How absurd is it to think you can put someone to death for rape? (Not to mention that the United States would execute any criminal for even murder. It is disgusting.) The developed Western world, with the exception of the United States, of course, has abolished execution as a form of punishment for crimes.
Luckily, the United States Supreme Court has very narrowly defined that execution may only be used as a form of punishment in cases of murder. The Court's decision came on the heels of a Louisiana law, which gave courts the right to sentence child rapists to death. The truly frightening part is the Court's decision was 5-4. The majority's opinion stated that Louisiana's law was "cruel and unusual."
We as a civilized nation must be abhorred that people are executed as a form of punishment, first of all. Secondly, the fact that four justices of the United States Supreme Court ruled that it is appropriate to execute criminals for non-death related crimes is astonishing and unacceptable, It is a glimpse at what eight years of George W. Bush has given this country's judicial system, through appointments to the federal bench.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Focus on Manipulation
"Focus on the Family" cult leader, James Dobson, accused Senator Barack Obama of "distorting the Bible" in a recent speech.
In a rebuttal, Obama stated that Dobson was "making stuff up" about the situation. I agree.
Let's face it, conservative Christians, like James Dobson, do "make it" up as they go. They have no remorse in distorting their alleged faith to discredit, shame, humiliate, steal, lie, cheat anyone or any group, if it serves their aim.
Fortunately, I do not see the Christian Right stealing this year's presidency.
In a rebuttal, Obama stated that Dobson was "making stuff up" about the situation. I agree.
Let's face it, conservative Christians, like James Dobson, do "make it" up as they go. They have no remorse in distorting their alleged faith to discredit, shame, humiliate, steal, lie, cheat anyone or any group, if it serves their aim.
Fortunately, I do not see the Christian Right stealing this year's presidency.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Sarkozy swept to safety from Tel Aviv tarmac
French President Nicolas Sarkozy, who was ending a three day meeting with Israeli officials, was swept to the safety of his airplane after the sound of a gunshot was heard in the security area surrounding the tarmac, along with his wife, Carla Bruni. Additionally, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert was placed inside his car, which was parked on the tarmac.
Officials soon ascertained that the gunshot was the result of an Israeli soldier who had committed suicide. The prime minister later boarded the French president's plane to personally inform him of the situation.
Officials soon ascertained that the gunshot was the result of an Israeli soldier who had committed suicide. The prime minister later boarded the French president's plane to personally inform him of the situation.
Don Imus at it again
Don Imus is in deep racial waters again. He states that he was defending a "black man," not putting him down. It sounds as if he is being racist by defending himself. I think he it is time he quits talking about race altogether.
Monday, June 23, 2008
My Presidential Candidate in November
I have decided who my candidate for president will be in November. I thought long and hard about it. I decided there is only one candidate I can vote for with full confidence. Even though, the party will not nominate this candidate, I can still vote for her.
I will exercise my civil right to write-in Hillary Rodham Clinton on my ballot on November 4.
Who says there are only two choices?
I will exercise my civil right to write-in Hillary Rodham Clinton on my ballot on November 4.
Who says there are only two choices?
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Saudis betting on oil futures?
The Saudi government (i.e., the King) has decided to increase crude oil production by 700,000 barrels per day, starting in July (9.7 million barrels per day total).
At an average of $120/barrel, the Saudi government will bring in an additional $84 million/day. I am not convinced that the sudden generosity of the Saudis, and their concern for the world oil consumer, is completely benign. I suppose one could also look at it at as an 8% increase in their daily production. Perhaps, it will offset the price of refined petroleum products, especially in United States' volatile gasoline market.
At an average of $120/barrel, the Saudi government will bring in an additional $84 million/day. I am not convinced that the sudden generosity of the Saudis, and their concern for the world oil consumer, is completely benign. I suppose one could also look at it at as an 8% increase in their daily production. Perhaps, it will offset the price of refined petroleum products, especially in United States' volatile gasoline market.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Equality...one state at a time
Yesterday evening, California began the process of providing equal government services to all its citizens. Of course, I refer to the California Supreme Court's decision that incorporates homosexual couples into a mainstream staple of society, marriage.
Besides Massachusetts, California is the only state that protects full marital rights for homosexuals. It is, indeed, within the purview of state courts to provide equal protection to its citizens. Some states, like Kentucky, have enacted constitutional bans of homosexual rights. These bans, however, will not stand the scrutiny of federal courts. They impede upon the rights of a minority population, which is in stark violation of the United States Constitution. The Fourteenth Amendment clearly states: "No state shall...deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws."
By excluding homosexual individuals, and couples, from participating in a state sanctioned activity, to wit: marriage, then that state has denied equal protection of the law for those individuals. That is exactly why state courts in Massachusetts and California have paved the way for the inclusion of marriage for all individuals. They are simply ensuring all people have equal access to the law.
Besides Massachusetts, California is the only state that protects full marital rights for homosexuals. It is, indeed, within the purview of state courts to provide equal protection to its citizens. Some states, like Kentucky, have enacted constitutional bans of homosexual rights. These bans, however, will not stand the scrutiny of federal courts. They impede upon the rights of a minority population, which is in stark violation of the United States Constitution. The Fourteenth Amendment clearly states: "No state shall...deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws."
By excluding homosexual individuals, and couples, from participating in a state sanctioned activity, to wit: marriage, then that state has denied equal protection of the law for those individuals. That is exactly why state courts in Massachusetts and California have paved the way for the inclusion of marriage for all individuals. They are simply ensuring all people have equal access to the law.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Obama, I can't support you, yet
When Hillary Clinton suspended her presidential bid, she said that we should support Barack Obama for president. Of course, I said that I would support his campaign, because it is the logical next best thing.
Over the last week, I have been thinking deeply about my decision to support Barack Obama. Unlike many superdelegates, who crave the spotlight, I cannot in good conscience, at this time, fully support Obama for president. Although, I am undecided, I am not supporting the presidential campaign of Republican John McCain, either.
I feel completely destitute, politically. Hillary disappeared from the national stage and I feel like a sheep who has lost his shepherd.
Signed,
One of 18 Million Disillusioned Voters
Over the last week, I have been thinking deeply about my decision to support Barack Obama. Unlike many superdelegates, who crave the spotlight, I cannot in good conscience, at this time, fully support Obama for president. Although, I am undecided, I am not supporting the presidential campaign of Republican John McCain, either.
I feel completely destitute, politically. Hillary disappeared from the national stage and I feel like a sheep who has lost his shepherd.
Signed,
One of 18 Million Disillusioned Voters
Obama Drudge
Barack Obama's campaign has pitched the idea that they can win the general election without the states of Florida or Ohio. I'm not sure if they are up to speed on American history, but Florida cost Vice President Al Gore his bid for the presidency in 2000 by less than 500 votes!
Obama's campaign berated Hillary Clinton for saying she could win the primary election without certain states. Now they are using the Clinton model to say they can win in November. I'm not sure about a group who says one thing and then copies someone else's plan the next minute. He seems to be pinning a lot of his hopes and dreams on states like Georgia. I'm not sure Georgia is going to vote for a Democratic candidate, in the general election, regardless of your skin color.
What's more, Obama is eating a lot of flack for not speaking up on behalf of Michigan primary voters. A Republican attack ad says Obama doesn't care about the voters of Michigan, and it brings up his elitist comments from San Francisco. Can he win without Florida, Ohio and Michigan?
I'm not so sure the Obama campaign can weather many of these storms. I think the voters, during the Democratic primary season, chose rather poorly. Sorry!
Obama's campaign berated Hillary Clinton for saying she could win the primary election without certain states. Now they are using the Clinton model to say they can win in November. I'm not sure about a group who says one thing and then copies someone else's plan the next minute. He seems to be pinning a lot of his hopes and dreams on states like Georgia. I'm not sure Georgia is going to vote for a Democratic candidate, in the general election, regardless of your skin color.
What's more, Obama is eating a lot of flack for not speaking up on behalf of Michigan primary voters. A Republican attack ad says Obama doesn't care about the voters of Michigan, and it brings up his elitist comments from San Francisco. Can he win without Florida, Ohio and Michigan?
I'm not so sure the Obama campaign can weather many of these storms. I think the voters, during the Democratic primary season, chose rather poorly. Sorry!
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Michelle Obama, and the race card
Did Michelle Obama use the word "whitey" from the infamous pulpit of Trinity United Church of Christ, which was the Obamas' church? According to the Obama campaign, she never delivered the speech, but it is proliferating across the Internet, thanks to political fanatics and Republicans, including Rush Limbaugh.
I'm afraid this turn of events is simply what the whole general election is going to be about, which is a "war" of race.
I'm afraid this turn of events is simply what the whole general election is going to be about, which is a "war" of race.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
It's hard
Since Hillary Clinton is no longer running for president, I have lost my sense of enthusiasm. I was always gung-ho to support her bid for president. I protected her image, defended her positions, and supported her candidacy unconditionally.
Even though, I have followed Hillary's lead to support Barack Obama for the Democratic nominee, and president, I find that I do not have the same pizazz I have for her for him. I don't know why really. I just had my heart set on President Clinton, not President Obama.
I have also said I want her to be his running mate for vice president, but I have changed my mind on this subject. At this time, I hope that she is not Obama's vice president. I believe, honestly, she is too good for his campaign. That may sound conceited and vile, but it is the truth. She invested time, money, sweat, enthusiasm, won 18 million votes (more than him, and any other candidate in history), only to have the finish line seized from her by the media and opportunists in the Democratic Party.
Hillary Clinton should bide her time and resurrect her campaign at a later election. I am not sure if Obama can pull this off in November anyhow. I just feel completely apathetic toward the entire situation.
