MasterCard (Symbol: MA) stock grew today by almost 21%, which means it was up $32.98/share.
The company reported that spending is up 63%, which led to the jump on the stock. Luckily, over 70% of my personal portfolio is made up of this stock.
It was a very, very lucrative Halloween for me!
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Monday, October 29, 2007
Argentina's victory for women
The wife of present president of Argentina, Nestor Kirchner, Senator Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner has become the first woman in the history of the country to win a presidential election.
Although, she cannot claim to be the first woman to be president of a Western Hemisphere nation--that right goes to Isabel Martínez de Perón, who was the vice president and wife of infamous former president of Argentina, General Juan Perón, from 1974-1976--she can claim to be the first to win her own position in a direct national election.
Many see her political career as being similar to that of Senator Hillary Clinton. She rose to power through her own means to become a senator and influential advisor to her husband.
Although, she cannot claim to be the first woman to be president of a Western Hemisphere nation--that right goes to Isabel Martínez de Perón, who was the vice president and wife of infamous former president of Argentina, General Juan Perón, from 1974-1976--she can claim to be the first to win her own position in a direct national election.
Many see her political career as being similar to that of Senator Hillary Clinton. She rose to power through her own means to become a senator and influential advisor to her husband.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
On Location (Not Really)
The White House lambasted its political cronies in the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for staging a fabricated news conference.
Obviously, the agency's leadership thought it was a capital idea to act as if they were reporters and interview their own people about FEMA's response to the California wildfires. They posed very tender questions about the disaster to the interviewees.
The White House stated that it showed poor planning on the part of the disastrous disaster relief agency. The interview of Vice Admiral Harvey Johnson, who is the deputy director of FEMA, should have consisted of an independent reporter asking questions, according to the White House.
Obviously, the agency's leadership thought it was a capital idea to act as if they were reporters and interview their own people about FEMA's response to the California wildfires. They posed very tender questions about the disaster to the interviewees.
The White House stated that it showed poor planning on the part of the disastrous disaster relief agency. The interview of Vice Admiral Harvey Johnson, who is the deputy director of FEMA, should have consisted of an independent reporter asking questions, according to the White House.
Friday, October 26, 2007
"A lawyer for dogs"
These guys, from Red State Update, are too cute; especially, this recent post, which is why I couldn't resist putting it into my blog. It had me cracking it up, as I watched, because it is about the whole Ellen DeGeneres dog "debacle." I just loved how the doggy had "two mommies" and wanted "a lawyer for dogs on retainer," after being treated so shamelessly by "America's favorite lesbian," Ellen. (I'll have to tell Dad about that.) Of course, he wanted the lawyer to be Jewish. Surprise, surprise!
But honestly, these guys portray two uneducated, conservative, flag waving, beer guzzling, know-it-alls from Tennessee, but I have my suspicions that they are rather liberal in their world view!
But honestly, these guys portray two uneducated, conservative, flag waving, beer guzzling, know-it-alls from Tennessee, but I have my suspicions that they are rather liberal in their world view!
A very happy birthday
Hillary Clinton turns 60 years old today. Let's hope she turns 62 in the White House!
(I just don't know how she does it. I can't imagine turning 30 one day....baby steps!)
(I just don't know how she does it. I can't imagine turning 30 one day....baby steps!)
Ignorance Is Tiring, et al.
Sitting in the teachers' lounge today reminded me of why I seldom go to this pseudo-sanctuary of frayed nerves, tears, and high drama.
Simply, within two seconds, I was verbally accosted as to my feelings on former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee as being the Republican presidential nominee.
Firstly, I have no positive feelings on the subject. He is a Republican, which pretty much sums up my feelings for him. However, being the nice guy I am (Ha! Ha!) and wishing to utilize my own political savvy, I put on an extra layer of charm, and said the nicest thing I know about Governor Huckabee: "He sure did lose a lot of weight!"
I had two choices in that moment. I could have shown my true political color and been skinned alive by my colleagues for being a godless liberal, but instead I chose to steer the conversation away from politics altogether, which is safest in my field of work.
It's funny, because within two seconds the conversation was on a benign topic: weight loss.
In a moment of severe randomness, though, a female teacher piped in that she thought a woman should never be president. If I hadn't put up with burgeoning hormones all morning, I might have had some strong words to say on that subject. I can tolerate many things, but pure ignorance is not something I can usually grin and bear. There is absolutely no basis to say that a woman cannot be president of the United States.
I wanted to ask, if you think a woman's place is in the proverbial kitchen, barefoot and pregnant, why do you bother to work, much less vote? Some people are so uncouth. I'm going to get her a Hillary '08 bumper sticker for Christmas. It might do her some good!
On a lighter note, during my walk back to the classroom, I had one of my students walk with me. Our conversation was rather interesting. He wanted to know what I thought of his outfit, which included a purple button down shirt and rather smart black, leather jacket with the collar popped. He said that it was "a casual look." I told him that I thought he looked quite dapper, considering he was dressed quite unusually for a boy of his age. Then, in a classic middle school mindset, he blurts out, "I heard some kids say you're queer!"
I simply looked ahead, not acknowledging what he said; then he repeated himself, a bit more loudly. He was quite serious--and persistent. His expression was rather nonchalant. It was as if he just told me he enjoyed my apple pie, and then he was requesting a copy of my recipe. I glanced at him and said, "You should tell people in the hallway to mind their own business."
Although, it was interesting, it is an all too common question for me. I think I am going to have some business cards printed.
Simply, within two seconds, I was verbally accosted as to my feelings on former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee as being the Republican presidential nominee.
Firstly, I have no positive feelings on the subject. He is a Republican, which pretty much sums up my feelings for him. However, being the nice guy I am (Ha! Ha!) and wishing to utilize my own political savvy, I put on an extra layer of charm, and said the nicest thing I know about Governor Huckabee: "He sure did lose a lot of weight!"
I had two choices in that moment. I could have shown my true political color and been skinned alive by my colleagues for being a godless liberal, but instead I chose to steer the conversation away from politics altogether, which is safest in my field of work.
It's funny, because within two seconds the conversation was on a benign topic: weight loss.
In a moment of severe randomness, though, a female teacher piped in that she thought a woman should never be president. If I hadn't put up with burgeoning hormones all morning, I might have had some strong words to say on that subject. I can tolerate many things, but pure ignorance is not something I can usually grin and bear. There is absolutely no basis to say that a woman cannot be president of the United States.
I wanted to ask, if you think a woman's place is in the proverbial kitchen, barefoot and pregnant, why do you bother to work, much less vote? Some people are so uncouth. I'm going to get her a Hillary '08 bumper sticker for Christmas. It might do her some good!
On a lighter note, during my walk back to the classroom, I had one of my students walk with me. Our conversation was rather interesting. He wanted to know what I thought of his outfit, which included a purple button down shirt and rather smart black, leather jacket with the collar popped. He said that it was "a casual look." I told him that I thought he looked quite dapper, considering he was dressed quite unusually for a boy of his age. Then, in a classic middle school mindset, he blurts out, "I heard some kids say you're queer!"
I simply looked ahead, not acknowledging what he said; then he repeated himself, a bit more loudly. He was quite serious--and persistent. His expression was rather nonchalant. It was as if he just told me he enjoyed my apple pie, and then he was requesting a copy of my recipe. I glanced at him and said, "You should tell people in the hallway to mind their own business."
Although, it was interesting, it is an all too common question for me. I think I am going to have some business cards printed.
Friday Nights Are Alright
There's nothing quite like sitting outside with a frosty, fall chill in the air, a full moon hanging overhead, while enjoying a fine cigar, and taking in a moment of pure unadulterated silence.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
California Wildfires
After watching the coverage of the wildfire tragedy in southern California, I am reminded of the danger surrounding celebrities and their multi-million dollar Malibu mansions.
According to media accounts, you might believe this tragedy has not affected anyone except celebrities. We hear from them, empathize with them, but where is the honest human element? Tragedy is terrible no matter who it touches, I understand.
The next time there is a natural disaster surrounding me, perhaps the media will cover my heart-wrenching sojourn as I board my Sikorsky S76 helicopter, with my staff in tow, to fly to the airport where my Gulfstream IV awaits to whisk me away to safety. Lastly, I must agonize to finalize the flight plan. Is it to my clapboard in the Hamptons, my townhouse in Manhattan, or my beach house on the French Riviera?
(So many choices, indeed.)
My whole point is, perhaps, it would be refreshing to see how the tragedy affects those people who live in the region long-term.
According to media accounts, you might believe this tragedy has not affected anyone except celebrities. We hear from them, empathize with them, but where is the honest human element? Tragedy is terrible no matter who it touches, I understand.
The next time there is a natural disaster surrounding me, perhaps the media will cover my heart-wrenching sojourn as I board my Sikorsky S76 helicopter, with my staff in tow, to fly to the airport where my Gulfstream IV awaits to whisk me away to safety. Lastly, I must agonize to finalize the flight plan. Is it to my clapboard in the Hamptons, my townhouse in Manhattan, or my beach house on the French Riviera?
(So many choices, indeed.)
My whole point is, perhaps, it would be refreshing to see how the tragedy affects those people who live in the region long-term.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Father forgive me...
Now, I'm akin to a Catholic priest. I'm a pedophile, I get away with it and that's how I like it.
According to an article by The Associated Press teachers are nothing more than a festering sore of pedophilia and sexual misconduct. I am not trying to make excuses for those people who abuse their roles as an educator. In fact, I believe people who perpetuate the myth that it is okay to have a personal relationship with their students should lose their license to teach.
One so-called expert stated that in each school district in our country there lies a predator just waiting to get his/her teeth into the right student. I know most of the people I work with on a daily basis, but I confess I don't know what is in their hearts. Truthfully, can we know the thoughts of any person unless they act upon them?
In my school district, a number of years ago, a teacher was charged with having an inappropriate relationship with a ten year old female student. The guy lost his certification, license to teach, and was sent to prison for two years. I realize it does happen. It is sad to say, but mostly the family was excited by the large settlement they received from the school district in compensatory and punitive damages. The school system decided to settle the case quietly, after it became quite a media spectacle. The family had bigger lawyers than O.J. Simpson did during his murder trial. And, you guessed it, they worked pro bono, just waiting for the money to roll in and get their names on the television.
