Downtown

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In Those Days, it was transistor radios not MP3 players that brought the music to my ears. And it was then (1965) that I first heard Petula Clark's song, "Downtown." We were living in Germany at the time. Although I liked the upbeat melody, I struggled to translate her words to English. Having lived a bit in a big city, I never really understood her fascination with one, but I thought that perhaps it was just Brooklyn.

Several years later, we settled not far from Hollywood and the words to Clark's song returned to my head. And with the marvel of the Internet, I've been able to recall the exact words. So, I went to Hollywood, and later worked a career in America's 2nd largest city, and I found out what cities really were about. Petula had to be smoking her socks!

"When you're alone and life is making you lonely,You can always go downtown. When you've got worries, all the noise and the hurry seems to help. Just listen to the music of the traffic in the city. Linger on the sidewalk where the neon signs are pretty. How can you lose? The lights are much brighter there. You can forget all your troubles, forget all your cares and go Downtown. Things will be great when you're Downtown. No finer place for sure. Everything is waiting for you. Neither the traffic, nor noise, or the brighter lights impressed me. There were thieves and whores on nearly every corner and I feared being squashed by the traffic.

Don't hang around and let your problems surround you. There are movie shows downtown. Maybe you know some little places to go to where they never close downtown. Just listen to the rhythm of a gentle bossanova. You'll be dancing with them too, before the night is over. Happy again. The lights are much brighter there. You can forget all your troubles, forget all your cares and go Downtown. Where all the lights are bright, Downtown. Waiting for you tonight. Downtown. You're gonna be alright now. Sure, there are plenty of movie shows that were filthy. And the lights were brighter, except in the alleys where you are likely to get jacked. And there wasn't time to dance after you're car was stolen.

And you may find somebody kind to help and understand you. Someone who is just like you and needs a gentle hand to guide them along. So, maybe I'll see you there. We can forget all our troubles, forget all our cares and go Downtown. Things will be great when you're Downtown. Don't wait a minute more, Downtown, every thing's waiting for you! Downtown. Downtown. Yes, you'll find some one who you think is just like you. Someone who will introduce you to drugs, prostitution, pornography, or Gay sex.

So I've since fled the big city, and I don't miss it. There are birds, bees, and bears here. Unpolluted rivers without without concrete linings. Pristine beaches with an infinite number of sand dunes. Old fashioned burger stands and small town parades. Where senior citizens feel respected. Volunteer fire departments and a police department having a handful of cops. It's very dark at night and the loudest noise is an occasional chainsaw. And traffic only when the drawbridge opens, or when a logging truck climbs a hill.

And a Thought Dock to relax.
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Hello... Is it me that you are looking for?

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For those that are in my world-wide audience that don't know me personally, or have not looked closely at my profile photograph, I'll share something with you.

I have dark skin... And in the summer, it gets very dark. I am part Italian, and appearance wise, the Italian part prevails. I have been mistaken for being Hispanic, Black, Cajun, Asian, and Middle Eastern, but never Swedish. That said, I was born in America to parents that were also born in America.

Every now and then, I travel through Arizona, but I don't fear being harassed by the local police there. Yeah sure, I could be stopped for speeding. But I'll have a valid driver's license, I'll be sober, and there will be no people stuffed in the trunk that scramle away like cockroaches as soon as the gate is released.

So, I have faith that the Arizona cops won't even bother to ask me if I am an American citizen. But if they do, I won't mind. I'll just say, "No. No. No. It ain't me Babe. It ain't me you're looking for, Babe."
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Non-Profits and Charities

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I recently stumbled across a discarded Oregonian newspaper. Had I not got it for free, I would have never bothered to read it. For those outside my adopted home state, or don't know much, the Oregonian is a Portland area publication and is probably the most liberal newspaper still in print.

In looking through it, a full page advertisement appeared on page A8. The ad thanked the readers for contributing to the newspaper's sponsoring of their 78Th. "Season for Charity" campaign. It was a huge success and collected over 297K in donations. With that, the Oregonian reported that they distributed 80K to the Oregon Food Bank, and $9500 to each of 16 other social service agencies. And I applaud their effort.

But in looking a bit deeper into the ad, I noticed an irregularity. If you were to do the math, you would find an Eighty-one Thousand Dollar shortfall in the money passed on to the charities from the actual amount collected. That's nearly 10%.

