Sally Hemings in Paris

$100 fee for Birth Certificate

2011-02-02T08:04:00.000-05:00

h/t mithras

I suppose the purchase of these birth certificates should close any budget gaps.........

Honorable Chris Smith (R) NJ's Foreplay

2011-02-01T20:44:00.000-05:00

Anyone familiar with the trek up the NJ Turnpike is familiar with the horrible stench along the way. I always attributed it to the local industry. Little did I know the stench hailed from the not so Honorable Chris Smith proud card carrying member of the Republican Party's local office.

The Conservative Mantra is deregulation and shrinking of the government. Soooooooooo why do THEY have this need to constantly try to control a woman's body.

An abortion is paid for by the government, in the event of rape or a mother's health is at risk.

Chris Smith wants to change the definition of rape. Saying "No" is not enough for Chris. She has to be drugged and assaulted. Isn't the very nature of rape is a violent act........not a sexual one?

For the sixteen lady Republicans that fell in line with the Republican boys, they have no place in policy making. Go home, put on a flowered apron and bake Viagra sprinkled cookies.

The Republicans complained that Obama failed to focus his attention on jobs. How does this bullshit bill put the unemployed back to work?

Clearly, Mr. Smith has never gotten laid voluntarily. But really, should he try make his foreplay legal?

h/t Think Progress

America you are so yesterday

2010-12-28T09:22:00.001-05:00

I wish I could say that I was surprised by this article.

It started with the manufacturing jobs then the IT gigs followed.

The Republican base the top 2% are critical to shipping these jobs overseas. They in turn either brainwash or bully the upper management of their companies to increase revenue per employee.

Subcontracted jobs are not counted in this formula.

They do not have worry educating their children because they are sent to private school. No need for public education.

We got ours, pull yourself up by your bootstraps.

Quietly they moved entry level white collar jobs overseas. These were the gigs where a person could get a foot in the door and have a shot at seizing the a decent job.

Now they have successfully demonized public school teachers. If I hear one more time a little old lady rail that second graders just cut out snow flakes.......

My 4 year old pre-school grandson who by no means is a Mensa candid has more technology skills than one of my senior sales guys.

How about talking to a 4 year old not at them....

Or recommitted to your country by supporting reasonably priced secondary education that prepares the CURRENT generation for decent jobs.

What is the upside to obtaining an expensive education with no hope for having a job to pay off the debt?

We need to support our new infrastructure through education, green jobs and 20th century transportation.

Maybe because Europe did not have the luxury of our wide open spaces, but it really shouldn't take two hours to get to DC from Philly.

Take the car off of the Pacific Highway return to the rails. Brain power and decent jobs.

We all need to revisit our attitudes. Those people have become US.

Or large employers who actually care about their country.

Yeah, I am playing the patriotism card.

Soundtracks of my Life: Lady T, Teena Marie

2010-12-27T15:10:00.002-05:00

College for me was the beginning of trying to break out and embrace new friends, experiences and of course music.

In 1979 WDAS was the only soul station on the local airwaves. On my way back to school, Deja Vu poured out of my car (vintage 74 pinto) radio. Wow. The song, her voice spoke to me.

Once I was white Gisele on horseback riding free
Searching in the darkness for a piece of me

The white Gisele should of given me a clue. The songstress with a voice of angel was white, but at the time and now it didn't matter.

I was hooked. Whenever, she had a new record (not CD cherubs), I had to have it.

I can feel it for sure, I've been here before

Like her, a Music Man stole my heart. Like her, he broke my heart. In fairness to him,
he never lied to me. I thought my love would be enough for you know how that familiar story goes.

Once I was a Queen, you know, on island by the sea
With rainbow colored people
Happy as can be
Never had a problem
Never had a care
love was overflowing
and its feeling shared

I had no idea we were so close in age. She is five years my senior which will explain how she seem to always capture my emotional state in a timely manner.

Seeking freedom and musical control, she successfully sued Berry Gordon and Motown. Talented but not afraid to fight.

She seemed to be...well normal and real, compared to most celebrities.

She had a plan to stop touring but was scheduled to perform this weekend.

My search for a piece of me continues.

My prayer is that she is "not coming back no more."

Thanks for the music, my Wild and Peaceful sister

May you find peace,

This isn't supposed to happen for Philly Phans

2010-12-24T09:09:00.000-05:00

There must be some sort of cosmic activity happening for Philly Phans. First we beat the dreaded Cowboys in Jerry's house.

Then Cliff Lee turns down New York's bright light, crazy Steinbrenners and some money to return home to the Bank.

Welcome home Big Daddy.

A very nice early Christmas present.

OK, life's good. My President is getting some critical legislation passed but that is another post.

Going into the Eagles V Giants game, there was the acceptance that this season has unfolded into to something special. No one was expecting a winning season.

Hell we beat Dallas and we have Cliff Lee.

This why they play 60 minutes. The first three quarters and half of the fourth quarter were just ugly.

But like watching a train wreck you couldn't take your eyes off of it.

What occurred would have never happened under McNabb, Vick took this team on his back and dumped sea salt in the wounded hearts of the New York fans. (Welcome to our familiar nightmare.)

My phone was noticeably silent until the kick.

Reid put Mr. Philly on the field, but there was no way they would punt to him. With 14 seconds on the board, we could hope for overtime.

OMG, OMG, OMGGGGGGGG

At first, Mr. Too Cute, fumbled the ball, which ended up being a good thing, then magic happened.

I'm sure, that I wasn't the only person running in my living room, because Jackson needed my help.

Touchdown.

I remember the Herm Edwards original Miracle in the Meadowlands.

While I have a mad crush on him, this is even better.

Once it all sunk in my phone blew up..

OMG- my kid

Did you see that?- several friends

Giiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiirrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrlllllllllll-----my buddy from Texas

The one that summed up it was from a co-worker

"This isn't supposed to happen for us Philly Phans."

Maybe it is..........

NCAA Silly Rules Part Whatever

2010-12-24T08:29:00.000-05:00

The NCAA has just suspended some kids from Ohio State for selling their own stuff. Yeah their stuff, not somebody else's stuff their stuff. The why behind the sell is irrelevant.

This body of certifiable money hungry jackasses decided to suspend these kids NEXT year. Why? These kids are the core of the starters for a major bowl game.

If they were bench warmers or participants in the Sammy Sub Shop bowl this wouldn't even be a story.

My guess and it is not an original theory, that since they are starters and a major bowl game, hence the postponement of the punishment.

Did I mention these kids sold their own stuff?

The NCAA is a minor league for the NFL and the NBA. The schools score a ton of money off of the backs of these kids. If they get hurt or find themselves in trouble they are replaced like the equipment they have become.

Don't get me started about the insanity surrounding Cam Newton and his father who is a man of God.

Let's stop with the silly convenient rules and stop exploiting these kids.

Do they get a degree? Yeah, in some cases, but the critical education is those with the gold make the rules.

Why do I think those faceless rules committee in the NCAA are Republicans? We want less government in our/your lives unless you are living in a manner they do not understand, like or care for.

Let's accept this entity as a minor league and govern itself accordingly...

Election 2010 from the polls

2010-11-02T12:14:00.000-04:00

11:30 am
I am serving in the capacity of poll watcher this morning. Very little drama. I'm sure they pulled the actual poll workers from the local nursing facility. They can't hear and can barely see but the voters have been exceptionally patient for these are their neighbors.

If we get a 25% turnout we should be in good shape.

Election 2010

2010-11-02T11:47:00.000-04:00

Election 2010 will be the most important election of my lifetime. Not to be melodramatic, but what happens on this day will determine what course this country will take.

The Republicans and too many Blue Dog Democrats have held the country hostage. It is evident, they have the personal desire to have power, not run this country.

For a bunch of reasons, I have shut down my corporate travel and spent the last month working with the Coordinated Campaign (Onorato, Sestak &Trivedi).

The GOTV activities will continue today.

What is not being reported is the ground game. The five counties surrounding Philadelphia have been trending blue for years and has been buzzing with activity. Most of my friends who basically sat out after 2008, returned to action.

I love this unperfect President. He has done a dreadful job informing the public of his good works. He has tripped over his intellect. For being such a good communicator during the campaign, the weight of managing the country has crush that Obama.

Whenever I am in the campaign offices, there is local and national workers and volunteers.

I strongly contend the pollsters are missing the folks like me whose primary phone is not a landline. I am not in the dismissed demographic of young people who don't show up.

Furthermore, my very passionate Republican friends, are by their words frightened by the candidates running in Pennsylvania and don't get them started about O'Donnell and Paul. (I can only hope, if they can't hold their noses and vote D they stay home.)

Regardless of the outcome, Obama needs to hire a good PR person to at least get the budgets passed.

Well, the sun it out which always has an impact on Dem turnout. We don't have umbrellas??? I digress.

Go Vote!

Sitting Vice President not Welcome in Radnor, PA

2010-10-26T14:48:00.000-04:00

Central PA, Alabama, Russia maybe....

But in the suburbs of Philadelphia?

A very nice civics lesson. To think school board elections aren't important.

Pass the ice Doc

2010-10-22T08:55:00.003-04:00

When it comes to a big game, some prefer to watch it with friends and family, others prefer the quiet comfort of their cave.

Then there is the combo model. Time was the frequent phone calls..."Wow, did you see that or @#$% did you see that?", were the exchange. After the brief conversation, you hang up, until the next play. Depending on the outcome and the party, the calls either stop or the the analysis begins.

Now we text.

My daughter and grandson dined with my ex so I was responsible to provide updates of the Phillies game. No big deal.

In the first inning, the screaming texts began from a friend whose wife refuses to watch a game with him. His ritual is to put his daughters to bed, grab a beer, sunflower seeds and a cup for the shells.
(I did point out to him they have shelled seeds. I digress.)

He sent a photo of his set up.

The uncharacteristic first batter walk by the good Doc, sent nervous chills down my spine. He looked out of sorts.
Maybe he will settle down as the game continues.

Utley's sloppy play.

Ok Howard can't hit a ho-ho pitch but isn't he a fast ball hitter were examples of his frustration.

The fifth inning photo of the Jumbo Irish Whiskey bottle spoke volumes.

My daughter and grandson made it safely home which reduced the number of texts.

Lincicum's hair was a topic. Does he get his extensions at the same place you do? he asked.
Probably, but he doesn't add color. When you think about, with his cap off, he looks like Michael Jackson, I replied.

Nope, he is darker. (He is now out of control, but that was funny.)

When the Phillies 8th inning specialist stepped on the mound, my massage therapist and dear friend surfaced. Being a life long Philly phan he was on suicide watch.

"Typical Philly team they are going to find a way to lose," he wailed.

The last time I checked the Phillies actually won it all in 2008. The Phillies have played managed to pull out wins, with injuries and a dreadful offense all season, I countered.

Well, he was not having it. Even though, Madson, shut down the side.
Heartbreak time was his retort.

In the final inning, Werth's homerun gave us breathing room. The table was set for Victorino to be a hero. A few more insurance runs would have eased the anxiety level for even the most optimistic fan.
We got nothing.

Now my massage therapist is beside himself, and my other friend has grown silent. (I can visualize him forgoing the glass and swigging straight from the bottle.)

Grab your rally towel and remember 2008 Lights out Lidge, I cheered.

I had moved to my bedroom but pacing. (Some people drink, some cuss, I pace and cuss).

Back from what seemed to be a long @#$$% commercial break, Here we go, my MT sighed.

First batter, got him out. (I could feel the good Lidge was on the hill).

One down

Lidge moved uncharacteristically swift last night

Two down
I stopped pacing.

Three down

Whew!

We all said our collective good nights.

One more beer for the wrap up with Ricky Bo for my one friend.

My daughter surfaced...Go Phillies! Sleep well Mom, she instructed.

I will after ice my thumbs....

