THOUGHTS ON ANOTHER YEAR CLOSING FAST

As I sit here and ponder the passing of another year of my life into history I have to admit I've become very reflective and appreciative of the past.  I've actually been this way much of my life and I'd like to think I've always been thankful for the people who have played a role in my life over the years.  Some of those people have been around for a long time, some for a short time and I can say truthfully, I really try to appreciate all of them.  I think a great deal about how we tend to forget people from our distant past and concentrate only on people in our present.   I am determined to remember all, regardless of their influence.  Elementary and High School classmates, people I met in college, those I've worked with, coached with, played with, attended church and Sunday school with, and those in my life right now.  
For the past several years I've been going to the funeral home to visit parents of my high school friends, old teachers, and former neighbors.  I've made up my mind not to forget those folks, even though I haven't had contact with many of them for years.  I am determined to remember that at some time in my life, at some specific point of my existence, these people interacted with me and had an impact on my life.  I don't think that should be forgotten.  My old second grade teacher, a high school friend's parents, my old neighbors from the street I grew up on.  They all were important to me at some point.  Maybe for a short time, maybe for a long time but, either way, they were important.  I just don't think people like that should be forgotten.  
My suggestion to anyone reading this, is for you to sit down and remember the good times in your life and the people who were there with you.  Maybe your 7th grade buddy's mom, who fed you when you came over to play or, that old teacher who taught you to read or gave you a pat on the back when you needed it, or any of a hundred other people who happened to be sharing the Earth with you in this brief flicker we call life.  Think about them, appreciate them and if they still happen to be around call or visit them.  Life is extremely short and in the realm of cosmic time, we are only here for a flash and then we are gone.  Appreciate those you were lucky enough to exist with.  Make them part of your thoughts.  Enjoy the memories, find a way to acknowledge them, then take a few moments to reflect. 

THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS....PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS

Before I start let me say that I am not an overly religious person and don't profess to be anything more than spiritual but, I do have an observation I've noticed on the TV coverage of these various shootings in the news lately.  
Why is it that people will deny God all  year long, in every form yet, when there is a tragedy like the shooting in Newtown  Connecticut every public official and media member on TV is constantly spouting off with the disingenuous comment, "I'd like to offer my/our thoughts and prayers to the victims and their families?"  Why is it suddenly OK to acknowledge God but, only at a time when it serves one's interest?  Let's face it, most of the media, politicians and other talking heads could care less when God is denigrated all year long yet, when it serves their interests, they suddenly want to appear politically correct and they offer us these hollow statements.
The same thing happens during Christmas.  They like to play to the masses and as soon as the time passes, they move on back to their Anti-Christian behavior. 

SCREWY LOCAL NEWS

Is everyone noticing how stupid local news is becoming?  I know the dumbing down of everything in this country is going on but, it is really noticable on the local news.  They run  the most annoying teasers all day long pitching their "upcoming news stories" in a desperate attempt to draw viewers.  Unfortunately, their "news" is really not new, nor is it very informative or thought provoking.  They make mention of some local crimes, then it deteroiates from there.  Next is usually a story about a dog or cat that has been abused,  or some local person who is running in a charity race.  That is followed by a story about a bridge being demolished in China.  Then the grand finale is about how a couple met and had their first date at a local amusement park.  Of course there is also the obligatory ten minute weather forecast ( which appears aimed at panicking people) and the sports report.  Usually their version of "the news" has been out on the internet all day or in some cases, a couple of days.  All in all, it's pretty much a waste of time.  I quit watching consistantly a few years back.  Meanwhile there are major events of historical importance that go totally unreported or are just briefly mentioned so there is more time for the really stupid (non-story) stories. 
It shouldn't be any surprise that this ocurring.  It mirrors the deline in American Culture.

WE DON'T NEED EDUCATION REFORM....WE NEED FAMILY REFORM

It seems like you can't go a day without hearing about education reform.  I think what we really need is family reform.  Over the last 30 or 40 years the American Family has been under attack.  The attacks have been carried out in many ways.  Methods used to subvert the family have been carried out on TV,  in magazines,  and in the entertainment industry as a whole.  It has been slow and subtle but, very effective.  There has been a general decay and it continues today.  We are influenced to consider "the modern family" normal.  Now it's "partners" and more and more single parent shows, show with openly gay characters and shows that demean men in every possible way.  The TV dad is now a weak, incompetent buffoon, incapable of being responsible for his family.  Women are continually elevated to positions of toughness and manliness beyond reality.  Now in the cop shows a woman can use her karate skills to take out one two or even more men in hand to hand combat. 
It just never ends.  The family is portrayed as a scattered , non-unified group of individuals, each making it on their own, without much coheasion. 
Once upon a time the Cleavers sat at the dinner table and dealt with all the issues of the day.  Dad came home from work to a meal and he dispensed the wisdom and strength to make the family function.  Now dad is shown as weak (if at all) and mom is a working lady who keeps in touch with the kids on a cell phone.  What a mess we have made of our county and its once greatness.  What a mess. 

