Goerge Orwell's verison of Global Warming

Bundle Up, It’s Global Warming - NYTimes.com


In Animal Farm George Orwell illustrates the twisting of language and meaning to manipulate the animals to go along with the Pigs (the smartest and best of animals).
The Pigs are doing it again. Hot is cold, good is bad and taking the fruit of your labor is letting you have more of it. Like the irritated gal in the State Farm ad says, " You make my head numb!".
I hold the Pigs in contempt - how about you?

Fundamental shift in global power

Fresh humiliation for euro zone as China says it will bail out debt-ridden nations | Mail Online

I am studying Chinese and Spanish. That way I'll have all the options covered. I'll be able to speak fluently with my local officials in Spanish and my Federal and International officials in Chinese. Besides, it's good for the brain to learn multiple languages.

Perhaps the Smell of the Devil?

U.N. security council evacuated due to suspicious odor - CNN.com

The foul stench of a typical gangsta org. I don't even think Bush was scheduled for an appearance.

'Barney Miller' star Steve Landesberg dies - CNN.com

'Barney Miller' star Steve Landesberg dies - CNN.com

I really enjoyed the show as a kid and Steve was my favorite character. Rest in peace my friend...

When Pigs Fly....

Switzerland considers repealing incest laws - Telegraph

Next thing you know they'll have men marrying men! Oh wait...

Interesting isn't it - just how foolish man continues to be. Proves that science and intellect are not the most important factors in human advancement.

Modern man is in need of radical remedial assistance when it comes to common sense and moral clarity. We are in big trouble because we have become so sophisticated and nuanced that we no longer can think clearly and make healthy judgments about the most basic life issues.

God help us.

What happened to the Open Flow of Informaton?

WikiLeaks' Julian Assange asked judge to keep his bail address secret | Mail Online

Typical hypocrisy of the anarchist. The price of anarchy is dear, but the cause is worth the price, unless the anarchist has to pay it.

Assange should be dealt with fairly, but VERY aggressively. The price he will make all of us pay is far too dear.

Contemptuous Generations poised for Contempt

Berkeley may pass resolution honoring Army private who gave classified docs to Wikileaks | Washington Examiner

We've raised and educated 3 generations of Amercians to hold America and it's values in contempt, and now, as the infamous Reverend Wright has said, "those chickens have come home to roost!"

Anarchists, Socialists and Secularists all disguised as journalists, civil rights activists, religious leaders and enlightened politicians are bit by bit disassembling modern civilization in pursuit of utopian egalitarianism. I think a significant motivation for many of this ilk is no more lofty than childish public temper tantrums in rebellion against their parents and all they stand for. You know the type,"I am owed these things because I am!...and I'm not shutting up until I get it!"

We are smack in the middle of a cultural world war that has not yet degraded to a war of violence, although it may ultimately do so. I'm hoping we can find enough traditionalists who recognize reality and can muster the courage to face it and fight. Capitulation in pursuit of peace is not the answer. Peace without victory is slavery.

Jaw-dropping image of enormous 'supercell' cloud in Glasgow, Montana | Mail Online

Jaw-dropping image of enormous 'supercell' cloud in Glasgow, Montana | Mail Online

These images are some of the most incredible I have seen since Hubble. Particularly impressive because they are terrestrial. Click and see.

Va. judge dismisses challenge to Obama health care - Yahoo! News

Va. judge dismisses challenge to Obama health care - Yahoo! News

This decision means that the rationale used by the Federal Government in America to control whatever it wants can be used to regulate absolutely every single aspect of American citizens life.

One would have to be on a remote farm with no electricity, phone or Internet, be completely self supporting and do no business with anyone anywhere. Oh, and you'd never be able to travel anywhere at any time, or use any fuel for anything. Then, of course your choices NOT to participate in "interstate commerce" would effect interstate commerce and thus subject you to unlimited Federal control anyway. These guys don't get it and will stop at nothing to consolidate power in the Federal Government. Any limits they may have are purely voluntary (and only temporary).

It's amazing to me just how overt and transparent they now are. There is no longer any attempt to mask or mitigate the appearance of the overreaching power grab from Citizens and States. Except for the "Interstate commerce" and " promote the general welfare" clauses the Constitution is no longer even an issue. They repeatedly flaunt their disregard for it, and denigrate anyone who even brings the fact that it may be a limitation on Federal power. We will need to remain VERY resolute and not get caught up in the frustration of losing a few battles. WE MUST win this war.

Web Censorship Bill Sails Through Senate Committee | Epicenter | Wired.com

Web Censorship Bill Sails Through Senate Committee | Epicenter | Wired.com

The sponsors of this bill assure us that censorship is not it's intent. OK... May be.

But why should I believe it? These guys have completely burned through their credibility with the American people. We can safely assume lobbyists and staffers wrote the bill. We can safely assume the legislators have not read the bill. We can safely assume that it is packed with completely unrelated pork and power grabs, like the vending machine regulations included in the Obama health care bill.

Of course I may be wrong, but I wouldn't bet on it, and the legislators have given me no reason to be anything other than completely distrustful of them.

I'll read the entire bill myself and hopefully find I am wrong. Yeah right!

One Brave Hero

On Veterans Day, honoring Marine who lost limbs in Afghanistan, but not spirit

Today is a day when I walk around with men and women like this on my mind. I often think of our brave defenders and their sacrifices, but on Veterans day it's constant.

