.
In Those Days, we learned a lot about early American history. You know, those that helped found this country, and those that set it's course apart from any other country. From Christopher Columbus, the Pilgrims, the Generals, and the Presidents, to those that walked on the moon. And we studied their achievements and contributions to America, how they did it, and where we are now because of it, without much focus on their race.
So, as Black History Month comes to a conclusion, I'll share the Thoughts of the Dock with you.
I guess I was in about the 3rd or 4th grade, when my class was given a written assignment identifying one person that contributed to America. Although it was an era before the inception of Black History Month, I chose George Washington Carver for my project.
I really don't know why. Perhaps it was about his race, or that he was born into slavery, or that he was a scientist and professor at a college for Black Americans, or that he invented 300 ways to use peanuts for. But, it was more likely that I just took a liking to his name.
Yes, his name really struck me. Apparently named after a White American who many of my classmates selected to write about. It was his name, more than his achievements, that really intrigued me. Why would his Black parents name him after such a person, especially after that person was instrumental in establishing slavery in America? That's what impressed me. The Carvers truly loved America, and they were Americans even though they were Black.
Not, so for many of the Black heroes of today who most seem to denounce America, or just rape it for their own benefit. It's no wonder why our Black youth are so far outside reality. They have no leaders to follow.
Look who they have to admire. A freak like Michael Jackson, racists like Oprah Winfrey or Bill Cosby, religious leader Jesse Jackson, a savage Michael Vick, a murderer/musician Doctor Dre, the adulterers Tiger Woods, Al Shaprton, Kobe Bryant, Shaquile O'Neil, or politicians like Governor Patterson or the idiot from Illinois?
I've often wondered why our observation of Black History was only for 30 days, when no other federal mandate gets so much attention. Now, I have seen the value of that and suggest we extend the period by a few more months. Certainly, with more time, I could identify even more Blacks that are ripping America apart, and perhaps even find a Black that has contributed something aside from culture to our great country.
But, surely there are better examples of Black American contributions. What about Colon Powell or the Long Legged MacDaddy himself? But would he even qualify. He's only a halfblack.
Let's move on to a more important cause like the Jump Rope for Heart program our grandson is doing.
Enjoy your weekend. For me, every day is a weekend!
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Friday, February 26, 2010
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
It is what it is
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Thanks LG for contributing the following to the Thought Dock. I did modify it somewhat to better fit your screen.
Many of you are so insulated from reality when you yell and scream, "Absolutely No Profiling."
I ask you to pause a moment, take a deep breath, and reflect back on the incidents that I am about to describe. For those of you that are in disbelief, do your Snopes inquiries.
1. In 1968 Bobby Kennedy was shot and killed by a Muslim male extremist between the ages of 17 and 40.
2. In 1972 at the Munich Olympics, athletes were kidnapped and massacred by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
3. In 1979, the US embassy in Iran was taken over by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
4. During the 1980's a number of Americans were kidnapped in Lebanon by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
5. In 1983, the US Marine barracks in Beirut was blown up by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
6. In 1985 the cruise ship Achille Lauro was hijacked and a 70 year old American passenger was murdered and thrown overboard in his wheelchair by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
7. In 1985 TWA flight 847 was hijacked at Athens, and a US Navy diver trying to rescue passengers was murdered by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
8. In 1988, Pan Am Flight 103 was bombed by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
9. In 1993 the World Trade Center was bombed the first time by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
10. In 1998, the US embassies in Kenya and Tanzania were bombed by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
11. On 9/11/01, four airliners were hijacked; two were used as missiles to take out the World Trade Centers and of the remaining two, one crashed into the US Pentagon and the other was diverted and crashed by the passengers. Thousands of people were killed by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
12. In 2002 the United States fought a war in Afghanistan against Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
13. In 2002 reporter Daniel Pearl was kidnapped and murdered by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
Does anyone see some kind of pattern here sufficient enough to justify a profiling? Apparently, not enough of you believe so because you routinely deny law enforcement that tool.
Hey people, Muslim male exremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40 are our enemies. Treat them as such. These are the very people that we are at way with. Have you not learned a lesson from Pearl Harbor?
Oh, I forgot. Here is yet another one: Fort Hood Texas; another Muslim 39 years old killed 13 people and wounded 30 some odd others.
And this link will sum things up from one Christian's point of view.
http://downloads.cbn.com/cbnnewsplayer/cbnPlayer.swf?aid=11991
.
Thanks LG for contributing the following to the Thought Dock. I did modify it somewhat to better fit your screen.
Many of you are so insulated from reality when you yell and scream, "Absolutely No Profiling."
I ask you to pause a moment, take a deep breath, and reflect back on the incidents that I am about to describe. For those of you that are in disbelief, do your Snopes inquiries.
