Abnormally Normal People: News and politics

What Did The Dormouse Say?

Thu, 14 Feb 2008 06:00:49 GMT

Happy Valentines Day to one and all...

I've always lived by the philosophy of not knocking something until I've tried it at least once or twice, but I think I've finally found something that will make me say "I'll pass!" Not too long ago, I noticed this article published on the front page of a newspaper I was reading. We've all kissed a few toads in our lifetimes hoping to find a prince or princess, but this article brings intimacy with toads to a whole new level. Needless to say, my whole office had a laughfest over the various scenarios that each of us imagined could or would happen with the right toad. The bad news for all those thrill seekers and hopeless romantics in search of their soulmate or ultimate nirvana, a "trip" to the mile high state may be required. Unfortunately, this species of toad is only indigenous to Colorado.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Law enforcement authorities have discovered that people are willing to go to great lengths to get high, including a troubling new method that features a frightened toad.

"Toad smoking," which is a substitute for "toad licking," is done by extracting venom from the Sonoran Desert toad of the Colorado River. The toad's venom - which is secreted when the toad gets angry or scared - contains a hallucinogen called bufotenine that can be dried and smoked to produce a buzz.

In October, a Kansas City man was charged with possessing a controlled substance after Clay County authorities determined he possessed a toad with the intent to use its venom to get high.

Clay County Prosecutor Daniel White said possessing the toad is not illegal, but using it to get high off its venom is.

It is easier to get it, and law enforcement might not immediately know you use it to get high," White said. "It's sort of a New Age way to get high. You convince yourself it is OK because it is something you get naturally from our environment.

"There are a lot of things that are created naturally but they are still not legal," he said.

White said that for years people experimented with "toad licking," and now toad smoking is considered a substitute. To do so, a person heats up the frog's venom to break down its toxins and preserve the hallucinogen, which is dried.

He said some Internet sites feature an instructional video on how to extract the toad's venom.

Police found the toad when they went to a northern Kansas City home to investigate a suspected meth lab. They later arrested David S. Theiss, 21, and charged him with three counts of possession of a controlled substance and one count of possessing drug paraphernalia - the toad.

Theiss also is accused of possessing mescaline, a controlled substance extracted from a cactus.

Super Tuesday - The Superbowl Of Politics

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 06:20:46 GMT

Before I go meet the sandman, I want to write just a few words of encouragement to all the people who live in the states voting in the primaries tomorrow...

First and foremost, GET OUT AND VOTE...bring a friend, bring a neighbor, bring a relative, but get out there rain or shine and make your voice heard. We are Americans and our votes do matter. Second, examine the issues and listen to the candidates. Somehow get past all the distracting campaign rhetoric and really listen to their platforms. Last, whatever candidate seems to best represent how you feel and what you see as key issues, vote for that person, but make that person keep working for your vote everyday thereafter.

Don't look at this election as just another selection in the lesser of two evils because apathy and cynicism breeds comtempt. We definitely don't need any more contempt after all this country has been through in the past several years. What we need now is unity. Change can happen one vote at a time and only we can be the catalyst to make that change possible. Yes, in order for change to happen, we, the people have to make it happen. It's our patriotic duty!

Then as we usher that change in, we must hold the people we elect accountable for their actions. We have to demand that they represent us, the people who elected them. Afterall, we are the collective force that seated them in their positions of power. We deserve to be represented accurately and fairly. Being apathetic about the voting process or about the whole political system in general makes us more guilty then the elected officials who abuse and misuse their power while in office. Our silence damages this country because with each vote that isn't cast our great country is brought slowly to its knees and weakened by our apathy.

One Voice - An ANP Blog

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 22:54:52 GMT

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

Just so people won't think I disappeared (again), I wanted everyone to know that I'm taking a little hiatus from Abnormally Normal People. I've started a strictly political blog to cover the issues, the politicians and to help get everyone motivated enough to actually vote in the upcoming 2008 Presidential Election. Unlike most political blogs, I wanted to start one where people of differing views can come and discuss the issues without a bunch of negative hoopla. Please let this serve as an invitation to come check it out and to participate by throwing not only your two cents worth in, but your fifty cents also. I look forward to reading everyone's points of views. Please visit me at:

ONE VOICE

A place where politics are scrutinized and each voice is heard...

Put That In Your Pipe And Smoke It

Thu, 01 Nov 2007 05:27:55 GMT

The 36th annual National NORML Conference was held on Friday, October 12 and Saturday, October 13 in Universal City, California. This video features Irv Rosenfeld explaining why the government grows marijuana for him:

Recently, I watched Senator Christopher Dodd speak out in favor of decriminalizing marijuana. Perhaps, this wasn't the smartest political move he could have made, but I felt it took a certain amount of courage to come forward and address an issue many feel is political suicide to tackle. I know this topic is far from being a critical issue, but it does however effect the lives of many Americans from both a legal and moral standpoint.

What better place to kick around some candid discussion than right here on the internet? Does anyone care to step up to the "podium" like Senator Dodd did and share their views on this issue? Should marijuana be decrimalized? Is it really the "gateway" drug it's always been accused of being? Does it have any actual medicinal value? Should it eventually be legalized and taxed by the government like tobacco and alcohol? Finally, would you vote for someone who was in favor of the decriminalization and eventual legalization of marijuana? Do you know what the current laws of your state are regarding this issue? If not, click here and then let's hear from you.

Maine's Misconceptions

Sat, 20 Oct 2007 04:49:06 GMT

The residents of Maine can be divided into two camps. The first are Mainers. They epitomize the true heritage and values of Maine. Then there are the Mainiacs who have incorporated their New England heritage and values into this new millennium. They realize that few things in life are black or white. Yes, they know right from wrong, but more importantly they realize that in the real world most people live in the many shades of gray somewhere between black and white (right and wrong). Yes, they know the times they are a changing!

Splashed across the news a few days ago was a story about a middle school in Maine. The school board voted on giving King Middle School in Portland, Maine the right to distribute oral contraceptives to its female students. The big issue that sparked many debates seemed to be the age of the females that might benefit from their decision. No one wants to believe children ages 11 to 13 are having sex because in an ideal world people wait until marriage to engage in sexual activity. But at this school, some brave girls have stepped forward and have admitted to having sex. I guess their ugly admission of truth blew the whole ideal world concept to smithereens. It forced people to think about the unthinkable. OMG, the world isn’t ideal afterall!!!

