Time to pony up for the Iron Horse

An article in the November 4th Parade Magazine entitled, "A Better Way to Travel" highlights the current state of the nation's rail transportation system. It is interesting that the mode of transportation that is credited with opening up the westward expansion during the 1800s is now the black sheep of the transportation family.

Having travelled in Europe, I have experienced first hand what a wonderful and exciting trip can be had by rail. In addition, Europeans make it unnecessary to travel by car. To be fair, the entire continent of Europe can fit inside the Eastern half (from the Mississippi east) of the United States, but that doesn't excuse our lack of decent rail transportation.

I would travel to Chicago by rail, except the trip is over 28 hours long each way and costs over $280 round trip. This compares to a trip on American Airlines which would take just over two hours but would cost $448 round trip (which could be lowered to under $225 if I reserve farther in advance). This same trip would take 15 hours by car and cost less than $250 in gas.

If we were to invest in some of the rail technology currently commonplace in other places around the globe, we could reduce that trip to something more in the range of 9-12 hours. This is still longer than a plane trip, but it offers several advantages. First, you can walk freely around the train as it travels. Second, unlike air travel, you will travel regardless of rain, wind, snow, fog, etc. Lastly, rail travel affords time for relaxation, cell phone use, laptop use, reading, watching out the window, and conversation. While some of this is available during air travel, some of it is not and most of it is not available during travel by car.

Given this, I feel that it is time the United States government and the individual states, begin looking to rail travel as a way to reduce dependence on foreign oil and emission of CO2 gases. The federal government pays billions to build and maintain highways, why shouldn't a good portion of that money go towards building and maintaining a reasonable rail system? History has shown that when given the option to take a well-run, on-time, conveniently scheduled train versus any other type of transportation, train useage increases dramatically. It's time to contact your Representatives and Senators and let them know there is a need for federal money to improve and increase our rail availability.

Thoughts anyone?

"Get off the interstate, Ben Stone"

I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to work with a New Store Opening team in upper New York state for the past week. Aside from the chance to mingle with some great people from stores throughout 5 states, I also worked with many of the "locals". It was a week that I won't forget soon.

As I was driving home through the mountains full of changing leaves, I was struck by the thought that we miss an awful lot by staying home or merely relying on planes to carry us from place to place. By "getting off the interstate" (a line from the great movie "Doc Hollywood"), I was able to see the local houses and places of employment. I saw all the diners and auto repair shops. I was able to remember that throughout this country, regardless of political affiliation, religious beliefs, or economic status, we go about our daily lives being in our communities, working with our co-workers, and trying our best to live good lives. It makes you remember how much we are similar. It makes you forget all of the idiosyncracies that drive you crazy about the people in your area. It makes you remember that we are all in this together.

As much as I hate to advocate the use of gas and production of CO2, I encourage all of you to take a drive to someplace different and to appreciate how much we are alike.

Thoughts anyone?

An amazing video about our troops

This video on YouTube shows over 18 million hits. As you watch it, you'll understand why. I especially appreciate the total lack of political overtone and total focus on the humanity of our troops. Watch.....

Go Ann Arbor!!

A recurring theme of this blog is being green. Today's news wires are carrying a story that is very exciting!! It seems that the city of Ann Arbor, Michigan is going to replace all of its street lights with LEDs. As we've discussed previously in this blog, the LED saves a significant amount of electricity (which equals $$$$$) and lasts approximately 10 years to a 2 year life for a regular incandescent bulb.

According to the story, the city expects to recover its costs of installation through energy savings in just 2 years!! This means that the next 8 years of operation (the expected life of the LED) will be money in the taxpayers' pockets. In addition, it will reduce greenhouse gas production in an amount equivalent to taking 400 cars of the road! Where is the downside on this? Why aren't all towns and cities looking at doing this?

Thoughts anyone?

Hillary = less money in your pocket

In an article from the Associated Press, Hillary Clinton is once again discussing raising taxes, but won't do it publicly. Instead, her public answer is quoted to have been, "I don't think I should be negotiating about what I would do as president." I ask you, isn't that the point of a campaign, to tell us what you intend to do as president?!?!

Could it just be that Hillary doesn't want us to know that her plan to "fix" Social Security is to raise our taxes? She apparently privately told a voter that she would leave the current Social Security limit at $97500 of income and then add an additional tax for those who make over $200000. That sounds great except that the tax limit has been raised over the years and it wouldn't take long for the "gap" between $97500 and $200000 would disappear resulting in everyone paying Social Security taxes (14.3%) on all income.

In addition, our income (my wife and myself) would be considered upper class in many parts of the country, but here in the New York metro area (where we happen to have jobs and family, otherwise we would move) we are barely middle class due to the cost of living. Given that, who is Hillary Clinton (or any politician) to say that the "rich" aren't paying their fair share. If she wants to develop a tax based on the relative income based on cost of living in a certain area, then she might be on to something (imagine THAT tax return!). Or.....she could do what was proposed by the Republicans years ago and develop a flat tax.

Thoughts anyone?

When is Illegal wrong?

So Mayor Bloomberg is in trouble from no less than the Governor of New York, who should know better!! It seems that His Honor came out against Spitzer's plan to allow illegal immigrants to get NY Driver's Licenses because he felt that it would be a security risk. Being from the state that provided licenses for several of the 9-11 hijackers, I must say that I can see some validity in his argument.

A variety of Hispanic organizations have attacked Mr. Bloomberg. One spokesman I heard on the radio said that it was "wrong" to not allow the Mexican driving the pickup to his lawn job, or the Hispanic woman who takes care of our children to not get a driver's license. I must disagree. It is NOT wrong, it is the correct attitude because a driver's license is not a right, it is a privilege (at least that is what I was taught before the days of PC). Not only is it a privilege, it is a privilege for CITIZENS of the United States.

Why would we not want to give them licenses? Perhaps it's because they are not in this country legally and have not earned the right. That's generally what the word ILLEGAL in front of immigrant means!! When you run across the border without securing proper entry, then you are violating our laws. You, therefore, should give up the benefits associated with law-abiding citizens (and legally registered aliens).

I am in favor of working on a plan to grant citizenship to those already here if they have established themselves as productive members of our society, but I'm not going to give them the rights due a citizen until they become one.

Thoughts anyone?

Reflections

So as I begin my 46th year here on the planet, I reflect upon the things that I've learned. Despite what other writers may have you believe, I don't think I really learned all that I needed to know in kindergarten. I think that it is my job to learn new things continually. Here are some of the more important things I have learned so far:

1) I've found that Billy Joel was right, "just surviving is a noble fight." Coming out of college I left a good paying job with a reputable company doing something that I enjoyed because I felt that it didn't contribute enough to society. Over the years I've often wondered if I hadn't left that job, how would things have turned out. I've learned that having such a job eliminates one part of your life that you have to worry about and you can use your free time to "change the world" or at least make a bigger difference. By always searching for "the perfect job", you may give up the ability to do other things outside of work.

2) I've learned that my parents were right when they told me that you will probably be able to count the number of true friends on your hands. I have many good friends and am lucky enough to have a great deal of acquaintenances whose company I have and do value, however, there are about 6 people that I feel that I could call at this hour (1:45am) and say, "I need your help tonight" and they would come from across the country without question and they know that I would do the same for them.

3) I've learned that family is important. I've seen families that allow themselves to drift apart, to argue about petty things such as status and belongings, and to keep score on who did what to whom. They are, in the long run, very sad people who end up lonely. This past weekend, I lost an aunt and was fortunate enough to be able to attend a family gathering of aunts and uncles and cousins, literally from all over the country. Amid the mourning, there was joy at the ability to be together and laugh and remember and share. Although we hadn't all been in the same place at the same time in 5 years (fortunately a wedding), we knew we were connected.

4) I've learned that you must do what you think is right. Not right for you, just right. You must be able to look at the "man in the mirror" and know that you've done the best you can for those that you can.

This is what I can come up with on the morn of my new year. I hope that I will have more for you next year.

Thoughts anyone?

It is 9/11

My thoughts and prayers to all of those touched by 9/11/01. If you haven't already, I would encourage you to read some of the articles regarding the day on www.helium.com. They range from the somber to ridiculous. Here is what I wrote:

"We remember because we must. Thousands of lives were snuffed out that day and we wish to honor them as we would any other significant loss of life such as a plane crash, a boat sinking, or an act of war. They were human beings who were doing nothing more than living their daily lives and they were slaughtered. The politics behind it can be discussed, dissected, and debated for years, but that doesn't change the fact that these souls deserve to be remembered.

The emotions behind the remembrance are most definitely geographical. I remember watching the tragedy unfold in Oklahoma City and I felt for those families and rescue workers. I felt their anger and pain while I watched. I will admit, however, that there was a certain emotional detachment that may eventually lead me to write an article using such callous phrases as "shooting an elephant with a BB gun" (but I doubt it). I was because I didn't see the smoke or hear the sirens or know someone who knew someone. That makes it more of an impersonal remembrance, but a remembrance nonetheless.