(We found out after the game, Doc suffered a groin strain. This explains tons. But, he gutted it out five big ugly innings. Unbelievable)

One Win Away

2010-10-20T23:50:00.000-04:00

I knew it wouldn't be easy, but GOOOOOOOOOOOD. I really thought we could take them in 5.

The WE meaning the Phils......groan.

Anita Hill

2010-10-20T21:58:00.001-04:00

I remember watching in horror the Clarence Thomas hearings. Arlen " I need to be the center of attention" Spector, was the worst offender.

This woman was minding her business when she was drug before the Circus De Congress only to be put on trial.

The fact that Clarence Thomas sits on the Supreme Court is why I did not vote for Arlen nor stay in a room when he speaks.

What is always disturbing about victims of harassment or rape, far too many are accused by particularly women of asking for it. Amazing.

At one point in my career, I was a Labor Administrator and I was responsible for the internal harassment investigations. To a man, the harasser was as attractive as Clarence and felt entitled to a booty call from the victim. Too often, the woman's attire, hair do and attitude were called into question. This was in the late eighties, early nineties.

Sadly, not much has changed.

A known harasser, Carl Greene, was recruited to run The Philadelphia Housing Authority. (Well done, Governor Rendell).

Whenever, women ignored his advances that ugly little man, either reassigned them to the Authority's version of Siberia or made life so miserable they quit. An internal venue did not exist to report and investigate claims.

His political reach was such, they were afraid to report their claims to the local EEOC. The claims that were settled, the Board had no knowledge of the claims.

He got a free pass because he turned the program around. He did, at what cost?

As his reign of terror was unfolding on the local newspapers, and his biggest supporter ran for cover, Board Member City Councilwoman was his biggest defender. BRUTAL.

For Mrs. Thomas to track down Ms. Hill and demand an apology makes my brain cease up. Questioning Ms. Hill's motivation renders me speechless.

h/t Trakker @ Neon Gods.

The One that Got Away

2010-10-19T08:49:00.000-04:00

Once in a lifetime, the one enters your life. There is just something about the look, the way he moves, his execution. He doesn't wander around the mound, play with himself, call constant timeouts for endless conversations with his catcher. He prepares before the game, has a plan goes right to the business at hand.

Ohhhh Baby.

There is no doubt in my mind, Ruben Amaro watched Cliff Lee drop the Yankees like a returning high school star pitching to a little league team; experienced the same feeling.

As a phan, the rumors abound as to how this baseball romance ended. Like star crossed lovers, the timing did seem to be right. Lee is a Philly kind of guy. Working class sensibility with the right amount of attitude and charm. Only Lee and Amaro know the real deal.

He moved on and so did we...sort of.

During interviews throughout the season, Lee speaks longingly of his brief stint in Philly.

Oswalt is nice, but he doesn't have the it factor that stops you in your tracks.

When the one pitches, the game is no longer a backdrop to a novel or other activities. Big Daddy Lee commands your attention.

As the game ended, with a heartbroken sigh, I ponder what could have been and pine after the one that got away.

Maybe, just maybe, Amaro will create a miracle and Big Daddy will return the loving cheers of the Philly Phaithful.

What the hell, a girl can dream.....

Palin, O'Donnell, & Favre's Penis

2010-10-18T18:12:00.000-04:00

Power to the Penis?

Budapest, Prague & Berlin

2010-10-18T09:01:00.000-04:00

Budapest, Prague & Berlin it sounds like a European law firm or a big hair Eighties musical group.

The next skate, bike trip is going to cover these cities with a possible stop in Putin's Russia.

These cities were never on my bucket list, but the same team who organized the Canada trip is organizing this little adventure. Our hotels were nice and very welcoming to our eclectic group of travellers..

The group travelled well together and the drama was kept to a minimum.

My only issue with my last trip to Europe were the bathrooms. Ok, it was a big issue.

Even as a history major, my interest was our young Republic. So I know very little about this part of the world and what I know isn't exactly positive.

As I began my research, I shot my friend who invited me the following text: "Are there any black people in Prague?"

He quickly responded "Ah about the same number in Budapest."

After laughing, I figured it will be the same number in Montana.

What the hell, why not?

Ouch

2010-10-18T08:40:00.000-04:00

I fell in love with football when Lynn Swann was running for passes not political office.

My struggle with this sport is the violence. The legal hit to LeSean Jackson was frightening to watch. The kid was out cold for two minutes. Not good.

Maybe I am paying more attention, but it seems to getting worse.

Unlike the other sports, the NFL has a short season. Eighteen weeks. Weddings, parties and even funerals are planned around a favorite team.

Many fans, like me rarely go to the game, but game is a backdrop to my fall activities. Even in my Mom's dementia altered mind, she is still appalled about a Christmas dinner scheduled around an Eagles games. Dessert was served during the game.

If all of the football fans voted with the same passion our Congress would look much different.

The players are bigger, faster, stronger.

Cris Carter recommended a bigger field which will slow the game.

It's a start.

OR, fans like me stop supporting it...

Pitchers are ball players too

2010-10-18T08:16:00.000-04:00

How often is the spot in the batting line up for the pitcher is an automatic out? Well, our boy Roy O was not having it.

He had a good first at bat. When Chase's bat did not produce a hit, he reached for Rollin's bat which had failed the owner throughout the season.

In the 2008 series, Brett Myers' unthinkable at-bat was a unbelievable turning point in the post series.

If the Phillies win the World Series this year, phans will look to the site of this not so fast red streak, defying all the rules and sliding home. The Bank rocked.

When the coach of the year strode out on the mound in the eighth inning to relieve a Oswalt for a job well done, my guess was Oswalt was not having it.

Again, defying the rules, Manuel left him to complete the eighth inning. The boys left me and all of Philadelphia breathless.

Lesson here.........screw the rules.

Memo to Hamels, no low inside fast balls to Mr. #$% Ross......

I sure hope that boy has bodyguards: Radigan Rant

2010-10-17T11:16:00.000-04:00

It is worth the 10 minutes...

Sestak ad

2010-10-17T10:55:00.000-04:00

Finally an ad targeting a non-political junkie.

Scary Times

2010-10-17T10:27:00.009-04:00

With the fall comes the race for the World Series (Go Phillies), fall elections and evidence of the arrival of Halloween.

The folks behind the masks do not scare me as much as those who have a platform on FAUX news and the need for the MSM to give angry white people a voice.

The Republicans pull out all stops when they lose power. This started when the Hick from Arkansas was elected to their surprise, not once but twice.

Now my God, there is a Negro in the White House this is just untenable.

You can't change the mind of angry person.

But there are those who only sort of pay attention, indifferent toward the voting process, with the right information can be swayed.

In 2006, several of my close friends and I got off the sidelines and got very involved in politics.

We became committee people; wrote checks for progressive candidates and hit the streets for GOTV. It reached a crescendo in 2008.

Silly us, we actually thought we did something.

With the blatant refusal to accept the legitimacy of this Presidency and a ball-less Congress, we have returned to 2008 fighting form.

We have shot at knockimg off Gerlach and Toomey. Onorato has been painfully absent on this side of the state.

He needs the critical five county suburban area to win. It has been trending blue for years.

It has been the fear of the alternative that has driven most activists versus embracing a candidate..Sestak comes to mind.

The voter indifference will be the death to our Republic. Let's hope more folks show up on November 2, and stay engaged or Frank Rich will be right.....again.

Ross, slays a Doctor

2010-10-17T09:08:00.003-04:00

The first low and inside pitch to Mr. @#$ Ross was crushed. Being down 1-0 zero is no problem.

The second low and inside pitch to Mr. @#$ Ross crushed the hearts of the Philly Phanactics.

Brutal.

Nightmare is Over

2010-10-16T11:06:00.004-04:00

The Chief Marketing Officer was terminated. After three demotions and doing nothing but making my life miserable for FIVE years my nightmare is over.

Thirty days ago, I was reviewing the numbers with my CFO, I found that we were missing about 100K in revenue. When I questioned him about it, I found out that the CMO received ALL of it.

WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT THE FUUUUUUUUUUUUUUK????

For the past two years, I lived on a plane servicing these crazy ass clients. Words can not capture, the various in flight scenarios and endless hours spent going to, being and leaving airports.

To compound the problem, all of my time and expenses came out of my bottom line.

Oh it gets better.....

My financial Einstein gave me some bullshit reason as to why they did it and suggested that I work it out with the CMO. I reminded him that THEY didn't bother to discuss this nice little arrangement with me when he stole the money.

Slightly aggravated, he that there was nothing he could do about and take it up with Corporate.

Game On.

I immediately called my boss of the hour and explained the situation. The next thing I knew, I had the President on the phone. He quickly reminded me that he tried to take this gentleman out but was protected by boss number four.

Yeah I know. "What impact would his departure have with your clients?" he asked.

Tersely, the same impact you would have....

There was silence.....(At this point, I really didn't give a rat's behind about my tone).

Then he started laughing.

He promised to resolve the situation.

Before I could call the financial Einstein, my boss was on the phone to him demanding an explanation of why he handed over all of this revenue.

Ten minutes later....

FE was on the phone. "Wow, remind me not to piss you off, I just hung from your boss, I can't believe you called him."

Still beyond pissed, I gave him an earful and informed him that I also spoke with the President and I don't mean Obama.

" I wonder if I'm going to be forced to retire because of this?" he said softly.

Having had the shits of the grumpy old guys club, I was not very sympathetic.

You know dear, I have spent my entire career here, cleaning the mess you boys created. Enough already...

With that, I hung up and went into action.

I called the team together, reminded them that none of us worked for the CMO and any further requests from him to be ignored. I deactivated his pass key and told them that if actually showed up in our office to call me first. If I wasn't there call the local police and have him escorted from the building.

I thought about calling him or sending him an e-mail but then why bother.

He prided himself in being a feelingless Zombie. "You know I scored 5 on the Myers Briggs test in the emotional section," he would remind me.

The fact that because of this drain and additional theft of revenue, crippled our numbers and the folks who actually serviced our clients would not see a raise any time soon; would not bother him in the least. My team needed to work. He was sticking around for so that he could establish a legacy. Yeah, sounds like Bush. A history of tone deafness and failure.

To compound the problem, he rails against entitlements, but somehow because he was a card carrying member of the old boys club he was entitled to six figure income.

Brutal.

So what's a girl to do?

I did the one thing that I knew would make him crazy.......

I ignored him.

I did not return calls or emails. When he called around to other employees, they recognized his number and with absolute glee, they ignored him to.

One day he called from a different number and got my receptionist. He asked her to go get me.

She did as requested.

She interrupted a meeting.

"CMO is on the phone, he said he would hold for you," she advised.

I told her look, I am busy but this is not your war. You can tell him the truth, I'm busy and I will always be busy. Or you can just hang up.

She smiled and opted to be nice, she informed him that I was in a meeting.

He said I think she is ignoring me. She said nothing.

It took two weeks and the drawing of straws to determine, who was actually going to do the deed.

My boss called and asked how often does he come into my office. Ah never. What about the DC office? Less than never. What does he do all day? clearly befuddled.

Really? I responded do we really want to travel down that path?

For the first time in months the team of DC saw the CMO who just assumed that he there to discuss the 2011 budget.

The arrogant bastard was actually surprised. And had the temerity to question his severance. He was expecting 50% of his pay for two years. Well that package is for real producers. I guess he did not read the provision of revenue "initiated".

We are preparing the division for another sale, and they will probably throw some more money at him to avoid a suit.

A painful chapter of my life is drawing to a close. I am so ready to move on. If I can save some jobs in the sale, I will be thrilled. If not, I no longer care.

When I shared this story with my massage therapist, he just assumed he would see an immediate loss in revenue....

The money saved on massages will fund my next European vacation.

Very cool.

Note to Self

2010-10-16T11:01:00.002-04:00

...the next time you have the opportunity to reach out and touch the POTUS, check the batteries in my camera....

