As many of us accurately predicted, Obamacare as passed was unsustainable and would create such dysfunction cries for a quick fix would roar. It has begun, and the end game of a single payer plan, always the goal, is coming our way quicker than first thought, limiting choice and reducing quality of care for paying consumers, placing your health care in total control of the Federal Government.
Zero Hedge, citing a Wall Street Journal report, produces a thorough and scathing post detailing how the passage of Obamacare will permanently limit the efficiency of deliverance across the board, raising the costs, reducing competition and limiting accountability, quality and safety for the consumer.
Costs and premiums are rising, while you cannot actually keep your doctor. Choices of plans are diminishing, and flexibility of coverage for the insured is being reeled in. Your relationship with your physician is no longer paramount, as he relationship that counts is between the company providing you with your plan and their biggest customer, which is the federal government rather than you.
In addition, Sarah Palin was quite correct. There is the formation of death panels, which will become an unwanted intrusion into the relationship between the physician controlled by the government and you. Sadly, the less the government values your contributions to society, perhaps indicated not by action but by age, the more cost prohibitive the necessary procedure becomes, significantly limiting the odds the patient receives the procedure.
President Obama, at a very minimum, misrepresented health care legislation to the American people. Elections have consequences, and sadly, thanks to idiots drunk on a sea of irrelevance who were fooled once again, we are about to pay up, and in a most punitive way.
Congratulations.
Voters sent GOP representatives to the Congress and Senate in droves in 2010 and 2014, sending a strong message they wanted this signature and partisan legislation defeated. However, when the GOP presidential candidate was himself an advocate of government health care, just ran by smarter people than Obama, the conservative base shrugged.
It has gotten so bad, these politicians from both sides intoxicated with power, that many in the GOP, while publicly expressing opposition, quietly worked behind the scenes to help Obamacare limit across the finish line. A weapon, the power of the purse, was never seriously considered. Speaker John Boehner and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell are very weak and need to be defeated, and as Mark Levin says, "Let them fight for their political careers as our response to their disgusting and pathetic behavior.”
The legislation was not about health care. It, with a hidden concern of global warming, is about control of the people. Progressive elites are concerned about population control and the effect the everyday habits of private citizens have on the earth. Obamacare has many tentacles within the legislation nobody has read, which leaves decisions to "the secretary" or to panels assembled with unelected bureaucrats who are untouchable by the electorate.
In addition, these panels may be globalized, and fall under the jurisdiction of the United Nations, again, with the main concern of global warming and population control. Activities will be taxed, as the progressive elite utilize media partners in the promotion of health conscious lifestyles, whether you wish to be involved in them or not. Budweiser will not be considered a healthy lifestyle.
When the dust settles on this new trade agreement, and it becomes clear America is taking direction from a global governance, health care will be spread across the globe to those who are not as fortunate. While this may be a wonderful thing to be involved in, the taxpayers will foot the bill whether they want to or not.
Bottom line is that you were lied to about Obamacare, inclusive of its true objectives, the costs associated with it and the benefits, or lack thereof, you will receive from being enrolled. The same big health care companies previously in charge are still in charge, except they answer to the federal government rather than to you. And the price to get in bed with the federal government, which comes from loss of directional control and financial freedom, will be steep, paid for at the end of the day by the end consumer; you.
Idiots voting have dire consequences, and we will soon learn that lesson the hard way.
Against the will of the people, in a cloud of secrecy, another attempt to pass Obamatrade, by both parties, is coming. Sen. Jeff Sessions, R:AL is warning America, as a significant loss of her sovereignty will occur should Obamatrade pass.
Please contact your representatives at once to stop this!
It is a "living agreement" with global governance, which means America would adhere to rules from partner nations as they, not us, see fit. Can you envision Obama as UN Chief further in a few years diminishing and transferring the wealth of America to nations he deems in need?
In an interview yesterday, Obama declared he would be an ever better presidential candidate if he were running for a third term because, "I know what I am doing and I'm fearless." But, Obama is not running for a third presidential term, but he may soon be seeking to lead the UN, under whose guidance the TPP, and the Law of Sea Treaty, which was described as necessary as part of a sustainable world, among other treaties, falls.
Many of these treaty agreements supersede our laws, so the damage to American sovereignty inflicted by Obama may last generations. Obama does not have an allegiance to the United States of America, rather viewing it as an oppressive nation, guided with founding principles that are discriminatory. Transferring wealth and power from America to nations Obama deems had the assets stolen by the United States is logical to a globalist like Obama.
Sen. Sessions is sounding an alarm, and so am I. Rather than being lost in a sea of irrelevance, it it time Americans distance themselves away from the propaganda of the mainstream media and do some critical thinking about how the freedoms we hold dear are being taken from us without a fight.
Stealing American sovereignty; seemingly taken without a fight by an anti-American man who "knows what he is doing and is fearless".
Last night, evil turned up in The Holy City, Charleston, South Carolina, a city where no building stands taller than the steeples throughout the historic city.
Charleston, South Carolina
A very deranged young man attended a church meeting, and after an hour or so of faked fellowship, did the unspeakable, murdering in cold blood a prominent minister and eight parishioners, before escaping into the night.