But it is unfair to characterize an entire profession based on the actions of a few questionable individuals. There are people who will abuse their position in ever profession, from doctors, to lawyers, to ministers. I have been guilty of making jokes about priests in the Roman Catholic Church, but do I honestly believe they are a cesspool of perverts?
Of course not.
I have worked very hard for my station in life. I put in many hours of study, years of hard work, and took many, many standardized exams to wear the hat of an educator. Each morning, I put on my teacher I.D., which hangs around my neck. It may sound silly, but it represents my authority and my charge. I show it to students when they misbehave or question my decisions and authority. Many times, I simply have to touch it with my finger and a troublemaker settles down. There are no words, just an understanding. Like a king or queen of long ago, who might have worn an obscenely large gold necklace around his/her neck holding a pendant representing their authority, or a coronation ring on their finger to remind their subjects of their absolute sovereignty, my teacher I.D. is the same to me.
According to an article by The Associated Press teachers are nothing more than a festering sore of pedophilia and sexual misconduct. I am not trying to make excuses for those people who abuse their roles as an educator. In fact, I believe people who perpetuate the myth that it is okay to have a personal relationship with their students should lose their license to teach.
One so-called expert stated that in each school district in our country there lies a predator just waiting to get his/her teeth into the right student. I know most of the people I work with on a daily basis, but I confess I don't know what is in their hearts. Truthfully, can we know the thoughts of any person unless they act upon them?
In my school district, a number of years ago, a teacher was charged with having an inappropriate relationship with a ten year old female student. The guy lost his certification, license to teach, and was sent to prison for two years. I realize it does happen. It is sad to say, but mostly the family was excited by the large settlement they received from the school district in compensatory and punitive damages. The school system decided to settle the case quietly, after it became quite a media spectacle. The family had bigger lawyers than O.J. Simpson did during his murder trial. And, you guessed it, they worked pro bono, just waiting for the money to roll in and get their names on the television.
But it is unfair to characterize an entire profession based on the actions of a few questionable individuals. There are people who will abuse their position in ever profession, from doctors, to lawyers, to ministers. I have been guilty of making jokes about priests in the Roman Catholic Church, but do I honestly believe they are a cesspool of perverts?
Of course not.
I have worked very hard for my station in life. I put in many hours of study, years of hard work, and took many, many standardized exams to wear the hat of an educator. Each morning, I put on my teacher I.D., which hangs around my neck. It may sound silly, but it represents my authority and my charge. I show it to students when they misbehave or question my decisions and authority. Many times, I simply have to touch it with my finger and a troublemaker settles down. There are no words, just an understanding. Like a king or queen of long ago, who might have worn an obscenely large gold necklace around his/her neck holding a pendant representing their authority, or a coronation ring on their finger to remind their subjects of their absolute sovereignty, my teacher I.D. is the same to me.
Lazy, Hateful Day
This morning, I went with my mom, dad and brother for a family outing. (I should have known better than to have went.)
My mother's family is situated in a rather rustic, yet scenic, area of Kentucky. There are people sporadically located on tops of mountains, hills, and valleys. You can go for miles and not see another human being. There are forests for as far as your eyes can see. Most of the roads are shady, gravel or even dirt. And they lead into isolated cul-de-sacs where houses are ancient, and even abandoned to time and the elements of nature.
My mother called to invite me to go with her to a cabin that her father owns. It is literally miles from civilization. You drive over the side of a mountain. It is so steep at times that only sheer hope keeps you from sliding over the edge. It's the type of place that someone could do terrible things to you and no one would ever find your body afterward.
Of course, I am no fool. She was just looking for someone to drive her to the cabin, so she could nose around. Even if it is a beautiful, out-of-the-way-place, where the sunlight dances through the autumnal trees, I am not taking my vehicle. It's new; it may have four-wheel drive, but it was never meant to traverse that kind of terrain. Luckily, my father became our patsy.
The closest my dad comes to being a stereotypical hillbilly is that one of the vehicles he owns is a Land Rover. Yes, these vehicles may have been tested on the harshest terrain the African savanna has to offer, however, they were never meant to go where Dad's went today.
Sufficed to say, there was a lot of hateful words exchanged between all involved. Dad is very particular about his things. He even stopped once to get out to pout. He was upset because a limb touched the side of the car. So, we had to stop often to beat back the foliage from the edge of the road to insure the integrity of his car. Then we had to ford a mudhole the size of a small pond, which was kind of exhilarating, I must confess.
Once we made it back to the main highway, we stopped to have a look at the car. It was covered in bold splashes of mud along the fenders, doors and windows. The wheels were caked with a dirty, unattractive brown. I told Dad that he should take a picture and send it in as a testimonial to Land Rover. That seemed to make him feel better.
My brother and I spent time looking around the hillsides. I found this type of bush that sticks things to your pants. It was weird. I had to pick them off. They were hard to get off, but I prevailed in the end. My brother and I also attempted to walk to a river that is close to the cabin. But half-way there, we were chastized like a couple of two-year-olds, when we heard Mom calling, "Boys, get yourselves back here!" When we got back to the cabin, she was concerned that we'd get lost. (I swear sometimes I still feel like such a little kid.)
By the time we returned home, Mom was upset about the whole trip, because of how Dad behaved mostly. I don't know if she will ever ask us to go back again. In a few years, though, I suspect that she will want to return.
It's just her way.
My mother's family is situated in a rather rustic, yet scenic, area of Kentucky. There are people sporadically located on tops of mountains, hills, and valleys. You can go for miles and not see another human being. There are forests for as far as your eyes can see. Most of the roads are shady, gravel or even dirt. And they lead into isolated cul-de-sacs where houses are ancient, and even abandoned to time and the elements of nature.
My mother called to invite me to go with her to a cabin that her father owns. It is literally miles from civilization. You drive over the side of a mountain. It is so steep at times that only sheer hope keeps you from sliding over the edge. It's the type of place that someone could do terrible things to you and no one would ever find your body afterward.
Of course, I am no fool. She was just looking for someone to drive her to the cabin, so she could nose around. Even if it is a beautiful, out-of-the-way-place, where the sunlight dances through the autumnal trees, I am not taking my vehicle. It's new; it may have four-wheel drive, but it was never meant to traverse that kind of terrain. Luckily, my father became our patsy.
The closest my dad comes to being a stereotypical hillbilly is that one of the vehicles he owns is a Land Rover. Yes, these vehicles may have been tested on the harshest terrain the African savanna has to offer, however, they were never meant to go where Dad's went today.
Sufficed to say, there was a lot of hateful words exchanged between all involved. Dad is very particular about his things. He even stopped once to get out to pout. He was upset because a limb touched the side of the car. So, we had to stop often to beat back the foliage from the edge of the road to insure the integrity of his car. Then we had to ford a mudhole the size of a small pond, which was kind of exhilarating, I must confess.
Once we made it back to the main highway, we stopped to have a look at the car. It was covered in bold splashes of mud along the fenders, doors and windows. The wheels were caked with a dirty, unattractive brown. I told Dad that he should take a picture and send it in as a testimonial to Land Rover. That seemed to make him feel better.
My brother and I spent time looking around the hillsides. I found this type of bush that sticks things to your pants. It was weird. I had to pick them off. They were hard to get off, but I prevailed in the end. My brother and I also attempted to walk to a river that is close to the cabin. But half-way there, we were chastized like a couple of two-year-olds, when we heard Mom calling, "Boys, get yourselves back here!" When we got back to the cabin, she was concerned that we'd get lost. (I swear sometimes I still feel like such a little kid.)
By the time we returned home, Mom was upset about the whole trip, because of how Dad behaved mostly. I don't know if she will ever ask us to go back again. In a few years, though, I suspect that she will want to return.
It's just her way.
Louisiana elects youngest governor (and he's not white either)
In a rather stunning display of indirect racism, The Associated Press and CNN stated that Louisiana elected the nation's youngest serving governor. Then the press went on to tell readers that he is not white.
I suppose in their mind that is not a racist comment. If they had said he is Indian, then that might have been pushing the envelope too far (that seems the less racist avenue to go, in my opinion). Of course, by Indian I don't mean like Geronimo, but more like Mahatma Gandhi. (I hope that isn't racist.)
I was more concerned that he is a Republican. I guess I am in the minority on that one, however.
I suppose in their mind that is not a racist comment. If they had said he is Indian, then that might have been pushing the envelope too far (that seems the less racist avenue to go, in my opinion). Of course, by Indian I don't mean like Geronimo, but more like Mahatma Gandhi. (I hope that isn't racist.)
I was more concerned that he is a Republican. I guess I am in the minority on that one, however.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
The Magic of Sex
Unlike the Statue of Liberty, David Copperfield may have a hard time making a sexual assault allegation against him disappear.
A Seattle woman claims that she was sexually assaulted by the world-renowned illusionist. His lawyers described him as "an impeccable gentleman." Of course, we all know if you lawyers say it, then it probably isn't true.
Copperfield, whose real name is David Seth Kotkin, denies that the situation is possible. Inasmuch, the FBI executed a search warrant on a Las Vegas warehouse, where Copperfield stores items that he uses to perform in Las Vegas. Agents also searched the Hollywood Theater at the MGM Grand Hotel, where Copperfield often performs.
Items seized include: computer hard drive, memory storage device for a digital camera, and a safe containing $2 million in cash. I think it is a bit odd that someone would leave that much cash locked up inside a warehouse.
Perhaps, it was some disappearing money, but that is doubtful for a man who makes over $57 million per year. Unless, it was the kind of money that causes other people to disappear.
Now that I can buy.
A Seattle woman claims that she was sexually assaulted by the world-renowned illusionist. His lawyers described him as "an impeccable gentleman." Of course, we all know if you lawyers say it, then it probably isn't true.
Copperfield, whose real name is David Seth Kotkin, denies that the situation is possible. Inasmuch, the FBI executed a search warrant on a Las Vegas warehouse, where Copperfield stores items that he uses to perform in Las Vegas. Agents also searched the Hollywood Theater at the MGM Grand Hotel, where Copperfield often performs.
Items seized include: computer hard drive, memory storage device for a digital camera, and a safe containing $2 million in cash. I think it is a bit odd that someone would leave that much cash locked up inside a warehouse.
Perhaps, it was some disappearing money, but that is doubtful for a man who makes over $57 million per year. Unless, it was the kind of money that causes other people to disappear.