Steven Slater Employee of the Year

2010-08-10T08:44:00.004-04:00

I spend a ton of time on planes due to the nature of my gig. As sure as I have a healthy backside, there is always at least one crying child and that passenger.

Most of the time the flight team, are a gang of folks just trying to do their jobs. If a lie about a delay is told, it is usually done by the ground crew. The airborne team are usually pleasant folks and even funny. Southwest is the airline I try to fly.

The well dressed self-important jack ass that has to be told everything at least three times. Turn off your phone, yeah even that app. Put your tray up. Can you please stay out of the aisle.

Please stay seated until we arrive at the terminal....

When this story caught my eye yesterday, I said GOOD FOR YOU!!!!!

I met two of my dearest friends for dinner and got the silly giggles relaying the story.

I think it was a tad over the top and not necessarily a good use of resources to send a SWAT team to arrest him.

While they are making arrests, Slater should file an assault charge against that passenger who struck him in the head removing his bag BEFORE the plane arrived at the terminal.

THAT Jackass violated an assortment federal charges. He should be arrested too.

If I ever encounter Mr. Slater I'll buy him a beer....

Give Slater a standing ovation!

Race, Reaction, Responsibility

2010-07-26T08:34:00.003-04:00

What happened to Ms. Sherrod last week was brutal. I am more appalled by the White House and the NAACP.

I expect zippo, squatta from Fox or the the uber conservative wing of the country.

What I expect from the NAACP and my BLACK President is fairness.

A rookie supervisor would have slowed down the events, conducted a investigation BEFORE asking for this woman's resignation.

I was expecting better. I as a black citizen DEMAND better.

NAACP was once a fine organization, your age is showing and it has not been graceful.

You wonder why your relevance is questioned.

Mr. President,

There are folks who will NEVER accept your presidency, EVER. You reach out and they punch you. YOU have no more cheeks...

Every single freakin' time race becomes an issue YOU end up apologizing. Stop it.

The cops were heavy handed in handling Professor Gates. What happened to Ms. Sherrod was terrible.

If you did not have a secret service detail, YOU would be stopped for no particular reason just like the rest of us on a daily basis.

What happened last week shows that we are not a post racial society, yet...

Like anyone else important in my life, I love you enough to call you out.

You have done great things in 18 months but you are doing a terrible job of messaging. That crew in the Senate has been bruuuutaaaaal.

Do you really think the Senate will do any better if we lose the critical majority in November?

The DINOs have been a pain in the ass.

You NEED to get over yourself and do better.

Ms Sherrod you really should sue Andrew Breitbart just for sport!!!

Random Act of Kindness or Sally does the Trail

2010-07-26T07:47:00.003-04:00

During the course of being pummeled with permission by my massage therapist we talk about everything from current events to our families. My cycling activities are always on the agenda.

My pre-work rides are generally uneventful. For the most part, the folks you encounter speak, with a nod or a wave and they are on their way. Cyclists, joggers and dog walkers are the norm.

Skaters are in the minority. So on an beautiful morning, the tall very fair redhead skater stood out.

As we approached each other, I waved but she flagged me down.

She looked harmless so I stopped. She did not appear to be in distress but I asked if she was ok anyway..

Oh I am fine she responded. What can I do for you? I countered.

"I know this is a weird request, you look safe, will you put suntan lotion on my back?"

It was an odd request, but what the hell I did it.

No big deal. Right?????

I thought it was a funny story.

I shared this with my male massage therapist. His immediate reaction was "Reaaaaallly" in a way to suggest something more interesting should have followed.

"Then what happened?" he asked with a chuckle.

What do you mean then what happened? I completed my ride.

Then it hit me.

"Oh my God! How did a simple random act of kindness turn into Sally does the Trail...

Are you kidding me????

That thought NEVER crossed my mind.

So he challenged me to take a survey of my friends. Well I did, I asked 6 females and and 6 guys.

The ladies responds ranged from oh how nice to eeeeeew.

The guys to man were in camp of my massage therapist..

Further confirmation, I simply do not understand the male species...

Still Raining

2010-07-10T15:31:00.003-04:00

I normally spend a good portion of my weekends on my bike. I am finally up to 100 miles per week. I ride along the trail system. I finally made it to Green Lane..a 35 mile round trip.. very cool. I get up early and try to get at least 20 in before work.

I have no desire to compete with cars.

The riding has been incredible therapy for my job and the challenges of being in the sandwich generation.

The rain has cooled things down from the 100 degree weather but after last winter...I have zero complaints about the heat...but the rain is a nice change...

Gilbert, a New Member of the First Wive's Club

2010-07-10T14:36:00.004-04:00

Decision 2010 had zippo to do with a political race. LBJ was the main focus of the sports media specifically ESPN.

Just like Favre's retirement of the week, LBJ Decision was media coverage on steriods. Well for those who complained, unless your remote was broken, you were not forced to watch this announcement.

Was Geraldo the producer?

disclaimer time: I did not watch it.

As far as the Cav's owner's reaction, well it was just silly. Chris Broussard has a nice piece.

Athletes are moved around like chess pieces. How often do they find out their fate by a reporter?

Well if LBJ was everything the Cav's owner said that he was, who enabled this behavior.

LBJ picked another and I suppose Gilbert is feeling like a first wife. Gave all that he had only to be discarded for a younger, prettier love.

Corbett calls unemployed lazy

2010-07-10T12:24:00.003-04:00

Where does Corbett live?

I have seen far too many resumes from an older suburban educated workforce who have been crushed by an economy created from folks who look like Corbett.

My industry simply does not replace the positions of departed employees. Fear of regulation has caused many employers to sit on their cash reserves and pile work on folks who are grateful to have a gig.

I think the unemployed should show up en masse to his offices and show him the faces of the unemployed.

I think he will be surprised at what he sees.

He is a jackass.

Loose Lips Sink Ships

2010-05-29T08:17:00.003-04:00

The details of the job offered were released on a Friday of the first official long weekend of summer. Surprise, Surprise.

The White House sent Bubba to offer Joe Sestak a gig so their wouldn't be an expensive decisive race in PA. Surprise, Surprise.

I am grumpy about this for a couple of reasons. I worked hard to elect Obama. His mere nature of being makes him a different politician. BUT, he is a pragmatic politician who honed his craft in Chi-town, not a Messiah.

This sort of thing happens all the time. It is close to the edge of interfering with an election.

Sadly, no surprise here.

What is more disturbing is Joe Sestak's sanctimonious position when it didn't serve his agenda.

Did Joe mention that the establishment backed him and muscled another candidate out the the Congressional race when he first ran against Weldon?

Lentz was told to step down and run for a State seat and to wait his turn. Why? Sestak had White House cred and a ton of establishment support.

I am appalled that Sestak made it an issue.

Far too many spoke of Sestak being the jerk boss that is most people's nightmare. The only original staffers have the last name Sestak.

His biggest concern was the turn out of the Philadelphia African American voters. With this little stunt will not endear him my community.

Part of the reason many of the "establishment" lined up behind Spector is because Sestak is just unbearable.

I have donated a lot of time and money to Sestak. While I won't vote for Toomey, I will not go negative, I will become his worst nightmare...

A former support who does nothing.

Family Witness Protection Program

2010-04-20T07:56:00.003-04:00

Thursday evening I had a wonderful dinner with a dear friend who has been a wise guidepost for the past 20 years. The issue was my career but I will elaborate on that another time.

It was 7;30 and I was getting settled to watch the replay of the Phillies game when my phone rang. It was my older brother's number. Since we usually chat in the morning, I knew it wasn't good.

When I answered, all I heard on the other end was my oldest nephew had accidentally set the garage on fire, please hurry. She did say no one was hurt. UGH.

I threw on whatever clothes I could find and ran out to my RAV4. Half way in my 30 minute drive I realized I forgot my shoes. Details, minor details.

My brother's family lives in a small community. As I approached their neighborhood, I have never seen that many fire trucks in my life that weren't in a parade. Clearly every community in a 20 mile radius responded judging from the names emblazoned on the side of their trucks. Holy hell.

It was surreal.

The closest I could get to their place was three blocks away. As I jogged to their place, I ran into my youngest nephew and his little girl friend He has the same laid back disposition of my brother. Is anyone hurt? I asked. Nah, Mom is just freaking out, as usual.

(His mother is crazy, recently she was placed on meds. However, this was cause to be a little distressed.)

By time I reach their house, the WOODEN SHED and all of the combustible crap was a charred memory. The fire was contained and no one else's property was involved, thank God.

Now the fun begins.

My older brother arrived from work minutes before I did and was hugging his son.

Trying to be sensitive, but by my claim adjuster in me kicked in.

So, what happened?

Young Einstein decided to fill the gas powered lawnmower in the WOODEN SHED filled with combustible crap. The Shed is easy 12 x 12.

He says that during this process, he somehow bumped over some matches and the next he knew the lawnmower was on fire......

Did I mention the fact, that my sister-in-law grabbed me before I encountered my brother and nephew, and asked about investigative dogs?

Why dear sister is this an issue? I dared to ask.

It seems as though one of her friends was storing her pot in the shed. I assured her that based on the damage that there were just very happy firefighters. Oh dear God.

Because I couldn't help myself, I pressed on, was there anything else in there? Dad's antiques and my craft stuff. Newsflash, rich people have antiques, poor people have old shit)

The fire and police chief questioned my nephew. I could tell that the Fire Chief wasn't buying his story but there was no evidence to point to arson.

I love my nephew but the chain of events does not make sense.

Before I left for the night, I looked at my brother and it seemed to be a backdrop of his life. He looked so beat down. His road has not been easy. His wife and kids have been the source of plenty of heartache.

The next day, I shared my concerns with my brother. It didn't make sense to him either but his son is sticking with his story.

My heart just sunk. So I suggested that we put him in a Family Witness Protection Program. He is very low maintenance. Just go for bread and not come home. He could take the youngest but that is it.

We laughed sort of...

Tiger Woods Walk of Shame

2010-02-22T14:58:00.003-05:00

I was sitting in terminal B-9 at a funky little cafe waiting to flee to Miami when the world stopped to listen to Tiger.

The bartender was a young woman in her late twenties and the other customer was a middle aged woman. She was on her way to meet her husband.

Of course, the conversation immediately turned to Tiger.

" He is trash, he let us down," barked the other customer.

"Us?", I countered.

Yes, us he is a role model she challenged.

I laughed." He doesn't owe US shit. He owes his wife an apology and maybe his sponsors."

She was surprised by my response.

I was married for 8 years. I respect the institution. But the vows are shared between the parties. Some marriages, I don't get (Clintons immediately come to mind.) But I don't have to get them.

Woods did not cheat the sport. He cheated his wife. Any repair is between the two of them.

He felt compelled to offer a public apology. OK.

He is an athlete, a good athlete but he is also a man...who like the rest of us are not perfect.

Enough...

Yes, sigh, Yes, sigh YESSSSS!

2010-02-22T14:45:00.003-05:00

I want to see this added to the health care reform bill...

h/t dome on the range

Third time is a charm, oh I don't think so.......

2010-02-10T15:59:00.007-05:00

With the smell of my chicken stew filling my home and the blizzard of the hour battering my windows, I ponder....

When did I move to Vermont?

How come no one told me?

I have never been a fan of the white shit. But an occasional snow day is good for the soul. Well, this is the third major snow storm of the winter.

To be technical, the second one of the winter. The first arrived late fall. Details, minor details.

The first one was on a weekend, and I discovered the best selling writer, Steve Berry. I finished his Cotton Malone series, the second snow storm which occurred oh three days ago.

I made the decision to close my office yesterday. Since we are paperless, most of my staff can work (wink, wink) from home. Things have gotten so bad, I actually heard from my California boss of the week. I only heard from him ONCE last year and that was budget time. Not a complaint, just a statement of fact.

