Question: When exactly did Jeremiah Wright become Obama's former pastor?

I watched the speech, read the transcript and listened to the pundits, both left and right. I must concede that it was a good speech. But to compare to to MLK's "I have a dream"(Andrew Sullivan), or comparing the Senator to Abraham Lincoln (Chris Matthews) is just wrong on so may levels.

I can't imagine Mr. Lincoln trying to compare his grandmother's fear of black men (of which even the "great" Jesse Jackson seemed to understand and relate to) and Pastor Wright's anti-white/anti-Semitic rantings to a 8,000 member congregation.

To Obama I say, nice throwing Grandma under the bus. She must be so proud. Obama wants badly for America to ignore how he lives and how he raises his children (they have been attending that church for 20 years). He wants America to set aside the fact that the pastor he chooses to worship with and the church he belongs to preaches African heritage and customs and African culture above American. Forget above, his church blames all of the world's ills on the white man. His church preaches that they do not believe in a G-d who isn't African-centric. Yet he wants us to believe he has risen above the "blame whitey" language of his church and now has the tools to transcend race in America.

I heard one radio show make the following comment, which I thought was very accurate:

What Senator Obama must realize, is he is not the agent of racial healing. He is the product of it.

America of 2008 is not the America of 1856, or even of 1968.

What I have come to learn about the liberal mind is that in their warped view of things, because America isn't perfect, it can never serve as a guiding light for the rest of the world. We must constantly flail at what we took long to overcome, instead of delighting in what we have overcome.

Jeremiah Wright can not get past the wrongs made against his ancestors, so instead of trying to make peace with a country that has worked tirelessly at healing (now THAT's an Abraham Lincoln moment), he continues to wallow in the mire of victimhood. Instead of understanding that the very reason Obama is where he is today is exactly because of the great strides this country has made at race relations.

Instead, he blames and blames. He blames the "G-d damn America." He does not preach peace and love thy neighbor. He preaches hate thy neighbor if he's white.

For Obama to stay in that church, considering that that very platform is praised on their own website, and then to tell us that he "transcends" racial divide is just plain drivel and an outright lie.

To make this even more surreal, Obama considers Wright's comments just a “fierce criticism of US policy.” That's like calling Ahmadinejad's calling for Israel to be wiped off the map "fierce criticism of Israel's policy." Sorry, but "fierce criticism" is saying you don't agree and maybe protesting. Saying your country is purposely infecting the African-American community with AIDS is a little more that "fierce criticism."

And speaking of the pastor's comments, how exactly does such a caring and committed Christian feel about the only free country in the Middle east?

With a sermon called, "Israel, that dirty word."

Pitiful.

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Watching American Idol tonight, I concluded that two weeks of butchering the Beatles was one week too many.

As far as performances are concerned, little David Archuleta bounced back with "The Long and Winding Road". However, it seemed to me no different that when he did "Imagine" a few weeks ago. It was well done, but it was pretty much the same thing.

I liked David Cook's rendition of "Daytripper" (decoder/voicebox included) and I was moved by Syesha Mercado's "Yesterday." Otherwise, nothing else really got me to say "wow." I believe that Amanda Overmeyer should thank her lucky stars that Kristy Lee Cook is still around to be voted off. While "Little Miss Country Girl" wasn't nearly as bad as the "Rocker Chick" (who was horrible), being in the final three week after week is gonna catch up with her.

Overall, the show was weak compared to last week and I think all of the contestants seemed burned out by the genre.

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For those of you who have been following along with my latest health concerns, I figure now is as good a time to come forward with what's been going on. For the last 4 years, I've known that - due to a major humeral rejection I suffered a year after my heart transplant - my kidneys have slowly (although not slowly enough) been shutting down.

I attended a class at the University of Chicago Hospital recently which dealt with "end term renal failure" (which is my diagnosis) and it taught me the different choices I have to control the disease. Of course, unless I get another transplant, that means dialysis. Although I have to say, the different options available today makes dialysis not as horrible as it once was.

Still, it will require me to be hooked up to a machine for about 8 hours each night. Not exactly a fun prospect. As far as the timing is concerned, I am becoming more and more symptomatic. My blood result numbers are a nightmare and because I'm also dealing with an auto-immune disease (ankylosing spondylitis) which - because of my renal disease can not be treated with anti-inflammatorys (they're too toxic) - I'm usually in a lot of pain or hyped up on Vicodin (not always a bad thing).

I have been told that after I begin dialysis (no longer an "if"), I should begin to feel more energetic. But I remember when I went through plasmapheresis a few years back (similar concept) and all I remember feeling was low level nausea, which never subsided. But I'll keep looking at the positive side while waiting for one of my many, many, many (that means YOU) donate a kidney to me.

Nah, I'm just kidding. I don't have any friends.

Seriously though, it is why I'm somewhat erratic at following a writing schedule and some days, it takes an awful lot just to get out of bed in the morning. I'm not looking for sympathy (although I couldn't hurt). But it is what it is and I have no real issue facing it.

I haven't done this for a while, but I felt the message of this article was so powerful that I had to post it...

Obama's pastor disaster

By Mark Steyn

The Rev. Jeremiah Wright thinks that, given their treatment by white America, black Americans have no reason to sing "G-d Bless America." "The government gives them the drugs, builds bigger prisons, passes a three-strike law and then wants us to sing 'G-d Bless America.' No, no, no, G-d damn America," he told his congregation. "G-d damn America for treating our citizens as less than human."

I'm not a believer in guilt by association, or the campaign vaudeville of rival politicians insisting this or that candidate dissociate himself from remarks by some fellow he had a 30-second grip'n'greet with a decade ago. But Jeremiah Wright is not exactly peripheral to Barack Obama's life. He married the Obamas and baptized their children. Those of us who made the mistake of buying the senator's latest book, "The Audacity Of Hope," and assumed the title was an ingeniously parodic distillation of the great sonorous banality of an entire genre of blandly uplifting political writing discovered circa page 127 that in fact the phrase comes from one of the Rev. Wright's sermons. Jeremiah Wright has been Barack Obama's pastor for 20 years — in other words, pretty much the senator's entire adult life. Did Obama consider "G-d Damn America" as a title for his book but it didn't focus-group so well?

Ah, well, no, the senator told ABC News. The Rev. Wright is like "an old uncle who says things I don't always agree with." So did he agree with goofy old Uncle Jeremiah on Sept. 16, 2001? That Sunday morning, Uncle told his congregation that the United States brought the death and destruction of 9/11 on itself. "We nuked far more than the thousands in New York and the Pentagon, and we never batted an eye," said the Rev. Wright. "We have supported state terrorism against the Palestinians and black South Africans, and now we are indignant because the stuff we have done overseas is now brought right back to our own front yards."

Is that one of those "things I don't always agree with"? Well, Sen. Obama isn't saying, responding merely that he wasn't in church that morning. OK, fair enough, but what would he have done had he happened to have shown up on Sept. 16? Cried "Shame on you!" and stormed out? Or, if that's a little dramatic, whispered to Michelle that he didn't want their daughters hearing this kind of drivel while rescue workers were still sifting through the rubble and risen from his pew in a dignified manner and led his family to the exit? Or would he have just sat there with an inscrutable look on his face as those around him nodded?

All Sen. Obama will say is that "I don't think my church is actually particularly controversial." And in that he may be correct. There are many preachers who would be happy to tell their congregations "G-d damn America." But Barack Obama is not supposed to be the candidate of the America-damners: He's not the Rev. Al Sharpton or the Rev. Jesse Jackson or the rest of the racial grievance-mongers. Obama is meant to be the man who transcends the divisions of race, the candidate who doesn't damn America but "heals" it — if you believe, as many Democrats do, that America needs healing.

Yet since his early twenties he's sat week after week, listening to the ravings of just another cookie-cutter race-huckster.

