Missing "Lil Russ"...

It was a year ago this weekend that the great Tim Russert passed away, suffering a major heart attack while preparing for his Sunday “Meet the Press” political talk show. As a fan of the show, and a major fan of Tim’s, I was shocked to learn later that evening (the announcement was delayed until NBC was sure all family members were notified) that we lost him. Tim was a wonderful moderator and possessed and brilliant political mind, which I admired. I often quoted Tim’s quotes on a politician’s statement rather than the politician himself. The reason was simple- I find it very difficult to trust anything a politician says, but found Tim to be thoroughly honest and real. This was one of the many charms of Tim- his “realness”. He didn’t go Ivy League; he worked his way through a regular Liberal Arts school. He took jobs based on principals rather than pay. Even though he traveled the world, he never really left Buffalo, New York. Although he dined with Kings and Queens, Presidents and Popes, he continued to honor his father, the sanitation engineer, and all of “Big Russ’s” veteran friends from the local V.F.W. saloon.I often thought about Tim during this past year- not only because I missed his brilliance and his professionalism and how he made watching political debate that much more interesting. I often thought of how he might respond to the recent actions of his station- NBC and MSNBC- and how embarrassed and ashamed he would no doubt feel when hearing how they are operating. Since his death, NBC has gravitated left by leaps and bounds, and making a mockery of the neutral Fourth Estate. Not only has this broadcast company become a shill for the Obama Presidency (“Our job is not to question the President, but to support him and help him succeed”), but owner General Electric CEO has openly admitted to continuing to trade with terrorist sponsored countries (Iran, Syria) despite the government’s requests to stop. Tim would now doubt cower at the personal attacks and false accusations hurled at certain people- politicians and non-politicians alike- simply because they don’t happen to agree with the positions held by their company. While close friends, I cannot believe that Tim Russert had any respect for Keith Olberman as a NEWS anchor. Olberman has every right to have his own political views- and voicing them on his show- IF he was considered a commentator or analyst, but NOT as a news anchor. While Tim was clearly a Democrat, and pretty liberal by some standards, he was a realist as well. He knew Democrats made mistakes and recognized that Republicans had good ideas and were just as “patriotic and American” as their Democratic counterparts. He said so on many occasions. I miss Tim Russert for these, and many other reasons. I think the country misses him for these reasons as well. Keeping it real and honest was what Tim was all about and it is something painfully missing in today’s political discussion.

With friends like these...

This is a more difficult note to write, partly because I had written it a few nights ago, and when I went to publish/post it, I lost the whole thing! So after re-energizing myself by taking a cold dip in the pool, I am back to reveal a deep secret and expose myself as the fraud that I am.Over the past year, mnay of my facebook friends, and others, have asked about what I've been doing the past thirty years and such, as we tried to catch up on each other's lives after losing contact post- High School. I've been told I've had a most interesting life as described here as well as Classmates and LinkedIn and other networking sites. I'll admit- I've experienced things that will eventually make great stories and movie plots, but when explaining what I am doing now, I've been somewhat vague, referring instead to the recent past history.You may have noticed that many of my posts and notes have a political slant to them, and it's for a purpose. In addition to just being a political junky, I am also quite concerned of the current economy and the joblessness across the United States. I am quite concerned in the divide of the "haves and the have-nots". The reason is simple: I have been unemployed since October 2008 and was once a "have" who is now a struggling "have not".I've kept this secret from my closest friends, while trying to network with business connections. The reasons are obvious- embarrassment, shame, depression, etc. Who wants to answer the "What happened?" questions a thousand times a day? The fact is, as an executive level Director in HR, a non-revenue generating department, you are always at risk of being cut, especially when the business environment does not consider an effective HR Department as a necessity as much as a luxury. We all know how ludicrous that sounds, but it is true. Additionally, I've had a history of working my way out of jobs by being so efficient and making the overall department appear to be running itself. We also know that this is ludicrous. Eventually, when the Board or the CEO feels that financial cuts are necessary, my departments tend to be an easy target as they feel that someone making one-third of my salary could operate the now maller department and make the same educated decisions. It's only when they end up in court battling labor issues or harrassment complaints where they wish they had someone with my professionalism, training, experience and judgement on their side.Be that as it may, this economy has affected this job search as none before. I have been laid off from two companies in the last three years due to economic decisions. I have received nice severances packages from both companies. I have a history of taking new positions whereby each new position has been for significantly higher salary and more responsibility. I call this "upward mobility". In the past, I have had choices between several offers and chose positions I thought were more challenging, close to home and in industries that interested me. I also chose positions based on the connections I felt with the current teams. This job search has been quite different. I have had less than five cursory interviews in seven months. When I was told that I was being considered for a position, I learned that I was up against candidates with PHD's, MBA's and coming from global organizations. I reduced my "desired" salary by half, hoping to get a foot in the door, and still could not generate much interest. As a result, I am looking backward and looking to return to industries that I worked in 15-20 years earlier, at wages more fitting to the 1988 economy. All of this came at the heels of my daughter turning eighteen, getting a driver's license, experiencing the Senior Prom, graduating high school and applying to college. Needless to say, I have been unable to properly help celebrate these accomplishments as my financial decisions were more to the effect of "Do I eat today or get gas for the car?" "Do I make the car payment or the phone/Internet and continue the job search?" My financial struggles have caused me to sell off 90% of my property and possessions, and I have plans to leave CA. I've had to break this information to my daughter, and as a result, it was a real crying fest. We have never been apart in 18 years, and I believe it is harder for me than it is for her.These dilemmas have resulted in physical issues as well. Sitting at the computer for 20 hours a day job searching and networking has resulted in weight gain, depression and serious circulation issues. These DVT's and such have brought up the possibility of strokes or even amputations, and have been extremely painful. I wanted to publish this note not to generate concern or sympathy, or even to reach out for help. I wanted to publicly acknowledge a few people who became aware of my situation and stepped up to help in their own way. I cannot think of any other effective way to thank them, so I am trying this.First, my daughter Mary. She had hopes of attending Cal-State Santa Barbara and we had even arranged for off-campus housing for the year. Due to my employment circumstances, which happened after her mother had lost her jobs months earlier, she called me and stated that she was going to stay home and go to a local college until we got on our feet again. This was incredibly mature of her, as anything else would have resulted in a huge guilt trip for me. I love my angel.Secondly, Tony P. He has been a friend for several years and during this time period, has been a source of some financial help, but mostly emotional support. Together, we have created several screenplay treatments and share a common goal regarding getting published. By taking his time and meeting with me, listening to my moaning and such, he has helped me tremendously emotionally.Thirdly, my other angel "Shoe". She has been the source of tremendous support- financially, emotionally and spiritually. We often talk for hours on the phone, and she has helped me in ways that defy imagination. She is also one of my biggest "fans", as she enthusiatically supports my music as well. What started out as a friendship has developed into something deeper, and I just MAY have to spend my remaining days with her just to try and pay her back for all she's done for me. Even that wouldn't be enough, in all honesty. Here's one thing I know, though. Without Robin, I would be a memory today because I would have been long dead, and that is not hyperbole. So I take this moment to exorcise these demons and share with everyone what really has been happening over the last several months. I have taken a position recently that can lead to a future close to where I was in my recent past. In the meantime, it will be a continued struggle. Getting this position has actually held off my planned move out-of-state and has allowed me to stay at least until Mary's graduation (I've paid for private school for 12 years, I going to see her graduate!). If the new employment doesn't lead to the management position that was promised or assured to me at the time of hire, I will be better prepared to re-locate as Mary begins her life away from her parents. It will be difficult, but not as difficult as the last seven months have been.