I think about my cushy life and the men and women that deal with the incredible challenges of military life and the horrors of battle. Those with wounds they'll carry around their entire lives are truly special.

To all my Veteran friends and family - thank you. My country, my family and I owe you our very lives. God bless you.

ObamaCare is Either Wonderful or It's Not. Which Is It?

McDonald's, 29 other firms get health care coverage waivers - USATODAY.com

ObamaCare has been passed, so we can now find out what's in it and apparently not all is wonderful. McDonalds and 29 other companies get exemptions. Exemptions from the wonderful goodness or the horrible problems that bill creates? If from the goodness what kind of sense does that make. If from the problems it causes, why don't we all get exemptions?

Typical double standard illegal behavior from the progressive elitists. Have you had enough yet? This is what you get when they think they have a mandate. The destructive manipulation knows no bounds.

We the People will not shut up!

'Get sane!' Councilwoman's on-camera meltdown

Thank goodness that we have video and the Internet. They can no longer get away with the incredible abuse of their power. Power to the people!

YouTube - Thatcher & More with Claire Berlinski: Chapter 1 of 5

YouTube - Thatcher & More with Claire Berlinski: Chapter 1 of 5

A blueprint for success of the next American President. May well be a woman too.

Mark Levin V Gloria Allred - Fraud exposed!

The Mark Levin Show

Listen to this... man it is good! One of the few people that can overpower the great BS artist. Unfortunately this exposure of the fraud may not make much difference for the Meg Whitman campaign, but it is incredible to hear.

These #@$%^ people need to be gone!

FOXNews.com - Ohio Democrat Curses Voters Who Oppose Health Care Law

Incredible lack of class. It's just ONE of the reasons these guys need to be gone!

A Time for Choosing - Version 2.0?

The American Spectator : Mike Pence's Hillsdale College Speech on the Presidency

This speech may be considered Mike Pence's breakout speech, much like Reagan's historic "A Time for Choosing" speech of 1964. Written in a classic tone, it is completely unlike the typical MTV award acceptance speech of our current crop of celebrity politicians.

Heavy on history, values and duty, it is an incredible dissertation on the American Presidency. A must read!

They Were Who We Thought They Were!

A Black Man Goes To Glenn Beck's Rally - HUMAN EVENTS

The left's reaction to Glenn Beck is complete astonishment and bewilderment. This American's story will only compound it.

If you want to know what it's all about just read what he writes. It really is that simple. God bless him.

Pre-Crime Technology To Be Used In Washington D.C.

Pre-Crime Technology To Be Used In Washington D.C.

They are going to have their hands full with Congress and the crim... bureaucrats there!

When the going gets tough, the tough get taxed!

Bagels With a Slice of Tax | NBC New York

Be prepared for more very tough tax enforcement as the economy continues to struggle. Governments will not voluntarily bite the bullet and make the necessary changes in spending that are required in times like these. They will always tax more first.

That's one of the reasons the elections this fall are the most important in generations. If we don't get fundamental change this November in the way the governments work in our country we may never turn things around. Vote for tough responsibility, not feel good platitudes, they don't pay the bills.

The Insanity is Enough to Drive You Crazy

LA unveils $578M school, costliest in the nation - Yahoo! News

California is imploding and LA proudly unveils the ultimate in fiscal/generational crime. I am astonished at the wildly irresponsible behavior of our Governments and authorities reported every day. What does the future hold? How much more insanity can be displayed? At some point they've got to run out of room to push the boundaries of crazy irresponsibility. Don't they?

Good news is, at some point they will be held responsible and we'll have massive undeniable evidence of the extent of their crimes.

Governments appetite is insatiable!

Philly requiring bloggers to pay $300 for a business license | Washington Examiner

Sad thing is it turns upstanding, law abiding citizens into criminals. Governments must pay their employees (unions) and if the choice is putting you out of business or themselves - doesn't take a rocket scientist to know who will get the short end of the deal.

You make $50 in three years and Philly says you owe them $300. No, doesn't make sense, but it doesn't have to. You comply or go to jail. That's the power we have given them and now that times are really tough they are using it. Won't be the last story you hear of outrageous injustice against citizens. Next one may be you!

Interview with one of America's Greatest Thinkers

Conservative News, Views & Books - HUMAN EVENTS

Thomas Sowell's straight thinking, straight talking common sense is so clear and powerful I am reminded of Fredrick Bastiat's "The Law". They both present things you mostly already know, so clearly, so powerfully that it's like you just finally got it.

"Those Voices Don't Speak For the Rest of Us"

Power Line - "Those Voices Don't Speak For the Rest of Us"

It doesn't get any better than this...

Pat Condell on Ground Zero mosque: "Is it possible to be astonished, but not surprised?" - Jihad Watch

Pat Condell on Ground Zero mosque: "Is it possible to be astonished, but not surprised?" - Jihad Watch

I cannot add a thing...

Harvard University fund sells all Israel holdings - Globes

Harvard University fund sells all Israel holdings - Globes

I've posted a couple of entries in the last couple of days that address the increasing expression of mainstream anti-Jew bigotry. Recently many noteworthy people, media outlets and institutions are exposing their racism. Often with surprisingly transparent anger and resentment

In nearly every instance the hateful bigotry the perpetrator rationalizes it with cliches of Jewish domination or abuse of some victim or another.

