It is not unusual that a public figure will be misquoted. Often the reason is that the actual quote just doesn't sell newspapers. It seldom goes much deeper than that.
In yesterday's USA Today's sports pages the headline read "Vick wants a dog 'because my kids ask me everyday'."
I truly believe when one has served their time in prison - and whether or not I agree with the term prescribed - they should be allowed to rejoin society - with certain reservations. If it's a child pornographer - or a pedophyl - follow up restrictions are obviously needed.
Vick served 18 months in prison after being convicted of running a dogfighting ring. As part of his punishment a federal judge also sentenced him to three years probation ending in May, 2012.
One of the terms was that he could not own dogs during that time. One assumes that on May 2, 2012 he will suddenly have an epiphany that will cure him of his desire to make arrangements for dogs to fight until one of them dies. My one regret is that I don't know how to get in touch with that judge to determine on what date I also will have an epiphany in my life.
Of course, there are those who insist that after people do bad things they cannot be redeemed.
Obviously neither Elliot Spitzer nor Uncle Newt subscribe to that theory - and are doing quite well - thank you.
But, their gainful employment - supposedly without restrictions - is part of the reason we have forgiven Michael Vick. We are a country of 'second'chances". How else could Rush have lasted this long?
One also suspects the folks in Phlly forgave Vick entirely somewhere around the 5th NFL win he engineered this year. We all know how those residing in The City of Brotherly Love are more inclined to forgive much sooner than folks residing elsewhere.
Despite this, nobody dressed in a bright red Santa suit plans to show up at Lincoln Financial Field this year - just in case the fans spirit of brotherly love may not extend to fictional characters.
But, apparently Michael Vick still doesn't understand why he is being embraced in a town that has failed to demostrate real charitable behavior since discovering their damned bell was cracked.
Michael is quoted as saying, "I really mean what I say. I don't have a problem. I'm not a psychopath. I'm not crazy. I'm a human being."
He continues, "What happened in my past and what I did in the culture I grew up in doesn't shape and mold me as the person I am now. I said it before that I wish I can own a dog, and I'll continue to say it. I'm not allowed to, but I'm just saying I wish I could, because my kids ask me every day. It's more so for them than for me."
I beg to disagree. There's a reason W.C. Fields got the @#$% out of Philadelphia when he did. It's a town of nutsos - who like any other NFL city - want desperately to have a winning team. And, if successful Sunday, when you wake up Monday, Mike, you may find 101 Dalmatians sitting outside your front door.
Mike, whether you are or are not crazy or a psychopath has never entered into their thinking.
If Jeffrey Dahmer could pass and rush better than you, they'd sign him.
They are singularly focused on winning as much as you are apparently singularly focused on losing - as a Dad.
Did you ever think of explaining to your kids - and I don't have a clue how old or how many they are - just exactly what you did? They say pictures are like 10,000 words. Maybe you could sit the kids down in the game room and lay the lurid pictures from the trial out on the floor around them.
Perhaps they would then fully understand just what it was you did to dogs that caused you to cool your heels in prison for 18 months and not be allowed to have a dog for three years.
Where did they think you were during that time - serving your country over in Iraq?
If it truly bothers you that much for your kids to keep asking you for something you legally can't provide them - then for God's sake - try telling them the truth.
My vitriol is not part of the dog lovers fixation - protests - and picket signs. I do believe that what you were doing with those dogs was ingrained in your culture. My only concern is that you apparently never took the time to step back and examine whether what you were doing was wrong in today's culture.
You may have cured your killing of animals fixation but I'm not sure you've made much progress in assessing what it truly takes to be a responsibile father.
Assuming you were not misquoted, you've got many tasks in front of you that are much more important than whether or not you beat the NY Giants and the three point spread this Sunday.
Man up, Michael.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Friday, December 17, 2010
INCREMENTAL PLEASURES
Some time ago - in another life -- I quit smoking for about the lebenty-seventh time - just as I did about 20 months ago.
I was living in Pgh and regretted never having been to Hawaii. So finding an over-sized empty pretzel plastic container in the garage, I began a ritual. I was going to save for the trip by taking $1 a day and placing it in the jug. To put things in perspective, cigarettes were probably about that much back then.
If I was out of town on business, upon my return I'd look at the calendar marked with x-s like a prisoner's cell wall. Then, I'd deposit an amount to make me current.
Occasionally, I'd also put in a 10-spot or a Jefferson and remove the corresponding number of dollar bills. The money was not counted until it sort of struggled to push the lid off the container. It was amazing.
As a result of this saving scheme there was enough to take a week long Boscov's Hawaiian tour of 4 islands for a party of two; and that included airfare.
My point is that possibly had I waited to pay for it in full, Lord only knows when the trip would have taken place. Maybe several years later or about the time of my second trip.
My learning on this subject was prompted by buying war bonds as a kid via weekly contributions to my grade school accounts. It was amazing to this young guy how many war bonds I purchased.
My savings account when a paperboy kept by the owner of a local newspaper delivery business went a long way to helping out with my ability to go to college many years down the road. Incremental savings plans are amazing - notwithstanding my brother's query of me, "So, what do you think Mrs. Richards did with the interest these accounts accrued?"
Recently one of the periodicals quoted some idiot in Congress who was defending earmarks: "They only cost a few billion or so - a truly insignificant amount when you're dealing with a defecit of over a trillion".
Shortly after that, my brother-in-law was kind enough to send me an E-mail about the subject of -A BILLION- a difficult number to comprehend.
it seems , in one of their many recent press releases an advertising agency put the figure in perspective:
A. A BILLION seconds ago - it was 1959.
B. A BILLION minutes ago - Jesus was alive.
C. A BILLION years ago - our ancestors were "Living in the Stone Age."
D. A BILLION days ago no-one walked on the earth on two feet.
E. A BILLION dollars ago was only "8 hours and 20 minutes", at the rate our government is
spending it.
The release goes on to say, "While this thought is still fresh in our brain - let's take a look at New Orleans. It's amazing what you can learn with some simple division.
Louisiana Senator Mary Landarieu is presently asking Congress for '250 billion dollars' to rebuild New Orleans.
It is an interesting number - but, what does it mean?
A, Well, if you are one of the 484,674 residents of New Orleans (every man, woman and child) -
you each get $516, 528.
B. Or, if you have one of the 188, 251 homes in N.O. - your home get's: $1,329,787.
C. Or - -- If you are a family of four . . . your family gets $2,066,012."
There is a reason that multi-million dollar lottery workers often end up broke. With that much money awarded to them, it is in such a huge amount it is extremely difficult for them to fully realize there comes an obligation to manage it in the most mature way possible.
If they do this I can pretty much guarantee you they didn't learn this old financial principle from a member of Congress. Most likely, like Congress - they assume they'll spend a little and save a lot - down the road. It doesn't happen.
There is no such thing as "incremental pleasures" for many of these folks we elected.
While the intentions of those running and winning - who are not already millionaires or billionaire - may have been admirable - when in office and faced with money distribution decisions in the amount they are required to discuss - it blinds them every bit as much as those "lucky" lottery winners.
Assuming they were formerly a local state representatives - or even a governor - they could not possibly comprehend how much money this country goes through every day. (see "E" above)
What it will take to get this message across to your representative is a real quandry.
But, if Senator Landriue's request is approved I'd encourage you to get your arse down to New Orleans as quickly as you can - and buy a home - or at least- find someone who will lend you a couple of kids.
Better move quick because that representative of yours heard about it first.
I was living in Pgh and regretted never having been to Hawaii. So finding an over-sized empty pretzel plastic container in the garage, I began a ritual. I was going to save for the trip by taking $1 a day and placing it in the jug. To put things in perspective, cigarettes were probably about that much back then.
If I was out of town on business, upon my return I'd look at the calendar marked with x-s like a prisoner's cell wall. Then, I'd deposit an amount to make me current.
Occasionally, I'd also put in a 10-spot or a Jefferson and remove the corresponding number of dollar bills. The money was not counted until it sort of struggled to push the lid off the container. It was amazing.
As a result of this saving scheme there was enough to take a week long Boscov's Hawaiian tour of 4 islands for a party of two; and that included airfare.
My point is that possibly had I waited to pay for it in full, Lord only knows when the trip would have taken place. Maybe several years later or about the time of my second trip.
My learning on this subject was prompted by buying war bonds as a kid via weekly contributions to my grade school accounts. It was amazing to this young guy how many war bonds I purchased.
My savings account when a paperboy kept by the owner of a local newspaper delivery business went a long way to helping out with my ability to go to college many years down the road. Incremental savings plans are amazing - notwithstanding my brother's query of me, "So, what do you think Mrs. Richards did with the interest these accounts accrued?"
Recently one of the periodicals quoted some idiot in Congress who was defending earmarks: "They only cost a few billion or so - a truly insignificant amount when you're dealing with a defecit of over a trillion".
Shortly after that, my brother-in-law was kind enough to send me an E-mail about the subject of -A BILLION- a difficult number to comprehend.
it seems , in one of their many recent press releases an advertising agency put the figure in perspective:
A. A BILLION seconds ago - it was 1959.
B. A BILLION minutes ago - Jesus was alive.
C. A BILLION years ago - our ancestors were "Living in the Stone Age."
D. A BILLION days ago no-one walked on the earth on two feet.
E. A BILLION dollars ago was only "8 hours and 20 minutes", at the rate our government is
spending it.
The release goes on to say, "While this thought is still fresh in our brain - let's take a look at New Orleans. It's amazing what you can learn with some simple division.
Louisiana Senator Mary Landarieu is presently asking Congress for '250 billion dollars' to rebuild New Orleans.
It is an interesting number - but, what does it mean?
A, Well, if you are one of the 484,674 residents of New Orleans (every man, woman and child) -
you each get $516, 528.
B. Or, if you have one of the 188, 251 homes in N.O. - your home get's: $1,329,787.
C. Or - -- If you are a family of four . . . your family gets $2,066,012."
There is a reason that multi-million dollar lottery workers often end up broke. With that much money awarded to them, it is in such a huge amount it is extremely difficult for them to fully realize there comes an obligation to manage it in the most mature way possible.
If they do this I can pretty much guarantee you they didn't learn this old financial principle from a member of Congress. Most likely, like Congress - they assume they'll spend a little and save a lot - down the road. It doesn't happen.
There is no such thing as "incremental pleasures" for many of these folks we elected.
While the intentions of those running and winning - who are not already millionaires or billionaire - may have been admirable - when in office and faced with money distribution decisions in the amount they are required to discuss - it blinds them every bit as much as those "lucky" lottery winners.
Assuming they were formerly a local state representatives - or even a governor - they could not possibly comprehend how much money this country goes through every day. (see "E" above)
What it will take to get this message across to your representative is a real quandry.
But, if Senator Landriue's request is approved I'd encourage you to get your arse down to New Orleans as quickly as you can - and buy a home - or at least- find someone who will lend you a couple of kids.
Better move quick because that representative of yours heard about it first.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
STILL MORE "IDOL" THOUGHTS
As, in, "He's an idol in his own mind." NOTTTT!
------------------------------
Loved the local dentist's message board up the street. One of the latest: "Naughty chickens lay deviled eggs."
---------------------------------
Watched the last quarter of the Ravens/Texans game on Monday night. Propped my chin on a fork to stay awake at first - but, what a finish. Down 28-13 at the beginning of the quarter Texas came back with 99 and 95 yard drives and added a two pointer on the last TD.
They were looking good in OT until the Texas QB - once more backed up close to the goal line - threw a 11 yard TD interception.
Hated the Ravens when living in Harrisburg and the local CBS TV channel would split the showing of Pgh Sunday games with those of the Ravens. Lot's of time you wouldn't know it ahead of time and I'd be standing there shouting at the TV - "You live in Pennsylvania, you @#$%^& .
Of course, I may have just called them "dummies." Yeah, right!
Have learned to respect the Ravens and their resilience. Their defense was dragging in the last 1/4 - but, they still pulled it out. Good sign of a good team.
------------------------------------------
OK Pirate fans. Better cancel those orders for Cliff Lee Pirate Jerseys - He's going to Philly!
------------------------------------------
Still wish they'd discover a "faulty fault line" around Philly that would take it and Jersey floating out to sea. But, don't get me wrong. Am not prejudiced. Watched my previous employer crunching numbers to try and explain why they were making a profit in Western and Central Pa - but lossing their "fasteris" in Eastern Pa..
Only city where if you rearended a bus loaded with 20 people you had a claim for injuries from 33. They'd jump on the bus when it stopped and the doors opened.
---------------------------------------------
I read friend Harry's blog today (http://www..harry2335.blogspot.com/ He was talking about people retiring with indadequate funds. Ironic, as that is a topic on my short list. I'll take a shot too.
----------------------------
Sometimes I wonder what happened in other households when our parents were teaching lifes lessons to my two brothers and myself. One lesson was on the importance of saving. We seemed to understand how important it is.
---------------------------------------
Time to switch gears on blog topics but, don't hold me to it. Just figure that folks are getting a little tired of reading over and over about the Pirates managment, the NFL monopoly/ Corporate greed/ and Diogenes looking for an honest politician.
-------------------------------------------
How about a Christmas story? A former female friend of mine told me one I'll never forget.
It happened in Pittsburgh when she and her youngest son were Christmas shopping in Pittsburgh's usual cold and dreary seasonal weather. They were standing by Kaufmanns Department store waiting for the light to change; probably close to the Forbes Ave entrance with the most famous Pittsburgh clock overhead.
The little guy was slight in stature but blessed with a sharp mind. Seeing all the Santa's around the Salvation Army pots and the various department stores, he got concerned.
He released his grasp of his Mother's hand and looked up at her before asking, "There is no Santa Claus - right, Mommy?"
Mom, paused for a long time as people weaved around the little guy and her when the light finally changed. Big decision for Mom. She had cautioned both her son and his older brother about the evils inherent in lying. She found herself in one heckuva quandry.
Finally she looked down and pausing between each word said, "You're-right-honey. There- is- no- Santa- Claus!"
The little guy started to cry copious tears. Now, new shoppers were queing up behind them and waiting for their light to change, as they wondered why the boy was crying so hard.
Finally, he looked back up at her sad face as she too was starting to cry - and said in a inconsolable but yet plaintive voice - "You're lying. Right, Mommy?"
Mom looked down at him and said, "You're right darling!" The little guy stopped crying and wiped the nose drippings above his lip with the back of his new mittens.
Then, the light changed once more and they walked toward the parking garage with their hands rejoined.
--------------------------------
MERRY CHRISTMAS
------------------------------
Loved the local dentist's message board up the street. One of the latest: "Naughty chickens lay deviled eggs."
---------------------------------
Watched the last quarter of the Ravens/Texans game on Monday night. Propped my chin on a fork to stay awake at first - but, what a finish. Down 28-13 at the beginning of the quarter Texas came back with 99 and 95 yard drives and added a two pointer on the last TD.
They were looking good in OT until the Texas QB - once more backed up close to the goal line - threw a 11 yard TD interception.
Hated the Ravens when living in Harrisburg and the local CBS TV channel would split the showing of Pgh Sunday games with those of the Ravens. Lot's of time you wouldn't know it ahead of time and I'd be standing there shouting at the TV - "You live in Pennsylvania, you @#$%^& .
Of course, I may have just called them "dummies." Yeah, right!
Have learned to respect the Ravens and their resilience. Their defense was dragging in the last 1/4 - but, they still pulled it out. Good sign of a good team.
------------------------------------------
OK Pirate fans. Better cancel those orders for Cliff Lee Pirate Jerseys - He's going to Philly!
------------------------------------------
Still wish they'd discover a "faulty fault line" around Philly that would take it and Jersey floating out to sea. But, don't get me wrong. Am not prejudiced. Watched my previous employer crunching numbers to try and explain why they were making a profit in Western and Central Pa - but lossing their "fasteris" in Eastern Pa..
Only city where if you rearended a bus loaded with 20 people you had a claim for injuries from 33. They'd jump on the bus when it stopped and the doors opened.
---------------------------------------------
I read friend Harry's blog today (http://www..harry2335.blogspot.com/ He was talking about people retiring with indadequate funds. Ironic, as that is a topic on my short list. I'll take a shot too.
----------------------------
Sometimes I wonder what happened in other households when our parents were teaching lifes lessons to my two brothers and myself. One lesson was on the importance of saving. We seemed to understand how important it is.
---------------------------------------
Time to switch gears on blog topics but, don't hold me to it. Just figure that folks are getting a little tired of reading over and over about the Pirates managment, the NFL monopoly/ Corporate greed/ and Diogenes looking for an honest politician.
-------------------------------------------
How about a Christmas story? A former female friend of mine told me one I'll never forget.
It happened in Pittsburgh when she and her youngest son were Christmas shopping in Pittsburgh's usual cold and dreary seasonal weather. They were standing by Kaufmanns Department store waiting for the light to change; probably close to the Forbes Ave entrance with the most famous Pittsburgh clock overhead.
The little guy was slight in stature but blessed with a sharp mind. Seeing all the Santa's around the Salvation Army pots and the various department stores, he got concerned.
He released his grasp of his Mother's hand and looked up at her before asking, "There is no Santa Claus - right, Mommy?"
Mom, paused for a long time as people weaved around the little guy and her when the light finally changed. Big decision for Mom. She had cautioned both her son and his older brother about the evils inherent in lying. She found herself in one heckuva quandry.
Finally she looked down and pausing between each word said, "You're-right-honey. There- is- no- Santa- Claus!"
The little guy started to cry copious tears. Now, new shoppers were queing up behind them and waiting for their light to change, as they wondered why the boy was crying so hard.
Finally, he looked back up at her sad face as she too was starting to cry - and said in a inconsolable but yet plaintive voice - "You're lying. Right, Mommy?"
Mom looked down at him and said, "You're right darling!" The little guy stopped crying and wiped the nose drippings above his lip with the back of his new mittens.
Then, the light changed once more and they walked toward the parking garage with their hands rejoined.
--------------------------------
MERRY CHRISTMAS
Sunday, December 12, 2010
No crybaby here.
As a kid and young adult you soon learned if you wanted to play competetive sports not to cry about every hit you received nor any imagined prejudice you saw on the part of the referee and umpires in their officiating decisions.. They called you a crybaby.
No, it wasn't fair but I learned to play within the unspoken rules of the game.
Recently, before the Ravens game, it was said that Pgh coach Tomlin told his players in a language that they all could understand: "our goal is to win the game. Stop bitc---g".
