Chase's Sandbox

Another Fallen Star

2012-02-12T19:21:00.000-08:00

Saturday, the music world lost another of it's icons. And much like Michael Jackson, the last high profile music superstar to pass on, many believe that drugs may have directly or indirectly played a role in her passing. As of Sunday night, the autopsy has been completed but put on hold pending results of toxicology test which could take up to eight weeks. In the meantime Jennifer Hudson will perform a beautiful and emotional tribute to Houston during Sunday night's Grammy Award telecast. In the days ahead, record sales will skyrocket as Sony Records plans how to move ahead previously planned efforts to market and re-release her entire catalog. That catalog includes 9 albums, compilations, and soundtrack recordings and is expected to be re-released ahead of the pre-planned release of the low budget film "Sparkle" that starred Houston.

Wall Street Journal music critic remembers Houston and talks about how Whitney came along at a time when the R&B genere wasn't getting a whole lot of attention.

As many others have documented over the last 36 hours, Whitney's stardom and influence spread well past music. In addition to the upcoming low budget "Sparkle" release, She starred in two other incredible Hollywood movies including Waiting to Exhale with Angela Bassett and the Bodyguard alongside Kevin Costner.

The final scene from TheBodyguard........

And as the final scenes in Whitney's life plays out in the court of public opinion much as they did with Michael Jackson, she will be remembered as a wonderful but tormented soul whose life came to tragic end much to soon leaving too many songs unsung.

Rest in Peace Whitney and remember
We Will Always Love You

......til next time

A Beach Tree: A Break From Ordinary!!!

2011-12-18T15:48:00.000-08:00

The writing has been rather sparse lately. There have been a multitude of reasons for that. Work, trying to start a new business, and life in general has a way keeping you from the important stuff sometimes. We'll see what we can do about changing that. In the meantime, I happened across this a few days ago and it has captured my imagination ever since. I'm not sure I would do this every Christmas, but I certainly want to try it once. Not sure if I could do it this well, but it would be a blast trying. It's out of the box thinking and a definite spin on the traditional. Once in a Blue Moon is obviously very talented. Check out her blog through the link below and leave a comment. She'd love to hear from you!

...once in a blue moon...: a beach tree for me...

Til Next Time.................

A Long Three Day Weekend!!!

2011-09-02T11:21:00.000-07:00

For those of us in the working world, this weekend is one of those highly anticipated and much appreciated three day events called "a long holiday weekend!" Where ever you happen to be this Labor Day weekend, I hope you're able to make the most of it and have a great time! For those of you who don't have the luxury of a three day weekend, we'll pop in once or twice over the weekend, otherwise, stay safe and we'll see you back here on Tuesday!!!

Til Next Time...........

Pic of the Day

2011-08-30T10:31:00.001-07:00

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The irony here is sooooo thick!!!

Tuesday Tunes

2011-08-30T09:38:00.000-07:00

When you work at a radio station, one would think you'd get get tired of listening to music. Not me. I just look for something different that you don't hear on the radio around here. With those "tight playlists" that consultants like to push these days, it isn't that hard at all to find quality "unfamiliar" music, even from well established artists. Today I'm sharing some of my finds. Depending on where you are, some of this may be familiar to you, some of it may not be. Either way it's all good stuff and I hope you enjoy it. This might even become a regular feature....so enjoy your Tuesday Tunes!!!

Hot Shot of the Week

2011-08-06T19:36:00.000-07:00

Sheppard Smith brings us this gem. In particular, watch what the cop does after the car get hit. This one is off the charts crazy!

Happy Saturday Everybody!
Til Next Time........

Look What I Found!

2011-07-08T23:22:00.000-07:00

......But it followed me home! Can we keep it please? Can We? Can We?? Can We???

Have a great weekend everyone!
Til Next Time..............

Actors Who Can Actually Sing!

2011-05-19T14:11:00.000-07:00

It seems like most of the stuff coming from the corporate music world these days is pretty much the same boring stuff song after song after song. There are a few exceptions. Groups like Train and solo artist like Robbie Williams work really hard to stay fresh and interesting, especially with their videos and live performances.

There is another group of performers who have caught my attention as of late. Actors who have put together their own bands and started creating their own brand of music. Kevin Bacon and Kevin Costner both immediately come to mind. Kevin Bacon recently made a stop in Chico at small venue and proceeded to bring the house down. It was a great show indeed. Then, this past weekend I was watching a little television and came across The Graham Norton Show on BBC America. His musical guest was none other than Hugh Laurie. I can't imagine it doesn't, but if for some reason the name doesn't ring a bell, how about Dr House from the hit FOX prime-time med drama "House?" I was very pleasantly surprised. I think you might be too. Check it out below........

Til Next Time...........

Attention Bad Drivers!!!

2011-04-13T09:08:00.000-07:00

If you have ever been forced to endure the antics of bad drivers, you know, the people who should have never been issued a license but still think they own the road, then you are going to love this!

Now I don't condone road rage, but you have to admit, that was pretty damned funny!

Til Next Time...........

A Little Bump and Grind....Air France Style

2011-04-12T10:50:00.000-07:00

Leave it to the French.......wide load coming through!

Til next time................

A Voyage Or A Cruise?

2011-03-02T21:35:00.000-08:00

Some 25 years or so ago, a friend once asked me if my life was going to be a voyage or a cruise. At the time, I didn't have a clue what he was getting at. I thought about it for a while, but since I never really understood the question, it soon became nothing more than a fleeting thought. Recently, while working with a another friend on a book project, I was reminded, unknowingly at the time, of that question originally posed to me all those years ago. Now, a few years older and hopefully a little wiser, I thought I was beginning to understand what he meant when he said "voyage or cruise." Life is full of choices. Some are smart and prudent, others....not so much. At the same time some of those decisions are easy while others are incredibly difficult bordering on the painful. But together, those choices and decisions shape who we are or who we will become and ultimately steer the course for our future.

But still, is it a voyage or a cruise?

In 1973, American actor and author Sterling Hayden wrote the following in his book titled "Wanderer:"

"To be truly challenging, a voyage, like a life, must rest on a firm foundation of financial unrest. Otherwise, you are doomed to a routine traverse, the kind known to yachtsmen who play with their boats at sea… “cruising” it is called. Voyaging belongs to seamen, and to the wanderers of the world who cannot, or will not, fit in. The cruisers typically say things like, I’ve always wanted to sail to the South Seas, but I can’t afford it. What these men can’t afford is not to go. They are enmeshed in the cancerous discipline of “security.” And in the worship
of security we fling our lives beneath the wheels of routine – and before we know it our lives are gone. We are brainwashed by our economic system until we end up in a tomb beneath a pyramid of time payments, mortgages, preposterous gadgetry, playthings that divert our attention for the sheer idiocy of the charade. The years thunder by. The dreams of youth grow dim where they lie caked in dust on the shelves of patience. Before we know it, the tomb is sealed. Where, then, lies the answer? In choice. Which shall it be: bankruptcy of purse or bankruptcy of life? "

I don't know that I necessarily agree that that it has to be a matter of the purse or the life, but it definitely is a matter of choice. It's also about being true to yourself as you make those decisions and occasionally stepping outside the box to take chances that will hopefully leave you without regrets. I'm still not sure if I have the answer to my friends original question from all those years ago, but at least now, I understand the question. And that's half the battle!

Til next time................

Mid-Week Funnies

2011-03-02T21:18:00.000-08:00

So, I received this in an email today and it brought a smile to my face on an otherwise stressful day!

TIL NEXT TIME........

Doing My Part To Support The Global Warming Crowd!

2011-02-22T12:00:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it's just to funny to resist!

Panic at Maverick's Beach in San Francisco

2010-02-16T11:40:00.001-08:00

If you ever needed proof that Mother Nature has her own mind, just check this out. The video is pretty amazing and it's a miracle no one was killed. Video follows a short 14 second commercial message.

Til next time!

What Has Blinded Hollywood to the Blind Side?

2010-02-15T20:01:00.000-08:00

America has proven once again it knows a good thing when it sees one. This time, it's the new Sandra Bullock vehicle "The Blind Side." While America is hitting the multiplexes in droves see this inspiring piece of storytelling, Hollywood is acknowledging it with an OSCAR nomination nod, but only begrudgingly. Over the past couple of weeks I have heard so called experts, the Hollywood elitists, call the Blind Side "dull and boring." For those of you who don't know, in Hollywood, "dull and boring" is code for it's too main stream or too Middle America.

Most of Hollywood's comments on the "Blind Side" have been condescending, arrogant, and disrespectful. Not just to Middle America, but to one of their very own, Sandra Bullock. Bullock has made a lot of money for more than one ungrateful Hollywood executive. Her latest effort has made just over 238 million dollars as it approaches the end of it's domestic run. That doesn't count overseas box office numbers. To be fair, I'm betting the lefties in Hollywood love having their pockets lined with that kind of money, but they still don't get it when it comes to what drives Americans to spend their hard earned money on going to the movies. Especially in hard economic times.

Bob Mondello, the so called Hollywood expert over at National Public Radio called The Blind Side "contrived, storybook sweet, credulity-straining and ... um, true." Really??? I guess there wasn't enough sex or violence in it for Mr. Mondello. Or maybe it just didn't push the left's agenda. Maybe that was the problem. Maybe that was exactly the problem. You see, like Sandra, those portrayed in The Blind Side didn't wait for a bailout, government stimulus, or the liberal nanny state to fix the problem. In this real life situation, real people jumped in and took care of the real situation. Just like Sandra Bullock didn't wait for the government to step in before digging deep in her own pockets and giving of her millions freely after the tsunami in Indonesia, Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, and most recently the earthquakes in Haiti. She gave of herself and her checkbook, all with little or no publicity or fanfare.

Real America loves a real story, about real people and places, presented by the type of real actors and actresses exemplified by those in the Blind Side. And America love Sandra Bullock. Hollywood may control Oscar, but it's Middle America that controls the box office. Even if Bullock doesn't win an Oscar, she has already won something that is much more important, especially for an entertainer. The hearts of millions of movie goers across all parts of America. Pay attention Hollywood. Someone is sending you a message.....courtesy of the mainstream!

Til next time!

SuperBowl Ads Pt 2

2010-02-07T18:17:00.000-08:00

Here's a some more Super Bowl ads that I will be voting for after the game. Especially the Doritos ad. One of the funniest of the game so far.

.....and the Saints just went up by 14!

Til next time!

SuperBowl Ads Pt 1

2010-02-07T17:31:00.000-08:00

We'll, at this point we haven't seen all of them yet, but so far we've seen some decent Super Bowl ads. One of my favorites so far is the Letterman/Leno ad. It isn't necessarily the most creative, but it is very timely. Plus, the feud the two have going on now makes it extremely funny. Especially with Oprah sitting between them! Check it out!

Til next time!

Back in the Saddle!!

2010-02-05T20:17:00.000-08:00

Well Well! After taking a break for a bit we're going to try and get back in the routine of regular writing. But where to start? There's so much going on out there, it's hard to pick my first target. So I think we'll ease back into it with a laugh.

As a matter of fact, I think we'll reserve Fridays for the mind blowing Moron of the Week! It'll be someone that does something so incredibly stupid, you can't help but laugh!

Take for example this guy, who obviously didn't know what NSFW means. As you watch the video, forget about the person being interviewed. What he is saying is irrelevant to this video. Just watch the guy behind the interviewee, just over 'his' right shoulder. And be sure to watch the computer screen he's looking at too. And above all else remember that this is live television.

Somebody please tell this guy what NSFW means!!! Quickly, before he loses his job!

UPDATE: Since this video hit you tube earlier in the week, the guy in front of the computer screen has become a viral video superstar. Most people caught in this situation would have been blasted out of the building so fast, they wouldn't have known what hit them. Not this guy though. Not only did this guy get to keep his job, but Miranda Kerr, the Victoria Secret model who was the subject of the email photos seen in the video, along with another financial news website came to his defense. Read about the aftermath here.

Still Loving Vacation

2009-05-22T22:23:00.000-07:00

Yeah I'm still on vacation and there is a lot to share. I have several photos and even more stories to tell once I get my thoughts and photos organized. In the meantime, I received this video in my email today. If you have a kitty of your own and have ever tried to print something from your computer, you'll apreciate this....I promise.

TIL NEXT TIME.....

A Cheeseburger in Paradise

2009-05-19T19:04:00.000-07:00

Last night, I had a cheeseburger in paradise....both literally and figuratively. This vacation has been a long time in coming and now it is here. The whole trip has been an amazing one including a weeklong visit with my mom, brother, and niece. Now, I'm with my son and his family (including my new month old granddaughter). Wow! What a rush! Now I'm a grand dad. That is still sinking in, but it has been a blast so far. As for the rest of it, Tennessee was great. My hometown has changed alot, but it is still home and I'll be there on Monday when my brother gets married. For now though, I'm in Virginia Beach, enjoying my family, my granddaughter, and all the sights and sounds that are the birthplace of our great nation. Oh, and yes the cheeseburger in paradise.....at least Jimmy Buffet's version. And Paradise it is!

An "OctoMom" Halloween!

2009-03-18T13:39:00.000-07:00

Okay....I know it's probably a little early to be starting this, but I have a feeling this is going to be the rage this Halloween. Last year It was Obama, this year OctoMom. The only this missing is the spandex and a huge "red" O on both of them!

til next time.................

Bruce Lee + Numchucks = Ping Pong ???

2009-03-13T11:27:00.000-07:00

Never in a million years would I have ever competed with Bruce Lee in the world of martial arts. I don't think any normal sane person would. But what about ping pong? Maybe....just maybe. Let's take a look at some of his game film, then we'll make up our minds.

On second thought........maybe not.

Til next time.................

AttaBoy of the Week: FedEx

2009-03-10T14:34:00.000-07:00

How cool is it when a major corporation steps up of their own free will, and at a potentially large expense, and helps the little guy. It doesn't happen often, but today it is. FedEx Office (formerly FedEx Kinkos) is offering to print free of charge up to 25 resumes on high-quality paper suitable for distribution. The service is available today only (during normal business hours) at all FedEx Office stores and on their website. Read all about it here . You can also get more information by calling 1-800-463-3339. For being a good corporate neighbor, FedEx Office gets our "Attaboy of the Week!"

Til Next Time.................

Sunday Night Timewaster -- Stateris

2009-03-08T20:50:00.000-07:00

So while you killing time on a Sunday night, dreading the arrival of another work week, try this one on for size. Stateris, simply put, is tetris with the states. Not as easy as it sounds. Don't believe me? Give it a try!

Did You Remember To.........

2009-03-08T20:25:00.000-07:00

Daylight Savings Time kicked in last night. It sure was nice having that extra hour of daylight today. But I'm still not sure about losing that hour of sleep. Ask me about it tomorrow morning. If you forget to set your clocks forward....better check now. Your boss will probably appreciate it!

Til Next Time...............

2008 In Under 4 Minutes

2009-01-02T21:34:00.000-08:00

As we enter into the new year, there are lots of things I will be ranting about, laughing at, and sharing with you in the days ahead. But tonight I thought we would take a look at the year gone by.

No, this isn't going to be one of those dull boring "year in review" posts like so many other blogs and websites are doing. Instead, I thought I'd share this incredibly funny video from You Tube. It's part of a larger series of vids called "Uncle Jay Explains."

So sit back and enjoy as Uncle Jay Explains 2008 (in under four minutes).