Beauty and the Blogger

I'm sure many of you are familiar with what took place in the recent Miss USA contest, where Miss California (Carrie Prejean) was asked her opinion of same sex marriages. This question was asked by infamously gay blogger, Perez Hilton. Miss Prejean responded to the question in an articulate, professional manner, looking into the eyes of the judges, the host and the sudience. She held her head high, shoulders back and did not appear to stumble verbally while answering the question. As a former Chapter Vice President of Toastmasters, Inc., these are the public speaking values that are sought after, and from my uderstanding, these are the charateristics and qualities sought in this portion of the competition. The SUBSTANCE of her answer is not only secondary, it shouldn't be considered AT ALL! This purpose of this portion of the competition is to judge how a contestant might handle themselves in a myriad of interview situations, most of which are "on the fly" questions, where she would be expected to handle clearly and concisely. Now, she has been victimized by the fallout of her response, and this is wrong on so many levels.First of all, this subject is a divisive subject within today's American culture. As a Republican Conservative, I am more in line with the Guiliani view of this subject. I have gay family members. I have many gay friends. I have been divorced. I believe they (gay and lesbians) are entitled to the same unhappiness that heteros enjoy everyday in THEIR marriages. I think it's CRIMINAL that those involved in a committed same-sex relationship do not have the same rights as married couples, such as visitation in ICU, tax breaks and many other issues. I do not subscribe necessarily to EVERYTHING written in the Bible- but I UNDERSTAND those who do. I do not HATE them for this viewpoint. All of the polls suggest that this is a divided issue, but a lsight majority believe what Miss Prejean stated- that she supports recognizing marriage ONLY between a man and a woman. this viewpoint was UPHELD here in California- the most liberal state in the USA, so clearly, she's with the majority. To soften her opinion even more, she apologized in advance to all those who believe differently, even though the audience erupted in applause.This, however, didn't sit well with "Mr." Hilton. Now, I've often read Perez' blogs, and I find it hilarious at times. Sometimes, he is insensitive, to say the least. because Miss Prejean's opinion on same sex marriages differs from his (apparently 180 degress different), he not only saw it fit to give her ZERO points out of a possible 100 points for the Q&A portion of the contest (yeah, I didn't think it affected the final outcome...), but he felt it necessary to go on his video blog and call Miss Prejean "a stupid bitch" and " a stupid (c-word)". Now, that's tolerance, isn't it? In a competition that is largely pomp and circumstance to have been reduced to such degradation is inexcusable. This situation is larger than Perez Hilton or same sex marriage. I thin it can be easily reduced to this common denominator. If you are liberal, and now that you are feeling superior with having a liberal government behind you, you feel that you have the power, the right and the authority to personally attack those who think differently as you. I believe that Conservatives often debate issues using facts, substance and examples/statistics, while Liberals resort to personal hits when they cannot win a debate intellectually. I truly believe this to be the most basic- and major-differences between the two parties and viewpoints. As long as fools like Perez Hilton, jeneanne Garafalo, Al Franken and Sean Penn continue to be the flag carriers for the left, this chasm of difference will only continue to grow.