So where did that go? I know there are some costs associated with collecting money for charity. Things like advertising, wages, banking, and accountant fees. But who received that pay? Perhaps the advertisement costs were paid to the Oregonian itself, and perhaps the wages of the Oregonian employees were reimbursed from the collection, and perhaps the banking and other professional fees were actually that of the Oregonian.

My point is that nearly every charitable event advertised as "Non-Profit" is actually profitable to those running the event. Why is that? If they expect us to donate our time, money, and resources to the cause, why don't those running the show do the same?

In fairness to the Oregonian, 10% isn't so bad when compared to some others. The American Red Cross and the Cancer Society, report that only slightly more that half of the donations actually make it to the persons it was intended for. And other agencies take an even far greater portion to cover their administration costs. One police charity that I know consumes over 90% of what is taken in!

Far too many organizations that claim to be non-profit are actually very profitable to those at the top. Local pet adoption centers, television evangelists, free newspapers, public television and radio stations, donate your car to charity centers, Salvation Army, some churches, homeless shelters, and medical clinics are just to name a few. And more are popping up every day! It's no wonder why.

Sometimes I'd rather just give mine to the bum begging in the street, or to the single mom I see searching the bottom of her purse for that last coin at the grocery store cashier. At least then I'd know that everything I give goes to it's intended purpose.
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JACKPOT!

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The bells, sirens and whistles went off! Everyone knew. Can you imagine hitting a jackpot of nearly Five Hundred Thousand Dollars? Well, that is what happened to a local resident of this Central Oregon Coast community at the local Indian casino a week or so ago.

According to the newspaper and others that know her, she was just an everyday "Jane." You know, much like most of us. Not wealthy. Middle aged and experiencing bouts of hard luck. Medical reasons and such. I don't know much more than that.

But I do know that if she was a everyday Jane, she isn't now. You see, because that 47% of everyday Janes don't pay any federal income taxes (a published IRS fact), it is very likely that she hasn't paid taxes either. Now, suddenly she is the over 50% federal tax bracket because she has earned over 250K this year, something that the MacMuslim implemented. Add to that a 8-12% State tax, and that will mean more than half of her jackpot will likely go to taxes.

I'll bet she is stunned to realize that her good fortune will be redistributed by the government to the less fortunates (like she probably once was). I wonder how she will like that? After all the years of being on the receiving end, she now will fall victim to the liberal social ways she likely supported. She now will learn what it is like to pay taxes like the successful capitalists have been doing for years. But, she probably voted for the MacMuslim just like most of the Orgonians did.

But I am happy for her, because even after taxes there will be enough left to significantly affect her quality of life.

Congrats Jane!
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Radical Islam

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By Charles Krauthammer
Re: The Fort Hood shooter, the Christmas Day bomber, the Times Square attacker.

On May 13, the following exchange occurred at a hearing of the House Judiciary Committee:

Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Tex.): Do you feel that these individuals might have been incited to take the actions that they did because of radical Islam?

Attorney General Eric Holder: There are a variety of reasons why I think people have taken these actions. . . .

Smith: Okay, but radical Islam could have been one of the reasons?

Holder: There are a variety of reasons why people --

Smith: But was radical Islam one of them?

Holder: There are a variety of reasons why people do these things. Some of them are potentially religious-based.

Potentially, mind you. This went on until the questioner gave up in exasperation.

A similar question arose last week in U.S. District Court when Faisal Shahzad, the Times Square attacker, pleaded guilty. Explained Shahzad: "One has to understand where I'm coming from . . . I consider myself a mujahid, a Muslim soldier."

Well, that is clarifying. As was the self-printed business card of Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, the Fort Hood shooter, identifying himself as SoA: Soldier of Allah.

Holder's avoidance of the obvious continues the absurd and embarrassing refusal of the Obama administration to acknowledge who out there is trying to kill Americans and why. In fact, it has banned from its official vocabulary the terms jihadist, Islamist and Islamic terrorism.
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Thanks BK
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Do you Remember?

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Geez. You guys must be hungry. I can't believe I haven't fed you guys in over 4 days, but I'm hoping that you nursed yourself with the Lovelies on Fox News while I was gone. It must have been rough because you are so used to me breaking down the facts that radiate to the Thought Dock and arrange them into a logical order before distributing my Wisdom to you. However, I do appreciate you checking in every day like most of you do. It keeps that counter ticking.

Anyway, I'm sorry. We did however, get away for America's best holiday with a trip to the McKenzie River. Yes, I know many of you wouldn't understand because the rivers where you live have concrete banks and are polluted with beer cans and graffiti while the only shade available is from some high rise building. But some of you like it like that.

