Sunday, September 27, 2015

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

College Football

Top 25

1.      Ohio State, 4-0, 1
2.      Notre Dame, 4-0, 2
3.      Ole Miss, 4-0, 3
4.      UCLA, 4-0, 5
5.      Louisiana State, 3-0, 6
6.      Michigan State, 4-0, 4
7.      Texas Christian, 4-0, 7
8.      Baylor, 3-0, 8
9.      Georgia, 4-0, 9
10.    Utah, 4-0, 21
11.    Alabama, 3-1, 11
12.    Florida State, 3-0, 12
13.    Texas A&M, 4-0, 13
14.    Oklahoma, 4-0, 14
15.    Clemson, 4-0, 15
16.    Northwestern, 4-0, 21
17.    Stanford, 3-1, 20
18.    Southern Cal, 3-1, 23
19.    Michigan, 3-1, NR
20.    Mississippi State, 3-1, NR
21.    Oklahoma State, 4-0, 16
22.    Wisconsin, 4-0, 17
23.    Florida, 4-0, NR
24.    West Virginia, 4-0, NR
25.    Duke, 3-1, NR

OUT:  Oregon (10), Georgia Tech (19), Tennessee (22), Brigham Young (24) and Arizona State (25).

VOTES:  Oregon, Miami, Iowa, Texas Tech, Brigham Young, Arizona, Arizona State, Temple, Tennessee, NC State, Auburn, Houston, Nebraska, Boise St, Toledo, Louisville, Memphis, Georgia Tech, California, Temple, Boston College, Arkansas and Minnesota.

NEBRASKA ANALYSIS

Nebraska defeated Southern Miss at Lincoln on Saturday, and while there were some some positives to take away, it was another performance that leaves the Nebraska faithful scratching their heads.  Offensively, Nebraska scored on almost every first half possession, but many drives resulted in field goals; the Big Red lead 22-0. It should have been 34-0. The 'Huskers also utilized the fullback, a position that seems to have been forgotten in recent years.  Andy Janovich hauled in a 53 yard pass and had five carries for 68 yards, and looked impressive doing it. Tommy Armstrong played well, no drops from the receiving core and the running game was sound, although it would appear Terrell Newby needs to put his foot in the dirt and run upfield rather than running east and west.  Targets to TE Cethan Carter brought failing results, which is confusing. Nebraska had 610 yards of offense. Defensively, the 'Huskers continue to stop the run effectively, but they are giving up miles of yardage through the air. The pass rush is adequate, and Freedom Akinmoladum is really coming on and looks to have quite a future ahead of him.  Michael Rose-Ivey and Josh Banderas were both out at linebacker, as was DT Vincent Valentine, and in the second half, Southern Miss did a good job of exploiting the interior vacancies, killing Nebraska in the middle of the field with crossing routes and hooks, and wheel routes down the sideline.  The defensive backs continue to struggle, and even Josh Kalu, who we see as the best of the bunch, got burned a couple of times.  Jonathan Rose did not perform well, nor did Chris Jones or Byerson Cockrell outside of one great tackle.  The defensive coaches have got to get this secondary deal figured out quick, or losses will continue to mount.  Southern Miss got rolling in the second half after Imani Cross fumbled deep in Husker territory, which the Eagles got a TD off of.  An onside kick Nebraska appeared unprepared to handle gave USM the ball again, and they scored again.  A wipeout turned into a game the 'Huskers had to hold on to win.  The Big Red was really thin on defense, and the future appears bright if they can weather the storm, get the new scheme down and get healthy.  I think they can win all their remaining games, but appear to certain to drop another one most likely at Michigan State.  I will chalk up this game, which should have been about 56-14, up to growing pains.  However, the time for excuses for things like lack of adjustments and game management are drawing to a close.

Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Free Markets, Not Affordable Housing, Cure to Housing Crisis

Numerous articles have recently appeared describing an alarming prospect for renters moving forward.

The Atlantic describes a "bleak future for renters" and Zero Hedge noted the "missing" inflation is located in rental rates, which have been on a historic rise. Bloomberg noted "the rent crisis is about to get much worse."

Many have used the fallout of the housing crisis to advance an agenda centralized on the transformation of wealth. An orchestrated series of events, from the FED's ZIRP (zero interest policy), quantitative easing (the printing of money) and the bailout of the nations banking system has led to an inflated stock market where counter party risks have escalated and an increasing disconnect between the worlds of equity and fixed income has emerged. Hypothecation is certain to be an upcoming buzzword.

The economic policies of the left have left those seeking to move up the ladder of prosperity shackled to the ground. Potential home buyers are unable to pull the trigger on purchases of new or existing homes, as median income is stagnant and full time employment growth is non-existent.

In fact, home ownership is at a 40 year low.

Chart via ZeroHedge.com

Left leaning policy wonks, who never let a crisis go to waste, think the government has opportunities to correct the situation, by stepping in to ensure affordable housing.  Stepping in to correct the "situation" they created?  One thing I know; it is not prudent to engage those who caused the problem to fix the problem.

“The economy alone is not going to solve this problem," said Andrew Jakabovics, senior director of research at Enterprise Community Partners, said in a conference call to discuss the findings. "It brings us back to the need to expand affordable housing.”

False.

Presently, consumers are boxed in with historic rises in rental rates (inflation), with little avenue of escape.

More government intervention in the market is the opposite of what is needed. As Ronald Reagan once said, The nine most terrifying words in the English language are, 'I'm from the government and I'm here to help.'

For the problem to be solved, regulation and taxation must retract to allow increases in full time employment, median incomes and entrepreneurship. Further, QE, which devalues the currency, must cease and interest rates must rise.

As the brilliant Thomas Sowell appropriately notes upon the visit of Pope Francis to America, "Pope Francis’ own native Argentina was once among the leading economies of the world, before it was ruined by the kind of ideological notions he is now promoting around the world".

Without question, free market capitalism is the best path to prosperity, where most who achieve it significantly expand their participation in charity efforts. This is not only true in America, but across the globe.