Now that I can buy.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Tomorrow's Britney Spears?
Teenage girls, moms and dads are lining up to score tickets to see Disney's newest creation, Hannah Montana.
Miley Cyrus, the daughter of has-been country singer Billy Ray Cyrus, has gotten herself quite a fan base. After going on tour, she has sold out of all of her appearances within a matter of minutes.
What kind of psychological drain this has on a teenage individual? Today, we have former sensation Britney Spears, who also got her start with Disney, fighting off the paparazzi, fighting for custody of her kids in court, hit-and-run, and substance abuse charges. I think that is more than enough to do a person for a lifetime.
The public creates a Frankenstein from time-to-time. This is apparent in someone like Britney Spears. She was seemingly stitched together from the best of popular culture, and then left to lament when the public abandoned its creation. (Even though, she is just as popular, but in a different sub-set of culture, which feeds on the leftovers.)
I find it difficult to get excited by pop culture icons. I always look at them as plastic, gold-digging and highly misinformed (and not just by their agent either).
The only superstar I went gaga for was Elton John. In fact, I met him at a benefit in Atlanta numerous years ago. What did I get to commemorate the occasion? I got him to autograph a picture for me! It is one of my most prized possessions.
(Okay, so I can be swayed by popular culture. But not very often.)
Miley Cyrus, the daughter of has-been country singer Billy Ray Cyrus, has gotten herself quite a fan base. After going on tour, she has sold out of all of her appearances within a matter of minutes.
What kind of psychological drain this has on a teenage individual? Today, we have former sensation Britney Spears, who also got her start with Disney, fighting off the paparazzi, fighting for custody of her kids in court, hit-and-run, and substance abuse charges. I think that is more than enough to do a person for a lifetime.
The public creates a Frankenstein from time-to-time. This is apparent in someone like Britney Spears. She was seemingly stitched together from the best of popular culture, and then left to lament when the public abandoned its creation. (Even though, she is just as popular, but in a different sub-set of culture, which feeds on the leftovers.)
I find it difficult to get excited by pop culture icons. I always look at them as plastic, gold-digging and highly misinformed (and not just by their agent either).
The only superstar I went gaga for was Elton John. In fact, I met him at a benefit in Atlanta numerous years ago. What did I get to commemorate the occasion? I got him to autograph a picture for me! It is one of my most prized possessions.
(Okay, so I can be swayed by popular culture. But not very often.)
Pakistan's Future
After watching all the swooning mobs who came out to cheer for former Pakistani prime minister Benazir Bhutto, and then the subsequent terror that followed, I couldn't help but ask myself if her return is a signal toward the demise of current president of Pakistan, Pervez Musharraf.
Bhutto, who returned from an eight year self-imposed exile, was greeted by mobs of people, who came out to show respect for their former leader. Of course, her parade route was soon turned bloody by a bomber, who killed 136 people.
Bhutto claims that security was poor along the route she was taking from the airport. There are even claims that street lights were not functioning, which led to the meager security forces having increased difficulties dealing with the logistics of the route.
Who knows who is to blame for the attempted assassination of the Muslim world's first democratically elected female leader? Some say al-Qaeda. But it is not for certain.
What is for certain is that Bhutto invokes great respect and pride among her people. This could be used as a platform to rally Pakistan back toward democracy again.
Bhutto, who returned from an eight year self-imposed exile, was greeted by mobs of people, who came out to show respect for their former leader. Of course, her parade route was soon turned bloody by a bomber, who killed 136 people.
Bhutto claims that security was poor along the route she was taking from the airport. There are even claims that street lights were not functioning, which led to the meager security forces having increased difficulties dealing with the logistics of the route.
Who knows who is to blame for the attempted assassination of the Muslim world's first democratically elected female leader? Some say al-Qaeda. But it is not for certain.
What is for certain is that Bhutto invokes great respect and pride among her people. This could be used as a platform to rally Pakistan back toward democracy again.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
The most innocent things
In class today, we were talking about the United States.
Of course, this seems like a rather blasse topic. Many students are hammered with facts and figures relating to their home country. I am no exception, when it comes to my class.
Out of the sheer fear of students not knowing their geography, I have assigned them to learn the fifty states (and identify them, roughly, on a U.S. map). I think it's pretty typical.
Middle school students find scandal in almost anything. Again, I thought U.S. geography would be safe. I was reading through a list of the states. Apparently, Idaho is a state that has more problems than Senator Larry Craig.
When I said "Idaho" I got a lot of strange looks and muffled laughter. At first, I didn't get it. Having learned from past mistakes, I knew it was unsafe to ask them "what's so funny about Idaho?" Unlike other students, middle schoolers will tell you in a rather blunt manner everything they know.
It took me at least three classes to figure out what was so comical about this otherwise quiet western state, "I-da-ho!"
Seemingly, I was sending an indirect message to my students that I am rather loose when it comes to sex. After I figured this out, I had to work very hard for the rest of the day not to grin when I said it. I was being nonchalant; otherwise, I would have invited more blatant chuckling.
Again, my understanding of their little, perverse minds has been reinforced. I can always count on the fact that a day at middle school will never be boring!
Of course, this seems like a rather blasse topic. Many students are hammered with facts and figures relating to their home country. I am no exception, when it comes to my class.
Out of the sheer fear of students not knowing their geography, I have assigned them to learn the fifty states (and identify them, roughly, on a U.S. map). I think it's pretty typical.
Middle school students find scandal in almost anything. Again, I thought U.S. geography would be safe. I was reading through a list of the states. Apparently, Idaho is a state that has more problems than Senator Larry Craig.
When I said "Idaho" I got a lot of strange looks and muffled laughter. At first, I didn't get it. Having learned from past mistakes, I knew it was unsafe to ask them "what's so funny about Idaho?" Unlike other students, middle schoolers will tell you in a rather blunt manner everything they know.
It took me at least three classes to figure out what was so comical about this otherwise quiet western state, "I-da-ho!"
Seemingly, I was sending an indirect message to my students that I am rather loose when it comes to sex. After I figured this out, I had to work very hard for the rest of the day not to grin when I said it. I was being nonchalant; otherwise, I would have invited more blatant chuckling.
Again, my understanding of their little, perverse minds has been reinforced. I can always count on the fact that a day at middle school will never be boring!
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Clinton v. Bush?
James Carville set his eyes on a high prize, the office of president, of course. The former Bill Clinton top advisor put his money on a Hillary Clinton and Jeb Bush showdown.
That is certainly one contest I had not considered.
Although, it may sound a tad absurd, it may be feasible. Even though, former Florida governor Jeb Bush hasn't shown interest in running for the presidency, it cannot be completely ruled out.
Even if he does decide to run, he stands no chance against Hillary. Besides, I think first brother, Jeb, has more sense than to do it. The name Bush is not exactly the most popular last name in American politics at the moment. He would have more than his fair share of baggage, after the 2001 presidential election debacle that plagued his adopted state, his brother's private, bloody war in Iraq, and America's continual dwindling international support and respect.
So, thankfully, there will be no member of the Bush family in the 2008 presidential election.
That is certainly one contest I had not considered.
Although, it may sound a tad absurd, it may be feasible. Even though, former Florida governor Jeb Bush hasn't shown interest in running for the presidency, it cannot be completely ruled out.
Even if he does decide to run, he stands no chance against Hillary. Besides, I think first brother, Jeb, has more sense than to do it. The name Bush is not exactly the most popular last name in American politics at the moment. He would have more than his fair share of baggage, after the 2001 presidential election debacle that plagued his adopted state, his brother's private, bloody war in Iraq, and America's continual dwindling international support and respect.
So, thankfully, there will be no member of the Bush family in the 2008 presidential election.
Monday, October 15, 2007
"Oral" says it all
The cult--I mean Oral Roberts University, has recently come up against opposition and pressure from its own community to divulge its dirty laundry to the rest of the world.
The president of Oral Roberts University, Richard Roberts (the son of the founder, no less), is being called out of his previously unaccountable position to answer allegations by former faculty that he and his family abused their position to filter money for private use.
Even more shocking is the allegations against Roberts' wife, Lindsay Roberts, which state that she perhaps solicited an underage male. Allegedly, there are photographs that show Mrs. Roberts and an unidentified male smoking outside at the president's residence; twenty-nine additional photos showing Lindsay Roberts alone in her car with an underage male after the city imposed curfew. Mrs. Roberts has allegedly spent the night with an underage male at the college's guest home on nine separate occasions.
In addition, Oral Roberts University dismissed its comptroller of twenty-six years after the suit was filed. After his dismissal, documents and other materials were shredded and destroyed. (It sounds like the comptroller did not want to play in the Enron-like games.)
I attended a college that lavished its president. It was almost as if he and his family were royalty and entitled to the best money could provide. He lives in a house almost as big as a dorm, they buy him cars, pay his expenses, and send his family on vacations. He's been there for almost thirty years. No one dares to question him publicly, or risk ridicule, harassment and dismissal. When his son died in a car wreck, after a night filled of boozing and cruising, they immediately built a football complex and named it after him.
How sweet it must be to be the leader of a bunch of bobble heads. I don't doubt for a minute that the allegations against the "first family" of Oral Roberts University are true. People who are unaccountable for so many years find themselves in a mind-set that they can do anything without reproach.
The president of Oral Roberts University, Richard Roberts (the son of the founder, no less), is being called out of his previously unaccountable position to answer allegations by former faculty that he and his family abused their position to filter money for private use.
Even more shocking is the allegations against Roberts' wife, Lindsay Roberts, which state that she perhaps solicited an underage male. Allegedly, there are photographs that show Mrs. Roberts and an unidentified male smoking outside at the president's residence; twenty-nine additional photos showing Lindsay Roberts alone in her car with an underage male after the city imposed curfew. Mrs. Roberts has allegedly spent the night with an underage male at the college's guest home on nine separate occasions.
In addition, Oral Roberts University dismissed its comptroller of twenty-six years after the suit was filed. After his dismissal, documents and other materials were shredded and destroyed. (It sounds like the comptroller did not want to play in the Enron-like games.)
I attended a college that lavished its president. It was almost as if he and his family were royalty and entitled to the best money could provide. He lives in a house almost as big as a dorm, they buy him cars, pay his expenses, and send his family on vacations. He's been there for almost thirty years. No one dares to question him publicly, or risk ridicule, harassment and dismissal. When his son died in a car wreck, after a night filled of boozing and cruising, they immediately built a football complex and named it after him.