The little guy is with his Dad. My daughter decided to be snowed in with me, which is cool.

She began making fun of me about an hour ago. I'm the one who can normally sequester myself for a couple of days and she gets cabin fever.

Not today.

After a pumpkin and walnut waffle breakfast, prepared by my kid, I bundled up and ventured outside. I wiped off my RAV4. I encountered my neighbors in A-1, the interracial gay couple who are always the first out.

It is straight up white out conditions.

The snow is much heavier than the weekend snow. Recognizing that I am no longer twenty I only shoveled for about twenty minutes. The owners of my complex have been money, the snowplow comes through on an hourly basis.

After checking my work e-mail and reading a couple of chapters of Walden, I parked myself in front of my bay window and just watched.

This is when the justifiable parent abuse started.

There is an ACME about 500 yards from my place. The busy front end loader just stopped. After a few minutes of no activity, I began to wonder aloud, is he ok? Did he take a nap? Or just a break? Worse, is he dead?

That is when my kid is like" Moooom, you need to stop. Have you lost your mind? If you are that concerned, why don't you go check, maybe take him some stew. Better yet, move slowly away from the window." Of course she is laughing at me this whole time.

After about twenty obsessive minutes, there was movement in the cabin. He resumed his task of building snow mountains. No one was happier than my daughter.

In the meantime, I counted 10 people walking very slowly through the blizzard conditions.

My daughter's Honda accord is completely buried. She misses her kid, but is grateful for the down day. No work, school, or three year old. I assured her that her feelings are normal and it does not make her a bad Mommy.

I'm sure my Yoga teacher, would tell me that the snow is neutral, it is my reaction to the snow that is negative.

Whateeeeeeever.

I checked on my family and friends. All are well and safe. Weather was the only subject. Only one of my friends seems to be cool with this mess. He reminded me that his family hails from Russia. I have nothing to add to that commentary.

I am blessed that I have electricity and plenty of food.

Next Friday, I am off to Miami for a mini-vacation, they will have to sedate me to get back to Pennsylvania.

Crock pot Chicken Stew

Turn crock pot to low

Spray the Crock pot with olive oil spray

Cut four medium red potatoes in half

arrange at the bottom

layer 6 chicken thighs

layer one bag of trader joe's fire roasted vegetables

Top with one box of organic chicken broth

after six hours add one cup of water

Really ready to eat after eight hours

Yeah, I do cook...................and it's still @#$^ing snowing!

The Phall Classic: Phillies lose to the Yankees

2009-11-05T18:41:00.003-05:00

Maybe because we won last year. Maybe because Hamels lost his mind, Lidge lost his mojo and Howard couldn't hit a sliding curve I am not surprised how the story ended on this season. Nor am I frustrated, annoyed or other adjectives associated with being a Philly Phan.

But, it was still a good season. We picked up Cliff Lee. Manuel delivered a pennant not knowing what he would get out of his pitching staff. How many teams would be thrilled to play in the World Series?

I want to hate the Yankees. But the only whack job well whack jobs are A-Rod and AJ Burnett. The rest seems like nice guys if they were wearing another uniform. Forgot about the ownership, Georgie boy and his sons gave the Girardi the players to bring home a championship.

There is a core of guys who have the foundation of building a dynasty. What more can a phan ask for? The Phillies are the second best team in the MLB.

Second best.

HMMM Well now, that was a pile of bullshit.

I have another night in St. Louis, I planned on watching my Phillies crush the Yankees in their house.

WTF?

BOOOOOOOOOOOOO, where is my snowball?

Meet me in St. Louis

2009-11-05T18:02:00.005-05:00

The sun is setting on St. Louis as I sit in a Borders beside my hotel. Work brought me to this part of the country. After two days of the insurance version of American Idol, I am parked here nursing a Seattle's best medium vanilla latte, just cooling out.

To my left are two 20 something men discussing God, the bible and the need to pray in order to manage their lives. Their bibles are open and to the ready.

To their right, a french tutoring session is taking place. The instructor is a artsy middle age woman. Her student appears to be a eager high school student. A Veteran college student is pouring over a text book. His camouflage shirt, erect posture and short haircut reveals his past or present. The military is huge in this part of the country.

All are taking advantage of the free WiFi. A different time and place my guess is these activities would have occurred in in a library. This is the community hub, judging by how the clerk assembled most peoples orders with a smile and without coaching.

I am guessing that I am the only traveller, interloper in the room. It has a positive energy.

I return home tomorrow. I may have to travel to Iowa for this account before the end of the year but it should be the final business trip for the year.

Work is work. I've grown bored with this component of my life. I am grateful to be employed but I am working through what I want to be when I grow up. The economy was a convenient excuse for me to be complacent about my career. I have the opportunity to manage a captive but I'm not sure I want to stay in this business. It is nice to know that option is available to me.

I have a home yoga practice but it is time for me to return to that community.

Through a spiritual career counselor, a strong yoga practice, I will find my now.

It's all good......

Rob Miller SC Donate Here

2009-09-12T10:47:00.002-04:00

Oh Canada, O(h)bama, Oh My

2009-09-12T09:20:00.004-04:00

I spent my overdue vacation touring through Canada. Quebec, Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto and of course, Niagara Falls. I was joined by group of outdoor types. We rented a "luxury" bus for this adventure. Most took in these cities utilizing their in-line skates. Others, such as yours truly, absorbed the cities using a bike. The weather and the company were spectacular.

Whenever I travel, I always read the local newspaper (if it is available). To my dismay, the nonsense surrounding the POTUS address the student citizens hit the Canadian press. They were disturbed as I. Work, hard, stay in school....hmmm that screams of socialism. It would be funny if this were to be happening in another country.

The Republicans began the notion of an illegitimate President when Clinton was elected. They refused to accept a "hick from from Hope" was parked in the seat of power. The nonsense has been building. Granted Clinton should have kept his penis in his pants, taking real impeachable offenses off the table. Isn't nice Barack wants to have sex with Michele...I digress.

They say it is a small minority of whackos driving this madness. When the majority of the Republican Party do not speak out or worse carry the mantle of this vitriol it condone this behavior. Silence is consent.

I, like many of my recent new activists, thought the heavy lifting was done when Obama was sworn into office. OK, what were we thinking?

Our work has just begun. Next week we will flood the local school board meeting to protest the not showing of the President's school speech. (I live in suburban Philadelphia, not Kansas).

The Superintendent independently made that decision citing technological challenges. ( I report it you decide)

A reminder politics is local. The off cycle elections have become critical to ensure these races are not won by folks who do not know or accept Hawaii as a state.

I gave money to Rob Miller (SC) and encouraged others to do the same. Joe Wilson needs to be sent to the unemployment line and look for affordable health care. Oh, I forgot he is a Vet. He can receive care, but voted against an increase in VA benefits for other men and women who served our country. Sweeet!

Affordable health care for all just makes sense. It starts with affordable education. How do you think health care providers pay back their student loans? My guess it turns up in the overhead buried in their bills.

Hospitals have the resources to triage the non-emergency care out of the emergency room. Insurance companies should add this type of care to their plan documents to reimburse this type of care.

Get rid of PPO preferred provider organizations. Why? By accepting a reduced fee, PPOs are supposed to deliver a volume of patients and be paid timely. The doctors can reduce their staff who spend all of their time signing up for these plans then chasing the revenue. By opting out of this clusterfuck, they can reduce their overhead.

There have been more arrests of gun toting angry citizens at or near Obama events. They have been called to arms by Beck, Limbaugh, Hannity and the Palins. There are a whole bunch of white folks who refuse to accept a Black Man in authority, unless it is on TV.

There a bunch of uninformed and refused to be informed citizens armed with microphones, camera and guns.

Where were these people the last eight years when .......oh never mind.

Back to the work of trying to save my country, from the threat within...

Justice?????

2009-06-20T12:46:00.003-04:00

Let's see the good ole boys develop a whacked off the books system of legally stealing money and wreaking the global economy and they get stay bonuses....

And this single mom gets hammered for downloading music..no wonder our country is a mess...

h/t Booman.

Tomorrow is Father's Day

2009-06-20T10:17:00.004-04:00

I just returned from a few days in Dallas, TX. I had a safe trip, no dead pilots or water landings.

It was sunny and 100 degrees. In between meetings, I did get to the pool. I had no problems with the weather.

There were those flippin' Cowboy stars everywhere you go. AND one of the local news stations had it impeded in their logo. Dear God, make it stop.

When I was still married and my daughter was not even a year old, we had an opportunity to relocate to the big D. I am sooo glad I vetoed it. At the time, I was making more money and it would have killed my career. Furthermore, it would have radically hurt our standard of living. To no surprise, the ex currently resides in Dallas with his wife.

It worked out for everyone.

I managed to get in a brief ride in this morning before the rain came. Sitting at home this morning was not an option. So I decided to write at the local cafe.

The Gryphon is a eclectic little coffeehouse. The staff is friendly and efficient. The decor is funky but practical tables doted with fresh flowers. The walls are lined with artwork by local artists, available for sale.

Judging by the flow of traffic, I am the only new customer. When the customers arrive, the staff confirms their order.

As I stood staring blankly at the menu board, a very attentive staffer, informed me what I was looking at was not available for a couple of hours but recommended other items not listed.

Ignoring the baked goods, I settled on a simple salmon and capers breakfast with a cafe au lait. A welcome change from the chain coffee shops.

Despite the rain, I am glad to be home.

Tomorrow is Father's Day. At my age, each milestone that passes with my family is good. Most of the time......

On Mother's Day, my folks, daughter, grandson had dinner with my older brother's family at a local restaurant.

Normally, my sister-in-law hijacks family events but at my parent's 50th anniversary party there was no drama. None.

Maybe the stars would line up and we would have another successful outing.

Upon my brother's late arrival, he bounced out of the car with a warning "She is a mood about whatever". With a glare, I asked, "Why didn't you either leave her or stay home?"

Now I'm hoping for the best.

We arrived at the local restaurant. We agreed to go for something nicer than our normal Old Country buffet. A modest Mainline Restaurant.

The food and company were wonderful until dessert.

After dessert arrived, my oldest nephew, who is 16 and stands about 5' 10" popped up almost knocked over a waiter with a full tray of food as he ran to the men's room.

We all looked at each other assuming dinner didn't sit too well. No big deal.

Or so we thought.

He came out and started crawling on the floor, clearly looking for something. When he could find what he was looking for, he knelt in the middle of the floor and began weeping.

Did I mention the fact that this was a Mainline restaurant on Mother's Day and we were the only colored folks in the place, not members of the wait staff?

My brother tried to find out information and comfort his distraught namesake.

After removing him from the center of the restaurant, we learned that he lost a ring his off and on girlfriend had given him.

Seeing his anguish, the wait staff and other customers are crawling on the floor looking for this piece of jewelry.

We sat horrified at the scene unfolding. It was so surreal. This simply could not be happening. We are now grateful for Mom's dementia. She was enjoying her pie and coffee ignoring the chaos unfolding.

As I'm trying to get the check and get the hell out of there, my father, who is Never Politically correct, leans over truly befuddled and says "Do you think the boy is gay'?

In his world it only acceptable for girls and gays to weep over jewelry. At that point, I had to just laugh.

The manager comes over, and promises to find this ring. I told him not to fret about it. At his insistence, I gave him my contact information.

We returned to my place. Everyone is trying figure out why he was so upset. This behavior came out of left field or did it? Instead of his Mom hijacking an event, he did.

I just wanted this family outing to end.

When we realized the boy was still in the family vehicle, my daughter, the eldest grandchild, who is all of 5'3', goes to the van, and demanded that he apologize.

As he sheepishly followed her in, the phone rang and it was the restaurant manager.

"Ma'am, we found the ring."

With this bit of wonderful news, my brother and his family left to retrieve the lost treasure.

