.
In Those Days, my family returned from Europe and settled at the base of the San Bernadino mountains of California, Zip 93550. It was 1967 then, and atop that mountain was a little known air defense installation where my father worked. We rented a house in the community of 8300 where I attended high school. Today, 93550 has a population well over 160k and has at least 3 public high schools.
In Those Days, there was corporal punishment in public schools. For those that were not around then, a teacher was authorized to discipline students with physical force without fear of going to prison. And, this is my story.
I feared Mr. M as did most everyone in the school. He taught Mechanical Drawing (a precursor to architect and engineering). He hung a wooden paddle on his desk which he used to beat (he called them swats) students into submission when they disobeyed. And those that got beat, then could autograph the paddle. I remembered him well, not so much for his attitude toward discipline, but for what he taught me.
Mr. M taught me the basics of blue printing and design, a skill which I use almost daily. Without any other training in the field, I designed, blue printed, and built my first room addition in 1978. From there, I designed a four-field Little League baseball complex that later became a public sports complex, and a multi-level home in the hills, various building projects at work, and the home I currently live in, including the Thought Dock itself. All from a single semester in Mr. M's class.
So, 43 years later, and 863 miles north of that 93550 town, I was having breakfast in Zip 97439, a small town of about 8500. I was with a group of church friends whom I knew little about. And during the "small talk," I overheard one man state that he once taught school. As it turned out, I realized it was Mr. M! For a brief period of his life, he lived and taught school, and the very (and only) class where I was beaten. How bizarre is that?
And to top things off, Mr. M kept his paddle as a trophy all these years. So, last night he brought the paddle to Bible Study to boast. And there it was. My name, etched among the list of the many others that paid his price.
Thanks Mr. M. Not for the beating, but for what you contributed to my life.
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Friday, April 23, 2010
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Use it.. Pay for it..
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I know that all of you know that I have been dwelling deeply about taxes these past few weeks. And, I know that all of you know that I think a bit differently than many of you. But, I can't help myself sometimes. Bear with me though this one and I'll slack off taxes for the next few days.
Government provides many different services. Some of those services are mandated by our Constitution. Things like national security and the courts to protect our freedoms. But, the vast majority of the things government does for us are not mandatory services.
Federal, state, county, and city governments all have emerged as America matured. And, as a result services such as social security, education, police and fire, roads, parks, welfare, and in some areas, rubbish collection, water, sewer and other services. All of these services are commonplace in America today, and are funded by the collection of taxes. And, that means every tax payer pays for those services whether they use them or not.
Now, I'm not advocating that we eliminate any of these services, but I am advocating that those that use the services, pay for them. And, I know that the idea will not be favored by many of you, especially if you are using the services frequently.
As an example, I would favor eliminating the portion of taxes collected to build and maintain our park system, and instead collect fees (usage fee) from the individuals that use the parks. Much like the our road system is funded through fuel taxes, which are paid for by the people that drive on the roads. If you don't drive, then you don't pay for the roads.
So, if your kids are in school, or you go to college, you pay for it, not me. And, if your house catches fire, or you get lost at sea or on Mount Hood, or you create a disturbance that causes the police to respond; you pay for those services. If you need an ambulance, you pay for it. If you build a house, pay those fees. And, if you swim in the city pool or library, you pay for it.
I use many of these services very often, and I'd rather pay for it when I use it, than pay for it in taxes even though I might never use the services. It is not my responsibility to contribute to your college education, the down payment on your car or home, or to foot the bill for your health care, unless I choose.
And, if my taxes are lowered, I might be more able and proud to give to those that need assistance. Just as I choose to share the Thought Dock with you.
.
I know that all of you know that I have been dwelling deeply about taxes these past few weeks. And, I know that all of you know that I think a bit differently than many of you. But, I can't help myself sometimes. Bear with me though this one and I'll slack off taxes for the next few days.
Government provides many different services. Some of those services are mandated by our Constitution. Things like national security and the courts to protect our freedoms. But, the vast majority of the things government does for us are not mandatory services.
Federal, state, county, and city governments all have emerged as America matured. And, as a result services such as social security, education, police and fire, roads, parks, welfare, and in some areas, rubbish collection, water, sewer and other services. All of these services are commonplace in America today, and are funded by the collection of taxes. And, that means every tax payer pays for those services whether they use them or not.
Now, I'm not advocating that we eliminate any of these services, but I am advocating that those that use the services, pay for them. And, I know that the idea will not be favored by many of you, especially if you are using the services frequently.
As an example, I would favor eliminating the portion of taxes collected to build and maintain our park system, and instead collect fees (usage fee) from the individuals that use the parks. Much like the our road system is funded through fuel taxes, which are paid for by the people that drive on the roads. If you don't drive, then you don't pay for the roads.
So, if your kids are in school, or you go to college, you pay for it, not me. And, if your house catches fire, or you get lost at sea or on Mount Hood, or you create a disturbance that causes the police to respond; you pay for those services. If you need an ambulance, you pay for it. If you build a house, pay those fees. And, if you swim in the city pool or library, you pay for it.
I use many of these services very often, and I'd rather pay for it when I use it, than pay for it in taxes even though I might never use the services. It is not my responsibility to contribute to your college education, the down payment on your car or home, or to foot the bill for your health care, unless I choose.
And, if my taxes are lowered, I might be more able and proud to give to those that need assistance. Just as I choose to share the Thought Dock with you.
.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Word of the day: Dhimmitude
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Dhimmituse. You must be asking, "What's that? I've never heard of it. It's certainly not English." Well, you had better learn. Look it up, if you want. But, I'd rather tell you what it is myself because it reflects the attitude of this blog.
Dhimmitude: Dhimmitude is the Muslim system of controlling Non-muslim populations conquered through Jihad. Specifically, it is the taxing of Non-muslims in exchange for tolerating their presence, and as a coercive means of converting conquered remnants to Islam.
ObamaCare is the establishment of Dhimmitude and Sharia Muslim doctrine in the United States . Muslims are specifically exempted from the government mandate to purchase insurance, and also from the penalties for being uninsured. Muslims are protected because Islam considers insurance to be "gambling" and thus, banned.
So Non-muslims will get IRS fines, liens, or potentially imprisoned, should they refuse to buy insurance. Meanwhile, Muslims will have no such penalties and will have their healthcare provided by the government insurance for free. Non-muslims will pay for the Muslim healthcare through taxation. That is Dhimmitude.
Dhimmitude serves two purposes: It enriches the Muslim masters, and serves to convert people to Islam by convincing both Christians and the Godless to jump aboard Islam to get the free healthcare, which many will do.
Remember that word. You'll see it used more and more unless the Halfblack Mac redacts it from use just as he did with the term "Islamic Extremists".
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Dhimmituse. You must be asking, "What's that? I've never heard of it. It's certainly not English." Well, you had better learn. Look it up, if you want. But, I'd rather tell you what it is myself because it reflects the attitude of this blog.
Dhimmitude: Dhimmitude is the Muslim system of controlling Non-muslim populations conquered through Jihad. Specifically, it is the taxing of Non-muslims in exchange for tolerating their presence, and as a coercive means of converting conquered remnants to Islam.
ObamaCare is the establishment of Dhimmitude and Sharia Muslim doctrine in the United States . Muslims are specifically exempted from the government mandate to purchase insurance, and also from the penalties for being uninsured. Muslims are protected because Islam considers insurance to be "gambling" and thus, banned.
So Non-muslims will get IRS fines, liens, or potentially imprisoned, should they refuse to buy insurance. Meanwhile, Muslims will have no such penalties and will have their healthcare provided by the government insurance for free. Non-muslims will pay for the Muslim healthcare through taxation. That is Dhimmitude.
Dhimmitude serves two purposes: It enriches the Muslim masters, and serves to convert people to Islam by convincing both Christians and the Godless to jump aboard Islam to get the free healthcare, which many will do.
Remember that word. You'll see it used more and more unless the Halfblack Mac redacts it from use just as he did with the term "Islamic Extremists".
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Monday, April 19, 2010
I am a Taxpayer
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A taxpayer is one that works or has income sufficient enough to pay taxes in America. That's me! The odds are that it is not you.
I saw a news video the other day about a Tea Party rally somewhere in America. One activist carried a sign saying, "I am the taxpayer." Now, who was he trying to impress?
There was a day in America that being a taxpayer meant something because you would be part of the majority of Americans. Not so any more according to the Treasury Department's own report. If you pay federal taxes in America you are not in the majority, and you have no credible clout in American politics.
The American taxpayer did not elect the Halfwhite Mac Daddy and his friends. Why would they, unless they were stupid and fell into his "Change" campaign? And, if they did they are or soon will, see the light.
The strength in numbers are with the ones who don't pay federal taxes. And that's 53%, meaning most Americans. So most Americans will be able to get their way in America, and that means taxing the taxpayers even more to support "their" ways. Their ways are not to work, not to pay taxes and to get the most amount of freebies they can. Ever wonder why ACORN spent so much time recruiting voters from the likes of those that don't work? It's because the "takers" will overwhelmingly support their socialistic views.
More and more Americans are actually refusing, or no longer have a desire to work, but are content with what they can get for free from the government. And the water beneath the Thought Dock is being drained.
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A taxpayer is one that works or has income sufficient enough to pay taxes in America. That's me! The odds are that it is not you.
I saw a news video the other day about a Tea Party rally somewhere in America. One activist carried a sign saying, "I am the taxpayer." Now, who was he trying to impress?
There was a day in America that being a taxpayer meant something because you would be part of the majority of Americans. Not so any more according to the Treasury Department's own report. If you pay federal taxes in America you are not in the majority, and you have no credible clout in American politics.
The American taxpayer did not elect the Halfwhite Mac Daddy and his friends. Why would they, unless they were stupid and fell into his "Change" campaign? And, if they did they are or soon will, see the light.
The strength in numbers are with the ones who don't pay federal taxes. And that's 53%, meaning most Americans. So most Americans will be able to get their way in America, and that means taxing the taxpayers even more to support "their" ways. Their ways are not to work, not to pay taxes and to get the most amount of freebies they can. Ever wonder why ACORN spent so much time recruiting voters from the likes of those that don't work? It's because the "takers" will overwhelmingly support their socialistic views.
More and more Americans are actually refusing, or no longer have a desire to work, but are content with what they can get for free from the government. And the water beneath the Thought Dock is being drained.
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Saturday, April 17, 2010
Screaming thoughts
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Recently I was reading a blog where the author was complaining about working very hard to eliminate debt and reduce spending only to learn that his/her tax liability was greater than it ever had been in the past.
Someone left a simple, but honest comment on the blog stating the he/she was unable to share sympathy with the author because they received nearly 9k in tax refund.
Now, I suspect that to obtain a refund so large the commenter probably was eligible for some government stimulus offerings (freebie) and may have bought a new car or a home. Don't get me wrong, I, not attacking the commenter because he/she was only taking from what the government (we) offered.
But it just goes to sledge hammer home my points in previous posts. That "Nothing is for free." Some of us (but growing fewer by the day) have to pay for those freebies. "No one" (and growing more by the day) can resist accepting something that is free to them. That's a given. But, for those that are paying the taxes, get nothing for free, and it is not fun.
So, as the numbers of those getting the freebies grow, the more they will overwhelm the minority and demand more from those that have more. That's socialism. Unless this country changes course quickly, it will implode upon itself. America can not sustain this ideology.
I am not "Speaking Words of Wisdom" and we should not just "Let it Be." I am though, screaming my Thoughts from the Dock.
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Recently I was reading a blog where the author was complaining about working very hard to eliminate debt and reduce spending only to learn that his/her tax liability was greater than it ever had been in the past.
Someone left a simple, but honest comment on the blog stating the he/she was unable to share sympathy with the author because they received nearly 9k in tax refund.
Now, I suspect that to obtain a refund so large the commenter probably was eligible for some government stimulus offerings (freebie) and may have bought a new car or a home. Don't get me wrong, I, not attacking the commenter because he/she was only taking from what the government (we) offered.
But it just goes to sledge hammer home my points in previous posts. That "Nothing is for free." Some of us (but growing fewer by the day) have to pay for those freebies. "No one" (and growing more by the day) can resist accepting something that is free to them. That's a given. But, for those that are paying the taxes, get nothing for free, and it is not fun.
So, as the numbers of those getting the freebies grow, the more they will overwhelm the minority and demand more from those that have more. That's socialism. Unless this country changes course quickly, it will implode upon itself. America can not sustain this ideology.
I am not "Speaking Words of Wisdom" and we should not just "Let it Be." I am though, screaming my Thoughts from the Dock.