Even though, I have followed Hillary's lead to support Barack Obama for the Democratic nominee, and president, I find that I do not have the same pizazz I have for her for him. I don't know why really. I just had my heart set on President Clinton, not President Obama.
I have also said I want her to be his running mate for vice president, but I have changed my mind on this subject. At this time, I hope that she is not Obama's vice president. I believe, honestly, she is too good for his campaign. That may sound conceited and vile, but it is the truth. She invested time, money, sweat, enthusiasm, won 18 million votes (more than him, and any other candidate in history), only to have the finish line seized from her by the media and opportunists in the Democratic Party.
Hillary Clinton should bide her time and resurrect her campaign at a later election. I am not sure if Obama can pull this off in November anyhow. I just feel completely apathetic toward the entire situation.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Beer Drinkers Beware
Senator John McCain promised to veto every "beer" that came across his desk, as president! Of course, McCain was a bit confused, because he meant to use the word "bill" instead of beer. At only 71, could he be exhibiting signs of dementia brought on by exhaustion, or is he just thinking about his wife's job?
Sunday, June 08, 2008
Thursday, June 05, 2008
Where things go now
After Tuesday's elections in Montana and South Dakota, Barack Obama has won enough pledged delegates (along with the help of the superdelegates) to clinch the Democratic presidential nomination.
Hillary Clinton has announced she will suspend her presidential campaign on Saturday, as she throws her support behind the election of Obama as president.
Speculation, of course, abounds as to whether or not Obama will make Hillary his running mate. I believe, as many others do, he is obliged to place her on his ticket. She has fought a hard paced battle and won many key battleground states in the process.
As a matter of record, like Hillary, I will endorse Obama's candidacy. I feel as if he is the best suited candidate for the job of president. John McCain represents four more years of failed Bush administration policies, such as perpetual war in Iraq. Both Democratic candidates have called for the return of American military forces from Iraq, which I wholeheartedly support, along with major healthcare reform.
Am I disappointed Hillary will not be the Democratic presidential candidate? Sure, I am. But I am more convinced that it is in the interest of our nation to support real change in the White House.
If Senator Clinton can support him, so can I!
Hillary Clinton has announced she will suspend her presidential campaign on Saturday, as she throws her support behind the election of Obama as president.
Speculation, of course, abounds as to whether or not Obama will make Hillary his running mate. I believe, as many others do, he is obliged to place her on his ticket. She has fought a hard paced battle and won many key battleground states in the process.
As a matter of record, like Hillary, I will endorse Obama's candidacy. I feel as if he is the best suited candidate for the job of president. John McCain represents four more years of failed Bush administration policies, such as perpetual war in Iraq. Both Democratic candidates have called for the return of American military forces from Iraq, which I wholeheartedly support, along with major healthcare reform.
Am I disappointed Hillary will not be the Democratic presidential candidate? Sure, I am. But I am more convinced that it is in the interest of our nation to support real change in the White House.
If Senator Clinton can support him, so can I!
Sunday, June 01, 2008
Hillary Clinton wins Puerto Rico
With almost 58% of the votes counted in Puerto Rico, Hillary Clinton is leading by a commanding margin of 68% over Barack Obama. It will be hard for the superdelegates to deny Hillary's appeal to the Democratic electorate.
Go Hillary!
Go Hillary!
Hillary Ad: "17 Million"
There are over 17 million reasons why Hillary should stay in the Democratic primary!
Hillary's Popular Lead
Puerto Rico adds its worth to the Democratic presidential primary season today. But before its final results are tabulated, Hillary Clinton's campaign has released popular vote totals, which now include the states of Florida and Michigan.
The new figures show Hillary leading Obama by 180,000 votes! This figure does not include the highly Latino island of Puerto Rico. Although, Puerto Rico does not vote in the general presidential election, it does have 55 delegates at stake for the Democratic Party Convention in Denver. It is also a good gauge how well the candidates are doing among this important voting bloc. As of now, Hillary Clinton is leading Barack Obama by double digits!
The new figures show Hillary leading Obama by 180,000 votes! This figure does not include the highly Latino island of Puerto Rico. Although, Puerto Rico does not vote in the general presidential election, it does have 55 delegates at stake for the Democratic Party Convention in Denver. It is also a good gauge how well the candidates are doing among this important voting bloc. As of now, Hillary Clinton is leading Barack Obama by double digits!
Go Hillary!
Barack Obama resigns from his church
Yesterday, Senator Barack Obama resigned from his Chicago church, Trinity United Church of Christ, citing "disappointment" and its "divisive, backward-looking rhetoric."
Obama's pain was intensified recently when Catholic priest, Reverend Michael Pfleger, recently mocked Hillary Clinton from the pulpit of Obama's church. It is the second time his church has been a polarizing target of Republicans, and Democratic supporters of Hillary Clinton, during Obama's presidential campaign.
It stands to reason, however, that his politically motivated resignation will do little to distance himself from the rhetoric of hate being espoused by his crazy uncle, Reverend Jeremiah Wright, and now, Reverend Michael Pfleger. How can Obama lie about the disdain his church has for the mainstream of America? It will eventually catch up to him and be part of his undoing, I'm afraid.
Obama's pain was intensified recently when Catholic priest, Reverend Michael Pfleger, recently mocked Hillary Clinton from the pulpit of Obama's church. It is the second time his church has been a polarizing target of Republicans, and Democratic supporters of Hillary Clinton, during Obama's presidential campaign.
It stands to reason, however, that his politically motivated resignation will do little to distance himself from the rhetoric of hate being espoused by his crazy uncle, Reverend Jeremiah Wright, and now, Reverend Michael Pfleger. How can Obama lie about the disdain his church has for the mainstream of America? It will eventually catch up to him and be part of his undoing, I'm afraid.
McCain 2008?
The Democratic Party's rules committee met yesterday to decide the fate of the wayward voters of Florida and Michigan.
Did the committee make some enemies? Yes, it would seem their decision to seat the states' delegates, but limit their votes to one-half struck a chord of dissent with many Clinton supporters in the crowd. They chanted, "Don't steal my vote!" and "Let's go, McCain!"
Will the disillusioned voters of these two states--and around the country--really turn to Republican John McCain as the replacement candidate for Hillary Clinton? I am guilty of saying the same thing in the past. I feel bitter about how the primary season unfolded, but at the same time I am not more bitter about that than I am about the past 7.5 years of limitless Bush-Cheney blunders, which have dug our country into the dark, deep hole of helplessness we currently occupy.
If Barack Obama is the Democratic candidate for president, I will support his campaign. America has a lot more to lose under a third quasi-Bush administration; ergo, John McCain winning the White House in November. Democrats, however, will have to truly reconcile their differences to secure the White House.
Time is still on our side!
Did the committee make some enemies? Yes, it would seem their decision to seat the states' delegates, but limit their votes to one-half struck a chord of dissent with many Clinton supporters in the crowd. They chanted, "Don't steal my vote!" and "Let's go, McCain!"
Will the disillusioned voters of these two states--and around the country--really turn to Republican John McCain as the replacement candidate for Hillary Clinton? I am guilty of saying the same thing in the past. I feel bitter about how the primary season unfolded, but at the same time I am not more bitter about that than I am about the past 7.5 years of limitless Bush-Cheney blunders, which have dug our country into the dark, deep hole of helplessness we currently occupy.
If Barack Obama is the Democratic candidate for president, I will support his campaign. America has a lot more to lose under a third quasi-Bush administration; ergo, John McCain winning the White House in November. Democrats, however, will have to truly reconcile their differences to secure the White House.
Time is still on our side!
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Barack Obama is a flip-flopper...and exaggerator
Barack Obama, who says he has won the Democratic Presidential Primary season, has been unable to seal the deal with voters, and more importantly the superdelegates.
If he is the winner, why is Hillary Clinton still running an impressive campaign and claiming after Florida and Michigan are seated she will hold the actual lead in popular votes and delegates? Also, you would figure that the superdelegates would flock to Obama's category en masse. But this hasn't happened.
Also, didn't Senator Obama say that the superdelegates should vote for the candidate that their constituents elected? I think he did, in fact. Now he says superdelegates may vote for any candidate they please. Case in point, naturally, is New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson, who is a superdelegate and supporter of Obama, despite the fact his state voted for Hillary Clinton. Why did Obama flip-flop on such an important issue?
Perhaps, Obama is not the candidate for president, after all. Actually, it might be up the voters of this country to decide who will be its next president, instead of the media and junior United States senator from Illinois.
Just like his exaggeration about his uncle liberating the hellish Nazi concentration camp, Auschwitz, which turned out to be his great-uncle, who aided in the liberation of another concentration camp, Buchenwald. (Fortunately for him, it wasn't his crazy uncle, Jeremiah Wright, this time!)
If he is the winner, why is Hillary Clinton still running an impressive campaign and claiming after Florida and Michigan are seated she will hold the actual lead in popular votes and delegates? Also, you would figure that the superdelegates would flock to Obama's category en masse. But this hasn't happened.
Also, didn't Senator Obama say that the superdelegates should vote for the candidate that their constituents elected? I think he did, in fact. Now he says superdelegates may vote for any candidate they please. Case in point, naturally, is New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson, who is a superdelegate and supporter of Obama, despite the fact his state voted for Hillary Clinton. Why did Obama flip-flop on such an important issue?
Perhaps, Obama is not the candidate for president, after all. Actually, it might be up the voters of this country to decide who will be its next president, instead of the media and junior United States senator from Illinois.
Just like his exaggeration about his uncle liberating the hellish Nazi concentration camp, Auschwitz, which turned out to be his great-uncle, who aided in the liberation of another concentration camp, Buchenwald. (Fortunately for him, it wasn't his crazy uncle, Jeremiah Wright, this time!)