Adding to the horrendous nature of this crime is the fact that the shooter was a white man, and his victims were members of the second oldest predominantly black church in the nation, Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church of Charleston. Obviously, this will be considered a hate crime, and the death penalty will be appropriately sought after.
Given the racial divisiveness the has fallen over our nation in recent months, many involving the police, this savage and sick crime could not have come at a worse time. The recent altercations, from the Trayvon Martin case in Central Florida to the events in Baltimore, has provided a platform to those who seek racial strife in chaos rather than peace and love.
Some have already taken the opportunity to advance political aspirations and agendas, sadly inclusive of President Obama and 2016 Democratic hopeful Hillary Clinton, who today called for more gun control. We will successfully defend the second amendment with these folks on another day.
On this day, our nation is in mourning. Our nation is reeling that evil came come so pronounced in such a place where the presence of evil is deemed off limits. Our hearts are broken, as evil claimed the lives of some our finest citizens, who you can learn about from the Washington Post. We pray for comfort for the families and friends of these outstanding servants of our Lord.
The last city I laid my head to sleep in outside of my city of residence was Charleston while attending to matters at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). The city is beautiful, and the town folks are friendly and welcoming, certainly inclusive of the wonderful staff at MUSC. This is evident by the class and dignity exhibited by the residents in the aftermath of this tragedy, holding strong in faith.
Evil paid Charleston a deadly visit on Wednesday night. Contrary to the opinions of some, evil does not make distinctions between race, creed, gender, political affiliation, financial status, height, weight, sexual preference or favorite sports teams. Evil is ruthless; without mercy.
Evil attacks goodness, and although we will have setbacks like the heartbreaking events in Charleston last night, evil will be defeated, and we remain strong in our faith, which will be our saving grace.
Hillary Clinton is now a champion for gay marriage, but just a decade ago, she cited marriage between a man and a woman as a "bedrock principle".
Do you shift your bedrock principles often? Does Ms. Clinton have any principles, or is she a liar who seeks to gain political advantage by any means necessary?
Well, she is a Saul Alinsky gal, so I'll note the latter is confirmed.
Hopefully, America will not elect to our highest office an unprincipled individual, as "The most promising method of securing a virtuous and morally stable people is to elect virtuous leaders."
I was saddened last week to learn of the passing of professional wrestler Dusty Rhodes, "The American Dream." Although he was originally a Texan, he was a Floridian, living here in Central Florida until his sudden death here on June 11.
Professional wrestling is not a sport I am a fan of, but times were different when I was a little kid and Rhodes was wrestling in shows across Florida. These were the days before cable television, and each Saturday just before noon, there was little to watch during the off-season of college football.
So, many here in watched along each weekend as Rhodes, appropriately described by Brian Campbell of ESPN as chubby and lovable, battled his foes with famed chain smoking ring announcer Gordon Solie in disbelief. The ultimate fan favorite, Rhodes was elected into the WWE Hall of Fame, appropriately so.
Rhodes was a fun guy, a common man with a way with words. "Tower of Power, Man of the Hour, Too Sweet to be Sour"! Dusty lived the American dream, and his life was cut short too soon.
Sports is and always has played a significant role in my life. I have found that most all of life's lessons are learned between the lines. Discipline, individual responsibility, teamwork and sportsmanship are among many opportunities presented within the games that offer guidance to prosper in life.
Over the years, there have been many individuals associated with sports that I have looked up to, been a fan of, owned a jersey of or just pulled for. These are my guys, and although it has not always been a road without bumps for many, these are my guys. In an effort to recognize these folks, I have formed The Hall of BAHL.
Individuals making this list may or may not be the greatest ever players, coaches or ambassadors, but they are my favorites.
Each year, I will induct five members into The Hall of BAHL. In honor of my good buddy and Sportsman Big Ole BudFeiser, who we lost in 2011 and who I grew up playing sports with, each class will annually be announced on his birthday, June 13.
The inductees for the 2015 Hall of BAHL class are listed in no particular order below:
DICK HOWSER It is not often in sports when some of your favorite people get to play integral roles for your favorite college and professional teams, but for me, Dick Howser was such a man. Howser was the first All America baseball player at Florida State University, twice earning the honor as a shortstop. Howser was signed by the Kansas City Athletics, and earned rookie of the year honors.
After his playing career ended, he joined the New York Yankees as third base coach, even managing a game during the 1978 season. Howser came home to Florida State to become manager in 1979, but was hired away to become the Yankees skipper in 1981. He was then hired to manage the Kansas City Royals, who he led to many division titles which culminated in wining the 1985 World Series.
While managing the 1986 All Star Game for the American League, players and announcers noticed Howser was not himself. He stepped aside for treatment for what was diagnosed as a brain tumor. Howser tried to return to the Royals in 1987, but it was not to be due to his condition.
'No matter how you prepare for this day, when it actually happens, it's a shock,'' said George Brett, the Royals' third baseman. ''You just hate to see him go. He's going to be missed.''
