27 November 2008

Happy Thanksgiving from cidsports


Happy Thanksgiving to all viewing my blog on the Internet...
May you have a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving 2008!
Thanksgiving Day — Date: November 27, 2008 in USA; October 13, 2008 in CanadaAccording to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thanksgiving
News results for Thanksgiving 2008

Thanksgiving 2008: Lazy guide to TV marathons - 9 hours ago
For the true TV-lover, Thanksgiving is the greatest day of the year. If you aren’t cooking -- and you aren’t part of one of those wacky families that ...Los Angeles Times - 2 related articles »
National Thanksgiving Turkey 'Going to Disneyland!' to Celebrate ... - MarketWatch - 425 related articles »
Thanksgiving events: Nov. 27, 2008 - San Jose Mercury News - 2 related articles »
Blog posts about Thanksgiving 2008
Thanksgiving poll 2008 - Spo-Reflections - Nov 24, 2008
Thanksgiving 2008 - DIY Bride - 10 hours ago
Iconfactory Thanksgiving 2008 - 10 individual icons. (Free) - MacUpdate - Mac OS X - 15 hours ago

peace

26 November 2008

Visiting my wife's family for Thanksgiving

We often visit my wife's family for Thanksgiving... a good week to come, since the schools are out this week.

From my family to yours... Happy Thanksgiving 2008.

http://twitter.com/cidsports

peace

Education Reform in Minnesota and Iowa

The Wednesday, November 26, 2008 edition of the Minneapolis Star Tribune features an article titled "Minnesota's charter schools fall short of expectations". For more on education reform read Institute Brief: Charter schools in Iowa.

http://twitter.com/cidsports

peace

22 November 2008

Govenor Louisiana speaks and tours Cedar Rapids today

KCCI -Channel 8 in Des Moines (AP story) reports on Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindel's visit to Cedar Rapids today.

www.twitter.com/cidsports

peace

While surfing Twitter this morning...

From State Representative Tyler Olson, if you are interested in the Barack Obama transition?

http://twitter.com/cidsports

peace

Tension between Congress and China reported by ABC News

ABC News reporting a story November 22, 2008 titled China angrily dismisses US congressional report. The "US congressional report (has) accused Beijing of developing sophisticated cyber warfare and militarising its space program."

http://twitter.com/cidsports

peace

Who do people put as write-in votes during the election?

Linn County Auditor Joel D. Miller talks about one of his favorite aspects of writing his blog on his November 20, 2008 post.

http://twitter.com/cidsports

peace

Mr. Obama to choose Hillary Clinton for Secretary of State

This is a very interesting development. It is not new, because we have been hearing reports lately. The ChicagoTribune.com on Friday, November 21, 2008 is reporting Report: Clinton to accept Obama cabinet post.

http://twitter.com/chicagotribune

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Hopefully, we haven't seen the last of Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks

IowaPolitics.com (blog) reports Tuesday, November 18, 2008 that Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks is open to another run for public office.
"The fact that my job ends as of Dec 31st - I had to resign from my practice
- I kept that a secret. I have some latitude now in what I do in the future
and
I would definitely not rule out running again. I was working full time
and
campaigning."
- Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks

Miller-Meeks, an Ottumwa Republican and a retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve who was candidate in Iowa's 2nd congressional district in November 2008.

peace

Will Congress listen and avoid a Detroit Bailout?

On November 18, 2008, Mitt Romney, former Massachusetts Governor and Republican candidate for the 2008 nomination for President, wrote a Op-Ed contribution piece titled Let Detroit Go Bankrupt in the New York Times.

Another story of note: Romney's Alternative Auto Rescue Plan - FOXNews

peace

21 November 2008

What role should the Government play in the Economy?