Being in the New York City area, I watched as black smoke poured out of the towers. I cringed as US Air Force F-16s roared overhead in a desperate attempt to try and keep anything else from happening. I was sobered as I watched National Guard troop helicopters pour into the city. I was scared when I listened to the chaos and uncertainty on my police scanner. We were scared and those of us who live here will never forget that.

As with all memories, the pointedness of the feelings will diminish with time, but they won't be erased. We must remember this day because it is about people who were doing nothing more than living their daily lives. It could've been you or me, and we also need to remember that the danger is still out there, so it still could be you or me, the next time."

Thoughts anyone?

We've got your back

Much is said, and rightly so, of those men and women of the emergency services of New York City that perished in the World Trade Center. They should be remembered always. I cannot even imagine the courage it took to try and fight the hijackers on Flight 93. There were acts of heroism throughout that terrible day in 2001.

As we remember six years later, I wanted to share my recollections from the other side of the river. I am fortunate to be a part of a specialty EMS unit that provides emergency command and control for EMS responders. On the morning of September 11, 2001, we were called to respond to the New Jersey side of the George Washington Bridge to assist in setting up a triage and treatment station for the victims that were expected to pour across the bridge in an effort to try and make it home after the attack.

As we gathered our equipment and personnel, it struck me that I was surrounded by well-trained volunteers from my community. There were college students, business people, firefighters, EMTs, police officers, and others that comprise this unit and they all left work and responded to the call. As our task force made its way from our town to its assigned point, people actually pulled their cars over (a rarity in the New York metro area) and waved out the window for us to go by. Some even shouted, "Go get them". On our way we drove by hastily assembled checkpoints, some manned by obviously off-duty officers who were wearing jeans and a t-shirt with their badges hanging around their necks and guns tucked in their belts.

When we arrived at the GW Bridge Plaza, you could see fire trucks and ambulances, three lanes across, bumper to bumper, sitting and waiting for instructions. Most of these also manned by volunteers. Some of them from towns as far as 100 miles away. All of them mobilized by the various mutual aid and disaster response agencies in the state. They all sat quietly waiting.

We were rerouted to a football field in the local high school where we set up. We were assigned a task force of 20 ambulances to transport our injured to hospitals around the state. Once we set up, people came from surrounding apartment buildings asking us to take blood (which we can't as EMTs). In addition, the high school opened its facility and made all its staff available to us. The man assigned to me as my "runner" (a person who literally runs paperwork from one officer to another to facilitate patient tracking), came to me and said, "Tell me whatever you need me to do." He was later introduced as the principal, someone who is used to running the whole thing.

This type of behavior was repeated throughout the day and throughout the state. In the Meadowlands, a huge staging area was set up and task forces arrived from as far as Delaware and Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, as we all know, most of these resources were not needed because those who made it out were able to receive treatment in NYC and those who didn't couldn't use our help.

The point of the story is, as we remember those who fell, we should also remember that today, just as on September 11, 2001...........we've got your back.

Thoughts anyone?

More Inconvenient Truths

Shame on Al Gore!!! Read on:

"LOOK OVER THE DESCRIPTIONS OF THE FOLLOWING TWO HOUSES AND SEE IF YOU
CAN TELL WHICH BELONGS TO AN ENVIRONMENTALIST. HOUSE

# 1: A 20-room mansion (not including 8 bathrooms) heated by natural
gas. Add on a pool (and a pool house) and a separate guest house all heated by
gas. In ONE MONTH ALONE this mansion consumes more energy than the average
American household in an ENTIRE YEAR. The average bill for electricity and
natural gas runs over $2,400.00 per month. In natural gas alone (which last time
we checked was a fossil fuel), this property consumes more than 20 times the
national average for an American home. This house is not in a northern or
Midwestern "snow belt," either. It's in the South.

HOUSE # 2: Designed by an architecture professor at a leading national
university, this house incorporates every "green" feature current home
construction can provide. The house contains only 4,000 square feet (4 bedrooms)
and is nestled on arid high prairie in the American southwest. A central closet
in the house holds geothermal heat pumps drawing ground water through pipes sunk
300 feet into the ground. The water (usually 67 degrees F.) heats the house in
winter and cools it in summer. The system uses no fossil fuels such as oil or
natural gas, and it consumes 25% of the electricity required for a conventional
heating/cooling system. Rainwater from the roof is collected and funneled into a
25,000 gallon underground cistern. Wastewater from showers, sinks and toilets
goes into underground purifying tanks and then into the cistern. The collected
water then irrigates the land surrounding the house. Flowers and shrubs native
to the area blend the property into the surrounding rural landscape.

HOUSE # 1 (20 room energy guzzling mansion) is outside of Nashville,
Tennessee. It is the abode of that renowned environmentalist (and filmmaker) Al
Gore.

HOUSE # 2 (model eco-friendly house) is on a ranch near Crawford,
Texas. Also known as "the Texas White House," it is the private residence of the
President of the United States, George W. Bush.

So whose house is gentler on the environment? Yet another story you
WON'T hear on CNN, CBS, ABC, NBC, MSNBC or read about in the New York Times or
the Washington Post. Indeed, for Mr. Gore, it's truly "an inconvenient truth."

Here's another example of do as I say, not as I do, brought to you by a leading Democrat! (Once again verified as true by my friends at snopes.com.)

Thoughts anyone?

Hooray for the US Postal Service

Today I got an e-mail story about a kind act from the Postal Service. I checked it with snopes.com and found it to be true. Before I quote it, I just wanted to say that while I am guilty of occasionally complaining about junk mail, slow mail, or other things related to the Postal Service, I would like to note that it is an amazing service to be able to drop a letter in any mailbox around (although they are becoming more scarce) and know that the item I dropped in the box will be received by the party it's addressed to in a matter of days. All this for $.41!

When I read of something like this e-mail, it just adds to my wonderment at the men and women who are out there every day in weather that keeps me inside (too hot, too cold, too rainy, too snowy). Thanks to them. Read this and then do what you feel is right next time you see your mailperson:

"Some of you may know that our 14 year old dog, Abbey, died last month (8/23). The day after she died, my 4 year old daughter Meredith was crying and talking about how much she missed Abbey. She asked if we could write a letter to God so that when Abbey got to heaven, God would recognize her. She dictated and I wrote:

'Dear God,

Will you please take special care of our dog, Abbey? She died yesterday and is heaven. We miss her very much. We are happy that you let us have her as our dog even though she got sick. I hope that you will play with her. She likes to play with balls and swim before she got sick.

I am sending some pictures of her so that when you see her in heaven you will know she is our special dog. But I really do miss her.

Love,Meredith Claire

P.S.: Mommy wrote the words after Mer told them to her'

We put that in an envelope with 2 pictures of Abbey, and addressed it to God/Heaven. We put our return address on it. Then Mer stuck some stamps on the front (because, as she said, it may take lots of stamps to get a letter all the way to heaven) and that afternoon I let her drop it into the letter box at the post office.

For a few days, she would ask if God had gotten the letter yet. I told her that I thought He had. Yesterday, for Labor Day, we took the kids to Austin to a natural history museum. When we got back, there was a package wrapped in gold paper on our front porch. Curious, I went to look at it. It had a gold star card on the front and said "To: Mer" in an unfamiliar hand. Meredith took it in and opened it. Inside was a book by Mr. Rogers, When a Pet Dies.

Taped to the inside front cover was the letter we had written to God, in its opened envelope (which was marked 'Return to Sender: Insufficient address'). On the opposite page, one of the pictures of Abbey was taped under the words "For Meredith." We turned to the back cover, and there was the other picture of Abbey, and this handwritten note on pink paper:

'Dear Mer,

I know that you will be happy to know that Abbey arrived safely and soundly in Heaven! Having the pictures you sent to me was such a big help. I recognized Abbey right away. You know, Meredith, she isn't sick anymore. Her spirit is here with me — just like she stays in your heart — young and running and playing. Abbey loved being your dog, you know.

Since we don't need our bodies in heaven, I don't have any pockets! — so I can't keep your beautiful letter. I am sending it to you with the pictures so that you will have this book to keep and remember Abbey.

One of my angels is taking care of this for me. I hope the little book helps. Thank you for the beautiful letter. Thank your mother for sending it. What a wonderful mother you have! I picked her especially for you.

I send my blessings every day and remember that I love you very much. By the way, I am in heaven and wherever there is love.

Love,God, and the special angel who wrote this after God told her the words."