PHONE ADDICTS

What's up with the idiotic obsession we are developing with our cell phones (smart phones)?  Sitting at the mall today I was noticing how many people were walking through the place while talking on their phones.  Some of them were alone and engaged in heavy conversations with some invisible partner.  Others had people with them but, instead of talking to the other human walking alongside them, they too were more interested in the party at the other end of the phone.  
It's quite sad to see such a dependance on technology and the inability of folks to put down the cell phone, even for a little while, and be a little bit more human.  I don't know about you but, when I'm walking with someone I don't appreciate it when they are talking and talking with someone on a cell phone.   I realize there may be a need to take a call or make one but, not to be on the phone the whole time I'm walking with them.  Even more annoying are those self important folks who have a Bluetooth shoved in their ear and it looks like they are walking around talking to themselves.   When did we become so self important that we need be in constant communication?  I mean really constant, never ceasing communication.  It's crazy to sit and watch how people do this everywhere, all the time.   We are becoming controlled by this never ending, expanding technology.  It has infiltrated our lives so much that it is taking over people's ability to deal with other humans directly.  We don't want to see people face to face.  We would rather talk on a phone than sit with someone and sometimes we don't even want to do that, we would just rather text them.  So we don't even have to talk to them at all.  None of this is good for us as a society,  It's very much like a runaway train coming down the mountain.  We are just losing more and more of ourselves and our humanity.  Our choice of slavery is no longer to men but, to technology.

AMERICA HONOR THY VETERANS

Despite the disappointment of the recent election and the divisiveness of American politics today, one thing that most citizens should be able to come together on, is the need to recognize and honor those veterans who have served the nation in all wars.  From the Revolution to Iraq, many brave men and women have given of themselves in sacrifice to preserve whatever it is we have going on here, and it "ain't " too bad.  Thank you all for your service and sacrifice. 

TIC TIC TIC AMERICA

Time Is Running Out.  The Choice is Ours

 "The time has come," the Walrus said,     
"To talk of many things:
Of shoes--and ships--and sealing-wax--
Of cabbages--and kings--
And why the sea is boiling hot--
And whether pigs have wings."

-Lewis Carroll  (The Walrus and the Carpenter)
                                                                     --from Through the Looking-Glass 1872



Which way America?  Left or Right?  Right or Wrong?  Saint or Sinner?  Real or Fake?   It's time to choose.  "Sh*t or get off the pot as they say.  I guess we'll find out what kind of country we are and want to be in the future.   

AMERICA'S STUPIDEST MAYOR

Um What can I screw up next?

If there was any doubt about who might be the stupidest mayor in America there isn't any more. New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg has pushed himself to the top of the stupidest list with his decision to hold the NY Marathon despite the horrible devastation of Hurricane Sandy.  Apparently, he doesn't think diverting critical resources and supplies is a bad idea.  It's hard to imagine a thought process that would lead someone to make decisions this idiotic.  Then he follows up that disgusting decision with a ringing endorsement of Barack Obama for president.  Talk about a double whammy!  
When you throw in his battles regarding soda sizes, and rationalization of global warming, he is miles ahead of any competition for the stupidest mayor in his country. 
Word is just coming across that "officials" in the city are discussing the possibility of the race still being cancelled but, I can guarantee if it happens, it's only because of the angry response he is getting from around the country, or the fact that he is getting a ton of pressure from within his administration, not because he suddenly developed some intelligence of his own.