Later that night, I checked in my kid brother who couldn't make the dinner because of transportation problems. He was a little down when he answered the phone. I shared with him the days events.

Little did the boy know, that he cheered up his uncle. He couldn't stop laughing.

Tomorrow is Father's Day. We left it Pop as to what he wanted to do. Returning to the scene of the last meal was not going to happen. " You know we can't go back there," he said with a hearty laugh.

He still hasn't decided.

On the road...again

2009-05-11T18:11:00.003-04:00

My corporate travels (travails) have brought me to the soon to be succeeding state of Texas.

What if Texas left and nobody cared? Peace Out.

A friend recommended writing a thesis on "What if Lincoln, encouraged succession?" It would keep me busy.

I digress.

First stop, Houston, tomorrow night Dallas. A Leadership meeting then off to visit a new client.

It is funny, how all Hiltons are starting to look alike. Tonight, I will get through dinner while as I will find out how grateful me and the crew should be to work for this fabulous organization. I really thought the travel would decrease but I find myself continuing to rack up frequent flyer miles.

In this economy I am grateful to be working but do not need to be reminded of it. There are three of us from the Northeast who actively avoid sitting next to our Sr. VP while the West Coast contingent practically sit on her lap. They drink to much and talk to much. The Pre-Leadership meetings always last too long.

My goal is to keep a very low profile and run back to the hotel before they hit the bar for after dinner drinks.

I don't drink and really would prefer to do anything other than spend an evening with most of these people.

At the last event, I won an award for leadership in Process Improvement. Well, when they strip you of resources, humans to do the work, we had zero choice. Necessity my friends.

The ultimate plan is to get through tomorrow without more work, but I am not that optimistic.

Ah Arlen

2009-05-04T11:33:00.004-04:00

Talk about making a deal with the devil, Arlen is all about Arlen.

As a voting citizen of the Commonwealth I'm not sure what we have gained by this backroom deal. I am suspicious of decisions that are made on my behalf particularly when I wasn't asked. This falls into that category.

Maybe I'm missing something, but if Obama thinks Arlen is going to fall in line, he's nuts. He has always followed his own rules. At least he didn't lie about why he switched parties. Would he have lost next year? Maybe. With politics things can turn on dime. Ask McCain.

I didn't vote for Arlen and it is unlikely I would have voted for him next year. He is 79 years old, I would like to have the opportunity to vet my Democratic nominee.

Not cool.

Jack Kemp, If only

2009-05-04T10:58:00.003-04:00

I will join others in mourning the passing of Jack Kemp. I had the opportunity to meet him when he was Bob Dole's running mate. (Long story)

His definition of social responsibility included Civil Rights for folks who did not fall in the grumpy old white guys club.

I'm sure his attitude was shaped by how members of his Buffalo Bills football team were treated. Sports have a funny way of breaking racial barriers. At the end of the day, talent trumps racism.

He and Dole activitely fought about a ton of issues, but Kemp was not pushed out of the infamous big tent. This was a time, when the Dems were a mess and the Republicans were engaged in the 80-20 rule. If we agree 80% of the time we can work together.

Michael Steele, Rush Limbaugh, Newt Gingrich, Anne Coulter and Sarah Palin are the face of the Republican Party. Their tent has been reduced to a pup tent whose welcome mat clearly states: PISS OFF, to folks who don't who don't think like they do.

Personal, fiscal, and social responsibility are only for folks who have low or no income. It has to be their fault, if you can't keep a job or have sex when and with whom they think appropriate.

Dear God, can you image the headlines, if one of Obama's girls were pregnant? Obama has a prescription drug problem or was working on wife number 3?

I believe it was W who didn't see a spending bill he didn't like. He and the compliant Congress who paid for a WRONG war off the books. Shall we talk about the derivative nightmare?

Sorry folks, there just aren't that many poor black folks who did not make their mortgage payments to ruin the economy. The bankers and those who failed to mind the store should be in jail, not receiving stay bonuses.

No one was watching anything. Responsibilty. Please.

Is the Republican Party dead? In it's current incarnation, you betcha.

The citizens of our nation instinctually mistrust one party rule, so there will be the emergence of another party.

Too bad the Fab Five, didn't spend more time with Kemp, they may have learned a thing or two.

Enjoy your rest Jack, you earned it.

For this moment in time

2009-05-01T21:39:00.005-04:00

Last year like many other citizens, I spent time and money to get Obama elected. Bush has left a horrendous mess and a legacy like no other. I'm sure not the legacy he intended. But what was often overlooked were his SCOTUS appointments. Eventually, we will pull out of Iraq, clean up the financial mess and put criminals in jail for treason (maybe). Bush's picks will be around long after the HazMat team cleans up the toxic waste left behind by the Cheney-Bush team.

Obama's appointment(s) will cement his place in history more than his current and future successes.

Clarence Thomas is evidence that skin color alone should not be a litmus test. I really don't know what he sees when he looks in the mirror. But the last time I checked he was a Black Man. You would never know it judging by his voting record.

There are plenty of QUALIFIED left leaning students of the constitution who do not have any old Y chromosomes.

The future is now. Do the right thing, President Obama.

Tim Cole: Justice Served?

2009-02-08T12:35:00.003-05:00

This is not a problem just for the Cole family but us as a society. I wish we funded schools as quick as we build prison.

The prisons are filled with Tim Coles.....

Joys of Lawmaking: Plumline

2009-02-05T22:37:00.002-05:00

Thanks to my buddy Trakker, I discovered Greg Sergent's blog, Plumline. Enjoy.

Dick Cheney Speaks: Why?

2009-02-05T22:15:00.004-05:00

I had dinner tonight with some old friends who evidently still watch Fox News. These are reasonably bright people, BUT...

Our conversation naturally turned to current events, economy, the stimulus package and of course W.

LL offered, "I don't agree with many of the things W did, but you have to admit he kept us safe."

With a sigh, I just said, I would see how the families of 9-11 feel about how safe we he kept us.

Her husband quickly changed the conversation to Spring Training.

Field Negro has a great post on this very topic.......

Colored People Behaving Badly: Rev. Jesse Lee Peterson Edition

2009-02-05T21:56:00.003-05:00

h/t afro-netzien

My head hurts............

Buy IT: Tear Down This Myth

2009-02-05T21:09:00.005-05:00

With an upcoming cross country plane trip, I needed sanity material. To make the trip tolerable, I just purchased Will Bunch's latest book, Tear Down This Myth.

Bunch is local award winning author and blogger. His blog Attytood is filled with passionate posts about politics and sports. I have found Bunch to be pleasant working stiff just trying to carve out a living writing about stuff important to him. Hooray for him.

Being a frequent visitor to his site, I'm sure his book will be funny, well researched and written.

Philly is the city of ideas. So it is not surprising so many bloggers have emerged from this community. The stars can be found on Bunch's blog roll.

So I think you will be pleased....

Good Luck Will!

Where the @#&* is Waymart?

2009-01-24T16:39:00.004-05:00

After the courtroom gasped. My first baseman turned to me with his weary eyes and whispered, "Did he say 3-6 years?" Before I could reply my daughter nodded her head.

My right fielder's wife shrieked and her brother had to carry her out of the courtroom. The judge continued softly with the sentencing: count 2, three years probation to be served concurrently: count 3, three years probation to be served concurrently; count 4, three years probation to be served concurrently.

He proceeded to advise my right fielder, that his attorney did a great job. Even though this was his first offense and with a clean record he picked the wrong statue to violate.

If not for good psych evaluation, the courtroom of supporters according the standard guideline; he would have received 10-20.

The day long proceedings were surreal.

I met my right-fielder fifteen years ago when I got involved with my team. He and my kid brother became fast friends. After watching my brother play, he graciously moved from center field.

He was money on the field. He navigated the ups and down of the season with ease. His wife came to the games. He worked as a meat cutter for the same employer for ten years. He drank with team but in moderation. A fun loving good guy.

He wasn't one of the members of the team I prohibited my daughter from getting in the car. Was my maternal radar that off?

He and his wife couldn't have kids but he was a wonderful uncle.

Needless to say, last March I was stopped in my tracks when I got the call from the team manager about his arrest. I was in Whole Foods in the deli section.

Sadly, he was caught in an Attorney General sting. He was screwing around in a chat room. The agent was pretending to be a 13 year. AAAAAAHHHHHHH

Unlike on the "Catch a Predator" he didn't go meet the agent, it is a crime in PA to discuss the possibilities of sex with a child.

WHAT MY FRIEND DID WAS WRONG.

After his arrest, he got an attorney, went to counseling and opted to skip a trial and plead guilty.

The shrink opined that he was not a sexual predator and was not a threat. Since his arrest, he just worked as much as he could. He was too embarrassed to face the team. Most of our calls ended with one or both of us in tears. Ugh

I do have to wonder what the outcome would have been if he would have taken his chances with a trial.

We will never know. His wife of 22 years will have to sell their house. She is a clerk in a local pharmacy. The prison is 2 1/2 hours away with rolling visitation days. Will they stay together? Who knows.

I experienced a ton of emotions. Now, I'm just sad. A young girl killed her newborn and she got 21 weekends.

He got caught in a sting and he received 3-6 years will have to register under Megan's Law. There is something a little off with these sentences.

He and his wife's nightmare is just beginning.

I debriefed my kid brother this morning. It took an evening to process what I witnessed. Finally, he said "Where the fuck is Waymart?"

With frustration in his voice he answered his own question..."I suppose we will find out."

I suppose we will....

We've only just begun

2009-01-20T15:30:00.003-05:00

Most significant events are captured with the backdrop of a song. For some reason, I have the "We've only just begun" dancing in my head.

After checking in with my folks this morning, who are just thrilled. I reflected on the Civil Rights activities that were coordinated in our modest home and local church. They were instrumental in getting black history incorporated into the curriculum; affordable housing for our neighbors and the right to register as Democrat without retribution. They spoke out when others, for their own reasons, sat silent. My heroes. My role models. Their struggles made my freedom to move about the world possible.

They are stunned and thrilled about today. They NEVER thought a black man would lead our nation.

Today I celebrated this historic event with a few of my dearest friends and my fellow committee persons who skipped the bus trip to DC.

We converged up the local Champs. While packed, it was a different energy than the NFC Championship Eagles game.

I felt different than Election night. Maybe because today represented the shutting of one door and the opening of another. No tears, just joy.

It was funny how the place cheered when Bush departed. It was even cooler when most of the place stood during our national anthem.

(My daughter is a Y counselor and she had her kindergartners stand during different parts of the Inauguration).

There was a group confession, that this was our first Inauguration. None of us knew the flow of events.

After he was sworn in, the place erupted. The speech was a roadmap of what we can expect from him and more importantly, what is expected of us.

I'm feeling an optimism coupled with healthy trepidation that is felt on a happy occasion such as a Wedding or Graduation.

I am now truly part of the We the People, a club, property owning white guys were always admitted.

Tomorrow I return to my normal life with a ton of joy in my heart.

"A kiss for luck and we are on our way"

Cheney Files Workers Comp Claim

2009-01-19T20:36:00.002-05:00

In my business, an unwitnessed injury on the last day of work is a little suspicious.....

Precious Lord take my hand...outta of this @#$% meeting

2009-01-19T19:57:00.004-05:00

I concluded my fiscal year, in a Strategic Planning meeting. Naturally, this meeting took place on the West Coast. It took two days of travel for 13.5 hours of face time with my fellow leaders.

I knew that I was on the Leadership team, but truly stunned to find myself on the Strategic Planning Committee. OH MY GOD!

The Committee is was 50-50 split male/female. Historically, I found that when women were in meetings, the tone of encounter is generally on a higher plane. Maybe, it is a generational issue, or a life's priority issue but what I witnessed was not only penis wars but tit wars.