The Friday, November 21, 2008 edition of the Minneapolis Star Tribune features an article titled Auto bailout collapses as Democrats tie further aid to Big 3 viability plan. For more on the role of government in the economy and society read the two part series from Facts & Opinions: The legitimate role of government in a free society (part I, pp. 1, 3-4) and Part II (pp. 6-8).

peace

State of Iowa Officials "seek voluntary spending reductions"

A story in the November 21, 2008 printed issue of The Gazette titled "Iowa officials asked to trim $40 million from budgets" points to the impact the Economic Crisis will have on entitlements and our own State budget.

peace

20 November 2008

KGAN CBS 2 Top Story: "Ripped Up, Ripped Off" aired tonight

As mentioned earlier today... we were advised to tune in to the 10 pm News on KGAN CBS 2 tonight. The station aired the story "Ripped Up, Ripped Off" discussing the destruction of water stop valves as flood debris has been removed from flood impact properties along the streets in Cedar Rapids.

The Flood of 2008 has created a lot of hardship for residents and businesses directly impacted by this natural disaster. We have all been impacted in one way or another.

During the story, various reports from the City were from 40 to 100 stop valves. However, according the KGAN story, a contractor for the City of Cedar Rapids was estimating it could be as high as 300 stop valves, roughly 20% of the total in the City.

The press release from the City of Cedar Rapids on Wednesday, November 19, 2008 reported the following:

"During these operations, crews used debris collection trucks with large
claws to scoop and skid loaders to scrape the debris from the City's
right-of-way areas. In some cases, this equipment caught the water pipe head at
ground level and broke the stop valves. City crews and contractors are repairing
those broken valves as they are reported. The average cost of repairing each
stop valve is $1000. So far, 60 stop valves have been found damaged. The City
will submit these repairs costs to FEMA for reimbursement.
" - City of
Cedar Rapids
The impact of the flood is still occurring as we work to recovery in various areas of the Cedar and Iowa River Valleys. The Gazette and the following from KGAN:

BREAKING NEWS:
"There has been a major malfunction of the sewage treatment system. The city
is urging all customers in Palo to limit toilet flushing, laundry, and
dishwashing immediately. The city says this may last for 2 to 3 days
." -
KGAN web site
As a community, we need to be assured that our public institutions demonstrate stewardship in the business of providing public services. The City's mission statement is linked here. The word "City Government Mission, Vision, and Values" is listed, but I don't clearly see a define set of values listed.

What is the culture within City Government today? Today's stop valve story should raise some questions into our culture within our local government?

peace

We are now stuck in this Mess... Let's Clean it up America


Wall Street, the Ivy League and Washington DC have all helped in delivering this mess on the doorsteps all across Main Street in America. It's time to clean up the greed America. Listening...

We are entering a tough time America. Let's come together: Blue, Green, Red or other wise non-partisan and clean up this mess locally, within our States and in Washington!

peace



Welcome Back: National Write Your Congressman


In the past, I have been a member of the National Write Your Congressman. In honor of the Election of 2008, I have rejoined this organization. My biggest issue: Limited Government.

The full story, as the picture above mentions, is as follows:


"This October marks 50 years of service for National Write Your Congressman
(NWYC).
For half a century, freedom-loving Americans have turned to NWYC to help
them express their views on vital issues that our lawmakers face every day in
Congress."

"As we continue to fulfill our mission “to encourage responsible
Americans to use their influence in government to preserve the freedoms set
forth by our Founding Fathers,” NWYC would like to thank you for joining us as
we work toward a better government."

"It is your opinions that matter to lawmakers; your vote that makes a
difference; and your voice that is heard above the roar of lobbyists and special
interest groups in Washington. We hope that NWYC can continue to help you
express your opinions to your members of Congress for many years to come."
- National Write Your Congressman


Whether you are Blue, Green, Red or trying to determine your political view points, it is important you stay informed, communicate with your representatives and hold your representatives accountable for their votes. Be American: Participate and Vote!

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What is the future of entitlements?

The Thursday, November 20, 2008 edition of The Wall Street Journal as article titled "States cut services for elderly, disabled." The subtext of the article is "As Budget Shortfalls Force Reductions in Home Care, Low-Income People May Face Nursing Homes, Advocates Say."