1. In 1968 Bobby Kennedy was shot and killed by a Muslim male extremist between the ages of 17 and 40.
2. In 1972 at the Munich Olympics, athletes were kidnapped and massacred by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
3. In 1979, the US embassy in Iran was taken over by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
4. During the 1980's a number of Americans were kidnapped in Lebanon by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
5. In 1983, the US Marine barracks in Beirut was blown up by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
6. In 1985 the cruise ship Achille Lauro was hijacked and a 70 year old American passenger was murdered and thrown overboard in his wheelchair by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
7. In 1985 TWA flight 847 was hijacked at Athens, and a US Navy diver trying to rescue passengers was murdered by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
8. In 1988, Pan Am Flight 103 was bombed by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
9. In 1993 the World Trade Center was bombed the first time by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
10. In 1998, the US embassies in Kenya and Tanzania were bombed by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
11. On 9/11/01, four airliners were hijacked; two were used as missiles to take out the World Trade Centers and of the remaining two, one crashed into the US Pentagon and the other was diverted and crashed by the passengers. Thousands of people were killed by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
12. In 2002 the United States fought a war in Afghanistan against Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
13. In 2002 reporter Daniel Pearl was kidnapped and murdered by Muslim male extremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40.
Does anyone see some kind of pattern here sufficient enough to justify a profiling? Apparently, not enough of you believe so because you routinely deny law enforcement that tool.
Hey people, Muslim male exremists mostly between the ages of 17 and 40 are our enemies. Treat them as such. These are the very people that we are at way with. Have you not learned a lesson from Pearl Harbor?
Oh, I forgot. Here is yet another one: Fort Hood Texas; another Muslim 39 years old killed 13 people and wounded 30 some odd others.
And this link will sum things up from one Christian's point of view.
http://downloads.cbn.com/cbnnewsplayer/cbnPlayer.swf?aid=11991
.
Friday, February 19, 2010
A RagingTiger
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My earliest memory regarding tigers came as I listened to Mom reading the story of Little Black Sambo. Since then, I've seen alot of National Geographic stories about tigers, seen some in zoos, and have watched the stage play, Lion King. One thing is for sure. I'll keep my distance from any tiger.
Ok, should be us all just bow down and forgive the Tiger just as he asks. And, while we are at it let's forgive Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, Michael Jackson and Steve Garvey (I just stuck in Garvey so you all wouldn't call me a racist bigot again). They are all tigers in their way.
The claim to fame claims yet another. So, what is it that makes fame and wealth make a person feel he is above the rest of the slugs? It's not a race thing, or a gender thing, or an athletic thing, nor politician thing. It has been a clergy thing, and a movie star thing, and a criminal thing. It seems to be everywhere, and it is evil.
But, you know I expect just a bit more from those in the lime light. I would expect our Presidents, actors, athletes, and scholars to just be a cut above every one else. Yes, I know they are people just like me, and some say they have a right to their private lives. But, I don't buy into that. Their lives became public when they glamoured under the spot lights.
Surely, I've made my share of poor choices over the years, but I kept it out from under the spots. Mostly because there were no spots shining on me. And, I didn't have fans. Not that it would justify any of my poor choices anyway.
But I'm not Tiger. And I'm not a Tiger fan. Nor will I ever be, although I do respect his achievements, even though I disrespect him personally.
And, it is even more disgraceful because he is Black. You see, Blacks need a true leader. Unlike Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton, or Mike Tyson, Tiger is well spoken, smart, and had the opportunity to rise just as the Long Legged MacDaddy did.
Uh Oh. I'm hungry for Sambo's.
My earliest memory regarding tigers came as I listened to Mom reading the story of Little Black Sambo. Since then, I've seen alot of National Geographic stories about tigers, seen some in zoos, and have watched the stage play, Lion King. One thing is for sure. I'll keep my distance from any tiger.
Ok, should be us all just bow down and forgive the Tiger just as he asks. And, while we are at it let's forgive Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, Michael Jackson and Steve Garvey (I just stuck in Garvey so you all wouldn't call me a racist bigot again). They are all tigers in their way.
The claim to fame claims yet another. So, what is it that makes fame and wealth make a person feel he is above the rest of the slugs? It's not a race thing, or a gender thing, or an athletic thing, nor politician thing. It has been a clergy thing, and a movie star thing, and a criminal thing. It seems to be everywhere, and it is evil.
But, you know I expect just a bit more from those in the lime light. I would expect our Presidents, actors, athletes, and scholars to just be a cut above every one else. Yes, I know they are people just like me, and some say they have a right to their private lives. But, I don't buy into that. Their lives became public when they glamoured under the spot lights.
Surely, I've made my share of poor choices over the years, but I kept it out from under the spots. Mostly because there were no spots shining on me. And, I didn't have fans. Not that it would justify any of my poor choices anyway.
But I'm not Tiger. And I'm not a Tiger fan. Nor will I ever be, although I do respect his achievements, even though I disrespect him personally.
