Sunday, December 26, 2010

Sunday Night Song

Fleetwood Mac is my third favorite group, behind The Beatles and Led Zeppelin. Founding member Mick Fleetwood, Christine McVie, Lindsey Buckingham, Stevie Nicks and John McVie were in the group during the heights of their success.

Released on the blockbuster album "Rumours", which is still among the top selling albums of all time, is found a real gem in The Chain, which is the only Fleetwood Mac song which credits all current members as writers.

The Mac has been known to kick off concert appearances with The Chain. In keeping up the fight for freedom, we should all vow to never break the chain!

Friday, December 24, 2010

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Enjoy Santa's ride into Manhattan to Radio City Music Hall for the performance for the world famous Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular. MERRY CHRISTMAS!




BAHL's 2010 All America Team

2010 All America Team

OFFENSE
Auburn quarterback Cam Newton, a transfer from Florida, is the offensive player of the year. Newton, who won the Heisman Trophy, appeared a man among boys this season and simply could not be stopped, leading Auburn to an undefeated regular season and a spot in the BCS National Championship game.

WR Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma State
WR Alshon Jeffrey, South Carolina
WR Ryan Broyles, Oklahoma
TE Michael Egnew, Missouri
OL Gabe Carini, Wisconsin
OL Rodney Hudson, Florida State
OL Antohny Castonzo, Boston College
OL Stefan Wisniewski, Penn State
OL Nate Solder, Colorado
QB Cam Newton, Auburn
RB LaMichael James, Oregon
RB Kendal Hunter, Oklahoma State
RB Marcus Lattimore, South Carolina

DEFENSE
Texas A&M outside linebacker Von Miller was a bit overshadowed coming into the year, but even as A&M started slowly, Miller was a force week in and week out making big plays all over the field.


DE Da'Quan Bowers, Clemson
DT Nick Fairley, Auburn
DT Stephen Paea, Oregon State
DT Jared Crick, Nebraska
DE Adrian Clayborn, Iowa
OLB Von Miller, Texas A&M
ILB Greg Jones, Michigan State
ILB Luke Kuechly, Boston College
ILB Lavonte David, Nebraska
OLB Ryan Kerrigan, Purdue
DB Patrick Peterson, Louisiana State
DB Prince Amakumura, Nebraska
DB Jason Hosley, Virginia Tech
DB Tejay Johnson, Texas Christian
DB Kenny Tate, Maryland

K Alex Henery, Nebraska
P Drew Butler, Georgia
KR Patrick Peterson, Louisiana State
NC Marcus Lattimore, South Carolina

HEISMAN TROPHY

This was tough vote this year. Cam Newton, of Auburn, was the clear choice on the field, but a slew of off the field issues clouded the choice, as integrity is a central component of the Heisman. For my vote, if I had one, if there would have been someone close I would have swayed that way, but there simply was no other choice. Therefore, my ballot would have been:

1. Cam Newton, Auburn
2. Andrew Luck, Stanford
3. LaMichael James, Oregon.

Monday, December 20, 2010

Wake Up! Alarm Bell Ringing!

Did you see 60 Minutes last night?

I do not know what has gotten into the Obama loving crowd over there, but on the heels of a scathing report on unemployment last month, comes a very troubling piece on the day of reckoning facing the states.

Decades of irresponsibility, wreckless spending, far to excessive expenditures for entitlements and the refusal to slam the door in the face of unions have led many states to a critical time for choosing.

How bad is it? Meridith Whitney, who called the housing blow up, and New Jersey Governor Chris Christie are among those interviewed on the subject. A must watch:



The decisions facing the states are not only the states problem, but in the era of bailout nation, likely the United States problem well sooner than you may think. Christie, who is taking on the powerful unions and winning, has New Jersey on the right path, but California, who just re-elected many of left wing moonbats who put the Golden State in peril, continues to travel down a road leading them, and likely us as California is the eighth largest economy in the world, off the cliff.

Illinois was singled out as a economic catastrophe. The comptroller of the state minced no words in describing the deadbeat status of the Land of Lincoln. Unfortunately, Abraham Lincoln is no longer around to run things in Illinois, but among those who were, and helped put this state in such a horrendous economic condition, is none other than our champion of change himself, President Barack Obama. It is quite evident Obama is using many of the same policies that put Illinois in peril, most notably the transfer of wealth through entitlements, in his effort to rescue the United States in time of severe recession. I got a news flash for you. It will be unsuccessful.

These are not revenue problems, but are spending problems.

Whitney is someone worth listening to, and she is predicting historic defaults on municipal bonds, long ranked among the most stable investments with typically low levels of risk. Not anymore! Municipal bonds, or munis, are bonds sold by states, counties, cities and other political titles other than the federal government and are most often exempt from federal taxation. Although risk does vary on these instruments, the fear of widespread default has been rarely considered.

This is the other big crisis besides housing, and the scariest part, says Whitney, is the level of complacency. Oh good! Everyone is re-arranging deck chairs on the Titanic! Dump bonds if you still have them and buy commodities.

Chris Christies said the credit cards have reached their limit, and there is no money available in New Jersey. Few in Washington recognize this as the federal government continues attempts at spending us into irrevocable debt, but help may be on the way. A newly elected batch of conservative Tea Party Patriot Republicans are coming, and once things get set on track in Jersey, a true conservative leader with economic insight and some chutzpah may come in 2012 in Chris Christie.

Lead, follow or get out of the way!

Sunday, December 19, 2010

Sunday Night Song

There is nothing quite like Christmas in New York. From The Rockettes over at Radio City to the festive atmosphere throughout the city, it is indeed special.

Certainly, at the end of a whirlwind day in Mnahattan, a sing along of Frank Sinatra's New York, New York will be happening somewhere, usually at The Playwright Act II for us, in the city that never sleeps.

I had an opportunity to see Sinatra in 1982, and he was strong. So, for tonight's Sunday Night Song, Frank Sinatra and New York, New York!

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Bachmann In Overdrive

The thunderclap last November that turned the tables on big spending politicians (Democrats) resulting in the biggest turnover of party leadership in over 50 years appears to have left many in Washington whistling by the graveyard.

On the way out, under the leadership of Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D:NV), who somehow got re-elected, a 1900 page omnibus spending bill has been presented, and likely will pass since many appropriators and some "moderate" Republicans are in favor along with most all those who love to needlessly spend your money (Democrats).

Minnesota Congresswoman Michele Bachmann (R:MN) is not happy, and neither am I. Bachmann spoke with FOX Business's Judge Andrew Napolitano:



The country is broke, and economic troubles are indeed on the way, even if those smiling faces in Washington tell you differently. For Reid and his followers to propose such an outrageous spending bill with the economic problems looming and on the heels of the loud word of the people last November, it illustrates a complete disregard for the American people and champions a new level of arrogance. John McCain (R:AZ), for the love of Pete, is threatening to filibuster! Steve Moore of the Wall Street Journal editorializes on the final insult of this 111th Congress.

This slap in the face of the electorate will simply not be tolerated. Those who are in support and vote to implement this anchor of spending, and who are in large measure complicit in bankrupting of our country, will certainly be held accountable. Democrats will not get my support anyhow, but any Republican voting for this suffocating debt stricken bill will find me campaigning vigorously against them, including endless scorching here on the blog.

It goes back to comments correctly made by Ronald Reagan: "We don't have a trillion-dollar debt because we haven't taxed enough; we have a trillion-dollar debt because we spend too much”. Last year, the Tea Party Patriots led the nation to speak loud and clear on this subject. To work off a quote by CNBC's Rick Santelli, "Washington, were you listening? Stop Spending!"

