Change You Can't Believe in

Really a no brainer.....

Without their support.

Oh the Humanity!

Do you know who I am?

Do you know who I am?

Most probably not, and more than likely even if you did happen to know me, you would not be admitting it freely. Perhaps it is my face which is by no means a pretty one or the all too common sneer that pulls back my right upper lip as I take in my surroundings. Regardless, the fact remains I personally am not a likeable fellow, nor might I add, have I ever tried to become such. In essence, I am nobody of import or of status and that is just fine with me.

Now, being a person of some limited intelligence, I have come to grips with this situation and incorporate it into my daily business. I accept the fact that people will automatically distrust and oft times fear me right off. Actually because it is so predictable, I have been able to navigate some very dangerous situations indeed and on occasion turn them to my advantage.

This all leads me to my true point and the Title of this post…

Recently it seems people take great stock in who they are or better yet who they believe themselves to be. I put up the cases of Henry Lewis Gates Jr. and Maine State Rep. Richard Blanchard (D-Old Town) respectively to make my point. Both of these men were in confrontations involving the authorities over this past month. In each of these instances the officers involved were very professional and courteous, however Mr. Gates and Rep. Blanchard were anything but. I have linked the Police reports for you to read yourself.

Gates arrest report

Blanchard incident report

I examined each of these cases and came to realize that contrary to all the noise of Race or improper police behavior or even the implications of drunkenness, there was/is a constant underlying factor. A point from which, all the real trouble begins and makes the situation untenable. The starting and ending point lays in the attitude and thinking behind the statement “Do you know who I am?” Now to be fair neither of these two fine upstanding individuals actually asked that question, no they think themselves far too clever to turn such a mundane phrase. Instead Gates said “You don’t know who you are messing with” to a Cambridge police officer and Blanchard shouted “this is the last mistake you are going to make” to a Maine State Warden. They did manage to add some very nice curse words and personal insults to further their cause and Gates even went so far as to insult Officer Crowley’s mother.

So we must ask ourselves what exactly was the purpose and intent of those statements?

It is obvious to even one as common as I they are made to threaten and intimidate. The words chosen not so carefully are a crude attempt to force doubt upon the authorities during the confrontation. The idea is that the speaker is someone of importance and considerable influence and that the officers need to back away for their own good. The under lying threat is, though the Police are doing their duty as proscribed by the law, the person they are confronting is so powerful, that the laws do not apply to them and that they will bring that power to bear and destroy the officer’s career. The speaker is hopeful that the officer will bow to his wishes and back away in fear.

In both of these cases the accused tried to jeopardize the livelihoods of the authorities through a thinly veiled threat of retaliation. For all of the education and political contacts that these people have, one would think they would know how to exercise “power” effectively. Yet here we have two people who should know better acting the buffoon for all the world to see. I suppose they are not merely acting the part.

Evidently Higher Education does not provide courses to explain the fundamentals of power, for if it did these two dolts would not have found themselves in such a situation to begin with.

Let’s take Rep. Blanchard as an example. If he truly had the power through political connections to ruin the Warden’s career, why then announce it? Why bluster and bluff like an ape pulled from its tree? If the power existed then would it not have been more effective to quietly exercise that force by making the appropriate calls and not shouting out his name and title? Of course it would. Instead he capered about like a drunken fool besotted with self importance, so wrapped up in his own illusion he could not see reality. The reality being a threat made in such a public display proves that the actual force to carry out said threat is nonexistent. Even if the force was initially available, by loudly making the threat in earshot of witnesses he has negated the chance of pulling off any political skullduggery. Because now the witnesses know his intent and if anything was to happen to the recipient of the threat, an actual investigation would ensue. Any street tough understands this by age ten.

The same can be said of Gates in Cambridge. If he is such a close friend of our President then why not simply call him after the police left? I am sure his dear friend, who so quickly sided with him on National Television would have made the appropriate pressure come to bear on the Cambridge Police Department for having the temerity to investigate a possible burglary. What I really find interesting is that the cops were there in the Gates case to protect his property from possible robbery. Gates and Obama are so grateful that the police showed up they have been publicly condemning the Cambridge police since. So Gates actually had some power to play with it seems but it turns out it hurt the President more than it should have, and guess what?

For all of his efforts to cow Officer Crowley through foul language, threats and behavior that I personally would have broken his skull over, he failed. Jim Crowley is not intimidated in the least so the “threat” is wasted and unwarranted. So too is the power behind it. For again by making it such a public display, nothing bad can happen to the Cambridge Police Dept. without everyone thinking about the President’s friend.

Get it now you elitist morons?

I am now officially offering classes on this subject for all of our betters in the Academic and Political worlds in the hopes we can start to get back to something of a modicum of decency once again.

Sláinte
Blighter

Kentucky Deputy Tasers Defendant After Courtroom Threat

Courtroom video shows defendant Percy Phillips jumping up from his seat Thursday and knocking over the table in front of him. Phillips cursed at prosecutor John Balliet, called him a liar and then tried to get past a deputy.

Lt. Col. Carl Yates, a sheriff's department spokesman, told The Courier-Journal Thursday that Phillips "made an aggressive move in the direction" of Balliet.
That's when Deputy William Greer grabbed Phillips until Deputy George Thornton yelled "Taser," then Greer backed away and Thornton fired.

Yates said Phillips was subdued, but was not seriously injured.
Defense attorney Jay Lambert said he thought the situation was handled appropriately.

Source Fox News

You know, I find this story interesting in that it comes on the heels of the Henry Lewis Gates Jr. incident which had the President of the United States chastising a Cambridge police officer for acting "Stupidly".

So I am wondering, as I watch two White court officers subdue a Black man in a most violent manner, if President Obama will cry out in protest over their actions? It is obviously a case of "Racial Profiling" as explained by the President himself. I'm also quite certain that the officers in question are pure racists, how can they not be? They are from the south after all and they are law enforcement personnel, two doubly damning strikes against them. I'm surprised the officers didn't yell out " Get em agin Jim!" and fire off another blast of electricity into the suspect.