And, it is even more disgraceful because he is Black. You see, Blacks need a true leader. Unlike Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton, or Mike Tyson, Tiger is well spoken, smart, and had the opportunity to rise just as the Long Legged MacDaddy did.
Uh Oh. I'm hungry for Sambo's.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Melie Memories
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My father's name was Melie. At least that was what I thought. I first heard it from my mother when I was a child, but in Those Days, no one would ever call his parent by their first name. So, it was kind of a sacred name to me, and I never really questioned it.
It wasn't long before I realized everyone but his kids called him Melie. His friends, his family, everyone. So I presumed that was what he wanted to be called and that he likely introduced himself by that name.
Now, I was probably well into my adolescence when I realized his real name was Emilio, and I think that came about when I happened across a letter addressed to him. A weird name I thought. No wonder why he had a nick name. When you combined "Emilio" with our last name it became kind of a tongue twister. At times, I thought of it as a romantic kind of name. But, none the less, he was "Pop" to me.
Pop was an Italian, but I was quite old before I knew that. Born here by his immigrant parents. But he passed little of his heritage on to us. Not the language, or the religion, or the music, nor anything else. I really don't know why that was, but I think he wanted us to be Americans. And he hated the mafia and thought the mafia casted a bad image on him. The only thing that he seemed to retain was his love for Italian food. Spaghetti, in particular, with lots of bread and butter. And he passed that on to me.
I can imagine Pop at the Thought Dock. He would have loved it. It's not that he was a great outdoors man. Far from that. But, he did like being outside, but close enough to be inside when it became too hot or cold. So, he could get from the Dock to the Nest in a few short steps if needed.
He had a passion for boats, but it was not like he really knew what to do with one. And, he liked water and liked to swim. And he liked barbecuing, steak in particular, and he was a great cook, when he cooked. Actually, he was a chef in a fancy restaurant at one time.
And, I miss Pop, but I'll always have the Melie Memories.
.
My father's name was Melie. At least that was what I thought. I first heard it from my mother when I was a child, but in Those Days, no one would ever call his parent by their first name. So, it was kind of a sacred name to me, and I never really questioned it.
It wasn't long before I realized everyone but his kids called him Melie. His friends, his family, everyone. So I presumed that was what he wanted to be called and that he likely introduced himself by that name.
Now, I was probably well into my adolescence when I realized his real name was Emilio, and I think that came about when I happened across a letter addressed to him. A weird name I thought. No wonder why he had a nick name. When you combined "Emilio" with our last name it became kind of a tongue twister. At times, I thought of it as a romantic kind of name. But, none the less, he was "Pop" to me.
Pop was an Italian, but I was quite old before I knew that. Born here by his immigrant parents. But he passed little of his heritage on to us. Not the language, or the religion, or the music, nor anything else. I really don't know why that was, but I think he wanted us to be Americans. And he hated the mafia and thought the mafia casted a bad image on him. The only thing that he seemed to retain was his love for Italian food. Spaghetti, in particular, with lots of bread and butter. And he passed that on to me.
I can imagine Pop at the Thought Dock. He would have loved it. It's not that he was a great outdoors man. Far from that. But, he did like being outside, but close enough to be inside when it became too hot or cold. So, he could get from the Dock to the Nest in a few short steps if needed.
He had a passion for boats, but it was not like he really knew what to do with one. And, he liked water and liked to swim. And he liked barbecuing, steak in particular, and he was a great cook, when he cooked. Actually, he was a chef in a fancy restaurant at one time.
And, I miss Pop, but I'll always have the Melie Memories.
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Tuesday, February 16, 2010
They'll get it either way
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You know, when we moved to the Central Oregon Coast a few years ago, we were amazed at the number of State and County parks, their pristine condition, and the fact that most of them were free to use. Boat ramps, trails, fishing spots, beaches, RV dump sites, lakes, and rivers seldom had a use fee.
Well, last year, the County placed a measure on the ballot to raise taxes. The measure claimed, that the measure if not passed would force the closure of about a third of these places because of the lack of funds.
So, the measure failed by a large margin (which included my "no" vote). And the following day, even before the newspapers announced the results of the vote, the County placed "Use Fees" at every one of the sites that previously were free, and increased the fees of the existing fee sites. Seems they had the signs and collection boxes fabricated even before the vote.
Now, I'm sure all of you Fox News fans know that California is near bankrupt. And twice now, their voters have rejected voter mandated tax increases. And yesterday, I was informed that as a means to collect more money to run their programs, California has increased it's traffic fines. Already among the highest in the nation, their fines tripled in most cases. How much you ask? Well, a seat belt violation increased from $271 to over $700 (and seat belt violations are cited more often than any other). A basic speed violation of less than 15 mph over the posting is now set at $668, as is the penalty for running a red light or stop sign. And, the State claims it raised the fines in the interest of traffic safety!
