Christian & Conservative

An open letter to the newly elected city government of New Haven IN

2011-12-15T20:22:00.000-05:00

With the results of the recent city election, New Haven will be represented entirely by Republicans. This provides an opportunity to demonstrate that Republican principles can adequately provide for citizen services at a low cost to taxpayers.

As a fellow Republican, I would like to repeat some of those principles and add some strategies that will benefit our community.

First, I would ask that all of the elected representatives be sure that the only personal gain would be from a stipend. Do not participate in any other perks that will add to the taxpayer obligation, such as, health insurance, retirement plan, or personal expenses. Elected office should always been viewed as a sacrifice on the officeholder, not as a financial gain.

Develop – with community input – an aggressive business attraction plan. With the transportation infrastructure soon to be all in place, it is time to sell it to potential businesses. Updating a new comprehensive long term growth and zoning plan will give reassurance to businesses and community members that development is being done responsibly with future generations in mind. There has been much discussion regarding the use of various tax incentives as a tool to attract and retain businesses. I believe that an active public discussion needs to examine the responsible use of them, including an evaluation of their effectiveness. With all of the discussion regarding the permit process for businesses that is taking place in a nearby community, our processes should be re-examined for possible streamlining also.

There needs to be a comprehensive community input on future infrastructural efforts. Where should the priorities of local government be placed? I suggest that public safety be first. Where are the needs for improvement or change in public safety and what could be the associated costs? Because of the highway system that navigates through the city, perhaps adequate pedestrian tunnels or bridges would effectively better tie the city together. Encourage private development of the end of the Greenway trail with the downtown region.

Finally, I would suggest making city government even more open to the public. Rather than encouraging the public to sit in on meetings, bring the meetings and information to the public. Could public broadcast be beneficial? Publishing all of the various budgets and monthly updates would be informative. The use of technology to better deliver city services should always be an evolving process.

As a Republican, I look at the results of this past election as more than just a clean sweep. It is a rare opportunity that government can effectively meet the needs of the community that is low cost and less intrusive. I challenge all of the winners of last month’s city election to demonstrate not only to New Haven, but also to the nation that Republican principles can provide for a thriving community.

Where has the language all gone?

2011-02-19T16:47:00.001-05:00

This has been a topic I’ve thought writing about for some time. Today’s culture is losing the sense of expressing itself in complete, accurate, thorough, written communication.

I am guilty of participating in most of today’s social media. I do too much Facebook time, according to my brother. I dabble a little with Twitter and play the Foursquare game. I have read there are many other sites out there, but I think I would go into technology overload.

What I have been noticing has been the overuse of communication shortcuts – the use of numbers or symbols as replacements for words or parts of words. Even more fascinating to me has been the lack of spelling accuracy and incorrect grammar, especially when many programs offer spell check/grammar check before sending a message.

Of course, there used to be the use of shorthand, the use of symbols to replace words as a method of recording conversations.

When I taught a class at IPFW, I gave the students one essay question on each test that gave them the opportunity to express their opinion and justify why. I did not grade according to their opinion, but, rather, their ability to express their opinion in complete sentences.

I guess the quality of the English language is slowly deteriorating. First goes the spoken language – the word “ask” no longer exists, it has instead become “axed.” Next, we lose the written language. Oh well, before long everybody will be speaking Chinese, so I guess it really doesn’t matter.

Green Hornet - crimefighter?

2011-01-15T23:11:00.001-05:00

This is probably going to be one of my oddest posts for this blog.

I went to see the new movie “The Green Hornet.” Obviously, what drew me to this movie was the fact that I grew up watching the original 1960’s television series. I spent most of the movie comparing the movie to the TV version.

The TV series only lasted one season and can be associated with the “Batman” series as they were made to overlap – production resources and scripts. GH was made to be somewhat futuristic with a dependence on electronic gadgets. The most important aspect of the show was the level of crime-fighting intelligence and understanding of the criminal mind. He and his sidekick Kato worked well together.

What I saw in the movie was the “hero” Britt Reid as selfish, dimwitted, dependant, lush, inability to judge others’ character…and on and on. In other words, this hero really had very few redeeming values.

Finally, the hero tries to do what is right and even manages to succeed. One incident was even copied from the TV series.

What makes this movie so disappointing – along with some of the Superman and Batman movies – is that the heroes are made out to have significant personality flaws. The heroes of old could be depended to not only catch the criminal, but also make the right moral decisions.

Young people look at these movies and see no sense of right and wrong, only gray areas of poor choices. I believe that one reason young people today make bad choices is the lack of superheroes with bedrock right morals and cutting edge crime fighting capabilities.

Yeah, this movie was a waste of movie.