Anyway, do you remember the Jewish Holocaust and Hitler's attempt to rule the world? Maybe the storming of the beaches of Normandy? I know it was long before many of you were around, but you must have heard about it in school or seen it on the History Channel. Maybe not though, but I'll bet you remember I Love Lucy, or the Three Stooges. Why is that?

How about the attack on Pearl Harbor or the evacuation of our embassy in Vietnam during the final days of that war? Or, maybe you recall the capture of our embassy in 1979 Iran by the radical Islamics?

Do you even remember the Twin Towers collapsing, or the events surrounding that attack? How many Americans were lost? I doubt that more that a few of you even know. How sad.

You know, if you can't don't, or won't remember these things, then all will soon be lost.

America was built by regular people willing to die for our country. From the Revolutionary Way to the current War on Terrorism. How soon we forget. How quick we return from each traumatic event only to become complacent again. We turn our heads as crap is happening in front of us, just hoping it will all go away. But it never does and it never will.

Now the Long Legged Halfblack MacMuslim has all but disbanded the pride of our Nation, NASA, and directed it's chief to extend an open arm to the Muslims around the world to thank them for their contributions to science! Who is he talking about. Chemical Ali?

So close your eyes again.

I pray for this Country and that includes you!
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Weathered

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Last Saturday, we made the monthly trek to the bigger city for some supplies. The weather was just gorgeous and, if I remember right, it was the first day of summer. What a wonderful drive through the country until.....

We reached the bigger city. There were people hollering at the passing motorists (me) from the sidewalks, holding their signs advertising their fundraising car washes, pizza discounts, and farmer's markets, etc., etc.

I can't stand it. It was just like Tijuana (well without the drug murders). If you've never been there, maybe you've tried San Juan, or Baghdad (but without the bombings). It's all the same. People everywhere begging you to buy their goods, or just begging for money. Pulling on your shirt tails as they follow you along your journey.

We passed at least five youth car washes within the first mile into the bigger city. Now, I never even let my kid wash my car, so what made them think that I would let a bunch of other kids do it? As we approached the entrance to America's largest retailer to get some Chinese imports, there we even more kids collecting money or selling their useless and overpriced crap to support their cause. A political polster table collecting signatures for another school bond (they already squandered last year's), and the usual bums collecting money for their own self interest. "Please Help" their signs read. When was the last time they ever pitched in to help anyone but them selves?

We made our way into the store thinking that there would be some relief. No, there were others there cooking up their half-bite size treats for you to taste test. I politely told the first bag that I'd pass on her fat filled desert as I walked away and leaned against a post while my wife gathered up imports. The bag approached me and again offered her concoction. And again, I rejected her, but this time a little more sternly. Eventually, my wife returned with her over stuffed shopping cart and headed to the gate. As we passed the bag, she presented her offer to my wife. She refused, but deflected the bag to me stating, "I think my husband would love that." As the bag reached toward me with her 1/4 ounce cup of ice cream, I ordered her to stay away from me.

The finale came while I was loading my imports into the car. This dude, walks up to me and hands me some sort of sticker and begins to explain his cause. He got a dozen or so words out before he said that usually people give a little something to pay for the sticker and fund his cause. I said nothing, gave his sticker back along with the "look." He slithered away quickly knowing he was lucky that I didn't post his sticker on his face.

I'm sure it is like this all across America. Perhaps some places are worse than others. But it is just another sign of how America is tolerating change, and that change will make us just like the 3rd world countries that we used to pity.

I'm weathered and all out of change.
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A few examples

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The war in the Pacific ends when the Japanese get nuked a couple of times and never again rises to war. In fact, now they are one of our strongest allies. But things began to change after that. For America, "Kinder and Gentler" became the way of life.

WWII ended, but the Korean War breaks out. Our troops fight to preserve a democracy and drive the northern commies back a ways. We obtain a fantasy truce, and declare peace. Now 50 years later, North Korea has developed their own nukes and is not only threatening the South by sinking their ship, but is provoking a World War.

In the late 60's Vietnam becomes the center of another uprising. We go there, get our butts kicked, and run away before anything is ever resolved. Now, the entire region is commie and over run with Islamic terrorists that are threatening us once again.