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Thursday, April 15, 2010
Tax Day
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Do you know Jesse James? No, not the cowboy that robbed the rich to support himself, but the owner of American Choppers, and the estranged husband of the socialist Sandra Bullock. You know, the guy that blindsided her by porking as many women as he could while she was filming Blindside. Kinda like an all White Tiger Woods, if your know what I mean. A wolf disguised as something else just waiting for his prey.
Well, as much as I admire Harley Davidson custom motorcycles, I despise Jesse. Although having suffered 3 divorces, one to a porn queen that served prison time for tax evasion, and a convicted felon himself, and a once Hell's Angel (if that's even possible), he builds a bike nasty enough to ride Sandra itself.
So, tattooed on the palm of his left hand is printed "PAY UP." So, as he extends his open hand toward someone owing him, they are sure to get the message. Maybe it dates back to his Hell's Angel days, but more likely it came during his American Chopper television show when he built a bike for a wealthy client and with held the delivery trying to collect 370k for the bike. If I remember right, a court ruled against him forcing him to release it for under 100 grand.
Well anyway, I often have flashbacks of his extended palm, but as I dream on, I see the blue shirt sleeve leading to Uncle Sam tapping his cane at me. "Pay up," he demands! "Help your brudda out."
Then scared into consciousness, I awake from the nightmare in a sweat. Although Sandra was not dreaming when Jesse raped her innocence, I feel her pain. And just as real, Sam is raping me though taxes.
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Do you know Jesse James? No, not the cowboy that robbed the rich to support himself, but the owner of American Choppers, and the estranged husband of the socialist Sandra Bullock. You know, the guy that blindsided her by porking as many women as he could while she was filming Blindside. Kinda like an all White Tiger Woods, if your know what I mean. A wolf disguised as something else just waiting for his prey.
Well, as much as I admire Harley Davidson custom motorcycles, I despise Jesse. Although having suffered 3 divorces, one to a porn queen that served prison time for tax evasion, and a convicted felon himself, and a once Hell's Angel (if that's even possible), he builds a bike nasty enough to ride Sandra itself.
So, tattooed on the palm of his left hand is printed "PAY UP." So, as he extends his open hand toward someone owing him, they are sure to get the message. Maybe it dates back to his Hell's Angel days, but more likely it came during his American Chopper television show when he built a bike for a wealthy client and with held the delivery trying to collect 370k for the bike. If I remember right, a court ruled against him forcing him to release it for under 100 grand.
Well anyway, I often have flashbacks of his extended palm, but as I dream on, I see the blue shirt sleeve leading to Uncle Sam tapping his cane at me. "Pay up," he demands! "Help your brudda out."
Then scared into consciousness, I awake from the nightmare in a sweat. Although Sandra was not dreaming when Jesse raped her innocence, I feel her pain. And just as real, Sam is raping me though taxes.
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Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Even
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Even a Lion knows his enemies. But the mighty Half-black Mac does not believe America is at war.
Even a Jihadist knows he is an Islamic extremist. But the radical Half-white Mac removed refuses to call them so.
Even the King of Saudi Arabia extended his hand for a shake. But the Long Legged Mac Daddy bowed before him.
Even all Americans know we have Constitutional Rights in this country. But the Half-black Mac extends our rights to terrorists captured outside our borders, by soldiers of another country.
Even Christians know that fundamentally Islam hates them. But Obama welcomes Muslims.
Even though our President promised Americans no tax increases, he will.
Even a blind man knows when he is walking in sunshine. But Obama lurks in the shadows.
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Even...
Even a Lion knows his enemies. But the mighty Half-black Mac does not believe America is at war.
Even a Jihadist knows he is an Islamic extremist. But the radical Half-white Mac removed refuses to call them so.
Even the King of Saudi Arabia extended his hand for a shake. But the Long Legged Mac Daddy bowed before him.
Even all Americans know we have Constitutional Rights in this country. But the Half-black Mac extends our rights to terrorists captured outside our borders, by soldiers of another country.
Even Christians know that fundamentally Islam hates them. But Obama welcomes Muslims.
Even though our President promised Americans no tax increases, he will.
Even a blind man knows when he is walking in sunshine. But Obama lurks in the shadows.
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Even...
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Pass the gravy.
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Ever wonder how your Federal Tax dollars are spent?
Washington will spend $31,406 per household this year, but it will only collect $18,276 per household in taxes. The remaining $13,130 represents this year's deficit.
Here is the breakdown of the 31k that each household will get as recently published by the tax guys themselves:
Social Security/Medicare: $9,949. Trouble is - Those households with Social Security or Medicare usually don't pay taxes.
Defense: $6,071. Covers everything from military paychecks, the various wars, and development of new technologies and equipment.
Antipoverty programs: $5,466. Subsidies to State Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, food stamps, housing subsidies, child-care subsidies, Supplemental Security Income and low-income tax credits. It has grown an additional 32 percent since the end of 2008 under the Half-whit Mac Daddy. Trouble is that those households that take this give a way, don't pay taxes.
Unemployment benefits: $1,640. Unemployment costs have surged by 411 percent during the recession. Trouble is those on unemployment don't pay taxes.
Interest on the federal debt: $1,585. The federal government is $13 trillion in debt. The national debt is set to double by 2020.
Veterans' benefits: $1,052. These guys deserve it!
Federal employee retirement benefits: $1,018. A big chunk of this goes to Senators and Congressmen after only serving a single 4 year term!
Education: $914. Most federal dollars are spent on low-income school districts, special education and college student financial aid. Trouble is that those those that get this don't pay taxes.
Highways/mass transit: $613. Funded mostly from the 18.4 cent per-gallon federal gas tax. Washington subtracts an administrative cost and sends this money back to the states with numerous strings attached.
Health research/regulation: $550. This category also includes the FDA, grants programs for health providers, and research to determine whether soda pop is unhealkthy and should be taxed.
Mortgage Credit: $470. This category includes the first time home buyer's program, refinancing for troubled home owners, and the clunker program. Trouble is that most of those that qualify for these credit don't usually pay taxes.
So who actually pays taxes around here? Well, I do! Now I'm not at odds with helping a brother out, but do they really need gravy on the potatoes that I buy for them?
.
Ever wonder how your Federal Tax dollars are spent?
Washington will spend $31,406 per household this year, but it will only collect $18,276 per household in taxes. The remaining $13,130 represents this year's deficit.
Here is the breakdown of the 31k that each household will get as recently published by the tax guys themselves:
Social Security/Medicare: $9,949. Trouble is - Those households with Social Security or Medicare usually don't pay taxes.
Defense: $6,071. Covers everything from military paychecks, the various wars, and development of new technologies and equipment.
Antipoverty programs: $5,466. Subsidies to State Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, food stamps, housing subsidies, child-care subsidies, Supplemental Security Income and low-income tax credits. It has grown an additional 32 percent since the end of 2008 under the Half-whit Mac Daddy. Trouble is that those households that take this give a way, don't pay taxes.
Unemployment benefits: $1,640. Unemployment costs have surged by 411 percent during the recession. Trouble is those on unemployment don't pay taxes.
Interest on the federal debt: $1,585. The federal government is $13 trillion in debt. The national debt is set to double by 2020.
Veterans' benefits: $1,052. These guys deserve it!
Federal employee retirement benefits: $1,018. A big chunk of this goes to Senators and Congressmen after only serving a single 4 year term!
Education: $914. Most federal dollars are spent on low-income school districts, special education and college student financial aid. Trouble is that those those that get this don't pay taxes.
Highways/mass transit: $613. Funded mostly from the 18.4 cent per-gallon federal gas tax. Washington subtracts an administrative cost and sends this money back to the states with numerous strings attached.
Health research/regulation: $550. This category also includes the FDA, grants programs for health providers, and research to determine whether soda pop is unhealkthy and should be taxed.
Mortgage Credit: $470. This category includes the first time home buyer's program, refinancing for troubled home owners, and the clunker program. Trouble is that most of those that qualify for these credit don't usually pay taxes.
So who actually pays taxes around here? Well, I do! Now I'm not at odds with helping a brother out, but do they really need gravy on the potatoes that I buy for them?
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Sunday, April 11, 2010
Wagons Ho!!!
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Often, I post about Those Days. And by that, I'm recalling from my memory what my life was about then. And Those Days, for me is quite likely different from what your memories are. Different.... Separated by time, location, culture, and Faith.
I love to talk about Those Days and really like to hear about the days of others, particularly of elders. So much so, that sometimes when I had free time as a cop, I would stop by the local convalescent hospital and chat with those whose lives were nearing maturity. They were usually lonely, and some welcomed most anyone for a visit and chat. Their stories were fascinating, but most of the time I couldn't really comprehend what it would be like to live them.
Recently, I visited with a lady probably 40 years my elder. Sharp, witty, and with an incredible memory. Now, I've heard stories about wars and dust storms, the depression and hard times, one-room schoolhouses and plowing fields, and prisoners of Nazi Death Camps. But this gal, told an amazing story that I had never, ever heard.
She told a story of her first hand experience in a covered wagon. If I understood correctly, her family obtained a homestead "out west." Unable to afford to travel by locomotive or automobile, her grandfather obtained transportation by wagon train. And during that travel, a portion of the wagon train was attacked and massacred by the Indians!
Our time was short, but I'm sure I'll hear another. Maybe on Sumday Soon.
.
Often, I post about Those Days. And by that, I'm recalling from my memory what my life was about then. And Those Days, for me is quite likely different from what your memories are. Different.... Separated by time, location, culture, and Faith.
I love to talk about Those Days and really like to hear about the days of others, particularly of elders. So much so, that sometimes when I had free time as a cop, I would stop by the local convalescent hospital and chat with those whose lives were nearing maturity. They were usually lonely, and some welcomed most anyone for a visit and chat. Their stories were fascinating, but most of the time I couldn't really comprehend what it would be like to live them.
Recently, I visited with a lady probably 40 years my elder. Sharp, witty, and with an incredible memory. Now, I've heard stories about wars and dust storms, the depression and hard times, one-room schoolhouses and plowing fields, and prisoners of Nazi Death Camps. But this gal, told an amazing story that I had never, ever heard.
She told a story of her first hand experience in a covered wagon. If I understood correctly, her family obtained a homestead "out west." Unable to afford to travel by locomotive or automobile, her grandfather obtained transportation by wagon train. And during that travel, a portion of the wagon train was attacked and massacred by the Indians!
Our time was short, but I'm sure I'll hear another. Maybe on Sumday Soon.
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Saturday, April 10, 2010
A proud American speaks
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This statement was written by Walt Turske, Cleveland, Ohio. I thought I'd share it with you as it supports my views (and hopefully yours).
I Am the Liberal-Progressive's Worst Nightmare. I am an American.
I am a Master Mason and believe in God. I ride Harley Davidson Motorcycles, and believe in American products. I believe the money I make belongs to me and my family, not some liberal governmental functionary, Democratic or Republican!
I'm in touch with my feelings and I like it that way!
I think owning a gun doesn't make you a killer; it makes you a smart American.
I think being a minority does not make you noble or victimized, and does not entitle you to anything. Get over it!
I believe that if you are selling me a Big Mac, you should do it in English.
I believe everyone has a right to pray to his or her God when and where they want to.
My heroes are John Wayne, Babe Ruth, Roy Rogers, and Willie G. Davidson, who makes the awesome Harley Davidson Motorcycles. I don't hate the rich.. I don't pity the poor.
I know wrestling is fake and I don't waste my time watching or arguing about it.
I've never owned a slave, or was a slave. I haven't burned any witches or been persecuted by the Turks, and neither have you! So, shut up already.
I believe if you don't like the way things are here, go back to where you came from and change your own country!
This is AMERICA ..I like it the way it is! If you were born here and don't like it you are free to move to any Socialist country that will have you.
I want to know which church is it, exactly, where the Reverend Jesse Jackson preaches, where he gets his money, and why he is always part of the problem and not the solution. Can I get an AMEN on that one?
I also think the cops have the right to pull you over if you're breaking the law, regardless of what color you are. And, no, I don't mind having my face shown on my driver's license. I think it's good.... And I'm proud that 'God' is written on my money.
I think if you are too stupid to know how a ballot works, I don't want you deciding who should be running the most powerful nation in the world for the next four years.
I dislike those people standing in the intersections trying to sell me stuff or trying to guilt me into making 'donations' to their cause.......Get a Job and do your part!
I believe that it doesn't take a village to raise a child, it takes two parents..
I believe 'illegal' is illegal no matter what the lawyers think.
I believe the American flag should be the only one allowed in AMERICA ! I want our country back! I want God back in our country! We live in the Land of the Free only because of the Brave.
This statement was written by Walt Turske, Cleveland, Ohio. I thought I'd share it with you as it supports my views (and hopefully yours).
I Am the Liberal-Progressive's Worst Nightmare. I am an American.