I listened to a couple debates and wondered why the people debating this issue kept missing the most important point...11 year old girls are sexually active. It didn't matter what each side said because right and wrong had already been transcended. Right and wrong was no longer the issue. The damage couldn’t miraculously be undone. I think the school board simply was trying to step in and make a responsible decision leaving morals out of the ugly reality they needed to face. Yes, people were outraged and they should be outraged. Children should be children, but I'm afraid society entices our children grow up faster now than in times past. As a result, children eleven years old really do have sex. It’s a scary thought, isn’t it?

Everything a child is exposed to from day one teaches them about life. Think about what they have learned from television, music, movies, books, magazines, friends and unfortunately many well-meaning adults as they grow up. Can anyone deny how strong these influences are on our children as they try to emulate their idols? Yet denial is what we do each time a young girl turns up pregnant or something bad happens. We shake our heads and talk about what a shame it is. How she’s ruined her life and how terrible her parents must be. We want to tar and feather the hooligan who got her pregnant. We’re all quick to pass judgment and slow to face the real problem.

I think the part that really got my attention was learning that the old double standard is alive and well in this liberal New England hamlet. In the year 2000, no one raised an eyebrow when the same school board decided to make condoms available for the male students. For 7 years, the male students have benefited from their decision. In a perfect world, parents educate their children about sex so they don't have to learn about it through other means. So in an imperfect world what do we do? Do we ignore the fact that too children are sexually active and becoming pregnant? Do we ignore the fact that children are spreading sexually transmitted diseases? Do we turn the other way ignoring the problem and criticizing those who aggressively try to address the issue? Do we blame them for our children having sex or do we thank them for trying to protect all the children who have fallen through the cracks and are products of flawed values, weak role models and dysfunctional families?

What Would You Do For $5.15 Per Hour?

Sat, 05 Aug 2006 22:54:26 GMT

Political topics seem to bring out the worst in people. I'm not quite sure why that is and I probably should stay away from addressing anything political here, but sometimes a person just has to go there and be a glutton for punishment. I diligently watch the news and have to admit some topics bother me more than others. Lately, the whole minimum wage issue has been on my mind. During the Clinton years, power was given to the states to set their own minimum wage above the federal level. By 2004, only 12 states have implemented increases.

When a federal increase is mandated across the board, I can see how it might adversely effect the economy in some states. Unfortunately, the cost of living is not the same throughout all 50 states. Those people living in the states with their minimum wage still at $5.15 per hour really need to scrutinize their own state officials and ask why the minimum wage is still at $5.15 per hour. Look at their voting records on bills to increase the minimum wage not only federally, but more importantly in their own state. Also look at their voting record to increase their own wages!

Did you know since 1992, congressional pay has increased from $129,500 to $165,200? My point in this really isn't so much to bitch about an issue as it is aimed at encouraging people to become more aware of what elected officials are doing and what they aren't doing. Are they really representing us? Everything we need to answer this question is at our fingertips and takes only moments to do a search to find the answers we need to stay informed. If the people you voted for in the last election aren't upholding their campaign promises, then look at it as your civic duty to search elsewhere for someone who is more likely to represent the voice of the majority who elected them.

Do Approval Ratings Show What The American Voters Want?

Sat, 17 Jun 2006 15:38:19 GMT

Some bleeding heart liberal (a kindred spirit) sent this little tidbit to me. As I post this, I'm sure some will scrutinize it line for line and chastise me for posting it. In the words of our president, "bring it on!" Others will carefully read this resume and give it a thumbs up. Whatever your political persuasion is, has been and always shall remain, becoming aware of what happens in America and who the people are making it happen is the duty of each citizen.

Take some time to ask yourself if you really want more of what's been happening for the last 6 years. A step in the right direction can be made at the 2006 mid-term elections by casting your vote not by viewing things in terms of selecting the lesser of two evils, but by truly getting behind a cause regardless what that cause is. There's many worthy ones out there...the environment, the war, education, healthcare, gay marriage, immigration, global warming, endangered species and the economy just to name a few. Apathy is deadly and no longer can people afford to sit idle and say their vote doesn't count. It does count; so cast it wisely and with a clear conscience that you are doing what's best for the country in which you live.

George W. Bush
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20500

Home: (202) 456-1414
Fax: (202) 456-2461

Email: comments@whitehouse.gov

LAW & ORDER
I was arrested in Kennebunkport, Maine, in 1976 for driving under the influence of alcohol. I pled guilty, paid a fine, and had my driver's license suspended for 30 days. My Texas driving record has been "lost" and is not available.

MILITARY
I joined the Texas Air National Guard and went AWOL. I refused to take a drug test or answer any questions about my drug use. By joining the Texas Air National Guard, I was able to avoid combat duty in Vietnam.

EDUCATION AND EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
I graduated from Yale University with a low C average. I was a cheerleader starting in my high school years. (See photos below)

PAST WORK EXPERIENCE
I ran for U.S. Congress and lost. I began my career in the oil business in Midland, Texas, in 1975. I bought an oil company, but couldn't find any oil in Texas. The company went bankrupt shortly after I sold all my stock.

I bought the Texas Rangers baseball team in a sweetheart deal that took land using taxpayer money. With the help of my father and our friends in the oil industry, including Enron CEO Ken Lay, I was elected governor of Texas.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS AS GOVERNOR OF TEXAS
I changed Texas pollution laws to favor power and oil companies, making Texas the most polluted state in the Union. During my tenure, Houston replaced Los Angeles as the most smog-ridden city in America. I cut taxes and bankrupted the Texas treasury to the tune of billions in borrowed money. I set the record for the most executions by any governor in American history. With the help of my brother, the governor of Florida, and my father's appointments to the Supreme Court, I became President after losing by over 500,000 votes.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS AS PRESIDENT
I am the first President in US. history to enter office with a criminal record. I invaded and occupied two countries at a continuing cost of over one billion dollars per week. I spent the U.S. surplus and effectively bankrupted the U.S. Treasury. I shattered the record for the largest annual deficit in U.S. history. I set an economic record for most private bankruptcies filed in any 12-month period. I set the all-time record for most foreclosures in a 12-month period. I set the all-time record for the biggest drop in the history of the U.S. stock market.