After teaching the camel riders of the middle east how to harvest their oil riches at our expense, they quickly moved into the modern age. But in 1979, Iran throws us out and imprisons our embassy workers. The Democrat peanut farmer did little more that pray about it for 18 months. And now, Iran is threatening to nuke us!

Well, I could go on about this, but I'll spare you the stress. The bottom dollar is that using force is not pretty, but sometimes it is the only avenue to get the point across.

I never enjoyed spanking my children, but after doing so just a few times, they became the best behaved kids on the block and they now are the pride of my life.

As a cop, I learned early that it was likely that I would not survive a first punch due to my slighter size. So no one ever hit me first, because when the time was necessary, I was the aggressor. They were usually put to the ground with one very strong blow before the fight could even begin. It was the key to my survival, and that's what I'm talking about here.

The longer that we restrain ourselves from using force against the evils that are attempting to destroy our way, the more success they will have. And, that includes our own domestic problems.

The time to take back our country is now. Give up with the kinder way and tolerating that which you know is wrong. It will never go away.

Close our borders, using force if necessary. Quell rioters with a fire hose when they refuse to disperse. Throw the homeless beggars of the steps of our White House. And blast the roofs we built off Iran. North Korea will get the message.

And, stay out of my face!

What's it all about, Alfie?

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I've always had an extreme interest in psychology. Why people do what they do and why they think like they think. But I've never really bought into the rationale of most psychologists.

One wrote that if there is no clear action to take, then it is best to take no action at all. Just hang on and let what ever is about to happen run it's course until such time that a clear solution presents itself. Doing such, he said, would prevent a premature action that could likely be a wrong choice.

In contrast, I recently read a chapter on the safe operation of a motorcycle from a manufacturer's owner's manual. After bringing to light many techniques to apply under various conditions, it concluded by stating, "If a collision is eminent, do something."

Two contrasting opinions. And, I believe Americans have taken the "Wait and See" approach for far too long. We have let uncontrolled immigration flood our neighborhoods, ignored failed criminal justice and school systems, tolerated corrupt politicians, and looked the other way at the declining morality in America.

You see, the longer we tolerate and watch misconduct occurring before our very eyes, the more we tend just to accept that which we know to be wrong because it seems to be in the common place. And in those instances where we finally choose to take a stand, the problem is so large it is nearly impossible to repair.

Get it, Alfie?
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Feeling better now?

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OK, now that I've taught you that your were not really sick, you are probably feeling better by now.

Pehaps you've realized now that you are fat, not because you have an illness, but because you eat too much and don't get enough exercise. Well, I admit I'm fat too, but I'm not sick. The good new is that those are choices that you make and can change yourself.

And, for those of you that have remained sober this past weekend, I'm very proud of you. You are not sick either.

If you've stopped smoking, you were never considered to be sick in the first place, just addicted to a filthy and disgusting habit. But it was still your choice that caused your addiction, and it can be your choice to stop.

And, I know that some of you think I'm sick for not having compassion or tolerance for you, or someone else who you think is sick. Well, I'm not sick and never was. I choose to be this way. To speak out about that which is wrong. To educate you and to help you become a better person, and to make this a better place.

So spit the pacifier out. Quit crying and making excuses. Get up and get off whatever is bringing you down. Help yourself. I know it's not easy, but...

You can do it!

Whew! I need a toke. But, not one toke over the line..
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Are you sick?

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Actually, I guess in today's culture, I should ask, "Are you ill?" Ill is a gentler way of labeling your condition, but if you are ill, you are sick. And, what you are about to read might even make you sick. But, it is your choice. If you don't want to be sick about this, then don't read on. You can just say, "No" you know.

Long before I was old enough to understand, or even care about these things, the liberals of society were very successful in convincing most of you that drunks drink too much because they have a sickness (illness). Now, I'm not blasting Alcoholics Anonymous. They are a wonderful group that have save countless lives and the lives of those that were affected by drunks. But, over drinking is a choice, although it can become a very difficult choice to either begin, or stop drinking.

Don't you think it is odd that smoking has never been accepted as a sickness. Although it has been labeled (and rightfully so) as filthy, disgusting, stinky, costly, and an unhealthy habit, it has never really been accepted to be a sickness. I wonder why. Is it because such a greater number of us chain smoked as compared to the drunks? Isn't it easier for the majority to call the minority sick?

I believe that the life style we chose is by choice. We choose to get drunk, to smoke, to be fit, to have sex with the same sex, follow our faith, obey the law, to murder, or to lie and cheat. But when we make the wrong choices, it seems to always be caused by some sort of sickness, or even some oddity in our genes.

