Well, Let's see. . .

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You know, there is nothing better than being retired. Doing the things you like to do. Going where you want and when you've seen enough, moving onto something else, somewhere else.

I love it, but I have to admit,I feel bad because there are so many of you thrirsting for the wisdom of the Thought Dock. I know you are checking in regularily and I've been trying to stay on top of your submissions for publication. But it is tough you know.

I could make excuses like being out of range from the Thought Dock portal, or just being a it overwhelmed with all that is happening with the King and his Knights at the Round Table. But the fact of the matter is that I simply don't care at the moment. My time is simply more important.

Time like sharing moments with the family. Talking. Laughing. Telling stories of days gone by. Playing. Eating. Loving and watching as our children, and their children mature beneath our eyes.

And times like visiting what God has given this great country. The plains. The mountains. The rivers. The canyons and the blue skies. The Antelope and buffalo. Moose and Eagles. Geese and Buzzards. Such beauty abound!

The people. Away from the Left Coast. Away from the bustle of the Eastern big cities. The everyday people from the Heartland of America. These are the people who stand by their values everday. They are real. They are wise, and they are the ones holding this Country together.

It is a shame that so many of you have never met them, and mock them for their simpler way of life. The Nascar fans. Tractor pulls and County fairs. The truck drivers. Farmers and cowboys. Small town cops. Soldiers and Ministers.

I am proud to be one American who knows many more.
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Biting he Bullet

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Here is a tidbit received through the Thought Dock portal from a very loyal Follower of mine. Thanks for your contribution, Jim.

The President ordered the cabinet to cut $100 million from the $3.5 trillion
federal budget.

I'm so impressed by this sacrifice that I have decided to do the same thing with my personal budget. I spend about $2000 a month on groceries, household expenses, medicine, utilities, etc, but it's time to get out the budget cutting axe, go through my expenses, and cut back.

I'm going to cut my spending at exactly the same ratio, 1/35,000 of my total budget. After doing the math, it looks like instead of spending $2000 a month; I'm going to have to cut that number by six cents. Yes, I'm going to have to get by with $1999.94, but that's what sacrifice is all about. I'll just have to do without some things, that are, frankly, luxuries.

This really puts Obama's directive to cut expensives into an easy comparrison for all of us. Did Obama actually think no one would do the math? Obama has got to go!
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America's Favorites

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Yellowstone National Park is America's favorite park, and there is no better way to enjoy the adventure than to tour it on America's favorite motorcycle, the Harley Davidson.

So, as we put aside the Anthony verdict, that is precisely what we did. Over 500 thousand people from all across the globe visit Yellowstone each year, mostly during the summer months. So, the rumbling of the fully dressed Harley didn't seem to bother either the heards of moose, elk, buffalo, or toursists.

Everything seems to be in tune with each other. The toursist stop in the middle of the road to grab a photo of a Bison, while the Bison study the tourists. Sometimes I think tourists take more pictures of other tourists than of the beauty of the park. Fly fishermen seem to make a popular photo, as does Old Faithful, the hot springs, and my purple-flames bike. Although we only spent a full day exploring the park, we could have easily stayed a week just to get a taiste of it's massive size and overwhelming beauty.

It was truly a day to stand in awe of God's creation.
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Well now, who did it then?

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Geez, what a way to spend a vacation!

Made it to a roadside rest just south of Seattle on our first day out (Sunday). We listened on the radio during the whole trip to the final prosecution wittnesses. Then we toured the city on the Harley. We were very impressed and plan to return someday for a short getaway.

So, why is it that we continued to listen to the closing arguments on Monday as drove toward the Grand Couley Dam? What was it that kept us so glued (especially my wife) to the trial? I don't know, especially considering that I am well versed in criminal court cases. I think it was only, in contreast to the other half, that somehow I had a feeling things were not going well for the prosecution, and knowing the OJ Simpson trial all to well.

After visiting Leavenwoth, WA, we toured the Dam on the Harley, and spent the night nearby watchin local fireworks from the campground.

So, today, just about the time we were crossing into Montanna, we got the news. Not Guilty! I'm sure you heard. Although I admit I was disappointed, I was not so surprised.

Everybody involved in the case were liars. The Prosecution wittnesses, the Defense witnesses. The mother, The grammy, George, the brother, the body finder, his son, the cops, the coroner, the lab experts. Only the dead body sniffing dogs seemed honest.

Everyone involed in the trial were disfunctional, or sociopaths, including the members of the jury. What a surprise, you say. But, that is what the vast majority of Americans are today. I've said it before, but it is true. With but a small exception, most of us are ignorant.

And because the jury was but a cross section of America, how could we expect anything other. Convict Casey of lying? About what? They concluded she had nothing to do with her child's death, so what was she lying about and why then convict her of it?

I could go on with what went wrong in the trial, but I won't place blame because we are all to blame. Our justice system, which America was once known for, has become a travesty, because we have let it.

Well, we're heading for Yellowstone while you guys watch Fox News. I'm forgetting about the trial and soon won't even remember who that tiny little girl, Caylee, was.

Until Casey's movie debuts!
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Sociopath Society

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My research shows that the main characteristic of a sociopath is a disregard for the rights of others. Sociopaths are also unable to conform to what society defines as a "Normal Personality."
The sociopath also finds it hard to sustain relationships and shows a lack of regret in his actions. A major personality behavior trait is the violation of the rights of others, and an "You should love me" attitude.

Geez, now how many people can you think of that fits that profile? I can think of more than I would want to.

What about "I never had sex with That Woman" Bill Clinton? He denied it all until Monica produced the semen soaked dress she wore. Only then did he explain that he didn't think oral sex was really sex." And we, as a whole, bought into it!

What about "I couldn't help myself" Tiger Woods, or "It's so embarrassing to my wife" Kolbe Bryant? And we, as a whole, bought into it!

What about "Allalu Akbar" the Fort Hood Mass murderer, the Children of Columbine, or "Some one hacked my e-mail" Rob Weiner and "Retry me, it's a government plot against me" Blagovich? And, as a whole, we bought into it!

How about "Zanny the Nanny stole my child" Casey Anthony, or George "I never molested either Casey or that lady in the search team?" Or the "I searched the Internet for chloroform" Grammy. The brother, the meter reader, the cops or the coroner? We are buying into those as well.

Just a few, but far to many. Sociopaths are all around us. Are you one too?
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Allergic to the Truth. . .

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Hear No evil. . See No Evil. . Say No Evil. .

No one wants to hear the Truth. They cover their ears. So it seems. It seems so, because it is so. Because hearing the Truth reveals Evil.

No one wants to see the Truth. They cover their eyes or look the other way. So it seems. It seems so because it is so. Because seeing the Truth reveals Evil.

No one wants to Speak the Truth. They mumble their words or lie. So it seems. It seems so because it is so. Because Speaking the Truth reveals Evil.

Rather than facing the Truth, they run and hide. Bury their heads or deny what is said.

They buy now and promise to pay later. As they eat now and promise to diet later. They take the oath but soon fall to the glory. They love hearing His miracles, but won't heed His warnings.

And He said, "I tell you the Truth. . . "
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Pakistan: Another North Korea

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America has long suspected that the Pakistani government has been working right along side, and sometimes right along with Al Queda. Ever since the initial "Shock and Awe" of the President Bush era where we heavily bombed the mountain region of Afghanistan, Osama bin Laden has been hiding inside Pakistan, and apparently with the support of the Pakistan government.

And while we pounded the caves with explosives, Pakistani fanatics bombed a huge hotel in India mudering dozens, and some American tourists. But Pakistan denied it, until it was proven beyond a doubt, and have since apologized to India.

Pakistan has been long complaining about American airstrikes on Al Queda targets inside their borders, while saying that innocent tribal civillian were being murdered. Not so. And when Osama bin Laden was captured, the Pakistani government arrested several of their citizens for working with America by providing us information for his capture. And then Pakinstan threatened America with retaliation should we continue intruding into their country to confront terrorism.

The proof came last week when we leaked to the Pakistan government that a US raid would occur. While we watched from statelites and drone aircraft, the Pakistan army arrived at the target location. Soon after the inhabitants were seen loading weapons into trucks and leaving just before the fake airstrike was about to happen.

Yet, through all this America is giving billions in aid to Pakistan. Pakistan has ordered 300 tactical fighters from China, perhaps using the very money we gave them. What does POakinstan need the advanced fighters for anyway? Much like Iraq, they have no business with weapons. They already they have the 5th largest nuclear arsenal in the world.

Another North Korea is brewing with Pakinstan and they must be stopped! Stop the relief funding. Bomb the crap out of Al Queda inside Pakistan. Down with Pakistan. They should be included in the Axis of Evil.
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On Tour

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Like all great American Patriots, I'm going on tour. Yep that is right. Touring America (at least parts of it). Spreading our word. Paying our respect. Seeing our sights. Our history. Our people. Our home. Our family. Our friends. Our herritage. Our country.

Yes, we've given notice. In just a few short weeks we will no longer be working. Not even part time. Completely retired. No more snot-nosed kids on the school bus, or crabby parents complaining only because I missed their child's stop. For my wife, no more fitting glasses on people who shouldn't even be driving at all.