Peter Heck- Guest Columnist

I was sitting in church waiting for the start of the service, my grandpa came walking towards me pointing his finger. No matter how old I get, and no matter how long he's been out of the U.S. Navy, that's still an intimidating sight. As he approached me, his voice quivered as he said, "We saved that continent twice ... how dare my president apologize for this country's arrogance." My grandpa is right. Americans need not apologize to the world for their arrogance; rather, Americans should apologize to their forefathers for the arrogance of their president.Barack Obama's first foreign trip as President of the United States has confirmed the naiveté so many of us feared during the election cycle. But worse than that, it has also demonstrated that our president suffers from either a complete misunderstanding of our heritage and history, or an utter contempt for it. Neither is excusable. Garnering cheers from the French of all people, President Obama declared, "In America, there is a failure to appreciate Europe's leading role in the world. Instead of celebrating your dynamic union and seeking to partner with you to meet common challenges, there have been times where America has shown arrogance and been dismissive, even derisive." Consider that Obama spoke these words just 500 miles from the beaches of Normandy, where the sand is still stained with 65-year-old blood of "arrogant Americans."Indeed, columnist Mark Whittington observes, "One should remind Mr. Obama and the Europeans how America has 'shown arrogance' by saving Europe from itself innumerable times in the 20th Century. World War I, World War II, the Cold War and the wars in the Balkans were largely resolved by American blood, treasure, and leadership." But all that appears lost on the president's seemingly insatiable quest to mend fences he imagines have been tarnished by the bullish George W. Bush.If Obama wishes to continue trampling the presidential tradition of showing class to former office holders and publicly trash Bush for his own personal gain, so be it. But all Americans should make clear that no man even if he is the president will tarnish the legacy of those Americans who have gone before us. Ours is not a history of arrogance. It is a history of courage, self sacrifice, and honor.When abusive monarchs repressed the masses, Americans resisted and overthrew them. When misguided policies led to the unjust oppression of fellow citizens, Americans rebelled and overturned them. When millions of impoverished and destitute wretches sought a new beginning, Americans threw open the door and welcomed them. When imperial dictators were on the march, Americans surrendered their lives to stop them. When communist thugs threatened world peace, Americans bled to defeat them. When an entire continent was overwhelmed with famine and hunger, Americans gave of themselves to sustain it. When terrorist madmen killed the innocent and subjugated millions, Americans led the fight to topple them.This is the legacy that generations of Americans have left. If President Obama seeks stronger relations with the world community, perhaps he should begin by reminding them of these very truths, rather than condemning his own countrymen on foreign shores.This "obsessive need to put down his own country," has caused blogger James Lewis to call President Obama a "stunningly ignorant man" who has evidently never spoken to a concentration camp survivor, a Cuban refugee, a boat person from Vietnam, a Soviet dissident or a survivor of Mao's purges.Unfortunately, I can no longer bring myself to give Mr. Obama that benefit of the doubt. Not after looking at the pain in my grandpa's eyes ... a man who still carries shrapnel in his body from his service to this country.As a student and teacher of history, I recognize that America has made mistakes ... plenty of them, in fact. But one of the great things about our people has been their courage and humility in admitting and correcting those mistakes. God willing, they will prove that willingness again in four years and correct the mistake that is the presidency of Barack Obama.

Let's Just Fast-Forward, Shall We?