Providing an environment for potential home buyers to escape from being trapped in rental homes is essential to solve the housing problem, and a integral part of that landscape would be free market capitalism unleashing the entrepreneurial spirit of the individual, placing the federal government back operation within its means and a reduction in punitive regulatory and taxation burdens.

As former Rep. Thaddeus McCotter, R:MI, noted, "Reagan trusted in Americans' entrepreneurial spirit, innovative talents, and industriousness, and he agreed with Adam Smith's insight that freedom and prosperity are inextricably entwined and mutually reinforcing. The flexibility of our markets is endangered by excessive regulation, onerous litigation, and government redistribution of wealth".

The blueprint to solve all the nations economic ills has already been written, if our elected leaders chose to engage it.  The current group will not, choosing to increase power over the citizenry through increasing tyranny utilizing divisive policies laced with socialism.

In November of 2016, we have A Time for Choosing.

Yogi Fully Insured by Hearts Across America

Yogi Berra
Image/Fimho.com
“Love is the most important thing in the world, but baseball is pretty good, too.”

Thinking of one of the many contradictory head scratching statements we all loved him for, we fondly remember the great Yogi Berra, perhaps the greatest New York Yankee and a true American Classic, who died yesterday at 90.

An All Star catcher with his beloved Yankees, it was Yogi Berra who won more championship rings than any other, and also won as a manager as well, even with a stint with the crosstown New York Mets.

Berra was a Yankee legend to be sure, but with his famous Yogi-isms and wonderful smile, he was beloved by not only the baseball community, but all across America. Berra quit playing the year before I was born, so I never got to see him play.

But I sure knew him from following America's past time from a very early age.  He made me laugh, and sincerely making people laugh is a wonderful trait for anyone to have.

Perhaps his greatest quip was, "It ain't over 'till it's over", is repeated frequently as recently as yesterday in a ball park somewhere.  However, he gave me the greatest enjoyment during his commercial for AFLAC Insurance, which friends and I continuously quote from.

 

God Bless You Yogi!  It ain't over 'till it's over.

Tuesday, September 22, 2015

Truth Lost in Conflicting Chaos

It is spinning out of control.

The NASDAQ was down 1.5% today, with the VIX (volatility index) spiking.

Overseas, Europe is under siege, with Nigel Farage detailing the damage unfiltered immigration will cause, with those seeking to take America down following Europe's lead.

Additionally, there are escalating issues with Russia in the middle, where things are quickly getting nasty, with our side lead by enemies within.

The housing market seemingly everyone is cheerleading is a mirage, as home builders and home sales are crashing.

Physical gold is elusive; however, big money is chasing it. Big money is also betting on increasing rents, which is a signal the economy is far from healed.  Potential home buyers are unable to pull the trigger on purchases of new or existing homes, as median income is stagnant and full time employment growth is non-existent.

Then, there is the stock market, where too many dollars are chasing too few performing assets, creating inflationary values based on nothing.  Retail sales, and manufacturing, have also collapsed.

With conflicting information everywhere, it is tough to decipher propaganda from reality.  Look no further than the lack of inflation in the market, or so we are told by our government and their media partners. In many ways, they seem blended in ironic mesh.


But make no mistake, real trouble is near. The market knows; soon, we all will.

 (chart via WallStreetWindow.com)

Monday, September 21, 2015

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

College Football

TOP 25

1.     Ohio State, 3-0, 1
2.     Notre Dame, 3-0, 7
3.     Ole Miss, 3-0, 8
4.     Michigan State, 3-0, 5
5.     UCLA, 3-0,  6
6.     Louisiana State, 2-0, 15
7.     Texas Christian, 3-0, 3
8.     Baylor, 2-0, 9
9.     Georgia, 3-0, 11
10.   Oregon, 2-1, 10
11.   Alabama, 2-1, 2
12.   Florida State, 3-0, 11
13.   Texas A&M, 3-0, 14
14.   Oklahoma, 3-0, 18
15.   Clemson, 3-0, 16
16.   Oklahoma State, 3-0, 19
17.   Wisconsin, 3-0, 20
18.   Northwestern, 3-0, NR
19.   Georgia Tech, 2-1, 16
20.   Stanford, 2-1, NR
21.   Utah, 3-0, 22
22.   Tennessee, 2-1, 23
23.   Southern Cal, 2-1, 4
24.   Brigham Young, 2-1, 24
25.   Arizona State, 2-1, 21

OUT:  Auburn (13) and Missouri (25)

VOTES:  Arizona, Auburn, Missouri, Mississippi State, Miami, West Virginia, Texas Tech, Michigan, Iowa, NC State, Houston, Memphis, Nebraska, Florida, Temple and Minnesota.

FLORIDA STATE ANALYSIS

Florida State has historically had issue with Boston College, and the game up in Chestnut Hill on Friday night was no exception.  Heck, the Seminoles barely took out the Eagles with Jameis Winston in Tallahassee.  BC did exactly what they wanted to do; run power at FSU all night.  The Eagles has some success, but when push came to shove, it was the Eagles that got pushed around.  While we know the Seminole defensive backfield was special, on this night, it was the defensive front that won the day.  Big plays by Lawrence Nile-Stample and Derrick Nnadi at crucial times helped save the day.  Terrance Smith play All America football, and caused a fumble which was returned by Jalen Ramsey for a decisive touchdown.  Also of note was the play of both LaMarcus Brutus and Roderick Hoskins of Orlando Evans, who had real good nights.  After a strong opening drive to go up 7-0, it looked like a might be a breeze.  But, there were a multitude of things that hampered the Seminoles, including the fact that Boston College is pretty darn sound on the stop side. Dalvin Cook was bottled up most of the night, with the offensive line failing to get control of the line of scrimmage. Everett Golson played it close to the vest, but several drops hurt his options. The offense remains inconsistent, and only gained 217 yards with a less than stellar yards per play. However, there were no turnovers, which was quite significant for the young offensive unit. Many in the FSU community thought this was going to be a very tough game, some even predicting a loss, but FSU did what they had to do and remain undefeated.  FSU will take a week off, which is good for Dalvin Cook's ribs, and face WF on the road in two weeks.