Rapists, child molesters, and murderers must be sick they say. Twinkl defenses originate. Arsonists and embezzlers are just as sick as spouse beaters and radical terrorists. We say that living in filth beneath an overpass is an illness, so let us treat their disease. The fact is that they all have chosen their deeds and to offer them a sickness defense is sick.

If you are labelling everyone around you as sick because they don't share your values, you are the one that is sick. But, the good news is that I can treat you. Simply by following the Wisdom of the Thought Dock, and watching Fox News, you can overcome. I'll heal you!.
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For the People

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I'm sure that we all (except for the really radical loonies) can agree that government services are essential. We need an army. We need someone to build our roads, teach our children, and house our criminals. We need police and fire protection, parks and recreation, health and human resources, building and safety regulators, courts and coroners.

But the question is always - But to what extent and how do we pay for it?

It has long been that everyone pays for it all through taxes, although some pay more than others. And that seems fair when we know that we all benefit from services like the military and prisons. But everyone pays for roads even if they don't drive. Everyone pays a share for education even if they neither attend school, nor have children that do. We pay for police and fire protection even though we've never called the cops or had our house burn. We pay for search and rescue even though we never got lost.

What about Usage Fees? Are they more fair? In other words, if you drive a car, perhaps the costs of building and maintain roads should be funded through increased DMV fees or gasoline taxes while reducing State and Federal taxes. If you cause someone to call the cops, you get billed. If you use the court system, you pay. If you like to camp, pay a camping fee. If you drive the freeway, pay at a toll booth. Go to college, pay up. A rescue at sea by the Coast Guard, you foot the bill.

Why not? Going to the movies is not subsidised by the tax payers, so why should your cost of other personal activity be? Take the poll on the left. It is paid for by me.
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Udda Duck

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In Those Days, I learned that the easiest and most efficient way to move a group of people to a specific destination together is to march. And, it was while I was in the Police Academy that I was taught to march.

Well, sort of. I understood the concept of marching, the commands, the steps, the turns, and the rest positions. Halt, forward, left face, right face, double step to the rear, side step, dress up, right flank, left flank, parade rest, eyes right, salute, present arms, and attention. I know them all. But the problem was that I did not always follow the instructions like everyone else.

And, that is because I'm different. I don't seem to march with the rest of the ducks. I am the Ugly Duck, Daffy Duck, Black Duck, Udda Duck (I just made that one up), Diver Duck, Coot, Loon, and all the rest of the imperfect ducks. I'm certainly not the Mallard, nor do I want to be.

You know, I was so bad at marching that the training staff issued me a rock, that I was ordered to carry every moment of my training. The 3-pounder, was smooth and oval, and fit nicely into my palm. It was painted blue and had yellow lettering stating, "Hold in left hand." It was to remind me which way was left. So on every run, with every push up, every time I went to lunch, or to dump, that rock was with me. And, it is still with me now. Well, not exactly in my left hand, but still kept somewhere in this house.

Eventually I caught on about marching and later in life I actually often commanded a platoon of club weilding cops and marched them right into battle. I was really pretty good.

But now, I'm back to being that Udda Duck. I no longer strive to be like the rest of you. I strive to make you more like me. And lead you to wisdom by spreading my wisdom to my world-wide audiences.

So, "Atten.....Hup." At ease now. Everything will be alright.
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A New Twist on Things

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Here is a different way of thinking. I believe it was originated by Daniel Stanley Sr. (who ever that is), but I have modified it somewhat to better fit your screen:

THANK GOD FOR OBAMA (aka The Long Legged Halfblack MacMuslim)! He has all but destroyed the Clinton political machine and has driven a stake thru the heart of Hillary's presidential aspirations, something no Republican has ever been able to do. Let's praise and pray for our President!

Mr. MacMuslim has ended the Kennedy dynasty. No more Kennedys trolling Washington, looking for booze and women who need rides home.

He is destroying the Democratic Party before our very eyes! Check this out! Dennis Moore, Evan Bayh, and Byron Dorgan had never lost a race, but they all are out! And, Harry Reid's bid for re-election doesn't look good. These are just a handful of the Democrats whose political careers Obama has destroyed! By the end of this year, dozens more will be gone! The rise of the Democrat party over the last few years has come to an end.

Every generation seems to need to relearn the lesson of why they should never actually put liberals in charge. The MacMuslim is pounding that message home very well!