It really is disappointing, that the incident was carried out in a calm, professional manner and that the officers did their jobs properly.

Wait!!! that doesn't matter does it now?

All kidding aside, I am glad that no innocent was harmed and that all was put back in order.

So I have a question or two for Barack Obama concerning this, and I am being serious now.

Why does this person who was tasered by two white officers not deserve the same attention given to Professor Gates who was politely asked for ID?

Is it because the defendant was obviously wrong and threatening in his behavior, if so then what of Gates? It does not add up. Perhaps this hapless criminal is beneath the President's notice as he is but a poor black man and not a graduate of Harvard, nor is he a friend. That would be logical as an explanation but it also sets a bad example.

For if we are to allow those who the President calls "friends" to break the law and get away with it by the force of the office, then that is an over extension of executive privilege.

Sláinte

Blighter

Appeasement: the direct result.

N. Korea threatens US; world anticipates missile

SEOUL, South Korea – North Korea accused Washington of seeking to "provoke a second Korean War" as the regime prepared to hold maritime military exercises off the eastern coast.
U.S. and regional authorities were watching closely for signs that North Korea might fire short- or mid-range missiles during the June 25 to July 10 timeframe cited in a no-sail ban for military drills sent to Japan's Coast Guard. Source

The past few weeks have been full of stories like that above that pertain to North Korea and it's nuclear ambitions. I have been wondering a lot about the situation and have come to some not too popular conclusions about the current "Crisis", to steal a word from the President of the United States.

First, we must look at “Why” has N. Korea become so belligerent?

The argument that the Koreans are making is that nuclear arms are not a commodity exclusive to the United States and that their little nation has every “right” to posses the capacity to bring forth nuclear Armageddon just like us. You will note that within this argument, they never mention either Russia or China. That is because those two powerful nations are N. Korea’s oldest allies. They would not dare offend such strong neighbors, nor do I blame them for leaving the other two super powers out of it. No they focus their attention on the United States and say they have a “right”.

I feel there is some validity to said argument for why can one country have missiles of utter destruction and not another? This seems to go against the very basis of that most wonderful of catch phrases “Global community”. If all are truly equal, as far as nations go in a Global Community, then the point would be moot and the world would have to allow the tiny dictatorship to build a shiny new toy of mass destruction.

However, all nations are not equal, nor for that matter are governments. I find it interesting that a country built upon the backs of the proletariat (yes I’m using Marxist terms here) ruled by mandate and not law, and which thrives upon the subjugation of its own people, can possible argue that they are Equal in the eyes of the world.

A nation that abhors equality pleads for equal status? Does this not strike anyone as odd? Does not the very fact that the Government of N Korea is in essence a dictatorship ruled by a despot disqualify that nation as equal?

Tyranny and dictatorship go against the basis of true government, that being the safety of the lives and property of the citizenry. This is but a fact handed down from Aristotle to Locke. Tyrants and despots violate this basis as they rule by whim and whip not by law or the consent of the people.

Therefore, N.Korea does not have a “right” to nuclear weapons based upon their weak argument of equality. For, they are not equal unto the other nations of the world as they are not a valid government in the first place.

Yet even though their reasoning is faulty, the North Korean government pushes forward with their aspiration to be a nuclear power. I suppose they somehow feel they have the moral upper hand in the matter but I cannot see how they can conclude such. Be that as it may, their motivation is clear, their determination is resolute and they will do everything and anything they can to further their goal.

The second part of the question “why now?” is addressed by not looking towards the far east, but right here in this country, and we can easily attribute the aggression to none other than, your messiah and mine, President Barack Obama.

How so? Simple.

Dictators, Tyrants and Despots are not complete fools, and it is dangerous to think them so. They all have one common ability and that is the way in which they size up the competition and base their postures and attitudes upon their assessment. Not unlike a school yard bully who knows exactly who to push and who to leave alone. They seek out those they perceive as weak or cowardly, and then attempt to inflict their will upon the victims. The more a bully gets away with, the more victims he has, the more powerful he feels which is the goal.

Kim Jong Il has watched the leader of the free world, he who will save us all, President Barack Obama and concluded that he is weak. I am sure he watched with surprised interest as the European Tour was taking place during the election campaign and clapped his hands as the senator apologized to Europe for America’s existence. Since being elected, President Obama has not done a single thing to show that he will stand up to the bullies of the world. He apologized to the Muslim world for our arrogance in Cairo; he has not taken any kind of stand on the Iranian situation as he is afraid of being accused of meddling. Let’s not forget the infamous bowing incident, in which the President of the United States paid homage to a foreign King. (An act of Prostitution unworthy of any person who is free no matter his station in life)

North Korea has been silently watching all of these actions ,or lack of action, by the President of the United States and has come to the only conclusion any schoolboy tough guy could come to. America is no longer the land of the “free and the brave” but of the “dependant and the gutless”.

So when the UN, (that most useless of institutions) imposes sanctions and our President says with a stern voice “I am very concerned about nuclear proliferation”. The North Koreans laughed, and went on their merry way, confident that Barack Obama will, try to appease rather than fight. I wonder if the President has ever heard the story behind Czechoslovakia of 1938 and the appeasement policy of the Western powers?

I suppose not, and more than likely he will end up baring his neck before the little bully of North Korea.

Sláinte

Blighter

Change we can believe in

Amusing? Well a little when you think about it, but for me this little cartoon sums up what we can all expect for the next four years.

Did you know that the Obama Bailout... ahem I mean Stimulus package is projected to cost more than one Trillion dollars? That is more than was spent on the New Deal, and Reconstruction, and just shy of what was spent on World War II. You would think that with the complete and utter failure of the previous Stimulus package put out by the Bush administration this past spring our new President would have come up with something novel. I thought this was going to be the Presidency of change, innovation and hope? I guess not, for it looks to me that the new boss is same as the old boss with a whole new gallery of idiots to help him along the way.