Yep, soon after we turn the current calender page, we'll be on the road to explore the upper left quadrant of America. We'll have the marvel of a GPS to guide us to all the favorite sights and places. All the people. All the family. Places like the Colombia River Gorge. The Snake River. Up the Rocky Mountains and across the Great Divide, and into America's Heartland. Changing time zones almost as often as I change my underwear.

With the All-American motorcycle in tow, we'll anchor the wheeled manor as long as we need to check out the sights, and see the history. The Lewis & Clark trail. The Great Plains. Buffalo and Antelope. Geese and Eagles. Across the beginning of the Colorado River. Custer's last stand. Black Hills gold. Faces of our greats carved into a granite mountain. America's largest motorcycle rally brings alive Sturgis, where my brother will be. Burning tires. Patriot music. An occasional shirtless woman (it's hot that time of year, you know).

Then a bit south to visit the kids and their kids. Sharing band performances and baseball games. Perhaps a zoo or some camping time with the youngsters. Who knows. Whatever is fun, we will do.

Perhaps again north crossing the parralels into Canada. Or perhaps south and west. Perhaps Texas, New Mexico, Arizona or California. More family. More friends. Maybe the trail of Daniel Boone, or Wyatt Earp at the OK Coral. Relaxing. Laughing. Fire pits and weiners (No, not the Democrat kind).

Don't fret though. Through the marvel of technology, I'll be able to keep the light of the Thought Dock shining (at least somewhat). Follow the posts. See our route and if you're along our way, we'll stop, or at least wave as we pass.

How fun!
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Sugar Daddy Syndrome

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People flock from all over to the Los Angeles suburb of Reseda to feed the ducks. Bags of bread, potato chips, pop corn or what ever else they can find. And the Reseda Park ducks are waiting for them. But they are not really ducks any more. They don't migrate either south or north. They can't fly more that a few yards. They are fat, dirty, lazy, and at times mean. But they are all waiting in a frenzy for one thing. Free food. And as long as you got it, they will love you.

Much like the Reseda Park ducks, are 47 percent of Americans. They don't work. They contribute nothing. They are fat. Some can no longer walk. They exist only for a handout. Free food. Free medical. Free child care. Free education. Free abortions. Free rent. Free welfare. Free motorized wheel chairs. Free bus fares. Programs to buy cars and homes. Although they contribute little, if anything, they are voters. And they will vote for the one that feeds them, just like Reseda Park ducks that love the ones who feed them.

Now add to that 47% base; most every Black, most every female, most every union worker, most every Gay. And add to that, most big businesses taking advantage of tax loopholes, expanding oil fields, and an abundance of cheap illegal alien labor, and what do you have?

Four more years of Barack Hussein Obama!

So, get off your tuffs. Empty the bread baskets. Only then, will we see change. Like the Reseda Park Ducks who chase and bite at the ones whose food runs out, so will that 47 percent, as we are just beginning to see.

But until then, Santa baby, I'm filling my stocking with a duplex, and checks. Sign your 'X' on the line Santa baby, and hurry down the chimney tonight!
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Invasive Species

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Since retirement, I've become more and more of an outdoors type and have learned so much about our fragile planet than ever before. Now, more than ever before, invasive species are changing America's way of life.

Did you know that by simply chopping your own firewood and taking it to another area for a campfire could introduce a new pest into a new forrest. Or by using a small boat in several lakes without cleaning it in between, could spread parisites around that could kill the native fish. Killer bees and African Fire ants were not native to America, but now have overwhelmed our native bugs which is endagering our farmlands.

Invasive species find their way to America by one way or another. Soon they multiply, and then overwhelm the native species by their sheer numbers, and quickly dominate their new territory.

But I encourage you to look beyond the bugs to see what is really happening in America. Since the 1970's middle class White Americans have reduced their offspring to an average of two. All the while, Hispanics, Asians, and Middle Easterners are cranking kids out as fast as they can. And in such a short time, America's White population has suceeded to Hispanics, and soon the others.

We can already see how America has changed, but we haven't seen anything yet. More is to come. The once minorities are taking over our government offices, and our country with out a fight. Gays and Lesbians have obtained acceptance of most Americans simply by comming out of their closets and annoucing their numbers. Now they are everywhere. In our schools educating our children. In our churches preaching a twisted version of Christianity, while they kiss and cuddle before our eyes to spead their filth.

Middle Easterners are having huge families in America simply to overwhelm us and impose their Islamic beliefs and culture here. As in Europe now, Middle Easterners, unless pregant, are all considered Soldiers of Islam, and are ready to carry guns or strap on bombs to further their Islamic ways.

It's happening much sooner that we can see. America will be conquered by these invasive species only because we allow it.
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Being more pacific

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Geez, the weather around our country has sure been nasty as of late. From the huge fires in Texas, to the floods all along the Mississippi River, to the tornados through out the midwest. My heart goes out to all whom have suffered.

But here in the Pacific Northwest, things are quite normal. And that means rain, which makes things green. Even the soles of your feet turn green with the dreaded moldy grunge. But that clears up nicely with a daily soak in a warm bleach solution while you tune into the evening Fox News. Just kidding. Not about Fox, but the soak.

To be more specific, I love the Pacific. Even though our rainfall totals exceed most any other place in America, we do have many georgeous days, and with few floods and such. And the time of year is here that the sunshine will overcome the clouds most of the time.

There will be a few days when one might sweat a bit, especially while kayaking, or hiking a trail to a favorite fishing spot. But you can cool off with a drive on the beach. Notice I said, "on?" I mean that. Not along side, on a highway, but right "on" the sand. How cool is that?

Small town parades and festivals. RV-ing, Chilli cookoffs, country music jams, chainsaw carving contests, boat races, bicycling, Harley rides, and wine tastings will consume most every available moment of my time.

Come, visit us, and see for yourself!
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Since you asked

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Well, most of you never quite ask. Well, you do. But not so in such an obvious way. I receive quaint gestures, seemingly innocent noises, or sometimes just silence and a blatant stare. A casual e-mail, a phone call, or a text. Most everything gets fed to the Thought Dock portal in one way or another, and many times a response is expected.

You see, I really don't care about a lot of things, but the things I care about, I care a lot. Every now and then I comment about the things you deliver to me that I do care about. I really don't like speaking for everyone, but I do so only because you won't say what needs to be said for one reason or another. So, actually, what I say is what you said to me at one time or another. I'm not a wizzard. You are. So, you shouldn't be shocked by what I say in public, because it is actually what you would like to say, but can't.

Now let's get to it. I'll say what you can't about BHO (remember, that is short for Barack Hussein Obama?) I could shorten it even further by just calling him BO, but that would not be in good taste. And it is important that you remember his full name completely since that gives light to just who he really is.

Let's see. Just last week, BHO unravelled a huge chunk from his bank roll (which is actually ours) and handed to over to six or eight Middle East and African countries whom are in a state of turmoil. You know who they are. Well, BHO sent the money so that the rebels (I don't know why we call them that) can further advance democracy in their country. Is BHO nuts, or does he believe we are? Democracy can not exist, and is forbidden by the Kuran. And since the countries that he gave the money to are 90% Muslim, we are waisting our efforts there because democracy can not exist there.

Then, BHO asks Pakistan for access to bin Laden's compound and wives to search for additional evidence. Pakistan denied that and threatened to give our downed secret helicopter to China. Yet yet does nothing. And on top of that, Pakistans is buying advanced fighter jets from China. Now what does a camel riding country in turmoil need with fighter jets? But we keep sending them 8 billion dollars a year, while our government is in the brink of bankruptsy!

Yesterday, BHO displayed his true Muslim ties when he blasted Israel and blamed them for the Jewish/Arab conflict! Israel is our strongest alli in that region and has been for near 50 years. Now BHO wants them to hand over their land to the Arabs. You know, America was founded on Christian priciples and values. And the Jews of Israel are the forefathers of Christianity. And we are obliged to support them. Yet BHO favors the Palistines, Egypt, Syria, and the others. Will Iraq be next?

BHO favors the Muslims in this country as well. He favors the building of even more mosques, even though the ones we all ready have fund terror. He supports Sharia law. He denounces the burning of the Kuran, which he calls "Holy." Yet he ordered thousands of Holy Bibles that we sent privately to Afghaninstan for distbution by a non-profit, to be burned.

The race is on for America's next leader. It is so very important that we never forget these kind of things in our decision to vote. Tell your friends. Speak out. Support those that support your views. But if you can't say it, I'll speak for you.
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Are we safer now?

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The following is the opinion of Guy Rodgers, Act for America:

Osama bin Laden is dead, but America is less safe than it was three years ago. Why? Because the very interrogation techniques that provided valuable intelligence that led to our government finding bin Laden have been banned by President Obama.

What’s worse, some of the CIA interrogators who used those techniques, with government approval, remain under investigation today by Attorney General Eric Holder’s Justice Department. Consider the message that sends.