For the sake of our children and grandchildren, I hope so. Unfortunately, I fear they are actively working the Cloward & Piven strategy to crash the system and if so, the governmental structure placed in our care by our founding fathers would appear to be at extreme risk.

A note for those in Washington. We surround you, and we work tirelessly to hold you accountable. We are indeed in a time of choosing, and those attempting to endlessly spend our money are not part of the solution, which is free market capitalism, our best path to prosperity.

Sunday, December 12, 2010

Sunday Night Song

This week, Florida Governor Charlie Crist got the needed votes to issue a posthumous pardon for Jim Morrison, lead singer for The Doors, for an indecent exposure conviction for an incident during a performance in Miami, Florida.

Morrison, who died in 1971, attended Florida State University before moving out to Los Angeles to attend UCLA. While at FSU, Morrison participated in a promotional video for the University.

So, begging your pardon, the Sunday Night Song tonight is Touch Me, from Jim Morrison and The Doors.

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Global Food Fight

Although I have never met Microsoft's (MSFT:NASDAQ) Bill Gates, he is someone I have always liked and respected. Furthermore, Gates, a close friend of Warren Buffett, is a board member of Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.B:NYSE), of which I am a shareholder.

About the time the H1N1 virus was the talk of the town, I came across this video of Bill Gates discussing ways to reduce the onslaught of global warming. I have always thought global warming was a hoax and a vehicle for the global transfer of wealth, but the content of this video I found very troubling. Take a listen:



Now, I know years of Bud Lite consumption has indeed killed a lot of my brain cells, but did I in fact hear Gates discuss, in an effort to combat global warming, curbing population growth through vaccination?

I think I heard it right. Certainly, it seems apparent that the Gates Foundation does great work in fighting hunger and educating women on birth control among other things through innovations in health in the third world. However, I am uncomfortable with Gates, or anyone else, including governments, deciding who is fit for existence and potentially eliminating those deemed not worthy by vaccination, born or unborn. But really, could this could not possibly be as potentially nefarious as it sounds?

Unfortunately, yes.

I will give Gates and his foundation the benefit of the doubt, but many organizations and individuals have been on this bandwagon for years, including some well known people, such as playwright George Bernard Shaw.



As an arm of the completely worthless United Nations, we find the United Nations Fund for Population Activities (UNFPA) which seeks to regulate over population through various ways. For more on UNFPA, see the following videos: 1 2 3 4. Throughout time, it seems the socialists thrive on using fear driven by a crisis of the imagination such as the myth of overpopulation and now the greatest hoax in history, global warming.

Back in January, with the United States economy in freefall, Hillary Clinton announced the launch of a new program, the Global Health Initiative, which will, and I quote, become "the centerpiece of U.S. foreign policy". The focus will be to improve family planning and prevent pregnancies. The centerpiece of our foreign policy, mind you.

This past week, Congress, uncharacteristically moving at warp speed, passed the Food Safety Modernization Act. Come again? Are there issues with our food I am unaware of? Glenn Beck has some thoughts on that.


The global warming alarmists, a group basically engaged in stealing the wealth of our country to spread it around to third world countries under the imminent threat of the demise of the world due to global warming, met last week in Cancun, Mexico. Certainly during afternoon recesses, the conference attendees were not afraid of escalating water levels while sunbathing. Anyhow, scientists at the event called for rationing in developed world. To cap off the event, academics called for much tougher measures to cut carbon emissions.

Anytime we have academics and intellectual elites attempting to dictate governmental policy, particularly on inflated claims of an emergency, it is an immediate threat to free market capitalism, which is our best path to prosperity.

With the recent elections here in the United States, efforts by this crowd face much stronger opposition. The socialists smell blood in the water, and I fear they will pull out every stop, including violence, to attempt to create chaos and further their radical agenda. Should chaos in the form of civil disobedience rule the day, seemingly legitimate cries for the government to assist will be made.

Think again. This plays right into the hands of the socialist movement. Freedom is under attack! Under the premise of an emergency, the government will seize power and chunks of our freedom will lost to the ash bin of history. As Ronald Reagan said, Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children's children what it was once like in the United States where men were free

Sunday, December 5, 2010

Sunday Night Song

I heard a series of news stories this weekend regarding the murder of John Lennon, which happened 30 years ago this Wednesday. Hard to imagine how time has flown by.

It was just five years ago I attended a gathering of tens of thousands in Central Park marking the 25th anniversary of Lennons passing. It was a moving event.

Lennon had more talent in one hand than the greater majority of artists we find today. The body of work with The Beatles is beyond reproach, and individually, with a wide range of material, Lennon also shined.

In honor of John, tonight we present a Lennon solo composition, Instant Karma. I believe in karma, so those of you in set in your ways to destroy America better keep an eye out over your shoulder. Instant karma is going to get you, and Lennon's work and America will continue to shine on!

From February of 1970, John Lennon and Instant Karma!

Top 25

College Football

Final Regular Season Poll

Top 25

1. Auburn, 13-0, 1
2. Oregon, 12-0, 2
3. Texas Christian, 12-0, 3
4. Wisconsin, 11-1, 4
5. Stanford, 11-1, 5
6. Ohio State, 11-1, 6
7. Michigan State, 11-1, 7
8. Oklahoma, 11-2, 9
9. Arkansas, 10-2, 8
10. Virginia Tech, 11-2, 10
11. LSU, 10-2, 12
12. Boise State, 11-1, 13
13. Nebraska, 10-3, 11
14. Oklahoma State, 10-2, 14
15. Alabama, 9-3, 15
16. Missouri, 10-2, 16
17. Texas A&M, 9-3, 18
18. Nevada, 11-1, 19
19. South Carolina, 9-4, 18
20. Florida State, 9-4, 20
21. Mississippi State, 8-4, 21
22. West Virginia, 9-3, 22
23. Maryland, 8-4, 23
24. North Carolina State, 8-4, 24
25. Central Florida, 10-3, NR

OUT: Arizona (25)

VOTES: Iowa, Arizona, Utah, Arizona State, Connecticut, Baylor, Georgia, Florida, Hawaii and Penn State.

Auburn absolutely blasted South Carolina in the SEC Championship game and it appears Cam Newton and Tigers do what they want offensively.....UCF won the C-USA title in Orlando and now may face the Dawgs in the Liberty Bowl....Oregon disposed of Oregon State in the Civil War and will play Auburn for the title....Florida State had no answers for Tyrod Taylor and with backup signal caller EJ Manuel in command, was unable to outscore the Hokies, who have won 11 in a row after losing to Boise State and stumbling against James Madison....Miami may have moved to quickly in disposing Randy Shannon, as the 'Canes replacement search is already looking without direction....USC defeated crosstown rival UCLA, and it is sad how far down these programs are....After Army-Navy next week, we will look forward to the bowls.

Nebraska, with a limited quarterback and a slew of turnovers, squandered a 17-0 lead and fell to OU in the Big XII title game, which was fittingly between OU and NU. It did look good early, as it usually has over the years.

Monday, November 29, 2010

'Noles on the Warpath at DOAK

ABC Sports, who this year with an introduction of some rock music prior to games lost much of the color and pageantry of college football, knocked it out the park in the pregame coverage of the Florida State Seminoles entrance prior to taking on the hated Gators.

A sellout crowd, the tomahawk chop and Chief Osceola! Whoa Nelly!



A great day to be in garnet and gold, thumping the Gators amongst a sea of Seminoles!

F-L-O-R-I-D-A S-T-A-T-E,

FLORIDA STATE, FLORIDA STATE, FLORIDA STATE!