For more of Uncle Jays unique perspective check him out at www.youtube.com/user/UncleJayExplains

Song for a Soldier

2008-12-26T22:09:00.001-08:00

Between now and December 31st, Billboard Magazine and the U.S. Army are teaming up for a cool program to offer free music downloads. Just go to billboard.com fill out the form and they will send a unique pin number to a currently enlisted active duty member of the U.S. Army for two free music downloads. It's a free service and a pretty cool way to say Happy New Year to one of our hero's serving this holiday season. Remember, offer ends December 31st so check it out today!

Til Next Time...........

Picture of the Week

2008-12-26T21:18:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have been concerned about all the chem trail stories floating around (no pun intended) or worried about the conspiracy theories that the government secretly has something to do with them......maybe our "Picture of the Week" will set your mind at ease.......

........or maybe not.

Til Next Time.............

Remembering The Troops

2008-12-24T17:34:00.000-08:00

This Christmas Eve, thoughts of friends and family serving our country around the world are filling my mind. Many of them haven't been able to make it home this year for the holidays. As a results, empty chairs and place settings will occupy family tables this holiday season. Our men and women serving overseas tonight will be sorely missed by friends and family this season, but they will not be forgotten.....by their families or by the rest of us.

Tonight as you take a break from family activities, please spend a moment or two sending a digital holiday message of thanks and hope to a servicemember overseas. Thanks to the folks at Xerox, you can do just that for free. Just scroll down and follow the instructions...........

Again, thanks to all the men and women of our armed forces (some of you I know personally) for all you do. And thanks to Xerox for making the digital postcard service available.

And to all Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Til Next Time........

A Question At Christmas Time....

2008-12-24T15:41:00.000-08:00

Do you know what this is?

Frosty The Snowman's
Baby Picture

LOL! Merry Christmas Everyone!

The Last of the Great Rock Operas

2008-12-22T23:27:00.000-08:00

Meat Loaf : I'd Do Anything For Love
by IRONMADMAN

Filler Up!!!

2008-12-22T23:12:00.001-08:00

Would you let Pamela Anderson fill up your tank?

LOL......Not even with your car!

Til Next Time..............

Norma Torres Has A Near Meltdown

2008-12-20T18:21:00.000-08:00

Thursday night I wrote of the California State Assembly and their horribly bad and very illegal decision to add approximately nine billion dollars in new taxes on the population of a state that is already one of the most if not the most heavily taxed state in the nation. They accomplished this by calling the new taxes...."fees." This creative writing/terminology on their part lowered the threshold for the number of votes they needed to pass the illegal legislation. I call it illegal for one simple reason. Back in the 70's, the people of California passed the now famous Proposition 13. Prop 13 clearly states that the California State Assembly and the California State Senate must both have a two thirds majority vote in order to levy new taxes on the citizenry. What they did Thursday night was a clearly illegal effort to circumvent Prop 13 and the wishes of the people of the state of California.

One of the major proponents of Thursday nights action in Sacramento was Assemblywoman Norma Torres (D-Pomona). I wrote Thursday of her near meltdown on the floor of the state capitol as she tried to bully her fellow assemblymen and women to accept and support this illegal legislation. I finally managed to obtained part of the audio of that near meltdown. Give it a listen and see what you think.

This woman is supposed to be a professional legislator, not an emotional train wreck on display for the whole world. Even some people from her own assembly district don't like her. No wonder people in other parts of the country look at California and shake their heads.

For the record, both sides have been working on this budget for over a year. California's Republican Caucus has said time and time again they would be willing to look at new taxes. But only after the Democrats cut subsidized education and health care for illegal immigrants. A huge portion of the prison population in California is made up of illegals. Then there is the insane pension plan that many state workers get. Far above and beyond the pensions or 401k's of your average American. I haven't even mentioned the money and power hungry teachers and prison guards union leadership that on a routinely try to undermine Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger every time they get the chance. The libs however refuse to address any of this. So here we are. The only difference between the automakers and the state of California? We have stood up and said NO! No bailout for the wasteful spenders in the State Assembly and Senate. Still people like Ms Torres seem to float to the top every time there's money to be extorted from the people.

Unfortunately, the state of California is full of people like Ms Torres who like to play on people's fears, emotions, and lack of knowledge when it comes to matters of politics. She's a very sad lady and a big part of the problem here in California. But the problem isn't just in California. Every state in America has their own Norma Torres' using fear and intimidation to get their way.

Until those of us who reside in the middle of the political spectrum start paying attention and making our voices heard and getting involved in the process, the Norma Torres' of the world will continue to dominate the political landscape. California as a state and the United States as a nation are better than this. But we won't be if we don't get involved!!!

Til Next Time................

The Socialist Republic of California

2008-12-18T19:30:00.000-08:00

For years, most of the rest of America has looked at California and just shook their heads at some of the insanity that comes from the left coast. Tonight....those Americans who are really paying attention are looking at California with a great deal of trepidation and fear. You see, tonight the state of California became a state whose leadership has finally shown their true colors.....red and yellow with a hammer and sickle in the middle of the flag. Tonight the Democrat dominated state assembly flipped the middle finger to the people of the state with the type of resounding pride typically seen from gang bangers in the crime ridden sections of America's inner cities. Wow! That sounded pretty harsh right outta the chute....so let me explain.

Back in 1979 the people of the State of California passed Proposition 13 which requires the State Assembly muster a 2/3's majority in order to establish new taxes. Tonight our wonderfully bizarre group of legislators have decided they won't tax us anymore. Instead, their gonna "fee" us to death. Some of the new "fees" all Californians are facing? According to their plan, gasoline usage fees will increase the current "gas tax" by 50 percent. There is also an attempt underway to triple the auto registration "fees." And here's the kicker........As some of you may know, California has one of the highest state income taxes in the nation. Now they want to charge a fee of five percent of the total tax owed as a "filing fee." If these "fee's" are legal as they claim, I wonder why we're only seeing them now?

As of now Governor Schwarzenegger says he will veto the bill, but most observers are saying don't hold your breath. On the other side Norma Torres (D-Pomona) literally had a meltdown when trying to convince her fellow assembly members to support the new fee. Crying uncontrollably and using vulgarites on the floor of the state assembly, she seemed like a total lunatic that had lost any grip she made have had on reality. The arrogance of state senator Mark Leno (D) was sickening as he proclaimed December 18 as the day the Democrats "Saved California." Then there are the authors of this piece of socialist legislation: State Assembly Speaker Karen Bass and Senate Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg. These two are nothing more that socialist is sheeps clothing.

If you live outside of California and are laughing and thinking we are getting what we deserve....be forwarned. If this sort of disregard for the rule of law is allowed to succeed here in California, your state could be next.

If you are in California, simply call the numbers below and let them know what you think. Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger

State Capitol Building

Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone:1-916-445-2841

Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg

1-916-615-4006State Assembly Speaker Karen Bass

1-323-937-4747 or 1-916-319-2047

California is on the edge of a financial abyss and these people claim to have the best interest of California and it's citizens at heart. They do not. Don't fall for their propoganda. Pay attention to what's going on around us and be a part of the solution before these socialist troublemakers turn California into something resembling a third world nation.

Til Next Time.................

It Could Be Alot Worse.....

2008-12-08T22:46:00.000-08:00

When I was a kid/teenager, I still spent much of my time doing stuff outdoors. When I was younger, it was tag, hide and seek, and just a lot of good ol' fashioned curious exploration. Later, sports became the focus of my attention. I didn't spend a lot of time in front of the computer on the internet. That hadn't become a household item just yet. Video games consoles were still in their infancy too. Eventually, I did begin to enjoy the video games, as primitive as they were by today's standards. Now my video game playing is pretty much limited to the sports games on XBOX and PS3 and the occasional pc based game from one of the many websites devoted to the classic games from the early years.

However, my son spends much more time on the game consoles. I am constantly having to remind him of the time limits and guidelines he has to abide by in order to retain the privilege of playing. Then, today I came across this video and realized that even though he sometimes spends too much playing the games, it could be worse. Much much worse..........

Wow! I suppose I should be grateful he just plays them on the tv and that he's not out trying to imitate them on the streets the way this guy does. I just wish I had this much free time on my hands.

Dear Santa.....

2008-11-30T13:04:00.000-08:00

Dear Santa,
I know it's probably a little late to be asking this question.....but......just how good would I have to be to get one of these?

I know I wasn't as nice as I could've been, especially to those pesky telemarketers, the politicians knocking at my door looking for a vote, and the neighbors upstairs who were always having parties at three in the morning. But I really tried. I really did! Just let me know what I need to do and I'll leave you a bunch of extra cookies and a cold one to wash'em down.

Thanks and Merry Christmas
Mark

Open Letter to Lane Kiffin: Welcome To Knoxville!

2008-11-29T00:14:00.000-08:00

I'm sure I'm not the first, but Mr Kiffin....Let me welcome you to "Big Orange Country!" You have seriously jumped from the frying pan into the fire. If you think life with Al Davis was tough, lose more than one or two games out of the chute and you'll find out what tough really is. Just Ask Johnny Majors and Phillip Fulmer. Blue skies can turn dark real fast on you if you aren't careful. You see SEC Football Fans expect a lot from our teams and our coaches....sometimes too much. Again, just ask your predecessor. At the beginning of this season, Coach Fulmer was the fifth winningest active coach in the NCAA ranks and he's even brought a National Championship to "Rocky Top"and it took him 16 years to do it. His 147-45 record at seasons start and that national trophy wasn't even enough to help him weather the storm or keep the most hardcore Volunteers among us from turning on him faster than the blue skies go dark during a summer rainstorm on the Plateau.
As a Tennessee native and a lifelong Volunteer, I believe Coach Fulmer should've been given a little more time to turn things around. However, I shall try to keep an open mind. I just hope you're bringing more to the dance than your experience as a Raider because Volunteer fans can be just as unpleasant as Al Davis if you don't turn things around quickly. Welcome to Knoxville Mr. Kiffin and good luck.....you're gonna need it.

Pop Quiz

2008-11-23T23:38:00.000-08:00

POP QUIZ: You're the CEO of a major investment firm and Wall Street is going down the tubes. What do you do? (hint: You're one of the few that isn't begging for a government handout.)

ANSWER: You call Michael Jordan for a quick pickup game in front of all your senior executives. See for yourself......

I'm not sure if this plain stupidity or a case of an extremely arrogant genius trying to keep his people motivated during very turbulent times. This video of Ariel Investments Chairman and CEO John Rogers was taken back on November 7th and has been making the rounds ever since.
What do you think?

Bad Home Loans, Anger, and Barrack Obama

2008-11-17T21:00:00.000-08:00

Earlier this evening I had the opportunity to listen to one of my favorite talk shows hosted by a man who arguably is one of the smartest men in talk radio today. His name is Gene Burns and he hosts the evening show on KGO-AM out of San Francisco. Mr. Burns is a self described Libertarian turned Democrat, who most of the time falls back on his Libertarian leanings as the basis viewpoints and commentary. This approach has made him very popular and well respected among his audience and his peers. While I disagree with him most of the time, I enjoy his show and respect his talent because, whether I agree with him or not, he always give me reason to stop and think...sometimes even re-evalutaing my position on certain topics.

However, his comments during the first part of this evening show left me somewhat perplexed. The topic was home ownership and the proposed government intervention on behalf of some homeowners who find themselves in the unenviable position of having to make payments on mortgage agreements that they can't afford and should have never been allowed to enter into to begin with.

Conversation about this topic on this day had begun earlier in the day on another show. Tonight Gene started his show with an excerpt from that earlier program in which a caller was voicing displeasure over the government intervention, characterizing the intervention as unfair to all the homeowners who worked hard pay their mortgages and improve the value of their investment while a next door neighbor looked to the government to intercede on their behalf. The type of intervention spoken of, in it's most basic terms, consisted a devaluation of the property to a level where the struggling homeowner could then afford the mortgage payments. When that occurs, the value of everyone's home goes down as well. That, to many homeowners, is just plain unacceptable.

Then there was Gene's first caller who was angry about a situation similar to the one above combined with a homeowner who didn't even have a job because, according to the caller, they chose not to work. For her part, the caller and her husband works a total of five jobs between them to pay the mortgage and their other bills. Needless to say she was angry and even though she didn't express herself very well, I got where she was coming from. Unfortunately, Gene didn't. He characterized both callers as self centered, greedy and part of the problem, saying that both callers would be much better off if there neighbors received the help from the government and were able stay in their homes. How someone, that is as smart as Gene is, could have that viewpoint is just incomprehensible.

If my understanding of the Libertarian Party philosophy is correct, this seems be quite the contradiction. All that aside, the anger Gene dealt with tonight is very real and very justified. You see, many Americans are growing rather tired of watching their hard work and success marginalized by a part of our society that, in many cases assisted by our government, is looking for nothing more than a free ride. This has been going on for decades and perpetuated by a government bureaucracy that provides social benefits without the kind of vetting required to truly ensure that a system designed to help people in need isn't being abused. Now that some homeowners are seeing that value of their investments devalued because of greed in some cases and laziness in others, that anger is boiling to the surface. It isn't just homeowners upset over loan bailouts that are angry either. Middle Class Americans, who are not homeowners, are fed up too. I have experienced this myself in the form of a neighbor who refuses to work and receives welfare and food stamps from the county. This month she decided she was fed up with paying rent, so she goes and applies for subsidized housing. Then I hear her bragging to her friends about how she can now afford that fancy car she wants and a big screen tv and all other kinds of cool toys. How much is her subsidized rent costing taxpayers......214 dollars a month. When you add in the welfare, medical insurance, and food stamps, the bill becomes much higher. That is just one small example from my incredibly small part of this world.

Then when you see these same type of people going for home loans that have no business getting and then getting "relief" from the government.......well, it's not really that hard to understand where all the anger is coming from. With the leadership we have in store for us the next four years, don't look for it to go away anytime soon. Hopefully, wiser minds will prevail, but I wouldn't hold my breath.

Til Next time................

Why Keith Olberman Is A Jerk

2008-11-16T22:18:00.000-08:00

You know, there was a time when Keith Olbermann was at the top of his game and had fans around the world and I was one of them. On ESPN, Olbermann along with Dan Patrick and Chris Berman were the creme of the crop. Now, all these years later, Olbermann has given up and walked away from the truest of his talents to become just another talking head spewing partisan politics and hateful negativity on third place cable news outlet MSNBC. People talk about Rush Limbaugh's biased radio broadcasts and there's no doubt that they are. But in all fairness, if you want to talk about agressive, biased commentary, you have to include Keith Olbermann. All you have to do is watch this quick clip of his little catch phrases and jabs to understand why he has become one of the most incendiary hosts on television today.

Even now as he returns to NBC's Sunday night "Football Night In America" broadcast, it seems he just can't help himself as he injects subtle sarcastic political references while vo'ing the weekend's highlight reel. It's really too bad he has decided to go this route with his career. It seems such a waste of talent. I guess it just goes to show that a hatred of one man and a pretty hefty paycheck from the "Peacock" is enough to turn a once great broadcaster into a jerk.

Well, Here We Are.....

2008-11-15T23:18:00.000-08:00

......and for the past couple of month's leading up to the election, I've pretty much kept my mouth shut about all the politics swirling around us. As I've mentioned before, I wasn't impressed by either of our major candidates for the presidency. Neither candidate had a real plan to bring this country out of it's current downward economic spiral. For his part, Obama still doesn't and what's left of Wall Street knows it. All you have to do is look at what has continued to happen economically and with the job market since the election. The only bright spot this fall has been the falling price of a barrel of oil.