Take a shot at this poll

2010-11-20T08:16:00.000-05:00

The need for further local and state fiscal controls

2010-11-03T16:15:00.000-04:00

The Indiana General Assembly election results are very encouraging. Economic issues, I believe, will be central for the 2011 legislative session. I do believe there needs to be a discussion from the General Assembly regarding a couple of central fiscal issues to local government.

With the approval of property tax caps to the Indiana Constitution, the GA must address the up-and-down cycles of business that naturally happens. The general economy will always have its cycles of expansion and retraction. Associated with economic cycles come the tax revenue increases and decreases. Many local government services were dependent on local property taxes. That issue is now changing. Many of these services are dependent on revenues from the state. The increase of sales tax was the offset to property tax caps. Sales tax revenue will follow the economic cycles. The GA must look to smooth out the disbursement of revenues to local governments.

This should include greater expansion and controls on the use of local “Rainy Day” funds. The use of these temporary savings accounts should have greater definition regarding the amount (percentage or dollar) that can actually be accumulated and then also how and when these funds should actually be used.

I ask local legislators to begin an in-depth discussion and evaluation of this issue.

An option for New Haven public schools

2010-10-30T00:09:00.001-04:00

A few months ago I wrote about my defense as a school board member of East Allen County Schools. Much of this directly revolves around the economic forecasts of not only EACS, but public education throughout Indiana.

Now the debate has become focused on New Haven’s mayor advocating the possible secession of the city’s schools from EACS. I won’t discuss the educational reasons the mayor has listed for the proposal because I agree with many of them.

When I was a board member, General Fund revenues were generated by local property taxes. Now they come from the state based on student populations. The money now follows the student. This is a significant change because local school districts’ budgets are dependent on the state’s economy and financial status. Again, I am not going into the pros and cons of this change. The significant change is that student tuition follows the student throughout the state, not being generated from property taxes within the school district.

When I was in my last term on the board, the state authorized the limited existence of charter schools. I favored this because it created a competitive environment for public education. Charter student populations continue to increase in the Ft. Wayne area. This represents a significant budget loss for the local school districts. Yet, they continue to silently ignore this competition. They complain that budgets are in decline, yet fail to admit that charters are taking that money from them. There must be perceived reasons – real or not – why parents are using this option to educate their children.

I say all of this because a possible secession from the school district will hinge on the financing of the school district. As this issue is researched, would a new school district be able to afford a duplicative administrative structure? Doubtful. Would a new school district be immune from current capital debt obligations? Would they be trying to create new debt while paying for old at the same time? How does that protect local taxpayers? Starting a new school district means hiring an entirely new administrative structure, new classroom teaching structure, educational supplies, books, etc. A support staff would also be needed. Hire your own or contract for services? Perhaps contract with the old school district for support services. Can an entire K-12 program be created new for a community in a period of weeks? Doubtful.

The alternative which I suggested to the mayor a couple of months ago, but he dismissed at the time, was to pursue charter school management companies to implement a progressive program to meet the educational goals of the community. Companies could literally create competing programs designed to meet precisely the needs and desires a community would outline. Technically, the mayor has no authority to start charter schools, but if the area is fertile for a charter school, a management company could get authorization through Ball State University. Much – if not all – of the administrative work would be completed by the charter company. The state student tuition would follow the student. This option could be implemented much quicker than trying to establish an entirely new school district.

I agree with the mayor’s end goals – better educational opportunities for New Haven residents. Since my input was not sought, I offer it here to the public.

My "I Understand Now" Moment

2010-08-26T08:36:00.001-04:00

“By the sweat of your face
You will eat bread,
Till you return to the ground,
Because from it you were taken;
For you are dust,
And to dust you shall return."

Genesis 3:19

- God speaking to Adam & Eve after the revelation of their disobedience.

Yesterday I had a moment that made that verse VERY real. Some people may equate this nothing more than a pre-schooler discovering the switch on a flashlight can turn on and off the light.

I usually shave with a blade but occasionally use the electric razor for my lazy moments – even though the blade really is faster. Anyway, I don’t usually empty the electric razor of whiskers after every shave. I emptied it into the sink yesterday and it had more than I expected. First noticeable fact – the color of the whiskers – gray.

The next fact is important. I rubbed the whiskers in my fingers and it felt just like fine sand. From a sandbox. I know this sounds a bit kooky, but that is when I realized what I am made of and where my shell will return.

Our lives are short and our bodies are made of basic materials from the earth. What makes us different from everything around us is the soul within that seeks to connect with its Creator. Unfortunately, many people do not make that connection during their living hours. Don’t delay - know that God has creatively made us to worship Him.

In defense of myself as a school board member

2010-08-08T08:30:00.001-04:00

During the current debate over East Allen County Schools’ financial problems, there seems to be one recurring comment: many of these problems were caused by previous school board inaction.