How sweet it must be to be the leader of a bunch of bobble heads. I don't doubt for a minute that the allegations against the "first family" of Oral Roberts University are true. People who are unaccountable for so many years find themselves in a mind-set that they can do anything without reproach.
Larry Craig Appeals
In a stunning legal ploy, which was worthy of an episode of Perry Mason, Senator Craig has filed notice of appeal to the Minnesota Court of Appeals (sarcasm emphasized).
In my opinion, this was the correct direction to have went instead of trying to get the court of jurisdiction to vacate its original verdict. It is simply unheard of for a court to issue an order vacating its own verdict and imposed sentence.
That is surely the position of a superior court.
Although, it will be an uphill battle, considering Senator Craig freely gave a signed confession to police, entered a plea of guilty before the court, and accepted sentencing from the same.
If I were his advisor, I'd give him the suggestion that he should simply let the original verdict and sentence stand while he works to finish his term in the Senate. By filing appeals, etc., he simply keeps the issue in the news.
In my opinion, this was the correct direction to have went instead of trying to get the court of jurisdiction to vacate its original verdict. It is simply unheard of for a court to issue an order vacating its own verdict and imposed sentence.
That is surely the position of a superior court.
Although, it will be an uphill battle, considering Senator Craig freely gave a signed confession to police, entered a plea of guilty before the court, and accepted sentencing from the same.
If I were his advisor, I'd give him the suggestion that he should simply let the original verdict and sentence stand while he works to finish his term in the Senate. By filing appeals, etc., he simply keeps the issue in the news.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Birth Order
I read a very interesting article on birth order of siblings recently.
I had always heard of the "Jan Brady" syndrome, which is also called the middle child syndrome, but I hadn't given it much thought, however.
I am the oldest of three children (all boys). I found much of the information to be relevant to my own personal experience, as the oldest child, and that of my younger brothers. It is interesting to note that many oldest children relate best to adults, since they received a large amount of attention from their parents, before their sibling(s) arrived on the scene.
For example, when I was much younger, I had a friend over; instead of entertaining him, I found myself entertaining my mother and his mother. I was engaged in a rather grown-up conversation. In fact, my friend was somewhere else playing--alone. My mother had to save him by saying to me: "Shouldn't you be playing with your friend?"
This is only one example of many illustrating how well I related to adults, as a youngster. It's just that I never thought that it could have been conditioned by my birth order. As a child, I found children, especially those around my age and younger, to be tedious and misinformed. My seeming advanced knowledge and desire for intellectual stimulation could only be quenched through interaction with adults and children much older than me.
My younger cousins hated to come to my house, because I made them do "homework," in hopes of making them more intelligent. One of my aunts commented that she knew when her son came to my house he would go back home knowing more than when he went. (I even had textbooks and lesson plans.)
Of course, this could be linked to my career in the illustrious, fast-paced world of education.
My middle brother, who is about four years younger than me, is the stereotypical middle child (but also like the youngest born child, in many ways, as well). He has a rather carefree lifestyle, which means he has never had a job or done anything before noon in his adult life. In fact, he barely completed high school. (My parents were quite coercive with his teachers.) He craves the limelight, in as much as he can get attention, from my parents. His recent background has been, at times, criminal. Sometimes his only hope of getting Mom and Dad's attention is to give them a call from jail. It's almost as if he is trying to make up for his time as a child. (Perhaps, he missed something in those years.)
My baby brother, who is almost twelve years my junior, is the epitome of the last born. Although, he is very much like me, he is a spoiled brat in every sense of the meaning. My parents have never used the word "no" with him--ever! He gets everything he asks for, and more. In fact, he is quite the diva. He also tells me what to do, and how to do it. Like the other night, I had to drive him to a friend's house. It just happens that his friend lives a long way from my parents' home. I had to drive for over an hour--one way. At first, I refused his request. He resorted to screaming at me to get his way, but I didn't budge an inch. I was firm. He resorted to what any spoiled sixteen-year-old boy would do, he started to cry as he ran out of the house, in a rather well-rehearsed performance. Apparently, "life is not fair," he confided, as I tried to calm him down. Being the dutiful big brother (and knowing the extent of how well he can hold a grudge), I drove him to his friend's house.
I had always heard of the "Jan Brady" syndrome, which is also called the middle child syndrome, but I hadn't given it much thought, however.
I am the oldest of three children (all boys). I found much of the information to be relevant to my own personal experience, as the oldest child, and that of my younger brothers. It is interesting to note that many oldest children relate best to adults, since they received a large amount of attention from their parents, before their sibling(s) arrived on the scene.
For example, when I was much younger, I had a friend over; instead of entertaining him, I found myself entertaining my mother and his mother. I was engaged in a rather grown-up conversation. In fact, my friend was somewhere else playing--alone. My mother had to save him by saying to me: "Shouldn't you be playing with your friend?"
This is only one example of many illustrating how well I related to adults, as a youngster. It's just that I never thought that it could have been conditioned by my birth order. As a child, I found children, especially those around my age and younger, to be tedious and misinformed. My seeming advanced knowledge and desire for intellectual stimulation could only be quenched through interaction with adults and children much older than me.
My younger cousins hated to come to my house, because I made them do "homework," in hopes of making them more intelligent. One of my aunts commented that she knew when her son came to my house he would go back home knowing more than when he went. (I even had textbooks and lesson plans.)
Of course, this could be linked to my career in the illustrious, fast-paced world of education.
My middle brother, who is about four years younger than me, is the stereotypical middle child (but also like the youngest born child, in many ways, as well). He has a rather carefree lifestyle, which means he has never had a job or done anything before noon in his adult life. In fact, he barely completed high school. (My parents were quite coercive with his teachers.) He craves the limelight, in as much as he can get attention, from my parents. His recent background has been, at times, criminal. Sometimes his only hope of getting Mom and Dad's attention is to give them a call from jail. It's almost as if he is trying to make up for his time as a child. (Perhaps, he missed something in those years.)
My baby brother, who is almost twelve years my junior, is the epitome of the last born. Although, he is very much like me, he is a spoiled brat in every sense of the meaning. My parents have never used the word "no" with him--ever! He gets everything he asks for, and more. In fact, he is quite the diva. He also tells me what to do, and how to do it. Like the other night, I had to drive him to a friend's house. It just happens that his friend lives a long way from my parents' home. I had to drive for over an hour--one way. At first, I refused his request. He resorted to screaming at me to get his way, but I didn't budge an inch. I was firm. He resorted to what any spoiled sixteen-year-old boy would do, he started to cry as he ran out of the house, in a rather well-rehearsed performance. Apparently, "life is not fair," he confided, as I tried to calm him down. Being the dutiful big brother (and knowing the extent of how well he can hold a grudge), I drove him to his friend's house.
Genocide: Why Now?
Why is the United States Congress suddenly concerned with alleged genocide that happened almost one hundred years ago?
The government, and citizens, of Turkey are up-in-arms over a House of Representatives resolution that would label the death of 1.5 million Armenians, during World War I, as genocide by the Ottoman Empire (which was centered in modern day Turkey).
One Turkish general says the measure amounts to "shooting [oneself] in the foot," considering that a vast majority of Iraqi logistics and cargo are routed through Turkey. It stands to reason that the Turkish government would become uncooperative with the United States if such a resolution were ratified.
Why is Congress so concerned about this event from the past?
Reason would dictate that such a resolution might be best served in the United Nations, or even leave it to the government of Armenia to determine whether or not genocide occurred in their nation. I have not heard from the Armenians on this issue. They seem more relaxed than the American government. (Maybe we should take a lesson from them.)
Some argue that the resolution comes on the heels of a possible Turkish military incursion into northern Iraq to root out Kurdish rebels. The United States could use its resolution as a bargaining chip to get the Turks to stand down from their military invasion of northern Iraq.
Of course, I believe the two are wholly and systematically unrelated.
The government, and citizens, of Turkey are up-in-arms over a House of Representatives resolution that would label the death of 1.5 million Armenians, during World War I, as genocide by the Ottoman Empire (which was centered in modern day Turkey).
One Turkish general says the measure amounts to "shooting [oneself] in the foot," considering that a vast majority of Iraqi logistics and cargo are routed through Turkey. It stands to reason that the Turkish government would become uncooperative with the United States if such a resolution were ratified.
Why is Congress so concerned about this event from the past?
Reason would dictate that such a resolution might be best served in the United Nations, or even leave it to the government of Armenia to determine whether or not genocide occurred in their nation. I have not heard from the Armenians on this issue. They seem more relaxed than the American government. (Maybe we should take a lesson from them.)
Some argue that the resolution comes on the heels of a possible Turkish military incursion into northern Iraq to root out Kurdish rebels. The United States could use its resolution as a bargaining chip to get the Turks to stand down from their military invasion of northern Iraq.
Of course, I believe the two are wholly and systematically unrelated.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Hillary & Al
This banner is from the Hillary Clinton for President website. Hillary congratulates Vice President Gore on being selected to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. Perhaps, this is a prelude to my prediction that he might stand as a candidate on a Clinton-Gore ticket in 2008.
Obama: "I see the world differently than Clinton"
I bet Senator Obama does see the world differently than Senator Clinton. Obviously, his vision is a bit obscured by being left behind in her dust!
Many pundits are pairing Clinton with Obama for the White House in 2008. I'm not so sure I see this match happening (or working). Of course, my vice-presidential pairing for Clinton is obvious: Al Gore.
After the Nobel Peace Prize committee released Al Gore as one of its recipients for this year, it only pushes Gore to the forefront of the world's attention again. Despite his choice not to enter his own candidacy for the presidency, his name recognition beats many of the candidates who are actually running for the office. It's almost like getting beat by someone posthumously.
I definitely believe it would bring about a very interesting presidential season if Hillary Clinton and Al Gore team up for the White House.
Many pundits are pairing Clinton with Obama for the White House in 2008. I'm not so sure I see this match happening (or working). Of course, my vice-presidential pairing for Clinton is obvious: Al Gore.
After the Nobel Peace Prize committee released Al Gore as one of its recipients for this year, it only pushes Gore to the forefront of the world's attention again. Despite his choice not to enter his own candidacy for the presidency, his name recognition beats many of the candidates who are actually running for the office. It's almost like getting beat by someone posthumously.