What scares me more than Obama's liberal/socialist agenda is the reaction of so many Americans on election night. It was a historic night indeed and I truly believe it was a huge step forward for America when it comes to matters of race. But the unbridled show of emotion we saw on election night makes me wonder. Are we as a nation so unyielding when it comes to our distrust, dislike, and in many cases, plain ol' hatred of George Bush and his policies, that we are willing to just blindly hand over the reigns of the country to a man that we really don't know that much about (other than what the media has spoon fed us) and a man who has such limited experience?

For the record and despite my misgivings about the man, I voted for McCain because I've always subscribed to theory "Better the devil you know than the one you don't." At least that way you know what's coming and what you need to do to defeat it. With Obama and Biden it's gonna be a crap shoot and I'm afraid we are going to come out the losers in the end. Biden is nothing more than an overdressed/overpaid used car saleman that has been told no by the American people every time he has tried to run for President.

As for Obama, I'm trying really hard to keep an open mind despite my firm belief that his liberal/socialist agenda is absolutely the last thing this country needs right now. We've all heard the old saying "Be careful what you ask for........."

Well here we are. We asked for it. Now we're about to get it. I just hope it doesn't turn out to be a horrible mistake.

Weekend Funnies

2008-10-19T18:01:00.001-07:00

Idiot Dad!

A guy at the supermarket sees an attractive woman waving at him.
She says "Hello!"
He's rather taken aback because he can't remember where he knows her from.
So he says..."Do you know me?"
To which she replies, "I think you're the father of one of my kids."
Now his mind travels back to the only time he has ever been unfaithful to his wife and he says, Are you the stripper from the bachelor party that I made love to while your partner whipped my butt with wet celery?
The attractive lady looks into his eyes and calmly replies............"No, I'm your sons teacher."

Mom's Not To Bright Either!

This is just wrong on so many levels!

Let's See If Junior Is Any Smarter......

The father was passing by his son's bedroom and was astonished to see that his bed was nicely made and everything was picked up. Then he saw an envelope prominently propped up on the pillow that was addressed to "Dad." With the worst premonition he opened the envelope and with trembling hands began to read........

Dear Dad,
It is with great sorrow and regret that I'm writing you. I had to elope with my new girlfriend to avoid a scene with mom and you. I have been finding real passion with Stacy and she is real nice. But I knew that you would not approve because of all her piercings, tattoos, tight motorcycle clothes, and the fact that she is much older than I am. But it's not only the passion...Dad, she is pregnant.

Stacy said that we will be very happy. She owns a trailer in the woods and has a whole stack of firewood for the winter. We share the dream of having many more children. She has also opened my eyes to the fact the marijuana doesn't really hurt anyone. We'll be growing for ourselves and trading it with people who live nearby for cocaine and ecstasy.

In the meantime, we will pray for science to find a cure for aids so that Stacy can get better. She deserves it. Don't worry Dad. I know I'm only 15, but I also know how to take care of myself. Someday, I'm sure we'll be back so you'll have a chance to get to know your grandchildren.

Love,
Your Son John

PS: Dad, none of the above is true. I'm over at Tommy's house. I just wanted to remind you that there are worse things in life than report cards. You'll find that in my center desk drawer.
Please call me when it's safe to come home.

I do believe round one goes to Junior!!!
Til next time..................

Terry Tate Strikes Again!

2008-10-19T14:35:00.001-07:00

Remember back in 2003, Superbowl 37, when Reebok first introduced us to Terry Tate:Office Linbacker? It was one of the many commercials that gained a lot of attention that year for their originality, creativity, and humor. Then once the game was over and all the hub-bub surrounding that years crop of Superbowl ads had subsided, Terry Tate endured the same fate as all the other "stars" of the Superbowl Sunday marketing blitz. He faded to the dark recesses of our memories, late night trivial pursuit questions, and obscure website pages........until now.

Terry has re-emerged onto the scene this presidential election year with a campaign designed to get the apathetic to polls. In typical Tate style, he has picked a side (and his first victim) so I'm pretty sure he won't entice too many conservatives to the polls with his latest video. But I have to admit it is kinda funny and it definitely gets your attention. Check it out.....

WOW! I'm not entirely sure who did the production on this piece, but my hat's off to them. The production was seamless. I spent a half hour trying to find the edit points with no luck. Very well done. I guess you could say that this piece give a whole new meaning to "Rock the Vote!"

Til next time..................

Is It Just Me Or What? Pt. 2

2008-10-15T20:36:00.000-07:00

Is it just me or am I the only one that has a really bad feeling about November 4th and the upcoming election? OH! But wait.....I already asked that question! That question was the first thing that came to mind again after listening to some of tonight's debate. Whether it was the barbed accusations between two men who really don't appear as though they like each other very much at all or the disingenuous and misleading answers both of them gave to questions sent their way, what we saw and heard tonight was quite the performance from two men who like to play fast and loose with the truth and will do or say anything to get elected to the highest office in the land. I was initially a McCain supporter, but now I'm just not sure I have faith in the man to be able to occupy the office of President in a manner this country deserves. Make no mistake though, I would never support Obama. Over that past several weeks, his campaign speeches are sounding more like those of a Socialist candidate than those of a Democrat. All in all, it's turning out to be a very disapointing election season this year.

But back to tonight's debate for a moment....at more than one point during the course of the debate, I heard both men make statements that just didn't seem right. It appeared that both of them were really "playing fast and loose with the truth." But nobody called them on it, not that they would in a debate format. Even in the post debate spin, nobody really seemed to want to point out some of the things that I thought "just didn't sound right." So, I thought, maybe it IS just me. Then I found this on the internet from the Associated Press.

Truth and Fiction from Tonight's Debate

Well, I guess maybe I'm not losing it after all. Maybe I can take some solice in that, but it still begs the question......"Is this really the best America can do?" I truly don't think so, but I looks like we're going to have to wait at least four more years to find out.

The Warrior

2008-10-15T00:04:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday night I took my youngest son out for a night at the movies. In typical fashion for us we were a few minutes late. The lights had already dimmed and the stream of silly commercials, promos, and mindless movie trivia had been going for about five minutes. Whew! We didn't miss the start of the movie....but we did arrive just in time to see something that I'm really glad we didn't miss. A new Kid Rock music video and it wasn't just any video. It was the new anthem for all our citizen soldiers called "The Warrior."

In case you're not familiar with it, it is a project where Kid Rock teamed up with Dale Earnhardt Jr., Hendricks Motorsports, and the National Guard for one the coolest music videos that Kid Rock has done in quite a while. Check it out below...........

If you like the song....be sure to watch the end of the video for details on how you can get a free mp3 download of the song. Indeed! Kid Rock's and Dale Jr's support of our men and women in uniform is inspiring......like we needed another reason to be a fan!

We Deserve It Dividend

2008-10-12T21:04:00.000-07:00

You know I have spent a considerable amount of time over the last two or three weeks thinking about this silly 85 billion dollar "Wall Street Bailout." My initial reaction was (and still is) "HELL NO, NOT WITH MY TAX DOLLARS!" That said though, I will acknowledge that it is an extremely complicated mess that I'm not sure anyone has an answer to. Trying to figure out this mess created by the Wall Street greedmeisters is enough to make ones head spin like Linda Blair's did in the Exorcist.

Then, I received the following in my email. I'm not sure that it would have been the answer, but it couldn't have been any worse than the nonsense we've been getting from Washington and our two presidential candidates. Read on and see what you think.

To My Fellow Americans

I'm against the $85,000,000,000 bailout of AIG. Instead, I'm in favor of giving $85,000,000,000 to America in a "We Deserve it Dividend." to make the math simple, let's assume there are 200,000,000 bonafide U.S. citizens over 18 years of age. Our population is about 301,000,000 +/- counting every man, woman, and child. So 200,000,000 might be a fair stab at adults 18 and up. So divide 200 million adults 18+ into $85 billion and that equals $425,000. My plan is to give $425,000 to every person 18+ in a "We Deserve it Dividend." Of course, it would NOT be free...so let's assume a tax rate of 30 percent. That means every individual 18+ would have to pay $127, 500 in taxes on their "We Deserve it Dividend." That would send $25,500,000,000 right back to Uncle Sam. It also means that every legal adult 18+ in America would $297, 500 in their pocket. A husband and wife would have $595,000.00. What could you do with $297, 500 to $595,000 in your family?

Pay off your mortgage?--most if not all of the housing crisis solved! Repay college loans?--what a great boost for new grads! Put away money for college? --It'll be there when you need it! Save in a bank? --You'd be helping to create new capitol to be responsibly loaned to budding new entrepreneurs! Buy a new car? --Help create jobs! Invest in the market? --Capitol drives growth! Pay for your parents medical insurance? --Health care improves! Deadbeat dads would have no excuse for not coming clean. Pay or go to jail! These are but a few examples and the list goes on and on.

Remember this is for every adult U.S. citizen 18+ including the folks who lost their jobs at Lehman Brothers, AIG, and every other company that is cutting back. And of course, for those serving in our Armed Forces. If the liberals in this country are determined to redistribute wealth, let's really do it....instead of buying votes with a puny $1,000 economic incentive check that is being proposed by one of our presidential candidates. If we're going to do an $85,000,000,000 bailout, let's bail out every adult U.S. citizen 18+!

As for AIG -- LIQUIDATE IT!!! Sell it off in parts. Let American General go back to being general Americans. Sell off the real estate too. Let the private sector bargin hunters cut it up and clean it up. Here's my rationale....we deserve it and AIG doesn't. Sure, it's a crazy idea that would never work even if it wasn't crazy. Why? because THEY don't want it to. It would mean they lose a little of their power. But could you imagine the coast to coast block party that would occur this plan ever did happen? How do you spell economic boom? I trust that most of my fellow Americans would know much better how to spend 85 billion dollars. The geniuses at AIG and in Washington D.C. have already proven that they don't.

And the best part, this plan is even cheaper. Remember this plan will only cost 59.5 billion since 25.5 billion gets returned instantly in taxes to Uncle Sam. Ahhh...now I feel so much better after getting that off my chest!

Kind personal regards,

Hank in Bull Hampsha

Like I said before, I'm not sure that this would've been the solution everyone was looking for, but consider this...........

For the past few weeks, all we've been hearing is that without this "reward for Wall Street," oops, I'm sorry.....I mean bailout, the American economy (and eventually the world economy) would crumble and we would all be facing difficult troubled times.

But here in California, in my little corner of the world, a gallon of gas is cheaper now than it has been in almost a year. Just a few days ago, I had to stand in a rather long check-out line at Walmart.....that's how busy the store was. Last night I took my son to see a movie in a theater that was packed with only one or two empty seats in the whole place. And finally, in today's paper, I read stories about modest gains in existing home sales and how it's getting better with every week that passes. They also said the coming months are looking better than expected too. I also read another story about how now is the perfect time to jump in the stock market and start buying stock in companies like General Motors and Yahoo. The reasoning....they are solid companies that have taken big hits but are primed for huge rebounds.

From the sounds of this, it doesn't seem that Main Street America (or at least this part of it) is running around like little girls with their hair on fire the way Washington, the bankers, and the greedmeisters in Martiniville are.

In other parts of the country, the rebound/recovery might take longer, but is it really necessary to reward what should be considered criminal behavior with an 85 billion dollar bailout? I say no!!! Let those greedy mortgage lenders, investment bankers, and the politicians who defend them twist in the wind for a bit. Just like the unsuspecting home-buyers were forced to twist when those adjustable rate mortgages started "adjusting."

I know the bailout is already a done deal....but maybe, just maybe America would've have recovered more quickly and been much better off if we had thrown the "criminals" in jail where they belong and presented the rest of the country with a "We Deserve it Dividend!"

What do you think?

Til next time..................

The Road To Failure

2008-10-09T22:11:00.001-07:00

Of all the recent failures and near failures in the current banking crisis, the story of the Lehman Brothers investment banking firm is probably the most disappointing. The man above, Richard S. Fuld, Jr. was the final Chief Executive Officer of the company that many credit with financing the birth and growth of the American Railroad Industry in the mid 1800's. Lehman Brothers also played major roles in the financial growth of household names like Sears and Roebuck, RCA, and B.F. Goodrich. The company had a storied history and became a major player in the American economy since it's birth in 1850. So where did it all go wrong? One has to look no further than those classic sunday school teachings about the seven deadly sins and number three on that list.......greed.

Much discussion has taken place over the "toxic" sub prime mortgage mess which figured heavily into the Lehman failure. This, however, was only part of Fuld's problems where Lehman Brothers was concerned. While painting a rosey picture to the shareholders and the public, behind the scenes, the picture was bleak. In an effort to save the company from his failed practices and deals, Fuld tried to broker yet more deals with other groups (including A.I.G) who had problems of their own. He sent people to both the Middle East and Asia to try and find fresh money with no success. As hard as he tried, he just couldn't find an acceptable deal that would save his crumbling empire. But again, how did he get to this point?

Greed. It wasn't enough that his company was, albeit small and independent, a heritage company in the investment banking business with a rather healthy portfolio. It wasn't enough that he had, by all reports, a fiercely loyal staff that would have walked through the fires of hell and back if he asked them to. It wasn't enough that he had over 800 million in company stock, an art collection said to be worth millions, and several luxury homes in his name. There had to be more and he was going to get it.

I can't imagine what it would be like to be that wealthy. Quite frankly, I'm not sure I want to know. But today Richard S. Fuld, Jr. still finds himself "working" for the company even though all of his once loyal employees have been dismissed and have lost their severance packages and health benefits. His current net worth? According to sources, Fuld is worth about 100 million dollars.

During a recent appearance before a House Committee on Government Reform, Fuld wanted to blame the media, the short sellers, the government and anyone else that came to mind. While he took responsibilty for the end result, he refused to acknowledge that Lehman's failure came about as a result of his poor choices and extremely risky deal making. Read the full transcript here.

It is often said that the road to hell is often paved with good intentions. In this case I would say it was greed, deceit, and extreme arrogance on the part of Richard S. Fuld, Jr. and his senior Lehman executives that paved The Road to Failure for one America's oldest investment banks.

Is It Just Me Or What?

2008-10-07T21:20:00.000-07:00

Am I the only one the has a really bad feeling about this year's upcoming election? As I listened to tonight's debate, I got the sinking feeling that no matter who wins in November, our great nation is going to be in for some rough times over the next four years.

As I watched and listened, I saw one candidate that appeared old and tired and who sang pretty much the same song as Bush did eight years ago.....and so far that hasn't turned out too well. The other, young and vibrant but coming from the extreme opposite direction. At times he almost sounded like a socialist, especially when it came to taxes and entitlements. McCain, for his part, tried to respond.....but it just wasn't convincing, at least not to me. This country has some serious problems and neither of these guys have convinced me that they have the answer. As a independent conservative, I have never been as disappointed in my choices as I am this year.

What do you think? Who won the debate in your opinion...or did anybody really win? And looking at the bigger picture, is the two-party political system we have evolved into, really in America's best interest or is it taking us down a road we that we should not be traveling?

Til Next Time.....

The Migration Is Complete!!!! October 5, 2008

2008-10-05T17:13:00.000-07:00

For those of you that have stumbled across this blog wondering...."HUH? What's up with all these old blog posts from a Yahoo site?"...well here's your explanation. Over two years ago, I originally started this on Yahoo 360 on a lark. After a while, it became obvious that I was striking a chord with some, providing a release for others, and even providing an escape with the humor (if only for a moment) for even more. I made a lot of great friends along the way AND I managed to find a way to make a few people laugh and ruffle a few feathers too. No matter what the topic, issue, or response, it was always (for the most part) good times and good friends on Yahoo 360. That is until Yahoo decided to start screwing with its 360 platform. I hung out for a while hoping it would get better but it never did.