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Yes, Congress Can!
Congress voted to override the president's veto on the farm bill, which he previously denied less than 24 hours before.
Finally, I can find out where the food I buy comes from! Why is such a bad idea, George W. Bush?
Also, in my previous blog about this event, I said it would be the first time Congress has voted to override one of Bush's vetoes. In fact, it is the second time.
Finally, I can find out where the food I buy comes from! Why is such a bad idea, George W. Bush?
Also, in my previous blog about this event, I said it would be the first time Congress has voted to override one of Bush's vetoes. In fact, it is the second time.
An Affirmative Action Presidency
The United States has built the past fifty years on giving those whose ancestors spent the previous 175 years in oppression a better than average chance of becoming a proactive member of society.
This year, many American voters--now superdelegates--are thinking about affirmative action again. Of course, they aren't discussing it openly, but it is apparent that this election is not about qualifications, regarding who is best suited for leading our nation on January 20, 2009 and beyond, but it is about making sure one candidate in particular gets the last word in every public debate.
Sexism is still one of the last discriminatory vices we can giggle about privately and make veiled comments about on television and in movies without real retribution from the larger community, which is the American public. That's why another candidate is the scapegoat for what is wrong in our country. In other words, it is okay to put down a woman, but you better not do the same to a black man, or you will be quickly labeled a racist. There is a sinister dichotomy which exists in our equal rights/affirmative action laws.
I am not prepared for an affirmative action presidency. America does not need a post-Bush president who requires on-the-job training. Let's not allow our emotions to dictate who our next president will be. Furthermore, let's not allow inevitability to sway our minds when it comes to thinking of the greater nation we want to build in the many years ahead.
This year, many American voters--now superdelegates--are thinking about affirmative action again. Of course, they aren't discussing it openly, but it is apparent that this election is not about qualifications, regarding who is best suited for leading our nation on January 20, 2009 and beyond, but it is about making sure one candidate in particular gets the last word in every public debate.
Sexism is still one of the last discriminatory vices we can giggle about privately and make veiled comments about on television and in movies without real retribution from the larger community, which is the American public. That's why another candidate is the scapegoat for what is wrong in our country. In other words, it is okay to put down a woman, but you better not do the same to a black man, or you will be quickly labeled a racist. There is a sinister dichotomy which exists in our equal rights/affirmative action laws.
I am not prepared for an affirmative action presidency. America does not need a post-Bush president who requires on-the-job training. Let's not allow our emotions to dictate who our next president will be. Furthermore, let's not allow inevitability to sway our minds when it comes to thinking of the greater nation we want to build in the many years ahead.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Will George W. Bush get his veto overridden by Congress?
President Bush vetoed a farm subsidies bill today. Bush said it gave too much preference to big scale farmers, rather than average farmers. Why does Bush care about the common person now? He has invested billions in tax breaks for the wealthy, including corporate subsidies, and now he is worried about impacting the middle class.
I find this curious, to say the least.
Congress for the first time in Bush's tenure as president of the United States is poised to override his veto. Does this mark the final demise of President Bush? He is now seen as a pariah by his own political party.
Poor George.
I find this curious, to say the least.
Congress for the first time in Bush's tenure as president of the United States is poised to override his veto. Does this mark the final demise of President Bush? He is now seen as a pariah by his own political party.
Poor George.
Bruce Lunsford goes on to face Mitch McConnell
Last night, in addition to Hillary easily winning Kentucky's Democratic primary, Bruce Lunsford won the Democratic Party's nomination as senator. He now goes on to face incumbent, Mitch McConnell (R), who has been in the United States Senate for almost 24-years. McConnell is the Minority Leader in the Senate, also.
It will be a hard fought battle to unseat Kentucky's mighty Senator McConnell. I think it will not be as easy for Senator McConnell this election cycle to win his re-election bid, however. Let's hope that the voters of Kentucky decide to put him out to pasture. He's been in the Senate too long, and his policies are not ours.
It will be a hard fought battle to unseat Kentucky's mighty Senator McConnell. I think it will not be as easy for Senator McConnell this election cycle to win his re-election bid, however. Let's hope that the voters of Kentucky decide to put him out to pasture. He's been in the Senate too long, and his policies are not ours.
How many?
By how many points did I say Hillary would win Kentucky?
Yes, I said 35-points! And guess what? She did!
Yes, I said 35-points! And guess what? She did!
Go Hillary!
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Hillary Clinton wins Kentucky Primary
It's funny.
Today, while driving around my part of Kentucky, I noticed something. There are no Barack Obama yard signs. Everywhere, however, there are Hillary signs. They appear on people's lawns, next to the road, stuck on trees, almost anywhere you can tack (or tape) one up.
In the spirit of that commitment, Kentucky has delivered Senator Clinton another victory for her campaign to be the president of the United States.
Keep on rollin', Hillary! You go with the Bluegrass state's blessing.
Today, while driving around my part of Kentucky, I noticed something. There are no Barack Obama yard signs. Everywhere, however, there are Hillary signs. They appear on people's lawns, next to the road, stuck on trees, almost anywhere you can tack (or tape) one up.
In the spirit of that commitment, Kentucky has delivered Senator Clinton another victory for her campaign to be the president of the United States.
Keep on rollin', Hillary! You go with the Bluegrass state's blessing.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Hillary for Kentucky
According to recent polls conducted in Kentucky, Hillary Clinton will handily win the state tomorrow in its primary.
I predict a win of at least 35-points!
I predict a win of at least 35-points!
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Bombast?
Barack Obama accused President George W. Bush and Senator John McCain of engaging in a war of "bombast" when it comes to Iraq.
Now, like the rest of America, I'm wondering what does "bombast" mean? At first, I tried to use some reasoning skills and I determined it means they were carpet bombing Americans in some metaphorical way. Then I realized it is George W. Bush, so nothing is metaphorical from his standpoint.
Being a good teacher, I decided to look the word up in the dictionary. Bombast means "pretentious speech." I think the only pretentious person in that group is Barack Obama.
Go back to your thesaurus Obama!
Now, like the rest of America, I'm wondering what does "bombast" mean? At first, I tried to use some reasoning skills and I determined it means they were carpet bombing Americans in some metaphorical way. Then I realized it is George W. Bush, so nothing is metaphorical from his standpoint.
Being a good teacher, I decided to look the word up in the dictionary. Bombast means "pretentious speech." I think the only pretentious person in that group is Barack Obama.
Go back to your thesaurus Obama!
Hillary 2008
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Kentucky Governors Endorse Hillary for President
From www.HillaryClinton.com:
"After a landslide victory in West Virginia, the Clinton Campaign today announced that former Kentucky Governors Wendell Ford, Paul Patton, John Brown, and Julian Carroll are endorsing Hillary for President. The endorsements demonstrate the widespread support Hillary continues to receive throughout the Bluegrass State."
"After a landslide victory in West Virginia, the Clinton Campaign today announced that former Kentucky Governors Wendell Ford, Paul Patton, John Brown, and Julian Carroll are endorsing Hillary for President. The endorsements demonstrate the widespread support Hillary continues to receive throughout the Bluegrass State."
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Hillary crushes Obama in West Virginia
For a race that many people consider as being over, it is amazing that the candidate they want to concede is still winning states!
Hillary Clinton won 67% of the vote yesterday in West Virginia. That hardly sounds like a candidate who should be packing her bags. She is up for a big win in Kentucky next Tuesday, also!
Hillary Clinton won 67% of the vote yesterday in West Virginia. That hardly sounds like a candidate who should be packing her bags. She is up for a big win in Kentucky next Tuesday, also!
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Hillary Clinton wins West Virginia
As predicted, Hillary Clinton has won the West Virginia Democratic primary.
On to Kentucky next Tuesday!
On to Kentucky next Tuesday!
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Hillary Clinton is no vice president
Some people are calling for Hillary and Obama to come together and form a unified Democratic presidential ticket for November. Of course, they put Hillary at the bottom of the ticket.
Why should Hillary be forced into contrition? I do not see her as a vice president. The whole idea is rather insulting to her stature. I do see an alternative for Hillary, if the Democratic Party is dead-fire sure it is going to annoit Barack Obama as its candidate.
Hillary can be the true maverick candidate of this election cycle and run for the presidency as an independent. She has a hardcore base of supporters across the political spectrum--Democrats, Republicans and Independents.
Senator Clinton will stand as the alternative to John McCain and Barack Obama for the presidency. There have been candidates who have thrown their hats into the arena as independents, such as Ross Perot and Ralph Nader (what happened to him this election cycle, anyhow?), but none of them have been equal to Hillary in caliber. After all, her base is deeply fractured when the name Barack Obama is mentioned as their party's candidate.
In the final analysis, Hillary may accept the second spot on the ticket, she may win the top position on the ticket on her own merits, but it is premature and ill-informed to say she is out of this election!
Why should Hillary be forced into contrition? I do not see her as a vice president. The whole idea is rather insulting to her stature. I do see an alternative for Hillary, if the Democratic Party is dead-fire sure it is going to annoit Barack Obama as its candidate.
Hillary can be the true maverick candidate of this election cycle and run for the presidency as an independent. She has a hardcore base of supporters across the political spectrum--Democrats, Republicans and Independents.
Senator Clinton will stand as the alternative to John McCain and Barack Obama for the presidency. There have been candidates who have thrown their hats into the arena as independents, such as Ross Perot and Ralph Nader (what happened to him this election cycle, anyhow?), but none of them have been equal to Hillary in caliber. After all, her base is deeply fractured when the name Barack Obama is mentioned as their party's candidate.
In the final analysis, Hillary may accept the second spot on the ticket, she may win the top position on the ticket on her own merits, but it is premature and ill-informed to say she is out of this election!