"Sumtin wong, as an immigrant might say. But he would be right. Most states, including Oregon require the voters to approve any tax increase, yet they empower their legislatures to collect various fees without voter authorization. DMV, building permits, business licensing, pet registration, park fees, court fines, and toll roads are all set and collected by the state without restrictions.
So, what is the difference between a tax and a fee? Personally, I see little. Although a speeding motorist in California will pay more of a fee than a person who does not drive, and a park user will pay for the park he uses in Oregon, it is all a tax.
And, recently I heard their is an effort under way to tax soda, in an effort to get us to quit using it because it is not healthy. Kind of like the did with cigarettes. Hogwash!
.
Next, they will want to tax the Thought Dock.
.
You know, when we moved to the Central Oregon Coast a few years ago, we were amazed at the number of State and County parks, their pristine condition, and the fact that most of them were free to use. Boat ramps, trails, fishing spots, beaches, RV dump sites, lakes, and rivers seldom had a use fee.
Well, last year, the County placed a measure on the ballot to raise taxes. The measure claimed, that the measure if not passed would force the closure of about a third of these places because of the lack of funds.
So, the measure failed by a large margin (which included my "no" vote). And the following day, even before the newspapers announced the results of the vote, the County placed "Use Fees" at every one of the sites that previously were free, and increased the fees of the existing fee sites. Seems they had the signs and collection boxes fabricated even before the vote.
Now, I'm sure all of you Fox News fans know that California is near bankrupt. And twice now, their voters have rejected voter mandated tax increases. And yesterday, I was informed that as a means to collect more money to run their programs, California has increased it's traffic fines. Already among the highest in the nation, their fines tripled in most cases. How much you ask? Well, a seat belt violation increased from $271 to over $700 (and seat belt violations are cited more often than any other). A basic speed violation of less than 15 mph over the posting is now set at $668, as is the penalty for running a red light or stop sign. And, the State claims it raised the fines in the interest of traffic safety!
"Sumtin wong, as an immigrant might say. But he would be right. Most states, including Oregon require the voters to approve any tax increase, yet they empower their legislatures to collect various fees without voter authorization. DMV, building permits, business licensing, pet registration, park fees, court fines, and toll roads are all set and collected by the state without restrictions.
So, what is the difference between a tax and a fee? Personally, I see little. Although a speeding motorist in California will pay more of a fee than a person who does not drive, and a park user will pay for the park he uses in Oregon, it is all a tax.
And, recently I heard their is an effort under way to tax soda, in an effort to get us to quit using it because it is not healthy. Kind of like the did with cigarettes. Hogwash!
.
Next, they will want to tax the Thought Dock.
.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Faster - Farther - Longer - Higher
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As an athlete myself, I love the Olympics. I never made it to that level, but I did sit the bench with some of the best. And, I guess I could have been better had I not dropped out of high school in the third year of my football fame.
Oh well, but I did make it to the Olympics. Not to compete, but as part of the security force for the 1984 Summer games in Los Angeles. That was quite thrilling, and I got to see some great athletes for free.
Now, I realized how close once again I am to the Olympics. Vancouver, Canada, just a day's drive north from the Thought Dock. How wonderful it would be to see the Winter games. To see them go faster, and jump farther and longer in their individual sports, would be amazing. But, what about higher?
So, I did the research. You know, back in 1984 Los Angeles, a decent seat to watch the more popular competitions, like gymnastics, were priced well under $100, with the best seats for the final events selling out at about $500. And, some lesser events could be seen for as little as $15. Most anyone could see something.
Yeah, I know 25 years have passed since the Los Angeles summer games. But, the only thing I see that is higher in Vancouver, are the ticket prices. You can't even get close to the ski jump competition for less than One Thousand Dollars, and the best seat for the finals topping out over $4500 for a single seat! And the crappiest of seats sell for $125 for the crappy events.
Yes, I could have fired up the Wheeled Manor and made the trip, but I wonder what a campsite would cost. And Wally World would likely be nix, and I'm sure the city would not allow on street parking. But even if I could get there, I'd never be able to afford to see an event. Well, perhaps curling. So, I'll just watch what I can from the comfort of home.
Makes me wonder what the motive is for the Olympics today. Somehow, like most everything else, I see it more about money profiting rather than recognizing top athletes and promoting peace.
One would think that they could at least make the medals of real metal, rather than plating them as if they are costume jewelry.
.
As an athlete myself, I love the Olympics. I never made it to that level, but I did sit the bench with some of the best. And, I guess I could have been better had I not dropped out of high school in the third year of my football fame.
Oh well, but I did make it to the Olympics. Not to compete, but as part of the security force for the 1984 Summer games in Los Angeles. That was quite thrilling, and I got to see some great athletes for free.
Now, I realized how close once again I am to the Olympics. Vancouver, Canada, just a day's drive north from the Thought Dock. How wonderful it would be to see the Winter games. To see them go faster, and jump farther and longer in their individual sports, would be amazing. But, what about higher?