Speaking of idiots, I can now officially terminate my plans for a vacation to Minnesota. If the Citizens of that state are so foolish as to elect a bad comedian to the Senate, then who knows what they might do to tourists? Think about it.... They are cannibalising the Senate by electing Al Franken so one can only deduce that cannibalism is in their nature. I don't want to end up in a large black kettle with hedonistic Minnesotans dancing around me wearing Al Franken masks while I cook. Better to avoid that situation all together don't you think?

Another of our most popular idiots of the week is Senator Harry Reid. Harry took time from his all loving, awestruck praise, of the President elect to actually take a stand on an issue. Pulling his nose from the floor, Senator Reid made clear that Roland Burris would not be allowed into the Senate for the man who chose him Govenor Blagovitch is under indictment. Good for you Harry!!! way to make a stand!!! Just one thing though, The US. Constitution gives the Govenor of a state the power to appoint members to congress when a seat becomes vacated. So though you may feel morally superior at the moment, what you really should be feeling is shame. Shame that you don't even know enough about the laws that rule this land to make even the simplest decisions yet you are a Legislator? Might I suggest you put your nose back on the floor in Praise of he who will save us all and stop pretending to be that which you are not? Intelligent.

Slainte'

Blighter

I have not yet begun to fight!

On September 23, 1779, John Paul Jones fought one of the bloodiest engagements in naval history. Jones struggled with the 44-gun Royal Navy frigate Serapis, and although his own vessel was burning and sinking, Jones would not accept the British demand for surrender, replying, “I have not yet begun to fight.” More than three hours later, Serapis surrendered and Jones took command.

This most famous phrase “I have not yet begun to fight” has been coursing through my mind since the election of our newest President Barack Obama, and the complete takeover of the House and Senate.

The general consensus is that the Republican Party dropped the ball and so suffered a devil of a whipping Tuesday night. I agree with this simplistic assessment wholeheartedly and make not a single excuse for the failure of the Republicans, of which I am one, to gain/retain seats in Congress and lose the Presidency. They were out campaigned, out played, and out spent across the board.

As the Republicans wander amidships trying to put out the fires and asses the true damage, let them not despair overmuch for the fight for this country and the traditional values that made her great is by no means over. Even from the jaws of defeat can victory be snatched, it will take time, energy, and the same steadfast determination that Captain Jones displayed 229 years ago.

The question on everyone’s mind is “How?”

The Republican Party needs to remember and adhere to its basic principles of less government, the free market, and the Idea that the Constitution is inviolate and not to be toyed with. The concept that moderation is the way to victory and that the prostitution of one’s beliefs and values is what the electorate wants has been disproved. I for one respect no one who does not stand up for that which they proclaim to believe. This is basic to most Americans, we don’t trust those who backslide, we perceive it as weak, and dishonest. The Democrats played on that weakness with great skill.

The Party Leadership will have to either be replaced by those of more fortitude, or begin fighting for a complete restructure and overhaul. Status quo will work no more than the quid pro quo arguments of Bi-partisan moderation that created this mess to begin with. By returning to the basics the party will then begin to rebuild the confidence of the people and those people will reward the party by contributing time, money and effort on the Republicans behalf. The party needs to become accessible to the general population by which I mean, one should not have to call the Party Chairman for information on subjects because the Town, and County committees are not available. Lastly Republicans need a solid plan of action, a vision, and a strong voice advocating Fiscal conservative values. It does no good to organize large blocks of voters for rallies and meetings if there is no follow through for, once the voters leave the fold out chairs in the hall, they need to know what to do next. They need to feel that they can make a contribution to the cause no matter how small not just that they are “Informed” on the issues.

I suggest that each and every one of the battered and smoke smeared sailors on the Bonhomme Richard (Jones’ ship) felt a bit of despair as the British guns pounded away at them, killing and maiming their shipmates. I am sure that some felt that all was lost and that surrender was imminent. However, with great conviction, determination and strong leadership, the tide of battle turned and those same weary patriots were rewarded for their efforts. Each and every man on that ship had to redouble and then treble his efforts, they had to improvise, adapt and overcome all obstacles in order to subdue the enemy and claim victory.

A lesson of the ages lies within this naval engagement.

But will the Republican Party leadership learn from this Historical event, or will they squander the opportunity, and continue on with their non confrontational and moderate path and ignore it? I hope the former and not the latter to be sure, however only time will tell. What I can say is that the moment has come for all of us, to get involved and start redefining the Party from the ground up. I will be contacting my town Chair this week to see what if any plan is available going forward. If he has nothing then I will continue to climb the mysterious dark ladder all the way to the top screaming bloody murder the whole way. We need to begin banding together and formulating strategies for local and State elections now! And to make a stand for the values and principles the leadership should have been expounding. Seek out others of like mind, and find candidates of solid fiscal conservative thinking then try to get them into any office available. Don’t wait for the Party to do it for you; don’t rely on the good nature and common sense of others, or on the wisdom of the party leadership. On all counts they have failed, and need to know this!

I just started to fight! what about you?

Slainte’
Blighter

Snippets for November 4th 2008

Now the big day is upon us, and we all have the chance to chose who will represent us through our votes. I thought I would lay bare my soul and write out my thoughts on the various tickets and issues that we will be asked to decide tomorrow. I care not that one’s vote should be kept private, I have naught to hide and even if I did, I feel the stakes are way too high not to speak up. As there are so many tickets to look over I’ll try to keep it brief.

US First District Race (House of Representatives)
Charlie Summers (R)
Chellie Pingree (D)

Neither of these two candidates excites me in the least. Charlie is very moderate and soft spoken to the point of appearing weak at times; I wanted Dean Scontras to be the Republican pick in the Primary. However when I compare Mr. Summers to Ms Pedigree I have no choice but to chose him. Chellie’s record from when she served in the Maine State Legislature is one of Tax and Spend politics. She advocates for the redistribution of wealth, (which is a very bad idea) and she says she wants to bring Change to Washington, just like everyone else. This sounds like the mantra of campaign and not truth and or vision. Charlie I believe will at least deliberate before deciding to raise our taxes and with his experience from Iraq fresh in his mind he will look out for the best interests of our Servicemen and women. Charlie also has the benefit of knowing and working closely with Senator Olympia Snowe, which could prove beneficial when trying to get legislation passed. There is so much more but for this piece I’ll leave it at that.