What is Barack Obama for? It's not his "policies," such as they are. Rather, Sen. Obama embodies an idea: He's a symbol of redemption and renewal, and a lot of other airy-fairy abstractions that don't boil down to much except making upscale white liberals feel good about themselves and get even more of a frisson out of white liberal guilt than they usually do. I assume that's what Geraldine Ferraro was getting at when she said Obama wouldn't be where he was today (i.e., leading the race for the Democratic nomination) if he was white. For her infelicity, the first woman on a presidential ticket got bounced from the Clinton campaign and denounced by MSNBC's Keith Olbermann for her "insidious racism" indistinguishable from "the vocabulary of David Duke."

Oh, for cryin' out loud. Enjoyable as it is to watch previously expert tossers of identity-politics hand grenades blow their own fingers off, if Geraldine Ferraro's an "insidious racist", who isn't?

The song the Rev. Wright won't sing is by Irving Berlin, a contemporary of Cole Porter, Ira Gershwin and Lorenz Hart, all the sophisticated rhymesters. But only Berlin could have written without embarrassment "G-d Bless America." He said it directly, unaffectedly, unashamedly — in seven words:

"G-d Bless America
Land that I love."

Berlin was a Jew, and he suffered slights: He grew up in the poverty of New York's Lower East Side. When he made his name and fortune, his marriage to a Park Avenue heiress resulted in her expulsion from the Social Register. In the Thirties, her sister moved in with a Nazi diplomat and proudly flaunted her diamond swastika to Irving. But Berlin spent his infancy in Temun, Siberia (until the Cossacks rode in and razed his village), and he understood the great gift he'd been given:

"G-d Bless America
Land that I love."

The Rev. Wright can't say those words. His shtick is:

"G-d damn America
Land that I loathe."

I understand the Ellis Island experience of Russian Jews was denied to blacks. But not to Obama. His experience surely isn't so different to Berlin's — except that Barack got to go to Harvard. Obama's father was a Kenyan, he spent his childhood in Indonesia, and he ought to thank his lucky stars that he's running for office in Washington rather than Nairobi or Jakarta.

Instead, his whiny wife, Michelle, says that her husband's election as president would be the first reason to have "pride" in America, and complains that this country is "downright mean" and that she's having difficulty finding money for their daughters' piano lessons and summer camp. Between them, Mr. and Mrs. Obama earn $480,000 a year (not including book royalties from "The Audacity Of Hype," but they're whining about how tough they have it to couples who earn 48 grand — or less. Yes, we can. But not on a lousy half-million bucks a year.

G-d has blessed America, and blessed the Obamas in America, and even blessed the Rev. Jeremiah Wright, whose bashing of his own country would be far less lucrative anywhere else on the planet. The "racist" here is not Geraldine Ferraro but the Rev. Wright, whose appeals to racial bitterness are supposed to be everything President Obama will transcend. Right now, it sounds more like the same-old same-old.

"G-d Bless America
Land that I love."

Take it away, Michelle.

I can't say it any better than that!

I find it unbelievably chilling how taken the mainstream media is taken with Barack Obama. I mean, seriously guys. Every so often, I've wandered over to Perez Hilton to see if there is any American Idol rumors and I often come across one of his doctored photos of (usually) men with drool -or worse - coming out of their mouths.

That's how I see the MSM and their treatment - salivating (or worse) over the second coming. Or is it the third, I lost count.

What I do find so delightful is the way the Kos Kids have turned on Hillary Clinton, and how the Clinton camp is crying over it. Hillary is seeing first hand the vulgarity and unabashed hatred emanating from the Left. Of course, it's only a fraction of the bile they throw at us Conservatives. But still, it is fun to watch them eat their young for a change.

As far as the Obama-messiah is concerned, I'm thoroughly disgusted that the MSM has been - for the most part - whitewashing (no pun intended) the connection the senator has with his Pastor.

I have two things to say about this:

1. Senator Obama said on national TV that he had never heard Reverend Wright say anything in any of his sermons that could be deemed inflammable. Yet, it was uncovered on YouTube - since been removed by the powers that be there - that not only was Obama in attendance at one of Wright's anti-American/anti-White speech, but seen nodding in approval to the Reverend's words.

Look, my father was a Rabbi and I heard him speak politically numerous times. I have no real beef with a clergyman giving a fire and brimstone speech. But to deny it and be caught lying about it is just wrong. Here is a man who wants us to put our faith in him at a crucial time for our country and unfortunately is either ashamed of his Pastor, or ashamed of our country. Either way, he can't seem to ensure us that he wants to win more than he wants to be the right choice.

2. Could you imagine what the press would have made of Mitt Romney - who also made a campaign based on faith (as did Mike Huckabee) - had his minister said anything remotely as inflammable as Reverend Wright? I don't think there's a person alive who believes the media would downplay it anywhere near as much as they have for Obama.

To that extent, I actually have to agree with former Vice-Presidential candidate Geraldine Ferraro. I do not believe Obama would even sniff the presidency if he were a white man. This is very different from saying a black man can not be president. No, just not THIS black man.

Yet, this is still not the issue that worries me most about Senator Obama. Forget that his religious mentor hates white America. Forget that his foreign policy is somewhere between Jimmy Carter and Hugo Chavez. Forget the fact that the campaign promises he's making will cause taxes to cripple the middle class. Forget all about that.

The one thing you should remember is that Senator Obama is a wolf in sheep's clothing. He speaks of uniting the country and for the "audacity of hope." This is all a lie! His policies, his platforms and ALL of his plans will only united those who wish our country to fail in terms only Jimmy Carter could bring.

Let me tell you what Senator Obama IS for:

1. Opening the borders
2. Cutting and running from Iraq
3. Increased government
4. Higher taxes
5. Giving more money and weapons to the Palestinians
6. No school vouchers
7. Supreme court judges who will not protect the constitution
8. Open talks with terrorists
9. Higher minimum wage levels
10. More government control over our lives

By all means,if you are all for the nanny state, like England is turning into, vote Democrat. G-d knows, everything our government has created (be it welfare,US postal system, the DMV) has worked out sooo well. Let's give them more control and more of our hard earned money.

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Okay, now on to American Idol...

Big change in the list this week as David Cook rocked and David Archuleta choked.He's still the favorite to win it all, but he'll be knocked down a bit after messing up the lyrics to "We Can Work It Out." C'mon David, you didn't know any Beatles songs?

The Best of the Best
1. David Cook (2) -- Right now, riding high with the most talent
2. Carly Smithson(3)-- Best female voice& will be there till the end
3. Jason Castro (5) -- I believe his style will get old before the top 4 show

The Next of the Best
4. David Archuleta (1)-- Still the favorite, but another mess up & he may not last long
5. Brooke White (4)-- talent, beauty and emotion - very winable
6. Michael Johns (7)-- He's good,not great. Shouldn't be fawned over so much

The Next of the Rest
7. Syesha Mercado (8) -- A mistake to forget about her
8. Chikezie Eze (11) -- A good (great week), but will it last?
9. Amanda Overmeyer (10)--Still believe she's a one trick pony

On the Bubble (Soon to be bye-bye-bye)
10. Ramiele Malubay (9) -- pretty,with a good voice. But not enough to win.
11. Kristy Lee Cook (12) -- But for the grace of David Hernandez go her.

Hypocrisy -- thy name is MSM.

Let's see if I have this straight. The Governor of New York gets caught in a prostitution ring and what happens? Well, Tucker Carlson - of MSNBC (yeah, they're still around) - thinks nothing should happen. Alan Dershowitz - brought on as a guest - even has the nerve to blame Americans for the governor's hypocrisy:

I have two reactions. One, I feel terrible for Eliot and his family. But I feel that this is a America-only story that we have to put in perspective. You know, big deal, married man goes to prostitute! In Europe, this wouldn't even make the back pages of the newspaper. It's a uniquely American story. We’re a uniquely, you know, pandering society and hypocritical society, when it comes to sex.