Last week (April 15th), AMERICANS from all over the country got together in certain cities to protest the large amount of taxes being snared by our government. These "tea parties" have been occurring every year on Tax Day since- well possibly since the very first Tea Party! These protests are more symbolic in nature than anything else- I mean who likes taxes?- but they are NOT the protests of one party over another. However, based on the news coverage, one would think that Newt Gingrich and Bill O'Reilly went door-to-door recruiting people to attend these protests. First of all, Newt could no longer organize a tupperware party, but to think this was a Conservative movement as opposed to what it was- an AMERICAN movement- is lunacy. So it should come as no surprise that the failed and out-of-work Air America crowd- Garafalo, Maher, CNN, MSNBC and others of their ilk- made comments denouncing these movements as "rednecks and racists" getting together as encouraged by FOX to protest NOT taxes, but "our first African American President". Furthermore, through these news reports they managed to call these participants "tea baggers" instead of tea party participants (if you do not know what is meant by the phrase "tea bagging", ask your daughters). When did it become socially acceptable to use porn terms on national TV? Trust me, if Howard Stern used that term, he'd be fined another million dollars. The hipocracy and the double-standards of media coverage of our political parties is unbelievable and maddening. Just to enlighten some of you who missed this last week, the tea party movements crossed all political parties, all color lines, all religions, all cities, all social status and included both sexes. It included any and all who shared the opinion that WE pay too many taxes and what is worse- we have NO SAY as to where these taxes go (bail-outs, hand-outs, etc.). The people never really expected to change the government's philosophy on this; they just wanted to be heard. Here in LA, the tea party was organized by two liberal-leaning radio talk show hosts. They love Obama, voted for him, hate Arnold, hated Bush, but feel that our taxes shouldn't be going to AIG or FORD or any bail-outs or company failing in this economy. That's it! No racist statements, no "right wing conspiracy". One pundit put it perfectly when he was asked about Garafalo's comments about "tea baggers protesting Obama, not taxes. They are just rednecks and racists". He stated that Garafalo was "as unintelligent as she is untalented and unattractive. She hasn't had an intelligent thing to say since her last good movie, which according to most movie people was- NEVER!" So, liberals out there- enough! You lose credibility everyday when people like Garafalo, Al "Stuart Smalley" Franken, and Paul Begalo and Harry Reid make statements to represent your points of view. If these viewpoints are accurate and you support comments like calling conservatives "rednecks and racists" because they exercised their First Amendment rights to free speech and protested something they feel very passionate about, then you are CLEARLY out of touch with America and it will cost you in the future.Secondly, the ACLU and other leftists organizations, have years of lawsuits and commentary against Bush for not revealing various "secrets" that he deemed to be National Security (the ACLU HATES this!). Now, with Obama in office, they filed the same writs and lawsuits expecting a different reaction. Imagine the shock when HIS response was the same- National Security. What did these leftists organizations do in response? Did they hold news conferences announcing an Executive cover-up? Did they go on the talk show circuit slamming the Administration as a cover-up artist, lying to the American people? No. They simply said "Ok, thanks! See ya' later"...hipocrites, all...So, let's just fast-forward, shall we? Let's go to 2012, where amidst various investigations (Harry Reid among them) high-level Obama team members resign or are kkicked out in shame, yet Obama gets re-elected, but no longer has the House or Senate to back him, as the Republican make great strides in these areas (Americans are sick and tired of being broke, out of work and treated to nothing but sound byte pablum). I like Obama- he's charming, I love his kids, and I want him to succeed (not necessarily his policies though)...let's also fast forward these NBA play-offs- Lakers take Utah in 5, Portland in 7, and meet Cleveland in the Finals. They beat LeBron in 6...by the way, I'm never wrong...:)

50 more things...

1, what color is your toothbrush?
blue and white
2, Name one person who made you smile today:
Charles Barkley
3, What were you doing at 8 am this morning?
It’s only 7:57…I’ll tell you in a few…
4, What were you doing 45 minutes ago?
That’s quite personal, I think…
5, What is your favorite candy bar?
Anything made by Dove Chocolate
6. Have you ever been to a strip club?
Been? I’ve worked the pole, babe!
7, What is the last thing you said aloud?
”Sorry, Occifer, but I don’t drink and drive…I always wait until I’m stuck at a light.”
8, What is your favorite ice cream flavor?
chocolate
9, What was the last thing you had to drink?
Denny’s Coke- de-licious!
10. ..emails and filling out this stupid list (see question #3)
11, What was the last thing you ate?
Crow
12, Have you bought any new clothing items? recently?
Depends…
13, The last sporting event you watched? professional?
It IS Easter weekend. Tiger IS healthy. Is there ANYTHING else that matters this weekend but The Masters?
14, What is your favorite flavor of popcorn?
I didn’t know they came in flavors. I’ll say popcorn-flavored.
15, Who is the last person you sent a text message to?
I don’t text. I sent my daughter a smoke signal though…
16, Ever go camping?Are you kidding?
I’m a professional outdoorsman (another term for homeless)
17, Do you take vitamins daily?
Suppository only
18, Do you go to church every Sunday?
God and I have an agreement. I won’t bother HIM at work and He won’t bother me…My church is wherever I am at the time when He and I decide to talk things over.
19, Do you have a tan?
I have two fives. Will that help? Ooooh, a TAN….
20,Do you prefer Chinese food over pizza?
I prefer Chinese pizza
21, Do you drink your soda with a straw?
Yes. The restaurants hate it when I suck on the fountain
22, What did your last text message say? Again, I don’t text. What do I have to do to get that through your head? Text you or something???
23, What are you doing tomorrow?
You mean “who”, don’t you?
25, Look to your left, what do you see?
A very skittish squirrel. Obviously he’s not used to being in the shower with me
26, What color is your watch?
Silver
27, What do you think of when you hear Australia?
Cool accents, Greg Norman and toilets that flush in reverse
29, Do you go in at a fast food place or just hit the drive thru?
Hit the drive thru. I have several lawsuits pending for this very reason…
30. What is your favorite number?
13
31, Who's the last person you talked to on the phone?
9-1-1 operator (they never give their name, but I suspect they are somewhere in India)
32, Any plans today?
Let’s see…mop, download some tunage, rearrange my sock drawer, commit suicide…
33, How many states have you lived in?
Let me count…state of confusion, denial, euphoria, rapture…
34, Biggest annoyance right now?
I cannot understand how in an age where we are preaching GREEN, GREEN, GREEN, my grocery store (RALPH’S) discourages paper grocery bags (pushes the plastic) by hardly having any or if they have them, they have no handles. Don’ they know that it takes dozens and dozens of years for each plastic bag to disintegrate in a landfill? Jeez!!!!
35, Last song listened to?
”We Will Go On” by Daniel Rodriguez
36,Can you say the alphabet backwards?
sdrawkcab siht gnitirw m'I
37, Do you have a maid service clean your house?
Right. She comes right after my masseuse and pedicurist…
38, Favorite pair of shoes you wear all the time?
Snow shoes. Don’t ask…
39, Are you jealous of anyone?
Just those who are thin, handsome, wealthy, healthy and smart. Other than that, no. Oh wait…and the guy with the NEW box under the freeway; mine is falling apart.
40, Is anyone jealous of you?
yes- those who wish to be fat, ugly, poor and stupid. I’m sure there are some out there…
41, Do you love anyone?
but of course…”What a friend we have in Jesus…”
42, Do any of your friends have children?
Yes. Many of my friends were children once too.
43, What do you usually do during the day?
On line classes for my medical degree…
44. Do you hate anyone right now?
Hate is a four letter word. I prefer despise…
45. Do you use the word "Hello" daily?
About 1500 times a day (I’m a senior greeter at Wal-Mart)
46,What color is your car?
Black
47, Do you like cats?
They're delicious
48. Are you thinking about someone right now?
Yes
49, Have you ever been to Six Flags?
Yep... and their stock is at an all-time low. They’ve been de-listed from the exchange, so it’s a good time to buy, but not a good time to ride that coaster…
50, How did you get your worst scar?
Stabbed in the arm…Dad and I went for the last steak at the same time. He won...