So I decided to find another venue. That said though, I didn't just want to walk away from everything I had created on 360.....so I brought it with me. LOL Little did I realize how much of a chore that would be. Since there was no migration mechanism readily available to me, that meant I had to do it manually. Oh what the hell......my wife always says I like doing things the hard way. So off we went.

Now, here we are....after months of working on the migration of this blog from the 360 platform, the task is finally complete.

That's a brief glimpse about what you've been seeing over the last few months. In the week ahead we'll starting posting fresh new material. Between politics, Hollywood, Wall Street, the world in general, my family, my work, and Lord knows what else.....we should have some fun here. A word of forewarning though.......everybody and everything is fair game. Even my favorites aren't above being smacked on the back of the head when they screw up!

To all my 360 friends who have stuck with me, thank you! To my new friends, welcome aboard! You are all welcome to chime in any time you like. I have only one rule.....NO DRAMA. At times, we will all disagree about this, that, or the other thing and that's okay. But rudeness and hostility directed at each other will not tolerated. One of my earliest mentors in the world of broadcasting (a man from Knoxville, Tennessee named Colvin Idol) once told me that "Reasonable people can always reasonably disagree....if they choose to." That is something that has always stuck with me, especially out here on the "left coast." That is a rule we will abide by here as well.

That said............Welcome to all and I look forward to hearing from all of you whenever you feel like popping in.

Till Next Time..........

Christmas With You, December 23, 2007

2008-10-05T17:04:00.000-07:00

This year, there seems to be a plethora of new Christmas songs out there. Not "re-makes" or "covers" of songs that have been around for years, but instead, original songs that are timely for the days in which we live. One e of those songs comes from a person who hasn't had a hit record in many years, but still packs'em in at concerts. Rick Springfield has always been one of my favorites. Even though he hasn't had much commercial success lately, his recent songs all tell powerful stories of his life experience. None of his new stuff demonstrates this more than his current Christmas release called "Christmas With You." You can view the video below. All proceeds from the recording of this song donated to support the US military veterans organization American Gold Star Mothers, Inc.

Originally posted12-23-07 on Yahoo 360

Meaning of Globalization, September 08, 2007

2008-10-05T16:59:00.000-07:00

This is from an email I received a few days ago. It's obvious by it's tone that it was meant to be an exercise in sarcasm. I started to delete it after a quick read, but hesitatated. After second more careful reading, I realized that on some levels....it rings of a sad and unfortunate truth. See what you think....................

QUESTION: What is the truest definition of Globalization?

ANSWER: Princess Diana's Death and You!

How you ask? Read on.

An ENGLISH Princess with an EGYPTIAN boyfriend crashes in a FRENCH tunnel, driving a GERMAN car with a DUTCH engine driven by a BELGIAN who was drunk on SCOTTISH whiskey and being followed closely by ITALIAN paparazzi on JAPANESE motorcycles. That BELGIAN driver would be treated by an AMERICAN doctor. Now, you are probably reading this on your computer that uses microchips from TAIWAN and monitors from KOREA. It was most likely assembled by BANGLADESHI workers in a plant in SINGAPORE, transported by INDIAN lory drivers, hijacked by INDONESIANS and unloaded by SICILIAN longshoremen....soon to be delivered to your local computer retailer by illegal MEXICAN truck drivers.

Yes, a definite exercise in biting sarcasm.....but very true on more than one level.

TIL NEXT TIME!

Originally posted 9-8-07 on Yahoo 360

Dear Dog, August 29, 2007

2008-10-05T16:47:00.001-07:00

Dear Dog,

I'm sorry for you being sent to the dog pound for the broken lamp, which you didn't break, the fish tank you didn't knock over, the carpet you didn't wet, and the wall you didn't mess up with red paint.

But, on the other hand, things here at the house are much calmer now. And to show that I hold no hard feelings against you, I'm sending a picture so that you will always remember me!

Best regards,

THE CAT!!!

Which is your favorite? (closed poll)

Dogs 3
Cats 4

Originally posted 8-29-07 on Yahoo 360

Honoring Common Sense, July 23, 2007

2008-10-05T16:37:00.001-07:00

Last Friday, California broadcasting icon Pete Wilson went into Stanford Medical Center for what supposed to be a routine hip replacement procedure. Acording to reports, all was going well until Pete went into cardiac arrest. He, sadly, never recovered.

Today, a stunned Bay Area asks why and how something like this could happen to a man, who by all accounts, was a picture of perfect health except for his recent hip injury. That is a question that will be answered in time I'm sure. But for now Pete Wilson is being remembered as a man who loved his family. He loved California and he loved to debate. Yes, Pete Wilson loved to debate. Not from the left and not from the right. Instead, Pete would engage listeners, viewers, and those around him from a position he commonly referred to as common sense. That, in and of itself, made Pete a much welcomed breath of fresh air in a decidedly and overwhelmingly liberal California. Part of that may be due to the fact that he was born and raised in the Midwestern United States. Throughout his career, he carried himself with style, professionalism, and a personality that made him a perfect fit here in California. All the while never losing the values and common sense instilled in him as child growing up in the Midwest.

In San Francisco, Pete worked for ABC owned and operated KGO AM 810 and ABC7 KGO-TV. On the KGO radio side Pete did a mid afternoon talk show. Each day at the shows conclusion he would go downstairs,put on his TV news anchor hat, and prepare for his 6pm newscast on ABC7.

For those of us who listened or watched on a regular basis......it's almost like losing a good friend or a member of your extended family. All we can do is offer our prayers and condolences to Pete's family and friends.

If you would like to read what Pete's TV colleagues are saying......click here.

From the Radio side......lots of audio remembrances and Pete's last monologue from the beginning of this past Wednesday's show(which, sadly, would turn out to be his last).

God Speed Pete................we will miss you.

Til Next time...............

originally posted 7-23-07 on Yahoo 360

A Few Thoughts on Father's Day! June 17, 2007

2008-10-05T16:31:00.001-07:00

Father's Day......It's one of those days where, in the role of a child, we always make a big deal trying figure out which of us brothers could give Dad the coolest gift. However, now that I am the father, I find myself realizing that the gifts aren't that big a deal. Imperfect as we may be and not always right (you never heard me say that! lol), at the end of the day, we are just doing what we do.....being dad.

For me this Father's Day was much like any other Sunday in the Chase household. I slept in late, watched part of the race from Michigan on TV, washed and waxed the car, and later on took Kat and Eston to see the latest Pirates Of The Carribean flick (which I enjoyed immensely), helped Kat put away the laundry, and then sat down to do some writing. Somewhere between washing the car and going to the movies, I did get a really cool and totally unexpected suprise though. This is where I will begin to sound like a bit of a hypocrite, but that's okay. Nobody's perfect.....right?

Ericka, my daughter in law, baked a Fathers Day cake for me. It had lemon icing on it and she did a great job. Thank You!!!! It was totally unexpected and very much appreciated. The only thing that would have made it better was if Nathan could've been here to enjoy with us. For those of you who don't know, Nathan is our oldest and is currently serving overseas in the Marines. As a father, I'm damned proud of him too.

Looking back on this Fathers Day, I can honestly say it was a pretty darned good one! I am indeed a lucky man to have the family I do. In the end, even though we may have a day on the calendar set aside for us, we fathers wouldn't be who we are today if it weren't for our families, those who came before us (Thanks Dad!) and those we have with us today! Thank you all!

Til Next Time.........

Originally posted 6-17-07 on Yahoo 360

Information Overload, June 16, 2007

2008-10-05T16:22:00.000-07:00

Okay-okay!!! I know I work in the radio/advertising/marketing industry and I would never bite the hand that feeds me (and my family).......however I think this is over doing it just a bit, don't you?

Originally posted on 6-16-07 on Yahoo 360

For Once, Dan Rather Gets It! June 12, 2007

2008-10-05T16:14:00.001-07:00

In the past, I have been rather vocal about my feelings regarding TV news and corporate/investment banking involvment in radio, tv, and print journalism in general. "Big Money" is as bad an influence on journalism as violent video games are on children. Now, Dan Rather finds himself embroiled in a controversy with his former CBS boss Les Moonves over the direction Moonves has taken the once proud CBS News Division. While I am by no means a fan of Dan Rather or his politics (another subject I have been very vocal about), I find myself in total agreement with him on this topic. The clip below is an excerpt from the Fox News Channel that contains an interview that David Asman conducted with Rather while filling in for Neil Cavuto. One could reasonably question Rather's motive for singling out CBS News since the industry as a whole is guilty of "dumbing down and tarting up" the news. However, no reasonable person could deny that what he is saying is true. Watch the video and see if you agree......I think you just might.

DAN RATHER ON FOX NEWS CHANNEL!

Til Next Time!!!!

Do you agree with Dan Rather when he says that tv news has been "dumbed down and tarted up?" (closed poll) yes 2 no 0 don't know 0

Originally posted 6-12-07 on Yahoo 360

Hey!! I'm Still Here....I Think! May 20, 2007

2008-10-04T20:58:00.001-07:00

Okay! I'm still alive and still here and yes still writing.......

The job I started in January is going well. I just didn't realize how much work there would be to do when I started it several months ago. It has been an experience to say the least. It's the same work I did before, but as with any job change there are some differences. The whole vibe in the building is like night and day from my previous gig. That is slowly changing though and that IS a good thing. For me personally, I love a challenge and this new job has provided me with just that. At my previous job, I had everything so dialed in that I could almost phone it in everyday. Now it's like going back to square one and starting over. As a matter of fact, that is exactly what it is. And yes, I consider that a good thing. It forces me to pay closer attention and not to take things for granted as much as I did before. In the end though, it's all good. Busy....but good.

Speaking of my old job, I received a message from a friend Friday. This fellow was a co-worker at my old job who got fired for an accumulation of transgressions spanning almost two years. He is several years younger than I am and still has a lot to learn about the business. I always saw huge talent and potential in him, even when others didn't. Unfortunately, at the time, he didn't see the potential either. He was always make poor choices in his personal and professional life that others at the station had no tolerance or sympathy for. Those choices eventually cost the young lad his job. Now it seems though he is finally getting his priorities straight. After spending a few months unemployed here in California, he made the trek back home to the Midwest. He spent some time re-examining his life and career. He got a job at a small radio station near his home for a while and then this past Friday, I got a message from him with some good news! He's been hired by a station in the Denver market. Yes the young lad is about to hit the big time! I always saw that potential in him, even when he (and others) didn't. I just hope he keeps things on an even keel and keeps his priorities straight. And friend....... if you happen to read this......Just know that "I will personally come to Denver and kick your ass if you let this one slip through your fingers!"

Well, for everybody else, I guess that's about all for tonight. Now that things are starting to settle down a bit at work, I should have more time for writing. God knows, with everything going on in the world, there's a ton of stuff to write about.

So.....til next time!!!!!

Originally posted 5-20-07 on Yahoo 360

The Troops, The Libs, & The Out Of Touch Media...February 01, 2007

2008-10-04T20:22:00.000-07:00

WELL.....Where to start? I had a whole stack of stuff I had considered as topics for tonights blog. Then I found the letter below in my email. I can't began to tell you how infuriated I became after reading it. After doing the research to try and determine the legitmacy of the letter I came across a couple of other things that just got me wound up...if you know what I mean. Strap yourself in. This could be be lengthy and no doubt infuriating not matter your viewpoint.

First off the I will address the picture above. I do not begrudge anyone's right to any opinion they choose on any topic they choose or their right to express that view. But for the love of God......be mature about it. My 13 year old does the style of photoshop projects like the photo above because he thinks it's cute and funny. That's exactly what I expect from a 13 year old but not a supposed mature adult. If democracymeansyou.com and those of you who agree with their point of view have an opposing viewpoint, please feel free to voice it. Many of us both past and present have taken an oath to defend your right to do precisely that. But when you do, try using a little maturity in your approach. You'll find that it'll will get you a lot further than you have so far with those of us who live in the real world.

Secondly, the letter below. This showed up in my email today. It was written by an Army Staff Seargent identified only as "Sgt D." currently stationed in Afghanistan. He had an experience recently while on mid-tour leave to see his wife and baby boy that was the last straw. Following the letter are two websites that received copies of the letter, determined it's legitimacy, and then posted it. Read on..........

Things that I am tired of in this war:

I am tired of Democrats saying they are patriotic and then insulting my commander in chief and the way he goes about his job.

I am tired of Democrats who tell me they support me, the soldier on the ground, and then tell me the best plan to win this war is with a “phased redeployment” (liberal-speak for retreat) out of the combat zone to someplace like Okinawa.

I am tired of the Democrats whining for months on T.V., in the New York Times, and in the House and Senate that we need more troops to win the war in Iraq, and then when my Commander in Chief plans to do just that, they say that is the wrong plan, it won’t work, and we need a “new direction.”

I am tired of every Battalion Sergeant Major and Command Sergeant Major I see over here being more concerned about whether or not I am wearing my uniform in the “spot on,” most garrison-like manner; instead of asking me whether or not I am getting the equipment I need to win the fight, the support I need from my chain of command, or if the chow tastes good.

I am tired of junior and senior officers continually doubting the technical expertise of junior enlisted soldiers who are trained far better to do the jobs they are trained for than these officers believe.

I am tired of senior officers and commanders who fight this war with more of an eye on the media than on the enemy, who desperately needs killing.

I am tired of the decisions of Sergeants and Privates made in the heat of battle being scrutinized by lawyers who were not there and will never really know the state of mind of the young soldiers who were there and what is asked of them in order to survive.

I am tired of CNN claiming that they are showing “news,” with videotape sent to them by terrorists, of my comrades being shot at by snipers, but refusing to show what happens when we build a school, pave a road, hand out food and water to children, or open a water treatment plant.

I am tired of following the enemy with drones that have cameras, and then dropping bombs that sometimes kill civilians; because we could do a better job of killing the right people by sending a man with a high powered rifle instead.

I am tired of the thousands of people in the rear who claim that they are working hard to support me when I see them with their mochas and their PX Bags walking down the street, in the middle of the day, nowhere near their workspaces.

I am tired of Code Pink, Daily Kos, Al-Jazzera, CNN, Reuters, the Associated Press, ABC, NBC, CBS, the ACLU, and CAIR thinking that they somehow get to have a vote in how we blast, shoot and kill these animals who would seek to subdue us and destroy us.

I am tired of people like Meredith Vieria from NBC asking oxygen thieves like Senator Chuck Hagel questions like “Senator, at this point, do you think we are fighting and dying for nothing?” Meredith might not get it, but soldiers do know the difference between fighting and dying for something and fighting and dying for nothing.

I am tired of hearing multiple stories from both combat theaters about snipers begging to do their jobs while commanders worry about how the media might portray the possible casualties and what might happen to their career.

I am tired of hearing that the Battalion Tactical Operations Center got a new plasma screen monitor for daily briefings, but rifle scope rings for sniper rifles, extra magazines, and necessary field gear were disapproved by the unit supply system.

I am tired of out of touch general officers, senators, congressmen and defense officials who think that giving me some more heavy body armor to wear is helping me stay alive. Speed is life in combat and wearing 55 to 90 pounds of gear for 12 to 20 hours a day puts me at a great tactical disadvantage to the idiot, mindless terrorist who is wearing no armor at all and carrying an AK-47 and a pistol.