Here's yet another example, though much more subtle. The absence of any explanation on the part of Harvard creates it's own suspicion about their rationale.

Good news is sides are being chosen and we are informed more each day about who our true enemies are.

Canary in the Coalmine: Europe’s “Decoy Jews” | The Brussels Journal

Canary in the Coalmine: Europe’s “Decoy Jews” | The Brussels Journal

It's good to know that not all Europeans have fallen for the modern progressive line. This sad story tells of the resuscitation of mainstream anti-Jewish thought and action.

The site has much interesting content from the seemingly oxymoronic European Conservative perpective.

Peter Robinson with Michael Barone

Conservative News, Views & Books - HUMAN EVENTS

Great series of videos presenting the lessons we have or should have learned over the last 50 years in politics in America. I love the Internet!

Christian life and character of the ... - Google Books

Christian life and character of the ... - Google Books

The more I research and learn, the more I discover how wrong I have been about my own culture and country. All of the anti-American and anti-religious pablum I have been fed all my life has been hooey. Admittedly I have been a willing victim of this ruse. But no more.

Out of print for more than a century, this book details the history of Christianity and the civil institutions of America. Difficult to argue with, it's got to be the ACLU's worst nightmare.

A challenging read at 819 pages, it's a compelling story that echoes DeTocqeville's experiences and impressions in America just a couple of decades before.

Required reading for any 21st century American patriot.

Reliving Ancient Bigotry - Again

Pajamas Media � Was Shimon Peres Right about Britain Having a Problem With Jews?

I am not really surprised at the hatred and bigotry described in this article. Interesting how America's closest cultural and political allies can be so incredibly hateful. I have experienced reactions nearly as extreme in my own discussions with very sophisticated, bright, educated people. It's completely disarming. In fact, at first I always think the offender is attempting to play a bad joke.

Just proves once again that elite education, profession and culture often produce the most bigoted, hateful and sometimes violent human beings. Education, success, status and money are no substitute for intelligence, integrity and morality. Ever.

The really surprising aspect of this story is the incredible lack of common courtesy, professionalism and self-awareness on the part of the hateful bigot. Usually they are sophisticated enough to pretend to be more humane than that.

One of the most compelling videos I've ever seen!

Suzanna Gratia-Hupp: What the Second Amendment is REALLY For

This gal tells it like it is in the most rational, common sense and compelling testimony I've ever seen. A must see...

Mexican Officials to Patrol Staten Island Following Latest Bias Attack | NBC New York

Mexican Officials to Patrol Staten Island Following Latest Bias Attack | NBC New York

I wonder if we could talk them into patrolling the Arizona/Mexico border too. It sure would be helpful. We can't get our government to do it because it's so costly. Thanks Mexico!

Axe falls on NHS services - Telegraph

British Health System is Falling Apart

I wonder if even this article will penetrate the idealogues socialist denial. Probably not, there are always excuses fed by envy and fear. The failure is probably the evil, overpaid health care providers...

Where Have the Media Watchdogs Been?

Abused staffers net nearly $1M a year - Erika Lovley - POLITICO.com

Kudos to politico.com for uncovering a ridiculous oversight on the part of the lamestream media. These thugs in D.C. don't just trample on the Constitution, abuse the budget, disrespect constituents, and flaunt the law. They also abuse their employees. We need to add this to our stack of offences on the electoral "indictment" and "sentence" these scofflaws to the unemployment line. But it shouldn't stop there. The DOJ need to get on the case(s) and prosecute those who broke the law. I don't think any of the offenders are New Black Panther Party Leaders, so the DOJ should be able to do that.

Black Panthers vs MLK 4 Decades Later

Dr Dave's TRUTHblog: The truth can set us free, but not from our responsibility

This is a post I wrote 2 years ago lamenting the misunderstanding and ignorance of Dr Martin Luther King's "I have a Dream" speech.

It's sad but truer now than it's been in 40 years. Read it and weep...

NASA's new purpose as directed by Pres. Obama

YouTube - Talk to Al Jazeera - Charles Bolden:

You have got to be kidding! NASA is now a religious and cultural outreach government program.

The Lords of Our Destiny Speak...

The Representative's reaction to this man at a town hall meeting is unbelievable. The taunting by Stark of this questioner is more than I can bear to view.

The wrath of the electorate is being catalyzed by this sort of thing. We must make sure idiots like this ever hold office again.

God Vs. Science! Again?

This article reminds me so much of the "God is dead" headlines of the late '60's. Incredible how the same Socialist theories gain favor after a time and are accompanied by the same old tired anti-religion theories. Spoken by a scientific icon, couched in psuedo-scientific lingo, it even seems to make sense. Only because I've been through the cycle a couple of times can I so quickly spot it. Human scientific management of everyone and everything are the Socialist ideal with no room left for humility and Providence.

I've never understood the complete inability of many to miss the fact that God and science are inexorably bound. Science is simply the study of God's handiwork.

Brilliance of Grover Cleveland?!