I am a Master Mason and believe in God. I ride Harley Davidson Motorcycles, and believe in American products. I believe the money I make belongs to me and my family, not some liberal governmental functionary, Democratic or Republican!
I'm in touch with my feelings and I like it that way!
I think owning a gun doesn't make you a killer; it makes you a smart American.
I think being a minority does not make you noble or victimized, and does not entitle you to anything. Get over it!
I believe that if you are selling me a Big Mac, you should do it in English.
I believe everyone has a right to pray to his or her God when and where they want to.
My heroes are John Wayne, Babe Ruth, Roy Rogers, and Willie G. Davidson, who makes the awesome Harley Davidson Motorcycles. I don't hate the rich.. I don't pity the poor.
I know wrestling is fake and I don't waste my time watching or arguing about it.
I've never owned a slave, or was a slave. I haven't burned any witches or been persecuted by the Turks, and neither have you! So, shut up already.
I believe if you don't like the way things are here, go back to where you came from and change your own country!
This is AMERICA ..I like it the way it is! If you were born here and don't like it you are free to move to any Socialist country that will have you.
I want to know which church is it, exactly, where the Reverend Jesse Jackson preaches, where he gets his money, and why he is always part of the problem and not the solution. Can I get an AMEN on that one?
I also think the cops have the right to pull you over if you're breaking the law, regardless of what color you are. And, no, I don't mind having my face shown on my driver's license. I think it's good.... And I'm proud that 'God' is written on my money.
I think if you are too stupid to know how a ballot works, I don't want you deciding who should be running the most powerful nation in the world for the next four years.
I dislike those people standing in the intersections trying to sell me stuff or trying to guilt me into making 'donations' to their cause.......Get a Job and do your part!
I believe that it doesn't take a village to raise a child, it takes two parents..
I believe 'illegal' is illegal no matter what the lawyers think.
I believe the American flag should be the only one allowed in AMERICA ! I want our country back! I want God back in our country! We live in the Land of the Free only because of the Brave.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Having the Numbers
.
I'm sure that at one time or another most of you have watched "Survivor." If not, the jist of the show is that a group of people compete against one another in various ways to avoid elimination, which is determined by a vote of their peers.
At first thought, one might say that the winner would come from the person that did the completions the best. But, we all have learned that is not true. The winner comes from the player that has obtained the "Numbers." That is carrying the vote of their peers.
So, to get the numbers, contestants need to win the vote of their peers, and most will do just about anything to do it. They do it by deception, sex or flirtation, making promises they know they will never keep, lying, cheating, or stealing. Whatever it takes to get the numbers, and ultimately get what they wanted. See a parody?
So, such is with most any leader. Few actually earn their way into the position. Most will do anything, promise anything, lie, cheat, steal, or use sex and scandals to get the numbers, which gets them there. And, once they are their they will do most anything to keep their position.
While one can see these tactics used in many different ways, from rising through the ranks at work, to being the captain of a sports team, it is politics that bothers me the most.
And, that is precisely what Halfblack Mac did. He fooled, lied, cheated, or somehow convinced most of you to vote for him. Trouble is, what now?
As with most who come to power in this fashion, they have ways to retain it. And, as they feel the pressure when their followers begin to fade, they employ ever increasing methods of oppression and keep their position. From the Biblical times to more recent examples like Castro, Hitler, Chavez, Hussein, the Iranian, North Korean, Russian, and Chinese leaders, they have all done it the same way.
Halfblack Mac is building the walls, surrounding himself with those that will serve him, and building his defense when the days come that most of you wake up. But, will it be too late by then?
.
I'm sure that at one time or another most of you have watched "Survivor." If not, the jist of the show is that a group of people compete against one another in various ways to avoid elimination, which is determined by a vote of their peers.
At first thought, one might say that the winner would come from the person that did the completions the best. But, we all have learned that is not true. The winner comes from the player that has obtained the "Numbers." That is carrying the vote of their peers.
So, to get the numbers, contestants need to win the vote of their peers, and most will do just about anything to do it. They do it by deception, sex or flirtation, making promises they know they will never keep, lying, cheating, or stealing. Whatever it takes to get the numbers, and ultimately get what they wanted. See a parody?
So, such is with most any leader. Few actually earn their way into the position. Most will do anything, promise anything, lie, cheat, steal, or use sex and scandals to get the numbers, which gets them there. And, once they are their they will do most anything to keep their position.
While one can see these tactics used in many different ways, from rising through the ranks at work, to being the captain of a sports team, it is politics that bothers me the most.
And, that is precisely what Halfblack Mac did. He fooled, lied, cheated, or somehow convinced most of you to vote for him. Trouble is, what now?
As with most who come to power in this fashion, they have ways to retain it. And, as they feel the pressure when their followers begin to fade, they employ ever increasing methods of oppression and keep their position. From the Biblical times to more recent examples like Castro, Hitler, Chavez, Hussein, the Iranian, North Korean, Russian, and Chinese leaders, they have all done it the same way.
Halfblack Mac is building the walls, surrounding himself with those that will serve him, and building his defense when the days come that most of you wake up. But, will it be too late by then?
.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Views
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We all have views. No, I'm not talking about the scenic views from the Thought Dock, but how we see the world. Now, that's confusing too. Not how we see the world (through binoculars or from space), but how we view what we see. I give up! Let me explain.
One person's view of something is quite likely different that that of another person viewing exactly the same thing. Like looking at something through the eyes of a slave's descendant, or as a woman, or from a devoted religious affiliation (or lack thereof), or from one's ancestry. And, we all have view, and our views are influenced by these kinds of factors whether we admit them or not. And, sometimes we don't even realize it.
JFK saw things though the eyes of a devout Catholic and as did Jimmy Carter, who showed great concern for equality. Mitt Romney couldn't gain his party's endorsement for President because he was a Mormon. Hillary Clinton was heavily supported by flocks of females. The wealthy Bush's were carried by fellow business tycoons. And certainly the Halfblack Mac Daddy had his following as evidenced by who he placed into his cabinet.
For me, I align my self as a White (although Italian) male, of Protestant faith, from a military family who worked hard to achieve my upper middle class designation, having a law enforcement background, and with no significant education. So, my views are usually quite conservative and patriotic.
You know, it's important to know what drives your views, and what drive the views of others. To do so, is to better understand why certain things occur. But, even if you don't realize it, our views are often driven solely by these things. And, it is normal to align ourselves to people that share our views, yet we are all taught to be open, unbiased, and tolerant of other person's views.
But can we? Not me! Referencing various Biblical recordings saying in essence, "If you are not with me, then you are against me" is my philosophy. Seems I heard the previous President say that too. And that is problematic to some because they think that attitude is bias. Perhaps it is. But I can not support anyone that I believe is against me. They are my enemy and I don't trust them. I try to align myself with as many people that think like me, because they are my friends. Well, I still listen to those with opposing views, but I won't let them be as close to me like my real friends are.
Anyway, please take the poll to the left. And, be honest (at least in your eyes).
.
We all have views. No, I'm not talking about the scenic views from the Thought Dock, but how we see the world. Now, that's confusing too. Not how we see the world (through binoculars or from space), but how we view what we see. I give up! Let me explain.
One person's view of something is quite likely different that that of another person viewing exactly the same thing. Like looking at something through the eyes of a slave's descendant, or as a woman, or from a devoted religious affiliation (or lack thereof), or from one's ancestry. And, we all have view, and our views are influenced by these kinds of factors whether we admit them or not. And, sometimes we don't even realize it.
JFK saw things though the eyes of a devout Catholic and as did Jimmy Carter, who showed great concern for equality. Mitt Romney couldn't gain his party's endorsement for President because he was a Mormon. Hillary Clinton was heavily supported by flocks of females. The wealthy Bush's were carried by fellow business tycoons. And certainly the Halfblack Mac Daddy had his following as evidenced by who he placed into his cabinet.
For me, I align my self as a White (although Italian) male, of Protestant faith, from a military family who worked hard to achieve my upper middle class designation, having a law enforcement background, and with no significant education. So, my views are usually quite conservative and patriotic.
You know, it's important to know what drives your views, and what drive the views of others. To do so, is to better understand why certain things occur. But, even if you don't realize it, our views are often driven solely by these things. And, it is normal to align ourselves to people that share our views, yet we are all taught to be open, unbiased, and tolerant of other person's views.
But can we? Not me! Referencing various Biblical recordings saying in essence, "If you are not with me, then you are against me" is my philosophy. Seems I heard the previous President say that too. And that is problematic to some because they think that attitude is bias. Perhaps it is. But I can not support anyone that I believe is against me. They are my enemy and I don't trust them. I try to align myself with as many people that think like me, because they are my friends. Well, I still listen to those with opposing views, but I won't let them be as close to me like my real friends are.
Anyway, please take the poll to the left. And, be honest (at least in your eyes).
.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Now look what he did!
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When will this stop? Doesn't he get it? Or, does he get it and does exactly what he wants to destroy this country?
I'm talking about the Long Legged Mac Daddy.
Just a few days ago I watched a news story about the Space Shuttle program ending in the fall of this year. Just 3 more flight and it's done. All good things must come to an end, but I thought the leader would replace the Shuttle good thing with something even better.
But the report stated that was not the case. It seems temporarily, America will bum rides into space from the Russians, at a cost the Russians will determine. First, I thought what does "temporary" mean in this case. But the report went on to say that America will encourage private companies to test and develop transportation into space, which NASA will then buy rides from them. Well, I'm sure private companies can surely figure out how to get the job done, perhaps even better than NASA.
Here is the scary thing. Do you realize the difference between transporting an astronaut into space, and rocketing a nuclear war head toward anywhere in the world, including right back here? There is none! So, how does a country prevent a rogue private business from holding us hostage because they now have the means to deliver a nuke? They could even sell that technology to another person, group, or country. This is frightening to me. Am I the only one?
Now, within the last hour, the news reported that Halfblack Mac, has just release for publication, this nation's nuclear defense plan. It's all on the table for anyone to read. It states clearly just who we would use our nuke force against, and under what circumstances! That is nuts!
Remember how many games the Colts won before it was discovered that they essentially had the play books of their opponents? Now everyone has Americas's playbook!
I'm beginning to think that America can not endure the Mac Daddy, even for the rest of his term.
.
When will this stop? Doesn't he get it? Or, does he get it and does exactly what he wants to destroy this country?
I'm talking about the Long Legged Mac Daddy.
Just a few days ago I watched a news story about the Space Shuttle program ending in the fall of this year. Just 3 more flight and it's done. All good things must come to an end, but I thought the leader would replace the Shuttle good thing with something even better.
But the report stated that was not the case. It seems temporarily, America will bum rides into space from the Russians, at a cost the Russians will determine. First, I thought what does "temporary" mean in this case. But the report went on to say that America will encourage private companies to test and develop transportation into space, which NASA will then buy rides from them. Well, I'm sure private companies can surely figure out how to get the job done, perhaps even better than NASA.
Here is the scary thing. Do you realize the difference between transporting an astronaut into space, and rocketing a nuclear war head toward anywhere in the world, including right back here? There is none! So, how does a country prevent a rogue private business from holding us hostage because they now have the means to deliver a nuke? They could even sell that technology to another person, group, or country. This is frightening to me. Am I the only one?
Now, within the last hour, the news reported that Halfblack Mac, has just release for publication, this nation's nuclear defense plan. It's all on the table for anyone to read. It states clearly just who we would use our nuke force against, and under what circumstances! That is nuts!
Remember how many games the Colts won before it was discovered that they essentially had the play books of their opponents? Now everyone has Americas's playbook!
I'm beginning to think that America can not endure the Mac Daddy, even for the rest of his term.
.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Lollipops and Empties
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Have you ever found a $20 bill in your pants pocket or at the bottom of your purse that you didn't know was there? Ever placed a quarter bet in that Keno machine only to win the $400 jackpot? Ever stood at the plate when you got that one right down the middle? Or just found something that was just too good to be true?
These are things that I call Lollipops. Everyone likes Lollipops and everyone has come across them many times during their life. It's very easy to be aboard the Good Ship Lollipop.
But, I'm sure you have all experienced the opposite a time or two. Realized that you left your money home and couldn't pay for your purchase? The feeling that you are down to your last few quarters and haven't hit anything yet? Remember the time your car was out of gas? Or stooped to pick up that sea shell only to find that it was broken. Or took that 3rd strike? Those are things that I call "Empties." And, Empties suck. Well, most of the time....
Well, I must tell you that the greatest Lollipop that one could imagine, came as a result of an Empty. You see, that Lollipop came from an empty tomb. For me (and I hope for you too), the Resurrection of Jesus from that grave was the greatest gift ever.
Happy Easter!