As a parent and a pet lover, this is one of the kindest things that I've ever experienced. I have no way to know who sent it, but there is some very kind soul working in the dead letter office. Just wanted to share this act of compassion :) dear friend — hope you enjoy it as much as I did"

Snopes.com can tell you the details on when and where this happened, but they did verify that it is true.

Thoughts anyone?

A quick note

Sorry I haven't posted recently but I've been preparing for a wonderful cruise to Alaska aboard the Radiance of the Seas (Royal Carribean). I am currently posting from their via wireless connection. I will post more in depth soon, but in the meantime I would encourage you to go to www.helium.com and check out some of my articles as well as meaningful discussions on almost everything in the world.

Politics today

It's an interesting day in the world of politics. We have Obama talking about "muddy waters", Thompson talking about federalism, and Giuliani not talking about much of anything. Of the three, I'm most disappointed in Fred Thompson. While I enjoyed him on Law & Order, I'm learning that he was a better actor than a politician. He seems to be turning out to be a little too far right for my taste.

Now on to Obama. He is chastising Clinton and ignoring Edwards on the issue of lobbyists and their influence. I find his remarks to be somewhat refreshing and honest (two words that you are unlikely to ever see in the same sentence as the name Hillary Clinton). He talks about how it is silly (at best) to pretend that lobbyists will go away. They make their money and continue to thrive because they do serve a purpose. Just as there are lobbyists for "big oil" who are working to monitor and influence legislation that will affect the oil industry, there are also lobbyists who work for various non-profits around the country. In fact, one of the more powerful lobbies in New Jersey state is a lobby for the volunteer ambulance corps of the state. Who would campaign against the protection of volunteer ambulance corps?

Instead Obama seems to be leaning toward more disclosure and some restrictions on the "buying" of elections through excessive donations. I will wait to hear more, but Barak seems to be the most reputable and decent of the Democratic candidates thus far.

Now, my personal favorite is Rudy Giuliani. He is involved in a skirmish with the press and some members of the public who feel that all aspects of a candidate's personal life are fair game. I, for one, disagree with this. I would agree that if the candidate is found drunk in a gutter, in bed with a prostitute (or another person who is not their spouse), beating their children, or any other sort of illegal activity, that is news. Whether or not Rudy Giuliani is speaking with his children after a divorce, or whether or not he is a practicing Catholic is personal and has no bearing on his candidacy. I feel that the candidate (regardless of who they are) should only be forced to answer such questions if the person asking the question is also willing to go "on the record" with their answer to such a question and one follow-up of the candidate's choice.

Thoughts anyone?

More hot air from Hillary

One of the most dangerous candidates in this year's elections is Hillary Rodham Clinton. Her personal need for power and fame knows no bounds. She will make outrageous statements merely to be able to get the free press. As a Democrat, I cannot urge my fellow party members enough to select ANYONE ELSE as our candidate in 2008.

One of the big things that irritates me about her (and her predecessors John Kerry and John Edwards) is the haves vs. have not arguments. She continually talks about how the Bush Administration and his fellow Republicans have worked only for the benefit of the rich. She continually talks about how she will work for the middle class. My question to her is, how does she know what the middle class wants or needs? She is actually one of the "rich" that she claims benefitted most from the Bush tax cuts.

Here's my challenge to Hillary, John, and any of the other well-heeled Democrats who are going to claim to speak for me. GIVE AWAY (not put in a blind trust, get rid of) all of your personal wealth and start living on $75,000 - $100,000 annual income and THEN talk to me about understanding the needs of the middle class. At that point, you might find that an extra $20 in your weekly paycheck IS something to be happy about instead of complaining that someone else got more. Until you do that, shut up about the middle class, you have NO IDEA what you're talking about.

Thoughts anyone?

They were wrong again

For the last several years we've heard from very rich Democrats (Hillary, Ted, John Edwards and Kerry) about how the Republicans are ripping us off and sending our government into an economic tailspin by cutting taxes across the board. As has been mentioned here several times, I've seen my federal taxes go down, so I don't care how much others' taxes go down, just make sure mine don't go back up!

Here's the other part of the story. In an article today from the Associated Press, it was announced that the projected federal deficit is going to be even lower than originally predicted. With just over a month and a half to go in the fiscal year, it seems that the deficit will end up somewhere near the $150 billion mark. While that is a truly unfathomable number to me, it is significantly lower than the $239.6 billion deficit of last year. Heading in the right direction, eh?

The REALLY interesting part is the revenue figures. This is the amount of money the federal government takes in.....FROM TAXES. Given the fact that Bush and the GOP cut taxes, given that the economy hasn't been the greatest, and given the fact that we hear how we aren't really better off than the glory days (?) of the Clinton era, you would expect that the government's revenue has fallen, right? Well guess what, so far this year, the US government has received $2.12 trillion, a new all-time record income!!!

That's right, just as every other time in history, any time a government reduces tax rates, the government's income GOES UP. It happens because people spend more money and lift the general standard of living when the percentage of their hard earned money going to the government drops. People who make more money don't mind paying more taxes as long as the percentage paid remains even.

So why do we still have a deficit when the government is pulling in record income? You would have to ask the Democratically-controlled Congress because not only did revenue reach a record, these fiscally-responsible watchdogs in the Democratic House and Senate (who regularly tell us that the Republicans are cutting funds to those who need it) have spent a RECORD $2.27 trillion so far this year. The leading spender, NOT the military, but the Department of Health and Human Services at $1.7 trillion so far. The military is number 2 at $437 billion.

Thoughts anyone?

Cell Phones and 9-1-1

Just a quick reminder today. Federal law requires that all cell phones, even those without an active service contract, be able to dial 9-1-1. This has an upside and a hazard to watch. The upside is that you can give a cell phone to an elderly or young family member to carry with them in case of emergency. It will only be able to dial 9-1-1 and it is no cost to you.

The hazard is the cell phone sitting around the house that is no longer used because you've upgraded can still dial 9-1-1. This means that it shouldn't be given to the toddler to play with because they can (and sometimes do) accidentally dial 9-1-1. While some agencies are able to trace cell phone locations to a specific point, most can't yet and that may result in dispatching units to an area in an attempt to locate someone who has dialed for help on a cell phone but won't speak to the dispatcher.

Thoughts anyone?

More Self-Serve Ripoffs

Having travelled to the midwest, I was able to disprove another myth of those who protect New Jersey's "need" for the "protection" of "full-service" (when was the last time an attendant washed your windshield, checked your oil, or tire pressure?). We've been told that we still have the cheapest gasoline around despite the ban on self-serve. That's no longer true. In St. Louis, I paid $2.59/gal for self-serve Shell regular (and a lot more in taxes per gallon) while here in Fair Lawn, NJ I would pay $2.61/gal for "full" serve regular (with the lowest fuel taxes in the country).

It is plain to see where the $.02/gal is going. Not that the extra $.26 per fill-up would break me (about $12 per year more), but why should I have to pay an EXTRA $12 per year to do something I can do myself just because the state legislators are being wined and dined by the NJ Gasoline Retailers lobby?

Thoughts anyone?

The United States?

As we travel the United States this weekend, it once again becomes obvious how huge the United States is. Frequently we forget that we are really a conglomeration of what, anywhere else, would be several different countries. It is important to know the the 13 countries that make up the origianl European Union would find handily between the US East Coast and the Mississippi River. This just gives you an idea of how big a country we are and how amazing it is that we have actually kept it together for over 200 years now.

This puts our internal squabbles into a different perspective. It's educational to hear how midwesterners and/or southerners talk about those who live in the "east" (actually the northeast, but everyone seems to know what they are talking about). It's also interesting, although sad, to hear those who live in the New York metro area talk about the farmers of the midwest as though they are country bumpkins with little or no intellectual ability.

The fact of the matter is, these farmers here regularly operate farms that have more moving parts than many small businesses operated by those sophisticated easterners. In addition, one piece of farm equipment is worth as much (or more) than some of the houses sold in our neighborhood. These farmers regularly have to know about hydroponics, weather, finance, futures, biology, geology, and a host of other disciplines. How many snobby "professionals" can say the same?

Thoughts anyone?

Thank you George Bush

I was just going over my year-to-date financial information and came across some interesting information. I've made about $900 more this year than last and yet I've paid $88 LESS in federal income tax. That's not a lot, but what other item has gone down in price (and yes, taxes are the price you pay for government services) this past year?

To compare, I've paid $295 MORE for gasoline, $134 MORE for groceries, and $176 MORE for my utilities. Also in comparison, I've spent $259 MORE in local taxes. The only thing that I've spent less on is my federal income tax. That's thanks to the Republicans and their "tax cut for the rich".

To be clear, I'M NOT RICH. I would have to more than double my salary to equal what an average autoworker makes. I would have to more than double my salary to raise my salary into what would be the next tax bracket. This, to me, is proof that the Democrats are full of crap when they say the tax increases only benefit the rich.