I definitely believe it would bring about a very interesting presidential season if Hillary Clinton and Al Gore team up for the White House.
ClintonGore08
Condi Rice mis-states the obvious
"Mr. Putin, tear this Kremlin down!"
This could be heard today, causing Ronald Reagan to rotate 180-degrees in his grave, as Condi Rice gave a stern warning to Russian president Vladimir Putin.
Secretary Rice's criticism comes at a time when the once cozy relationship between Washington and Moscow has become quite cold and distant. Rice is concerned about a new Russia, which has one part of its government usurping the authority of the other branches of government.
Hmmm...can we say hypocrite?
This is definitely a bit of the proverbial kettle calling the pot black.
This could be heard today, causing Ronald Reagan to rotate 180-degrees in his grave, as Condi Rice gave a stern warning to Russian president Vladimir Putin.
Secretary Rice's criticism comes at a time when the once cozy relationship between Washington and Moscow has become quite cold and distant. Rice is concerned about a new Russia, which has one part of its government usurping the authority of the other branches of government.
Hmmm...can we say hypocrite?
This is definitely a bit of the proverbial kettle calling the pot black.
The Supreme Court has less power?
The Supreme Court is without power or influence in our country, argues one writer in Time magazine. I find this a rather queer assessment of the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS), indeed.
An article from Time decidedly thinks the justices of the Court are in a bit of a funk when it comes to their constitutional authority; I respectfully disagree.
Although, the article defends the record of the Court on many of the hot issues, such as abortion, civil rights, etc., that have come before it in the past fifty years, it points out that many of the life-altering decisions it used to render are far between in frequency.
It is true that the SCOTUS does not affect such issues as abortion on a daily basis, but it did give us a very terrible beginning for a new century, through its appointment of George W. Bush as president.
This single, unconstitutional decision will affect America--and the world--moreso than its decisions on abortion and civil rights, for years to come. It is evident that the Supreme Court acted beyond its scope when it issued an opinion on Bush v. Gore (2001), which ultimately reversed the decision of a state supreme court. When this case was expedited to them, the conservative members of the Court could smell the blood in the water and became as if sharks circling it until they had their fill. Now, the United States must recover from this horrible, make-shift president for many, many years to come.
A truly impartial Court would have refused the case Bush v. Gore (2001). The Florida Supreme Court had already issued its ruling on a rather cut-and-dry states only issue. As a consequence, the SCOTUS should never have issued a writ of certiorari. The Tenth Amendment of the United States Constitution awards protection to individual states' quasi-sovereignty from the overly busy body style of the federal government, which includes the Supreme Court.
It is obvious that Florida's electoral process falls within this selective purview of states' autonomy.
Furthermore, how can anyone argue that a branch of the federal government, which is comprised of nine elite members, who are non-beholden to the people and have lifetime tenure, are without power? The greatest obstacle they must face is receiving confirmation from the United States Senate. Despite public opinion, once that is realized their career path in life is set through retirement (or death).
Seemingly, the justices of the Supreme Court may not hear landmark cases on a daily basis, such as Roe v. Wade (1973) or Bush v. Gore (2001), which seem to retain their longevity long past their surface expiration dates, but they do play a vital--and often times autocratic--function in our democratic model of government.
An article from Time decidedly thinks the justices of the Court are in a bit of a funk when it comes to their constitutional authority; I respectfully disagree.
Although, the article defends the record of the Court on many of the hot issues, such as abortion, civil rights, etc., that have come before it in the past fifty years, it points out that many of the life-altering decisions it used to render are far between in frequency.
It is true that the SCOTUS does not affect such issues as abortion on a daily basis, but it did give us a very terrible beginning for a new century, through its appointment of George W. Bush as president.
This single, unconstitutional decision will affect America--and the world--moreso than its decisions on abortion and civil rights, for years to come. It is evident that the Supreme Court acted beyond its scope when it issued an opinion on Bush v. Gore (2001), which ultimately reversed the decision of a state supreme court. When this case was expedited to them, the conservative members of the Court could smell the blood in the water and became as if sharks circling it until they had their fill. Now, the United States must recover from this horrible, make-shift president for many, many years to come.
A truly impartial Court would have refused the case Bush v. Gore (2001). The Florida Supreme Court had already issued its ruling on a rather cut-and-dry states only issue. As a consequence, the SCOTUS should never have issued a writ of certiorari. The Tenth Amendment of the United States Constitution awards protection to individual states' quasi-sovereignty from the overly busy body style of the federal government, which includes the Supreme Court.
It is obvious that Florida's electoral process falls within this selective purview of states' autonomy.
Furthermore, how can anyone argue that a branch of the federal government, which is comprised of nine elite members, who are non-beholden to the people and have lifetime tenure, are without power? The greatest obstacle they must face is receiving confirmation from the United States Senate. Despite public opinion, once that is realized their career path in life is set through retirement (or death).
Seemingly, the justices of the Supreme Court may not hear landmark cases on a daily basis, such as Roe v. Wade (1973) or Bush v. Gore (2001), which seem to retain their longevity long past their surface expiration dates, but they do play a vital--and often times autocratic--function in our democratic model of government.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
A terrific moron
Neo-con sycophant, Ann Coulter stated that America would be better off as a homogeneous nation, which, of course, translates to Christian.
When asked by CNBC host Donny Deutsch what her ideal America looked like, Coulter stated, "People are happy. They're Christian. They're tolerant. They defend America."
In a single breath, she contradicted herself, by stating that she wanted a tolerant America. The word "tolerant" seemingly refers to people's ability to accept others who are different from them. Apparently, Coulter is unaware that our nation is truly a great "melting pot" of different cultures, each of which brought their own unique slants on life.
I can't believe anyone with at least a fifth grade education would even take Ann Coulter seriously. (So, are you smarter than a fifth grader?)
When asked by CNBC host Donny Deutsch what her ideal America looked like, Coulter stated, "People are happy. They're Christian. They're tolerant. They defend America."
In a single breath, she contradicted herself, by stating that she wanted a tolerant America. The word "tolerant" seemingly refers to people's ability to accept others who are different from them. Apparently, Coulter is unaware that our nation is truly a great "melting pot" of different cultures, each of which brought their own unique slants on life.
I can't believe anyone with at least a fifth grade education would even take Ann Coulter seriously. (So, are you smarter than a fifth grader?)
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Being an American
Recently, a lot has been made over the choice of Senator Barack Obama to show is patriotism through his words and actions, rather than simply wearing a flag on his lapel, like many other politicians, including George W. Bush, have done since 9/11.
Whether or not you wear a flag on your lapel (and subsequently I never did), it shouldn't act as a measure of how much of an American you are. There are so many ways to show your patriotism. It can be as simple as helping your neighbor through a difficult time, or not violating the Constitution of the United States, through multiple acts of treason (I'm not mentioning any names).
Each morning, at the school where I teach, they start the day with the pledge of allegiance. I stand out of respect, but I never say the words. I do not think that makes me less of an American, however. I give my students the same choice. I believe it is their right, as Americans, to choose whether or not they will recite a credo to the State.
In my understanding of the mind-set of the Founders, I find it hard to believe they would endorse--much less require--citizens to engage in futile patriotic actions. This includes the false belief that wearing an American flag on my collar or lapel makes me a better American than those around me.
This post, in my estimation, is an exercise of my rights and liberties as an American, which makes me a patriot.
Whether or not you wear a flag on your lapel (and subsequently I never did), it shouldn't act as a measure of how much of an American you are. There are so many ways to show your patriotism. It can be as simple as helping your neighbor through a difficult time, or not violating the Constitution of the United States, through multiple acts of treason (I'm not mentioning any names).
Each morning, at the school where I teach, they start the day with the pledge of allegiance. I stand out of respect, but I never say the words. I do not think that makes me less of an American, however. I give my students the same choice. I believe it is their right, as Americans, to choose whether or not they will recite a credo to the State.
In my understanding of the mind-set of the Founders, I find it hard to believe they would endorse--much less require--citizens to engage in futile patriotic actions. This includes the false belief that wearing an American flag on my collar or lapel makes me a better American than those around me.
This post, in my estimation, is an exercise of my rights and liberties as an American, which makes me a patriot.
Monday, October 08, 2007
Old Teachers (Not me this time)
While at school today, I saw two teachers--since retired--who I had when I was in middle school and high school.
I was walking out of the bathroom and turned to walk up the office hallway, which goes by the teachers' lounge. I glanced into the lounge, through a rather large window, to see if there was someone in there I could make faces at, and I saw them sitting in there talking to each (thank goodness, they didn't see me). Sufficed to say, I didn't want to make faces at them!
Subsequently, I did what any former student should do, I ran away!
My sixth grade math teacher was in there. I have to say she was a very scary woman; especially, for an eleven year old boy. The not-so funny thing is she looks exactly the same today as she did when I had her in the classroom about sixteen years ago. (That gray hairdo is unchanged.) I knew who she was instantly. I felt as if I had been thrown back into a time warp. I experienced the same fear today as I did back in 1991.
The other teacher was my twelfth grade English teacher. He wore a suit and tie everyday--you didn't mess with him. He was a good teacher, but sadly I had him in his last year of teaching. Like most teachers in his position, he just basically vegetated his last year by using up his sick days. The days he did show up, he let us do whatever basically. Occasionally, he did teach a unit, like British literature. He was really good at it, too.
Breathless from my near panic attack, I told the school secretary I was afraid, because I thought I was in trouble, after seeing my former teachers. She didn't quite get the gist of what I was going on about, but when I explained it, she just laughed. Being the consummate cut-up, she informed me that she would tell them that I was "looking for them."
So, the rest of the day, I spent watching my classroom door in fear that they would enter. I honestly think I would have freaked, if they had.
I found out they are volunteering with the language arts department as writing mentors. I suppose I'll have to face them sooner-or-later!
I was walking out of the bathroom and turned to walk up the office hallway, which goes by the teachers' lounge. I glanced into the lounge, through a rather large window, to see if there was someone in there I could make faces at, and I saw them sitting in there talking to each (thank goodness, they didn't see me). Sufficed to say, I didn't want to make faces at them!
Subsequently, I did what any former student should do, I ran away!