NEBRASKA ANALYSIS

It was a brutally hot afternoon at SunLife Stadium in Miami, but that did not stop about 18,000 Big Red fans from filling up the east end zone, and getting roasted in more ways than one.  It seemed the 'Husker team was unfazed by all the fans inside the stadium, a stadium Hurricane faithful fail miserably to fill up, as Big Red came out flat as can be imagined.  Before those of us in the stands could get a brew to cool off, the 'Huskers were getting boat raced. Sadly, while it was expected on the offensive side, both lines of scrimmage for the 'Huskers were handled most of the day, particularly early. Vincent Valentine was out, but Maliek Collins was far less than disruptive, and the pass rush was non-existent. Freedom Akinmoladun is really young and playing well for a guy new to the position, while Greg McMullen appears absent.  Miami exposed the 'Huskers backs and linebackers.  Slot receivers came out covered by Bando and the like, who in no way shape or form can run with the fleet of receivers the Canes have.  Daniel Davie got torched right away, and thankfully, they got him out of the game.  Davie was decent a year ago; who knows what got in his head, but he is no doubt a liability. Jonathan Rose and Josh Kalu were having issues all day, but without a pass rush, what could we expect. Chris Jones of Jacksonville Sandalwood got some time and made the most it. It should be noted that after the initial onslaught (it was 24-3 at one time) , Nebraska did improve defensively. Offensively, while the brutal start got Nebraska behind the chains right away, Tommy Armstrong and the 'Huskers got some things going, but three big plays were nullified by inexcusable penalties. Terrell Newby averaged over four yards a carry, but the run game was exited. Alex Lewis, team captain and senior offensive lineman, had a couple stupid penalties, which has become far beyond a pattern.  The OL was not good, forcing Armstrong to run out of the pocket and throw on the run. This is not by itself bad, but under duress as a QB is not good. It seemed Coach Cavnaugh was among the best coaches Riley brought over, but he is stuck on the same five guys who are failing to get it done.  I would prefer at least to give some others a chance, particularly on the inside.  G Jerald Foster comes immediately to mind, and some rotation would be preferred. Nebraska had chances in the first half, but failed to execute through dropped passes and penalties. A play that really hurt was Armstrong being picked off at the Miami goal line just before the half, which would have put the Big Red back in the game.

Tommy Armstrong

While Al Golden and Miami tried to get cute in the second half, with Nebraska down 33-10, Tommy Armstrong led a furious 'Husker comeback to tie the game at 33 and force overtime.  While many of the Hurricane faithful had departed to celebrate, the sea of red in the east end zone were loud  with chants of Go Big Red.  Miami won the toss, and deferred as expected.  Not expected, was Nebraska choosing to play into the west end zone, where there were no 'Husker fans. Puzzling. On the first play, Armstrong threw a horrendous pass right to a surprised Cane defender, who almost ran it back for a score before Armstrong pushed him out followed by Alex Lewis adding a personal foul penalty to his long list of flags.  Miami kicked the field goal; game over. A huge comeback; all for noting.  Miami was much faster that Nebraska, and has better overall talent. But Nebraska shot themselves in the foot all day. Once it was tied and overtime was here, all the momentum was with Nebraska, as were the majority of fans remaining in the stadium.  How Nebraska lost this game after the comeback is mind boggling. Armstrong, who is a warrior and had some excellent plays, had two awful interceptions that were huge. Often critical of #4, I appreciate his effort and talent and he can play for me all day long.  This loss is not on him.  There are several players missing in lack of action, and if they cannot get it done, put someone else in.  Nebraska is 1-2 for the first time since 1981. Nebraska should be 3-0.  It appears Riley has some guys who are living in the past, and change needs to come (culture).  I see signs of Nebraska being a team very capable of winning the B1G West, which is the goal at this point, provided they can get some things corrected.  They will not see the aerial abilities of BYU, or the speed of Miami, again unless they face Ohio State.  Come prepared to play, eliminate the ridiculous penalties, protect the football and get improved play on the lines of scrimmage and Nebraska can win each of their remaining games. Failure to do these things can make many of the upcoming games coin flips.  And it is worth noting, it sure seems the loss of DPE, who seemed to be healing just fine given his movement witness during pregame warmups, has really hurt the offense, not withstanding the excellent play of Jordan Westerkamp. We have learned quite a bit, and it is now time to fix it, disposing of a better than you think Southern Miss and Illinois before Wisconsin comes to Lincoln. We will all stick together in all kinds of weather, in this case sweltering heat and a blazing sun which reminded me I have lost most of my hair, to support this team. I remain all Riled up, because I see plenty of signs this undermanned bunch (did 3 seniors start on Saturday) with young aspiring stars (I see you Stanley Morgan, Nick Gates, Chris Jones and Dedrick Young) is going places sooner than later. We're coming to you city.  Come along for the ride.


Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Government Seeks Ultimate Nudge

While this has been in the works for quite some time, The Daily Caller reported Tuesday that President Obama has signed yet another executive order,operating outside the peoples representatives, "which authorizes federal agencies to conduct behavioral experiments on U.S. citizens in order to advance government initiatives."

President Barack Obama/Photo The Daily Caller


Under the direction of Cass Sunstein, author of "Nudge", the program, as noted by The Daily Caller as titled "Strengthening Federal Capacity for Behavioral Insights", reports "The federal government is currently creating a new team that will help build federal capacity to experiment with these approaches, and to scale behavioral interventions that have been rigorously evaluated, using, where possible, randomized controlled trials."

Stretching far beyond behavioral economics, the government intervention and experimentation of the citizenry is most Orwellian in nature and a violation of our tenants of freedom and liberty.

What else is new with Obama and his anti-American intellectual arrogance?