Despite that, the calls on the Pittsburgh team in both the Baltimore game and that of todays win against Cincinatti defy logic. Even opposing players have acknowledged as much. In a recent survey, 73% of fans questioned about James Harrison penalties said "He is being picked on."
Before going any further, let me acknowledge that some of the plays and/penalties committed by the "reserve players" on the Pittsburgh side were richly deserved. They simply lacked the playing time and practice to hone their skills and allow them to avoid those "nasty" penalties.
But, it's not just the Steelers who have suffered a real loss of regular players. The Bengals apppear to be much worse off in that category than the Steelers. One would assume therefore, that the Bengals should well have been penalized even more than the Steelers
"T'aint so, Magee" - says wife Molly of Fibber Magee and Molly radio fame.
So, why am I complaining? The Steelers are winning.
First of all, I agree with Tomlins dictate to the Steeler players to put a "lid on it." He recognized that an excuse of any nature not related to their performance is like a cancer and will definitely take an edge off of their performance. He also recognized "It's just not the Steeler way".
And, he's right!
Secondly, I'm not a Steelers player and a century away from a time when penalties assessed against me are worth a hoot. I also recognize the difference between objective and subjective decisions in life.
So, what is my problem? I'm not concerned about today. But, I am concerned about the future and what clearly appears to be rules inconsistently enforced on the field - that could make a difference in the results of Steelers games as well as other teams down the road. It clearly appears to be a case of the NFL making up the rules as we play the game- and that's not right. It has also not been adequately defended by the NFL. And, why should they?
For that reason, all I am asking is, "How do we make the officiating of these games a 'level playing field'? " This is something that the NFL office swears they are doing. But, is this yet one more misguided effort of the NFL to achieve parity?
My answer? Turn the films of the games over to an independent reviewing group and let them make some decisions as to whether or not the Steelers or any other team are being treated different than the rest of the teams.
Is this simply a case of the NFL telling the Steelers with their penalties and fines, "You, above all should have known better?"
I would start the independent review with the number and nature of the penalties called against the Steelers and then contrast those with the ones for which the officials appear willing to let the opposing teams actions slide.
The capability is there. The NFL has enough precise technical information available to determine which of the back judges are wearing boxers.
I watched todays games at a place that lacked all the audio of my friendly home big screen Sony. However, I did notice CBS focusing on the number of plays where clearly Ben Rothlisberger was assaulted - with no penalty calls being enforced. I particulary became outraged with the knee to his face after he was clearly down with a broken nose, and no penalty was called.
The problem is where do you go to get the NFL to do the right thing? Apparently, their omnipotence cannot be challenged. Don't look for the weak and disorganzied NFLPA to step in here. They have problems of their own.
Next. Do the Steelers need the like of me and a lot of other Steeler fans to defend their honor?
Answer: No! They will play their best game with or without me - and with or without complaining about the outrageous officiating they are seeing.
My concern is, why at a time that every news source seems to find some paranoid/ conspirational theory in any news development that hits the headlines, do they not see the possiblity of something untoward going on here?
Is the NFL really that powerful that no responsible news organization is willing to take them on for fear of the repercussions that may include the NFL's own version of a lockout?
Or will that only happen if the trend shifts to either the Jet's or the Giants? God forbid!
Commissioner Goodell recently commented that the added two regular season games will not cause more injuries to the players. "Rog" apparently had a "b.f. and forgot that the regulars play much fewer minutes in exhibition games than they would be required to do in regular season games.
Even the owners know they can much more easily afford injuries to the scrubs than to their regulars. Of course, that is assuming that any performance bonuses would not come into play.
Goodell also said that at some point the players will understand what they can and cannot due to avoid being penalized or fined. "Hey, Rog-o, can we discuss the horse and the cart analogy? "
May we also suggest the NFL starts this educational effort with the officials who appear to be totally confused while extremely desirous of satisfying the wants of the front office. Folks, it's called job security.
After writing the first draft of this blog I watched part of the Philly/Dallas game in time to see Philly QB Michael Vick receive - not one helmet-to-helmet hit - but, two. And they were on the same play. Once more it was referee McAuley's guys and no penalty was called. One assumes this officiating crew is "grading on the curve."
So, maybe it's not a "Pittsburgh thing" - but, a "Pennsylvania thing"?
And would it be too much to ask the independent reviewers to look at the plays where the guys have been fined - and return the money to the ones who were victims of clearly perverse calls.
Oh, and take it out of Goodells checking account seeing as how he's the one who is supposed to be in charge and was assumed to have a plan before jumping headlong (but not helmet-to-helmet) into this debacle.
Actually, I pity those officials who are presently calling the penalties using a sliderule mentality accompanied with knee jerk logic, while the NFL has the sophisticated computers and a review system the officials clearly lack and whose contents the NFL is apparently unwilling to share.
C-mon Roger, let us in on the new game rules too. Please share your collective wisdom with all of us? That is of course, assuming it does exist. This is like some poor slob finding his wife in bed with another guy and being told, "Don't worry, we'll explain all of this to you later."
In the meantime: GO STEELERS!
No crybabies here. But, when it walks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck - maybe it is a duck.
But, apparently the NFL is the only one with a duck hunting license this year.
No, it wasn't fair but I learned to play within the unspoken rules of the game.
Recently, before the Ravens game, it was said that Pgh coach Tomlin told his players in a language that they all could understand: "our goal is to win the game. Stop bitc---g".
Despite that, the calls on the Pittsburgh team in both the Baltimore game and that of todays win against Cincinatti defy logic. Even opposing players have acknowledged as much. In a recent survey, 73% of fans questioned about James Harrison penalties said "He is being picked on."
Before going any further, let me acknowledge that some of the plays and/penalties committed by the "reserve players" on the Pittsburgh side were richly deserved. They simply lacked the playing time and practice to hone their skills and allow them to avoid those "nasty" penalties.
But, it's not just the Steelers who have suffered a real loss of regular players. The Bengals apppear to be much worse off in that category than the Steelers. One would assume therefore, that the Bengals should well have been penalized even more than the Steelers
"T'aint so, Magee" - says wife Molly of Fibber Magee and Molly radio fame.
So, why am I complaining? The Steelers are winning.
First of all, I agree with Tomlins dictate to the Steeler players to put a "lid on it." He recognized that an excuse of any nature not related to their performance is like a cancer and will definitely take an edge off of their performance. He also recognized "It's just not the Steeler way".
And, he's right!
Secondly, I'm not a Steelers player and a century away from a time when penalties assessed against me are worth a hoot. I also recognize the difference between objective and subjective decisions in life.
So, what is my problem? I'm not concerned about today. But, I am concerned about the future and what clearly appears to be rules inconsistently enforced on the field - that could make a difference in the results of Steelers games as well as other teams down the road. It clearly appears to be a case of the NFL making up the rules as we play the game- and that's not right. It has also not been adequately defended by the NFL. And, why should they?
For that reason, all I am asking is, "How do we make the officiating of these games a 'level playing field'? " This is something that the NFL office swears they are doing. But, is this yet one more misguided effort of the NFL to achieve parity?
My answer? Turn the films of the games over to an independent reviewing group and let them make some decisions as to whether or not the Steelers or any other team are being treated different than the rest of the teams.
Is this simply a case of the NFL telling the Steelers with their penalties and fines, "You, above all should have known better?"
I would start the independent review with the number and nature of the penalties called against the Steelers and then contrast those with the ones for which the officials appear willing to let the opposing teams actions slide.
The capability is there. The NFL has enough precise technical information available to determine which of the back judges are wearing boxers.
I watched todays games at a place that lacked all the audio of my friendly home big screen Sony. However, I did notice CBS focusing on the number of plays where clearly Ben Rothlisberger was assaulted - with no penalty calls being enforced. I particulary became outraged with the knee to his face after he was clearly down with a broken nose, and no penalty was called.
The problem is where do you go to get the NFL to do the right thing? Apparently, their omnipotence cannot be challenged. Don't look for the weak and disorganzied NFLPA to step in here. They have problems of their own.
Next. Do the Steelers need the like of me and a lot of other Steeler fans to defend their honor?
Answer: No! They will play their best game with or without me - and with or without complaining about the outrageous officiating they are seeing.
My concern is, why at a time that every news source seems to find some paranoid/ conspirational theory in any news development that hits the headlines, do they not see the possiblity of something untoward going on here?
Is the NFL really that powerful that no responsible news organization is willing to take them on for fear of the repercussions that may include the NFL's own version of a lockout?
Or will that only happen if the trend shifts to either the Jet's or the Giants? God forbid!
Commissioner Goodell recently commented that the added two regular season games will not cause more injuries to the players. "Rog" apparently had a "b.f. and forgot that the regulars play much fewer minutes in exhibition games than they would be required to do in regular season games.
Even the owners know they can much more easily afford injuries to the scrubs than to their regulars. Of course, that is assuming that any performance bonuses would not come into play.
Goodell also said that at some point the players will understand what they can and cannot due to avoid being penalized or fined. "Hey, Rog-o, can we discuss the horse and the cart analogy? "
May we also suggest the NFL starts this educational effort with the officials who appear to be totally confused while extremely desirous of satisfying the wants of the front office. Folks, it's called job security.
After writing the first draft of this blog I watched part of the Philly/Dallas game in time to see Philly QB Michael Vick receive - not one helmet-to-helmet hit - but, two. And they were on the same play. Once more it was referee McAuley's guys and no penalty was called. One assumes this officiating crew is "grading on the curve."
So, maybe it's not a "Pittsburgh thing" - but, a "Pennsylvania thing"?
And would it be too much to ask the independent reviewers to look at the plays where the guys have been fined - and return the money to the ones who were victims of clearly perverse calls.
Oh, and take it out of Goodells checking account seeing as how he's the one who is supposed to be in charge and was assumed to have a plan before jumping headlong (but not helmet-to-helmet) into this debacle.
Actually, I pity those officials who are presently calling the penalties using a sliderule mentality accompanied with knee jerk logic, while the NFL has the sophisticated computers and a review system the officials clearly lack and whose contents the NFL is apparently unwilling to share.
C-mon Roger, let us in on the new game rules too. Please share your collective wisdom with all of us? That is of course, assuming it does exist. This is like some poor slob finding his wife in bed with another guy and being told, "Don't worry, we'll explain all of this to you later."
In the meantime: GO STEELERS!
No crybabies here. But, when it walks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck - maybe it is a duck.
But, apparently the NFL is the only one with a duck hunting license this year.
Friday, December 10, 2010
TANKS - BUT, NO TANKS!
Craig Wilson, a writer, both revered and often referred to here, has recently written a column on the subject of "thank you" notes.
Wilson contends that the use of these notes appears to be perceived by generations younger than his or mine, as one of those anachronisms that fit the definition of the word: "Something that is out of place in terms of chronology."
He states "I'd accept any sign of gratitude, any signal. I'd settle for smoke. Heck, I'd settle for Elvis: "Thank you - thank you very much." My wife and I agree. Anything, even a note tied to a rock they throw through the kitchen window. But, maybe not always.
Thank-you notes have become a lost art. This is definitely is not the time to cash in your 401-k and invest in a printing company that specializes in designing and manufacturing unique thank- you notes.
To clarify, I am not as consistent with my thank-you notes as I was in earlier years. Perhaps that is because we buried my mother in 1988 and she no longer looks over my shoulder on the occasions of my birthday or Christmas to see that I respond as a responsible young man should.
This is besides the fine efforts of my wife to get me back on track.
The lack of wedding gift acknowledgments remain among our pet peeve. One or the other of us will ask, "Do you think they got it? Maybe, the note we attached became loose and they don't know who sent the gift. Should we call her Mom and ask how they are enjoying their new lawn trimmer?"
In truth, we still have friends/relatives who thank us for something suggesting we're thinking of them. Thaat includes the small keepsakes we send out every Christmas. But, people do get busy, and honestly we don't do it in an effort to receive thank-you notes. It's a tradition that many people seem to like.
One friend, Harry, even included his thank- you note as a part of his blog: http://harry2335.blogspot.com/ But, then again, Harry has always been a "classy dude."
After reading Craig Wilson's blog I realized, while after a recent trip ,I only send an electronic thank-you note to my kids, I failed to do so to my hos. She drove my big butt all over Pittsburgh so I could see those kids and grandkids and celebrate some birthdays, too.
Oh yeah!, No "class dude" cudo for this blogger. Heck, in all the excitement I didn't even get around to filling the gas tank. I promise to rectify this lack of etiquette and plain common sense soon.
Now, saying "Thanks" can be misinterpreted also. Some may see it as being sarcastic or inappropriate. Some simply don't understand it simply means, "We're thinking of you."
In this century we've seen more and more signs of people dropping a gift certificate in the mail either as a thank you response or maybe, instead of flowers to which a family member may be allergic.
In one website: http://www.Mommyko.com/2009/03/how-to-say-thank-you-in-style, it described the etiquette of "when more than a note is appropriate." - and included the sending of a gift certificate - listing proper situations for sending same.
Apparently, it hasn't caught on everywhere as we discovered when we sent a gift certificate to someone out of state. We did so to acknowledge a truly magnaminous gesture - and one that was covered in the etiquette site above.
The modest gift certificate was to a restaurant we were led to understand was popular with the couple. There was no way we could match their benevolence, nor was there any indication they expected us to. It was simply something we've done for years for both family and friends.
The response was also not expected. The gift certificate was returned after a harsh e-mail with a nasty insinuation that our gift was in an inadequate amount to compensate for a rental of their home. We asked the recipient to reconsider but it was for naught.The recipient also returned the Christmas keepsakes we send to them and their family each year.
While their reaction was a shock, after reflecting for awhile, we realized it was not totally inconsistent with previous behaviors. Our gesture was clearly misunderstood.
Of course, not all gifts are perceived as appropriate. Sometimes it's just the nature of the gift received that can be bothering . Perhaps the recipient does not believe the sending of a thank-you note is appropriate - in view of the type of gift that was received. However, the gifter may have thought truly grateful people should appreciate a Christmas gift of argyle socks with embroidered kittens on the sides.
I was always taught the gift still deserves a thank-you note - but, perhaps not the inclusion of any real flowery stuff. I was told and have read ,"It's the giving - not the gift that's important."
Think about it. How many times did you want to send back Aunt Emma's annual Christmas fruitcake?
You probably didn't do it. Maybe you just buried it deep in the back yard where it could not harm either your children or other burrowing animals. But, you were always curious why that patch of grass high above the fruitcake had to be re-seeded each year.
Now, I see burying the fruitcake as a reasonable compromise in the whole thank-you notes and gift scenarios. However, I will now be more cautious about this whole thing of gift-giving.
Like the sending of thank-you notes, apparently not all folks would agree with my interpretation of proper etiquette.
Anyway. Interesting subject. And if you've read this far, "Thank You!" & "Merry Christmas."
Wilson contends that the use of these notes appears to be perceived by generations younger than his or mine, as one of those anachronisms that fit the definition of the word: "Something that is out of place in terms of chronology."
He states "I'd accept any sign of gratitude, any signal. I'd settle for smoke. Heck, I'd settle for Elvis: "Thank you - thank you very much." My wife and I agree. Anything, even a note tied to a rock they throw through the kitchen window. But, maybe not always.
Thank-you notes have become a lost art. This is definitely is not the time to cash in your 401-k and invest in a printing company that specializes in designing and manufacturing unique thank- you notes.
To clarify, I am not as consistent with my thank-you notes as I was in earlier years. Perhaps that is because we buried my mother in 1988 and she no longer looks over my shoulder on the occasions of my birthday or Christmas to see that I respond as a responsible young man should.
This is besides the fine efforts of my wife to get me back on track.
The lack of wedding gift acknowledgments remain among our pet peeve. One or the other of us will ask, "Do you think they got it? Maybe, the note we attached became loose and they don't know who sent the gift. Should we call her Mom and ask how they are enjoying their new lawn trimmer?"
In truth, we still have friends/relatives who thank us for something suggesting we're thinking of them. Thaat includes the small keepsakes we send out every Christmas. But, people do get busy, and honestly we don't do it in an effort to receive thank-you notes. It's a tradition that many people seem to like.
One friend, Harry, even included his thank- you note as a part of his blog: http://harry2335.blogspot.com/ But, then again, Harry has always been a "classy dude."
After reading Craig Wilson's blog I realized, while after a recent trip ,I only send an electronic thank-you note to my kids, I failed to do so to my hos. She drove my big butt all over Pittsburgh so I could see those kids and grandkids and celebrate some birthdays, too.
Oh yeah!, No "class dude" cudo for this blogger. Heck, in all the excitement I didn't even get around to filling the gas tank. I promise to rectify this lack of etiquette and plain common sense soon.
Now, saying "Thanks" can be misinterpreted also. Some may see it as being sarcastic or inappropriate. Some simply don't understand it simply means, "We're thinking of you."
In this century we've seen more and more signs of people dropping a gift certificate in the mail either as a thank you response or maybe, instead of flowers to which a family member may be allergic.
In one website: http://www.Mommyko.com/2009/03/how-to-say-thank-you-in-style, it described the etiquette of "when more than a note is appropriate." - and included the sending of a gift certificate - listing proper situations for sending same.
Apparently, it hasn't caught on everywhere as we discovered when we sent a gift certificate to someone out of state. We did so to acknowledge a truly magnaminous gesture - and one that was covered in the etiquette site above.
The modest gift certificate was to a restaurant we were led to understand was popular with the couple. There was no way we could match their benevolence, nor was there any indication they expected us to. It was simply something we've done for years for both family and friends.
The response was also not expected. The gift certificate was returned after a harsh e-mail with a nasty insinuation that our gift was in an inadequate amount to compensate for a rental of their home. We asked the recipient to reconsider but it was for naught.The recipient also returned the Christmas keepsakes we send to them and their family each year.
While their reaction was a shock, after reflecting for awhile, we realized it was not totally inconsistent with previous behaviors. Our gesture was clearly misunderstood.
Of course, not all gifts are perceived as appropriate. Sometimes it's just the nature of the gift received that can be bothering . Perhaps the recipient does not believe the sending of a thank-you note is appropriate - in view of the type of gift that was received. However, the gifter may have thought truly grateful people should appreciate a Christmas gift of argyle socks with embroidered kittens on the sides.
I was always taught the gift still deserves a thank-you note - but, perhaps not the inclusion of any real flowery stuff. I was told and have read ,"It's the giving - not the gift that's important."