Since I served on the board from 1992 – 2004, I feel many of the accusations are untrue. Since board decisions are obviously made by a majority of board members, whether I voted in the majority or not, the accusations still hit at me. There were also times and decisions that I participated in that in retrospect wish were made differently. Regardless, there were many issues that I supported that I felt – and still do – made the school district better.

When I joined the board, the district was in a financial mess. All employee groups were underpaid comparable to local competing school districts. Within four years that had been corrected. We were on par or ahead in a pay scale of neighboring districts.

When we hired a new superintendent in 1995, many transformational events took place. He was truly an “outside-the-box” thinker and recommended many new ideas that I supported. There were a few that I couldn’t support, many of them minor, but the most significant was the proposal to close New Haven Elementary. I vocally opposed that. And won. I would also point out that there were members of the New Haven community at that time that actually supported its closure.

During the 1990’s, student population growth was very slow. The plant closing of International Harvester a decade earlier had a significant impact on student population and the overall budget. There was stability. Although a local newspaper writer would always include a set of accusations against the district in virtually every one of her reports: the school district continued to suffer from declining enrollments and was guilty of racial isolation. Neither were true, but the public bought into them and still do somewhat.

While the board was accused of only being there to ensure the status quo of maintaining facilities, I pursued a goal of improving student academic achievement, recognition, expanded learning opportunities, parent input, and professional development.

I suggested that at the beginning of each school year classroom teachers provide a general syllabus – similar to one in college classes - for parents as a means to be more involved in what was happening in the classroom. Even though there was significant resistance from the teachers and administrators, we got it through. Beyond my expectations, the idea eventually expanded to include online access for parents to view weekly classroom assignments and eventually a reporting system for assignment grades of the students that parents could view. There was also a direct email access for parents to the teachers. Our school district was the leader in the county for this unique access between the parents and the classroom. I believe this was the greatest achievement as a member of the board.

When entering any of our high schools, each had a large display area dedicated to historical athletics, as do most high schools. While I had no problem with that, there was virtually no praise for academics. I proposed that there exist an area for recognition for current and past valedictorians and salutatorians. Only one school made an effort to equate the size of that with sports. Isn’t that what school is for? Academic achievement and recognition. The board also instituted a recognition reception for each year’s vals/sals and their families.

Some other items that I was responsible for: advanced communication between facilities that allowed for classes to interact between facilities. College classes were offered for students through this system. We expanded the college connection program for eligible students so they may gain both high school and college credits. Instituted a continuous improvement program for classroom teachers. Some thought it to be excessive evaluations, but rather an opportunity to offer critique to other methods of instruction. In the area of the budget, I notified the district that they could establish a rainy day fund that many other governmental agencies had. The business manager was not aware of the recent laws allowing for this budget line item. We improved the heating and air conditioning systems in every facility. Several had no air conditioning and we had that installed – New Haven Elementary being the most notable. I was the one that suggested and saw to the improvements in the needed lighting updates for the New Haven HS football field. During the late 1990’s, the local hazardous waste dump facility wanted to expand. The mayor of New Haven at the time was fighting in court to stop it (and won). The company apparently had made overtures to the district asking for our support of the facility – less than a couple of miles from some of our school facilities – in exchange for some financial donations. I was adamantly opposed to this.

There were some other issues that on reflection I wish had been done differently, but didn’t know how. I did stand to improve the school district. I defended it when it was justified and criticized it when needed. I also feel one aspect of my role as an elected official was to represent voters, listen to their concerns and solve issues effectively. I may not have always satisfied every individual, but I was pleased at the many issues that were resolved.

In all, I feel I performed more than adequately in my role as school board member and find it very disconcerting that I have been maligned or “thrown under the bus” to advance an agenda for today.

That’s my story and I’m sticking to it!

East Allen County Schools meeting (and what went wrong)

2010-07-14T10:09:00.002-04:00

Last night the East Allen County (EACS) school board voted to pursue the option of letting voters increase their property taxes to maintain a status quo school system. That is what the mainstream media is reporting. There were many other events that took place that need to be told. I do want to say that I think some school realignment should take place. But that should take place with current facilities, not building new ones.

First, the board has instituted a time limit for members of the public to address the board. Three minutes. That’s it. When you hit the limit, they cut you off immediately. They did this to me last month. I was granted somebody else’s time when he chose not to speak. Last night they cut off the mayor of New Haven. A certain amount of respect for another elected official would have been in order, especially when the mayor granted a request from the board president to speak before the New Haven city council last month regarding the board’s options. The board president was not given limited speaking time by the mayor.

In a presentation by the bus director, multiple times referred to bus changes that would take place with closed schools – when they close, not if they close.