The MacMuslim has brought more Americans back to conservatism than anyone since Reagan. In one year he rejuvenated the conservative movement and brought out to the streets millions of freedom loving Americans.

In all honesty one year ago I was more afraid than I had ever been in my life. Not of the economy, but of the direction our country was going. I thought Americans had forgotten what this country was all about.

But the MacMuslim has woke America up. And, I want to thank him for that. Thank you Obama!

So, let's recap why:

The American elected the Halfblack, HalfArab MacMuslim president who had only 142 days experience as a Senator from the most politically corrupt state and city in America whose governors typically have been ousted from office.

MacMuslim's first official act was to order the close of Gitmo and make sure terrorist’s civil rights are not violated. Congress rushed to confirm another Attorney General, Halfblack Eric Holder, whose law firm we later find out represents seventeen Gitmo Terrorists. MacMuslim appointed Leon Panetta to head the CIA with absolutely no experience in law enforcement. The second most corrupt American woman (Pelosi is #1) becomes Secretary of State. We got a Tax Cheat for Treasury Secretary who did not properly file his own taxes for 12 years. A Commerce Secretary nominee who withdrew due to corruption charges. A Tax cheat nominee for Chief Performance Officer who withdrew under charges. A Labor Secretary nominee who withdrew under charges of unethical conduct, and a Secretary of Homeland Security nominee, Daschle, who withdrew under charges of cheating on his taxes.

MacMuslim campained to persuade the International Olympic Committee to choose Chicago as the host city, but failed. Obama pleaded in Copenhagen to support global warming, but failed. Obama campained in New Jersey to promote the Democratic candidate for governor, and that failed. Obama went to Virginia to promote the Democratic candidate for governor, but failed. He campained in Massachusetts to promote the Democratic candidate for senator, and failed.

Speaking of praying, since elected, neither Obama nor his Allblack wife have attended any church although they claim to be a Christian family.

Just the Facts, Jack. In these times I'll keep my God, my freedom, my gun and my money.
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Just call me

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In Those Days, we could never accept a phone call during dinner times (and that includes breakfast and lunch), late night (which meant after 8pm), early morning (which meant before 8am), or whenever my parents had set aside family time (which meant whenever we were doing something as a group). Nor, could we make a call during those times. So, that didn't leave much phone talk time when you consider that there were 6 siblings.

And, when we were on the phone, the conversation had to be brief. Just get to the point and hang up. And, if you didn't really have much to say, don't call at all. I know that phone rates were expensive then, but I don't think that was the reason we had such rules. I think it was more out of respect than anything else. And for me, that was all fine. Perhaps that's the reason I'm not much of a social telephone talker now.

Not so any more; at least for most of you. And, I don't understand that. Thinking of the thousands of calls I've made or received over the course of my lifetime, only a handful were really important, or were an emergency.

So, why then are you now so attached to your phone? Why will you answer it at any cost? Why can't you be without a cell phone? Why does the counter person stop assisting me while I'm there in person, to answer the phone to help someone else that isn't there? Why does that same person place me on hold when I call, only to answer another line? Why do you put me on call waiting to answer another call? And, then you forget that I'm on hold. Pooh! Why do you stop what you are doing to bust your but to answer that phone? Why do you talk on the phone while you are taking a dump? What is the urge to chat while you are driving?

Call me rude if you want. My wife does all the time because she can't understand why I don't answer the phone the way you might. But, that is the way I am. Seldom do I interrupt the project I'm working on to answer your call. Nor, do I always carry a cell phone unless I think the truck won't start.

Our home technology causes the TV to flash the name of the caller, or at least the telephone number of the caller if we are watching it. Our telephone answering machine announces the caller's name if it is in our phone book. If our phone goes unanswered, voice mail will then pick up.

So that said; if you call me and I don't know you, or if I'm busy doing a project, or if I know who you are but I'm am not in the mood to talk with you at that moment, or if I'm eating, or if I'm sleeping, or if I'm on the crapper, or if ticked off about something else, or if I'm having dinner, or if I'm on my way out of the house, or if I am driving, or if I'm already talking to some one else on the phone, or if I think you will try to sell me something, or if I'm having sex, or taking a bath, I'm not likely to answer your call. And, that is most of the time. So there.