The Sr. VP leading the meeting at one point, stood up and yelled at the CIO. Ugh. After meeting with these folks all day, we had a one hour break, then dinner. The local members of the team, clearly didn't want to go home. It was awful. I've learned to say very little. The less they know about me the better. The jockeying for position was painful to watch.

After two hours, I cited jet lag and called a cab and retreated to my hotel room.

I tried to skip breakfast with these nuts, but they called my room. Somebody help me.

The next day, we focused on our Strategic Plan for 2009. 6.5 hours later, we came up with the same plan we had last year. You can't make it up.

At one point, an internal dialogue was screaming in my head...

This has to be a mistake.

I must have received someone else's invitation

I don't want my name attached to any of these initiatives.

I don't want or need any more projects

My head hurts

I want my Mommy

This article by Reid Hastie should be mandatory reading for anyone who schedules a meeting.

For what we accomplished, we could have had this session in a one hour conference call. I really did not need to spend two days on plane and three nights in a hotel room. More, importantly, I didn't need to spend that much time with those people. Far too much time was spent in these mind numbing meeting and not enough on state side employees who actually work.

Our company did great last year. But due to uncertainties in the world, wages for the minions have been frozen at least for six months. Ugh

I'm sure we don't have the exclusive on silly meetings which explains why the economy is in the tank.

Both McNabbs /Teams Showed Up

2009-01-19T18:25:00.005-05:00

Everyone who bleeds green was stunned that our Eagles made it this far. HOWEVER, there was a cautious optimism amongst the faithful at Champs in King of Prussia.

I tested the football gods by changing my viewing habits. Some of my crew had game tickets or were watching the game at Chickie & Pete's. My family was spread out over the county.

My sane alternative was to watch the game with a buddy at Champs. The place was packed and the crowd was nuts. Even the wait staff was fired up. We were settled in for an afternoon of football. In the event of an Eagles win, we were prepared to watch the Steelers game.

I said to my companion," if the good McNabb shows up we are in great shape, if the devil McNabb shows up we're in trouble."

The first half was horrendous. Short passes, dropped passes, clock management struggles and the defense was a no-show. Special teams were dreadful.

One large party left at half-time. It was beginning to snow, I was beginning to question my judgement. If I was driving my old car, I would have called it an afternoon.

The second half got off to an awesome start. The restaurant rocked with each drive. Could the Eagles actually pull this off?

Warner unlike McNabb threw catch able passes and controlled the tempo of his game. Kudos to the Cardinals offense coordinator, Todd Haley. He simply out coached our defensive guru Jimmy Johnson. Damn.

Whether we like it or not, the Cardinals deserve the trip to Tampa. Our birds earned their trip to an early vacation. Larry Fitzgerald is tremendous. A no drama wide receiver who can catch anything.

Sadly, we may have seen the end of Runyan, Dawkins and even Westbrook. All have had good runs, but the Eagles management as a history of disposing of older players.

Reid and McNabb will both be back. Reid needs to stick to coaching and let someone else make critical personnel changes.

McNabb needs to be able to thread the needle to his receivers. Sigh.

In parting, my friend said "You know, both McNabbs and Eagles showed up, the good Eagles weren't strong enough to pull it off."

Needless to say, I watched the Steelers game at home. (On a serious, note prayers go out to Ravens Willis McGahee. After a legal but nasty blow, he was taken from the field on a stretcher. A painful reminder of the brutality of the sport.)

The Phillies won, Obama is our new President, my baseball team won in Florida, the Eagles winning is just pushing my luck.

Oh well, there's always next year.

It's almost over

2009-01-19T16:16:00.004-05:00

Yet again, the weather folks got it wrong. We were supposed to have a snow shower and the inches are adding up. My community service project will have to occur on another day.

Being home, I've been granted the space to reflect. Our national nightmare is almost over. W will return to civilian life, no longer in a position to work through his unresolved issues at the expense of our country.

Lord only knows how long and how many resources it will take to correct the mess created in the last eight years. Maybe the grown ups will stand up and assist Obama manage our country. Will there be a return to civility that was lost after Bush 41 left office? God, I hope so.

The Clintons arrival to DC was never accepted, the hicks from Hope. The insanity began before Bubba took the oath of office. His inability to be disciplined and her codependency did not help the situation.

I must give W credit, he single handily created an activist citizenry. There were civic discussions. Some civil, others not so much. People were engaged. We, as a community, no longer ignored the elephant in the room, our prejudices and racist tendencies.

Our work as citizens has just begun. We have to do better. We have to be responsible. If you are making $40K you can't afford a $700k house. If you can't afford something, maybe you should wait. Is saving for a big screen TV so bad? Do you really need a new car every three years?

We managed to get over ourselves. We listened to message and did not get stuck on the pigmentation of the messenger.

Thank God, Obama did not know his place and wait his turn. Thank God, he is reaching out to everyone. Concept? A President of the United States, not just a base.

While bouncing around Tuscany, I a sense of being an AMERICAN, not an African-American.

Maybe, Bush should have spent more time outside our wonderful borders to get a better appreciation of the wonders of us.

We have once again, transitioned power without bloodshed. How many countries can reflect on their histories and boast this?

W hop on your bike and ride into the sunset..... you were and continue to be a failure.

May God forgive you...

Home

2009-01-10T09:47:00.005-05:00

I awoke to find a snow covered community. Just enough to be beautiful, not enough to be a hazard. There is a certain stillness that comes with the first real snow.

I am entrenched at a recently opened Cosi, which provides an alternative to my living room for writing. With my work and personal activities, it is all too easy to retreat to the comfort of home away from the psychic energy of other humans.

I have been Home a week. My body is finally adjusting to Eastern Standard Time and the mundane all too familiar rituals of my corporate existence.

After spending a wonderful Christmas brunch with my family, my daughter deposited me at the International terminal where I began MY Christmas present to myself.

My friends had began this journey on Christmas Eve. They had one day of Tuscany under their belt before I left the states. There was no way I would miss hanging out with the tribe for Christmas. So I would take this leg solo.

A dear friend and coworker helped me with planning this portion of my trip. I had mastered enough Italian to be dangerous. But I figured, with a big old smile and pleading eyes people would help me along the way.

The flight was uneventful. But I made a decision at that instance, if first class was available on the return trip I would snag it. Even though the plane was big, I'm a tall girl and my luck in snagging an exit row seat had ran out.

I was surprised to find the signs in the terminal in Italian and English, very helpful for a weary traveller.

My other surprise was the lack of toilet seats. At first, I thought there was a problem with my first choice. The lady following behind me was as befuddled as I. Little could I anticipate this was the norm in this lovely country than the the exception. Hell it's not like when you are traveling you would spend your life in the bathroom. Dear God. The things you take for granted.

After a short trip on their regional rail line, on the advice of my associate, I purchased a first class seat on their hi-speed line.

I struggled to stay awake to absorb the Italian setting but the swaying of the train rocked me to sleep like a baby in a cradle.

Before I rocked out, I managed to take in the countryside. Remnants of lookout towers dotted the landscape. It was if I was stepping back in time. Very Cool.

It was the day after Christmas, as expected not much activity for these folks were in holiday mode too.

I was met shortly after arrival in Florence by my fellow explorers. One of our posse found a lovely apartment not far from the train in the heart of Florence.

With the clock ticking on this adventure, I sucked down a quick cup of coffee and we were off to take in Florence. We kept up this pace until we left.

It is truly a struggle to find the right words to describe this city. Although I was a history major and had one semester of Art History under my belt, I was not prepared to ingest the enormity of the art.

Michaelangelo, Donatello, Rafael, artists a more astute lover of art would be familiar works were everywhere.

Famous sculptures sprinkled the city with a frequency of a Starbucks. Wow, became a redundant refrain. There were buildings still standing dating back to 1200. We can't seem to build infrastructure that lasts more than ten years. Ok, so they had slave labor. I digress.

Mind you the rulers in this period raped pillaged and treated the citizens poorly, but the artists of the day were commissioned and celebrated.

We walked everywhere which was critical for two reasons, not to miss anything and to walk off

our meals.

I discovered early on, Italians breakfast does not include eggs or oatmeal. A shot of espresso and pastry and that's it. To go or carryout is a practice adopted purely for invading tourists.

They stand up to an espresso bar, suck down their espresso and they are on their way.

You do not see people walking around with a cup in their hand. A very familiar scene here.

So we ate a light breakfast in the apartment daily and enjoyed very leisurely lunches and dinners.

We did not have a bad meal anywhere. The food was fresh, prepared with a ton of attention and we were never rushed.

Seafood, lamb and the cheese were my favorites. We closed several establishments but it was never a problem. I'm afraid it will take some time before a return to my favorite local Italian restaurants.

Taking a break from the intensity of the Florence art, we took two day trips, Pisa one day and Sienna and San Gimignano another.

My life partner (more than friend but smart enough not to see each other naked) took the wheel of our tiny vehicle. He was the perfect driver. He just drove.

Anyone else in our group would have spent far too much time thinking about the traffic patterns. Rome was in a completely different league. As he opined, "once you learn there are no rules, its easy."

The tower in Pisa certainly does lean. Did we venture to the the top? Ah no.

Sienna was lovely but I loved San Gimignano was my favorite. It was a still operational medieval community. Seeing modern panties hanging out to dry from the stone structures amused me for some reason. The tiny cars struggling to make it up the streets clearly created for horses seemed surreal.

The city of towers was built high in the hills and surrounded by walls were created to minimize invaders.

Artists, storekeepers, and of course tourists keep this walled city vibrant. The view from the city serves to inspire local artists to capture its beauty on blank canvas. It was cool to see the artists working on their pieces as we strolled in to look at their completed projects.

Amazing.

We wrapped up our trip in Rome. We were greeted at our hotel by friend of the family who is spending a year in Italy. It was great see her and her visiting pal.

I'm really not sure how we pulled it off but we saw the top ten ancient attractions in a very short window of time.

We rang in the New Year at the Spanish Steps after a far too much New Year's eve dinner.

The fireworks started about 20 minutes before midnight. Everyone did their own countdown because there was no official time keeper.

Then we ventured down the Spanish Steps and hung out with our new best friends at the Trevi Fountain.

Way cool.

Our flight on New Year's day was at 11:30 which did not require us to get up too early.

Thank God, there was a first class seat within my budget available which put an exclamation point on the trip. I've wanted to visit Italy since I was in the sixth grade. I was not disappointed.

My friend and Rick Steve were invaluable for our trip.

The one thing I know for sure, is that the trip was too short. But it was great to greeted by kid and my country.

Hopefully, the toilet seat issue will be resolved on my next visit.

It is nice to see other places, but it always nice to return home.

The Fever has broken

2008-11-10T08:05:00.005-05:00

I am currently looking at the Gulf of Mexico. The timing of my baseball team's tournament this year is perfect. I left PA Saturday morning and I am just now feeling human. Winning would be fabulous but the time with the boys and the beach time is critical. If the weather stays this great I would be thrilled.

Like many other concerned/frightened citizens, I threw myself into the task of getting Obama and the line candidates elected. The whole work thing at times seem to be an unwelcome intruder on my mission.

PA had become a critical player in this election and I could not live with myself, if I sat on the sidelines. My friends and family knew I was serious when I skipped many of my other activities such as baseball and football.

The Phillies second season provided a wonderful diversion from the intensity of my campaign duties. To quote our shy second baseman, "We're world fucking champions."

I stopped at the local staging office the Sunday before the election and "Wow." The diversity of the volunteers was incredible. We were so well staffed the Obama campaign was able to deploy most of the members of their team to another location. I'm convinced that this team of people would have barely spoke to one another if they passed each other on the street. It was surreal. It was awesome. All were driven by the fear of Obama not getting elected.

I went to work the day before E-Day. I'm really not sure why. My office became the place where a few of my employees just paced in silence.

Noticing the silent pacing, one of associates finally inquired "You Ok?"

