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.

Heartland Hates Hollywood Humor

Having read "Variety", any number of times in my youth, I couldn't pass up the chance to title this post in something akin to what may appear on that rag in the not too distant future.

Hollywood in it's seemingly self destructive and or narcissistic mind set, continues to focus on the 9/11, post 9/11 mindset. None of their efforts in presenting the War on Terror or the struggle in Iraq have paid off at the box office. The public, for the most part, has stayed away in droves. So now the are trying a different tact. We can't win 'em over with "serious" "heart wrench(ed)ing" drama ... so let's attack their funny bone!!

Guess it was bound to happen sooner or later. Sadly, it appears to be sooner.

Yeppers, it worked so well with WWII. Who can forget (those who are still alive to remember) the crazy madcap antics of those "Concentration Camp Cutups ™ " , the Waffen SS. Or that oriental laff riot, Tojo. I seem to recall even with a better then 20 year gap between the end of WWII and the airing of "Hogan's Heroes", there was still quite a flap over it. Granted, that particular show placed the American (and allied) POW's in the positive/controlling characters virtually all the time. And did make the German Officers/Nazi party types and German solders in general, to be nothing more then buffoons, morons, and pompous blowhearts. Which I am sure made any number of vets wonder why then did it take us so long to WIN the damn thing?

And yes, there were a number of "funny" or "humorous" movies, based on the war. "The Wackiest Ship in the Army" (both the movie, staring Jack Lemmon, and the short lived TV show) was based on an actual ship/events. And there were many others, usually portraying the trials and tribulations of either becoming indoctrinated to military life (boot camp/basic training) or finding ways to work with-in/around the system, in order to "get the girl", beat the enemy, meet the challenge given by the chain of command or circumstances.

But that was Hollywood of 40 some years ago. At least they had enough presents of mind to make the good guys just that, the good guys. Not so, with the current crop of military mirth/Gitmo guffaws/global terroristic tomfoolery, and international political/big business gone wild. Oh, and did I forget to include zombie troops and strippers? (Nothing says "We support the guys and gals in the military" more then a film with "re-animated" ranks risking limb to continue the fight for freedom!)

Perhaps this is just Hollywood's way of redefining a term which is probably not considered PC these days. "T&A", no longer stands for that particular segment of films. Now it can be used as an umbrella for almost all the content coming out these days. Now "T&A" stands for "Trite & Asinine"

I'm off to go and watch an old classic, starring Lee Marvin, called "The Dirty Dozen". Thank god for dvds!

With the obligatory tip of the "Squid lid ™ " to Jeffrey Ressner at "Politico" for his enlightening article on same.

Truth in Advertizing ...

... is a good thing to have. And is in (very) short supply regardless of which political side of the fence you are on. But in an effort to help a terrorist loving, race baiting, piss-poor excuse for a human being ... err "fellow Illinoisan who wants to do good on a massive scale, by implementing change" ™ , I have developed a straight forward no holds barred campaign button.

Yes, that is a mushroom cloud. And yes, I am willing to bet if Obama-lama-dingdong gets the Presidential nod, there will be one or more of those in our future. Though not the change I think he has in mind, it will be major change indeed.

H/T to both the amazing SondraK and the always engaging commentary and photo work provided by "Rodger, the Real King of France" for their posting about and pointing me to this bit of logo fun.

PC or not PC

“PC - phrases and or specific words substituted for others in order to prevent a group or individual from feeling hurt and or marginalized.”

“PC-whipped – the conscience act of using phrases and or specific words for others in order to try to prevent a group or individual from feeling hurt or marginalized, so as not to appear insensitive or uncaring.”

Example of “PC”:

”An Anglican priest is in hospital after he was beaten up and insulted in what appears to be a “faith hate” assault by Asian youths.”
Source: London Times on-line, March 16, 2008

What would make the above “PC” you ask? Well, that they could be Asian youths, in and of itself, is not a problem. Certainly there are youngsters of Asian origin living around the world.. What would have been more important and germane to the story was the potential driving force behind the actions of said “Asian Youths ™ “ ... that being they appeared by their actions and rantings and ravings to be Islamists ... or at the very least pro (militant) Islam.

But in England it is considered to be impolite (by the guardians of political correctness) at the very least to show or acknowledge any practitioner of “The Religion of Peace ™ “ doing something decidedly not peaceful. It tends to put a damper on the whole positive PR thing. And would hurt their sensitive feelings.