The program, although presented as a mechanism to benefit the citizenry (aren't they always), was accurately described in the article in The Daily Caller. "The desired choices almost always advance the goals of the federal government, though they are often couched as ways to cut overall program spending."

As you may suspect, “Ultimately, nudging…assumes a small group of people in government know better about choices than the individuals making them.”  Sunstein's Obama directed small group is the "little intellectual elite in a far-distant capital" Ronald Reagan referred to in his "A Time for Choosing" speech in 1964.

That time is now.

Tuesday, September 15, 2015

The Hamburglar's Got Nothing On Progressives Thievery.

The government understands raising the minimum wage increases unemployment and limits choice for the consumer, ultimately decreasing opportunities for low skilled workers, in turn leading more and more of them to become dependent of entitlements presented by the federal government.  The progressive government leaders welcome additional idiots, which can be found protesting for the raising of the minimum wage, to become dependent on entitlements, which increases the power of the government over the people.

It should be noted those "working for you" politicians powerful enough to give gifts are powerful enough to take them away.  Speaking of government officials flexing their power, in this case through association with the workers unions, we find Hillary Clinton.

She tweeted out attacking GOP presidential candidate and Wisconsin governor Scott Walker informing him how "unions help keep working families strong."  Clinton's comment is demonstrably false, and while Ms. Clinton in no Ludwig von Mises, she fully understands this. The comment was directed at the low information voting class she actually has little to no regard for.


Scott Walker hammered her, and his response, while it bitch slapped Clinton, is very important for folks to understand his comments.  While the low information workers think the unions and supportive politicians are getting up everyday to help them, while they are giving small benefits to them, they are actually increasing their power over them, choking them with punitive constraints. 

The truly excellent website Zero Hedge had a long piece titled "when work is punished," which chronicled in great detail the stranglehold places on entitlement recipients, noting "how financially destructive it can be for low-paid workers to try and break free of their dependence on the public purse."


McDonald's has been the target of paid union protesters, demanding a raise to $15 per hour for minimum wage.  When you lack common skills and educational prowess, your position for bargaining is most weak. While many would say this is why the union is needed, rather than forcing through extortion and bullying (Hi Hillary), some responsibility should be placed on the individual for not taking advantage of the public school system, advancing their education and skills and making poor life choices they expect their employer to pay for.  





















The minimum wage is not a wage a citizen should expect to raise their family on. Raises in wage levels should be performance based, not given to those lacking in education, responsibility and skills. When companies are forced through government intervention to raise wages, the result is a reduction in the work force, an economic principle the idiots in the picket line fail to comprehend.

Soon, very soon, the jobs of these low skilled workers will be replaced by robots. Do you think they have a life plan for that?

Hillary and her cohorts do. It involves establishing a permanent voting class of folks who are dependent on government handouts (entitlements). Under President Obama, very limited full time jobs have been created and wage growth is non-existent.

All part of the plan, a plan that not only fails to be recognized by the low skilled workers who are noting short of useful idiots, but eludes discovery by a large part of the sensible and educated folks who are working and are paying the entitlement tab.

The Hamburglar has got nothing on the progressives when it comes to thievery.

Sunday, September 13, 2015

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

College Football

Top 25

1.    Ohio State, 2-0, 1
2.    Alabama, 2-0, 4
3.    Texas Christian, 2-0, 5
4.    Southern Cal, 2-0, 7
5.    Michigan State, 2-0, 8
6.    UCLA, 2-0, 11
7.    Notre Dame, 2-0, 3
8.    Ole Miss, 2-0, 13
9.    Baylor, 2-0, 6
10.  Oregon, 1-1, 9
11.  Florida State, 2-0, 10
12.  Georgia, 2-0, 12
13.  Auburn, 2-0, 2
14.  Texas A&M, 2-0, 14
15.  LSU, 1-0, 15
16.  Clemson, 2-0, 16
17.  Georgia Tech, 2-0, 17
18.  Oklahoma, 2-0, 20
19.  Oklahoma State, 2-0, 20
20.  Wisconsin, 1-1, 24
21.  Arizona State, 1-1, 23
22.  Utah, 2-0, 25
23.  Tennessee, 1-1, 18
24.  Brigham Young, 2-0, NR
25.  Missouri, 2-0, 22

OUT: Arkansas (19)

VOTES: Arizona, Temple, Nebraska, Arkansas, Toledo, West Virginia, Mississippi State, Iowa, Boise State, Memphis, Houston, Northwestern, Stanford, Duke, NC State, Minnesota, Michigan, Miami and Louisville.

FLORIDA STATE ANALYSIS

In 2009, Florida State entered a noon home game against South Florida (wearing all white uniforms at home?) sleepwalking.  The Seminoles proceeded to get whipped at both lines of scrimmage and had a devil of a time keeping containment of USF scrambling quarterback BJ Dainels and got spanked 17-7, a devastating loss that got the wheels turning regarding the retirement of legendary coach Bobby Bowden. On Saturday, it had the makings of the same thing. There was the 11:30 AM kick, heavy pregame rain and some early issues with the offensive line and a team that looked like they were sleepwalking, However, there was one Seminole who knew what time it was; RB Dalvin Cook.  Cook put in a brilliant performance, becoming the first FSU back since the great Sammie Smith to run for over 200 yards in a game.  In fact, Cook's 266 yards rushing was the second most in FSU history behind Greg Allen's 322 over Western Carolina in 1981.Cook kept FSU in the game early and won it for the Seminoles late. The defense was pretty good most of the day, and that was good news. There were breakdowns, but overall, it was a decent day for the stop troops.  There were a handful of ghost targeting penalties during the game, the first of which resulted in S Lamarcus Brutus being tossed from the game. It was a clean hit.  It seemed Fisher was coaching QB Everett Golson to protect the ball and not force any plays that were not there, and that goal was accomplished with one major success; no turnovers.  Golson and the offense eventually opened up, with some decent throws.  The offensive line made some strides over the course of the game, and it is noted South Florida has some strong and fast defensive lineman. Outside of Cook, FSU appeared lethargic and it is evident this team has some growing to do.  However, with no injuries, no turnovers and a controlled game for the most part, the Seminoles will take this 34-14 victory and continue to effort to maximize efficiency. While Boston College is not a great team, the trip to Chestnut Hill next Friday night will not be an easy game, and FSU will have to play well to win the ball game.