I was watching "Not Yours to Give", the story of Davey Crockett's maturation as an American politician produced by WRI in the '80's, when I remembered a similar story about Grover Cleveland. In the process of researching it, I found this website containing some stunning quotes by Cleveland, especially considering he was a Democrat. Really underscores how times have changed. Here's a simple, folksy yet profound example:

"The truly American sentiment recognizes the dignity of labor
and the fact that honor lies in natural toil."
Grover Cleveland

I'm engaging in a great deal of dignity and honor today...

Department of Homeland Security Censors Evidence of Illegals

A site ( www.borderinvasionpics.com ) filled with compelling evidence of the scale of the invasion of illegal aliens across our southern border is filtered from view on dhs.gov computers. The very people charged with our security are unable to view image evidence of the failure of their efforts. I must agree - it is obscene!

THE best critique of Modern Utopianism I've Ever Seen

The Rest of the Story...

As Paul Harvey always said: and now... the rest of the story.

KGB Defector's Frightening Look into America's Future

Timeline of irresponsible Republicans Fear Mongering

Racists! Racists! Everywhere!!

The irony is too much. Check out this story from a local TV station here in the evil empire of Arizona. Virginia may be joining us on the dark side. In fact they preceded us!

Reading is FUN-duh-mental!

Gov'ts disdain for the law is the cause of our problems...

It's no wonder we have so many escalating legal and cultural problems. The American people are not stupid, we can see when those in responsible positions toy with the law. Eventually the people will do it too. It's unfortunate, but this is the real world.

The Government's reaction will be more aggressiveness towards it's law abiding but assertive citizens, all the while continuing the outrageous flaunting of the law. It's a dangerous dynamic. Americans are generally very respectful of the law and authority, but we don't react well to abuse and that's what we've got going on right now. Citizens will continue to become more assertive as we continue to be subjected to outrageous disrespect and hypocrisy by our political leaders. Washington better wake up. All I see is escalating disrespect on both sides and that's not likely to come to a pleasant resolution. The politicians have too much to lose to respond gracefully. We'll need to be prepared to get slapped and stand our ground. Are you up for it?

We continue to fight amongst ourselves as the Feds destroy us

While I support Arizonas fighting for it's defense, but I do have a real sense of sadness that once again the citizens of America end up fighting amongst themselves due to the irresponsibility and manipulation of the politicians in DC. Let's turn our efforts toward DC, not each other.

" I Don't Know What It Is, But I Don't Like It"

Here we go again. Why do we let these guys get away with it. They don't read a 2600 page bill, but pass it. They don't read a 16 page bill and hate it. How can they possibly know, and why don't they feel completely embarrassed by their flummery? Because they believe we won't notice. Let's let them know that we noticed and that we care.

An Immigrant's Uncommon Sense

Open Letter to Highland Park High School Administration

Dear District 113 Administration,

I must communicate you to my disappointment in your decision to cancel your teams trip to the tournament in my state. While we might disagree on that law, I would like to recommend that you at least read it prior to making such a dramatic decision.

Arizona SB1070 empowers local law enforcement to enforce a Federal law already on the books. If you truly disagree with the Arizona law, you will need to express your disagreement with the Federal law already in force by taking some appropriate action in line with your Arizona decision.

Please reconsider your stance. We must stop allowing political extremists to pit honest, sincere Americans against each other using manipulative and dishonest tactics to achieve their goals.

PLEASE READ THE BILL:

http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/49leg/2r/bills/sb1070p.htm

Thank you.

Sincerely,

Dr Dave
David K. Mason, ICC
Host of ComputerTalk with Dave Mason
America's Home of Common Sense Computing
ComputerTalk Bunker
405 E Wetmore Rd.#117 PMB 520
Tucson, Arizona 85705
Voice 520.293.2415
FAX 603.792.9504
Toll Free 866.821.8255
www.davemason.com

American Diplomacy: Torment your Allies and Excuse your Enemies

Just one more example of the upside down nature of the times we live in. Whether it's publicly disrespecting our Israeli allies, capitulating to the Iranians or throwing American flag wearing kids out of school, America is going through a difficult but unavoidable time of reckoning.

We are being forced by the reality of the effects of decades of ludicrous policies to come to grips with that reality. We may get a second chance to change our path and divorce ourselves from the utopian foolishness and get back to honest American reality.

What is that honest American reality?

1. There is no such thing as a free lunch.
2. Hard work pays off, but there are no guarantees.
3. Except when directly in violation of other citizens basic rights, we all (including the Governmental) must mind our own business.
4. There is no such thing as complete fairness or equality. We do our best to create a framework of basic fairness. The vagaries of life are beyond our control, so we let Providence be responsible for that.
5. There is evil in the world and it must be dealt with swiftly and honestly. Imperfect good guys and evil bad guys are not the same. We work to defeat evil and improve imperfection. We do not allow imperfection to confuse us so that we are unwilling or unable to battle evil effectively.
6. America is special, but that quality must be taught and earned by each generation. It can be lost by failure to pass it on to our progeny or their unwillingness to earn it. It is not automatically passed on in our genes.
7. Loving America is not necessarily loving our Government, just as loving our Government is not necessarily loving America. What makes America great is citizens living American values. The Government generally either stays out of the way of that or gets in the way of that.

I know, unsophisticated and over simplified, but it makes sense doesn't it?