Oh, did I call “it” the “Religion of Peace ™ “? See how infectious political correctness is? The literal translation of “Islam” is “Submission” or in a broader sense “Submission to Allah”. The word peace is nowhere to be found. But it DOES sound (and read) much better in the press. And so, we come to the real crux of the matter regarding PC.

If you repeat a lie, or a half truth, or a watered down version of something long enough and often enough, people will believe it to be “the truth”. You have only to go as far as the current brew-ha-ha about “global warming”, “climate change”, or whatever it is being called today. There are a few kernels of truth, or half truths floating about in the details, but for the most part it is junk science at it's finest. Yet the constant pounding by the media (of all flavors) stating “It's getting warmer, and it may be all our fault!” or “The climate is heading in the wrong direction (warmer or colder, depending on the article in question) and it's all (or mostly) our fault, and we have to do something about it NOW!!” At the very least, this starts a discussion going on a topic(s) for which there is no real conclusive factual evidence supporting the claims made. At least not based on un-biased, and proper use of the scientific method, factual evidence, or some other "reality based qualifier".

But, because there is a supposed consensus. Because there is (massive) public acceptance of the ever increasing mountain of incomplete/skewed data produced by those who know nothing (or want to protect their phony baloney jobs) about the scientific method, or chose to ignore it (the facts ... any facts) to advance their personal agenda (to cover their ass, cause face it, they are scared!!) ... Well, the rest of us had better get on board. Because to ignore all “the evidence”, all the media reports, all the books written by Nobel Peace Prize winners (regardless of the truth/reality), would be Politically Incorrect!!!

You mean we would appear to be “insensitive and uncaring” toward those who have aligned themselves with the above (global warming an such), even though they are buying into what at best would be considered misleading information? And they are scaring themselves needlessly? That we are not PC if we seek to expose them to the reality of it all? You mean PC is bad because it allows for others to manipulate language and actions of those who disagree with them? And those who go outta their way to placate same are “PC-whipped”?

Yeppers, that would be exactly what I am saying.

Goalpost Fixing 101

For those of you who happen to drop by here from time to time (I know you're out there, cause I keep hearing the back door to the 'puter slamming in the middle of the night.) You probably have noticed the many fine people who have their home on the net listed on the left hand side of this bit of fluff.

A lady who has always been a most welcome read, and rich source of food for (well reasoned) thought Kim's "real wife", the charming Connie DuToit, has turned her keen mind towards something which has been glaringly apparent (and none the less, ignored). We (across the board, but particularly more so on the "progressive" side of the street) have quite forgotten either how to, or perhaps closer to the truth, what constitutes a proper "debate".

Back in "the olden days" ™ when civics was at least passingly taught in school, the ground rules for (a) debate were rather clear and concise. One debates by presenting some selected thought or idea, usually given as a (declarative) statement. At this point some one or some group will provide factual evidence in backing (or not) said statement. Assuming there is an opposing view(s). persons supporting said view will, in turn, provide a counter point, again backed by factual evidence. This continues on until further evidence to support (and/or disprove) is exhausted, or the body of evidence is so great on one side as to provide a decisive conclusion one way or the other.

Be it a radio or tv "talk show", the travesty currently foisted upon us otherwise known as "Political Debates", or discourse across the interweb, there has been frightfully little honest debating, and far more goal post moving (and the majority of said moving being done by agenda driven useful progressive idiots of all stripes) then should ever have been put up with in a so called civil (and or well educated/informed) society.

However, Connie in her comment section to the above linked post, provides the best answer to "Goalposts on coasters".

"WE have to call them on it. If they move the goal posts after our last point is made, then we have to refuse to answer until they concede they lost the last point. If they don’t, then they aren’t arguing in good faith, and that should be pointed out to the peanut gallery.

Be bold and judicious in the use of “Until you concede that you lost the last point and your data was wrong, I refuse to consider additional issues. Do you concede the last point?” "

And say that until they agree or give up. You can add “...and if you don’t concede that you lost the point or bring new evidence so your point can be reconsidered, then I can only assume that you are arguing in bad faith and are engaging in propaganda.”
Source: Connie Du Toit

In short, turn out the lights, the party's over!!! Well said, madam, well said!

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?