Aside from the fact that Europe is not exactly a hotbed of morality, what about the fact that Gov. Spitzer ran his election campaign on the strength of his law and order pedigree? I mean, this was the guy who just one year ago (May 16, 2007) announced an agreement on legislation that will combat the trafficking of human beings. The legislation makes Sex Trafficking and Labor Trafficking felony-level crimes and provides access to state social services for trafficking victims.

But what incenses me even further is the lengths the msm will go to cover up the political damage of the news. Apparently, CNN, AP, BBC and MSNBC, all failed to mention that Gov. Spitzer is a Democrat.

Why does it matter? I'll yell you why - for fairness reasons. Of course, as I've always said, being a Democrat means never having to say you're wrong. Even the Kos kids have it right:

Kos Kid: Democrats Can't Possibly Be Hypocrites

I really don't give a damn if Spitzer can't keep his zipper shut. On the other hand, I do have a problem with a man telling his constituents, "Do as I say, not as I do." Furthermore, I have a HUGE problem with the unbelievable media bias prevelant in the mainstream media. If you believe that had this been a Republican governor they would not have printed his party affiliation, then you are as deluded as the media is.

Another great example of this hypocrisy was the Chicago Sun-Times deeming the story of the 8 murdered Israeli teenagers only deserved page 27. Can anyone imagine if it had been an Israeli who killed 8 Muslim teenagers in a medrassa, what page the story would have run?

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Since I want to post this before tomorrow's American Idol episode, here is my updated TOP 12. You will note, if you've been following along, that over the past two weeks, I have correctly predicted 6 of the 8 who where voted off. I think it goes without saying that this year's group really consists of 6 who could win and another 6 who can't.

The Best of the Best
1. David Archuleta (1) -- Still the one to beat
2. David Cook (3) -- His rendition of "Hello" was amazing
3. Carly Smithson (4) -- Best female voice of the bunch

The Next of the Best
4. Brooke White (6) -- Very consistent and very good
5. Jason Castro (9) -- Simon is correct when he says he's better every week
6. David Hernandez (8) -- Consistent

The Next of the Rest
7. Michael Johns (5) -- Fading after forgettable performances
8. Syesha Mercado (2) -- Great potential but needs to make a splash
9. Ramiele Malubay (10) -- adorable, but way behind the others

On the Bubble (Soon to be bye-bye-bye)
10. Amanda Overmeyer (17) -- At the mercy of each week's genre
11. Chikezie Eze (14) -- Likable, but just not good enough
12. Kristy Lee Cook (15) -- Nice rendition of "Faithfully," but too little, too late

UPDATE*** If the link doesn't work for the video, click here.

From Little Green Footballs...

Wafa Sultan on Al Jazeera

Sun, Mar 9, 2008 at 2:46:06 pm PST

Here’s Arab-American psychiatrist Wafa Sultan in another amazing appearance on Al Jazeera, facing down a lunatic moderator and a lunatic Islamist with righteous anger. This is what “speaking truth to power” really means. Please note again, the sheer hatred and irrationality that is Al Jazeera’s stock in trade. The “moderator” is just as bad as—or worse than—the Islamist, denying the Holocaust over and over. (Courtesy of MEMRI TV.)

Click picture to play video. Requires Windows Media Player; Mac users should install Flip4Mac.

After watching this, can anyone tell me that there is any hope for peace in the Middle East? It's clear to me that the indoctrination of hate against Israel (and the West) is so ingrained into each and every fiber of their being that they will NEVER allow themselves to make peace with us.

What amazes me the most, though, is how Israeli "leaders" can continue to push for a peaceful solution all the while the indoctrination still takes place in Islamic schools - even the madrassa's is Israel teach this hatred and bias!

I can not implore my readers enough to understand that this is a matter of life and death between those who wish life and those that welcome death. Ms. Sultan even went out of her way and stated that the Palestinians themselves wish death. While I don't necessarily agree that they all wish to be dead, is there any way to avoid it?

The Arabs can claim all they want that the Holocaust is a myth. The fact that it is is enough of a reason to never allow the Jewish people to be annihilated. I have been amazed by the amount of moderate Muslim websites that have actually come to the defense of America and Israel. So far, the whopping total is 2.

To me, it's simple. If an Arab wants to kill himself for Allah, go for it. Just leave the rest of us alone. I love the fact that these animals on Al-Jazeera are criticizing what's happening in Gaza. Don't they know we pulled out of there? Seriously, do they really believe we want to go back into that Hell-hole. STOP SENDING ROCKETS INTO ISRAEL AND WE'LL STOP KILLING YOU!!!!

They complain about the "Occupied West Bank." Hello? Didn't we turn that over to you in Oslo to govern yourselves? STOP SENDING SUICIDE BOMBERS INTO ISRAEL AND WE'LL STOP KILLING YOU!!!!

And I have one more question for Olmert, Livni, Condi, GWB and Abbas. WHY IS IT OKAY FOR ARABS TO LIVE IN ISRAEL AND EVEN BE IN THE ISRAELI GOVERNMENT, BUT NOT OKAY FOR JEWS TO LIVE IN THE WEST BACK AND/OR GAZA???

How come, Senator Clinton, Senator Obama and Senator McCain? Why the f*ck don't you answer THAT question instead of worrying about who stole the JFK mantle first?

I am so sick and tired of this nonsense. Until Israel decides they care about themselves, I'm not going to waste my time writing about it. The same goes for the election. If the American people are so foolish as to turn the keys over to Obama (or even Hillary), I'm just gonna vote and leave it at that. I'm just too f*ing tired to care anymore.

And so it continues...

These were just 8 unarmed teenage boys studying to be closer to G-d. Eight boys whose only crime was being Jewish.

How do you feel about your friends now, Condi?

Do you NOW understand that these monsters are slaughtering someone else's one's children AND using their own children as "human shields"?

Do you still believe, Madame Secretary, that there is a moral equivalence between a nation that drops leaflets warning innocents to shelter to minimize casualties, and a nation that uses their disabled children as suicide bombers?

Do you, Prime Minister Olmert, care so little for your own children that you will continue to deceive your own people and force them to move out of their homes, so these murderers can have yet another acre of land to attack you from?

How about you, Mr. President? Are you still selling us that bag of goods titles "Islam is a religion of peace?"

To hell with all of you.

I voted for George Bush because I believed he was far more cognizant of the threat of Islamic fanaticism that either Senator Kerry or Al Gore. With I still believe that to be true, it's only because of how lost the Democrat Party is.

I have friends, family and kids I have worked with over the years who have, or still do attend yeshiva in Israel. Whether I know any of the victims today is irrelevant. They are all my family and they have been murdered. Not just by the disgusting Arab monster who targeted them, but by their government and ours.

I have no doubt all the world leaders will give their standard "condemnations." But it's worth less than the paper they're written on. I have no doubt that the Arabs who were giving out candy today on the streets of Cairo and East Jerusalem - EAST JERUSALEM!!! - will somehow blame it all on the Jews.

It is time, Prime Minister Olmert, to actually show some backbone and make the true difficult decision. Unlike what we keep hearing about, the "difficult decision" is not about making concessions. It's about blowing the Gaza up and turning it into a parking lot. Only with true conviction and crushing force will Israel become a safe haven for Jews worldwide.

For the longest time, I recommended to every one of my youth group kids (and there were many) to take a year off and learn in Israel. I believe the experience could turn any child into a man (or woman). I've supported the country with every ounce of my ability, through fund raising, awareness raising or through writing. But now, I've finally reached the point where I can not continue to do it. Not as long as the government is in the hands of Olmert, Livni and yes, Condi.

Do you think they're crying tonight? Of course not. Its only Jewish blood that was spilled. Although, I dare say, somewhere in Berkeley, someone is mourning the murderer.

Sorry to disappoint, but I don't have it in me to discuss American Idol tonight.