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Has John McCain "lost his bearings"?
John McCain is upset over recent Barack Obama comments that label him as old. Guess what? Senator McCain you are old!
I love this episode of Red State Update, because they discuss the only two people who can be socially accepted as having lost his bearings. Apparently, they are your grandpa, "who gets caught pissing in the produce section at Kroger"--oh, and sea captains, too.
I love this episode of Red State Update, because they discuss the only two people who can be socially accepted as having lost his bearings. Apparently, they are your grandpa, "who gets caught pissing in the produce section at Kroger"--oh, and sea captains, too.
Precipitous Obama
Barack Obama has self-anointed himself the Democratic presidential candidate. I find this ironic, since Hillary Clinton is still in the race. Furthermore, she is going to womp him a big one in the West Virginia and Kentucky primaries.
Why does that matter?
West Virginia and Kentucky are run-of-the-mill blue-collar, queer-hating, church-going, gun-toting, family feuding Democrats. That yellow dog still sits on their porches (and hunts sometimes, too). We love Democrats, because they speak our language, usually.
Although, I am a Kentuckian and a Democrat, I am a rare breed among my kind. I am a progressive, liberal Democrat, which is very, very rare in this part of the country. Most Democrats in Kentucky will vote Republican in national elections--even though, they voted for Bill Clinton in 1992 and 1996--they love conservative Democratic values, which sounds like an oxymoron, but it's possible. People in Kentucky and West Virginia see themselves as progressives, but they are a bit apprehensive about it. Basically, it means you can talk about family values, welfare, job issues, etc., as long as you don't mention gun control and abortion. But they won't hold that against you in a national election, unless you "brag" about it, of course.
Now, Hillary Clinton is on the political scene. My Democrats can't wait to vote for her! She is the best thing to happen to Kentucky since Bill Clinton ran for president. You can ask many Kentuckians about the Democrats who are running for president. Most will admit that Obama seems like a nice guy, but they are voting for Hillary, nonetheless. She's their girl!
In November, if Barack Obama is the Democratic nominee, West Virginia and Kentucky will go red, because they will have to place their bets on John McCain. After all, Barack Obama is a Democrat after my own liberal heart, but that does little for your electability in Kentucky. So like the rest of my friends in Kentucky, my vote is with Hillary for president on May 20.
Let's see what the superdelegates have to say about Hillary on May 21! (Obama may be less apt to think he is the king of the Democratic Party.)
Why does that matter?
West Virginia and Kentucky are run-of-the-mill blue-collar, queer-hating, church-going, gun-toting, family feuding Democrats. That yellow dog still sits on their porches (and hunts sometimes, too). We love Democrats, because they speak our language, usually.
Although, I am a Kentuckian and a Democrat, I am a rare breed among my kind. I am a progressive, liberal Democrat, which is very, very rare in this part of the country. Most Democrats in Kentucky will vote Republican in national elections--even though, they voted for Bill Clinton in 1992 and 1996--they love conservative Democratic values, which sounds like an oxymoron, but it's possible. People in Kentucky and West Virginia see themselves as progressives, but they are a bit apprehensive about it. Basically, it means you can talk about family values, welfare, job issues, etc., as long as you don't mention gun control and abortion. But they won't hold that against you in a national election, unless you "brag" about it, of course.
Now, Hillary Clinton is on the political scene. My Democrats can't wait to vote for her! She is the best thing to happen to Kentucky since Bill Clinton ran for president. You can ask many Kentuckians about the Democrats who are running for president. Most will admit that Obama seems like a nice guy, but they are voting for Hillary, nonetheless. She's their girl!
In November, if Barack Obama is the Democratic nominee, West Virginia and Kentucky will go red, because they will have to place their bets on John McCain. After all, Barack Obama is a Democrat after my own liberal heart, but that does little for your electability in Kentucky. So like the rest of my friends in Kentucky, my vote is with Hillary for president on May 20.
Let's see what the superdelegates have to say about Hillary on May 21! (Obama may be less apt to think he is the king of the Democratic Party.)
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Letter to Barack Obama from Hillary Clinton
May 8, 2008
Senator Barack Obama Obama for America
P.O. Box 8102
Chicago, IL 60680
Dear Senator Obama,
This has been an historic and exciting campaign. Millions of new voters have been brought into the process and their enthusiasm for the Democratic Party and the principles for which you and I have fought and continue to fight is unprecedented.
One of the foremost principles of our party is that citizens be allowed to vote and that those votes be counted. That principle is not currently being applied to the nearly 2.5 million people who voted in primaries in Florida and Michigan. Whoever emerges as the Democratic nominee will be hamstrung in the general election if a fair and quick resolution is not reached that ensures that the voices of these voters are heard. Our commitment now to this goal could be the difference between winning and losing in November.
I have consistently said that the votes cast in Florida and Michigan in January should be counted. We cannot ignore the fact that the people in those states took the time to be a part of this process and to make their preferences known. When efforts were untaken by leaders in those states to hold revotes to ensure that they had a voice in selecting our nominee, I supported those efforts. In Michigan, I supported a legislative effort to hold a revote that the Democratic National Committee said was in complete compliance with the party's rules. You did not support those efforts and your supporters in Michigan publicly opposed them. In Florida a number of revote options were proposed. I am not aware of any that you supported. In 2000, the Republicans won an election by successfully opposing a fair counting of votes in Florida. As Democrats, we must reject any proposals that would do the same.
Your commitment to the voters of these states must be clearly stated and your support for a fair and quick resolution must be clearly demonstrated.
I am asking you to join me in working with representatives from Florida and Michigan and the Democratic National Committee to arrive at a solution that honors the votes of the millions of people who went to the polls in Florida and Michigan. It is not enough to simply seat their representatives at the convention in Denver. The people of these great states, like the people who have voted and are to vote in other states, must have a voice in selecting our party's nominee.
Sincerely,
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Senator Barack Obama Obama for America
P.O. Box 8102
Chicago, IL 60680
Dear Senator Obama,
This has been an historic and exciting campaign. Millions of new voters have been brought into the process and their enthusiasm for the Democratic Party and the principles for which you and I have fought and continue to fight is unprecedented.
One of the foremost principles of our party is that citizens be allowed to vote and that those votes be counted. That principle is not currently being applied to the nearly 2.5 million people who voted in primaries in Florida and Michigan. Whoever emerges as the Democratic nominee will be hamstrung in the general election if a fair and quick resolution is not reached that ensures that the voices of these voters are heard. Our commitment now to this goal could be the difference between winning and losing in November.
I have consistently said that the votes cast in Florida and Michigan in January should be counted. We cannot ignore the fact that the people in those states took the time to be a part of this process and to make their preferences known. When efforts were untaken by leaders in those states to hold revotes to ensure that they had a voice in selecting our nominee, I supported those efforts. In Michigan, I supported a legislative effort to hold a revote that the Democratic National Committee said was in complete compliance with the party's rules. You did not support those efforts and your supporters in Michigan publicly opposed them. In Florida a number of revote options were proposed. I am not aware of any that you supported. In 2000, the Republicans won an election by successfully opposing a fair counting of votes in Florida. As Democrats, we must reject any proposals that would do the same.
Your commitment to the voters of these states must be clearly stated and your support for a fair and quick resolution must be clearly demonstrated.
I am asking you to join me in working with representatives from Florida and Michigan and the Democratic National Committee to arrive at a solution that honors the votes of the millions of people who went to the polls in Florida and Michigan. It is not enough to simply seat their representatives at the convention in Denver. The people of these great states, like the people who have voted and are to vote in other states, must have a voice in selecting our party's nominee.
Sincerely,
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
I can decide for myself
Hillary Clinton won Indiana and Barack Obama won North Carolina. In that sense, yesterday's primaries were a draw between the two candidates; however, the media makes it out to be a death sentence for Hillary.
Why does North Carolina get to decide who is my president? Kentucky has a primary May 20. I am more than able to cast my own vote, thank you very much biased, Obama-loving media.
Today, I was pretty excited (along with the people to whom I was speaking) about the fact Kentucky will have a primary that will actually count. In fact, I said, "This is the first primary election in which Kentucky's voters matter!" (That I can recall, of course.) My friends were excited that the candidates would actually campaign here. It's different seeing them on television as compared to seeing them in person.
So, media, chill out! This primary season will be over in June. Let's not forget that Florida and Michigan must be seated at the convention, also. And we all know Hillary won both of those states. Will that change the dynamic of this primary season? I think so.
The media, once again, is down-playing Hillary Clinton's viability in this election. As far as I can tell, it's not over yet!
Why does North Carolina get to decide who is my president? Kentucky has a primary May 20. I am more than able to cast my own vote, thank you very much biased, Obama-loving media.
Today, I was pretty excited (along with the people to whom I was speaking) about the fact Kentucky will have a primary that will actually count. In fact, I said, "This is the first primary election in which Kentucky's voters matter!" (That I can recall, of course.) My friends were excited that the candidates would actually campaign here. It's different seeing them on television as compared to seeing them in person.
So, media, chill out! This primary season will be over in June. Let's not forget that Florida and Michigan must be seated at the convention, also. And we all know Hillary won both of those states. Will that change the dynamic of this primary season? I think so.
The media, once again, is down-playing Hillary Clinton's viability in this election. As far as I can tell, it's not over yet!
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
The Obama Bias of CNN
During the Pennsylvania primary, it was clear that Hillary Clinton was the winner; however, CNN refused to designate her the winner at the end of the primary (based on the exit polls, of course).
Tonight, CNN, based on similar information in North Carolina, did not hesitate to declare Barack Obama the winner in North Carolina. I could see the venom on Wolf Blitzer's teeth gleam as he waited for the final second to pass before 7:30pm. It was breaking news, of course!