Think about it. How many times did you want to send back Aunt Emma's annual Christmas fruitcake?
You probably didn't do it. Maybe you just buried it deep in the back yard where it could not harm either your children or other burrowing animals. But, you were always curious why that patch of grass high above the fruitcake had to be re-seeded each year.
Now, I see burying the fruitcake as a reasonable compromise in the whole thank-you notes and gift scenarios. However, I will now be more cautious about this whole thing of gift-giving.
Like the sending of thank-you notes, apparently not all folks would agree with my interpretation of proper etiquette.
Anyway. Interesting subject. And if you've read this far, "Thank You!" & "Merry Christmas."
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
SWITCHING GEARS
Let's say you're a small but ambitious automobile manufacturer. You couldn't afford Detroit wages so you build your car in Pastagoofus, Mississippi, and have done so for years.
You're corp of designers are flush with degrees from several community colleges across the land. Your engineers were trained by the Jobs Corp and have signed certificates to confirm this.
Your Marketing staff has at least three members who have never served time.
The local, state, & federal government politicians admire your efforts enough to dole out substantial manufacturing grants to your organization plus legislative earmarks.
One of the reasons for doing so is because you haven't outsourced any of your manufacturing functions to Alabama. Besides, you even added payroll by hiring several local bodyshop painters who still see the inclusion of Kem-Tone in the paint composition as a viable way to save cash.
The other reason for the politico's generosity is a willingness to overlook the fact sales are slipping but, they don't want you to leave. They feel you're basically a cottage industry with potential in Mississippi . You employ people who otherwise would be drawing either unemployment or welfare checks, and you are worthy of their support.
You have your outside critics but they truly love you in Pastagoofus. So much so that for the last ten years the city fathers have put your payment of taxes on a "pay as much as you can" basis.
A few years ago City council also raised substantial money through increased parking taxes and higher tariffs on pecan pie imports from Georgia. They did this to pay for a building that is as big as an indoor stadium - 10 times the size of your previous manufacturing plant. You are now contemplating a request for the addition of a sliding domed roof to allegedly release harmful paint fumes.
The City's rebuilding gestures impressed you primarily because each year you manufacture and sell about 5% less product than the previous year. Your big seller and, currently, your only model is a coupe with the engine in the back.
Your marketing staff has named it "Flatus". It can be fueled via a mixture of ethanol and legumes. (patent pending).
Despite all of the minor drawbacks, your car is the biggest seller in Pastagoofus. It's a sort of brand loyalty thing.
The citizens remember when your cars won design awards at trade shows in 1960, 1971, and 1979. As a result Pastagoofus was all the rage in the southern engineering magazines. The mayor and his brother in-law were even invited on the "Jack Paar Tonight Show" in 1960, the year your guys beat out the leading designing team from New York.
"Flatus" is also a big hit with legume and corn farmers throughout the state of Mississippi.
In other towns within the state the car is most often purchased at a discount by church organizations. They do so by raising money via congregational car washes and the sale of 100 proof "Holy Water." Their hopes and prayers are that each year they can send more and more "Flatus" to needy missionary groups throughout the Dominican Republic.
You continue to tour the State with each years new model - in various colors - making annual minor modifications to the headlights and the dash. You employ a sort of "Flatus" Caravan inspired by the Marketing department gurus who assure you it will increase sales throughout the State.
And yet, for years, folks outside the State of Mississippi and living in the non-auto manufacturing world wondered how you could continue to make it in the competetive world of automobile building.
Unfortunately, WikiLeaks papers recently revealed your secret.
It seems that since the election of President Obama his braintrust has annually assessed each of the wealthier carmakers: Ford, Chrysler, and General Motors, in order to keep your financial head above water - and, of course, to garner much needed votes in the South.
The carrot and stick routine is that, without this concession by the Big Three, they will never again be offered another government bailout. Even Mississipi Republican leaders are in agreement with the covert operation.
The monthly amount dispersed cannot be positively determined despite the new and increased transparency of the current government philosophy. However, it has been revealed that the assessments go directly to you and your highly trained staff . Of course, that is based on your promise that you and your Board of Directors will put all the money right back into "Flatus" manufacturing. And in truth, you have replaced those crank window thingabobbies with sliding windows on the driver's side.
The program has worked so successfully that you and the Board have decided it is time to branch out.
Not in the manufacture of cars. Instead, you have decided to float a bid to bring a Major League Baseball club to Pastagoofus by purchasing a losing team from the City of Pittsburgh.
If successful, your CFO assures you there should be little, if any, changes required in how you currently do business.
You might even think about switching gears and buy a ski resort down the road.
You're corp of designers are flush with degrees from several community colleges across the land. Your engineers were trained by the Jobs Corp and have signed certificates to confirm this.
Your Marketing staff has at least three members who have never served time.
The local, state, & federal government politicians admire your efforts enough to dole out substantial manufacturing grants to your organization plus legislative earmarks.
One of the reasons for doing so is because you haven't outsourced any of your manufacturing functions to Alabama. Besides, you even added payroll by hiring several local bodyshop painters who still see the inclusion of Kem-Tone in the paint composition as a viable way to save cash.
The other reason for the politico's generosity is a willingness to overlook the fact sales are slipping but, they don't want you to leave. They feel you're basically a cottage industry with potential in Mississippi . You employ people who otherwise would be drawing either unemployment or welfare checks, and you are worthy of their support.
You have your outside critics but they truly love you in Pastagoofus. So much so that for the last ten years the city fathers have put your payment of taxes on a "pay as much as you can" basis.
A few years ago City council also raised substantial money through increased parking taxes and higher tariffs on pecan pie imports from Georgia. They did this to pay for a building that is as big as an indoor stadium - 10 times the size of your previous manufacturing plant. You are now contemplating a request for the addition of a sliding domed roof to allegedly release harmful paint fumes.
The City's rebuilding gestures impressed you primarily because each year you manufacture and sell about 5% less product than the previous year. Your big seller and, currently, your only model is a coupe with the engine in the back.
Your marketing staff has named it "Flatus". It can be fueled via a mixture of ethanol and legumes. (patent pending).
Despite all of the minor drawbacks, your car is the biggest seller in Pastagoofus. It's a sort of brand loyalty thing.
The citizens remember when your cars won design awards at trade shows in 1960, 1971, and 1979. As a result Pastagoofus was all the rage in the southern engineering magazines. The mayor and his brother in-law were even invited on the "Jack Paar Tonight Show" in 1960, the year your guys beat out the leading designing team from New York.
"Flatus" is also a big hit with legume and corn farmers throughout the state of Mississippi.
In other towns within the state the car is most often purchased at a discount by church organizations. They do so by raising money via congregational car washes and the sale of 100 proof "Holy Water." Their hopes and prayers are that each year they can send more and more "Flatus" to needy missionary groups throughout the Dominican Republic.
You continue to tour the State with each years new model - in various colors - making annual minor modifications to the headlights and the dash. You employ a sort of "Flatus" Caravan inspired by the Marketing department gurus who assure you it will increase sales throughout the State.
And yet, for years, folks outside the State of Mississippi and living in the non-auto manufacturing world wondered how you could continue to make it in the competetive world of automobile building.
Unfortunately, WikiLeaks papers recently revealed your secret.
It seems that since the election of President Obama his braintrust has annually assessed each of the wealthier carmakers: Ford, Chrysler, and General Motors, in order to keep your financial head above water - and, of course, to garner much needed votes in the South.
The carrot and stick routine is that, without this concession by the Big Three, they will never again be offered another government bailout. Even Mississipi Republican leaders are in agreement with the covert operation.
The monthly amount dispersed cannot be positively determined despite the new and increased transparency of the current government philosophy. However, it has been revealed that the assessments go directly to you and your highly trained staff . Of course, that is based on your promise that you and your Board of Directors will put all the money right back into "Flatus" manufacturing. And in truth, you have replaced those crank window thingabobbies with sliding windows on the driver's side.
The program has worked so successfully that you and the Board have decided it is time to branch out.
Not in the manufacture of cars. Instead, you have decided to float a bid to bring a Major League Baseball club to Pastagoofus by purchasing a losing team from the City of Pittsburgh.
If successful, your CFO assures you there should be little, if any, changes required in how you currently do business.
You might even think about switching gears and buy a ski resort down the road.
Monday, December 6, 2010
HEY, NOBODY ASKED - - - -
Hey, nobody never asked me neither, but:
If you have any doubts whether or not this country lacks proper exercise,visit almost any shopping plaza anchored by a grocery store - and count the # of carts abandoned on top of light stanchions, curbs, kidney shaped islands, small children and abandoned pets.
We met a buddy of ours recently returning a couple carts (besides his own) over by the local Publix. He said he saw a woman a few days earlier struggling to get hers to stay in place on the curb of an island about 10 feet from the cart return area.
Steve yelled in a loud voice , "Hey, what are you doing?" First embarassed she quickly fell back on that misplaced self-esteem Mom & Dad gave her. The woman replied, "Well, you know."
He said, "No, I really don't ", and walked away shaking his head.
We don't either. These people are the same ones who won't flush the urinals and commodes at Sams for fear of getting germs from the water vapor.
I still want to figure out a way to convince Super grocery stores, Walmart, etc into installing huge speakers on top of the poles of their shopping center. Each would be able to broadcast clearly for, say, a couple of city blocks.
Then I'd volunteer to sit with a few of my retiree buddies in a van that was equipped with a good amplified microphone. We'd drink our Dr. Pepper's and wear our Dr. Denton's while we each took turns coming up with appropriate critiques from a obscure parking spot location with the best visability.
Another idea was to install a strong but tiny magnet onto the front of each shopping cart which could be controlled by a remote so it would attach the cart to the rear of the culprits vehicle bumper as they attempted to leave their parking spot.
This would be followed up by the shopping center police making a citizens arrest at the parking lot exit . The charge, of course, would be "shopping cart lifting."
Maybe the cart could be rigged too so that it would self illuminate with those blinking Christmas tree lights. They could spell out :"HELP, I'M BEING CARTNAPPED."
Obviously, there are still a few bugs to be worked out.
See, what a Steeler victory in Baltimore will do for an old Pittsburgh guy with time on his hands.
Who cares if "nobody never asked neither?"
If you have any doubts whether or not this country lacks proper exercise,visit almost any shopping plaza anchored by a grocery store - and count the # of carts abandoned on top of light stanchions, curbs, kidney shaped islands, small children and abandoned pets.
We met a buddy of ours recently returning a couple carts (besides his own) over by the local Publix. He said he saw a woman a few days earlier struggling to get hers to stay in place on the curb of an island about 10 feet from the cart return area.
Steve yelled in a loud voice , "Hey, what are you doing?" First embarassed she quickly fell back on that misplaced self-esteem Mom & Dad gave her. The woman replied, "Well, you know."
He said, "No, I really don't ", and walked away shaking his head.
We don't either. These people are the same ones who won't flush the urinals and commodes at Sams for fear of getting germs from the water vapor.
I still want to figure out a way to convince Super grocery stores, Walmart, etc into installing huge speakers on top of the poles of their shopping center. Each would be able to broadcast clearly for, say, a couple of city blocks.
Then I'd volunteer to sit with a few of my retiree buddies in a van that was equipped with a good amplified microphone. We'd drink our Dr. Pepper's and wear our Dr. Denton's while we each took turns coming up with appropriate critiques from a obscure parking spot location with the best visability.
Another idea was to install a strong but tiny magnet onto the front of each shopping cart which could be controlled by a remote so it would attach the cart to the rear of the culprits vehicle bumper as they attempted to leave their parking spot.
This would be followed up by the shopping center police making a citizens arrest at the parking lot exit . The charge, of course, would be "shopping cart lifting."
Maybe the cart could be rigged too so that it would self illuminate with those blinking Christmas tree lights. They could spell out :"HELP, I'M BEING CARTNAPPED."
Obviously, there are still a few bugs to be worked out.
See, what a Steeler victory in Baltimore will do for an old Pittsburgh guy with time on his hands.
Who cares if "nobody never asked neither?"
Thursday, December 2, 2010
BEATING IT TO DEATH
For this blogger, reading the sports pages and TV accounts of the illegal hits controversy in the NFL is like Dracula being named to the YWCA summer camp staff. It's Manna from heaven.
The latest is the NFL Executive V.P. of football operations' Ray Anderson's response to the Steeler players assertion that James Harrison is being profiled by the league, the officials on the field, and whatever vitriol is left over is aimed at the entire Steeler's organization.
Anderson characterized the conclusion as "misguided and frankly, completely untrue" He continued, "Every team and every player, hopefully, will have the confidence that, if they play within the rules, we won't have this problem."
What rules? The ones whose interpretations are changed more frequently than the prices at Walmart?
"Taint so," says "Rain Man" who apparently is a "know all - see all", and who -not unlike Carnac - comes to us from the mysterious East - or as far East as the NFL offices are located.
It is old Ray and assistant Director Merton Hanks, a former NFL player, but not Commissioner Roger Goodell who have sole responsibility for making the illegal/fineable hit determinations.
Another NFL official, Michael Signora, said the reason Harrison wasn't suspended was "because it wasn't a flagrant hit." He added that although the hit was not flagrant, as a multiple offender of the rules in this area, Harrison received a significant fine.' (What area, Pittsburgh?)
So, let me see. Even if the hits by Harrison were examined several times and replays found at least two were found to be legal - they still are included in the accounting standards of the NFL?" This is like waiting for Mitch McConnells latest position on "earmarks" or giving approval to Bernie Madoffs math calculations.
We all watched the hit last Sunday. What we didn't see was the same thing that referee John Parry saw when he chose to penalize Harrison - precipitously. One assumes he recognized early on that in addition to a desire to hit the quarterback - James also had salacious thoughts about one of the female fans sitting in the endzone.
Rothlisberger - among others in the Steelers organization - states that Parry went for his flag even before Harrison hit the Buffalo quarterback. Why not? What's another $25,000 fine between friends?
Parry initially said, the penalty was called "for leading with the crown - or top- of his helmet." Replay definitely shows the top of Harrison's helmet never touched quarterback Fitzpatrick.
Perhaps the correct conclusion is the penalty resulted from a "self-fullfilling prophesy."
The explanations vary from week to week as to what the NFL "dynamic duo" believes comprises an illegal hit.
One of my favorites is "the offense was a 'full body' hit . It reminds me of the Hippos in Disney's -"Fantasia" - trying to dance carefully across the stage in their tutu's. It ain't going to happen - not even on "Dancing With The Stars." It's called football and big guys play it.
The NFL in it's final infinite wisdom declared they fined Harrison because "he made helmet contact to the chest of the Buffalo quarterback, who was in a defenseless position."
Yeah, maybe he was defenseless. Happens to a lot to quarterbacks who "stay too long at the fair" while exploring their options.
We got ''El Numero Uno" in Rothlisberger. He's often criticized for doing just that.
A couple of Buffalo players were trying to convince him of the evil of this fool hearted behavior by roughing him up after they sacked him this past Sunday. You probably missed the fines the NFL announced after that play. Let's not even go into the Finnegan/Johnson debacle.
Oh, and they just announced, Big Ben has a broken foot.
So who do you blame for the NFL's apparent inconsistency? The referee who's trying to hold onto his job by doing what HE thinks is consistent with the league's philosophy? The two guys who solely are responsible for making these omnipotent calls but, who in addition, apparently have found the time to examine every play committed by 32 teams (excluding bye weeks) and then determine whether or not they should result in a fine?
These guys give multi-tasking a whole new meaning.
Or do you blame Harrison for some of his foolish statements including the one that started this whole bruhaha by saying, in effect, "I'm just trying to put a hurt on them - not maim them"and now states,"I'm going to continue to play the same way and won't adjust my tackling technique"?
My conclusion? It's a gross miscarriage of justice, and the worst case of failing to develop an exit strategy since George W.
One suggestion: "Put a third guy in the booth. Add the guy heading up the TSA to the current team of NFL decision makers. He's also convinced he's always right - everybody else is wrong- and he's also really good at getting people pissed off."
Does it bother you that only two people can accurately interpret Rule 12 and it's variations as to what constitutes an illegal hit?
I'm done. On this subject, I sure don't want to be accused of "Beating it to death."
The latest is the NFL Executive V.P. of football operations' Ray Anderson's response to the Steeler players assertion that James Harrison is being profiled by the league, the officials on the field, and whatever vitriol is left over is aimed at the entire Steeler's organization.
Anderson characterized the conclusion as "misguided and frankly, completely untrue" He continued, "Every team and every player, hopefully, will have the confidence that, if they play within the rules, we won't have this problem."
What rules? The ones whose interpretations are changed more frequently than the prices at Walmart?
"Taint so," says "Rain Man" who apparently is a "know all - see all", and who -not unlike Carnac - comes to us from the mysterious East - or as far East as the NFL offices are located.
It is old Ray and assistant Director Merton Hanks, a former NFL player, but not Commissioner Roger Goodell who have sole responsibility for making the illegal/fineable hit determinations.
Another NFL official, Michael Signora, said the reason Harrison wasn't suspended was "because it wasn't a flagrant hit." He added that although the hit was not flagrant, as a multiple offender of the rules in this area, Harrison received a significant fine.' (What area, Pittsburgh?)
So, let me see. Even if the hits by Harrison were examined several times and replays found at least two were found to be legal - they still are included in the accounting standards of the NFL?" This is like waiting for Mitch McConnells latest position on "earmarks" or giving approval to Bernie Madoffs math calculations.
We all watched the hit last Sunday. What we didn't see was the same thing that referee John Parry saw when he chose to penalize Harrison - precipitously. One assumes he recognized early on that in addition to a desire to hit the quarterback - James also had salacious thoughts about one of the female fans sitting in the endzone.
Rothlisberger - among others in the Steelers organization - states that Parry went for his flag even before Harrison hit the Buffalo quarterback. Why not? What's another $25,000 fine between friends?
Parry initially said, the penalty was called "for leading with the crown - or top- of his helmet." Replay definitely shows the top of Harrison's helmet never touched quarterback Fitzpatrick.
Perhaps the correct conclusion is the penalty resulted from a "self-fullfilling prophesy."
The explanations vary from week to week as to what the NFL "dynamic duo" believes comprises an illegal hit.
One of my favorites is "the offense was a 'full body' hit . It reminds me of the Hippos in Disney's -"Fantasia" - trying to dance carefully across the stage in their tutu's. It ain't going to happen - not even on "Dancing With The Stars." It's called football and big guys play it.