I am tired of soldiers who are stationed in places like Kuwait and who are well away from any actual combat getting Hostile Fire/Imminent Danger Pay and the Combat Zone Tax Exclusion when they live on a base that has a McDonald’s, a Pizza Hut, a Subway, a Baskin Robbins, an internet café, 2 coffee shops and street lights.

I am tired of senior officers and commanders who take it out and "measure" every time they want to have a piece of the action with their helicopters or their artillery; instead of putting their egos aside and using their equipment to support the grunt on the ground.

I am tired of senior officers and commanders who are too afraid for their careers to tell the truth about what they need to win this war to their bosses so that the soldiers can get on with kicking the ass of these animals.

I am tired of Rules of Engagement being made by JAG lawyers and not Combat Commanders. We are not playing Hopscotch over here. There is no 2nd place trophy either. I think that if the enemy knew some rough treatment and some deprivation was at hand for them, instead of prayer rugs, special diets and free Korans; this might help get their terrorist minds “right.”

I am tired of seeing Active Duty Army and Marine units being extended past their original redeployment dates, when there are National Guard Units that have yet to deploy to a combat zone in the last 40 years.

I am tired of hearing soldiers who are stationed in safe places talk about how hard their life is.

I am tired of seeing Infantry Soldiers conducting what amounts to “SWAT” raids and performing the US Army’s version of “CSI Iraq” and doing things like filling out forms for evidence when they could be better used to hunt and kill the enemy.

I am tired of senior officers and commanders who look first in their planning for how many casualties we might take, instead of how many enemy casualties we might inflict.

I am tired of begging to be turned loose so that this war can be over.

Those of us who fight this war want to win it and go home to their families. Prolonging it with attempts to do things like collect “evidence” or present whiz bang briefings on a new plasma screen TV is wasteful and ultimately, dulls the edge of our Infantry soldiers who are trained to kill people and break things, not necessarily in that order.

We are not in Iraq and Afghanistan to build nations. We are there to kill our enemies. We make the work of the State Department easier by the results we achieve.

It is only possible to defeat an enemy who kills indiscriminately by utterly destroying him. He cannot be made to yield or surrender. He will fight to the death by the hundreds to kill only one or two of us.

And so far, all of our “games” have been “away games,” and I don’t know about the ignorant, treasonous Democrats and the completely insane radical leftists and their thoughts on the matter, but I would like to keep our road game schedule.

So let’s get it done. Until the fight is won and there is no more fight left.

-D

http://www.blackfive.net/main/2007/01/sergeant_in_afg.html

http://www.homelandsecurityus.com/node/840

I have personally talked with men and women (some of them family members) in the armed forces who have said the same thing to me almost verbatum. It's very discouraging to see our servicemembers disrespected the way they are today. But it's even worse when you come across arrogant self serving members of the media who (in their haste to belittle America, it's military, and all that is good about both) show themselves to be nothing more that flat out liars in all that they and speak. I am speaking in particular of NBC Military Correspondant and Washington Post Military Affairs Writer William Arkin. Arkin recently posted an entry on his Washington Post blog that has got to be the most hateful and inflamatory piece of journalism I have ever seen.

William M. Arkin on National and Homeland Security

The Troops Also Need to Support the American People

I've been mulling over an NBC Nightly News report from Iraq last Friday in which a number of soldiers expressed frustration with opposition to war in the United States.

I'm sure the soldiers were expressing a majority opinion common amongst the ranks - that's why it is news - and I'm also sure no one in the military leadership or the administration put the soldiers up to expressing their views, nor steered NBC reporter Richard Engel to the story.

I'm all for everyone expressing their opinion, even those who wear the uniform of the United States Army. But I also hope that military commanders took the soldiers aside after the story and explained to them why it wasn't for them to disapprove of the American people.

Friday's NBC Nightly News included a story from my colleague and friend Richard Engel, who was embedded with an active duty Army infantry battalion from Fort Lewis, Washington.

Engel relayed how "troops here say they are increasingly frustrated by American criticism of the war. Many take it personally, believing it is also criticism of what they've been fighting for."

First up was 21 year old junior enlisted man Tyler Johnson, whom Engel said was frustrated about war skepticism and thinks that critics "should come over and see what it's like firsthand before criticizing."

"You may support or say we support the troops, but, so you're not supporting what they do, what they're here sweating for, what we bleed for, what we die for. It just don't make sense to me," Johnson said.

Next up was Staff Sergeant Manuel Sahagun, who is on his second tour in Iraq. He complained that "one thing I don't like is when people back home say they support the troops, but they don't support the war. If they're going to support us, support us all the way."

Next was Specialist Peter Manna: "If they don't think we're doing a good job, everything that we've done here is all in vain," he said.

These soldiers should be grateful that the American public, which by all polls overwhelmingly disapproves of the Iraq war and the President's handling of it, do still offer their support to them, and their respect.

Through every Abu Ghraib and Haditha, through every rape and murder, the American public has indulged those in uniform, accepting that the incidents were the product of bad apples or even of some administration or command order.

Sure, it is the junior enlisted men who go to jail. But even at anti-war protests, the focus is firmly on the White House and the policy. We don't see very many "baby killer" epithets being thrown around these days, no one in uniform is being spit upon.

So, we pay the soldiers a decent wage, take care of their families, provide them with housing and medical care and vast social support systems and ship obscene amenities into the war zone for them, we support them in every possible way, and their attitude is that we should in addition roll over and play dead, defer to the military and the generals and let them fight their war, and give up our rights and responsibilities to speak up because they are above society?

I can imagine some post-9/11 moment, when the American people say enough already with the wars against terrorism and those in the national security establishment feel these same frustrations. In my little parable, those in leadership positions shake their heads that the people don't get it, that they don't understand that the threat from terrorism, while difficult to defeat, demands commitment and sacrifice and is very real because it is so shadowy, that the very survival of the United States is at stake. Those Hoovers and Nixons will use these kids in uniform as their soldiers. If it weren't about the United States, I'd say the story would end with a military coup where those in the know, and those with fire in their bellies, would save the nation from the people.

But it is the United States, and the recent NBC report is just an ugly reminder of the price we pay for a mercenary - oops sorry, volunteer - force that thinks it is doing the dirty work.

The notion of dirty work is that, like laundry, it is something that has to be done but no one else wants to do it. But Iraq is not dirty work: it is not some necessary endeavor; the people just don't believe that anymore.

I'll accept that the soldiers, in order to soldier on, have to believe that they are manning the parapet, and that's where their frustrations come in. I'll accept as well that they are young and naïve and are frustrated with their own lack of progress and the never changing situation in Iraq. Cut off from society and constantly told that everyone supports them, no wonder the debate back home confuses them.

America needs to ponder what it is we really owe those in uniform. I don't believe America needs a draft though I imagine we'd be having a different discussion if we had one.

By William M. Arkin | January 30, 2007; 8:51 AM ET

There are so many inherintly incorrect statements of fact and assumptions in the preceding column that I couldn't begin to touch on them all. This blog would triple in length if I did. I will say this though about the last paragraph of this "op ed" piece. If Mr Arkin truly believes that "America needs to ponder what it is we really owe those in uniform," I would suggest he spend a couple of years living in a place like Iran, North Korea, or Cuba. Maybe then he would understand. If you would like to leave comments for Mr Arkin, you can email him at warkin@igc.org .

And finally, here's a clip from the Fox NewsChannel on Mr. Arkins antics. The man being interviewed is the same man who originally posted Sgt D's letter on blackfive.net.

As I said before, I don't begrude anyone any viewpoint. But before you exercise your right to open your mouth, make sure you know what you are talking about and that you have a valuable contribution to make to the debate. Otherwise we'll exercise our right to tune you out!

TIL NEXT TIME...................

Back In The Groove, January 27, 2007

2008-10-04T19:44:00.001-07:00

Well, the first week of the new job is now in the books! Working for this new company is going to be a pretty cool deal. I generally don't spend a lot of time talking about this kind of stuff in my blogs, but these people are really good people and I am extremely pleased to be a part of the organization. Although I am still trying to get the "lay of the land" (so to speak), I suspect that this is the beginning of another long run with a great group of people.

There's lots of other stuff going on in the world out there too that deserves some attention. For all the NASCAR fans, Daytona is coming up soon. There is a cool story there about a guy who's attempting to become the oldest man to ever qualify for the race. We'll talk about that a bit as qualifying gets closer. Of course, there's lots of political nonsense going on to write about. And then there's the Rosie/Donald Trump fiasco.

Since that one is "old news" by now, I'm not going to waste an entire blog on it. But since I wasn't around when it all went down, I will say this........Both Rosie and Donald Trump are nothing more over publicized and over paid windbags. I'm not in any shape, form, or fashion a fan of either. Having said that though, I think Rosie needs to pick her fights a little better. She started that whole deal by sticking her nose where it didn't belong. If she were as intelligent as she would like us all to believe, she should have known that Donald Trump is the last person she would want to engage in a public war of words and especially over something as trival as "Miss America." In the big picture, neither of them have anything of any socially redeaming value to offer those who reside in "Middle America," but they certainly did provide an entertaining distraction from the post holiday doldrums we seem to experience this time every year.

With that, I think this entry is about complete. As I close tonight though, I do want to thank everyone who has sent message of well wishes and support over the past couple of months. You guys are some really special people and you all are a big reason for the success of this 360 community. Thanks Again! And.................

Til Next Time

originally posted 1-27-07 on Yahoo 360

New Year, New Gig, New Attitude! January 24, 2007

2008-10-04T19:38:00.001-07:00

I'm Back.........Finally! The day after my last entry something not totally unexpected, but still a jolt to the system, occurred. For the first time in my life, I was unemployed. I and over a dozen other employees in two locations were told that "our services" would no longer be needed and that we "were not being retained." No explanations, no thank you for your time and work, no nothing. That said, I'm not going to waste time bashing these people because quite frankly my time is more valuable than that and more importantly, even though it real easy to go down that road....it just isn't my style. I do, however, want to publicly acknowledge some people and things that happened that day. First off, our general manager, who was also "not retained," was the one who had to break the news to us. From my perspective and to his credit, he handled the whole distasteful affair with a grace, dignity, and style that is often missing in today's corporate environment. As for our former employer, Regent Communications, I just can't say enough about the class they showed through this episode. Not just with their words of support, but with their actions well. I'm not going to get into the details, but suffice to say, I walked away from my time with this company with nothing but repect for the whole organization.

So November 30th, I started a relaxing 30 day vacation by laughingly saying to my wife that the new owners must not have seen the humor in my last blog. Oh well, it's their problem not mine. I spent the next month, including a wonderful Christmas and New Years, relaxing, enjoying some real quality time with my family, and just re-energizing. Ahhhhhh! That felt good!

Then, the first week of January I set my sights on my next adventure. It took about three weeks to get all the details worked out. This past Monday, I signed the agreement and yesterday I started. Even after all these years, the first day of a new job still feels like the first day of school after summer vacation.....and more so when you consider that some of my new co-workers were also co-workers at various points during my last job. Yep! "The Band is Back Together".......or at least partially anyway.

So there you have it......THAT'S WHAT I DID ON MY CHRISTMAS VACATION!

Now it's a New Year with a New Gig and a New Attitude!

Til Next Time!

Originally posted 1-24-07 on Yahoo 360

Playing Hooky, November 29, 2006

2008-10-03T23:36:00.000-07:00

Today, I decided I wasn't going to work. Some would call it playing hooky, but in reality, I'm just burning off the last of my excess vacation days before the new owners take over. Either way, the end result is the same.....a nice, quiet, relaxing day. Just the same as if I were playing hooky.

And speaking of playing hooky, I came across an article written by the folks at careerbuilder.com. The article said that 32 percent of workers have used bogus excuses in the last year. Senior career adviser Jennifer Sullivan said many people are using sick days as "mental health days" to catch up on sleep or simply relax.

One in 10 admitted to doing so three times or more in the last year. Not only are workers using bogus reasons for missing work, but the excuses are getting more creative as well. For those of you who actually told the teacher that your dog ate your homework, you can rest easy in knowing that there are a variety of "grownup versions" of that all time favorite excuse. Below is a list of some of the most unusal excuses given to supervisors by employees playing hooky......

1. Employee was poisoned by his mother-in-law.
2. A buffalo escaped from the game reserve and kept charging the employee every time she tried to go to her car from her house.
3. Employee was feeling all the symptoms of his expecting wife.
4. Employee called from his cell phone, said he was accidentally locked in a restroom stall and no one was around to let him out.
5. Employee broke his leg snowboarding off his roof while drunk.
6. Employee's wife said he couldn't come into work because he had a lot of chores to do around the house.
7. One of the walls in the employee's home fell off the night before.
8. Employee's mother was in jail.
9. A skunk got into the employee's house and sprayed all of his uniforms.
10. Employee had bad hiccups.
11. Employee blew his nose so hard, his back went out.
12. Employee's horses got loose and were running down the highway.
13. Employee was hit by a bus while walking.
14. Employee's dog swallowed her bus pass.
15. Employee was sad.

Hmmm.......wonder if any of these will work tomorrow when the new owners take over.

Til next time...............

Originally posted 11-29-06 on Yahoo 360

Creative Uses For The Leftover Turkey, November 27, 2006

2008-10-03T23:29:00.001-07:00

Okay....That Thanksgiving meal was great! Friday and Saturday, the turkey sandwiches tasted pretty good. But by Sunday afternoon, this whole turkey business was starting to get kinda old. Now it's Monday night and you're just about ready to toss all the leftovers out! Before you do though, here's a few ideas I found to keep me from wasting that perfectly good food!

1. Barbecued turkey for open face sandwiches is simple to make. Shred or cut up leftover turkey and add your favorite barbecue sauce. Presto, it's done. Yeah, I know....you're saying, "But it's a sandwich!" Yes, it's a sandwich, but by shredding it and adding the BBQ sauce and other condiments of your choosing it becomes the King of Turkey Sandwiches!" If you just can't get past the sandwich thing....try tossing the ingrediants on a tortilla and heat it in a pan to make it a nice and toasty wrap!

2. Turkey and noodles are made just the same as chicken and noodles. Cook the noodles and add turkey. You can add chicken boullion if necessary and vegetables if you like. Not exactly my favorite, but lots of people do like it...so what the hey!

3.Turkey salad: Add a cup or more of diced turkey meat to shredded lettuce, minced onion, shredded cheese and sliced black olives. Top with sour cream or ranch dressing. I did this one tonight with a couple of minor changes. I dropped the olives and lettuce. I added a light coating of BBQ sauce in place of the ranch dressing or sour cream and added some extra cheese. I then heated it a small skillet for about 7-10 minutes and served on top of salad croutons. It was really good!

4.Turkey sandwich spread can be made in a food processor or blender. Add whatever suits you - pickles, onions, cheese, etc., to a cup of turkey and a tablespoon or more of mayonnaise or creamy salad dressing, then blend until it's fairly smooth.

But what if you've used all the "good meat"? If you've picked the best and biggest chunks of meat, you still have quite a bit of turkey left. It's time to cook the carcass in a big pot. Break it in two if you need, cover with water and simmer for an hour or more, until the meat begins to fall off the bones. Cool and pick the meat off and portion it into containers for use right away or for the freezer. Strain the leftover liquid and freeze for using with the turkey later. Or you can freeze it with the turkey if you only intend to make casseroles or soups with it.

Turkey is generally frugal meat anyway, but you can make it even more so by using it all. Get the absolute most from that turkey.