I suppose they were having some Obama withdrawal, since he hadn't won a primary in about two months.
I think the ultimate pro-Clinton conceit would be if Hillary Clinton ended up winning North Carolina and they had to retract their projection. Talk about eating crow!
How long will they make Hillary wait before they project her the winner in Indiana? It is certain they will make her wait until almost the very end. (They have to adequately stroke the Obama ego.)
Tonight, CNN, based on similar information in North Carolina, did not hesitate to declare Barack Obama the winner in North Carolina. I could see the venom on Wolf Blitzer's teeth gleam as he waited for the final second to pass before 7:30pm. It was breaking news, of course!
I suppose they were having some Obama withdrawal, since he hadn't won a primary in about two months.
I think the ultimate pro-Clinton conceit would be if Hillary Clinton ended up winning North Carolina and they had to retract their projection. Talk about eating crow!
How long will they make Hillary wait before they project her the winner in Indiana? It is certain they will make her wait until almost the very end. (They have to adequately stroke the Obama ego.)
Monday, May 05, 2008
Is Laura Bush running for office?
Today, it would seem that United States effort to get aid into the Asian nation of Myanmar (Burma), after being tragically ravaged by a hurricane on Friday, is in the hands of First Lady Laura Bush.
This is the largest role I have ever seen her take, especially on the foreign affairs stage. It almost makes me think she is mapping her own political future after hubby, George W. Bush, leaves office in January.
Could she be a senator from Texas? A member of the House of Representatives, perhaps? It just seems an odd time for her to step out of her relative obscurity.
This is the largest role I have ever seen her take, especially on the foreign affairs stage. It almost makes me think she is mapping her own political future after hubby, George W. Bush, leaves office in January.
Could she be a senator from Texas? A member of the House of Representatives, perhaps? It just seems an odd time for her to step out of her relative obscurity.
Sunday, May 04, 2008
What has Barack Obama done for America?
Pie in the sky is what Senator Barack Obama has promised Americans, since he began his bid for the White House over a year-and-half ago.
Can he deliver any real solutions based on what he has merely promised?
Take one minute (Google is your friend), and try to discover what Obama has done that is good for America. Good luck! Like most of his avid supporters, you may still be asking yourself, "What has he done?" Really.
Obama, who is jealous because he didn't come up with the gasoline tax holiday, has belittled Hillary Clinton for not simply being a thinker, like him, but a doer. It's funny, considering how much money he is spending in North Carolina and Indiana (I see the Indiana ads, too) on television and print ads to defeat someone he thinks is politically dead. At the same, however, instead of the poll numbers widening in those states, they are tightening.
Hillary may not have all of the answers, but she does think of ways to make her ideas reality. It is not simply enough to say things will happen. You must show us how they are going to happen. Talk to the voters about meat-and-potato issues. Those are the things they can sink their teeth into and chew around while they think. Americans are wising up to the reality of this presidential race.
Barack Obama cannot win the white, blue-collar Democratic vote in November. He has too many things against him at the moment. These voters are turned off by his racist, America-hating minister, and his elitist comments about guns and religion in San Francisco (of all places). Barack Obama is like Deputy Barney Fife. With all of his good intentions aside, someone needs to take the bullets out of his gun before he shoots himself to death!
Can he deliver any real solutions based on what he has merely promised?
Take one minute (Google is your friend), and try to discover what Obama has done that is good for America. Good luck! Like most of his avid supporters, you may still be asking yourself, "What has he done?" Really.
Obama, who is jealous because he didn't come up with the gasoline tax holiday, has belittled Hillary Clinton for not simply being a thinker, like him, but a doer. It's funny, considering how much money he is spending in North Carolina and Indiana (I see the Indiana ads, too) on television and print ads to defeat someone he thinks is politically dead. At the same, however, instead of the poll numbers widening in those states, they are tightening.
Hillary may not have all of the answers, but she does think of ways to make her ideas reality. It is not simply enough to say things will happen. You must show us how they are going to happen. Talk to the voters about meat-and-potato issues. Those are the things they can sink their teeth into and chew around while they think. Americans are wising up to the reality of this presidential race.
Barack Obama cannot win the white, blue-collar Democratic vote in November. He has too many things against him at the moment. These voters are turned off by his racist, America-hating minister, and his elitist comments about guns and religion in San Francisco (of all places). Barack Obama is like Deputy Barney Fife. With all of his good intentions aside, someone needs to take the bullets out of his gun before he shoots himself to death!
Hillary for President
Friday, May 02, 2008
Thursday, May 01, 2008
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Obama and his crazy uncle, Reverend Wright
When video showcasing the outlandish church sermons Barack Obama has been listening to for over fifteen years surfaced, Obama said that Reverend Jeremiah Wright was like his crazy old uncle, who he couldn't control, nor would he want to control, either. He supported Reverend Wright's opinions with vigor and pride.
Then the media coverage continued, which caused more and more questions to surface about what kind of church Obama has been attending. Of course, Senator Obama started to put a little distance between himself and his adorable and "bombastic" religious mentor, by saying he disagreed with his methodology.
On Monday, Reverend Wright addressed the National Press Club, during which he amply made another fool of himself with his racial divides pouring forth as if a seeming Mount Vesuvius choking the political aspirations of Senator Obama. With his poll numbers slipping and Hillary's star on the rise again, Obama has now stated he is "outraged [and] saddened by the spectacle" put forth by his now estranged minister.
Can they ever mend the divide that exists between them? Perhaps, Obama will have more time to mend fences after he loses the Democratic presidential primary.
Then the media coverage continued, which caused more and more questions to surface about what kind of church Obama has been attending. Of course, Senator Obama started to put a little distance between himself and his adorable and "bombastic" religious mentor, by saying he disagreed with his methodology.
On Monday, Reverend Wright addressed the National Press Club, during which he amply made another fool of himself with his racial divides pouring forth as if a seeming Mount Vesuvius choking the political aspirations of Senator Obama. With his poll numbers slipping and Hillary's star on the rise again, Obama has now stated he is "outraged [and] saddened by the spectacle" put forth by his now estranged minister.
Can they ever mend the divide that exists between them? Perhaps, Obama will have more time to mend fences after he loses the Democratic presidential primary.
Hillary Ad: "Trouble"
"People are hurting. It's time for a president who's ready to take action now!"
Monday, April 28, 2008
Hillary scores
Today, a new national poll shows that Hillary Clinton has a nine point lead (50-41%) over Republican John McCain! The same polls shows Barack Obama leading McCain by only three points (45-42%).
The superdelegates have no choice but to accept the fact Hillary Clinton is the #1 candidate to lead the Democratic Party to victory in November. If anything, she has proved over-and-over that she can come back fighting against her opponent. She has bested Obama at every seeming death blow he has dealt her. She is still on the national stage, and this time she is beating him.
Also, North Carolina's governor, Mike Easley, has endorsed Senator Clinton for the presidency. That is a great endorsement from a state that is so pro-Obama!
The superdelegates have no choice but to accept the fact Hillary Clinton is the #1 candidate to lead the Democratic Party to victory in November. If anything, she has proved over-and-over that she can come back fighting against her opponent. She has bested Obama at every seeming death blow he has dealt her. She is still on the national stage, and this time she is beating him.
Also, North Carolina's governor, Mike Easley, has endorsed Senator Clinton for the presidency. That is a great endorsement from a state that is so pro-Obama!
Hillary 2008!
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Sex Drive
For about 1.75 years, I have been taking finasteride to deal with hair loss. Originally, it came in the form of Propecia, at 1mg per day. I took that form for about a year. I experienced hair regrowth, but I was spending about $80/month on it. Then my dermatologist turned me onto Proscar, which dosed at 5mg per day. Although, it is really meant to treat men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), Proscar, unlike Propecia, is available in the generic form of finasteride, and costs $5/month.
It's funny that I would pay $75 for the brand, and only $5 for the actual chemical I need. I didn't need anymore convincing after I found out this simple fact. I was taking an additional 4mg a day of the chemical than needed to limit the dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in my bloodstream from destroying my hair follicles. It has worked marvelously. I have experienced fantastic hair re-growth on the crown of my scalp. The only thing is I never noticed the seeming side-effect, which was decreased libido.
Wednesday, I ran out of finasteride 5mg, and I had a bottle of Propecia 1mg in a drawer, which I had from my previous prescription. I thought that I would just use the remaining bottle of the $80 stuff before refilling my other prescription. It's logical.
Wow! By Thursday morning, let me say, my sex drive had increased 5-times from what it was when I was on the 5mg dose per day. I haven't felt like this in years. It is almost like I am a teenager again dealing with the surges of testosterone in my system. I can literally feel it coursing through my veins! The only thing is I hope it doesn't setback my hair growth. I figure the 1mg pill should be enough to keep it in check, while giving me back my old sexual self. When I refill the 5mg pills, I am going to start cutting them in half, which shouldn't kill all of my testosterone, and allow me to continue my hair growth, at the same time.
It's funny that I would pay $75 for the brand, and only $5 for the actual chemical I need. I didn't need anymore convincing after I found out this simple fact. I was taking an additional 4mg a day of the chemical than needed to limit the dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in my bloodstream from destroying my hair follicles. It has worked marvelously. I have experienced fantastic hair re-growth on the crown of my scalp. The only thing is I never noticed the seeming side-effect, which was decreased libido.
Wednesday, I ran out of finasteride 5mg, and I had a bottle of Propecia 1mg in a drawer, which I had from my previous prescription. I thought that I would just use the remaining bottle of the $80 stuff before refilling my other prescription. It's logical.