.
Have you ever found a $20 bill in your pants pocket or at the bottom of your purse that you didn't know was there? Ever placed a quarter bet in that Keno machine only to win the $400 jackpot? Ever stood at the plate when you got that one right down the middle? Or just found something that was just too good to be true?
These are things that I call Lollipops. Everyone likes Lollipops and everyone has come across them many times during their life. It's very easy to be aboard the Good Ship Lollipop.
But, I'm sure you have all experienced the opposite a time or two. Realized that you left your money home and couldn't pay for your purchase? The feeling that you are down to your last few quarters and haven't hit anything yet? Remember the time your car was out of gas? Or stooped to pick up that sea shell only to find that it was broken. Or took that 3rd strike? Those are things that I call "Empties." And, Empties suck. Well, most of the time....
Well, I must tell you that the greatest Lollipop that one could imagine, came as a result of an Empty. You see, that Lollipop came from an empty tomb. For me (and I hope for you too), the Resurrection of Jesus from that grave was the greatest gift ever.
Happy Easter!
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Friday, April 2, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Love your Neighbors?
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We don't really have a neighbor here, and I can't say that I miss not having one either. Aside from the sound of occasional chainsaw or a passing kayak on the Lake, it is really quite quiet and peaceful. And, I like it like that!
In Those Days, we usually lived in a neighborhood with neighbors. But, had it not been forced by my children playing with their children, I likely would have had little to do with any of them. There were, of course, a few exceptions and some day I'll write about them. But not today!
One Sunday morning (circa 1980) I was lying on the couch trying to watch a football game while the rest of my family went to church (that's the way it was....then). Well anyway, it was not long before I heard a lawnmower start. Nothing unusual during winter in SoCal. But what was odd, was that my neighbor had never moved his grass himself ever before, because this guy was just plain geeky.
It wasn't long before I heard the "sound." A sound I knew because I had even caused that very same sound a time or two myself. It was the sound of a mower blade chewing up a sprinkler head so hard that it kills the motor. And since the neighbor did not have any sprinkler heads of his own, I knew it was mine.
Not wanting to deal with the issue at hand, I just laid there covering my forehead and listening to the game. I could visualize what he was doing. You know, turning the mower on it's side and looking under to see just what happened. And, I really though he was trying to raise the blade height. Wrong.
I guess about 15 minutes passed before I heard that mower restart. I was really surprised at that. But within seconds this time, I heard the exact same noise again. Holy crap! Was this guy going to destroy every one of the sprinklers that I just installed a few weeks before? I couldn't let the idiot do that, so I jumped from the couch and ran outside.
There he was. Proud as heck of his brand new lawnmower. So he says, "I'm sorry, but I think I just hit a couple of your sprinklers." Now, how did he figure that out?
First I asked why he was mowing my lawn (the part between his property and my driveway), and he said he just thought that was the neighborly thing to do. I told him that I could understand hitting the first one, but asked why did he continue along the same path to hit the very next one. He said that he thought if he pushed the machine faster he could pass over it before the blade could catch the sprinkler.
I just went back inside without saying a word and returned to the game. I guess I should have gone to church like I was supposed to do.
You know, I never saw him mow his lawn again!
.
We don't really have a neighbor here, and I can't say that I miss not having one either. Aside from the sound of occasional chainsaw or a passing kayak on the Lake, it is really quite quiet and peaceful. And, I like it like that!
In Those Days, we usually lived in a neighborhood with neighbors. But, had it not been forced by my children playing with their children, I likely would have had little to do with any of them. There were, of course, a few exceptions and some day I'll write about them. But not today!
One Sunday morning (circa 1980) I was lying on the couch trying to watch a football game while the rest of my family went to church (that's the way it was....then). Well anyway, it was not long before I heard a lawnmower start. Nothing unusual during winter in SoCal. But what was odd, was that my neighbor had never moved his grass himself ever before, because this guy was just plain geeky.
It wasn't long before I heard the "sound." A sound I knew because I had even caused that very same sound a time or two myself. It was the sound of a mower blade chewing up a sprinkler head so hard that it kills the motor. And since the neighbor did not have any sprinkler heads of his own, I knew it was mine.
Not wanting to deal with the issue at hand, I just laid there covering my forehead and listening to the game. I could visualize what he was doing. You know, turning the mower on it's side and looking under to see just what happened. And, I really though he was trying to raise the blade height. Wrong.
I guess about 15 minutes passed before I heard that mower restart. I was really surprised at that. But within seconds this time, I heard the exact same noise again. Holy crap! Was this guy going to destroy every one of the sprinklers that I just installed a few weeks before? I couldn't let the idiot do that, so I jumped from the couch and ran outside.
There he was. Proud as heck of his brand new lawnmower. So he says, "I'm sorry, but I think I just hit a couple of your sprinklers." Now, how did he figure that out?
First I asked why he was mowing my lawn (the part between his property and my driveway), and he said he just thought that was the neighborly thing to do. I told him that I could understand hitting the first one, but asked why did he continue along the same path to hit the very next one. He said that he thought if he pushed the machine faster he could pass over it before the blade could catch the sprinkler.
I just went back inside without saying a word and returned to the game. I guess I should have gone to church like I was supposed to do.
You know, I never saw him mow his lawn again!
.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
What's in that bucket?
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In Those Days, my father called money "skins." I'm not sure where or how he came up with that, but I never heard anyone other than Pop use that word in that context. I do know that once, a man's wealth was determined by the amount of animal skins he possessed. So, like Pop, I'll use it on this post.
Now, Americans are known for there generosity all over the world. No matter who, no matter what country, no matter the reason, Americans have been there unlike no other people. And they have given their skins for the cause.
In America, we are even more involved in providing for "Needies." It has been a rapidly growing way of life for us. Every state has "Welfare" funded by taxing the "More Fortunates" to help the Needies.
I know that some of my Followers are well versed in Welfare, but for those that are not, here is an how it works: The state collects the skins from the More Fortunates and puts them into the "Big Bucket." A portion of the collection goes to paying for the administration of the system. That creates jobs, thereby reducing the amount of Needies. Then those Needies can contribute their own skins into the Big Bucket like the rest of us because they are no longer less fortunate or unfortunate, and are paid more skins than some of the More Fortunates. And, so they then become "Ex-needies."
Other Needies then apply for skins from Welfare. The Ex-needies determine the number of skins the Needies really need. Theoretically, the Needies are awarded just enough skins to get by. The Needies then obtain their own smaller bucket to keep their skins in as they spend them. Sometimes we wonder just how the Needies survive based upon the limited number of skins they are given by the Ex-needies. Well, here is how they do it:
Some Needies do actually work, but hide their earnings in their bucket because they know the Ex-needies will cut them off if they acquire too many skins. Some Needies get skins from their loved ones but don't tell anyone either. Some Needies collect skins from the More Fortunates by begging on the street and in front of Walmart. Still other Needies get still more skins from other organizations like churches and charity groups, school lunch programs, or by stealing. Some Neediest even get more skins by filing a new claim with the Ex-neediest under a false name. And some Neediest are just given more skins by the More Fortunates just because they feel sorry for them because the Needies give the appearance they are actually needy. And having said that, some Needies actually are not actually needy, and may have more skins than some More Fortunates.
So, the next time you put extra skins into the Needies' bucket, think about what might already be in it.
.
In Those Days, my father called money "skins." I'm not sure where or how he came up with that, but I never heard anyone other than Pop use that word in that context. I do know that once, a man's wealth was determined by the amount of animal skins he possessed. So, like Pop, I'll use it on this post.
Now, Americans are known for there generosity all over the world. No matter who, no matter what country, no matter the reason, Americans have been there unlike no other people. And they have given their skins for the cause.
In America, we are even more involved in providing for "Needies." It has been a rapidly growing way of life for us. Every state has "Welfare" funded by taxing the "More Fortunates" to help the Needies.
I know that some of my Followers are well versed in Welfare, but for those that are not, here is an how it works: The state collects the skins from the More Fortunates and puts them into the "Big Bucket." A portion of the collection goes to paying for the administration of the system. That creates jobs, thereby reducing the amount of Needies. Then those Needies can contribute their own skins into the Big Bucket like the rest of us because they are no longer less fortunate or unfortunate, and are paid more skins than some of the More Fortunates. And, so they then become "Ex-needies."
Other Needies then apply for skins from Welfare. The Ex-needies determine the number of skins the Needies really need. Theoretically, the Needies are awarded just enough skins to get by. The Needies then obtain their own smaller bucket to keep their skins in as they spend them. Sometimes we wonder just how the Needies survive based upon the limited number of skins they are given by the Ex-needies. Well, here is how they do it:
Some Needies do actually work, but hide their earnings in their bucket because they know the Ex-needies will cut them off if they acquire too many skins. Some Needies get skins from their loved ones but don't tell anyone either. Some Needies collect skins from the More Fortunates by begging on the street and in front of Walmart. Still other Needies get still more skins from other organizations like churches and charity groups, school lunch programs, or by stealing. Some Neediest even get more skins by filing a new claim with the Ex-neediest under a false name. And some Neediest are just given more skins by the More Fortunates just because they feel sorry for them because the Needies give the appearance they are actually needy. And having said that, some Needies actually are not actually needy, and may have more skins than some More Fortunates.
So, the next time you put extra skins into the Needies' bucket, think about what might already be in it.
.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Pray Politically
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My most radical Follower sent me the following prayer. I'm not sure whether he or she wrote it, but according to my investigation, it is fact based. So, here it is. It speaks for itself.
Enjoy your weekend!
.
My most radical Follower sent me the following prayer. I'm not sure whether he or she wrote it, but according to my investigation, it is fact based. So, here it is. It speaks for itself.
Now I sit me down in school
Where praying is against the rule
For this great nation under God
Finds mention of Him very odd.
If Scripture now the class recites,
It violates the Bill of Rights.
And anytime my head I bow
Becomes a Federal matter now.
Our hair can be purple, orange or green,
That's no offence; it's a freedom scene.
The law is specific, the law is precise.
Prayers spoken aloud are a serious vice.
For praying in a public hall
Might offend someone with no faith at all
In silence alone we must meditate,
God's name is prohibited by the state.
We're allowed to cuss and dress like freaks,
And pierce our noses, tongues and cheeks.
They've outlawed guns, but FIRST the Bible.
To quote the Good Book makes me liable.
We can elect a pregnant Senior Queen,
And the 'unwed daddy,' our Senior King.
It's 'inappropriate' to teach right from wrong,
We're taught that such 'judgments' do not belong.
We can get our condoms and birth controls,
Study witchcraft, vampires and totem poles
But the Ten Commandments are not allowed,
No word of God must reach this crowd.
It's scary here I must confess,
When chaos reigns the school's a mess.
So, Lord, this silent plea I make:
Should I be shot; My soul please take!
Amen!
Enjoy your weekend!
.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Ain't nothing for free
.
I've listened to people around this town, mostly seniors because that's all that live here, about their medical struggles. It's sad to listen about their pains and illnesses, and the fact that they can't seem to find adequate care. Most of them have Medicare, and the Oregon Heath Plan (OHP), which is similar to California's Medical.
One conversation was with a person that has a painful back problem and is prescribed powerful and expensive pills. Seems surgery is out of the question, so she has no alternative but to rely on her pain pills. She also said that Medicare has a yearly maximun on prescription drugs, which she seems to exhaust by April. Then OHP kicks in and partially pays for the pills, but she can not afford her co-pay, so she goes without. And, that keeps her bed ridden for eight months out of the year.
We recently spoke about the newly adopted Obamacare. She was delighted, needless to say. With the new program, she believes she will soon be able to get her pills free for the entire year though Medicare. And, I'm happy for her because I know she suffers.
But I am concerned that there will be millions of others that will now receive that entitlement even though they have never, and never will pay into that system. And, that I don't understand.
Compare this scenerio. Imagine that you are driving your car, which is uninsured, when you have an accident. So, you just go down to the local agent and purchase an auto policy at the same rate that I pay for insurance, that would in turn, pays the cost of repair to your previously wrecked car. Sound crazy? Well, that is what the Obama Clan say they just did.
And the Long Legged MacDaddy claims that my rates will drop because everyone will be insured. Get it? I don't.
.
I've listened to people around this town, mostly seniors because that's all that live here, about their medical struggles. It's sad to listen about their pains and illnesses, and the fact that they can't seem to find adequate care. Most of them have Medicare, and the Oregon Heath Plan (OHP), which is similar to California's Medical.
One conversation was with a person that has a painful back problem and is prescribed powerful and expensive pills. Seems surgery is out of the question, so she has no alternative but to rely on her pain pills. She also said that Medicare has a yearly maximun on prescription drugs, which she seems to exhaust by April. Then OHP kicks in and partially pays for the pills, but she can not afford her co-pay, so she goes without. And, that keeps her bed ridden for eight months out of the year.