Originally posted 11-27-06 on Yahoo 360

A Pair Of Classless Acts! November 24, 2006

2008-10-03T23:09:00.000-07:00

One of the many Thanksgiving Day traditions that many Americans enjoy is football and for many years the Detroit Lions have been a part of that tradition. Yesterday however, I think the Lions organization and fans hit an all-time low during the introduction of the offensive lineup for their opponents.....the Miami Dolphins.

During the player introductions, all of the offensive players for the Dolphins were introduced by the number on their jersey only....except for one player. The Ford Field Public Address Announcer called Dolphin QB Joey Harrington by name which resulted in Harrington being greeted with a resounding round of boos and catcalls. For those of you who are fans of the NFL, you know the story of Harrington and the Lions. For those of you who aren't....here's a quick cliff notes version of the story.

Harrington was a highly touted NFL prospect as he played QB at the University of Oregon. In 2002, the Lions made him a high draft choice and touted him as the savior of a franchise that has had a history of floundering as soon as they approach anything that could remotely be considered success. Through a series of horrible personnel decision made in the front office and the sometimes intentional underperformance of other highly payed team members, the Lions continued to suffer through losing season after losing season, becoming an embarassement for the city of Detroit. During this time, Harrington was expected to carry this team on his shoulders and turn this group of losers into winners. Throughout his 4 year stint in Detroit, Harrington kept his head held high, a positive attitude, and never publicly utterred a negative word about his employers, his teammates, or the city he called home. Then in May of this year, just when it looked as though the Lions had drained all of the life they could from the talented Harrington, they traded him to the Dolphins. A decision that would come back to haunt them.

More to the point of this post though, are the two men in the photo above. Genral Manager Matt Millen, and team owner William Clay Ford. These two men have collectively taken a team with a storied history and run it like the Ford Family has run it's little part of the american auto industry.(Yep! It's the same family.) Ford has a track record of horrible business decisions where the Lions are concerned. Rather than sitting back and letting the people he hires do their jobs, he loves to micro manage from the top. Front office staff members are a dime a dozen to Ford. He's also had 6 head coaches in the last five and half years. Notable names on that list include Bobby Ross, Steve Mariucci, and currently Rod Marinelli . Matt Millen is not any better as GM, plus he has a reputation for a fiery temper and a vengeful streak that I believe was instrumental for the attempt at embarrassing Miami Dolphin Joey Harrington. Yes, the same Joey Harrington that, earlier this year, the Lions discarded because thought they had no more use for him and who Millen blames for much of his horrible record(23-67) as a GM. As for the pa announcer yesterday at Ford Field......pa announcers (in any sport) don't do anything in the course of their duties that isn't planned out well in advance. In the professional ranks they usually take their cues from the front office.

Back in May, when the Lions traded Harrington to the Dolphins, he received a new "lease on his career." The signature on that "new lease" came in the form of Harrington's best performance ever on Thanksgiving Day. Joey went 19 of 29 for 213 yards, 3 tds, and 1 int. leading the Dolphins to a 27-10 victory over the Lions and "two of the NFL's biggest classless acts!"

Originally posted 11-24-06 on Yahoo 360

Thanksgiving...A Frame of Mind, November 23, 2006

2008-10-03T23:03:00.001-07:00

Thanksgiving......It's a holiday that is many things to many people. It has a colorful history that in some cases goes back to a time before organized religon. Recorded history shows us that Thanksgiving celebrations were held by the Ancient Greeks, Hebrews, Romans, Chinese, and Egyptians.

Throughout the history of the human race, people (especially farmers) in many parts of the world held Thanksgiving/Harvest Festivals because they believed that their crops contained spirits that caused their crops to grow and die. They also believed that when their crops were harvested, these spirits would be released to take revenge on the farmers who harvested the crops. Many of these early Thanksgivings were celebrations of the defeat of these spirits.

In the United States, the first Thanksgiving (the one we all learned about in school) took place in 1621. Contrary to "revisionist history", this first Thanksgiving included BOTH Pilgrams and Native Americans. It would be two centuries later that President Abraham Lincoln would declare Thanksgiving an offical national holiday.

Today, Thanksgiving holds different meanings for different people. For many, it means food, family, and football. For others, it's not much more than just a day off. Some don't celebrate at all because they don't feel they have anything to be thankful for or they don't like the "pagan-like" origins of the original Thansgiving celebrations.

For me personally, Thanksgiving is more of a frame of mind. It's being thankful for not only what I have, but for what I don't have as well. Since my time in the military and seeing some of the things I've seen, it has also become a "frame of mind" that I try to carry with me throughout the year, not just on the last Thursday of each November.

For each of you on this Thanksgiving Day, my wish is that you have a safe and happy holiday....celebrating in the way you choose, with all the friends, family, and happiness one could hope to have.

Happy Thanksgiving....Til Next Time...................

Originally posted 11-23-06 on Yahoo 360

Odds And Ends, November 21, 2006

2008-10-03T22:50:00.001-07:00

As I write tonight, I am beginning the first of five days off over the long Thanksgiving weekend. Next week the new owners take over at the radio station and except for Christmas, I doubt I'll be getting much time off for a while. So you can bet I'll be enjoying this week off!!

I have a ton of stuff I could write about, but somehow.....this just seems like a night to keep things lite. So I have a few things I found in various places that seemed interesting and entertaining. Almost none of these made the mainstream newscasts. Seems that we were too interested in that piece of garbage named OJ Simpson....oh..wait, I wrote about that. Then there was the debut of the PS3.....nope, I did that one too. Oh well, you get the idea. Anyway here are some things that caught my eye that wasn't on the news........maybe you find them interesting too!

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In the South Pacific, an underwater volcano has given birth to a new island. The land mass, as of yet unamed and still steaming, is aproximately one mile in diameter and has four distinct peaks. The crew of the yacht "Maiken" are believed to be among the first to see this island as it formed. The "Maiken" was a day out of Tonga enroute to Fiji when the crew noticed the land mass rising from the water. Oh I smell a Discovery or National Geographic Channel special coming soon!!!

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A couple of weeks ago, it was announced that the Israeli military and General Dynamics have developed a new weapon in the fight against roadside bombs, land mines, and suicide bombers. The new weapon is called "Thor" and is a high energy laser weapon that allows the user to rapidly clear unexploded ordnance and defeat IEDs by inducing a low-order burn reaction in the explosive from a safe distance before they can kill or injure troops or unsuspecting civilians. Funny thing about this story though, I only heard it once on Paul Harvey's daily broadcast & nowhere else since. I was able to find this about Thor on the internet. The disappointing thing about this story is that I had to go to an Israeli newspaper to read about Thor. I guess our media was more interested in OJ and PS3 than they were in sharing some potentially great news for our troops involved in the war in Iraq and the War on Terror.

--------------------

And Forbes Magazine has come out with it's list of the world's richest fictional characters. "The winner.... Defense Contractor, Oliver"Daddy" Warbucks. Warbucks, a lieutenant general in the comic strip Little Orphan Annie, unseats Santa from the top position for the first time with an estimated net worth of $36.2 billion with the conflict in Iraq boosting his fortune." I swear, I wish I had been the one to make this stuff up......it's a riot for sure AND it gets better. "We still estimate Claus' net worth as infinite, but we excluded him from this year's rankings after being bombarded by letters from outraged children insisting that Claus is 'real'," according to a statement from Forbes.com. Other drop-offs include Ebenezer Scrooge, who gave much of his fortune to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation; Superman nemesis Lex Luther, who blew billions trying to take over the world; and Cruella De Vil as demand for fur coats plummeted. The new annual list with an aggregate fictional net worth of $111 billion includes Mr. Monopoly, spam entrepreneur Prince Abakaliki of Nigeria, and videogame plumber Mario. Second place goes to Charles Montgomery Burns, owner of the Springfield nuclear power plant in the cartoon TV show "The Simpsons" worth an estimated $16.8 billion after announcing a "technology exchange" with North Korean leader Kim Jong II. I guess the folks at Forbes have gotten tired of trying to convince the liberals that our economy is actually doing pretty good. Either that or they decided they needed some way to amuse themselves since their boss Steven Forbes isn't planning another presidential campaign anytime soon. SEE THE ENTIRE LIST HERE!

And then there's this...........

In White Plains, New York, 32 year old Oscar Aponte is going BACK to jail after briefly flirting with freedom. You see, after serving his original sentence, Aponte was released from prison just before Halloween. But before he left the facility, Aponte decided he wanted to keep his orange prison issue jumpsuit. So he took it.....and wore it on Halloween night as he took his daughter trick or treating. Their first stop on this night of father-daughter fun? The home of a local deputy sheriff. Nuff said! LOL I swear I could feel MY IQ dropping as I typed that one! LOL

TIL NEXT TIME...................................

Originally posted 11-21-06 on Yahoo 360

Public Pressure Really Can Work! November 20, 2006

2008-10-03T22:39:00.000-07:00

Today we learned that the "People" can be heard when they speak in a loud and united voice. News Corp. Chairman and Managing Direcor Rupert Murdoch has pulled the plug on the OJ Simpson special where Simpson was to tell the world "If I had ... blah blah blah."

Because of the intense public outcry over Simpson's book deal and matching tv special on FOX.....the books are being recalled from stores and the tv special has been cancelled. But it wasn't just public outcry that got Murdoch attention. There were some rather tense conversations taking place even within the FOX family. Fox affilliates owned by Lin Broadcasting and Pappas Broadcasting pulled the show from their respective schedules and the folks at Fox NewsChannel were very vocal in their opposition to the airing of this hideous show by their sister network. On the air, it was Bill O'Reilly and Sheppard Smith who were most vocal on the issue. Smith went as far to say the show was "airing on FOX....but not this Fox Channel." In announcing the cancellation of the show and book recall, Rupert Murdoch said, "I and senior management agree with the American public that this was an ill-considered project." He also apologized for any pain this has caused the families of Ron Goldman and Nicole Brown-Simpson.

For once, it appears that basic human decency trumped ratings & the lust for money. Doing the right thing is something that, in recent years, has become almost non-existent in the media and Hollywood, but this time right won out. The American public stood up and made their voices heard by the hundreds of thousands. A major network was reminded that there are lines that can not and should never be crossed. But we also learned another very important lesson....when applied properly, public pressure really can work.

Would you have read the book or watched the tv special?(closed poll)

Yes, I already bought the soda & popcorn! 0
No, not even with your eyes! 5
I don't have clue! 0

originally posted 11-20-06 on Yahoo 360

Weekend Funnies! November 18, 2006

2008-10-03T22:26:00.000-07:00

TICKLE ME ELMO FACTORY

There is a factory in Northern Minnesota which makes the Tickle Me Elmo toys. The toy laughs when you tickle it under the arms.

Well, Lena is hired at The Tickle Me Elmo factory and she reports for her first day promptly at 8:00 AM.

The next day at 8:45 AM there is a knock at the Personnel Manager's door. The Foreman throws open the door and begins to rant about the new employee.

He complains that she is incredibly slow and the whole line is backing up, putting the entire production line behind schedule.

The Personnel Manager decides he should see this for himself, so the 2 men march down to the factory floor. When they get there the line is so backed up that there are Tickle Me Elmo's all over the factory floor and they're
really beginning to pile up.

At the end of the line stands Lena surrounded by mountains of Tickle Me Elmo's. She has a roll of plush red fabric and a huge bag of small marbles.

The 2 men watch in amazement as she cuts a little piece of fabric, wraps it around two marbles and begins to carefully sew the little package between Elmo's legs.

The Personnel Manager bursts into laughter. After several minutes of hysterics he pulls himself together and approaches Lena.

"I'm sorry," he says to her, barely able to keep a straight face, "but I think you misunderstood the instructions I gave you yesterday..." "Your job is to give Elmo two test tickles."

DOG OWNER ALERT

Law enforcement officals in the southern United States have issued an advisory to all dog owners to keep their animals inside until further notice. Officials say snipers throughout the south are targeting canines at an alarming rate. Deaths have been reported 17 different cities across the south. Officals can come up with no motive and have few leads. However, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation has released this picture of an individual wanted for questioning in the matter. (scroll down)

FOR THE LADIES.......MEN ARE LIKE

1. Men are like...Laxatives...They irritate the crap out of you.
2. Men are like...Weather...Nothing can be done to change them.
3. Men are like...Blenders...You need One, but you're not quite sure why.
4. Men are like...Chocolate...Sweet, smooth, & they head right for your hips.
5. Men are like...Commercials...You can't believe a word they say.
6. Men are like...Department Stores...Their clothes are always 1/2 off.
7. Men are like...Government Bonds...They take soooooooo long to mature.
8. Men are like...Mascara...They usually run at the first sign of emotion.
9. Men are like...Popcorn...They satisfy you, but only for a little while.
10. Men are like...Lava Lamps...Fun to look at, but not very bright.
11. Men are like...Parking Spots...The good ones are taken, the rest are handicapped.

GOTTA LOVE THEM SOUTHERN GIRLS

A girl from the south and a girl from the east coast were seated side by side on an airplane. The girl from south, being friendly and all, said, "So, where you from?"

The east coast girl said, "From a place where they know better than to use a preposition at the end of a sentence."

The girl from south, sat quietly for a few moments and then replied: "SO, WHERE YOU FROM, WITCH??"

HOW BLONDE IS SHE????

She was so blonde that she thought a quarterback was a refund, she thought General Motors was in the Marines, she thought meow mix was a cd for cats, she thought Boyz II Men was a daycare center, and at the bottom of the employment application where it says sign here, she was so blonde that she wrote "Taurus."

She was so blonde that she took a ruler to bed with her to see how long she slept, she sent a fax with a stamp on it, under "education" on her job application...she put "hooked on phonics."

She was so blonde she tripped over a cordless phone, she spent 20 minutes looking at the orange juice can because it said "concentrate," she told her friend to meet her at the corner of walk and don't walk, and she tried to put M&M's in alphabetical order.

She was so blonde that she studied for a blood test, she sold her car for gas money, she missed the #44 bus...so she took the #22 twice, and when she saw the sign that said "Airport Left".....she turned around and went home.

She was so blond that when she heard that 90% of all crimes occur around the home...she moved, she thought if she spoke her mind....she'd be speechless, she thought she couldn't use her am radio in the evening, and then my personal favorite............SHE THOUGHT TACO BELL WAS A MEXICAN TELEPHONE COMPANY!

AND THEN THERE'S THIS................

Why Rednecks Can't Be Paramedics......A couple of rednecks are out in the woods hunting when one of them grabs his chest and falls to the ground. He doesn't seem to be breathing; his eyes are rolled back in his head. the other guy whips out his cell phone and calls 911. He gasps to the operator, "I think Bubba is dead, what should I do?" The operator, in a calm soothing voice says, "Just take it easy and follow my instructions. First, lets make sure he's dead." There is silence on the line for a couple of moments....then a loud shout.

Bubba's friend then comes back on the line and says....."Okay, now what?"

Til next time!!!

Originally posted 11-18-06 on Yahoo 360

All For The Love Of Gaming, November 17, 2006

2008-10-03T22:17:00.000-07:00

Maybe I'm just getting old, maybe it's that I'm partial to XBOX, or maybe I'm just too much of a cynic to get sucked into the hype. Whatever it is, I just don't get the insanity we've seen surrounding the release of Play Station 3. Fights, stabbings, people getting shot, stampedes, and people standing in long lines for days (sometimes in the rain)......all for a game.