Wow! By Thursday morning, let me say, my sex drive had increased 5-times from what it was when I was on the 5mg dose per day. I haven't felt like this in years. It is almost like I am a teenager again dealing with the surges of testosterone in my system. I can literally feel it coursing through my veins! The only thing is I hope it doesn't setback my hair growth. I figure the 1mg pill should be enough to keep it in check, while giving me back my old sexual self. When I refill the 5mg pills, I am going to start cutting them in half, which shouldn't kill all of my testosterone, and allow me to continue my hair growth, at the same time.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Obama runs and hides
Hillary Clinton called on Barack Obama to engage her in a "Lincoln-Douglas" debate before the Indiana primary on May 6. Because Senator Obama has so many good, differing ideas from Senator Clinton, he naturally accepted, right?
Wrong!
His campaign meandered, stalled, and whined before finally releasing a statement saying their candidate had already engaged in too many debates. How can a politician participate in too many debates? Politics itself is a long running discourse of debate. Come on Obama, wake up and admit that you are an amateur when you stand next to Hillary.
The real reason he refuses to debate her is because he is "wishy-washy" on the issues and has no realistic vision for America. His political platform is all about words and not results. I want a candidate who stands on her proven track record of results, and that means I'm voting for Hillary Clinton on May 20.
Wrong!
His campaign meandered, stalled, and whined before finally releasing a statement saying their candidate had already engaged in too many debates. How can a politician participate in too many debates? Politics itself is a long running discourse of debate. Come on Obama, wake up and admit that you are an amateur when you stand next to Hillary.
The real reason he refuses to debate her is because he is "wishy-washy" on the issues and has no realistic vision for America. His political platform is all about words and not results. I want a candidate who stands on her proven track record of results, and that means I'm voting for Hillary Clinton on May 20.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Clinton & Obama tied in Indiana
Since Hillary's convincing win in Indiana on Tuesday, the polls in one of the next battleground states, Indiana, has closed to a statistical tie.
If I were a political strategist for Hillary's campaign, I would recommend that she focus her time and resources on Indiana, considering North Carolina looks more-and-more as if it is going for Obama. Her victory in Indiana would be followed by almost certain wins in Kentucky, West Virginia, and Montana.
It is a sound strategy for her campaign.
If I were a political strategist for Hillary's campaign, I would recommend that she focus her time and resources on Indiana, considering North Carolina looks more-and-more as if it is going for Obama. Her victory in Indiana would be followed by almost certain wins in Kentucky, West Virginia, and Montana.
It is a sound strategy for her campaign.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
"The Tudors"
The Tudors, which is a drama on Showtime, has become quite exciting.
As King Henry VIII parades his new wife, Anne Boelyn, to his court and the people of England, his first wife, Princess Dowager Catherine, is under house arrest for her refusal to accept the king's divorce and his subsequent marriage to her former lady-in-waiting. Many of his subjects are demoralized by their king's defiance of papal authority.
Not to be undeterred, Pope Paul III (played by the great acting veteran Peter O'Toole) is working to undermine Henry's power throughout his realm and among his royal colleagues throughout Christendom. Paul III reveals a startling plan to demoralize Henry's defiance of papal authority in England further, by declaring Bishop John Fisher, a staunch Papist, who has been imprisoned in the Tower of London for his public unwillingness to accept Henry as the supreme head of the English Church, a cardinal. He declares to Cardinal Campeggio, who is to send Fisher his cardinal's hat, "Let's see if the King is still prepared to prosecute and torture a prince of the Church!"
As King Henry VIII parades his new wife, Anne Boelyn, to his court and the people of England, his first wife, Princess Dowager Catherine, is under house arrest for her refusal to accept the king's divorce and his subsequent marriage to her former lady-in-waiting. Many of his subjects are demoralized by their king's defiance of papal authority.
Not to be undeterred, Pope Paul III (played by the great acting veteran Peter O'Toole) is working to undermine Henry's power throughout his realm and among his royal colleagues throughout Christendom. Paul III reveals a startling plan to demoralize Henry's defiance of papal authority in England further, by declaring Bishop John Fisher, a staunch Papist, who has been imprisoned in the Tower of London for his public unwillingness to accept Henry as the supreme head of the English Church, a cardinal. He declares to Cardinal Campeggio, who is to send Fisher his cardinal's hat, "Let's see if the King is still prepared to prosecute and torture a prince of the Church!"
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Obama's fear
What does Barack Obama truly fear?
The answer is quite simple. He fears debating Hillary Clinton. That's why his supporters do not think he should engage in further debates with Senator Clinton. They have been saying it on all of the evening news programs today, as a matter of fact.
Let's get it right. Elections are national conversations. If you are running for the highest office in the land, twenty debates may not be enough, when the electoral process is still alive and running.
Above all else, Senator Obama always looks amateurish when paired with Senator Clinton. I don't blame him at all. I wouldn't want to debate her either, because she has a commanding presence and subtle understanding of the great art of debate. Between his stammering and repetitious, botched answers, there is little for the American voter to digest, when comparing him to Hillary.
Face it, Obama does great when he is on the stump delivering his polished, rehearsed talking points to adoring fans, but when it comes to having an honest, unscripted moment with his opponent--and the American people--he fails miserably.
That's too bad, Senator Obama. I want to have a conversation with my choices for Democratic presidential nominee. I don't want to be talked at, I want to be talked to directly. I want to see you side-by-side with Hillary Clinton. It's the best, move convincing way to see who the candidates really are in this presidential race.
It's fair, it's demanded. No excuses.
The answer is quite simple. He fears debating Hillary Clinton. That's why his supporters do not think he should engage in further debates with Senator Clinton. They have been saying it on all of the evening news programs today, as a matter of fact.
Let's get it right. Elections are national conversations. If you are running for the highest office in the land, twenty debates may not be enough, when the electoral process is still alive and running.
Above all else, Senator Obama always looks amateurish when paired with Senator Clinton. I don't blame him at all. I wouldn't want to debate her either, because she has a commanding presence and subtle understanding of the great art of debate. Between his stammering and repetitious, botched answers, there is little for the American voter to digest, when comparing him to Hillary.
Face it, Obama does great when he is on the stump delivering his polished, rehearsed talking points to adoring fans, but when it comes to having an honest, unscripted moment with his opponent--and the American people--he fails miserably.
That's too bad, Senator Obama. I want to have a conversation with my choices for Democratic presidential nominee. I don't want to be talked at, I want to be talked to directly. I want to see you side-by-side with Hillary Clinton. It's the best, move convincing way to see who the candidates really are in this presidential race.
It's fair, it's demanded. No excuses.
Whatcha gonna do...???
I just saw the segment from the wrestling match-up between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. I found it very funny. My favorite line was, "Whatcha gonna do when Hillary Clinton and her superdelegates run wild over you?"
Hillary Clinton wins Pennsylvania in a big way
Pundit after pundit had written Hillary out of this Democratic race. They said that if she won Pennsylvania, it would be by a small margin of maybe five-percent, at most. They were wrong!
Hillary won Pennsylvania by a margin of ten-percent, and received 55% of the primary vote. That is a stark slap to Barack Obama's face from a state where his campaign had outspent Hillary by 2-to-1 (and that is a modest figure).
In addition, Hillary's campaign is benefiting from last night's victory. Her campaign reports she is on track to take in $10 million in the 24-hours following her win in Pennsylvania! That doesn't sound like a candidate who is about to throw in the towel.
Hillary is off to the remaining states. FOX News has already placed Kentucky and West Virginia into her column of wins. I am happy to say that she will win the Bluegrass State handily. I look forward to meeting Hillary, as she campaigns across my state in the coming weeks.
I believe her win in Pennsylvania will stir another win for her in Indiana, where another tight race has emerged. It is just the thing to send panic into the hearts of Obama's deer-eyed supporters, and finally expose Senator Obama for who he really is!
Hillary won Pennsylvania by a margin of ten-percent, and received 55% of the primary vote. That is a stark slap to Barack Obama's face from a state where his campaign had outspent Hillary by 2-to-1 (and that is a modest figure).
In addition, Hillary's campaign is benefiting from last night's victory. Her campaign reports she is on track to take in $10 million in the 24-hours following her win in Pennsylvania! That doesn't sound like a candidate who is about to throw in the towel.
Hillary is off to the remaining states. FOX News has already placed Kentucky and West Virginia into her column of wins. I am happy to say that she will win the Bluegrass State handily. I look forward to meeting Hillary, as she campaigns across my state in the coming weeks.
I believe her win in Pennsylvania will stir another win for her in Indiana, where another tight race has emerged. It is just the thing to send panic into the hearts of Obama's deer-eyed supporters, and finally expose Senator Obama for who he really is!
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Hillary Wins Pennsylvania
As predicted, Hillary Clinton has won the Pennsylvania primary!
Now we wait and see how much of a margin of victory she receives. I predict she will garner 8-10%. Will political pundits and nay-sayers finally withdraw their calls for her to quit the race, considering she has won ever major state, except Illinois? I certainly hope so.
It's on to other primaries in Indiana, North Carolina, Kentucky, and West Virginia!
Now we wait and see how much of a margin of victory she receives. I predict she will garner 8-10%. Will political pundits and nay-sayers finally withdraw their calls for her to quit the race, considering she has won ever major state, except Illinois? I certainly hope so.
It's on to other primaries in Indiana, North Carolina, Kentucky, and West Virginia!
Hillary Ad: "David"
Hillary sitting at a picnic table in someone's backyard in North Carolina. That's something don't see Obama doing.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Pennsylvania Primary
It is only a few hours until the Pennsylvania primary begins. It is funny that Obama supporters are already calling for Hillary to withdraw from the race. I think it is a bit precipitous to expect the winner of tomorrow's primary to throw in the towel!
Hillary has already said she is in it for the long haul. She still has some more primaries to win, before the primary season ends in June!