My sixth grade math teacher was in there. I have to say she was a very scary woman; especially, for an eleven year old boy. The not-so funny thing is she looks exactly the same today as she did when I had her in the classroom about sixteen years ago. (That gray hairdo is unchanged.) I knew who she was instantly. I felt as if I had been thrown back into a time warp. I experienced the same fear today as I did back in 1991.
The other teacher was my twelfth grade English teacher. He wore a suit and tie everyday--you didn't mess with him. He was a good teacher, but sadly I had him in his last year of teaching. Like most teachers in his position, he just basically vegetated his last year by using up his sick days. The days he did show up, he let us do whatever basically. Occasionally, he did teach a unit, like British literature. He was really good at it, too.
Breathless from my near panic attack, I told the school secretary I was afraid, because I thought I was in trouble, after seeing my former teachers. She didn't quite get the gist of what I was going on about, but when I explained it, she just laughed. Being the consummate cut-up, she informed me that she would tell them that I was "looking for them."
So, the rest of the day, I spent watching my classroom door in fear that they would enter. I honestly think I would have freaked, if they had.
I found out they are volunteering with the language arts department as writing mentors. I suppose I'll have to face them sooner-or-later!
Sunday, October 07, 2007
Fletcher attacks Beshear for following the law
In one of the lamest attack campaigns--run by any candidate--Governor Ernie Fletcher (R) has launched a series of "Christian radio" ad campaigns against former Kentucky lieutenant governor and attorney general Steve Beshear (D), who is also running for governor.
Specifically, Fletcher derides Beshear as not being a very virtuous, much less Christian, individual.
Why?
During Beshear's tenure as Kentucky's attorney general, the Supreme Court ruled that it was unconstitutional to display the Ten Commandments in public buildings, such as schools and courthouses. Beshear, in an attempt to follow the law, ordered that all state institutions uphold the Supreme Court's opinion and remove any--and all--displays of the Ten Commandments from public property.
Apparently, for someone like Governor Fletcher, it is wrong to obey the law. His own, personal and public records stand as testimony to that assumption.
Fletcher was wrong for Kentucky in 2003, and he is wrong for Kentucky in 2007! (Despite the Kentucky Republican Party's ad campaign, in 2003, I'm ready to go back to wearing hot pants.)
Specifically, Fletcher derides Beshear as not being a very virtuous, much less Christian, individual.
Why?
During Beshear's tenure as Kentucky's attorney general, the Supreme Court ruled that it was unconstitutional to display the Ten Commandments in public buildings, such as schools and courthouses. Beshear, in an attempt to follow the law, ordered that all state institutions uphold the Supreme Court's opinion and remove any--and all--displays of the Ten Commandments from public property.
Apparently, for someone like Governor Fletcher, it is wrong to obey the law. His own, personal and public records stand as testimony to that assumption.
Fletcher was wrong for Kentucky in 2003, and he is wrong for Kentucky in 2007! (Despite the Kentucky Republican Party's ad campaign, in 2003, I'm ready to go back to wearing hot pants.)
Science proves it
Scientists in Australia have determined the sleep habits of humans.
Their research discovered that women like to sleep alone, because they are light sleepers. It is less distracting for them to sleep solo. Men, on the other hand, prefer to sleep next to a warm body.
It only goes to prove that it is okay for two guys (or three) to share the shame bed. It is all part of our evolution.
Why fight it? I know I sleep better when I share a bed.
Their research discovered that women like to sleep alone, because they are light sleepers. It is less distracting for them to sleep solo. Men, on the other hand, prefer to sleep next to a warm body.
It only goes to prove that it is okay for two guys (or three) to share the shame bed. It is all part of our evolution.
Why fight it? I know I sleep better when I share a bed.
My new shampoo
This morning I gave my new shampoo a whirl. It is some really good stuff, for the first time out. I am really a stickler for the hair care products that I use. I prefer to stick with the names that I know and the products which have a solid track record with me.
While at the spa, I was introduced to Bumble and bumble. (Isn't that an adorable name?) In particular Bb Seaweed gives my hair a glistening luster, while leaving it rather soft and lively. Unlike Matrix Biolage and Paul Mitchell, it doesn't seem to give my hair that crinkled feeling of being overly cleansed and striped.
I guess it is worth the price tag of $25 for 250ml. Next time, I'll get the liter sized bottle (bulk it up).
While at the spa, I was introduced to Bumble and bumble. (Isn't that an adorable name?) In particular Bb Seaweed gives my hair a glistening luster, while leaving it rather soft and lively. Unlike Matrix Biolage and Paul Mitchell, it doesn't seem to give my hair that crinkled feeling of being overly cleansed and striped.
I guess it is worth the price tag of $25 for 250ml. Next time, I'll get the liter sized bottle (bulk it up).
Larry Craig gets inducted
No, Senator Craig wasn't inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Baseball Hall of Fame, or even the Public Restroom Anonymous Sex Hall of Fame, but rather the Idaho Hall of Fame.
Despite calls from citizens across Idaho to derail his induction, the committee seems happy that it proceed. The committee argued that the decision to induct the now infamous senator into their hall of fame was cemented back in March, which was long before the senator pleaded guilty to attempted slap and tickle in a Minnesota airport restroom.
I say go ahead and induct him! He's a great Republican.
Despite calls from citizens across Idaho to derail his induction, the committee seems happy that it proceed. The committee argued that the decision to induct the now infamous senator into their hall of fame was cemented back in March, which was long before the senator pleaded guilty to attempted slap and tickle in a Minnesota airport restroom.
I say go ahead and induct him! He's a great Republican.
Saturday, October 06, 2007
"Elizabeth: The Golden Age"
This movie looks so good! I loved the first installment, and never realized there would be a sequel. Cate Blanchett, who plays the Virgin Queen, gives me goose flesh, as I fantasize about the abilities of a woman with unlimited power. It's almost enough to make me turn straight, but if only for a moment.
Elizabeth: The Golden Age will continue the saga of the bastard daughter of King Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, who was never meant to rule England. Elizabeth is forced to confront the great Spanish Armada, which was meant to carry the Inquisition to England and ultimately free it from heresy.
I'm not convinced that Walter Raleigh is as good looking as Lord Robert, however.
Elizabeth: The Golden Age will continue the saga of the bastard daughter of King Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, who was never meant to rule England. Elizabeth is forced to confront the great Spanish Armada, which was meant to carry the Inquisition to England and ultimately free it from heresy.
I'm not convinced that Walter Raleigh is as good looking as Lord Robert, however.
Mother Teresa: A Human
Since her death, we have learned that Mother Teresa was not a saint, but merely an individual who cared about the troubles of humanity and chose to do something proactive about it.
Why must she be something more? Why can't a person simply be human and care?
In an effort to canonize Mother Teresa, the Roman Catholic nun who devoted much of her life to the poor and down-trodden in Calcutta, India, the Vatican has been looking for miracles associated with the tiny woman from Skopje, Macedonia.
It seems that a priest, who suffered from a rather large kidney stone, found relief from the ailment when he prayed to the deceased nun. He was scheduled for surgery to remove the stone, but he no longer required the surgery, after it mysteriously disappeared.
Is Mother Teresa to be credited for its mysterious departure? Is she truly a saint?
As a secular person, I find it hard to believe that someone, who is dead nonetheless, can impact what happens in the world of the living.
As a religious woman, Mother Teresa, also, found it hard at times to grasp the concept of God's love. In letters to Rev. Michael van der Peet, we see a woman who often felt as if she had been forsaken by the Divine.
I find the spiritual world is beyond my grasp. As a young boy, I found solace in my faith, but as I became older, I found it only complicated my life. It made people reject others, and in the final assessment--from a rather personal perspective--I found that if God does exist then it is in a way that does not benefit me, or humanity, in general.
Perhaps, I find religious belief is rooted in ignorance and rejection of the very essence of nature.
In my opinion if a supernatural being exists, then it is akin to the supernatural being in the movie, Mothman, who extolled the virtue of his existence in a rather simplistic--yet profound--sentence: "How would you explain your existence to a cockroach?"
In other words, when is the last time you explained your existence to a roach? Why would you even care what a roach thought about you? You are superior to it on every level. It can't even understand what you are trying to share with it. You have the power of life and death over it, but you seldom exercise it, except when it gets right in your face. You just do your own thing, and so does it.
But I find myself clinging to the Freudian construct regarding God. God exists as a "father" figure for adults. He seemingly dispenses punishment and praise depending on the amount of goodness, we as humans, extend. (Of course, Sigmund Freud saw religion as a neurosis that impacted the majority of humanity, which made it seemingly acceptable. There is safety in numbers, for sure.)
Why must she be something more? Why can't a person simply be human and care?
In an effort to canonize Mother Teresa, the Roman Catholic nun who devoted much of her life to the poor and down-trodden in Calcutta, India, the Vatican has been looking for miracles associated with the tiny woman from Skopje, Macedonia.
It seems that a priest, who suffered from a rather large kidney stone, found relief from the ailment when he prayed to the deceased nun. He was scheduled for surgery to remove the stone, but he no longer required the surgery, after it mysteriously disappeared.
Is Mother Teresa to be credited for its mysterious departure? Is she truly a saint?
As a secular person, I find it hard to believe that someone, who is dead nonetheless, can impact what happens in the world of the living.
As a religious woman, Mother Teresa, also, found it hard at times to grasp the concept of God's love. In letters to Rev. Michael van der Peet, we see a woman who often felt as if she had been forsaken by the Divine.
I find the spiritual world is beyond my grasp. As a young boy, I found solace in my faith, but as I became older, I found it only complicated my life. It made people reject others, and in the final assessment--from a rather personal perspective--I found that if God does exist then it is in a way that does not benefit me, or humanity, in general.
Perhaps, I find religious belief is rooted in ignorance and rejection of the very essence of nature.
In my opinion if a supernatural being exists, then it is akin to the supernatural being in the movie, Mothman, who extolled the virtue of his existence in a rather simplistic--yet profound--sentence: "How would you explain your existence to a cockroach?"
In other words, when is the last time you explained your existence to a roach? Why would you even care what a roach thought about you? You are superior to it on every level. It can't even understand what you are trying to share with it. You have the power of life and death over it, but you seldom exercise it, except when it gets right in your face. You just do your own thing, and so does it.
But I find myself clinging to the Freudian construct regarding God. God exists as a "father" figure for adults. He seemingly dispenses punishment and praise depending on the amount of goodness, we as humans, extend. (Of course, Sigmund Freud saw religion as a neurosis that impacted the majority of humanity, which made it seemingly acceptable. There is safety in numbers, for sure.)