We recently spoke about the newly adopted Obamacare. She was delighted, needless to say. With the new program, she believes she will soon be able to get her pills free for the entire year though Medicare. And, I'm happy for her because I know she suffers.
But I am concerned that there will be millions of others that will now receive that entitlement even though they have never, and never will pay into that system. And, that I don't understand.
Compare this scenerio. Imagine that you are driving your car, which is uninsured, when you have an accident. So, you just go down to the local agent and purchase an auto policy at the same rate that I pay for insurance, that would in turn, pays the cost of repair to your previously wrecked car. Sound crazy? Well, that is what the Obama Clan say they just did.
And the Long Legged MacDaddy claims that my rates will drop because everyone will be insured. Get it? I don't.
.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Crunching Coins
.
Yesterday morning, very early, I took my wife to PDX to hop a flight to DEN to visit the kids for a week or so, to play in the snow, at Steamboat Springs. Well, someone had to remain home for CritterCare (and no, it's not part of ObamaCare). Besides, I hate to be cold.
Well, during the preparation for the trip, we realized that due to the downward spiral of our economy, we were forced to give up our cell phones. Actually, just one because my spouse chose to give up her custom fake nails to keep her phone. So mine got sacrificed.
Anyway, it occurred to us, how does one contact the other to coordinate the airport pick up time? Especially, when you're flying in or out of DEN in the winter. So fearing that we couldn't do without a second phone, I headed off to our local Fred Meyers store (it's a Pacific Northwest take off of K-mart).
And not wanting to get locked in on another long term contract, I purchased a TracFone. Actually, I was quite impressed with it because it has the same features of our other phone, and it came with 10 minutes of air time, and a charger. But, the better part was, the kit only cost $8.00. Yep eight dollars!
No here's the best part. On the way to PDX my wife's phone went dead even though she had a full charge just hours before. She's been complaining about her battery life for many moons now, but they are $30 at Sprint and $12+shipping on EBay. And then I realized, the TracFone battery was the same as her Samsung dead one. So I traded her because I can use the charge on mine while I drive to PDX to pick her up in a week, and she will have a strong batter to use while she is sitting near the fireplace at that hoity toity bar on the slopes!
What a guy! And, I ain't talking about that stud she might be sitting next to (like her son). I'm talking about me! I just bought a new batter and a charger for her phone for 8 bucks! So, even if I never use it, the TracFone was a true value.
How about that for crunching coin?
.
Yesterday morning, very early, I took my wife to PDX to hop a flight to DEN to visit the kids for a week or so, to play in the snow, at Steamboat Springs. Well, someone had to remain home for CritterCare (and no, it's not part of ObamaCare). Besides, I hate to be cold.
Well, during the preparation for the trip, we realized that due to the downward spiral of our economy, we were forced to give up our cell phones. Actually, just one because my spouse chose to give up her custom fake nails to keep her phone. So mine got sacrificed.
Anyway, it occurred to us, how does one contact the other to coordinate the airport pick up time? Especially, when you're flying in or out of DEN in the winter. So fearing that we couldn't do without a second phone, I headed off to our local Fred Meyers store (it's a Pacific Northwest take off of K-mart).
And not wanting to get locked in on another long term contract, I purchased a TracFone. Actually, I was quite impressed with it because it has the same features of our other phone, and it came with 10 minutes of air time, and a charger. But, the better part was, the kit only cost $8.00. Yep eight dollars!
No here's the best part. On the way to PDX my wife's phone went dead even though she had a full charge just hours before. She's been complaining about her battery life for many moons now, but they are $30 at Sprint and $12+shipping on EBay. And then I realized, the TracFone battery was the same as her Samsung dead one. So I traded her because I can use the charge on mine while I drive to PDX to pick her up in a week, and she will have a strong batter to use while she is sitting near the fireplace at that hoity toity bar on the slopes!
What a guy! And, I ain't talking about that stud she might be sitting next to (like her son). I'm talking about me! I just bought a new batter and a charger for her phone for 8 bucks! So, even if I never use it, the TracFone was a true value.
How about that for crunching coin?
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Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Inclinations
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Now, I've always had a love for fixing, building, or improving stuff.
In Those Days, it became apparent that I was mechanically inclined. I think it first came to light when I was about eight when I learned that I could rotate the arms and legs of my sister's dolls to a certain position where I could then remove them from their sockets. And, I also realized I could replace an arm with a leg which would make her cry.
It was also about that time when my mom taught me to fix a flat on my bike by prying the tire off with a butter knife. The trick was to do it without pinching the tube against the rim causing yet another hole to repair. Having few tools around the house, I learned to do the repair without even taking the wheel off the bike.
Those early times led to more projects, many of which were failures. Like building a raft from 55 gallon oil drums that sank before it's first voyage on Sheepheads Bay. Like, buliding a skateboard from a wooden plank and a pair of metal wheeled shoe skates, that led to a doctor's visit when the wheels vibrated off. Like building a small gasoline powered jet engine to power a car built with Erector Set parts, that led to setting a field on fire. Like completing a valve job on an old Plymouth, only to experience failure because I forgot to tighten a few bolts. Like and a room addition intended for slumber parties (they call them sleep overs now I think), that was only completed after my children moved away. Like setting fence posts at our first house that resulted in short circuiting electricity to an entire neighborhood.
But there were triumphs as well. Building a performance engine gave me the power I needed to easily pull a camp trailer with the family car. Overhauling an automatic transmission on the kitchen table. Replacing the roof on my children's great grandmother's house. Designing and building a hill side home. Raising the funding, designing and then building a youth baseball complex. Building a work station area for my peers. And, my final project, the Thought Dock and the accompanying house.
Time for a rest, I'd say!
.
Now, I've always had a love for fixing, building, or improving stuff.
In Those Days, it became apparent that I was mechanically inclined. I think it first came to light when I was about eight when I learned that I could rotate the arms and legs of my sister's dolls to a certain position where I could then remove them from their sockets. And, I also realized I could replace an arm with a leg which would make her cry.
It was also about that time when my mom taught me to fix a flat on my bike by prying the tire off with a butter knife. The trick was to do it without pinching the tube against the rim causing yet another hole to repair. Having few tools around the house, I learned to do the repair without even taking the wheel off the bike.
Those early times led to more projects, many of which were failures. Like building a raft from 55 gallon oil drums that sank before it's first voyage on Sheepheads Bay. Like, buliding a skateboard from a wooden plank and a pair of metal wheeled shoe skates, that led to a doctor's visit when the wheels vibrated off. Like building a small gasoline powered jet engine to power a car built with Erector Set parts, that led to setting a field on fire. Like completing a valve job on an old Plymouth, only to experience failure because I forgot to tighten a few bolts. Like and a room addition intended for slumber parties (they call them sleep overs now I think), that was only completed after my children moved away. Like setting fence posts at our first house that resulted in short circuiting electricity to an entire neighborhood.
But there were triumphs as well. Building a performance engine gave me the power I needed to easily pull a camp trailer with the family car. Overhauling an automatic transmission on the kitchen table. Replacing the roof on my children's great grandmother's house. Designing and building a hill side home. Raising the funding, designing and then building a youth baseball complex. Building a work station area for my peers. And, my final project, the Thought Dock and the accompanying house.
Time for a rest, I'd say!
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Tuesday, March 23, 2010
What makes one happy?
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Morale is how somebody feels emotionally. I never really put much thought into this subject until I began my law enforcement career. There, it was called "Esprit De Corps" which is the morale of a group of people, and it was proven to affect work performance. Esprit De Corps exists nearly everywhere and in every group. From church, to the football field, and the Salvation Army to the United States Army.
But what is happiness? I mean the morale of an individual. As in what makes a person happy?
Is it about where he lives, or the size of his house? Or is it the car he drives, or the vacation his takes. Is it how much he earns, or what he has acquired with those earnings. Is it about who his father was, or the accomplishments of his children? Or, is it about what he has built, or what he has destroyed? Is it about what he has given, or what he has taken? Is it about whether he owns his own company, or works for another? Is it about the person he elected, or is it that he was elected?
You know, all of these factors surely effect one's happiness to some degree. But, I find that one's personal happiness is determined by his own personality, rather than those around him.
I have seen or met many that can attest to that. Even as they search for a way to feed their family in the hut of poverty stricken country, they are seen as happy. Even as they lead their donkey drawn wagon around the air conditioned car, they seems happy. Even though their father was in prison, they strive to be honest citizens. Even though they work hard to provide an education for their, they remain happy when they fail. As they clean the floors of the office of their employer, they remain happy. Even though they have failed, they keep trying.
But, more often that is not the case. More often we let the people around us effect our morale. Now, if they are uplifting, we are uplifted. That bad news is that when we surround ourselves with people of low morale, our attitudes generally follow.
So my point is, "Don't worry. Be happy." Your morale is controlled by you. Your life is what you make it. Don't allow others to control your morale. Even during the most challenging or desperate of times, you can be happy if that's what you want.
Even as one who seems to seldom smile, I am happy. Very happy. I am happy with where I've been, where I'm at, and where I'm going. I have "Been there" or "Done that" for everything that is within reason, and I don't want to do it again.
Trust the Lord. Pursue your dreams. Speak out loud. Cast your vote, but keep your happiness whatever the result. You really can!
.
Morale is how somebody feels emotionally. I never really put much thought into this subject until I began my law enforcement career. There, it was called "Esprit De Corps" which is the morale of a group of people, and it was proven to affect work performance. Esprit De Corps exists nearly everywhere and in every group. From church, to the football field, and the Salvation Army to the United States Army.
But what is happiness? I mean the morale of an individual. As in what makes a person happy?
Is it about where he lives, or the size of his house? Or is it the car he drives, or the vacation his takes. Is it how much he earns, or what he has acquired with those earnings. Is it about who his father was, or the accomplishments of his children? Or, is it about what he has built, or what he has destroyed? Is it about what he has given, or what he has taken? Is it about whether he owns his own company, or works for another? Is it about the person he elected, or is it that he was elected?
You know, all of these factors surely effect one's happiness to some degree. But, I find that one's personal happiness is determined by his own personality, rather than those around him.
I have seen or met many that can attest to that. Even as they search for a way to feed their family in the hut of poverty stricken country, they are seen as happy. Even as they lead their donkey drawn wagon around the air conditioned car, they seems happy. Even though their father was in prison, they strive to be honest citizens. Even though they work hard to provide an education for their, they remain happy when they fail. As they clean the floors of the office of their employer, they remain happy. Even though they have failed, they keep trying.
But, more often that is not the case. More often we let the people around us effect our morale. Now, if they are uplifting, we are uplifted. That bad news is that when we surround ourselves with people of low morale, our attitudes generally follow.
So my point is, "Don't worry. Be happy." Your morale is controlled by you. Your life is what you make it. Don't allow others to control your morale. Even during the most challenging or desperate of times, you can be happy if that's what you want.
Even as one who seems to seldom smile, I am happy. Very happy. I am happy with where I've been, where I'm at, and where I'm going. I have "Been there" or "Done that" for everything that is within reason, and I don't want to do it again.
Trust the Lord. Pursue your dreams. Speak out loud. Cast your vote, but keep your happiness whatever the result. You really can!
.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
What will we do now?
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Well, at the time of this writing, the vote is just around the corner. But the prediction are that Obamacare will prevail.
I think you all know how I feel about the health care issue, but I've done my part, and have expressed my views at every opportunity. I respect any others that have done the same, regardless of what view they had.
I will say though, that I will refuse to support any politician that had promised to represent my views, but did not. Soon I will re-register as an Independent, which will allow me to either support, or reject any politician in my District regardless of his or her Party. And, I will not vote for any person that does not support my views.
But life goes on, and I won't dwell on this issue any further. After all, the majority wins, even if we all lose.
.
Well, at the time of this writing, the vote is just around the corner. But the prediction are that Obamacare will prevail.
I think you all know how I feel about the health care issue, but I've done my part, and have expressed my views at every opportunity. I respect any others that have done the same, regardless of what view they had.
I will say though, that I will refuse to support any politician that had promised to represent my views, but did not. Soon I will re-register as an Independent, which will allow me to either support, or reject any politician in my District regardless of his or her Party. And, I will not vote for any person that does not support my views.
But life goes on, and I won't dwell on this issue any further. After all, the majority wins, even if we all lose.
.
Dark Shadows
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I've always feared darkness. As a child, I couldn't keep my head beneath the bed blankets for very long without a flash light. I'd see evil things lurking in the shadows of my room at night, and refrained from ever going outside alone under the stars. And, while working the night shift for a big part of my career, I learned even more reasons to fear the dark.