Let's allow the voters of the United States decide who the president should be. The last time a group butted into the process (i.e., the Supreme Court), we ended with George W. Bush. Our country cannot afford such a calamity!
Hillary has already said she is in it for the long haul. She still has some more primaries to win, before the primary season ends in June!
Let's allow the voters of the United States decide who the president should be. The last time a group butted into the process (i.e., the Supreme Court), we ended with George W. Bush. Our country cannot afford such a calamity!
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Saturday, April 19, 2008
John McCain laid up in the hospital
The guys from "Red State Update" never cease to amaze me with their political comedy. In response to the Democratic Presidential Debate, Jackie said, "I can see [John McCain] there, tickled to death, laid up in his hospital bed." Dunlap wanted to know if McCain had been in the hospital recently, and Jackie responds, "Well, I'm sorry...every time I picture McCain, I see him laid up in the hospital, nursing home, somewhere, something like that, yeah. He's old."
Truer words have never been uttered!
Truer words have never been uttered!
Friday, April 18, 2008
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Hillary & Elton: One Night Only
Raising nearly $2.5 million, Sir Elton John performed for a sold-out crowd at New York City's Radio City Music Hall.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Hillary Ad: "Pennsylvania"
Are rural Americans bitter when things get tough? Does that make them cling to their religion and guns? Barack Obama said so, when he was addressing supporters in San Francisco.
Shame on you, Barack!
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Guns & Whiskey
Hillary Clinton said that her dad taught her how to shoot a gun behind her grandfather's cottage in Pennsylvania. Then, she had a shot of whiskey at an Indiana restaurant.
I admire a woman who can shoot and drink whiskey! She can give 'em hell!
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Obama, and the "bitter" taste of tragedy
If you believe in God, you are bitter; if you believe in the Second Amendment, you are bitter; if you lose your job, you might become bitter, also. Why all the bitterness in America? You better ask Senator Barack Obama.
Senator Obama successfully lost half the country's Democratic (and Republican) vote with his comments on bitter feelings among Americans. Obama said that unemployed Pennsylvanians are "bitter," and as a result, they "cling to guns or religion."
Uh-oh! Big mistake, Buster.
If you want to be president of the United States, you better not mess with two things, both of which are guns and religion! How will you ever get those "bitter" folks to vote for you in November, huh?
As Hillary Clinton said, I don't think the voters of Pennsylvania, or any state, are bitter over being unemployed. I think they are hoping for better times! Instead of condemning people for having lost their job to corporate America's relentless outsourcing to Mexico, China, and India, why not think of ways to make their lives brighter? Say, by keeping American jobs in America.
That's a good start. Yes, Obama's comments are elitist and demonstrate exactly how out of touch he is about the country's economy, and the direction it needs to go in order to grow and successfully rebound. Americans are tired of misguided ideas. Haven't we suffered enough under the blundering of George W. Bush?
Read my lips: No "noob" for president!
Senator Obama successfully lost half the country's Democratic (and Republican) vote with his comments on bitter feelings among Americans. Obama said that unemployed Pennsylvanians are "bitter," and as a result, they "cling to guns or religion."
Uh-oh! Big mistake, Buster.
If you want to be president of the United States, you better not mess with two things, both of which are guns and religion! How will you ever get those "bitter" folks to vote for you in November, huh?
As Hillary Clinton said, I don't think the voters of Pennsylvania, or any state, are bitter over being unemployed. I think they are hoping for better times! Instead of condemning people for having lost their job to corporate America's relentless outsourcing to Mexico, China, and India, why not think of ways to make their lives brighter? Say, by keeping American jobs in America.
That's a good start. Yes, Obama's comments are elitist and demonstrate exactly how out of touch he is about the country's economy, and the direction it needs to go in order to grow and successfully rebound. Americans are tired of misguided ideas. Haven't we suffered enough under the blundering of George W. Bush?
Read my lips: No "noob" for president!
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
Which political figure am I most like?
In my last blog, I mentioned my protégé/stalker, but he isn't the only person who admires me. I was told today by my colleagues that I am the Barack Obama of my school. I appeal to a broad base of people. I always bring out the best in people and leave them feeling as if they have hope. I didn't know if I should have been honored or horrified by their comparison. I suppose it is a good thing.
Can I use it to launch my own political career? Perhaps, in a few years when these kids are old enough to join the electorate! There' s an idea.
Can I use it to launch my own political career? Perhaps, in a few years when these kids are old enough to join the electorate! There' s an idea.
My Protégé
It would seem that I have a protégé/stalker at school.
There is this boy who wants to do everything that I do. Is that a bit odd? I've had students who like to hang out with me, but I've never had a student become so utterly obsessed with me. I had another teacher comment that he might be a stalker. I told her that he was just my protégé.
It's kind of funny, actually.
There is this boy who wants to do everything that I do. Is that a bit odd? I've had students who like to hang out with me, but I've never had a student become so utterly obsessed with me. I had another teacher comment that he might be a stalker. I told her that he was just my protégé.
It's kind of funny, actually.
Monday, April 07, 2008
Sunday, April 06, 2008
Bush says "до свидания" to Russia
After a relatively unproductive meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, George W. Bush says good-bye to Russia for the last time as president.
The presidents were unable to come to a consensus about the United States implementation of a missile defense shield in Eastern Europe. Russia remains adamantly opposed to the idea. I suppose the meeting was more ceremonial, since they are both leaving their positions of power in the coming months. Thankfully, Bush only has a little over nine months left in his final term. I am hopeful, but not convinced, he can complete that time without getting the United States into anymore trouble!
The presidents were unable to come to a consensus about the United States implementation of a missile defense shield in Eastern Europe. Russia remains adamantly opposed to the idea. I suppose the meeting was more ceremonial, since they are both leaving their positions of power in the coming months. Thankfully, Bush only has a little over nine months left in his final term. I am hopeful, but not convinced, he can complete that time without getting the United States into anymore trouble!
Olympics
Over the hundred-plus years the modern Olympic Games have been in existence, it has been a symbol of many things, including oppression.
The 2008 Olympic Games, to be held in Beijing, are no exception to this tradition. Already we have seen the Olympic torch bearers accosted on the streets of London, U.K., as they symbolically take the flame of peace and fraternity across the globe, before it arrives at its final destination, Beijing. The protesters, who tried to steal the flame away and extinguish it with a fire extinguisher, are showing support for the cause in Tibet. Tibet has been a shining symbol of oppressive government interference in the past decades, because of China's harsh treatment of its quasi-province, located in the Himalayan Mountains.
I have often wondered what Olympic organizers were thinking when they selected Beijing to host the 2008 Summer Olympics. China has been a hot-bed of human rights violations. How can the Olympic Games, which are the very essence of peace and equal rights, be seen as anything except an affront? Of course, China has spent billions of dollars to prepare for the Olympics Games, by building gigantic, unconventional complexes--I admire the architecture--to host the various sporting events, such as the National Stadium, which has an exoskeleton quality, and the National Aquatics Center, with its uncanny resemblance to water bubbles suspended in mid-air.
The Olympics always seem to bring out the worst in everyone involved. People are always willing to use the international platform to rant about their personal gripes, which is ironic, considering they were/are designed to bring out the best in all of us.
The 2008 Olympic Games, to be held in Beijing, are no exception to this tradition. Already we have seen the Olympic torch bearers accosted on the streets of London, U.K., as they symbolically take the flame of peace and fraternity across the globe, before it arrives at its final destination, Beijing. The protesters, who tried to steal the flame away and extinguish it with a fire extinguisher, are showing support for the cause in Tibet. Tibet has been a shining symbol of oppressive government interference in the past decades, because of China's harsh treatment of its quasi-province, located in the Himalayan Mountains.
I have often wondered what Olympic organizers were thinking when they selected Beijing to host the 2008 Summer Olympics. China has been a hot-bed of human rights violations. How can the Olympic Games, which are the very essence of peace and equal rights, be seen as anything except an affront? Of course, China has spent billions of dollars to prepare for the Olympics Games, by building gigantic, unconventional complexes--I admire the architecture--to host the various sporting events, such as the National Stadium, which has an exoskeleton quality, and the National Aquatics Center, with its uncanny resemblance to water bubbles suspended in mid-air.
The Olympics always seem to bring out the worst in everyone involved. People are always willing to use the international platform to rant about their personal gripes, which is ironic, considering they were/are designed to bring out the best in all of us.
Saturday, April 05, 2008
Obama or McCain?
I believe that in some form Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama will appear on a presidential ticket for the November general election. It is the only way the Democratic Party can heal the schism that has erupted as a consequence of this primary election season.
Hypothetical.
If Barack Obama were to be cast in the role of the Democratic presidential candidate, would I vote for him? Once upon a time, I said that I would vote for John McCain over Senator Obama in the general election, but I have come to terms with what that would mean for America. I am not thrilled about the consequences.
Even though, Obama may be politically green, he is still a Democrat, with the party's core values as his guiding principles. In such a scenario, I will support Barack Obama for president of the United States.
Furthermore, let me say, Hillary Clinton remains my candidate of choice for president, in November. I have--and will--campaign feverishly for her in Kentucky.
Hypothetical.
If Barack Obama were to be cast in the role of the Democratic presidential candidate, would I vote for him? Once upon a time, I said that I would vote for John McCain over Senator Obama in the general election, but I have come to terms with what that would mean for America. I am not thrilled about the consequences.
Even though, Obama may be politically green, he is still a Democrat, with the party's core values as his guiding principles. In such a scenario, I will support Barack Obama for president of the United States.
Furthermore, let me say, Hillary Clinton remains my candidate of choice for president, in November. I have--and will--campaign feverishly for her in Kentucky.