The NFL in it's final infinite wisdom declared they fined Harrison because "he made helmet contact to the chest of the Buffalo quarterback, who was in a defenseless position."
Yeah, maybe he was defenseless. Happens to a lot to quarterbacks who "stay too long at the fair" while exploring their options.
We got ''El Numero Uno" in Rothlisberger. He's often criticized for doing just that.
A couple of Buffalo players were trying to convince him of the evil of this fool hearted behavior by roughing him up after they sacked him this past Sunday. You probably missed the fines the NFL announced after that play. Let's not even go into the Finnegan/Johnson debacle.
Oh, and they just announced, Big Ben has a broken foot.
So who do you blame for the NFL's apparent inconsistency? The referee who's trying to hold onto his job by doing what HE thinks is consistent with the league's philosophy? The two guys who solely are responsible for making these omnipotent calls but, who in addition, apparently have found the time to examine every play committed by 32 teams (excluding bye weeks) and then determine whether or not they should result in a fine?
These guys give multi-tasking a whole new meaning.
Or do you blame Harrison for some of his foolish statements including the one that started this whole bruhaha by saying, in effect, "I'm just trying to put a hurt on them - not maim them"and now states,"I'm going to continue to play the same way and won't adjust my tackling technique"?
My conclusion? It's a gross miscarriage of justice, and the worst case of failing to develop an exit strategy since George W.
One suggestion: "Put a third guy in the booth. Add the guy heading up the TSA to the current team of NFL decision makers. He's also convinced he's always right - everybody else is wrong- and he's also really good at getting people pissed off."
Does it bother you that only two people can accurately interpret Rule 12 and it's variations as to what constitutes an illegal hit?
I'm done. On this subject, I sure don't want to be accused of "Beating it to death."
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Things Are Looking Up
A couple of folks have been kind enough to send me E-mail references in The Washington Post, etc.
While out of town recently my E-mail backed up to about six figures, I think. And that's alright as I receive some truly funny ones as well as some that pull at the old heart strings.
One of those E-mails included a reference to a column by Cal Thomas, who I usually find amusing in his weekly debate column in the USA Today. Cal can be a little churlish - and looks the part.
His column suggested making Congress a part-time job. He quotes Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal who recommended that they should also never be allowed to become lobbyists, reasoning that "when they have to live under the same rules and laws they pass for the rest of us, maybe you'd see some more common sense coming out of Washington."
Obviously, this is not a new song sung by some members of the media. However it , along with a lot of other opinions being published, suggest that maybe - just maybe - the politicians are starting to get the message. If so, some of our prayers may be answered.
Some interesting observations: Jindal, a former congressman, said, "Once elected, too many lawmakers become entrenched in Washington and are transformed into the very people they campaigned against.(my very concern about the recent Tea-Party victors).
Thomas points out that several states have part-time legislatures that meet every two years to consider a budget as well as other truly important matters. One assumes that does not include "posturing themselves" on C-Span.
It is true that there does not appear to be a movement afoot asking Congress to pass any more laws. Under this premise Congress - like the part-time legislature - would be on call "should anything momentous occur."
Is this a viable idea? Let me just say that if this blog was more widely circulated there would be more dissents than the number of blogs I've written - and, that's saying something.
Like a drivers licence is advertised as a privilege rather than a right, Thomas argues that serving in Congress should be seen as just that: service as opposed to self-service. He pleads that serving should be as originally intended - a privilege - but, never a profession.
I've often felt there are two films that should be required to be shown in all school systems. The first is "Inherit The Wind" an examination of "The Scopes Monkey Trial." The second is the musical play turned into a movie, "1776".
A viewing of the latter enables one to understand the dissent and compromise inherent in the founding of our country as well as the events leading up to the signing of The Declaration of Independence."
Perhaps it should be required viewing by Congress. However, the sight of Mitch McConnell in a fright wig portraying John Adams while singing something by Eminen, kind of discourages a re-enactment.
Still, Thomas uses some historical data to advance his cause for more stay at home politicians. He speaks of the concern The Founders had over a Congress " divorced from the realities of the rest of the country."
He quotes one of the leaders, Connecticut's Roger Sherman, during the Constitutional Convention in 1787: "Representatives ought to return home and mix with the people. By remaining at the seat of government, they would acquire the habits of the place, which might differ from those of their constituents."
One of my pet peeves about Congress is addressed much more eloquently by Thomas.
He states "Returning home shouldn't mean flying home for long weekends and then coming back to Washington." He supports the alternative where members of Congress return to a 'real job', where the member cannot raise his own pay, receive top medical care at reduced or no cost, print and spend other people's money - or count on others to pay his retirement fund."
He ends his essay by quoting former Missouri Republican Sen. John Danforth: " I have never seen more Senators express discontent with their jobs. I think the major cause is that, deep down in our hearts, we have been accomplices to doing something terrible and unforgivable to this wonderful country.. We know that we have bankrupted America and that we have given our children a legacy of bankruptcy . . . .We have defrauded our country to get ourselves elected."
Most people admire people who espouse our own beliefs, and in some case, written opinions.
This humble blogger is no exception. If this is the beginning of a common theme to promote healing and common sense, then definitely, 'Things are looking up."
While out of town recently my E-mail backed up to about six figures, I think. And that's alright as I receive some truly funny ones as well as some that pull at the old heart strings.
One of those E-mails included a reference to a column by Cal Thomas, who I usually find amusing in his weekly debate column in the USA Today. Cal can be a little churlish - and looks the part.
His column suggested making Congress a part-time job. He quotes Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal who recommended that they should also never be allowed to become lobbyists, reasoning that "when they have to live under the same rules and laws they pass for the rest of us, maybe you'd see some more common sense coming out of Washington."
Obviously, this is not a new song sung by some members of the media. However it , along with a lot of other opinions being published, suggest that maybe - just maybe - the politicians are starting to get the message. If so, some of our prayers may be answered.
Some interesting observations: Jindal, a former congressman, said, "Once elected, too many lawmakers become entrenched in Washington and are transformed into the very people they campaigned against.(my very concern about the recent Tea-Party victors).
Thomas points out that several states have part-time legislatures that meet every two years to consider a budget as well as other truly important matters. One assumes that does not include "posturing themselves" on C-Span.
It is true that there does not appear to be a movement afoot asking Congress to pass any more laws. Under this premise Congress - like the part-time legislature - would be on call "should anything momentous occur."
Is this a viable idea? Let me just say that if this blog was more widely circulated there would be more dissents than the number of blogs I've written - and, that's saying something.
Like a drivers licence is advertised as a privilege rather than a right, Thomas argues that serving in Congress should be seen as just that: service as opposed to self-service. He pleads that serving should be as originally intended - a privilege - but, never a profession.
I've often felt there are two films that should be required to be shown in all school systems. The first is "Inherit The Wind" an examination of "The Scopes Monkey Trial." The second is the musical play turned into a movie, "1776".
A viewing of the latter enables one to understand the dissent and compromise inherent in the founding of our country as well as the events leading up to the signing of The Declaration of Independence."
Perhaps it should be required viewing by Congress. However, the sight of Mitch McConnell in a fright wig portraying John Adams while singing something by Eminen, kind of discourages a re-enactment.
Still, Thomas uses some historical data to advance his cause for more stay at home politicians. He speaks of the concern The Founders had over a Congress " divorced from the realities of the rest of the country."
He quotes one of the leaders, Connecticut's Roger Sherman, during the Constitutional Convention in 1787: "Representatives ought to return home and mix with the people. By remaining at the seat of government, they would acquire the habits of the place, which might differ from those of their constituents."
One of my pet peeves about Congress is addressed much more eloquently by Thomas.
He states "Returning home shouldn't mean flying home for long weekends and then coming back to Washington." He supports the alternative where members of Congress return to a 'real job', where the member cannot raise his own pay, receive top medical care at reduced or no cost, print and spend other people's money - or count on others to pay his retirement fund."
He ends his essay by quoting former Missouri Republican Sen. John Danforth: " I have never seen more Senators express discontent with their jobs. I think the major cause is that, deep down in our hearts, we have been accomplices to doing something terrible and unforgivable to this wonderful country.. We know that we have bankrupted America and that we have given our children a legacy of bankruptcy . . . .We have defrauded our country to get ourselves elected."
Most people admire people who espouse our own beliefs, and in some case, written opinions.
This humble blogger is no exception. If this is the beginning of a common theme to promote healing and common sense, then definitely, 'Things are looking up."
Absolutely No Truth
There is absolutely no truth to the rumor that NFL Commisioner Goodell was mugged in the parking garage under the NFL headquarters on Monday.
Thus, the follow-up rumor that the Commish immediately went back up the elevator and fined Linebacker James Harrison $50,000 for his obvious involvement in the incident, cannot be sustained.
This past Sunday the officials saw to it that, once more, James was penalized for his hit on the Buffalo quarterback. He awaits word on whether he will also be fined for that QB hit. His appeal of the $95,000 in previous fines was denied by the NFL the other day. Big surprise!
You got to feel bad for the guy if you later watched the tender treatment administered to the same QB by defensive back Ike Taylor and Harrison. The only thing they didn't do was to bring out a Serta Mattress before they jointly grasped ( not tackle) him to impede his forward progress.
I believe I saw one of them wipe his nose before helping him up. Them Harvard grads get all the breaks.
Despite all the criticism of Harrison by those who are not Steeler fans, he appears to be genuinely contrite - and scared. And, I am not being empathetic strictly because his surname is the same as my long deceased grandmother.
Some suggestions for Uncle James as he seeks a new and kinder approach in the remaining Steeler games:
Campaign for the the other teams' players to be required to wear sash like flags that you might grasp thus signifying you have stopped their progress.
Learn to yell loudly, "Look out, ready or not, I'm coming!" before making contact with any opposing player.
Each week, pay the NFL filming crew to send you a DVD of all the "vicious" hits by other teams' linebackers that were not called. Then forward the film to the Commish's office - return receipt requested. If that doesn't work, consider mailing them to WikiLeaks.
When approaching the quarterback, instead of striking him immediately, first reach up and remove his helmet before pummeling him with your fists. The fine has apparently been set at $25,000 - a much more palatable amount than the Price Is Right approach you have been enduring.
It's hard to imagine how the Buffalo Bills haven't won more games. No holding penalties? We had one guy who was assessed four, I think.
No, we're not being picked on? The Giants have now knocked "5 "QB's out of games? Anybody remember the penalties or fines?
There was an interesting letter to the USA Today editor by a guy who was a former high school football coach. He suggested some options to accomplish Goodell's Goodwill Mission. (GGM):
Move the defensive line a yard off the ball to lessen the blow lineman on both sides suffer, thus eliminating or greatly reducing the "launch" damage.
Encourage more "spearing" calls by the NFL referees similar to the high school rules making same a 15 yard penalty.
Declare that if the offending player caused an injury due to a helmet to helmet hit, the "bad guy" would sit out the same number of games as the injured player.
If the injured player is required to sit out the season due to the injury the offending player must do the same.
He reasons: "It is only when players see their livelihoods are attached to the well-being of fellow players that change will take place in the NFL."
Yeah, I agree there are more than a few holes in the above premise; but these are suggestions that may be worth discussing in an attempt to reach some sanity. God knows we desperately need some consistency; and this may be a start.
Of course, that's assuming the "Bully On The Block" ever approves of discussion as a plausible approach.
Oh, and there's absolutely no truth to that rumor either.
Thus, the follow-up rumor that the Commish immediately went back up the elevator and fined Linebacker James Harrison $50,000 for his obvious involvement in the incident, cannot be sustained.
This past Sunday the officials saw to it that, once more, James was penalized for his hit on the Buffalo quarterback. He awaits word on whether he will also be fined for that QB hit. His appeal of the $95,000 in previous fines was denied by the NFL the other day. Big surprise!
You got to feel bad for the guy if you later watched the tender treatment administered to the same QB by defensive back Ike Taylor and Harrison. The only thing they didn't do was to bring out a Serta Mattress before they jointly grasped ( not tackle) him to impede his forward progress.
I believe I saw one of them wipe his nose before helping him up. Them Harvard grads get all the breaks.
Despite all the criticism of Harrison by those who are not Steeler fans, he appears to be genuinely contrite - and scared. And, I am not being empathetic strictly because his surname is the same as my long deceased grandmother.
Some suggestions for Uncle James as he seeks a new and kinder approach in the remaining Steeler games:
Campaign for the the other teams' players to be required to wear sash like flags that you might grasp thus signifying you have stopped their progress.
Learn to yell loudly, "Look out, ready or not, I'm coming!" before making contact with any opposing player.
Each week, pay the NFL filming crew to send you a DVD of all the "vicious" hits by other teams' linebackers that were not called. Then forward the film to the Commish's office - return receipt requested. If that doesn't work, consider mailing them to WikiLeaks.
When approaching the quarterback, instead of striking him immediately, first reach up and remove his helmet before pummeling him with your fists. The fine has apparently been set at $25,000 - a much more palatable amount than the Price Is Right approach you have been enduring.
It's hard to imagine how the Buffalo Bills haven't won more games. No holding penalties? We had one guy who was assessed four, I think.
No, we're not being picked on? The Giants have now knocked "5 "QB's out of games? Anybody remember the penalties or fines?
There was an interesting letter to the USA Today editor by a guy who was a former high school football coach. He suggested some options to accomplish Goodell's Goodwill Mission. (GGM):
Move the defensive line a yard off the ball to lessen the blow lineman on both sides suffer, thus eliminating or greatly reducing the "launch" damage.
Encourage more "spearing" calls by the NFL referees similar to the high school rules making same a 15 yard penalty.
Declare that if the offending player caused an injury due to a helmet to helmet hit, the "bad guy" would sit out the same number of games as the injured player.
If the injured player is required to sit out the season due to the injury the offending player must do the same.
He reasons: "It is only when players see their livelihoods are attached to the well-being of fellow players that change will take place in the NFL."
Yeah, I agree there are more than a few holes in the above premise; but these are suggestions that may be worth discussing in an attempt to reach some sanity. God knows we desperately need some consistency; and this may be a start.
Of course, that's assuming the "Bully On The Block" ever approves of discussion as a plausible approach.
Oh, and there's absolutely no truth to that rumor either.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
STAND-UP COMEDY?
The 15th District Harlem voters selected Democrat Charles Rangel to be their congressional representative in 1970. Forty years later he is still the Representative - having been re-elected 20 times.
He was easily re-elected in 2010 for a 21st term this year despite Ethics violations - the extent of which was only just recenty determined. He is Dean of New York's congressional delegation.
In 2007 - three years ago - he became the Chairman of the powerful House Ways & Means Committee. - the first African-American to do so; and is also a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus.
Thursday, the House ethics committee overwhelmingly voted to censure Rangel for abusing his office and engaging in financial misconduct. Let's try to put this in perspective.
If a Prosecutor's Office of a major city finds that the prosecutors failed to perform their job in a legal righteous manner - there is Hell to pay.
If found to be guilty of violations such as witness tampering, failure to disclose evidence to the Defense as provided for by judicial regulation - or even are guilty of being "mean spirited" - a detailed investigation of their pattern of misconduct is immediately sought.
One outcome is that many of the folks who have been convicted by the Prosecutors office during the relevant period of time - may be released.
Rangel was also "released". He lost his Chairmanship status recently in view of the ethics violations against him.
Despite this there's no indication any or all decisions/contracts promulgated by the Chairman during the past three years will be reviewed for possible revocation. Given the extent of the findings(below) one could logically assume that all legislation and contracts awarded should be careful examined to determine if criminal misconduct was committed by Charlie. "Right!"
In the 9 to 1 vote by the the House Ethics committee (in closed session) the committee recommended he be censured - but, not removed from office. The censure is the second strongest punishment short of expulsion. The findings of the Committee were that he was guilty of 11 counts, of which a few are:
Breaking House rules by using his office to solicit millions of dollars in donations from companies before his committee.
Housing a campaign office in a rent-stabilized New York apartment that had been set aside for residential use.
Failing to disclose assets and income in reports to Congress.
Failing to pay taxes to the IRS on rental income from his Caribbean vacation villa - for seventeen (17) years.
No other House lawmaker has been found guilty of as many counts of rulebreaking by an Ethics panel. Former Pitt quarterback and ex-legislator Jimmy Traficante - now out of jail - may demand a recount from his former Congressional buddies.
The money Charlie was found guilty of soliciting from those companies in interest was to help fund a non-profit college center to be named for him. That amount, again, was determined to be in the "MILLIONS.".
An emotional Rangel had a request. He implored the committee to make clear in its report "Charles Rangel never sought any personal gain." He claimed he may have been "overzealous" in his effort to raise money for the center - but, declared he was "not corrupt."
Reminds one of a President who swore "I am not a thief", and a more recent one who declared "I never had sex with that woman."
The case now moves to the full house which would have to approve"formal censure".
N.C. Democratic Representative G.K. Butterfield said, "Censure is extreme. It should be reserved for intentional conduct". Georgia Democratic representative called Rangel "a good and decent man".
Apparently, the violations committed by Rangel are okay if he is found to be "a good and decent man." Makes one wonder what Charlie might have done had he been indecent.
A voting district which constantly elects the same representative suggest they also see him as "a good and decent man." Who would want to elect a politician who was corrupt?
Perhaps that's because, in comparison, his Congressional District predecessor was Adam Clayton Powell who, in the late 60's, forced most of us to look up the location of Bimini; where Powell spent much of his time as Congressman.
The reasons for the district's decision to replace Adam with Rangel were many; possibly including Powell's alleged threat to reveal Martin Luther King as having had a homosexual relationship.
If the House agrees with the 9 to 1 vote of the Ethics committee, Rangel, as a censured lawmaker - has to "stand" on the House floor as the resolution condemning his actions is read aloud.
Shouldn't be a problem. Apparently Charlie has always been thought of as "a stand up" kind of guy.
He was easily re-elected in 2010 for a 21st term this year despite Ethics violations - the extent of which was only just recenty determined. He is Dean of New York's congressional delegation.
In 2007 - three years ago - he became the Chairman of the powerful House Ways & Means Committee. - the first African-American to do so; and is also a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus.
Thursday, the House ethics committee overwhelmingly voted to censure Rangel for abusing his office and engaging in financial misconduct. Let's try to put this in perspective.
If a Prosecutor's Office of a major city finds that the prosecutors failed to perform their job in a legal righteous manner - there is Hell to pay.