I don't think it's very odd to be afraid of the dark. I think most of us are. But darkness comes in many forms. It's a place or a means for evildoers. Whether a place to hide from pursuers, to conceal an identity, plan an attack, or to do your thing alone, it's all dark. A closet, a cave, a costume, a disguised voice, or as an imposter, darkness is a tool to be used by ones that have something to hide.
But darkness comes in many forms. Terrorists thrive in caves, as smugglers thrive in tunnels, as criminals thrive at night, as rapists lurk in bushes, as armies advance under the cover of clouds, as a submariner sinks a ship, as a panther stalks his prey, as a Jihadist begins in a mosque, as a magician wears a cloak, as the mafia propagates from a smoke filled parlor, and as an adulterer operates from that dungy motel, there are reasons to fear darkness.
So fear darkness. Recognize that it is a means of deception. Know who is in the closet or behind the curtain. Know who authored the article you just read. Know who that talk show host really is. Know who wrote that blog. Know your leader before you follow him. Know the school you attend and the church you support. Know whether he is a scammer or is truly one begging for help. Know your investment counselor, and your butcher. Know your neighbor and know who really is behind that mask.
For to know these people is to better understand their motives, and the better you understand, the safer you will be.
.
I've always feared darkness. As a child, I couldn't keep my head beneath the bed blankets for very long without a flash light. I'd see evil things lurking in the shadows of my room at night, and refrained from ever going outside alone under the stars. And, while working the night shift for a big part of my career, I learned even more reasons to fear the dark.
I don't think it's very odd to be afraid of the dark. I think most of us are. But darkness comes in many forms. It's a place or a means for evildoers. Whether a place to hide from pursuers, to conceal an identity, plan an attack, or to do your thing alone, it's all dark. A closet, a cave, a costume, a disguised voice, or as an imposter, darkness is a tool to be used by ones that have something to hide.
But darkness comes in many forms. Terrorists thrive in caves, as smugglers thrive in tunnels, as criminals thrive at night, as rapists lurk in bushes, as armies advance under the cover of clouds, as a submariner sinks a ship, as a panther stalks his prey, as a Jihadist begins in a mosque, as a magician wears a cloak, as the mafia propagates from a smoke filled parlor, and as an adulterer operates from that dungy motel, there are reasons to fear darkness.
So fear darkness. Recognize that it is a means of deception. Know who is in the closet or behind the curtain. Know who authored the article you just read. Know who that talk show host really is. Know who wrote that blog. Know your leader before you follow him. Know the school you attend and the church you support. Know whether he is a scammer or is truly one begging for help. Know your investment counselor, and your butcher. Know your neighbor and know who really is behind that mask.
For to know these people is to better understand their motives, and the better you understand, the safer you will be.
.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Should we?
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Everyone I know has a decent car. You know the cost of car ownership and how you struggled to make your car payment, pay the insurance, purchase gasoline, or find another way around when your car broke down. And, as you worry about that, there drives by the guy in his new SUV.
Everyone I know has a telephone and television. How hard it would be to live without one? How would one call for help in an emergency, or watch Fox news every morning? And, as you worry about that, you visit someone watching his a new flat screen while talking about the ball game on his I-Phone.
Everyone I know has enough to eat. They know the cost of groceries and clip the coupons, select store brands, and cheaper cuts of meat to get along. And, as you bag those staples that you can afford, someone is waiting impatiently in line behind you with his jumbo shrimp and fillet Mignon.
Everyone I know has a home. But, they often envy those that live in the mansions on the other side of town.
Everyone I know eats out sometimes, takes a vacation, and shares fun times with friends and family. And, they watch from their Motel 6 window the others that arrive at the Hilton down the street. And, they wonder what it would be like to ride in first class, or ride in that fancy speedboat while they play on the beach with an inner tube with their children.
Everyone I know has health insurance. They get their teeth cleaned and their eyes checked routinely. And, when their kid breaks a bone, there is a place to go for help. And through their glasses, they watch others getting laser eye treatments, hair transplants and tummy tucks.
But, I know that some people don't have a car, a telephone, a television. And, I know that some people can't eat until they are no longer hungry, have a home of their own, or take a vacation. And, I know of people who have teeth removed because they can't afford a filling, and use a magnifying glass because they don't have glasses, and ride a bike or take the bus because they don't have transportation. And, I hear of people losing everything because they don't have health insurance.
So should we, as Americans, see to it that everyone has an equal amount of everything?
We already spend billions to ensure everyone who wants a telephone, has one. And, we build ramps and widen doorways so everyone in a wheel chair can get there. And, we already provide free basic medical care to those without health insurance. And, we have homeless shelters for those without a place to stay, welfare for those that don't work, can eat. And we give money to those that don't work, and give funds for those that can't afford and education.
But the question was about equality. Should we tax the guy that drives a Cadillac, forcing him it up for a Ford, and give his money to another guy so that he can also drive a Ford?
Should we tax everyone that has a cell phone to buy a telephone for those that can't afford one? Should we tax the guy that eats shrimp forcing him to eat chicken, so that everyone only can eat chicken?
Should we tax the guy that builds a nice home, forcing him to sell it, give his money to one that has no home, so that everyone can have a condo? Should we tax everyone that works, to give a salary to those that don't work?
Should we tax those that get cosmetic surgeries, and give their money to others that have little health care, so that no one gets cosmetic surgeries?
More and more, American are saying "yes" to all of this. They want socialism. They want everyone to be the same. Live the same, eat the same, earn the same amount (after taxes), take the same vacations, and fly in the same seat as everyone else. Is that what you want?
Should we be all be the same? March like ducks in a straight line behind our leader? Not aroud this Thought Dock.
Or should we continue to reward people who work hard, who are smart, and who are lucky and allow them to have more than the rest of us?
.
Everyone I know has a decent car. You know the cost of car ownership and how you struggled to make your car payment, pay the insurance, purchase gasoline, or find another way around when your car broke down. And, as you worry about that, there drives by the guy in his new SUV.
Everyone I know has a telephone and television. How hard it would be to live without one? How would one call for help in an emergency, or watch Fox news every morning? And, as you worry about that, you visit someone watching his a new flat screen while talking about the ball game on his I-Phone.
Everyone I know has enough to eat. They know the cost of groceries and clip the coupons, select store brands, and cheaper cuts of meat to get along. And, as you bag those staples that you can afford, someone is waiting impatiently in line behind you with his jumbo shrimp and fillet Mignon.
Everyone I know has a home. But, they often envy those that live in the mansions on the other side of town.
Everyone I know eats out sometimes, takes a vacation, and shares fun times with friends and family. And, they watch from their Motel 6 window the others that arrive at the Hilton down the street. And, they wonder what it would be like to ride in first class, or ride in that fancy speedboat while they play on the beach with an inner tube with their children.
Everyone I know has health insurance. They get their teeth cleaned and their eyes checked routinely. And, when their kid breaks a bone, there is a place to go for help. And through their glasses, they watch others getting laser eye treatments, hair transplants and tummy tucks.
But, I know that some people don't have a car, a telephone, a television. And, I know that some people can't eat until they are no longer hungry, have a home of their own, or take a vacation. And, I know of people who have teeth removed because they can't afford a filling, and use a magnifying glass because they don't have glasses, and ride a bike or take the bus because they don't have transportation. And, I hear of people losing everything because they don't have health insurance.
So should we, as Americans, see to it that everyone has an equal amount of everything?
We already spend billions to ensure everyone who wants a telephone, has one. And, we build ramps and widen doorways so everyone in a wheel chair can get there. And, we already provide free basic medical care to those without health insurance. And, we have homeless shelters for those without a place to stay, welfare for those that don't work, can eat. And we give money to those that don't work, and give funds for those that can't afford and education.
But the question was about equality. Should we tax the guy that drives a Cadillac, forcing him it up for a Ford, and give his money to another guy so that he can also drive a Ford?
Should we tax everyone that has a cell phone to buy a telephone for those that can't afford one? Should we tax the guy that eats shrimp forcing him to eat chicken, so that everyone only can eat chicken?
Should we tax the guy that builds a nice home, forcing him to sell it, give his money to one that has no home, so that everyone can have a condo? Should we tax everyone that works, to give a salary to those that don't work?
Should we tax those that get cosmetic surgeries, and give their money to others that have little health care, so that no one gets cosmetic surgeries?
More and more, American are saying "yes" to all of this. They want socialism. They want everyone to be the same. Live the same, eat the same, earn the same amount (after taxes), take the same vacations, and fly in the same seat as everyone else. Is that what you want?
Should we be all be the same? March like ducks in a straight line behind our leader? Not aroud this Thought Dock.
Or should we continue to reward people who work hard, who are smart, and who are lucky and allow them to have more than the rest of us?
.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Escaping from the coat hangers
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A while back, an anonymous person left a comment to a post asking me to write about California State Senator Roy Ashburn (Republican) and suggested that had he been Black I would have already posted about him. Actually, I had not heard the recent news about the Senator's arrest, so I researched the news link that the commenter provided.
As it turns out, Senator Ashburn represents most of Kern County, Ca., a sparsely populated region of the high dessert, known for it's oil fields that have been pumped dry, cowboys, and Tulle fog. With the advent of air conditioners and irrigation, the area has to sprawled in recent years. I suppose the anonymous commenter is from this area represented by Senator Ashburn.
Anyway, a few weeks ago, the Senator was driving around the California State Capitol when he was arrested for driving under the influence. A male passenger was in the car with Senator Ashburn, and it was learned that they had just left a Gay bar together. As the news of the arrest came out, some speculated that Senator Ashburn was Gay. A few days later, the Senator, escaped from the bondage of a dark closet, and on a live radio interview, admitted that he was, in fact-Gay.
Parts of the community (I think mostly the Gay part, and perhaps too the anonymous commenter), became outraged because Senator Ashburn had consistently voted against every measure put to him that advocated Gay equality during his 14 year tenure. Senator Ashburn responded to that outrage by stating the he did so because that was the overwhelming stance of the people that elected him.
You know, I respect this guy, although I don't like his lifestyle. I respect him because although he has personal feelings and beliefs, he votes according to the views of his constituents.
Now, that is how all elected politicians should act, not just Republican ones. They certainly should not pass the Obamacare package, knowing that the overwhelming majority of the American citizens don't want it in it's present form.
So, thanks anonymous commenter for leading me to this most fascinating story and offering your claims of bigotry.
.
A while back, an anonymous person left a comment to a post asking me to write about California State Senator Roy Ashburn (Republican) and suggested that had he been Black I would have already posted about him. Actually, I had not heard the recent news about the Senator's arrest, so I researched the news link that the commenter provided.
As it turns out, Senator Ashburn represents most of Kern County, Ca., a sparsely populated region of the high dessert, known for it's oil fields that have been pumped dry, cowboys, and Tulle fog. With the advent of air conditioners and irrigation, the area has to sprawled in recent years. I suppose the anonymous commenter is from this area represented by Senator Ashburn.
Anyway, a few weeks ago, the Senator was driving around the California State Capitol when he was arrested for driving under the influence. A male passenger was in the car with Senator Ashburn, and it was learned that they had just left a Gay bar together. As the news of the arrest came out, some speculated that Senator Ashburn was Gay. A few days later, the Senator, escaped from the bondage of a dark closet, and on a live radio interview, admitted that he was, in fact-Gay.
Parts of the community (I think mostly the Gay part, and perhaps too the anonymous commenter), became outraged because Senator Ashburn had consistently voted against every measure put to him that advocated Gay equality during his 14 year tenure. Senator Ashburn responded to that outrage by stating the he did so because that was the overwhelming stance of the people that elected him.
You know, I respect this guy, although I don't like his lifestyle. I respect him because although he has personal feelings and beliefs, he votes according to the views of his constituents.
Now, that is how all elected politicians should act, not just Republican ones. They certainly should not pass the Obamacare package, knowing that the overwhelming majority of the American citizens don't want it in it's present form.
So, thanks anonymous commenter for leading me to this most fascinating story and offering your claims of bigotry.
.
Friday, March 12, 2010
The truth about lies
Some of you know that I've spent a lifetime in law enforcement. The thing that bothered me the most during my career, was the lies I've heard. I've never really gotten over it, and probably never will. It seems to be a common topic of conversation with me, and yet few people really get it.
Now, it's not that I should expect one facing arrest to tell the truth, yet I do. I expect everyone to tell the truth; Always. It's nothing new. It dates back to the earliest times of recorded history and stands as a Commandment of God. Yet few of us seem to care.
What is even harder for me to understand, is when I find that a person I hold in a position of trust, lies. Whether a parent, spouse, teacher, preacher, police officer, lawyer, or politician, it is even more despicable; If that is even possible.
