If you haven't checked out the front page article from yesterday's Poughkeepsie Journal, I suggest you do so. However, if you do not have the time, I will simply quote the first sentence for you:
"Dutchess County spent $1,092 for each of 27 desk chairs for use at the county's Emergency Command Center in the Town of Hyde Park — a room used sparingly as a coordination and control facility during natural or man-made disasters."
What!? Are you kidding me!? Do I really need to bloviate on about how terrible a decision this was? I think not.
And people wonder why taxes in our county are so high.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Sunday, December 6, 2009
In the wake of Wednesday's New York State Senate defeat of a law that would have legalized gay marriage in our state, I would like to post for the 3rd time:
"I believe in 50 years, our society will look back on the fight against gay marriage the same way we now look back at the civil rights movement of the 1950s, or interracial marriage, or slavery, our country's original sin. 'They were fighting over this?' they'll ask. On a long enough period of time, social progressives will overcome social conservatives every time. And if our textbooks are any indication, history will not judge well those who try to keep others from enjoying the same freedoms."
The majority does not have the right to limit the rights of the minority.
"I believe in 50 years, our society will look back on the fight against gay marriage the same way we now look back at the civil rights movement of the 1950s, or interracial marriage, or slavery, our country's original sin. 'They were fighting over this?' they'll ask. On a long enough period of time, social progressives will overcome social conservatives every time. And if our textbooks are any indication, history will not judge well those who try to keep others from enjoying the same freedoms."
The majority does not have the right to limit the rights of the minority.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
The Escalation
I watched President Obama's speech from West Point last night with skepticism, and I don't believe my opinion has changed at all. I believe that Afghanistan is a quagmire, and I do not think the escalation of 30,000 additional US troops is going to solve the problem for 3 main reasons:
First, the point of the war is to destroy Al Qaeda and its ability to use Afghanistan as a safe haven. However, many of Al Qaeda's forces -- supposedly including Osama bin Laden, himself -- are not located in Afghanistan, but rather Pakistan, a country whose territorial sovereignty we cannot breach. With the Pakistani government and military in the constant state of turmoil that it is, how can we expect them to secure their own land?
Second, the Afghans as a whole have no confidence in their central government. How can we be expected to stabilize a people and a government when the people don't have faith in the government?
Third, history. From December 1979 to February 1989, the people of Afghanistan were able to withstand the invasion of the Soviet Union. That's almost 10 years. We've been there just over 8. Do we really expect a different result? These people will wait us out. No matter how long we stay, they will wait longer. They will wait forever.
So, because I am extremely skeptical of our ability to accomplish this goal, I am also extremely skeptical that the withdrawal of US forces will be able to occur in 3 years. In a meeting with top members of Congress prior to last night's speech, President Obama was pressed by Senator McCain on the timetable he was laying out, and President Obama conceded that any troop movements would be based on conditions on the group. This mean if it comes time to start withdrawing and conditions aren't favorable, we won't. Rest assured that this war has no end in sight. President Obama may be telling us where the end is, but believe me when I say that neither he, nor the military, nor anyone else can actually see it.
When Osama bin Laden orchestrated the attacks on September 11, 2001, the goal was to bring the United States to its knees -- politically, financially, militarily. More than 8 years later, where are we? We are stretching our political clout throughout the world to the limit. We are hemorrhaging money that we don't have, sinking deeper and deeper into debt. And our military is under pressures that are pushing it steadily toward the breaking point.
I imagine he's feeling quite good about himself right about now.
First, the point of the war is to destroy Al Qaeda and its ability to use Afghanistan as a safe haven. However, many of Al Qaeda's forces -- supposedly including Osama bin Laden, himself -- are not located in Afghanistan, but rather Pakistan, a country whose territorial sovereignty we cannot breach. With the Pakistani government and military in the constant state of turmoil that it is, how can we expect them to secure their own land?
Second, the Afghans as a whole have no confidence in their central government. How can we be expected to stabilize a people and a government when the people don't have faith in the government?
Third, history. From December 1979 to February 1989, the people of Afghanistan were able to withstand the invasion of the Soviet Union. That's almost 10 years. We've been there just over 8. Do we really expect a different result? These people will wait us out. No matter how long we stay, they will wait longer. They will wait forever.
So, because I am extremely skeptical of our ability to accomplish this goal, I am also extremely skeptical that the withdrawal of US forces will be able to occur in 3 years. In a meeting with top members of Congress prior to last night's speech, President Obama was pressed by Senator McCain on the timetable he was laying out, and President Obama conceded that any troop movements would be based on conditions on the group. This mean if it comes time to start withdrawing and conditions aren't favorable, we won't. Rest assured that this war has no end in sight. President Obama may be telling us where the end is, but believe me when I say that neither he, nor the military, nor anyone else can actually see it.
When Osama bin Laden orchestrated the attacks on September 11, 2001, the goal was to bring the United States to its knees -- politically, financially, militarily. More than 8 years later, where are we? We are stretching our political clout throughout the world to the limit. We are hemorrhaging money that we don't have, sinking deeper and deeper into debt. And our military is under pressures that are pushing it steadily toward the breaking point.
I imagine he's feeling quite good about himself right about now.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Monday, November 16, 2009
Irrational Hysteria
The irrational hysteria shown by many in this country never ceases to amaze me.
Take, for example, the proposal to move a large number of the remaining prisoners at Guantanamo Bay to a sparsely-populated maximum security prison in a sparsely-populated town called Thompson, IL. The majority of people of Thompson seem to want such a proposal carried out, as it would provide jobs at the Thompson Correctional Facility which has never been fully staffed due to budgetary reasons. There are some, however (the vast majority of whom are on the right side of the political spectrum and unfortunately get a lot of media attention), who feel that moving these individuals to an 8-year-old, maximum security prison in the middle of rural Illinois would somehow put the American people in unnecessary grave danger. According to the CDC, there were over 30,000 gun deaths in the United States, and these conservative talking heads think moving these detainees onto American soil is what is going to put Americans in unnecessary mortal danger? Give me a break. Do they expect these men to escape, find refuge, plan an attack, and then carry out said attack? Keep dreaming. Irrational hysteria.
This morning on CNN, I saw a piece on militia groups who arm themselves to the teeth with semi-automatic weapons and train for a confrontation with...I don't know who. The government? President Obama himself? One militia member raised the prospect that President Obama was "dangers for the nation." Another hoped that their presence makes lawmakers in Washington take "pause." I don't understand. Is he suggesting that he wants lawmakers to think, Gee, we were going to pass this law, but those militia members may come after us, so we better pause and think twice? And another reason why the militia members do what they do? Baseless fear that President Obama is going to take away their guns. Irrational hysteria.
Irrational hysteria is nothing new in this country, dating all the way back to the witch hunts of the 1600s. And I guess it's too much to expect everyone in the country to grow a brain and instead exhibit rational calm, so we'll just have to keep putting up with it. Only in America.
Take, for example, the proposal to move a large number of the remaining prisoners at Guantanamo Bay to a sparsely-populated maximum security prison in a sparsely-populated town called Thompson, IL. The majority of people of Thompson seem to want such a proposal carried out, as it would provide jobs at the Thompson Correctional Facility which has never been fully staffed due to budgetary reasons. There are some, however (the vast majority of whom are on the right side of the political spectrum and unfortunately get a lot of media attention), who feel that moving these individuals to an 8-year-old, maximum security prison in the middle of rural Illinois would somehow put the American people in unnecessary grave danger. According to the CDC, there were over 30,000 gun deaths in the United States, and these conservative talking heads think moving these detainees onto American soil is what is going to put Americans in unnecessary mortal danger? Give me a break. Do they expect these men to escape, find refuge, plan an attack, and then carry out said attack? Keep dreaming. Irrational hysteria.
This morning on CNN, I saw a piece on militia groups who arm themselves to the teeth with semi-automatic weapons and train for a confrontation with...I don't know who. The government? President Obama himself? One militia member raised the prospect that President Obama was "dangers for the nation." Another hoped that their presence makes lawmakers in Washington take "pause." I don't understand. Is he suggesting that he wants lawmakers to think, Gee, we were going to pass this law, but those militia members may come after us, so we better pause and think twice? And another reason why the militia members do what they do? Baseless fear that President Obama is going to take away their guns. Irrational hysteria.
Irrational hysteria is nothing new in this country, dating all the way back to the witch hunts of the 1600s. And I guess it's too much to expect everyone in the country to grow a brain and instead exhibit rational calm, so we'll just have to keep putting up with it. Only in America.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Paterson Runs
With 12 months to go before the 2010 election, Gov. David Paterson has begun running reelection ads. If you have not seen any, you can check them out here. I have seen the "Some Say" commercial numerous times, and I have to tell you I think it is very effective. Whoever decided to make Gov. Paterson's campaign slogan "The People First" made a good move, portraying him as bucking the system and doing whatever he feels is right for the state. But with the size of the climb that he's facing, will any good idea be able to make his reelection happen? I guess we'll find out over the next 12 months.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Brothers Under the Bridge
Saigon, it was all gone
The same Coke machines
As the streets I grew on
Down in a mesquite canyon
We come walking along the ridge
Me and the brothers under the bridge
Campsite's an hour's walk from the nearest road to town
Up here there's too much brush and canyon
For the CHP choppers to touch down
Ain't lookin' for nothin', just wanna live
Me and the brothers under the bridge
Come the Santa Ana's, man, that dry brush'll light
Billy Devon got burned up in his own campfire one winter night
We buried his body in the white stone high up along the ridge
Me and the brothers under the bridge
Had enough of town and the street life
Over nothing you end up on the wrong end of someone's knife
Now I don't want no trouble
And I ain't got none to give
Me and the brothers under the bridge
I come home in '72
You were just a beautiul light
In your mama's dark eyes of blue
I stood down on the tarmac, I was just a kid
Me and the brothers under the bridge
Come Veterans' Day I sat in the stands in my dress blues
I held your mother's hand
When they passed with the red, white and blue
One minute you're right there ... and something slips...
-Bruce Springsteen
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Come and Gone
So, one more election day has come and gone, and the amount of excitement was...negligible. Only four or five races garnered the attention of the national media, and the rest was all local politics. And don't get me wrong, local politics are important, but they just don't create the energy as national campaigns do. It's also more difficult to get information about local candidates without the massive television coverage right at your fingertips. When I asked someone I knew if she had voted, she replied, "I don't really care."
But in terms of New York State, there was a double-take moment in the 23rd congressional district. In a race that turned into a political soap opera in the last week, Democrats gained control of the seat which has leaned heavily toward the GOP since the Civil War. Dutchess County will be getting a veto-proof Republican majority in the legislature, which is too bad since I would very much like them to fight some of County Executive Bill Steinhaus' cost-cutting measures, including his Sheriff's Department plan. And here in Poughkeepsie, the common council will also have a GOP majority, and I will be getting a new councilman. I am not as concerned by this development.
-----
And in true Bill Maher style, let me say: "New Rule: You can't boast about the Yankees winning their 27th championship unless you were actually alive for all 27. Sure, the have the same name and general location, but it's not like the 2009 team is the same as the 1923 team. And despite what you may think, Yogi Bera is not still the manager."
But in terms of New York State, there was a double-take moment in the 23rd congressional district. In a race that turned into a political soap opera in the last week, Democrats gained control of the seat which has leaned heavily toward the GOP since the Civil War. Dutchess County will be getting a veto-proof Republican majority in the legislature, which is too bad since I would very much like them to fight some of County Executive Bill Steinhaus' cost-cutting measures, including his Sheriff's Department plan. And here in Poughkeepsie, the common council will also have a GOP majority, and I will be getting a new councilman. I am not as concerned by this development.
-----
And in true Bill Maher style, let me say: "New Rule: You can't boast about the Yankees winning their 27th championship unless you were actually alive for all 27. Sure, the have the same name and general location, but it's not like the 2009 team is the same as the 1923 team. And despite what you may think, Yogi Bera is not still the manager."
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Vote
It's that time again -- the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. Election Day. Vote early, vote often.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
The Senate's Public Option
Yesterday, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) announced a health care plan that would include a public option, but which would also allow states to opt out of said public option if they so choose.
Why do I have the sneaking suspicion that the states that would opt out are the ones with the citizens who most need the program?
Why do I have the sneaking suspicion that the states that would opt out are the ones with the citizens who most need the program?
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Walkway Over the Hudson
This past Sunday, I did what thousands of other Hudson Valley residents did: I took a trip on the Walkway Over the Hudson. I walked from Poughkeepsie to Highland and back, covering almost 2.5 miles, and it was quite the experience. When it came to the old railroad bridge, I think revitalizing it was the best idea, especially considering it would have cost more to tear the bridge down. I do, however, need to bring up a couple of points:
First, there are no emergency call boxes on the bridge. There are signs that give emergency numbers as well as signs discouraging people from committing suicide, but a person in distress should not be kept from help by their lack of a cell phone. There should direct line emergency boxes like you find on many other bridges, or even on many college campuses.
Second, I found that there are a lack of benches for sitting. What happens if you need to rest, or have a sudden health problem? Grab some cement? And since it is a park, what if you want to sit and read? Do I have to bring my own chair?