If found to be guilty of violations such as witness tampering, failure to disclose evidence to the Defense as provided for by judicial regulation - or even are guilty of being "mean spirited" - a detailed investigation of their pattern of misconduct is immediately sought.
One outcome is that many of the folks who have been convicted by the Prosecutors office during the relevant period of time - may be released.
Rangel was also "released". He lost his Chairmanship status recently in view of the ethics violations against him.
Despite this there's no indication any or all decisions/contracts promulgated by the Chairman during the past three years will be reviewed for possible revocation. Given the extent of the findings(below) one could logically assume that all legislation and contracts awarded should be careful examined to determine if criminal misconduct was committed by Charlie. "Right!"
In the 9 to 1 vote by the the House Ethics committee (in closed session) the committee recommended he be censured - but, not removed from office. The censure is the second strongest punishment short of expulsion. The findings of the Committee were that he was guilty of 11 counts, of which a few are:
Breaking House rules by using his office to solicit millions of dollars in donations from companies before his committee.
Housing a campaign office in a rent-stabilized New York apartment that had been set aside for residential use.
Failing to disclose assets and income in reports to Congress.
Failing to pay taxes to the IRS on rental income from his Caribbean vacation villa - for seventeen (17) years.
No other House lawmaker has been found guilty of as many counts of rulebreaking by an Ethics panel. Former Pitt quarterback and ex-legislator Jimmy Traficante - now out of jail - may demand a recount from his former Congressional buddies.
The money Charlie was found guilty of soliciting from those companies in interest was to help fund a non-profit college center to be named for him. That amount, again, was determined to be in the "MILLIONS.".
An emotional Rangel had a request. He implored the committee to make clear in its report "Charles Rangel never sought any personal gain." He claimed he may have been "overzealous" in his effort to raise money for the center - but, declared he was "not corrupt."
Reminds one of a President who swore "I am not a thief", and a more recent one who declared "I never had sex with that woman."
The case now moves to the full house which would have to approve"formal censure".
N.C. Democratic Representative G.K. Butterfield said, "Censure is extreme. It should be reserved for intentional conduct". Georgia Democratic representative called Rangel "a good and decent man".
Apparently, the violations committed by Rangel are okay if he is found to be "a good and decent man." Makes one wonder what Charlie might have done had he been indecent.
A voting district which constantly elects the same representative suggest they also see him as "a good and decent man." Who would want to elect a politician who was corrupt?
Perhaps that's because, in comparison, his Congressional District predecessor was Adam Clayton Powell who, in the late 60's, forced most of us to look up the location of Bimini; where Powell spent much of his time as Congressman.
The reasons for the district's decision to replace Adam with Rangel were many; possibly including Powell's alleged threat to reveal Martin Luther King as having had a homosexual relationship.
If the House agrees with the 9 to 1 vote of the Ethics committee, Rangel, as a censured lawmaker - has to "stand" on the House floor as the resolution condemning his actions is read aloud.
Shouldn't be a problem. Apparently Charlie has always been thought of as "a stand up" kind of guy.
Friday, November 19, 2010
FUNNY HEADLINES ETC.
There is a lot of humor in this country we just don't hear about. Fortunately, we have some good friends that keep us up to date. Here are some examples:
"ONE ARMED MAN APPLAUDS THE KINDNESS OF STRANGERS." (obviously, a left handed compliment.)
"CASKETS FOUND AS WORKERS DEMOLISH MAUSOLEUM" (The subheadline: "We had no idea anyone was buried there." (maybe they thought it was a "M-U-S-E-U-M?")
"UTAH POISON CONTROL CENTER REMINDS EVERYONE NOT TO TAKE POISON" (Apparently, we need to produce more bottles with that ugly face to warn us. How about Harry Reid's?)
"FEDERAL AGENTS RAID GUN SHOP - FIND WEAPONS." (Yeah, that'll happen some time.)
"FISH NEED WATER, FEDS SAY" - (Are these the same guys who wanted me to invest my Social Security benefits in the market?)
SOME INTERESTING ADVERTISEMENTS:
"GET 50% OFF - OR HALF PRICE - WHICHEVER IS LESS" (See, kids it wasn't just me who struggled with your New Math homework.)
"WANTED: Somebody to go back in time with me. This is not a joke. P.O. BOX 322, Oakview, California. You'll get paid after we get back. Must bring your own weapons. Safety not guaranteed. I have only done this once before." (Yep, you gotta get the good stuff to go on
this trip.)
"HUMAN SKULL - USED ONCE only. Not plastic. $200 or best offer: Dr. Scott Tyler.("Oh yeah! you can't threaten ME about my unpaid bill, Dr. Tyler! I know all you quacks are over charging. I'm no dummy and have a real good head for business.")
"1995 Nissan. Green, Leather, Loaded, Auto start, Sunroof, 4-door, good condition. $4,500. NOT FOR SALE. (Guess, the guy had a change of heart.)
"TOMBSTONE: Standard gray. A good buy for someone named Grady. 508 -375- xxxx. (Grady, any possibility we could talk about that Nissan, too?)
SOMETIMES, IT'S JUST THE SMALL THINGS IN THE PAPERS THAT GRAB YOU:
"Debra Jackson said she likes shopping at The Golden Palace - because it's convenient and casual. 'I don't have to get all dressed up like I'm going to Wal-Mart - or something,' she said. (Hey, I spotted it first and have dibs on the photos.)
Happy Holidays!
"ONE ARMED MAN APPLAUDS THE KINDNESS OF STRANGERS." (obviously, a left handed compliment.)
"CASKETS FOUND AS WORKERS DEMOLISH MAUSOLEUM" (The subheadline: "We had no idea anyone was buried there." (maybe they thought it was a "M-U-S-E-U-M?")
"UTAH POISON CONTROL CENTER REMINDS EVERYONE NOT TO TAKE POISON" (Apparently, we need to produce more bottles with that ugly face to warn us. How about Harry Reid's?)
"FEDERAL AGENTS RAID GUN SHOP - FIND WEAPONS." (Yeah, that'll happen some time.)
"FISH NEED WATER, FEDS SAY" - (Are these the same guys who wanted me to invest my Social Security benefits in the market?)
SOME INTERESTING ADVERTISEMENTS:
"GET 50% OFF - OR HALF PRICE - WHICHEVER IS LESS" (See, kids it wasn't just me who struggled with your New Math homework.)
"WANTED: Somebody to go back in time with me. This is not a joke. P.O. BOX 322, Oakview, California. You'll get paid after we get back. Must bring your own weapons. Safety not guaranteed. I have only done this once before." (Yep, you gotta get the good stuff to go on
this trip.)
"HUMAN SKULL - USED ONCE only. Not plastic. $200 or best offer: Dr. Scott Tyler.("Oh yeah! you can't threaten ME about my unpaid bill, Dr. Tyler! I know all you quacks are over charging. I'm no dummy and have a real good head for business.")
"1995 Nissan. Green, Leather, Loaded, Auto start, Sunroof, 4-door, good condition. $4,500. NOT FOR SALE. (Guess, the guy had a change of heart.)
"TOMBSTONE: Standard gray. A good buy for someone named Grady. 508 -375- xxxx. (Grady, any possibility we could talk about that Nissan, too?)
SOMETIMES, IT'S JUST THE SMALL THINGS IN THE PAPERS THAT GRAB YOU:
"Debra Jackson said she likes shopping at The Golden Palace - because it's convenient and casual. 'I don't have to get all dressed up like I'm going to Wal-Mart - or something,' she said. (Hey, I spotted it first and have dibs on the photos.)
Happy Holidays!
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
SMART INSIGHTS
The USA Today has a section of their editorial page that is called "Smart Insights." Articles by various writers, bloggers, and people of strange but unknown classification are edited down to about 3 inches of type.
There has been a strong demand for this blogger to do the same. But, did anyone ever demand that of Michener? Of course not.
Well, this non-famous blogger ( and definitely not Mitchner quality) will attempt to do that. Following is word for word the edited version of an article by Evan Thomas in Newsweek.
"With the possible exception of FDR in wartime, presidents have been careful not to demand too much. And broadly speaking, American popular culture is not very amenable to sacrifice, to choosing the harder right over the easier wrong, as our sterner parents and grandparents might have said.
We have built a society of safety nets, a lawyer-constructed web where no one really has to take responsibility, where there's always someone else to blame, where all the children are above average, or at least deserve a trophy for participation. . . . But, deep down, I think people are perfectly aware that something has to change."
There is a thin line of light at the end of the post-election tunnel. We are hearing indications that the banning of "earmarks" - the pork belly movement - may be in our future. Even old "Mitch The Republican" seems willing to hear arguments in favor of doing that.
We are too jaded to accept that there won't be a trick play - or end run - before "the end of the game". But, if not, it's a good sign people are starting to listen to the voters.
Me? I'm just going to wait and see how the Charlie Rangel soap opera plays out. The head of the ethics committee said yesterday that Charlie was guilty of nothing more than some sloppy bookkeeping.
If that position is allowed to influence the outcome then we have yet another vote for "same-o same-o" Let's hope there are enough people on the committee capable of demonstrating "smart insights."
There has been a strong demand for this blogger to do the same. But, did anyone ever demand that of Michener? Of course not.
Well, this non-famous blogger ( and definitely not Mitchner quality) will attempt to do that. Following is word for word the edited version of an article by Evan Thomas in Newsweek.
"With the possible exception of FDR in wartime, presidents have been careful not to demand too much. And broadly speaking, American popular culture is not very amenable to sacrifice, to choosing the harder right over the easier wrong, as our sterner parents and grandparents might have said.
We have built a society of safety nets, a lawyer-constructed web where no one really has to take responsibility, where there's always someone else to blame, where all the children are above average, or at least deserve a trophy for participation. . . . But, deep down, I think people are perfectly aware that something has to change."
There is a thin line of light at the end of the post-election tunnel. We are hearing indications that the banning of "earmarks" - the pork belly movement - may be in our future. Even old "Mitch The Republican" seems willing to hear arguments in favor of doing that.
We are too jaded to accept that there won't be a trick play - or end run - before "the end of the game". But, if not, it's a good sign people are starting to listen to the voters.
Me? I'm just going to wait and see how the Charlie Rangel soap opera plays out. The head of the ethics committee said yesterday that Charlie was guilty of nothing more than some sloppy bookkeeping.
If that position is allowed to influence the outcome then we have yet another vote for "same-o same-o" Let's hope there are enough people on the committee capable of demonstrating "smart insights."
Saturday, November 6, 2010
BEING ABUSIVE
One more attempt to address the monopolistic power of the NFL.
Years ago I had assumed the management duties in a rural claim office. The claim representatives all had a certain settlement authority awarded to them. Some, with a more advanced classification received the higher authority. I , as "da boss" had the most settlement authority in the office.
My example this time is of the 6'5" claim representative who had the habit of standing beside my desk and looking over my shoulder as I examined his "emergency need" for additional settlement authority. Unfortunately for him I had studied proxemics- including what constitutes appropriate "personal space", and he was clearly violating mine. I told him so.
My style was a careful reading of the claim file before making a decision. It was tough to do with this guy towering over me. And, he knew it. It was his way of getting a head start on the negotiations with me in his effort to convince me to increase his authority.
I was reminded of the story as I read the sports pages about the NFL's recent flurry of more fines for "questionable" hits. The problem is, as most TV viewers - game officials - and instant replay have confirmed, - many , but not all, of those hits were unavoidable.
It reminded me of my college management studies where the books clarified that many labor unions gained acceptance only due to to the power abuses of management. I'm sure friend Harry would be much more informative if writing about same in his interesting blogs.
Earlier this year NFL owners openly talked about the possibility of an employee lockout if both sides couldn't reach an agreement on a new contract. The union decided to take their first "small" step right before the season began.
They requested the teams to vote for allowing decertification of the union so that a lock out of the players could possibly be avoided at crunch time . The union need not decertify - it just wants the authority to do so. The players agreed.
The NFL's position was "no comment." They were planning their own direct "first step", and it wasn''t so "small." It had to do with money owed by the players. The NFL was to become the ultimate arbiter - if you read between the lines. The move was cloaked in safety concerns The purpose of this blog is not to refute this - only to suggest that there is often more than meets the eye in the nefarious world of the NFL. You may or may not disagree. Just consider it.
Steeler defensive standout and previous Super Bowl MVP and Defensive MVP James Harrison was to be the initial guinea pig. What? You want to pick some third line defensive back to gain the kind of publicity you seek?
Harrison ultimately was fined $75,000 for two questionable hits and then invited by the NFL to come to speak with them in their NY offices.. When he returned they not only did not reduce his fine but added another one for $20,000. Now, he is to formally appeal the first fines. Harrison and his agent as well as Steeler management and owners all have probably a pretty good guess as to what odds Vegas bookies are giving him.
I hesitate to talk about the NFL and Vegas oddmakers in the same paragraph as we all know how strongly the NFL feels about the evils of gambling. The editors of your family paper and favorite weekly sports magazines are apparently unaware of the NFL's feelings as they consistently update us of the game odds daily during each football week
The league has insisted that each team communicate any player injuries - not once - but now twice a week,. One assumes the purpose is to make sure the odds may be more accurate. A teams failure to do that will, and has, resulted in fines for the teams involved.
You see, like the lowly claim superintendent above - the NFL has the last word. And, that's probably as it should be- as long as they don't abuse that authority. The key now is to determine how that authority is being interpreted by the NFL and whether it results in a violation of their limited anti-trust exemption?
Earlier this year The Supreme Court refused to broaden that exemption in a matter of who gets to make hats, shirts etc for the NFL. The NFL had precipitously given a carte-blanche authority to Reebok to do that in exchange for a pittance of some size; we can only imagine. The little guy, manufacturer American Needle took them on and won, claiming that the NFL violated anti-trust laws.
The NFL tells us daily that they have replaced baseball as "The American Pastime" - and now it's seeking to acquire baseball's blanket anti-trust exemption as well. Don't expect them to give up.
Following the Court's decision NFLPA (players) executive director Demaurice Smith said in a statement:
"Today's Supreme Court ruling is not only a win for the players past, present, and future, but, a win for the fans. While the NFLPA and the players of the NFL are pleased with the ruling, we remain focused on reaching a fair and equitable CBA (colelctive bargaining agreement.) We hope that today also marks a renewed effort by the NFL to bargain in good faith and avoid a lockout."
Back to the fines. The NFL apparently has the sole authority to fine folks and to determine for how much, based on what three men feel is an "illegal hit". It is not being left to people willing to put on a uniform and run up and down a NFL field.
These folks are called "officials" - and they aren't seeing the same thing the folks up in the ivory tower are seeing. Why should they? Maybe because they're not the ones preparing for negotiations down the road with the players association? Like a courtroom attorney the NFL has made their opening statement via their inexplicable refusal to stop fining the players "without further review" by an impartial panel.
This "holy trinity" has made clear their unwillingness to accept any unbiased judgment to work toward a resolution of a problem that is very real. They have couched their actions as "a determination that no football player will sustain permanent and disabling injuries as a result of playing this game." Noble aim - if consistently applied. Recall the video games and your ads.
No real fan wants to see a ball player permanently disabled as a result of an illegal hit. Unfortunately, there appears to be disagreement as to what constitutes just that. The NFL, in their early flurry of labor/management negotiations has jumped on the injury issue quicker than the guy who insists you tell everybody yes or no whether you have stopped beating your mother.
What? It's coincidental to raise the issue now they are negotiating a new contract? Apparently, we'll save the issue of the height of the players socks for other times of crisis. Oh, and then there's the support they're giving regarding the owners agreed upon decision to expand the regular season by two more games? Maybe those two will be "flag football?"
Steelers safety Troy Polamaulu had a reasojnable suggestion to have a panel - removed from the current triumvirate - to be in charge of "second guessing." The NFL remained silent.
Don't you think it's strange that we live in a country that prides itself on free speech - but in dealings with the NFL, "it ain't free"? If there is any verbal disagreement with the NFL by players - coaches - and even some owners - they may well be fined in a very high amount. There is no consistency in the amount of the fine . It's decided by the same people from whom a clarification was being sought by the supposed "speech offenders".
And, you don't think we're in trouble? Making the NFL judge and jury doesn't bother you?
Surely there is no 100% employment of attorneys in the USA.. Someone must be available to examine what, on the surface, appears to be a clear incentive for the NFL to be abusive.
How is this different than the town bully that sucker punched you. You know, the guy who insisted you tripped and fell into his fist - 26 times.
So what leverage do the NFLPA folks have. How about a walkout? Seems to be a lot of that going around. Would decertification change the game rules? One suspects that the NFL players would be happier to contribute to this effort than pay the fines being taken out of their pocket by the NFL , who simply refuse to consider alternatives.
Truly, you're not bothered by "three suits" who have decided they are omnipotent? Wait until the lockout. Not worried? Sort of like the adage, "I cried about having no shoes until I met a man with no legs."
This is a case of abuse by the NFL and our chances of getting them to stop is like convincing Congress - earmarks are bad..
(This blog has been in a rough draft unpublished form for a few days. We now read that NFLPA executive director has joined in support for Polamaus alternative plan. Let the game begin!)
Years ago I had assumed the management duties in a rural claim office. The claim representatives all had a certain settlement authority awarded to them. Some, with a more advanced classification received the higher authority. I , as "da boss" had the most settlement authority in the office.
My example this time is of the 6'5" claim representative who had the habit of standing beside my desk and looking over my shoulder as I examined his "emergency need" for additional settlement authority. Unfortunately for him I had studied proxemics- including what constitutes appropriate "personal space", and he was clearly violating mine. I told him so.
My style was a careful reading of the claim file before making a decision. It was tough to do with this guy towering over me. And, he knew it. It was his way of getting a head start on the negotiations with me in his effort to convince me to increase his authority.
I was reminded of the story as I read the sports pages about the NFL's recent flurry of more fines for "questionable" hits. The problem is, as most TV viewers - game officials - and instant replay have confirmed, - many , but not all, of those hits were unavoidable.
It reminded me of my college management studies where the books clarified that many labor unions gained acceptance only due to to the power abuses of management. I'm sure friend Harry would be much more informative if writing about same in his interesting blogs.
Earlier this year NFL owners openly talked about the possibility of an employee lockout if both sides couldn't reach an agreement on a new contract. The union decided to take their first "small" step right before the season began.
They requested the teams to vote for allowing decertification of the union so that a lock out of the players could possibly be avoided at crunch time . The union need not decertify - it just wants the authority to do so. The players agreed.