In my first year in office, over 2 million Americans lost their jobs and that trend continues every month.

I'm proud that the members of my cabinet are the richest of any administration in U.S. history. My "poorest millionaire," Condoleeza Rice, had a Chevron oil tanker named after her. I set the record for most campaign fund-raising trips by a U.S. President. I am the all-time U.S. and world record-holder for receiving the most corporate campaign donations. My largest lifetime campaign contributor, and one of my best friends, Kenneth Lay, presided over the largest corporate bankruptcy fraud in U.S. History, Enron.

My political party used Enron private jets and corporate attorneys to assure my success with the U.S. Supreme Court during my election decision. I have protected my friends at Enron and Halliburton against investigation or prosecution. More time and money was spent investigating the Clinton-Lewinsky affair than has been spent investigating one of the biggest corporate rip-offs in history.

I presided over the biggest energy crisis in U.S. history and refused to intervene when corruption involving the oil industry was revealed. I presided over the highest gasoline prices in U.S. history. I changed the U.S. policy to allow convicted criminals to be awarded government contracts. I appointed more convicted criminals to administration than any President in U.S. history. I created the Ministry of Homeland Security, the largest bureaucracy in the history of the United States government.

I've broken more international treaties than any President in U.S. history. I am the first President in U.S. history to have the United Nations remove the U.S. from the Human Rights Commission. I withdrew the U.S. from the World Court of Law. I refused to allow inspectors access to U.S. "prisoners of war" detainees and thereby have refused to abide by the Geneva Convention. I am the first President in history to refuse United Nations election inspectors (during the 2002 U.S. election). I set the record for fewest numbers of press conferences of any President since the advent of television. I set the all-time record for most days on vacation in any one-year period. After taking off the entire month of August, I presided over the worst security failure in U.S. history. I garnered the most sympathy for the U.S. after the World Trade Center attacks and less than a year later made the U.S. the most hated country in the world, the largest failure of diplomacy in world history.

I have set the all-time record for most people worldwide to simultaneously protest me in public venues (15 million people), shattering the record for protests against any person in the history of mankind.

I am the first President in U.S. history to order an unprovoked, pre-emptive attack and the military occupation of a sovereign nation. I did so against the will of the United Nations, the majority of U.S. citizens, and the world community. I have cut health care benefits for war veterans and support a cut in duty benefits for active duty troops and their families-in-wartime. In my State of the Union Address, I lied about our reasons for attacking Iraq and then blamed the lies on our British friends. I am the first President in history to have a majority of Europeans (71%) view my presidency as the biggest threat to world peace and security. I am supporting development of a nuclear "Tactical Bunker Buster," a WMD. I have so far failed to fulfill my pledge to bring Osama Bin Laden to justice.

RECORDS AND REFERENCES
All records of my tenure as governor of Texas are now in my father's library, sealed and unavailable for public view. All records of SEC investigations into my insider trading and my bankrupt companies are sealed in secrecy and unavailable for public view. All records or minutes from meetings that I, or my Vice-President, attended regarding public energy policy are sealed in secrecy and unavailable for public review.

Somewhere Over The Political Rainbow

Sat, 03 Jun 2006 18:06:22 GMT

[Alittle bi-partisan humor that I couldn't resist sharing]

Four United States Presidents get caught up in a

tornado ... and off they whirled to the land of OZ.

They finally made it to the Emerald City and

went to find the Great Wizard.

"What brings the 4 of you before the great Wizard of Oz?"

Jimmy Carter stepped forward timidly and said:
"I've come for some courage."

" No Problem! said the Wizard. Who ' s next?"

Richard Nixon stepped forward,
"Well, I think I need a heart."

"Done!" says the Wizard.
"Who comes next before the Great and Powerful Oz?"

Up stepped Dubya and said,
"I'm told by the American people that

I need a brain."

"No problem!" said the Wizard.
"Consider it done."

Then there is a great silence in the hall.
Bill Clinton is just standing there, looking around,
But he doesnt say a word.

Irritated, the Wizard finally asks,

"Well, what do you want?"

Bill Clinton grinned, then asked, "IS DOROTHY HERE?"

Blind Justice Nebraska Style

Sat, 27 May 2006 03:06:34 GMT

Yesterday I read a news story that utterly horrified me. I had to reread it a few times in order to realize I wasn't misunderstanding what I had read. Before I enclose the article, I'd like to preface it by saying that many things in life are unjust, but it saddens me to have to admit in the past several years I feel as though "the system" that is meant to serve and protect us all seems to be festering with corruption, hypocrisy and apathy. Often times the legal system falls short of protecting anyone, but the guilty. I know the unsavory elements of power have always been there to some degree, but things as blatant as the injustice dispensed by a judge in Nebraska is not only indicative of what’s wrong in the heartland of our country, but in every city in every state from coast to coast and throughout all branches of our government. Our legal system hides behind some heinous facade that calls itself blind justice, but the only thing that seems blind is the people in power.

As you read the following article ask yourself two questions:

1. How short was the child that was molested?

2. Will District Judge Kristine Cecava be reelected when her term ends January 2009?

Judge rules sex offender is too short for prison

5-foot-1 man gets 10 years probation for sexual assault of a child

SIDNEY, Neb. - A judge said a 5-foot-1 man convicted of sexually assaulting a child was too small to survive in prison, and gave him 10 years of probation instead.
His crimes deserved a long sentence, District Judge Kristine Cecava said, but she worried that Richard W. Thompson, 50, would be especially imperiled by prison dangers.
"You are a sex offender, and you did it to a child," she said.
But, she said, "That doesn't make you a hunter. You do not fit in that category."
Thompson will be electronically monitored the first four months of his probation, and he was told to never be alone with someone under age 18 or date or live with a woman whose children were under 18. Cecava also ordered Thompson to get rid of his pornography.
He faces 30 days of jail each year of his probation unless he follows its conditions closely.
"I want control of you until I know you have integrated change into your life," the judge told Thompson. "I truly hope that my bet on you being OK out in society is not misplaced."