For more on the looming entitlement crisis read Institute Brief: Ryan's Roadmap.

Want to connect better and learn more about the issues impacting America? Visit... www.nwyc.com.

peace

Is the City of Cedar Rapids performing the proper oversite?

Is the City of Cedar Rapids providing proper over site on the demolition clean up of buildings and materials being removed due to the Flood of 2008?

The City of Cedar Rapids released a press release on Wednesday, November 18, 2008 titled "City Makes Repairs After Flood Debris Removal" discussing that "60 stop valves have been found damaged." But, is the proper prevention being taken to reduce further infrastructure damage?

When you dig on your property, what are you supposed to do? By State Law, you have the make a call... "Make One Call Before you Dig."

Do you know what’s buried in your yard? PDF link from Alliant Energy
Iowa One Call - Link to North West REC


We have been told that KGAN -Channel 2 News at 10 pm tonight will have a story on this issue about community concerns over lack of over site and public expense.

We encourage you to tune in tonight. By the way, the number in Iowa is very simply... Keep the 811 number handy and call it before all excavating projects. For more information on Iowa One Call, go to http://www.iowaonecall.com/.

peace

19 November 2008

It's been over five months since the Flood of 2008


The Gazette reports today in a story titled Flooded cities seek exemption to housing rules the challenges of homeowners seeking to obtain Community Development Block Grant money for housing assistance.

Peter Greenberg’s new book, “Don’t Go There! The Travel Detective’s Essential Guide to the Must-Miss Places of the World” is critical of the City of Five Season. The Gazette reports today in a story titled Cedar Rapids official responds to travel writer’s criticism the comments of Tim Boyle, president/CEO of the Cedar Rapids Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, a fellow Rotarian here in Cedar Rapids. The Gazette had a second piece titled Travel writer says avoid Cedar Rapids. What do you say?

Members of the Rebuild Iowa Advisory Commission issues a 55-page report for Governor Chet Culver this week. The Gazette reported in a story titled Disaster fund, local fundraising power part of state recovery plan.

We have a long road to recovery both locally and throughout the Cedar and Iowa river valleys. If you want to help the Greater Cedar Rapids area, a Flood 2008 Fund has been created by the Greater Cedar Rapids Foundation.

peace


The Democrats in contol: Who will the GOP turn to for the future for Leadership?


The Wednesday, November 19, 2008 edition of The Washington Times. The Times features an article titled Steele chastises 'country club' GOP. Republican National Committee Chairman candidate Michael S. Steele is former Lt. Governor for the State of Maryland. For more on political philosophy read Facts & Opinions: Remembering that we are a constitutional people. (pp 1-2 and 8).

“I think Michael Steele is a great, great talent. He certainly would offer the
kind of vivid, strong voice that we could use, and I think that the party would
do very well if he ends up being chairman.” - Newt Gingrich

“Steele is one of several people who are running of whom Newt is supportive,” Gingrich spokesman Joe DeSantis told Politico, adding that Gingrich had also said “good, positive things” about two of Steele’s rivals, South Carolina Republican Party Chair Katon Dawson and Michigan Republican Party Chair Saul Anuzis.

The Republican Party has a lot of work ahead. New leadership is the next step for the political party that is losing the White House, after losing Congress two years ago. Leading the Democratic Party is former Vermont Governor and early front runner in the 2004 Democrat Presidential nomination.

peace

18 November 2008

Today at Work... I visited with a gentlemen from Texas

I received a call today from a salesman. We had a nice visit and in the course of our conversation we discussed government. Basically, we came to the basic agreement that most people agree 60-70% on most things. But, politics today seems stuck on the focusing on the fringe or the extreme polarization that is fueled by special interest, money, greed and/or power.

Small business is made up of both Republicans, Democrats or those calling themselves something else. I would contend that most people are better off with a limited government. We need regulation and over site. However, it needs to be limited to the extent that private sector works better than government on most things.