Here in the Oroville/Chico area, there were aproximately 50 to 60 units available between two Walmarts and one Best Buy location. Not many considering that we have two colleges, five high schools, and an overall population well over 100, 000. All you had to do was turn on the television to see the insane behavior of the people trying to get one of those coveted gaming consoles.

For me personally, I'd rather stick with XBOX. I just like it and see no need to change. Not to mention the fact that I'd have to go out and buy all new games for a PS3 console. No thanks! I just wait for a awhile for more inventory and lower prices. Even then, there's no guarantee I'd get one.

As for Sony, well, I understand why they shipped so few units nationwide, but if they weren't prepared...they should have waited. I guess the "leave'em wanting more" view point won out. At some point though, the decision makers at Sony have to acknowledge the kaos their decision created and take steps to make sure it never happens again. That said though, this episode also showed us just how far some individuals will go to obtain material items that in the end really aren't that important. I'm not sure which is worse.

I love my video games as much as the next guy (or girl), but they don't rule my life. I didn't stand in long lines, I didn't stand in the rain, I didn't punch, stab, or shoot anybody, and I didn't disrespect my fellow human beings. I didn't do any of it....all for the love of gaming.

Til next time........

Did you or would you stand in line for a new game console in short supply?(closed poll)

Did! 0
Would! 0
Nope! 11

Originally posted 11-17-06 on Yahoo 360

They Still Don't Get It! November 15, 2006

2008-09-14T16:48:00.001-07:00

Well, it looks like the election honeymoon lasted about a week. Now those inside the Beltway are getting down to the business of jockeying and positioning for seats of power within both parties in the upcoming new Congress that soon will soon take control. Today, the Republicans tapped Mississippi's Trent Lott for the position of minority whip by a single vote. Lott was ousted from the majority leader post four years ago after making improper remarks during a tribute to Senator Strom Thurmond. For my money, Senator Lamar Alexander from Tennessee would have been a much better choice. Alexander, former Governor of Tennessee and former presidential candidate, is a great example of everything that right with the Republican Party and not one to bow to pressure from fellow legislators. That, most likely, was also his undoing in his bid to become minority whip.

Then we come to the democrats......New majority leader Nancy Pelosi of California made a huge deal prior to the election, and in the week following, about taking America in a new direction. One of her big mantras was the she would work tirelessly to rid America's legislative body of "the graft and coruption currently associated with the Republican led Congress." Ok Ms Pelosi, let's see what you have for us so far..........

First, there's her support for John Murtha in his bid to become the #2 Dem behind behind Pelosi herself in the coming Congress. Putting aside Murtha's current stance on the Iraq war, lets look at some other Murtha tidbits. John Murtha was a major target in the FBI's ABSCAM investigation. During this investigation Murtha was caught on tape with FBI agents posing as Middle Eastern businessmen who were attempting to bribe members Congress in return for political favors for a fictional Arab sheik. On the tape (abscam 1 & abscam 2) Murtha appeared willing to deal with the men but wanted to test the waters first by getting them to invest in his district. The House Ethics Committee eventually voted along party lines not to punish Murtha because, after learning of the video, he chose to testify against fellow congressmen. The special counsel to the committee was so disgusted by the proceeding that he resigned in protest.

Then for chairmanship of the House Intelligence Committee, well Pelosi wants to see Alcee Hastings get the nod there. Yep! The same Alcee Hastings that was impeached from the federal bench where as a judge, he was found to be guilty of conspiracy and accepting bribes.

What is this broad thinking????? You tell us you get the message and then turn around and promote these two people, who should be under the jail, for prominent leadership positions in our nations Congress?......deep cleansing breaths.......deep cleansing breaths

Election night, I said we'll see. Now, I guess we have. And guess what, Presidential campaigning starts shortly. Geez.........I can't wait!

Til next time....................

Originally posted 11/15/06 on Yahoo 360

Should've Taken The Train, November 12, 2006

2008-09-14T16:18:00.001-07:00

Fortunately, I have never had a problem with Aviophobia (fear of flying). If I were the type to be prone to these types of fears, these pictures would probably be enough to push me right over the edge.......and finally.

Til next time............................

If you had all three options available to you, which would you choose?

Planes 8
Trains 1
Automobiles 6

Talking Old Soldiers, November 10, 2006

2008-09-14T15:49:00.001-07:00

Today as the rest of America celebrates Veterans Day, my thoughts wandered back to a time a few summers back and to a stranger whose name I would never learn, but a man I would come to respect immensely. It was a summer when money was tight at times and car problems of one sort or another seemed to pop up every other day. On this particular day, we were trying to fix another of those problems and getting frustrated because things with the car just weren't going well. At the point where I was about to walk away in total frustration, this old man appeared from out of nowhere and offered a hand. After a few short moments, the problem was fixed and needless to say, I was very happy. We shared a cold drink while the old man and I chatted for a while. During the course of our conversation, I learned that he was a vet from the Korea and Vietnam eras. He saw and experienced more during his service to our country than most people do in a lifetime. And though he denied it, it was obvious from his appearance and what he was carrying with him that he was homeless. I tried to pay him for his help, but he refused. Like most veterans down on their luck, his pride would not allow him to accept the money. I was so enamored with his story that I never thought to ask his name. I did, though, see him walking up and down the street over the rest of the summer. We would always exchange greetings or handshakes and general conversation, but he was forever reluctant accept help saying that charity should be reserved for those who were worse off than him. As we entered fall and the weather cooled, we found where he was sleeping and tried to keep up with him and make sure he was ok. Then at Thanksgiving, we were planning to have him as a guest for our holiday dinner.....but we couldn't find him. We never saw the old man again and I have no idea what happened to him. That was several summers back, but to this day he still crosses my mind every once in a while.....especially on days like today. So for that old friend (where ever he may be) and all the other veterans out there (where ever you may be) I'll say a prayer of thanks and gratitude for you and your service. And of everyone else, I ask only that you say thanks to vet. Shake their hand and look them square in the eye as you thank them. It's a simple gesture that only takes a moment, doesn't cost a thing, and will mean more than almost anything else that he or she will experience that day.

"Talking Old Soldiers" Elton John & Bernie Taupin

Why hello, say can I buy you another glass of beer
Well thanks a lot that's kind of you, it's nice to know you care
These days there's so much going on
No one seems to want to know
I may be just an old soldier to some
But I know how it feels to grow old

Yeah that's right, you can see me here most every night
You'll always see me staring at the walls and at the lights
Funny I remember oh it's years ago I'd say
I'd stand at that bar with my friends who've passed away
And drink three times the beer that I can drink today
Yes I know how it feels to grow old

I know what they're saying son
There goes old man Joe again
Well I may be mad at that I've seen enough
To make a man go out his brains
Well do they know what it's like
To have a graveyard as a friend
`Cause that's where they are boy, all of them
Don't seem likely I'll get friends like that again

Well it's time I moved off
But it's been great just listening to you
And I might even see you next time I'm passing through
You're right there's so much going on
No one seems to want to know
So keep well, keep well old friend
And have another drink on me
Just ignore all the others you got your memories
You got your memories

Til Next Time...............

When The Dust Settles, November 07, 2006

2008-09-14T11:38:00.000-07:00

Well, late on this Election Night 2006, it seems that a very loud and clear message has been sent. "Throw the Bums Out!" Yes indeed, the Democrats have finally acheived pretty much what they wanted. They now have control of the House and at this late hour the Senate is still up for grabs. In all probability, Nancy Pelosi will be the next Speaker of the House. She will have to come closer to the middle though because many of the incoming Democrats are no where near as liberal as the leadership is. In plain english, many of the newly elected Democrats appear to be more moderate when it comes to things like the Second Amendment, Flag Burning, and some abortion issues just to name a few. In some instances, you might see some of these moderate Democrats joining the Republicans on some of these issues.

One thing has not changed though......When the dust settles this country still has three major problems that have to to be addressed in a serious and honest fashion.

1. Immigration---There is not a single example of a country, society, or civilization in the history of planet earth that has survived without controlled immigration and borders. It's no different this time either. If you can find an example of one, email me and prove me wrong. But I don't think anyone can.

2. The War in Iraq---This is a touchy one for people like me. I was there the first time and felt that it was handled horribly in the end. We gave a people their country back but we also let a lot of people down back then. This is our chance to make it right and it's not too late to accomplish that. Our nation has the best military on the planet that is more than capable of any task given. We have done a lot of good things for the people of Iraq, but it has been clear for some time that some changes need to be made both in big picture strategy and leadership at the Defense Department. It's also clear that "cut and run" or "immediate redeployment" is not nor will it ever be an acceptable answer. All that will accomplish is to make our military and our nation look weak and open us up for even more problems down the road. Now it's time for the Democrats stand up, stop bashing the President, and deal with this war in a serious bi-partisan manner to come up with an acceptable plan that acomplishs our goals while giving our troops the tools and the latitude they need to do the job correctly.

3. And finally, the War on Terror---It is time that liberals across the country take this issue seriously. We are facing an enemy that is fighting by a completely different set of rules than we are. This can only end badly unless the bickering over the handling of terrorists and the execution of this war on terror ends and ends now. The enemy has been very clear and deadly serious in it's intent where western society is concerned. History has proved that they are more than capable of carrying out that intent. That is not going to change because the Democrats won big tonight.

So America has made it's voice heard and now it's time to get down to business. The solutions to this nation's problems are not out of reach, but it's going to take everyone working together to get there. And it will be up to us to hold our new House and Senate accountable for making that happen.

Til next time.................

Did You Vote Today? (closed poll)

Yes 10
No 0

Originally posted 11/7/08 on Yahoo 360

Slipped Another One By Us, November 06, 2006

2008-09-14T11:16:00.001-07:00

Across America, people look at the state of California and just shake their heads. From Hollywood in the south to Berkley and San Francisco in the north, the state of California has some real winners breathing our air here in the "Golden State." No where is that more obvious than at the state capital in Sacramento. The people that the "left coasters" elect to the State Assembly and Senate are the best example I can give you of everything that is wrong here in California. We have assembly members who actually voted against a bill that would have made it a sex crime to posses even one child pornography picture. Then there is the assembly member name Gil "One Bill Gil" Sedeo. He has earned the nickname "One Bill Gill" because over the last few years, the only bill he has proposed in the assembly is one to give drivers licenses to illegals...repeatedly, year after year. It even cost one governor his job.

The list of goofy stuff our state assembly tries to shove down our throats is never ending. At times it's hard to even act suprised when it comes to some of their proposals. But I think they have finally found a way to top even the most bizzare of their past actions.

About eight weeks ago with virtually no publicity, Debra Bowen (D) Redondo Beach (yes the same Debra Bowen whose Voters Bill of Rights I wrote about yesterday) carried a bill in the state senate that, if signed into law, would give California's 55 Electorial College votes to the winner of the national popular vote in presidential elections. Her reasoning was that it would increase California's influence when it comes to who occupies the White House and therefore forcing candidates to spend more time in California.

What Ms Bowen, the bill's original authors, and its supporters aren't taking into account is precisely the potential senario that we have seen in the last two presidential elections. Let's say that California's 55 electoral votes go to the winner of the national poular vote. Let's also say that the final count is really, really close.....like it was in the 2000 Bush-Gore contest. Instead of having the fiasco of a Florida like recount, we would have the total unfettered chaos of a national recount. Imagine for a moment what that would be like. Lawyers in every polling place during the election, lawyers in every elections office after the election, months of recounting votes, and years and years of crying and whinning from the losers. Yes it would be chaos of epic porportions. Florida times 50.....

Secondly, there is the possibility that California's 55 electoral votes could end up going to a candidate that the majority of Californians would never support. So, in theory you could have a candidate that is extremely popular east of the Mississippi but maybe not out west. And if they won the popular vote, you could have all of California's electorial going to a candidate that only a minority of Californians voted for.

A huge portion of the country might chuckle at that prospect and say it serves California right, but before you laugh too loudly, there are 10 other states considering similar legislation including Colorado. Should this become a reality and if you live in a small or rural state this could be extremely bad news for you. This is nothing more than a power grab being played out by liberal leaning urban areas across the country who will stop at nothing to impose their will on the rest of us.

The Wall Street Journal did an excellent piece on this attempt at hijacking our electoral process. You can read about it here........... http://www.opinionjournal.com/columnists/pdupont/?id=110008855 Oh and by the way, don't forget to vote tomorrow!

Til next time..............

originally posted 11/6/06 on Yahoo 360

Voters Bill of Rights, November 05, 2006

2008-09-14T11:05:00.001-07:00

As this mid term election season draws to a close with elections taking place on Tuesday, one thing that I have noticed is that you can't go to a political website without seeing something about something being proposed called a "Voters Bill Of Rights." I'm not exactly sure how I feel about this one. But if there were to be a Voters Bill of Rights created, one right that I certainly would love to see included would go something like this: The right not to be subjected to two, four, or eight years of the losers crying and whining like little girls because their candidates just couldn't cut the mustard. Unfortunately, the way this mid-term election is shaping up, I don't think we'll be seeing that one anytime soon.

But back to the subject at hand......the "Voters Bill of Rights" pictured above comes from a website called www.51capitalmarch.com . This website has some pretty interesting stuff on it that is worth the read if you have the time. Also, out here in California, we have a lady named Debra Bowen running for Secretary of State. She, like many others, has a proposed "Voters Bill of Rights" on her website and it looks something like this:

The ability to register to vote, to cast a ballot, and to have that ballot counted accurately is the very foundation of our democracy. To that end, every one of California's voters is entitled to the following rights:

1. The Right To Register To Vote.
2. The Right To Vote.
3. The Right to Vote In A Tamper-Proof Election.
4. The Right To Vote On Paper.
5. The Right To Have Each Vote Counted Accurately.
6. The Right To Have Election Results Properly Audited.
7. The Right To An Open, Transparent, Public Process.
8. The Right To Elections Officials Who Operate Free of Partisan Influence.
9. The Right To Know that Elected Officials Are Free From the Influence of Campaign Contributions From Voting Machine Vendors.
10. The Right To Find Out How Money Is Being Raised And Spent In The Political Process.

Now after having having read this and perusing her website for a bit, three thoughts immediately come to mind.

1. Her website contains endorsements from several liberal newspapers, a couple dozen prominent democrat/liberal politicans on both the state and national level, and three times as many liberal organizations across the state. So much for voters right # 8.

2. Going back to my earlier "crying and whining like a little girl" comment: Read comments 1 thru 6 again. Now don't these sound an awful lot like the moans of the Gore and Kerry supporters from the 2000 and 2004 presidental elections? That crying and whining just never ends does it?

and finally, 3. All this other stuff aside......on most every one of these voters rights pages that I've seen, I have yet to see one single right that isn't already guaranteed by some already granted right or law that is currently on the books. The key is getting our government officials (whether elected or appointed) to enforce the laws that are already on the books. Whether it's elections, immigration, or any other issue currently being debated.....it is imperative that we hold our elected officials accountable for enforcing laws that are on the books.

Bottom line......Mr Politican that wants my vote......stop wasting my time and tax dollars on things like Voters Bill of Rights or Immigration Reform. All I want you to do, be honest, don't steal, and enforce the all the laws that are on the books....not just the ones that suit you. If you want my vote....that's what you are going to have to do for me.

Til Next Time....................

originally posted 11/5/06 on Yahoo 360

Idiot of the Year! November 01, 2006

2008-09-14T09:34:00.001-07:00

Some people don't get it and some never will. John Kerry happens to be one of them......