Now, I won't stand on a pillar, beat my chest and claim that I've never lied. However, for those that know me, know that I take great pride in my integrity. And I don't think even they can recall a lie of mine in recent times.
Now, I'm not talking about perceptions or beliefs. Although sometimes mine are pretty far out, they are always fact based and truths. I'm talking about outright lies and deceptions. They are at the very root of evil. And some people have been lying so long and so much that they justify it by claiming it's normal!
So, does it feel like I'm talking about you? I hope not because if I am talking about you, then you should not be in this forum. I just refuse to tolerate those that lie. There are plenty of other places for liars to go where they might feel more comfortable.
.
Now, it's not that I should expect one facing arrest to tell the truth, yet I do. I expect everyone to tell the truth; Always. It's nothing new. It dates back to the earliest times of recorded history and stands as a Commandment of God. Yet few of us seem to care.
What is even harder for me to understand, is when I find that a person I hold in a position of trust, lies. Whether a parent, spouse, teacher, preacher, police officer, lawyer, or politician, it is even more despicable; If that is even possible.
Now, I won't stand on a pillar, beat my chest and claim that I've never lied. However, for those that know me, know that I take great pride in my integrity. And I don't think even they can recall a lie of mine in recent times.
Now, I'm not talking about perceptions or beliefs. Although sometimes mine are pretty far out, they are always fact based and truths. I'm talking about outright lies and deceptions. They are at the very root of evil. And some people have been lying so long and so much that they justify it by claiming it's normal!
So, does it feel like I'm talking about you? I hope not because if I am talking about you, then you should not be in this forum. I just refuse to tolerate those that lie. There are plenty of other places for liars to go where they might feel more comfortable.
.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Another one bites the dust
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Well, yet another famous one ends his life to drugs, this time in Los Angeles. And, he is so unimportant to me that I can't even remember his name. Is that a shame? But it does inspire Thoughts from the Dock.
After working many years in law enforcement, I've seen countless lives lost to drugs and alcoholism, that I guess I've become hardened. I've found that about 80% of the crime and suffering is directly related to narcotics. And in addition, the moral decay caused by this unethical behavior is unprecedented. So, here is my novel solution, that at first thought many of you will think of as crazy (especially my fellow cops):
We need another give-a-way program. Better than any the Long Legged MacDaddy has ever done or thought about. One that works.
First, realease all the narcotic offenders from prison and legalize narcotics..... Especially the very hard-core, addicting, and heart stopping ones. And let's make them free for the taking, courtesy of the government. Socialism at it's best.
Divert all the funding for narcotics enforcement, and use that money to buy the crap, then just give it away to those stupid enough to accept it.
Open huge centers (like unused sports stadiums) across America and set up the free distribution booths at the front door. Allow anyone over age 16 to come and get all the free dope they can use, on the condition that they can only use the stuff inside the arena.
Add a morgue wing to the opposite side of the facility to dispose of the dopes when they overdose, or when they murder someone inside.
Sound cruel? Not to me. Think about it. There would be no dope dealers on the streets because there would be no demand to by dope on the open market. There would be much less funding to terrorism. There would be no more street gangs, and no gang related murders, because there would be no reason to establish their turf. There would be far fewer liquor store and gas station robberies because the dopers wouldn't have to rob to support their habit. No more house break-ins, kidnaps for ransom, and far fewer homeless or begging on the streets. Far fewer child molestations and traffic deaths related to DUI. We would see a reduction in medical costs by reducing the amount of dopers we try to save. And prison over population would be a thing of the past, so we could keep those locked up that need to be.
Of course, the music, sports, and entertainment industries would suffer a bit as they lose their stars, but who would really care?
All those cops, DEA, and Border patrol agents would have far less to do, so that they could really concentrate on what we need like patrolling our streets, or teaching in our schools.
Eventually, narcotics would be eradicated. The hard core dopers would die one way or the other, and others would realize the evil of their ways, quit their crap and become productive people in society.
And, you think I'm crazy?
.
Well, yet another famous one ends his life to drugs, this time in Los Angeles. And, he is so unimportant to me that I can't even remember his name. Is that a shame? But it does inspire Thoughts from the Dock.
After working many years in law enforcement, I've seen countless lives lost to drugs and alcoholism, that I guess I've become hardened. I've found that about 80% of the crime and suffering is directly related to narcotics. And in addition, the moral decay caused by this unethical behavior is unprecedented. So, here is my novel solution, that at first thought many of you will think of as crazy (especially my fellow cops):
We need another give-a-way program. Better than any the Long Legged MacDaddy has ever done or thought about. One that works.
First, realease all the narcotic offenders from prison and legalize narcotics..... Especially the very hard-core, addicting, and heart stopping ones. And let's make them free for the taking, courtesy of the government. Socialism at it's best.
Divert all the funding for narcotics enforcement, and use that money to buy the crap, then just give it away to those stupid enough to accept it.
Open huge centers (like unused sports stadiums) across America and set up the free distribution booths at the front door. Allow anyone over age 16 to come and get all the free dope they can use, on the condition that they can only use the stuff inside the arena.
Add a morgue wing to the opposite side of the facility to dispose of the dopes when they overdose, or when they murder someone inside.
Sound cruel? Not to me. Think about it. There would be no dope dealers on the streets because there would be no demand to by dope on the open market. There would be much less funding to terrorism. There would be no more street gangs, and no gang related murders, because there would be no reason to establish their turf. There would be far fewer liquor store and gas station robberies because the dopers wouldn't have to rob to support their habit. No more house break-ins, kidnaps for ransom, and far fewer homeless or begging on the streets. Far fewer child molestations and traffic deaths related to DUI. We would see a reduction in medical costs by reducing the amount of dopers we try to save. And prison over population would be a thing of the past, so we could keep those locked up that need to be.
Of course, the music, sports, and entertainment industries would suffer a bit as they lose their stars, but who would really care?
All those cops, DEA, and Border patrol agents would have far less to do, so that they could really concentrate on what we need like patrolling our streets, or teaching in our schools.
Eventually, narcotics would be eradicated. The hard core dopers would die one way or the other, and others would realize the evil of their ways, quit their crap and become productive people in society.
And, you think I'm crazy?
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Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Lake Traits
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What I look to in the Lake, can be applied to what I look for in a person. Just passing the Wisdom of the Thought Dock to you!
Be Clear
Make Positive Ripples
Look Beneath the Surface
Stay Calm
Shore up Friendships
Take Time to Reflect
Be Full of Life!
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What I look to in the Lake, can be applied to what I look for in a person. Just passing the Wisdom of the Thought Dock to you!
Be Clear
Make Positive Ripples
Look Beneath the Surface
Stay Calm
Shore up Friendships
Take Time to Reflect
Be Full of Life!
.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Who's voting 'round here?
.
Yesterday, I was having lunch with a small group of friends, when I suggested that one of them apparently had voted for the Long Legged MacDaddy, and Oregon's recent voter approved tax hikes.
He denied the suggestion and stated that the only ones that voted for the tax increase were people whom did not work, and therefore pay no taxes. His point was well taken, and I began to think deeper.
Well, that made sense to me. That's why we've been going socialistic the past 50 years, and that is why we have things the way they are today. Since no one seems to work around here, I think he was right. And, it will be even more pronounced tomorrow.
As the ranks of people who do not work or pay taxes, the larger the pool becomes to support socialistic issues. And, the more taxes we will pay, until the system implodes upon itself.
For those that don't think it could ever happen to America, do some research about Argentina, where it did happen.
You know, it is you that I care about. I have all I need.
.
Yesterday, I was having lunch with a small group of friends, when I suggested that one of them apparently had voted for the Long Legged MacDaddy, and Oregon's recent voter approved tax hikes.
He denied the suggestion and stated that the only ones that voted for the tax increase were people whom did not work, and therefore pay no taxes. His point was well taken, and I began to think deeper.
Well, that made sense to me. That's why we've been going socialistic the past 50 years, and that is why we have things the way they are today. Since no one seems to work around here, I think he was right. And, it will be even more pronounced tomorrow.
As the ranks of people who do not work or pay taxes, the larger the pool becomes to support socialistic issues. And, the more taxes we will pay, until the system implodes upon itself.
For those that don't think it could ever happen to America, do some research about Argentina, where it did happen.
You know, it is you that I care about. I have all I need.
.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Remember, when the Tooth Fairy comes; Don't peek.
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In Those Days, I guess I was about ten when I began to lose my faith in dreams like Santa, the Easter Bunny, and heroes such as Superman. Yes, I know ten is a little old for that, but I was always one never wanting to give up on any of my dreams.
But, as I began to doubt these things, I lost my last baby tooth. Actually, after getting the hang of it from losing all ready seven or so, I pulled it myself, in the secrecy of my world. It didn't really hurt and there was just a bit of blood as I just reached into my mouth with a thumb and index finger and carefully extracted it.
I was pretty proud about it all, but suddenly I realized that the loss of your last baby tooth identifies the time which one is no longer a baby. And, in my case, I was then a young man. What a shocker. Such so, that I didn't tell anyone that I had pulled my own tooth.
Strange though. Although I knew I was no longer a baby, I believed the tooth ought to be worth something from the Tooth Fairy. But she never came, even after waiting for the third night.
Mom seemed to know everything, so I told her what had happened. Fearing the worst (being told there was no Tooth Fairy), I listened carefully to what she said. "Now, how can the Tooth Fairy come if your mother never summons her? You need to tell me everything about these kinds of things." Made sense to me because I was still trying to hang on to my dreams. So she told me to keep it under my pillow and the Tooth Fairy would come that night. Then, she concluded her comforting remarks by saying, "Remember, when the Tooth Fairy comes; Don't peak." It was as if she knew I was not a baby any more, but didn't want me to stop believing.
Well, the Tooth Fairy did come that night. But..... I peeked..... It was her! My mom! I laid still until she left. Then I began to cry. For suddenly, I knew there was no Tooth Fairy, and if the Tooth Fairy was not real, then neither was Santa, the Easter Bunny, or Superman!
My world changed that day, in Those Days. I was a boy. No longer a baby. I knew things were about to change more. But, I liked things the way they were. I liked cuddling with my mom, and being held tightly when I was afraid. I knew then that I would be on my own all too soon. But boys were too strong to cry, or to be held, or to believe in silly stuff. Boys were strong. They were to protect the weak, including their sisters. They were to do the lawn, and fix stuff, and get a job, and someday support a family of their own.
But, it was not a boy's job to bring the bad news about fantasies to their younger siblings, or to their own children later in life. That was left for girls to do. And that they did. Except that my mom did it in a special way. You see, she knew I would peek and find the truth myself.
.
In Those Days, I guess I was about ten when I began to lose my faith in dreams like Santa, the Easter Bunny, and heroes such as Superman. Yes, I know ten is a little old for that, but I was always one never wanting to give up on any of my dreams.
But, as I began to doubt these things, I lost my last baby tooth. Actually, after getting the hang of it from losing all ready seven or so, I pulled it myself, in the secrecy of my world. It didn't really hurt and there was just a bit of blood as I just reached into my mouth with a thumb and index finger and carefully extracted it.
I was pretty proud about it all, but suddenly I realized that the loss of your last baby tooth identifies the time which one is no longer a baby. And, in my case, I was then a young man. What a shocker. Such so, that I didn't tell anyone that I had pulled my own tooth.
Strange though. Although I knew I was no longer a baby, I believed the tooth ought to be worth something from the Tooth Fairy. But she never came, even after waiting for the third night.
Mom seemed to know everything, so I told her what had happened. Fearing the worst (being told there was no Tooth Fairy), I listened carefully to what she said. "Now, how can the Tooth Fairy come if your mother never summons her? You need to tell me everything about these kinds of things." Made sense to me because I was still trying to hang on to my dreams. So she told me to keep it under my pillow and the Tooth Fairy would come that night. Then, she concluded her comforting remarks by saying, "Remember, when the Tooth Fairy comes; Don't peak." It was as if she knew I was not a baby any more, but didn't want me to stop believing.
Well, the Tooth Fairy did come that night. But..... I peeked..... It was her! My mom! I laid still until she left. Then I began to cry. For suddenly, I knew there was no Tooth Fairy, and if the Tooth Fairy was not real, then neither was Santa, the Easter Bunny, or Superman!
My world changed that day, in Those Days. I was a boy. No longer a baby. I knew things were about to change more. But, I liked things the way they were. I liked cuddling with my mom, and being held tightly when I was afraid. I knew then that I would be on my own all too soon. But boys were too strong to cry, or to be held, or to believe in silly stuff. Boys were strong. They were to protect the weak, including their sisters. They were to do the lawn, and fix stuff, and get a job, and someday support a family of their own.