Victor & Nikki are in 'Splitsville' again
After I started watching Y&R again, I find myself needing to share some of my ideas about the show.
On yesterday's installment, Victor and Nikki agreed to call it quits again, for the third time.
Nikki came over to the Ranch to meet with Victor about how he secretly owned the mineral rights to Clear Springs, which is a project she has been working on in recent months.
As part owner of Newman Enterprises, Nikki used her capital to secure loans to invest in the project. Instead of helping her with the investment, however, Victor has been working secretly--and not so secretly--behind the scenes to cause her to fail.
The rather raucous discussion calmed down as they both took a stroll down memory lane. Even with all the sappy talk, Nikki decided that she didn't need someone like Victor to be her "knight in shining armor." Rather, she needed someone to understand and accept her as an individual. She concluded with the fact that their marriage was over.
Victor simply responded, "I'll have the lawyer draw up the papers."
In a previous encounter, at the Athletic Club, Victor foreshadowed Friday's cliff hanger with a self-fulfilling prophesy, as he promised to leave Nikki as he had first met her, which was "with nothing."
But like all their previous break-ups, I believe they'll patch things up and enter into a troubled fourth marriage.
On yesterday's installment, Victor and Nikki agreed to call it quits again, for the third time.
Nikki came over to the Ranch to meet with Victor about how he secretly owned the mineral rights to Clear Springs, which is a project she has been working on in recent months.
As part owner of Newman Enterprises, Nikki used her capital to secure loans to invest in the project. Instead of helping her with the investment, however, Victor has been working secretly--and not so secretly--behind the scenes to cause her to fail.
The rather raucous discussion calmed down as they both took a stroll down memory lane. Even with all the sappy talk, Nikki decided that she didn't need someone like Victor to be her "knight in shining armor." Rather, she needed someone to understand and accept her as an individual. She concluded with the fact that their marriage was over.
Victor simply responded, "I'll have the lawyer draw up the papers."
In a previous encounter, at the Athletic Club, Victor foreshadowed Friday's cliff hanger with a self-fulfilling prophesy, as he promised to leave Nikki as he had first met her, which was "with nothing."
But like all their previous break-ups, I believe they'll patch things up and enter into a troubled fourth marriage.
Friday, October 05, 2007
Bush: "This government does not torture"
After some rather damning memos regarding the treatment of prisoners, who are suspected of terrorism, were released, George W. Bush has come to the aid of the average American, because he can "help protect them" from the bad guys, but in a good guy kind of way.
Bush stated that the United States does not torture prisoners/suspects of terrorism. In a rather hypocritical statement, the president further stated, "his administration sticks to 'U.S. law and [its] international obligations.'"
I hope that President Bush goes into comedy when he finally leaves office on January 20, 2009. He has a gift for stating the opposite of what he really means. But the biggest gag is that he doesn't realize it.
Bush stated that the United States does not torture prisoners/suspects of terrorism. In a rather hypocritical statement, the president further stated, "his administration sticks to 'U.S. law and [its] international obligations.'"
I hope that President Bush goes into comedy when he finally leaves office on January 20, 2009. He has a gift for stating the opposite of what he really means. But the biggest gag is that he doesn't realize it.
Judgement against McDonald's for $6.1 million
I'm not sure I even want to touch this story...
But a jury awarded a former employee of McDonald's $6,100,000 in a lawsuit, which alleged the plaintiff was falsely imprisoned, forced to undergo a rather lengthy strip search, and subsequently sexually assaulted, all while on McDonald's property. All of these egregious miscarriages of vigilante justice were conducted by fellow co-workers and management staff, while in a backroom of the McDonald's restaurant, after the store received a crank call from someone impersonating a police officer.
Hmmm...I could go on, but I'm not.
But a jury awarded a former employee of McDonald's $6,100,000 in a lawsuit, which alleged the plaintiff was falsely imprisoned, forced to undergo a rather lengthy strip search, and subsequently sexually assaulted, all while on McDonald's property. All of these egregious miscarriages of vigilante justice were conducted by fellow co-workers and management staff, while in a backroom of the McDonald's restaurant, after the store received a crank call from someone impersonating a police officer.
Hmmm...I could go on, but I'm not.
"The commissar's in town!"
Today, while coming home from my day of pampering myself at the spa, I was singing along with the song, "Rockstar," by Nickelback, but it was quite difficult to get the words correct. You see, the song had been edited for content, so it had only some resemblance to the original song. All references to drugs had been deleted. So I said, "What the @*&#!"
I had to quit singing, sufficed to say, considering I was not familiar with the new, censored version of the song.
America is a country of at least a few remaining civil liberties, surely. I believe it is, at least. But it is pretty bad when a simple song cannot be expressed in its original form over the radio out of fear of being denigrated by a few marauding neigh-sayers.
If you go to Western Europe, for example, you will be accosted by all kinds of freedoms of expression. One personal example that comes to mind is being bombarded by prime time pornography on television, while I was in France. From my hotel room on Rue de la Paix, I was shamelessly subjected to a multidude of perverse sins-of-the-flesh (if they had been cute guys, then I would have been alright).
More importantly, there is a freedom of expression, in Europe, that extends to every day language as well. In the United States, we are offended by profanity on television. Yet, at the same time, we will use the same words we find offensive to hear on televison in our personal lives on a rather religious basis. I found it refreshing to watch a movie on television, while in France, that had not been edited for language (of course, you can pay extra in the U.S. to hear those words on television by subscribing to HBO or Showtime).
The United States was a great experiment in diversity. Once-upon-a-time that diversity was seemingly embraced and afforded to the people en masse; however, our contemporaries around the world are beating us to the punch nowadays. My simple example from the radio is proof.
Sure, there are such things as good taste and decency (albeit, rather fickle and misrepresented), but there is also something known as freedom of expression, which is explicitly protected by the United States Constitution.
So where does it all end?
Ironically, on the radio, "Rockstar" was followed by "Der Kommissar," in its unedited entirety, of course.
It makes you think!
I had to quit singing, sufficed to say, considering I was not familiar with the new, censored version of the song.
America is a country of at least a few remaining civil liberties, surely. I believe it is, at least. But it is pretty bad when a simple song cannot be expressed in its original form over the radio out of fear of being denigrated by a few marauding neigh-sayers.
If you go to Western Europe, for example, you will be accosted by all kinds of freedoms of expression. One personal example that comes to mind is being bombarded by prime time pornography on television, while I was in France. From my hotel room on Rue de la Paix, I was shamelessly subjected to a multidude of perverse sins-of-the-flesh (if they had been cute guys, then I would have been alright).
More importantly, there is a freedom of expression, in Europe, that extends to every day language as well. In the United States, we are offended by profanity on television. Yet, at the same time, we will use the same words we find offensive to hear on televison in our personal lives on a rather religious basis. I found it refreshing to watch a movie on television, while in France, that had not been edited for language (of course, you can pay extra in the U.S. to hear those words on television by subscribing to HBO or Showtime).
The United States was a great experiment in diversity. Once-upon-a-time that diversity was seemingly embraced and afforded to the people en masse; however, our contemporaries around the world are beating us to the punch nowadays. My simple example from the radio is proof.
Sure, there are such things as good taste and decency (albeit, rather fickle and misrepresented), but there is also something known as freedom of expression, which is explicitly protected by the United States Constitution.
So where does it all end?
Ironically, on the radio, "Rockstar" was followed by "Der Kommissar," in its unedited entirety, of course.
It makes you think!
Thursday, October 04, 2007
John McCain, can we get brutal?
Senator John McCain (R-AZ) is a scary individual to me. Not only are his politics startling and rather passé, but his recent general appearance has started to really creep me out, also.
A recent picture of the senator gives him the appearance of either being a Johnny Cash impersonator or someone dressed for a fashion victim's funeral. The sunglasses alone tell the story--not to mention the outfit--of a person heading for doom.
I have commented to my brother that Senator McCain reminds me of a mummy. So sometimes I refer to him simply as "The Mummy," which gets a giggle out of my brother, because only he knows to whom I am referring.
This picture of him really reinforces my supposition that he is mummy-like. I mean look at his rather pale, other-worldly colored skin and his wisp of super white hair-like, by-product coif.
Simply, "yikes" is an apt descriptor. I guess he makes a festive addition to the Republican Party for Halloween, however.
Senator Craig gets rejected
A Hennepin County District Court judge has rejected the motion, on behalf of Senator Larry Craig (R-ID), to withdraw the senator's guilty plea.
As a result, the original guilty plea and sentencing, stemming from his attempted hanky-panky in a Minnesota airport gents' room, will stand. The judge stated that Senator Craig "knew what he was saying, reading and signing."
Now it remains to be seen whether or not Craig will resign his seat in the United States Senate. Since he missed his first self-imposed deadline to resign, he might decide to stick out his original term of office.
If you visit the the poor guy's official website, you see that it is littered with information about his infamous misdeed. I think if I were in his position, I'd find some more things to put up on my website, such as my accomplishments. (Let's focus on the good times, not my time in the toilet [pardon the pun].)
As a result, the original guilty plea and sentencing, stemming from his attempted hanky-panky in a Minnesota airport gents' room, will stand. The judge stated that Senator Craig "knew what he was saying, reading and signing."
Now it remains to be seen whether or not Craig will resign his seat in the United States Senate. Since he missed his first self-imposed deadline to resign, he might decide to stick out his original term of office.
If you visit the the poor guy's official website, you see that it is littered with information about his infamous misdeed. I think if I were in his position, I'd find some more things to put up on my website, such as my accomplishments. (Let's focus on the good times, not my time in the toilet [pardon the pun].)
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
I'm not a trophy wife
Being twenty-four years younger than her husband hasn't jaded one woman's belief that she is not a trophy wife.
Jeri Kehn Thompson, who is married to former Tennessee Senator Fred Thompson (R), told People magazine that she met her husband at a grocery store in Nashville in 1996. Apparently, he was treating himself to a hearty meal of beanie weanies and a tuna fish sandwich. (This whole story sounds fishy to me). After Fred Thompson carried her groceries to the car, she invited him to a party.
And the rest is history, as they say.