Am I Blue

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The President Speaks

President McCain, now into his third month as “Leader of the free world”, gave the following speech as his first televised broadcast (on all major channels) to the nation last night:

... ”Given the current situation of the world today, and the treats posed by those, from both within and without, who seek to extinguish the light of democracy, I have placed the following demands, to be acted on in due haste, on my administration, both houses of Congress, and if need be - the Supreme Court.

1.Effective immediately, funds will be found to take whatever means necessary in securing our borders. This is to include the building of fortified walls and or fences and the use of surveillance equipments such as may be needed in areas where walls or fences would be impracticable. Major increases of manning levels within the border patrol shall be in effect immediately. Until such time as these numbers are reached, funds will be made available to state and local agencies (State Police/County Sheriff/National Guard) to augment their forces to meet our needs. This is to include the use of (deputized)local citizens as needed. A nation is only such if her borders are recognized and respected as the beginning and end of her peoples national identity. And all who seek to cross same, in an illegal manner, for what ever the reason or purpose, violate our customs and rule of law.

2.As the last holder of this office stated, “You are either with us or against us.” regarding our continuing fight with those who seek to end our way of life, our cherished history and customs, I say to any and all through out the world, be you a group or organization who directly acts or an agency of a state acting in the shadows ... you will be eradicated. And let all followers of “the religion of submission”,in other words Islam know,that from now on, any actions in the following of their philosophy which are contrary to the laws, security, and national interests of this country will be met with such force as is necessary to contain or eliminate this as a threat to our nation.

3.I am a man. As such, I have made mistakes in my past. I am also man enough to admit when I have done so. To this end, I am requesting congress set about repealing what has commonly been referred to as “The McCain–Feingold Act ”. It has proved to not be effective in curtailing or eliminating corruption in the political process. Indeed, upon reflection, it has lessened the intent and spirit of the First Amendment. I publicly apologize for having taken part in bringing about this legislation, and hope my active voice in bringing about its demise will serve as a proper penance.

4.To voice objections to a current majorities legislative agenda in the house, senate, or administration, or suggest alternative ways of reaching what is perceived as a common goal, has been a historical cornerstone in our Republic. However, there is a vast difference between the above, and what has been said and done by a handful of individuals in our body politic. To this end, I have begun criminal investigations into the actions of a number of our elected officials, along with some who have held public office in the past. To criticize your government and her policies is one thing, to actively promote the actions of her enemies or agencies is quite another, and if found wanting, these individuals will be prosecuted to the fullest extent possible.

Finally tonight, I have been called a “Maverick”, RINO, crackpot ... the list goes ever on, and rest assured these are the only ones I can mention in a public venue. (waits for audience laughter to die down) I have been playing my cards close to my chest, simply because I felt the only sure way to this position was so to speak, to hide my light under a bushel .

Let it be known and fully understood, that I AM the President of the United States Of America, and much like the oath I took as an officer in the greatest Navy in the world, ”To protect and defend the Constitution of the United States of America, against all enemies foreign and domestic.” ... is and always will be my top priority, and the greatest honor and privilege any man could ask for.

God Bless you all, and God Bless America.”

I almost fell out of my chair. It was stunning to hear such passion. To see the fire in his eyes. Was he a Churchillian Phoenix rising from the ashes of the Republican party? Was he showing the country and the world the “real John McCain”,the man his son's believed in and admired so?

I went to grab the morning paper, to see what the spin of the (now clearly disenchanted) print media would be, and then turn on the radio to hear what Limbaugh, Levin, or even Hannity might be saying.

But I guess I'll never know ... cause right about then was when I woke up.

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.

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

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

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

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

But wait! There's more!!

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

Source: Lisa McClowry's website

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

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

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

Source: The Armed Forces Foundation website

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

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

Source: The Armed Forces Foundation website

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

Remember When ...

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

Remember when:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

The Four Jokers of the Apocalypse

If it wasn't so serious a concern, the whole election process this time around could be viewed as nothing more then the political version of "Highlander"; "There Can Be Only One!" . Lord knows it is certainly shaping up to be a battle royal, if it ends up being between Ms Clinton and Mr. McCain. On the other hand if the (very) junior Senator from Illinois, Barack Obama, gets his party's nod, then all bets are off. Other then a major slip up of truly monumental proportions, there is no way in hell McCain beats Obama.