In Friday’s Chicago Sun-Times, columnist Deborah Douglas wrote an article titled, “Farrakhan's not running for president”. Upon reading it, I was moved to write the following letter to the editors of the newspaper:

Dear Editors,

This letter is in regard to Deborah Douglas’ commentary,“Farrakhan's not running for president” (February 29th). Upon reading it I felt the need to illuminate to Ms. Douglas as to why your rationale is faulty in this case.

First of all, no one is accusing “Black folks” of being stupid and furthermore, just because Harry Farrell is a “white guy” , it doesn’t make him an expert.

So for you and others like you who claim that Senator Obama has been treated unfairly due to his color, let me point out exactly why the “Farrakhan Test” was so important and telling of Obama’s candidacy.

Louis Farrakhan is racist. Plain and simple. He has been quoted many times saying derogatory and disgusting things about Jews and whites. By even addressing him as “Minister Farrakhan”, the Senator immediately lifts him up to an honorable status. Furthermore, there is a very good reason why there are questions regarding his feelings (and his influences of) Farrakhan. The “Reverend” was recently honored by the church that Senator Obama belongs to and has called his place of worship. In addition, Reverend Jeremiah Wright, the Pastor of Obama’s church which honored Farrakhan, has been credited by the Senator as a major influence in his life, as well as in his political ambitions.

You are absolutely wrong on comparing questions about Farrakhan’s influence and a game of “gotcha” politics. No one has questioned Senator Obama’s connection to other demagogues who have been exposed as such. No, your excuse for Senator Obama is that because Tom Bradley and David Dinkins were “caught up in this”, we should excuse Obama.

In this case, however, there is a real question. And it doesn’t matter whether Obama is white or black. I would have the same issue if David Duke were an influence on him or on any other candidate. The truth is, who Obama’s influences and advisors and heroes are is very important. Unfortunately, perhaps due to your own bias for the Senator, YOU chose the race card.

Obama’s answer, or really, lack thereof, was very telling. He could have simply said, “Louis Farrakhan has opinions that I abhor and I reject any and all support from him.” Instead, he tried to nuance his way out of the question. That tells me something about him, and it isn’t very good.

Ms. Douglas, no one is telling you who your leaders should be. However, if you want to be led by one of the worst hate-mongers in America today, don’t expect us to bow down and accept it. I have no doubt that Farrakhan and his people have done great things for the black community. Does that make him any less vile?

In fact, let me ask you a question. If David Duke were to build the black community a new school, would you forgive him?

Today's post is in commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the final episode of M*A*S*H...

And so it begins...



















(credit to Atlas Shrugs)
This picture was taken in Jerusalem, which as of June 5, 1967, was liberated by Israel after 19 years of ILLEGAL Jordanian occupation. Now, although a large number of Jews own property past this sign, the Olmert government has unilaterally decided that this land (like the 22 nations that border it) are now judenrein.

Of course, in light of this travesty, Secretary of State Condeleeza Rice said:

"I am concerned about the humanitarian condition there and innocent people in Gaza who are being hurt. We have to remember that the Hamas activities there are responsible for what has happened in Gaza."


My dear Madame Secretary, how can there be a humanitarian crisis when the "innocent people" aren't human? I guess she considers only the ones who are actually attacking Jewish children to be innocent. It's funny - for a time, I really liked Condi and actually thought she'd make an excellent Vice-Presidential candidate. But unfortunately, as has been the history of the U.S. State Department, she has fallen under the pan-Arabist world views of her predecessors.


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Is there any connection between Barack Obama and Islam?

I have to say that it would surprise me. However, more and more stories are coming out regarding his connections that have me a little more than concerned. I certainly do not expect him to come out as a closet Muslim. But on the other hand, I am becoming increasingly concerned with some of the things he has (and hasn't) said, as well as his friendships with certain extreme influences.

It's a known fact that his Pastor, Dr. Jeremiah A. Wright, is an ardent anti-Semite and it's also known that Obama's church presented Louis Farrakhan - he being the one to call Judaism a "gutter religion" with lifetime acheivement award. Unfortunately, during Tuesday night's debate", Obama failed to convince anyone that he repudiates either of these men, or their policies. The answers he gave Tim Russert were more along the lines of "some of my best friends are Jewish", rather than, "I reject them."

Unfortunately as well, Hillary Clinton seems to be in full surrender mode and failed to take advantage of Obama's skirting.

But I think the thing that gives me the most cause for alarm is the fact that there is a concerted effort by Muslim mosques to galvanize volunteers to spread out to all of the area mosques in Central Ohio in promoting Obama as "their" candidate. Now I realize it is no different that Jews doing the same in the past for their Democrat candidate du jour. But it's also no longer legal for a candidate to raise money through tax-exempt institutions.

But to be honest, in this day and age, where dhimmitude is knocking on the door of freedom everywhere, I have to say I'm unnerved that the Muslim community is supporting a candidate they consider their own. At a time where we are faced with the global threat of Islamic jihad, I can't say I'm very comfortable with having someone as President who could have connections and an emotional attachment to those who wish to enslave or kill me.


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On to the important stuff...

After sitting through another 3 hours of American Idol this week (this is what I do when football seasons ends), I give you my TOP 20 followed by where I posted them last week. Of course this means I'm assuming who the 4 contestants who will be voted of will be:

The Best of the Best
1. David Archuletta (5) -- the best performance of the year
2. Syesha Mercado (3) -- tremendous crossover appeal
3. David Cook (2) -- resident rocker
4. Carly Smithson (8) -- best voice talent


Next of the Best
5. Michael Johns (1) -- tremendous potential but needs to be more consistent
6. Brooke White (7) -- personal fave, but not best singer
7. Asia'h Epperson (4) -- needs more consistency
8. Michael Hernandez (13) -- saved himself with strong performance



Best of the Rest
9. Jason Castro (5) -- really like his style, but needs to expand
10. Ramiele Malubay (9) -- needs more consistency
11. Alaina Whitaker (12) -- slipped down a bit after sub par performance
12. Robbie Carrico (14) -- not resident rocker. too smooth


On the Bubble
13. Alexandrea Lushington (10) -- not making a name for herself
14. Chikezie Eze (15) -- strong performance may give him extra week
15. Kristy Lee Cook (19) -- ditto
16. Danny Noriega (16) -- loses lots of votes to Archuleta


Bye, Bye, Bye
17. Amanda Overmeyer (11) -- WTF was that? Needs new hair stylist
18. Luke Menard (20) -- reminds me of Dan Fogelberg, who never won AI either
19. Kady Malloy (17) -- competition too great for her
20. Jason Yeager (17) -- looks like he should be a used car salesman (or lawyer)

***UPDATE***

Well, I guess I spoke to soon. On tonight's American Idol, only one that I expected to be let go (Jason Yeager) ended up leaving. But I was surprised that Alaina Whitaker and Robbie Carrico left so soon (I thought they would at least make the top 12). I was also surprised that Alexandrea Lushington was let go this early, although I only really gave her an extra week.

It's 10 degrees outside.

It seems a lifetime ago since it was above freezing for any consistent amount of time. Seriously, if global warming is real, it seems to have skipped Chicago all together.

For the last 4 weeks, there has been a continuous amount of ice on the sidewalks, streets and driveways and the weather folks are saying nothings gonna change for a while. This stinks.

To make matters worse, yesterday - while getting one of my boys to school - I slipped on a patch of ice that was conveniently covered by yet another overnight snowfall. While my butt got battered (fortunately, I landed on my wallet, unfortunately my wallet has pretty much been empty for the last decade or so), I was able to get back up and still drive him to school. However, as the day progressed, my lower back and leg started to throb. But duty called and I still went to work.

But of course, if I ended my story here, it wouldn't be as depressing, now would it?

Of course not. I then went to a meeting that took about an hour and when I got home, I parked in my frozen driveway. Now remember class, I'm already walking gingerly from my fall earlier in the day. So, I open my car door and slowly step out and....BAM!!! I slipped again and this time banged the side of my head against the car door and once again, landed on my butt.