These suggests may seem small, but I think they could certainly improve the Walkway.
I just hope people use the thing.
First, there are no emergency call boxes on the bridge. There are signs that give emergency numbers as well as signs discouraging people from committing suicide, but a person in distress should not be kept from help by their lack of a cell phone. There should direct line emergency boxes like you find on many other bridges, or even on many college campuses.
Second, I found that there are a lack of benches for sitting. What happens if you need to rest, or have a sudden health problem? Grab some cement? And since it is a park, what if you want to sit and read? Do I have to bring my own chair?
These suggests may seem small, but I think they could certainly improve the Walkway.
I just hope people use the thing.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
CNN Tapes at Poughkeepsie High School
In case you missed it, the following is a post from the Poughkeepsie City School District website, PoughkeepsieSchools.org:
CNN anchor Soledad O’Brien and her production crew visited Poughkeepsie High School Tuesday, September 8, while working on a special series, “Latino in America.” CNN will feature Consuelo Castillo Kickbusch, CEO of Educational Achievement Services, in the documentary. Ms. Kickbusch was the inspirational keynote speaker at the Superintendent’s Convocation for staff.
Ms. O’Brien interviewed Ms. Kickbusch in a Poughkeepsie High classroom set up as a temporary television studio after her remarks. She even helped Ms. Kickbusch touch up her makeup before the interview, commenting “The only other person I ever did this for was President Clinton.”
Ms. O’Brien, who has a weekend home in Dutchess County, said she comes to Poughkeepsie often. The documentary which reports on the growing diversity of America will air at 8 p.m. on CNN and in Spanish on CNN enEspanol on October 21 and 22.
CNN anchor Soledad O’Brien and her production crew visited Poughkeepsie High School Tuesday, September 8, while working on a special series, “Latino in America.” CNN will feature Consuelo Castillo Kickbusch, CEO of Educational Achievement Services, in the documentary. Ms. Kickbusch was the inspirational keynote speaker at the Superintendent’s Convocation for staff.
Ms. O’Brien interviewed Ms. Kickbusch in a Poughkeepsie High classroom set up as a temporary television studio after her remarks. She even helped Ms. Kickbusch touch up her makeup before the interview, commenting “The only other person I ever did this for was President Clinton.”
Ms. O’Brien, who has a weekend home in Dutchess County, said she comes to Poughkeepsie often. The documentary which reports on the growing diversity of America will air at 8 p.m. on CNN and in Spanish on CNN enEspanol on October 21 and 22.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Hitting the Nail
Sometimes, a person hits the nail so perfectly on the head that the best thing you can do is not try to improve upon their work. The following is Bill Maher's final "New Rule" from the September 11, 2009, episode of Real Time with Bill Maher:
And finally, New Rule: Democrats must get in touch with their "inner asshole." And, no, I'm not being gratuitously crude when I say that. I refer to the case of one, Van Jones, who was the man the Obama Administration hired to find jobs for Americans in the new green industries. Hmm, seems like a smart thing to do in a recession. But, Van Jones got fired because he got caught on tape saying Republicans are assholes. And they call it news.
Now, I know that right now I'm supposed to be all re-injected with "Yes We Can" fever after the big healthcare speech. And it was a great speech. You know, when Black Elvis gets jiggy with his Teleprompter there's nobody better. But, here's the thing. Muhammad Ali also had a way with words. But, it helped enormously that he could also punch guys in the face.
It bothers me that Obama didn't say a word in defense of Mr. Van Jones, and basically fired him when Glenn Beck told him to. Just like we dropped "end of life counseling" from healthcare because Sarah Palin said it meant "death panels" on her Facebook page. Crazy morons make up things for Obama to do, and he does it.
Same thing with the speech to schools this week, where the president attempted to merely tell children to work hard and wash their hands. And "Cracker Nation" reacted as if he was trying to hire the Black Panthers to hand out grenades in home room. And, of course, the White House immediately capitulated. "No students will be forced to view the speech," a White House spokesperson assured a panicked nation. Well, isn't that like admitting that the president might be doing something unseemly? What a bunch of cowards. If the White House had any balls, they'd have said, "He's giving a speech on the importance of staying in school, and if you jackasses don't show it to every damn kid, we're cutting off your federal education funding tomorrow."
The Democrats just never learn. Americans don't really care which side of an issue you're on as long as you don't act like p*ssies. When Van Jones called the Republicans "assholes," he was actually paying them a compliment. He was. He was talking about how they can get things done even when they're the minority. As opposed to the Democrats, who can't seem to get anything done even when they control both houses of Congress, the presidency and Bruce Springsteen.
You know, I love Obama's civility, his desire to work with his enemies. It's positively Christ-like. In college, he was probably the guy at the dorm parties who made sure the stoners shared their pot with the jocks. But, we don't need that guy now. We need an asshole. Mr. President, there are some people who are never going to like you. That's why they voted for the old guy and "Carrie's mom." You're not going to win them over. Stand up for the 70% of Americans who aren't crazy. And, speaking of that 70%, when are we going to actually show up in all this?
You know, tomorrow, Glenn Beck's army of zombie retirees are descending on Washington. It's the "Million Moron March." Although they won't get a million, of course, because many will be confused and drive to Washington State. But, they will make news, because people who take to the streets always do. They're at town hall meetings screaming at the congressmen. We're on the couch screaming at the TV. You know, especially in this age of Twitters and blogs and Snuggies it's a statement just to leave the house. But, leave the house, we must, because this is our last best shot for a long time to get the sort of serious healthcare reform that would make the United States the envy of several African nations.
And finally, New Rule: Democrats must get in touch with their "inner asshole." And, no, I'm not being gratuitously crude when I say that. I refer to the case of one, Van Jones, who was the man the Obama Administration hired to find jobs for Americans in the new green industries. Hmm, seems like a smart thing to do in a recession. But, Van Jones got fired because he got caught on tape saying Republicans are assholes. And they call it news.
Now, I know that right now I'm supposed to be all re-injected with "Yes We Can" fever after the big healthcare speech. And it was a great speech. You know, when Black Elvis gets jiggy with his Teleprompter there's nobody better. But, here's the thing. Muhammad Ali also had a way with words. But, it helped enormously that he could also punch guys in the face.
It bothers me that Obama didn't say a word in defense of Mr. Van Jones, and basically fired him when Glenn Beck told him to. Just like we dropped "end of life counseling" from healthcare because Sarah Palin said it meant "death panels" on her Facebook page. Crazy morons make up things for Obama to do, and he does it.
Same thing with the speech to schools this week, where the president attempted to merely tell children to work hard and wash their hands. And "Cracker Nation" reacted as if he was trying to hire the Black Panthers to hand out grenades in home room. And, of course, the White House immediately capitulated. "No students will be forced to view the speech," a White House spokesperson assured a panicked nation. Well, isn't that like admitting that the president might be doing something unseemly? What a bunch of cowards. If the White House had any balls, they'd have said, "He's giving a speech on the importance of staying in school, and if you jackasses don't show it to every damn kid, we're cutting off your federal education funding tomorrow."
The Democrats just never learn. Americans don't really care which side of an issue you're on as long as you don't act like p*ssies. When Van Jones called the Republicans "assholes," he was actually paying them a compliment. He was. He was talking about how they can get things done even when they're the minority. As opposed to the Democrats, who can't seem to get anything done even when they control both houses of Congress, the presidency and Bruce Springsteen.
You know, I love Obama's civility, his desire to work with his enemies. It's positively Christ-like. In college, he was probably the guy at the dorm parties who made sure the stoners shared their pot with the jocks. But, we don't need that guy now. We need an asshole. Mr. President, there are some people who are never going to like you. That's why they voted for the old guy and "Carrie's mom." You're not going to win them over. Stand up for the 70% of Americans who aren't crazy. And, speaking of that 70%, when are we going to actually show up in all this?
You know, tomorrow, Glenn Beck's army of zombie retirees are descending on Washington. It's the "Million Moron March." Although they won't get a million, of course, because many will be confused and drive to Washington State. But, they will make news, because people who take to the streets always do. They're at town hall meetings screaming at the congressmen. We're on the couch screaming at the TV. You know, especially in this age of Twitters and blogs and Snuggies it's a statement just to leave the house. But, leave the house, we must, because this is our last best shot for a long time to get the sort of serious healthcare reform that would make the United States the envy of several African nations.
Friday, September 11, 2009
8
The sky was falling and streaked with blood
I heard you calling me then you disappeared into the dust
Up the stairs, into the fire
Up the stairs, into the fire
I need your kiss, but love and duty called you someplace higher
Somewhere up the stairs into the fire
May your strength give us strength
May your faith give us faith
May your hope give us hope
May your love give us love
May your strength give us strength
May your faith give us faith
May your hope give us hope
May your love give us love
You gave your love to see in fields of red and autumn brown
You gave your love to me and lay your young body down
Up the stairs, into the fire
Up the stairs, into the fire
I need you near but love and duty called you someplace higher
Somewhere up the stairs into the fire
May your strength give us strength
May your faith give us faith
May your hope give us hope
May your love give us love
May your strength give us strength
May your faith give us faith
May your hope give us hope
May your love give us love
May your strength give us strength
May your faith give us faith
May your hope give us hope
May your love give us love
It was dark, too dark to see, you held me in the light you gave
You lay your hand on me
Then walked into the darkness of your smoky grave
Somewhere up the stairs into the fire
Somewhere up the stairs into the fire
I need your kiss, but love and duty called you someplace higher
Somewhere up the stairs into the fire
May your strength give us strength
May your faith give us faith
May your hope give us hope
May your love give us love
May your strength give us strength
May your faith give us faith
May your hope give us hope
May your love give us love
May your strength give us strength
May your faith give us faith
May your hope give us hope
May your love give us love
May your strength give us strength
May your faith give us faith
May your hope give us hope
May your love give us love
May your love give us love
-Bruce Springsteen, "Into the Fire"
I heard you calling me then you disappeared into the dust
Up the stairs, into the fire
Up the stairs, into the fire
I need your kiss, but love and duty called you someplace higher
Somewhere up the stairs into the fire
May your strength give us strength
May your faith give us faith
May your hope give us hope
May your love give us love
May your strength give us strength
May your faith give us faith
May your hope give us hope
May your love give us love
You gave your love to see in fields of red and autumn brown
You gave your love to me and lay your young body down
Up the stairs, into the fire
Up the stairs, into the fire
I need you near but love and duty called you someplace higher
Somewhere up the stairs into the fire
May your strength give us strength
May your faith give us faith
May your hope give us hope
May your love give us love
May your strength give us strength
May your faith give us faith
May your hope give us hope
May your love give us love
May your strength give us strength
May your faith give us faith
May your hope give us hope
May your love give us love
It was dark, too dark to see, you held me in the light you gave
You lay your hand on me
Then walked into the darkness of your smoky grave
Somewhere up the stairs into the fire
Somewhere up the stairs into the fire
I need your kiss, but love and duty called you someplace higher
Somewhere up the stairs into the fire
May your strength give us strength
May your faith give us faith
May your hope give us hope
May your love give us love
May your strength give us strength
May your faith give us faith
May your hope give us hope
May your love give us love
May your strength give us strength
May your faith give us faith
May your hope give us hope
May your love give us love
May your strength give us strength
May your faith give us faith
May your hope give us hope
May your love give us love
May your love give us love
-Bruce Springsteen, "Into the Fire"
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
End of an Era
Last night, Senator Edward Kennedy succumbed to brain cancer at the age of 77. It truly is the end of an era as it is the passing of the last Kennedy brother. Below is a re-posting of most of my blog entry published on Friday, May 23, 2008, entitled "A Remarkable Life":
This big news in the world of politics this week was obviously the health of Sen. Edward Kennedy. His seizure earlier this week led to the diagnosis of a malignant brain tumor, and has brought into question not only his future, but also the future of the United States Senate: what will its make-up become? What direction will it take once this giant of politics is lost?
But this week's news has started me thinking about the journey that Sen. Kennedy has traveled. It truly has been a remarkable life, no matter how you view the man politically. He's a Kennedy -- a name that has been held in the highest esteem in the eyes of Americans for more than 50 years. He comes from the era of Camelot, which many of us know only through the words of history books. He has been able to stand up and stand out among a group of larger than life personalities.
People's lives fascinate me -- how long they've lived, what they've done, where they've been. Sen. Kennedy is a member of an extraordinary family, and more specifically a member of a group of three brothers that have not only changed this country, but the world as a whole (his eldest brother, Joseph, was killed during World War II). His second eldest brother John held the highest office in this land. His brother Robert was John's closest confidant, and made his own run for president. Both were cut down by the bullets of assassins, 45 and 40 years ago, respectively. That amazes me. Losing one brother in such a fashion would be traumatic enough, but losing two, and then choosing to continue to live the same kind of public, exposed lifestyle that led to their murders clearly shows the depth of commitment that Sen. Kennedy has for this country. He has served in the United States Senate since 1963 -- 45 years.
Sen. Kennedy has truly lived a blessed life, despite the trials and tribulations -- both professional and personal -- that seem to come along with the name 'Kennedy.'