As I've said before, I don't care if people wealthier than me get more money back. All I care is that I'M PAYING LESS FEDERAL TAX THIS YEAR. I would thus encourage everyone to let Congress know that we want to keep paying less tax (even though government tax receipts are UP!!!) and have them make the tax cuts permanent.

Thoughts anyone?

More everyday heroes

Today's message comes from an article entitled, "Paying it forward proves lifesaving" in USA Today. If you haven't seen the movie "Pay It Forward", I can't recommend it enough. (Intelliflix.com online DVD rental Movies & Games) Many don't like the ending, but I think it fits and it just shows the magnitude of the idea.

This article is about people following this philosophy in real life. What they are doing is giving kidneys to people in need. This is done all the time but the difference here is that the recipient is required to sign up on the donor list with a partner donor. This means Junior Smith may need a kidney, in order to get on this list, he signs up with Mom Smith who agrees to donate her kidney to the next pair on the list. The end result is a "cascade" of kidneys going to people in need instead of merely a single transplant. It's an amazing idea that truly does "pay it forward".

I encourage you to read the article for more detail and a look at some truly innovative lifesavers.

Thoughts anyone?

It makes me proud to live in the US

Here is an e-mail I received about a memorial for a fallen soldier. I've checked with snopes.com and it is a true story.

What follows is a message from Vicki Pierce about her nephew James' funeral (he was serving our country in Iraq): "I'm back, it was certainly a quick trip, but I have to also say it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. There is a lot to be said for growing up in a small town in Texas . The service itself was impressive with wonderful flowers and sprays, a portrait of James, his uniform and boots, his awards and ribbons. There was lots of military brass and an eloquent (though inappropriately long winded) Baptist preacher. There were easily 1000 people at the service, filling the church sanctuary as well as the fellowship hall and spilling out into the parking lot. However, the most incredible thing was what happened following the service on the way to the cemetery. We went to our cars and drove to the cemetery escorted by at least 10 police cars with lights flashing and some other emergency vehicles, with Texas Rangers handling traffic. Everyone on the road who was not in the procession, pulled over, got out of their cars, and stood silently and respectfully, some put their hands over their hearts. When we turned off the highway suddenly there were teenage boys along both sides of the street about every 20 feet or so, all holding large American flags on long flag poles, and again with their hands on their hearts. We thought at first it was the Boy Scouts or 4H club or something, but it continued .... for two and a half miles. Hundreds of young people, standing silently on the side of the road with flags. At one point we passed an elementary school, and all the children were outside, shoulder to shoulder holding flags kindergartners, handicapped, teachers, staff, everyone. Some held signs of love a nd support. Then came teenage girls and younge r boys, all holding flags. Then adults. Then families. All standing silently on the side of the road. No one spoke, not even the very young children. The military presence..at least two generals, a fist full of colonels, and representatives from every branch of the service, plus the color guard who attended James, and some who served with him .. was very impressive and respectful, but the love and pride from this community who had lost one of their own was the most amazing thing I've ever been privileged to witness. I've attached some pictures, some are blurry (we were moving), but you can get a small idea of what this was like. These photos are awesome !!

While I wouldn't wish that any family have to receive such news, it would be my hope that if they do, they are lucky enough to live in a town that cares this much.

Thoughts anyone?

Self-service in New Jersey

Here is the Preamble to the legislation banning self-service gas stations in New Jersey:

The Legislature finds and declares that:
a. Because of the fire hazards directly associated with dispensing fuel, it is in the public interest that gasoline station operators have the control needed over that activity to ensure compliance with appropriate safety procedures, including turning off vehicle engines and refraining from smoking while fuel is dispensed;
b. At self-service gasoline stations in other states, cashiers are often unable to maintain a clear view of the activities of customers dispensing gasoline, or to give their undivided attention to observing customers; therefore, when customers, rather than attendants, are permitted to dispense fuel, it is far more difficult to enforce compliance with safety procedures;
c. The State needs stronger measures to enforce both compliance by customers with the ban on self-service and compliance by attendants with safety procedures;
d. The higher general liability insurance premium rates charged to self-service stations reflect the fact that customers who leave their vehicles to dispense gasoline or other inflammable liquids face significant inconveniences and dangers, including the risks of crime and fall-related personal injury, which are a special burden to drivers with physical infirmities, such as the handicapped and some senior citizens;
e. Exposure to toxic gasoline fumes represents a health hazard when customers dispense their own gasoline, particularly in the case of pregnant women;
f. The significantly higher prices usually charged for full-service gasoline in states where self-service is permitted results in discrimination against low income individuals, who are under greater economic pressure to undergo the inconvenience and hazards of dispensing their own gasoline;
g. The increasing use of self-service has contributed to the diminished availability of repair facilities and maintenance services at gasoline stations;
h. Even in filling stations which offer both self-service and full-service gasoline, customers are less likely, because of the much higher price usually charged for full service, to have attendants make needed maintenance checks, thus causing significant neglect of maintenance and danger both to the customers and to other motorists, as well as the unneeded costly repairs which often result from deferred maintenance;
i. The prohibition of customer self-service does not constitute a restraint of trade in derogation of the general public interest because the Legislature finds no conclusive evidence that self-service gasoline provides a sustained reduction in gasoline prices charged to customers; and
j. A prohibition of self-service gasoline will therefore promote the common welfare by providing increased safety and convenience without causing economic harm to the public in general.

My question is, "ARE YOU KIDDING ME?" The Preamble should really read, "Because we are afraid of the New Jersey Gasoine Retailers Association, we will remain one of the last two states in the United States to inconvenience the public by not allowing the self-service option!!"
First of all, I've seen numerous vehicles sitting idling at the pumps while the attendant, who is usually on either a cell or portable phone, fills the tank without even looking at the drivier, never mind the car for maintenance (see paragraphs A and H). Secondly, most reasonably priced gas stations are solely that, gas stations and not repair facilities so there goes paragraph G! Lastly, C is a joke!!
The latest is the fact that the attendants (who no longer check the oil, wash the windshield, check the tires, or any of the other things implied by this antiquated law) won't even walk around the car to the driver's side to receive payment. I have to roll down my passenger's side window and lean across the car to tell them what I want and then to hand them payment. One time I refused to do that and the attendant removed the nozzle from the tank and told me to leave. Is this "promoting the common welfare" by "increasing safety and convenience" or is this an example of a powerful lobby buying the state legislature?
It's time for New Jersey to join the rest of the union and remove this ban on self-service because we are already practically doing it. I would receive MUCH faster (and more courteous) service if I were allowed to do it myself.
Thoughts anyone?

A new phone company

Recently I wrote about some of the apparent problems with Verizon's FiOS and I now have an answer. In researching options, I have found that my internet provider, Earthlink, will offer me service that combines my DSL and my phone. The bundle is cheaper than the two services separately (by about $20 a month) and it has more features than my current phone service. In addition, I get to deal with Earthlink which has had exceptional customer service since I first started dealing with them in 1992!!

Since their service remains on copper wire, the issue of losing phone service in a power outage (a problem for fiber) does not exist. Also, they provide E911 (address and phone number) service so I don't have to worry about that in the case of an emergency.

Their service is not nationwide yet, but it's growing quickly. For more info, click here....

Small business deserves respect

A comment on another blog got me to reflecting on my days as a small-business owner. I just wanted to comment on some common misperceptions out there (I know because I had most of them).

When I first bought my business, I heard all the time about how I was "raking in the money" and being the boss I could "set my own schedule". Let me tell you a secret......that's crap!! I got to rake in whatever was left after paying the rent, paying utilities, paying my suppliers, paying my insurer, paying the phone bill, paying taxes, paying for advertising, paying my employees, and paying my loans. Everyone thinks that you take in all this money and put it in your pocket. They forget that all the rest of this has to be paid too. Add to that all the requests for donations and ads by local charities, schools, and sports teams who think that if you say no, you're not a "good neighbor".

In addition, everyone thinks that you don't have to ever go to work because "you've got people". Well, what happens when you're out to dinner and the "people" that's working calls to tell you they have to go home because they are really sick? Who do you think covers then? What happens when you want to go away on vacation and there is no one over the age of 16 left in town to watch after your business? Do you go away?

My family and I spent a lot of time, energy, money, and worry running a small business for 15 years (longer than the national average) and I wouldn't trade that experience for anything. I really enjoyed much of that life, but am VERY glad to be rid of other parts of it. The point here, however, is that you should appreciate the person behind the counter of the local store. In all likelihood, they have sacrificed much to be there. They deserve your respect and hopefully have earned your patronage. If they do well, please tell them. It would probably be the highlight of their day.

Thoughts anyone?