So, I did the research. You know, back in 1984 Los Angeles, a decent seat to watch the more popular competitions, like gymnastics, were priced well under $100, with the best seats for the final events selling out at about $500. And, some lesser events could be seen for as little as $15. Most anyone could see something.
Yeah, I know 25 years have passed since the Los Angeles summer games. But, the only thing I see that is higher in Vancouver, are the ticket prices. You can't even get close to the ski jump competition for less than One Thousand Dollars, and the best seat for the finals topping out over $4500 for a single seat! And the crappiest of seats sell for $125 for the crappy events.
Yes, I could have fired up the Wheeled Manor and made the trip, but I wonder what a campsite would cost. And Wally World would likely be nix, and I'm sure the city would not allow on street parking. But even if I could get there, I'd never be able to afford to see an event. Well, perhaps curling. So, I'll just watch what I can from the comfort of home.
Makes me wonder what the motive is for the Olympics today. Somehow, like most everything else, I see it more about money profiting rather than recognizing top athletes and promoting peace.
One would think that they could at least make the medals of real metal, rather than plating them as if they are costume jewelry.
.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Two Finger Submission
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While watching Spartacus the other night, I learned that a gladiator could raise two fingers to indicate he will submit. Then it would be up to the Roman leader to spare his life, or let him die at the hand of his opponent. It's kind of like saying "uncle" or "I give up." The index and the middle finger of one hand must be shown. No, not like the Nixon victory sign, but with the fingers held closely together.
Anyway, I thought it was an interesting concept for weaklings, but not for me. I'll never submit, because to do so, means to be conquered. Beaten down with all loss of pride. For me, you'll likely get the middle finger even though it might be my last act of defiance.
Some of you know that because you have tried to get me to submit. Some use the "We'll overwhelm him" tactic. Like we'll dump the grand kids on him. He'll submit, then we'll come to his rescue after a couple of weeks and pick them up. You know who you are.
And then using the same technique, two other families visited the Dock at the same time bringing all that they had. Four grand kids and four adults. " That will teach him." Think again. Right? And you know who you are too.
And one of you thought, "Let's bring our dog, and our daughter, and her dog, and make him think our friend is coming too, and that we'll stay a week or so.
Did that work, Binkie?
I survived them all without ever giving a thought for submission. But all that made me conclude that I need more room. So easy it is to fill both of our extra bedrooms, that now I have expanded.
Added to the Thought Dock is the "Nest." It's an indoor area for those that whine when it rains, or when the wind blows. Strange isn't it that those that complain the most about our weather being chilly, are the ones that awake to 12 degree temperatures where they live.
Like a basement (actually it is in our basement), playroom, cellar, man cave, rumpus room, game room, or theater, we will soon be offering the Nest for the comfort of our visitors. The Nest is kind of like the Thought Dock, but indoors, centrally heated, and soon will have a floor impervious to pet pee and grand kid play dough, and finger paints. And it will be extra room for sleep overs. It's a nest because it is green and yellow, just the right colors that ducks prefer. University of Oregon Ducks, that is. And sumday soon, it will have an entertainment theater, pool and air hockey tables, all within eye sight of the Thought Dock.
Now, try to overwhelm me again! Bring all your friends. Your favorite pets. Bibles, toys, big or small. Wine, beer, or booze; we'll drink it all!
.
See ya soon! But, I'll never submit.
.
While watching Spartacus the other night, I learned that a gladiator could raise two fingers to indicate he will submit. Then it would be up to the Roman leader to spare his life, or let him die at the hand of his opponent. It's kind of like saying "uncle" or "I give up." The index and the middle finger of one hand must be shown. No, not like the Nixon victory sign, but with the fingers held closely together.
Anyway, I thought it was an interesting concept for weaklings, but not for me. I'll never submit, because to do so, means to be conquered. Beaten down with all loss of pride. For me, you'll likely get the middle finger even though it might be my last act of defiance.
Some of you know that because you have tried to get me to submit. Some use the "We'll overwhelm him" tactic. Like we'll dump the grand kids on him. He'll submit, then we'll come to his rescue after a couple of weeks and pick them up. You know who you are.
And then using the same technique, two other families visited the Dock at the same time bringing all that they had. Four grand kids and four adults. " That will teach him." Think again. Right? And you know who you are too.
And one of you thought, "Let's bring our dog, and our daughter, and her dog, and make him think our friend is coming too, and that we'll stay a week or so.
Did that work, Binkie?
I survived them all without ever giving a thought for submission. But all that made me conclude that I need more room. So easy it is to fill both of our extra bedrooms, that now I have expanded.
Added to the Thought Dock is the "Nest." It's an indoor area for those that whine when it rains, or when the wind blows. Strange isn't it that those that complain the most about our weather being chilly, are the ones that awake to 12 degree temperatures where they live.