In 1988, during a preseason game where the Kansas City Royals came to Tallahassee to play the Seminoles, a game I was fortunate to attend and have a commemorative bat from, FSU names the on campus baseball stadium in honor of Howser as Dick Howser Stadium was born. As reported by Seminoles.com, "As part of the stadium dedication, Kansas City all-stars George Brett and Bo Jackson helped unveil a new $150,000 matrix scoreboard and a bronze bust of Howser.
Hoswer has had his number retired by both the Florida State Seminoles and the Kansas City Royals, with bronze statues at both baseball parks. I have visited both of these personally, and they are beautiful tributes to an individual who is among the most beloved people to grace those places.
It is an honor to induct forever Royal Dick Howser, an unconquered Seminole, to the Hall of BAHL.
WARRICK DUNN
Back in Baton Rouge, LA, Florida State commit Warrick Dunn was dealt a tragic blow as his mother, Betty Smothers, a Baton Rouge police officer, was shot to death in the line of duty. This tragic event, which made Warrick head of his household, could have derailed many a young man, but Smothers did not raise such a man. Dunn held steady on his commitment to Florida State, where he became one of the most gifted players ever to wear the garnet and gold.
Dunn possessed blazing speed and was member of the FSU track team, but it was his cat quickness with great vision that he was noted for. Dunn was stellar in evading would be tacklers and was brilliant catching the ball out of the backfield. More important, although soft spoken, Dunn was a team leader, a young man of great character who was a role model for his teammates and fans.
Dunn helped Florida State win the schools first National Championship in 1993, and in integral play in that season was a tough win at Florida, where Dunn took a swing pass from Charlie Ward and raced for a score late to capture the win.
Dunn closed out his FSU career as the school leader in career rushing yards, most rushing yards in a season and became the only Seminole to rush for over 1000 in three consecutive seasons. Dunn's number 28 jersey has appropriately been retired by Florida State.
Dunn played in the NFL for over a decade, beginning and ending with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with a few years as an Atlanta Falcon in between. Dunn was the offensive rookie of the year with Tampa Bay, and was a three time Pro Bowl selection. Beyond the field, Dunn won several citizenship awards, including winning the prestigious Walter Peyton Man of The Year Award.
In honor of his mother, Dunn began a program to build houses through his Home for the Holidays program as part of his foundation Warrick Dunn Charities which helps single parent families attain home ownership through a partnership with Habitat for Humanity. "Warrick Dunn Charities has awarded millions in furnishings, food and other donations to single-parent families and children across the nation to combat poverty, hunger and ensure families have comfortable surroundings and basic necessities to improve their quality of life."
Warrick Dunn was a great football player, but perhaps he is even a greater individual. Seminole Nation is very proud to have Warrick as one of our best players and representatives of our beloved University. Throughout his life, Dunn has exhibited the principles and values that honor the core beliefs of the Seminoles, perhaps a live illustration of the unconquered.
It is a thrill to have FSU and Tampa Bay standout Warrick Dunn among those in the Hall of BAHL.
JIMBO FISHER
For the Florida State faithful, it was most difficult to part ways with legendary football coach Bobby Bowden, who built not only the Florida State football program, but played a significant role in the growth of the university itself. But for most, there was only one choice to follow Bowden's path, and that was Jimbo Fisher.
Fisher had a strong relationship with Terry Bowden, who Fisher played quarterback for and later coached with, ending up at Auburn together as part of the Tigers undefeated 1993 season. Fisher would continue to polish his craft before becoming offensive coordinator under Bobby Bowden at FSU. Fisher developed a keen ability to groom the quarterback position, but learned a great deal about team structure and leadership during a stint at LSU, where Fisher was offensive coordinator when the Bayou Tigers won the national title.
Fisher started strong at FSU, and while there were some growing pains, which included a couple of head scratching losses, a culture of winning was being built by Fisher. If you would ever speak to Jimbo about what he calls the organization, you would promptly recognize that Fisher has complete control and confidence in his mission in developing young men in the pursuit of excellence. Nothing is left to chance in the development of the organization, and young men are held accountable to the team and themselves. The team is a family, and this is not by coincidence.
When Fisher was introduced as head coach at FSU, he said "Empowered, confident athletes are winners. My goal is to get the structure, the staff and the support resources in place to facilitate a winning plan and get players into the structure and start effecting change. Now." The grade in accomplishing that plan is A+.
Fisher quickly set the tone, and after losing four games in each of his first four seasons, the Seminole jumped up a few levels and won the 2013 National Championship with a victory of Auburn. In addition, quarterback Jameis Winston won the Heisman Trophy. Before losing in the College Football Playoff to Oregon, the Seminoles has ran off a school record 29 game winning streak.
Fisher has returned Florida State to the national elite, with stellar recruiting as young men want to come and be a part of the working to achieve greatness. Jimbo is a favorite of the FSU faithful, and he can remain parked in Tallahassee as long as he wishes.
Florida State head football coach Jimbo Fisher is welcomed into the Hall of BAHL.
ERIC CROUCH Eric Crouch was the third Nebraska player to win the Heisman Trophy winning the coveted award in 2001 after a brilliant senior campaign which culminated in the 'Huskers losing to the Miami Hurricanes in The Orange Bowl.