Another presentation centered on the proposed Capital Projects fund. Of significance was the carryover amount in the line item for future projects in excess of $4 million. That should include an amount of approximately $1 million the board raised from property taxes about 5 years ago to remodel at Highland Terrace. But that plan has since been abandoned. I have raised this issue nearly every year that that money should be returned to the taxpayers. Also within the CPF report was the option that EACS could use bonds to make up the difference to upgrade schools if insufficient funds came in through property taxes. In other words, in the opportunity to consolidate schools would be the time to really upgrade facilities. I think the board should physically review every upgrade in the plan which included, for example, new drinking fountains in one building. Are they really needed?? Now is the time for austerity.

Another point that I have repeatedly mentioned is the property that EACS owns in Leo-Cedarville. It should be sold! It is unnecessary for future facilities. It was brought up by another speaker last night.

At the start of each year (term), board members and staff must fill out potential conflict of interest forms. Board member Bill Hartman is the lead administrator of Blackhawk Christian School. I have no problem with him as an administrator. I have no problem with his Christian declaration. I do believe that his day job requires him to recruit new students to keep the school financially viable. How many of those students have come out of the EACS district?? A student that leaves EACS for Blackhawk takes the public funds away from the district. Is that meeting his fiduciary responsibility to the school district?

The board voted to allow the property taxpayers of the district to increase general operating funds. This should not be used just to balance the financial accounts as Chris Baker from the New Haven Chamber of Commerce said before the board. I think it fair to let the public decide to increase their taxes for the schools. I do, however, think there should be specific restrictions put on that increase: 1. All employee groups must agree not to pursue that money for salary increases. 2. Prior to implementation, use of the money MUST be identified. Again, as Mr. Baker said, I think the money should be used for advanced programs in the district.

There are many other points that probably need to be made, but I will finish with this one. After the bus director’s presentation, board member Terry Jo Lightfoot implied that the reason the southeast part of the school district faces consolidation is because so many students attend local parochial schools. She implied that closures are the fault of parochial students.

The board needs to change its approach to public input.

America needs a leader

2010-07-07T20:23:00.002-04:00

Recently on Facebook, I lamented about the need for a GOP presidential candidate for 2012 that offers more encouragement for individual liberty and entrepreneurship. I received several comments back that current domestic economic climate began under the previous president. Some of that is true. Medicare Part D is probably the biggest disappointment. But now, we see the rundown of the United States and the promotion of the third world. Most recently, the admission of the head of NASA that his primary role - as directed by the president - is to make the muslim world feel good about themselves. Forget about putting man in space outside of earth orbit, requiring increases in scientists, etc.

Following is an excerpt from President Reagan's first State of the Union speech in 1982. He makes no apologies for US economic supremacy. Young people may feel it is silly to invoke Reagan. I feel he belongs in the tier of Washington and Lincoln. When reading many of his speeches, they are inspiring.

To view the State of the Union in perspective, we must not ignore the rest of the world. There isn’t time tonight for a lengthy treatment of social or of foreign policy, I should say a subject I intend to address in detail in the near future. A few words, however, are in order on the progress we’ve made over the past year re-establishing respect for our nation around the globe and some of the challenges and goals that we will approach in the year ahead.

At Ottawa and Cancun, I met with leaders of the major industrial powers and developing nations. Now some of those I met with were a little surprised I didn’t apologize for America’s wealth. Instead I spoke of the strength of the free marketplace system and how that system could help them realize their aspirations for economic development and political freedom.(my emphasis) I believe lasting friendships were made and the foundation was laid for future cooperation.

Compare the texts of the first SOTU speeches from Reagan and Obama and you will see 2 totally different philosophies. When you examine the application, you see the difference in the outcomes played out in our economies.

Reagan in 2012!!

Proof of citizenship

2010-06-28T17:01:00.003-04:00

This is tongue-in-cheek for the people in California that can't understand this.

Today I had to go visit my bank. I had done a mistake on my online access and so I went in to the local branch to have them correct my boo-boo.

Can in you imagine this? The first thing the customer service rep asked of me after explaining my mistake was for my DRIVER'S LICENSE. And to make matters worse, I gave it to her - no questions asked.

Really, I expected her to ask for identification and if she didn't ask I was going to show it to her anyway.

So what is so bad about aliens ANYWHERE within the borders of the United States expected to show proof of legitimate presence. If CITIZENS are expected to show ID, why not aliens? If they are here legally, they should not be a problem to display proper credentials.

The US government has got to get control of this issue.

I failed again, because......

2010-06-24T20:27:00.002-04:00

Today I was a candidate for city council special election to replace a resignation. The caucus system only allows precinct committee persons to vote for the replacement. In my small town, the total number was one. I guess, fortunately, I only lost by one vote. On the other hand, I didn't garner any support. So as I sit and reflect on why this has happened, I dug out the following. I guess I need to be reminded of this.