ELEVATING NIXON TO SAINTHOOD

Looks Like A Saint in Comparison

After all the garbage being pulled off by the current President and the rest of his incompetent administration I don't think anyone can ever think of Richard Nixon the same way.  With the ongoing lies, dodging of questions and outright disgraceful actions of Obama and his gang of henchmen, it's pretty evident that if the mainstream media went after him with even one-tenth of the effort they went after Nixon during the Watergate Era, Obama would have already been impeached and tossed out of office.
Nixon was a saint compared to this guy.  He may have covered up a misdeed to protect his friends,  not the right thing to do but, what appears to be going on now with the Benghazi Terrorist Attack and the information coming out regarding how our diplomats and countrymen were abandoned at the embassy by our dear leader is an absolute national disgrace and Obama and his administration should be held liable for their inaction.
No one should ever again say anything negative about Nixon's actions.  They pale in comparison to the in-actions of Obama.   Remember no one died as a result of Watergate.  The same can't be said of Obama's role in Libya. 

THE WIDEST GAP IN AMERICA

I'm beginning to believe the widest gap in America is not between rich and poor, as we hear about so much.  I think the gap is more about smarts than it is anything else.  As I watch the news, TV,  and observe people I see in my everyday life, I am becoming much more awed by the sheer stupidity of so many Americans/people in America, that it scares me.  We, as a society,  have become so "dumbed down" , uninvolved, uncaring and just plain stupid, it makes me wonder how we can survive into the future.
Yes, I know there are still lots of smart people out there.  Yes I know many are smarter than me.  Yes I know it's not you either (since you are smart enough to be reading this).  Let me start with how this election and the many "man on the street interviews" and the comments by many who support the candidates (especially Obama) have convinced me beyond a doubt that I'm right about this.  Did you ever listen to some of these clueless dingbats?  It you haven't, listen a bit closer to how clueless many of them are.  They speak in generalities, give answers that make no sense or that are based solely on emotion and not intelligence.  There is no thinking or forethought in their responses, nor do they show any grasp of facts or reality.  "I'm voting for Obama cuz he gonna give me a check," shouted one loon.  "I'm gonna vote for Obama cuz he gonna make Welfare better.  Or you hear the ones that attempt to address an issue but, have no understanding of what they are talking about, so as to make their answers as brainless as can be.  And on in goes in American politics.  NO wonder the candidates bank on just fooling people all the time.  They don't have to worry about  being straight up with a large portion of this population.
Of course this intelligence gap goes on in many other areas of our lives.  How can intelligent people watch the Kardashians, Jersey Shore or Honey Boo-Boo?  The entertainment industry was lost long ago but, it seems to be getting worse.  So much TV is just lowbrow garbage yet, the ratings for a lot of this sh*t are through the roof.  It's depressing to think how far we've fallen from the days of our grandparents, who looked at life a bit more seriously.  Yes I know, sometimes too much so but, despite not having a higher level degree, they never allowed themselves to become as stupid as many are today.
Did you ever watch  the Jaywalking portion of the Tonight Show?  Then you certainly know how dumb people can be.  
Our culture is being threatened, turned upside down, if you will, by our lack of smarts, our dumbing down by choice mentality and our lack of interest in smartening up.  This will only serve to hasten our demise.

OBAMA BIN LADEN HAS A NICE RING TO IT

Last night's debate moderator, Bob Scheiffer, made a slip of the tongue that was immediately picked up by most every news outlet, newspaper and blog in the county. His goof was to call Osama Bin Laden, OBAMA Bin Laden.   This isn't the first time we've heard this slip up by folks in the media.  It was just an honest mistake and I don't think Scheiffer got raked over the coals for it, nor should he.  Sometimes you just say something wrong that you don't mean to say.  I'm giving him a mulligan on this because I don't believe it was intentional nor preplanned.  
I wonder however, how it would  have been played by the rest of the media, had the comment come from a more conservative source like Rush Limbaugh or Allen West.  I would be willing to bet they would be crucified.  Just goes to show the state of politics and the media in this country today.  There is truly, without a doubt, a double standard. 

THE ELECTION IS COMING

Are you ready? 

PLEASE LET THE ADS STOP

The number and content of all the political ads we are being subject to have become unbearable a long time ago.  The lies, the exaggerations,  and fact that most don't talk about why a certain candidate would be better, but rather, why the other candidate is evil, have risen to the most disgusting levels ever.  
The ads in every campaign from the presidential, all the way down to the county races, are nothing but negative garbage.  Voters are treated as if they need to be tricked into voting for a candidate only because the other guy is so bad and not because the one they are voting for, has accomplished anything of worth in his or her life.  
All one has to do is look at the presidential race and the ads in that election.  It is a really deplorable state that our political system is in.  I've gotten to the point that I tune them all out and just read various sites on the Internet because I can be much more selective in what I subject myself to.  I'm certain it will never get better and in fact, only get worse.  
I realize that dirty tactics in political races are nothing new, but, in today's America, the dirt is constant.  If only voters were smarter. 