'Huskers Retire #93 of Big Suh

Appropriately, the University of Nebraska on Friday retired the #93 of defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh, perhaps the most decorated defensive player in NCAA football history.

Suh, the #2 pick in the 2010 NFL draft by the Detroit Lions, was simply dominating at the collegiate level and is in line to be the NFL defensive Rookie of the Year.

Joining the ceremony at halftime of the 'Huskers romp over Colorado were former Coach, Dr. Tom Osborne, "Touchdown" Tommie Frazier, Aaron Taylor, Dean Steinkuhler, NFL Hall of Fame bound Will Shields, Dominic Raiola, Eric Weigert, Larry Jacobson and Heisman Trophy winner Johnny "The Jet" Rodgers.



Congratulations to Big Suh. Certainly, in mentioning a handful of the greatest players ever to play for the Big Red, there is the name of a former Blackshirt that would come to the forefront. You know who! Ndamukong Suh! Go Big Red!

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Sunday Night Song

Perhaps known domestically for one great song, Don't You Forget About Me, from the blockbuster movie The Breakfast Club, Jim Kerr and Simple Minds have a slew a great tunes, and one of which is featured tonight in Sunday Night Song.

After a great weekend of football, it is apparent my Seminoles are indeed alive and kicking; ask the Gators. With that in mind, from the album Once Upon A Time, here is a 1997 live performance of Alive and Kicking from Simple Minds as tonight's Sunday Night Song. Enjoy!

Top 25

College Football

Forwarded from our good friend Boofus S. Bulldog is a copy of CBS Sports Tony Barnhart's Thanksgiving Day column, which is a must read for all fans of the color and pageantry of NCAA College Football. Read it HERE

Top 25

1. Auburn, 12-0, 2
2. Oregon, 11-0, 1
3. Texas Christian, 12-0, 4
4. Wisconsin, 11-1, 5
5. Stanford, 11-1, 6
6. Ohio State, 11-1, 8
7. Michigan State, 11-1, 11
8. Arkansas, 10-2, 12
9. Oklahoma, 10-2 14
10. Virginia Tech, 10-2, 13
11. Nebraska, 10-2, 15
12. LSU, 10-2, 7
13. Boise State, 10-1, 3
14. Oklahoma State, 10-2, 9
15. Alabama, 9-3, 10
16. Missouri, 10-2, 16
17. South Carolina, 9-3, 17
18. Texas A&M, 9-3, 18
19. Nevada, 10-1, 19
20. Florida State, 9-3, 22
21. Mississippi State, 8-4, 23
22. West Virginia, 8-3, NR
23. Maryland, 8-4, NR
24. North Carolina State, 8-4, 21
25. Arizona, 7-4, 20

OUT: Iowa (24) & Florida (25).

VOTES: Iowa, Florida, Hawaii, Central Florida, Penn State, Northern Illinois, Utah, Baylor & Georgia.

Alabama thought they had Auburn knocked out, but off the canvas Cam Newton and the Tigers came to deal the Tide a bitter defeat for the ages, complete with with a TKO of Tide signal caller Greg McElroy with time running out.... Texas, a year ago playing of the national title, is 5-7 and will not go bowling after losing on Thanksgiving to A&M. Longhorn faithful are really scratching their heads on this bizarre season....Baylor is going bowling....Missouri belted Kansas, and for the Jayhawks, thank goodness the hardwood game is underway....Boise State let loose a 24-7 halftime lead and then missed two chip shot field goals to fall at Nevada in overtime, ending any potential BCS championship dreams for the Broncos....Maryland won a big one at home against NC State, sending Florida State to the ACC title game against Virginia Tech....Arkansas and LSU had another wild one, with the Hogs winning....Mississippi State won The Egg Bowl capping off a very soild season....Iowa lost to lowly Minnesota, getting punted on the stat sheet in addition to the scoreboard, concluding a very disappointing campaign for the Hawkeyes, who were in most pre-season top tens. Iowa joins Florida, Texas and Miami for the biggest diappointment of 2010. Victim says it is Texas.

Randy Shannon has been fired at Miami in a decision that had to be made after the Hurricanes, before a sparse crowd even by their low standards, dropped to South Florida in overtime. As a 'Nole, I had hoped Shannon would keep his job, but this was an ugly afternoon all around for the "U", so everyone saw this coming. I think the Hurricanes made a big mistake moving to SunLife Stadium from the now flattened Orange Bowl. The home field advantage at SunLife, 40 minutes north of the campus, is non existent. Miami needs to find the real state to build an on campus 50K seat stadium like what UCF built in Orlando. This program, in only small part due to Shannon, is nothing like what it used to be. Tomahawk Nation had a great article on the 'Canes program and the reality that it may be unwilling to compete at the level needed to regain the past glory.

Vanderbilt's highly thought of Coach Robbie Caldwell surprisingly resigned, and this looks like a great spot for Shannon to land....Speaking of coaches with a burning chair, RichRod is again atop the list ( Stanford coach and former Wolverine QB Jim Harbaugh comes home?) which should include Dabo Swinney at Clemson, where 6-6 is not going to get it....This was supposed to be a strong year for Pittsburgh with several starters returning, but it has been a disaster. One has to wonder if AD Steve Peterson is leading Pitt into decline like he did at Nebraska (he is) and if Wannstedt may join Bill Callahan back in the NFL.

In the final game between the departing teams of the Big XII, Nebraska used a strong performance by running back Rex Burkhead to smash the visiting Colorado Buffaloes. Replacing the Buffs for a rivalry game will be Iowa as the 'Huskers move to the Big Ten. Now, it is on to the Big XII Championship game in Dallas to take on the Oklahoma Sooners, who won Bedlam at Okie State. Nebraska-Oklahoma will play the final Big XII game, and that is exactly how it should be. GBR!

Florida State is 2010 state champs, smothering Florida 31-7 in Tallahassee. How Bout Them 'Noles?

PHOTO: (Gary W. Green, Orlando Sentinel / November 26, 2010)

The Pilgrims and Property Rights

As we enjoy this Thanksgiving weekend, we must give thanks for property rights, which is central among the foundation of our republic. Reason TV explains how our Ancestors got fat and happy:



HT/CARPE DIEM via ReasonTV

Monday, November 22, 2010

Top 25

College Football

Top 25

1. Oregon, 10-0, 1
2. Auburn, 11-0, 2
3. Boise State, 10-0, 3
4. Texas Christian, 11-0, 4
5. Wisconsin, 10-1, 5
6. Stanford, 10-1, 8
7. LSU, 10-1, 6
8. Ohio State, 10-1, 9
9. Oklahoma State, 10-1, 9
10. Alabama, 9-2, 12
11. Michigan State, 10-1, 11
12. Arkansas, 9-2, 12
13. Virginia Tech, 9-2, 14
14. Oklahoma, 9-2, 16
15. Nebraska, 9-2, 7
16. Missouri, 9-2, 15
17. South Carolina, 8-3, 17
18. Texas A&M, 8-3, 19
19. Nevada, 9-1, 18
20. Arizona, 7-3, 23
21. North Carolina State, 8-3, NR
22. Florida State, 8-3, 25
23. Mississippi State, 7-4, 24
24. Iowa, 7-4, 21
25. Florida, 7-4, NR

OUT: Northwestern (20) & Southern Cal (22)

VOTES: Miami, West Virginia, UCF, Northwestern, Southern Miss, Southern Cal, Northern Illinois, Baylor & Hawaii.