Like a basement (actually it is in our basement), playroom, cellar, man cave, rumpus room, game room, or theater, we will soon be offering the Nest for the comfort of our visitors. The Nest is kind of like the Thought Dock, but indoors, centrally heated, and soon will have a floor impervious to pet pee and grand kid play dough, and finger paints. And it will be extra room for sleep overs. It's a nest because it is green and yellow, just the right colors that ducks prefer. University of Oregon Ducks, that is. And sumday soon, it will have an entertainment theater, pool and air hockey tables, all within eye sight of the Thought Dock.
Now, try to overwhelm me again! Bring all your friends. Your favorite pets. Bibles, toys, big or small. Wine, beer, or booze; we'll drink it all!
.
See ya soon! But, I'll never submit.
.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Who's torching the churches?
.
I assume all of you have heard about the string of 10 church arsons, most of which were in Texas. If not, it is shamefull that one would turn to the Thought Dock for news like that. But, none the less, I'll give you my thoughts.
Seems a lot of people are speculating that White supremesists (the Nazi types if you are confused) are up to that since the fires have all been in southern America. Some will think that it is just a bunch of kids out for a thrill. Some might not even think the fires are intentional but just a strange coincidence.
But has anyone (other than me) considered the arsons to be acts of terrorism? And, I'm not thinking the typical American asses around, but more along the lines of the Islamic Jihad.
Could it be? Might it be? After all, they were all predominately White Christian places of worship, the exact type of institutions and people that the Muslims have vowed to eliminate.
.
I assume all of you have heard about the string of 10 church arsons, most of which were in Texas. If not, it is shamefull that one would turn to the Thought Dock for news like that. But, none the less, I'll give you my thoughts.
Seems a lot of people are speculating that White supremesists (the Nazi types if you are confused) are up to that since the fires have all been in southern America. Some will think that it is just a bunch of kids out for a thrill. Some might not even think the fires are intentional but just a strange coincidence.
But has anyone (other than me) considered the arsons to be acts of terrorism? And, I'm not thinking the typical American asses around, but more along the lines of the Islamic Jihad.
Could it be? Might it be? After all, they were all predominately White Christian places of worship, the exact type of institutions and people that the Muslims have vowed to eliminate.
.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
The true test
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A "test" is the only real way to evaluate one's teachings.
As with the Red Robin who pushes her hatchlings from the nest high in the tree to force them to fly or die, so I did with you.
For the past few weeks, I've blogged only a time or two. But it is apparent that I have developed a loyal following. You guys, thirsting for the wisdom of the Though Dock, continue to check in, sometimes even several times a day, to quench your cravings, and comment even to posts even where there is no content. And, I appreciate that. But, get a grip!
Taking a word from the movie Avatar, Thought Dock wisdom is like the mineral "unobtainium." It's something that most of you will never obtain. But you hunger for it always. That's precisely why I have to carefully feed you the wisdom to avoid an overdose. And, that's the very reason that I have slowed down your feedings.
It was to give you all the chance to digest what you have been fed, and to see whether you can exist on your own. And many of yoy have. It is evident by the loss in pobularity of the Democratic party, the slide of the Long Legged MacDaddy, and the failures you have caused to his socialistic programs. Keep it up! I have pride for you. You've come a long way since casting your vote two Novembers ago!
But, it's those of you who leave comments to posts that have no content. You have become fat from the over feeding. You have fallen from your nests and can't fly. Like the Democrats, you can't get up and don't know where to turn.
But you are the ones that have been loyally following me like my most trusted advisers. I have felt your presense. Stalking me. Peering from the bushes. I've seen you. You know who you are.
I saw you in the buttered popcorn line at the movie theater, even though you hadn't bought a ticket because you didn't yet know what movie I was there to see. And I saw that suttle wink you gave me from behind your 3-D glasses. And I saw you in the Home Depot paint department wearing your Oregon Duck sweatshirt, knowing I was there to get those colors for the walls in my man cave.
No need to hide Come on out. It won't hurt. Take the plunge from the Thought Dock. Follow me. I'll nourish you for as long as I can.
.
A "test" is the only real way to evaluate one's teachings.
As with the Red Robin who pushes her hatchlings from the nest high in the tree to force them to fly or die, so I did with you.
For the past few weeks, I've blogged only a time or two. But it is apparent that I have developed a loyal following. You guys, thirsting for the wisdom of the Though Dock, continue to check in, sometimes even several times a day, to quench your cravings, and comment even to posts even where there is no content. And, I appreciate that. But, get a grip!
Taking a word from the movie Avatar, Thought Dock wisdom is like the mineral "unobtainium." It's something that most of you will never obtain. But you hunger for it always. That's precisely why I have to carefully feed you the wisdom to avoid an overdose. And, that's the very reason that I have slowed down your feedings.