Head-on EMS

Today I was reading an article entitled, "The Risky Side of Response" by David Williams and Christine Zalar in the April 2007 edition of JEMS magazine. It was a study of the number of fatalities and injuries that occur during emergency transport of the dead and dying across the United States. While the article was mainly focused the difference between air ambulance transport and ground transport, I was struck by some of the statistics on injuries/fatalities occurring during ground transport because this is something I am quite familiar with.

I've been a volunteer EMT for over 20 years and currently serve with 2 different agencies. I have been fortunate that I've only witnessed one accident involving an ambulance which sent members (or anyone else) to the hospital. According to the research in the article, there are 32.5 fatalities resulting from ground ambulance accidents. Why is this statistic not a matter of concern to any single government agency? The FAA regulates the air ambulance industry, but no single agency regulates the ground transport ambulance. In fact, the authors of the article had difficultly even piecing together the statistics because there is not even a central reporting agency.

One of the items mentioned in the article was a need for training. I know from personal experience that there is no standard for driver training. One agency requires certification from the National Safety Council's Coaching the Emergency Vehicle Operator course as well as successful completion of a cone driving course. The other agency does not. A third agency that I've worked with merely required some over-the-road driving time with a "trainer". There was no objective criteria. These agencies are all located in the state of New Jersey and are in fact, less than five miles apart.

In addition, there is no limit to hours worked. This too, is amazing. A standard "over the road" trucker is only allowed to work a limited number of hours, but the EMTs in this area have no such regulation. Many of them will work 12 hour shifts, some work a full day at their "day job" and then serve as a volunteer at night. Depending upon how busy the agency is, this could be a very long time without rest.

The question then arises, what is the government doing about this? It's not as easy as merely mandating training because they need to balance the fact that many of these services are run by volunteers who must weigh their training time versus their availability. In addition, to mandate new training on the local level means that 73 agencies need to be monitored in our county alone. This is a great deal of oversight required by the regulating agency.

Clearly, the burden falls upon the EMT training center. The national curriculum needs to expand the amount of time spent on ambulance operations which includes driver training. (In fact, the EMT curriculum should be reexamined in general, but that is a different blog.) Right now it is a 3 hour (out of 130) overview of operations which includes driver training, radios, call reports, and other things.

Thoughts anyone?

Another reason to never do business with Verizon!!

Warning....Verizon is one of the most disreputable companies in the United States!!!!!

In reading news today, I've come across another example of how dishonest Verizon is. It seems that when they give you the new FiOS service (better, faster, stronger), they remove the copper line to your home and replace it with fiber-optic line. This means,

"But once the copper is pulled, it's difficult to switch back to the
traditional phone system or less expensive Digital Subscriber Line service. And
Verizon isn't required, in most instances, to lease fiber to rival phone companies, as it is with the copper infrastructure. What's more, anyone who owns Powderly's house [the man in the example in the article] in the future will face higher bills with FiOS than another home with copper."

The article details how Verizon claims it tells customers prior to switching that it is their intention to remove the copper, but a quick check with a Verizon customer that I know reveals that they were not told either. They are shocked and a little angry at the deception as are most people in the article.

This has been my dealing with Verizon throughout their history. When I switched from Verizon DSL to Earthlink DSL (a significant savings by the way) they disconnected my service immediately and failed to notify Earthlink that the circuit was available until I complained to Earthlink and they found out what had happened. At that time they immediately activated the circuit but it was apparent that Verizon's intention was to make Earthlink look bad and inconvenience me. It is quite obvious that they are out to eliminate competition at all costs.

I cannot urge you enough to take two actions. One, contact the FCC, your senator, your representive, anyone and protest this attempt to eliminate competition by this telecommunications monster!! The other, DON'T DO BUSINESS WITH VERIZON!!!

Thoughts anyone?

Do we have any prophets out there?

Today in church we heard about the prophet Elisah who took over from the prophet Elijah. It was interesting that the ability to speak on God's behalf was widely believed and accepted in Bibilical times. The story that we heard involved a great general who suffered from leprosy and sought the assistance of the king of Israel who referred him to the prophet Elisah. Here is the leader of the military being referred by the head of government and yet today we are skeptical because our President is an avowed United Methodist and takes his spirituality somewhat seriously. How things have changed.

More importantly, what about this prophecy thing? Why is the Bible literally filled with books of prophetic sayings and we read them every weekend (depending upon your particular faith) and have no trouble accepting that these were words from people of God? Why, then, do we have trouble talking about God in our daily lives? Why do we shy away from discussing our faith on a daily basis? Are there such things as prophets around today? Who are they?

Thoughts anyone?

More untold news from Iraq

I was sent the following link to a story by writer Michael Yon. I've checked his website and his story is fascinating. I would encourage all readers to add it to their list of favorites and check it on occasion. He presents a view of the US soldier in action in Iraq that is not usually shown on the major media outlets because it shows the reasons and reactions for our continued presence in that troubled country.

This link in particular is very graphic and disturbing. I recommend it to show the ferocity and desperation of the enemy of Iraqis and the lengths they will go to to win. It reminds us that the men who perpetrated 9-11 are not gone, not subdued, and not conquered, they've merely focussed on Iraqis.......for now.

Read with care and be prepared for some graphic pictures.


"WHY DON'T AL QAEDA ATROCITIES GET MEDIA ATTENTION?
Yon's story doesn't get attention because it is humiliating.
It is humiliating because it is obvious that we media – and our allies in the state department, the legal trade, the NGOs, the Democratic Party, the UN, etc., - can’t do squat about such determined use of force.

Our words, images, arguments and skills can’t stop the killing. Only the rough soldiers and their guns can solve the problem, and we won’t admit that fact because the admission would weaken our influence and our claim to social status.

So we pretend Yon’s massacre – and the North Korean killing fields, the Arab treatment of women, the Arab hatred of Israel, etc. - doesn’t exist, and instead focus our emotions and attention on the somewhat-bad domestic things that we can ‘fix’ with our DC-based allies. Things such as Abu Ghraib, wiretapping, etc. When we ‘fix’ them, then we get status, applause, power, new jobs, ego, etc.

Please don’t be surprised. We media are an interest group not much different from the automakers, the unions, and the farmers."

http://www.michaelyon-online.com/wp/bless-the-beasts-and-children.htm

A Long Distance Hug

Follow this link to a news story of a magnificent woman....

http://mfile.akamai.com/21772/wmv/gannett.download.akamai.com/21772/streaming/wmv/hancockportraits.asx

News?

As regular readers may be aware, I watch (and have linked to) The Ridgewood Blog and now its new "arch-rival" Ridgewood Views. Although the latter claims to be a more "civil forum", it actually has merely become a place for disaffected readers of the former to go to bad-mouth the moderator of the original Ridgewood blog. On both blogs, there is a discussion of the value of blogging and whether or not it qualifies as news.

I would like to examine that for a minute. In my humble opinion, I would say that both (as do all blogs) qualify as a "news" outlet. After all, if your next door neighbor leans over the fence and tells you that the neighbor across the street fell off the front porch because she was drunk, and the ambulance had to come and take her to the hospital, that's news. It may not be completely factual. It may be that the reason the woman fell was because she was stung by a bee and missed the step trying to get away, or maybe she was indeed drunk. Either way, she was taken away by ambulance and that is news.

Both versions tell you of the main fact, but the background information (drunk vs. sober) is suspect. You would decide on whether to believe the neighbor's interpretation based on what you know of the reporter's affiliation (how does she feel about the one across the street?) and their past history (does she have a history of exaggeration?). If you don't have this information, then you cannot judge the veracity of the information.

Please understand, ALL news outlets have an agenda!! It is not possible to be human and not report from a certain point of view with certain assumptions. This is the fallacy of the supposition that ABC, NBC, CBS, AP, FoxNews, CNN, and all the rest are unbiased. They cannot be!! This was demonstrated in the recent story on MSNBC showing that a large number of journalists donate to candidates of their choice (mostly to the left). In my opinion, that is their right, they just need to let us know. Quit pretending that they have no bias. Admit to it.

This blog, while I try to bring you new or overlooked information, IS MY OPINION. Make no mistake, I think it, I write it, I edit it, it is mine. You may find things out here, but you will also get my spin and opinion on the information. Now if CNN would make the same admission (as well as the two Ridgewood blogs mentioned earlier), we might be getting somewhere towards an honest press.

Thoughts anyone?

National health care anyone?

So here is what nationalized medicine can do for you....in an article entitled, "Court Weighs Alzheimer Drug Access Issue" from today's AP wire service, the story is told how many of Britain's alzheimer sufferers are are being denied access to drugs that can potentially slow the progress of the disease.

By allowing national medical officials to make the decisions based on cost-benefit analysis, these individuals have been denied access to the medicine that can allow people who are recently diagnosed with the disease to begin immediate treatment so that they can continue to take care of themselves and live a more productive life for a longer time. Is this what we want in the United States? While it's a seductive idea to have all medical treatment paid for by a national health care plan, this is the downside of that plan. Once the government (even if it's through an insurance program) becomes the buyer of medical services on our behalf, it has the right (and responsibility) to determine what care, how much, and how much it will pay for that care. It takes away our ability to make our own health care decisions.