IS A VOTE FOR OBAMA A VOTE FOR NATIONAL HARE-KARI

Pick Your Poison

I'm convinced that voting Barack Obama back into office (which may happen), would be a vote for national suicide.  Now let me say before all you liberals start your high-pitched screaming, it's not a Democrat/Republican thing.  It's not even a liberal/conservative thing.  It's an American thing!  There are plenty of Democrats I could live with and even support to some degree but, to re-elect this guy, based on his lack of accomplishment, lack of any great successes in domestic or foreign policy,  and his continued failed economic policies, it's just not possible, is it?  
It's like this guy is made of Teflon.  No matter how bad the things are that he does, no matter how weak he is in almost every major area of concern to most Americans, he continues to cruise along, unscathed.  I realize part of that is because the main stream media is shielding him in many cases but, come on, really.  
I've just made up my mind that if he does get back in, Americans have just decided to fall on their swords.  It's national hare-kari, plain and simple, so I guess I'll just have to live with it, as will everyone else.  I know this isn't the best the Democrats have to offer but, I'm aware that it's politics.  It is, sadly, how the game is played.  Obama jockeyed himself into position four years ago and there would be no chance of replacing him on the ticket because, that's how it goes.  
I'm pretty sure the same goes for the Republicans and Romney.  He is a survivor of the bloodbath that was the Republican Primary, so he is the man.  Probably not the best choice either but, this time around for me it's, anyone but Obama.  When it's all said and done, the American political system is a mess and there won't be any change without a revolution.  It would be interesting to see how it would play out after that.  It wouldn't surprise me a bit if the government that took it so easy on the Occupy protesters, would fire on Conservatives and the main reason would be, the Patriots would be armed as well.  I'm very concerned for our nation's future regardless of this election but, four more years of Obama would hasten the deterioration. 

TRIBUTE TO GENE

Gene Autry

Seeing as how today was the birthday of one of the old America's most iconic figures, Gene Autry, I thought I'd do a little tribute to his iconic figure and to those bygone days.   When I say "old America" I am referring to the America I grew up in and loved.  This was the America before civil unrest, needless wars, racial turmoil, gangs, endless murders and violence.  It was in my mind a much simpler time.  A time before cell phones, computers, satellite TV, video games and the 24 hour news cycle.  It is a time I would go back to in a heartbeat. (I'm always holding out the hope for time travel) 
I could go on here but, those that grew up in those times know what I'm talking about and understand.  Those that weren't could never understand in a million years.  Trust me, you just had to be there. 
I thought I'd remind everyone of those times with a look back at Gene and one of his most famous tunes.  You can easily look it up on youtube, but, here are the lyrics to get you started. 

Back in the Saddle Again

I'm back in the saddle again
Out where a friend is a friend
Where the longhorn cattle feed
On the lowly gypsum weed
Back in the saddle again

Ridin' the range once more
Totin' my old .44
Where you sleep out every night
And the only law is right
Back in the saddle again

Whoopi-ty-aye-oh
Rockin' to and fro
Back in the saddle again
Whoopi-ty-aye-yay
I go my way
Back in the saddle again

I'm back in the saddle again
Out where a friend is a friend
Where the longhorn cattle feed
On the lowly gypsum weed
Back in the saddle again

Ridin' the range once more
Totin' my old .44
Where you sleep out every night
And the only law is right
Back in the saddle again

Whoopi-ty-aye-oh
Rockin' to and fro
Back in the saddle again
Whoopi-ty-aye-yay
I go my way
Back in the saddle again

WHAT IF WE ALL BECAME OCCUPIERS?

What if Everybody Fu*ked Off ?

Imagine a scenario where all of us went out to become occupiers.  What if no one was left behind to actually work and be productive members of society.  What if all the folks who get up every morning and trudge off to work decided to just go out an protest every day?  What if no one was left to produce anything, run the schools and hospitals or put out fires.  What if all these people just went out and bummed around in the park crapping on the street and never making any contribution to society? Wouldn't that be great?  
One thing the idiots who do all this crap count on is having another portion of the population be sane, rational and hardworking, so as to take care of them, clean up their mess and actually accomplish something to move society along.  If all of us were shitheads like these occuthugs, nobody would be around to clean up their mess.  What the hell would they do then?  Nobody to take care of their sorry asses, no doctors, nurses, teachers or farmers, all just asshole protestors like them.  Wouldn't that be interesting?