NEBRASKA ANALYSIS

Nebraska responded to the home loss to Brigham Young by putting away a over matched South Alabama team at Lincoln Saturday night. The 'Huskers, after a poor rushing performance against BYU, were committed to improving in that area, and did so, with Terrell Newby running for 198 yards. The offensive line played better, but there are still issues in the interior.  Tommy Armstrong played another solid game, and it is noted the Nebraska really needed to Armstrong to play well out of the gate for the Big Red this fall and he has done exactly that.  He appears to have improved across the board.  The receivers played well as well, and appeared to have stepped up after the loss of DeMornay Pierson-El. Defensively, while South Alabama only put up 10 points, they did move the ball through the air. The DL has really not exhibited any disruptive force so far this season as expected, and I am not sure what is going on there; although it is noted the rush defense has been very strong.  They will have to do so against Miami.  Josh Banderas and Dedrick Young missed the game due to injury, but the Big Red did get back Michael Rose-Ivey, who played well.  Luke Gifford, Chris Weber and Marcus Newby played good games.  CB Daniel Davie did not.  Davie was decent in 2014, but he has been horrible in 2015, giving up several long pass plays.  On two of them, Davie was right there, but did not make the play. Davie was dusted on another, and late in the game the coached put in Chris Jones. This is concerning, and must be address prior to facing Hurricane QB Brad Kaya, who with the speed of the Miami receivers, will torch Davie.  Joshua Kalu continues to play well, as does Nate Gerry.  Nebraska got the much needed win, but it get serious with the trip to South Florida next weekend. I hope Nebraska has an expanded playbook for the game, perhaps with Armstrong using his legs and some disruptive attacking packages for the defense.  The game is very key for Nebraska.  Miami looked terrible on the lines of scrimmage last week, so the opportunity is there.  But the Canes have a fast fleet of receivers with a a good strong armed quarterback, and the Big Red must shore up the secondary unless they plan on keeping Cane QB Kaya on his back.

Friday, September 11, 2015

Have You Forgotten

The World Trade Center
Islamic terrorists remain committed to killing us. Unfortunately, they have made significant inroads across the globe this past year, with the Muslim Brotherhood gaining influence and ISIS engaged in a blood thirsty massacre across the entire middle east.

Christians are being killed at alarming levels, yet our president continues to call out republicans for their evil attempts to adhere to the Constitution.  We have officially become a nation of men; not laws.

And we have countless enemies within.









Have you forgotten?





Windows on the world





Evil spit in our face on the morning of September 11, 2001. As America sought comfort on this horrendous day, most found God watching over us. We had faith, which helped us through the incredible grief. With evil lurking all around us, we found love, courage and faith standing tall in the fire.

Although this is a day of remembrance, we must never forget!

I have not forgotten. Never Forget! Political correctness be damned, we must remain committed to taking out evil wherever it exists, foreign or domestic.




GOD BLESS AMERICA

*PORTIONS REPRINTED FROM 9-11-11 BLOGPOST.

Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Tracking The Traitors

A gathering in Washington today voiced public opposition to the deal with Iran the Obama administration is championing, which is against the will of the people (70% are opposed) and the majority of the House and Senate.

The speakers at this event are folks BAHL Revere thinks very highly of.  Among them were GOP presidential candidates Donald Trump and Sen. Ted Cruz, Sarah Palin, former congresswoman Michele Bachmann, Phil Robertson of Duck Dynasty, Glenn Beck, Mark Levin and Brigitte Gabriel.

Mark Levin
Mark Levin, radio talk show host and constitutional scholar, hammered home the obvious regarding the deal, which will have drastic negative consequences across the globe.

“Never before has a President of the United States. Never before has a political party consented to funding and arming the enemy. Never before has a President entered into agreements with a terrorist regime that holds American hostages; that has killed and maimed thousands of American soldiers, and that seeks nuclear weapons and ICBMs (Inter-Continental Ballistic Missiles)  to attack his own country,” said Levin. “Barack Obama makes Neville Chamberlain look like George S. Patton,” the former Reagan staffer added. 

"The Democrat Party will have blood on their hands as a result of this deal for the rest of time. And let me be clear, this deal sows the seeds of war." Agreed.

This deal, negotiated from a position of weakness, is, as Sen. Ted Cruz said, catastrophic.  In fact, it is an orchestrated effort from within to weaken American and strengthen those who describe themselves as our enemies. The deal would make Uncle Sam a top financier of global terrorism, essentially arming those who fight against our military. Let that sink into your thoughts for a moment.



If elected president, Ted Cruz reverse the deal on day one. Donald Trump would not eliminate the deal, but would drastically restructure the deal, which he terms as crafted by very stupid people.

I stand with Senator Cruz on this one.  While Senator Cruz is well aware of the terrorists we are dealing with, Trump approaches it as a business deal.  My appreciation of Trump's abilities in deal making (I read The Art of the Deal like most everyone else) is vast; however, I do not do deals with folks who are not trustworthy, particularly with nuclear weapons.

In addition, Trump should know the folks at the top crafting this deal are not stupid; far from it. These people are enemies within, people who view America as the problem and not the solution to the problem. They loathe the citizenry, and seek centralized power over the peasants they have to deal with.  They view America as an oppressor, and seek to diminish her power through the transformation of wealth and by advancing opportunities to embolden her enemies.

This deal with Iran is such an opportunity. For Iran, it is the Deal of the Century.

Adding insult to injury, just for Obama's pleasure I am sure, the deal is to be vote on on September 11.