North Carolina State got a huge victory at North Carolina behind the legs of All-ACC QB Russell Wilson.....Iowa lost at home to Ohio State, failing to meet lofty expectations for 2010 while Wisconsin continues to use a powerful running game to mash opponents....Michigan State almost lost to Purdue, but survived...Oklahoma stampeded a decent Baylor squad which got my attention...Stanford blasted Cal-Berkley and served notice....Virginia Tech dumped Miami, giving the Hokies 9 wins in a row and giving the Hurricanes another disappointing setback....Meanwhile, Boise State continues to roll along toward the BCS title game.

It has not been a good year for the officiating crews across the country. Beyond missing calls, the new helmet hit rule is out of control and is having a negative effect on the game. Unfortunately, this weekend hit a new low as my teams were on the short end the blind zebras.

First, Florida State cornerback Greg Reid, dripping wet a buck 75, blasted a Maryland wideout, deflecting the ball which was intercepted and returned for a pick six by Mike Harris. Reid was ruled with hitting a defenseless player, the touchdown (which would have put Maryland in a big hole at 17-3) was erased and Maryland was given a first down 15 yards down the field to continue a drive the Terps later scored on. Looks like a clean pop in the right chest to me. Take a look:



Later in the evening, Nebraska fell to Texas A&M at Kyle Field, home of the 12th Man. Who knew the 12th Man was the officials? First off, although the Blackshirts are among the nations best, Nebraska is not a good offensive team without a healthy Taylor Martinez. T-Magic was not healthy Saturday night, and it showed.

On this evening, however, the Big Red would nee to do more than beat Texas A&M; it would have to out fox the zebras as well. Texas A&M is among the most penalized teams in the Big XII, but finished the night with two penalties for 10 yards. Nebraska was flagged 16 times for 165 yards. Big XII officials targeting Pelini and the Big Red?

On this play, Nebraska tight end Ben Cotton was flagged for two personal fouls totalling 30 yards. Check out why Cotton, #81, was torqued and what the officials missed:



With the game tied 6-6, two pass interference calls on 3rd and 10+ kept a late A&M drive alive. Nebraska was off the field once again after a big third down stop, but safety Courtney Osborne was flagged for personal foul roughing the passer, keeping the drive alive in which A&M converted the winning field goal. Check it out:



While Florida State was able to overcome the idiocy of the officials, Nebraska with a sluggish offense was not. While the FSU call appears to have been in error, the wide disparity of calls against Nebraska, including 3 on the game winning field goal drive at Collage Station seem to be much more than a handful of errors.

I was not the greatest player back in the day, but when I got loose to zero in on the quarterback, I never had the luxury of adjusting my contact point a few inches in hopes of not injuring the player I was tackling, which was never intended.

The protection of the players has gone too far, is out of control and is affecting the outcomes of games, unless of course what I thought I saw at A&M is what I thought I saw, which I found most unfortunate. So did Tom Shatel of the Omaha World Herald.

Both the hit by FSU's Reid and Nebraska's Osborne were legal and the kind of game changing plays that win games. If you are a quarterback and don't want to be sacked, take it up with your big uglies, the coaches, get rid of the ball or get off the field. And a note to the officials at A&M: Pelini had every right to verbally assault you and as your performance was embarrassing.

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Sunday Night Song

Unable to attend due to football obligations with The Florida State Seminoles, the Classic Albums Live performance of The Beatles album "Help!" last night at Hard Rock Live in Orlando was no doubt top notch. These guys are nothing short of superb.

As it turns out, after a big win last night in College Park versus Maryland, the Seminoles need some help to advance to the ACC Championship Game in Charlotte in the form of North Carolina State losing at Maryland next weekend.

Therefore, obviously, the choice for Sunday Night Song is indeed the title track of the stellar album "Help!" by the greatest band ever, by far, The Beatles. Enjoy!

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Actions Admission of Failure

Obamacare, much like the conditions on last weeks disabled cruise ship so accurately pointed out by Investors Business Daily's Michael Ramirez, is starting to really stink. Recall, we had to pass the bill to find out what is in the bill, and the more we uncover, the more we don't not like.

Almost immediately, many corporations, some of whom helped craft the legislation, quickly realized the burden the legislation would have and sounded a loud alarm. McDonalds led the way.

Of course, many of us recognized this from the get go, including Minnesota Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, who spoke yesterday on the subject. The lovely Shannon Bream of FOX News has the story:



As noted by Bachmann, certainly among my favorite currently elected officials, some 111 corporations and unions have been granted a waiver in terms of adhering to the biting regulatory grip of the legislation. Obviously, once again, the government under this administration is picking winners and losers, which is in violation of free market principles. I run a handful of small businesses, but, seriously Dude, where is my waiver ?

While rising costs and the prospect of a restriction on choice seem apparent, the problem is much worse than recognized by the average American.

Today, Donald Berwick, recently appointed by President Obama to be the nominee to head the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, finally was formally introduced to Congress. Be advised, much like the NEA is not about the advancement of public education, the new healthcare plan is not about improved healthcare nor cost containment, but rather the redistribution of wealth. Don't buy it? Take a listen:



Berwick thinks government can more efficiently run health care than the private sector. No doubt, Berwick missed Reagan's proclamation that government is not the solution to the problem, government is the problem.

Additionally, the new heatlthcare bill contains measures allowing for death panels. I know you remember the intellectually hampered Sarah Palin getting lambasted by the mainstream media for having the gal to incite the public by claiming the formation and implementation of death panels existed within the bill. Golly, Palin is just so lacking in "intellectual curiosity".

I know facts are hard to come by when you live your life on the left side of the street, but perhaps if you favorite Nobel Prize winning economist Paul Krugman describes that death panels are in fact part of Obamacare, and he did just that this weekend, you may recognize Palin posting on Facebook beat the New York Times to the story once again. Investors Business Daily slams Krugman on the nations top editorial page

Thankfully, due to the results of the recent election, which decimated the Democrats, the brakes will be slammed on the accelerated onslaught of crony capitalism under President Obama's transformation of America.

The country is in great peril due to the insane policies of this administration, and the sooner we put an abrupt halt to the implementation of said policies, the better.

Monday, November 15, 2010

America at a Crossroad

Without question, government has gone wild. The overreach by our elected officials in many area of our lives is staggering and strikes a blow to our individualism and entrepreneurial spirit.

After a brief overview of recent governmental activity by CNBC's Hampton Pearson, Kudlow & Company's Larry Kudlow discusses the status of free market capitalism with a pillar of economic philosophy, Dr. Thomas Sowell. Take a listen:



Sowell is quite correct in his analysis, as usual. Free market principles, upon which our great nation was founded, remains the best path to prosperity, and Dr Thomas Sowell, through his many insightful books and stellar editorial pieces, stands tall in advancing free market principles and inspiring free market capitalists worldwide.

America is indeed at a crossroad, and the path to freedom is the one based on the free market principles Sowell advocates.

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Top 25

College Football

Top 25

1. Oregon, 10-0, 1
2. Auburn, 11-0, 2
3. Boise State, 9-0, 4
4. Texas Christian, 11-0, 3
5. Wisconsin, 9-1, 8
6. LSU, 9-1, 6
7. Nebraska, 9-1, 5
8. Stanford, 9-1, 7
9. Ohio State, 9-1, 9
10. Oklahoma State, 9-1, 10
11. Michigan State, 9-1, 12
12. Alabama, 8-2, 13
13. Arkansas, 8-2, 14
14. Virginia Tech, 8-2, 17
15. Missouri, 8-2, 19
16. Oklahoma, 8-2, 20
17. South Carolina, 7-3, 21
18. Nevada, 8-1 22
19. Texas A&M, 8-3, 25
20. Northwestern, 7-3, NR
21. Iowa, 7-3, 11
22. Southern Cal, 7-3, NR
23. Arizona, 7-3, 15
24. Mississippi State, 7-3, 18
25. Florida State, 7-3, NR

OUT: Florida (23), UCF (24) & Utah (16)

VOTES: Utah, North Carolina State, North Carolina, Miami, Michigan, San Diego State, Northern Illinois, Baylor & Maryland.