HOW A VETERAN VOTES

I'm wondering how it might be possible for any Veteran, especially those who have seen combat, to vote for BO or any of his ilk?  Looking at this guy's record and what he promotes and believes in, I can't imagine that anyone who has served could cast their vote for this leftist and his policies?  I ask this sincerely, as it's been something that has rolled around in my brain in the past.  I can't imagine how, though I know there are many that probably do.  To me, it's like the chickens letting the fox decide the menu. I'm looking for some input on this as I am aware of my conservative leanings and that they might be clouding my thinking on this. 
(Yes, I realize that moderates or conservatives have sent these people into harms way in the past,  ex. Bush,  and therefore I can understand why they might not vote for Bush but what would make one vote for Obama?

RANDOM THOUGHTS 6

I will not be convinced that the economy is in such terrible shape until I turn on an NFL/NBA/NHL game on TV and see the stands empty. 
I believe that technology will eventually destroy us.  Perhaps not by a world ending explosion or man made catastrophe but rather, by destroying our initiative, drive, and ability to think on our own.
I don't have much faith in the American public education system.  
I believe we have not had a world class public education system in this country for a long time.
I believe the main cause of decline in America is the erosion of the family.
I feel that political correctness is helping to ruin our country.
I am angry that lobbyists are controlling our government and that many politicians are corrupt to some extent.
I feel like I'm participating in a country that is in decline and is willing to look the other way while it is happening.
I'm not happy with myself for being this negative but, it's hard not to be when you are paying attention.
I miss the days of blissful ignorance!

EXTREMISTS AND FACTS: MUTUALLY EXCLUSIVE ?

One thing I notice in reading around the web is that liberals make a science out of discounting facts they don't like.  It doesn't matter if the facts are supported by evidence or not.  Many times they completely ignore them or, discount their relevance, so they can avoid dealing with them. 
This is why it is impossible to have a discussion with a far left liberal.  In an intelligent argument, both sides must agree to accept facts that the other side has proven to be true.  I've noticed a pattern on many blogs that when the facts come out liberals head for the hills.   You can argue opinions forever but, facts must be accepted by both sides when having a debate or discussion.  This explains why we are not getting anywhere in our political discourse in this country. 

AMERICA'S NOT SO SECRET SECRET WEAPON

You Wanna Piece of this?

You don't hear anyone talk about it much.  It's not discussed by our politicians, or by the media or even by bloggers.  It is for some reason a subject not broached anywhere that I've seen, today or in the recent past.  We talk about China's hold over our economy, we speak of the threat from Iran, we talk about the nukes in North Korea but, we never hear about this.  We Americans have a weapon, not just a little weapon but a huge, gigantic, massively big one.  One that if we would unleash would bring all of our enemies to their knees.   What am I talking about you ask?  What could possibly be so great a weapon that we could have these rogue nations literally "eating" out of our hands. I'm talking about food or course.  Yes food, and America's ability to grow it successfully and to be the world's breadbasket. There's no question in my mind that this weapon, if used properly, would tip the scales our way in many places around the world. 
Why we don't use this weapon more to our advantage, I don't understand?  

MUSLIMS CAN'T GROW A FU^KING TOMATO BUT BOY CAN THEY RIOT

Isn't it amazing that these radical Muslims can't grow a fu*king tomato to feed themselves but,they sure can put a lot of energy into jumping around pumping their fists and shooting their guns into the air.  No time for a shower or clean clothes but, plenty of time to burn an embassy or kill foreigners.  Maybe they should eat all those bullets?  All in a day's work in the Middle East. 

THE PALE BLUE DOT

Take a Lesson

With all the violence in the Middle East over the past few days, I thought it might be worthwhile to take another look at a quote by Carl Sagan, that may give us some perspective.  Too bad there are so many people in the world too stupid, filled with hate, or both,  to be able to take this all in.  It's a reminder of how truly insignificant we (and our troubled planet) are in the grand scheme of things.  Life is about being able to have perspective and apply it to daily events and situations and to be able to look at the big picture and recognize our place in it all.  Sadly, religious fanaticism drives millions of people into blind hatred which we are getting a good look at, in the Middle East and North Africa. Perhaps the secret to finding heaven lies in man's ability to find peace with each other?  Maybe "god" set it up that way?  The final trumpet blows when all war and violence cease, think about it.  Wouldn't that be a hoot? We control when Heaven begins but, we can't see the forest for the trees.  Crazy thought if you think about it. 