This big news in the world of politics this week was obviously the health of Sen. Edward Kennedy. His seizure earlier this week led to the diagnosis of a malignant brain tumor, and has brought into question not only his future, but also the future of the United States Senate: what will its make-up become? What direction will it take once this giant of politics is lost?
But this week's news has started me thinking about the journey that Sen. Kennedy has traveled. It truly has been a remarkable life, no matter how you view the man politically. He's a Kennedy -- a name that has been held in the highest esteem in the eyes of Americans for more than 50 years. He comes from the era of Camelot, which many of us know only through the words of history books. He has been able to stand up and stand out among a group of larger than life personalities.
People's lives fascinate me -- how long they've lived, what they've done, where they've been. Sen. Kennedy is a member of an extraordinary family, and more specifically a member of a group of three brothers that have not only changed this country, but the world as a whole (his eldest brother, Joseph, was killed during World War II). His second eldest brother John held the highest office in this land. His brother Robert was John's closest confidant, and made his own run for president. Both were cut down by the bullets of assassins, 45 and 40 years ago, respectively. That amazes me. Losing one brother in such a fashion would be traumatic enough, but losing two, and then choosing to continue to live the same kind of public, exposed lifestyle that led to their murders clearly shows the depth of commitment that Sen. Kennedy has for this country. He has served in the United States Senate since 1963 -- 45 years.
Sen. Kennedy has truly lived a blessed life, despite the trials and tribulations -- both professional and personal -- that seem to come along with the name 'Kennedy.'
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Slick Willie
On Henry Rollins' live spoken word album, A Rollins in the Wry, he makes the following observation:
"...he is just like an eel in the weeds in the ocean, man. He's like an eel going through the Sargasso Sea, man. You know? He's slick and slippery; you can't get to the guy. And he's not Teflon, he's just oily. He's like a Dukes-of-Hazzard-kinda-yahoo guy, and he's getting it, you know?"
Who was Henry speaking of? Why none other than former President Bill Clinton. And though this quote was in reference to Clinton's 5-hour Monica Lewinsky testimony, I believe that the description is just as relevant today...and I mean that as a compliment. A week ago, Bill Clinton accomplished what I think was a magnificent feat: he walked into North Korea -- probably the most unstable and unpredictable country in the world -- slipped through the weeds, and walked out with Laura Ling and Euna Lee, two North Korean-convicted U.S. journalists. And this was not a covert mission. He went, he met with leaders (including the elusive Kim Jong Il) out in the open, he got it done, and he left saying, "This is how it's done, folks. Sit down and take notes."
Now, there are some who feel that Bill Clinton's meeting and photo-op with North Korean leader Kim Jong Il was a mistake because it legitimizes Kim in a way that should not be allowed. I, however, disagree. Situations like this are how things change. A world-renowned dignitary travels to the doors of an enemy with a request, and the enemy acquiesces. This could be the beginning of a whole new dialogue between our government and North Korea, and you never know what might come of that.
Slick Willie, at it again.
"...he is just like an eel in the weeds in the ocean, man. He's like an eel going through the Sargasso Sea, man. You know? He's slick and slippery; you can't get to the guy. And he's not Teflon, he's just oily. He's like a Dukes-of-Hazzard-kinda-yahoo guy, and he's getting it, you know?"
Who was Henry speaking of? Why none other than former President Bill Clinton. And though this quote was in reference to Clinton's 5-hour Monica Lewinsky testimony, I believe that the description is just as relevant today...and I mean that as a compliment. A week ago, Bill Clinton accomplished what I think was a magnificent feat: he walked into North Korea -- probably the most unstable and unpredictable country in the world -- slipped through the weeds, and walked out with Laura Ling and Euna Lee, two North Korean-convicted U.S. journalists. And this was not a covert mission. He went, he met with leaders (including the elusive Kim Jong Il) out in the open, he got it done, and he left saying, "This is how it's done, folks. Sit down and take notes."
Now, there are some who feel that Bill Clinton's meeting and photo-op with North Korean leader Kim Jong Il was a mistake because it legitimizes Kim in a way that should not be allowed. I, however, disagree. Situations like this are how things change. A world-renowned dignitary travels to the doors of an enemy with a request, and the enemy acquiesces. This could be the beginning of a whole new dialogue between our government and North Korea, and you never know what might come of that.
Slick Willie, at it again.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Asinine
Over the past week and a half, this country has been subject to a constant news story that is insulting when you consider our two wars, economic crisis, push to pass healthcare reform, and various other problems. I am, of course, talking about the arrest of Professor Henry Louis-Gate in Cambridge.
Now, race is a major issue in this country despite the fact that we now have an African-American president, but in my opinion this story should be no more than a footnote, and not worthy of the hours and hours of coverage that it has gotten. Of course this was propelled by the president wading hip-deep into the issue when he should not have. But it is stories like this that really brings out the stupidity of some people, along with asinine statements and ides.
Take, for example, Congressman Richard E. Neal of Massachusetts, and his objections to the selections of beer that are going to be served at the White House meeting between President Obama, Professor Louis-Gate, and Sgt. James Crowley. Rep. Neal recently wrote a letter to the president urging him to serve Sam Adams, or another beer from an American-owned brewery.
Oh, come on. The story is already blown out of proportion. Do we really need to care about what beer they drink?
Now, race is a major issue in this country despite the fact that we now have an African-American president, but in my opinion this story should be no more than a footnote, and not worthy of the hours and hours of coverage that it has gotten. Of course this was propelled by the president wading hip-deep into the issue when he should not have. But it is stories like this that really brings out the stupidity of some people, along with asinine statements and ides.
Take, for example, Congressman Richard E. Neal of Massachusetts, and his objections to the selections of beer that are going to be served at the White House meeting between President Obama, Professor Louis-Gate, and Sgt. James Crowley. Rep. Neal recently wrote a letter to the president urging him to serve Sam Adams, or another beer from an American-owned brewery.
Oh, come on. The story is already blown out of proportion. Do we really need to care about what beer they drink?
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Born in the USA
Months after President Obama's inauguration, conspiracies still abound about the legitimacy of his U.S. citizenship. Incredible, but not surprising. I don't know that there is much that could surprise me anymore when it comes to politics and stupidity. Check out Roland Martin's short piece from CNN.com.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Sotomayor vs. SVU & CSI
Right now on USA, there is a Law & Order: Special Victims Unit marathon. On Spike, there is a CSI marathon. And on CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, and PBS, there is day two of the Sonia Sotomayor marathon -- special all day coverage of the Supreme Court nominee's confirmation hearings. Can you say exciting? Yeah, me neither.
I've watched a little bit of the hearings. Democrats are praising her, Republicans keep bringing up the "wise Latina" comments. But the real question is: will any of this make a bit of difference? No. The Democrats hold a 60-40 majority in the Senate (counting Bernie Sanders, who is an Independent), and Sotomayor only needs to receive 51 votes to be confirmed. As Sen. Lindsay Graham put it yesterday, "Unless you have a complete meltdown, you are going to get confirmed."
So what is the point of all this? I think that an appointment to the Supreme Court is an important matter, and public hearings are a great thing. But I just wonder what Senators are hoping to learn in these three days that they have not been able to learn in the past month and a half. Is there really a need to have three hours of opening statements from senators? There is a finite amount of time before Congress breaks for the summer recess, and a seemingly infinite amount of issues that need to be addressed. So, why is all this grandstanding so important?
Anyway, you can watch SVU, CSI, or Sotomayor, Sotomayor, Sotomayor, and Sotomayor. What channel do you want?
I've watched a little bit of the hearings. Democrats are praising her, Republicans keep bringing up the "wise Latina" comments. But the real question is: will any of this make a bit of difference? No. The Democrats hold a 60-40 majority in the Senate (counting Bernie Sanders, who is an Independent), and Sotomayor only needs to receive 51 votes to be confirmed. As Sen. Lindsay Graham put it yesterday, "Unless you have a complete meltdown, you are going to get confirmed."
So what is the point of all this? I think that an appointment to the Supreme Court is an important matter, and public hearings are a great thing. But I just wonder what Senators are hoping to learn in these three days that they have not been able to learn in the past month and a half. Is there really a need to have three hours of opening statements from senators? There is a finite amount of time before Congress breaks for the summer recess, and a seemingly infinite amount of issues that need to be addressed. So, why is all this grandstanding so important?
Anyway, you can watch SVU, CSI, or Sotomayor, Sotomayor, Sotomayor, and Sotomayor. What channel do you want?
Monday, July 6, 2009
Robert McNamara
It was reported today that Robert McNamara, former secretary of defense under Presidents Kennedy and Johnson, has passed away at age 93. A very controversial figure, he was not only heavily involved in the Cuban Missile Crisis, but was a key architect of the war in Vietnam. If you get the chance, I highly recommend viewing Errol Morris' documentary, "The Fog of War: Eleven Lessons from the Life of Robert S. McNamara."
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
2,870 Miles
I have returned from Las Vegas and my 9-day cross-country trip, and believe me when I say that it was great. We drove 2,870 miles between New York and Nevada, and that includes Day 4, when we went from Oklahoma City, OK, to Henderson, NV. That's right - we went 1,180 miles in 18.5 hours. That's like half the country, folks. We reached hardcore road warrior status. Please allow me to share some of my memories.
Top 5 Best Experiences of My Cross-Country Trip:
1. The Hoover Dam - If you have never seen it, I recommend going. It really is immense and spectacular, even if the water-level is at record lows, and the bridge that they are building over the water to divert traffic from the dam is impressive in itself.
2. The M Hotel/Casino - A fantastic new hotel/casino in Las Vegas located way off the main strip, which keeps it from becoming a tourist trap like New York-New York or Paris. Great ambiance, great dealers, good food, great comps, and a self-serve kiosk with complimentary soda and water so you don't have to wait for a waitress if you don't want alcohol. Yes, you read that correctly. Four guys in their twenties played so much blackjack and poker that we got food comps. We hit the M three nights in a row.
3. The Fiddle & Steel Guitar Bar - Located in Nashville, we got to listen to some real Nashville country music in an easy-going bar. We weren't there for long, but it was a nice little Nashville experience.
4. Attending a Las Vegas wedding - Yes, I attended a wedding while in Las Vegas. No, it was not my own, nor one of my traveling partners', and none of the participants were intoxicated at the ceremony. This was a planned wedding of a friend of mine from college at the MGM Grand. It was short, sweet, funny, and the reception was at the buffet. Boom. It is now a story for life.
5. Standing on a corner in Winslow, AZ - No joke. We stopped. We posed. We took pictures. Talk about a conversation starter!
Top 5 Worst Experiences of My Cross-Country Trip:
1. Hooters Hotel/Casino - We stopped in because they advertised $3 blackjack, and since we were hungry we thought we would grab some food. Pretty shabby, and the food was not worth the price. Two of us ordered sandwiches, and they didn't even come with fries. This is America - what kind of scam is that?
2. Nevada Route 95 - Due to security restrictions, we could not take the rental truck over the Hoover Dam. Therefore, instead of taking Arizona Route 93, we had to take Nevada Route 95, which is a 55-mile straight road through the desert. Which we drove in the dark, at the tail end of our 18.5 hour day. It was brutal, and we were mentally fried. We could see other cars up in the distance coming towards us, but they were literally miles away.
3. Slots of Fun - Slots of fun is an old, dirty casino located across from the Riviera on Las Vegas Blvd. It is worn down and smelly, though you can play cheap blackjack and buy cheap beer. We were there for about 15 minutes.
4. The Music City Hostel - We stayed at this hostel in Nashville because my traveling partner has had good experiences with hostels in the past, and he likes to meet new and interesting people. It wasn't really my style, and even my friend was a bit disappointed in it. We slept, we woke up, we booked it.
5. Trying to get gas in Arizona - The area just past the Arizona state line when entering from New Mexico is heavily controlled by Native American nations, and this includes the gas stations. We must have stopped 4 times before we found a gas station that was open, accepted credit cards, and was less than $3.50/gallon. It was frustrating. I can only imagine getting gas in an Arizona city must be easier, but I cannot say for sure.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
The Trip
Today, a friend of mine and I are leaving on a cross-country trip from Poughkeepsie to Las Vegas. Going places that I have never gone and seeing the country are two of my favorite things to do, and I am excited for our 9-day trip. Our itinerary is as follows:
Sunday, June 14 - Poughkeepsie, NY, to Fairfax, VA
Monday, June 15 - Fairfax, VA, to Nashville, TN
Tuesday, June 16 - Nashville, TN, to Oklahoma City, OK
Wednesday, June 17 - Oklahoma City, OK, to Albuquerque, NM
Thursday, June 18 - Albuquerque, NM, to Las Vegas, NV
Tuesday, June 23 - Las Vegas, NV, to Poughkeepsie, NY
We are spending 4 days in Las Vegas with two friends who are meeting us there, then catching a red-eye back east on Tuesday. And while I am excited to return to the city where I had the best onion rings ever (Harley Davidson Cafe on the strip), I am very much looking forward to seeing new parts of the country, and adding 6 states to my total: Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona.
More when I return.