I am not in any way shape or form, a supporter of said junior Senator, but he has more personality and ability to galvanize his political base in his little finger, then McCain has in his entire (quite sizable) ego. Obama, shows signs of being able to pull in at least some of the middle of the road folks out there, and some of the RINO's (Big slice of irony there, McCain backers.), both groups which McCain dearly needs to win the White House. Add to this the fact that traditionally the majority of Democrats will line up behind whomever is their standard bearer, once chosen, regardless how bloody the battle was to get the nomination. This is NOT the case with the GOP this time 'round.

The world is as dangerous as it ever was. Whither through design, mismanagement, or perhaps plain hubris, the current administration has no been able to address all the demands placed upon it by the War on Terror.

At the same time, the erosion of personal freedom(s) continues here at home. The Constitution has taken quite the beating while Mr. Bush was in office. The First, Fifth, and possibly Second Amendments being assaulted. Our national borders, one of the very things considered as one of the standards to which denotes some bit of land as "being a nation", are criss-crossed with near impunity by anyone who desires to enter. We have more "undocumented aliens" here, then in the entire "director's cut" of "Close Encounters of the Third Kind". (At least the ones in the movie were just passing through.)

Of course there are also those on the other side of the aisle who seek to undo what little good the current administration has done. They also seek to send us closer to, if not directly down the same path which the EU is going down now. (along with Great Briton. may she rest in peace)

Senator McCain will NOT (The one possible exception being the War on Terror, and we only have his personal word on that ... and his past record shows how little he honors his word ... that he will continue the fight.) seek to change any of the above. Indeed, he will continue the big government spending and programs just like Bush and a large chunk of the GOP Senate and Congress. His track record shows, despite what he now says to the contrary, that he will fall in line with the liberal side of things more often then not. The man is only nominally a Republican, and only in his befuddled mind's eye does he wear the mantle of *Conservative". Need we say anything about his staunch support of the Constitution? (If you have to ask, go back to sleep, you really didn't want your First Amendment rights any more did you?)

Super Tuesday Thanks and more.

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

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

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

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.

Did Franklin Have This Problem When He Started???

It would seem WE are a threat to that paragon of virtue, the stalwart guardian of our country's political pulse, and last but not least, the tabloid truth tellers and media marvels ....yes, I am talking about the professional journalist ™ . Specifically, a column written by Professor By DAVID HAZINSKI, published on 12/13/07 in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

It ranges from the CNN YouTube debates to political blogs to cellphone video of that sniper who opened fire at an Omaha Mall. These are all examples of so called "citizen journalism," the hot new extension of the news business where the audience becomes the reporter. ... Supporters of "citizen journalism" argue it provides independent, accurate, reliable information that the traditional media don't provide. While it has its place, the reality is it really isn't journalism at all, and it opens up information flow to the strong probability of fraud and abuse. The news industry should find some way to monitor and regulate this new trend.

Well, there they go again. The nerve of all of us "citizen journalists" ™ . Why we were only the ones who held CBS's feet to the fire when Dan Rather decided to run with a story about some documents which implied our current Commander in Chief was less then forthright about his military service, but forgot to check his facts. And were we not the ones who brought to light some shenanigans going on with the political process of our friends north of the border? Oh, and what about a certain wanna-be writer for the New Republic? Amazing tales of service members gone wild!! You remember, authored by Scott Thomas ... err Beauchamp (yeah, we wouldn't want to err by not giving out his full name). There have been countless instances of the print and mass medias being "called to task". These are but a few of the more notable ones.

So, Davy ol' boy, (And I am being familiar because you seem to have the rare power of discerning who is and who is not capable of being a "professional journalist" ™ ... if you are able to read my inner most thoughts and critique my talents ... displayed publicly or not ... well, this level of intimacy demands I return the favor.) what place exactly should this old journalist (and one time assistant public affairs officer), be placed into? Forgive me and my old school mind, but I thought "journalists" (and we used to call em reporters ... as in reporting the facts) were supposed to answer "Who, What, Why, Where, and When", to the best of their ability. And to update the reading (or radio/tv) public as the facts dictated. Granted, if you were lucky enough to have a column you could pontificate on the news of the day (or whatever else floated your boat, as long as you kept your readers interest). There was also the editorial page for your readers to submit "letters to the editor" and editors (along with others blessed by the publisher of said paper) to expound their papers views. Oh, I'm sorry you are a professor of journalism, guess you know that already.

