In 2011, the Federal Reserve and other agencies, in response to Dodd-Frank legislation and the mortgage explosion in the sub-prime market, decided to tighten lending rules for Qualified Residential Mortgages (QRMs). These are mortgages where the buyer must put 20% down on the purchase, have viable assets, personally fund his own closing costs and not exceed 36% total debt to income, including all housing costs.
But on Wednesday, citing the dismal recovery in the housing market and rising rates, the Fed and other regulators announced that the rules on QRMs would be relaxed in order to stimulate the market and give many more people an opportunity to purchase a home. This would include a proposal to not require any down payment and a debt to income ratio of 43%. In exchange, banks who make these loans would hold a 5% stake in the loans sold off on the secondary market.
What????
Isn't this how banks, mortgage companies and private investors caused the financial meltdown in the last decade? Isn't this why our economy has not yet rebounded? Isn't this why foreclosures were at an all time high over the last four years? And, isnt this why so many people are still under water between the outstanding loans on the home and the real value the house is worth?
As a retired banker and as a former mortgage broker, I can assure you that I saw some crazy, questionable and unethical loans made to people who had no business buying a house. In addition, appraisals made for those homes were based on recent sales in a zip code, not from within a two- or three-block radius. 95% to 106% financing was not uncommon, and verification of income or the ability to pay the loan was virtually non-existent.
After the housing bust and the failure of the FSLIC in the late 80s, FDIC-insured institutions were required to make certain specific lending requirements were followed, including making loans with full income and full asset verification. As the market recovered during the 90s and the economy rebounded from the stock market crash from October, 1987, the Clinton administration relaxed the rules and allowed more people to purchase a home who previously were not qualified to do so. And the Bush Administration continued this reckless policy.
It's time for the regulators to rethink their off-based ideas now and recant those floating presently in the market. Obviously, realtors welcome this so that they can start making the nice commissions they enjoyed up until five years ago. After all, once the deal closes, there is no penalty to them for any default by the buyer. And banks, even if they have to keep a 5% stake, have a minimal loss should the borrower fails to make the loan payment after they sell the loan.
No, the only person on the hook will once again be the taxpayer, as the government shores up the bad loans via bailout. And remember that nine banks control over 65% of all dollars in the banking industry, which the Federal Reserve deems "Too Big To Fail".
I wrote about this on April 8 in Banking 101. I hope those who make the decision understand that those who fail to learn from the mistakes made in history are doomed to repeat them.
Or, next time, the pain of the lesson may be permanent.
Friday, August 30, 2013
A Burning Issue
I have written on this topic many times and I am pleased to report that the Obama administration announced on Thursday that it will not prosecute those who possess small amounts of marijuana for recreational or medicinal purposes in states where it is permitted. This is a huge departure from previous enforcement by the federal government.
However, a department official stressed, however, that marijuana remains illegal under federal law, and that U.S. prosecutors will continue to aggressively enforce the law against those who sell marijuana to minors and to criminal gangs that are involved in drug trafficking.
There are presently twenty states which currently permit possession of marijuana for medicinal services and two, Colorado and Washington, which permit recreational use.
This is a major step to finally admit that marijuana should be treated the same as alcohol and tobacco. Presently, both the federal government and the several states realize tremendous tax revenue on both these "vice" products, and depending on how Colorado and Washington finally achieve financial security from taxing pot for recreational use, that will provide the blueprint for other states to follow suit.
But the usage of marijuana for medicinal purposes should definitely be advanced through the remaining states via the 10th amendment. It has been proven over and over again that the benefits of pot for those who suffer from cancer and other painful illnesses, outweighs any detriment caused by its criminalization.
A huge step has been taken. Let's now take the right path to resolve pot possession as a crime and pursue the drug issues that really matter, like heroin and prescription drug abuse.
However, a department official stressed, however, that marijuana remains illegal under federal law, and that U.S. prosecutors will continue to aggressively enforce the law against those who sell marijuana to minors and to criminal gangs that are involved in drug trafficking.
There are presently twenty states which currently permit possession of marijuana for medicinal services and two, Colorado and Washington, which permit recreational use.
This is a major step to finally admit that marijuana should be treated the same as alcohol and tobacco. Presently, both the federal government and the several states realize tremendous tax revenue on both these "vice" products, and depending on how Colorado and Washington finally achieve financial security from taxing pot for recreational use, that will provide the blueprint for other states to follow suit.
But the usage of marijuana for medicinal purposes should definitely be advanced through the remaining states via the 10th amendment. It has been proven over and over again that the benefits of pot for those who suffer from cancer and other painful illnesses, outweighs any detriment caused by its criminalization.
A huge step has been taken. Let's now take the right path to resolve pot possession as a crime and pursue the drug issues that really matter, like heroin and prescription drug abuse.
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Middle East or KXL
Yes, America, it's Labor Day weekend. The driving season will be coming to an end after Monday. Vacations will be done, at least for a while. So, that means gas prices will finally drop, right?
Well, folks, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but maybe not.
Gas prices have hovered around 3.55 a gallon nationally all summer. But due to the crises in Syria and Egypt, along with the bellicose language coming from Iran, it appears instead that the prices will be increasing, at least for the short term.
Presently, prices on Long Island are at 3.75 a gallon. In California, if you are in Sacramento, it is 3.47, in Los Angeles it's 3.75 and in Malibu, it's 3.90.
If you calculate a ten percent increase, that's a bump of almost 40 cents a gallon. For a vehicle with a 15 gallon tank, that's a $6.00 increase per fill up. If the troubles continue into the winter, and prices continue to climb, the pain at the pump will be worse.
Perhaps, now is the time to finally decide to built the Keystone pipeline (KXL). The Canadians are ready, the states in the central US are ready, Texas is ready. We need to wean ourselves from Mid East oil, Russian oil, even Brazilian oil.
Environmentalists need to make the concession that we now have the technology to extract oil and natural gas cleanly and efficiently. It's not 1973 anymore. And coal burning is no longer the dirty process it was in years past.
We have enough oil under our two countries according to geologists to last us well over a century. We have been dickering with alternative fuel sources since the first oil embargo in 1973 and we really are no closer now than we were then. We have developed the technology to utilize solar, wind and nuclear energy, but not safely for nuclear or cheaply for all these sources.
So, understand that energy independence equals national security. Because if we are not independent from those who control energy resources, how secure can we truly be?
After all, he who holds the gold makes the rules.
Well, folks, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but maybe not.
Gas prices have hovered around 3.55 a gallon nationally all summer. But due to the crises in Syria and Egypt, along with the bellicose language coming from Iran, it appears instead that the prices will be increasing, at least for the short term.
Presently, prices on Long Island are at 3.75 a gallon. In California, if you are in Sacramento, it is 3.47, in Los Angeles it's 3.75 and in Malibu, it's 3.90.
If you calculate a ten percent increase, that's a bump of almost 40 cents a gallon. For a vehicle with a 15 gallon tank, that's a $6.00 increase per fill up. If the troubles continue into the winter, and prices continue to climb, the pain at the pump will be worse.
Perhaps, now is the time to finally decide to built the Keystone pipeline (KXL). The Canadians are ready, the states in the central US are ready, Texas is ready. We need to wean ourselves from Mid East oil, Russian oil, even Brazilian oil.
Environmentalists need to make the concession that we now have the technology to extract oil and natural gas cleanly and efficiently. It's not 1973 anymore. And coal burning is no longer the dirty process it was in years past.