Sunday, June 14 - Poughkeepsie, NY, to Fairfax, VA
Monday, June 15 - Fairfax, VA, to Nashville, TN
Tuesday, June 16 - Nashville, TN, to Oklahoma City, OK
Wednesday, June 17 - Oklahoma City, OK, to Albuquerque, NM
Thursday, June 18 - Albuquerque, NM, to Las Vegas, NV
Tuesday, June 23 - Las Vegas, NV, to Poughkeepsie, NY
We are spending 4 days in Las Vegas with two friends who are meeting us there, then catching a red-eye back east on Tuesday. And while I am excited to return to the city where I had the best onion rings ever (Harley Davidson Cafe on the strip), I am very much looking forward to seeing new parts of the country, and adding 6 states to my total: Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona.
More when I return.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Better Than A Doctor's Note
This is why President Obama won. All policy and political differences aside, there is no Republican currently in the field who can connect to people the way he does.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Pay To Play: Part II
The radio conglomerates are ramping up their attempts to mislead the radio-listening public about the push in Congress to extend royalty payments to include performers as well as songwriters. I got extremely angry the other day when I heard multiple "no performance tax" ads on multiple radio stations within a span of about 5 minutes. It seems as though both Cumulus and Clear Channel are in on the anti-royalty campaign, and it is almost laughable that they are trying to paint themselves as "David," while record companies are "Goliath." The truth, however, is that the radio conglomerates relate more to the "Goliath," especially when you consider that they have a huge megaphone at their disposal, free of charge.
But I remain optimistic, because the simple fact that the radio conglomerates are forced to use their airtime to air misleading commercials tells me one simple thing: they are losing.
Please view my May 4 post, "Pay To Play," for a more in-depth argument on the subject.
But I remain optimistic, because the simple fact that the radio conglomerates are forced to use their airtime to air misleading commercials tells me one simple thing: they are losing.
Please view my May 4 post, "Pay To Play," for a more in-depth argument on the subject.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Akon
Last week, music superstar Akon appeared with City of Poughkeepsie Mayor Jeff Tkazyik in an effort to persuade a group of 50 young adults that resorting to gun violence is never the answer -- a message that is increasingly important given the unsettling rise of gun violence within the city. I think this is a very good idea, but I would like to see more than 50 people exposed to the discussion.
Akon is supposed to be returning to the area for more service in a few months, and I think it would be very beneficial if more people allowed to participate. Could the talk be opened up to the public and held at the Bardavon? I think its definitely an idea worth considering.
Akon is supposed to be returning to the area for more service in a few months, and I think it would be very beneficial if more people allowed to participate. Could the talk be opened up to the public and held at the Bardavon? I think its definitely an idea worth considering.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Sin City
Last night, my parents' flight home from Las Vegas was delayed by one hour as McCarran International Airport was shut down for the arrival of Air Force One. The crew of the airplane was urging the passengers to hurry up and get seated so they could try to beat the clock, and they got as far as taxiing away from the gate when the captain came on the intercom and informed them that they would have to wait until Air Force One had landed and President Obama was safely out of the complex. My mother said that she saw a 23-vehicle motorcade. I don't know how close she was, but I can't help but wonder what The Beast looks like in real life.
So, why was President Obama traveling to Sin City? To headline a fundraiser for Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. Mr. Reid, you see, is up for reelection in 2010, and with CNN reporting that his approval rating among Nevada residents is only around the 40% mark, he needs all the help he can get. It's almost hard to imagine that Nevada voters are tired of a man thinks that you "can't put [terrorists] in prison unless you release them."
If you look back through my past blogs, you will see that I am not a fan of Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. I feel that at his best he is a quivering mass of indecision (as proven a few months ago during the whole Roland Burris debacle), and his leadership is inept. At this point in the calendar, it is the Republicans' race to lose -- at least if they are smart enough to throw a serious contender against Reid. And to be honest, I don't know which situation I would be more upset with: the Democrats losing a seat, or Mr. Reid keeping his.
So, why was President Obama traveling to Sin City? To headline a fundraiser for Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. Mr. Reid, you see, is up for reelection in 2010, and with CNN reporting that his approval rating among Nevada residents is only around the 40% mark, he needs all the help he can get. It's almost hard to imagine that Nevada voters are tired of a man thinks that you "can't put [terrorists] in prison unless you release them."
If you look back through my past blogs, you will see that I am not a fan of Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. I feel that at his best he is a quivering mass of indecision (as proven a few months ago during the whole Roland Burris debacle), and his leadership is inept. At this point in the calendar, it is the Republicans' race to lose -- at least if they are smart enough to throw a serious contender against Reid. And to be honest, I don't know which situation I would be more upset with: the Democrats losing a seat, or Mr. Reid keeping his.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Rationalizing Theft
In conjunction with my May 4th post on how performers need to be properly compensated when their works are used by a third party -- such as radio -- for profit, it is important to recognize we live in a society that increasingly expects to receive services for free. With the rise of the internet, it has become increasingly difficult to protect a person's intellectual property (IP), and to make sure the holders of this IP get properly paid.
Please read "Copyright Critics Rationalize Theft," by Mark Helprin, to get an idea of how important this issue is, and what would happen if we saw the collapse of our copyright system.
Please read "Copyright Critics Rationalize Theft," by Mark Helprin, to get an idea of how important this issue is, and what would happen if we saw the collapse of our copyright system.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
The Pointless Notre Dame Boycott
Today, President Obama will deliver the commencement address at the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, IN, and there has been a substantial outcry from many in the Catholic community about the school allowing him to speak and receive and honorary degree. Specifically, many argue that as a Catholic institution, Notre Dame should not recognize and honor a man whose certain views differ so much from the Catholic Church. Fair enough. I personally don't care one way or the other who a private institution invites to speak and why, and if people are upset by this they should speak out (even though I think it's pointless to spend so much time and energy protesting something that will be forgotten by Tuesday morning). I do, however, need to take issue with an interview I saw Friday morning on CNN's American Morning.
On Friday, a Notre Dame senior named Emily Toates gave an interview to CNN's Kiran Chetry on why she is "boycotting her own graduation." Now, on the surface this may seem like a thoughtful person giving up something that is very important to her -- participation in the culmination of her college career -- to protest a more serious issue (although an insignificant one). She obviously feels strongly enough about this situation to not join her family and classmates, get a chance to cross the symbolic stage, be handed her diploma, move her tassel, or get memorable pictures taken. But wait: she still gets to do all those things.
When I graduated from Geneseo State University, we had one ceremony where everyone walked the stage, and our commencement address was given by Mayor Robert Duffy of Rochester (who was a bit unfairly upstaged when Senator Charles Schumer showed up and gave his own address). However, this is not the case at Notre Dame. Ms. Toates said Friday morning:
"I am fortunate though, Notre Dame does a kind of two-part graduation. I’m graduating with my department on Saturday, which is where we actually walk across the stage, receive the diploma, move our tassels. The graduation on Sunday is a group event… It’s a group graduation, there’s no individual recognition at that. So I will get the opportunity to receive the diploma, walk across the stage, and be there with my classmates."
So, what exactly is Ms. Toates giving up to protest the higher injustice of having the president of the United States address her school? How is this not simply an empty gesture? How is this news story not a waste of my time?
On Friday, a Notre Dame senior named Emily Toates gave an interview to CNN's Kiran Chetry on why she is "boycotting her own graduation." Now, on the surface this may seem like a thoughtful person giving up something that is very important to her -- participation in the culmination of her college career -- to protest a more serious issue (although an insignificant one). She obviously feels strongly enough about this situation to not join her family and classmates, get a chance to cross the symbolic stage, be handed her diploma, move her tassel, or get memorable pictures taken. But wait: she still gets to do all those things.
When I graduated from Geneseo State University, we had one ceremony where everyone walked the stage, and our commencement address was given by Mayor Robert Duffy of Rochester (who was a bit unfairly upstaged when Senator Charles Schumer showed up and gave his own address). However, this is not the case at Notre Dame. Ms. Toates said Friday morning:
"I am fortunate though, Notre Dame does a kind of two-part graduation. I’m graduating with my department on Saturday, which is where we actually walk across the stage, receive the diploma, move our tassels. The graduation on Sunday is a group event… It’s a group graduation, there’s no individual recognition at that. So I will get the opportunity to receive the diploma, walk across the stage, and be there with my classmates."
So, what exactly is Ms. Toates giving up to protest the higher injustice of having the president of the United States address her school? How is this not simply an empty gesture? How is this news story not a waste of my time?
Thursday, May 14, 2009
One More
Add her to the growing number of New York public officials who can't seem to...well, abide by the law. Antonia Novello, New York State's former health commissioner, was charged on Tuesday for "allegedly misusing her office and stealing services from the state." Classy. On its own, it's a story. But it seems to be part of a larger trend that is evolving in the Empire State:
Antonia Novello
Alan Hevesi
Joseph Bruno
Charles Rangel
Vito Fossella
Eliot Spitzer
Why is it that some New York politicians are finding it more and more difficult to stay clean while serving the people?
Antonia Novello
Alan Hevesi
Joseph Bruno
Charles Rangel
Vito Fossella
Eliot Spitzer
Why is it that some New York politicians are finding it more and more difficult to stay clean while serving the people?
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
One Step Closer
The Associated Press is reporting today that a bill aimed at legalizing gay marriage here in the Empire State is expected to pass the New York State Assembly very soon, and that the bill also has a fighting chance in the Senate. Whether or not you agree with these impending actions, this is progress, and you cannot stand in front of it. I wrote in my February 23rd post:
"I believe in 50 years, our society will look back on the fight against gay marriage the same way we now look back at the civil rights movement of the 1950s, or interracial marriage, or slavery, our country's original sin. "They were fighting over this?" they'll ask. On a long enough period of time, social progressives will overcome social conservatives every time. And if our textbooks are any indication, history will not judge well those who try keep others from enjoying the same freedoms."
Thanks to the landmark Supreme Court decision of Brown v. Board of Education (1954), it has been standard legal precedent in this country for 55 years that "separate but equal" is inherently unequal, and that thinking must apply as much to gay marriage as it does to separate washrooms for those of a different skin color. There are many -- such as in California -- who are pushing for an explicit state or federal ban on gay marriage. Such a move -- though it has the weight of its own American precedent of trying to keep a minority down -- is nothing more than an obstacle in our collective search for a more perfect union. We as a country cannot reach any kind of perfected union if the will of the majority can be used to subjugate the rights of the minority. Our country has experienced such situations before, and we would be wise to not repeat the same mistakes.
"I believe in 50 years, our society will look back on the fight against gay marriage the same way we now look back at the civil rights movement of the 1950s, or interracial marriage, or slavery, our country's original sin. "They were fighting over this?" they'll ask. On a long enough period of time, social progressives will overcome social conservatives every time. And if our textbooks are any indication, history will not judge well those who try keep others from enjoying the same freedoms."
Thanks to the landmark Supreme Court decision of Brown v. Board of Education (1954), it has been standard legal precedent in this country for 55 years that "separate but equal" is inherently unequal, and that thinking must apply as much to gay marriage as it does to separate washrooms for those of a different skin color. There are many -- such as in California -- who are pushing for an explicit state or federal ban on gay marriage. Such a move -- though it has the weight of its own American precedent of trying to keep a minority down -- is nothing more than an obstacle in our collective search for a more perfect union. We as a country cannot reach any kind of perfected union if the will of the majority can be used to subjugate the rights of the minority. Our country has experienced such situations before, and we would be wise to not repeat the same mistakes.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Pay To Play
In this country, we respect a person's intellectual property (IP), and the government offers copyright and patent statutes in order to protect IP -- be it inventions, works of literature, or songs. The purpose of these protections is to ensure that others cannot benefit from IP without the creators themselves also being compensated. The other day, I was driving in my car and heard an advertisement on Star 93.3 FM that very much annoyed me. The ad was sponsored by the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), promoting the website NoPerformanceTax.org, and I would like to take this opportunity to inform everyone of the issue at hand.
When a song or musical work is created, there are two copyrights that can be obtained: one for performing arts work, and one for sound recording. The performing arts copyright registers the underlying musical work or song itself. The sound recording copyright registers literally a unique sound recording of the performing arts work, or the finished product you hear on a radio or CD, as there can be multiple recordings of the same song by different artists. In Congress right now, there are two bills (one in the House, one in the Senate) that would require radio stations and other users to compensate copyright holders of sound recordings for the use of their property for profit. Currently, the law states that only the composers and songwriters of musical works are required to be compensated when their work is performed on radio, but not the artist or entity that holds the copyright for the sound recording itself. For example, if you hear the song "One of Us" by Joan Osbourne on the radio, songwriter Eric Bazilian gets compensated, but Joan Osbourne and the other musicians who performed on the recording do not. It is a flaw that the current Congress is trying to fix.
Now, NAB obviously has a problem with this because it will cost them a bit more money, and the associated website tries to explain and spin the issue simply as money-hungry record companies wanting fill their pockets with more of your coin. This, however, is a blatant misrepresentation of the truth, and I would like to take this opportunity to keep you informed on the issue.