Steps to Failing Forward

1. Realize there is one major difference between average people and achieving people.

2. Learn a new definition of failure.

3. Remove the “you” from failure.

4. Take action and reduce your fear.

5. Change your response to failure by accepting responsibility.

6. Don’t let the failure from outside get inside you.

7. Say goodbye to yesterday.

8. Change yourself, and your world changes.

9. Get over yourself and start giving yourself.

10. Find the benefit in every bad experience.

11. If at first you do succeed, try something harder.

12. Learn from a bad experience and make it a good experience.

13. Work on the weakness that weakens you.

14. Understand there’s not much difference between failure and success.

15. Get up, get over it, get going.

How Much Government | Parade.com

2010-05-11T19:56:00.001-04:00

How Much Government | Parade.com

With government - at all levels - realizing less revenues there has been a response by government to reduce spending incrementally across the board. I have tried to start sounding the topic of eliminating some government programs altogether. Many programs are unfunded mandates requiring local government to carry the policy without the funding tied to it.

The link to the article discusses this very topic, using a different rubric for program evaluation. I'm glad somebody is finally starting to listen to me!

The ultimate result must be that government is trying to do too much with not enough. We are finally see the results of that mindset internationally. Archaic requirements must be challenged for the needs of society today.

2010-05-02T16:47:00.002-04:00

There is a lot discussion about the illegal immigration issue and the action Arizona recently took. Well, I’m going to add my little bit to the topic also. (I know, as if anybody in authority really cares about what I think!)

I know a young pastor that works in an inner city church in another Indiana city. He has his heart in the right place. He has sacrificed much for his family to care for his small flock. He is an area where some local businesses have hired – and depend on – illegals. He defends the need to naturalize illegals for the sake of providing decent incomes for their families. “It’s just not right to take advantage of illegals by paying them depressed wages.”

The argument that supposedly justifies all of this is that the illegals are taking jobs that US citizens will not do because the wages are so low. Of course, we Americans like having low prices for consumer products. We would rather have low prices and give a blind eye to the illegals performing those jobs.

Obviously, I presented these arguments because I do disagree with them.

First, we have national borders and immigration laws for a reason.

Second, whether unemployment is high or low, Americans should have first rights to all American jobs. The apparent problem is low wages. I do believe that citizens have a right to a fair and living wage. This would have a significant impact on consumer prices. Consumers would buy less. Unemployment would continue to increase. I believe that Americans would be accepting of higher prices in exchange for something else – lower taxes!

All combined taxes on the average family have increased over the past century, especially in the past 50 years. The chart at The Tax Foundation displays that increase. Governments at all levels have been continually taking more money from taxpayers just like the frog in the pot of water on the stove – slowly so that we don’t feel the pain! If family taxes were at lower rates, they could afford higher costs for consumer goods.

But government has taken dominance in the wallet of the average American. We willingly give them more and more and they take and demand even more. Of course, all of this is justified in the name of paying for programs that make the quality of life better. Unfortunately, the escalation of government programs exceeds tax revenues.

Americans are faced with making certain decisions. Do we give lip service to illegals working in the US or make major taxation revisions that would provide for living wages in all industries?

Today is Tax Day! Ow, that hurt

2010-04-15T07:44:00.001-04:00

April 15^th is U.S. tax day. Supposedly the day all Americans pay their taxes. This is such a false assumption.

As reported on the Tax Foundation.org website, April 9^th is the day that theoretically Americans have stopped working for the government and they can now earn their own money. Half of America has never been working for the federal government. They pay no federal income taxes. Unfortunately, many people think if their refund this year is larger than last year’s must mean that they have paid less taxes.

Americans really need to grasp how much they actually pay in taxes, at all levels. This includes income, sales, property, auto tags, and on and on and on. We don’t realize how much we really pay. Add in to the mix that businesses never pay taxes. All of those obligations are passed on to the consumer through product prices.

I think that government needs to learn a lesson who pays the bills. We need to reduce our withholding to a minimum and pay taxes due next year. Some states are not refunding overpayments to residents because they don’t have the cash available.

It is time that we taxpayers took more control over government revenues, specifically how we pay our taxes to the government!

In support of my ideas

2010-03-02T20:18:00.003-05:00

I keep trying to tell people how far ahead of the conservative thinking that I am.

I recently wrote here that the best controls on health care costs would put the consumer in charge of his/her own decision-making.

Now I see that well-respected economist Thomas Sowell has written an article in full support of my ideas. He articulates exactly what I was leading into. I'm glad to see that he reads my blog also.

My answer to health care reform

2010-02-28T16:59:00.000-05:00

It drives me nuts about all of this health care talk and the Dems attempt to take over the entire system.

Nowhere have I seen a real discussion about what health care should be used for. The assumption apparently is that insurance just automatically pays for every medical need (and “need” needs to be defined also).

Those people that think insurance companies have unlimited resources have no clue where the money comes from in order to pay out claims. There is no willingness to control individual medical expenses because they assume the “insurance company will pay for it.” Personal control of expenses would have a greater effect on insurance premiums than governmental price controls.