It was to give you all the chance to digest what you have been fed, and to see whether you can exist on your own. And many of yoy have. It is evident by the loss in pobularity of the Democratic party, the slide of the Long Legged MacDaddy, and the failures you have caused to his socialistic programs. Keep it up! I have pride for you. You've come a long way since casting your vote two Novembers ago!
But, it's those of you who leave comments to posts that have no content. You have become fat from the over feeding. You have fallen from your nests and can't fly. Like the Democrats, you can't get up and don't know where to turn.
But you are the ones that have been loyally following me like my most trusted advisers. I have felt your presense. Stalking me. Peering from the bushes. I've seen you. You know who you are.
I saw you in the buttered popcorn line at the movie theater, even though you hadn't bought a ticket because you didn't yet know what movie I was there to see. And I saw that suttle wink you gave me from behind your 3-D glasses. And I saw you in the Home Depot paint department wearing your Oregon Duck sweatshirt, knowing I was there to get those colors for the walls in my man cave.
No need to hide Come on out. It won't hurt. Take the plunge from the Thought Dock. Follow me. I'll nourish you for as long as I can.
.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Blowing the roof off
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Now, here's something that causes me to wonder.
Remember that Islamic terrorist cleric that gave the Fort Hood murderer instructions for that massacre? Well, he is the same cleric that recruited and trained the explosives in the underwear Christmas Day bomber, and recruited 18 or so young blacks from the radical Chicago area. And, he claims responsibility for many more dastardly deeds against America. I'm sorry I can't remember his name, nor do I care to, but you get the point.
A few days after the Fort Hood massacre, and after this idiot praised the incident, and after learning from the Fort Hood massacrer that he received motivation from the idiot cleric, the CIA tracked him down to his hideout in Yemen. And the CIA fired a barrage of rockets into his grass and clay hut from a drone airplane, blowing it into the kingdom of Allah. But somehow, the cleric escaped with his pajamas to a waiting camel, and from there, who knows.
Now, here is the point. This idiot radical Islamic camel jockey cleric is an American. He was born and raised here. But after the 911 attack, thought it was best to denounce America, and move to Yemen where he could further his cause.
So, if we can try to asinate an American citizen in Yemen by blowing the roof off his hut, without a court order, search or arrest warrant, then why can't we do it right here in America? Makes good sense to me! But doesn't an American citizen have American rights wherever he goes that are respected by other Americans?
I don't think the MacDaddy's appointee, Eric Holder, would agree. Holder would certainly question the validity of his arrest without a warrant, and demand that he was read his rights, and given an attorney, before questioning.
You see, Holder thinks American rights apply to everyone regardless of where the live or where they were born. He thinks Miranda applies to acts of war against America weather by Americans or foreigners, and whether their assaults occur inside America or from abroad.
Now, it has been released that Holder has a financial stake in the law firm that would represent the terrorists that he brought from Gitmo to New York for trial. That seems to explain his motives.
.
Now, here's something that causes me to wonder.
Remember that Islamic terrorist cleric that gave the Fort Hood murderer instructions for that massacre? Well, he is the same cleric that recruited and trained the explosives in the underwear Christmas Day bomber, and recruited 18 or so young blacks from the radical Chicago area. And, he claims responsibility for many more dastardly deeds against America. I'm sorry I can't remember his name, nor do I care to, but you get the point.
A few days after the Fort Hood massacre, and after this idiot praised the incident, and after learning from the Fort Hood massacrer that he received motivation from the idiot cleric, the CIA tracked him down to his hideout in Yemen. And the CIA fired a barrage of rockets into his grass and clay hut from a drone airplane, blowing it into the kingdom of Allah. But somehow, the cleric escaped with his pajamas to a waiting camel, and from there, who knows.
Now, here is the point. This idiot radical Islamic camel jockey cleric is an American. He was born and raised here. But after the 911 attack, thought it was best to denounce America, and move to Yemen where he could further his cause.
So, if we can try to asinate an American citizen in Yemen by blowing the roof off his hut, without a court order, search or arrest warrant, then why can't we do it right here in America? Makes good sense to me! But doesn't an American citizen have American rights wherever he goes that are respected by other Americans?
I don't think the MacDaddy's appointee, Eric Holder, would agree. Holder would certainly question the validity of his arrest without a warrant, and demand that he was read his rights, and given an attorney, before questioning.
You see, Holder thinks American rights apply to everyone regardless of where the live or where they were born. He thinks Miranda applies to acts of war against America weather by Americans or foreigners, and whether their assaults occur inside America or from abroad.
Now, it has been released that Holder has a financial stake in the law firm that would represent the terrorists that he brought from Gitmo to New York for trial. That seems to explain his motives.
.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
We Are The World - Part II
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Do you realize that it has been about 25 years since the song "We are the world" made its debut? Remember the assembly of the world's top singers to bring attention to the starving people of Africa? I seem to think it raised over 30 million dollars through private donations, and that amount then, was probably the equivalent of 30 billion in today's money. Quite an achievement. And, this will surprise most of you, but I contributed to the cause!