The website labels this legislation as a "performance tax," and states: "A performance tax is a fee that record labels want the government to impose on local radio stations simply for airing music free of charge for listeners." Yes, it is a fee -- in this country a person should be rightfully compensated when another party uses their IP for profit, which is what radio does. Make no mistake: the radio station you listen to is not about the music, the weather, the traffic, or the news, but rather about the commercials. Every single bit of programming you hear on a radio station is simply a tactic used to keep you tuned in from commercial block to commercial block. Radio stations are using artist's work for profit without compensating them, simple as that. And my instinct tells me that the use of the phrase "local radio" is meant to make you think of small mom-and-pop stations, and "record labels" is to make you think of enormous corporations. In truth, however, the vast majority of radio stations are owned my massive corporate conglomerates -- mostly Cumulus and Clear Channel.
The website states: "...money would flow out of your community and into the pockets of the record labels – the great majority of which are foreign-owned. The record labels would like for you to think this is all about compensating the artists, but in truth the record labels would get at least 50% of the proceeds from a tax on local radio." Aside form the fact that I don't know where they are getting the "50%" number, it is important to note that all deals are different, so no one artist or record label would get a set percentage of anything. And even if record companies were getting this 50%, the artists and musicians still need to be compensated for the continued use of their work. Furthermore, the website is trying to make you think that the money is mostly going overseas to those (scary) foreign countries. But most countries already have in place legislation similar to that currently in Congress. However, due to the fact that the US does not have a reciprocal law in place, foreign countries have refused to pay US artists and copyright holders for foreign performances of their sound recordings. The implementation of this law would actually cause money to start flowing into the US, and since American music is the most popular music in the world (both here and abroad), my guess is more money will be coming in than going out.
The website states: "Radio compensates composers and songwriters to the tune of about $550 million annually. It’s widely understood that songwriters do not have the same name recognition to financially exploit themselves to make money. Performers can make money from touring and personal appearances, merchandise and other licensing and branding opportunities like perfume and clothing lines." The amount of $550 million may be true, but it is important to note that in order to legally license all musical content -- from full songs to commercial jingles -- a radio station pays about 3% of its adjusted gross income each year. That's probably less than they pay their receptionist. And I find major fault with the ignorant argument that since performer have the ability to make money in other areas, they should not be paid for the use of their work. That's like saying a medical doctor who takes in a hefty income of capital gains should not be fairly compensated for his healthcare work because he obviously can make money in other ways. Also, aside from the unethical implications, let us remember that not every artist is a J.Lo or a P.Diddy. Most musicians are in the game to make music, not to whore themselves out for money. Take, for example, Bonnie Tyler. Twice yesterday I heard a fantastic song on the radio called "Total Eclipse of the Heart," written by Jim Steinman and performed by Bonnie Tyler. I'm sure you have heard this song, too, and every time you do Jim Steinman makes money. But Bonnie Tyler does not. When was the last time you bought a Bonnie Tyler CD, or a t-shirt, or saw her in concert?I think it's safe to say that Bonnie Tyler is not able to "financially exploit" herself in the way that NAB would like you to believe. Furthermore, the money collected under this new legislation would also go to compensate the other musicians who perform on the recordings, not just the name artists. In the case of "Total Eclipse of the Heart," can Steve Buslowe (bass) "financially exploit" himself? Can Larry Fast (synthesizers)? How many perfumes have you bought with Jimmy Maelen's (percussion) name on it? My guess is none.
With the complete structural change of the music industry in the past 10 years, we need to make it a priority in this country to keep the occupation of "musician" as a viable vocation, and not simply an avocation. The alternative would result in not only a downfall in quality in our nation's musical output, but also in our nation's quality of life. You don't realize how much of a role music plays in your everyday lives until one day it isn't there anymore, and we need to fight against that possibility. The National Association of Broadcasters doesn't care about the music. They care about the commercials. Please call your senators and representative and tell them they need to support HR. 848 and S. 379.
When a song or musical work is created, there are two copyrights that can be obtained: one for performing arts work, and one for sound recording. The performing arts copyright registers the underlying musical work or song itself. The sound recording copyright registers literally a unique sound recording of the performing arts work, or the finished product you hear on a radio or CD, as there can be multiple recordings of the same song by different artists. In Congress right now, there are two bills (one in the House, one in the Senate) that would require radio stations and other users to compensate copyright holders of sound recordings for the use of their property for profit. Currently, the law states that only the composers and songwriters of musical works are required to be compensated when their work is performed on radio, but not the artist or entity that holds the copyright for the sound recording itself. For example, if you hear the song "One of Us" by Joan Osbourne on the radio, songwriter Eric Bazilian gets compensated, but Joan Osbourne and the other musicians who performed on the recording do not. It is a flaw that the current Congress is trying to fix.
Now, NAB obviously has a problem with this because it will cost them a bit more money, and the associated website tries to explain and spin the issue simply as money-hungry record companies wanting fill their pockets with more of your coin. This, however, is a blatant misrepresentation of the truth, and I would like to take this opportunity to keep you informed on the issue.
The website labels this legislation as a "performance tax," and states: "A performance tax is a fee that record labels want the government to impose on local radio stations simply for airing music free of charge for listeners." Yes, it is a fee -- in this country a person should be rightfully compensated when another party uses their IP for profit, which is what radio does. Make no mistake: the radio station you listen to is not about the music, the weather, the traffic, or the news, but rather about the commercials. Every single bit of programming you hear on a radio station is simply a tactic used to keep you tuned in from commercial block to commercial block. Radio stations are using artist's work for profit without compensating them, simple as that. And my instinct tells me that the use of the phrase "local radio" is meant to make you think of small mom-and-pop stations, and "record labels" is to make you think of enormous corporations. In truth, however, the vast majority of radio stations are owned my massive corporate conglomerates -- mostly Cumulus and Clear Channel.
The website states: "...money would flow out of your community and into the pockets of the record labels – the great majority of which are foreign-owned. The record labels would like for you to think this is all about compensating the artists, but in truth the record labels would get at least 50% of the proceeds from a tax on local radio." Aside form the fact that I don't know where they are getting the "50%" number, it is important to note that all deals are different, so no one artist or record label would get a set percentage of anything. And even if record companies were getting this 50%, the artists and musicians still need to be compensated for the continued use of their work. Furthermore, the website is trying to make you think that the money is mostly going overseas to those (scary) foreign countries. But most countries already have in place legislation similar to that currently in Congress. However, due to the fact that the US does not have a reciprocal law in place, foreign countries have refused to pay US artists and copyright holders for foreign performances of their sound recordings. The implementation of this law would actually cause money to start flowing into the US, and since American music is the most popular music in the world (both here and abroad), my guess is more money will be coming in than going out.
The website states: "Radio compensates composers and songwriters to the tune of about $550 million annually. It’s widely understood that songwriters do not have the same name recognition to financially exploit themselves to make money. Performers can make money from touring and personal appearances, merchandise and other licensing and branding opportunities like perfume and clothing lines." The amount of $550 million may be true, but it is important to note that in order to legally license all musical content -- from full songs to commercial jingles -- a radio station pays about 3% of its adjusted gross income each year. That's probably less than they pay their receptionist. And I find major fault with the ignorant argument that since performer have the ability to make money in other areas, they should not be paid for the use of their work. That's like saying a medical doctor who takes in a hefty income of capital gains should not be fairly compensated for his healthcare work because he obviously can make money in other ways. Also, aside from the unethical implications, let us remember that not every artist is a J.Lo or a P.Diddy. Most musicians are in the game to make music, not to whore themselves out for money. Take, for example, Bonnie Tyler. Twice yesterday I heard a fantastic song on the radio called "Total Eclipse of the Heart," written by Jim Steinman and performed by Bonnie Tyler. I'm sure you have heard this song, too, and every time you do Jim Steinman makes money. But Bonnie Tyler does not. When was the last time you bought a Bonnie Tyler CD, or a t-shirt, or saw her in concert?I think it's safe to say that Bonnie Tyler is not able to "financially exploit" herself in the way that NAB would like you to believe. Furthermore, the money collected under this new legislation would also go to compensate the other musicians who perform on the recordings, not just the name artists. In the case of "Total Eclipse of the Heart," can Steve Buslowe (bass) "financially exploit" himself? Can Larry Fast (synthesizers)? How many perfumes have you bought with Jimmy Maelen's (percussion) name on it? My guess is none.
With the complete structural change of the music industry in the past 10 years, we need to make it a priority in this country to keep the occupation of "musician" as a viable vocation, and not simply an avocation. The alternative would result in not only a downfall in quality in our nation's musical output, but also in our nation's quality of life. You don't realize how much of a role music plays in your everyday lives until one day it isn't there anymore, and we need to fight against that possibility. The National Association of Broadcasters doesn't care about the music. They care about the commercials. Please call your senators and representative and tell them they need to support HR. 848 and S. 379.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Disrespect
In the wake of Tuesday's defection of Sen. Arlen Specter to the Democratic Party, the National Republican Senatorial Committee is taking an interesting approach in an attempt to sour Pennsylvania Democrats on supporting the veteran senator: painting him with the past support of Rush Limbaugh, Rick Santorum, and former President George W. Bush. In a new ad, the NRSC is attempting to show that Sen. Specter -- as recently as 5 years ago -- had the full-throated support of some of the right-wing's biggest names.
I kind of feel bad for George W. Bush, though. Throughout the campaign he had to get beaten down everyday by President Obama, and Sen. McCain lost the election -- in part, at least -- due to his perceived association with Bush. But now the former president's own party is using an association with him as a bad thing. The man led the Republican Party for 8 years -- and nearly had a rubber congressional stamp for the first 6 of those years -- but 100 days after leaving the highest office in the land he is a mockery even to them.
Talk about disrespect.
I kind of feel bad for George W. Bush, though. Throughout the campaign he had to get beaten down everyday by President Obama, and Sen. McCain lost the election -- in part, at least -- due to his perceived association with Bush. But now the former president's own party is using an association with him as a bad thing. The man led the Republican Party for 8 years -- and nearly had a rubber congressional stamp for the first 6 of those years -- but 100 days after leaving the highest office in the land he is a mockery even to them.
Talk about disrespect.
Monday, April 27, 2009
12 Blue Letters
In the past, when you crossed the Mid-Hudson Bridge and entered Poughkeepsie, you were greeted with a classy marble monument welcoming you to the city. Not anymore. Now, we have 12 individual oversized blue letters -- "P O U G H K E E P S I E" -- each standing a few feet above the ground. This sign area no longer conveys "Welcome to our city," but rather "Welcome to our Ford dealership." And this is the 2nd time in recent memory that this sign has been changed. Are there not better things to do with our time and money?
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Anti-Tax Tea Party
So, I was not able to make it out to the Anti-Tax Tea Party at Dutchess Stadium last night, due to circumstances beyond my control (i.e. a broken water main near my house). But I did check out the Poughkeepsie Journal article and the accompanying video, and I was impressed.
I was first impressed at the number of people who turned out. In yesterday's post I mocked the fact that the protest was moved to Dutchess Stadium because I didn't think anywhere near that large an amount would show up. But I stand corrected, because Dutchess Stadium was almost full.
I was also impressed when I watched the 2 minute video clip. Specifically, impressed of the gentleman giving the Nazi salute; impressed of the signs that portrayed President Obama with a Hitler mustache; impressed by the 8-year-old boy who was exploited by his parent by allowing him to speak on camera about that which he is probably not properly educated. Not really what I would call a meeting of the high-minded of society. Being impressed is not always a compliment.
And in truth, the whole thing is a sham as these people feign disdain for taxes. It's not the taxes they dislike, but the man in charge. Are you telling me that for 8 years of the Bush Administration this group of people were fine with running up the largest debt and deficit in U.S. history, but 3 months of the Obama Administration is just too much? Obama's the one destroying the economy? Obama is the one "destroying" the country? Give me a break.
Thank you, water main.
Update: At an Anti-Tax Tea Party in Texas yesterday, Governor Rock Perry said: "There's a lot of different scenarios. We've got a great union. There's absolutely no reason to dissolve it. But if Washington continues to thumb their nose at the American people, you know, who knows what might come out of that. But Texas is a very unique place, and we're a pretty independent lot to boot."
Nice. So, add him to the list of prominent Texas Republicans (that includes Chuck Norris) for whom patriotism is just a word.
I was first impressed at the number of people who turned out. In yesterday's post I mocked the fact that the protest was moved to Dutchess Stadium because I didn't think anywhere near that large an amount would show up. But I stand corrected, because Dutchess Stadium was almost full.
I was also impressed when I watched the 2 minute video clip. Specifically, impressed of the gentleman giving the Nazi salute; impressed of the signs that portrayed President Obama with a Hitler mustache; impressed by the 8-year-old boy who was exploited by his parent by allowing him to speak on camera about that which he is probably not properly educated. Not really what I would call a meeting of the high-minded of society. Being impressed is not always a compliment.
And in truth, the whole thing is a sham as these people feign disdain for taxes. It's not the taxes they dislike, but the man in charge. Are you telling me that for 8 years of the Bush Administration this group of people were fine with running up the largest debt and deficit in U.S. history, but 3 months of the Obama Administration is just too much? Obama's the one destroying the economy? Obama is the one "destroying" the country? Give me a break.
Thank you, water main.
Update: At an Anti-Tax Tea Party in Texas yesterday, Governor Rock Perry said: "There's a lot of different scenarios. We've got a great union. There's absolutely no reason to dissolve it. But if Washington continues to thumb their nose at the American people, you know, who knows what might come out of that. But Texas is a very unique place, and we're a pretty independent lot to boot."