We have enough oil under our two countries according to geologists to last us well over a century. We have been dickering with alternative fuel sources since the first oil embargo in 1973 and we really are no closer now than we were then. We have developed the technology to utilize solar, wind and nuclear energy, but not safely for nuclear or cheaply for all these sources.
So, understand that energy independence equals national security. Because if we are not independent from those who control energy resources, how secure can we truly be?
After all, he who holds the gold makes the rules.
Summer Falls Down
Wow! Where did the summer go!?! It seems like only yesterday many of us opened our pools, dragged out the grills, planned the summer vacation. And now, it's time to pack it all away.
Yes, Friends, it's Labor Day weekend, the last unofficial hurrah to summer. I know the climatological end won't come for another three weeks, but soon, the kids will be well back to school, the days and nights will feel more brisk, and the NFL and NCAA will be dominating our sports.
Trees will begin their spectacular annual displays of color and we will be drinking apple cider, alcoholic or not, for the special taste of autumn. We will be decorating our homes with fall foliage, taking weekend jaunts to the country to pick pumpkins and cooking squash or baking pumpkin pie.
But, why is Labor Day, really? Well, in 1882, depending on the story you accept as true, either Matthew Maguire of the CLU or Peter McGuire of the AFL proposed the holiday to celebrate union workers' contributions to the American society. By 1894, after the tragedies of the Pullman Strike, President Grover Cleveland signed legislation making the first Monday in September a Federal holiday.
Other days were considered, as well, including International Workers Day and May Day, but were decided against due to the nascent communist, socialist and anarchist movements of the time associating with these dates.
So, folks, it's time to stop wearing the seersucker suits and the white pants and dresses. After Monday, you will not be the fashionista you are today, if you defy acceptable fashion sense by continuing to do so. Remember to set the TV this Saturday for college football and next Thursday for the start of the march to the Super Bowl.
And I'll take a mug of pumpkin ale with a slice of the pumpkin pie, thanks!
Yes, Friends, it's Labor Day weekend, the last unofficial hurrah to summer. I know the climatological end won't come for another three weeks, but soon, the kids will be well back to school, the days and nights will feel more brisk, and the NFL and NCAA will be dominating our sports.
Trees will begin their spectacular annual displays of color and we will be drinking apple cider, alcoholic or not, for the special taste of autumn. We will be decorating our homes with fall foliage, taking weekend jaunts to the country to pick pumpkins and cooking squash or baking pumpkin pie.
But, why is Labor Day, really? Well, in 1882, depending on the story you accept as true, either Matthew Maguire of the CLU or Peter McGuire of the AFL proposed the holiday to celebrate union workers' contributions to the American society. By 1894, after the tragedies of the Pullman Strike, President Grover Cleveland signed legislation making the first Monday in September a Federal holiday.
Other days were considered, as well, including International Workers Day and May Day, but were decided against due to the nascent communist, socialist and anarchist movements of the time associating with these dates.
So, folks, it's time to stop wearing the seersucker suits and the white pants and dresses. After Monday, you will not be the fashionista you are today, if you defy acceptable fashion sense by continuing to do so. Remember to set the TV this Saturday for college football and next Thursday for the start of the march to the Super Bowl.
And I'll take a mug of pumpkin ale with a slice of the pumpkin pie, thanks!
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Where's Dave?
In 1993, there was a nice, easy comedy called "Dave", a story of presidential impersonation. Essentially, the president (Kevin Kline) has a stroke and the president's senior aides (Frank Langella, Kevin Dunn), who don't like the vice president (Ben Kingsley), circumvent the 25th Amendment by hiring someone (again, Kevin Kline) to impersonate the president, while hoping the first lady (Sigourney Weaver) or the president's Secret Service detail (Ving Rhames) don't notice.
Got that?
The point here is that there is one scene in the movie where the president convenes a live cabinet meeting in the presence of the media to discuss appropriations for a project that would cost millions dollars to fund, while not cutting any discretionary expenses to pay for it. That sounds fairly familiar.
So the president goes around the table, asking each cabinet secretary why we continue to pay vendors, contractors, etc, while not getting equal value for monies already paid. Finally, everyone finds monies in their departments that can be withheld to fund the project, which happens to be a passion of the first lady's.
Unfortunately, while there is an excellent lesson to be made with this story and the take away is about common sense, in some cases, those to whom the lesson is addressed are not bright enough to understand the message. This is not a rant against one person or party against another; instead, it is a rant against all our politicians.
Too bad art and life do not always imitate each other when it comes to budget issues. There needs to be a sense of moderation in the upcoming battle to pass a budget and raise the debt ceiling. Compromise by both the President and the Democrats with the Speaker and the Republicans is essential if the people's business is to be done properly.
Otherwise, continued gridlock and fiscal irresponsibility will prevail, and the goals of all will be destroyed in the process. For the sake of a political edge.
Then, all the players in this drama will be at fault. And no one will be laughing.
Got that?
The point here is that there is one scene in the movie where the president convenes a live cabinet meeting in the presence of the media to discuss appropriations for a project that would cost millions dollars to fund, while not cutting any discretionary expenses to pay for it. That sounds fairly familiar.
So the president goes around the table, asking each cabinet secretary why we continue to pay vendors, contractors, etc, while not getting equal value for monies already paid. Finally, everyone finds monies in their departments that can be withheld to fund the project, which happens to be a passion of the first lady's.
Unfortunately, while there is an excellent lesson to be made with this story and the take away is about common sense, in some cases, those to whom the lesson is addressed are not bright enough to understand the message. This is not a rant against one person or party against another; instead, it is a rant against all our politicians.
Too bad art and life do not always imitate each other when it comes to budget issues. There needs to be a sense of moderation in the upcoming battle to pass a budget and raise the debt ceiling. Compromise by both the President and the Democrats with the Speaker and the Republicans is essential if the people's business is to be done properly.
Otherwise, continued gridlock and fiscal irresponsibility will prevail, and the goals of all will be destroyed in the process. For the sake of a political edge.
Then, all the players in this drama will be at fault. And no one will be laughing.
Sad Case of Depression
Cindy Sheehan, the mother of slain Army Specialist Casey Sheehan who died in Iraq in 2004 and who gained notoriety by camping outside then-President George W Bush's ranch during that summer, has announced her candidacy to challenge California Governor Jerry Brown for the Democrat nomination next year. She is a vocal critic of President Obama's foreign policy. Her memoir, "Peace Mom: A Mother's Journey Through Heartache to Activism", was published in 2006.
Previously, she had run in 2012 with Roseann Barr for Vice President on the Peace and Freedom Party line and as an independent in 2008 for Nancy Pelosi's seat, coming in second ahead of the Republican candidate.
Sheehan, who rode her bike to Sacramento from Davis, admitted that her campaign had not secured a permit for the event. Instead, she decided to piggyback on a news conference held by critics of the Brown administration's handling of prisons.
Since her son's death, her life has been in turmoil, first when her husband, Patrick Sheehan, filed for divorce and obtained it for irreconcilable differences, and then being sued by the IRS for not paying taxes, which she refuses to do, stating, " I feel like I gave my son to this country in an illegal and immoral war. I'll never get him back. And, so, if they can give me my son back, then I'll pay my taxes. And that's not going to happen."
Previously, she had run in 2012 with Roseann Barr for Vice President on the Peace and Freedom Party line and as an independent in 2008 for Nancy Pelosi's seat, coming in second ahead of the Republican candidate.
