Midwest of the US of A. We gets cold during the winter, and our beer is just one of nature's ways (Ok, I was being nice, after all the eco-folks are probably Ghia worshipers. If I had said God's, it would have confused them.) And as it is, we only need to use the fridges from late sprint to early fall. And in Canada, that is about 4 weeks total outta the year, so cut us some slack Aye?

The problem is that the beer fridges are mostly decades-old machines that began their second careers as beverage dispensers when Canadians upgraded to more energy-efficient models to store whatever Canadians eat besides doughnuts and poutine.

Hmmm. Fox News slamming the eating habits of our neighbors to the north??

University of Alberta researcher Denise Young, who led the study, suggests that provincial authorities hold beer-fridge buy-backs or round-ups to eliminate the threat — methods that Americans use to get guns off the streets.

Wow!!! As they would say in the adult movie industry this is the "money shot". Denise, not only has the typical socialist/progressive solution (To, I might add, what in reality is a non-problem.) . She manages to get her digs in on the evil cowboys south of Canada, along with our scary guns.
Come on Fox, what was it another slow news day. Folks getting tired of reading about Drew Peterson? Not enough scandals in sports? If we want to read about this kind of pop (or should we say beer in this case) science, we can turn to the NY Times.

As for our Canadian friends, you might want to start whacking a few tree huggers up your way. Cause when they start messing with your beer ... isn't it getting personal?

Of Eagles and Chickens

Just received this from Russ via gmail. The man is sharp as ever... read and enjoy.

The Harbor Master

Poisoned Penns

I was a tad late in posting Russ's latest, please forgive me. I always enjoy reading his work, and providing it to whom ever happens to pop in here. As always, he is spot on in his assessment of fools in the media (and elsewhere as well). And so here is the latest from the talented Mr. Vaughn!!

What Was She Thinking?

Amy Jacobson, reporter for Chicago NBC affiliate WMAQ, was released from her job this afternoon. As things go, this in itself is not a big deal. But as Paul Harvey might say, wait until you hear “the rest of the story”.

It seems the local CBS affiliate acquired video of Ms. Jacobson, in bathing suit top with towel rapped around her midriff, along with her two children, at the home of Craig Stebic. What makes this of some concern, is Stebic is the estranged husband of Lisa Stebic, who has been reported missing since April 30th. Lisa was last seen the day she was allegedly moving to evict Craig Stebic from their Plainfield home.

Although Jacobson's lawyer Katherine Zellner has publicly stated:

"She wasn't fired. There was no drinking. No one was sitting in a hot tub. She wasn't anywhere near him. The sister invited her to drop by.

Although there has been no direct evidence showing Jacobson and Stebic in any sort of relationship. However, what you do have here is a case of someone making a very poor choice in how they choose to spend their off time. If nothing else it gives the appearance of being a conflict of interest.

This may be a case of (Jacobson) becoming too emotionally attached to a family going through a crises (Craig Stebic's sister has stated Jacabson's past visit to the Stebic home and this one, were as a friend of the family and nothing more.). Or perhaps it is something much more emotionally murky. Though, there has been no direct evidence linking Jacobson and Stebic in any sort of relationship. However, it wouldn't be the first time an estranged spouse has found, at the very least, a sympathetic ear.

Being somewhat more cynical in my middle age, what came to my mind, after reading the Trib's and CBS's reports, (though not mentioned or implied, in either) is the following equally plausible idea. She was doing nothing more then using the family. Posing as “a friend” to gain their confidence, in order to get the all important story.

In any of the above scenarios, you run the very real (and all too human) possibility of biasing your story. You become emotionally invested in the family, or individual family members, you lose your objectivity. Or your willingness to pursue an unexplored / ignored aspect of events is skewed. In any case, you set yourself up for a fall. Wither it is at your own hands (poor reportage), or that of rival interests (yeah, I bet CBS is all torn up about zinging their rival outlet in one of the largest media markets in the country). The impression it gives to the reading/listening/viewing public of; “Oh here is yet another example of a reporter doing what seems to be a less then professional job of getting/reporting a story.” does nothing to improve the already battered and bruised reputation of the main stream media. In fact this whole story from the accepting and ultimate release of the video by WBBM (CBS) to Ms. Jacobson placing herself in this position in the first place, does nothing more then increase the publics disdain for what passes for news these days and the folks who provide same.

What was she thinking.