Nice. So, add him to the list of prominent Texas Republicans (that includes Chuck Norris) for whom patriotism is just a word.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Tax Day
First of all, I hope that you have filed your 2008 taxes. If not, I hope you got an extension. If not, good luck.
Second, if you still had any doubt in your mind that Fox News is nothing more than a conservative propaganda machine, tune in today to see the all-day coverage of the "Anti-Tax Tea Party," which are supposedly a series of anti-tax protests going on throughout the country. If you click the link above, you will see that not only is Fox News trying to elevate this into the most important event of the year, but they are actively trying to get people to attend in order to sway opinions. Not exactly "We Report, You Decide."
I've found that there is a protest scheduled for 7pm tonight at Dutchess Stadium in Fishkill, and I am going to try to make it out. The protest was originally slated for Doug Phillips Park in Fishkill, but was moved to the stadium "due to the overwhelming response from people wanting to attend." Good thing, too, because if Fox News is right I won't be able to find a seat!
Second, if you still had any doubt in your mind that Fox News is nothing more than a conservative propaganda machine, tune in today to see the all-day coverage of the "Anti-Tax Tea Party," which are supposedly a series of anti-tax protests going on throughout the country. If you click the link above, you will see that not only is Fox News trying to elevate this into the most important event of the year, but they are actively trying to get people to attend in order to sway opinions. Not exactly "We Report, You Decide."
I've found that there is a protest scheduled for 7pm tonight at Dutchess Stadium in Fishkill, and I am going to try to make it out. The protest was originally slated for Doug Phillips Park in Fishkill, but was moved to the stadium "due to the overwhelming response from people wanting to attend." Good thing, too, because if Fox News is right I won't be able to find a seat!
Monday, April 13, 2009
The Wrong Way To Save
I realize that we're all trying to save money in this difficult economy, but this is the wrong way to get your kicks on the cheap.
It's All Fun And Games
When many of us were younger, a saying that we would often hear from our parents or other adults was: "It's all fun and games until someone puts an eye out." Truer advice has probably never been spoken, as most if not all of us would agree that when someone loses an eye it puts a pretty serious drag on a good time.
However, given the events of the past week, I think that it might be time to update the timeless saying. Or at least give it a new twist. How about: "It's all fun and games being a pirate until you have to face down the U.S. military." Catchy. Maybe: "It's all fun and games being a pirate until President Obama orders your head blown off." I like it.
Of course, for years children have been playing the incredibly politically incorrect "Cowboys and Indians" (with little knowledge of the fact that the "Indians" were not necessarily the "bad guys"). Now, we have a perfect chance to change things around for the better. How about: "Navy SEALS and Pirates"? Well, it sounds good, until every child demands that their parents install a pool.
It's always nice to be reminded of the superb capabilities of our armed forces. Well done.
However, given the events of the past week, I think that it might be time to update the timeless saying. Or at least give it a new twist. How about: "It's all fun and games being a pirate until you have to face down the U.S. military." Catchy. Maybe: "It's all fun and games being a pirate until President Obama orders your head blown off." I like it.
Of course, for years children have been playing the incredibly politically incorrect "Cowboys and Indians" (with little knowledge of the fact that the "Indians" were not necessarily the "bad guys"). Now, we have a perfect chance to change things around for the better. How about: "Navy SEALS and Pirates"? Well, it sounds good, until every child demands that their parents install a pool.
It's always nice to be reminded of the superb capabilities of our armed forces. Well done.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Too Close To Call
The results from yesterday's special election for New York's 20th congressional district are still too close to call, though Democrat Scott Murphy reportedly has a slight lead over Republican Jim Tedisco. So after hundreds of thousands of dollars were spent by both sides, we're still not going to know the outcome for two weeks, after the absentee ballots have been counted.
And in what seems to me like a clear instance of media-generated hype, yesterday and Monday CNN was referring to the special election as an early referendum on President Obama's administration. Give me a break. Though to be honest, I'm surprised that the race didn't receive more national attention, since the news media will favor process over issues seven days a week and twice on Sundays. I know I'm sick of the commercials.
And in other news, tonight is the series finale of ER, and it only comes about 7 years too late.
And in what seems to me like a clear instance of media-generated hype, yesterday and Monday CNN was referring to the special election as an early referendum on President Obama's administration. Give me a break. Though to be honest, I'm surprised that the race didn't receive more national attention, since the news media will favor process over issues seven days a week and twice on Sundays. I know I'm sick of the commercials.
And in other news, tonight is the series finale of ER, and it only comes about 7 years too late.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Thanks, NRCC
I would like to thank the National Republican Congressional Committee for going there. It's almost hard to believe I have never cast a ballot for any candidate that you champion.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
The War Next Door
If you didn't get a chance to see Anderson Cooper 360 last night, I suggest you tune in tonight for day two of his live report from the Mexican border. He's reporting on the intense drug wars being fought in Mexico, and how those wars are spilling over into the United States. It's sobering and enlightening to learn about the intense violence going on just to the south of Texas, and I suggest you take some time to learn about the problem.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Three Things
AIG: I have no problem understanding the outrage. The thought of a company surviving on the lifeline of the American taxpayer paying huge retention bonuses to the very people that got the company into the mess its in is disgraceful. This week, the head of AIG testified in front of a House committee and got lambasted. We're talking filleted. And I can understand it. But Congress, please get off your high horse. The man that you were lecturing -- Edward Liddy -- is not the man who ran AIG into the ground; he is the man put in place to try to get it up off the mat. Use your head, and stop being so self-righteous, acting like you've never dropped the ball on a major level. When was the last time you actually read a piece of legislation before you passed it? And this stunt to tax the bonuses at a 90% rate to get the money back? Please think before you act. Think of the precedent that you would be setting: the ability to tax a specific group of people more simply because you don't like their legitimate business practices is very distressing, and thoroughly un-American.
Special Olympics: Alright, so last night on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, President Obama made a quick joke likening his bowling skills to the Special Olympics. Politically correct? No. Funny? Yes, and here's the truth: everything is funny in the right light. Would President Bush receive more outcry saying this than President Obama will? Yes, and there's no denying that. But I say let's celebrate having a president smart enough to think up such a funny quip.
Suckling: This week, Senator Charles Grassley (R-Iowa) said to TV cameras and reporters, "From my standpoint, it's irresponsible for corporations to give bonuses at this time when they're sucking the tit of the taxpayer." Hilarious (and much funnier than when he said AIG executives should "commit suicide"). I like that kind of fire, but I really enjoyed the looks on the faces of the two senators standing behind him when he said that. They didn't know what to do. President Obama and Senator Grassley should headline a U.S. Government comedy festival.
Special Olympics: Alright, so last night on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, President Obama made a quick joke likening his bowling skills to the Special Olympics. Politically correct? No. Funny? Yes, and here's the truth: everything is funny in the right light. Would President Bush receive more outcry saying this than President Obama will? Yes, and there's no denying that. But I say let's celebrate having a president smart enough to think up such a funny quip.
Suckling: This week, Senator Charles Grassley (R-Iowa) said to TV cameras and reporters, "From my standpoint, it's irresponsible for corporations to give bonuses at this time when they're sucking the tit of the taxpayer." Hilarious (and much funnier than when he said AIG executives should "commit suicide"). I like that kind of fire, but I really enjoyed the looks on the faces of the two senators standing behind him when he said that. They didn't know what to do. President Obama and Senator Grassley should headline a U.S. Government comedy festival.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Chuck Norris: Bad Actor, No Patriot
"Slaughter in San Francisco." "The Octagon." "Invasion U.S.A." "The Delta Force." "Sidekicks." And lest we forget, "Walker, Texas Ranger," all 196 episodes, plus specials. These are just some of the works that encompass Chuck Norris' "acting" career. Yeah, Mr. Norris' acting ability isn't exactly worthy of awards, and now neither is his patriotism.
On Monday, Chuck Norris published a short article on WorldNetDaily entitled, "I may run for president of Texas." In it, he writes the following: "[Running for president of Texas] may be a reality sooner than we think. If not me, someone someday may again be running for president of the Lone Star state, if the state of the union continues to turn into the enemy of the state. From the East Coast to the 'Left Coast,' America seems to be moving further and further from its founders' vision and government." Mr. Norris then goes on to invoke the warnings and advice of political theorists and several of America's founding fathers. Touching.
First of all, while the founders' advice on the governance of our country is important to keep in mind, it is also important to understand that when this advice was given the world was nowhere near as interconnected as it is today. Frankly speaking, the risks to our country when it was founded did not include mass terror attacks, cyber attacks, global economic crises, or serious threats from countries across the world. Advice is only as good as its application, and the modern way forward has to come from modern day thinking.
Second, it is crucial to understand that the constitution is a living document, and one need only look at the addition of it's 27 amendments to grasp this concept. And with all due respect to the founding fathers, they are gone, and the thinking of their time is in many ways vastly inferior to today -- slaves are no longer 3/5 of a person, and not just white male property owners have the right to vote. The constitution is a living document and can change with the times. Don't like it? Work to change it. That's the beauty of this country, and the ability that you and I have.
And finally, I think that it is shocking that after living through the previous 2922 days of an administration that bent, obfuscated, and blatantly disregarded the constitution (rendition, suspension of habeas corpus, and a vice-president that claimed he was neither in the executive nor legislative branches of government -- just to name a few), Mr. Norris only claims outrage after the first 50 days of the current one. I'm honestly dumbfounded.
Norris writes, "Anyone who has been around Texas for any length of time knows exactly what we'd do if the going got rough in America." I guess when the going gets rough, Texans give up -- at least according to Mr. Norris.
On Monday, Chuck Norris published a short article on WorldNetDaily entitled, "I may run for president of Texas." In it, he writes the following: "[Running for president of Texas] may be a reality sooner than we think. If not me, someone someday may again be running for president of the Lone Star state, if the state of the union continues to turn into the enemy of the state. From the East Coast to the 'Left Coast,' America seems to be moving further and further from its founders' vision and government." Mr. Norris then goes on to invoke the warnings and advice of political theorists and several of America's founding fathers. Touching.
First of all, while the founders' advice on the governance of our country is important to keep in mind, it is also important to understand that when this advice was given the world was nowhere near as interconnected as it is today. Frankly speaking, the risks to our country when it was founded did not include mass terror attacks, cyber attacks, global economic crises, or serious threats from countries across the world. Advice is only as good as its application, and the modern way forward has to come from modern day thinking.
Second, it is crucial to understand that the constitution is a living document, and one need only look at the addition of it's 27 amendments to grasp this concept. And with all due respect to the founding fathers, they are gone, and the thinking of their time is in many ways vastly inferior to today -- slaves are no longer 3/5 of a person, and not just white male property owners have the right to vote. The constitution is a living document and can change with the times. Don't like it? Work to change it. That's the beauty of this country, and the ability that you and I have.
And finally, I think that it is shocking that after living through the previous 2922 days of an administration that bent, obfuscated, and blatantly disregarded the constitution (rendition, suspension of habeas corpus, and a vice-president that claimed he was neither in the executive nor legislative branches of government -- just to name a few), Mr. Norris only claims outrage after the first 50 days of the current one. I'm honestly dumbfounded.
Norris writes, "Anyone who has been around Texas for any length of time knows exactly what we'd do if the going got rough in America." I guess when the going gets rough, Texans give up -- at least according to Mr. Norris.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Detect This
In mid-January, Dr. Laval S. Wilson, superintendent of the Poughkeepsie City School District, released his 2009-10 Preliminary Budget Concept Paper, documenting the serious fiscal problems the district will be facing come the fall. According to Dr. Wilson, the district is anticipating an estimated $6.872 million budget shortfall, and he has earmarked $6.88 million in cuts to faculty, staff, programs, and services in order to combat the deficit -- things that will adversely effect the students and the district as a whole, but which may simply be unaffordable in this economic climate.
Recently, there have been some well-publicized acts of violence in the vicinity of Poughkeepsie High School, including shootings, that have been part of an escalating trend of violence within the city limits. Mayor John Tkazyik and the Poughkeepsie Police Department have been rightfully engaging with community members in an effort to reduce the violence, and while these acts did not occur on school property or in school buildings, the Board of Education is also working to take proactive steps to keep violence out of the school system.
One of most controversial proposals has been the installation of metal detectors at the three main student entrances of Poughkeepsie High School, at a cost of $38,000. This is an overreaction based on fear, and it is a bad idea. There are 28 entrances at Poughkeepie High School, not to mention the countless windows that can be opened at anytime. Need I say more? The sad truth is that if someone wants to get a weapon into the school, they will, and no amount of metal detection will prevent that. Furthermore, a potential shooter would not need to pass through these metal detectors to cause the most damage. I am also forced to ask -- if at the high school, why not at Poughkeepsie Middle and Smith Schools, which are also in the vicinity of the shootings? And in a time when the superintendent is being forced to cut almost $7 million in costs, $38,000 for a metal detection system is unwise, as that money could be used to finance field trips, teaching assistants, or technology equipment.