WELL DO YA ?

I'm pretty sure faith in the government is at an all time low.  The approval rating of Congress is in single digits, the Judicial Branch Ok'd Obamacare and the Executive Branch is led by an amateur.  How did we get ourselves in this position?   Extremists have led us down a path of national self-destruction and there is no question the media is along for the ride.  What happened to the once great Fourth Estate? 

IN MEMORY OF THOSE WHO DIED

SEPTEMBER 11 2001

THE SPEECH I WISH A U.S. PRESIDENT WOULD MAKE

If Only

"Ladies and gentlemen, I am here to announce today that beginning immediately,  the United States of America will freeze all foreign aid for the next 90 days, so that we can determine which nations we will be providing for in the future." " Let it be known that this evaluation process will take in to account the actions, as well as, the rhetoric that has been levied toward America and it's interests.  We will no longer provide any type of assistance to any nation that our careful evaluation determines, is unfriendly toward America nor shall we come to the aid of any country who openly, or secretly, has committed any actions unfavorable to our interests."
"In addition, to those states with whom we choose to trade, be advised that beginning immediately, we will begin trading in like quantities,  For example, one barrel of oil for one bushel of wheat, corn or rice.  Further, let all nations be advised that anyone attacking the U.S, or Israel or our interests, will be subjected to the full retaliatory power of the United States, without regard to any civilian casualties that may occur as a result,  Any use of chemical, biological or nuclear weapons, will trigger an immediate and complete response against the perpetrator of such attack."
"This is the one and only warning and announcement that will be made regarding these actions.  "Thank you and God Bless America."

SUPPORT CLINT EASTWOOD

A great opportunity to send a message to liberal Hollywood would be for Americans to go to the theater to catch Clint's newest movie, "Trouble with the Curve."  Fill the theaters to let them know we support Clint and that come November,  we will take our movie vote and turn it in to a Presidential vote.

OBAMA'S FIRST TERM USING SONG TITLES

Nothing says Wednesday like a little fun so here is a list of song titles that make me think of Barack Obama, his administration and the last, painful four years.

(10) Crying Time       (Ray Charles)

(9)   Wipe Out            (The Safaris)

(8)  Nowhere Man      (The Beatles)

(7)  Windy                    (The Association)

(6)  Fool on the Hill     (Sergio Mendes)

(5)  The Worst That Could Happen     (Brooklyn Bridge)

(4)  The Thrill is Gone     (B.B. King)

(3)  Liar                            (3 Dog Night)

(2)  It's Impossible         (Perry Como)

(1)  Shaft                           (Issac Hayes)

BILL CLINTON'S A WILDCARD

Former President Wang

It appears the DNC isn't quite sure what Bill will be saying when he speaks at the Democratic National Convention on Wednesday.  Apparently, the former president forced the issue in getting himself the job of nominating Barack Obama.  It could get quite interesting since Clinton has nothing to lose in taking a few jabs at the current administration and reminding everyone how great his was.  My guess is Bill will spend a good bit of time praising his own administration, and puffing up Hillary for the 2016 election.   It might be the only part of the DNC that I take some time to watch.
One thing is for sure, he won't be talking about cigars or interns.

DUMPING AARP

Many people (like myself until recently) automatically joined AARP because, it was just something to do when you reached the age of 50.  It seemed like there were some pretty good discounts and membership advantages and to be honest, I really never took the time to do any research.  Over the past year I began to hear some things about how liberal AARP was and how they were pushing OBAMACARE because they stand to make tons of money from selling coverage plans to seniors and others who will be forced to buy insurance.  I was finally able to put 2 and 2 together and decided that I was not going to renew my membership, which just happened to be running out in July.  
I started to look for an alternative, something a bit more in line with my beliefs and came upon an organization called AMAC (the association of mature American citizens).  This senior organization espouses the best of conservative values and beliefs.  Not to mention, they are growing and getting stronger.  The organization sent me a copy of their magazine and I must say I was impressed.  It was comprised of some very informational articles regarding the economy and the perils of Obamacare.  If you are a member of AARP and you are leaning conservative, you should consider AMAC. 