Not only should there be policy options across state lines, there should be greater policy plan options. I think that if people paid for more of personal basic expenses – such as many drugs, doctor, or preventative exams – would help to bring down overall costs. Options for singles or childless couples that essentially covered only catastrophic issues would keep premiums down.

Where is my logic wrong? Oh, that’s right…it isn’t.

Loosen the bureaucratic collar

2010-02-22T07:57:00.005-05:00

My last post raised the issue of reducing bureaucratic regulations as a means to reduce expenses to business and local government.

Here is one example of regulations that could be addressed. Various vehicle fuels are required to meet requirements for regions of the country and seasons of the year. These variations increase costs in development, storage, and transfer which are all obviously passed on to the consumer. The consumer includes me at the gas station, the trucking industry that transports products around the country, and even local government when the schools have to put fuel in the buses.

The following map gives an example of fuel (boutique blends) differences around the country.

Can you give some examples also?

A new suggestion to save some money

2010-02-16T11:22:00.000-05:00

At all levels of government, belt-tightening is taking place. Here in Indiana, property taxes will soon be frozen as a percentage based on property values. Because of that, local government will be facing lower revenues to provide current services. Sales, business, and income tax revenues are also much lower for the current fiscal year.

So to avoid the pain, some local governments are considering new forms of local income taxes to offset revenue deficits. Other localities are severely reducing services, such as fire protection or trash pickup.

I would like to suggest a third alternative that could relieve some pressure to local governments and possibly help private businesses reduce expenses and possibly redirect those expenses to hiring new employees. My suggestion would be that all levels of government look to reduce regulatory burdens.

Even though I do not identify any specific regulations to eliminate, I do believe – if asked – businesses could easily identify which are most burdensome or costly. There are many federal and state regulations that are imposed on local governments without sufficient revenues to fulfill those policies. Some could be reduced or removed to provide relief.

This is the time and place for somebody out there to start talking. What regulations cause you the most problems that could save everybody some money??

That was then, this is now

2010-01-28T09:18:00.003-05:00

Twenty-eight years minus one day, another President gave his first State of the Union speech. Similarly, the United States was in an economic recession. At that time, unemployment was over 10%, inflation and consumer interest rates were above 15% each. In his speech, President Reagan outlined his plan to bring the country out of that recession.

The cumulative national debt had just exceeded one trillion dollars. More than 200 years were needed to accumulate that level. (We have now crossed $12 trillion and see no end in sight for its continued growth.)

Reagan listed 3 keys to reducing budget deficits. First, encourage economic growth. Second, Lower interest rates and third, control federal spending. He was very adamant about NOT raising taxes as an attempt to lower the deficit. He felt that would encourage federal spending (and the Democrats in charge of Congress did not lower spending) and would discourage private investment.

He also referred to recent meetings with foreign leaders. He said how they were surprised that he (Reagan) did NOT apologize for American wealth and its strength of the free marketplace.

These policies DID turn around the national economy then.

Now, 28 years later, another President stood before Congress with a similar economic situation. Fortunately, we do not experience the devastating interest rates we did then. Unfortunately, he is taking just the opposite approach. Considering that Reagan's plan worked - and it did - Obama's plan will probably will not succeed. Our international standing will fall, as it already has started.

I believe Obama may very well be a one term president.

I am going to be a granfather!!

2010-01-15T07:53:00.003-05:00

I am going to be a grandfather for the first time this coming summer. I know, it's no big deal. Many people have been, currently are, and will be in the future.

What has been different now - compared to when I first became a parent - is the associated technology. My daughter-in-law had an ultrasound performed on the baby at about 12 weeks gestation. Then she had the video put on Facebook. I watched that and it was so amazing. The detail of the baby was amazing. The doctor was able to measure the fetus at this point. Less than 2 inches long.

Less than 2 inches - and the formed details of the child were amazing! Although I know that the internal organs haven't fully developed yet, it was still inspiring to see the definition.

All of this brings me to two points. The first is that seeing that ultrasound affirms that all of creation is controlled by a creator. HE knows what HE is doing. This life has a name, character, and eternal soul already. The Creator does this kind of work every day and HE is really good at it. Watching the ultrasound has already developed a unique relationship between child, mother, father, grandparents, and great-grandparents.

The second point is that watching the fetus in this ultrasound reminds me that "it" can generate an income for one of two opposite workers. An obstetrician can work to help the mother through the pregnancy to birth. The alternative, ugly side is that the fetus can be destroyed. How can anybody - ANYBODY -really watch the ultrasound and say it is just a mass of tissue ( I saw the baby dance!) and be willing to destroy it???

Well, anyway, this is one exciting time in the Gordon family.