While it is essential that we develop a plan that makes health care more affordable for everyone, the Clinton health plan is not it!! Any plan developed must put the decision-making process in our hands. The money should be ours, such as in a Medical Savings Account. This means that if the government wants to make tax dollars available to every citizen, the money must be given to each citizen for them to spend as they see fit. Perhaps a "Health Care Debit Card" can be pre-loaded and given to each citizen to use. These cards can only be processed at health care facilities, pharmacies, and doctor's offices. There is a potential for fraud, but look at our current Medicare and Medicaid system.....

Thoughts anyone?

Have a plan

Nine firefighters lost their lives in South Carolina this week. That is tragic. The thing that makes it even more tragic is the reason that they were inside the building was the fact that they were looking for 2 workers that were unaccounted for. Had they not thought their were people trapped inside, they would have been outside. They would have lost the building, but not their lives.

It is important that EVERY business, no matter how large or small have a plan. If, God forbid, your place of employment catches fire (or even your home), you must have an agreed upon place where EVERYONE meets to take attendance. It is important that as soon as everyone gets out, they go immediately to that place. This makes it possible for the person in charge to meet with the fire officer in charge and let them know whether or not they need to send people into the burning building.

Please DON'T risk lives by heading home for the day, or wandering out to the meeting place at a leisurely pace, or stopping to chat with others nearby. Get to the spot and report in as fast as you can. Pretend it would be you that would have to enter the building.

In addition, the person in charge MUST have a roster that is accurate. It doesn't help if you "think" Johnny is here, but maybe he's at lunch, or maybe he's off today. You need to know.

Lastly, practice your evacuation plan. Preach it, learn it, live it. You may save someone's life and it may even be your own.

While you're at it, please say a prayer for those who have fallen and their families.

Thoughts anyone?

Another example

This post 9/11 commercial is another elegant example of how a company can remain respectful and display compassion. Just another point about Anhauser-Busch (and I'm NOT a beer drinker), when I had an opportunity to work as a rescue volunteer in Missouri after the Mississippi River flooding, the clean drinking water was provided in cans, by the truckful, by Busch. No charge.

Thank you

This is a commercial from some time ago, but it is still relevant. It shows a company that remembers its humanity. Commerce and people don't have to be separate. Feel free to pass it on to anyone you know overseas.

Leave it better....

I had the privilege of attending a 2 1/2 hour seminar by medium John Edward. Regardless of whether you think he truly speaks to the dead or not (and I do), the time spent was spiritually rewarding nonetheless. I would encourage all readers to watch his series entitled "Cross Country". His message of hope and inspiration is very valuable.

If you get a chance to see him in person, that is well worth it. In addition to being an amazing psychic, he is quite humerous as well. I felt that I was spending an enjoyable evening with John and 4000 of my closest friends.

The message of the evening that most stuck with me was his message that we should "Leave people better than we found them. Everybody. Every day." This is quite a charge, but if you think about it, it's not impossible. If you find someone sad, say a good word. If you find someone mad, listen. If you find someone happy, share. You get the idea. It doesn't take much but it does take an interest. Imagine the power that gives you. Imagine the good it would do. Want to try?

Thoughts anyone?

Give me your posts

Ok, in an effort to keep things fresh and get new ideas, I am seeking your input. You may submit articles, items of interests, whatever you like by e-mailing them to:

commonmandigest@hotmail.com

I will review them and post them as appropriate.

When Off means OFF

Today I found an interesting article in the New York Times entitled, "Putting Energy Hogs in the Home on a Strict Low-Power Diet". It confirms something that I have suspected for some time now, my PC is gulping energy at an alarming rate.....even when it's off.

The writer, Larry Magid, gives a detailed description of the variety of machines throughout the average home that use electricity even when they are off. He then details a variety of ways in which you can reduce your energy consumption, save money, and reduce your CO2 output.

This article is well worth the read and inspires one to take action. I, for one, will be scouting about my house for things to unplug when not in use. At the very least, I'll be putting in a few switchboxes so that they can lose access to the energy trough.

Thoughts anyone?

Relaxation - it's all that it's cracked up to be

Today's blog is inspired by my lovely wife of three years (as of today at 11am, in fact). We are most fortunate to have an opportunity to go away for a week's vacation to celebrate our anniversary. We have stayed at the amazing Grove Park Inn in Asheville, NC. It is a wonderful place, full of history, and quite the place to relax.

The main point of today's message though, is the need for relaxation. In the daily clutter of life, working, attending meetings, cleaning house, keeping appointments, it becomes a challenge to try and remember what we're about. It's only when you stop and smell the roses (or pine trees in our case) that you can start to understand your place or purpose in life.

Being relaxed allows you to reconnect with those you love. Being relaxed lets you realize what you "want to be when you grow up". Being relaxed lets you realize what is meaningful to you. Being relaxed puts your daily "worries" in perspective. Being relaxed lets you actually hear God.

I'm not saying that you need to drive to North Carolina to relax, it can be done with a beer in your backyard. What I AM saying is that you need to remember that it is a CRUCIAL part of your life. You MUST make time for yourself in order to make sure that you are on the right path in your life. I cannot recommend it enough.

Thoughts anyone?

I expect answers!!!!

A friend sent me an e-mail of an essay that was attributed to Jay Leno. While I like Leno, I didn't think it sounded like him, so I checked with my friends at snopes.com. It was indeed, NOT Jay Leno but a gentleman called Craig T. Smith that wrote the following essay:

"The other day I was reading Newsweek magazine and came across some poll
data I found rather hard to believe. It must be true given the source,
right? The Newsweek poll alleges that 67 percent of Americans are unhappy with
the direction the country is headed and 69 percent of the country is unhappy
with the performance of the President. In essence 2/3's of the citizenry
just ain't happy and want a change.

So being the knuckle dragger I am, I started thinking, ''What we are so
unhappy about?'' Is it that we have electricity and running water 24 hours
a day, 7 days a week? Is our unhappiness the result of having air
conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter? Could it be that 95.4
percent of these unhappy folks have a job? Maybe it is the ability to walk into
a grocery store at any time and see more food in moments than Darfur has seen in
thelast year?

Maybe it is the ability to drive from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic
Ocean without having to present identification papers as we move through each
state? Or possibly the hundreds of clean and safe motels we would
find along the way that can provide temporary shelter? I guess having
thousands of restaurants with varying cuisine from around the world is just not
good enough.

Or could it be that when we wreck our car, emergency workers show up and
provide services to help all and even send a helicopter to take you to the
hospital. Perhaps you are one of the 70 percent of Americans who own a
home. You may be upset with knowing that in the unfortunate case of a fire, a
group of trained firefighters will appear in moments and use top notch equipment
to extinguish the flames thus saving you, your family and your belongings.
Or if, while at home watching one of your many flat screen TVs, a burglar or
prowler intrudes, an officer equipped with a gun and a bullet-proof vest will
come to defend you and your family against attack or loss. This all in the
backdrop of a neighborhood free of bombs or militias raping and pillaging the
residents. Neighborhoods where 90 percent of teenagers own cell phones and
computers.

How about the complete religious, social and political freedoms we enjoy
that are the envy of everyone in the world? Maybe that is what has 67
percent of you folks unhappy. Fact is, we are the largest group of
ungrateful, spoiled brats the world has ever seen. No wonder the world
loves the U.S. , yet has a great disdain for its citizens. They see
us for what we are. The most blessed people inthe world who do
nothing but complain about what we don't have, and what we hate about the
country instead of thanking the good Lord we live here.

I know, I know. What about the President who took us into war and
has no plan to get us out? The President who has a measly 31 percent
approval rating? Is this the same President who guided the nation in
the darkdays after 9/11? The President that cut taxes to bring an economy
out of recession? Could this be the same guy who has been called every name in
thebook for succeeding in keeping all the spoiled ungrateful brats safe
from terrorist attacks? The commander in chief of an all-volunteer army
that is out there defending you and me?

Did you hear how bad the President is on the news or talk show? Did
this news affect you so much, make you so unhappy you couldn't take a look
around for yourself and see all the good things and be glad? Think
about it......are you upset at the President because he actually caused
you personal pain OR is it because the "Media" told you he was failing to kiss
your sorry ungrateful behind every day.

Make no mistake about it. The troops in Iraq and Afghanistan have
volunteered to serve, and in many cases may have died for your freedom.
There is currently no draft in this country. They didn't have to go.
They are able to refuse to go and end up with either a ''general'' discharge, an
''other than honorable'' discharge or, worst case scenario, a ''dishonorable''
discharge after a few days in the brig.