George Bush's Alter Ego???

Sun, 23 Apr 2006 05:29:30 GMT

"What? Me worry???"

~ Alfred E. Neuman ~

"I can only speak to myself."

~ Dubya ~

April 28, 2005

Is it possible Alfred E. Neuman, a fictional cartoon character who was created in the 1950's by a satirical genius crossed the barrier from fantasy into reality by finding his way into the Whitehouse in the morphed form of George "Dubya" Bush?

Political Quiz

Sun, 26 Mar 2006 05:13:02 GMT

Usually when politics or religion are discussed, it brings out the worst in people. It seems everyone wants to be right, when in reality being right is basically a matter of which side of the fence in which you live. I make no attempt to hide the fact that my political views are liberal and that I firmly believe America has many serious issues that are being completely disregarded by the present administration. I urge each person to become more politically aware so ultimately, when it's time to vote, each person will put aside any apathy they might have felt at some time towards our government and vote out of a sense of civic duty and from a love of their country.

Here's a POLITICAL QUIZ to take (for those inquiring minds...my score was 11)... your results might not surprise you, but maybe it might help some people focus their attention on the issues that they feel needs to be scrutinized more closely by our leaders. Do the people you voted for in the last election truly represent your way of thinking? Or did you just vote for the lesser of two evils? Just out of curiosity, who would you like to see run for President in 2008?

The New STD

Thu, 02 Feb 2006 04:21:10 GMT

Borrowed from Saphire Spirit:

Subtitled "Another Example of Compassionate Conservatism"

The Center for Disease Control has issued a warning about a new virulent strain of Sexually Transmitted Disease.

The disease is contracted through dangerous and high-risk behavior. The disease is called Gonorrhea Lectim and pronounced "gonna re-elect him." Many victims contracted it in 2004, after having been screwed for the past four years. Cognitive characteristics of individuals infected include: anti-social personality disorders, delusions of grandeur with messianic overtones, extreme cognitive dissonance, inability to incorporate new information, pronounced xenophobia and paranoia, inability to accept responsibility for own actions, cowardice masked by misplaced bravado, uncontrolled facial smirking, ignorance of geography and history, tendencies towards evangelical theocracy, categorical all-or-nothing behavior.

Naturalists and epidemiologists are amazed at how this destructive disease originated only a few years ago from a BUSH found in Texas.

For further examples of compassionate conservatism, please read The Generosity Of Politicians

Are We Acheiving Our Goals In Iraq?

Sat, 03 Dec 2005 04:05:33 GMT

The United States struggled to gain its independence from what at the time seemed to be a tyrannical monarchy. We persevered and won the opportunity to govern ourselves. During our years of independence, we've engaged in a Civil War and also participated in other battles/wars throughout the world for various reasons. The concept of WAR is something that will always be debated...I tend to give a nod to the saying "fighting for peace is like screwing for virginity". Yes, I know all the arguments, but I can't seem to get past the fact that war expedites deaths...many deaths. I can’t help, but feel as I run my hand over all the names imprinted on a wall remembering those who died in Viet Nam that each person listed died in vain. We went to war in Iraq on the premise of waging a war against terrorism and to rid the world of a dictator that harbored weapons of mass destruction and who commit atrocities against mankind. Now, more than 2 years later, and with the death toll rising, I have to question if Iraq has the same type of passion as our country had in its infancy. Freedom was the ideal and the driving force in which we built this country upon. I can't help but wonder if democracy will prevail in the Middle East when democracy seems to be a value that has been imported to that region from a country that is misunderstood by the people who we are trying to help. Freedom and democracy isn't something that can be thrust upon anyone. The motivation and the passion for it have to come from within for freedom to prevail.

What I see on the news is a country reluctant to stand on its on. What I see is a country in which our citizens are bravely giving their lives to plant the seeds of freedom in a place that has never known freedom. My questions is this...how many lives will be given before freedom prevails? My question doesn’t make me unpatriotic, but just a citizen concerned for all those families who have loved ones in the Middle East. I am a citizen concerned about the people in the United States needing help and the many changes that are so desperately needed here at home. I wonder how many wars would occur if the leaders of the nations had to do battle with each other instead of its citizens. I wonder if Iraq would have gotten so much attention if it weren’t an oil-producing nation. I wonder why nations with dictators who do have weapons of mass destruction escape our attention. I wonder why countries like Rwanda who endured genocidal murder are barely scrutinized until movies are made, while we are horrified by the actions of Saddam Hussein? I wonder when the killing stops and the last person dies, if anyone will feel as if it were 1 life too many or ten lives or 100 lives...or maybe that it wasn’t worth the price that has been paid. I wonder when “mission accomplished” is a reality how the rest of the world will view the United States.

One City At A Time

Thu, 03 Nov 2005 05:10:49 GMT

According to an article I read in NORML (National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws) News, "Denver voters yesterday approved a city-wide measure to eliminate all civil and criminal penalties for the possession of up to one ounce of marijuana by citizens age 21 and older." It seems instead of decriminalizing marijuana nationally, the country is deciding to be more lenient on recreational pot smokers one city at a time.

Legalizing marijuana is a topic that has been around for quite some time and has many thought-provoking points on both sides of the issue. Personally, I have a huge problem with any law that prohibits recreational use of one drug, yet allows legal access to other substances (cigarettes and alcohol) which are far more harmful than marijuana. The death toll from diseases resulting from cigarette smoking and alcohol abuse is staggering, but I sit here trying to remember the last person I heard of who died from smoking marijuana. Are Cheech and Chong still alive? Of course, those who view marijuana as a "gateway" drug or as a substance that is physically, spiritually, mentally, legally, morally and ethically detrimental will be outraged at the progress the Reform Movement has made. It seems while all eyes have been focused on topics like same-sex marriages, the potheads of the country have slipped in the backdoor and lit up a big one right under the moral majority's noses.

"Well, they'll stone you when
You're trying to be so good.
They'll stone you just like
They said they would.
They'll stone you when
You're tryin' to go home
Then they'll stone you when
You're there all alone,
But I would not feel so all alone.
Everybody must get stoned."

~Bob Dylan~

Which Bandwagon Are You On?