The NFL's position was "no comment." They were planning their own direct "first step", and it wasn''t so "small." It had to do with money owed by the players. The NFL was to become the ultimate arbiter - if you read between the lines. The move was cloaked in safety concerns The purpose of this blog is not to refute this - only to suggest that there is often more than meets the eye in the nefarious world of the NFL. You may or may not disagree. Just consider it.
Steeler defensive standout and previous Super Bowl MVP and Defensive MVP James Harrison was to be the initial guinea pig. What? You want to pick some third line defensive back to gain the kind of publicity you seek?
Harrison ultimately was fined $75,000 for two questionable hits and then invited by the NFL to come to speak with them in their NY offices.. When he returned they not only did not reduce his fine but added another one for $20,000. Now, he is to formally appeal the first fines. Harrison and his agent as well as Steeler management and owners all have probably a pretty good guess as to what odds Vegas bookies are giving him.
I hesitate to talk about the NFL and Vegas oddmakers in the same paragraph as we all know how strongly the NFL feels about the evils of gambling. The editors of your family paper and favorite weekly sports magazines are apparently unaware of the NFL's feelings as they consistently update us of the game odds daily during each football week
The league has insisted that each team communicate any player injuries - not once - but now twice a week,. One assumes the purpose is to make sure the odds may be more accurate. A teams failure to do that will, and has, resulted in fines for the teams involved.
You see, like the lowly claim superintendent above - the NFL has the last word. And, that's probably as it should be- as long as they don't abuse that authority. The key now is to determine how that authority is being interpreted by the NFL and whether it results in a violation of their limited anti-trust exemption?
Earlier this year The Supreme Court refused to broaden that exemption in a matter of who gets to make hats, shirts etc for the NFL. The NFL had precipitously given a carte-blanche authority to Reebok to do that in exchange for a pittance of some size; we can only imagine. The little guy, manufacturer American Needle took them on and won, claiming that the NFL violated anti-trust laws.
The NFL tells us daily that they have replaced baseball as "The American Pastime" - and now it's seeking to acquire baseball's blanket anti-trust exemption as well. Don't expect them to give up.
Following the Court's decision NFLPA (players) executive director Demaurice Smith said in a statement:
"Today's Supreme Court ruling is not only a win for the players past, present, and future, but, a win for the fans. While the NFLPA and the players of the NFL are pleased with the ruling, we remain focused on reaching a fair and equitable CBA (colelctive bargaining agreement.) We hope that today also marks a renewed effort by the NFL to bargain in good faith and avoid a lockout."
Back to the fines. The NFL apparently has the sole authority to fine folks and to determine for how much, based on what three men feel is an "illegal hit". It is not being left to people willing to put on a uniform and run up and down a NFL field.
These folks are called "officials" - and they aren't seeing the same thing the folks up in the ivory tower are seeing. Why should they? Maybe because they're not the ones preparing for negotiations down the road with the players association? Like a courtroom attorney the NFL has made their opening statement via their inexplicable refusal to stop fining the players "without further review" by an impartial panel.
This "holy trinity" has made clear their unwillingness to accept any unbiased judgment to work toward a resolution of a problem that is very real. They have couched their actions as "a determination that no football player will sustain permanent and disabling injuries as a result of playing this game." Noble aim - if consistently applied. Recall the video games and your ads.
No real fan wants to see a ball player permanently disabled as a result of an illegal hit. Unfortunately, there appears to be disagreement as to what constitutes just that. The NFL, in their early flurry of labor/management negotiations has jumped on the injury issue quicker than the guy who insists you tell everybody yes or no whether you have stopped beating your mother.
What? It's coincidental to raise the issue now they are negotiating a new contract? Apparently, we'll save the issue of the height of the players socks for other times of crisis. Oh, and then there's the support they're giving regarding the owners agreed upon decision to expand the regular season by two more games? Maybe those two will be "flag football?"
Steelers safety Troy Polamaulu had a reasojnable suggestion to have a panel - removed from the current triumvirate - to be in charge of "second guessing." The NFL remained silent.
Don't you think it's strange that we live in a country that prides itself on free speech - but in dealings with the NFL, "it ain't free"? If there is any verbal disagreement with the NFL by players - coaches - and even some owners - they may well be fined in a very high amount. There is no consistency in the amount of the fine . It's decided by the same people from whom a clarification was being sought by the supposed "speech offenders".
And, you don't think we're in trouble? Making the NFL judge and jury doesn't bother you?
Surely there is no 100% employment of attorneys in the USA.. Someone must be available to examine what, on the surface, appears to be a clear incentive for the NFL to be abusive.
How is this different than the town bully that sucker punched you. You know, the guy who insisted you tripped and fell into his fist - 26 times.
So what leverage do the NFLPA folks have. How about a walkout? Seems to be a lot of that going around. Would decertification change the game rules? One suspects that the NFL players would be happier to contribute to this effort than pay the fines being taken out of their pocket by the NFL , who simply refuse to consider alternatives.
Truly, you're not bothered by "three suits" who have decided they are omnipotent? Wait until the lockout. Not worried? Sort of like the adage, "I cried about having no shoes until I met a man with no legs."
This is a case of abuse by the NFL and our chances of getting them to stop is like convincing Congress - earmarks are bad..
(This blog has been in a rough draft unpublished form for a few days. We now read that NFLPA executive director has joined in support for Polamaus alternative plan. Let the game begin!)
Friday, November 5, 2010
IT HASN'T SUNK IN YET (mercifully re-edited)
If asked (and nobody did) what reaction I had to the election results I want to put my two cents in. First of all, "I think all politicians are dogs."
THE REPUBLICANS:
John Boehner -"the Speaker Elect" of the new ruling party in the House, and Republican Senate leader Mitch McConnell will now have an opportunity to say much more than: "Not On My Watch." However, if it's more of the same, we probably will tune them out too.
It's doubtful if we are going to see any real change from the Republicans. Few politicians in either party appear to be willing or able to grasp what WE were trying to say in these recent elections.
Perhaps if you have enough money in the bank andhave pre-retirement employment offers as lobbyists, you don't mind being dissed. There are always the corporate jets and the golf outings. Like Liberace said, "I'll cry all the way to the bank."
Today's politicos view "compromise" as a sure sign of weakness
A few days before the election, when even "The Amazing Kreskin" could have predicted a Republican landslide and the chance to steer us in the right direction was apparent,McConnell was quoted as saying: "The #1 priority for Congressional Republicans is making sure President Obama doesn't get re-elected." Nothing about healing the country! Now, Mitch says "banning earmarks is not realistic" The last time they voted he was in favor of eliminating them.
I usually don't pay a lot of attention to Mitch. His appearance always reminds me of character actor Edward Andrews, the crime boss in the "Phenix City Story?
In a recent Bloomfield poll, folks were asked if the Republicans should compromise in order to get some things done - or stick to their positions even if it means getting little done. The vote: 80% to 16% in favor of compromise. Think it will happen?
Most critics predict very little will change despite our best efforts to make that happen.They say, "Now that the Republicans managed to get through the mid-term election with flying colors - their primary goal is to start campaigning for 2012."
To me, Republicans appear to be like the dog in Aesop's fables. Remember? He was walking across the log with a bone in his mouth. Suddenly he looked down at the water and saw the reflection of a dog who seemed to have an even bigger one. As he barked at the "other dog" ' he dropped his own bone. It fell into the water right where the other dog had been standing and floated away downstream.
THE DEMOCRATS:
Democrats are "somewhat" bitter. Think of their mood as one you would expect from a man responding to a request from his ex-wife to allow her "new squeeze" to borrow his Maserati. Compromise? No!
Tis a shame. For two years the Dems were pretty much in charge . So much could have been accomplished for this country if they had put their elitist attitude on the back burner.
Now, once again, the party of the Donkey is acting like one. Instead of calculating how they can mitigate their losses, make some positive changes via compromise, most are running around yelling, "Someone call Ducky Lucky and tell him - the sky is falling!" Pelosi now states - as she bids to become minority leader - "that vote wasn't against the Democrat".
To follow the Republican animal analogy above, the Democrats are like the dog who lost his interest in a previous favorite pet toy until another dog comes over and wants to chew on it.
They learned little from the pre-2008 Republican mistakes. Post 2008 Democrats treated their constituents as if they were the peasants in Monty Python's Holy Grail - with the same results.
Democrat strategists, like many bright people, historically have a reputation of perceiving their constituents as stupid. It's true that many of the party faithful lack the formal education of followers of the GOP. But, that isn't the point and the gap is closing.
We love movies and TV shows that allow us to root for the guys who are street smart - not book smart. Most of us can relate. Many can't.
You may not like James Carville, but he get's your attention. Maybe we need a few more politicians on both sides of the aisle who are willing to crack an egg on their bald domes and admit, "I screwed up." Pelosi: "We must pass the healthcare bill - so, we can understand it"?
TO BOTH PARTIES AND THEIR CONSTITUENTS:
To the leaders of both parties "We know the catharsis of our pleas, as reflected in most election results, will sadly result only in more lip service from you. Incredibly, the light bulb still hasn't come on. Start reading more Mickey Spillane and less Herman Melville & Dostoevsky.
To the Tea party activists:"Sex on the first date seldom results in a phone call the next morning" .
To those people around the country embarassed by their Obama bumper stickers and now replacing them with pictures of ships in Boston Harbor: "Toss out the Super-Glue".
To voters in general: "Stop supporting politicians who appear to be people of "good taste". Replace them with folks whose ideas and actions will "taste good" down the road. You are too bright to continually allow yourself to be deceived. Run "Charlie The Tuna" for President in 2012 .
To the elitists: We understand your 2012 priority is not what's good for the country. It's whether or not you'll receive an invitation and a prominent table at one of the Presidential Balls. If you do -and can't go- please assure us the invitation will turn up on your Facebook page.
Columnist Cal Thomas:"Wouldn't it be nice if political leaders put their country before their own career and all those advocacy groups?"
Yeah, wouldn't it just? But, apparently "It hasn't sunk in yet."
THE REPUBLICANS:
John Boehner -"the Speaker Elect" of the new ruling party in the House, and Republican Senate leader Mitch McConnell will now have an opportunity to say much more than: "Not On My Watch." However, if it's more of the same, we probably will tune them out too.
It's doubtful if we are going to see any real change from the Republicans. Few politicians in either party appear to be willing or able to grasp what WE were trying to say in these recent elections.
Perhaps if you have enough money in the bank andhave pre-retirement employment offers as lobbyists, you don't mind being dissed. There are always the corporate jets and the golf outings. Like Liberace said, "I'll cry all the way to the bank."
Today's politicos view "compromise" as a sure sign of weakness
A few days before the election, when even "The Amazing Kreskin" could have predicted a Republican landslide and the chance to steer us in the right direction was apparent,McConnell was quoted as saying: "The #1 priority for Congressional Republicans is making sure President Obama doesn't get re-elected." Nothing about healing the country! Now, Mitch says "banning earmarks is not realistic" The last time they voted he was in favor of eliminating them.
I usually don't pay a lot of attention to Mitch. His appearance always reminds me of character actor Edward Andrews, the crime boss in the "Phenix City Story?
In a recent Bloomfield poll, folks were asked if the Republicans should compromise in order to get some things done - or stick to their positions even if it means getting little done. The vote: 80% to 16% in favor of compromise. Think it will happen?
Most critics predict very little will change despite our best efforts to make that happen.They say, "Now that the Republicans managed to get through the mid-term election with flying colors - their primary goal is to start campaigning for 2012."
To me, Republicans appear to be like the dog in Aesop's fables. Remember? He was walking across the log with a bone in his mouth. Suddenly he looked down at the water and saw the reflection of a dog who seemed to have an even bigger one. As he barked at the "other dog" ' he dropped his own bone. It fell into the water right where the other dog had been standing and floated away downstream.
THE DEMOCRATS:
Democrats are "somewhat" bitter. Think of their mood as one you would expect from a man responding to a request from his ex-wife to allow her "new squeeze" to borrow his Maserati. Compromise? No!
Tis a shame. For two years the Dems were pretty much in charge . So much could have been accomplished for this country if they had put their elitist attitude on the back burner.
Now, once again, the party of the Donkey is acting like one. Instead of calculating how they can mitigate their losses, make some positive changes via compromise, most are running around yelling, "Someone call Ducky Lucky and tell him - the sky is falling!" Pelosi now states - as she bids to become minority leader - "that vote wasn't against the Democrat".
To follow the Republican animal analogy above, the Democrats are like the dog who lost his interest in a previous favorite pet toy until another dog comes over and wants to chew on it.
They learned little from the pre-2008 Republican mistakes. Post 2008 Democrats treated their constituents as if they were the peasants in Monty Python's Holy Grail - with the same results.
Democrat strategists, like many bright people, historically have a reputation of perceiving their constituents as stupid. It's true that many of the party faithful lack the formal education of followers of the GOP. But, that isn't the point and the gap is closing.
We love movies and TV shows that allow us to root for the guys who are street smart - not book smart. Most of us can relate. Many can't.
You may not like James Carville, but he get's your attention. Maybe we need a few more politicians on both sides of the aisle who are willing to crack an egg on their bald domes and admit, "I screwed up." Pelosi: "We must pass the healthcare bill - so, we can understand it"?
TO BOTH PARTIES AND THEIR CONSTITUENTS:
To the leaders of both parties "We know the catharsis of our pleas, as reflected in most election results, will sadly result only in more lip service from you. Incredibly, the light bulb still hasn't come on. Start reading more Mickey Spillane and less Herman Melville & Dostoevsky.
To the Tea party activists:"Sex on the first date seldom results in a phone call the next morning" .
To those people around the country embarassed by their Obama bumper stickers and now replacing them with pictures of ships in Boston Harbor: "Toss out the Super-Glue".
To voters in general: "Stop supporting politicians who appear to be people of "good taste". Replace them with folks whose ideas and actions will "taste good" down the road. You are too bright to continually allow yourself to be deceived. Run "Charlie The Tuna" for President in 2012 .
To the elitists: We understand your 2012 priority is not what's good for the country. It's whether or not you'll receive an invitation and a prominent table at one of the Presidential Balls. If you do -and can't go- please assure us the invitation will turn up on your Facebook page.
Columnist Cal Thomas:"Wouldn't it be nice if political leaders put their country before their own career and all those advocacy groups?"
Yeah, wouldn't it just? But, apparently "It hasn't sunk in yet."
Monday, November 1, 2010
So, where's the satisfaction?: The Village Idiot
I love funny E-mails. I also love some of the others that pull at the heartstrings.
Some contain a personal reference to a Pittsburgh I knew as a child. Some are like the one I just received from daughter Beth, asking me for information. The information she sought was from a Father/Daughter chat we had when she was around the age of 16.
Now, I love my daughter very much. I also love her & husband Larry's four kids - one of which I referenced recently when discussing his high school football injury.
The fact that she now has 4 kids of her own suggests a couple of things to me. There is real satisfaction coming from a daughter who actually listened to her dad back then. There is even more satisfaction that she assumed I would remember what the heck I said.
Beth related that the subject of my "speechifying" was the three types of people she would most likely meet in the world. She said she remembers part of it and often uses it when meeting new people.
Now, she had a friend who was in need of some "girlfriend" guidance. She'd like to be able to impart what had impacted both her and her Dad.
She told me enough that I took a stab at trying to complete her picture using what was going on in my life at that time. Memory suggested it possibly was when I was singing the praises of various psychotherapists whose works had impressed me.
After my brief "stabbing" attempt ' I referred her back to my recent blog on Fritz Perls.
What a satisfying experience! What a great "kid." (Sorry, she'll always be that.)
Not all E-mails are satisfying, as you know. They can often leave you wondering what was on the mind of the person who sent them. Such was the case of one I received today entitled "Why Mr. Rogers wore a sweater."
It came from a lovely lady by the name of Joan . She is my wife's aunt and one of the few people with whom I exchange E-mail who has also been in this world longer than this old blogger.
I read the E-mail and realized it contained some references about Mr. Rogers that I - another Western Pennsylvania native - and fan - had never heard before.
It spoke of a Fred Rogers who at one time allegedly was a rough and tumble guy - a war hero - with multiple tatoos on his body which he chose to cover up with his cardigan- on his kid's show- on the way to becoming an ordained minister.
The E-mail also made a similar war reference to Bob Keeshan - the Clarabelle the Clown and Captain Kangaroo personage. The story involved Tonight Show host Johnny Carson and movie actor Lee Marvin, too.
It was an outright lie and involved more spinning than Rumplestiltskin could ever have conceived.
A check of Snopes revealed that "NO" - Fred Rogers had never served in the armed forces - had never been a US Navy Seal and had never been credited with over 25 confirmed kills to his name. It said nothing about the alleged "many tatoos on his forearm and biceps" or that he was a master in small arms and hand-to-hand combat - able to disarm or kill in a heartbeat.
I kind of eliminated those last allegations on my own. I justifiably concluded it was just the ramblings of some perverted S.O.B. who apparently did not receive enough hugs as a child.
My question of the author is, what was your purpose in spreading this cow dung? More important, "Where is the satisfaction" you hoped to receive?
Is it in the satisfaction that some frail little old gray haired lady will think less of or more of a fundamentally great man? Is it in the anonymity to which you cling? Is your own self-esteem so lacking that you're desperately looking for any possible "15 minutes of fame"?
Was it in the hope your story would continue to be repeated per your: "Send this on, please? Nothing will happen if you don't, but you will be awakening others to what a HERO is made of "
It won't be Aunt Joan who I contacted and delicately explained that her fond memory of Fred Rogers should not be disturbed by the sick mind of some idiot. I also thanked her for thinking of me and my Pittsburgh connection when she sent it off.
In some strange way I think I just remembered one of the three types of people I described to my daughter, lo, those many years ago.
That would be: "The Village Idiot!"
Some contain a personal reference to a Pittsburgh I knew as a child. Some are like the one I just received from daughter Beth, asking me for information. The information she sought was from a Father/Daughter chat we had when she was around the age of 16.
Now, I love my daughter very much. I also love her & husband Larry's four kids - one of which I referenced recently when discussing his high school football injury.
The fact that she now has 4 kids of her own suggests a couple of things to me. There is real satisfaction coming from a daughter who actually listened to her dad back then. There is even more satisfaction that she assumed I would remember what the heck I said.
Beth related that the subject of my "speechifying" was the three types of people she would most likely meet in the world. She said she remembers part of it and often uses it when meeting new people.