US Second District Race (House of Representatives)
John Frary (R)
Mike Michaud (D)

This race is the most exciting I have seen in years. A true struggle between David and Goliath. John Frary is trying to unseat incumbent Mike Michaud in the upset battle of this century. I’ve made no attempt to hide my dislike for Mike Michaud these past years, so my excitement was great when I heard about Professor Frary’s bid. Unlike the incumbent Frary has funded his entire campaign with his own money. He has no large PAC’s or Unions to place ads for him, and even the RNC decided against funding him. This means he owes no one and can be his own man when he gets to Washington. John Frary believes in the Constitution of these United States and will defend that belief to the end. Mike on the other hand will need to take his que from whoever is running the Unions this year and vote accordingly. Hands down John Frary is the better candidate of the two.


US Senate Race
Susan Collins (R)
Tom Allen (D)

Tom Allen wants to be in the Senate to “Change the leadership in Washington.” Or so he says. I have to ask myself; has he not been a member of the House of Representatives since 1996? What change is he all of a sudden going to bring about? I mean after 12 years as a lawmaker in Washington has he not already been afforded the opportunity to reform and change the system? Perhaps Tom feels that if he is elected to a Senate seat as a junior Senator he will be powerful enough to vote against his party for once. Maybe, with the House being held by a Democrat majority these two years past, Tom Allen has felt that he was unable to put forth any ideas or thoughts that might afford a real change in the government. Subdued by his party’s majority, he silently sat and waited for just the right time to reveal his true nature, that of a reformer and a man of the people. Somehow, and I am a bit of a skeptic, I just don’t buy Tom Allen’s new stance on change, reform, or whatever you want to call it. Tom’s own words are what are causing me to vote against him. Susan Collins has my vote, as she at least has done what she says she is going to do, and that is fight for Maine and its people.



US Presidential Race
John McCain (R)
Barack Obama (D)

This is the easiest of the lot, though for some it looks difficult.

John McCain has served our nation his whole life. His love of this country and its institutions is unshakable and undeniable. He is tough, straight forward, and not afraid to take risks as we have seen with his controversial votes on Bills such as McCain/ Feingold. Though I don’t always agree with senator McCain’s decisions or ideas, I do know that his motivations are crystal clear. He believes in this nation and its people, all of them and will do anything it takes to make our country stronger.

Barack Obama is something of an enigma; he has some shady friends and associates. He has not done anything of significance in his time as Senator from Illinois, yet he feels qualified to lead our nation during this turbulent time. I am sorry for those who are supporters of this candidate, for obviously they are under such a cloud of despair they’ll cling to any thought of hope. They cannot see that what Barack is selling is nothing but a lottery ticket. They feel all full of dreams of a society in which they will be the primary beneficiaries, but soon it will all come crashing down upon their heads the harsh reality of capitalism and base economics. The senator from Illinois is neither ready or able to lead this nation, nor do I fully believe he has the love of this country’s institutions in his heart enough to try to preserve and protect those institutions rather than undermine them. I shall not cast a ballot for a catch phrase and a dream, therefore I’ll not vote for Obama, but for McCain.

As I close I must urge each and every one of you to go forth and honor our forebears and their sacrifices that guarantee us this right to vote for our leaders. It is not only our right, but our duty to vote and to do so wisely. Try and think not just of personal interests, but of the nation as a whole, of what has made and still makes us the greatest experiment in freedom throughout history.

Slainte’
Blighter

Acorn

This about sums up the Acorn situation.

The sad fact that this organization is even allowed to exist frightens me quite a bit. Voter Fraud was a crime the last time I looked and any organization that fosters or promotes said criminal act should be prosecuted in full as well as be disbanded. I for one feel that if Acorn needs to register dead people, illegal immigrants, and toddlers, in the hopes of getting Senator Obama elected, then that fact alone is testament to not only their view of this country, but of their candidate of choice as well.

Here is a news flash for all you bleeding hearts:

If you are not 18 years old.....You do not have the right to vote
If you are in this country illegally....You do not have the right to
vote
If you are in this country on a Visa.....You do not get to vote
If you are DEAD and in the afterlife...You definitely do not get the right
to vote.
And lastly, If you are a citizen of this country...You do have the right to
vote, but only ONCE!

Acorn and their supporters are guilty of not only the base criminal act of voter fraud, they are also actively undermining one of the most fundamental freedoms we enjoy. Take a close look everybody, for what Acorn and Barack are doing to the people of this nation is but the beginning. Rest assured if elected not only will the power of our vote be destroyed, but so too will our other fundamental beliefs and freedoms suffer assault.

Slainte'
Blighter

It's the Money Stupid....

For some time now I have been contemplating the issues surrounding the Main Stream Media's coverage of not only the Presidential election but also of the latest Primaries. It has been evident throughout these past 18 months that the large news organizations prefer Senator Barack Obama above all others. Through their very powerful forums, ABC, NBC, and CBS along with their newspaper affiliates have committed about every act of journalistic bias that could possibly be conceived. If you do not know this already my friends, I suggest you turn on the news a few nights this week and take a look at the coverage afforded to the Democrat candidate and compare it to that of the Republican.

What you will find is a disproportionate amount of time is spent on Barack Obama, sometimes as much as twenty minutes in a half hour broadcast, and about 2-3 minutes on Senator John McCain. Along with this slant, you may also notice that the video, still photo's, and sound is in stark contrast and again that it favors the Democrat over the Republican. I will not go into great detail over the unethical nature of this type of reporting, or of the frightening revelation that our news agencies have become mere Propaganda machines, as that is for another time. I wish simply to address two one word questions.

Why? and How?