Sheehan, who rode her bike to Sacramento from Davis, admitted that her campaign had not secured a permit for the event. Instead, she decided to piggyback on a news conference held by critics of the Brown administration's handling of prisons.
Since her son's death, her life has been in turmoil, first when her husband, Patrick Sheehan, filed for divorce and obtained it for irreconcilable differences, and then being sued by the IRS for not paying taxes, which she refuses to do, stating, " I feel like I gave my son to this country in an illegal and immoral war. I'll never get him back. And, so, if they can give me my son back, then I'll pay my taxes. And that's not going to happen."
Sadly, Ms Sheehan has been made the butt of jokes by comedians for years, and by certain members of the media. She is a sincere individual, truly against war, certainly since her son's death.
There are many people who are against war, including me. But I am sure none of us have been put into the position where we have lost a child and have apparently been unable to cope with the loss.
Hopefully, someday, Ms Sheehan will find help and be able to put her life back in some semblance of order. Until then, she will continue to appear to be a kook, a whack-job, a crackpot. It's not fair that she is labeled this way.
She needs help for her depression, a severe mental illness that is ignored until it is too late.
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
The Price of AIDS
Sadly, I read a story late yesterday and again today in the LA Times about a porn actress who goes by the name Cameron Bay. This young woman was diagnosed with HIV, which initially came back inconclusive. The follow up blood test was positive.
She is a 28 year old woman who chose a life for herself most of us would not even consider, even in our top 150 career choices. The industry looks for young, attractive women who generally have no real acting talent, but who are told they have great careers ahead of them. This woman, like so many others who are willing to have sex in front of others, no matter if the partner is the same or the opposite sex, did this thinking perhaps it was a quicker way to be discovered.
The men certainly don't have any talent other than that which is part of their physical attributes.
The adult film industry has been around for as long as movies have been made, but are now a huge money-making business due to cable and videos/DVDs. The porn industry is big business for those in the production side, but the "actors/actresses" are really on the bottom rung of the money scale.
Yes, there are awards ceremonies for the performers where they are given trophies for the most ridiculous reasons and performances. Since this is not an R or XXX rated commentary, I won't bother with the names of the awards.
Suffice to say, the industry has some very strange policies related to "safe sex". Basically, other than a monthly mandatory AIDS test, there is no other method of disease prevention. Condom usage is frowned upon since the most "realistic" shots and types of sexual acts would be inhibited.
Really? So instead, this result is better? An innocent, dumb babe in the woods getting sick for the riches of others? And what about all the others, men and women, who were exposed to her and who may soon become sick, as well? And finally, who was the one who made her sick? Where is he or she?
I saw many people who worked for me in the 70s and 80s who died from this horrid disease. Believe me, it's not pretty. I know we have remedies now to delay the additional onset of the worst effects of AIDS and HIV. But there is no guarantee that it will not return.
So, while I am not a moralist by any means, perhaps it is time to shut down the porn industry until it develops real standards to protect its participants. Otherwise we will be reading of another person who will eventually die while fattening someone's wallet. Is that right?
Hell, no! It certainly is not! Totally uncool, man!
She is a 28 year old woman who chose a life for herself most of us would not even consider, even in our top 150 career choices. The industry looks for young, attractive women who generally have no real acting talent, but who are told they have great careers ahead of them. This woman, like so many others who are willing to have sex in front of others, no matter if the partner is the same or the opposite sex, did this thinking perhaps it was a quicker way to be discovered.
The men certainly don't have any talent other than that which is part of their physical attributes.
The adult film industry has been around for as long as movies have been made, but are now a huge money-making business due to cable and videos/DVDs. The porn industry is big business for those in the production side, but the "actors/actresses" are really on the bottom rung of the money scale.
Yes, there are awards ceremonies for the performers where they are given trophies for the most ridiculous reasons and performances. Since this is not an R or XXX rated commentary, I won't bother with the names of the awards.
Suffice to say, the industry has some very strange policies related to "safe sex". Basically, other than a monthly mandatory AIDS test, there is no other method of disease prevention. Condom usage is frowned upon since the most "realistic" shots and types of sexual acts would be inhibited.
Really? So instead, this result is better? An innocent, dumb babe in the woods getting sick for the riches of others? And what about all the others, men and women, who were exposed to her and who may soon become sick, as well? And finally, who was the one who made her sick? Where is he or she?
I saw many people who worked for me in the 70s and 80s who died from this horrid disease. Believe me, it's not pretty. I know we have remedies now to delay the additional onset of the worst effects of AIDS and HIV. But there is no guarantee that it will not return.
So, while I am not a moralist by any means, perhaps it is time to shut down the porn industry until it develops real standards to protect its participants. Otherwise we will be reading of another person who will eventually die while fattening someone's wallet. Is that right?
Hell, no! It certainly is not! Totally uncool, man!
No Death for Him
Last week, Major Nidal Hasan, the Ft Hood shooter, was found guilty by a military tribunal consisting of officers his rank or higher. These same 13 men and women began on Monday to hear evidence and witnesses to determine if he lives or dies. He is expected to take a more proactive role in the sentencing phase, than he did during the trial phase of his court martial.
The last time the United States military sentenced and put to death a soldier was on April 13, 1961 when Army Private John Bennett was hanged for attempted murder and rape. Presently, five men sit on death row in Ft Leavenworth, KS. These people are Ronald Gray, Dwight Loving, Hasan Akbar, Andrew Witt and Timothy Hennis.
If found to be eligible for the death sentence, Major Hasan will sit, probably for years, awaiting his execution. The appeals process is cumbersome, making certain all rights for the condemned are protected and exhausted before the sentence is carried out, even though he cared not for the rights of his victims. In addition, this case is complicated by the fact that Hasan, by virtue of his execution, would be considered a martyr to the Islamic cause by him and those who believed his actions were justified.
I have written previously on matters related to the death penalty in Sins of the Eldest, Death... or Revenge, What is a Life Worth and other commentaries where I may have touched on this topic. Those of you who have read my articles or who know me understand that I am not a believer in the death penalty. Instead, I believe the convict should get to sit in solitary confinement with virtually no human interaction, so that he gets to ponder his deed until the day he dies. That is the best revenge.
I believe Hasan should be able to revisit his deed again and again until it drives him insane. He should not be permitted to be allowed to become a martyr to some hideous cause that has no relationship to true Islam. Islam's roots come from the Judeo-Christian tradition of the great western religions and has no resemblance to the hatred Islamists profess. It is a religion of peace, much like Judaism and Christianity.
So, members of the court-martial, allow him to live in the dank basement of Ft Leavenworth with the rats that he is. There he will be with those who are as slimy and as evil as we perceive him to be. He is a disgusting example of a human being and does not deserve the honor and decency to be treated as one.
With apologies to rats and human beings everywhere.
The last time the United States military sentenced and put to death a soldier was on April 13, 1961 when Army Private John Bennett was hanged for attempted murder and rape. Presently, five men sit on death row in Ft Leavenworth, KS. These people are Ronald Gray, Dwight Loving, Hasan Akbar, Andrew Witt and Timothy Hennis.
If found to be eligible for the death sentence, Major Hasan will sit, probably for years, awaiting his execution. The appeals process is cumbersome, making certain all rights for the condemned are protected and exhausted before the sentence is carried out, even though he cared not for the rights of his victims. In addition, this case is complicated by the fact that Hasan, by virtue of his execution, would be considered a martyr to the Islamic cause by him and those who believed his actions were justified.