DON'T EVER THINK AN IDEA IS TOO SIMPLE TO WORK

Help is on the Way

With the great difficulty America is having with it's economy at the present time, there is a never ending amount of promises being made to us by our illustrious politicians.  Whether it be from the President or Congress, whether it's a democrat or republican, liberal or conservative, one thing is for certain and that is, their willingness to get behind a microphone and promise us the moon.   Of course most times their promises aren't worth a pint of piss, nor can they ever be held accountable because of the spin and outright lying that occurs,  It doesn't appear that there are going to be any good solutions coming to us from the current AIG ( assholes in government), regarding "fixing" the economy.  After all, their belief is that they can give us any old BS line and we will buy it lock, stock and barrel.  Unfortunately, this technique works because we have an immensely large number of stupid, uninformed citizens in this country at the present time but, that is a topic for another post.
Well, I propose a very simple solution that would help get jobs back in this country.  I suggest that a law be passed which states to all American businesses, that they must produce 30% of their products in this country, if they wish to sell their product in this country.  That's it, very quick AND simple.  You want to sell here, you have to produce one-third of your product in the states AT A MINIMUM.  
I know it sound very simplistic and it's something easy to blow off but, I truly feel it would work.  Consider this my contribution to improving things in America for today.  Don't thank me, just send money.

IS HE THE INVISIBLE MAN OR THE EMPEROR WITHOUT CLOTHES???

 Anyone paying a little bit of attention knows that the guy in the White House has no real identifiable credentials.  There is nothing he can hang his hat on from his past.  Nothing to impress, nothing to brag about or have great pride in.
He is a ghost, a wisp, invisible, indeed he is the 21st Century version of the Emperor who has no clothes.  To hug him is akin to hugging a cloud.  There is nothing there to grab on to, to point to or to hold.  Zero, zip, nada.
The bigger question perhaps is how could someone like him be elected to the highest office in the land.  It is frightening more so that a nation of educated people would turn over the keys to the kingdom to a man such as this.  It is the truest example of handing the fox the keys to the hen house.  Why should we be surprised that a man with no substance himself, accomplishes nothing of substance.  It is "we the people" who are the fools.  Obviously, the Czechs know something many Americans may not.

And if that doesn't make a point for you maybe this will.  Either way it doesn't bode well for us, especially if we get four more years of this mess.

FIDEL CASTRO STILL BLOWING OUT CANDLES

You have to give the guy credit on his birthday at least.  Ever since taking power in 1959, and despite the best efforts of the U.S. , Fidel Castro is celebrating another birthday today.  He's on his 11th U.S. President and still going strong.  He has been given up for dead more times than I can remember but yet, like that old Timex Watch, he keeps on ticking.  
Say what you want about the guy but, he is truly a survivor.  The last man standing of the old Cold War leaders, Castro must have been born with a built in rabbit's foot.  Many in Cuba love the guy and his following is almost god-like, despite the generally poor living conditions for so many in that country.  He has outsmarted the U.S. on so many occasions over the past 50 plus years that it's not even funny.
It's as if we've all grown up with this guy and he is a part of my memories from junior high school when we were all being brainwashed to hate him and everything he stood for.  Though I don't like his ideology. I do respect his resourcefulness and longevity.  So Happy Birthday Fidel and many more you old cold warrior you.

TESTAMENT TO MAN'S CURIOSITY

It's a fantastic testament to the achievement of science and engineering when humans on a planet tens to hundreds of millions of miles away can land a two ton object, blindly, on the surface of another planet, that is inhospitable at best. 
Think about what NASA has achieved with this most recent effort.  Think about it long and hard because it is, phenomenal, fantastic and unbelievable at the same time.  Yes, we've been to the moon, yes we've sent spacecraft to the edge of the solar system, yes we've had tremendous success with space telescopes etc., but, this recent achievement ranks up there with the best of them.
When you take the time to ponder space, time and distance, it is quite humbling.  When you consider that man has been able to achieve such awesome heights of invention, technology, engineering and spaceflight in such a short time, one can only be amazed.  The fact that the Mars Rover Curiosity was successfully landed on Mars should be a sense of pride for all Americans and all people of our planet.  Imagine if all people on this planet got along and worked together instead of fighting wars and threatening  one another, the possibilities would be limitless.  I expect the Mars Rover to be an even more amazing success over the next few years as it sends back data, photos and other information in order to broaden man's understanding of the universe.  Congratulations to NASA and all the individual people who made this possible.

A MESSAGE OF WISDOM FOR OUR YOUTH

Truer words may never have been spoken.  Sometimes it just is worth sharing, so here is some wisdom I found on failblog.org.
Many in the younger generation are perilously close to being lost for a variety of reasons.  Some causes can be blamed on the parents for making things too easy, ignoring parental responsibilities in favor of being "buddies,"  not allowing their children to experience failure,  and a variety of other reasons.   But, there is an equal amount of blame that can be placed on the youth themselves.  Lack of motivation, laziness, over-infatuation with technology, among others. 
I think this article would be good one to read at future high school graduations.