And as we have noted, Obama seeks to help facilitate the formation of a caliphate in the middle east, ushering in a Greater Syria, or a new Ottoman Empire, if you will. The pieces have been being placed for some time.  This would include a Muslim nation with power rivaling that of any other nation, inclusive of the United States.  ISIS is doing the cleansing, and Obama is not too concerned about that, evidenced by his putrid effort to stop the unspeakable violence and chaos these murderers are engaged in.  It is noted Obama even allowed them to seize a large amount of our equipment, in the form of tanks, missile launchers and Humvees, inexplicably left in the region.



Glenn Beck has noted that we are at a crossroads. President Obama has chosen to stand with evil in Iran, against Israel, and against the will of the citizenry he governs.

The United States was placed in great peril with this deal, and future citizens will die due to this utterly despicable and irresponsible act by a brazen president acting outside or historical avenues of legislation. The Congress, which has allowed his reckless behavior, should also bear responsibility, and that certainly includes Speaker John Boehner and Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.

Silence in the face of evil is itself evil: God will not hold us guiltless. Not to act is to act. Not to speak, is to speak"---Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Along with thousands of folks in DC today in spirit, I have spoken.

Freedom Will Be Defended



Marcus Luttrell, the former NAVY Seal and author of the "The Lone Survivor," has cut a commercial for the National Rifle Association, and he does not mince words.

If you want to seek out a true American hero, look no further than Marcus Luttrell, who has been awarded the Navy Cross and a Purple Heart for his heroic actions during Operation Red Wings.

The story at the heart of The Lone Survivor, of which the award winning movie was based, is a story every American must familiarize themselves with.  Luttrell is the lone survivor of his team, which included Matthew G. Axelson, Danny P. Dietz and team leader Michael P. Murphy. Murphy was award the US Military's highest decoration, the Medal of Honor, for his actions in the War in Afghanistan. His parents and family were on hand as a United States Navy destroyer was named in his honor.

Luttrell understands what he and his brothers were fighting for, and the freedoms we hold dear in this nation blessed by God are central among them.  Certainly, Luttrell also understands our enemies, foreign and domestic, and is willing to fight for them.

I stand right there with you brother!

Tuesday, September 8, 2015

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

1.    Ohio State, 1-0, 1
2.    Auburn, 1-0, 3
3.    Notre Dame, 1-0, 4
4.    Alabama, 1-0, 6
5.    Texas Christian, 1-0, 2
6.    Baylor, 1-0, 5
7.    Southern Cal, 1-0, 9
8.    Michigan State, 1-0, 7
9.    Oregon, 1-0, 8
10.  Florida State, 1-0, 10
11.  UCLA, 1-0, 11
12.  Georgia, 1-0, 12
13.  Ole Miss, 1-0, 15
14.  Texas A&M, 1-0, 25
15.  LSU, 0-0, 13
16.  Clemson, 1-0, 14
17.  Georgia Tech, 1-0, 21
18.  Tennessee, 1-0. 18
19.  Arkansas, 1-0, 22
20.  Oklahoma State, 1-0, 16
21.  Oklahoma, 1-0, 23
22.  Missouri, 1-0, 25
23.  Arizona State, 0-1, 19
24.  Wisconsin, 0-1, 20
25.  Utah, 1-0, NR

OUT: Nebraska (17)

VOTES: Mississippi State,  Brigham Young, Miami, Arizona, South Carolina, Cincinnati, Boise State, Louisville, Nebraska, California, Florida, Northwestern, Stanford, Iowa, West Virginia, Virginia Tech, Kansas State, N. C. State, North Carolina and Memphis.

NOTES: Several key injuries were suffered this week.  Out for the year are UCLA DT Eddie Vanderhoes, Pitt RB James Conner, Notre Dame RB Tarean Forston and BYU QB Taysom Hill.  Those with significant injuries that may miss the majority of the year are Nebraska TE David Sutton, Clemson WR Mike Williams, Arizona LB Scooby Wright, Va Tech QB Micheal Brewer and Kansas State QB Jesse Ertz.

NEBRASKA ANALYSIS

BYU defeated Nebraska in Lincoln 33-28 on a Hail Mary pass with 0:01 remaining, ruining the debut of head coach Mike Riley. The Big Red had not lost a home opener since 1985, when Florida State beat Nebraska 17-13 on a brutally hot afternoon.  I saw several people melt from my vantage point near the southwest end zone back those years ago. New defensive coordinator Mark Banker utilized the prevent defense rushing only three on the fateful final play, and of course, all the prevent defense does is prevent you from winning.  Case stated. Only five who started the game were seniors, with two on the offensive line interchangeable with underclassman now. For the other three, at least two have young players with superior talent on their heels.  The future is bright.  Tommy Armstrong has a pretty good day, for the most part making more sound decisions and playing better than he did most of last year, all while learning a new system.  I wish he had used his legs more, but he may have been asked not to.  The offensive line was a weakness, which translated into a poor running game, which is unacceptable in Lincoln, Nebraska. SR OT Alex Lewis had two costly penalties, and he should be above that.  Chong Kondolo was getting eaten up by the BYU DT, and why we did not put in Jerald Foster I do not know.  RB Terrell Newby came on late, but it sure looks like Mikhale Wilbon is the go to guy at running back, with Imani Cross able to add depth.  We did not see Ozigbo.  While Westerkamp was his normal brilliant self, other wideouts had moments, but did not play complete games. Turner had one good catch, and Moore did some things, but we will need them to step up beyond what we saw on Saturday. Freshman Stanley Morgan was only targeted once that I saw, and he delivered.  The defensive line play was solid, but there was no disruption to speak of, which was disappointing.  At defensive end, the play was not bad, and the emergence of Freedom Akinmoladun was exciting. Banderas played well at LB, but the freshman Dedrick Young stole the spotlight, having a great day. Luke Gifford held in there in place of suspended Micheal Rose-Ivey.  Senior CB Daniel Davie looked terrible against the tall and swift BYU receivers; however, outside of one bad play, Joshua Kalu played very well and is the man back there.  Nate Gerry played well, grabbing an interception.  The young secondary members looked like guys with little experience, which was the case.  Drew Brown at placekick was awful, and unless he turns on a dime, Riley will need to find somebody else in a hurry, as this is a major liability at the moment.  Sam Foltz was great, and Tyson Broekemier did well in his place after Foltz was injured. There was some excellent play calling, (the TD to Trey Foster of note), but there was also some head scratches. Plays running up the middle late were costly, and a few jet sweeps late to the near side seemed doomed from the start. An injury to TE David Sutton, which may keep him out 8 weeks, was an un-flagged cheap shot. While this loss stings, there were several good things to take away from it.  This team is learning a new system, had their moments, and barely lost to a decent football team. How the team builds upon it is what will matter. The defense needs work, as does the offensive line, but overall I liked a lot from what I saw.  A win at Miami gains importance, but the B1G West Division is winnable for this team, and that should be the goal.  I thought Nebraska would lose one it should not, and maybe this is it, with a whole season to expand on the lessons learned on this day.