Sat, 22 Oct 2005 06:39:35 GMT

This political cartoon by Ben Sergeant depicts the same sex marriage amendment (in Texas) as being alittle on the bogus side. Aren't there bigger issues that the United States should be focusing on rather than being so concerned about boys kissing boys and girls kissing girls? How about the skyrocketing gas prices? How about the polluted environment and global warming? How about the decaying educational system? How about non-existent health insurance for millions? How about the seemingly winless war in Iraq? How about a more effective FEMA/Homeland Security? The list goes on and on.... Should the government attempt to legislate morality or should we have the option to decide for ourselves what's right and wrong without it being a law?

Living In Glass Houses

Mon, 19 Sep 2005 05:52:16 GMT

I read an very disturbing article today about the people most effected by Hurricane Katrina. What distressed me most was the tone of the article. If I didn't know any better I would have sworn it was written by a white supremacist. I realize in today's world we are surrounded by hatred and prejudice every where we go...even when it comes to a very basic thing like helping people who are in dire need we still tend to look at skin color and not at the person in need. I suppose it's easier to place blame on the poor who were the true victims of Katrina's wrath than to place the blame/responsibility where it really should go. Yes, people did terrible things as a result of Hurricane Katrina. They raped. They looted. They even murdered. The article I read made it seem like it was the majority who were doing those horrible acts when in reality it was just a few who took advantage of a desperate situation.

Many people have chosen to make this disaster into a racial issue, but I don't believe it has anything to do with race. Poverty seems to be much more indicative of all the wrongs that have surfaced. Unfortunately, the majority of the economically disadvantaged in New Orleans were black, so when in doubt and definitely when a person tends to be a racist, it's much easier to point a finger and accuse the blacks of being their own worst enemy and of bleeding the system for all it's worth. I wonder if the same types of things would have been written if this disaster had occurred in some other city where the majority of poor people were some other race other than black. What sickens me most are the "Christians" who are buzzing about the sinful nature of New Orleans and how the blacks of that area had the same advantages as any other person. It infuriates me to hear people say "they chose to stay, so they sealed their own fate". Do you think anyone who stayed really wanted to die? Do you think anyone who stayed wanted to lose everything they owned? I hate to say this, but if "ignorance is bliss" than it's not the poor blacks who are blissful...it's the self-righteous white Christians and our incompetent leaders who have acquired a quite blissful oblivion to bury themselves within so not to be touched by the ugly reality of what has happened.

People like to criticize black leaders like Jesse Jackson for inciting trouble when all he's trying to do is help the needy. His methods may be debateable, but at least he's doing something instead of sitting back acting clueless in times of crisis. Most blacks who have risen to any leadership position use their status as an example of showing others that with education, determination and the ability to think outside the box anyone can change their situation and improve their standard of living. Religious leaders like Pat Robertson are much more dangerous and narrow-minded than Jesse Jackson ever has been or ever will be. Politicians like George Bush continue hurt the United States in times of crisis with "compassionate conservatism". I wonder if he ever considered what would happen if a actual disaster happened after he appointed one of his unqualified, inexperienced buddies to a position like being head of FEMA. In Katrina's aftermath, he need only look around and see the result of his incompetent decision.

Let's get realistic about this whole lack of response issue and the break down in emergency management after Katrina! Yes, the first responders in any disaster are always on the local level. Obviously, New Orleans didn't have an effective plan implemented or else the chaos that followed would have never happened. Does the blame stop there? Not hardly! Everyone dropped the ball all the way up the ladder,especially on the federal level. As a result, people died and a great city lays in ruin. This may not be the time for finger pointing, but it is the time to help those people who need help regardless of skin color or economic status. It also is the time to realize the whole world is watching and the truth that has been depicted is that the country we live in cannot handle a large scale disaster efficiently. That reality scares me more than any hurricane ever will.

The Compassionate Conservatism Campaign

Fri, 09 Sep 2005 12:06:15 GMT

My previous post has gotten me thinking about God, Jesus, and religion in general. Ironically, religion seems to be one of those topics that's deeply personal and usually has people at each other's throats in a matter of a few minutes. The only other topic I can think of that makes people so irrationally passionate is politics. When the two topics are intertwined, which probably should never happen, people seem to immediately take the moral high ground claiming to know what's right for the masses. A very shrewd man named Carl Rove knew enough about human nature and the signs of the times to use this exact moral high ground to keep our current president in the White House for a second term.

I received a "humorous" email today from my political guru with a link to a strange "let's suppose" scenario. Have any of you ever really thought about how Jesus really would be received by people in today's world? Although we like to say The Golden Rule is a great philosophy, just how many people really do implement it in their own lives and live with the true concept of brotherly love? I fear Jesus would be classified as just another bleeding heart liberal and not taken very seriously. So what would happen if Jesus stepped into the political arena and took on George Bush? Would he do any better than Al Gore or John Kerry did? This is a link to the hypothetical smear tactic that Bush's campaign might use to portray Jesus as a less than desirable candidate for public office. What would Jesus do? That's a great question! I'd like to believe Jesus would be shrewder that Carl Rove and do a campaign slogan like "Vote for me and I'll turn your water into wine!" or "My father can kick your father's ass!".

This is a look at what a GOP/Bush campaign ad would be like, if the Prince of Peace were alive and here on earth. After-all, we know how liberal, non-violent hippies who want to help the down-trodden, advocate for peace, tolerance, and base their ethics on helping those around them and acting towards others like you would want others to act towards you...are treated by the GOP.

Comic Relief

Mon, 05 Sep 2005 07:33:26 GMT

How many members of the Bush administration does it take to change a light bulb?

TEN

1. One to deny that a light bulb needs to be changed;

2. One to attack the patriotism of anyone who says the light bulb needs to be changed;

3. One to blame Clinton for burning out the light bulb;

4. One to tell the nations of the world that they are either for changing the light bulb or for eternal darkness;

5. One to give a billion dollar no-bid contract to Halliburton for the new light bulb;

6. One to arrange a photograph of Bush, dressed as a janitor, standing on a step ladder under the banner 'Bulb Accomplished';

7. One administration insider to resign and in detail reveal how Bush was literally 'in the dark' the whole time;

8. One to viciously smear No. 7;

9. One surrogate to campaign on TV and at rallies on how George Bush has had a strong light-bulb-changing policy all along;

10. And finally, one to confuse Americans about the difference between screwing a light bulb and screwing the country.

Isn't it funny how reality can be so comical and sad at the same time?