Almost tersely, "Losing is not an option. Not to be melodramatic, but our democracy hangs in the balance."

"It will be fine," he gently replied.

Working the polls the next day, my anxiety only increased. My fellow poll workers were not much better The flow of voters did not slow down until 3:30. Our precinct had a 79 percent turnout. We represented the coveted Philly suburbs.

Friends from all over the region started texting me around 4. Their locations were equally pleasantly insane.

Some friends joined me and my local committee folks at a local pub to watch the returns. It was cool watching the returns on the large screens. It was far more exciting than energy generated from the World Series.

When they announced the PA results, a loud roar went up. We were still too tense get cocky.

The Ohio returns made the crowd nervously giddy.

11:02 they finally called it for Obama. First silence. Then cheers that shook the building.

My buddy from Romania called his Dad. The tears were flowing. My daughter called to make sure it was real. Followed by a stream of friends and family who were celebrating.

I was too exhausted to feel, let alone sob.

Finally, I turned to a friend of 20 plus to see his tears just flowing. In between the tears, he uttered "we did it."

I've seen this man cry when his mother passed.

Wow.

I did not speak to my folks until the next morning. How silly of me not to call the night before.

"Of course we were awake, your younger brother and your daughter called," they scolded. We just laughed.

They too, were just trying absorb the moment.

My parents went to segregated schools in PA. They were the unknown foot soldiers in the civil rights movement.

They were instrumental in getting black history introduced to the curriculum.

How wonderful that we all got to witness this moment.

I did not fully understand the slow burning rage that I have been carrying for eight years. It is only Monday and I feel like a life time has passed.

I am no longer tense. My rage is gone. The fever has broken.

Election Eve

2008-11-03T21:30:00.000-05:00

Pennsylvania is ground zero. Like most of my friends, I have been heavily involved in the election since before the Primary. Writing will hopefully ease my anxiousness. Three of my employees who have been voluteering are stuggling to remain in their seats today. Pacing in my office is permitted.

Wherever you go, the election is the only thing people are talking about. The Phillies post season actiivites were a welcome diversion. But after the parade, most spent the weekend on GOTV efforts.

When I stopped by Region 4's office yesterday it was bustling with activity. While tired all were saying we got to get folks to the polls.

My 21 year old daughter assurred me that her peers would defintely vote. She has volunteered to work a couple of hours at the polls tomorrow, which is so cool.

You people did it again!

2008-10-19T15:13:00.002-04:00

The biggest robbery has taken place and these bastards continue to blame brown people for the economic Wall Street blunders.

Bastards.

h/t afro-netzien

Palin, Kato Kalin, Surreal Life

2008-10-19T14:46:00.003-04:00

Sarah you had your fifteen minutes of fame. Like the folks who found themselves over their heads hosting TV shows, I'm sure Fox will offer you a show.

After a brief stint, your show will be cancelled and you will become a the answer to a Trivia question.

Do yourself, your family and more importantly your country, just go home. The McCain Pageant is over.

h/t Thomas Edsall.

Phillies, Lions, Tigers and Bears...Oh MY

2008-10-19T14:01:00.004-04:00

After the Phillies clinched a berth to the World Series, my daughter and her buddies tried to buy, without success, T-Shirts on line. They sold out immediately.

My daughter who is always thinking and plotting, realized a Modell's was minutes from my office. My cell phone exploded early Thursday morning with a order for shirts. "I promise to get your money back, world's best Mom."

I hate to shop, especially in the mall.

Caught in a weak moment, I planned my mall mission. I'd take a late lunch, swoop in and out of the mall 15-20 minutes max. My associate amused at my plight, concurred with my strategy.

1:30pm I began my journey. Arriving at the mall five minutes later, the light parking lot gave me hope.

My bounty: 2 mediums, 1 2XL and 1 for the little guy.

The only store with customers was.........Modells. It was pandemonium. The clerks were trying to restore some order to the shirts on the tables, and process the Phanatics as quickly as practical.

Most of my fellow customers were on their cell phones confirming orders.

Those standing in line were sharing tales of where they watched the game.

Mission Accomplished, I returned to my office, one hour and twenty minutes later. My associate looked at the clock and smirked "20 minutes max, huh." "Whatever" as a turned into my office.

I called my daughter to let her know how I swan through piranhas, fought the locust and survived the hail storm but I secured her shirts.

There was a brief silence before she said "Did you kill Lions, Tigers and Bears?" cracking up at the retort.

Oh my....

Go Phillies!

W success

2008-10-19T13:35:00.005-04:00

W was and is a failure. He managed to trump Nixon and Hoover in the race for the worst President.

However, he has succeeded in doing what no Democrat or Democrat apparatus has been able to do...........destroy the conservative brand of the Republican Party.

The "silent majority" originating with Nixon, further developed by Reagan are moving away from the Republicans.

Anyone not sleeping in a cave knows the litany of reasons why. As the pundits argue the last election, the "sleeping majority" is casting a shadow over the room.

They have not been polled because they are too busy working just to pay their bills. They did not buy homes they could not afford, their friends and family are diverse. They love their country, the God of their choice, lover of their choosing and the children they chose to raise.

They are worried about the air we breathe, the human and physical infrastructure, the safety of our food and toys.

They don't give a damn about whether how our President worships or even if he or she worships. They want and need a leader.

Team W ignored the "sleeping majority". For those who weren't spurred into action by the environment, Katrina and a senseless bank breaking war, the Wall street debacle woke them from their fitful slumber.

Well done W, you managed to call to action our citizenry and destroy a machine built on the amass of power for power sake.

Powell endorsement another safe move?

2008-10-19T12:44:00.004-04:00

Yesterday, I attended a baby shower for my cousin. Like weddings and funerals, these events bring together family and friends who, because of life, rarely gather. Our family is a mix of everything, black, white and hispanic. Occupations range from bartender, attorney, entrepreneurs and even insurance executives.

In the middle of those God-awful silly baby shower games, (Why ladies? Why?) Powell's scheduled appearance surfaced in the conversation.

An older militant cousin was thrilled in anticipation of his endorsement of Obama. "Isn't that great?," she enthused.

"Big deal, he is trying desperately to repair his image. Powell is an American hero. His luster lost it's shine after he used his credibility when he presented closing arguments for this war, " I countered.

Swiftly, " he only presented what he was told, and he even resigned."

"Powell was the only one in the administration the public thought put the country first. He privately challenged the intel he presented to the world." His so called resignation would had more of an effect if the timing were before his famous sales job, " I replied.

Gee, wouldn't been nice if Powell would have endorsed Obama when it really mattered?

The room grew silent.

With a smile, she patted her well groomed short afro, "you could always give me a tussle."

I gave her a hug, "A must in this family."

The shower games continued............

Challenging the Absurdity of a Race Vote

2008-10-14T16:30:00.002-04:00

Some folks in my country can't seem to bring themselves to vote for Obama for no other reason that the color of his skin.

Trumka's moving speech to his membership represents the change that has already occurred.

Krugman wins economic Nobel Prize

2008-10-13T23:17:00.001-04:00

Good for him.

US Brand has lost shine

2008-10-13T23:01:00.003-04:00

I'm am constantly mystified at the beatification of Ronald Reagan. He was a B- Actor and a D plus President. His Voodoo economics were the playbook for massive debt he left Bush I and Bubba. The firing of the air traffic controllers let all workers know they serve their management masters.

With the Iran Contra mess he was either treacherous or inept, either choice was offensive to the average citizen.

Every Republican candidate evokes his name constantly. The MSM is not much better. Our friends from across the pond are not blinded by Reagan.

When the US is referred to in the same context as the former Roman Empire, the beginning of the end, began with St. Ronnie.

Bush, Barker, Bonnie & Clyde

2008-10-13T22:51:00.002-04:00

The final act of destroying our democracy is robbing the taxpayers blind in plain sight. This post is scary.

h/t Octafish

"You're not the boss of me"

2008-10-13T22:44:00.003-04:00

Can't you just see Palin talking to officials....... I'm the Governor, I can do what I want...

God help us.

Manny My Nightmare

2008-10-13T22:18:00.004-04:00

I was lucky enough to attend the Phillies game on Friday. It was my first playoff game. The invitation call lasted about 10 seconds.

The seats were in the Hall of Fame Section. A sell out crowd. The electricity was amazing.

Of course the boys had to make it far too interesting. The game was a welcome diversion from work, the market and even campaign activities.

There was one loud intoxicated, Dodger fan, sportin' a Manny shirt. Why would you?

I'm convinced a guy who does that must the need to be center of attention or is woefully inadequate in bed. Eventually, security told him to pipe down or she would not be responsible for his safety.

The game had a whacky start time of 4:30. The weather was a perfect 70 degrees. Indian summer in the Northeast. My companions and I were thrilled to be at Citizen Park watching the Phils in October. Always optimistic in April, totally basking in the reality of a fall outing.

After Moyer's dreadful game and watching tonight's game unfold..........

Friday seems like a distant memory.

Update: Victorino and Matt Stairs hit Home Runs. Stairs just crushed that pitch....ah Matt Stairs? The Phillies picked him up at the end of August. Hooray for us...

Top of the 8th, the Phillies are up by 2....

What will tomorrow bring?

2008-10-13T22:11:00.003-04:00

The market was insane last week. The banks were closed today, celebrating the man who found an country that wasn't lost. The markets closed today up, Lord only knows what will happen tomorrow.

All of my friends, regardless of party affiliation have come to terms with the notion of no retirement. All are still reeling from the bailout.

Would you like a little socialism with those fries?

Full Moon, William Kristol, Fire Campaign?

2008-10-13T22:01:00.003-04:00

My goodness, uber conservative, Billy Boy Kristol has publicly certified the McCain campaign a train wreck. The fact the campaign is a mess is not news. The public fatigue by folks like Kristol simply amuses me.

Palin Channels Nixon

2008-10-13T21:54:00.002-04:00

A bi-partisan committee has found that Palin and her husband are vindictive and abused the authority of her office.

Can you image what this dynamic duo would do with the FBI at their disposal?

Go Figure

2008-10-06T19:23:00.002-04:00

Wow, the former CEO of Bank of America endorses Obama..........

Thoughts from the barstool: "Bush Sucks and So Does Congress"

2008-10-06T18:57:00.004-04:00

Saturday night I attended three fundraisers, two political and one for local kid who earned a spot on a travelling baseball team. The child is the son of one of my baseball players. His event was the final leg of my journey, in Delaware County. Ground Zero for Presidential politics in PA. First generation college educated but mostly blue collar. Sestak replaced Weldon in 2006 shocking the country.

In short order, I ran into my third baseman. He is one of the few guys on my team that I chat about stuff other than sports.

I was surprised at how quickly the conversation turned to our nation's capital. He was not feeling the bailout. It represented what is wrong with our society.

Only the little guy is held accountable for screwing up, he began.

Taking a swig of beer, I don't want somebody who wants to drink with with me. I have plenty of folks who will do that.....

I want a President who runs my country. My God, where the hell is Bush? He sucks and so does Congress. We didn't just get here. I've been a Republican all my life, but McCain scares the hell out of me. I wish Obama was older. I couldn't give a damn about his color or his religion but his lack of experience really bothers me. What's her name Palin? I'd do her but for her to be in charge of the country.....Does the President actually run the country????

Nobody in DC is running the country. I hate them all....

His rant over, we turned to the Phillies losing effort. I was pleasantly surprised at his passion for something other than baseball.

Bush has done what many of his predecessors failed to do, engaged the citizens.

Good News

2008-10-06T18:51:00.000-04:00

OJ Simpson: An American Tragedy

2008-10-06T18:24:00.004-04:00

OJ had the world by the balls. Hall of Fame football career; lucrative post football career; loving friends and family.