Now, she had a friend who was in need of some "girlfriend" guidance. She'd like to be able to impart what had impacted both her and her Dad.
She told me enough that I took a stab at trying to complete her picture using what was going on in my life at that time. Memory suggested it possibly was when I was singing the praises of various psychotherapists whose works had impressed me.
After my brief "stabbing" attempt ' I referred her back to my recent blog on Fritz Perls.
What a satisfying experience! What a great "kid." (Sorry, she'll always be that.)
Not all E-mails are satisfying, as you know. They can often leave you wondering what was on the mind of the person who sent them. Such was the case of one I received today entitled "Why Mr. Rogers wore a sweater."
It came from a lovely lady by the name of Joan . She is my wife's aunt and one of the few people with whom I exchange E-mail who has also been in this world longer than this old blogger.
I read the E-mail and realized it contained some references about Mr. Rogers that I - another Western Pennsylvania native - and fan - had never heard before.
It spoke of a Fred Rogers who at one time allegedly was a rough and tumble guy - a war hero - with multiple tatoos on his body which he chose to cover up with his cardigan- on his kid's show- on the way to becoming an ordained minister.
The E-mail also made a similar war reference to Bob Keeshan - the Clarabelle the Clown and Captain Kangaroo personage. The story involved Tonight Show host Johnny Carson and movie actor Lee Marvin, too.
It was an outright lie and involved more spinning than Rumplestiltskin could ever have conceived.
A check of Snopes revealed that "NO" - Fred Rogers had never served in the armed forces - had never been a US Navy Seal and had never been credited with over 25 confirmed kills to his name. It said nothing about the alleged "many tatoos on his forearm and biceps" or that he was a master in small arms and hand-to-hand combat - able to disarm or kill in a heartbeat.
I kind of eliminated those last allegations on my own. I justifiably concluded it was just the ramblings of some perverted S.O.B. who apparently did not receive enough hugs as a child.
My question of the author is, what was your purpose in spreading this cow dung? More important, "Where is the satisfaction" you hoped to receive?
Is it in the satisfaction that some frail little old gray haired lady will think less of or more of a fundamentally great man? Is it in the anonymity to which you cling? Is your own self-esteem so lacking that you're desperately looking for any possible "15 minutes of fame"?
Was it in the hope your story would continue to be repeated per your: "Send this on, please? Nothing will happen if you don't, but you will be awakening others to what a HERO is made of "
It won't be Aunt Joan who I contacted and delicately explained that her fond memory of Fred Rogers should not be disturbed by the sick mind of some idiot. I also thanked her for thinking of me and my Pittsburgh connection when she sent it off.
In some strange way I think I just remembered one of the three types of people I described to my daughter, lo, those many years ago.
That would be: "The Village Idiot!"
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
I'M CONFESSIN - -
OK, I don't deny it. I actually was the one who did it.
I knew as soon as I got out of the car and headed toward the medical building. The stares. The smiles. The people talking to each other behind a cupped hand. Yeah, I knew right away, "they were talking about me."
I wanted to shout at the top of my voice, "Don't think I can't hear you snickering!"
It was embarassing. When I was a kid, I didn't have an original thought in my head. If my parents had named me Lawrence - I'd have been known as "Larry the Lemming." I was always trying to please everybody else. I had no backbone.
I was a shy guy who thought everybody was talking about me - making fun of my acne. But, now, I'm no longer shy - and my wrinkles cover everything. However, the truth was clearly staring me in the face. I had to ask myself, "Did I overreact?"
I had defied convention and now I was paying the price.
Yeah, I did the usual senior thing first, once I saw all the people looking at me. I went back into the car and checked my fly. I was amazed that this time I had zipped up before leaving the house. Don't even know why I cared. My underwear was clean.
It was Wednesday, the day I changed from Sunday's underwear.
"What's to worry about?", I thought. Still the stares were unnerving. I walked faster trying to finish my task and get back into the car safely before some thoughtless person said something..
I could already hear the voice of my sainted Irish mother shouting in my ear, "Barry, what were you thinking?"
Whereas at first I was embarassed, soon it was a little like going through the stages of grief. I now realized I was in the anger stage. "What right did they have to judge me?", I thought.
What was the right way for me to protest? How could I tell them they were the ones out of step - not me? I glanced at my reflection from the plate glass window in the corridor of the medical building. I could see I was wearing my maniacal Jack Nicholson smile. I swore then I would come up with something that would even the score.
Finally, I had it. When I got home I would do the unthinkable. I'd throw the cover, sheets, pillows and the mattress cover "helter - skelter" onto the floor. I'd then rip the label off the naked mattress - and post pictures of me with the mattress tag in my clenched fist all over the wall of the community post office.
I wasn't just mad. I was "darn mad."
I blamed it on being a Senior. As everyone knows down here Bealls Department Store has turned "Timid Tuesday" into Senior days - the day of the discount. Yesterday I succumbed.
The 401 k be damned! Bealls had their Cargo shorts on sale. I bought three pairs then carefully studied the cashier to make sure I got my 15% discount on each. It was the right decision.
Unfortunately, this morning I made a decision that kept my good decision streak at "one in a row."
I decided to wear a pair of my new shorts as I headed up to my doctors office for blood tests.
Yeah - I did it. Three pair of shorts and I had the stupidity to wear the white ones today on October 27th.
Mom was right. You just don't wear white after Labor Day! I'll never be able to face them again up at the lab.
It's not that I didn't care. It just seemed the white clamdigger shorts were the perfect color to wear with my pink golf shirt in honor of The American Cancer Society's "Strides Against Breast Cancer" competition.
You live and you learn.
But, "Hey Mom - just like you said - "Confession is good for the soul."
"Think Pink, gang!" This is a battle we can win.
I knew as soon as I got out of the car and headed toward the medical building. The stares. The smiles. The people talking to each other behind a cupped hand. Yeah, I knew right away, "they were talking about me."
I wanted to shout at the top of my voice, "Don't think I can't hear you snickering!"
It was embarassing. When I was a kid, I didn't have an original thought in my head. If my parents had named me Lawrence - I'd have been known as "Larry the Lemming." I was always trying to please everybody else. I had no backbone.
I was a shy guy who thought everybody was talking about me - making fun of my acne. But, now, I'm no longer shy - and my wrinkles cover everything. However, the truth was clearly staring me in the face. I had to ask myself, "Did I overreact?"
I had defied convention and now I was paying the price.
Yeah, I did the usual senior thing first, once I saw all the people looking at me. I went back into the car and checked my fly. I was amazed that this time I had zipped up before leaving the house. Don't even know why I cared. My underwear was clean.
It was Wednesday, the day I changed from Sunday's underwear.
"What's to worry about?", I thought. Still the stares were unnerving. I walked faster trying to finish my task and get back into the car safely before some thoughtless person said something..
I could already hear the voice of my sainted Irish mother shouting in my ear, "Barry, what were you thinking?"
Whereas at first I was embarassed, soon it was a little like going through the stages of grief. I now realized I was in the anger stage. "What right did they have to judge me?", I thought.
What was the right way for me to protest? How could I tell them they were the ones out of step - not me? I glanced at my reflection from the plate glass window in the corridor of the medical building. I could see I was wearing my maniacal Jack Nicholson smile. I swore then I would come up with something that would even the score.
Finally, I had it. When I got home I would do the unthinkable. I'd throw the cover, sheets, pillows and the mattress cover "helter - skelter" onto the floor. I'd then rip the label off the naked mattress - and post pictures of me with the mattress tag in my clenched fist all over the wall of the community post office.
I wasn't just mad. I was "darn mad."
I blamed it on being a Senior. As everyone knows down here Bealls Department Store has turned "Timid Tuesday" into Senior days - the day of the discount. Yesterday I succumbed.
The 401 k be damned! Bealls had their Cargo shorts on sale. I bought three pairs then carefully studied the cashier to make sure I got my 15% discount on each. It was the right decision.
Unfortunately, this morning I made a decision that kept my good decision streak at "one in a row."
I decided to wear a pair of my new shorts as I headed up to my doctors office for blood tests.
Yeah - I did it. Three pair of shorts and I had the stupidity to wear the white ones today on October 27th.
Mom was right. You just don't wear white after Labor Day! I'll never be able to face them again up at the lab.
It's not that I didn't care. It just seemed the white clamdigger shorts were the perfect color to wear with my pink golf shirt in honor of The American Cancer Society's "Strides Against Breast Cancer" competition.
You live and you learn.
But, "Hey Mom - just like you said - "Confession is good for the soul."
"Think Pink, gang!" This is a battle we can win.
Monday, October 25, 2010
The vetting process - side by side.
Yesterday the local Tampa affiliate broadcast a debate between three guys who are the primary candidates to become our next Senator in Florida..They all appeared to be quite personable and articulate.
I later learned that one of the three candidate apparently has garnered the most support. I thought they all did well. None used the term transparent.
I realize that the process of "vetting" - carefully examining the record of your possible candidate - looking in every nook and cranny (and bathroom stalls, apparently) enables each political party and NPA to reach a decision that you got the best guy or gal.
After all your investigative work you concluded they were squeaky clean , were not members of a coven - and would certainly best represent your interests. God bless you for doing this job. But, I hate to tell you, I'm still in the 1/3 of folks who are undecided.
Here's why.
Trying to determine the best candidate from the TV ads is like trying to determine which popular actress did not have a boob job.
One walks away from the ads with the impression that all three candidates are either previously convicted felons - or should have been. "You think they trashtalk in the NBA? You ain't heard nothin yet."
Which raises the question, "If any of these ads are true - who vetted these guys? Ahmadinejad?"
It's easy for outsiders to judge Florida as just a group of seniors joined together at the hip for a photo opt depiction of "a huddled mass" and who are still confused over hanging chads.
Like I said before,"tain't true" We're angry about politicians too. We do sometimes tend to forget who it was we decided we were going to vote for. But, I'm sure that will come back by November 2nd.
If not, we all have those sample ballots we could highlight with our Bingo markers and take into the polling place.
We're also upset about the ballot propositions or "proposed constitutional amendments". I can see why. I read proposition 5 and 6 several times and assume they decided to repeat #5 via # 6, just in case we dosed off while reading it. (I know. It was legislative versus congressional redistricting.)
California makes it easy. Either you want to legalize pot - or you don't. But, for a guy who studied and interpreted a lot of technical legal "stuff" - I can tell you that - after retirement I went downhill really fast. I needed the Dick & Jane versions of the propositions.
I couldn't come up with the right answer 50% of the time if they were true or false questions. I'd be about as accurate as I was in picking World Series opponents.
My suggestions to my Seniors peers is "Either you find Cliffnotes before Tuesday - bring a cheat sheet to the polls - or have a surplus of Gummy Bears and Depends to get you through this travesty. It's going to be a long day."
Now, let's say you don't have a clue as to which Senatorial candidate appears to be less guilty looking. Perhaps, you're even more clueless as to which special interest is paying for those outrageous attack ads you're trying to interpret. Just keep in mind that you're exercising your legal right as a citizen of this great nation.
Now, if you really want to have an impact, fill in the little geometric form on the ballot where it says - "none of the above". Can't find it? Damn! Time for a new "proposition".
Tis sad. If we could all do that we might finally bring some sense to this whole process. Somebody would actually be forced to tell us the truth. Until then we'll be like the guy below when our own "election" honeymoon is over.
I say this only because this years election process reminds me of a great video on Youtube. It shows an elderly guy - singing a song about his recent honeymoon - to the tune of "Side By Side:
"WE GOT MARRIED LAST FRIDAY.
MY GIRL WAS RIGHT THERE BESIDE ME.
OUR FRIENDS WERE ALL GONE.
WE WERE ALONE
SIDE BY SIDE.
WE WERE SO HAPPILY WED WHEN
SHE GOT READY FOR BED THEN.
HER TEETH AND HER HAIR
SHE PLACED IN A CHAIR
SIDE BY SIDE
ONE GLASS EYE - SO TINY
ONE HEARING AID SO SMALL
THEN SHE TOOK ONE LEG OFF
AND PLACED IT ON THE CHAIR BY THE WALL
I STOOD THERE SO BROKEN HEARTED
MOST OF MY GIRL HAD DEPARTED
I SLEPT ON THE CHAIR
THERE WAS MORE OF HER THERE
SIDE BY SIDE"
Hey, I'll be standing there with you at the polls - "Side By Side."
I later learned that one of the three candidate apparently has garnered the most support. I thought they all did well. None used the term transparent.
I realize that the process of "vetting" - carefully examining the record of your possible candidate - looking in every nook and cranny (and bathroom stalls, apparently) enables each political party and NPA to reach a decision that you got the best guy or gal.
After all your investigative work you concluded they were squeaky clean , were not members of a coven - and would certainly best represent your interests. God bless you for doing this job. But, I hate to tell you, I'm still in the 1/3 of folks who are undecided.
Here's why.
Trying to determine the best candidate from the TV ads is like trying to determine which popular actress did not have a boob job.
One walks away from the ads with the impression that all three candidates are either previously convicted felons - or should have been. "You think they trashtalk in the NBA? You ain't heard nothin yet."
Which raises the question, "If any of these ads are true - who vetted these guys? Ahmadinejad?"
It's easy for outsiders to judge Florida as just a group of seniors joined together at the hip for a photo opt depiction of "a huddled mass" and who are still confused over hanging chads.
Like I said before,"tain't true" We're angry about politicians too. We do sometimes tend to forget who it was we decided we were going to vote for. But, I'm sure that will come back by November 2nd.
If not, we all have those sample ballots we could highlight with our Bingo markers and take into the polling place.
We're also upset about the ballot propositions or "proposed constitutional amendments". I can see why. I read proposition 5 and 6 several times and assume they decided to repeat #5 via # 6, just in case we dosed off while reading it. (I know. It was legislative versus congressional redistricting.)
California makes it easy. Either you want to legalize pot - or you don't. But, for a guy who studied and interpreted a lot of technical legal "stuff" - I can tell you that - after retirement I went downhill really fast. I needed the Dick & Jane versions of the propositions.
I couldn't come up with the right answer 50% of the time if they were true or false questions. I'd be about as accurate as I was in picking World Series opponents.
My suggestions to my Seniors peers is "Either you find Cliffnotes before Tuesday - bring a cheat sheet to the polls - or have a surplus of Gummy Bears and Depends to get you through this travesty. It's going to be a long day."
Now, let's say you don't have a clue as to which Senatorial candidate appears to be less guilty looking. Perhaps, you're even more clueless as to which special interest is paying for those outrageous attack ads you're trying to interpret. Just keep in mind that you're exercising your legal right as a citizen of this great nation.
Now, if you really want to have an impact, fill in the little geometric form on the ballot where it says - "none of the above". Can't find it? Damn! Time for a new "proposition".
Tis sad. If we could all do that we might finally bring some sense to this whole process. Somebody would actually be forced to tell us the truth. Until then we'll be like the guy below when our own "election" honeymoon is over.
I say this only because this years election process reminds me of a great video on Youtube. It shows an elderly guy - singing a song about his recent honeymoon - to the tune of "Side By Side:
"WE GOT MARRIED LAST FRIDAY.
MY GIRL WAS RIGHT THERE BESIDE ME.
OUR FRIENDS WERE ALL GONE.
WE WERE ALONE
SIDE BY SIDE.
WE WERE SO HAPPILY WED WHEN
SHE GOT READY FOR BED THEN.
HER TEETH AND HER HAIR
SHE PLACED IN A CHAIR
SIDE BY SIDE
ONE GLASS EYE - SO TINY
ONE HEARING AID SO SMALL
THEN SHE TOOK ONE LEG OFF
AND PLACED IT ON THE CHAIR BY THE WALL
I STOOD THERE SO BROKEN HEARTED
MOST OF MY GIRL HAD DEPARTED
I SLEPT ON THE CHAIR
THERE WAS MORE OF HER THERE
SIDE BY SIDE"
Hey, I'll be standing there with you at the polls - "Side By Side."
Saturday, October 23, 2010
LEGALLY SPEAKING
We have one heckuva lot of really good people in this country. I've been priviledged to be friends with a lot of them. Obviously they were not real picky as to their criteria for the acquisition of friends.
We also have a heckuva lot of idiots in this country. Some are genetically induced and some appear to be environmentally created. Overly permissive parenting is the first thing that comes to mind as a rationale for the existance of the last group.
We have a lot of people out there who honestly do not think they can do any wrong - or at least a wrong for which the rules apply to them. Fortunately they are a small bunch. Unfortunately they are the ones that get the most press.
EXAMPLE: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette recently reported about a man from Uniontown who sought the help of the Pittsburgh Police.
It seems this lunkhead reported that the marijuana he purchased on the street tasted "nasty." He was outraged.
He asked the police to come and examine his purchase. When they arrived they found the green leafy substance laid out on a paper on a table.
The complainant was correct. What he had purchased - thinking it was marijuana - failed to pass a field test. Officers confiscated it but believed it to be a kitchen spice instead of an intoxicating weed.
No arrest was made - either of the distributor or the complainant. The latter did not purchase an illegal drug . Besides, the local Chamber Of Commerce would probably have filed an amicus curiae (friend of the court) on behalf of the former - defending their right to conduct business on the streets of Pittsburgh.
Please. Please. If you know anybody in California who has any influence as to the many propositions that are part of their ballots - would you immediately encourage them to approve the one that advocates the decriminalization of the purchase and use of marijuana.
We absolutely need to stamp out this type of wrongdoing, now happening in Pittsburgh. You don't need a picket sign to protest. Anyone with a brain can see this is a clear case of Res Ipsa Loquitor ("the thing speaks for itself") Illegal drug dealers are unfairly taking advantage of the less educated among us.
There will always be good people. There will always be some who are not so good. There will always be some who are feeble minded. But, it just isn't fair when unknown parties are allowed to take advantage of a poor soul like this Uniontown lunkhead. What were they thinking? Have they no conscience?
The only answer is to legalize the purchase and distribution of pot so that, finally, we can control it- avoid a recurrence of this type of abuse - and who knows; maybe make a couple bucks in the process.
We must protect our citizens.
The lunkheads' mother supports my petition.
It's her legal right.
We also have a heckuva lot of idiots in this country. Some are genetically induced and some appear to be environmentally created. Overly permissive parenting is the first thing that comes to mind as a rationale for the existance of the last group.
We have a lot of people out there who honestly do not think they can do any wrong - or at least a wrong for which the rules apply to them. Fortunately they are a small bunch. Unfortunately they are the ones that get the most press.