More Thoughts On Katrina

Sun, 04 Sep 2005 05:43:58 GMT

RANT ON!!!

I wrote a rather lengthy comment on Jnuts site concerning the Hurricane Katrina disaster. I would like to share that comment here on my site because I feel this issue is one that needs much more discussion on everyone's part. I have reconsidered my initial stance on criticizing the press for being the "first responders" to this disaster and harshly accusing them of virtually doing nothing to help people. Those who have gone in and who have remained to report the news for the duration are living under the same conditions as the citizens of the decimated areas. I do, however still think that this issue might be easily over broadcasted and thus might cause apathy and desensitization to the issue of natural disasters. I do still question that if the press managed to get into the disaster areas so easily, where were the National Guard? Where was FEMA? Where were the Red Cross?

I cannot in clear conscience criticize anyone for remaining in New Orleans or the Biloxi/Gulfport area to ride out the hurricane. In the past 30 plus years of living on the Gulf Coast, I have only evacuated for a hurricane once and that was when I was forced to leave by local officials. Many people do not have the resources to spend on an extended stay in a hotel elsewhere. Many people have pets and disabled or elderly relatives which prevent them from leaving. Whatever the reason, the fact is that in most cases more people stay than leave. The blame should be placed on the emergency management network of the central Gulf Coast for failing to do its job and on the government for not being expeditious in its efforts to get into the areas that needed help immediately after the storm. The focus shouldn't be on blaming poor people who couldn‘t leave. There really was time, resources and manpower to evacuate people who were without transportation, who were in hospitals and who were disabled or elderly. These people could have been relocated to churches, schools, convention centers, stadiums, civic centers and any other place large enough to be used as a storm shelter. Even if people were moved only 50 miles to the West, it would have saved lives and the chaos and looting that has resulted by people staying would have been completely avoided.

“Often times people do choose to ride out storms, but in doing so MOST people do know the possible consequences of their actions. When people are told to evacuate here (Pensacola), generally the order is given to low lying areas that are prone to flooding. When Hurricane Ivan was going to make landfall here people were forced to leave those areas. "Mandatory evacuation" meant you left and didn't come back until it was deemed safe by the powers that be. The difference I believe is that the governor of my state is the president's brother. We had help as soon as the storm ended. No one had to wait for food, water and ice. Medical help was available and if looting occurred it was very isolated incidences and not the norm. Keep in mind Ivan was the 4th catastrophic storm to hit Florida last year and yes, the whole state was a disaster area! Was there help available? YOU BETCHA! Again...the difference I believe was the Bush factor.

Bush has a very low approval rating right now (prior to Katrina) and still fails to act assertively during times of crisis. For Christ sakes, this is the United States and not a 3rd world nation. We can do massive airlifts elsewhere and get supplies into disaster areas, yet we can't do it here! What the hell is going on? We have a right to know why help was so long in coming and why the emergency management network failed for Hurricane Katrina. All scenarios gave people fair warning that New Orleans couldn't sustain anything greater than a Cat 3 storm. What happened is exactly what was predicted would happen. So why weren’t people evacuated 2 days before? Why weren't hospitals evacuated? Why weren’t people on stand-by waiting for the storm to pass so they could immediately go into the area?

Not to politicize this anymore than necessary, but come on...why isn't the "other side" screaming and demanding answers? Someone needs to be held accountable for the mismanagement. People are dying and the Gulf Coast is slowly turning into a cesspool. Now, what is going to happen if another hurricane hits the Gulf Coast? Hurricane season is just half over with the peak being the middle of September. As a survivor of Hurricane Ivan, I can honestly say I am thankful for living in a state that was prepared to handle a large-scale disaster. Maybe the powers that be need to go back to school on this one and learn the right way to do things when human lives are involved. Being prepared means taking Mother Nature seriously and knowing that eventually each place along the Gulf Coast and Atlantic coastline will suffer from a major hurricane. It's just a matter of time! As global warming continues and the oceans slowly heat up, the fuel to make hurricanes stronger and deadlier increases as the surface temp increases. Many things need to start being taken seriously and then steps to counteract and correct the problems need to be done.”

I want to thank everyone who has commented on this issue. This is one issue that really does need not only everyone's focus, but everyone's help also. Even if it's just to donate a few dollars to The Red Cross, remember every dollar helps. Keep in mind that you never know when and if the area you live in will be effected by a natural disaster and you, too may be totally dependent upon the same agencies that are now helping the people along the Gulf Coast.

I would like to end this rant with a short excerpt from a news story I just read:

"No one knows how many were killed by Hurricane Katrina's floods and how many more succumbed waiting to be rescued. But the bodies are everywhere: hidden in attics, floating among the ruined city, crumpled on wheelchairs, abandoned on highways."

RANT OFF!!!