FLORIDA STATE ANALYSIS

For the Seminoles, there was much to learn in the opener against Texas State, with the Bobcats being a high tempo team returning a signal caller who has completed 64% of his passes. FSU won 59-16. Defensively, the Seminoles passed the test.  The defensive line rotated throughout, with each player having their moments. DeMarcus Walker looked real good, as did Jacob Pugh. Lorenzo Featherston did not dress, but Josh Sweat and Giorgio Newberry played well.  Terrance Smith and Reggie Northrup hounded Bobcats, with Northrup great to see after recouping from injury.  Jalen Ramsey is a superstar, All America player who owned the field.  As we suspected, the secondary is deep and talented, and a team strength. Trey Marshall and Lamarcus Brutus had their named called often. Everett Golson was sharp, and excitement is appropriately building on how far he can take this team.  Golson, who was turnover prone at Notre Dame, was the consummate field general, protecting the ball, taking advantage of what was given and accurately assessing the field.  Golson's throws were sharp, and on target. and if he can continue to progress he has a high ceiling, along with the Seminoles. Dalvin Cook was brilliant, and Mario Pender came ready to play. Jonathan Vickers, and even Jacques Patrick ran strong.  The offensive line, an area of some concern, looked cohesive and sharp.  We know what we have in Roderick Johnson, but guards Kareem Are and Wilson Bell both played well.  Center Corey Martinez and tackle Brock Ruble, who at 6'8" 313 looked mean and mobile, also faired well, which was great to see.  JaVonn Harrison had his best game as a 'Nole, joining Travis Rudolph and Bobo Wilson as the leaders of the receiving core.  George Campbell had several late catches, and he may become a central factor before too long.  Kermit Whitfield is also ready to contribute. TE Ryan Izzo made some plays as well. FSU found it difficult to handle punts, finally settling on freshman Derwin James after two fumbles.  For the season opener with so many questions, the grade for FSU was a solid B+. Firing on all cylinders no; however, even as the Seminoles were playing an inferior opponent, the team responded well, did not look confused or rusty, and appeared to benefit from strong competition at a number of positions. The offensive line, a top area of concern, looked promising, as did Everett Golson.  We know FSU will get better as they go, but this was a sharp start and gives the faithful a twinkle in the eye.

Sunday, September 6, 2015

Disciples of Death

Over the last several weeks, there have been a series of videos released describing in no uncertain terms the activities underway at Planned Parenthood.  Unless you have been under a rock, you have seen them. Or maybe not, as you were unable to stomach the content.

These undercover videos, presented by the Center for Medical Progress, inform the public of the grotesque and appalling activities of Planned Parenthood, which takes on added significance given of the sad reality our taxpayer dollars are funding these insidious actions. The Alliance Defending Freedom has more.

One can perhaps argue that, although it is logical birth begins at inception, while a collection of cells is engaged performance of an abortion is not murder.  However, at the time these abortions are performed, it is unquestionably murder, as if there was no baby, there would be no parts to sell.

No matter where you fall on the debate of abortion, I hope we can agree this despicable action is sickening and horrifying; and evil.  The folks performing these activities, some with a cavalier attitude buoyed by arrogance, will rot in hell.

I am incensed our government is funding the murder of the unborn with my tax dollars. Given these videos, which document the commerce of selling baby body parts of aborted children, our political leaders can no longer say they were unaware of what taxpayers dollars are funding.

Sen. Mitch McConnell
A Bill to Defund Planned Parenthood was blocked by the Senate this past week, as Sen. Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said it was not the proper time to do it.  I would like to ask the Senator when the appropriate time might be? When would be a good to stop giving money to an organization the murders unborn children and brokers their body parts for profit?

Sen. Ted Cruz, R:TX, has sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky,early next week urging him not to schedule a vote on legislation that continues to fund Planned Parenthood. “In light of recent and horrific revelations that Planned Parenthood is trafficking in fetal tissue and body parts from abortions, we urge you not to schedule or facilitate the consideration of any legislation that authorizes or appropriates federal dollars for Planned Parenthood."

Actually, Sen. McConnell, the time is now.  And, not withstanding a truckload of other reasons, due to your inexplicable action on this issue, I am calling for your resignation.  Your lack of leadership, equaled in large measure by your House counterpart John Boehner, has significantly contributed to the demise of our nation. In no way, shape or form do either of you RHINO's represent your constituents.  We sent both of you to the leadership by voting in GOP members who promised to stop the transformation enacted by President Obama.. Most of them have failed miserably, and for those who continue to fight you, they have faced punitive retribution for siding against you.

I am against you both, and will work to end your tenure as representatives of the GOP.

The defunding of Planned Parenthood is a noteworthy example of decisions on your behalf that go against GOP principles, and are of assistance to the objectives of the left and President Obama.  While we will exercise our legal options in terminating your elected status, there will be en eternal price to pay for, given an opportunity to stand for life over death, you took death.

Those who support Planned Parenthood, given the knowledge we now have, can only be accurately described as disciples of death.  May God have mercy on you.