I have written previously on matters related to the death penalty in Sins of the Eldest, Death... or Revenge, What is a Life Worth and other commentaries where I may have touched on this topic. Those of you who have read my articles or who know me understand that I am not a believer in the death penalty. Instead, I believe the convict should get to sit in solitary confinement with virtually no human interaction, so that he gets to ponder his deed until the day he dies. That is the best revenge.
I believe Hasan should be able to revisit his deed again and again until it drives him insane. He should not be permitted to be allowed to become a martyr to some hideous cause that has no relationship to true Islam. Islam's roots come from the Judeo-Christian tradition of the great western religions and has no resemblance to the hatred Islamists profess. It is a religion of peace, much like Judaism and Christianity.
So, members of the court-martial, allow him to live in the dank basement of Ft Leavenworth with the rats that he is. There he will be with those who are as slimy and as evil as we perceive him to be. He is a disgusting example of a human being and does not deserve the honor and decency to be treated as one.
With apologies to rats and human beings everywhere.
Monday, August 26, 2013
A Lost Weekend
I went away for the weekend and turned off access to email, twitter, voice mail and phone calls. I also avoided looking at the news on TV or reading the news online. It was a reprieve from the normal (?) life of a wannabe journalist known as a blogger.
It was a weekend excursion to an old, friendly place which would give one pause from touching the real world. It is a place that, for the most part, is lost in time, a step back to where the technologically non-existent 19th century coexists with the technology of the 21st.
Over the years, I have gone there to "get away from it all", four hours by car from home, far enough to say "I got away" but close enough to make it home in the event of an emergency. In years past, it had been a trip to sightsee the area and eat, oh yes, EAT the local foods like it was Thanksgiving. Now, both because of the surgeries and my age, of course, I can no longer do that.
But I love the Amish Country in Lancaster, PA because we spent many summer vacations, weekend jaunts and even stopovers from our Florida trips when my children were kids. We always found it to be a place to get the batteries recharged. It has nice memories where we took some of those vacations with friends, because our families were close.
But now, as with all things, times change everything. We haven't been there much over the last few years because, as John Lennon said, "Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans." Instead, it has been difficult at best to make the trip, due to life's obstacles.
And, I had forgotten how bad the trip coming home was. From the the time we hit the New Jersey Turnpike until we crossed the Queens-Nassau County line, a distance that should have been done in 90 minutes, we were in bumper to bumper traffic for 3 hours.
So now, I am home, ready to tackle another week of news, politics and all the other issues that will keep our interest high for about 6 hours at a time. Batteries are on full, brain is refocused, fingers at the ready.
Ready? Set? Go!
It was a weekend excursion to an old, friendly place which would give one pause from touching the real world. It is a place that, for the most part, is lost in time, a step back to where the technologically non-existent 19th century coexists with the technology of the 21st.
Over the years, I have gone there to "get away from it all", four hours by car from home, far enough to say "I got away" but close enough to make it home in the event of an emergency. In years past, it had been a trip to sightsee the area and eat, oh yes, EAT the local foods like it was Thanksgiving. Now, both because of the surgeries and my age, of course, I can no longer do that.
But I love the Amish Country in Lancaster, PA because we spent many summer vacations, weekend jaunts and even stopovers from our Florida trips when my children were kids. We always found it to be a place to get the batteries recharged. It has nice memories where we took some of those vacations with friends, because our families were close.
But now, as with all things, times change everything. We haven't been there much over the last few years because, as John Lennon said, "Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans." Instead, it has been difficult at best to make the trip, due to life's obstacles.
And, I had forgotten how bad the trip coming home was. From the the time we hit the New Jersey Turnpike until we crossed the Queens-Nassau County line, a distance that should have been done in 90 minutes, we were in bumper to bumper traffic for 3 hours.
So now, I am home, ready to tackle another week of news, politics and all the other issues that will keep our interest high for about 6 hours at a time. Batteries are on full, brain is refocused, fingers at the ready.
Ready? Set? Go!
Content of Character
Fifty years ago this Wednesday, August 28, 1963, less than three months before America and the world changed, the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr gave one of the most important and prolific speeches in American History at the end of the peaceful March on Washington. This March was the culmination of a very long and hot summer, where violence seemed to rule the attitudes of the civil rights movement.
I was in a hospital in New York City in May of that year, just before my 12th birthday and I remember watching TV with the other boys in the ward, all of whom were black, and the news showed the terrible events taking place in Birmingham, and other cities in the south, where police turned water hoses and dogs on unarmed women, men and children walking in the street. For a white kid living in the north, I felt that this was the most horrid thing I ever saw. I had hoped the others in the room did not see this, or at least, did not understand.
This was the summer that I truly understood the meaning of what African Americans had been asking for, the rights I assumed all Americans were entitled to and enjoyed, but did not. The news was filled with stories like this all summer, and as the date of the March drew closer, many law enforcement and administration officials implored President Kennedy to request the leaders to call off the March.
Instead, he took the position that the leaders assured him that the March would be peaceful. However, common sense also prevailed; bars were closed, extra police and federal law enforcement were activated, the ballgame scheduled for that night was postponed. For this, President Kennedy and the civil rights leaders were rewarded with the most peaceful March of this sort, this massive, that summer and in history.
More violence occurred over the next few years, but Americans now understood Dr King's message of non-violence. Soon after the world changed, legislation to end discrimination in this country became law with the passage of the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act, two landmark laws to help along Dr King's dream.
I have provided the link for you to watch and hear Dr King's speech in its entirety.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=
I, too, have that dream.
I was in a hospital in New York City in May of that year, just before my 12th birthday and I remember watching TV with the other boys in the ward, all of whom were black, and the news showed the terrible events taking place in Birmingham, and other cities in the south, where police turned water hoses and dogs on unarmed women, men and children walking in the street. For a white kid living in the north, I felt that this was the most horrid thing I ever saw. I had hoped the others in the room did not see this, or at least, did not understand.
This was the summer that I truly understood the meaning of what African Americans had been asking for, the rights I assumed all Americans were entitled to and enjoyed, but did not. The news was filled with stories like this all summer, and as the date of the March drew closer, many law enforcement and administration officials implored President Kennedy to request the leaders to call off the March.
Instead, he took the position that the leaders assured him that the March would be peaceful. However, common sense also prevailed; bars were closed, extra police and federal law enforcement were activated, the ballgame scheduled for that night was postponed. For this, President Kennedy and the civil rights leaders were rewarded with the most peaceful March of this sort, this massive, that summer and in history.
More violence occurred over the next few years, but Americans now understood Dr King's message of non-violence. Soon after the world changed, legislation to end discrimination in this country became law with the passage of the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act, two landmark laws to help along Dr King's dream.
I have provided the link for you to watch and hear Dr King's speech in its entirety.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=
I, too, have that dream.
Friday, August 23, 2013
Good Riddance
It has been reported that San Diego Mayor Bob Filner has entered into an agreement to resign his office after he meets with the San Diego city council on Friday. Details of the settlement may be revealed after that meeting.
Good! But what took so long?
As I wrote on August 2 in Sexual Abuse of Power and again on August 20 in Mayor Recall, this was a necessary step he needed to take to keep the continuance of government in motion. The city was becoming paralyzed as it tried to work through the scandal and couldn't.
Members of his party called for him to take this action including, Nancy Pelosi, Debbie Wasserman Schultz and California's two Senators.