The Omaha Millard North product compiled a 35-7 record as starting quarterback for Nebraska, and left left Nebraska in possession of 32 school records. At the time, Crouch was one of just three quarterbacks in NCAA history rush for 3000 yards and pass for 4000 yards in a career.
Crouch broke top ranked Oklahoma's back on a reverse 41 yard touchdown catch, pummeled a would be Iowa tackler on the way to paydirt and delivered a blow to Hall of Famer Ed Reed in a losing effort in The Orange Bowl. But, Crouch really dazzled the faithful with a breathtaking touchdown run at Missouri, an integral part of the highlight reel that helps secure a Heisman.
Crouch remains in Nebraska and close to the program, doing work for FOX Sports and the Big Ten Network. I had a chance to meet him in New York City on Heisman weekend one time, while he did not have the look of an elite athlete, lest there be no doubt he is one of the best players in the storied Nebraska football history.
Crouch vs. Notre Dame
Crouch vs. OU/Getty image
BAHL Revere is pleased to induct Nebraska's Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Eric Crouch into the BAHL Hall of Fame.
CHRIS WEINKE
Chris Weinke came to Florida State an unusual way. After originally signing a letter of intent to play football at Florida State out of after Cretin-Derham Hall High School in St. Paul, MN, Weinke ended up spending six seasons in the minor leagues with the Toronto Blue Jays. Coach Bobby Bowden promised his scholarship would be honored if he decided to come, Weinke retired from the Blue Jays and arrived at FSU at the age of 25.
Weinke was the starting quarterback for Florida State in 1998-99. After leading the Seminoles to a 9-1 record in 1998, Weinke was forced to sit due to a neck injury suffered late in the year. Healthy, Weinke returned to lead the Seminoles to an undefeated season culminating with FSU winning it's second National Title with a 46-29 victory over Virginia Tech in the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans.
As president of the Seminole Club of Greater Orlando in 1999, I was able to attend this game, a game in which Weinke had a stellar performance. Beyond winning the National Title and Heisman Trophy, Weinke left FSU holding records for the most passing yards and touchdowns in a career in compiling a 32-3 record as the starting quarterback.
Weinke had numerous plays which could compile a lengthy highlight reel, perhaps Weinke is best known for this backbreaking play against Clemson, deemed "The Play Fake".
Weinke played several years in the NFL most notably with the Carolina Panthers. Since his retirement, Weinke has dabbled in many arenas and is now quarterbacks coach of the St. Louis Rams after being head coach at IMG Academy in Florida.
Florida State remains special to Chris Weinke, and he is no stranger to the program, attending many events and games while cheering on our beloved Seminoles. Weinke is a very special player in the history of FSU football, and among the hearts of Seminole Nation.
Chris Weinke, Heisman Trophy winning quarterback of the Florida State Seminoles, is welcomed as part of the 2015 Hall of BAHL class.
Born in the nostalgic fifties and booming into among America's most successful companies in part due to placement at exits along the newly installed Interstate system, McDonald's gave America consistently prepared hamburgers, french fries and milkshakes at affordable prices.
With gifts for children in specialized packages, it was a quick win win for the households of America. In addition, founder Ray Kroc always utilized the success of McDonald's in various charitable forms, most notably the Ronald McDonald House's which offers a home away from home for families with serious ill children in various cities, including right here in Central Florida.
But times are tough for the company. Although the stock price has risen sharply over the decades, McDonald's (MCD:NYSE) has been churning sideways for about three years. The company has been getting pummeled in the mainstream media, for producing food deemed unhealthy by the food police. The attacks have been relentless, and sales have been affected. In fact, McDonald's has announced it will discontinue releasing monthly comparable sales beginning this June, as it's global comparable sales have declined for 12 consecutive months.
Protesters routinely find the nearest McDonald's to march upon seeking higher wages, fueled on by Obama, the unions and the media. The marching morons think flipping burgers is a job you can raise a family on, but the political leaders know better and are just using McDonald's as a punching bag to advance their progressive agenda.
Steve Easterbrook will take over as CEO after the "announced early retirement" of former CEO Don Thompson, who did not perform well for a variety of reasons.
The ad campaigns of recent years have been not been near historic standards, and the company has been trying to appease the members of the food police by altering the menu in hopes of oiling the squeaky wheel.
Appeasement always works so well, but with Michelle Obama having stated that Obama will make America change it's history and traditions, McDonald's may feel compelled to make moves to protect their history and traditions.
Enter Robert Gibbs, the smart aleck former Obama press secretary, who was the face of the administration and perhaps among the most hated people in America. Gibbs, who has been hired as Executive Vice President, Global Chief Communications Officer, otherwise known to the causal observer as go make the Obama administration leave us alone.
But maybe not, as Easterbrook was quoted as saying “Robert (Gibbs) and Silvia are both highly-respected, talented leaders who will bring a wealth of experience and outside perspective to McDonald’s as we build a more modern, progressive burger company.”
Rut row.
News flash to Mr. Easterbrook. Folks have differing definitions of progressive, although you may be oblivious to it all, the hiring of Mr. Gibbs signals McDonald's, like Levi Strauss before it, is ready to jump on board the progressive train carrying the likes of Stuart Chase and Barack Obama.