So why then the flat-out discontentment in the minds of 69 percent
ofAmericans? Say what you want but I blame it on the media. If it
bleeds it leads and they specialize in bad news. Everybody will watch a
car crash with blood and guts. How many will watch kids selling lemonade
at the corner? The media knows this and media outlets are for-profit
corporations. They offer what sells, and when criticized, try to defend
their actions by"justifying" them in one way or another.

Just ask why they tried to allow a murderer like O.J. Simpson to write a
book about how he didn't kill his wife, but if he did he would have done it this
way......Insane! Stop buying the negativism you are fed everyday by the media.
Shut off the TV, burn Newsweek, and use the New York Times for the bottom of
your birdcage. Then start being grateful for all we have as a
country.

There is exponentially more good than bad. We are among the most
blessed people on Earth and should thank God several times a day, or at least be
thankful and appreciative. "

I would expect that at least one or two of my readers are in the 69% of those who are unhappy, so let's hear your answers to these questions.

Thoughts anyone?

Pious?

I'm on vacation so that means I actually have more time to read. Today, I picked up a copy of USA Today and happened across an article entitled, A Pious Nation? written by Tom Krattenmaker. While he makes some good points, I found myself becoming angry at some of his basic assumptions.

The first comment that I found objectionable was his statement, ""Pious," however, means something different than "religious." While both convey devotion to God and ultimate truth, "pious" also suggests showiness, sanctimony, even hypocrisy — a gap between words and action." This is the basic premise of his article. I would argue that he is still using the wrong words. The dictionary defines "religious" as "of, pertaining to, or concerned with religion". Personally, I don't think this has anything more to do with God than being pious. The study that he references shows that 91% believe in God. It shows that 87% identify themselves with a specific religion. Again, this has nothing to do with his basic premise of pious vs. religion.

He then goes on to "prove" his opinion that Americans seem to be hypocritical because there is crime, poverty, and war in our society. He talks about how the Conservative Christian movement has shown itself to be hostile to immigration, how supposedly Christian politicians have not effectively developed a universal health care system, and how a Christian President led the country into Iraq. All of this, he feels, proves that we are more pious than religious which he equates with hypocrisy. He fails to allow for three critical points. One, if you have 9% of over 300 million people, that still leaves over 25 million people who are not religious. Two, not all of those who are religious are conservative Christians (or even Christians at all). Three, just being a Christian (as shown on his blog) does not make you unified in your opinion.

There are Christians who believe that we need to develop a universal, government-run health care system similar to Europe or Canada and there are others who believe that we should remove insurance companies from the health care system and promote free market pressures by allowing for Medical Savings Accounts on a wide scale. Both have the potential to promote universal health care, both have the same goal, both are supported by "religous" people. Does having the argument mean that we are pious and not religious?

There are Christians who believe that we should immediately withdraw from Iraq because we should never have been there in the first place. There are Christians who feel that the "Golden Rule" that he refers to (actually an adaptation of Hammurabi's Code), is the absolute justification for entering Iraq and Afghanistan.

It is apparently easy for him to lament about our failings, and while I agree with his statement, "How as a society are we living up to this religious imperative? We could do better." I have to disagree with his basic premise that we are hypocrits because we have these failings as a society. I would argue that we are failing as human beings (as are most of the world's "civilized" countries) because we have these failings.

Thoughts anyone?

63 Years Ago Today....

It is important to remember those who fell, and those who survived the D-Day invasion of Normandy 63 years ago today. It is still one of the greatest military moves in history as almost 9400 men perished storming the beaches of France to ultimately win Europe's freedom from the Nazis.

It is almost fitting that another of the Nazis' mass graves was found in the Ukraine this week. It serves as a reminder that those men died so that others may not have to face the threat of racism, ethnic cleansing, torture, random acts of violence, and the host of other atrocities carried on under Hitler's regime. May it never have to be done again.

Thoughts anyone?

Sick and tired....

An interesting analysis of the O'Toole/Sharpton mailing on the Aleppine Elephant shows that neither party is immune to stupidity. It's too bad, because I actually know one of the candidates, Todd Caliguire, and he is a decent man running for decent reasons. I would hope that he rises above the advice of the so-called political experts and run on his beliefs. I have maintained repeatedly that the electorate would flock to a straight-shooting decent person who does not play partisan, down-in-the-mud, fear-mongering, crap politics that have become the norm. Tell us what you stand for, why, and what that means to us, then step off the stage and let us decide.

In the meantime, I've gotten an e-mail from WKetchup (of all places) talking about how Hilary Clinton is espousing the need for her to lead us towards socialism. Being an e-mail, I immediately checked WKetchup's website (interesting but devoid of the press release), and snopes.com (no reference there either). I have spoken before about how severely dangerous this woman is, but this would be further proof!!

Alas, can't my party get it's head out of it's donkey and find a decent well-grounded candidate that isn't a closet socialist? Where is FDR when you need him?

Thoughts anyone?

Error in judgement?!?

In today's Bergen Record there is a story of a school superintendent who reads a speech from the Internet to her National Honor Society students without crediting the author. As her defense, she states that it was an "error in judgement" and that since it was in the "public domain" she didn't feel the need to credit the author. I'll leave the debate about her fate to her school board and the other pundits who will no doubt hop right on this.

Instead, I want to question a growing belief that things on the Internet are public domain. At what point did we decide that the move from paper to digital negates the copyright of an original work? Does the fact that I type my thoughts, opinions, and statements here on-line make them any less mine than if I disseminated them on paper? Why do we believe that it's OK to download papers, quotes, music, movies, or anything else of the Internet without paying for them or at least creating their creator?

Does no one else see that this actually harms the growth of the Internet? If my original work can be passed off without credit or compensation, what is the incentive for me to "publish" it on the Internet? Lastly, if educators feel this way too, who is left to stand against plagiarism?

Please let it be known, I certainly would love you to reprint any of my articles, there's even a way to e-mail a copy to friends at the end of each post. Nothing would make me happier than to know that I've said something that strikes enough of a chord that you think it bears repeating. Please do that, but please let people know where you heard it first.

Also, be assured that if I ever re-enter the world of public education, the fastest way to fail my class (not just the assignment) is to copy work from anywhere and pass it off as your own.

Thoughts anyone?

What a good day

So today has been busy. We've added a link to another intelligent blog, we added DirecTV as a sponsor and now I'm pleased to add MyPoints as another sponsor. You basically get points for reading advertiser e-mails. It's easy and I've learned about new products and services as well as gotten points which I've used to purchase airline miles, restaurant giftcards, and will go shopping more later. As with all my sponsors, (they are chosen because I use them) I recommend joining.

Here's the link:

Check this out

In reading The Ridgewood Blog, I came across a link to someone named George Ajjan. Not being familiar with him, but trusting that PJBlogger always has something interesting to offer, I clicked on the link. Mr. Ajjan is an American, apparently of Syrian descent. He is intelligent, well-spoken, and quite interesting. I would encourage you to click on the link here (or on this blog's sidebar) and read his comments on the Arab world. They are quite enlightening.

Welcome to a new sponsor

I would like to welcome the folks at DirecTV to my blog. I have been a customer for over two years and cannot say enough good things about them! We switched from cable at the earliest possibility and have never looked back. In keeping with a theme of enabled consumer, I will tell you that this company has been extremely responsive and appreciative to me and anyone that I've referred. On the few occasions that we experienced a problem, they have worked hard to resolve it, unlike the cable company which approached everything with the attitude that "hey, we're cable, you need us more than we need you." Consequently, I don't use them.

That's the heartfelt commercial, here's the link.....

Check it out, you won't be sorry.

Remember them all

Tomorrow is Memorial Day here in the US and it is important that we remember all those who have fought and died for us to be able to freely and safely celebrate this day. From the 20,000 who lost their lives in our Revolutionary War to the 100,000 who died in World War II up to today to the over 3000 who have died in the four year conflict in Iraq. Each and every life given is precious and should be honored and thanked for their sacrifice.

As we move through this day of remembrance, we will hear increasing clamor from the press, the Democratic candidates, and no doubt, Cindy Sheehan about the 3000 men and women who have "needlessly" given their lives in Iraq. I personally think that is an insult to the soldiers' honor, but let's put it in perspective.

In 2004 (that's just one year compared to the four year Iraq War total of about 3100), there were 4,641 pedestrians killed by motor vehicles. In 2004, there were 17,575 unrestrained passengers killed in motor vehicle accidents, talk about needless!! How difficult is it to click on your seatbelt? In 2004, there were 14,409 people killed in motor vehicle accidents in which a driver had a .08 blood alcohol content (or greater). That's criminally needless!!!! All total, in 2004 (the latest year that figures are available at www.nhtsa.com) there were 42,636 PEOPLE (that's CIVILIANS TOO) KILLED IN MOTOR VEHICLE RELATED CRASHES!!! Did you see that? In ONE YEAR there were 1,375% MORE DEATHS than the entire death count in the whole 4 year Iraq War!!!!!