Although Cal has been a decent team at home, it was quite a close one for Oregon, who scored only one offensive touchdown in winning 15-13.....Auburn, with all the distractions surrounding Heisman front runner Cam Newton, pulled away from improving Georgia on the plains.....Texas is in meltdown, and likely will not make a bowl game, which is simply mind boggling, particularly when remembering they handed Nebraska their only loss, at Lincoln....Florida is also reeling after getting pounded by favorite Son Spurrier in Gainesville and could finish .500 on the year, which is also quite surprising....Alabama spanked Miss State....Wisconsin poured 83 on Indiana, flexing some muscle...USC nipped Arizona, netting a big win...Iowa is again a major disappointment and lost at Northwestern, who is better than most think...While it has been a poor season for Georgia, it has not been all that great for Ga. Tech either....Needing any and all style points, TCU struggled, as did Nebraska, again...Alabama looms quite large for Auburn and kudos to South Carolina in making their first SEC Title game. Will Oklahoma State follow suite and make first Big XII Title game?

After two weeks of losing on the last play, seemingly by the luck of the draw, Florida State wins one with emphasis with Dustin Hopkins redemptive field goal:

Sunday Night Song

Tonight's Sunday Night Song is a haunting tune which builds to an instrumental climax, Uninvited, from the extremely talented Canadian Grammy Award winning singer-songwriter Alanis Morrisette. Enjoy!

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Inside Outside Upside Down

In my daily whip around the world wide web in search of credible information, I usually make a stop by The Drudge Report. In recent days, some of the stories I came across there echo what I feel in my gut, that the world has practically turned inside, outside, upside down.

Presented below are a handful of recent stories with some short commentary on each.

China downgrades US as our economic situation continues to worsen. China is not innocent in destabilizing trade and currency manipulation, but given they hold so much of our debt, we are in a pickle. Hopefully, we learned from The Great Depression that protectionism is not a prudent avenue to travel, but given our recent actions we have not. Not only are we engaging in dangerous trade policies, we are manipulating our own currency.

It appears there is an Orderly Decline of the Dollar taking place. Central to sound economics, and a pillar of the Reagan Revolution, is a strong dollar. With The FED exhausting the printing press, it would seem that our debt is being monetized, decreasing the value of the dollar, which is quite dangerous. Billionaire hedge fund manager George Soros, who Glenn Beck is accurately exposing this week, has called for global governance. Soros, who has crashed foreign currencies and is noted as the man who broke The Bank of England, controls through media operations and financial positions much of the progressive agenda wrecking our sovereignty. Through an orderly decline of the dollar, Soros and his agents can remove monetary power of the single largest obstacle to global governance, which is the free market capitalists of The United States of America. This is quite alarming, and even The Maestro, former FED Chair Alan Greenspan, is concerned.

Off the west coast, low and behold, we find Unidentified Flying Missiles. After decades of being spooked by the potential existence of spaceships and aliens, nobody seems the slightest bit alarmed that the apparent missile launch cannot, at least publicly, be explained by any US military or governmental official. Surely, with all the high level security we got over at Area 51, we can come up with something plausible. It seems the public thinks this is no big deal. Maybe Big Foot water skiing on Lake Tahoe would do it, but given the American Idiot society we live in these days, maybe not. Then again, what is this firestreak across the NYC skyline?

Obama Slams Israel yet again, which is the opposite position of every President of my lifetime. It boggles the mind how this guy got elected, but I can assure you the greater majority of the US citizenry does not concur with his repeated Israel bashing. Nor do we appreciate his continuing assault on America from foreign soil. Back in the day, this would not be tolerated, and should not be now.

Government Elites Living Large during high level meeting to discuss fraud in the stimulus package. The whole thing is a fraud, and the administration going around pontificating about the several million jobs they saved or created is nothing short of lying to the American people. This erroneous rhetoric raises my already elevated blood pressure. Since when do we tolerate our President lying to our face in discussion of his stimulus package, and then, having his administration slap us upside the face by having lavish meetings to investigate fraud in the package. I recognized the fraud the day it was announced.

A Stranded Ship Although I have always been a boater and have been offshore in my own boat on many occasions, I have always been inclined to steer clear of the cruise ships. Perhaps it is a control thing, who knows. Warnings after 9-11 about terrorists potentially unleashing some sort of deadly virus aboard one further extended my apprehension. I now read of a Carnival cruise ship floating powerless in the Pacific due to an engine fire, creating less than favorable conditions aboard while waiting rescue. No doubt, an odd turn of events which one would not wish to be part of. On top of that, the beer was warm.

Obama AWOL on Veterans as he barely recognized the heart and soul of our great nation, our Veterans, on Veterans day. The sacrifices made by our Veterans go far beyond what any words can describe, but one word I never hear from President Obama, is victory, Our country exists today because our Veterans were victorious. Today, Hail to the Victors! My heartfelt thanks and may God Bless You All!


There are many very puzzling things going on these days, so much so it seems that life has turned inside, outside and upside down. I conclude the worst is not behind us yet, so adhere to the principles of your faith, the founding fathers and free market capitalism to weather the storm.

Monday, November 8, 2010

Top 25

College Football

Top 25

1. Oregon, 9-0, 1
2. Auburn, 10-0, 2
3. Texas Christian, 10-0, 4
4. Boise State, 8-0, 3
5. Nebraska, 8-1, 7
6. LSU, 8-1, 11
7. Stanford, 8-1, 12
8. Wisconsin, 8-1, 8
9. Ohio State, 8-1, 9
10. Oklahoma State, 8-1, 15
11. Iowa, 7-2, 16
12. Michigan State, 8-1, 17
13. Alabama, 7-2, 5
14. Arkansas, 7-2, 18
15. Arizona, 7-2, 13
16. Utah, 8-1, 6
17. Virginia Tech, 7-2, 20
18. Mississippi State, 7-2, 23
19. Missouri, 7-2, 14
20. Oklahoma, 7-2, 10
21. South Carolina, 6-3, 19
22. Nevada, 8-1, NR
23. Florida, 6-3, NR
24. Central Florida, 7-2, 25
25. Texas A&M, 6-3, NR

OUT: Florida State (21), Baylor (22), North Carolina State (24).

VOTES: Kansas State, North Carolina, Florida State, Baylor, North Carolina State, Penn State, Pittsburgh, Miami, Maryland, USC and San Diego State.

Another wild weekend of college football. Virginia Tech survived Georgia Tech on Thursday, and Tech has lost QB Nesbitt for the season....Miami escaped Maryland with few seconds left.....Florida State lost for the second straight week on the last play of the game, failing once again with a field goal effort wide right, which is obviously concerning....NC State fell at Clemson late in a game they should have won....Duke outlasted Virginia 55-48, and what can we conclude from all of this? The ACC has a bunch of mediocre teams....Oklahoma is dreadful on the road, losing big at Texas A&M Saturday night but almost unbeatable at home.... Missouri has laid a late egg once again, perhaps laying claim as the pretender of the decade...What on earth has happened to Texas, who got obliterated by Kansas State? This is so disturbing it could get real ugly....Nebraska, having to use the third team QB, escaped Iowa State in overtime, but lest there be no doubt, without Martinez the 'Huskers are not all that great...Alabama fell at Death Valley, so the Tide is out of it while LSU is surprisingly in it....Colorado led by some 30 and lost to Kansas, which if it had not already been decided, will remove Dan Hawkins as CU coach....Texas Christian, the best team in the lonestar state, crushed unbeaten Utah for the second straight year....Don't look now, but UCF may be the best team in Florida, having only lost early at K-State and at home to NC State....Florida is still in it in the SEC, and a victory hosting South Carolina will do it....Oklahoma State blasted Baylor and is now in drivers seat to rematch Nebraska in Big XII title game...Stanford looks like a real good football team, but they could not slow Oregon down....Can Georgia rise up and dump Auburn on Saturday?...Navy threw 76 on East Carolina for crying out loud, while Michigan outlasted Illinois 67-65 in overtime. Does anyone play stellar D anymore?...