Those opposed to “enhanced interrogation techniques” have blustered and blundered their way through “explanations” that such techniques were not necessary in obtaining the intelligence needed to find bin Laden. Nonsense. Numerous top former intelligence and Justice Department officials have spoken on the record since bin Laden was killed, all making a clear and compelling case that such techniques were indispensable in obtaining the intelligence needed to find bin Laden.

America is less safe now than three years ago because interrogators today are shackled by interrogation guidelines that are actually more restrictive than those a homicide detective might use in questioning a murder suspect. The fact is, had interrogators during the Bush administration been restricted by the interrogation guidelines the Obama administration now operates under, it is highly unlikely some of the key intelligence that led to bin Laden would have ever been obtained. The Obama administration suffers under a denial of reality that has put America at greater risk from the violent jihad of radical Islam.

First, this administration has consciously engaged in what I term “Jihad Denial Syndrome.” Those laboring under this malady refuse to acknowledge what most people can plainly see, that jihadist ideology is what is driving those who wish us harm.

Second, this administration, because it denies there is a jihadist ideology driving Islamic terrorism, refuses to characterize this as a “war,” instead treating it as a criminal justice problem. It is this mindset that produces absurd orders to read Miranda rights to insurgents captured in Afghanistan.

It is this mindset that leads to Eric Holder’s obsession with civilian criminal trials for suspected terrorists who would receive more due process rights than a uniformed enemy combatant is entitled to under the Geneva Convention.

Yes, bin Laden is dead. America is right to celebrate. But we must continue to organize and speak out against government policies that appease our enemies and compromise our security. Our voice must continue to get louder and stronger.
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Ethan Knows Best

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Last week was especially busy for me. This "substitute" bus driver job is wearing me out. I worked every day last week with two days having 3 routes each. It is brutal to have to work.

But the reward came on Friday morning during the Kindergarten route taking the kids home after school. It is my "high mantenence" route. It is one of those 16 passenger converted van jobs, which gets packed with little ones. Few of them can seat themselves quickly or fasten their seat bealts without my assistance. That means after stopping the bus, I have to get up, walk down the isle, find the kid that matches the stop, release their seatbelt, and send them out the door, all-the-while traffic is backing up behind me. At times, I hate it!

Well, as Ethan boarded the bus Friday, he hesitated at the door and stated, "You're the best!" I asked, "Really? Why?" "Your the best bus driver! You always wear that fishing hat and you look funny with that toothpick! You're the Bomb."

So I asked what he thought Stephen (the regular driver) might feel when he finds out that I'm the best. Ethan covered his moth with his hand and muttered, "Shhh. We just can't tell him!"

Enjoy the weekend.
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In Some Way

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The BHO administration has been beating it's chest to increase taxes. He tells us that the rich people of America are evil and should be forced to give more in taxes. He blames the oil companies for the high cost of gas and demands that they pay even more of their profits in taxes. He says the banks are cheats and need to be punished though higher taxes for their misdeeds. He has mandated all employers to provide their employees with health care and other perks like government emplyees get.

Now, at first thought BHO's socialistic ideas might sound inviting, especially to the liberal. You see the liberals of America are the ones that most likely don't work, or if they do, the tend to work in the public sector.

Homeless people, unemployed people, teachers, preachers, rocket scientists, researchers, and many school bus drivers are the supporters of the BHO socialist agenda. And anyone who has more than them are seen as their enemies.

The problem with this socialist concept is that, in some way, it will come back and we will pay for it anyway. Two years ago, San Francisco mandated the even small businesses must provide health care to their emplyees. Immediately, a small coffee shop posted a 15% surcharge on every item in the menu, listing the cost of the medical care mandate. Customers screamed because it came back to them. What would they expect? Could these BHO supported even think that the shop owner would just absorb these costs? Dumb question, I guess.

Whether we think that oil companies and banks are making too much profit or not, we can bet our butts that if BHO taxes them more, in some way, we will pay for it. Raise taxes on the wealthiest and the will only hire fewer maids and gardeners.

Instead of trying to punish the wealthy, BHO should be taking lessons from them. Perhaps we wouldn't have so many failing public ventures, such as the USPS. Mandating employer provided health care will only bankrupt many business, just as it has caused the bankruptsies of many governments!
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A roof leaks only when it rains

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Well before I get into today's lesson, let me say that since President Obama and his staff think it is OK to address Usama bin Laden as "UBL," I think it is entirely appropriate for me to refer to Obama as "BHO." That said, I will without any disrespect, refer to the President as BHO, at least until I change my mind again. And in case you don't know or have forgotten his full Muslim name, it is "Barack Hussein Obama."

Roofs, like most every thing in this life require mantenence. And if you ignore it, sooner or later your roof will leak, even if you live in the brown parts of SoCal. And when it does, your mess will be far greater and more expensive than it would have been if you had properly mantained it. Yes, I know that some of you will simply put a tarp over it to stall off the repair, but eventually you will lose that bout too.

So take my advice. Change your oil when it is due. Replace your tires before they blow out. Monitor you blood pressure before you blow out. Stop smoking before you are diagnosed with cancer. Change your socks before your toes rot. Get straight with Christ before the trumpets blow.

You all know the drill, but few of you take the steps you should.

America is in debt, and it did not happen over night. It wasn't just the fault of the Democrats, but with each of us. We tarped the debt roof too many times over the years, and now the tarp is about to fade. And when it does, it will be a bigger mess than any of us can imagine. It will hurt, and we will drown. We can't just put down another layer without solving the problem of our growing debt.

So get your lives on track. And demand that our polititians get our Country back on track. New York City needs to quit buying Nissan taxis if they want to create jobs. We need to quit funding programs of failure, stop excessive entitlement programs, stop educating and doctoring illegal alliens, and the list goes on and on. Start with BHO!

It is not Somewhere Over the Rainbow, it is real.

For a Moment

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Yesterday, President Obama visited our troops at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. While he beat his chest like the Ape Man himself for the killing of Usama himself, he did offer his gratitude for the soldiers.

Following the circus, one soldier whom had 3 sand land deployments, was asked by the media for his response to the President's visit. The Army Sergeant replied something similar to, "During my 12 years of service, I've never really understood our mission overeseas. Rules of engagement continually changed, my comrades have been imprisoned for making mistakes, and we have been forced to befriend people that we know are our enemy. But for a moment, the President's visit made me feel good because it caused us all to come together without regard to wheteher we are Democrats, Republicans, liberals, or conservative. And, that maded me proud."

The soldier's remark could not have been better made. For a moment we have come together. Flags are being waved, chanting is heard, people are rejoicing in the streets. Country Western artists will write songs, and movies will be made. There is talk of patriotism everywhere, much like we had following the 9/11 attack.

But sadly it will last just for a moment, and then we will all go on with our regular lives. Too busy to care, to get involved, to do something about the many other issues that are destroying America. We will convict our soldiers for doing the very thing that Obama did. We will turn our heads away from right to life, budget, and overspending issues. We will investigate the very CIA agents that led to the capture of bin Laden. We will continue to fund terrorists countries that burn our flag in protest.

After a moment, our politians will be right back trying to preserve their own self-interests with out regard for what is best for America.
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Ding. Dong.

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Ding-Dong, the Witch is Dead. The Wicked Witch is Dead!

I wonder whether Usama bin Laden was screaming Allahu Akbar at the moment that bullet entered his forehead and instantly removed most of his brain. I wonder whether in that split second before his death, if he had a chance to realize that his "Allah" is not great, but is really Satan. Perhaps he has now met the Devil himself.

My God is Great, and I'm sure that bin Laden had an opportunity to accept Him.

In looking at the news photos of bin Laden's so called "mansion," the most expensive building anywhere in town, I can't help but to be surprised at the filth this maggot was living in. Dirty laundry, unswept floors, and uneaten food scraps erverywhere. It seems to me to be the Muslim way of life. Pure 3rd world.

Well, now that it's over, Obamma and the rest of our elected officials need to stop celebrating the death and get back to finding a way to save our country from bankruptcy. Afterall, Obama really had nothing to do with Usama's capture. It took six days for Obama and his staff to decide just what to do about it after learning his whereabouts. The White House photos of Obama and Clinton watching the operation, show how confused and afraid they were. Six days to make a decision that could have been made in six minutes! But at least the decision was correct.

Although I am pleased with what occurred, it is not a time to celebrate this thing publically. It just lowers all of us to our enemy's standard. No point in it. Remember how we felt when they dragged the corpses of our soldiers through the streets? And his death will by no means end radical Islam anyway.

Get focused again. Get Obama out. He's a bigger threat to our way of life that Usama ever was.
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Rain, Rain. Won't you go away?

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It is almost always wet along the Central Oregon Coast. When the weather warms, the moss grows everywhere from your boots to inside your ears.

But even with the 60+ inches of rain, seldom do we have major floods. Our dams don't break, and our streets don't flood much. Sometimes a tree falls or rocks tumble across a road, but more often the roads are blocked by a herd of elk.

The ocean breeze does get stiff a few times a year, but we don't have hurricanes or tornadoes. And when the sun shines, you won't get much of a sun burn.

No earthquakes yet, but the threat of a temblor elsewhere else causing a tidal wave here raises our brows a bit.