Now some people believe that the current media bias is a product of liberal colleges and institutions and that those who now are in charge of the networks are of the mindset fostered while they attended those schools and colleges. This has some fact to it, however it is not the whole truth for it takes not into consideration a few factors that must be looked at, such as personal growth, Individual beliefs, values etc. All of us, no matter the school we attended, continue to grow and learn as we age. This growth is fostered through a myriad of ways not the least of which is honest discourse and debate. People discuss topics they find of interest, read up on them and form their own opinions accordingly. With the advent of the Internet the search for information and ideas is but a keystroke away. As each of us gathers more information about a subject we then form our individual beliefs based upon that data. This is important in that it leads to the heart of media bias as a crime. For, if denied varying points of view and ideas, the information by which beliefs are formed is tainted thus lessening the integrity of the decision based upon the slanted view. I digress.

To believe that the network moguls of the "Big Three"(ABC,NBC,CBS) are somehow all of the same mindset, that they have not grown since college and that they wish to further the liberal agendas of the sixties radicals, is hard to swallow. These executives must have great power indeed if they are able to control their tens of thousands of employees with such an iron fist that no dissent ever is heard. They must be men and women of outstanding charisma to convince all of their employees to follow the path of liberalism regardless of that employee's personal beliefs. Look around your workplace and ask yourself this; Do I agree with the politics of everyone in my building? Of course you don't, I bet there are four out of ten people right off the bat that you can think of who vex you with their political outlook. So how is it that the news media organizations with their vast amount of employees have managed to gather up all liberals and radicals? Was there a test? Simply put, the scenario that Americans would work for such places is out of touch with reality. Yes there is a predominance of liberals in journalism today, but the idea that somehow the conspiracy of the current bias stems from a political philosophy is rather weak. I realize that most Journalists are mere cardboard cuts outs sent hither and yon with no thoughts in their head but let's be honest, many are not, and those reporters have ideas, thoughts and beliefs of their own.

So, a core belief in Liberalism, may play a small part in what we are experiencing in the news coverage today, but it cannot be realistically labelled as the main factor.

Here is the "why" of it.

It's the Money stupid.

Lest we forget, the media outlets in this country are business'. They make decisions based upon revenue like every other business in the world and it is their responsibility to make a profit for their stockholders. Simply put.... Barack Obama is good for their business.

How so? well lets look at how the media generates revenue. Newspapers collect a little from readership i.e. those who actually buy a newspaper, but the bulk comes from advertising. The readership is measuring stick by which advertisers decide to spend their budgets with certain papers. The higher the subscription and sales of a newspaper the greater the audience an advertiser has in which to try to sell his/her goods and services. The same goes for television only they base their advertising fees on what is commonly called "Ratings". These ratings are the life's blood of the television and news agencies. High ratings mean they can charge more for advertising time on air, high readership causes rates to go up in newspapers.

So, ultimately the goal of the business side of the media outlets is to either get you to read or watch their shows so that you can help them sell the goods and services of their advertising customers. Up until recently, newspapers have been a great source for advertising dollars, but the Internet, cable news broadcasting and a loss of interest in the printed word overall has caused the decline in readership and so too revenue. The evening news broadcasts are feeling the same pinch in that more and more people are tuning them out and searching the net for their news.

How does Barack change this backward slide? Well, he brings readers and ratings, but not for the reasons that he should.

Barack Obama if elected President would be the first African American (Black) man elected to that high office. Every action he took, be it walking in the rose garden, or speaking with other heads of state, would be historical firsts. People will want to view history in the making and so they will turn on their television sets or buy such rags as the NY Times, or Boston Globe, to get a glimpse of events unfolded never yet to be seen. This means what to the media? Readership, Ratings, and ultimately money. It is in the media's best financial interest to see this man become president so they can ride the commercial wave that will come their way. But at what cost?

The media has chosen the Democrat candidate for the 2008 election through gross propaganda tactics and misinformation. All in the hopes that by electing this man to the Presidency they will fill their coffers and line their pockets. Would that it was Liberal political bias that motivates their prostitution of the journalists trade. For if it was a political philosophy that caused them to deceive America, then at least it would be not so a shameless crime. A crime it is though, for it says to us that no more does merit, integrity or love of country matter, nay, Elections are now about ratings and revenue, and henceforth the media shall decide our fate.

Slainte'
Blighter

panem et circenses. ...

After painfully enduring the coverage of the Democrat National Convention this past week, I hoped greatly for some peace of mind this morning after it was all over.

No such luck.

As I watched the slavish, sycophantic Main Stream Media propagandize as to the greatness of their nominee Senator Barack Obama, I could not help but be struck by the overwhelming urge to weep. Not tears of adoration, or relief as many of the delegates shed unashamedly on national broadcast television. Nay, mine were tears of sorrow and grief for my countrymen and fellow citizens. As many of you know, I am not one to let loose with such emotion, but last night I could not help myself as I watched the Senator from Illinois give his acceptance speech. For all that I could keep thinking was….. Bread and circuses, and the thought has been Plaguing me since.

... Already long ago, from when we sold our vote to no man,
the People have abdicated our duties; for the People who once upon a time
handed out military command, high civil office, legions — everything, now
restrains itself and anxiously hopes for just two things:
bread and circuses

... iam pridem, ex quo suffragia nulli
uendimus, effudit curas; nam qui dabat olim
imperium, fasces, legiones, omnia, nunc se
continet atque duas tantum res anxius optat,
panem et circenses. ...
(Juvenal, Satire 10.77–81)

Have we come to this my fellow citizens?

Listening to the promises of free health care dribble from the mouths of our Senators, and the sweeping Tax reform plan that will lower taxes for 95% of working families, i.e. Plebeians. I think to myself “this is but Bread to appease the desires of the people.” No matter from whence this bread shall come, nor from what valley the grain to produce it?

“Give Us Bread” and we’ll hand over the sacred rights bestowed upon us by our forefathers much like the Romans who went before us and the Greeks before them.
Dazzle us with spectacles and entertainment, and we shall sell to you our vote, we shall give to you the keys of the city Caesar so long as you appease our lust. We care not that the show is false, give our bored eyes something to remember.

The key to this is that both those empires fell through such folly.