"and it opens up information flow to the strong probability of fraud and abuse."

I have one response to this Davy .... The New York Times! Pot meet kettle.

The news industry should find some way to monitor and regulate this new trend.

I guess the rarefied atmosphere up there in your ivory tower, must have thinned out the oxygen to your brain. Let's think about your last little bit of wisdom (And I am being generous at that ... for it is a microscopically small bit of wisdom.). Would you be as strong an advocate of having all the traditional media outlets (print/radio/television) subject to the same scrutiny and repercussions? And who, or what, would regulate things?

The premise of citizen journalism is that regular people can now collect information and pictures with video cameras and cellphones, and distribute words and images over the Internet. Advocates argue that the acts of collecting and distributing makes these people "journalists." This is like saying someone who carries a scalpel is a "citizen surgeon" or someone who can read a law book is a "citizen lawyer." Tools are merely that.

Are you implying that so called "professional journalists" are above us "regular people"?? And I see you are a farmer as well as a professor ... you must be, for all the straw needed for the citizen surgeon/lawyer remark. Last time I checked a college degree was not required to write/speak/broadcast (as in being an on air personality). But the state does task you to have meet licensing requirements, which entail getting some sort of graduate level degree, in order to become a doctor or a lawyer. Hope you like the smell of burning hay. Oh, and by the way, as you are not specifically talking about the military men and woman who handle their own media, technically, you and your ilk are "citizen journalists" as well. (Yes, I know it must be a challenge to use words and to know their correct meaning ... no one ever said a journalist's lot was an easy one.)

Education, skill and standards are really what make people into trusted professionals.

I will grant you one needs to have a particular set of skills and talent to excel at writing. Be it as a journalist/columnist/novelist/broadcast personality. And to be fair, there are any number of people across the political spectrum who would meet this standard. But you lost me on the last part. The media (all branches) has consistently fallen short of being anywhere near "trusted" or "professional". Need a case in point?? CBS. (Because I already used the NY Times, but they fit here too.)

Information without journalistic standards is called gossip.

Dave, you wrote this with a straight face?? Or did one of your students get into your computer, whip out a column, using your name as a prank??? I hate to beat a dead (or quickly dying) horse, but this statement alone applies to The NYT, The LA Times, The Washington Post. The New Republic, CBS ... the list goes ever onward.

But unlike those other professions, journalism — at least in the United States — has never adopted uniform self-regulating standards. There are commonly accepted ethical principles — two source confirmation of controversial information or the balanced reporting of both sides of a story, for example, but adhering to the principles is voluntary.

And professor, this is precisely why we see the falling off of readership in print media. Why "The most trusted source in news" is a laughing stock. Your so called professional journalists are ... and have been dropping the ball for quite some time. Long before the internet, blogs and bloggers, or video media was ever a possibility, let alone a so called problem.

There is no licensing, testing, mandatory education or boards of review. Most other professions do a poor job of self-regulation, but at least they have mechanisms to regulate themselves. Journalists do not.

So, how about cleaning up your own house before sending the maid over in this direction.

So without any real standards, anyone has a right to declare himself or herself a journalist. Major media outlets also encourage it. Citizen journalism allows them to involve audiences, and it is a free source of information and video. But it is also ripe for abuse.

Does your statement, above, imply the so called "professional media" is going to abuse the "naive citizen journalist"? Or is it really a case of both sides having agendas, and both sides using each other in order to try and reach their respective goals. (This being the case for the so called professional side of the house, as the available evidence seems to indicate.)

CNN's last YouTube Republican debate included a question from a retired general who is on Hillary Clinton's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender steering committee. False Internet rumors about Sen. Barack Obama attending a radical Muslim school became so widespread that CNN and other news agencies did stories debunking the rumors.

Good current examples. But for the fact it was Insight Magazine's article, along with FOX news's failure to properly fact check their information/sources which brought about the CNN (among others) stories debunking the Obama rumors. Failure to properly fact check is always going to bite you in the butt eventually. Once again, see my previous examples. The internet in and of itself did not produce the poor sources. And long before the internet; poor sources existed. Through thorough checking of same, reporters came to know who a trusted source was and which others to avoid. Sounds to me like more of the so called professionals are becoming lazy (We'll just use this internet info ... why *fill in the blank* is ALWAYS correct!). Yeah, blame the source, take the easy way out ... or you could do your job ... now there's a concept.