The Awful Dilemma

2009-12-18T17:38:00.002-05:00

I am amazed that the tree-hugging, environmentalist liberals are so determined to link human existence to global warming. Now the US EPA is going to regulate carbon dioxide as a deadly gas.

Last time I checked, every time I breathe, I exhale that deadly gas. Last time I checked, nature needs carbon dioxide to survive. I guess we kind of need each other to survive.

Well, many of these environmental do-gooders really want to limit global population to regulate global carbon dioxide. Yet, I find so much irony in the behavior of these do-gooders in failing to limit their "carbon footprint."

I think the real proof in their dedication to preserving the natural state of the global environment would be in the ultimate self-sacrifice. Reduce global population to preserve the environment starting with themselves.

But, if they are gone, who would be our social conscience???? The awful dilemma.

Carbon controls in the US

2009-12-10T20:53:00.003-05:00

Now the EPA is going to regulate the emissions of carbon dioxide.

Yet, the US is the world leader in fossil fuel reserves. We are going to restrict our energy production so that China and India will surpass in production output.

My state of Indiana will be severely affected by these controls. Jobs will be lost under this plan.

Where will the federal governemnt get the money to replaced lost revenues from these plans?

Thank goodness 2010 is coming, unfortunately maybe not fast enough.

The perfect Christmas experience

2009-12-05T13:01:00.003-05:00

This so takes me back to my childhood.

My grandparents used to have one of these in the front window of their small home in the early '60's. Add to the tree and the "awesome" color wheel Bobby Helms' "Jingle Bell Rock" makes for a perfect Christmas experience.

Presidential reading material

2009-11-25T09:12:00.002-05:00

As reported today (11/25/2009) on Drudge Report, this picture shows the President leaving the White House carrying a copy of GQ magazine - with a picture of himself on the cover!! Maybe he just uses it as a cover for very important top secret files. HA!

This man really has no clue of his position in the world.

forgiveness

2009-11-16T10:59:00.004-05:00

This past weekend I had to admit that I was wrong. That was the easy part.

I sat face to face with a man from my church that I felt had wronged me. My response over the past 5 years was wrong. Machismo had taken over. My general "John Wayne" attitude had taken over then and I felt I could recover just fine on my own. Nope. No man is an island to himself. I was on a deserted island. Now, he came to apologize to me. And he did so sincerely.

Suddenly, I was faced with the responsibility to forgive. The sudden sense that I had power over another person was very nearly overwhelming. More importantly, it was a sensation that I wanted to have no part of. While my forgiveness may seemed insincere, it was more the sudden emotion of power that I did not want.

I can seem to be intimidating. And it can be fun to exert that power (to a future son-in-law). Yet in this situation I did not like that power and wanted to have no part of it.

I think it is easier to ask for forgiveness than to give it.

The wonders of the universe

2009-11-07T07:42:00.002-05:00

After sunset last night, I started a fire in the firepit and watched the sun set and the stars come out on a clear night like little lights turning on in the sky. The temperature was low enough to see my breath. I enjoy watching the flashing lights from planes flying around the sky, wondering what city they came from, where they are headed, and who the passengers are on them. I just don't stare at the sky enough for myself and I know that few people take the time to appreciate the wonders of the universe. It was a beautiful night to remember what a little person I am in the grand scheme of God's plan.

Congress has to spend money to make money

2009-11-02T11:25:00.002-05:00

In a brilliant move by Congress, billions of tax dollars were spent on the "Cash for Clunkers" program. It has now been calculated that it comes out to approximately $24,000 per car purchased!!! What a deal! We spend $24,000 to reimburse car dealers $4,000 for a new car and trash many very usable used cars.

And with this kind of math, the current government wants to take over our health care now. I can't wait to see how much they want to save us here. (Well, actually, I can wait - in fact, I don't even want it to happen!)

The liberal media

2009-10-29T20:26:00.003-04:00

In Fort Wayne IN, we have a local newspaper that leans way to the left. The editorial page tries to think it is very objective in its comments page.

Recently, they took the opportunity to chastise Republican Indiana state Secretary of State Todd Rokita for some of his activities. They accused him of using his office for a possible future run at govenor (at least 2 years away). The newspaper seems to have forgotten a former secretary of state that had used the office as a trial run to his ascendency to governor. That person was Evan Bayh. What makes this all significant is that I sent a letter to editor addressing this issue. The paper states that they may edit letters for printing. I post below first my original letter and then the letter they published. You can decide for yourself how extensive they "re-wrote" my letter. I think more to protect their image than for space issues.