And now, for one of the all time trick plays:

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Sunday Night Song

This afternoon, we buried my old buddy Steve after a hard fought bout with cancer. Steve was like a brother to me and we had great fun together over the years. While Big Ole BudFeiser will be missed, he will live in our hearts forever!

Tonight, in honor of Steve, one of our favorite tunes from high school is presented. This video is of a recent performance of Paul Rodgers and Bad Company's Rock and Roll Fantasy. RIP Steve!

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Run For Paydirt!

"This is the issue of this election: Whether we believe in our capacity for self-government or whether we abandon the American Revolution and confess that a little intellectual elite in a far-distant capital can plan our lives for us better than we can plan them ourselves." ~ Ronald Reagan

Although Reagan made this comment in 1964 in his "A Time For Choosing" speech, the commentary is dead on here in 2010.

Before you can win, you must be in a position to loose. You must take risks to gain ground, and instill a work ethic superior to your competitor. These winning traits are not found in the land of socialist thought, but are found in the free market system.

Few places provide a greater illustration of preparation, work ethic, risk taking and aspiration than the color and pageantry of college football. On the gridiron we find witness by example the principles our great nation were founded on.

Former Florida State football coach Bobby Bowden recently released a promotional video called "Get Coached". I learned quite a bit from Coach Bowden over the years, and maybe you can too. Take a listen:



Competition, preparation, education and risk taking, found every Saturday, are also the ingredients found in the entrepreneurial spirit. The governmental elites, who think they make decisions for you better than you can for yourself, were thankfully defeated on Tuesday. Their efforts to break the entrepreneurial spirit have been dealt a serious blow.

We were given a Republic, if we can keep it. Unless the best strategic move, why settle for field goals when we can score touchdowns? Go for it! Run for paydirt!

Monday, November 1, 2010

Vote to Change The Future!

When folks are unchallenged and awarded for average performance, the path to greatness is handicapped. When individuals fail to reach for uncharted achievement, out society is the loser. An ill-informed society, one given benefits without earning anything, leads to a myriad of bad things. As an example, please see the following:



With idiots like this running around, considering themselves informed and hitting the voting booth, it is no wonder our government thinks they should dictate our every affair. Even though, obviously, many Americans are failing miserably in their responsibilities as citizens to educate themselves on how our government functions and to gain a command on the issues, government should not expand control over our citizenry. With our elected representatives disrespecting the electorate, due to horrendous policies being implemented by the ruling class, in their arrogance, our future is on the verge of being very bleak:



Ronald Reagan, in his Time for Choosing speech, summed up the election before us here today. "This is the issue of this election: Whether we believe in our capacity for self-government or whether we abandon the American Revolution and confess that a little intellectual elite in a far-distant capital can plan our lives for us better than we can plan them ourselves."

Samuel Adams once said "If ever time should come, when vain and aspiring men shall possess the highest seats in Government, our country will stand in need of its experienced patriots to prevent its ruin."

The time of choosing is upon us. It is time for the experienced patriots Adams spoke of to stand up, for if we are not careful, the far distant capital Reagan refers to will not be in Washington.

Sunday, October 31, 2010

Sunday Night Song

For this evenings post, I must differ from the designed plan to present a tune which does not have a video to post, but I found portions of the lyrics fitting for what is in store for the arrogant politicians that have violated the public trust.

In a previous post, I noted that as those elected to disperse of a so called "culture of corruption", the Democrats have escalated four fold the corruption in Washington across the gamut in a staggering display of arrogance. I have a newsflash for the liberals; Your Time Is Gonna Come!

Lyin', Cheatin', Hurtin'
That's all you seem to do

Always the same, playin' your game
Drive me insane, Troubles gonna come to you

One of these days, and it won't be long

All I got to say is Your Time Is Gonna Come
!

The time has come now and trouble is at the doorstep for the liberal lemmings. A political earthquake will take place on Tuesday, and it could not come soon enough.

As far as I know, Led Zeppelin never played this tune live, therefore there is no live video to present. But it is a favorite of mine, and yes, to all the arrogant socialists, Your Time Is Gonna Come!

Top 25

College Football

Top 25

1. Oregon, 8-0, 1
2. Auburn, 9-0, 3
3. Boise State, 7-0, 2
4. Texas Christian, 9-0, 4
5. Alabama, 7-1, 6
6. Utah, 8-0, 5
7. Nebraska, 7-1, 11
8. Wisconsin, 7-1, 9
9. Ohio State, 8-1, 10
10. Oklahoma, 7-1, 12
11. LSU, 7-1, 13
12. Stanford, 7-1, 15
13. Arizona, 7-1, 16
14. Missouri, 7-1, 7
15. Oklahoma State, 7-1, 17
16. Iowa, 6-2, 20
17. Michigan State, 8-1, 8
18. Arkansas, 6-2, 18
19. South Carolina, 6-2, 19
20. Virginia Tech, 6-2, 22
21. Florida State, 6-2, 14
22. Baylor, 7-2, 23
23. Mississippi State, 7-2, NR
24. North Carolina State, 7-2, NR
25. Central Florida, 6-2, NR

OUT: Miami (21), Michigan (24) & USC (25)

VOTES: Nevada, Hawaii, Maryland, Syracuse, Oregon State, Illinois, USC, Northwestern, Penn State, Michigan, Florida, Pitt & Miami.

Both Boise State and Utah lost ground with me due to what I consider sub par performances....Robert Griffith III and Baylor get a signature win and dispose of Texas at Austin....NC State, behind great play from their all conference signal caller Russell Wilson, outlasted FSU, whose senior quarterback violated rule #1 in football, protecting the ball; twice, which will and did get us beat...USC put up a good effort but Oregon played fast and loose and beat Troy....With undefeated top ten opponents visiting, both Nebraska and Iowa exploded out of the gate to blast unbeatens Missouri and Michigan State respectively....Maryland is 6-2 after hanging 62 on Wake Forest, but with Miami up next, we will find out if the Terps are for real... Speaking of Miami, this was supposed to be the year, but the wheels appear to be falling off, and with sub par recruiting over the last few years, things could get worse in 2011....OU bombed Colorado, and Dan Hawkins simply must be dismissed...Florida met Georgia in Jacksonville at The Worlds Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party and someone had to win. Given what Georgia decided to do offensively in overtime was, well, offensive, so the Gators win....Syracuse looks like some life is being found in the program after two big wins.

CBS Sports had a great piece on the tradition of Nebraska football. After pounding previously unbeaten Missouri, the Cornhuskers control their own destiny for a Big XII Championship before moving to Big 10.

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

To Tell The Truth

During the course of my daily media viewing, from FOX News to CNBC, I hear political and economic analysts routinely create controversy by out and out lying to the viewers. Certainly, items of discussion like a prediction of the price of a particular stock price in three months has a varinace of opinion. Good luck with that. Those guys are smarter than I am as I don't even know what I am having for lunch tomorrow.