But, it was not a boy's job to bring the bad news about fantasies to their younger siblings, or to their own children later in life. That was left for girls to do. And that they did. Except that my mom did it in a special way. You see, she knew I would peek and find the truth myself.
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Wednesday, March 3, 2010
That was Yesterday. And, Yesterday is Gone.
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I've always been intrigued by listening to the stories of elders. Tales about riding in a horse drawn carriage or on a steam locomotive. And, I was envious that I had not seen the rapid change that they had. Think about Their Days when there were no refrigerators, televisions, telephones, or affordable cars. Few could travel by air, many were killed in the great wars, times of famine, hard work, and widespread poverty.
Now that I am quickly becoming an elder, I can only reflect back to Those Days. But even with that, I have experienced great change. Things that many of you have not experienced and take for granted, just like I did.
So, I'd like for you to relax and think back for a moment about the change that has occurred in just the last 50 years, then take the poll to the left. If you were not around then, I'm sure you'll recognize some from your history lessons. I'll summarize just a few.
In Those Days, Negroes could not attend many of our schools, yet they were mandated to join our armies. Some of us had telephones and televisions, yet they were always connected by wires. We recited the Pledge of Allegiance and said the Lord's prayer every day in school, yet we forgot most of it by the time we got home. Women worked outside the home, but only as secretaries, nurses, teachers, or waitresses. Tattoos were taboo, yet men grew their hair long. We pledged peace, yet we waged wars. We beat baseball cards against the spokes of our bike wheels, not knowing that some would be worth thousands someday.
We played tether ball at school, after school. There were no soccer moms, yet my mom made our scout uniforms. There were no SUV's, yet there were station wagons. We had flying model airplanes, yet they flew in a circle guided by a string. They were bicycles abundant, yett none had more than 3-speeds. We didn't complain that there was nothing to watch on television, yet we had only 13 channels at most. There were no drug addicts, yet there was alcoholism.
Most households had a father, yet there were unplanned pregnancies. Our coins were 100% silver, and our currency was backed in gold. There were no credit cards, yet we managed to get what we needed by lay-a-way. And, one penny would buy a stick of gum to share with your sister. Freedom of speech didn't allow you to burn the flag, yet we got our point across. And we respected our elders, teachers, preachers, and cops, yet none of them molested us.
New roads were were built everyday, and most every family had a car, yet only one. We watched the Jetsons, yet we didn't actually think we would become one. We read a lot, yet there were no Internet blogs. We seemed to have enough to eat, yet we seldom ate out. There were Muslims, yet terrorism was unknown in America. We walked on the moon, yet no one knew why. There was Down's Syndrome, yet no one knew it until after the birth. We always had water, yet not in bottles.
I'm sure that each of you can think of many more of the good, bad, and the ugly of the past, present, and what will be in the future. Now, generally, I loved the life I had in Those Days and seem to think about it often. And, I really don't know why. I know where I am at and can see some of the things in the Coming Days, but that doesn't explain why I prefer to step back a bit.
So, where in time do you see yourself being happiest? Take the poll.
.
I've always been intrigued by listening to the stories of elders. Tales about riding in a horse drawn carriage or on a steam locomotive. And, I was envious that I had not seen the rapid change that they had. Think about Their Days when there were no refrigerators, televisions, telephones, or affordable cars. Few could travel by air, many were killed in the great wars, times of famine, hard work, and widespread poverty.
Now that I am quickly becoming an elder, I can only reflect back to Those Days. But even with that, I have experienced great change. Things that many of you have not experienced and take for granted, just like I did.
So, I'd like for you to relax and think back for a moment about the change that has occurred in just the last 50 years, then take the poll to the left. If you were not around then, I'm sure you'll recognize some from your history lessons. I'll summarize just a few.
In Those Days, Negroes could not attend many of our schools, yet they were mandated to join our armies. Some of us had telephones and televisions, yet they were always connected by wires. We recited the Pledge of Allegiance and said the Lord's prayer every day in school, yet we forgot most of it by the time we got home. Women worked outside the home, but only as secretaries, nurses, teachers, or waitresses. Tattoos were taboo, yet men grew their hair long. We pledged peace, yet we waged wars. We beat baseball cards against the spokes of our bike wheels, not knowing that some would be worth thousands someday.
We played tether ball at school, after school. There were no soccer moms, yet my mom made our scout uniforms. There were no SUV's, yet there were station wagons. We had flying model airplanes, yet they flew in a circle guided by a string. They were bicycles abundant, yett none had more than 3-speeds. We didn't complain that there was nothing to watch on television, yet we had only 13 channels at most. There were no drug addicts, yet there was alcoholism.
Most households had a father, yet there were unplanned pregnancies. Our coins were 100% silver, and our currency was backed in gold. There were no credit cards, yet we managed to get what we needed by lay-a-way. And, one penny would buy a stick of gum to share with your sister. Freedom of speech didn't allow you to burn the flag, yet we got our point across. And we respected our elders, teachers, preachers, and cops, yet none of them molested us.
New roads were were built everyday, and most every family had a car, yet only one. We watched the Jetsons, yet we didn't actually think we would become one. We read a lot, yet there were no Internet blogs. We seemed to have enough to eat, yet we seldom ate out. There were Muslims, yet terrorism was unknown in America. We walked on the moon, yet no one knew why. There was Down's Syndrome, yet no one knew it until after the birth. We always had water, yet not in bottles.
I'm sure that each of you can think of many more of the good, bad, and the ugly of the past, present, and what will be in the future. Now, generally, I loved the life I had in Those Days and seem to think about it often. And, I really don't know why. I know where I am at and can see some of the things in the Coming Days, but that doesn't explain why I prefer to step back a bit.
So, where in time do you see yourself being happiest? Take the poll.
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Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Getting Healthy
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Has anyone ever taken a close look at their cell phone, hotel, or airfare bill? Check it out. These are just a few of the places that show evidence about what I'm aboiut to say.
They are all filled with hidden fees that you wouldn't expect. Hotel bills almost always have a bedroom tax and airlines nail you for transportation improvement fees, while cell phones have extra levis to support the 911 system, improvements for the deaf, and providing free telephone service for low income families.
So, recently San Francisco enacted a law that requires every business having more than 5 employees, to provide health insurance to their employees. Now, this past weekend, a vacationing couple entered a coffee shop, and ordered food. While they were waiting, they read the menu further. The menu reported that a 12% "Healthy Tax" is added to each food order at checkout. The couple complained and it was explained that the City forced them to provide health insurance for their employees and that they were simply passing the cost of doing business in the City to the patrons. The couple refused to pay the charge, citing that since they were not local residents, they should not be forced to support those that receive the benefit. The cops were called and when threatened with arrest, the couple paid the bill.
You know, we the People are supposed to have a say when taxes are levied. It's supposed to be on the ballot. But, so many times, our government leaders simply impose what they call "fees" on businesses, which are passed onto us. But what they call fees are actually taxes because they go to supporting the government's projects as they see fit. And, we have no say in it. Now, that is pure socialism. A forced redistribution of wealth. Just a clever way of doing it.
The San Francisco "Healthy Tax" illustrates excactly how this happens, and how the costs are passed along to the consumers. Does anyone see the similarities to the Long Legged MacDaddy's health plan. 60% of Americans do not want the system, yet we will get one, one way or another!
The post office is losing billions, while private shipping companies are making billions. Why is that? Should we really let our government run health care?
.
Has anyone ever taken a close look at their cell phone, hotel, or airfare bill? Check it out. These are just a few of the places that show evidence about what I'm aboiut to say.
They are all filled with hidden fees that you wouldn't expect. Hotel bills almost always have a bedroom tax and airlines nail you for transportation improvement fees, while cell phones have extra levis to support the 911 system, improvements for the deaf, and providing free telephone service for low income families.
So, recently San Francisco enacted a law that requires every business having more than 5 employees, to provide health insurance to their employees. Now, this past weekend, a vacationing couple entered a coffee shop, and ordered food. While they were waiting, they read the menu further. The menu reported that a 12% "Healthy Tax" is added to each food order at checkout. The couple complained and it was explained that the City forced them to provide health insurance for their employees and that they were simply passing the cost of doing business in the City to the patrons. The couple refused to pay the charge, citing that since they were not local residents, they should not be forced to support those that receive the benefit. The cops were called and when threatened with arrest, the couple paid the bill.
You know, we the People are supposed to have a say when taxes are levied. It's supposed to be on the ballot. But, so many times, our government leaders simply impose what they call "fees" on businesses, which are passed onto us. But what they call fees are actually taxes because they go to supporting the government's projects as they see fit. And, we have no say in it. Now, that is pure socialism. A forced redistribution of wealth. Just a clever way of doing it.
The San Francisco "Healthy Tax" illustrates excactly how this happens, and how the costs are passed along to the consumers. Does anyone see the similarities to the Long Legged MacDaddy's health plan. 60% of Americans do not want the system, yet we will get one, one way or another!
The post office is losing billions, while private shipping companies are making billions. Why is that? Should we really let our government run health care?
.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Words of Wisdom
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This will be boring.
In Those Days, after asking my Mom whether I should be a Democrat or Republican, she replied, "Well, Democrats represent the working class, and Republicans, the rich. So, until you get rich, you'd better be a Democrat."
So. I became a Democrat. And, I think that is how just about all of us enter politics. And, so I remained until I entered the real world and began working for a living. But, it didn't take long before I changed my party, and I've been Republican ever since.
Notice that I'm not whispering words of wisdom, nor will I ever when I speak politics. I shout. I make a statement and stand by it, but not throwing insults around anonymously, or while standing in a darkened closet.
During my travels, I've had the opportunity to meet, and talk politics with a very diverse group of people. The rich, the poor, the homeless, the famous, the disabled, freaks and weirdos, and the respected. And here is what I've learned.
Party affiliation is the dominating factor one uses in voting for a candidate. But other factors include gender, race, age, looks, religion, and whether or not the candidate is widely known. Few of us ever look into the personal life of the candidate, or his/her prior voting record. Most do not know much of anything, other than what they here in the news or the paid advertisements. And, many of us simply vote for a change, even though we do not know what the candidate's performance was.
And, that is precisely why we are where we are in America. How is it that , if we chose a candidate based on his party, that when he changes his party while in office, we accept it? How is it that when we elect a politician based upon what he says he will do while in office, we do nothing when he does something different? What if we joined a Baptist church, but it changed to a Catholic one? What if we voted for a woman solely based on her gender, but through the marvel of modern medicine, she became a man.
Don't you see that many of our political candidates select a party based solely on the one that will give them the best chance of winning? Same goes when they decide when and where they will run for office. And they say what the People want to hear, but have no intention of carrying things through after they are elected.
You should be shouting about these issues, not tolerating them. "Whispering words of wisdom" and "Let it be" were laid to rest with the Beatles.
.
This will be boring.
In Those Days, after asking my Mom whether I should be a Democrat or Republican, she replied, "Well, Democrats represent the working class, and Republicans, the rich. So, until you get rich, you'd better be a Democrat."
So. I became a Democrat. And, I think that is how just about all of us enter politics. And, so I remained until I entered the real world and began working for a living. But, it didn't take long before I changed my party, and I've been Republican ever since.
Notice that I'm not whispering words of wisdom, nor will I ever when I speak politics. I shout. I make a statement and stand by it, but not throwing insults around anonymously, or while standing in a darkened closet.
During my travels, I've had the opportunity to meet, and talk politics with a very diverse group of people. The rich, the poor, the homeless, the famous, the disabled, freaks and weirdos, and the respected. And here is what I've learned.
Party affiliation is the dominating factor one uses in voting for a candidate. But other factors include gender, race, age, looks, religion, and whether or not the candidate is widely known. Few of us ever look into the personal life of the candidate, or his/her prior voting record. Most do not know much of anything, other than what they here in the news or the paid advertisements. And, many of us simply vote for a change, even though we do not know what the candidate's performance was.
And, that is precisely why we are where we are in America. How is it that , if we chose a candidate based on his party, that when he changes his party while in office, we accept it? How is it that when we elect a politician based upon what he says he will do while in office, we do nothing when he does something different? What if we joined a Baptist church, but it changed to a Catholic one? What if we voted for a woman solely based on her gender, but through the marvel of modern medicine, she became a man.
Don't you see that many of our political candidates select a party based solely on the one that will give them the best chance of winning? Same goes when they decide when and where they will run for office. And they say what the People want to hear, but have no intention of carrying things through after they are elected.
You should be shouting about these issues, not tolerating them. "Whispering words of wisdom" and "Let it be" were laid to rest with the Beatles.
.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Contributions and Achievments
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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!
.
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!
.
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
.
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.
.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
They'll get it either way
.
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
.
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
.
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.
.
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