Airline crashes are one of the most publicized and sensationalized events that can occur. Whether it is a successful ditch in the Hudson, or an unsuccessful tragedy in suburban Buffalo, the news coverage is immense. However, air travel is still the safest means of transportation. Thousands more die every year in automobile accidents, but very few of us think twice about hoping into a car every day. The same is true with school shootings and school violence. The safest place for a child to be is in school, and installing metal detectors at 3 entrances will not make the students, faculty, or staff of Poughkeepsie High School any safer than they already are.
Over the past 11 years, I have spent a considerable amount of time at Poughkeepsie High School, both on a regular and semi-regular basis. Not once have I ever felt unsafe. Not once have I ever felt I was in danger. I believe that anyone who truly feels Poughkeepsie High School is in need of metal detectors has never spent any meaningful time there, and I encourage those people to do so -- especially the Board of Education, before they take their vote on this measure.
Recently, there have been some well-publicized acts of violence in the vicinity of Poughkeepsie High School, including shootings, that have been part of an escalating trend of violence within the city limits. Mayor John Tkazyik and the Poughkeepsie Police Department have been rightfully engaging with community members in an effort to reduce the violence, and while these acts did not occur on school property or in school buildings, the Board of Education is also working to take proactive steps to keep violence out of the school system.
One of most controversial proposals has been the installation of metal detectors at the three main student entrances of Poughkeepsie High School, at a cost of $38,000. This is an overreaction based on fear, and it is a bad idea. There are 28 entrances at Poughkeepie High School, not to mention the countless windows that can be opened at anytime. Need I say more? The sad truth is that if someone wants to get a weapon into the school, they will, and no amount of metal detection will prevent that. Furthermore, a potential shooter would not need to pass through these metal detectors to cause the most damage. I am also forced to ask -- if at the high school, why not at Poughkeepsie Middle and Smith Schools, which are also in the vicinity of the shootings? And in a time when the superintendent is being forced to cut almost $7 million in costs, $38,000 for a metal detection system is unwise, as that money could be used to finance field trips, teaching assistants, or technology equipment.
Airline crashes are one of the most publicized and sensationalized events that can occur. Whether it is a successful ditch in the Hudson, or an unsuccessful tragedy in suburban Buffalo, the news coverage is immense. However, air travel is still the safest means of transportation. Thousands more die every year in automobile accidents, but very few of us think twice about hoping into a car every day. The same is true with school shootings and school violence. The safest place for a child to be is in school, and installing metal detectors at 3 entrances will not make the students, faculty, or staff of Poughkeepsie High School any safer than they already are.
Over the past 11 years, I have spent a considerable amount of time at Poughkeepsie High School, both on a regular and semi-regular basis. Not once have I ever felt unsafe. Not once have I ever felt I was in danger. I believe that anyone who truly feels Poughkeepsie High School is in need of metal detectors has never spent any meaningful time there, and I encourage those people to do so -- especially the Board of Education, before they take their vote on this measure.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Tired of Congressional Leadership
As you may have noticed in a few of my recent posts, I am getting tired of the leadership in Congress. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, I feel, are ordinary people in positions that require extraordinary talent...or at least above normal. And they are at it again.
A few days ago, President Obama announced his plans to remove all combat troops from Iraq by August 31, 2010. However, he plans to 50,000 troops on the ground for various training and security duties (which has caused a stir over what exactly the president means by "combat troops"). Reid and Pelosi, however, do not agree with the president's plan of action, and are letting him know. They feel that 50,000 residual troops is simply too high a number, and would like to see only 1/4 to 1/3 of that.
Here's what I think: In November 2006, the Democrats won control of Congress for the first time in 12 years, largely on the issue of Iraq. They pledged to end the war that most Americans feel was a mistake, and what did they do once they were in power? Absolutely nothing. They could have attempted to cut off funding for the war, but they chose not to. And now that President Obama is doing what they could not, they have the gall to publicly question the policy? Wouldn't you think they would be less vocal about criticizing a president from their own party who is trying to end an irresponsible war responsibly? I guess not.
Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi should simply stop talking, because I'm getting tired of rolling my eyes in annoyance.
A few days ago, President Obama announced his plans to remove all combat troops from Iraq by August 31, 2010. However, he plans to 50,000 troops on the ground for various training and security duties (which has caused a stir over what exactly the president means by "combat troops"). Reid and Pelosi, however, do not agree with the president's plan of action, and are letting him know. They feel that 50,000 residual troops is simply too high a number, and would like to see only 1/4 to 1/3 of that.
Here's what I think: In November 2006, the Democrats won control of Congress for the first time in 12 years, largely on the issue of Iraq. They pledged to end the war that most Americans feel was a mistake, and what did they do once they were in power? Absolutely nothing. They could have attempted to cut off funding for the war, but they chose not to. And now that President Obama is doing what they could not, they have the gall to publicly question the policy? Wouldn't you think they would be less vocal about criticizing a president from their own party who is trying to end an irresponsible war responsibly? I guess not.
Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi should simply stop talking, because I'm getting tired of rolling my eyes in annoyance.
Monday, February 23, 2009
They Were Fighting Over This?
Last night, at the 81st Academy Awards, Sean Penn won his second Oscar for his portrayal of politician and gay rights advocate Harvey Milk, and he had this to say in his acceptance speech:
"For those who saw the signs of hatred as our cars drove in tonight, I think that it is a good time for those who voted for the ban against gay marriage to sit and reflect, and anticipate their great shame and the shame in their grandchildren's eyes as they continue that way of support. We've got to have equal rights for everyone."
I believe in 50 years, our society will look back on the fight against gay marriage the same way we now look back at the civil rights movement of the 1950s, or interracial marriage, or slavery, our country's original sin. "They were fighting over this?" they'll ask. On a long enough period of time, social progressives will overcome social conservatives every time. And if our textbooks are any indication, history will not judge well those who try keep others from enjoying the same freedoms.
"For those who saw the signs of hatred as our cars drove in tonight, I think that it is a good time for those who voted for the ban against gay marriage to sit and reflect, and anticipate their great shame and the shame in their grandchildren's eyes as they continue that way of support. We've got to have equal rights for everyone."
I believe in 50 years, our society will look back on the fight against gay marriage the same way we now look back at the civil rights movement of the 1950s, or interracial marriage, or slavery, our country's original sin. "They were fighting over this?" they'll ask. On a long enough period of time, social progressives will overcome social conservatives every time. And if our textbooks are any indication, history will not judge well those who try keep others from enjoying the same freedoms.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Don't Say I Didn't Warn You
In my January 6 & 13 posts, I discussed my feelings on how Roland Burris should not be/have been seated in the senate seat vacated by Barack Obama, and I pointed out that it was Sen. Harry Reid's lack of backbone and leadership that allowed the debacle to happen. And now what? Mr. Burris may be facing perjury charges after conveniently forgetting to mention during impeachment testimony that he had contact with Rod Blagojevich's brother prior to his appointment, and that funds were solicited from him. Find out more here.
Way to go, Mr. Reid. Don't you love it when your ineptitude comes back again and again?
Way to go, Mr. Reid. Don't you love it when your ineptitude comes back again and again?
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Yeah, I Can Afford That
Today, President Obama will travel to Denver to sign the new stimulus plan into law, and we all need to hope that it works. After that, he will be traveling to Phoenix, AZ, to announce his new plan to save the county's abysmal housing market (because Arizona is the hardest hit state).
I saw a segment on CNN this morning that made me stop and stare at the TV, mouth hanging open. It was a story about an Arizona school bus-driving mother of two (who apparently has a husband that was neither seen nor barely mentioned in this piece) who got a letter from her bank warning of impending foreclosure on her home. Like many Americans, her family is in over their heads when it comes to their mortgage, having been sweet-talked into a house that they could not afford. The price of this house? $800,000. You've got to be kidding me.
I don't know how much a school bus driver makes in Arizona (or what her husband brings in), but the fact that she thought she could afford an $800,000 home simply leaves me utterly befuddled. And she's not the only one. A while back I saw a segment on another channel about a woman who makes somewhere between $30,000-40,000 a year and decided to buy a $700,000 home.
Its true that many homebuyers got suckered into deals that they thought were favorable only to turn around and find that the situation had soured. And there are homebuyers in the country who truly need the government to come up with a plan to stop the spiral of foreclosures. But there are also those who simply do not know how to handle their personal finances, and the fact that the government might be directing money their way makes me uneasy.
I saw a segment on CNN this morning that made me stop and stare at the TV, mouth hanging open. It was a story about an Arizona school bus-driving mother of two (who apparently has a husband that was neither seen nor barely mentioned in this piece) who got a letter from her bank warning of impending foreclosure on her home. Like many Americans, her family is in over their heads when it comes to their mortgage, having been sweet-talked into a house that they could not afford. The price of this house? $800,000. You've got to be kidding me.
I don't know how much a school bus driver makes in Arizona (or what her husband brings in), but the fact that she thought she could afford an $800,000 home simply leaves me utterly befuddled. And she's not the only one. A while back I saw a segment on another channel about a woman who makes somewhere between $30,000-40,000 a year and decided to buy a $700,000 home.
Its true that many homebuyers got suckered into deals that they thought were favorable only to turn around and find that the situation had soured. And there are homebuyers in the country who truly need the government to come up with a plan to stop the spiral of foreclosures. But there are also those who simply do not know how to handle their personal finances, and the fact that the government might be directing money their way makes me uneasy.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
24, the Stimulus, And Backwards Corporate Logic
24
I am somewhat disappointed in what was once my favorite show on TV, 24. Seasons 1-5 were great (I own all 5), but last year's seasons was mediocre, and this year's season has some elements that I need to take issue with. Specifically, the plot line involving the President's husband requires, for me, an extraordinary suspension of disbelief, and I'll explain why (warning, spoilers do follow):
First, a few episodes ago, the First Gentleman had a private meeting with a person of interest on the banks of the tidal basin in Washington, DC, in plain sight of everyone, with the Jefferson Memorial in the background. This would never happen in real life, as there is massive security and press anywhere the First Lady goes. But that isn't my main complaint, it's this...
In the episode on February 2, the First Gentleman was out of contact for over any hour. He wasn't answering his phone, and the one agent that he was with was not answering his radio. The response to not being able to find the First Gentleman? The Secret Service put out an APB. What? That's absurd. If Michelle Obama's whereabouts were unknown for an hour, I wouldn't be able to leave my house. The country would be shut down, especially DC, where this season takes place. How great a twist would it have been for Jack Bauer (who is working off-books) to have to chase a terrorist through a Washington, DC, that is being quickly and systematically shut down by the Secret Service? It would be very great. But I don't work on the writing staff of 24, so instead they rehash old story-lines with new characters. Which brings me to...
The Stimulus
Everything would be so much easier if Nancy Pelosi were not Speaker of the House. I think that she is noticeably hurting President Obama's attempts at bipartisanship, as she has a shove-it-in-your-face attitude. Yes, you won, but you don't have to be so mean spirited about it. Is this bill perfect? No. Could it be made perfect? I don't know -- perfection varies in everyone eyes. But I wish they would make the bill solely about stimulating the economy and not about simply funding ideas and programs that couldn't get support under George Bush.
I think one of the provisions in the stimulus should be money for 24 to hire new writers. Let's face it, while seasons 1-5 were extraordinary television, I think that the writing team may have reached it's full potential with the 5th season. Its time for some new blood, and more money to pay out will attract the best writers available. A better storyline would mean more viewers, leading to higher ad-spot costs, leading to higher pay for 24 and Fox employees, leading to higher spending by those employees, and it's quickly apparent how my plan will save the US economy. How about a storyline where Jack Bauer has to infiltrate and destroy...
Wells Fargo
Anyone who watches the news may have heard about this already, but I will thrown in my 2 cents:
In short, the CEO of Wells Fargo took out a full page ad in numerous high profile newspapers claiming that the money it received from the federal government was not used to pay for corporate junkets or getaways -- those, he claimed, were paid for out of profits. What? You can't claim to need money, take the money, spend it on a party, then claim that you didn't use the borrowed money to pay for it. Money doesn't work that way. Idiot. It seems to me that Wells Fargo is trying to scam the government, and Jack Bauer needs to make things right.
I am somewhat disappointed in what was once my favorite show on TV, 24. Seasons 1-5 were great (I own all 5), but last year's seasons was mediocre, and this year's season has some elements that I need to take issue with. Specifically, the plot line involving the President's husband requires, for me, an extraordinary suspension of disbelief, and I'll explain why (warning, spoilers do follow):
First, a few episodes ago, the First Gentleman had a private meeting with a person of interest on the banks of the tidal basin in Washington, DC, in plain sight of everyone, with the Jefferson Memorial in the background. This would never happen in real life, as there is massive security and press anywhere the First Lady goes. But that isn't my main complaint, it's this...
In the episode on February 2, the First Gentleman was out of contact for over any hour. He wasn't answering his phone, and the one agent that he was with was not answering his radio. The response to not being able to find the First Gentleman? The Secret Service put out an APB. What? That's absurd. If Michelle Obama's whereabouts were unknown for an hour, I wouldn't be able to leave my house. The country would be shut down, especially DC, where this season takes place. How great a twist would it have been for Jack Bauer (who is working off-books) to have to chase a terrorist through a Washington, DC, that is being quickly and systematically shut down by the Secret Service? It would be very great. But I don't work on the writing staff of 24, so instead they rehash old story-lines with new characters. Which brings me to...