I didn't get up so quickly this time. Nope, I took the full 10-second count and took in the view of the stars circling my head. Or were they birds? All I know is that it must have taken me 20 minutes to get up, open my front door and crawl to my bed - which is were I keep my much-appreciated bottle of Vicodin.

So children, what did we learn?

We learned that winter sucks and I'm sick and tired of it.


**************************************
I've been poking a little fun at Barack Obama's campaign lately. So now I think it's time for me to get a little serious. Let's start with why I will not vote for him:

1. His lack of Senate accomplishments (has he even one?)
2. Extreme far-Left platform that really just borders on socialism/communism
3. The religious fervor of his committed supporters
4. His lack of experience in dealing with World affairs
5. The fact that he has grossly neglected his promise to the State of Illinois by spending his entire political career as a candidate for the U.S. Presidency.

Even Hillary Clinton spent a few years representing her state before jumping into the ring. I am deeply concerned about the influences Obama will have should he win it all. The same goes for Mrs. Clinton. Once again, as we saw in 2004, the Democrats seem to be putting their own interests above those of the country.

For example, how does one run on "change?" Change at times can be good, but not always. In listening to both candidates last night, I noticed certain themes that kept recurring. First of all, the economy and how both of these two incredibly wealthy candidates are going to fix what's wrong with it.

This would be not only "bad" change, but in fact could be "disastrous" change. Bill Clinton was famous for his platform of "it's the economy, stupid." But in reality, it isn't. We live in a free-market system that calls for less government involvement, not more. Both Clinton and Obama want to rescind the Bush tax-cuts, both want to put the squeeze on "big oil" and the drug companies, whatever that is, and both want the government to be in charge of health-care through socialized medicine.

These are three very foolish ideas. Firstly, it should be noted that the "middle-class", whom the Democrats seem so concerned about, are enjoying more wealth than at any time in world history. But lets discuss the Bush tax cuts. Rescinding it means that each taxpayer who received tax break will now have to pay the government back. That means each and everyone of us who spent the money buying goods that helped the economy will have less buying power and will in turn, by less goods. Exactly how does that fix the economy? How is this "change" good?

What about the drug companies? Sure these companies make a lot of money on drugs like Lipitor and Viagra. But the markups on these drugs allow the drug companies to be able to absorb the massive costs of drugs that aren't as popular, but in some cases are a matter of like and death. For instance, Maybe only 15,000 people take cyclosporine - the drug I need to keep my heart from rejecting In comparison, Viagra is used by anywhere from 3 million people to a much higher amount, depending on the source. Not only do the manufacturers not make any money on such a small fraction of the population, they often times lose money.

By putting the screws to the drug companies - either through greater taxation, or greater regulation, both Clinton and Obama would destroy any incentive a drug company has to develop less sexy, but no less vital drugs.

The same goes for "big oil" and any other economic "fix" the Democrats want to tinker with.

Then you have the matter of national security. Obama has said many times that he wants to bring the troops back from Iraq right away. Clearly, he doesn't remember what happened the last time the U.S. government cut and ran. For a number of years, the House and Senate majorities (both Democrat) hounded President Nixon to end the U.S. involvement in Vietnam. However, it was only after he became embroiled in Watergate did he become forced to action. What happened then was that American forces gave up and evacuated Saigon, leaving what was then a pro-American democracy in the hands of the communists. What followed was perhaps the largest genocide in world history.

Should America abandon Iraq at this point - especially in light of the remarkably positive news (something you will never read about in the New York Times) regarding the successful surge, we will do to our Iraqi and other coalition partners what we did to the Vietnamese and the Cambodians. This time, they will be at the mercy of the Jihadists, who I'm sure will be no friendlier than the communists.

Is this the kind of change we need?

When it comes down to it, Obama and Clinton are saying the same thing. They are preaching a "change" in the presidency. Obama talks about "taking back the White House."From who? From the majority of Americans who voted for Bush? No, he means taking back the White House for the Democrats. When it comes down to it, that's the "change" they are preaching.

Hasn't it occurred to them that no matter who you vote for, George Bush will not be in the White House after January 2008?

This is not an endorsement of John McCain, or anyone else for that matter. It's simply a warning to those who have been swayed - either by their obsessive desire to throw Bush out of office, or their obsession by all things Obama - by the empty rhetoric of the Democrats. Sometimes, "change" for the sake of change is the worst thing you can do.


**************************************
Now on to a more important topic.

Of course I watched all 5 hours of American Idol broadcasting this week. While I agree that this is certainly a talented group of individuals, I'm not convinced it's the most talented group so far. But for arguments sake, I will give you my top 20, broken up into different groups:

The Best of the Best - (those who should be in the final 5)
Michael Johns
David Cook
Syesha Mercado
Asia'h Epperson

The Best of the Rest - (will make the final 12, but not all the way)
David Archuleta
Jason Castro
Brook White
Carly Smithson
Ramiele Malubay

On the Bubble - (could make the top 12)
Alexandrea Lushington
Amanda Overmeyer
Alaina Whitaker
David Hernandez
Robbie Carrico

Good as Gone - (out this week or next)
Chikezie Eze
Danny Noriega
Jason Yeager
Kady Malloy
Kristy Lee Cook
Luke Menard

Obama supporters in Texas. You just can't make this stuff up...


Courtesy of Neil Boortz

This is for all you "Obama worshipers"...


Look into my eyes, what do you see?
Cult of personality
I know your anger, I know your dreams
I've been everything you want to be
I'm the cult of personality
Like Mussolini and Kennedy
I'm the cult of personality
Cult of personality
Cult of personality

Neon lights, a nobel prize
The mirror speaks, the reflection lies
You dont have to follow me
Only you can set me free
I sell the things you need to be
I'm the smiling face on your T.V.
I'm the cult of personality
I exploit you still you love me

I tell you one and one makes three
I'm the cult of personality
Like Joseph Stalin and Ghandi
I'm the cult of personality
Cult of personality
Cult of personality

Neon lights a nobel prize
A leader speaks, that leader dies
You dont have to follow me
Only you can set you free

You gave me fortune
You gave me fame
You me power in your gods name
I'm every person you need to be
Im the cult of personality
Look into my eyes, what do you see?
Cult of personality
I know your anger, I know your dreams
I've been everything you want to be
I'm the cult of personality
Like mussolini and kennedy
I'm the cult of personality
Cult of personality
Cult of personality

I'm in a creative mood today...

To me, this picture is the essence of New York:



Courtesy of Gerry Beckley!

For the record, I didn't stop writing. I just took a month off.

So, here we are. One month into 2008 and where does that leave us? Well, I'm as confused as the next guy. We are 10 months away from deciding between the lesser of four evils for one. The choices we are presented with for President leave me with a very sick feeling.

On the Democrat's side, the choosing between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama is like choosing to move to Siberia or Mongolia - either way, it's cold, dark and surrounded by communists. For the Republican's, you have John McCain on one hand and Mitt Romney on the other. While Romney says he's more conservative than he has been as a governor, it's hard to see any evidence of fact. McCain is so conservative that he was rumored to be John Kerry's running mate, for goodness sakes!

I suppose m choice will inevitablybe decided when the primaries end. I can not see myself supporting Obama, although I personally like him. But in truth, his platform of "change and healing" only works if you are willing to change your own beliefs for his. It seems brutally clear to me that every time talks about "a change we can believe in" (which is mentioned in bold on his website), he's advocating that everyone should move to the Left, which is where he solidly is.

It takes a certain amount of arrogance to claim to be a unifyer if you are unwilling to compromise, don't you think?

As far as Hillary Clinton is concerned, in reality I dislike her less than I used to. I certainly do not want to see her as commander-in-chief, but I tend to believe she would not be as bad a President than Obama might. Hillary is exactly what we have all come to know her as. She is calculated, deceitful and devisive.