Wednesday, September 2, 2015

Faith Held High

Last week, the Orange County (FL) Public School (OCPS), recently told school leaders and athletic directors last week that chaplains would no longer be allowed after receiving a complaint from the Freedom From Religion Foundation. In full disclosure, it should be noted that I was educated in the Orange County Public School system and have a child currently in the system.  Upon learning of this decision, I was saddened, embarrassed and offended.  As an athlete many years ago at Orlando Boone, we commonly had prayer ahead of and after games.

Each and every Pop Warner awards banquet for young athletes I have ever attended began with a prayer. Faith, family, friends, food and football; all part of the heritage of life in Central Florida.

And, in sports across the fruited plain.

It certainly is in my home state of Nebraska, where it was an integral part of the storied program ran at the University of Nebraska under legendary coach Tom Osborne.  And it was at my alma mater, Florida State University under the winningest coach in college football history, Bobby Bowden.


Bowden and Osborne formed a fast friendship upon their first meeting, due in large measure to their common membership and leadership in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Their friendship continues today, with both coaches continuing to speak on behalf of Christianity whenever given the chance.

Good on em!

In fact, giving testimony, Bobby Bowden has a new book out, titled "The Wisdom of Faith" and joined the group on the curvy couch over at FOX & Friends earlier this week. In a great interview, Bowden spoke about his life as a Christian, speaking of history in his family which offered him opportunities to expand his faith.

Elisabeth Hasselback asked Bowden about the OCPS decision, and he said about prayer he "would do it anyway" and did so at Florida State, not caring about political correctness.  It may sound like high stakes for a riverboat gambler like Bowden, but when you have his faith it is easy to know what is principled and do the right thing.


The idiots over at OCPS who said no faith in football could learn quite a bit from Coach Bowden and his new book. Georgia head coach Mark Richt sure did.

Coach Bowden will be here in Orlando in September given further testimony. I look forward, as always, to visiting with him and joining him in prayer.

Disease Slow Creep

OF Lorenzo Cain
Kansas City Royals
Rarely does chickenpox hit the clubhouse of a Major League Baseball team, but it hit the Kansas City Royals in Tampa this weekend. Just so happens, we were visiting with the team pregame on Sunday.

It is amazing in this day and age something like this can happen, particularly among a professional sports team with unlimited medical staff, but outfielder Alex Rios and relief pitcher Kelvin Herrera were sent home from Tampa over the weekend. The team is monitoring the situation closely.

It is worth noting the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who outside of an outstanding performance by linebacker Lavonte David, looked horrible Saturday night at Tampa Stadium in a blowout preseason loss to the Cleveland Browns, had significant cases of MRSA in their locker room three or four years ago. In fact, MRSA may have been a factor in ending the career of offensive lineman Carl Nicks, who contracted the disease.

With illegal, yes, illegal, immigration on the boiler plate of the political arena these days, the potential impact on our citizenry of these illegal immigrants carrying disease as they come across the border without any checkpoint is enormous.

A slow creep of disease throughout our nation seems imminent.

One would think our elected leaders would find the protection of the American citizens paramount, but with the Obama administration, more concern is placed upon the dismantling of America power, the gaining of a political advantage from expanding their voting base and transferring the wealth from those that earned it through entitlement program to those who have not.

Karl Marx would be so proud.

Tuesday, September 1, 2015

No Constraints on Economic Engine

Larry Kudlow
As famed economists Larry Kudlow and Steve Moore accurately point out in a recent column, "strategic tax cuts and regulatory relief after the anti-business rule-making assault by President Obama, not trade and immigration barriers, are the solution to America’s competitiveness deficit."

Rather than  penalize, say Ford, for moving a plant out of the US, Trump should aim to create domestic economic policy which makes that decision non-advantageous from profit, tax and regulatory standpoint.

As Reagan said, barriers need to be removed to release the vast economic engine of America and the entrepreneurial spirit of the American citizen for our economy to reach optimal economic efficiency.

Sadly, Obama and most who share his philosophy view America as a global oppressor, and seek to limit our prosperity, which they deem was obtained on the backs of others.  As former Obama advisor Van Jones stated, "give them the wealth."

BAHL & Steve Moore 2010
Kudlow and Stephen Moore believe, as do I, the wealth belongs to those who earned it.  We did build that, with apologies to Obama and his socialist comrade Elizabeth Warren.

Companies need to forecast levels of return on and return of investment that are competitive, and with the onslaught of regulation and taxation, not to mention the attacks on small business, America is hardly open for business.

If your goal is to reduce prosperity, innovation and invention, you have done a good job by introducing these barriers to success.  With many struggling for friction trying to better life for their families, they fall by orchestration to feel a victim to the capitalist system.

But as Ayn Rand pointed out, "They’ve adopted collectivism so fully they can’t even see themselves as individuals, only as members of a group. And by embracing this as an ideal, they’ve become accessories to their own enslavement."

Kudlow and Moore cite immigration as part of the prosperity of America, and that is very true.  Like free trade, immigration should always be sought and welcomed.  But it must be legal immigration, which is not what is going on today.

Many in the GOP establishment appreciate the immigrants, so they can employ them and increase margins on the backs of paying low skilled workers less than legal workers require.  Democrats welcome illegal immigrants with the hope of expanding their voting base.

Both are in direct violation of the principles and laws set forth in the founding of America.

Donald J. Trump
It is noted that trade, tax and immigration are independent from each other, and those illegally immigrating to America should be dealt with as the law trumps, pun intended, any potential economic or social benefit.

Donald Trump, cited in the piece, is attempting to place the issue on the front burner, where belongs before we lose our country.  A country without borders is not a country.

Trump may not have all the right answers to this problem that has escalated like crab grass for 30 years, but his efforts to find solutions to the problem should be welcomed and not criticized.  Those attacking Trump's ideas likely have an agenda that may be negatively impacted if he is successful.

Sounds good to me.  It is the Art of the Deal.