I suppose it is possible for a woman (or cute guy), who is only a generation younger, to fall in love with an older, more mature man. It is probably more likely to happen, however, after you run a credit check on the person. Having a high FICO score is certainly an incentive toward making a seemingly otherwise awkward relationship work.
(Don't get me wrong, though. I adore younger guys.)
Jeri Kehn Thompson, who is married to former Tennessee Senator Fred Thompson (R), told People magazine that she met her husband at a grocery store in Nashville in 1996. Apparently, he was treating himself to a hearty meal of beanie weanies and a tuna fish sandwich. (This whole story sounds fishy to me). After Fred Thompson carried her groceries to the car, she invited him to a party.
And the rest is history, as they say.
I suppose it is possible for a woman (or cute guy), who is only a generation younger, to fall in love with an older, more mature man. It is probably more likely to happen, however, after you run a credit check on the person. Having a high FICO score is certainly an incentive toward making a seemingly otherwise awkward relationship work.
(Don't get me wrong, though. I adore younger guys.)
Open House
The other night, my school hosted an open house for students and parents. I haven't really had much time to reflect on the experience.
I found myself thinking about it today, however. Even though, it required me to stay after school, until almost 8pm, I found the experience to be rewarding. I met a lot of nice people as a result. The parents were particularly supportive of my efforts in the classroom. It was also nice to hear the many encouraging stories they relayed to me about their kids and how much they enjoy being in my class.
It was funny to observe how the kids by-passed the other teachers to introduce their parents (grandparents, aunts, and uncles, too) to me. It makes my heart warm just to think about it now. Teachers often do not know how much of an impact they have in their classroom, but such events often let us glimpse into that elusive world.
Not to sound conceited, but such events often make the other teachers a bit envious of me. I have encountered problems in the past because some of my colleagues have "complained" about my classroom antics. I think it was the cause of me losing my first teaching assignment. I was much too progressive for the old coots who worked along side of me. Many of them hadn't been in a classroom (beyond their own) since Reagan was in the White House. I guess if a child is enjoying himself or herself then they aren't learning. Right? In their book, it is wrong to have fun in the classroom, I suppose. Luckily, I now work in a rather progressive school, which allows me to run my classroom the way I want.
I still remember the administrator at my first school proclaiming, to me of course, "I don't care if the kids like me as long as they respect me." My philosophy is, "Why not be liked and respected all at the same time?" It is possible. I live it everyday.
I found myself thinking about it today, however. Even though, it required me to stay after school, until almost 8pm, I found the experience to be rewarding. I met a lot of nice people as a result. The parents were particularly supportive of my efforts in the classroom. It was also nice to hear the many encouraging stories they relayed to me about their kids and how much they enjoy being in my class.
It was funny to observe how the kids by-passed the other teachers to introduce their parents (grandparents, aunts, and uncles, too) to me. It makes my heart warm just to think about it now. Teachers often do not know how much of an impact they have in their classroom, but such events often let us glimpse into that elusive world.
Not to sound conceited, but such events often make the other teachers a bit envious of me. I have encountered problems in the past because some of my colleagues have "complained" about my classroom antics. I think it was the cause of me losing my first teaching assignment. I was much too progressive for the old coots who worked along side of me. Many of them hadn't been in a classroom (beyond their own) since Reagan was in the White House. I guess if a child is enjoying himself or herself then they aren't learning. Right? In their book, it is wrong to have fun in the classroom, I suppose. Luckily, I now work in a rather progressive school, which allows me to run my classroom the way I want.
I still remember the administrator at my first school proclaiming, to me of course, "I don't care if the kids like me as long as they respect me." My philosophy is, "Why not be liked and respected all at the same time?" It is possible. I live it everyday.
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
This quarter's figures
Tentative figures for the presidential campaigns of Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama show promising growth for the Democratic Party, overall.
Hillary anticipates reporting $27 million for the third quarter. Obama is hoping for $20 million. I think it is great that these candidates have raised almost $50 million for their campaigns.
I believe we will see the rift between Obama and Clinton widen in the next quarter; of course, in Hillary's favor. The money is starting to show the true colors of the Democratic Party. We want Hillary to be on our ticket and lead us to victory in '08!
Hillary anticipates reporting $27 million for the third quarter. Obama is hoping for $20 million. I think it is great that these candidates have raised almost $50 million for their campaigns.
I believe we will see the rift between Obama and Clinton widen in the next quarter; of course, in Hillary's favor. The money is starting to show the true colors of the Democratic Party. We want Hillary to be on our ticket and lead us to victory in '08!
Monday, October 01, 2007
Putting my money where my loud mouth is
Last night, I gave again to the Hillary Clinton campaign. (I get a rush when I spend money, so maybe I did it for that reason too.) But I really believe in the direction that Hillary has set for America, through her vision and strength. She is surely the best candidate for the job, bar none.
Hillary Clinton for Presidentto me show details
Sep 30 (18 hours ago)
Thank you for your contribution to Hillary Clinton for President. We deeply appreciate your support. If you have any questions about your contribution please contact us atmailto:atcontributions@hillaryclinton.com.
==========================
YOUR CONTRIBUTION RECEIPT:
DATE: September 30, 2007 10:54 PM EDT
NAME: XXXXXXXXXXX
ADDRESS: XXXXXXXXXXX
Louisville, KY 40221
AMOUNT: $1,500
===========================
Contributions to Hillary Clinton for President are not deductible for federal income tax purposes. Corporate contributions are prohibited by law. Paid for by
Hillary Clinton for President, 4420 North Fairfax Drive, Arlington, VA 22203
Hillary Clinton for President
Sep 30 (18 hours ago)
Thank you for your contribution to Hillary Clinton for President. We deeply appreciate your support. If you have any questions about your contribution please contact us atmailto:atcontributions@hillaryclinton.com.
==========================
YOUR CONTRIBUTION RECEIPT:
DATE: September 30, 2007 10:54 PM EDT
NAME: XXXXXXXXXXX
ADDRESS: XXXXXXXXXXX
Louisville, KY 40221
AMOUNT: $1,500
===========================
Contributions to Hillary Clinton for President are not deductible for federal income tax purposes. Corporate contributions are prohibited by law. Paid for by
Hillary Clinton for President, 4420 North Fairfax Drive, Arlington, VA 22203
Britney Spears loses the kids
A California court has ordered Britney Spears to relinquish her custody of her two sons by noon on Wednesday.
They will go to their father.
The court ruled that Spears' was a "habitual, frequent, and continuous [user] of controlled substances and alcohol." In concert with this ruling, she has been ordered to submit to random drug testing.
She'll have to find time to submit to this drug testing while meeting with her parenting coach eight hours per week (another court ordered goody).
My assessment: it's about time!
They will go to their father.
The court ruled that Spears' was a "habitual, frequent, and continuous [user] of controlled substances and alcohol." In concert with this ruling, she has been ordered to submit to random drug testing.
She'll have to find time to submit to this drug testing while meeting with her parenting coach eight hours per week (another court ordered goody).
My assessment: it's about time!
Dow Soars to New Record
The Dow soared to set a new record today, at 14,087.55. The last time it was in this territory was in July.
This translates into happy news for my stock portfolio, which has suffered over the past two months, with the market's belly flops and general disgust for good taste.
Even though, financial powerhouses UBS Aktiengesellschaft (UBS) and Citigroup (C) have issued third-quarter profit warnings, they also indicated that their stock would return to normal earnings levels. Luckily, I do not own any of these companies.
It would appear as if MasterCard Inc. (MA), on the other hand, is going to have a rather strong third quarter, which is lucky for me. I have almost 70% of my portfolio tied to this single stock!
(Yikes! I know.)
This translates into happy news for my stock portfolio, which has suffered over the past two months, with the market's belly flops and general disgust for good taste.
Even though, financial powerhouses UBS Aktiengesellschaft (UBS) and Citigroup (C) have issued third-quarter profit warnings, they also indicated that their stock would return to normal earnings levels. Luckily, I do not own any of these companies.
It would appear as if MasterCard Inc. (MA), on the other hand, is going to have a rather strong third quarter, which is lucky for me. I have almost 70% of my portfolio tied to this single stock!
(Yikes! I know.)
Fletcher's Last Ditch Effort to Keep the Governor's Mansion
With his administration crumbling around him, which includes his own lieutenant governor abandoning him, Governor Ernie Fletcher has rebuilt his campaign for re-election to include personal attacks against Democratic candidate Steve Beshear for his law firm's involvement in the dismantling of a failed Kentucky company in the 1990s.
Beshear's firm, Stites & Harbison, worked to liquidate the assets of Kentucky Central Life Insurance Company. Governor Fletcher contends that Stites & Harbison, billed $21 million for its legal work (for fifteen years of work).
So what's the problem?
Fletcher goes further to use this fact to paint Beshear as a heartless individual, because he benefited from the suffering of others, through the bankruptcy and liquidation of this company. It also goes on further to state that Beshear was investigated for misconduct, while on the case. According to Fletcher, Stites & Harbison paid over $100,000 to resolve the "secretive" investigation.
It all sounds like a smoke screen to me.
This is all convenient coming from a governor who was indicted by a Franklin County Circuit Court grand jury for multiple counts of fraud and official misconduct. Although, Fletcher contends that the charges against him were eventually dismissed, it did not stop him from using his executive privilege to pardon his political cronies. Also, Governor Fletcher refuses to divulge the donors to his personal legal fund.
This whole situation--on the part of Ernie Fletcher--seems rather hypocritical.
Beshear's firm, Stites & Harbison, worked to liquidate the assets of Kentucky Central Life Insurance Company. Governor Fletcher contends that Stites & Harbison, billed $21 million for its legal work (for fifteen years of work).
So what's the problem?
Fletcher goes further to use this fact to paint Beshear as a heartless individual, because he benefited from the suffering of others, through the bankruptcy and liquidation of this company. It also goes on further to state that Beshear was investigated for misconduct, while on the case. According to Fletcher, Stites & Harbison paid over $100,000 to resolve the "secretive" investigation.
It all sounds like a smoke screen to me.
This is all convenient coming from a governor who was indicted by a Franklin County Circuit Court grand jury for multiple counts of fraud and official misconduct. Although, Fletcher contends that the charges against him were eventually dismissed, it did not stop him from using his executive privilege to pardon his political cronies. Also, Governor Fletcher refuses to divulge the donors to his personal legal fund.
This whole situation--on the part of Ernie Fletcher--seems rather hypocritical.
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