I wept as I saw Dr. Martin Luther King’s great “I have a Dream Speech” being used as a segway to further Barack Obama’s popularity. I shivered as ABC, NBC, and CBS bombarded the American people with images of the Great Dr. King, and Obama in turn, while commentating that the Nominee is truly the culmination of that dream.

However, the burden and sorrow I endure today, derives mostly from that which we sacrifice. Those persons, who so plan to cast their ballots upon the idea that the catchword “Change”, backed up by a promise of entitlements, are cheating not only themselves but all of society. Voting is not only a right but a grave and serious responsibility, one that which must not be prostituted for some fireworks and a snapshot. For by doing so, disgrace you bring upon the millions who shed blood, marched, and protested for not only the right, but the responsibility that goes along with it.

We are charged with electing a person to become not only the President of the United States, but the most powerful figure in the free world. Do you not think that deserves a bit more scrutiny on everyone’s part as concerns those running for said office?

Or are we to continue selling our souls along with our votes to those who put on the best entertainment and promise us the most bread? Mayhap we should all step back a little and heed the words that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke 40 years ago.

“ I have a dream, that my children and grandchildren will be judged by the content of their character, and not the color of their skin”

Let’s start there then.

Slainte’
Blighter

Interesting Parade Float

This Float was part of a parade in Germany. My fried Rob sent me the photo and I immediately thought how poignant and amusing.

In any event I've posted the link to the source as well the comments on this display are absolutely enlightening. Source Hillary's backside

I very well could go into all of the symbolism and meaning of this but I shan't, in this case the old adage " A Picture is worth a thousand words" holds true.

Slainte'
Blighter

Rube

I have been called many things in my life, not all of them good to be sure. As I tend to be negative and contentious, I take name calling, and what I deem “Labeling”, in stride. Oh I may balk and or growl about a verbal slight, but usually I look at it from whence it comes and shrug it off. There are a few though, that cannot be dismissed so easily. There are certain words and phrases that just plain sting. However, I ask, how can a word or phrase actually cause a human being discomfort? For, in truth, words are but sounds, either articulated through speech or written down. We all know the answer, even those of us who have not spent their entire lives in the hallowed halls of our education system. It is the matter of intent and attitude. The old adage “Sticks and Stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me.” Really is not true, as words can do great harm, thus the rise in awareness over mental abuse along with physical domestic violence. Let me give an example, and yes I am leading up to something here.

A few years ago, my wife and I were invited to a wedding at the Harvard Club in Boston. As I was unable to attend an Ivy League College I was excited to go and walk the halls of such a famous institution. After a long train ride from Portland and a quick hop on the “T “, we found ourselves at the club and ready for the ceremony. For those of you who have been there I need not describe the beauty of the place. Wood paneled walls filled with books (my first love), a winding staircase up to the reading room/ library with large comfortable seats where I could envision myself sitting for hours pouring over the writings of Locke, Jefferson, Franklin, and Adams. The prestige and History of the place had me in awe, as I walked slowly about taking in the details of my surroundings.

After a beautiful ceremony in the Reading room and a small cocktail hour we all retired to a little dining room set up for the reception. Again, the room was inspiring with its woodwork, and tasteful décor. I was feeling very happy and pleased with my surroundings and the company I was keeping at the moment. The newly weds were both stunning and glowing with a happiness one sees not too often, and lively conversation was the rule of the day. And then….It all came crashing down with one word….

As our table went up to the buffet to get our meal I began looking at the bevy of dishes laid out before us. The table was groaning beneath the weight of it all. But for all that food, I was having trouble identifying what the dishes consisted off. It seems that people of Ivy League status need to make food look completely different from its original form at all costs. So as we stand in line, I ask my wife quietly “what is that?” as I point to a platter of cream sauce covered something right next to us. A nice woman in front of us explains it is some sort of vegetable dish that is very good and we thank her. Moving down the line I see some potatoes and say to my wife in hushed tones and a smile, “ahh there’s something I recognize.” That’s when a woman on the other side of the groaning table says to me very loudly, “Don’t be such a Rube.”

My reaction and rage was immediate.

Turning to my shocked wife I growl “That’s what I’ve been on about”. Meaning for the 10 years she has known me I have played the same tune over and over again. The tune is about Elitism and all its ugliness, and there it was right before our very eyes. It was not the word “rube” that stung but the attitude behind the word. An attitude of contempt, disgust and possibly hatred pointed directly at me. Now, there was no reason for such an attack. I had not the opportunity to drink too much, so I was not in my cups, I had been respectful and pleasant in my conversations and I had gone out of my way not to offend with my conservative views. My wife and I were dressed “to the Nines”, so no one could say we looked poorly etc. No this was an unprovoked attack by a person who not knowing me, my position, or background, simply categorized me as a Rube, for I was obviously beneath her station. Perhaps she so chose to label me as such for my place of residence, i.e. Maine. I suppose that being one of great stature requires more than an understanding of such things as warfare, politics and, economics. I guess one needs to be a culinary expert as well with no sense of humor. Needless to say, I did not linger in the halls of Harvard much longer. To save what was a perfectly beautiful day, until that moment, and to spare this lovely couple any drama on their wedding day, I chose to leave, instead of arguing and yes possibly beating, this snotty woman from New York.

Elitism has been a part of the American panorama throughout its illustrious history. Alexander Hamilton once deemed the general populace of the country as “The Herd that walks on two legs.”, and any native of Maine can tell you stories of summer tourist’s high handed ways. It is not new by a long shot, but it is becoming more commonplace.

Barack Obama, recently got into hot water over his "Bitter" comment when speaking about the people of rural Pennsylvania. His audience, in San Francisco California, was a most comfortable setting for him to express his true feelings. It seems that the good people of Rural Pennsylvania, are bitter because they have no voice in government, or so says Barack, and they have turned to religion, guns, and bigotry as their answer. As the Senator from Illinois looked down upon these lost folks, or shall we say, “The Herd”, I was struck by the arrogance of his attitude. Not unlike my attacker, Barack feels some kind of superiority over a large part of the population. How? His statements prove that he knows nothing about the people of Pennsylvania or of any rural state for that matter. Allow me to piece this together some. The people of Pennsylvania have not turned to religion Mr. Obama, because they have no say in Government. They have been and always will be a religious community. I do believe the Quakers had a strong influence in early Pennsylvania, and there are always the Amish. What you are saying Senator is that those people who believe in God and go to Church are stupid because what they should really be doing is listening to you and the government you want to form.