Thoughts From A Bleeding Heart Liberal

Thu, 01 Sep 2005 21:21:04 GMT

Maybe I'm too pragmatic or just a bit idealistic in my thinking, but in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina a few things have become apparent to me and have made me think about how things are being done and how things should be done. Yes, I know it's sometimes easier to sit back as an unbiased observer and come up with viable solutions than it is to come up with solutions when personally engaged in a major catastrophe. As a survivor of Hurricane Ivan last year and having a brother living in the devastated area, I feel a great deal of empathy and compassion for all who have been a victim of Hurricane Katrina.
As I have watched all the news reports showing the destruction Hurricane Katrina brought to the Gulf Coast, I have wondered why those reporter sticking a microphone in the faces of many homeless people who aimlessly wander the flooded streets haven't taken those people to safety. Yes, the news needs to get out, but helping those being interviewed is much more important than hearing what each person has lost and how each person feels. It makes me wonder how much supplies and water each reporter has brought into the area to distribute to those who need it most as they have come to the Gulf Coast from all parts of the United States to report the news. I fear that their overkill through televising about this disaster might desensitize people to the horror of what has happened and what might happen again at any time. What reporters from all over need to be asking is why it took so long to start helping people trapped in the disaster areas. As Bill Maher stated on Real Time this week, maybe this will get our press corps back to being what they were in the past.
Anarchy is breaking out. Buildings are being looted and burned. People who were once law-biding citizens are now crazed and dazed. As these people loot and steal televisions, designer jeans, guns, etc., etc just where do they suppose they are going to store their stolen goods? They are homeless and treading through streets filled with floodwaters laced with debris, raw sewerage, rotting fish, dead bodies and poisonous snakes. The fact is that the Central Gulf Coast will take years to rebuild and it will take an effort throughout the nation to make that happen.
I suggest that President Bush consider bringing home the troops in Iraq and put them to work restoring the peace here and rebuilding what was destroyed. Next, I suggest to stop funneling so much money in foreign aid when there are so many homeless and needy here in the United States right now. We need to help our own instead of seeing pictures of Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana ravaged by Mother Nature splashed across the television each night. The areas that were hardest hit by Hurricane Katrina look worse than any pictures I've ever seen of war. I don't think the property damage caused by the tsunami looked as bad as what the nation is being shown from Hurricane Katrina . Can you think of anything comparable to Hurricane Katrina? Perhaps the eruption of Mount St. Helen?
Now due to our dependence upon oil, this disaster will make those people in the oil business even wealthier as the price of gasoline skyrockets. Will the oil barons be donating all their profits to the Hurricane Relief Fund? I know Wal-Mart has been sending ice and water into the area and have set up places so people can donate cash to help the cause. I read yesterday that the NFL donated 1 million dollars and Wal-Mart donated 17 million dollars, yet the estimated cost of the clean up and rebuilding is in the billions of dollars and will require continual aid and manpower to succeed. If the insurance companies follow the same path they did with Hurricane Ivan claims, new roofs and rebuilding will be slow in coming and some companies will not pay claims at all. The moral of the story is to read your homeowner’s insurance policy very carefully and know exactly what your coverage entails.
Now, I wonder how long it will be before drilling off the coast of Florida will begin. The citizens of Florida have fought diligently to keep the eyesore and potential environmental disaster of oilrigs off its coastline, but I fear it's just a matter of time now before we lose that battle. Oil seems to be what makes the world go round and as my mother always told me "the squeaky wheel gets oiled". Right now, the squeaky wheel seems to be the victims of Hurricane Katrina, but I fear the underlying moan of the oil business may drown out their cries before all is said and done. Maybe this disaster is the wakeup call that our nation needs to seriously start looking for alternative energy resources and to make a real commitment to help its own citizens before committing itself to the rest of the world.

Hurricane Katrina

Tue, 30 Aug 2005 16:41:33 GMT

Here it is not even at the peak of hurricane season and already the Gulf Coast has been hammered beyond recognition by hurricanes once again. Katrina was kind to Pensacola. I was among the many who experienced power outages, but didn't get any of damage from the storm surge or winds. The winds gusted pretty strong for quite awhile, but I opened my windows when the power went out and let the tropical storm force winds keep my townhouse at a bearable temperature.

Late last night when the power finally came back on, I watched the news coverage of the destruction Katrina caused to the central Gulf Coast. As of right now, I haven't been able to contact my brother and his wife who live in Gulfport, Mississippi which is just about at Ground Zero. I looked at the pictures probably the same way people looked at pictures of Pensacola after Hurricane Ivan hit here last year. I was completely stunned over the destruction I was seeing. I have been through many hurricanes in the last 33 years of living on the Gulf Coast, but I don't think a person ever gets used to or desensitized to the wrath of Mother Nature.

Many people have hurricane parties which isn't always the smartest thing to participate in during a hurricane depending on where you are located and how bad the storm is, but I know stress will often make people use bad judgment during times of crisis and some people will use any excuse to have a party. My family tradition is to play Trivia Pursuit by candlelight. When my children were younger, we played other board games to pass the time. Back in my ill-spent youth, I did mushrooms during a hurricane once. That should come with the warning: Danger! Do not try this during a hurricane or any other natural disaster!

To conclude this entry, I will say life is pretty much back to normal today. I will begin jobhunting as soon as all businesses open tomorrow. Today many of them are still closed so they can be inspected for safety before they are reopened. Thursday I have a funeral to attend. The storm made it impossible to make normal arrangements for burial. Everything gets put on hold for a hurricane and who can argue with the fury of Mother Nature and win?

Pictures are of the Louisiana and Mississippi area hit hardest by Hurricane Katrina.

How Hard Can It Be?

Sun, 28 Aug 2005 07:21:22 GMT

"How hard can it be?" is one of the many catchy campaign slogan of Kinky Friedman. For those of you not familiar with the name, Kinky is running for governor of Texas as an Independent candidate.

Who is Kinky Friedman?

Richard F. "Kinky" Friedman, (born October 31, 1944 in Chicago, Illinois) is an American singer, songwriter and novelist. Born in Chicago, Friedman's family moved to a ranch in central Texas during his childhood. He had a keen interest in both music and chess at an early age. Friedman, an honors student, graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1966 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and then served two years with the Peace Corps in Borneo and other areas of the southwest Pacific Ocean. Friedman currently lives at Echo Hill Ranch, his family's summer camp near Kerrville, Texas, just outside of Medina, Texas. He also founded Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch, whose mission is to care for stray, abused and aging animals; more than 1,000 dogs have been saved from euthanasia.

Musical Career
Friedman formed his band, The Texas Jewboys, in the early 1970‘s. Friedman's father objected to the name of the band, calling it a "negative, hostile, peculiar thing." Arriving on the wave of Country Rock following on from Gram Parsons, The Band and The Eagles, Friedman originally found cult fame as a Country and Western singer. His repertoire mixed social commentary ("We Reserve The Right To Refuse Service To You") and maudlin ballads ("Western Union Wire") with raucously political correctness humor ("Get Your Biscuits In The Oven and Your Buns In Bed"), while his "Ride'em Jewboy" was a remarkably effective extended tribute to the victims of The Holocaust. Friedman was a musical guest on Saturday Night Live in October 1976.