The lesson learned here is simple. Politicians of both parties are not immune to violating laws the rest of us must follow. Sexual harassment of anyone by anybody is a crime of not only sex and power, but also of the violation of privacy. Each of us need to feel safe and comfortable in any situation, whether personal or professional.
Too many politicians have taken the view that perhaps they are above the law. Here is a news flash: you are not!
You are sworn to uphold the public trust and by using and abusing your power, whether real or perceived, is a violation of the office you hold or desire to hold, and of your decency as a human being. In my days in business, I have seen several people, both men and women, use their position of power in the most egregious manner. And they were terminated for doing do.
In the political world, you need to be held to the same standard as the rest of us. And because you are a man, you need to be held to the same standards as a female teacher, not to a separate, different standard.
So, whether you are Bob Filner, Anthony Weiner or Tom Foley, you are a disgusting pig and need to be treated accordingly. Just get out. Now!
Good! But what took so long?
As I wrote on August 2 in Sexual Abuse of Power and again on August 20 in Mayor Recall, this was a necessary step he needed to take to keep the continuance of government in motion. The city was becoming paralyzed as it tried to work through the scandal and couldn't.
Members of his party called for him to take this action including, Nancy Pelosi, Debbie Wasserman Schultz and California's two Senators.
The lesson learned here is simple. Politicians of both parties are not immune to violating laws the rest of us must follow. Sexual harassment of anyone by anybody is a crime of not only sex and power, but also of the violation of privacy. Each of us need to feel safe and comfortable in any situation, whether personal or professional.
Too many politicians have taken the view that perhaps they are above the law. Here is a news flash: you are not!
You are sworn to uphold the public trust and by using and abusing your power, whether real or perceived, is a violation of the office you hold or desire to hold, and of your decency as a human being. In my days in business, I have seen several people, both men and women, use their position of power in the most egregious manner. And they were terminated for doing do.
In the political world, you need to be held to the same standard as the rest of us. And because you are a man, you need to be held to the same standards as a female teacher, not to a separate, different standard.
So, whether you are Bob Filner, Anthony Weiner or Tom Foley, you are a disgusting pig and need to be treated accordingly. Just get out. Now!
Seasons Greetings
I don't know whether it is because I have had an opportunity to go out on my own this summer now that I am doing better, or if it is that I am more aware generally since I am retired, but I have noticed that more stores have begun putting product out earlier for the next season. For example, Hallmark for years has had Christmas ornaments displayed in July.
But this year, it seems that more retail establishments have pushed it to an extreme. I admit for disclosure purposes that I worked for a major orange big box retail store for several years after I retired from banking. I thought it was a bit unusual, but common, in the home improvement/seasonal goods industry to preseason certain items, but what I have seen since May, borders on the extreme.
Let me list a few things.
Michaels has had some fall/Halloween products since May.
Walmart and Staples have had "back to school" displays since the day school ended in June.
Home Depot and Lowes are displaying snow blowers.
And today, I walked into Dunkin Donuts, a coffee/donut/ice cream franchise in the northeast and they had pumpkin pie and peppermint mocha flavored coffee for sale in one pound bags. In addition, egg nog ice cream was being hand scooped.
Really?!?
It's August folks, and we are rushing the year away. Bad enough that the home shopping channels have had a day set aside for holiday shopping, but to go out to the store in shorts and sandals to see winter stuff is crazy.
Even cable movie channels are showing holiday flicks like Reindeer Games, Die Hard, Home Alone and The Kranks. Good movies all, but it is 85 degrees in New York and 90 in Boston today. Come on!
If this keeps up, pretty soon Christmas, and winter will be advertised all year long. And the special feelings we have for that time of year will be lost forever.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
But this year, it seems that more retail establishments have pushed it to an extreme. I admit for disclosure purposes that I worked for a major orange big box retail store for several years after I retired from banking. I thought it was a bit unusual, but common, in the home improvement/seasonal goods industry to preseason certain items, but what I have seen since May, borders on the extreme.
Let me list a few things.
Michaels has had some fall/Halloween products since May.
Walmart and Staples have had "back to school" displays since the day school ended in June.
Home Depot and Lowes are displaying snow blowers.
And today, I walked into Dunkin Donuts, a coffee/donut/ice cream franchise in the northeast and they had pumpkin pie and peppermint mocha flavored coffee for sale in one pound bags. In addition, egg nog ice cream was being hand scooped.
Really?!?
It's August folks, and we are rushing the year away. Bad enough that the home shopping channels have had a day set aside for holiday shopping, but to go out to the store in shorts and sandals to see winter stuff is crazy.
Even cable movie channels are showing holiday flicks like Reindeer Games, Die Hard, Home Alone and The Kranks. Good movies all, but it is 85 degrees in New York and 90 in Boston today. Come on!
If this keeps up, pretty soon Christmas, and winter will be advertised all year long. And the special feelings we have for that time of year will be lost forever.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
The Final Chapter
The final 94 Watergate tapes are being released to the public by the Richard Nixon Presidential Library in Yorba Linda, CA. This includes the period from April 9 to July 12, 1973 when the existence of the tapes were revealed by White House aide Alexander Butterfield, during testimony he gave at the Senate Watergate Select Committee on that date.
At that point the pertinent question asked by Senator Howard Baker, "what did the President know, and when did he know it?" had an answer.
From then until President Nixon resigned, and even afterwards, the control, discovery process and release of the contents of the tapes, were guarded and fought in the courts by him for years. Even the contents released by the President during the last months of his administration were scrubbed by him under the guise of executive privilege.
It has been almost 20 years since he died and over that time, his estate and the library have slowly released the tapes into the public domain.
Historians have poured and will continue to pour over the this treasure trove of documentation related to discussions over the historical events of the time, such as, the opening of China, ongoing talks with the Soviets, decisions made on ending the Vietnam War and the great economic issues of the day.
The tapes have and will continue to reveal the dark side of a conflicted man, who felt an extraordinary persecution complex about the media, political opponents and those he felt were out to destroy him and the country, like students, liberals, Daniel Ellsberg, and other "anti-Americans". Yet, his brilliance on foreign affairs peaked through at the most critical times of our history, as well.
But the biggest area that will be researched, analyzed, studied and discussed for many years to come will be the Watergate conversations between the President, HR Haldemann, his chief of staff, and others involved, either directly or indirectly, in the planning and execution of the Watergate break-in and its subsequent coverup.
As one who studied history and political science, I am envious of those men and women who will be invited to study President Nixon from the unique perspective of not having lived the times involved as current events, with the influence of the media, both pro and con, tainting their review. Instead, they will be able to see his presidency in toto, both good and bad, and provide a sober report of how he and his administration may have benefited the American experience.
After all, isn't that the fair and honest way to see history? Soberly?
At that point the pertinent question asked by Senator Howard Baker, "what did the President know, and when did he know it?" had an answer.
From then until President Nixon resigned, and even afterwards, the control, discovery process and release of the contents of the tapes, were guarded and fought in the courts by him for years. Even the contents released by the President during the last months of his administration were scrubbed by him under the guise of executive privilege.
It has been almost 20 years since he died and over that time, his estate and the library have slowly released the tapes into the public domain.
Historians have poured and will continue to pour over the this treasure trove of documentation related to discussions over the historical events of the time, such as, the opening of China, ongoing talks with the Soviets, decisions made on ending the Vietnam War and the great economic issues of the day.
The tapes have and will continue to reveal the dark side of a conflicted man, who felt an extraordinary persecution complex about the media, political opponents and those he felt were out to destroy him and the country, like students, liberals, Daniel Ellsberg, and other "anti-Americans". Yet, his brilliance on foreign affairs peaked through at the most critical times of our history, as well.