Many Americans are not coming aboard with you, and that will be a tragedy. McDonald's has been representative of what America is all about, a integral cog in the history and traditions of America our anti-American president is feverishly working to change.
Although not currently a shareholder, I have held shares in the company most of my adult life having been enrolled in their dividend reinvestment program. All they need to do is polish the product, make sure the stores are clean, get rid of the non-serious employees and pay a salary slightly above what the market dictates for those who recognize the opportunity at hand and by all means continue to make those great burgers, fries and shakes we all have enjoyed all our lives.
For those who deem you products unhealthy, they are not to be appeased, but rather told to fixate their taste buds elsewhere. That would certainly include Obama and his know it all wife Michelle, and their wise ass mouthpiece Mr. Gibbs.
In the field of economics, one of the most difficult items to estimate is the ripple effect associated with major events that significantly affect the economic and social welfare of a community. The recent housing crash, for which our economy is still reeling from, is a classic example.
In my estimation, the entire response from our federal government was in error, as government intervention took the place of free market capitalism to create devastating economic consequences which continue to this very day. While some may conclude the government was attempting to help in a time of "crisis", I am reminded of another of the timeless quotes from Ronald Reagan: "The most terrifying words in the English language are: I'm from the government and I'm here to help".
The housing crisis established a house of cards, pun intended, where lending institutions gave mortgages to anyone with a pulse, packaged the loans into mortgage backed securities and sold them as A rated to investors. With the leverage unsustainable, bank failures emerged and the devastation began.
Rather than letting the market cleanse itself out, where those who invested in error or without proper due diligence, or both, paid the price, the government initiated bailouts of the major lending institutions. These government investments in the banking sector have come with a heavy price for the lending institutions, including appraisal regulation that has significantly impaired the industry.
The government now has an embedded regulatory mechanism within the banking sector, and Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac continue to run inefficiency, with these government sponsored enterprises possibly needing more bailouts. The housing market, although now seemingly stabilized and improving slightly in some markets, remains a shell out itself.
Home ownership is at historically low levels, in large measure to stagnant wage growth, with the worker actually losing ground annually. Many former homeowners are joining the millennials, where a majority unable to purchase a home are forced to rent, pushing rent levels to historic highs.
Much of the government interaction in the aftermath of the potentially orchestrated housing crash has limited free market principles, prohibiting the market from returning to optimal health. Perhaps it is part of the war the progressives have on suburbs, maybe a vehicle in the transformation of wealth or quite possibly it is Orwellian in that gave the government an a prime opportunity to seize control over a large portion of the economy, and the citizenry.
Most in the economic world who embraces free market principles knew the path of quantitative easing and government interaction and control in markets was most problematic. While we await the next crash, which we forecast to come right around the presidential election, the devastation the crash has left on families across the nation is troubling and sad.
Many feel the great American dream is no longer obtainable. Without question, if you have yet to obtain wealth, the degree of difficulty in achieving it has risen sharply under President Obama due to the infiltration of government regulation and taxation.
It seems 99 Homes may focus on the trial and tribulation of a family whose life was turned upside down at the drop of a hat as the housing crisis placed a stranglehold on the US economy back in 2008.
My professional activities, involving residential real estate appraisal, rental property management and as collateral risk analyst have given me a front row seat throughout. When 99 Homes hits theaters, I will be there to grab a front row seat.
As Ronald Reagan so eloquently quipped, "The trouble with our liberal friends is not that they're ignorant; it's just they know so much that isn't so".
A prime example of this can be seen in the following comments from President Obama earlier this week:
Obama is a fraud and speaks daily of things and accomplishments that are not so, but this takes the honors in being the biggest crock of crap he has ever spit out. Want evidence he is delusional?
Beyond Russia seizing territory and China building islands, see ISIS running roughshod across the middle east with not a care in the world regarding the consequences. Oh, that's right, since Obama is on their side, they will be heralded for hastening the caliphate and won't be facing any consequences.
The catastrophic consequences will be saved for those who seek a strong America, thanks to Obama's most unfortunate election.
Indeed, it is a lovely place, free from many of the ills that are increasingly permeating our society. It is a place that is ideal for raising a family, and a state that welcomes virtue, principle hard work. It has been said the N on the side of the University of Nebraska football helmet stand for "nice people" rather than "Nebraska".
Outside of some of the downtown areas of Omaha and Lincoln, Nebraska is a very conservative state, as red a state as sea of red in beloved Memorial Stadium in Lincoln on football Saturdays with the Nebraska Cornhuskers on the field.
State Senator Ernie Chambers, a Democrat from Omaha, who tried to take down the storied 'Husker football program a few decades back, has emerged as a leader in an effort to do away with the death penalty in Nebraska.
Although Nebraska has the death penalty, it has not been used very often, and only approximately ten people are the list to be executed at this time.
Even so, led by efforts from Chambers and others and sadly including GOP members who consider themselves Conservative, legislation to end the death penalty in the Cornhusker state passed in the state legislature.