Your Facebook Acount in an Open Book

Facebook to Share Your Info for Money

Facebook is defaulting to sharing your profile unless you specifically disable it. This article tells you how. How these Internet services think they can get away with this, I don't know. They are getting intense pressure from Congress, and the media (like this blog). If you are a Facebook user please look at the details of your profile sharing. Even if you think you shut it down, Facebook may have opened it up. Here's how to check and correct it:

..."STEP 1: Go to the “Privacy Settings.” Go to “Applications and Web Sites.” Then go to “Instant Personalization Pilot Program,” and hit edit settings.

STEP 2: For all users there’s an automatic check in the box below, which allows Facebook to share your information with other web sites. You are automatically “opted in.” If you do not wish to share this information, uncheck the box.

STEP 3: Even after you’ve done this, it is not clear whether you need to “opt out” at the sites where Facebook is intending to share your information, like Pandora and Yelp, and soon many more sites. So you will want to look at the upper left hand corner of those sites to see whether those sites are recognizing your Facebook account and activity. Here again, you need to opt out.

But a word of caution, as Facebook concedes, your information may still be shared through your friends accounts, unless you block the application from these web sites."

Take control of your Internet info, or the Internet Powers will.

Dr Dave
 

Timeless Words of Power

Due to the article today over at Fox News by Glenn Beck, I've been revisiting the writings and speeches of Sam Adams. No, not the beer.

If ever a time should come, when vain and aspiring men

shall possess the highest seats in Government, our country

will stand in need of its experienced patriots to prevent

its ruin.
Samuel Adams

I'd say that time has come! Are you an experienced patriot?

Forget ailing ankle -- Favre will be back - Chicago Breaking Sports

Haugh: Forget ailing ankle -- Favre will be back - Chicago Breaking Sports


This guy is a real throwback. 41 years old, 20 seasons in the NFL and he's having his ankle tuned up in preparation for another season. Incredible!

End Firearms Registration in AZ

AZCDL Home -- End Firearms Registration - Contact the Governor


HB 2629 has been sent to the Governor for her consideration. This bill prohibits a political subdivision from maintaining records related to the transfer or storage of firearms. This legislation arose from reports of Mohave County being overly exuberant in recording information on people who are required to store their firearms in public buildings, in effect registering gun owners and their firearms.


Please contact Governor Brewer, using the letter at the link above, and urge her to sign HB 2629.

America's Citizens the Country's New Deadly Enemies

Fort Knox Exercise - PatriotPost.US

Ironic how the Obama Administration excuses the threats from Iran, North Korea and other countries to reduce the tension with our international enemies then creates new ones among our own citizens.

It shows a real twisted moral compass when you label peaceful, legal political dissenters among your own citizens as terrorist threats at the same that you excuse and apologize for international terrorists and their sponsors.

The more the administration labels the legitimate dissenters amongst it's citizens as terrorists and enemies, the more assertive and genuinely committed those dissenters become. The administration is providing the catalyst for a truly effective opposition to it's policies. It may take years, but the damage done to today's left could be truly transformational. Never saw that coming as the result of an Obama victory.

The Government can!

Our elected representatives at work...

At least he's honest...

What American Patriots do when all seems lost

Great article on how to respond to the sometimes seemingly hopeless state of things. A retro look at handling tough times inspired by Winston Churchill's and Brigadier General Anthony McAuliffe's response to overwhelming oppostion during WW II. No need to be fearful, nervous, hyperbolic or verbose.

We can and must win these political battles local, nationally and internationally. Only toughness, persistence and creativity are required. More toughness and persistence than creativity. Do you have what it takes?

Dr Dave's 3 step process to becoming a Constitutional expert.

The Constitution is actually pretty easy to understand. It takes a Constitutional scholar or Politician to obfuscate things in an intellectually intimidating fashion to make it overwhelming to the average person. Here's my completely unintellectual, but effective 3 Step process to accurate Constitutional understanding:

1. Read the actual words of the Constitution. Think about them. Do not attempt to make them fit any predisposition you may have. Think about them some more.
2. Look up the meaning of words that are unclear to you using a dictionary that was used around the time the Constitution was written. Think about those definitions. Consider what they would have meant to a very brave independent-minded person who was very much under the thumb of a desperate foreign king.
3. To further clarify terms or concepts, read and analyze other writings of the Founders. This is an incredible help in attempting to understand the original intent of the Founders. They wrote many communications to each other and the public that provides tremendously detailed background and explanations of their thinking. The dictionary mentioned in Step Two can be helpful here as well. Again, read the actual words.

That's it! You take a couple of months to leisurely, thoughtfully go through that 3 step process, and you will have a better understanding than the vast majority of todays supposed Constitutional scholars.

Here are some excerpts from one of my favorite Founders writings that are very clarifying and pertinent to the Constitutional crisis we now find ourselves in:

“If Congress can do whatever in their discretion can be done by money, and will promote the general welfare, the government is no longer a limited one possessing enumerated powers, but an indefinite one subject to particular exceptions.” James Madison, “Letter to Edmund Pendleton,” -James Madison, January 21, 1792, in The Papers of James Madison, vol. 14, Robert A Rutland et. al., ed (Charlottesvile: University Press of Virginia,1984).