But the biggest area that will be researched, analyzed, studied and discussed for many years to come will be the Watergate conversations between the President, HR Haldemann, his chief of staff, and others involved, either directly or indirectly, in the planning and execution of the Watergate break-in and its subsequent coverup.
As one who studied history and political science, I am envious of those men and women who will be invited to study President Nixon from the unique perspective of not having lived the times involved as current events, with the influence of the media, both pro and con, tainting their review. Instead, they will be able to see his presidency in toto, both good and bad, and provide a sober report of how he and his administration may have benefited the American experience.
After all, isn't that the fair and honest way to see history? Soberly?
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Mothers and Apple Pie
The "birther" issue, which raised its ugly head in 2011 regarding the birthplace of President Obama, is stirring from its two-year slumber to once again involve itself in American presidential politics. This time, it appears that Senator Ted Cruz (R-Tx) is in its laser beam.
As with President Obama, this is a false reason prevent an American citizen from holding our nation's highest office. In both cases, these men were born of American mothers, which by itself, satisfies Article 2, Section 1, Clause 5, to wit:
"No person except a natural born citizen, or citizen of the United States, at the time of the adoption of this Constitution, shall be eligible to hold the Office of President; neither shall that person be eligible to hold that office who shall not have attained the age of thirty-five years, and been fourteen years a resident within the United States."
This issue was raised previously in 1968 when Governor George Romney ran briefly in some of the Republican primaries. He was born in Mexico of two American-born parents, who were there, as Sen Cruz' parents were, due to job considerations. It was deemed at that time he was eligible to run for office.
In addition, on Tuesday, it was reported that Sen Cruz had produced his birth certificate showing that his mother was born in Delaware and his father was born in Cuba. He stated that he came here when he was three and has only possessed an American passport.
Finally, the Senator is preparing to renounce his Canadian citizenship, although dual citizenship with Canada is permitted.
While I have not made any decision who I may want to have run against Hillary Clinton, Joe Biden or any other contender for the Democrat nomination, this is once again a non-issue that needs to be discarded and discredited now. It is a false and destructive argument.
The media needs to focus on real issues that concern all Americans, not just those which sell papers or enhance ratings.
As with President Obama, this is a false reason prevent an American citizen from holding our nation's highest office. In both cases, these men were born of American mothers, which by itself, satisfies Article 2, Section 1, Clause 5, to wit:
"No person except a natural born citizen, or citizen of the United States, at the time of the adoption of this Constitution, shall be eligible to hold the Office of President; neither shall that person be eligible to hold that office who shall not have attained the age of thirty-five years, and been fourteen years a resident within the United States."
This issue was raised previously in 1968 when Governor George Romney ran briefly in some of the Republican primaries. He was born in Mexico of two American-born parents, who were there, as Sen Cruz' parents were, due to job considerations. It was deemed at that time he was eligible to run for office.
In addition, on Tuesday, it was reported that Sen Cruz had produced his birth certificate showing that his mother was born in Delaware and his father was born in Cuba. He stated that he came here when he was three and has only possessed an American passport.
Finally, the Senator is preparing to renounce his Canadian citizenship, although dual citizenship with Canada is permitted.
While I have not made any decision who I may want to have run against Hillary Clinton, Joe Biden or any other contender for the Democrat nomination, this is once again a non-issue that needs to be discarded and discredited now. It is a false and destructive argument.
The media needs to focus on real issues that concern all Americans, not just those which sell papers or enhance ratings.
End of an Era
As with all things, the end is hard to take. It was announced that Candlestick Park, a fixture in the Bay Area since 1960, will be closing its doors at the end of the San Francisco 49ers season in January.
A little history.
The Stick was built, starting in 1958 as a result of the baseball Giants' move from New York after the 1957 season. It opened in 1960, as the Giants moved there from old Golden Seals Stadium.
The Oakland Raiders played there for part of 1960 and all of 1961, until moving across the bay. The Beatles played their final concert there in 1966 and discussions are ongoing for Paul McCartney to return to close the park with one final concert,
1971 saw the move of the 49ers into its confines and the apparent championships, both NFC and Super Bowl champs multiple times. Also, the Giants brought several National League championships to this historic venue. The Stick hosted several World Series and All Star games, as well.
In 1989, before the Giants-A's game three World Series game, a 7.1 earthquake struck the San Francisco area, causing minor damage to the famed arena. Fortunately, no injuries were sustained and no one died as a result. Its construction was credited by many, including Al Michaels and Tim McCarver, who were on hand to call the game.
The ballpark has been used for several movies including, Experiment in Terror, Freebie and the Bean, and Contagion.
The names were changed several times over the years, until it was once again named Candlestick Park in 2008.
Even for this outsider, Candlestick holds a special place for me as a baseball fan, a football fan and a Beatles fan. Over the years, it has become familiar territory, knowing that it has such a cherished history. It is one of the last standing museums of a time gone by. It will be sad to see it no more.
Farewell, old friend, as you host your final events this fall and winter. You will be missed.
A little history.
The Stick was built, starting in 1958 as a result of the baseball Giants' move from New York after the 1957 season. It opened in 1960, as the Giants moved there from old Golden Seals Stadium.
The Oakland Raiders played there for part of 1960 and all of 1961, until moving across the bay. The Beatles played their final concert there in 1966 and discussions are ongoing for Paul McCartney to return to close the park with one final concert,
1971 saw the move of the 49ers into its confines and the apparent championships, both NFC and Super Bowl champs multiple times. Also, the Giants brought several National League championships to this historic venue. The Stick hosted several World Series and All Star games, as well.
In 1989, before the Giants-A's game three World Series game, a 7.1 earthquake struck the San Francisco area, causing minor damage to the famed arena. Fortunately, no injuries were sustained and no one died as a result. Its construction was credited by many, including Al Michaels and Tim McCarver, who were on hand to call the game.
The ballpark has been used for several movies including, Experiment in Terror, Freebie and the Bean, and Contagion.
The names were changed several times over the years, until it was once again named Candlestick Park in 2008.
Even for this outsider, Candlestick holds a special place for me as a baseball fan, a football fan and a Beatles fan. Over the years, it has become familiar territory, knowing that it has such a cherished history. It is one of the last standing museums of a time gone by. It will be sad to see it no more.
Farewell, old friend, as you host your final events this fall and winter. You will be missed.
Mayor Recall
The process to recall embroiled San Diego Mayor Bob Filner has begun. Sunday, the first of 101,000 signatures needed to secure the recall of Mr Filner was taken. The recall committee has 39 days to obtain all signatures from registered voters. One additional extension of 30 days is automatically granted under city law, should the committee need more time.
Mayor Filner is accused of sexually harassing several female employees, including his former director of communications, both physically and verbally. I wrote on this subject on August 2 called Sexual Abuse of Power, when I reviewed his behavior, along with NYC mayoral hopeful, Anthony Weiner, and two teachers.
Mayor Filner's supporters feel he is being denied due process and is getting railroaded by his opponents because they don't like his political agenda.
As an outside observer, I feel it is incumbent upon Mayor Filner to step aside, so that city government can get back to governing and stop the distractions which are hurting the people of the city of San Diego. Between his claim that the city should pay for his therapy and the stalled government due to his absence, the people deserve better than what they are getting.