Now, recently it was announced that a new version of the song will soon be released to generate money for Haiti.
So, I have to ask, "Why?" Why are we doing this again? Africa has not changed one bit since the flood of money we sent. They are still starving. The are still killing one another. They are still stealing their neighbor's stuff, what ever that might be. Nigerian scams have earned untold millions more as they prey on American idiots greedy to get something for nothing. Pardon me, but if you are an idiot, or don't know what the Nigerian scam is, ask me.
And, they have killed many Americans, and plot every day to kill more through terrorism. I think our last Christmas Day want to be bomber packed his underwear full of explosives from inside Africa.
Now, you might say, "Well, this is for Haiti." But it's all the same. Haiti has been nothing but corrupt since I can remember, and I believe that will never change.
I think I'll just hum Peter, Paul, and Mary's song, "Where have all the flowers gone?" I'm not falling for this crap again.
.
Do you realize that it has been about 25 years since the song "We are the world" made its debut? Remember the assembly of the world's top singers to bring attention to the starving people of Africa? I seem to think it raised over 30 million dollars through private donations, and that amount then, was probably the equivalent of 30 billion in today's money. Quite an achievement. And, this will surprise most of you, but I contributed to the cause!
Now, recently it was announced that a new version of the song will soon be released to generate money for Haiti.
So, I have to ask, "Why?" Why are we doing this again? Africa has not changed one bit since the flood of money we sent. They are still starving. The are still killing one another. They are still stealing their neighbor's stuff, what ever that might be. Nigerian scams have earned untold millions more as they prey on American idiots greedy to get something for nothing. Pardon me, but if you are an idiot, or don't know what the Nigerian scam is, ask me.
And, they have killed many Americans, and plot every day to kill more through terrorism. I think our last Christmas Day want to be bomber packed his underwear full of explosives from inside Africa.
Now, you might say, "Well, this is for Haiti." But it's all the same. Haiti has been nothing but corrupt since I can remember, and I believe that will never change.
I think I'll just hum Peter, Paul, and Mary's song, "Where have all the flowers gone?" I'm not falling for this crap again.
.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Asking Why
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Well, we just finished dinner, but during the feast, the subject of "Why" came up. Now, I have to say that I brought up the particular subject matter, so I'll accept the blame for those of you that will call me a bigot just for asking the question.
During dinner, the local TV news reported that Haiti has had the highest unemployment rate (over 87%) of any country in the world for the last 47 years, which is just about the time the world began keep records.
So with that, I began to wonder why that was. And, why there is no country in this world that is predominately Black, that can lay claim to being prosperous. And, that led to asking the same question about American cities. Why are there none, that I can think of, that can attest to being a showcase in this nation?
To give an equal perspective, I considered what North America was 500 years ago, and what Africa was during the same time. Seems the two were very equal in prosperity, which was little to nothing. The only difference I see was that North America was settled by predominately White Europeans, while Africa was mostly Black.
The starting line was as equal as anyone could imagine. But, why is it that our nation excelled, while no Black nation could even begin to keep up? And, why is it that the same seems to hold true when comparing prosperity in American cities?
Now, certainly there are some very successful and brilliant Black individuals in this world. But, when compared to other races, not so many by percentages. However, there seems to be far more prominent Blacks in athletics, music, and theater.
So what gives? I'm sure there is an answer to my question, but is it taboo to discuss it? If it is, I guess I'll never know, because you will never say. So, I'll always wonder whether there is a genetic link somehow.
.
Well, we just finished dinner, but during the feast, the subject of "Why" came up. Now, I have to say that I brought up the particular subject matter, so I'll accept the blame for those of you that will call me a bigot just for asking the question.
During dinner, the local TV news reported that Haiti has had the highest unemployment rate (over 87%) of any country in the world for the last 47 years, which is just about the time the world began keep records.
So with that, I began to wonder why that was. And, why there is no country in this world that is predominately Black, that can lay claim to being prosperous. And, that led to asking the same question about American cities. Why are there none, that I can think of, that can attest to being a showcase in this nation?
To give an equal perspective, I considered what North America was 500 years ago, and what Africa was during the same time. Seems the two were very equal in prosperity, which was little to nothing. The only difference I see was that North America was settled by predominately White Europeans, while Africa was mostly Black.
The starting line was as equal as anyone could imagine. But, why is it that our nation excelled, while no Black nation could even begin to keep up? And, why is it that the same seems to hold true when comparing prosperity in American cities?
Now, certainly there are some very successful and brilliant Black individuals in this world. But, when compared to other races, not so many by percentages. However, there seems to be far more prominent Blacks in athletics, music, and theater.
So what gives? I'm sure there is an answer to my question, but is it taboo to discuss it? If it is, I guess I'll never know, because you will never say. So, I'll always wonder whether there is a genetic link somehow.
.
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