“I cannot undertake to lay my finger on that article of the Constitution which granted a right to Congress of expending, on objects of benevolence, the money of their constituents.”
-James Madison, 4 Annals of congress 179 (1794)

"…[T]he government of the United States is a definite government, confined to specified objects. It is not like the state governments, whose powers are more general. Charity is no part of the legislative duty of the government.”
-James Madison

MUST READ: Reconciliation – Your Guide to the Game « The Speakers Lobby

All is not lost, although yesterday's vote was. Much remains to be done before this bill can be sent to the President for his signature. No need to storm the Bastille, or move to Costa Rica, yet. The most troubling part is just how twisted our legislative process has become. Like most everything else in our culture we have allowed the legislative process to become a ridiculously litigious and overcomplicated system. Most of the legislators have no clue what the rules are in their own daily business process. If I were as unfamiliar with my business, I wouldn't have one.

The good, if inconvenient news is anyone following the process is getting quite an education in it. This article is a great example - covers most of the requirements of the process over the next couple of days. Here's to the Internet, alternate media and hard headed "system gaming" libs. They are making us pay attention.

RealClearPolitics - Video - Dem Congressman: "If You Don't Tie Our Hands, We Will Keep Stealing"

Rare moment of candor for a politician. Just one more indicator that we have indeed stepped through the looking glass.

RealClearPolitics - Video - Dem Congressman: "If You Don't Tie Our Hands, We Will Keep Stealing"

CNN Opinion Piece Urges Valentine's Day Massacre

That's what the title of this post would be if a Conservative or Republican had written this opinion piece on CNN's site encouraging a Republican President to "go gangsta" Chicago style, on his political opponents. I'm not going to be so foolish.

Among the reasons I am no longer a Democrat, is the ongoing outrageous double standard among the media and political class. Ted Kennedy can kill a woman and flee the scene and nearly become President while Sarah Palin is attacked and marginalized because she wrote a couple of notes on her hand in preparation for a speech. The lack of proportion is mind boggling. What do you think?
Dr Dave

More Madison

More  Madison:

It will be of little avail to the people that the laws are made by men of their own choice if the laws be so voluminous that they cannot be read, or so incoherent that they cannot be understood.
James Madison

We are there!
Dr Dave

Are we there yet

Readin' some of Madison's brilliance tonight. Much to ruminate on.

Do not separate text from historical background. If you do, you will have perverted and subverted the Constitution, which can only end in a distorted, bastardized form of illegitimate government.
James Madison

Are we there yet?
Dr Dave

The Miracle of the Poor Shipbuilder and his Unlikely Friends

Near the end of the last century, the most evil and murderous in human history, there was an incredible convergence of  strong moral leadership from 4 improbable leaders around the world that freed hundreds of millions of people from the evil of communism in Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union and a Global recession. Only a few years before even talking about battling Communism was considered unsophisticated and foolish and the evils of that system were mostly ignored, often excused and sometimes even promoted in the West.


One, the daughter of an English storekeeper and lay Methodist preacher. The other an actor and the son of an alcoholic salesman and lay preaching mother. The other 2 Polish. One a shipbuilder, Union leader and son of a carpenter, the other the son of a non-commissioned Army officer, was a manual laborer and Catholic priest. The lives of these unlikely heroes through the coincidental vicissitudes of life or intercession of Providence (depending on your perspective), intersected and together they destroyed the most evil system of slavery in the history of man.  Margaret Thatcher, Ronald Reagan, Lech Walesa and Pope John Paul II redeemed the 20th century.

Last Friday Lech Walesa spoke in Chicago at a campaign event for Republican gubernatorial candidate Adam Andrzejewski, and this is what he said:

"The United States is only one superpower. Today they lead the world. Nobody has doubts about it. Militarily.  They also lead economically but they're getting weak. But they don't lead morally and politically anymore.  The world has no leadership.  The United States was always the last resort and hope for all other nations.  There was the hope, whenever something was going wrong, one could count on the United States.  Today, we lost that hope."

If he has lost hope, what hope do we have? 

The same hope of a shipbuilder and Union leader in Communist Poland. The hope of a Catholic priest that lost his entire family by the age of 20 and endured Nazi occupation of Poland in World War II. The hope of an average girl in Britain living in a humble flat above her fathers shop during  the Battle of Britain. The hope of the young boy during the Great Depression, who rescued his drunk and unconscious father from the snow before he froze to death on his front lawn.


None of those people came from elite families. None but Margaret Thatcher were particularly highly educated in the traditional sense.  None came from money, position or fame. All possessed unbending optimism, unapologetic moral and ethical clarity, and deep personal faith. Perhaps most importantly they all possessed an indefatigable work ethic. Optimism, moral clarity, faith and a work ethic forged in the Great Depression, World War II, the slavery of despotic Communism and significant personal difficulties in their lives. 


We cannot all be President of Poland, the United States or the Prime Minister of Britain. Most will never become the leader of a great world religion. But some among us will. We can only hope the strength, moral clarity, optimism and faith formed in today's adversity will be manifest in them as it was in those 4 moral titans of the last century. 

That is my hope.


Dr Dave

State of The Union 2010... huh?

Quite a highly anticipated speech last night. As usual I did not see it, I read the transcripts. That makes it easier to concentrate on the content and meaning rather than the theater.

Actually I did see the first couple of minutes. Primarily the introductions and applause. Comments were made by those viewing it with me that Obama was doing more of the strange Mussolini-like posturing after his introduction at the podium. I'm talking about the chin thrust, chest puffing and upward far-away gaze. It does look weird and doesn't serve him well.