Post-Oscar comments...

Having been a fan of the Academy Awards since I was a small child- memorizing the list of winners in all major catagories from 1927-1977, and culminating in actually working for A.M.P.A.S. and the production as Executive Director, I have a unique perspective (I think) of this year's award show. It was not good.You will hear and read about the great job Jackman did as host, and the musical numbers, etc. While Jackman is charming, and quite talented, they tried to make this a Busby Berkley musical instead of the Oscars. The day that no-talents like Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens get to dance on stage at the Oscars, is the beginning of the end for the glamour and glitz that surrounds this annual event. What I saw was Beyonce lip-synching, terribly under-rehearsed and ill-advised dance numbers (made me yearn for Rob Lowe and Cinderella), Ben Stiller stealing a Joaquin Phoenix routine that was presented the day before at the Independent Film Spirit Awards, and various film clips and montages that seemed to have been thrown together at the last minute. They even blew the In Memorium sequence with awful camera direction!Overall, the show and all the categories lacked any kind of suspense or originality, with one exception. I liked the way the major acting awards were presented- with five past winners speaking about the qualities of the nominees. That was brilliant. I think the biggest "job" of the night was Penn winning for "Milk". Even he thought, deep down, that Rourke deserved it for "The Wrestler" and he was right. It just shows you how Rourke will never get to that top again, and Penn, despite his wild past, is still the apple in the eye of the Oscar voter- especially with a Hollywood-friendly "gay" film. Say what you want about "equal rights", but to insult 70% of the nation with his "shame" comments continues to show just how out-of-touch Hollywood is. I happen to agree with the position that Penn holds, but to discount a national election where that sentiment is clearly in the minority, even here in CA where it lost 57-43%, shows which side of the political aisle is truly intolerant. Sean- who is an outstanding actor despite his vocal politics- should have resisted the urge to spout off again. Just like the winning outcomes, his act is also predictable.The one bright spot was the return of Sophia Loren. She alone seemed to represent Old Hollywood with all its sophistication and glamour. I long for the days of Wayne, Sinatra, Stewart, Hepburn, Peck, Grant, Davis and the rest. This is a new, and not necessarily improved, Hollywood.Amidst all the turmoil, imperfections and flubs, there sat Meryl Streep- 15 nominations and counting. before she finishes, she's looking at 25 nom's and possibly 10 wins. She's the Tiger Woods of the OSCAR's! Good for her! Like Bette Davis and Hepburn before her, she doesn't have the stunning beautiful looks of the flavor-of -the weeks have, but she has unending talent and a knack for picking the right scripts and roles. It was also great to see newcomers like Viola Davis, Richard Jenkins, Anthony Mackie and Michael Shannon (who I predict will be the next great character actor like M.Emmett Walsh or even J.T. Walsh) get their recognition as well. On a scale of 1-10, this year was a 3 at best. Even so, it's the OSCAR's- the show I've seen as many times as Wizard of Oz, GWTW and the Super Bowls. And yes, I will attempt to commit this year's winner's to memory too.

A-Roid and other thoughts on PED's...