But, our tax policy is day by day destroying the middle class and small business. Our society is fueled by consultants, tax accountants and lawyers, rather than a quality product or service today. The incentive today is to reduce your tax liability rather than focusing on that quality product or service.

We need to knock down partisanship and work together again. We have completed the elections of November 2008. Now, we need to come together and work on the public policy that fueled the rebirth of voter participation. There is a role for government at the Federal, State and Local level, but we need to get back to the roots of limited government.

The private sector needs to get back to providing a quality product and service. However, government is focused on Big this and Big that, while making our tax policy bigger and more burdensome. We sure have come a long way, since 1913.

Our tax policy is the problem. Government has grown too large at the Local, State and Federal levels. Look at the national debt today in Washington DC. Our financial crisis today is certainly rooted in our tax policy. As an employer, I actually pay the government before I pay my employee through income tax withholding and other tax deductions.

The Tuesday, November 18, 2008 edition of The Wall Street Journal features an article titled A new assertiveness on economy. For more on economic policy read Limits: A prescription for economic health.

peace

17 November 2008

Should we get serious about Limited Government?

The Monday, November 17, 2008 edition of The Washington Times. The Times features an article titled Obama nixes new New Deal. For more on the need to return to traditional constitutional government read the Iowa Economic Scorecard: Is limited government a serious idea?

peace

Could Iowa's Right to Work Laws be at jeopardy?

This issue is coming up again in the State of Iowa…

From this weekends’ Sioux City Journal - Democratic state lawmakers will likely mount another effort to revise the state’s labor laws during the upcoming session beginning in January, said Iowa Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal on Friday.
“I think it’s highly likely there will be something on that subject,” -
Majority Leader Mike Gronstal

Gronstal couldn’t say whether lawmakers would focus again on collective bargaining or on a proposal to require non-union members to pay for services they receive from unions, known as “fair share.”

Stay tuned.

peace

14 November 2008

"Congress has an eye on the tax break for your retirement" per WSJ

The Friday, November 14, 2008 edition of The Wall Street Journal features an article titled "Targeting Your 401(k)." You may find the following information about retirement issues titled "Fiscal Storm on the Horizon: The Looming Entitlement Crisis" of interest as well.

Of local interest, unrelated the Final Storm, Cedar Rapids Washington (11-1) travels to Cedar Falls (11-1) tonight in the Class4A Semi-Final Playoff football game at the UNI-Dome.

peace

11 November 2008

Do the people deserve a say or is it all in the hands of the Legislature and/or Courts?


The State of Iowa doesn't have the proposition system, but even if they had, it appears in California, some want to trump the "say" of the people...

The Tuesday, November 11, 2008 edition of The Washington Post features an article titled "Legality of Same-Sex Marriage Ban Challenged." Another report titled "Marriage is Worth Constitutional Protection" may interest you as well.

Are some in California more interested in the ends justifying the means?

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R), who opposed Proposition 8 and called it "a total waste of time," encouraged the fight to continue. "They should never give up," he said in an interview on CNN. "They should be on it and on it until they get it done."

What direction will public policy head with issues ballooning like this? What is the future role for the Court System? Do we want a pure democracy California?

peace

November 11, 2008 - Happy Veterans Day



May you have a safe and enjoyable Veterans Day 2008. May we take this moment to honor our veterans and wish peace to all as we move forward in our daily walk.

peace

10 November 2008

The Transition hits high gear this week...

Monday, November 10, 2008 edition of The Washington Times features an article titled "Obama weighs Cabinet, early action." For more information about off shore drilling read a report titled "The Drill Nothing Congress and Bubbling Crude."

Obama makes historic White House visit per Canada.com.