Unfortunately, the rapidly increasing lies go much deeper that what Coca Cola trades at come St. Patricks Day. Take the "established" rhetoric that the Obama administration has created or "saved" some 3 million jobs. Are you trying to kid me? No, you are lying to me. Brent Bozell, founder of The Media Research Center, has had enough:



I have had enough as well. I try to call many of the culprits out here on the blog, but time constraints prohibit me from even scratching the surface. During political season, and we are squarely in the thick of that as we approach the most important election of my lifetime on November 2, a real "Time of Choosing", I want to express to my readers how important it is to know your sources.

From Common Cents Blog comes a blog piece I have been aiming to present on my own for some time, highlighting perhaps your best economic and political source for credible information. It can be found on the pages of Investors Business Daily.

Common Cents Blog says: "The absolute best editorial page you will read is Investor's Business Daily. IBD prints easy-to-read, concise and hard hitting editorials that tout the benefits of free enterprise." A subscriber since 1994, I am in complete agreement with this assertion. Common Cents Blog lists the editorial pieces from Tuesday, October 26, 2010. I added a few they left off, and added commentary on each piece.

EDITORIALS

ObamaCare: Finding things we don't like in the Democrats' overhaul legislation is becoming an almost daily event. Add to the list the possibility that a provision in the bill could be almost six times more costly than the initial estimate. We need to pass the bill to find out what is in the bill. This is completely lacking in common sense, is insulting and a unfathomable display of arrogance. Did I mention we are broke?

WMDs (Weapons of Mass Destruction): Iraq War documents released by WikiLeaks show that U.S. forces frequently encountered weapons of mass destruction facilities and specialists. A former president is owed an apology. I find WikiLeaks and its founder disgusting. However, I have and had no doubt Iraq had weapons of mass destruction and that Iran is and continues to be the head of the snake. Thank You President Bush!

Fiscal Responsibility: Facing historic electoral losses, big-spending Democrats have stooped to lying about Rep. Paul Ryan's innovative plan to save Social Security — aided and abetted by the establishment media. While Obama thinks he is the smartest guy in the room, economically, Ryan is. Come November 2, Uncle Same can finally utilize his talents to help us to perhaps regain prosperity again.

Election 2010: Nine days before Americans go to the polls, CBS' "60 Minutes" tells the true story of just how many of them are in the unemployment line. Brother, can you spare a vote? The housing crisis is one created in large measure by government interference and is far from being over. It has so decimated the economy that a extremely serious unemployment situation must now be dealt with prior to any meaningful repair in the housing market.

Islamofascism: O'Reilly, Whoopi and Joy are all wrong. The 9/11 terrorists weren't "Muslim extremists" or just plain "Muslims." A liberal newspaper reporter says they were model Muslims. More precisely, they were "perfect soldiers" for Allah, says Los Angeles Times national correspondent Terry McDermott. I have no idea why anyone would give a rats ass what Whoopi and lack of Joy Behar care about anything. However, watching "The View", which I do not, although I am a Disney (DIS:NYSE) shareholder, gives you a window on what a cancer the progressive mindset is to the founding principles of our nation.

War: With WikiLeaks exposing new U.S. secrets, the worst revelation is that the U.S. is vulnerable. As President Obama obsesses about exiting Iraq and Afghanistan, the leaks show that Iran is taking advantage. The globalist in chief is dangerously naive in global affairs. This is very troubling, and the un-American mindset of Obama is rapidly weakening America. Reagan thought peace through strength was the best course, and I quite agree.

Election '10: Megalomania and chutzpah has been redefined with the Senate majority leader's assertion that without him we'd be in worldwide depression. Unfortunately, he couldn't save his home state of Nevada. Reid thinks that without him, we would be in a worldwide depression. This may well be the most arrogant statement ever. He could not run a lemonade stand, but he thinks he is the Vince Lombardi of creating economic expansion.

On The Left: The Tea Party has no leader. It has no address, no phone and no Washington headquarters. It is everywhere and nowhere. For Barack Obama, the Tea Party is the quintessential asymmetrical enemy, much like the Taliban in Afghanistan. The president stands a chance of losing on both fronts. Leftist moonbat and Washington Post columnist Richard Cohen can't determine who the enemies of Obama are. Cohen and The Post have searched the Tea Party high and low to figure out how one could oppose the brilliance of the anointed one. No need to phone Columbo, Obama's enemies are free market capitalists, and given his statements to a Latino audience yesterday, those who oppose his policies, which is well over half the country.

On The Right: Classic songs from years past are sometimes referred to as "golden oldies." There are political fallacies that have been around for a long time as well. These might be called brass oldies. It certainly takes a lot of brass to keep repeating fallacies that were refuted long ago. Dr. Sowell, a fellow at The Hoover Institute at Stanford, is brilliant and someone who you should become acquainted with. Sowell is dead on in this piece, as we are retracing the steps that put us in The Great Depression. For a more detailed overview, read Amity Shlaes book "The Forgotten Man"

To "Read What Is Really Going On", choose IBD as a trusted source in this arena where many media outlets are sorely lacking in credibility. Then, you will be blinded by the light no more.

HT/COMMON CENTS BLOG

Monday, October 25, 2010

99ers Boxed In

Nationally, not withstanding the ineffective and harmful moves by the Obama administration, high unemployment levels remain an anchor on the recovery effort of the economy.

Congress has expanded the time frame for unemployment benefits to 99 weeks, but since each of the moves made by the administration, from raising taxes to expanding regulatory burdens, have placed barriers on small business creation and expansion, the economy remains in borderline contraction.

Few places have been hit harder than California. Last night, 60 Minutes ran a simply devastating story on the unemployment situation, centering around California towns in Silicon Valley. This is a must see piece:



The benefits are about to run out for many of these folks. Unfortunately, since rather than creating an environment for business to prosper, the government has expanded regulatory constraints, raised taxes and created uncertainty going forward on what steps they will take to further control the lives of the people.

It seems those in charge are following the Cloward & Piven playbook, crashing the system and forcing the people to turn to government for the answers. In California, those in charge would include arrogant left wing Senator Barbara Boxer.



It appears much of the nation is ready to throw out of office many of these types, but polls indicate that California may re-elect nanny state supporters. It has not worked well for the Golden State, which is borderline bankrupt. In the case of Barbara Boxer, opposing her is a candidate with prime business experience in Carly Fiorina.

Time is up California. No extension of the unemployment benefits past 99 weeks. Put arrogant Senator Boxer to rest, elect Fiorina, and Meg Whitman for that matter, and get some jobs created!

Sunday, October 24, 2010

Sunday Night Song

It is week two of my new feature, Sunday Night Song, where I highlight a favorite tune of mine.

With the Eagles hitting Orlando Tuesday night, it seemed rather obvious to choose one of the many great tunes this fantastic group of musicians have put out. Glenn Frey and Don Henley are the two leaders of the group, which also includes Uncle Joe Walsh and Timothy B. Schmit. The Eagles have been going since the early seventies, so there is an extensive list of tunes to choose from. While I like them all, I do seem to favor the influence of Glenn Frey. With that in mind, here is "New Kid In Town" from Glenn Frey and the Eagles. Hopeless romantics, here we go again!