If the Mayor is vindicated after the investigation, he will be owed a huge apology by all those who have accused him of such reprehensible behavior. But in the meantime, he needs to put the interests of the people ahead of his own interests and ego.
It really is the right thing to do.
Mayor Filner is accused of sexually harassing several female employees, including his former director of communications, both physically and verbally. I wrote on this subject on August 2 called Sexual Abuse of Power, when I reviewed his behavior, along with NYC mayoral hopeful, Anthony Weiner, and two teachers.
Mayor Filner's supporters feel he is being denied due process and is getting railroaded by his opponents because they don't like his political agenda.
As an outside observer, I feel it is incumbent upon Mayor Filner to step aside, so that city government can get back to governing and stop the distractions which are hurting the people of the city of San Diego. Between his claim that the city should pay for his therapy and the stalled government due to his absence, the people deserve better than what they are getting.
If the Mayor is vindicated after the investigation, he will be owed a huge apology by all those who have accused him of such reprehensible behavior. But in the meantime, he needs to put the interests of the people ahead of his own interests and ego.
It really is the right thing to do.
Choice Talk
New Jersey has now become the second state, along with California, to pass and have its governor sign legislation to prevent sexual orientation conversion therapy in children. Both Governor Brown and Governor Christie are Roman Catholics and have taken a position contrary to their church's stance on homosexuality.
Both governors are thoughtful individuals in their respective parties and each has taken stands contrary to their parties' bases, as well. Essentially, these men are true mavericks, looking to be fair and just to all people.
Presently, the California law is presently blocked by the courts due to the pending case in the ninth circuit court of appeals, to rule on its constitutionality. A similar lawsuit is being pursued in New Jersey to prevent its enactment.
Studies have shown that conversion therapy hurts rather than helps children who are predisposed to an alternate orientation. The premise in both New Jersey and California's legislation holds that being "lesbian, gay or bisexual is not a disease, deficiency, disorder, illness or shortcoming", and prevents therapists from completing gay to straight conversion therapy in minors.
Suicide rates are unusually high in this age group, as well as depression, substance abuse, social withdrawal and decreased self-esteem. Forcing these individuals to act contrary to their predisposition can also lead to other critical health risks, including high blood pressure, ulcers and other issues that can harm.
Not to mention the overbearing bullying these kids experience unnecessarily. All because they are "different".
It is time for us to stop interfering in issues not related to the direct well-being of our own business. We are not a village, raising other people's children to our own peculiar standards. We are a free, non-interfering society, where each can choose according to his or her own options.
Let's start to act like one.
Both governors are thoughtful individuals in their respective parties and each has taken stands contrary to their parties' bases, as well. Essentially, these men are true mavericks, looking to be fair and just to all people.
Presently, the California law is presently blocked by the courts due to the pending case in the ninth circuit court of appeals, to rule on its constitutionality. A similar lawsuit is being pursued in New Jersey to prevent its enactment.
Studies have shown that conversion therapy hurts rather than helps children who are predisposed to an alternate orientation. The premise in both New Jersey and California's legislation holds that being "lesbian, gay or bisexual is not a disease, deficiency, disorder, illness or shortcoming", and prevents therapists from completing gay to straight conversion therapy in minors.
Suicide rates are unusually high in this age group, as well as depression, substance abuse, social withdrawal and decreased self-esteem. Forcing these individuals to act contrary to their predisposition can also lead to other critical health risks, including high blood pressure, ulcers and other issues that can harm.
Not to mention the overbearing bullying these kids experience unnecessarily. All because they are "different".
It is time for us to stop interfering in issues not related to the direct well-being of our own business. We are not a village, raising other people's children to our own peculiar standards. We are a free, non-interfering society, where each can choose according to his or her own options.
Let's start to act like one.
Monday, August 19, 2013
Meet Heather Grant
This is the first in a series of commentaries about individuals who I feel are candidates for various offices, both federal and state, to help Americans take our country back from the wayward path we have been traveling for years.
Heather Grant, a Nurse Practitioner from Wilkesboro, North Carolina, is a Constitutional Conservative running for the Republican nomination against two other people, to unseat Sen. Kay Hagan on 2014. I have chatted with Ms Grant several times, and have found her to be an engaging, sincere and humble individual.
Heather served in the Army from 2009 to September, 2012 as a First Lieutenant (P) in the nursing corps at Ft Bliss, TX. She was Branch Chief of Behavioral Health Care Coordination, working with returning soldiers from Iraq and Afghanistan.
Presently, she works as a Family Nurse Practitioner at a local Urgent Care facility in Wilkes County, NC.
Heather Grant is a Reagan Republican, one who looks to restore faith in our Constitution, and wants to return our country to the people. The AMERICAN COMEBACK is the principle by which she plans to get this accomplished. This includes:
1. The Constitution - Taking the Constitution literally, since it was written everyday common language.
2. Illegal Immigration - Finding a way to resolve the problem of people already here and securing the border to prevent future illegal activity.
3. Obamacare - as a Nurse Practitioner, she sees the downfall yet to come, since it is not the healthcare that was promised.
4. Federal Reserve - it is time to audit the Federal Reserve since there is no congressional oversight and it continues to devalue our currency to offset the deficit.
Please visit Heather's website, heathergrantnc.com, to get more information or to find out how to contribute.
Heather Grant, a Nurse Practitioner from Wilkesboro, North Carolina, is a Constitutional Conservative running for the Republican nomination against two other people, to unseat Sen. Kay Hagan on 2014. I have chatted with Ms Grant several times, and have found her to be an engaging, sincere and humble individual.
Heather served in the Army from 2009 to September, 2012 as a First Lieutenant (P) in the nursing corps at Ft Bliss, TX. She was Branch Chief of Behavioral Health Care Coordination, working with returning soldiers from Iraq and Afghanistan.
Presently, she works as a Family Nurse Practitioner at a local Urgent Care facility in Wilkes County, NC.
Heather Grant is a Reagan Republican, one who looks to restore faith in our Constitution, and wants to return our country to the people. The AMERICAN COMEBACK is the principle by which she plans to get this accomplished. This includes:
1. The Constitution - Taking the Constitution literally, since it was written everyday common language.
2. Illegal Immigration - Finding a way to resolve the problem of people already here and securing the border to prevent future illegal activity.
3. Obamacare - as a Nurse Practitioner, she sees the downfall yet to come, since it is not the healthcare that was promised.
4. Federal Reserve - it is time to audit the Federal Reserve since there is no congressional oversight and it continues to devalue our currency to offset the deficit.
Please visit Heather's website, heathergrantnc.com, to get more information or to find out how to contribute.
Regulation Nation
In 1975, there were 71, 225 pages of federal regulations. Today, the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) totals almost 175,000 pages, which is an increase of 145%. Most of these have occurred in the last 4+ years.
While I understand the need to protect Americans from bad circumstances, most of the regulations were written by executive branch agencies in order to circumvent the Congress. This would appear to be somewhat unconstitutional, as the Congress is supposed to write the law, the President is sworn to faithfully execute the law and the Supreme Court interprets the intent of the law against the words of the Constitution.
This action appears to be authoritarian on the part of the President and the executive branch. While I am not accusing this President of any overt wrongdoing, it is the fault of the Congress for abrogating its responsibilities by writing law and then burdening the presidency with trying to enforce the law with no further guidance from the Congress.
Two of the most recent high profile laws that exemplify my point are the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) and the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd-Frank) that were both written to protect Americans with better health care and from banking abuses, respectively. Instead, each law has grown exponentially, that they now require attorneys and lobbyists to understand, due to all the regulatory complexities and issues involved.