He dumped his loyal first wife for young blonde beauty, made a couple more kids. Because of his insane behavior, the beautiful blonde took a hike. But no, OJ read too many press clippings. He was the man and refused to be dumped.

The same percentage of Americans who think W is doing a good job represent the same percentage of clueless wonders who think some other than OJ killed Nicole and Ron.

The not guilty verdict left me stunned. What further surprised me was how the black community embraced this man. OJ walked away that community YEARS ago.

For anyone to suggest OJ faced the same indignities as any black man in Compton or LA is just absurd.

His money, fame and a lousy DA department bought OJ a second chance the average black man would kill for.

Maybe it was guilt or the makings of a really bad Edgar Allen Poe saga, that led OJ to break into the hotel room on that fateful evening.

You would have thought he would have quietly rode off into the sunset. Hell, when MJ was found not guilty he had enough sense to leave the freakin' country.

Not OJ, he dropped his pants and mooned the world. Now, he will probably spend the rest of his life in prison. You can't convince me that the other verdict didn't loom in their subconscious. I have zero sympathy for this man. He simply wasn't a nice person and was too arrogant to get out of his own way.

What a dumbass.............

Kisses for Pat

2008-10-06T18:00:00.003-04:00

I have to admit I developed a soft spot for Pat Burrell. It developed the end of last season. He finally found his swing.

He lumbers in the outfield and moves down the first base line like a freight train versus the Acela like speed of Ryan Howard. For a big boy Howard can move.

I was calling for his head for years but no one would take him because of his huge price tag. This year, when da boys bats were cold as ice, Burrell kept us in the mix.

For the first time in his career, he deserved to be an all star.

Yeah, he has been struggling but so has poster boy Utley.

Burrell stepped up and found his groove when we needed him the most, truly the sign of a gamer.

Lots of kisses to him and Manuel.

Re-Sign him next year for a reduced salary. He has earned the right to end his career in Philly.

Broken Ribs, Broken Economy

2008-10-06T17:50:00.002-04:00

I spent part of my day getting my hair braided. When I emerged from the salon, I flipped on the radio as the market was descending by 785 points. Accepting the fact, I will NEVER retire, I switched to the local sports station to find out Brian Westbrook had three broken ribs.

Thank God for the Phillies because the Eagles Offensive line, Akers' reliability and Reid's play calling are in the witness protection program.

Seize their Assets

2008-10-06T17:46:00.002-04:00

It's lovely that Waxman and Company grilled the banking executives. But I would really love to see the seizure of their assets.

With their parting packages, the bankers and their heirs will live quite comfortably while others will land on the roles of the unemployment line.

Philly Hawaiian Punch

2008-10-03T17:08:00.002-04:00

On a pleasant note, my Phillies are winning. Myers did an incredible job of working the count setting the table for Victorino. Sean crushed the ball

Hooray for Philly......

Palin investigation continues...

2008-10-03T17:02:00.002-04:00

Before she was on the short list for McCain, Palin told the folks Alaska, that "she welcomed the investigation" into the firing of the slob who refused to fire her brother-in-law.

Mom always said "Be careful what you ask for, you just may get it."

She sounds like Shrub's declaration of "Bring in on."

Just what we need Shrub in heels.......

Closing California

2008-10-03T16:54:00.003-04:00

What's another billion between friends?

Did you really expect to retire?

My advice is to find a gig you really, really love because you will be doing it until you die..

McCain's Bankruptcy Stance

2008-10-03T16:45:00.003-04:00

With so many talking points being shoved in Palin's head in three days, so stuff she is going to get wrong....

Bankruptcy protection for second, third, and fourth homeowners.........screw the poor slob who only has one...

A view from the corner office; sending workers to the unemployment line

2008-10-03T16:13:00.004-04:00

One of my senior associates, called off work today. He is taking a " I can't believe Fat Boy" still has job mental health day. This latest rounds of cuts seem to hit him particularly hard. He of course is grateful that he is still employed but wonders like everyone else, "Who's next?

Fat Boy is a gentleman, who came to our organization as a Chief Operation Officer of three divisions. In less than a year was demoted to President of One of those divisions. He subsequently was bumped down to a Mentor Producer sucking money out of my division.

If he was not draining revenue from my division, my numbers would be stellar. But no, our CEO has put his relationship with this life force above the survival of our unit. In order, for Fat Boy to stay employed, I had to lay of three women who were ACTUALLY working.

Fat Boy is in his early sixties, according to him, he is only working to create a legacy. So he has plenty of money and he is stealing income from the ladies who need the $35k per year to pay their bills.

He of course is a card carrying Republican and sees nothing wrong with stealing a check because he is trying to find himself.

Like our sitting President, FB has had fifteen jobs and was successful in none of them. But, he gets numerous chances to succeed because he is part of the old farts club.

My hope is the ladies who I had to let go find suitable work soon. As for FB, I hope his Viagra fails him...........

Paulson is open for business

2008-10-03T16:07:00.001-04:00

Why is Paulson still employed?

This is your definition of a win

2008-10-03T16:01:00.002-04:00

HMMM, Palin manages not to fall out of her shoes, throw up or disrobe on national TV and this is considered a win..............

Bailing out the Best and the Brightest?

2008-10-03T15:46:00.003-04:00

The "best and the brightest" are heavily recruited to Wall Street. These people were supposed to be smarter than the rest of us. What happened to business and personal responsibility?

Why do I think these people who showed up to DC begging for us the taxpayers to save their greedy assess are the same people who look down mere mortals who hit hard times?

I would hazard to guess these people these are registered republicans who complain about tax and spend democrats.

Well we have spend and spend republicans who refuse to accept responsibility for the risks they took in our current economic nightmare.

So much for the best and brightess....

South Philly Witness Protection Program for Palin

2008-09-28T14:33:00.003-04:00

Since when did South Philly serve as the Witness Protection Program for Republican Vice Presidential Candidates?

h/t Booman

Bush the MBA President

2008-09-28T14:09:00.004-04:00

I suppose W slept through most of his classes. He proudly boasted of his poor grades. Cs do get degrees.

It is amazing how much damage one administration can do to a democracy. He has walked to the beat of his own drum. When W didn't get in the way, Pappa sent in his SWAT to quietly clean up his mess.

Unfortunately, W was too stupid, stubborn or both to listen to his Dad or any adult for that matter. Pondering simply did not occur.

I assume crisis management is one of the required courses in any MBA program. To our horror, W and company has created one crisis after another.

McCain's campaign is one crisis after another. The selection of Palin as his runny mate speaks to McCain's judgement.

His attitude about the economy and his erratic behavior this week scares me. If he can't manage himself and his campaign, how on earth is he going to manage our country?

Clinton was impeached for lying about a blow job. Life was so simple then........

No Thanks to McCain's Suspension Bridge to Nowhere

2008-09-28T13:49:00.004-04:00

A friend of mine always calls to chat after significant political events. Late Friday, we conducted our own week in review wrap up.

Sadly, we concluded that McCain is actually worse than Bush after we watched McCain's non-campaign.

For the good of our country, he should terminate his campaign and let the adults salvage what's left.

I trust McCain learned one lesson this week.............

Don't mess with David Letterman

KKK invades Debate Site

2008-09-28T10:59:00.005-04:00

I'm glad Time published this article. What is not lost on me are two glaring points, the leader of this organization chose not to provide his name and there were students who asked for additional information.

Like it or not racism and bigotry is deep in our country's DNA. The Obama campaign has brought out the best and the worst of who we are.....

With the Klan, you know where you stand. What frightens me are those who don't acknowledge their bigotry. Speaking about those people when you don't think someone you speak of is in the room is a problem that the Republicans do not have an exclusive.

Litigatormom welcome to the team

2008-09-28T10:45:00.002-04:00

This is an example of how important the debates are with this election. Every vote counts.

Join me in welcoming litigatormom to the the Obama team!

McCain Humiliated at his own party

2008-09-28T10:36:00.002-04:00

If true, this explains why McCain refused to even look at Obama........

I guess if I was unprepared for a meeting that I orchestrated, I would be humiliated too.

h/t Josh Marshall

McCain, Horseshit, Debate

2008-09-28T10:30:00.002-04:00

h/t Brendan Calling...

I missed it but Brendan didn't

Lance Rogers Hosts Rally for Joe Lieberman

2008-09-28T10:01:00.003-04:00

I received an robo call from Commissioner Lance Rogers. He is hosting a Rally for Joe Lieberman today at 3:00 pm. 22 West Lancaster Avenue, Ardmore, PA

Lieberman should be shown a little Philly love.....

Bailing out the Bastards

2008-09-28T09:42:00.002-04:00

I don't know about you but this just chaps my backside........

AIG: Bullishit Balance Sheet

2008-09-28T08:48:00.005-04:00

"It is hard for us without being flippant, to even see a scenario within any kind of realm of reason that would see us losing one dollar in any of those transactions."

-Joseph J. Cassano,

former AIG insurance executive

August 2007

The day after Cassano uttered that sentenced, he should have fired and the books examined.

By creating this hybrid product these criminals were able to skirt the insurance regulators. The bottom line was this was an a re-insurance product.

What does that mean? Insurance companies rarely assume all of their risk. Depending on the nature of the risk, re-insurance companies buy the coverage at a certain level. For example, after claim reaches $500,000 a re-insurance carrier starts paying. This is all seamless transaction to the paying customer.

AIG as usual was playing by their own rules. Well, the rest of us have to play industry rules and regulations. What entity was created to make a ton of money without reporting their activities. This was done to intentionally. Isn't intent a criteria for pressing charges?

The feds are looking into what brought our economy to the brink of collapse. My hope is a whistle blower will emerge to assist with the investigation.

Cassano should be rooming with the boys from Enron and WorldCom.

But we should really need to look at our societal values. Clearly, we learned nothing from the dotcom mess. McMansions, multi-properties, easy credit brought us all to this point.

Our priorities are fucked up. Our human and physical infrastructures are woefully underfunded. I make a decent buck and pay a lot of taxes. Spending our tax dollars wisely should be an issue.

When a bridge collapses, it does not discriminated by party affiliation. When our kids are not prepared to compete in this global economy who pays? Everybody.

Outsourcing jobs has become the norm. What drives my company is Revenue by Employee. By outsourcing entry level jobs, the immediate result is improved margins.

Let's look at the long term implications. A person learned or business from the ground up. By performing these funky tasks one learned the business. Remember apprenticeships or internships? Well folks, these are gone. If you don't have an expertise, staff development simply does not occur.

In the dark ages of the '80s, insurance companies hired college graduates and put them through internal schools. This included, knowing what do with all of the silverware in a restaurant. It was an investment in you and their future.

What is critical, you were given an opportunity. Hell, a clerk with a high school diploma who worked smart would be given an chase to work his or her way up.

My God what if anything have we learned from recent events?

Lidge: Sure Load the F@#$%ing bases

2008-09-28T08:19:00.003-04:00

For the most part, the game was not eventful, until the last inning. Just for the theatrics of it all, Lidge our money closer, loaded the bases. Ugh.

I am watching in horror, running numerous outcomes in my head, none good. "Once again, these bastards are not going to wrap this puppy up until the last game. If they don't blow that game." Lidge should be called Ledge. Now, he gets nervous. Mix up the pitches and for God sake keep them low. You are not alone, just throw a double play pitch. You don't even have to strike 'em out. Holy hell."

It is amazing how many scenarios can run through your head in between pitches.

Then it happened, a clutch play by trashing talking J-Ro.

Unlike, Gonzalez, the author of this piece, and his buddy Wax, I was a sophomore in college, the last time the Phillies the series.

I know what that looks like and I want another....

Conservatism, Voodoo Economics and the Elephant in the room

2008-09-26T14:24:00.001-04:00

h/t smirking chip

Long but worth it....

Ed Rollins: GOP Party First

2008-09-26T11:29:00.001-04:00

The House Republicans are putting the party before our country..................hmmmmm