Our 3 traffic lights along the highway through town can easily handle the tourists on the weekends and all through summer. Seems people flock here from all across the western states and Canada, and even a few from Europe. They come to see what we have I guess.

For me, this spot is a step away from Heaven. A spot away from freeways and concrete banked river beds. Away from the fast pace of the big city. Away from the forecasts of inversion layers and smog days preventing the children from having a school recess. Away from any significant crime. And away from my previous job.

I'll trade all of what was then for my musty boots of now.
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None of us knew

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I wish I knew who wrote the following, but I don't. It was simply filtered through the Thought Dock portal. Although the author is unknown, I believe it to be quite accurate. It follows now in it's unedited format:

I remember asking dad about Castro when I was about 9 years old. I asked, "Is Castro a good guy or bad?" Dad said he couldn't tell! This was about 1955 while Dad was in the Army and stationed in Louisiana. Cuba was fairly close and in the news a lot. The Cubans were asking the same question! Ike was president.

This past July, we had the pleasure of sharing a summer barbecue with a refugee from Cuba . Our dinner conversation was starkly different than most. This refugee came to the United States as a young boy in the early 1960s. His family was more fortunate than most as they were able to bring a suitcase and $100 when they fled Castro's newly formed revolutionary paradise.

Our dinner consisted of all-American fare: hamburgers, potato salad, watermelon and fresh ears of sweet corn. This is a menu shared with family and friends nationwide, while celebrating the birth of our beloved America on the Fourth of July.

We began with a simple discussion about our country and the direction it has taken since Barack Obama came to power. We shared the usual complaints about the sour economy and liberal social engineering emanating from the rulers in Washington.

But then he said it. The sentence came naturally. I assume it was unplanned. But it carried the weight of a freight train. "You know when Castro took power, none of us knew he was a Communist."

We sat stunned. He continued, "Yes, we all thought he was a patriot, a nationalist. Before the revolution he didn't sound like a radical." The comparison at this point was easy, and I interjected, "You mean just like Barack Obama?" He responded; "Yes, just like Barack Obama."

He continued, "We were all shocked as the government just continued to grab more power. First they said the revolution is over, so please turn in your guns. We all complied." "I remember my uncle saying after it started; 'Castro will only nationalize some of the big industries, he will never come and take our family hardware store.'

But that is EXACTLY what happened; Castro started with the sugar mills and the large industries, but they eventually came and knocked on the door of our family hardware store. My family had run this store for generations. They said we now own the hardware store, you work for us. And that nice, large four-bedroom home you own, it is now our property also, and you can move yourself and five children into two rooms of the house because others are moving in with you."

The lesson learned from this discussion is a lesson most Americans refuse to hear. Political leaders can lie about their agenda and once in office they can take totally unexpected turns.

If you had asked us three years ago if we thought General Motors would be nationalized, we would have never believed it. We could never contemplate a country where the rule of law, the most fundamental building block of a just society would be evaporating just like it did in Castro's Cuba in the early 1960s.

But the news of injustice keeps increasing. Black Panthers are not charged with wrongdoing by the U.S. Department of Justice because their crimes are against whites. The bondholders of GM are stripped of their assets without due process by the government. Governmental leaders are bribed in full daylight only to have all investigation of the crimes stifled by the Attorney General. The U.S. borders are overrun with crime and illegal activity and the leaders in D.C. act as if it is important to protect the lawbreakers while the innocent are killed and overrun. When local communities attempt to enforce the law, they are ridiculed and threatened as racists and bigots. They are sued by the very administration entrusted with enforcing the law..

Without the 'rule of law' the U.S. Constitution is a sham. Without the 'rule of law' our beloved America is swiftly becoming a country where only the well connected and politically powerful will be safe. As Michelle Malkin has so eloquently explained in her recent book, “ a culture of corruption ” has replaced honest government.

The only way this problem will be fixed is by massive citizen action. All honest citizens that want to be treated equally must come together and demand that the favoritism, the bribes, the uneven enforcement of law end now. And yes, it can happen here.

And may God bless the United States of America !

No Dinner Tonight

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Recently a local television news station did a story about a school bus driver, and his wife in a nearby community. Both were hailed as heroes. Here is their story.

Near the end of last year's school season, the bus driver was loading elementary school students one Friday afternoon when he noticed a first grade girl sitting alone with her head lowered and tears running from her eyes.

The driver approached her and asked why she looked so sad on a Friday afternoon when the school week was nearing its end. He told her to cheer up like all the other students. The driver reported that the little girl replied, "I'm sad because I know that there will be nothing to eat when I get home."

When the school bus driver got home that evening, he told his wife about his contact with the girl. Together, they both agreed to help. The following Friday, the bus driver gave the little girl a backpack with plenty of food in it for the weekend.

Soon there were other children on the bus driver's route that asked for food, and by year's end, the driver and his wife were packing six backpacks of food each Friday. During the summer break, the driver and his wife, working with the blessings of the school district, collected food and backpacks from the community. Today, the couple distributes over 120 backpacks every Friday to any student who asks.

Well, I guess the driver and his wife are heroes. They certainly are very compassionate and giving. But, you know I have some concerns with this.

First of all, I have difficulty believing that first little girl using those exact words when asked by the driver about why she was sad. It just seems that if there was no dinner for her on that Friday night, then the same would hold true for the other six nights of the week.

And if she was hungry, why was that? Shouldn't Children's Services have been notified? Perhaps there are issues of child neglect. And now that half of the school's student population is claiming to be underfed, there must be a significant problem in that community. Maybe it is like the Haiti syndrome where our charitable food donations never make it to the hungry. Certainly these families, if truly hungry, qualify for some government assistance, don't you think?

No, I don't think any of these scenarios really exist. I think it is more of a bunch of people taking advantage of the gullible and compassionate people in the community. And it is yet another example of how all these entitlement programs create and propagate a bunch of lazy individuals. And they are even learning it in the first grade because our schools help teach them the way.

Just as my Teacup Poodle has learned she can get a treat even though she didn't do her deed, so the entitlists get rewards simply for asking.

Have a wonderful weekend!
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Perception of Deception - Proof's in the Pudding

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Is it me, or is this whole world insane? Now even my dog is lying to me!

So, we have this 8-year old, 5 1/2 pound, Tea Cup Poodle that my spouse rescued from from the pound a few years ago. A pretty pathetic thing with bad hips, bad breath, and only 4 of her 32 teeth left and those that are left hang outside her mouth like a crocodile's. She loves to be pampered, carried, cuddled, and fed (especially treats).

Seems her hips are out of whack and her rear knees and back are really stiff. So stiff in fact that she hunches her back and walks slowly in a tight (always counter clockwise) circle as she takes a dump. I really don't know why, but I guess it helps her bowels move. Anyway, unlike our other more domesticated little dog, she can't remain on the potty pads long enough while she is walking, to drop her load. So we constantly have to take her outside where she has more space. And when it is rainy, like it often is here, she doesn't like to poop outside.

Now, to get her to go outside to poop we have trained (bribed) her by rewarding her with a treat if she pulls it off correctly, and finally she has caught on. And when she needs to do her thing, she will go to the door and bark, then do a counter clockwise Kung-Fu spin for us just before we open the door. And sometimes, she will do the spin after her good deed.

So get this! Yesterday, my spouse took her out first thing in the morning where she did her deed properly and, I presume was justly rewarded. Several hours later she went to the door and barked, did her Kung-Fu spin, and I followed her outside. Immediately, she ran to her previously dropped turd (which my wife apparently failed to properly care for), sniffed it and did a Kung-Fu spin around it. She was obviously telling me that she had done a qualifying poop.

So, unless my spouse forgot to pay her off when she dropped that load, my most faithful dog had deceived me! Proof being that these entitlement programs we have all over don't build good character.

Yes, the proof is in the poop. Uh, I mean pudding!
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Is Obama to Blame?

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As gasoline prices continue to soar, they are now more than double from what they were when our President took office.

As home values continue to decline, many of us live in homes worth less that half of what they were when our President took office.

As many Americans earn far less that what we did before our President took office, many more Americans are still searching for any job while he is still in office.

As General Motors profits from the bailout our President gave them, most of us can not afford to buy a new car. A few of us did get to buy a car under the Clunker program, but there was a cost for the rest of us.

As the banks profit from the bailout our president gave them, we still can not obtain a decent interest rate on what savings we might have, and few can purchase a home because they can not raise the 10-30% down payment they now require.

As a few of us bought homes using the Federal Tax credit, the rest of us had to pay for it.

As we struggle to overcome our own debt, our President has increased his by raising our taxes.

As more GITMO detainees are released only be re-arrested for taking arms against us, our President boasts about the conviction of one terrorist for destroying government property although he murdered over 200 people.

As our President was busy shaking hands across the world, Iran, China, and Korea have continued building their nuclear arsenals, while he has signed treaties to reduce ours.

As most of the Middle east now lies either in turmoil or destruction, most likely masterminded by our President, while our President as he acts as if he was surprised.

As state governments struggle to make drastically needed cuts, our President supports the labor unions.