THE STATEMENT: “You know, education, if you make the most of it, you study hard, you do your homework and you make an effort to be smart, you can do well. If you don’t, you get stuck in Iraq."

KERRY COMMENT: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLuMWiQ6r2o

BUSH RESPONSE: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbZ5jPJk4Dg

IMUS VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZMRecdL_No

DENNIS MILLER (very entertaining) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8ItdXy9lxI note: This one is not about Kerry's most recent comments, but rather, it's a general assessment of Bush/Kerry/Iraq/UN situation . It shows how some of the Hollywood Community feels about the military, John Kerry, and the UN. It also has some adult language..... so proceed with caution.

BOTTOM LINE: The man is an embarrasement, not only to himself, but to his family, his party, his state, his nation, and the military.....that same military in which he once served. He currently has members of the Democrat Party including Hillary Clinton and Harold Ford of Tennessee telling him he should apologize and some have even gone as far as to cancel scheduled Kerry campaign visits on their behalf.

As a veteran and as a parent of a current servicemember, I find John Kerry one of the, if not the most, offensive politican in America today. He still carries that baggage of an opportunity lost two years ago and his unadulterated hatred for President Bush drives most if not all of everything he says and does today. In addition to making him offensive to most common sense people, it also makes him a very dangerous man. If given the opportunity in 2008, he would drive this country right over the edge of the cliff trying to undo everything that has been accomplished over the last 6 to 10 years. His track record of disdain for the military makes him even more dangerous and undesirable in terms of being commander in chief.

In the words of Don Imus (a Kerry supporter)......"Please stop it. Stop talking. Go home, get on the bike, go wind surfing, anything, stop it." But he won't....we all know he won't. So I think we'll just go ahead and name him our idiot of the year!

originally posted 11/1/06 on Yahoo 360

This is Why Dogs Bite! October 29, 2006

2008-09-14T08:18:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I read a cautionary article, I can't remember where, about reports that dog bites always seem to increase in the fall and early winter. I wonder, if just maybe, this might have something to do with it?

I pity the fool who calls me pumpkin head!Maybe doing those Taco Bell commercials wasn't so bad after all!YO YO YO!!!!!Whatever!!!!No! Trust Me!! It Tastes Like Chicken! It Really Does!!!Who's the dumb dog now?!?!?!I swear, the next one that says I look like Cap'n Jack is going to be my personal chew toy!!!
Hey Ralphie!! Tell me again.....Why is it they call us man's best friend?Stop your snickering you fool!!! YOU'RE NEXT!!!!Confucious says..."Just a little closer....pleeeeeze. Just a little closer!"If the guys at the kennel see this, I'll be dead meat!!!
Whadda ya looking at??????Not a word........not a single word!!!!

So there you have it.......and you know something, if I were one of them I'd probably go on a biting rampage too! If you like these, I have a whole folder of these and others like them at Flickr. Just look for the folder labeled "dog-cats halloween." If you have some pics like these that aren't here and you'd like to share, feel free to send them. I'll include them in the folder. Enjoy!

Til next time...........................

Originally posted 10/29/06 on Yahoo 360

Happy 120th!!!! October 28, 2006

2008-09-14T08:08:00.000-07:00

Today marks the 120th anniversary of the dedication of the Statue of Liberty by President Grover Cleveland in front of a huge crowd on Liberty Island. The statue which was a gift of friendship from France was first commissioned in France in the late 1860's with a planned completion 1876 just in time for America's centennial. The first small scale model was completed in 1870 and is still on display today at Jardin du Luxembourg in Paris. Another copy also stands on the river Seine in Paris facing west toward the original statue in New York Harbor.

The Statue of Liberty copy on the river Seine in Paris, France.

Through the years Lady Liberty has served as an actual lighthouse with a beacon that could be seen as far as 24 nautical miles out at sea. It also survived the 1916 Black Tom Explosion but had to undergo much repair work after the explosion. In 1966, the Statue of Liberty, along with Ellis Island and Liberty Island were placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Until 9/11 the Statue was open to all visitors, but after 9/11 and subsequent threats, Liberty Island, Ellis Island, and the Statue itself was closed. In August 2004 the islands and the statue pedestal and museum were reopened to the public, but the interior of the statue remains closed. In June of this year, Senate Bill 3597 was proposed and if approved will re-open the crown and the interior to visitors. In August of 2006, National Park Service Director Fran Mainella, in a letter to Congressman Anthony Weiner of New York stated that the crown and interior of the statue would remain closed indefinitely. The letter stated that "the current access patterns reflect a responsible management strategy in the best interests of all our visitors." Approval or disapproval of SB3597 isn't expected until sometime in mid 2007.

The ravages of time and weather have taken their toll, and yeah she's had a face lift or two...but she still looks great for being 120 years old. If we could look half that good at half her age, we'd be doing pretty good. Happy 120th Lady Liberty! AND HERE'S TO 120 MORE!!!

Til Next Time....................

Midweek Funnies! October 25, 2006

2008-09-14T07:58:00.001-07:00

WHACK!!!

There was this little guy sitting in a bar, drinking his beer, minding his own business when all of a sudden this great big dude comes in and -- WHACK!! -- knocks him off the bar stool and onto the floor. The big dude says, "That was a karate chop from Korea."

The little guy thinks "GEEZ," but he gets back up on the stool and starts drinking again when all of a sudden -- WHACK!! -- the big dude knocks him down AGAIN and says, "That was a judo chop from Japan."

So the little guy has had enough of this... He gets up, brushes himself off and quietly leaves. The little guy is gone for an hour or so when he returned. Without saying a word, he walks up behind the big dude and -- WHAM!!!" -- knocks the big dude off his stool, knocking him out cold!!! The little guy looks at the bartender and says, "When he gets up, tell him that's a crowbar from Sears.

____________________

REDNECK VASECTOMY

A Kentucky couple, both bonifide rednecks, had 9 children.

They went to the doctor to see about getting the husband "fixed". The doctor gladly started the required procedure and asked them what finally made them make the decision--why after nine children, would they choose to do this

The husband replied that they had read in a recent article that one out of every ten children being born in the United States was Mexican, and they didn't want to take a chance on having a Mexican baby because neither of them could speak Spanish.

______________________

BLONDE PAINTER

A blonde, wanting to earn some extra money, decided to hire herself out as a "handy-woman" and started canvassing a nearby well-to-do neighborhood. She went to the front door of the first house, and asked the owner if he had any odd jobs for her to do.

"Well, I guess I could use somebody to paint my porch," he said, " How much will you charge me?" The blonde quickly responded, "How about $50?" The man agreed and told her that the paint and everything she would need was in the garage.

The man's wife, hearing the conversation, said to her husband, "Does she realize that our porch goes all the way around the house?" He responded, "That's a bit cynical, isn't it? The wife replied, "You're right. I guess I'm starting to believe all those dumb blonde jokes we've been getting by e-mail lately."

A short time later, the blonde came to the door to collect her money. "You're finished already?" the husband asked. "Yes," the blonde replied, "and I had paint left over, so I gave it two coats."

Impressed, the man reached into his pocket for the $50.00 and handed it to her. "And by the way," the blonde added, "it's not a Porch, it's a Lexus."

________________________

KIDS SAY THE DARNEDEST THINGS

TEACHER: Maria, go to the map and find North America.
MARIA: Here it is.
TEACHER: Correct. Now class, who discovered America?
CLASS: Maria
TEACHER: John, why are you doing your math multiplication on the floor?
JOHN: You told me to do it without using tables!
TEACHER: Glenn, how do you spell "crocodile?"
GLENN: K-R-O-K-O-D-I-A-L"
TEACHER: No, that's wrong
GLENN: Maybe it is wrong, but you asked me how I spell it.

TEACHER: Winnie, name one important thing that we didn't have ten years ago.
WINNIE: Me!
TEACHER: Glen, why do you always get so dirty?
GLEN: Well, I'm a lot closer to the ground than you are!
TEACHER: Millie, give me a sentence starting with "I."
MILLIE: I is...
TEACHER: No, Millie..... Always say, "I am."
MILLIE: All right..."I am the ninth letter of the alphabet."
TEACHER: George Washington not only chopped down his father's cherry tree, but also admitted it. Now, Louie, do you know why his father didn't punish him? LOUIS: Because George still had the ax in his hand.
TEACHER: Now, Simon, tell me frankly, do you say prayers before eating?
SIMON: No sir, I don't have to, my Mom is a good cook.
TEACHER: Clyde, your composition on "My Dog" is exactly the same as your brother's. Did you copy his?
CLYDE: No, teacher, it's the same dog.
TEACHER: Harold, what do you call a person who keeps on talking when people are no longer interested?
HAROLD: A teacher

TIL NEXT TIME...........

Rules for a Happier Life, October 24, 2006

2008-09-14T07:46:00.000-07:00

Last night I was reading Dueces blog and it got me to thinking about life, the paths we choose, how we treat those we choose to include in our lives, and the lessons we learn or don't learn. Growing up, we are all for the most part conditioned to believe certain things and behave certain ways. Sometimes that conditioning doesn't always take. We have to learn things for ourselves. As we grow older and teach our kids we, many times, find ourselves coming full circle back around to most of the same things we were taught as children, but resisted in our youth.

Here are some (for a lack of a better word) Life Rules that my folks taught or at least tried to teach me. Some I learned the first time. Thanks Mom & Dad! Some, I had to learn for myself......Sometimes the hard way.

1. Follow the three R's Repect for self, Respect for others, and Responsibility for ALL of your actions.

2. Whenever you find yourself having to say "I'm Sorry" to someone, look them in the eye as you say it!

3.Remember that great love and great achievements always involve great risk.

4.If you say "I Love You," mean it.

5.Sometimes, not getting what you want is exactly what you need.

6.Don't let a little argument destroy a great friendship.

7.Spend some time alone everyday.

8.Silence is sometimes the only answer.

9.Keep yourself open to change, but don't let go of your values.

10.During disagreements with loved ones, deal with the present....don't bring up the past.

11.Expand your horizons. Once a year, go someplace you've never been before.

12.Leave you mark by sharing your knowledge. It's the only way to achieve immortality here on earth.

13.Remember, the best relationships are the ones where your love for each other far outweighs your need for each other.

14.Judge your success not by what you gained in the end, but by who you helped along the way.

By today's standards, most of these sound really cliched and really corny. But the funny thing is that they still work well today as much as they ever have in the past. If you think about it for a moment, I bet that some of these apply to you and you didn't even realize it. Yep! That's yet another lesson I learned as I try to pass these on to my boys. And just like me, they'll have to learn some the hard way as they work to build their own happy lives.

Til next time..........

Originally posted 10/24/06 on Yahoo 360

"Generations of Heroes" October 23, 2006

2008-09-14T07:37:00.000-07:00

DALLAS (AP)-Pearl Harbor survivor Houston James embraces Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Mark Graunke Jr. during a Veterans Day commemoration in Dallas yesterday. Sgt. Graunke lost a hand, a leg, and an eye while defusing a bomb in Iraq last year. This weeks images of U.S. troops in combat in Fallujah deepened the day's significance for many who attended tributes in San Diego and across the nation. (from Dallas TX earlier this year)

We truly take much for granted, including our freedom. Forget the football players and movie stars....these men (and the hundreds of thousands of men and women like them) are the true heroes. You don't have to wait for a special holiday to show your gratitude. The next time you pass a veteran or a current servicemember on the street or at the market, shake their hand and say thank you. For without them you most likely would have none of what you have today...including your freedom!

originally posted 10/23/06 on Yahoo 360

Justice Really Is Blind!!! October 22, 2006

2008-09-14T06:59:00.001-07:00

BUT NOT IN THE WAY WE LIKE TO SAY SOMETIMES. This time around, two American Border Patrol Agents were sentenced (this past Thursday) to 11 and 12 years in federal prison......for shooting and illegal alien drug smuggler/dealer in the butt as he tried to flee agents attempting to arrest him.

The U-S Attorney in West Texas originally sought life in prison for Ignacio Ramos and Jose Alonso Compean based on the following charges: assault with serious bodily injury; assault with a deadly weapon; discharge of a firearm in relation to a crime of violence; and civil rights violations. They also were convicted of four counts and two counts, respectively, of obstruction of justice for not reporting that their weapons had been fired. The agents were acquitted of the most serious charge: assault with intent to commit murder.

This drug dealer, Osvaldo Aldrete-Davila was given immunity by the U-S Department of Justice and Homeland Security and free medical care at a U-S Army facility in return for his testimony. Shortly after the trial, this thug from Mexico was caught once again entering the country illegally with a large amount of drugs for resale in his posession. During the trial, there were no witnesses against the agents other than Aldrete-Davila himself. There are some other astounding aspects to this case that are simply put.....unbelievable. (see links below)

This one story is the best example I can find that shows how insane the handling of this nations immigration policy is. Politicians would rather have open borders and put all Americans at risk than admit that the globalist stances of the current adminstration and the idea of a North American Union (just like the European Union) is a horrible idea. I have another blog on this coming soon!

I support President Bush in almost everything he's done so far. One thing I will never support is his globalist views and his immigration policy. That policy and his relationship with the Mexican government is directly responsible for the conviction of these two border patrol agents charged with protecting this nations border.

These two agents came to America as immigrants and legal ones at that. They could have done anything with their lives, but they chose law enforcement. Not only did they choose to give something back to the country that had given them a new home, but they chose probably the most dangerous form of law enforcement when they chose the border patrol. What did they get for their efforts? SCREWED! These two guys, in all probability, kept over one million dollars in drugs out of our schools and off our streets. Ramos, a 10 year Border Patrol veteran, had even been nominated last year for "Border Patrol Agent of the Year." Nice way to say thanks there Uncle Sam. I guess it really is true what they say. Justice is blind. Blind as a frieking bat!

RELATED STORY LINKS!

1. Convicted agent tells his story 2. Troublings aspects of case against two agents 3. Convicted agents find lots of support 4. Agents' case prompts call for probe 5.Agents get congressional support 6. Leaders push for delay in agents case 7. Letter from Congress expresses need for review of agents case 8. Agents request for delay denied 9.Justice Department asked to review case 10. Families wait and worry 11.Jurors say they were misled to convict agents 12. Families get to enjoy holidays before sentence begins.

RELATED SITES

1. Agent Ramos Blog 2. US Attorney response ***note this one is in pdf format. You will need an Acrobat Reader to view this document. It should also be noted that statements contained in this document (presented as fact) are reported to have been taken from the testimony of the illegal alien drug smuggler/dealer with no coroborating evidence. IT WILL MAKE YOUR BLOOD BOIL.

If you have a strong opinion (either way) about this case, you can show your support and make your opinions heard here....

Agents Ramos and Compean US Attorneys Office for West Texas

Til Next time.....................................

Originally posted 10/22/06 on Yahoo 360

Jack-O-Lanterns Gone Wild, October 18, 2006

2008-09-14T06:15:00.000-07:00

Ok, If Snoop Dog can do it all Spring Break, then why can't I do it at Halloween? Hang on tight boys and girls.......it's gonna get weird!

I didn't know pumpkins were cannibals. Poor little fella.

I guess it's a good thing he had a booster seat.

Stop it! That tickles!!!

Pumpkin and Jack........A dangerous combination.

Different drink......same story

Some Pumpkins just can't hold their seeds.

I think some anger management classes are in order.

Mommy! Mommy! What's that pumpkin doing?

....and the party crashing watermelon that just didn't know any better.

And if you think that was weird, just wait until the DVD comes.

Til next time...........

Originally posted 10/18/06 on Yahoo 360.