The Stimulus
Everything would be so much easier if Nancy Pelosi were not Speaker of the House. I think that she is noticeably hurting President Obama's attempts at bipartisanship, as she has a shove-it-in-your-face attitude. Yes, you won, but you don't have to be so mean spirited about it. Is this bill perfect? No. Could it be made perfect? I don't know -- perfection varies in everyone eyes. But I wish they would make the bill solely about stimulating the economy and not about simply funding ideas and programs that couldn't get support under George Bush.
I think one of the provisions in the stimulus should be money for 24 to hire new writers. Let's face it, while seasons 1-5 were extraordinary television, I think that the writing team may have reached it's full potential with the 5th season. Its time for some new blood, and more money to pay out will attract the best writers available. A better storyline would mean more viewers, leading to higher ad-spot costs, leading to higher pay for 24 and Fox employees, leading to higher spending by those employees, and it's quickly apparent how my plan will save the US economy. How about a storyline where Jack Bauer has to infiltrate and destroy...
Wells Fargo
Anyone who watches the news may have heard about this already, but I will thrown in my 2 cents:
In short, the CEO of Wells Fargo took out a full page ad in numerous high profile newspapers claiming that the money it received from the federal government was not used to pay for corporate junkets or getaways -- those, he claimed, were paid for out of profits. What? You can't claim to need money, take the money, spend it on a party, then claim that you didn't use the borrowed money to pay for it. Money doesn't work that way. Idiot. It seems to me that Wells Fargo is trying to scam the government, and Jack Bauer needs to make things right.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Thanks to the PFD
I want to take a moment to say "Thank You" to the Poughkeepsie Fire Department.
Just before 10:30PM last night, I saw flashing lights outside my house. I went onto the porch only to see firetrucks arriving, and smoke rising up from the back of the house across the street. For the next 2 hours, members of the PFD (along with PPD and Alamo EMS) worked in the blistering cold to make sure the situation was under control.
Due to the quick response of the firefighters, no one was injured and the house was saved, as were the surrounding houses.
Thanks for keeping us safe.
Just before 10:30PM last night, I saw flashing lights outside my house. I went onto the porch only to see firetrucks arriving, and smoke rising up from the back of the house across the street. For the next 2 hours, members of the PFD (along with PPD and Alamo EMS) worked in the blistering cold to make sure the situation was under control.
Due to the quick response of the firefighters, no one was injured and the house was saved, as were the surrounding houses.
Thanks for keeping us safe.
Friday, January 30, 2009
A Big Number
819,000,000,000. That is the number. Put a dollar sign in front of that and you get the amount of the stimulus bill that passed the House of Representatives earlier this week. Simply staggering. It passed, 244 to 188, with not one Republican voting in favor, and 11 Democrats voting against.
I've been reading the posts of my fellow Poughkeepsie Journal bloggers. Tom Kraft argues that its absurd that 188 members of congress would vote against this bill, and Jack Sine wants to bash Democrats. I'm more inclined to agree with Tom. Yes, there are things in the bill that I wish were not, but this is how our system works. Lumping unrelated things (like billions for family planning services, which were removed) into a bill to increase your ability to paint your opponent in a negative light has become as American as apple pie. I'm not defending it, I'm just living with the reality.
But these are serious times. There were over 100,000 jobs lost this week, and there are proposals in this bill that will help those effect as well as the economy, such as extending and increasing unemployment benefits, and increasing food stamps for families in need. Money isn't just being "thrown" at the problem, as some may argue. I hope that the bill can be compromised more in conference between the House and Senate, further removing unneeded provisions, and that there can be broad-based support for its passage.
Economics is not an exact science, and anyone who argues otherwise is misinformed. Economists make it up as they go! All they can do is look at what has worked in the past (or not), and try to go forward, and you can always find two who disagree. I'm not crazy about this bill, but there may be no good option. There may only be what there is.
I've been reading the posts of my fellow Poughkeepsie Journal bloggers. Tom Kraft argues that its absurd that 188 members of congress would vote against this bill, and Jack Sine wants to bash Democrats. I'm more inclined to agree with Tom. Yes, there are things in the bill that I wish were not, but this is how our system works. Lumping unrelated things (like billions for family planning services, which were removed) into a bill to increase your ability to paint your opponent in a negative light has become as American as apple pie. I'm not defending it, I'm just living with the reality.
But these are serious times. There were over 100,000 jobs lost this week, and there are proposals in this bill that will help those effect as well as the economy, such as extending and increasing unemployment benefits, and increasing food stamps for families in need. Money isn't just being "thrown" at the problem, as some may argue. I hope that the bill can be compromised more in conference between the House and Senate, further removing unneeded provisions, and that there can be broad-based support for its passage.
Economics is not an exact science, and anyone who argues otherwise is misinformed. Economists make it up as they go! All they can do is look at what has worked in the past (or not), and try to go forward, and you can always find two who disagree. I'm not crazy about this bill, but there may be no good option. There may only be what there is.
Friday, January 23, 2009
44
Obviously, it goes without saying that Tuesday, January 20, 2009, was a historic day for the United States of America. Whether you voted for President Obama or not, it is hard to dismiss the significance of his inauguration as our 44th president. However, I want to caution everyone to not put more weight than is deserved on this event.
In a recent poll, a majority of African-Americans surveyed stated that they thought the inauguration of President Obama was the realization of Dr. King's dream. I disagree. I think that it is a huge step forward toward the realization of the dream, but King's ultimate dream was not the acquiring of power by minorities, but rather that skin color would no long matter. And unfortunately, just because we have an African-American president does not mean that all Americans no longer see each other in colors. But this is huge progress.
So, President Obama definitely has his plate full, with problems both real and symbolic. But I'm excited, and I've never been more hopeful for the future of our country. This is the first time in my life that I have been aware and conscious of the beginning of a new presidency. Couple that with the fact that I (along with many others my age) feel a certain connection with President Obama, and in a way I feel like I am taking this presidential journey with him. It may sound melodramatic or absurd, but I feel like I'm involved, even though I'm not part of the administration.
It has been said that campaigns are about promises and governing is about achievement. Let's get to work.
In a recent poll, a majority of African-Americans surveyed stated that they thought the inauguration of President Obama was the realization of Dr. King's dream. I disagree. I think that it is a huge step forward toward the realization of the dream, but King's ultimate dream was not the acquiring of power by minorities, but rather that skin color would no long matter. And unfortunately, just because we have an African-American president does not mean that all Americans no longer see each other in colors. But this is huge progress.
So, President Obama definitely has his plate full, with problems both real and symbolic. But I'm excited, and I've never been more hopeful for the future of our country. This is the first time in my life that I have been aware and conscious of the beginning of a new presidency. Couple that with the fact that I (along with many others my age) feel a certain connection with President Obama, and in a way I feel like I am taking this presidential journey with him. It may sound melodramatic or absurd, but I feel like I'm involved, even though I'm not part of the administration.
It has been said that campaigns are about promises and governing is about achievement. Let's get to work.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
St. Francis Hospital
In the January 13 edition of the Poughkeepsie Journal, there appeared a Valley Views feature on the recent announcement of a reduction in mental health services by St. Francis Hospital in Poughkeepsie. Bob Savage, president and CEO of St. Francis Hospital and Health Centers, defended the cuts, while Michael N. Kelsey, a member of the Mental Health Subcommittee of the Dutchess County Mental Hygiene Board, argued against the cuts.
I agree with Mr. Kelsey that the county needs more mental health services for the benefit of its citizens, especially with the rising local population. However, I have to ask: how are you going to pay for it? Look at the economic conditions around you! The state is serious trouble and is cutting back on assistance and services of all kinds. Gov. Paterson is about to turn the Hudson Valley Psychiatric Center into an all-inclusive resort/casino in order to help raise funds! And I don't have the ability to peruse the financial books at St. Francis Hospital, but Mr. Savage claims that the hospital simply cannot afford to stay afloat without reducing services, and he offers numbers to back it up. If you want to convince me of something, show me numbers.
Mr. Kelsey, one the other hand, doesn't offer numbers, but only attempts the moral high-ground. He offers no reasonable solution for the problem, but rather strives to shame the administration of St. Francis Hospital. This is decidedly unproductive, and doesn't sway me one bit.
The fact that hospitals -- public, private, for-profit or not -- have to worry about the bottom line does not sit well with me, but it unfortunately is the way the country works. As Mr. Savage wrote, "Saint Francis is not saying there is 'no more room at the inn,' Saint Francis is saying there may well be no inn unless necessary actions are taken." That is a tough statement to argue against, especially in this economic climate.
I agree with Mr. Kelsey that the county needs more mental health services for the benefit of its citizens, especially with the rising local population. However, I have to ask: how are you going to pay for it? Look at the economic conditions around you! The state is serious trouble and is cutting back on assistance and services of all kinds. Gov. Paterson is about to turn the Hudson Valley Psychiatric Center into an all-inclusive resort/casino in order to help raise funds! And I don't have the ability to peruse the financial books at St. Francis Hospital, but Mr. Savage claims that the hospital simply cannot afford to stay afloat without reducing services, and he offers numbers to back it up. If you want to convince me of something, show me numbers.
Mr. Kelsey, one the other hand, doesn't offer numbers, but only attempts the moral high-ground. He offers no reasonable solution for the problem, but rather strives to shame the administration of St. Francis Hospital. This is decidedly unproductive, and doesn't sway me one bit.
The fact that hospitals -- public, private, for-profit or not -- have to worry about the bottom line does not sit well with me, but it unfortunately is the way the country works. As Mr. Savage wrote, "Saint Francis is not saying there is 'no more room at the inn,' Saint Francis is saying there may well be no inn unless necessary actions are taken." That is a tough statement to argue against, especially in this economic climate.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
A Larger Issue
I am disgusted. Why? Because once again congressional Democrats have shown that they lack any semblance of a spine. A bunch of bumfuzzled buffoons. Or am I just talking about Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid?
Now, setting aside whether or not seating Roland Burris is the best political step, the whole situation highlights a larger issue: why aren't we out of Iraq? Why has the Democrat-controlled congress not passed more/any significant legislation on healthcare, education, or infrastructure? Why did the past 2 years see a congress with approval rating lower than President Bush? Because the leadership is inept.
Yesterday on CNN, Jack Cafferty asked viewers: why did Sens. Harry Reid and Dick Durbin cave on the issue of seating Roland Burris? One viewers response: "Habit." I couldn't agree more.
I'm just happy Harry Reid has never appeared on a New York ballot.
Yesterday on CNN, Jack Cafferty asked viewers: why did Sens. Harry Reid and Dick Durbin cave on the issue of seating Roland Burris? One viewers response: "Habit." I couldn't agree more.
I'm just happy Harry Reid has never appeared on a New York ballot.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Happy New Year
A new year, a new congress, and soon a new president. 2009 is shaping up to be a barnburner. Let's touch on some of the most recent developments:
Roland Burris: The Senate should not seat Roland Burris. He may be qualified for the job, but aside from Gov. Blagojevich's compromised stature the very fact that he accepted the nomination either means that he is politically inept, or extremely suspect. Or both. Politics is perception, and simply by accepting Blagojevich's nomination, he forever gave up the image that he is clean. Is he tainted? I don't know. Are you willing to find out?
Al Franken: It appears that Al Franken has beat out incumbent Norm Coleman to be the next senator from Minnesota -- as if we needed more evidence that this was a crazy election cycle.
Bill Richardson: The massive Obama vetting-machine seems to have faltered. Oops. Well, I guess they can't get it all right all of the time. However you want to categorize Richardson's nomination and now withdrawal, let's move on. There's too much to get done to fixate on issues like this.
Israel And Hamas: We in the United States are in the very enviable spot of being largely protected by position. To the north is Canada, to the south is Mexico, and with the exception of the Cuba/Soviet relationship of the 1960s we have never been in a position to expect repeated, close homeland conflict with an enemy. Israel is not so lucky. We're a country surrounded (by and large) by friends. Israel is surrounded by enemies.
Roland Burris: The Senate should not seat Roland Burris. He may be qualified for the job, but aside from Gov. Blagojevich's compromised stature the very fact that he accepted the nomination either means that he is politically inept, or extremely suspect. Or both. Politics is perception, and simply by accepting Blagojevich's nomination, he forever gave up the image that he is clean. Is he tainted? I don't know. Are you willing to find out?
Al Franken: It appears that Al Franken has beat out incumbent Norm Coleman to be the next senator from Minnesota -- as if we needed more evidence that this was a crazy election cycle.
Bill Richardson: The massive Obama vetting-machine seems to have faltered. Oops. Well, I guess they can't get it all right all of the time. However you want to categorize Richardson's nomination and now withdrawal, let's move on. There's too much to get done to fixate on issues like this.
Israel And Hamas: We in the United States are in the very enviable spot of being largely protected by position. To the north is Canada, to the south is Mexico, and with the exception of the Cuba/Soviet relationship of the 1960s we have never been in a position to expect repeated, close homeland conflict with an enemy. Israel is not so lucky. We're a country surrounded (by and large) by friends. Israel is surrounded by enemies.
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