I touched on this issue on July 9 with my commentary, Executive Order... or Decree, where I pointed out how the executive branch has become much stronger since the end of WWI, because the Congress with each passing decade had ceded its authority to the presidency. It has now boiled over since 2010, when the Republican House has tried to take back its authority, only by being stopped by a Democrat Senate and President.
In turn, this has resulted in a government in turmoil and nothing getting done because of all the obstructionism on both sides. And who suffers? Only the people.
Two things need to be understood by all parties. The federal government was created by the states, not the other way around, and the the government exists by the consent of the governed, not that the governed exists due to the benevolence of the the government.
So, it is time to take back our country from the bureaucrats, lobbyists and authoritarians. This is a constitutional country, with certain inalienable rights. It is not a regulation nation.
As President Lincoln said, this is a nation "of the people, for the people, and by the people", not the regulators and bureaucrats. Let's make it so, again.
While I understand the need to protect Americans from bad circumstances, most of the regulations were written by executive branch agencies in order to circumvent the Congress. This would appear to be somewhat unconstitutional, as the Congress is supposed to write the law, the President is sworn to faithfully execute the law and the Supreme Court interprets the intent of the law against the words of the Constitution.
This action appears to be authoritarian on the part of the President and the executive branch. While I am not accusing this President of any overt wrongdoing, it is the fault of the Congress for abrogating its responsibilities by writing law and then burdening the presidency with trying to enforce the law with no further guidance from the Congress.
Two of the most recent high profile laws that exemplify my point are the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) and the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd-Frank) that were both written to protect Americans with better health care and from banking abuses, respectively. Instead, each law has grown exponentially, that they now require attorneys and lobbyists to understand, due to all the regulatory complexities and issues involved.
I touched on this issue on July 9 with my commentary, Executive Order... or Decree, where I pointed out how the executive branch has become much stronger since the end of WWI, because the Congress with each passing decade had ceded its authority to the presidency. It has now boiled over since 2010, when the Republican House has tried to take back its authority, only by being stopped by a Democrat Senate and President.
In turn, this has resulted in a government in turmoil and nothing getting done because of all the obstructionism on both sides. And who suffers? Only the people.
Two things need to be understood by all parties. The federal government was created by the states, not the other way around, and the the government exists by the consent of the governed, not that the governed exists due to the benevolence of the the government.
So, it is time to take back our country from the bureaucrats, lobbyists and authoritarians. This is a constitutional country, with certain inalienable rights. It is not a regulation nation.
As President Lincoln said, this is a nation "of the people, for the people, and by the people", not the regulators and bureaucrats. Let's make it so, again.
Friday, August 16, 2013
Finality
Finally. The issue of gay marriage in California has apparently been resolved. After the Supreme Court ruled in June that gay marriage issues were to be addressed at the state level, on Wednesday, the California Supreme Court finally issued its ruling on Prop 8. Its ruling was that it chose not to rule.
Gay right activists and supporters were celebrating this non-ruling, as a victory for gay marriage. Perhaps it is. But the author of the original bill, Andrew Pugno, was extremely disappointed by the outcome.
In March, I had written about this issue and the court cases which were pending at that time. I have provided that commentary to you for your reference.
Frankmchalesviews.blogspot.
As a heterosexual man, I have believed for a long time that GLBT individuals are entitled to the same rights and privileges as other people. There should be no distinction in legal matters for men and women who have a different lifestyle than I do. That is discriminatory.
After all, the Civil Rights Act dictates the groups of people that are protected. And as it relates to marital status and sexual orientation, if each class is protected separately, then why shouldn't the classes be protected when they are conjoined,
Perhaps now, finally, we can put this issues to rest. I am tired of defending a basic right that all of us should freely and lovingly enjoy. And I think gays and lesbians, and others, should now feel this matter is finally done,
All parties need to accept a concept in law known as Finality. Sometimes, making no decision is the best decision of all.
Gay right activists and supporters were celebrating this non-ruling, as a victory for gay marriage. Perhaps it is. But the author of the original bill, Andrew Pugno, was extremely disappointed by the outcome.
In March, I had written about this issue and the court cases which were pending at that time. I have provided that commentary to you for your reference.
Frankmchalesviews.blogspot.
As a heterosexual man, I have believed for a long time that GLBT individuals are entitled to the same rights and privileges as other people. There should be no distinction in legal matters for men and women who have a different lifestyle than I do. That is discriminatory.
After all, the Civil Rights Act dictates the groups of people that are protected. And as it relates to marital status and sexual orientation, if each class is protected separately, then why shouldn't the classes be protected when they are conjoined,
Perhaps now, finally, we can put this issues to rest. I am tired of defending a basic right that all of us should freely and lovingly enjoy. And I think gays and lesbians, and others, should now feel this matter is finally done,
All parties need to accept a concept in law known as Finality. Sometimes, making no decision is the best decision of all.
Presidential Humor
CS Lewis: Above all else, the devil cannot stand to be mocked.
Now, I am not comparing the President to the devil by any means. But understand this, all Presidents have been made foils by comedians, editorial cartoonists and private citizens all throughout our history.
So why should this President be treated any differently? Because he's Black?
That's not the way it works in this country. All public figures are fair game for our amusement. After all, we are guaranteed this by the First Amendment. It doesn't say "except for Presidents and other people of note."
Several years ago, the Dixie Chicks (who?) made some negative comments about President Bush and conservatives were up in arms about this. They wanted people to go out and break their CDs, burn concert tickets and do other forms of inconsequential stupidity. At the time, while I didn't agree with whatever they said (and I don't remember what it was), but they certainly had the right to say it.
Or how about in 1975, a young comedian by the name of Chevy Chase (and you're not!) made fun of President Ford, who was probably our most athletic president, because he stumbled a few times coming off the stairs of Air Force One, or banged his head on a door. As I remember it, we laughed heartily and didn't become indignant that he was ridiculed.
So, NAACP and others who feel the Obama rodeo clown was offensive and mean, let me say this: Get a sense of humor! Or the next time someone makes fun of President Bush, Clinton or Reagan, I want to hear you yell with the same indignation and angst you are now.
Otherwise, shut up and finally admit that you are a bunch of hypocrites.
Now, I am not comparing the President to the devil by any means. But understand this, all Presidents have been made foils by comedians, editorial cartoonists and private citizens all throughout our history.
So why should this President be treated any differently? Because he's Black?
That's not the way it works in this country. All public figures are fair game for our amusement. After all, we are guaranteed this by the First Amendment. It doesn't say "except for Presidents and other people of note."
Several years ago, the Dixie Chicks (who?) made some negative comments about President Bush and conservatives were up in arms about this. They wanted people to go out and break their CDs, burn concert tickets and do other forms of inconsequential stupidity. At the time, while I didn't agree with whatever they said (and I don't remember what it was), but they certainly had the right to say it.
Or how about in 1975, a young comedian by the name of Chevy Chase (and you're not!) made fun of President Ford, who was probably our most athletic president, because he stumbled a few times coming off the stairs of Air Force One, or banged his head on a door. As I remember it, we laughed heartily and didn't become indignant that he was ridiculed.
So, NAACP and others who feel the Obama rodeo clown was offensive and mean, let me say this: Get a sense of humor! Or the next time someone makes fun of President Bush, Clinton or Reagan, I want to hear you yell with the same indignation and angst you are now.
Otherwise, shut up and finally admit that you are a bunch of hypocrites.