EXAMPLE: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette recently reported about a man from Uniontown who sought the help of the Pittsburgh Police.
It seems this lunkhead reported that the marijuana he purchased on the street tasted "nasty." He was outraged.
He asked the police to come and examine his purchase. When they arrived they found the green leafy substance laid out on a paper on a table.
The complainant was correct. What he had purchased - thinking it was marijuana - failed to pass a field test. Officers confiscated it but believed it to be a kitchen spice instead of an intoxicating weed.
No arrest was made - either of the distributor or the complainant. The latter did not purchase an illegal drug . Besides, the local Chamber Of Commerce would probably have filed an amicus curiae (friend of the court) on behalf of the former - defending their right to conduct business on the streets of Pittsburgh.
Please. Please. If you know anybody in California who has any influence as to the many propositions that are part of their ballots - would you immediately encourage them to approve the one that advocates the decriminalization of the purchase and use of marijuana.
We absolutely need to stamp out this type of wrongdoing, now happening in Pittsburgh. You don't need a picket sign to protest. Anyone with a brain can see this is a clear case of Res Ipsa Loquitor ("the thing speaks for itself") Illegal drug dealers are unfairly taking advantage of the less educated among us.
There will always be good people. There will always be some who are not so good. There will always be some who are feeble minded. But, it just isn't fair when unknown parties are allowed to take advantage of a poor soul like this Uniontown lunkhead. What were they thinking? Have they no conscience?
The only answer is to legalize the purchase and distribution of pot so that, finally, we can control it- avoid a recurrence of this type of abuse - and who knows; maybe make a couple bucks in the process.
We must protect our citizens.
The lunkheads' mother supports my petition.
It's her legal right.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
More Thunkin
The wife of Supreme Court Judge Clarence Thomas has attempted to get Anita Hill to recant her testimony as to the accusations regarding her husband in his confirmation hearings.
We've heard nothing from Judge Thomas and assume he was unable to reach Judge Scalia.
We've heard nothing from Judge Thomas and assume he was unable to reach Judge Scalia.
ME & PA KETTLE
Are you old enough to remember Ma & Pa Kettle? Ma, as played by movie star Marjorie Main was the active, strict caretaker, leader parent of their large family. Pa - actor Percy Kilbride - was inclined toward more passive activities, including a little imbibing from time to time.
In one of their many movies, one of the kids asked Ma. "What's Pa doing over there in the rocking chair all day. "Ma replied, "PA's thunkin - that's what he does best. He's just thunkin."
I think I got a little "PA' in me. Been doing a lot of "thunkin" about the $75,000 (belated) NFL penalty fine on Pittsburgh Steeler James Harrison due to two rather bruising hits last Sunday.
I say "belated" as none of the officials on the field called a penalty on either play despite having been schooled many- many-many times as to what the NFL contends is a "violent hit, worthy of a penalty."
Hey, all NFL officials can't be ranked in the top 5th of their graduating class. But, let's be honest. There are few businesses without a little "duplicity" in what they claim to represent.
Please trust me. The NFL is a business. In fact it's a monopoly. It even has it's own TV network. The NFL is a huge beneficiary of just about everything that has to do with professional football .
That includes all the merchandising - which - would not exclude the video games with the gore and violence emphasis in hopes adults and kids alike will buy them. The NFL was also big enough to coerce the networks to continue to pay them should the owners force a 2011 lockout. Prior to last Sunday, the big news in the football media has been the lockout possibility.
Fortunately, this week that was not perceived as a priority for ESPN columnist Rick Reilly, who no doubt includes several NFL owners and Execs on his Christmas card list. Rick would seem to have made one helluva ambulance chaser had he not chose "journalism" as his life long pursuit.
Reilly's all upset about this "new" development in football brutality and would like to see Harrison either retire or be suspended. The guy is downright funny. I loved his columns on the back of S.I. before he left for greener pastures.
Reilly is also rumored to be the face you see when you look up the term "smarmy."
He is a man of many and varied opinions. Based on his article in NFL.com , Reilly is also omniscient. He is "aware of all things"and advises us that Harrison "purposely lowered his head" into two Brown's wide receivers. Rick neglected to explain that one of them ducked and the other was playing the quarterback position when Harrison hit him - legally - as the rules explain.
One assumes that limited column space precluded a more detailed explanation . It could also get in the way of accuracy - something else rumored to not always be a priority for journalists.
According to the sideboard accompanying his column, someone at ESPN was kind enough to advise us that Reilly has been voted Sportswriter of the Year 11 times - or about as many times as someone with the first name of Kim has been elected North Korea's President.
Reilly confesses that with all the brutal hits (captured on film - and shown - over - and over -and over on ESPN - and one presumes The NFL Network) - "it makes you wonder what kind of person you are for sitting there watching" ( I suspect during the rest of the season Rick "will risk one eye".)
If TRicks (whoops) Rick's ESPN.com column on violence gains the circulation for which both Rick & ESPN are praying, he will no doubt come out with another book. Might even be one on "modern day" football violence.
One assumes it will have neither Y.A. Tittles bloody Polo Grounds picture on the cover or that one of Bradshaw after the hit by Turkey Jones many, many years ago.
Space is a factor here. So let's wrap up my "thunking". Nothing has changed my opinion
regarding the brutality of this sport and what it has meant to the many NFL veterans who still cling to the hope that someday they may regain the ability to walk erect.
That is still my stance. Regardless of why the NFL is now motivated to do something about it and the uncomfortable thought it does move the ridiculous comments by the owners about falling on hard times to the back burner- it's a timely cause. It would not be kind of me to remind folks that the owners want to extend those brutal hits by adding two more games. So, I won't.
OK, my real beef is with the hypocrisy of both the league, it's owners, and ESPN management- all of whom owe their fortunes to this brutal and debilitating game, and continue to promote it with an emphasis on violence. ESPN & Hockey apparently got a divorce.
My advice - or pleading - is not to overlook any of the violent hits but, "for God's sake - get your own houses in order. Even some of your best players - both recently retired and active - appear to know more about physics and the complexities in the interaction of two forces - than do the best minds in the NFL office."
Finally, please note there has been no attempt to defend what appears to be a non-exclusive pattern of violence on the part of Harrison - whether he's one of my favorite Steelers or not.
I'd have much more to say, but like Pa - "I'm getting a little tired and need to get back to my thunkin."
At first glance you have to conclude
In one of their many movies, one of the kids asked Ma. "What's Pa doing over there in the rocking chair all day. "Ma replied, "PA's thunkin - that's what he does best. He's just thunkin."
I think I got a little "PA' in me. Been doing a lot of "thunkin" about the $75,000 (belated) NFL penalty fine on Pittsburgh Steeler James Harrison due to two rather bruising hits last Sunday.
I say "belated" as none of the officials on the field called a penalty on either play despite having been schooled many- many-many times as to what the NFL contends is a "violent hit, worthy of a penalty."
Hey, all NFL officials can't be ranked in the top 5th of their graduating class. But, let's be honest. There are few businesses without a little "duplicity" in what they claim to represent.
Please trust me. The NFL is a business. In fact it's a monopoly. It even has it's own TV network. The NFL is a huge beneficiary of just about everything that has to do with professional football .
That includes all the merchandising - which - would not exclude the video games with the gore and violence emphasis in hopes adults and kids alike will buy them. The NFL was also big enough to coerce the networks to continue to pay them should the owners force a 2011 lockout. Prior to last Sunday, the big news in the football media has been the lockout possibility.
Fortunately, this week that was not perceived as a priority for ESPN columnist Rick Reilly, who no doubt includes several NFL owners and Execs on his Christmas card list. Rick would seem to have made one helluva ambulance chaser had he not chose "journalism" as his life long pursuit.
Reilly's all upset about this "new" development in football brutality and would like to see Harrison either retire or be suspended. The guy is downright funny. I loved his columns on the back of S.I. before he left for greener pastures.
Reilly is also rumored to be the face you see when you look up the term "smarmy."
He is a man of many and varied opinions. Based on his article in NFL.com , Reilly is also omniscient. He is "aware of all things"and advises us that Harrison "purposely lowered his head" into two Brown's wide receivers. Rick neglected to explain that one of them ducked and the other was playing the quarterback position when Harrison hit him - legally - as the rules explain.
One assumes that limited column space precluded a more detailed explanation . It could also get in the way of accuracy - something else rumored to not always be a priority for journalists.
According to the sideboard accompanying his column, someone at ESPN was kind enough to advise us that Reilly has been voted Sportswriter of the Year 11 times - or about as many times as someone with the first name of Kim has been elected North Korea's President.
Reilly confesses that with all the brutal hits (captured on film - and shown - over - and over -and over on ESPN - and one presumes The NFL Network) - "it makes you wonder what kind of person you are for sitting there watching" ( I suspect during the rest of the season Rick "will risk one eye".)
If TRicks (whoops) Rick's ESPN.com column on violence gains the circulation for which both Rick & ESPN are praying, he will no doubt come out with another book. Might even be one on "modern day" football violence.
One assumes it will have neither Y.A. Tittles bloody Polo Grounds picture on the cover or that one of Bradshaw after the hit by Turkey Jones many, many years ago.
Space is a factor here. So let's wrap up my "thunking". Nothing has changed my opinion
regarding the brutality of this sport and what it has meant to the many NFL veterans who still cling to the hope that someday they may regain the ability to walk erect.
That is still my stance. Regardless of why the NFL is now motivated to do something about it and the uncomfortable thought it does move the ridiculous comments by the owners about falling on hard times to the back burner- it's a timely cause. It would not be kind of me to remind folks that the owners want to extend those brutal hits by adding two more games. So, I won't.
OK, my real beef is with the hypocrisy of both the league, it's owners, and ESPN management- all of whom owe their fortunes to this brutal and debilitating game, and continue to promote it with an emphasis on violence. ESPN & Hockey apparently got a divorce.
My advice - or pleading - is not to overlook any of the violent hits but, "for God's sake - get your own houses in order. Even some of your best players - both recently retired and active - appear to know more about physics and the complexities in the interaction of two forces - than do the best minds in the NFL office."
Finally, please note there has been no attempt to defend what appears to be a non-exclusive pattern of violence on the part of Harrison - whether he's one of my favorite Steelers or not.
I'd have much more to say, but like Pa - "I'm getting a little tired and need to get back to my thunkin."
At first glance you have to conclude
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
THE CHICKEN DANCE
As long as the media exists we will always have humor in our lives. One headline today mentioned how mature Kobe Bryant was in responding to an observation made by Michael Jordan as to Kobe's place in basketball history. It was entitled "Kobe takes high road on Jordan slight."
This is a little like reading the letters to the editor page in People magazine and observing one lass vigorously defending the maturity of Justin Bieber.
Jordan apparently had the audacity to suggest that Kobe was in the top 10 of guards in the history of the NBA. Kobe responded, "It's an accurate statement. - - - - - - I'm definitely one of the top thousand."
Sunday, it was Steeler QB Ben Rothlisberger who was being asked in a TV interview why Terry Bradshaw was so critical of him . Bradshaw had suggested in the past that the Steelers "should have dumped" Big Ben and the league should have suspended him for more than -not less than - 6 games, after his alleged conduct in Georgia.
Big Ben's response? "You know what? I'm not sure where all the strong words and stuff came from Terry. I've looked up to him from the day I got here. He's the greatest quarterback in Steelers history."
Looks like both Stern and Goodell are making progress with the verbal abuse issues of their players as well as their encouragment for them to display some maturity.
Of course, it is a bummer for the antagonistic media.
The media - like attorneys - have to find a way to make a buck. The latter group have made it a truism that "anybody can be sued at any time by anybody else". You see. You have your law degree, passed the bar on the 8th try, and are staring at beaucoup law school tuition bills. Trust me, you'll sue your own mother.
The media have their own financial problems. They find themselves in the unenviable position of fighting a rapidly expanding growth of competition. They're seeing seemingly half the country publishing their opinion on some topic or another.
It's Twitter, Facebook, You Tube, etc. I blame permissive parents. Even those nuts who are writing blogs think they know what they're talking about. (and they have lousy grammar too.)
So, the media has to try and make a big deal over anything. Anything that is that might sell a newspaper - get a new viewer to tune in to the 11 o'clock news - or cause anyone over 25 to now desperately want to know just who the hell Justin Bieber is.
I've touched on this before. But, when I was a kid it was "de riguer du jour" (fashionable - I'm behind in my French lessons and need to practice) for at least one kid to stand on the outside of a quickly formed circle and shout at those within the circle.
In the circle were two reluctant kids who he is egging on to fight each other after one made a tackle with a mite too much enthusiasm during a sandlot football game. The critic even had the audacity to call each of them "chicken". Boy, talk about "dissing" someone." But, we were of Junior High age and acted accordingly, usually ending up in a fight.
Now, the guy doing the encouraging was usually tremendously out of shape. In between taunts he was shovelling Jujubes in his mouth , had two boxes of crackerjack as a backup -and definitely had no interest in participating in a fight, even if it was one limited to hurling marshmallows around a campfire. But he would argue to the end that the green M&M's tasted much better than either the tan or the brown ones.
Today, he's probably the editor of a struggling newspaper encouraging a repetition of his successful childhood strategizing. Sadly, in many instances he could also be a member of Congress or the Pentagon trying to identify another country for us to invade - and who has no kids eligible to serve in the armed forces.
So, why do we continue to read and watch while these poor souls play with our heads?
Maybe it's because we're sitting on the couch with a huge stash of jujubes - a gallon of ice cream and can't talk ourself out of repeating those Junior High traditions.
We "dig" that Chicken Dance!
This is a little like reading the letters to the editor page in People magazine and observing one lass vigorously defending the maturity of Justin Bieber.
Jordan apparently had the audacity to suggest that Kobe was in the top 10 of guards in the history of the NBA. Kobe responded, "It's an accurate statement. - - - - - - I'm definitely one of the top thousand."
Sunday, it was Steeler QB Ben Rothlisberger who was being asked in a TV interview why Terry Bradshaw was so critical of him . Bradshaw had suggested in the past that the Steelers "should have dumped" Big Ben and the league should have suspended him for more than -not less than - 6 games, after his alleged conduct in Georgia.
Big Ben's response? "You know what? I'm not sure where all the strong words and stuff came from Terry. I've looked up to him from the day I got here. He's the greatest quarterback in Steelers history."
Looks like both Stern and Goodell are making progress with the verbal abuse issues of their players as well as their encouragment for them to display some maturity.
Of course, it is a bummer for the antagonistic media.
The media - like attorneys - have to find a way to make a buck. The latter group have made it a truism that "anybody can be sued at any time by anybody else". You see. You have your law degree, passed the bar on the 8th try, and are staring at beaucoup law school tuition bills. Trust me, you'll sue your own mother.
The media have their own financial problems. They find themselves in the unenviable position of fighting a rapidly expanding growth of competition. They're seeing seemingly half the country publishing their opinion on some topic or another.
It's Twitter, Facebook, You Tube, etc. I blame permissive parents. Even those nuts who are writing blogs think they know what they're talking about. (and they have lousy grammar too.)
So, the media has to try and make a big deal over anything. Anything that is that might sell a newspaper - get a new viewer to tune in to the 11 o'clock news - or cause anyone over 25 to now desperately want to know just who the hell Justin Bieber is.
I've touched on this before. But, when I was a kid it was "de riguer du jour" (fashionable - I'm behind in my French lessons and need to practice) for at least one kid to stand on the outside of a quickly formed circle and shout at those within the circle.
In the circle were two reluctant kids who he is egging on to fight each other after one made a tackle with a mite too much enthusiasm during a sandlot football game. The critic even had the audacity to call each of them "chicken". Boy, talk about "dissing" someone." But, we were of Junior High age and acted accordingly, usually ending up in a fight.
Now, the guy doing the encouraging was usually tremendously out of shape. In between taunts he was shovelling Jujubes in his mouth , had two boxes of crackerjack as a backup -and definitely had no interest in participating in a fight, even if it was one limited to hurling marshmallows around a campfire. But he would argue to the end that the green M&M's tasted much better than either the tan or the brown ones.
Today, he's probably the editor of a struggling newspaper encouraging a repetition of his successful childhood strategizing. Sadly, in many instances he could also be a member of Congress or the Pentagon trying to identify another country for us to invade - and who has no kids eligible to serve in the armed forces.
So, why do we continue to read and watch while these poor souls play with our heads?
Maybe it's because we're sitting on the couch with a huge stash of jujubes - a gallon of ice cream and can't talk ourself out of repeating those Junior High traditions.
We "dig" that Chicken Dance!
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Credible Observations
I've been reading some interesting quotes recently while doing blog research.
Here's one inscribed on a candy dish I recently purchased:
"All my life I wanted to be somebody. Now I realize I should have been more specific."
(Jane Wagner)
A few gems from Fritz Perls: - some previously published here:
"Nobody can stand the truth if it is told to them. Truth can be tolerated only if you discover it yourself because then the pride of discovery makes the truth palatable."
"You cannot achieve happiness. Happiness happens and is a transitory stage. Imagine how happy I was when I got relief from bladder pressure. How long did that happiness last?"
"Our dependency makes slaves out of us, especially if this dependency is a dependency of our self-esteem. If you need encouragement, praise, pats on the back from everybody, then you make everybody your judge."
And the logical follow-up?
"I do my thing and you do your thing. I am not in this world to live up to your expectations. And you are not in this world to live up to mine. You are you and I am I. And if by chance we find each other, it's beautiful. If not, it can't be helped."
Wish I had found them earlier.
Here's one inscribed on a candy dish I recently purchased:
"All my life I wanted to be somebody. Now I realize I should have been more specific."
(Jane Wagner)
A few gems from Fritz Perls: - some previously published here:
"Nobody can stand the truth if it is told to them. Truth can be tolerated only if you discover it yourself because then the pride of discovery makes the truth palatable."
"You cannot achieve happiness. Happiness happens and is a transitory stage. Imagine how happy I was when I got relief from bladder pressure. How long did that happiness last?"
"Our dependency makes slaves out of us, especially if this dependency is a dependency of our self-esteem. If you need encouragement, praise, pats on the back from everybody, then you make everybody your judge."
And the logical follow-up?
"I do my thing and you do your thing. I am not in this world to live up to your expectations. And you are not in this world to live up to mine. You are you and I am I. And if by chance we find each other, it's beautiful. If not, it can't be helped."
Wish I had found them earlier.
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