As many of us have seen our medical premiums rise over 20% in the last few years, our President is confident that his plan is the way. As we grow corn to mix with gas, our food prices have also risen over 20% since our President took office.

As our President demands renewable energy, not one new solar, wind, wave, nor nuclear plant has been built. And our shores and inland oil fields are still closed to drilling.

So, is our President to blame for all of this? No, we are for putting this socialist into office. I'm sure tired of his "Spread the Wealth" program.
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Freeloader Facts . . .

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In Those Days, it seems like I always worked. As I recall, when I was young, I worked for a small allowance from my parents doing odd jobs around the house.

And then at about age 12 or so, I shovelled snow in the winters, raked leaves in the fall, mowed lawns in the summers, and helped plant gardens in the spring. What I earned, I kept. I was taught to save, and spend only what I needed, and since my wants were not much, I did well at saving.

When I was about 16, I always had a summer job like washing dishes or pumping gasoline and it was about then that I learned that my earnings were taxable. I paid unemployment tax, federal income tax, state income tax, social security tax, disability and unemployment insurance.

And I've been paying taxes ever since. In return, I've never received unemployment, disability, welfare, social security, medicare, disability, or any other assistance from the government. My children never ate a free meal at school, and never were arrested. And today, they are paying their fair share of taxes too.

But today, it has been said that nearly half of Americans don't pay taxes at all. Yet I know that those that don't pay taxes at all, receive the vast majority of government services. They are usually the ones that need police services, either because they are beating someone or getting beaten themselves. They are the ones that are on welfare, disability, or in prison.

Their ghetto houses burn more often, their children are on school lunch programs, they are more often on unemployment or disability. And, to top that off, they are the ones that steal my crap!

They often do not have driver's licenses or auto insurance. They are more often alcoholics or drug addicts. They don't bother to practice safe sex, and foster their kids out upon birth.

For example, many of these individuals beg on the streets, making 10-50 dollars an hour. Or he might work for $6 hr. He might have a wife and 5 children, although some of them might not be his. At that wage, with six dependents, he pays no income tax, yet at the end of the year, if he files an Income Tax Return, he gets an "earned income credit" of up to $3,200 free.

He qualifies for Section 8 housing and subsidized rent. He qualifies for food stamps..He qualifies for free (no deductible, no co-pay) health care. His children get free breakfasts and lunches at school. His kids require bilingual teachers and books. He qualifies for relief from high energy bills. If they are or become, aged, blind or disabled, they qualify for Social Security. Once qualified, they can get Medicare. All of this is at our (mine) taxpayer's expense.

He doesn't worry about car insurance, life insurance, or homeowners insurance. Taxpayers provide Spanish language signs, bulletins and printed material. He and his family receive the equivalent of $20.00 to $30.00/hour in benefits. Yet, he pays no taxes!

Now, our President is back at it again. He wants to build his fan base of freeloaders, and raise taxes for those of us that work! And, you know what? He will likely get away with it because those 50% of us that don't pay taxes. They will all vote for him. Then with just a few more ignorant socialists votes, he is in again!

Look out! Majority Rules! Oh, happy days!
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What about Mexico?

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In watching the videos coming out of the middle east, I've seen few signs of the carnage that we all seem to be so concerned about.

In Libya, I've seen only a few dead rebels that have been paraded through the streets, a few mothers morning over the loss of their child, few burned out buildings and Toyota pick up trucks, and a few tanks and buildings destroyed. I heard about one allegation of a gang rape by Libyan soldiers, and have watched rockets and bombs seemingly fall into open fields.

Videos from Egypt, Syria, Tunisia, Bahrain, Iran, Yemen, and the rest of the sand land region have shown nothing different. Certainly there has be no evidence to support the genocide that I was led to believe is happening. Yet, our American led NATO is all over the place testing out their newest weapons.

Well, what about Mexico? There is evidence there that over 60,000 deaths have occurred in the past 3 years. Every day there are more and more reports of killings. Innocent Americans have been murdered, and the country is in a lawless state.

Their crime is spilling across our borders and is killing our citizens. The Mexican government is corrupt, and has been since the beginning of time. It has no desire or means to stop the carnage. Tens of thousand are fleeing their homeland and into America, yet we do nothing.

The true genocide is occurring right across our border in Mexico, and it would in our best interest to focus our attention there rather than in the giant sand trap of the Middle East (Mexico even has vast oil supplies too).
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Hoping for Change?

. President Obama is asking us to re-elect him next year. His last campaign was built upon his promise of Hope and Change. He also promised us better health care for everybody, but with lower costs, transparency in his administration, withdraw from Iraq, a stronger economy, no new taxes, and a country with less dependence on imported oil. So, let's take a look at just what, if any of his promises have been realized during the three quarters of his first term. He did give us hope. But hope is not hiring at the moment. Millions of Americans have gone from hoping just to find a job, to hoping that the rest of us will support them. Extended unemployment and welfare benefits have led us into an even more socialistic country. And he did give us change. Foreign governments both laugh and despise us. Bowing before Kings and dictators, promises to our enemies to reduce our national defense, and the appointments of his cabinet with the likes Clinton, Holder, and Napolitano, were some real changes. While Clinton travels abroad kissing ass, Holder dismisses over 200 counts of murder and to get a single guilty plea damaging government property for a terrorist (and he call that a victory), Napolitano continues searching our mothers shoes and toothpaste before boarding airplanes, instead of using profiling to focus on the real threat. Oh, but her big accomplishment was to revise the color chart for the Threat Level. So sweet. He promised transparency. Really? Like refusing to release his birth certificate? Like ramming the health care bill through so fast that no one had a chance to read it? Like appointing thugs and convicted criminals, tax evaders, and hidden tax increases? Like the bail outs given to his Wall Street buddies, his union friends, clunker and home buying programs that benefited only the recipients and his friends? And, we are so much less dependent on foreign oil. Corn prices spiked (which impacts my summer Q's) as we added ethanol in gasoline, increasing a gallon cost by 20%, but reducing fuel economy by 10. That's smart. While claiming to be fair with respect to race, gender, and religion, he embraces Islam world wide and encourages building mosques atop Ground Zero. Looking at his appointees shows just how his views on race are. And defending his professor friend while denouncing the cop, really shows his true colors! OK, cutting to the chase. Fact is, most of you put Obama on top of that pole. That's why he is there now. Most of you believed in his promises of hope and change. Most of you got duped and fell for it. Hitler, Castro, Qaddafi, and many others all came to power in the same manner as did Obama. I'm not even asking for you to admit it now. But remember what you have done. Stand firm as you did last November, and throw this bum and his friends out during the next November election. .

A Century Old View of Muslim

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Another avid Follower of this blog submitted the following viewpoint about the Muslim world. This was a short speech written by Sir Winston Churchill in 1899 at the age of 25 when he was a young soldier and journelist. I made no edits because it speaks for itself.

CHURCHILL ON ISLAM

How dreadful are the curses which Mohammedanism lays on its votaries! Besides the fanatical frenzy, which is as dangerous in a man as hydrophobia in a dog, there is this fearful fatalistic apathy.

The effects are apparent in many countries,improvident habits, slovenly systems of agriculture, sluggish methods of commerce, and insecurity of property exist wherever the followers of the Prophet rule or live.

A degraded sensualism deprives this life of its grace and refinement, the next of its dignity and sanctity.

The fact that in Mohammedan law every woman must belong to some man as his absolute property, either as a child, a wife, or a concubine, must delay the final extinction of slavery until the faith of Islam has ceased to be a great power among men.

Individual Muslims may show splendid qualities, but the influence of the religion paralyses the social development of those who follow it. No stronger retrograde force exists in the world.

Far from being moribund, Mohammedanism is a militant and proselytizing faith. It has already spread throughout Central Africa, raising fearless warriors at every step, and were it not that Christianity is sheltered in the strong arms of science, the science against which it had vainly struggled, the civilization of modern Europe might fall, as fell the civilization of ancient Rome."

Sir Winston Churchill
(Source: The River War, first edition, Vol. II, pages 248-50 London )

Churchill saw it coming.............. .

Arming the Camels

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In Those Days, when satellite TV was first coming to be, I was able to watch uncut, raw footage news footage from around the world. At times, it was stomach turning to see videos that were being transmitted from abroad, before the networks had a chance to edit out the gore and present it in their own distorted way.

One video has stood out in my memory. It was from the early 1980's and showed a nomad looking character riding along a mountain ridge on a camel with a Stinger missile launcher hanging from his shoulder. A Russian jet came into view. The warrior dismounted, aimed the shoulder weapon, and launched the surface-to-air missile at the jet. The jet did everything it could, but did not escape it's doom. That half million dollar Stinger missile was provided to that camel mounted jockey jockey, that Russians would refer to as a "Rebel," compliments of America.

Eventually Russia pulled out, and Afghanistan continued on as they had been. In short, Russia wanted to beef up their failing Communist agenda by installing communism across the middle east. Russia soon learned that the Afghan people have a very different culture and could not be rehabilitated.