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The Economist: China seeks stimulation too

China seeks stimulation A stimulus plan to inject $586 billion into China's economy. But the devil lies in the detail Full article
Into the wilderness Republicans try to rediscover themselves, and puzzle over Sarah Palin's fate Full article

The week ahead A global summit to discuss the economic and financial crisis, and other news Full article

A painful job to do As unemployment surges Barack Obama will have to take some awkward economic decisions Full article

Germany's feeble stimulus package A stimulus package in Germany amounts to mild fiscal loosening Full article

Who will the government look to bail out next? Colin Cowherd today was suggesting the media, since they employ people too. Newspapers are seeing rough times these days.

peace

07 November 2008

Global Push to Beat Economoc Downturn

It was a bad October economically for a lot of people around the globe. The Friday, November 7, 2008 edition of The Wall Street Journal featured an article titled "Global Push to Beat Economic Downturn." For more information on economic issues read Amy Franz' Policy Study report titled "No Income Tax: The Key to Economic Growth."

peace

05 November 2008

The Day after the Election of 2008...


What lies in the future?

Today's link comes from the Wednesday, November 5, 2008 edition of The Wall Street Journal. It features an article titled, "Polls Show CA Prop 8 Ahead." Here's an interesting read on ballot initiatives from the 2007 article in Limits titled, "Unprecedented Danger in One of the Proposed California Ballot Initiatives."

States Rights vs. Central Government?

"The Founding Fathers were highly suspicious of unregulated majorities. Hence,
they deliberately created the Electoral College to constrain the will of the
majority and to ensure that the votes of those in less populous States were
heeded
." - Paul M. Weyrich
McCain's Concession - Stephen Hayes, Weekly Standard


Ten Reasons Why Obama Won - Carl Cannon, Reader's Digest

Tide Turned as Economic Crisis Peaked - Monica Langley, Wall St. Journal

Barack Obama will soon take the role as our 44th President of the United States of America. There is a lot of work to be done at all levels of government. Public policy discussions will be imperative and what discussion with come of the thought of reducing or limiting the role of government?

peace

04 November 2008

The future 44th President of the United States of America...


It is time to support our soon to be 44th President of the United States of America and come together as a nation.

May Barack Obama be successful in bringing our nation together and represent the will of the people of our great country.

peace

Barack Obama and the Democrats defeat George W Bush


Barack Obama ran a race against George W Bush and the past eight years. The Democrats jumped on the band wagon for Federal and even State races as a vote for or against George W Bush.

For the highest office, Barack Obama ran against George W Bush and it stuck with the majority of voters.

John McCain brought experience and was a veteran, but traditionally, the United States voters have never gone with experience to the degree that Sen. McCain brought to the table.

What will we get with a Barack Obama presidency? On Jan. 20, 2009, we soon will find out.

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Iowa Polls are Open until 9 PM; Some States are closing at 6 PM Iowa Time


Where do I go to Vote in the State of Iowa on Election Day: November 4, 2008? We encourage you to Vote in the General Election.

Polls in the State of Iowa are open until 9 pm.

Six States are closing at 6 pm or 6:30 pm Iowa time. A big stake for the presidential candidates on the line as the polls close there.

I had the opportunity to vote earlier today... lucky #608 at my polling place.

Some articles I plan to read...

Four Election Day Scenarios - Carl Cannon, Reader's Digest

McCain the Choice for Freedom, Prosperity - Deroy Murdock, Union Leader

A Dark Secret: I Still Like President Bush - Andrew Breitbart, Wash Times

We hope you got your vote in... if in Iowa, you still have time!

peace

Election Day - November 4, 2008: Don't forget to Vote


Since we are based in Iowa, here is a link to your poll location in the State of Iowa. We encourage you to brush up on the candidates and Vote!
peace

03 November 2008

What will Politics look like in the future?


Who will elect our world leaders in the future?

Global Electoral College...Obama sweeps the board

From Economist.com

Is this the new world order that George W. Bush's father suggested?

What will the role of the United Nations be in the World, post Bush?

What if the whole world could vote, if The Economist ran the election on November 4, 2008.