MEDIA BIAS: SOMETHING WE'VE KNOWN FOR A LONG TIME

One Face of Bias

This article sums it up better than any other I've ever seen. So much information "given out" by the Media has little to do with facts and a great deal to do with their having an agenda.  (A very UN-American agenda in my opinion)
I have NO trust in news reporting on TV, NONE!  It's not only what they say but, what they don't say and we all need to keep that in mind. 


http://www.westernjournalism.com/top-50-examples-liberal-media-bias/

ELECTION OF 2008: THE NIGHTMARE THAT NEVER ENDS

CROOKED POLITICIANS NOW THE NORM?

     Is it me or are we at the point yet where the number of lousy, crooked politicians outnumber those that are truly working for the betterment of the country?   If we are not there yet, it certainly seems awful close.  It just seems more likely that to make any substantive changes, it's going to take a violent uprising by those who are sick to death with what is going on.  In an earlier time these pols would be running from the hot tar and feathers.   It's a shame that it has come to this but it wouldn't surprise me to see some pretty big problems in our very near future, and that will only be the beginning.  These guys seem to be getting away with a lot and I'm thinking it is because we the people are so distracted by nonsense. 

SHOOTING IN COLORADO: WHAT IF?

Better to Pack and Not Need To

For all the criticism leveled against George Zimmerman for his actions against Trayvon Martin it sure would have been nice to have a George Zimmerman type at that theater in Colorado wouldn't it?  Tell me I'm not right, especially if you were a victim or the friend or family member of one.  As a result of this we will all be looking over our shoulder the next time we go to a movie and we will probably be walking through metal detectors at the theater in the very near future.   Because of the Zimmerman story there is so much criticism in the media against the Stand Your Ground Laws and guns in general.  Every time something like this happens we get this same response.    A number of talking heads on TV will be calling for  gun control or an outright ban on guns, as well as, the repeal of the Stand Your Ground Laws.  Most likely it will be those with the same liberal mentality that put us in this situation in the first place.  We continue to reap the "dividends" of the mindless liberal agenda we have been following over the last 40 years or so.
Regardless, it sure would have been great if a few of the moviegoers would have been packing and been able to return fire at that douche-bag murderer when he tossed those canisters into the audience.  To see a cell phone video of some citizenry in the theater firing back would have been great!  Too bad that once again,  INNOCENT people are caught unarmed in a life or death situation.  If only we were sure this guy will be fried but, we all know better.   His rights will take precedent over the victims.  We know how this works already in America.  Lawyers, trials, appeals etc. etc. etc.  He'll be around another fifty years.  Now that is a crime.

TEAM OBAMA'S TRUTH ENHANCEMENT

Listening to Barack Obama talk reminds me a lot of what it was like listening to Bill Clinton in the 1990's, with the only difference being Clinton knew what he was talking about most of the time.  When you didn't agree with him, you could at least feel Clinton had some smarts and was pretty well versed in whatever the topic was.  It's impossible to feel that way with Obama.  He seems way over-matched and disconnected from his topic, whenever he speaks.  In addition, there seemed to be less "enhancement of the truth" when Clinton spoke.  I get the impression that Obama believes he can say anything and it becomes the truth.  I have to admit, it must work based on the legions of people who cheer him.  Of course we all know the real reason they love him and that is because the great majority of them are getting stuff and/or they are simply uninformed or they are fools.  
It's not a democrat or republican thing to me, it's just clear that four more years of this guy will go a long way in wrecking the country. 

REFLECTIONS OF THE ROLLING STONES 50TH ANNIVERSARY

Seems like just yesterday I was listening to these guys on a worn 45 at my buddy's house.  Playing the music over and over till the needle was worn.  Same with the Beach Boys, who indecently are also celebrating 50 years.
Whatever you think of their music you have to appreciate their longevity and their ability to stick together all these years.  
Perhaps the most impressive thing about them when you think about it, is how their history is a reflection of my history as well.  I can remember periods of my life along with the music of these bands and many others. The events of the 60's, and 70's are in my mind, melded together with the music of my generation. 
I remember having an AM/FM transistor radio pushed up against my ear and listening to some of the local "cool" music stations and DJ's.  The events of this era will forever be etched in my memory, as will the music of the Stones.   What a time it was!