The speech was filled with misleading statements, negativity and a real lack of focus. I could comment on practically every sentence, but pulled out highlights that I think are particularly important. Here's my analysis of the speech:

“...For these Americans and so many others, change has not come fast enough. Some are frustrated; some are angry. They don’t understand why it seems like bad behavior on Wall Street is rewarded but hard work on Main Street isn’t; or why Washington has been unable or unwilling to solve any of our problems. They are tired of the partisanship and the shouting and the pettiness. They know we can’t afford it.  Not now.“

Others of us want to know why those that set the rules and create the problems continue to redirect attention to those on Wall Street and in Corporate board rooms. Catastrophicly failed regulation is followed by demands for greater regulation. Washington is unwilling or unable to release the death grip on every aspect of American life and let the people prosper.

“...So we face big and difficult challenges. And what the American people hope – what they deserve – is for all of us, Democrats and Republicans, to work through our differences; to overcome the numbing weight of our politics. For while the people who sent us here have different backgrounds, different stories and different beliefs, the anxieties they face are the same. The aspirations they hold are shared. A job that pays the bills. A chance to get ahead. Most of all, the ability to give their children a better life.“

Great! How about starting by unlocking the conference and committee rooms and letting in the Republicans elected by Americans to represent us. They are bound by the Constitution to represent us and so far, have been prevented by your party from doing so.

Then you can stop belittling those Americans you disagree with. Stop calling me and my peers “national security risks”, “rednecks”, “stupid”, “bigots” and a myriad other marginalizing and demeaning terms, just because we disagree with your health care plan, budget, foreign policy, etc..

“...To recover the rest, I have proposed a fee on the biggest banks. I know Wall Street isn’t keen on this idea, but if these firms can afford to hand out big bonuses again, they can afford a modest fee to pay back the taxpayers who rescued them in their time of need.”

Most of those in these “Big Banks” played by the rules. Rules our Congress created and other Federal agencies oversee. Rules that the Bush administration warned weren't working and putting Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae and other financial institutions at great risk. I wonder when you'll get around to fining or prosecuting those in the Government who created problem, profited from the problem, and now blame everyone else for the problem, and demand more oversight of the issues – by them.

“...So tonight, I’m proposing that we take $30 billion of the money Wall Street banks have repaid and use it to help community banks give small businesses the credit they need to stay afloat. I am also proposing a new small business tax credit – one that will go to over one million small businesses who hire new workers or raise wages. While we’re at it, let’s also eliminate all capital gains taxes on small business investment; and provide a tax incentive for all businesses, large and small, to invest in new plants and equipment.”

How about returning that money to the Americans you took it from, and let them decide where the expenditures should be made to best benefit them. If you are truly interested in what's best for Americans, why make it a political decision from on-high, instead of the decision of Americans that own the money.

“...Tomorrow, I’ll visit Tampa, Florida, where workers will soon break ground on a new high-speed railroad funded by the Recovery Act. There are projects like that all across this country that will create jobs and help our nation move goods, services, and information. We should put more Americans to work building clean energy facilities, and give rebates to Americans who make their homes more energy efficient, which supports clean energy jobs. And to encourage these and other businesses to stay within our borders, it’s time to finally slash the tax breaks for companies that ship our jobs overseas and give those tax breaks to companies that create jobs in the United States of America. “

The Governemnt creates the tax and regulatory structure that makes companies send jobs overseas to stay competitive, then the Government penalizes them for doing so.


Rail - one of the liberals' most popular pet projects and perennial failures. We all know how well those projects turn out. Just look at Amtrak, and dozens of other municipal tax devouring boondoggles. Now it's presented as an environmental job program to entice us into ignoring the facts of history.

“...Well I do not accept second-place for the United States of America. As hard as it may be, as uncomfortable and contentious as the debates may be, it’s time to get serious about fixing the problems that are hampering our growth.”

And that fixing begins in Washington, D.C.. No longer should we look to Congress and the President to fix anything. If there's one thing we've learned it's that the planners have no plan, the overseers have no oversight, the legislators do no legislating. It is up to us to fix things. We began to do that in Massachusetts last week...

“...Third, we need to export more of our goods. Because the more products we make and sell to other countries, the more jobs we support right here in America. So tonight, we set a new goal: We will double our exports over the next five years, an increase that will support two million jobs in America. To help meet this goal, we’re launching a National Export Initiative that will help farmers and small businesses increase their exports, and reform export controls consistent with national security.

We have to seek new markets aggressively, just as our competitors are. If America sits on the sidelines while other nations sign trade deals, we will lose the chance to create jobs on our shores. But realizing those benefits also means enforcing those agreements so our trading partners play by the rules. And that’s why we will continue to shape a Doha trade agreement that opens global markets, and why we will strengthen our trade relations in Asia and with key partners like South Korea, Panama, and Colombia.”

As with so many of our Country's problems of the last 50 years, they have been caused or at least aggravated by the intervention of the legislators, regulators and bureaucrats at the behest of the internationalists, eco-terrorists, Marxists and their PR arm, the “lame -stream” media. We don't want confiscation of our property just to have you give it back through your manipulative programs ( after you've taken your cut of course). Get out of Americans' way and we'll innovate, produce, profit and compete just fine.