Friday, April 04, 2008
$109,000,000
Now that America knows Hillary Clinton (and Bill Clinton) made $109 million over the course of seven years, what does it all mean? What are we going to do with this knowledge? Does it mean Hillary is less of a candidate? Is Barack Obama trying to show Hillary is not a friend of the poor, because she wrote books, and made money from it? Does it matter that the Clintons gave approximately 10% of their income, or $10 million, to charities?
Personally, I do not think someone's financial affairs are the public's business, if they are political candidates, or not. By knowing how much someone made last year (or over the course of seven years), does not tell me if they will make a good president.
Let's get real, and keep our collective eyes on the real balls, which are the economy and Iraq (just to mention two).
Personally, I do not think someone's financial affairs are the public's business, if they are political candidates, or not. By knowing how much someone made last year (or over the course of seven years), does not tell me if they will make a good president.
Let's get real, and keep our collective eyes on the real balls, which are the economy and Iraq (just to mention two).
Ketchup & Beer
During the 2004 presidential election, Republicans railed against Senator John Kerry for benefiting from the fortune of his wife, Teresa Heinz, because of her well-heeled corporate connections, to wit: H.J. Heinz Company, which is America's premier manufacturer of that classic condiment ketchup. After all, should he be allowed to exploit his wife's hundreds-of-millions of dollars to win the presidency? According to Republicans, the answer was a big fat, "Hell no!"
Fast-forward to the 2008 presidential election, where the tables have turned. The rich wife is on the other side of the political fence. Cindy Hensley McCain, who is the wife of Republican-nominee, Senator John McCain, hails from a wealthy southwestern family. She is the chairperson of Hensley & Co., which makes its millions peddling Anheuser-Busch products. Hensley & Co. is the third-largest wholesale distributor of Budweiser in the United States.
John McCain, who has been outpaced by Democratic fundraising by 4-to-1, may have to rely heavily on his wife's fortune, during the general election. (He already uses the family's private jet.) What do Republicans think of this situation? Hands-down they think it is great!
It is funny how four years, and a change in situation, can change a political party's outlook on what is acceptable. (It's blatant hypocrisy, actually.)
As for me, I'm more partial to Heinz ketchup, rather than domestic beer. (And, yes, Hunt's ketchup is rather bland for my taste.)
Fast-forward to the 2008 presidential election, where the tables have turned. The rich wife is on the other side of the political fence. Cindy Hensley McCain, who is the wife of Republican-nominee, Senator John McCain, hails from a wealthy southwestern family. She is the chairperson of Hensley & Co., which makes its millions peddling Anheuser-Busch products. Hensley & Co. is the third-largest wholesale distributor of Budweiser in the United States.
John McCain, who has been outpaced by Democratic fundraising by 4-to-1, may have to rely heavily on his wife's fortune, during the general election. (He already uses the family's private jet.) What do Republicans think of this situation? Hands-down they think it is great!
It is funny how four years, and a change in situation, can change a political party's outlook on what is acceptable. (It's blatant hypocrisy, actually.)
As for me, I'm more partial to Heinz ketchup, rather than domestic beer. (And, yes, Hunt's ketchup is rather bland for my taste.)
Thursday, April 03, 2008
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
The media seems to have forgotten something
Democratic Party Chairman Howard Dean stated that the delegates from Florida would be seated at the Democratic National Convention in Denver. Dean said that the candidates would have to work out some sort of system as to how they will be seated, but he is confident it will happen.
Unfortunately, I had to dig through several layers of news to get to this big morsel of information. Why? The media is apologetically biased. It is in love with Barack Obama. The fact that Florida's delegates will be counted is not favorable to Senator Obama. If it had been in his favor, the media would have made this story its lead, rather than putting it in the back of everything else.
Unfortunately, I had to dig through several layers of news to get to this big morsel of information. Why? The media is apologetically biased. It is in love with Barack Obama. The fact that Florida's delegates will be counted is not favorable to Senator Obama. If it had been in his favor, the media would have made this story its lead, rather than putting it in the back of everything else.
Every vote should--and must--count. This is America!
Today, Hillary Clinton sent out the following e-mail:
"It is a bedrock American principle: we are all equal in the voting booth. No matter where you were born or how much money you were born into, no matter the color of your skin or where you worship, your vote deserves to count.
"But millions of people in Florida and Michigan who went to the polls aren't being heard. The delegates they elected won't be seated at the Democratic National Convention in Denver this August -- and that's just not fair to those voters.
"The people of Michigan and Florida must have a voice in selecting our nominee for president. I have repeatedly called for seating their delegates."
Yes, in America everyone has a vote; otherwise, we are no better than the other countries we call "foul" on for their anti-democratic schemes. The Democratic Party had no right to interfere in the primary voting schedules of Michigan and Florida. States, through the Tenth Amendment, are afforded this right. Hillary is right. The delegates of Florida and Michigan deserve to have their voices heard in Denver at the Democratic National Convention.
"It is a bedrock American principle: we are all equal in the voting booth. No matter where you were born or how much money you were born into, no matter the color of your skin or where you worship, your vote deserves to count.
"But millions of people in Florida and Michigan who went to the polls aren't being heard. The delegates they elected won't be seated at the Democratic National Convention in Denver this August -- and that's just not fair to those voters.
"The people of Michigan and Florida must have a voice in selecting our nominee for president. I have repeatedly called for seating their delegates."
Yes, in America everyone has a vote; otherwise, we are no better than the other countries we call "foul" on for their anti-democratic schemes. The Democratic Party had no right to interfere in the primary voting schedules of Michigan and Florida. States, through the Tenth Amendment, are afforded this right. Hillary is right. The delegates of Florida and Michigan deserve to have their voices heard in Denver at the Democratic National Convention.
The new "in" disorder
Parents love to label their children as special! Unfortunately, there are as many doctors who will happily oblige in this quest to ruin a child forever.
When I was growing up, the "in" disorder to have was attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). If you weren't labeled as having this disorder then you were not a special kid. Those children have grown-up, and, of course, you can't label your child as having a disorder you had as a youngster. That would just be wrong and uninspiring. So, what's the new disorder to have?
Autism!
If a child bats his/her eyes the wrong way, is slow at learning to walk or talk, or if they seem a bit withdrawn, then he/she must be autistic. There's no doubt about it! Call the pediatrician up on the phone, pay the $150 office fee, and viola, you have an autistic baby or toddler to take care of for the next fifteen years!
Of course, I am being sarcastic. I realize there are cases where a truly unique child has this disorder. But I find it hard to accept that fifty-percent of students, who are enrolling in kindergarten for the upcoming school year, have this disorder. Where was it when I was a kid? The answer is, as I said before, we all had ADHD back in the 1980s and 1990s, except for me, I wasn't special enough. (By the way, thanks Mom for not filling me full of Ritalin, in order to make yourself feel special!)
The bottom line is not every baby has to be autistic to be special. You can be special without being labeled with a disorder. I was perfectly happy being one of the "regular" kids (although, we were few and far between, in retrospect!). So, when a proud parents tell me about their little Suzie, who is autistic, I accept it with a healthy dose of skepticism.
Sorry! In fifteen years, kids will be labeled with another disorder. Just wait and you'll see I'm right. (Grandma had ADHD, mom had autism, and I have ___?____. After all, that's why my portfolio is littered with stocks of drug companies.)
When I was growing up, the "in" disorder to have was attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). If you weren't labeled as having this disorder then you were not a special kid. Those children have grown-up, and, of course, you can't label your child as having a disorder you had as a youngster. That would just be wrong and uninspiring. So, what's the new disorder to have?
Autism!
If a child bats his/her eyes the wrong way, is slow at learning to walk or talk, or if they seem a bit withdrawn, then he/she must be autistic. There's no doubt about it! Call the pediatrician up on the phone, pay the $150 office fee, and viola, you have an autistic baby or toddler to take care of for the next fifteen years!
Of course, I am being sarcastic. I realize there are cases where a truly unique child has this disorder. But I find it hard to accept that fifty-percent of students, who are enrolling in kindergarten for the upcoming school year, have this disorder. Where was it when I was a kid? The answer is, as I said before, we all had ADHD back in the 1980s and 1990s, except for me, I wasn't special enough. (By the way, thanks Mom for not filling me full of Ritalin, in order to make yourself feel special!)
The bottom line is not every baby has to be autistic to be special. You can be special without being labeled with a disorder. I was perfectly happy being one of the "regular" kids (although, we were few and far between, in retrospect!). So, when a proud parents tell me about their little Suzie, who is autistic, I accept it with a healthy dose of skepticism.
Sorry! In fifteen years, kids will be labeled with another disorder. Just wait and you'll see I'm right. (Grandma had ADHD, mom had autism, and I have ___?____. After all, that's why my portfolio is littered with stocks of drug companies.)
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
Simplicity of Life
School today was typical. I was stressed out a bit, which was better than most days. Out of the blue my spirits were lifted. A former student brought me a letter that he had written. He told me the assignment was to write a letter to a favorite teacher from your past. It wasn't anything I expected to receive, I admit.
He told me that he realized he probably bugged me to death, but I was never hateful. The most touching part was when he told me that he appreciated the fact that everyone is equal in my classroom. He said, "You treat everyone the same." That has been something I have worked very hard to achieve. I do believe each person is the same. No one is better because of who his/her family is. That's just how I see it.
It is nice to know that sometimes we do make a difference in someone else's life.
He told me that he realized he probably bugged me to death, but I was never hateful. The most touching part was when he told me that he appreciated the fact that everyone is equal in my classroom. He said, "You treat everyone the same." That has been something I have worked very hard to achieve. I do believe each person is the same. No one is better because of who his/her family is. That's just how I see it.
It is nice to know that sometimes we do make a difference in someone else's life.
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