OK, I know you are wondering if I'm posting about you. Well, maybe I am. So, what are you going to do about it. Just call me.
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Read my new book

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Well, I really have never written a new book, or any book for that matter. But, what is important to know is that I could have written a book. And what is really important is that I listen to those that have written books, and to those that could have written books. It's the origin of my wisdom.

You see, I was not always the first string on my team, but when I didn't start in the game, I was always sitting on the same bench with those that did. And, that is how I gather my strength.

I was not always the leader of the pack, but more importantly was just a part of the pack. But, I was the part that the leaders often drew their strength from. Well, some of the time. I won't take all the credit for their success, but I know that I played a role in at least some of it. And, my reward comes when I see others succeed.

I take pride in what I am. Where I've been. And, where I'm going. I like being honest, trustworthy, fair, and outspoken. I don't steal or cheat. I tell the truth (at least what I believe is the truth). And, I expect everyone to do the same, while understanding that, more often than not, they will lie.

That is what character is. And, character counts (I loved that radio broadcast with that title). And, there are so many ways to build good character. Hundreds of books, college classes, church groups, movies, and music all try to show you the way. But the best way is to study those that have character.

But, there is also bad character. Much more bad character than good. And, it is just important to recognize bad character as it is to see the good. Bad character is evil. Liars. Cheats. Thieves. Lawbreakers. Immoral morals. The world is full of them. See them. Know them. And know yourself.

Good character is having integrity, and integrity should be our standard. We should conduct ourselves in a manner that merits the respect of others. We should demonstrate honest and ethical behavior. Our actions should match our words. We should have the courage to stand up for our beliefs and always do what is right. But when you breech your integrity, be prepared fore others to challange your character.

Character is contagious whether, good or bad. What character will you choose to have?
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Wondering

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I wonder whether the Gulf oil spill would have happened if BP were allowed to drill in 500 feet of water instead of Five Thousand.

I wonder whether the fortunates would give more freely to the unfortunates if they were not forced through taxation to support government created entitlement programs.

I wonder whether the undocumented democrats would be so quick to climb the fence if they knew they could be shot.

I wonder whether there are fewer fat people now that there are fat and calorie contents printed on food labels.

I wonder why many people order diet sodas to go with their double burger and fries. And, why they only drink bottled water, yet they order a fountain soda made from tap water.

I wonder whether veggies grown without chemical fertilizers are still considered organic if they are irrigated with ordinary water already polluted with chemicals.

I wonder whether beggars always spend their collections on cigarettes and booze.

I wonder whether a Harley is really better than a Honda.

I wonder whether the new rules preventing police officers and certain other certified persons to carry firearms aboard airplanes permitted the 9/11 terrorists to hijack the planes.

And, I wonder if you'd prefer screws over nails if you're the one getting screwed.
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Default Settings

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Have you ever noticed that now when you buy a television, computer, appliance, or even an automobile, it is pretty much usable right out of the box. Colors, sounds, volumes, brightness, speeds, temperatures, and time zones are all preset by someone else who thinks they know what's best for you. That's what default settings are. For those that want to venture into the unknown, those defaults can be changed to some degree to optimize the gadget's performance to your perfection.

Well, we all have defaults right in our own bodies and minds as well, but most of us don't even know it. Our bodies are individually defaulted to prefer certain climates, foods, activities, and an abundance of likes and dislikes. And, many times we choose our friends, leaders, and even spouses from our own default setting without ever realizing it.

Default settings are wonderful. Well, most of the time. Because when defaults are used, objectivity is removed. And, objectivity is really important in decision making; for without it fairness can not be imposed, and bias prevails.

As an example, most parents have defaults that cause them to defend their child's actions even though they are wrong. Women will most often support another woman in most any issue. Men do the same. A person of color has a default to support another colored person, and even deeper, a Black male will almost always by default, support a brother. Christians support Christians just as Muslims support terrorists. It is all in how your default settings are programmed.

But, just as in televisions, people can change or override their defaults if they are aware of them. A cop's default forces him or her to beat an aggressor, and that default left un-managed, results in disaster, because he gets over beaten. A female judge must over ride her uncontrollable urge to support wives over husbands in a divorce hearing. And, our racial defaults need to be controlled in making race decisions without bias.

According to Physiologist Steve King, our President's default setting was apparent when he immediately supported his Black friend's disobedience over the actions of that White cop. Defaults are instinctive, automatic, and are made so quickly that we don't even realize how we came to that decision. Until later. When we realize what we did.