Today, Yankee slugger Alex Rodriguez came out and admitted in an interview with Peter Gammons that he did use performance enhancing drugs (steroids, growth hormone) from 2001-2003.and...?The issue I have with this interview is not that he did the steriods, but that he is on record as LYING about it, including a nationally televised interview with Katie Couric.There was a time in America when lying was one of the worst things you could be caught doing and have it affect your career. Your word meant nothing, your opinions meant nothing. Your point of view was meaningless. Not anymore, though. Maybe since it was ok for the sitting President to lie to America by stating "I am not a crook!". Maybe it started after the sitting President told the world that he didn't inhale, didn't have sex with woman, etc, etc.As a huge sports fan, specifically baseball, I've learned how to "handle" and manage this steroid controversy, and I would encourage all of you to do the same. 1) I will never pay for tickets to attend a game. I will go if they are free, but will not purchase anything at the park. 2) I no longer purchase any sports memorabilia or logo'd clothing. I love my Mets, but do not own a jersey, a hat or anything with the logo.3) I would not allow my child to play Little League on any team named after an actual team. Names like "Dragons", Mighty Oaks", Raiders, etc. are just as effective.4) I go out of my way to avoid purchasing any product or service ever shucked and hawked by these liars and cheaters. Things like the phone company and such you can't avoid...What is also troubling is that these guys took this test voluntarily, under the agreement that they will remain anonymous in perpetuity. Someone kept the information and leaked it. I would conduct a full scale investigation to find out how it was leaked and fire anyone connected to the leak.A-Roid claimed he used it when he felt an incredible pressure for having to perform. yes, pressure from a $250 million dollar contract that he accepted.By the way, when will the first team stand up and sue their player who tests positive, for false representation? Couldn't they collect a portion or all of their paid out salary? I would think so. Anyway, I'm through with supporting these clowns, and none of them should be voted into a Hall of Fame BEFORE Pete Rose gets in.

Sully!

I just finished watching what I thought was a very emotional interview with Capt. Sullenberger, the pilot of the Airway Jet that crashed into the Hudson, 1/15/09. There's no wonder why he took almost a month before his first interview, as he is somehow wracked with "survivor's guilt" (even though there were no casualties. In that time, however, he got all of his information straight, knowing exactly what he did every second of the way, and his responses were well-rehearsed. This just reinforced in us how reliable and professional he is, keeping his head when all around him they are losing theirs. He reinforced in me what a hero is, and I'm a better person to have seen that interview and learn from him.Sadly, though, he also reminded me of another hero, who also suffered severe guilt after his heroic act. That person was the Secret Service agent who jumped on the back of Kennedy's limo in Dallas and stopped Jackie from falling out. Even though he had no chance to save JFK, he was riddled with guilt over that incident (In The Line of Fire character played by Clint Eastwood was loosely based on him), to the point that he became an alcoholic and died a young, tragic death. Sully seemed to have the same stare and speak similarly to that heroic figure. I pray he gets better soon, and retires to stay with hsi young family. As an aside, it also seemed that the one attendant who had cut her leg, seemed to have experienced a completely different episode. I got the distinct impression the rest of the crew is tired of her "drama queen" act in her effort to separate herself from the rest. I guarabtee two things- that attendant will be the first to cash in by writing a book of the incident, a book which will be critical of Sully and the co-pilot as well as the airline. I also think she's going to sue the airlines and will never return to work. She sees dollar signs.155 went into the drink; 155 emerged. The reunion with the passengers and their families was one of the most touching scenes I've ever witnessed on television. Sully summed it up best when he said that he thought people are attached to this incident because we are in search of some good news. maybe he's right, but I think even in a glowing economy and a society where dogs played with cats and the Mets win the World Series, following a J-E-T-S, Jets, Jets, Jets Super Bowl victory, this incident would have been one for the ages. Thanks, Sully. I'm naming my next dog after you!

The Stimulus Package and other Lies...

If you watch and decipher the (political) news as much as I do (and , apparently David Andersen does as well!) you should be somewhat troubled by this "stimulus package". Those who are not are Liberal ideologues who believe their chosen leaders can do no wrong, which is pure head-in-the-sand thinking and I have no time for that or you. Wake up, people! You can be supportive of you party and your chosen leaders, but it sickens me when you walk in lock step to everything they do and say without doing any of your own research. Do I believe and support everything the Conservatives put forth? Hell, no. I didn't even support our choice for President! As I have said on many past occasions, I am more than willing to support our new, very charismatic President and se what happens, however if his leadership on the stimulus package is any indication, it will be a VERY short Honeymoon. First of all, this is NOT a stimulus package- it is a pork bill of unGodly proportions! out of $900B, less than half is actually expected to "stimulate" job growth and opportunity. Half of THAT won't go into effect for years to come. The stuff that DOES take immediate effect will be: prison repair and reform, condom distribution in HS, and various social programs that they already admit will have NO direct effect on the economy- it will simply provide more free stuff to their party members, like illegal aliens, lower income families, etc. I'm all for helping them as well, but NOT IN THIS PACKAGE!A true leader would have said "Enough. This is serious business, not partisan politics as usual. Take all of this crap out and reduce it to a REAL stimulus package and get these people back to work!" Somehow, I can easily picture FDR, Truman and Reagan saying those exact words...However, the curtain is pulled back and it is revealed- the statistic that said Obama WAS the most Liberal Senator in office is, in fact, true. He not only supports this "pork-laden future tax burden for years to come", but he had the nerve to "call out" those who refuse to support it, claiming they obviously do not want to help the Unemployed Americans. If anyone can take the leap and explain to me how distributing condoms in High School and pledging millions upon millions of dollars to such a program will directly put the construction worker to work, and in a way that makes absolute sense, I will switch parties immediately and register Democrat today!There is a reason why this "package" concerns me so and why it hits home so closely and very few really know this reason, but suffice it to say- it does. There are thousands upon thousands more unemployed than what is reported; some have NOT chosen to collect Unemployment, but they are unemployed just the same. Some are so terribly underemployed that they would MAKE more on UI, but choose not to collect and rather earn something. They make so little and have families to take care of. Now, the "partyof the People" have their perfect opportunity to turn our capitalist society into one of Socialism- this has been their dirty dream for decades.History will reflect that this package went a long way in making that dream a reality.