Governor Pete Ricketts, a republican from Nebraska City, vowed to veto such legislation should it land on his desk, which he promptly did. However, with the help of a handful of "conservatives" there were enough votes to overturn the veto. One of these individuals was Brett Lindstrom, a former 'Husker backup quarterback who considers himself a 21st century Reaganite, which is ludicrous.
The state has been in mourning this past week. Omaha police were serving a felony arrest warrant against an individual with a lengthy criminal record (do you ever wonder like I do how these people do not remain in jail?) when a firefight broke out, mortally wounding the suspect and a member of the Omaha Police Department.
With the legislative vote to repeal the death penalty, the state legislature governed against the will of the people, as Nebraskans overwhelming support it. Individuals of the sort who have no regard for law and order and think nothing or murdering police officers are those that the death penalty suits perfectly.
Can't the legislature read the signs?
I remember a day, when Lincoln was terrorized by a crazed killer, where everybody and anybody wanted this serial murderer put to death promptly after his apprehension. In fact, police nabbed him in Wyoming, Charles Starkweather was brought back to Lincoln and electrocuted in the Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln in 1959.
The death penalty may not be a deterrent to all, but it is certainly a powerful tool of penance for those who recklessly disobey the rule of law resulting in the taking of innocent lives. As former Nebraska governor Dave Heineman said, “It’s important for Nebraska to have a death penalty, for the most heinous of crimes. We just had the most recent situation in Omaha, the shooting in Norfolk and a variety of communities across the state.”
Right on Gov. Heinemen, particularly that recent situation in Omaha, which took the life of a top notch member of the community. It was a sign.
Thankfully the Omaha fugitive was killed in the field, or given the mindset of the moronic legislators, he would be sentenced to a life of three squares a day, lifting weights, congenial visits and watching sports on our dime for the rest of his pitiful existence.
It is sad the members of the state legislature did not see the signs.
A sign noting Blue Lives Matter. A sign of heartbreak in Omaha and a heartfelt sign of welcome on the state borders describing Nebraska as the good life. And the sign of a Nebraska city in terror in 1959.
Keep your eye on the signs, and Keep Calm and Kerrie On!
Although GOP hopeful Carly Fiorina accurately notes logging mile flying worldwide is an activity and not an accomplishment, Hillary Clinton portrays the book of her life as containing volumes of significant achievement. With the mainstream media labeling her the most qualified to seek the office of the presidency, which is fall off the stool laughable, it would appear from the dismal turnout on her recent book tour the electorate know better.
Editorial Essay/Micahel Ramirez/Investors.com
It remains an imponderable that seemingly half the country, after all this time, really has no idea who Hillary Clinton really is. Readers of the blog will recall we have devastated her in previous blog posts, most notably the one describing her as lurking in the shadows.
The Clinton's are everything the Progressives claim to despise. Rich and powerful members of the 1%, they award gifts and access to those who pay for them, engaging in crony capitalism making the system inefficient and crowding our opportunities for those on the outside to achieve success. If the Progressives were legitimate in their quest for the working family, they would run from these folks like their hair was on fire. But, the Progressives are far from who they claim to be, and it should be easily obvious to all.
Since the very bizarre beginning of her 2016 campaign, each step has been a train wreck, not withstanding the news media carnage while foot chasing her around while she rides aimlessly in her rented econoline van.
Sure, we laugh at the meetings with ordinary folks in random areas of Iowa that are actually orchestrated with campaign operatives playing the roles of Hawkeye voters. HRC, who has reportedly not driven a car sine 1996 (yeah, she is just like you) rolls up to your local fast food outlet like it is an everyday occurrence.
By the way, have you seen Bill around? Have you ever wondered the last time they slept in the same bed together like 99% of most other married couples? Oh, they are in the 1%; I almost forgot.
Everything about this woman presented in the mainstream media is propaganda, except now that the curtains have been pulled on the Clinton Global Initiative, it may be a matter of fraud. Frequently lying to the American public is certainly not considered virtuous as the Founders hoped our leaders would be. Selling access to a public official usually ends in jail, but somehow it seems jail is not a place a political darling will end up, although former Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell may quarrel with you.
But selling weapons to friends and enemies without proper Congressional approval could be considered treason based upon who actually got the weapons. Yes, ever widening pay to play scandal has entered the realm of international arms dealing, as reported by DC Whispers. The more we learn, the closer we come to preparing a cell in the Graybar Hotel next to Mr. McDonnell.
A logical look at Hillary Clinton would conclude she has been champion of distortion and failure throughout her career. However, if you approach it from what she would deem successful, from a basis of the teachings of Saul Alinsky and Cloward and Piven, you consider her a rousing success.
For those of us who are stewards of the Founding Fathers, who believe in limited government, liberty, freedom and the right to pursue happiness free from excessive government intervention through regulation and taxation, she is in no way, shape or form is this an individual we should even remotely consider for our highest office. She is a champion of distortion and failure, an oppressor of the little people and someone who lies at the shift of the wind to bolster her personal position.
She is a crony, a phony and as it turns out, a very dangerous individual to the freedoms American holds dear.