If you want to really vote in Iowa on Election Day - November 4, 2008.

peace

Last Day of Campaigning for the Presidential Election



From RealClearPolitics: Candidates Put 11th-Hour Focus on Pennsylvania - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Clearly, John McCain needs to do well in Pennsylvania and Ohio tomorrow to be competitive in the race for president. Pennsylvania is typically a blue state. Could it be the state to turn the tide for the underdog on November 4, 2008?

Don't forget to vote on Election Day - November 4, 2008. Actually, ABC reported this morning that both candidates plan to continue to take their campaigns to the people even through Election Day.

peace

E-mail alert: UPDATE ON MAN IN TRENCH COAT

TO: Washington Parents
FROM: Dr. Plagman, Washington High School Principal
RE: Update on Man in Trench Coat

We wanted to update you on a safety issue at Washington High School. Late last spring, a male in his mid-twenties began appearing in Washington school neighborhood and on campus. He has recently been seen wearing a black trench coat and with white paint on his face. Since the first sightings, we have maintained regular communication with the Cedar Rapids Police Department.
We advised the man that he would be charged with criminal trespass if he was found on school property, and students were asked to contact a staff member immediately if they saw him on campus. On Wednesday, October 28, this individual was found on the sidewalk at the south end of the high school campus. The police were summoned and he was subsequently arrested and charged with criminal trespass, interference with official acts, and simple assault (for threatening a Washington security officer). Several students witnessed the arrest.

As a precaution, we have extended security duty hours so that all three security officers will be on campus the entire day. They will be posted in locations where they will be able to see possible intruders on our campus. This will remain in effect until further notice.

It is important to note that the subject described has not harmed or threatened any student. However, safety is always our main priority. Please call or e-mail me if you have any questions or comments.

******************
News at one of our public high schools in the Cedar Rapids, Iowa community. On a good note, Cedar Rapids Washington (9-1) travels to Dubuque to face Hempstead (6-4) in the first round of the Class 4A Iowa State High School Football Playoffs.

peace

02 November 2008

The Gazette endorses John McCain for November 4th


Why did The Gazette endorse John McCain for President?
‘It’s the economy, stupid” taking from the political phase from 1992 campaign of President Bill Clinton.
"The United States and the world are on the brink of a major economic
recession. Our nation also is troubled by unending war against terrorism,
immigration laws in desperate need of reform and spiraling health care
costs."
- The Gazette

However, at the top of "the mountain" is the Economy.

"Comparing the two major presidential candidates, Sen. John McCain’s
approach is best aligned to spur economic recovery. This is the overriding
reason The Gazette Editorial Board endorses the Republican Arizona senator over
Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill."
- The Gazette


Neither candidate is an expert on economics. However, The Gazette says the following on McCain...

"McCain, like Obama, is no expert in economics. But his proposals to retain
most of the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts make sense for businesses that are struggling
to survive and Americans who need jobs. McCain also wants to cut the corporate
tax rate to help U.S. businesses compete in the increasingly global marketplace.
His estate tax revisions would help family businesses avoid being swallowed by
corporate giants."

"Growing business here means more jobs for more Americans. That is the
single-best way to get our economy back on track."


John McCain was right on S. 190 [109th]: Federal Housing Enterprise Regulatory Reform Act of 2005 (GovTrack.us). As the following tracking blog mentions of McCain's call for more oversight of Freddie and Fannie. It is important to have checks and balances in our governement.But, the Democrats controlled by Congress were against more oversight.

"Certainly, business leaders who take irresponsible or illegal
actions
should be held accountable through fair, effective government
oversight
instead of expecting taxpayer-backed bailouts." - The
Gazette

The support for John McCain on the Economy is due to Tax Policy of the
two candidates. The Gazette wrote...

That said, higher taxes won’t fix our shameful national debt of $10
trillion. The marketplace must not be shackled. It must prosper responsibly,
which in the long run will increase tax revenue faster than slapping a higher
tax rate on all but the very smallest businesses, as Obama has proposed.
“Spread opportunity,” McCain has said. He’s right.