Random thoughts...

Have you seen the new Jack-In-The -Box commercial where Jack is on Air Force One? He's apparently meeting with the President about something to do with Jack's new sandwich. What's interesting, and you have to look closely, is that the Presidential seal, clearly in view, says "Resident of the United States". Jack even refers to the disembodied voice as "Mr. Resident". Apparently, they didn't get approval for the use or portrayal of the Presidential Seal...imagine "Resident Bartlett" on Est Wing?...saw "Jaws" again- those who have read previous notes know my "attachment" to sharks- the perfect killing machine. If I were Chief Brody, I'd feel horrible. HE lost his grip on Quint, allowing Quint to slide right into the mouth of Bruce, only to be chomped in half. Brody, for a Chief of Police, I'm ashamed of you!...I'd like to see Mickey Rourke beat out Sean Penn for the Best Actor Oscar. In Hollywood, these things are certain if you want to win an Oscar- make a Holocaust movie, portray someone with a disability, or portray a hero of the Left (like Milk). It's a joke. Sure, Penn is a great actor, but Rourke came out of NOWHERE, physically worked his but off and portrays a very sad figure in a very moving movie. I can hope...my other predictions/wishes to come in future notes...

25 Random things...

1. I hate to shave my face, but I don't mind waxing my legs
2. I don't smoke, drink or do drugs and abhor those who do (ironically, I don't mind if you sell it, though).
3. I'm a big sports freak and ESPN is on my TV almost 24/7
4. I believe I was born thirty years too late.
5. I cry when I hear or sing the following: The National Anthem, Nessun Dorma, Butterfly Kisses, The Leader of the Band, and any song that has to do with a Daddy/Daughter relationship.
6. My weight fluctuates 5-75 pounds, depending on my mood.
7. I usually consider myself the smartest person in the room, but then again, I hang out in a lot of daycare centers.
8. On my right arm, I have tattoos reflecting personal heroes; on my right arm are tattoos reflecting my love for my family. On my back, I have a life-sized tattoo of Elvis (only taller).
9. I speak five languages- English and four dialects from interplanetary systems that we have yet to discover.
10. I love to work out to the point of sweating profusely and almost passing out, and I do it at least once a year whether I need to or not.
11. I've made more bad decisions in one life that any person deserves.
12. I live by the edict "A Good Deed Never Goes Unpunished". Sadly, it has never failed me...
13. I want to dye my hair, but I would like to dye it gray. I just can't find any...
14. Despite what my fellows Facebookers might believe, I don't remember too much about High School and didn't enjoy it too much. I worked full time before school and immediately after.
15. I lost my virginity in college, in a cemetary, at midnight after a screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Yes, this time I did have a partner.
16. I miss my Mom and Dad everyday.
17. I have dreams of being a successful character actor much like Dennis Franz or Brian Dennehy. I'm working on this dream now by assuming their identities and ordering stuff on line.
18. I am classically conservative, but continue to fight for the underdog in almost every situation.
19. I live for my New York Mets.
20. I despise racism and prejudice of any kind.
21. I write much better than I speak; I sing better than I dance.
22. I am in the middle of three screenplays and writing two biographical stage plays (musicals).
23. As a Christian, I am torn between believing the stories of the Bible and the idea of God, and the proven facts of science, evolution, Big Bang, etc. I think I believe in a God, but lean towards the science answers. I do believe Jesus existed though, and have taken him as my Savior. I just don't know about this heaven and Hell thing...
24. I love my daughter, Mary, more than life itself and would kill AND die for her without a seconds thought. Thankfully, I believe she loves her old man too!
25. I often cover up deep fear and pain with comedy; typical "Tears of a Clown" syndrome.

Random thoughts...

Just saw "Urban Cowboy" for the umpteenth time, but first in several years. I don't understand a few things- tell me again why Debra Winger was famous?...that Travolta sure could start a dance craze though. I went thru my UC days in 1980 and then again in the mid-90's...the best part about that whole scene was the dancing-that was fun- the worst part were the mullets...this soundtrack was awesome, and still holds up today- lots of classic songs...I'd bet if Travolta made a movie were he danced "the worm" on the dancefloor, we'd all be slithering on dancefloors by the next weekend...I saw an ADT commercial the other day, where the daughter is left home alone as the family goes out. She sets the alarm and then a burglar is seen and heard kicking in a back door. Terrified, she screams; just then, the phone rings-ADT is calling about a break-in alarm. What struck me funny was, when she answered, she said "Hello?" You have a burglar kicking in your backdoor and you answer the phone "hello" instead of "HELP ME-CALL THE POLICE!"??...I realize that it is instinct, though. The best example of this was the video of the child molester being escorted through the airport by the F.B.I., when the victim's father comes out of the shadows to shoot the suspect in the head. In the ensuing scuffle, the agents fight the shooter, knocking off a phone from the receiver of a payphone. In all of this commotion- fighting a guy with a gun, holding on to a dead suspect with a hole in his head, and keeping the public at a safe distance in a crowded airport, this agent took the time to reach over and put the phone back on the payphone receiver. It is amazing video of someone reacting instinctually without even knowing it...I enjoy finding "flaws" like that in commercials or movies...ever see a Western where some cowboys are out "on the range" for weeks, say, in a cattle drive or something? They hit town and the first thing they do is hit the saloon and get themselves some "female company". The cowboys go up to the second floor with their women and start kissing and stripping, ready to get down to business. You know what I'm thinking the whole time? How about a nice hot shower? Perhaps even brushing your teeth. I mean, you were only out on the dusty trails for the last two weeks. I guess it's just me...can you believe Steve Perry of Journey is 60 years old today? Damn- still the hardest singer to emulate and the hardest songs to do- incredible range. "Heart" (Nancy and Ann Wilson) are also in that group. That's why I think that chick on Idol who did "Barracuda" in the audition will make at least Top-24. Never know how these people will do in Hollywood, and often your chances are blown because of someone your stuck singing with. Talent-wise, she can win it all. JMHO...