So, take a look at yourselves. How are your decisions affected by your default settings. Many of mine are. Are you a parent who will always defend your child's drug addiction? Do you defend your husband's aggression against you? Will you defend your drunk buddy's decision to drive when he had that accident? Will you always hire the one most like yourself? Do you look down at the hobos and bums because you were defaulted to work all your life?

Be aware of your default settings if you can. I have been trained to recogize my defaults and I really try to not let them be a factor in critical judgements. And, be aware that those settings can be over ridden if you like. And, if you can over ride them, you might be a better person. Not that I have done so with every one of my settings, but at least I am aware of how they are set.

Just sharing another Thought Dock thought.
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Look who's lying

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCeSvdBvBfE&NR=1
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Now, I don't want you to forget

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In December 2009, A post, "Transforming America" appeared here. It created lots of responses and was quite exciting. And I like that. Feel free to visit that post again. But in serving the best interest of America, the following is along the lines of the prior post. Sometimes things just need to be repeated to fortify them.

In 1956, J. Edgar Hoover, stated, "The individual is handicapped by coming face to face with a conspiracy so monstrous he cannot believe it exists."

Here is why we are where and what we are:

Obama wrote a book stating he was mentored as a youth by Frank Marshall Davis, an avowed Communist. Obama's grandparents were strong socialists who sent Obama's mother to a socialist school where Davis was introduced to him. Obama was enrolled as a Muslim child in school, and his father and stepfather were both Muslims.

In another book, Obama wrote, "I will stand with them (Muslims) should the political winds shift in an ugly direction." (The Audacity of Hope, p. 261).

Obama admitted in his books that he chose Marxist friends and professors in college. Obama traveled to Pakistan after college. Obama sought the endorsement of the Marxist party in 1996 while running for the Illinois Senate.

Obama sat in a Chicago Church for twenty years and listened to a preacher spew hatred for America and preach black liberation theology.

An independent Washington organization that tracks senate voting records labelled Obama the "The most Liberal Senator." Palestinians in Gaza held a telethon to raise money for Obama's Presidential election campaign.

Obama's voting record supports gun control and the destruction of the Second Amendment. Unlike everyone else, Obama refused to disclose who donated money to his campaign. But, outside sources revealed that Obama received endorsements from Louis Farrakhan (Muslim), Muammar Q adaffi (Muslim dictator), and Hugo Chavez (Communist).

Obama chose friends and acquaintances, such as Bill Ayers and Bernadine Dohrn, who were revolutionary radicals. Obama refused to wear a flag pin and did so only after a public outcry.

When Obama refused to show his alegiance to our flag and stood with his hands over his groin area during the National Anthem and Pledge of Allegiance.

Obama has surrounded himself in the White House with advisors who are pro-gun control, pro-abortion, pro-homosexual marriage, and wanting to curtail freedom of speech in order to silence the opposition. Obama favors sex education in kindergarten, including homosexual indoctrination.

Obama has refused to refused to produce a birth certificate. Obama has had a close relationship in Chicago with Tony Rezco, who is now in prison for slumloarding. Rezco also handed Obama a sweet deal on the purchase of his home.

George Soros, a multi-billionaire Marxist, spent a ton of money to get Obama elected. Obama has stood before the nation and told us that his intentions were to "fundamentally transform this nation" into something else.

Obama has trained ACORN workers in Chicago and served as an attorney for ACORN (a Marxist organization founded by Communist Saul Alinsky).

Obama bowed to the King of Saudi Arabia, and cancelled the traditional Day of Prayer at the White House, yet hosted a Muslim Day of Prayer to Allah? Obama traveled around the world criticizing America and never once talked of her greatness.

Obama used American tax dollars to resettle thousands of Palestinians from Gaza to the United States, and upset the Europeans by removing plans for a missile defense system against a Russian attack.

Obama has spent us into a debt so large that we can not pay it off. Obama took a huge spending bill under the guise of stimulus and used it to pay off the organizations, unions, and individuals that got him elected. Obama has taken over insurance companies, car companies, banks, etc.

When Obama transeferred student loans from the banks and to the government. Obama has taken over the health care system. Obama is attempting to take over the control of all energy in the United States through Cap and Trade. Obama has refused to protect our borders.

Our biggest enemy is not China, Russia, Iran, or North Korea. Our biggest enemy is a contingent of politicians in Washington, D.C.

But, Americans are waking up, in part because of the facts and opinions of the Thought Dock. The primaries are evidence of that, but more good work needs to continue.
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