Ever since, America has wanted to reform the camels and their riders and modernise the country. Our efforts are proving just as futile, and the Afghan people will continue as they have been long after we decide to abandon our positions and admit defeat. And the same will prove true with Iraq, and now Libya.

But what bothers me most is that we have given them our weapons and trained their armies using our very own tactics. And what I fear most is that will all someday be used against us in the furtherance of their way of life.
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Sad Sack

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Well, did you listen to the President's explanation and justification for involving our country in the Libyan turmoil? Let me recap what he said for those of you that haven't the time to do it yourselves.

Our President explained that American might was not being used to overthrow the Libyan government. It was not in preparation of a future ground attack. And he said it was not about anything other than protecting the lives of the innocent Libyan people from thier oppressive leader.

Our President said that he believed a genocide was about to occur, which if allowed, would tarnish the very reputation of what America stands for. And he explained that he has not yet intervened in other troubled Middle East countries because they, unlike Libya, used only police instead of their military to quell their disturbances. And Obama didn't say when, ever, or if our military would pull out of the action.

Did you buy into that? Did you fall for it? Did you swallow it hook, line and sinker? Wasn't it odd that he first spent three full days preparing a 30-minute presentation, then darted from the stage without accepting a single comment or question? I guarentee you that Obama did not give us the full story and that things are about to get worse.

What genocide he was talking about. Prior to our invasion, I watched weeks worth of news video and saw but just a few of the citizens killed. Actually, I saw far more of the military killed than of the civillian population. Although, I did see a warplane or two drop a bomb or two, I never saw anything to show that any significant damage or death.

And to put things into perspective, I don't think Qaddafi even has a civillian police force in place to quell disturbances in the country, so his soldiers were his only option.

You know, right here in America, American soldiers have been deployed to quell disturbances in America, involving American citizens, and have likely killed more of our own that what Qaddafi did to his own. Remember the riots in Chicago, Los Angeles, and New Orleans. Hundreds were killed by our own to protect the majority? Obama would surely do the same to protect the peace at his house.

Obama said our intent is only to save lives and stop the escalation of violence. Yet by his own admission, our planes only attacked military weapons and soldiers, without harming a single civilian! The evidence supports that Obama targeted only the Libyan military in support of the opposition rebels. Why is that, if the mission was to stop the violence and keep the peace? Why weren't the protesters targeted equally as well then?

Now I'm not a supporter of Libya, or any other radical Islamic country for that matter. But, Obama should at least tell us the truth about why he involved us in Libya. And if it was all about oil, then perhaps I'd support a full scale invasion, claim the country as our own, and take it like we are capable of doing. Kind of like the way things were in the Crusades.

Like his presidential campaign, not a bit of thruth came out of Obama's mouth. There is far more to it. For if Obama's explanation was sound, we would have invaded Cuba, Syria, Egypt,Yemen, Mexico, all of Africa, and most of South and Central America.
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We'll be in Libya for a long time to come in many more ways that what the President has told us.

What's it all about, Alfie?

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Last Friday, our President announced that he will give a presentation tonight about just why we are blasting the pants off of Libya. Now, just why does it take three days for him to conjure up justification for the invasion?

But, I'm sure he will say that it is not a war. Or is it? He'll try to write his definition.

Three weeks ago, his top general announced on national TV that it would be ill advised to intervene militarily there, citing the extreme costs, overtaxing our already taxed military, the American budget, inciting the Arab world even further against the probability of accomplishing any objective.

In contrast, Obama and Hilary called for the dictator's ouster and incited NATO to step up, do what Obama wanted, but keeping the spotlight off him. So here we are. But where are we? Obama called for a No-fly zone and has spent a half billion dollars so far, not counting the loss of an F16E, at a time when we can least afford it.

A No-fly zone that has only shot down one Libyan trainer that was trying to land. Yet, we have blasted lots of WWII era tanks, and trucks, and put two well placed cruise missiles through the roof of Qaddafi's house. So, how is attacking ground forces, and making an assignation attempt on another country's leader, justified during the enforcement of a No-fly zone?

I'll be very interested in hearing the President's explanation for that. And I'm sure he has spent the entire weekend to find to dupe us. So tune in with me and see for yourself.

Now, I'm not a supported of Khadafi, but I am tired of all the Arab baloney in the middle east. And I'm tired of our country trying to overthrow the legitimate government all across the world to force democracy in lands that can not accept one due to their religion. It did not work in Kosovo, Bosnia, Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, or any other tens of places where we have mingled into. We are not the World's police. So explain it to me, Alfie.
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Whatcha Gonna Do?

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In Those Days, Sundays were special. A time for the family. It was a day for the "Sunday Drive." With gas prices holding firm around 22 cents, we'd often hop in our 60 Chevy Biscayne station wagon (yesterday's SUV) with a basket of Mom's pan-fried chicken and head out. "Where are we going?" I'd often ask. And just as often Pop would say, "We'll find a place." But just as often, we'd dive into the chicken as we drove along the country road counting telephone poles and cows, only to return home, exhausted after not finding the "place" because we didn't have a plan.

As time passed, I continued on without a plan. Not knowing where to go, what to do, or how to do it, until during my sophomore year in high, I learned how much easier it was to have a plan. Mister M clued me in on that. And since then I have seldom been without one. And since then, life has been relatively easy for me and very rewarding.

I knew where I had been, where I wanted to go, and how to get there, and how to determine when I had arrived. I realized that not all plans are perfect and can not be so rigid that you destine it into failure. Plans must allow an "audible" to be called when it is evident it ain't working.

An effective plan seems not so apparent with President Obama. His health care plan is unworkable in it's present state, and might best be scrapped entirely.

His plan for a No-Fly zone in Libya is poorly designed, and will drag us into yet another invasion.
It has no definitions and lacks a way to determine when it will end. I never realized that Qaddafi's personal compound could actually fly and therefore could be a target of No-Fly.

His plan to make this country green, is a dream (more like a fantasy). Now he is encouraging Brazil to drill for oil off their coast. That's arrogant. Let them risk their waters while we over protect ours?

Mr. President, I urge you to use your vast community organizing skills and get an effective plan in place for our future. And include a plan for, "Whatcha gonna do when they come to get you!"
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A Special Place

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In Those Days I held a fascination for the Middle East. There was little information available to me about the region other than by reading the likes of Little Black Sambo, and watching movies such as Sinbad the Sailor, and Lawrence of Arabia.

It was a magical kind of place, with thinks like flying carpets, charmed snakes, belly dancers, tents and harems of the most beautiful women in the world. Tigers that could talk, and camels that could go without a drink for ages. Kings with huge mustaches and turbines. Beautiful women dressed in the finest linens. Sand every where. Dust storms. Blazing sun and a bit of shade from a tiny palm tree near the oasis. It was a special place that I could only dream about.

I don't think the countries we know today were even defined then as they are today, but there were places that sound familiar in today's news. Like Tripoli, Istanbul, Constantinople. And famous rivers like the Tigris, Jordan, and the Euphrates.

Now, either the Middle East has changed or perhaps it has been me. I don't understand the region any better to day, than I did then. But the magic I once knew no longer exists.

Today, I know there are no flying carpets with princes. The sand I once thought was beautiful is no planted with oil derricks, and the wind blows for ever. Although many still ride camels, they now tote AK47s instead of scimitars. They are radical, full of hate, and seem to seldom shave or shower. Lunatics and dictators. Murderers and thieves. And a religion of hate.

But it was fun for me to glance back to those magical days and places that I once thought I knew.
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The Green Thing

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The following is a reprint submitted through the Thoght Dock. The author is unknown.

In the line at the store, the cashier told the older woman that plastic bags weren’t good for the environment. The woman apologized to her and explained, “We didn’t have the green thing back in my day.”

That’s right, they didn’t have the green thing in her day. Back then, they returned their milk bottles, Coke bottles and beer bottles to thestore. The store sent them back to the plant to be washed and sterilized and refilled, using the same bottles over and over. So they really were recycled.

But they didn’t have the green thing back in her day (In Those Days).

In her day,they walked up stairs, because they didn’t have an escalator in every store and office building. They walked to the grocery store and didn’t climb into a 300-horsepower machine every time they had to go two blocks.

But she’s right. They didn’t have the green thing in her day.

Back then, they washed the baby’s diapers because they didn’t have the throw-away kind. They dried clothes on a line, not in an energy gobbling machine burning up 220 volts – wind and solar power really did dry the clothes. Kids got hand-me-down clothes from their brothers or sisters, not always brand-new clothing.

But that old lady is right, they didn’t have the green thing back in her day.

Back then, they had one TV, or radio, in the house – not a TV in every room. And the TV had a small screen the size of a pizza dish, not a screen the size of the state of Montana. In the kitchen, they blended and stirred by hand because they didn’t have electric machines to do everything for you. When they packaged a fragile item to send in the mail, they used wadded up newspaper to cushion it, not styrofoam or plastic bubble wrap.

Back then, they didn’t fire up an engine and burn gasoline just to cut the lawn. They used a push mower that ran on human power. They exercised by working so they didn’t need to go to a health club to run on treadmills that operate on electricity.

But she’s right, they didn’t have the green thing back then.