These things have always bothered me...

...where is the hospital that "House" practices? Doesn't he use narcotics everyday?...I haven't seen an episode YET where they don't "think" they have the solution, and then start treatment on the patient, when the patient ends up in CARDIAC ARREST...is it me or is Michelle Obama not very attractive? Sorry but to me, she looks like Chewbaca, especially towering over him like she does. I'm sure she's quite bright and nice though, but I always had a crush on Laura Bush myself...so far this football post-season, I haven't picked one game correctly (I pick with my heart, not my head). I'm still hoping the Cardinals pull it out...I only liked the Bradshaw-led Steelers of the 70's, much like I liked the Willie Stargell Pirate teams. Hate both teams now...I have this turntable that hooks into my computer and transfers my vinyl into itunes, which I later burn into cd's. It's cool, but I have 1000's of albums so it'll take forever...speaking of overseas, I am looking for year-long contractual employment in and around the war zone too. I'm to old to fight with them, but maybe I can make a couple of hundred thousand tax-free supporting them...I'm excited about the new show "Lie To Me", especially given my interviewing career and such. I've always studied body language and "tells", plus Tim Roth is a great actor...Jets got themselves a new coach- Rex Ryan. They need to get to get tougher, they need a few receivers and I do hope Brett comes back one more time. Then next year, they can draft one of the many QB's coming out- Colt as a Jet?...Giants just need to get-and stay healthy. A healthy Giants team would blow BOTH Super Bowl teams away. I'm sure the same goes for New England, too..."JAWS" is one movie that I will watch on cable every time it is on, but I'll never watch it on regular TV. In fact, other than Idol, I don't watch ANY regular television. I hate commercials...speaking of commercials....

On one hand...

...I'm looking forward to the inauguration of our new President. No, I didn't vote for him and I have sincere doubts he will accomplish anything close to what he promised, even with the majority behind him, but I'm all for giving him a shot. He "seems" like a nice enough guy (his wife is another story altogether!), but I am getting sick of all the "others" who have decided to hitch their wagons to his star. You know who I'm talking about- Oprah (like SHE needs more face time!), Sean Puff the Magic Dragon Combs, Cheryl "Curb Your Enthusiasm, PUH-LEEZE" Hines, Ludacris, Will.i.am, and even Arianna Huffington. She used to be an right-wing extremist, finds out her husband is gay after 20 years of marriage, and goes social-programming overboard with her ultra-liberal stances and anti-American rhetoric. Like every party, I guess- there will be some who attend who seem to ruin a good time for everyone else...speaking of our new President, I just cannot get over the irony that first there was a 9/11, and in a few short years, we have a "Barack Hussein Obama" as President...this is monumental to me, personally. This will be the first President that was BORN after I was! First, it was getting used to centerfolds having birthdays after I graduated High School and College, now it's a youngin' for Commander In Chief!...I always enjoyed Reagan's speeches and State of the Union addresses- looked forward to the homespun homilys of the "good ole days", but I'm REALLY excited about President Obama's speechifying! Electric! Heck-- I would vote for Jesse Jackson just to hear his song-like speeches...Even if this President fails, I will not blame him. You must always blame Congress, as they are the true power in our government...get used to legalized abortions without parental consent for 14 yr. olds and younger, freedoms to disrupt churches and freedoms to attack anyone or any organization that may not agree with the "alternative lifestyle" crowds, handcuffing our law enforcement and letting obviously guilty bad folk roam free, and basically our country being overtaken by what is known as "San Francisco Values"- a truly secular society. God help us all...

Huh?

Did anyone ever tell you to "STOP-tie your shoelaces!"? Someone said that to me today and I thought for a second- isn't that comment just encouraging mediocrity? Why only "tie" our shoelaces? Shouldn't we teach our kids to "beat our shoelaces"? I know winning isn't everything, and Lord knows, Donovan McNabb doesn't know what happens in the event of a tie, but really- shouldn't we encourage each other to go out and do our best against our shoelaces? From now on, I going to beat the living eyelets off of MY shoelaces! Just remember though- you may not be able to get in without a tie...