There are literally hundreds of Internet hoaxes and false reports passed off as true stories, tracked by sites such as snopes.com.

A very true statement. And for the most part, Snopes is an outstanding site to get the skinny on all sorts of internet floatsom and jetsom. Indeed, they are one of the recognized "first places to go to" for information on urban myths. Something which, with the advent of e-mail, has seen a resurgence, and a morphing, of tales. But most folks with half a brain will check something out, before running with it as a valid news story. Indeed, most bloggers, adhere to a "24/48 hour rule", if something sounds either too good to be true or a little hinky.

Having just anyone produce widely distributed stories without control can have the reverse effect from what advocates intend. It's just a matter of time before something like a faked Rodney King beating video appears on the air somewhere.

And whose fault would that be for allowing an unsubstantiated, or poorly checked story to appear in ANY media source? Oh, that's right ... not the media outlet/reporter ... it has to be the evil internet or the source period, regardless of where the source originated.

Journalism organizations should head that off. Citizen reports can be a valuable addition to news and information flow with some protections

• Major news organizations must create standards to substantiate citizen-contributed information and video, and ensure its accuracy and authenticity.:

Silly me, and here I thought eye-witness reports were (and have been) used for quite some time now ... after they have/had been verified as being a credible/reliable source. This kind of professionalism stropped after the advent of the internet and bloggers??

Tis The Season Part 2

Once again the holiday season is upon us.

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

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

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

Once again the holiday season is upon us

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book of Luke , The Douay-Rheims Bible

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

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

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

Conservative Compassion

Compassionate Conservative. Two words some might consider to be an oxymoron. A catch phrase produced by a GOP pundit designed to shed a "kinder gentler light" on (at that time) an aspiring presidential hopeful. As most of us know, the media picked up on it, and it has been used time and again. But what does it really say ... about the media (and the liberal/progressives et all) ... and more importantly, about those of us who espouse a more conservative view of the world.

Mark Levin, the no holds barred conservative voice (and author extraordinaire), brought this up yesterday (or last night if you listen to him via WLS). And he makes a very interesting point. By creating a subset of conservatives as being exclusively Compassionate, isn't that implying Conservatives (and by default, conservatism at large) are either incapable of being compassionate, or those who embrace the conservative philosophy are rendered less compassionate (or devoid/stripped of this trait altogether) then all other mortals who wonder the planet?

He is right on the money. By marginalizing conservatives it perpetuates the myth we are all heartless. That we would, if given the chance, eat our young ... or our pets (for those out there without children). Or perhaps, we would bring back the rack, tar & feathers, public stocks, and or mass conformity to a Judaeo-Christian ethos with the blessing (literally) of the State. Maybe it is feared that woman, once married, would be shackled to the kitchen, the laundry, and the kids ... with no hope of developing a life outside (or along with) same. And all the other myths purposefully perpetrated at every chance by those on the left and their media lap dogs.

The real truth is ... conservatives do have a heart by the very nature of what they believe in, they have to! (And no, I am not necessarily talking about the Republican party here ... though there are conservatives who belong to it. With each passing election cycle it becomes less and less conservative in its make up and membership ... can anyone say RHINO ???) Conservatives believe in the individual and are in full support of their (God given) rights and freedoms as innumerated by the Constitution. They believe in small government, which means less intrusion in both your personal and professional (business) lives. They believe in taking responsibility for ones actions, being held accountable for same (for good or ill). If allowing for ones fellow man to be as unhindered in their opportunities to become what ever they want or to realize their dreams (whatever they may be) unfettered and unrestricted as much as possible isn't an applicable definition for compassion (toward their fellow man) then I don't know what is.

So perhaps we should send a word to the powers that be. We are not "Compassionate Conservatives". This beast doesn't exist. We of the conservative stripe, are first and foremost human beings. Who by our very nature are, when the need arises, compassionate, passionate, rational, logical, illogical, temperate, intemperate, forgiving, unforgiving, loving, boorish, honest, the full gamut of traits and emotions inherent in all human beings. To say we, as a group, are incapable of compassion is as disingenuous as saying there is no such thing as a liberal who believes in the Islamic threat to our way of life as being a clear and present danger. (They may be few in number, but they do exist. Sen Lieberman as a case in point.)

Cross posted at the CIA cause M. Jack, and the gang, need a break now and again.