Gun ownership, has been a part of the American persona that goes back way before the foundation of this country. Rural and agricultural communities needed a gun about not only to hunt for food, but also to defend against attacks from Indians, and later the oppressive forces of the British government. The Pennsylvania Long Rifle, a flintlock muzzleloader, is one of the most beautiful firearms ever produced. The people of Pennsylvania are not turning to Guns Senator, the guns have been there from the beginning, and are guaranteed under the second amendment of the Bill of Rights. I realize that we the general populace are too obtuse to understand such lofty documents as the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, but let’s just pretend the good people do for the sake of argument.

This arrogance and Elitist attitude expressed by the Senator from Illinois, is the real problem. Somehow, this upstart has the temerity to look down his nose at a portion of our population that has done so much for this nation. In his disdain and scorn for the hardworking people he claims to want to lead, he is blinded to the history rich culture that so Identifies these people. The very same people who faced the British muskets during the revolution and in 1812. Their forefathers, dressed up in Union Blue to help free the slaves in the civil war, and have fought in every war our nation has been in since. They built the city of Brotherly Love and welcomed immigrants to our shores and provided the Steel that built our modern world. What in comparison has the Senator from Illinois accomplished? How can he say that these patriotic, hard working citizens, the very backbone of America, are small minded and Bitter? If that is what a Rube is, and that is how all you Elitist Liberals see us common folks then so be it. I will proudly call myself a Rube. For if we are to really look at who I see as a better sort, an arrogant Senator and a snotty New York socialite, or the hard working people of Rural America, you can easily figure out with whom I cast my lot.

Slainte'
Blighter

What a " Silly Season"

Last nights Democratic Primary Debate in Texas was, in my humble opinion, one of great import for the Nation. Admittedly, I did not watch it live, as my temper gets up too easily when I see the two candidates individually, let alone on the same stage. Perhaps it is because I feel that, when applying for one of the most important jobs on this planet, a person should produce more than rhetoric, hype, and sycophantic behavior. However, I have read many of the news reports of this debate, and find that true to form, both candidates can not help but insult the intelligence of even the average voter.

As I have written before, on Barack Obama's lack of substance, I'll not go too much further into a tirade on the empty responses and platitudes that the Senator from Illinois used in the Debate last night. However, as the empty wind from behind his teeth, again reinforces my views, I cannot help myself , and must address a few here.

In the debate Hillary brought forth the accusation of plagiarism against Barack for his use of phrases and statements in speeches recently, that have been shown to be the words of Duval Patrick, Govenor of Massachusetts. She actually came up with a clever line to sum up it up. “If your candidacy is going to be about words then they should be your own words,” she said. “…Lifting whole passages from someone else’s speeches is not change you can believe in, it’s change you can Xerox.”Good quip Mrs. Clinton, I rarely give her credit for anything, but in this she is dead on.

Seantor Obama's response? "What we shouldn't be spending time doing is tearing each other down. We should be spending time lifting the country up."

Ah, yes of course, don't address the accusation Barack, slide by with a blanket statement that everyone would naturally agree with.

What is important about this small exchange is the audience's response. When Hillary made this quip, they booed loudly. When Barack came back with his empty response they cheered. So what this says to me is that, even when serious allegations of wrongdoing are in front of the Democratic party voters, they deliberately ignore the facts, and side with nonsense. No new News there, but I am beginning to wonder if I am the only one to notice such ignorant behavior. This is in of itself is a statement to the world that we as a People really haven't a clue. But let me take this one step further.

Fox news reported that Obama said the entire controversy was evidence of a “silly season” that the public finds dispiriting.

SILLY SEASON? What the Christ kind of response to a very serious allegation is that? So Senator Obama, the campaign season is a " Silly Season" is it? When any topic of substance or of value is brought up we, the American people, are to ignore it for campaigns really are but a product of this silly season eh? I don't know about anyone else, for my friends as we can see, a goodly portion of our populace is filled with ignoramuses, but for me this " Silly Season" is to much to bear. There are many different and strong reasons that the allegation of Plagiarism should be taken seriously. The one that stands out most in my mind is that as President of the United States you will be dealing with the heads of state from other nations. You will need to make hard decisions sometimes very quickly. If as President, you steal the ideas, words or thoughts of someone, without giving credit, you show to the world that you personally are weak intellectually. As well as deceitful, and not to be trusted. Dismiss, this behavior as a product of a Silly Season to the Taoiseach ( Prime Minister) of Ireland and see how far you get.

Barack Obama, simply put, dodged the issue with rhetoric, and the people bought it. Very sad indeed.

But that is not the worst of it for our Democratic citizens, For Hillary failed to press the attack and hold strong. She acquiesced by saying... "And, you know, no matter what happens in this contest … I am honored to be here with Barack Obama. I am absolutely honored,” Clinton said in her closing, before reaching over to accept a handshake from him. “Whatever happens, we’re going to be fine. You know, we have strong support from our families and our friends. I just hope that we’ll be able to say the same thing about the American people, and that’s what this election should be about.”

Can you guess how I perceive this last action? I bet you can. It is weakness personified, henceforth, next to the words, watery, weak, cowardly and most important, Stupid, will be the Picture of Mrs. Hillary Clinton. Many things I have thought of the former First Lady, and not all good, but to be sure I thought such a sycophantic display beneath her station.