They drank from a fountain when they were thirsty, instead of using a cup or a plastic bottle every time they had a drink of water. They refilled pens with ink, instead of buying a new pen, and they replaced the razor blades in a razor instead of throwing away the whole razor just because the blade got dull.

But they didn’t have the green thing back then.

Back then, people took the streetcar and kids rode their bikes to school or rode the school bus, instead of turning their moms into a 24-hour taxi service. They had one electrical outlet in a room, not an entire bank of sockets to power a dozen appliances. And they didn’t need a computerized gadget to receive a signal beamed from satellites 2,000 miles out in space in order to find the nearest pizza joint.

But they didn't have the green thing back then!
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Most Impressed

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My heart goes out to the people of Japan. I feel their grief and loss. Having lived through a major earthquake, then did rescue and security for months following the event, I can somewhat understand what Japan has endured.

What stands out most for me though is the ethics of the Japanese people when compared to our own. Of all the films and photos that I've seen from Japan, not one showed any sign of any civil disobedience. No rioting. No looting, No shootings, No murders or violence of any kind, unlike our California quakes, and the New Orleans hurricane.

I find that amazing. Photos of store shelves running thin, no drinking water, no electricity, severe loss of life, and total devastation, yet no crime like we are getting used to in America with most every disaster.

And President Obama was quick to pledge Eight Million Dollars for their earthquake relief effort. 8 Mil?? Seems like we gave over 200 Mil to Haiti, of which there is little evidence that it ever got to the victims. What gives?
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A Union Affair

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For the most part, I've supported employee unions all my life. I've seen unfair labor practices, disparity and discrimination occur in the workplace, even in government workplaces where you would not expect it. And in many cases, the unions were the last line of defense for the employees. But times were different then. Not so any longer. It is different today.

Today, we have laws (both federal and state) the protect the employee in cases of discrimination, unfair wages and working conditions, equal opportunity, and the list goes on and on. Although I'm sure abuse continues every now and then, I'm convinced the pendulum has swung far to the side of the employee.

No longer can the employer effective manage. And it seems to be even more pronounced in the public sector workplace. Employers face great difficulties and court battles in their effort to remove a sub-standard employee. Cops that lie, cheat and beat, get heavy severance packages when they should have been sent to prison. Worthless school teachers, road maintenance crews, planners, politicians, and court executives are everywhere. No business could survive today with the typical civil servant as their employees. It's a laugher.

Unions have all but destroyed the American prosperity. Wages have risen to such a point that we no longer manufacture anything here. We buy Japanese cars, South American fruit, and most everything else from China.

A local, very tenured, school teacher goes unpunished for duct taping a child in his seat because of the union. Yet, our children's education has been evaporating for the past 30 years. North Eugene High School walk out of class yesterday in support of the rebelling Wisconsin school teachers. Now where did they get that idea if not from our very own teachers here? They need to be fired themselves for their continued pickling of our children's minds.

Michael Moore announced that the states are not even close to being broke because there are plenty of rich people in every state that are hoarding the money. Now, that's not even socialism, but pure communism in theory! And Jesse Jackson stood proudly at the steps of the Wisconsin Senate building and called for continued mass protesting (that means riot), just like he called for in Los Angeles over the Rodney King incident.

I've been raised on donuts. I'm fat just like our government. And I'm on a diet. It is very hard and I hate it. But dropping the pounds is a matter of survival for me, just like downsizing our government.

And a big first step is to getting public employee unions under control.
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The Great Pretender

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The final report to the Fort Hood massacre was released. And in it, there was no reference to radical Islam being a factor. In fact, radical Islam was not even mentioned although the shooter had denounced America's actions in Iraq and Afghanistan on his website, received instruction from a foreign Al Queda cleric, and shouted, "Allalu Akbar - god is great" as he opened fire on our unarmed soldiers. In doing so, our President denied the families of the slain soldiers the privilege of benefits awarded to soldiers killed in action.

A few weeks ago, the President refused to call the murder of American soldiers in Germany a terrorist incident, even though the shooter shouted "Allalu Akbar - god is great" as he took the lives of two innocents.

The Obama administration has stated that the way to ease the tension between Islam and America is to stop denouncing the religion and accepting the Islamic culture into or hearts.

What part of terror does he not understand? But, perhaps it is us who don't understand because we don't have the close relationship to Islam in our childhood that the President has.

He turns my stomach! Pray for him.
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Take the Escalator Mr. President

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President Obama has called for Qaddafi to step down. And actually, now that I think about it, I think that is a great idea. Perhaps he could use the escalator when he does to speed up his decent. Problem is; Who would then take his place as the Libyan leader?

I got it!!! President Obama!! A novel idea of my own.

President Obama should step down from the office that he is incapable of running, and immediately head to Libya and slap hands as he passes Qaddafi on the escalator.

Think about it. President Obama wouldn't have to prove citizenship because I doubt if the locals even keep birth certificates. His looks would be enough to get him through customs and into the office. And unlike the difficulty in translating the name Qaddafi to English, Obama could be easily translated to Arabic because it already is Muslim.

From there, he could distribute the wealth without opposition because everyone there, except the politicians, have nothing. And the billions that Qaddafi has said to have stolen and hidden away, could be President Obama's salary. A far cry from what we pay in America.

And he could unionize all the laborers so if any jobs did come he could control the people. He could save lots on a national health care plan because there are no doctors. And there would be plenty of wind to power windmills to make Libya greener. Camel dunk could also be recycled into flat bread.

He could name all his favorites like Hilary, Janet, and Eric to his closest positions. He could reduce the size of his military because there is no real military. He wouldn't be pressured to salute the flag or recite our Pledge of Allegiance, but instead could wear his preferred garb like a turbine and a purple robe.

He wouldn't have to bring his dog, because there are plenty of camels there to ride. He could raise taxes on the wealthy and businesses easily because there are few of them there. He could import his illegal alien favorite aunt from her subsidized apartment in America and provide her with a tent to pitch in the sand.

President Obama would be a better fit in Libya because there are few fat people there. And he could build that socialist-communist country he always wanted.

I'm praying for our President.
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What will he do now?

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He is still wondering. I am still wondering. No one now admits to putting him in the top spot. You know, the top post in America. The Office of the President.

He certainly couldn't have climbed there alone. Neither his youth years living in a Muslim country, nor the few years in America studying law in the Ivy League, or his time organizing neighborhoods in Chicago, or his brief time as a State Senator, nor his personal relationship with the most radical Black preacher in the U.S., or a friendship with a convicted terrorist;

None of that could have perched him at the top. But it did. What were you thinking?

And now, he can't get down, and it seems that no one wants to impeach him now. He just keeps spinning on his post, like a Frisbee balanced on a stick while everyone he appointed is dancing around and talking in circles.

He didn't know what to do about Gitmo. He didn't know what to do about our fading economy, but believed the "Cash for Clunker" program would save the day. Lies about healthcare, taxes, and supporting the unions and the Muslim world continue. Failing to prosecute the Black Panther polling terror, while supporting his Black scholar and condemning the White cops. Refusing to call a terrorist a terrorist. Jihad!! Allalu Akbar! Spreading the wealth around. Windmills and corn will save our day.

And now we have another Middle East crisis. What will he do now. That's a scary thought.

Very scary. . .Please pray.

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Who's the Problem?

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The Obama administration stated yesterday, "Muslim Americans are not part of the terror problem in the United States, but are the solution to it."

Well, Islamic terror is not just about a few radical Muslims. It is about Islam as a whole. As was the systematic extermination of people in order to form a "Supreme Race" was not done by Adolf Hitler alone, but by Germans as a whole. And as evil as the German were, so are the Muslims.

How can one call himself a Muslim-American anyway. The two contradict themselves to such a degree that it should be incomprehensible to any American. It's kind of like saying, "The light is on-off."

Islam contradicts the American way of life that it can not peacefully coexist here. Islam in itself, denounces everything that America stands for and advocates the eradication (murder) of anyone who does not convert.

And, should any Muslim stand up and denounce the Islamic terror acts, they to would be murdered by their own. I've yet to hear any Muslim cleric, imam, or Islamic follower offer sympathy or sorrow for the 911 murders, nor do I expect to.

It is the very Islamic faith that is the face of terror. Not some of them, but all of them. Know your enemies. Pray for them as you pray for yourselves.
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Last Friday

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I would have preferred it to to be Good Friday because school would have been out, and the buses and the drivers would be resting. But it wasn't, so I had to work.

It was however, a special Friday to some because it was the end of National Read Across America Week, and our schools recognized Dr. Seuss for his contributions to our reading programs. Remember him? Boy he and his books were weird!

Anyway, the route I was assigned began with the elementary school and made a loop around town dropping off the young ones before returning to the school yards to get the Junior and Senior High kids. The route then repeated itself before taking the remaining students to their drops in more rural areas.

Well, it was about the time that I was heading toward the rural route after completing 2 separate runs through a local neighborhood when the radio blurted, "Base to Bus 6. You failed to drop off Evan!" I had not a clue who Evan was, let alone what stop he was supposed to go to.