Why do I point this out? Certainly NOT to minimize the value of the lives lost in Iraq. As I said at the start EVERY one of these lives (soldiers and civilians) is valuable and their loss should be avoided. The reason I point it out is to show the hypocrisy of those listed earlier. Why isn't Cindy Sheehan camping outside GM headquarters to help improve vehicle safety? Why aren't the Democratic candidates talking about how they are going to start a campaign to promote pedestrian safety? Why isn't the New York Times, ABC, NBC, CNN, USA Today, etc running daily stories giving us the death count attributed to drunk driving in the US? We are killing more people here EVERY DAY than die in Iraq in a month and nobody seems to be upset. How is that happening and why are we letting them get away with diverting our attention like that?

Thoughts anyone?

Don't you wish.....

Last night I watched Man of the Year starring Robin Williams. This was not a hit for Robin, but it certainly struck a chord with me. It is about a political satirist that through an improbable turn of events becomes President and then walks away.

The reason that it struck a chord was because the character was someone that I desparately wanted to vote for. Any person that so believed in the office of the President that they would walk away from it on a moral basis, is someone that I think most deserves it. In this blog, I've frequently lamented the fact that there are a limited number of, if any, candidates that I truly feel DESERVE to be President. The majority are power-seeking, poll-driven, nare-do-wells, ala Hilary Clinton.

This phenomenon is true all across the spectrum and permeates all the way down to the local level. We own part of this as well. As you can see on my list of links, I have encouraged readership of a local blog which is frequently the home of the local gadflies. While this is a valuable part of the democratic process, perhaps it has become too much so. Perhaps we have become so vocal and so immediate in our criticism that it has had the result of a) discouraging any intelligent, well-meaning candidates from running for fear of constant public ridicule and b) immunized those who DO become elected from any public comment because there is a constant flow of negativity regardless of their actions. Since there is always going to be negative commentary, why worry about any of it?

Perhaps it is time to begin looking for intelligent, well-meaning, and right-thinking candidates like the fictional Tom Dobbs or even Jeb Bartlett, and supporting them, even when they make mistakes. Maybe it is time for those who support these people to begin to build a long-term support network and not be reacting to the latest poll. Make a plan and then execute it. Is this possible or is it too late for the US political system to reverse its rocketing to inactive mediocrity?

Thoughts anyone?

Let your light shine

I just read a fascinating article on the end of the incandescent bulb. In keeping with a recurring theme of this blog which is energy conservation, I encourage you to read how much merely replacing your standard light bulbs with the new compact flourescent bulbs will reduce energy consumption and global warming. It is a very easy way that you can contribute TODAY.

Screw in flourescent bulbs have come down dramatically in price and are now widely available in Home Depot or even your local supermarket. (Click here now and enter the code AFFL3 into the promotional code box on Peapod home page to get $10 off your FIRST purchase)

Not only will the flourescents reduce your energy bill, they will more than pay for themselves in longevity. They last an average of 10,000 hours versus 1,000 hours for the average incandescent bulb. The article I referenced talks about how LEDs will replace both in the next 5 to 10 years (about the time a flourescent bulb installed today will be ready to be replaced). They will use a fraction of the energy flourescents use and will last 50,000 hours. Amazing, eh?

Have you left for the supermarket yet (or clicked on the link above)? Don't forget to turn off your computer.

Thoughts anyone?

Edwards and Giuliani make money

Today an important bit of news comes to light. Rudy Giuliani and John Edwards reported their income over the last 16 months. Mr. Giuliani shows $16.1 million in earned income and Mr. Edwards shows $29.5 million in assets. The reporter seems to be comparing apples to oranges here by showing income vs. assets. It would unfairly inflate Mr. Edwards' number because his real estate holdings are not the equivalent of Mr. Giuliani's income.

Nonetheless, the important part to note is that Mr. Edwards, a DEMOCRATIC hopeful, has millions of dollars at his disposal. This is true of most of the leaders of the Democratic party which lectures us on the trials and tribulations of the "working man" and the "middle class" neither of which they would recognize if they tripped over one!!

My point here is that you should recognize the attempts at pandering and the hypocrisy evident when the leading Dems open their mouths (Clinton, Kennedy, Edwards, Kerry, Pelosi, etc). They are all for higher taxes (make no mistake, letting a TAX CUT expire = a TAX INCREASE), and bigger government programs because they can afford it!! More government spending on universal health care comes from someone. More government spending on Welfare comes from someone. Is it Obama or is it you?

Thoughts anyone?

Read this Nancy Pelosi....

In case you wonder what the soldiers on the front think of their homeland, read this post from Iraq entitled Soldiers.

Tell U.S. what you think

Today I was listening to "IVillage Live" while getting my haircut. Amazingly, the guest was talking about having "Dog Parties". She went on to describe the outfits, the decorations, the party favors, and the decorated food that one should have when throwing a dog party.

I love my dog and she is well-fed and taken care of, but I cannot imagine what would possess someone to go to such excess for a dog. My thoughts went from there to how affluent (and decadent?) a society must be that they would be throwing elaborate parties for domesticated animals.

I'm not going to rant about how we need to be better stewards of our world or how we as Americans are somewhat out of touch with how good we have it. Instead, I know that this blog has gotten hits from around the world and I will leave it to all of you to comment on this thread.

Thoughts anyone?

Madness to your method

Today my pastor, for whom I have a great deal of respect, preached on social action. He referenced the whole Don Imus affair, which has been discussed here earlier. The pastor urged us to speak out against things that we feel are contrary to our faith. He specifically encouraged us to write to Post and tell them that we will stop buying their cereal if they continue to sponsor shows like Don Imus. I only partially agree.

I heartily agree that we need to put our faith into action. In accordance with that, I have voted my shares in favor of some of the anti-slavery and "green" shareholder proposals that have been brought before the annual meetings in companies in which I hold stock. In addition, I have written about how this blog removed Circuit City as a sponsor after they destroyed the lives of hundreds of their formerly loyal employees. I will continue to speak out in this blog on issues of importance.

The place that I disagree is in the method. As discussed earlier, this type of protest tends to lead to a more negative response than desired. I would encourage you to write Post and tell them you won't buy their cereal IF you have stopped listening to the Don Imus show as a result of his offensive comments. If you've never listened to Imus, then leave Post alone. Why, you may ask.

If you never listened to Imus, by writing to the company you are overstepping your bounds. You already "spoke out" to have Imus removed by the fact that you never listened to his show. Therefore, you already have opted to NOT listen to Post's advertising and thus they are wasting their advertising dollars. If you then write to them and give them the impression that they are losing a customer (that they never had), you are fraudulently representing your position. In addition, you are encouraging them to take action which interferes with those who actually do listen to the show and enjoy it. You are imposing your understanding of a faithful action on them.

For example, I despise Howard Stern and see NO socially redeeming value to him or his show. I find it offensive, unfunny, and moronic. I will not, however, write his sponsors because I don't listen to the show. Those who do, do not harm me and are exercising their God-given right of choice. I will, however, discuss with anyone who cares to listen how I think Howard Stern should be devoid of listeners because he is demeaning to women, minorities, and humanity in general. He appeals to the basest of human failings and should not be encouraged by his listenership. I would question anyone who does listen as to why and would engage them in a conversation. To me, this is the more responsible approach. I am putting my faith into action without imposing it upon those who understand God's call in a different manner.

Thoughts anyone?

A word from our sponsors

As you may have noticed, there is a column of sponsors to the left of the articles here on this blog. They are not random, they are carefully selected. They are merchants that I have used and would vouch for their service and quality. I would encourage you to use these merchants when you shop on-line and I would personally appreciate it if you use these links.

No Gas Day?

Today I got an e-mail from a friend that advocates May 15th as a No Gas day. It is supposed to be a way to force gas companies to lower the price of gas. I would encourage everyone to ignore that e-mail should you come across it for many of the reasons that Snopes.com lists on its page devoted to this particular e-mail.

Instead, I would encourage you to work on making one day a week a "no vehicle" day. This would do a great deal more towards lowering gas prices as well as making other dramatic changes in our society. If everyone took mass transit one day a week, imagine how much incentive that would be for transit systems to improve their service, routes, and pricing. Imagine how much pollution that would take out of the skies (reduce global warming). Imagine how much wear and tear that would save on your vehicle, making it last longer, making it less likely to be in an accident, etc.

If everyone were to spend 52 days a year, not driving, that would send a HUGE message to a lot of people!! I will admit, I would be challenged to do that too, but hey the nice weather is coming up, maybe we can give it a try.

Thoughts anyone?