Support for John McCain by The Gazette goes beyond his economic policies...

"His 20 years of military service, including heroism as a prisoner of war and
a quarter-century serving in Congress provide perspective that Obama cannot
match."

The Gazette went on to discuss the following strengths for John McCain.

  • Understanding of international issues and how to learn from mistakes and balance our interests with the world’s.
  • McCain’s record demonstrates he will cross his own party, even the president...
  • His energy plan is pragmatic and forward-looking...

The Gazette did reflect on "compelling reasons to consider Obama for president."

"His intellect, oratory and ability to inspire people from various walks of
life are extraordinary. He has re-engaged much of the younger generation into
politics. His message of healing our nation’s divisions resonates. He has our
respect."

Like with any endorsement, The Gazette does have a reservation on McCain. For John McCain, it is his selection of Sarah Palin. The Gazette talked about reservations of Barack Obama and Joe Biden, as well.

"But Obama has offered no clear plan to deal with our country’s staggering
debt. His tax plan could stifle the economic rebound we desperately need. His
lack of experience with international issues is troubling. And running mate Sen.
Joe Biden’s frequent gaffes don’t inspire confidence."
The Gazette

On Saturday Night Live last night, John McCain suggested that Barack Obama certainly has a future ahead of him. Mr. Obama is 47 years old. Hopefully, the public will take a pause before Election Day, and really question the timing of a selection of Mr. Obama at this time. As the Gazette closed it's endorsement of John McCain...

"Critics of McCain say he’s “lost his way,” and he’s not the candidate he
was in 2000."

"We believe the real McCain is alive and well. The McCain who is a proven
defender of his country. The McCain who knows how to reach across the political
aisle and international borders to find common ground. The McCain whose
rock-solid commitment to this country can reinvigorate our economy, maintain our
security and revive the world’s respect for America and how we play our critical
leadership role."

While I was writing this blog post, I was watching the local program Ethical Prospectives on KCRG-TV, the ABC affiliate here in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The program is a community affairs program drawing from people within the community.

The program focused on Economics and the Role of Government during difficult times. One highlight from the program was the fact that government typically doesn't reduce its size in good economic times. Typically, once a government program is created... it isn't sunset or eliminated. This is quite alarming, due to the overall size of government today. Further, the impact of international investment in our debt.

Don't forget to vote on Election Day - November 4, 2008!

peace

01 November 2008

Can John McCain close the Election out on November 4th?


Does the USA go for the American Idol or does the USA settle for a seasoned presidential candidate, who lives by the creed... Country First... Who will win the 2008 Presidential Election?
"History tells us that either McCain or Obama could possibly make a good
president. But this campaign, uniquely, has given us no basis for knowing
whether this is likely. Electorates have always been concerned about character
in political leaders, but the traditional proofs of character - steady
commitment, solid achievement - have given way to the fraudulent tinsel of
celebrity."

"This is American politics as American Idol. And that's a giant step
backwards."
- The Australian


Does the Zogby Poll indicate a shift for John McCain in the final weekend of the 2008 Presidential Campaign? Mr. Obama is the leader, but John McCain is within the margin of error.

What really matters comes on Election Day - November 4, 2008.

peace

Comments of LeftyLarry on the Rivals Network from the Wisconsin Open Board...

Wisconsin is up on MSU 24-13 at the 9 minute mark of the 4th quater... though, while I was writing this blog post, MSU scored to make it UW 24 MSU 19 with about 8 minutes left to play in the fourth quarter... Go Badgers go!

Wisconsin LeftyLarry had the following Off Topic to say about Mr. Obama...
"Perhaps the U.S. should pull out of Chicago? Body count:

In the last six
months: 292 killed (murdered) in Chicago; 221 killed in
Iraq.

Chicago.... Who Runs it:
Senators: Barack Obama & Dick Durbin
Rep: Jesse Jackson Jr.
Illinois Gov: Rod Blogojevich
Illinois House
leader Mike Madigan
Illinois Atty. Gen. Lisa Madigan (daughter of Mike)
Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley (son of Mayor Richard J. Daley) .....our
leadership in Illinois.....all Democrats.