“...I took on health care because of the stories I’ve heard from Americans with pre-existing conditions whose lives depend on getting coverage; patients who’ve been denied coverage; and families – even those with insurance – who are just one illness away from financial ruin.

After nearly a century of trying, we are closer than ever to bringing more security to the lives of so many Americans. The approach we’ve taken would protect every American from the worst practices of the insurance industry. It would give small businesses and uninsured Americans a chance to choose an affordable health care plan in a competitive market. It would require every insurance plan to cover preventive care. And by the way, I want to acknowledge our First Lady, Michelle Obama, who this year is creating a national movement to tackle the epidemic of childhood obesity and make our kids healthier.”

Why does taking my money and having a bureaucrat buy my insurance for me in Washington, D.C. make more sense than letting me buy my insurance myself, right here? And why is health care insurance a right before food, clothing and housing. If health care is a right based on it's existential importance, then we've skipped a couple of VERY important predicate rights in free food, shelter, and housing. They are far more important on a daily basis for health than insurance. How do you explain that horrid oversight?

“...Starting in 2011, we are prepared to freeze government spending for three years. Spending related to our national security, Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security will not be affected. But all other discretionary government programs will. Like any cash-strapped family, we will work within a budget to invest in what we need and sacrifice what we don’t. And if I have to enforce this discipline by veto, I will.“

It's better than continued uncontrolled spending, but not nearly as restrictive as it sounds, or should be. A little late too. Sort of like the proverbial closing of the barn door after the cow got out. Several trillion cows later, Obama has seen the light. I guess better late than never, but I can't help but think this is another example of the political posturing he is so good at. He's like a magician that knows how to get your attention misdirected to his off-hand, so he can then do whatever he wants with the other one without you even suspecting.

“...From some on the right, I expect we’ll hear a different argument – that if we just make fewer investments in our people, extend tax cuts for wealthier Americans, eliminate more regulations, and maintain the status quo on health care, our deficits will go away. The problem is, that’s what we did for eight years. That’s what helped lead us into this crisis. It’s what helped lead to these deficits. And we cannot do it again. 
 

Rather than fight the same tired battles that have dominated Washington for decades, it’s time to try something new. Let’s invest in our people without leaving them a mountain of debt. Let’s meet our responsibility to the citizens who sent us here. Let’s try common sense."

The Government can't make investments “in our people”. They must first take money FROM the people to then give it back. I want tax cuts for ALL Americans. Stop the class warfare and let ALL of us keep the fruits of our labor.

Let's get the Federal Government out of our lives, give up on redistribution of wealth and let Americans use the product of their efforts as they see fit. What an investment! Common sense? Indeed!

“...Last week, the Supreme Court reversed a century of law to open the floodgates for special interests – including foreign corporations – to spend without limit in our elections. Well I don’t think American elections should be bankrolled by America’s most powerful interests, or worse, by foreign entities. They should be decided by the American people, and that’s why I’m urging Democrats and Republicans to pass a bill that helps to right this wrong. “

We live in a free society with the right to support who we want to support. To artificially limit the freedom of support among certain class of citizens is wrong. Interesting how people like Soros, MoveOn.org and others were able to get around the prior limits. For them it won't matter, except they'll confront a more level playing field with those corporations they demonize.

“...It lives on in the 8-year old boy in Louisiana, who just sent me his allowance and asked if I would give it to the people of Haiti. And it lives on in all the Americans who’ve dropped everything to go some place they’ve never been and pull people they’ve never known from rubble, prompting chants of “U.S.A.! U.S.A.! U.S.A!” when another life was saved.“

The fact that that poor misinformed little boy sent his money for Haiti to the President says more about what's wrong with our attitudes than anything I could write. Send it to the Red Cross or Salvation Army. The President has nothing to do with that sort of stuff. At least he's not supposed to. But of course everything is about Obama, isn't it.

Just don't bomb us Ms. Pelosi

Here's a quote from Madam Speaker this morning:

"You go through the gate. If the gate’s closed, you go over the fence. If the fence is too high, we’ll pole-vault in. If that doesn’t work, we’ll parachute in. But we’re going to get health care reform passed for the American people."

Whatever it takes to take over 1/6th of the American economy they will do. What will we do to defend it?

Could less discipline improve productivity?

This is a great discussion about the realities of practical time and task management. So much of the "guru's" tips techniques and tools are inflexible and lack proportion that they become unwieldy and actually get in the way of real productivity. This thread addresses that reality and provides suggestions for using your time management tools and techniques in a disciplined but flexible manner that benefits but doesn't enslave.

It's like having a realistic and healthy diet that isn't so restricted that it's impossible to adhere to. A little wiggle room prevents the inevitable failure that can often occur when realities of cheesecake and hot dogs are confronted in the real world.

Wow! Prophetic! From Harding College 1948...

MILITARY PROSECUTORS WITHHOLD EVIDENCE

There is no question I am not privy to all the facts of this case, but experience has taught me that we have become so biased against America and it's military that we often offer up our heroes as PC sacrifices in these situations regardless of the facts. If I had to bet whether the guilt lies with the Lieutenant or the prosecutor, I'd bet on the prosecutor.

If nothing else, this situation deserves very close scrutiny. Check out the facts and make up your own mind. If your conscience permits make a donation.
Dr Dave