So after finding a suitable location, activating the 4-way flashers, I pulled off hoping not to sink into the soft soil at the road's edge. Set the brake, turn off the engine, open the passenger loading door (as a safety thing just in case the bus blows up or something), remove the key, stand up, and speak clearly into the PA system. "Is Evan here?" No answer. No surprise to me though cause I always expect the worse. Go figure.

Secure the microphone and walk the narrow isle toward the rear while asking again who is Evan. Everyone denied they were he. But then, I saw him. Had to be him. He was asleep with his pink back pack in his lap, wearing his handmade Dr. Seuss hat, and holding a jacket and a book beside him. A kindergarten kid.

After waking him, he informed me that I was not at his stop. Well, I knew that! So I asked him what stop was his and why he did not get off at either of the two passes. Well, he didn't know that either, so I invited him up front as I returned the 4 miles back to his stop, just in time for a heavy downpour of rain.

Stopped the bus and deployed the "Don't Pass Me" stop sign and instructed him to disembark. He gathered all his stuff in his arms. I was sure that he would fall down the steps if something wasn't done.

I asked him for his book and he began to explain what a great read it was because it was about a frog. "OK kid, that's very interesting, but let me just put it into your backpack for now." So then he asked where his jacket was. I told him to check the seat where he first was. He found it after wandering around for a minute or so, returned and asked for help putting it on because it was "raining out there." Then I had to fold (very neatly of course) his paper Dr. Seuss hat and put it in the pack with his book before he finally got off and ran to his granny waiting in the rain.

Seven minutes it took not to mention the time it took to drive back to the stop. Seven minutes of traffic backed up behind me. Seven-plus minutes late for each of the remaining passengers getting home. 560 heartbeats less that I have to spend in my life the way I want to. And guests are coming for dinner tonight.

I can't take it! What will this week bring?
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One Person's Opinion

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The following was received through the Thought Dock portal and was re-printed without edit.

Author unknown:

President Bush did make a bad mistake in the war on terrorism. But the mistake was not his decision to go to war in Iraq. Bush's mistake came in his belief that this country is the same one his father fought for in WWII. It is not..

Back then, they had just come out of a vicious depression. The country was steeled by the hardship of that depression, but they still believed fervently in this country. They knew that the people had elected their leaders, so it was the people's duty to back those leaders. Therefore, when the war broke out the people came together, rallied behind, and stuck with their leaders, whether they had voted for them or not or whether the war was going badly or not.

And war was just as distasteful and the anguish just as great then as it is today. Often there were more casualties in one day in WWII than we have had in the entire Iraq war. But that did not matter. The people stuck with the President because it was their patriotic duty. Americans put aside their differences in WWII and worked together to win that war.

Everyone from every strata of society, from young to old pitched in. Small children pulled little wagons around to gather scrap metal for the war effort. Grade school students saved their pennies to buy stamps for war bonds to help the effort. Men who were too old or medically 4F lied about their age or condition trying their best to join the military. Women doubled their work to keep things going at home. Harsh rationing of everything from gasoline to soap, to butter was imposed, yet there was very little complaining.

You never heard prominent people on the radio belittling the President. Interestingly enough, in those days there were no fat cat actors and entertainers who ran off to visit and fawn over dictators of hostile countries and complain to them about our President. Instead, they made upbeat films and entertained our troops to help the troops' morale. And a bunch even enlisted.

And imagine this: Teachers in schools actually started the day off with a Pledge of Allegiance, and with prayers for our country and our troops!

Back then, no newspaper would have dared point out certain weak spots in our cities where bombs could be set off to cause the maximum damage. No newspaper would have dared complain about what we were doing to catch spies. A newspaper would have been laughed out of existence if it had complained that German or Japanese soldiers were being 'tortured' by being forced to wear women's underwear, or subjected to interrogation by a woman, or being scared by a dog or did not have air conditioning.

There were a lot of things different back then. We were not subjected to a constant bombardment of pornography, perversion and promiscuity in movies or on radio. We did not have legions of crack heads, dope pushers and armed gangs roaming our streets.

No, President Bush did not make a mistake in his handling of terrorism. He made the mistake of believing that we still had the courage and fortitude of our fathers. He believed that this was still the country that our fathers fought so dearly to preserve.

It is not the same country. It is now a cross between Sodom and Gomorra and the land of Oz. We did unite for a short while after 9/11, but our attitude changed when we found out that defending our country would require some sacrifices.

We are in great danger. The terrorists are fanatic Muslims. They believe that it is okay, even their duty, to kill anyone who will not convert to Islam. It has been estimated that about one third or over three hundred million Muslims are sympathetic to the terrorists cause... Hitler and Tojo combined did not have nearly that many potential recruits.

So... We either win it - or lose it - and you ain't gonna like losing. America is not at war. The George Bush's military is at war. America is at the mall, or watching the movie stars, zooming around in exotic fast cars, looking up to sports stars with jail records, whining because the government doesn't do enough for them, busy trying to give away somebody else's money.... !!!!!.

Remember Obama said in his book 'Audacity of Hope', 'I will stand with the Muslims should the political winds shift in an ugly direction'.....what better place for the Muslins to control our country, than in the office of the President of USA .
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Ready. . Set. . Start!

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I've talked about these kinds of things before. Duplicate things, I mean. And the senselessness of them.

Things always seems accumulate over the years. Have you ever gone through that shoebox full of photos that you've taken over the years and noticed that you sometimes have more than one of the exact same picture. Blame it on the "Double Print" offer that Walmart had if you want. Now days instead of shoe boxes many of us keep our digital photos on some sort of computer storage thing, but the idea is the same; Retention of so many useless things. Duplicate things. Surely we can all think of the stuff we need to sort through and throw out the duplicates.

In Those Days, my children realized they could hit me up for a buck or two, then hit their Mom up for a buck or to more, without either of use realizing the kids had been overpaid. At least not until they had spent all the money.

Just the other day I was asked to drive a bus transporting "Head Start" youngsters home in the early evening. It seemed odd that these kids appeared to be only 4 or 5 years old. Perhaps some were even younger. Much too young for school like they had in Those Days.

So after I got home I did research only to learn that the Head Start program is Federally funded but operated by the County. It provides no cost, door to door service to and from a preschool, to give "under privileged" kids, aged 6 months to 5 years, the chance to be better prepared for kindergarten when they get old enough. Meals are also included. Turns out "under privileged" means kids whose parents don't work, or don't work enough. Why would non-working parents need the services of a day care center anyway.

So why is it that if a child is simply poor, he is also deemed under privileged? And why is it that if the parents are home because they do not work, our government sends the kids to this pre-school, which is nothing more that a day care center. Yet, if one does work, most often day care is very expensive. And why is it that the Federal government pays for the children's lunches, when the State government also gives lunch money for the children through Welfare. Seems much like having two duplicate photos in the shoe box, especially when neither one is good.

And I'm sure that neither the Federal, State, County, or Local governments ever realize (or care) that these same families also receive money from churches, food share programs, their family, and from begging on the street, or perhaps selling dope or stealing some one else's property.

And Head Start is just the tip of the iceberg of thousands of entities that have overlapping or duplicate social funding to the "under privileged." Federal, State, County, and Local governments each offer relief for utility costs, as well as the utility companies them selves. Duplicate rebates for water conservation gadgets, home insulation, renewable energy, are just a few. Funding to off set the costs of small business start up, college education, home mortgages, unemployment and welfare are duplicated everywhere. And most times, one entity is not even aware that another is also helping out. It's kinda like a child hitting her father up for funds, then doing the same with the mother without ever divulging she already got funding.
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And we wonder why our governments are broke!
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A Tune-up

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Well, usually I don't say much about religion in this blog for fear of scaring away my readers that practice religions that are different than Christian, or to those that don't know a religion at all. And you know I would hate to cause any more stress to Muslims and Atheists alike. Surely they must have enough stress already.

Anyway, I feel an apology is in order. Not to the Antichrists out there, but to some leaders in American government that I have been so disrespectful to time and time again.

So, what brought me to my knees? Well, it was my very own religion. You see, during last Sunday's church service, the Preacher discussed several passages in the Bible that relate to Christians respecting their leaders. He hammered home that we (I mean me as well as all Christians) are to respect the position of a leader, whether we agree with his leadership or not. And with that, my tune-up in the subject was complete, and I added these leaders to my daily prayer list.

So, with future posts, I will not refer to our President as the "Long Legged MacMuslim" or to the Secretary of State as "The Adulterer's Wife" and I will not use mean words intended to disrespect or mock (like calling someone a prick), any of our leaders. I know words are cruel. So if I offended either them (the ones I insulted, or you (my Followers), I sincerely apologize and repent my sins.

Now, the Preacher did imply that it was OK to challenge a leader's position and values if it is done with respect. So that will be the order of the day in future posts. I'd hate to hurt any one's feelings (even the Muslims who are out to kill me), you know. And I would invite all Muslim Imans to attend my church and learn first hand just how much we respect them as leaders.

Well, enough said. But I'll say it again to the tune of a favorite song of mine. . . . I take it back; I didn't mean it; Please forget the things I said, I take it back; I'm sorry; I must have been out of my head.
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