On top of all that, she has Bill. To better illustrate her husband, let me refer to the great Charles Krauthammer:

Clinton is a narcissist but also smart and analytic enough to distinguish adulation from achievement. Among Democrats, he is popular for twice giving them the White House, something no Democrat had done since FDR. And the bouquets he receives abroad are simply signs of the respect routinely given ex-presidents, though Clinton earns an extra dollop of fawning, with the accompanying fringe benefits, because he is (a) charming and (b) not George W. Bush.

But Clinton knows this is all written on sand. It is the stuff of celebrity. What gnaws at him is the verdict of history. What clearly enraged him more than anything this primary season was Barack Obama's statement that "Ronald Reagan changed the trajectory of America in a way that . . . Bill Clinton did not."

Krauthammer suggests that Bill is simply doing everything he can to get his wife elected for his own selfish reasons, and not for what's best for the country. Therefore, he has little to lose and it explains his numerous outbursts and faux pas - including his now-famous race-baiting comments in Suth Carolina, where he compared Obama's victory there to the meaningless victory of Jesse Jackson in 1988.

So where does that leave us Reagan-ites? McCain is riding the momentum, but Romney not down for the count. I suppose Romney may yet prove to be my guy, but whether he or McCain win the nomination, they must remember their conservative base when choosing a number two. Otherwise, many conservatives will end up with the lesser of all evils.

Please add the name Shayna bas Chava Rivka to your tehillim (prayer) lists. She is the mother of a dear friend of mine and recently (today) underwent a triple-bypass. However, there were complications and they had to insert a pump in order to allow her heart to heal. Currently, she is intebated and the doctors have said the next 24 hours are very critical.

Thank you.

Shayne

What is going on with the Israeli left and rape???

First was the article below about the research paper, written by a graduate student named Tal Nitzan, that tried to paint the Israeli military as "racists" because they didn't rape the women of the enemy.

Now comes this stunning story from the Holy Land:

Haaretz Editor Asked US Secretary of State to "Rape" Israel
Unfortunately, the headline is not a joke.

Shameful, stunning, horrible, disgusting...words I can't say in print reflect my feelings about the article, the person it's about and the entire left-wing surrender monkeys who moral equate self-defense and murder. From where I come from, they used to call that sedition. Unfortunately, in the new world order of left-wing extremism, what used to be traitorous is now respected and accepted.

Is it any wonder why the world is so screwed up?

This just makes me sick. And it should make you angry as well. It's about time we stopped sitting on our asses and letting these half-brained morons set policy for us all. I truly believe the extreme liberalism of the 21st century can and will be the undoing - not just of Israel - but of America as well.

And it's already started.

File this one under "Israel's demise from within."

In an article published by Arutz Sheva, the Hebrew University in Jerusalem awarded a prize to a graduate student for an essay in which the she claims that Israel is abusing and oppressing Palestinians.

While that isn't surprising, considering that Hebrew U. is left-wing, liberal and anti-Zionist, what IS shocking is the reason touted by the paper:

The proof is that Israel's military is not raping Arab women.

That's right. This so-called "researcher" deduced that since the IDF has refrained from sexually assaulting the women of the enemy, they must be racists.

The research paper, written by a graduate student named Tal Nitzan, has now been published by the Hebrew University's "Shaine Center," at the enthusiastic recommendation of a Hebrew University professors' committee headed by Dr. Zali Gurevitch.

The author suggests that Arab women are not raped by the military because of a feeling of ethnic superiority. Unlike in many other wars and conflicts where subjugation is - I suppose - the norm, Nitzan can only assume that there isn't any of the normal "spoils" of war because the Arabs are racially inferior, and therefore undesirable.

It pains me to no end that someone who lives in the land of our forefathers, a place of great holiness and a country that - time after time - has done everything it can (often at a major loss of Jewish life) to avoid innocent casualties on both sides of the war, would be so shallow and have such twisted logic.

It apparently never occurred to her that the Israeli military believes in answering to a higher authority than savages. Clearly - and I fault not only her parents, but the entire education system in Israel who no longer teach of common sense, but of moral equivalency between those who worship life and those who worship death - she has not learned of the term "Torah values."

I fear for her children and also all the others whose lives are being led to slaughter by the left-wing, defeatist attitudes of Israeli academia. To even consider this thesis as anything short of an insane rant by a truly deranged mind is problematic of the entire academic field.

Unfortunately, in the world of academia - both in Israel and in America - it's become all to often the norm. The saying goes, "A mind is a terrible thing to waste." Unfortunately, too many minds are being sacrificed at the alter of liberalism.

Sometimes in the night I feel it
Near as my next breath and yet untouchable
Silently the past comes stealing like the taste of some forbidden sweet
Along the walls in shadowed rafters
Moving like a thought through haunted atmospheres
Muted cries and echoed laughter
Banished dreams that never sank in sleep
Lost in love and found in reason
Questions that the mind can find no answers for
Ghostly eyes conspire treason as they gather just outside the door
And every ghost that calls upon us brings another measure in the mystery
Death is there to keep us honest and constantly remind us we are free

Down the ancient corridors, through the gates of time
Run the ghosts of days that we've left behind
Down the ancient corridors, through the gates of time
Run the ghosts of dreams that we left behind

Sometimes in the night I feel it
Near as my next breath and yet untouchable
Silently the past comes stealing like the taste of some forbidden sweet
And every ghost that calls upon us brings another measure in the mystery
Death is there to keep us honest and constantly remind us we are free
Down the ancient corridors and through the gates of time
Run the ghosts of days that we've left behind
Down the ancient corridors and through the gates of time
Run the ghosts of dreams that we left behind

Goodbye dear friend. May the trail rise up to meet you as you journey ever on...

Long road for the Eagles

It is impossible to listen to any music by Don Henley without looking for the political. From his earliest solo work, the masterful I Can’t Stand Still, which featured the blistering Them and Us, through each of his subsequent recordings. Furthermore, it is equally impossible to listen to anything written by Glenn Frey’s solo career without picturing flamingos, art deco clothes and Miami Vice.

In their latest recording, Long Road Out of Eden, Henley and Frey – the two original members of the Eagles – return to their formulaic ways in a not-so-unpleasant manner.

Don Henley, older, wiser, is clearly at a point in life where even he understands that the world exists in spite of his preaching of gloom and doom. While he still manages a swipe or to at the wastefulness and, of course, ignorance of Middle America, he does so in a much more resolved way. His line “light fading and the fog is getting thicker”, from the song Frail Grasp of the Big Picture takes us through his fears of the future, but never so close to the point of no return.

His other expertise is touching on the subject of lost love and loneliness. In the song, Waiting in the Weeds, he croons:

“I've been biding time with the crows and sparrows, while peacocks prance and strut up on the stage. If finding love is just a dance, proximity and chance, you will excuse me if I skip the masquerade.”

This is Henley at his best.

However, Henley still is a master lyricist – whether he’s filled with anger, sorrow, rage or melancholy, he can still make an epic song. On this album, that song is the title track. Instead of taking on “bubble-headed bleach blondes”, Ronald Reagan or whose fault it is that Johnny can’t read, he paints an almost searing portrait of a homesick soldier in Iraq, fighting for his life while his country feasts on barbeques and pecan pie, and its leaders are bloated with entitlement, loaded on propaganda. The song quickly leads into the instrumental track; I Dreamed There Was No War. Written by Frey, who tries to invoke the Vietnam era in it’s mournful sound.

Here also, however, instead of fighting to change America, or the world for that matter, Henley seems to have accepted what is and the fact that after 35 years in the music business, there not a damn thing he can do about it.