As noted by Cleon Skousen in his brilliant book "The 5000 Year Leap, "The most promising method of securing a virtuous and morally stable people is to elect virtuous leaders."
Without question, this does not describe Hillary Clinton.
The copy of the painting below is outstanding, and may be foretelling as we approach the 2016 election.
There are several candidates seeking the GOP nomination, and I would support each and every one of them in a battle against Hillary Clinton.
Many candidates have officially jumped in, while others are waiting around, raising money and sizing the electorate.
Commentary about the candidates will be held back at this time as the field settles in but will come at a later date.
For now, I will rank them in four tiers as I see the field right now. Tier 4 are candidates that I am not crazy about. Tier 3 will include some I am intrigued by and want to hear more from. Tier 2 includes those who are positioned to perhaps gain some traction, and among the group a VP candidate may come from. Tier 1 will include those that I am strongly considering and among the group my choice will likely come from.
The list only includes individuals that appear likely to jump in the race.
Tier 1: Ted Cruz, Rand Paul, Scott Walker and Marco Rubio
Tier 2: Rick Santorum, Rick Perry and Allen West
Tier 3: Carly Fioirina, Dr. Ben Carson, Bobby Jindal, John Bolton, and Donald Trump.
Tier 4: John Kasich, George Pataki, Jeb Bush, Chris Christie, Mike Huckabee, Peter King and Lindsey Graham
I am looking to eject from the status quo, which as Ronald Reagan said, is Latin for "the mess we're in".
Forging your own path as the daughter of someone very famous can present difficulties, but for Amanda Sudano Ramirez, it has been a wonderful ride. Amanda is the daughter of the Queen of Disco, the beautiful Donna Summer, and her husband Bruce Sudano. Amanda, along with her two sisters, have each made successful lives for themselves, and the sky seems the limit for the striking Amanda.
Amanda, with model looks and a simply mesmerizing voice, seemed destined to follow the footsteps of her ever so talented mother, and has. Along the way, Amanda attended Vanderbilt University.
Amanda, along with her husband Abner Ramirez, make the musical duo of Johnnnyswim, who are really making quite a name for themselves. Amanda and Abner as Johnnyswim consistently plays music festivals, have made appearances on David Letterman, Live with Kelli & Michael and The Tonight Show and continue to play before sellout venues across America.
The couple stays quite busy, and to add to that, Abner and Amanda welcomed their first child this past February. So, congratulations are in order.
In addition to her outstanding musical career, Amanda has appeared in national commercials, most notably for Target, and has been a model with the Bella Agency, having done modeling campaigns for Louis Vuitton and Vogue.
Amanda and Abner made an appearance with famed musician Daryl Hall on "Live From Daryl's House", where they joined Daryl in performing Hall and Oates hit song "Adult Education".
The talented and beautiful Amanda Sudano Ramirez is welcomed as the latest BAHL's Babe.
When thinking of Memorial Day, President Reagan offered appropriate commentary during his inaugural address to the citizens of The United States of America:
"As for the enemies of freedom, those who are potential adversaries, they will be reminded that peace is the highest aspiration of the American people. We will negotiate for it, sacrifice for it; we will not surrender for it, now or ever. We are Americans!"
Those that gave all, paid with the ultimate sacrifice, will never be forgotten. Our deepest thanks to all for your sacrifice and we honor of Those that we miss.
A quote today presented by Dinesh D'Souza needed no accompaniment:
How inadequate our words are to convey what these men did so that we can remain safe, prosperous, and free!
While interviewing legendary former Florida State football coach Bobby Bowden on his radio show earlier this week, ESPN's Paul Finebaum noted that in his mind former Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston, the first pick in the recent NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, was an embarrassment to Florida State University, and asked Bowden to comment.
Bowden made some candid comments which have caused quite a stir, blowing up social media and pitting FSU fans against one another. A Google search gave indication Bowden considered Winston "an embarrassment" to FSU. Even Tampa Bay Buccaneer coach Lovie Smith expressed his disappointment in Bowden.
Problem is, Finebaum appeared to misrepresent Bowden in a Tweet and Smith and most everyone else failed to read the entire quotation.
Read the entire quotation:
"Well, I think it's a consensus among Florid State fans, and boosters that he was an embarrassment in a lot of ways to the university," Bowden said. "He won a lot of ball games, probably one of the best football players that ever attended Florida State, but he hurt himself off the field. The good news is that he's young enough to get over that, ya know it, and he's gotta do that. He just can't make those junior high school decisions that he made while he was in college."
Coach Bobby Bowden is being taken out of context. Bowden's comments were quite true, as Winston has embarrassed the fan base on a handful of occasions, yet were inspirational about his future and not a condemnation of his past. We all hope Jameis makes more sound decisions as he grows as an individual.
Furthermore, folks, particularly those deemed millennials, need to not go popping off after hearing parsed sound bites from a liberal media without getting command of the facts first. When I hear people making political commentary, from top level members of the mainstream media to folks I meet sitting at the bar who offer general commentary on a subject I know to be false, I am reminded of the words of Ronald Reagan:
"Well, the trouble with our liberal friends is not that they're ignorant; it's just that they know so much that isn't so."