Top 25

College Football

Top 25

1. Oregon, 8-0, 1
2. Boise State, 7-0, 2
3. Auburn, 8-0, 4
4. Texas Christian, 8-0, 5
5. Utah, 7-0, 6
6. Alabama, 7-1, 7
7. Missouri, 7-0, 16
8. Michigan State, 8-0, 9
9. Wisconsin, 7-1, 10
10. Ohio State, 7-1, 11
11. Nebraska, 6-1, 12
12. Oklahoma, 6-1, 3
13. LSU, 7-1, 8
14. Florida State, 6-1, 13
15. Stanford, 6-1, 14
16. Arizona, 6-1, 17
17. Oklahoma State, 6-1, 19
18. Arkansas 5-2, 17
19. South Carolina, 5-2, 20
20. Iowa, 5-2, 15
21. Miami, 5-2, 21
22. Virginia Tech, 5-2, NR
23. Baylor, 6-2, NR
24. Michigan, 5-2, NR
25. USC, 5-2, NR

OUT: West Virginia (23), North Carolina (25), Kansas State (24) & Texas (18).

VOTES: Mississippi State, Northwestern, Florida, Nevada, East Carolina, North Carolina State, Kansas State.

On Thursday, Oregon trashed UCLA, and when the Quack Attack is clicking, they are most difficult to slow...For the third straight week, the AP #1 has fallen, the first time since 1960 this has occurred. Oklahoma has owned Missouri, and it seemed Mizzou would be down this year from significant personnel losses, but the Tigers beat OU solidly. At times, OU looked tired and seemed to lack the physicality to match Mizzou. But, OU seems to play good at home, but poor on the road. Ditto Cal. Nebraska seems better on the road, scoring big wins while absorbing losses in Lincoln. Very odd. Taylor Martinez bounced back and put up some eye pooping numbers as the Big Red took out undefeated Okie State down in Stillwater....Congratulations to Baylor, who behind the exceptional Robert Griffin III as signal caller, is bowl eligible. The Bears would have been a year ago, had Griffin not got hurt.....Miami put a very solid game together and squeezed North Carolina, but one is very apparent. The heavy home field advantage the 'Canes enjoyed in the Orange Bowl is gone....Syracuse got a huge win, taking out West Virginia in Morgantown and handing a Bill Stewart an inexplicable loss....Wisconsin got it done on the road, winning at Iowa but Sparty continues to win, escaping Northwestern in Evansville....After losing 43 in a row, Navy has not toppled Notre Dame 3 times in a row....Following last years upset of Nebraska at Lincoln, Iowa State got another big one in beating Texas in Austin. I would secure Coach Rhoads if I were them. The Clones ran it right at the Horns, and you have to ask yourself what Texas has going, getting whipped at home by UCLA, winning at Lincoln, and then losing to Iowa State?....Auburn beat LSU at home, and now they are squarely on a collision course with Alabama in the SEC West....Virginia Tech seems to be getting back on track, as they smothered Duke....Ga Tech got punted at Clemson, and both already have 3 losses....Maryland got a surprising win at Boston College, who is really struggling....Could Miami and FSU meet again in the ACC title game, which will be held in Charlotte?...If USC has anything, now would be a good time as Oregon comes calling... See ya next week. PHOTO/IMAGE SPORT

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Crazy 8 Voting Guide

The November mid term election is fast approaching, and polling evidence suggests a significant victory by the Republicans, as well it should given the calamity caused by the Democratic Congress and the Socialist in Chief.

I have already proclaimed I will not be supporting any Democratic candidates. However, given my vast readership all across the fruited plain, I felt compelled to issue a voters guide, highlighting in no particular order eight individuals that in no way deserve your vote. No need to consult your Magic 8 ball, just read on.

California's Barbara Boxer.

Among the most arrogant moon bat leftists around, Boxer harbors a complete disdain for the US military, as do most on the left. An exchange Boxer had with Brigadier General Micheal Walsh earlier this year should give clear indication that even if you subscribe to her positions, you cannot allow this level of arrogance to have governing power: Please review:



Connecticut's Richard Bluementhal.

Not only did this guy lie repeatedly about his military service before being caught, as AG of Connecticut he launched a government assault on AIG workers, without being able to cite under which law he had the power to act. Again, the lack principles that would allow an acting attorney general to act without understanding his governing authority displays an incompetent official drunk on his power. An interview with Glenn Beck is simply astonishing:


New York's Andrew Cuomo.

I could go on for days about this individual. As NY AG Cuomo felt compelled to act in response to the national housing crisis by spearheading the HVCC Home Code of Conduct, which has destroyed the residential real estate appraisal business. Even CNBC's Jim Cramer sounded the alarm about Cuomo's activities in 2007. That Cuomo got the political establishment behind him on this is mind boggling, since, as outlined by Doug Ross in an outstanding compilation of Cuomo's history titled "The Architect of Ruin", Cuomo was a central player in causing the housing crisis. After reading the piece, no sane individual could cast a ballot for him, no matter how crazy Carl Paladino may or may not be. Curtis Sliwa, in very entertaining fashion, throws Cuomo under the bus. Here is Cuomo and HUD Secretary is his own words detailing his involvement in the sub prime crisis.


Nevada Senator Harry Reid.

Nevada is in dire straits as the housing crisis has decimated the state. Meanwhile, as Senate Majority Leader, Reid has been a vocal supporter and leader of the implementation of the socialistic transformation of America under President Obama. During the Bush Administration, this disgraceful idiot found time to degrade our troops, incorrectly call the surge a failure and throw in the towel in the war in Iraq. In his own words:



New York's Charlie Rangel.

For a guy who helped write the tax code, it seems implausible he forgot to pay taxes on several real estate properties he forgot he owned. I own residential real estate properties and would be in the gray bar hotel if I played that game. In yet another sickening display of arrogance, Rangel thinks the rules do not apply to him and is quite content gaming the system in his favor. As if that is not bad enough, his attitude when confronted on these subjects is not becoming a representative of this country. In his own words:



Massachusetts Democratic Congressman Barney Frank.

Perhaps the individual most responsible for the housing crisis is Barney Frank. As Chairman of the House Banking Committee, Frank oversaw the government sponsored entities Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Continuously over the last decade, Frank publicly championed the accomplishments for Fannie & Freddie repeatedly, all the while they were imploding. Since i think we can conclude Frank is not incompetent, one has to wonder if he and his counterpart, Senator Chris Dodd (D:CT), should be in federal lockup. The scandal ridden Frank must be sent packing. Frank's opponent, Sean Bielat, put out this outstanding ad highlighting the timeline:



Florida's Charlie Crist.

I voted for Charlie Crist, a Republican, for Governor of Florida. Since his election, a troubling trend of trolling for advancement became apparent as he positioned himself aboard the John McCain bandwagon hoping for the VP slot. Crist, behind his enthusiastic support of McCain, helped the Maverick gain a surprising win in Florida, an unfortunate development in the Florida primary. After the victory of Obama, Crist then openly began supporting Obama policies, most notably the stimulus package, and announced his run for the US Senate. Crist, getting crushed by Marco Rubio in the primary, after pledging not to do so, became an independent and has now targeted the Tea Party members as extremist he will stand against. Well, I stand firmly against him. Fortunately, it appears so does the majority of Florida. Upon losing, I expect Crist to take a spot in the Obama administration, where he belongs, at least until the wind turns east.

Florida Congressman Alan Grayson.

I cannot think of a public servant who employs such a disrespectful opinion of, not only his fellow members of Congress, but of his constituency as Grayson. Not only in the course of a campaign, but in everyday action, his rhetoric and decorum is simply disgraceful. Grayson buys into the socialistic policies of Obama and Pelosi, but beyond that, has done nothing but insult those of us here in Central Florida. The first vote I cast on November 2 will be for his opponent, Daniel Webster. Recent news stories indicated the Democratic party has pulled funding from him, declaring his race over. As the Captain said, Can I get an AMEN! Looks like the tenure of Grayson as our Congressman will thankfully die quickly.