******************

As a member of the Eagles, Glenn Frey went from being the voice of the band’s origins (Take it Easy, Peaceful Easy Feeling) to often living in the shadow of Henley’s incredible lyrical prowess. However, Long Road is also an opportunity for Frey to regain some stature in the band. Unfortunately, by relying too much on co-songwriter Jack Tempchin, he only reaches back to the early – to mid 80’s. While that was a time of great chart success, it was a far weaker period for his songwriting. It is curious to me why, after all this time, he would once again team up with Tempchin. While the duo did ride the charts with You Belong to the City, Smuggler’s Blues and The One You Love, the rest of the CD seems to get its energy from the earlier Eagles style of country-fried rock and roll. To me, Frey and Tempchin’s songs just don’t seem to fit.

On the final track, Frey seems to understand his, and the bands relevance.

The time we shared went by so fast, just like a dream, we knew it couldn't last. But I'd do it all again, If I could, somehow. But I must be leavin' soon; it’s your world now.

******************

Of course, with all Eagles recordings, the other members have their moments to shine as well. Joe Walsh has always that more humorous touch and does a great job on his second song, Last Good Time in Town. His first track, Guilty of the Crime, an old Frankie Miller tune, will probably be a favorite live song and mixes well with the country style of the album.

The other member (since the other original member, Don Felder, was fired last year) is Timothy B. Schmitt. Schmitt may be the luckiest man in the music industry. Signed on to replace Randy Meisner after Hotel California, his sole contribution to the band was the top ten hit, I Can’t Tell You Why. Yet, since he was a band member when they took their haitus (as Henley said when they first appeared in the Hell Freezes Over Tour, “for the record, we never broke up. We just took a 14-year vacation), he continued to be a member and a contributor.

On Long Road, Schmitt does some justice on Paul Carrack’s I Don't Want To Hear Anymore, although to me, it sounds too much like a Mike+The Mechanics song (not surprising as he was with that band). However, he more than makes up for it on Do Something, which of instead of mourning the gloom and doom, seeks to lift you up from it all.

******************

The Eagles have come a long, long way from standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona. Even with numerous personnel changes, they have always stayed with the formula that has served them so well over the years. Their harmonies have never sounded better and they still make an enjoyable recording. If you were hoping for the next Hotel California, this is not it. This isn’t another Long Run either. Instead, what you have is a glimpse of the past and a tribute to the present. There is nothing ground-shaking here and like a number of other 70’s bands who have recorded anew, this isn’t the beginning of any new chapter.

What I gained from listening to Long Road Out Of Eden is that sometimes it’s good to visit old friends – even if it’s just to say goodbye.

Best songs: Long Road Out of Eden, Waiting in the Weeds
Worst song: Fast Company

Picture of the Year!

Because nothing says Chanukah like a boneless spiral ham!

Courtesy of Nancy Kay Shapiro

The lexicon of Man's foolishness:

Madrid
Oslo
Taba
Hebron
Wye River
Camp David 2000
Beirut Summit
The Road Map

and now, Annapolis.

9 ideas, 9 meetings.

So far, 8 Israeli capitulations, 0 Arab-kept agreements.

Mah nishtana ha-lyla ha-zeh (why is this night different from any other)?

Annapolis is perhaps the most foolish of them all. For one thing, the only thing left to offer the Arabs is Jerusalem, and aside from the fact that this will in no way appease them, Olmert will lose his government over it.

Secondly, by inviting the Syrian delegation, President Bush is already making a mockery of whatever it is he hopes to accomplish. Truly, he must understand that Syria=Iran, Gaza=Iran and Hezbollah=Iran.

I can not imagine any single person left on this planet who believes that this "peace summit" will end without more Jewish deaths and more pressure put on the only real democracy in the region. I still believe that the Iraq war is not about "oil". But I am certain that this "peace summit" is all about oil.

The President told us that he believes in a two-state solution. Fine.

He told us that it is up to the Arab people to make it a viable possibility. Fine.

They answered him by electing the number one terror organization in the region, Hamas. That, Mr. Bush, was your answer.

Why then, are you so gung-ho to force Israel to do more?

Seriously, do you really mean that you want another intolerant Arab nation to be created? Do you really want another mass-murdering, Sharia-led government? Do you really believe it won't turn into another Iranian province?

For what purpose are you keeping up with this lunacy, if not for oil? If you meant what you said, then YOU, more than any other, should be bringing the hammer down on the Arab people who hate you, wish your destruction and belittle your beliefs.

I read today that a teacher in Sudan was handed down a punishment of 40 lashes because her school children named their teddy bear "Mohammad."

Is that who we want as peace partners, Mr. President?

Happy Thanksgiving!



"As G-d is my witness, I thought turkeys could fly!" Brilliant!

From the incredible Debbie Schlussel:

Condi's Redlining & Restrictive Covenant: U.S. Says "No Jews Allowed to Live Here"

You'd think that Condi Clueless a/k/a Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice would be sensitive to redlining and restrictive covenants. You'd think that someone who is familiar with old school policies in some neighborhoods and businesses of "No Blacks Allowed" would be against "No Jews Allowed."

But you would be wrong.

Today, if there were signs up--or even secret policies--of neighborhoods not allowing Jews or Blacks to live in a certain neighborhood or to build a new home there, the Justice Department would be on their rear ends like Rosie O'Donnell on a slice of pizza.

But, in Israel, well . . . the U.S. has a different policy. And Clueless Condi is the chief architect and enforcer of the Nazi-like Judenrein policy.

No Jews Allowed. No Jews Allowed. Just what part of No Jews Allowed didn't you understand?

That's the policy Clueless Condi is shouting at Israel, these days. You'd think a woman of color would be sensitive to--no, outraged by--bigoted real estate policies.

But you would be wrong.

In fact, she's the chief perpetrator. She's demanding it and pressuring Ehud Olmert to stop allowing Jews to build and own homes in the so-called "West Bank" (but no corresponding requirement of Arabs and Muslims to stop building and buying homes in Israel), in advance of the dumb Bush last attempt at a Nobel Peace Prize a/k/a The Annapolis Conference, next week.

Meanwhile, in exchange for the pleasure of acquiescing to the Condi-demanded bigoted housing policy, Israel gets the privilege of . . . releasing 441 murderous terrorists into the general population?! GUH-Reat deal. It's the kind of deal they gave Jews in the concentration camps, wherein they could turn in their fellow Jew to his/her death in exchange for a piece of bread.

Yup, the next time you hear Condi Rice talk about how she's "risen above racism," don't believe her hype. She's not only not "risen above" it.

She's perpetrating it. That it's in a different parcel of land makes no difference.

I suppose this is supposed to be an improvement from the signs that were once posted, "No Jews or Dogs Allowed."

The dogs have elevated their status. The Jews, not so much.

Star in Your Own JibJab! It's Free!Tip of the cap: Atlas Shrugs

I can’t believe the mid-way point of the NFL season has arrived already. Since I was little, I’ve always enjoyed this time because the days were getting shorter, the weather was getting colder and the football was getting more meaningful. Well, this year is certainly no exception, although to tell the truth, the weather here in Chicago has been pretty mild for this time of year.

Also, unlike most of the previous years over the past decade, my Dallas Cowboys are looking like the team to beat in the NFC, although I do believe that whoever wins the conference will just be road kill for either New England or Indianapolis.

In this light, I present to you my Dallas Cowboys mid-year report card:

Quarterbacks: A

Tony Romo has been nothing short of remarkable. If he has similar numbers in the second half of the season, he will obliterate almost every single-season team passing record. Even in the last second victory in Buffalo, it was Romo’s cool head and strong arm that brought them back from the brink of disaster. Backup Brad Johnson knows his place and has been a very positive support for the young QB.

Running Backs: B+

Although Julius Jones remains the starter, the bulk of the touches by the RB’s has gone to Marion Barber III. Barber has been the catalyst for waking up the team early in games where they have generally started off slow. With an incredible nose for the end zone, he has become one of the most feared short-yardage runners in the league. Jones works well in the tandem and together, they have rushed for over 900 yards.