Writing Career
After his music career stalled in the 1980’s, Friedman found a new lease on life as a fictional detective. His books have similarities to his music, featuring a fictional character solving crimes in New York City and dispensing jokes, wisdom, Texan charm and Jameson's Irish whiskey in equal measure. They are written in a straightforward style which owes a debt to Raymond Chandler. Friedman has also written a regular column for the magazine Texas Monthly since April 2001, although it has been suspended during his run for governor of Texas; his last essay appeared in the March 2005 issue.

Politics
In the early 1980s, Friedman ran a semi-serious campaign for Justice of the Peace in Kerrville, Texas, but lost the election. In 2004, Friedman began a serious campaign to become the governor of Texas in 2006. One of his stated goals is the "dewussification" of Texas. Among his campaign slogans are "How Hard Could It Be?" and "Why The Hell Not?" He's hoping to follow in the footsteps of other entertainers-turned-governors, including Jesse Ventura, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Ronald Reagan. When the campaign finance reports came out after the second quarter had ended, Friedman shockingly outraised former Democratic Congressman Chris Bell. Friedman is friends with both Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, both of whom have invited him to visit the White House. He wrote about his friendships with them in his November 2001 column ("Hail to the Kinkster") for Texas Monthly.

Is he serious? (You decide for yourself!)

Kinky's quotes:

“It's a corrupt and diseased system. It's the stifling of Texas's spirit, and it's the career politicians who are the real joke. Oh, hell. This could be something—but who fucking knows? We have no idea how this is going to turn out.”

“I'm sick of being a performing monkey,” he said after a while. “I'm sick of these rich motherfuckers. But I'm also sick of people asking me if this is a joke. God damn it, I am serious. And they're going to see that I am, eventually.” He paused, then added, “People are always misunderstanding each other. You can never think you have the last word on any human heart.”

How Do We Get Kinky on the Ballot?

Read Willie Nelson's Invitation Here!

"Why The Hell Not" will let you know how you can get involved and will keep you informed on all the latest Kinky news.

Riding It Out In Pensacola

Sun, 10 Jul 2005 03:25:29 GMT

Hurricane Dennis is predicted to become a Category 4 hurricane before landfall late Sunday afternoon or early Sunday evening. After living on the Gulf Coast for over 30 years, I have been through several storms with none of them being as bad as Hurricane Ivan was last September. Now faced with one that is predicted to be stronger than Ivan, I have a healthy amount of fear due to the reality of what that means. Most everyone who knows I'm nestled here in Pensacola, has expressed concern for my safety and has also asked why I chose to stay here.

To answer that million dollar question, I chose to stay here because I have elderly relatives here who refuse to leave. So I sit here in anticipation of what's to come in less than 24 hours from now with the memory of Hurricane Ivan planted firmly in my thoughts. I appreciate the concern expressed from all of you and I will be back online as soon as I possibly can. Tomorrow I won't write a post because I have last minute preparations to make like securing windows and making sure I have all the supplies at arms reach that I will need in case of an emergency. Until my next post, I'll leave you with the quote the EMA (Emergency Management Agency) director of Pensacola Beach told Jim Cantore with The Weather Channel in an interview today, "Mother Nature is a mother!"

A quick geography lesson:

For those of you who aren't familiar with this area, Pensacola is situated on the Florida/Alabama border along the Gulf of Mexico. This area is affectionately called "The Redneck Riviera" and is at the head of Hurricane Alley (appropriately named, don't you think?)

Dennis The Menace

Fri, 08 Jul 2005 23:34:14 GMT

It looks like some wind and rain is headed my way. I just wanted to thank everyone who has expressed concerned for my safety. I have chosen to ride this one out at home like I did with Hurricane Ivan last September. I'll be online til I lose power and then hopefully, it'll be restored fairly quickly. Always the optimist I am!

According to AccuWeather Pensacola, Florida is not the best place to be:

Hurricane Dennis dealt Cuba a crippling blow Friday. This weekend the storm will aim at the central Gulf Coast. Before it gets there, the Florida Keys will be hit pretty hard Saturday, though the storm center should pass west of Key West. At this time, AccuWeather.com hurricane experts expect ground zero to be somewhere from Gulfport, Mississippi, to Pensacola, Florida, on Sunday. Allowing for some wobble in the storm's path, it could come in on either side of the prime target, so the chance of a direct hit remains high from eastern Louisiana to Apalachicola, Florida. We will keep you up to date. Stay with the AccuWeather.com Hurricane Center throughout the weekend.

Do Your Part

Thu, 07 Jul 2005 05:32:33 GMT

Taken from Jnuts Space, Passing Open Windows:

Go Here:

The ONE Campaign

Do your part.

Sign the Declaration!

I received some hate filled emails and one actual threat as a result of posting this trackback a few days ago. I let something that happened about 5 years ago spook me into showing fear and being a whimp. I removed my entry because I know what it's like to be stalked by someone on the internet (not a fun experience) and I tend to take threats very seriously. I was wrong for deleting my entry and for letting someone else control what I write, so I decided to repost it and let fate take its course.

Let there be peace on Earth and let it begin with me...

Breaking News

Wed, 15 Jun 2005 04:12:37 GMT

My thoughts are with all those effected by this earthquake. I hope Thomas, Lacy (who live on sailboats North of Los Angeles) and everyone else who lives on the coast of California, Oregon, Washington and British Columbia will be okay.

CRESCENT CITY, Calif. - A major earthquake struck Tuesday night about 80 miles off the coast of northern California, prompting a tsunami warning along the Pacific coast.
The 7.0-magnitude quake struck at about 7:50 p.m. (Pacific time) southwest of the coastal community of Crescent City, according to the U.S. Geological Survey Web site.
A tsunami warning was in effect from the California-Mexico border north to Vancouver Island, British Columbia.

Residents were being evacuated from low-lying areas of Crescent City, KCBS radio reported.

Update:

A tsunami warning was briefly in effect from the California-Mexico border north to Vancouver Island, British Columbia, but was called off about an hour after the quake hit.

Addendum:

This story didn't hit CNN until the next day. While I turned to the news on TV just minutes after it broke on the internet...I kept waiting for a news story to break there, but the only story that the reporters seemed interested in reporting was about Michael Jackson...STILL!!!