Thank you for the combat
zone in Chicago.

Of course, they're all blaming each other!
Can't
blame Republicans; they're aren't any!
State pension fund $44 Billion in
debt, worst in country.
Cook County (Chicago) sales tax 10.25% highest in
country.
(Look 'em up if you want)
Chicago school system rated one of
the worst in the country.

This is the political culture that Obama comes
from in Illinois. And he's
gonna 'fix' Washington politics for us?

Wake Up America!"

Don't forget to Vote on Election Day... In Iowa!

peace

Mr. Obama: Man of the World?

There has been plenty of spin this election year. We have seen the good, the bad and the ugly. Many have been frustrated with the lack of his openness, but that has been clearly by design by the front runner. I read the following link recently. The writer from the NY Times wrote:


In foreign policy as well, Mr. Obama would bring to the White House an important
experience that most other candidates lack: he has actually lived abroad. He
spent four years as a child in Indonesia and attended schools in the Indonesian
language, which he still speaks... (while)... So, granted, Mr. Obama lacks the extensive experience at top levels of diplomacy...
But, experience is very important, especially in these times were are in.

So, what are we really getting with Mr. Obama? Redistribution of Wealth Makes Us All Poor and there is clearly concerns over that side of Mr. Obama. Further, idealism that was a challenge during the Carter Presidency and it appears to be on the horizon with Mr. Obama?

Here's some commentary about idealism, in regards to Mr. Obama and Mr. McCain. The writer is critical of both candidates. Later, in another article, he picks up on the lie or illusion of the front runner.

His speech (Mr. Obama's acceptance speech of his party's nomination) last night was
brilliant and perfect. It is too bad that the whole thing was a lie, which
depended on the smoothness and apparent sincerity of Senator Obama's delivery to
lull the listener into a state of credulity and prevent him from asking too many
questions.

Couple the fact, the media wants Mr. Obama, the prevention of asking too many questions receives a major boost for the front runner.

Later, the role of the media in wanting Mr. Obama and going after Mr. McCain's choice of Sarah Palin as Vice President. The writer defines the selection of Palin:
Her appeal is non-ideological: it is the fact that she represents the outlook of
the "regular people" as opposed to the "elites."
The problems on Main Street vs. the problems on Wall Street. Again, "regular people" vs. what can be called Ivy League "elites"... who are a byproduct of ethics being removed in the classroom in the 1970s-80s-90s, as compared to local colleges, like Mt. Mercy College in Cedar Rapids.

Over the past 20 years of Bush-Clinton-Bush, we have seen an elevation in class warfare. Both political parties have expanded public policy favoring the expansion of large corporations and new "iffy" non-profits. Small business in middle America and elsewhere have paid the price.

Now, looking ahead to November 4th, we may witness the President's office and both houses of Congress in the control of one party. We look ahead to a possible president who may lead our country to the following...
It has not been derived from equalizing wealth through progressive taxes (a
socialist economy). When anyone of the three pillars of wealth is
confiscated, producers lose the incentive to produce more. Those who receive
unearned, redistributed benefits have no incentive to produce at all. When
the incentive to produce is lost, we all become less wealthy.

A good recommendation on who our next president should be. Read the following editorial on the Presidential Campaign of 2008...

As inspiring as Mr. Obama's history-making presidential bid has been, it is
risky to take a chance on an untried leader at this point in our history.

We need to bring about bipartisanship back to all levels of government. Once a Democrat or Republican is elected, they need to put the Country First. John McCain can help lead by example in bringing back a focus on reducing Washington spending habits.

They need to put what is in the best interest of the people, not the party. We have lost that in Washington DC and we have lost that in Des Moines. We need to encourage groups like this, but more importantly, we need get Congress and State Houses working together again for the best interests of our States, while remembering a limited government is often the best solution.

peace