Wide Receivers/Tight Ends: B+

While the injury to Terry Glenn hurts, the performances of Terrell Owens and Jason Witten have more than made up for. T.O. seems to have overcome the injury to his hand that caused his increased number of drops from the year before, and Witten has solidified his role and Romo’s go to guy. Number 2 receiver Patrick Crayton is better suited at the number 3 role, but has come through in a number of clutch situations. Sam Hurd and Miles Austin have seen limited action. Backup tight end Anthony Fasano has made a few plays and the number 3 tight end, Tony Curtis has caught 2 passes, both for touchdowns.

Offensive Line: A-

Perhaps the most improved area over last year, the o-line has been consistent and at times, overwhelming. By adding Leonard “Bigg” Davis, they increased their size and quickness and have become one of the leagues best lines. The biggest knock on the them is the frequency of holding and false-start penalties called against them. At least once, maybe twice a game, Either Flozell Adams, Kyle Kosier of Andre Gurode are called for an infraction that kills a drive.

Defensive Line: C

Before the injury to Jason Ferguson, the front three were still not among the elite. Even though Jay Ratliff has played well in his place, the expected emergence of Chris Canty and Marcus Spears has still not developed. However, in the last two games, they have made some important plays. Adding Tank Johnson to this mix will help a great deal. Jason Hatcher has proven he can be an important cog as well.

Linebackers: B+

Not even the great Adrian Peterson was able to gain a hundred yards on this crew. Demarcus Ware is a beast that requires constant double-teaming, allowing a good pass rush from Greg Ellis, and at times, rookie Anthony Spencer. Bradie James is the heart of the defense and is a playmaker at times. However, he can get overmatched in the passing game. Akin Ayodele is an above-average linebacker. The verdict is still out on 2nd-year linebacker Bobby Carpenter. Kevin Burnett is a big hitter who has made some plays in reserve.

Defensive Backs: B-

When all four starters are healthy and in the lineup together, this unit can be a formidable one. However, Terrence Newman and Anthony Henry have both missed significant playing time, which has led to big plays being made against them. Jacques Reeves has played better than expected, but he isn’t a shut-down corner. The addition of Ken Hamlin has allowed Roy Williams to move back to his natural free-safety position and cause more havoc in the running game. However, he sometimes goes for the big hit only to miss the tackle.

Special Teams: B

If not for allowing 2 kickoff returns for touchdowns against St. Louis and Buffalo, this unit would grade out as an “A”. Nick Folk has been a solid, clutch kicker, although it would be nice if he got a little more yardage on his kickoffs. Mat McBriar continues to be among the top 2-3 punters in the league and has tremendous hang-time on his punts. The Cowboys have been giving rookie wide receiver Isaiah Stanback the opportunity to bring some life to the return game, replacing the consistent, but unremarkable Tyson Thompson. Patrick Crayton, and sometimes Terrence Newman, handle the punt returns.

Coaching: A

What criticism can you give when your team is 7-1 at the med-season point. Granted, Wade Phillips inherited most of the roster from Bill Parcells, but the team looks looser and more focused than in pervious seasons. Defensively, signs are already pointing to improvement and offensively, there may not be a more remarkable coach than Jason Garrett.

Overall: A

The Cowboys caught some breaks this season due to some starting QB’s missing games against them. However, these were still games that in previous years would not have been victories. The offense is on pace to break the single-season record for points and have the ability to score at will against anybody. While clearly out-matched against New England, they have been dominant otherwise. I predict that this team will do no worse than 12-4 and will appear in Super Bowl XLII. As far as winning it? Well, what is it they say about “any given Sunday”? However, I still stand by my pre-season prediction of New England winning it all.

I saw this recently at the List Universe, and I got a big kick out of it. For some reason, I always felt a kinship with this guy (maybe it's the fur!).

I've had little time (and less energy) to effectively blog recently. I am still feeling constantly run-down, but I continue to get up each day, go to work and spend time with my kids as much as before. I just get a little more tired than I used to. I see my nephrologist again on Monday, and assuming that my numbers are the same, will continue to see her monthly. Hopefully, as they get a better handle on my kidneys and my arthritis (ankylosis spondylitis/rheumatoid arthritis ), I'll feel better and be more energetic.

In this light, instead of just boring you with my health issues, which are a never-ending story on it's own, I'm posting a fabulous article written by John Zmirack, editor of All American Colleges and Choosing the Right College, that I found quite interesting.

Enjoy!

Even the Left Admits that Classroom Politics are a Problem

The New York Times recently ran an Op-Ed warning that the pervasive and invasive leftist politics of many professors, and the heavy-handed policies of politically correct administrators, pose a threat to the quality, integrity, and academic independence of colleges across the country. The interesting thing about this piece is that it was by one of the most important theorists of the academic Left, Stanley Fish—formerly of Duke University, a school where he himself was a leader in implementing such policies, once upon a time. While Fish has not renounced his own premises, he has lately emerged as a voice of moderate concern about the extent to which pre-fab political answers have replaced academic questioning as the mode of discourse on campus, especially in the humanities. It’s not for us to question his motives—to wonder, for instance, whether he fears that the backlash against leftist academia will take the form of funding cuts by legislators or boycotts by alumni donors. Or perhaps he simply worries that his disciples have gone too far, and turned his skeptical inquiries into a whole new set of dogmas. Whatever the reasons, Fish recognizes that there is indeed a problem. That’s why he devotes precious column inches in one of the most prominent media spots on earth, the Times editorial page, to discussing a documentary made by a 20-something film-maker, Evan Coyne Maloney, entitled Indoctrinate U.

In that film, Maloney makes like a slimmed-down, sober and sane Michael Moore, prowling the hallways of humanities departments at major universities, investigating charges by centrist and conservative students of classroom politics and blatant bias. As Fish sums up the film, it portrays mainstream universities in America as “places of indoctrination where a left-leaning faculty teaches every subject, including chemistry and horticulture, through the prism of race, class and gender; where minorities and women are taught that they are victims of oppression; where admissions policies are racially gerrymandered; where identity-based programs reproduce the patterns of segregation that the left supposedly abhors; where students and faculty who speak against the prevailing orthodoxy are ostracized, disciplined and subjected to sensitivity training; where conservative speakers like Ward Connerly are shouted down; where radical speakers like Ward Churchill are welcomed; where speech codes mandate speech that offends no one; where the faculty preaches diversity but is itself starkly homogeneous with respect to political affiliation; where professors regularly use the classroom as a platform for their political views; where students parrot back the views they know their instructors to hold; where course reading lists are heavy on radical texts and light on texts celebrating the Western tradition; where the American flag is held in suspicion; where military recruiting personnel are either treated rudely or barred from campus; where the default assumption is that anything the United States and Israel do is evil.”

In Choosing the Right College, our team of campus journalists reports on over 130 major colleges across the country, citing the departments and programs which offer academic excellence and solid core curricula—and regretfully detailing those that don’t.

Now, Fish pooh-poohs or minimizes many items on this damning bill of particulars—but shows obvious alarm that Maloney was able to turn up so many abuses as to provide a richly alarming film that conservatives will be showing on campus for the next decade or so. Fish admits that he knows of “professors who use the classroom as a stage for their political views. Maloney speculates that perhaps one out of seven perform in this way. I would put the number much lower, perhaps one out of twenty-five. But one out of 10,000 would be one too many.

“Academics often bridle at the picture of their activities presented by Maloney and other conservative critics, and accuse them of grossly caricaturing and exaggerating what goes on in the classroom. Maybe so, but so long as there are those who confuse advocacy with teaching, and so long as faculty colleagues and university administrators look the other way, the academy invites the criticism it receives in this documentary. In 1915, the American Association of University Professors warned that if we didn’t clean up our own shop, external constituencies, with motives more political than educational, would step in and do it for us. Now they’re doing it in the movies and it’s our own fault.”

We couldn’t have said it better ourselves.