Last Night showed me many things about the Liberal agenda and Mindset. It proved to me that for many Americans being a person of Character is not of value when choosing a Presidential nominee, the candidate merely has to look good. If that criteria is met, then no policies, or agendas need be discussed. The candidate can stand at each rally and scream about nothing, and occasionally, when someone actually asks a real question, pull out a puppet, wave it off to their left and say " Look at the Monkey" like in that famous South park episode. This seems to be working for the Obama Campaign, and as long as the New York Times, Washington Post, and the rest of the Liberal media keep the Kool aid flowing in his favor He can very well take the nomination, along with his puppet. Maybe Mrs. Obama would be Proud of her country then.

The other important point is, Neither one of these wishy washy say nothings can possibly be an effective Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces. If they are so afraid of the crowds reaction to a few words during a debate that they switch gears to find the "sweet spot" how can they be trusted to stand strong in the face of dictators and tyrants? I can just imagine how Osama Bin Laden would deal with the likes of Hillary. We would all be wearing turbans within an hour of them meeting.

Maybe you are right Senator Obama, maybe this is a " Silly Season". That just might explain the lack of substance that you represent and the lack of will Senator Clinton displayed last night. Maybe like in the Autumn when the leaves fall from the trees, and are blown to the wayside, so to will you and your mindless followers pass. I simply pray you harm not this nation before that time comes.

Slainte'
Blighter

Mallintinneach

And the Democratic Nominee for the President of the United States of America is Barack Obama.

Or so it seems. I have been wondering to myself, and aloud, to anyone unfortunate enough who will listen to me, " Why would anyone endorse this candidate? " To date, Barack Obama has given not one detail as to how he is going to " Change" Washington. He has not put forth a single comprehensive plan to " Fix" America. I was unaware that we needed so much repair but evidently we do. The throngs of Barack supporters lap up is rhetoric and platitudes like starving Ethiopians devouring a ham sandwich. Unlike the sandwich, that which the supporters receive from Barack, is not very filling or of any substance. Can the American people be so blind? Have we sunk so far into pop culture? You know, the culture that produces such riveting programs like " Jerry Springer", " Big Brother", and oh yes, " American Idol ". Can we not see a demagogue even when they are right in front of us? Is all that is needed to become President of the most powerful Nation on earth is lights, camera, and a catch phrase?

I worry greatly over these simple questions, for if what I am seeing daily, my fears are well founded. Huge numbers of people, take time off from work and family to go and listen and watch this most curious candidate. Yet, if these self same devoted followers look a little closer at their object of affection, I am betting they will see the hollowness that is Barack Obama. Will they make that effort? Will they squint their eyes and see beyond the lights and flash that is this campaign? I doubt it, and that is very frightening to say the least.

How can these people justify casting a vote for someone who has nothing to say? If you vote for someone you should at least know what they are going to try and accomplish. If not, you are wasting your time and endangering the Nation as a whole with your foolish actions. I remember another great speaker who could enthrall thousands with his speaking. He could master the crowds with the intonations of his voice, bringing them to a feverish pitch or subdued calm with the wave of his hand. He was elected by a considerable margin, yet not once did he state clearly his position on policies. Even if he had, I doubt if the mesmerized would have heard him. That Demagogue was Adolf Hitler. Elected by a democratic election on a platform of " Change."

I am not saying that Obama is like Hitler so get your PC sphincters unclenched. What I am pointing out is that electing someone who does not state clearly their intentions is a very dangerous business indeed. Germany in the 1920s and 30s proved that to the world, and is an extreme case. But the point is valid is it not?

I am beginning to believe that our mind numbing pop culture, is eroding the brains of Americans, ( at least Democrats) and that we are becoming a nation of Retards. ( Now get the PC handbook out and give me a shot) The word for Retarded in Irish is Mallintinneach. I say, not only do I deem Obama's campaign, but also any of his enthralled supporters Mallintinneach.

God help us..... really.

Slainte'

Blighter

Media Bias Strikes again

Yesterday 1/8/2008 I spent a better part of my day, looking forward to the evening news. I couldn't wait to see the New Hampshire Primary coverage and how things were panning out for my chosen candidate John McCain. I have been pulling for the Senator from Arizona for 8 months now and yesterdays Primary was important to his campaign. So to the tele I turned for the 6 o'clock news and boy didn't the news agencies give me a dose of reality.

WCSH channel 6 covered 15 minutes of primary news and results, the problem is with how they covered it. By the time I walked away I was sickened to death, and thinking about Joseph Geobbles. Of that 15 mins, WCSH only mentioned the Republican forerunner twice in two separate clips. In one they showed Senator McCain looking harried in a crowd of people, with the reporters comment " McCain is currently in the lead for the Republicans." In another, they inverviewed two pundits from MSNBC who, after explaining how exciting it was to be seeing such great Democratic candidates for 3 mins, stated " McCain has to win here in New Hampshire or he's finished." The only other Republican clip available for our hungry eyes to consume was of Govenor Romney reaching out to shake the hand of a woman voter, who was obviously startled quite a bit as the Govenor Lunged forward to take her hand. She actually jumped back.

Obviously, WCSH News Editing staff has a particular agenda to put forward. For I am sure that there were other clips taken that day that showed Sen. McCain in a much better light, yet they chose not to air those. I am quite certain Govenor Romney shook thousands of hands without frightening a soul, yet again WCSH decided on a negative clip instead. Am I the only one who finds this disturbing?

Recently some studies were done that came to the conclusion that 78% of voters do not research the candidates and that they get most of their information from the news. If that news, is biased in favor of one party and puts forth its stories like I saw the other night, then that 78% is getting short changed. For they are not getting the whole truth or the facts. Their descisions then will be based upon mis information. This bias, is not only going to be a huge factor in the upcoming elections, but it is also going to hurt us all negatively by spinning out Media's " VERSION" of events and not the actual events as they occur. It smacks of Propaganda in it's worst forms.

If I was of that 78% I would have thought that, " It looks like Hillary is running against Barack for president." After hearing about the wonderful coffee Hillary gave to supporters at the polls and then watching Mitt Lunge at voters I think I could easily be swayed into leaning to the Dems for leadership. That is if I didn't take the time to look elsewhere for information. Which three quarters of our populace seems to find difficult.

Slainte'
Blighter