And don't think for a moment that the goings on behind this misdirection and distortion of the facts through out the media landscape is not political. Recall Bob Costas lecturing America on gun control?
Like many, I was very saddened by the recent goings on in Baltimore, from concern over the possibility that the suspect Freddie Gray was mistreated, to the horrendous and unlawful actions of violence and lawlessness of by hundreds of thugs and the despicable leadership just about all of the political leadership in this once proud town. Although I have not been to the city in decades, as a direct descendant of Lord Baltimore, it was somewhat personal.
Among the destruction, the fact that we again have lost the rule of law in a major US city is of grave concern. The lawlessness led to the unthinkable; forcing the Baltimore Orioles to cancel a game, then play a home game in front of nobody because the police were unable to protect fans, and then move a home series with the Tampa Bay Rays down to Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, again, for safety purposes.
How about arresting those who fail to follow the lead of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr by engaging in looting, violence and the destruction of private and public property? Well, in Baltimore, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake doesn't think much of private property, and ironically, she is not related to the Rawlings Co. that makes baseballs.
One could argue the current leaders of the federal government are not unhappy about since it gives them the opportunity gain even more control over the citizenry. Al Sharpton, a proxy mouthpiece for President Barack Obama, quipped that due to the events of Baltimore, and the previously orchestrated protests in Ferguson, MO outside of St. Louis, it is now time to federalize the nations police departments.
Let that one sink in for a moment. Sharpton, and make no mistake, Obama, want the power in Washington and not locally in our communities, cities and states. This directly contradicts the wishes of our Founding Fathers, but Obama and his teammates view our founding documents as charter of negative liberties, limiting what the federal government can and should do. The Founders, of course, sought to limit government.
Those that have weighed in on these events include anybody and everybody. I was interested in the thoughts of two individuals; Dr. Alveda King and Dr. Ben Carson.
Dr. Alveda King, is the niece of Dr. Martin Luther King, who so eloquently and effectively championed the civil rights movement. She knew both her father and her uncle would strongly disapprove of the protests in Baltimore, and said so in an editorial, although the political leadership of the city did not want to hear of it. You see, to the progressive leadership in this county, King's message is considered weak, failing to include the grievances and reparations this group feels they are owed.
As the chief neurosurgeon at John's Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Carson, who has announced his candidacy as a republican for president in 2016, could offer informative commentary given his longtime residency in the city. Carson did an interview printed in GQ, noting "Obviously I'm sad to see what's going on there."
Jesse Lee Patterson had a brilliant piece over at World Net Daily, pontificating if white America just said no!
One of my all time favorite NBS stars, legendary NBA Hall of Fame player Kareem Abdul-Jabbar of the Los Angeles Lakers. Although I am not sure if it is deserved, Abdul-Jabbar is getting hammered over his written comments about the unrest in Baltimore.
“I suggest we all pay attention to what’s happening in Baltimore, because it’s very likely that unless the economic and injustice issues raised there are addressed in a meaningful way across the country, we will be seeing many more Baltimores throughout the election season.”
Maybe Abdul-Jabbar sees thing differently than I do.
I blame much of the inner city issues in Baltimore and other major cities on the failed experiment of The Great Society, where government has infiltrated, and help break up, the family by introducing incentive killing entitlements. Marriage rates have tanked, leaving many youngsters to be raised without a Dad, or in many cases, without parents.
Entitlements from the government have placed many low income inner-city individuals and families in a box, with decreasing avenues of escape; just as it has been planned. School choice, ended by President Obama who frowns upon folks leaving the inner city for the suburbs, has reduced opportunities for those who seek to advance their education beyond the capabilities of the inner-city schools.
Government has established a permanent voting base in these cities, for those who are in regular receipt of the entitlements will likely never vote to have them taken away. Of course, they fail to recognize they have become a slave to the state. Do they even know the are rioting against the Man while voting to become a continuous slave to the Man in supporting the progressive Democrats.
There is no easy answer here. However, I have a few simple ideas:
*Faith needs to regain its rightful place as the centerpiece ones spirit.
*The family needs to re-established as paramount.
*The election of city leaders who inspire greatness; not race hustlers who claim the residents are victims. As noted in Proverbs 29:2, "When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn."
*Firmly establish the rule of law. If the city is lawless, commerce and brotherhood is lost.
*Educational opportunities need to be expanded, not squelched.
*Mentoring is a vehicle which can provide a vision for youngsters to find avenues of success
*Freedom; the removal of shackling governmental regulations and taxation, assisting in the establishment of the entrepreneurial spirit and individual discipline required to achieve gainful employment. Freedom to try, buy, sell and fail.
*Elimination of the grievance industry. No reparations, no social justice; just free market capitalism.
Why not give it a try? Free market capitalism is the equivalent of basketballs' unstoppable sky hook shot, a staple of Abdul-Jabbar's game. After all, how's the progressive big government Great Society working for the inner city folks? It is where dreams go up in flames; literally and figuratively.
BAHL is a REALTOR, Real Estate Investor and Residential Real Estate Appraiser in Orlando. He holds a BS degree in Economics from Florida State University.