What I wrote:

From the editorial page on October 17th, we find this written by the J-G staff:
There’s a fine line between enjoying the high profile incumbency offers and exploiting the title for political gain. Rokita’s frequent Twitter updates….seem to cross that line.
The state constitution limits the secretary of state to two terms, which Rokita will have filled at the end of next year. Seeking higher office is certainly admirable, but Rokita should be aware that his obligations as an officeholder take precedence over his political future and that his activities raise questions about his dedication to his current post.
Apparently the author is too young to remember a former Indiana secretary of State held the office for only two years, as a stepping stone for his future run as governor. What did he accomplish during his partial term? Every source I looked regarding Evan Bayh’s biography made no mention of any accomplishment as S.of S. They all quickly skip his to his run as governor in 1988. It was no mystery at the time that Mr. Bayh was only laying the foundation for his goal as governor.
Perhaps this newspaper should review Mr. Rokita’s accomplishments in his current office and reserve judgment on any aspirations he may have on other elected offices until the appropriate time.

What they printed:

Regarding the editorial “Office-holder or candidate?”
(Oct. 17): The state constitution limits the secretary of state to two terms,
which Todd Rokita will have filled at the end of next year. Rokita should be
aware that his obligations as an officeholder take precedence over his political
future and that his activities raise questions about his dedication to his
current post.
A former Indiana secretary of state held the office for only
two years and used it as a stepping stone for his run as governor. Every source
I looked at regarding Evan Bayh’s biography make no mention of any
accomplishment as secretary of state. Biographies all quickly skip to Bayh’s run
for governor in 1988. It was no mystery at the time that Bayh was only laying
the foundation for his goal to be governor.
Perhaps The Journal Gazette
should review Rokita’s accomplishments in his current office and reserve
judgment on any aspirations he may have on other elected offices until the
appropriate time.

The government is upside down

2009-10-25T15:14:00.005-04:00

Is it just me or does anybody else notice how topsy turvy the Obama administration is?

First, I see that the Justice Dept. will not pursue the prosecution of illegal marijuana use. We can debate the criminality of such behavior. Is it wise to tell the public that even though "we the government know that marijuana use is illegal according to the law, we are letting you know that we will not prosecute you." Would that not possibly encourage more illegal behavior?

Second, the government has also quietly said they will not pursue pornographers. There is an obvious linkage between pornography and sexual crimes.

What are we telling the criminals?? You go ahead and do what you do and don't fear the government.

Thirdly, the government IS going after highly paid executives in the banking industry and those businesses that have taken bailout money from the government. The "pay czar" is limiting the income of those individuals. Why could not the government see this coming? Companies get government assistance, start to make a profit again and then reward their employees accordingly. There were no ties initially linking pay and performance when the money was distributed. Now they change the rules AFTER the fact. The debate can go on about whether these companies performed the expectations the government originally had for them. Some may very well may not performing as hoped. But there were no expectations put in writing. (That we know of, since the government is not being very open about the details of how the money has been spent.) The government is possibly going after other businesses in the same fields as the original recipients.

I have hard a time accepting the fact that the government can say how much an individual can earn from a private business. This type of government interference is directly contrary to free enterprise. Earn as much as you can for the work you do. This witch hunting the government is involved in is just plain un-American.

In essence, the current administration is saying that criminal behavior is okay, but legal activity that the government deems wrong will be controlled. This is all wrong!

The truth of stimulus spending

2009-10-14T10:41:00.002-04:00

A couple of weeks ago there was an interesting article in The Wall Street Journal (Oct 1) about government spending that supposedly spurs the economy. While the article was detailed and a bit over my head, the last paragraph did an excellent job at summary.

The bottom line is this: The available empirical evidence does
not support the idea that spending multipliers typically exceed one, and thus
spending stimulus programs will likely raise GDP by less than the increase in
government spending. Defense-spending multipliers exceeding one likely apply
only at very high unemployment rates, and nondefense multipliers are probably
smaller. However, there is empirical support for the proposition that tax rate
reductions will increase real GDP.

What it comes down to is that government spending does not stimulate the economy. Maybe the American populace may begin to understand this. I know the spenders in DC never will. It will need to take a complete change of the Washington guard before this may be accomplished.

End of time

2009-10-10T16:25:00.002-04:00

Let my obituary say:

He had a hard heart and a soft head. He never loved God as much as he should have.

His wife was his very best friend. His children will NEVER know how much he loved each one of them.

which is better - a national sales tax or VAT??

2009-09-26T22:58:00.002-04:00

This is an interesting news bit.

Former Chief of Staff to President Clinton, John Podesta, favors the use of a national value-added tax. A Value-Added Tax - VAT - is a tax that is applied to a product throughout its production. A car would have taxes added to it throughout the production process, such as the construction of sub-parts and parts to an engine, the transmission, frame, etc. would all be taxedd and then added to the price of the vehicle. Then the car would most likely also be charged a sales tax and possibly a luxury tax. The problem with VAT is that it becomes part of the cost of production, significantly raising the final retail price.

A VAT tax would not be so bad if all other taxes were eliminated. If they were, it would become somewhat similar to the concept of the Fair Tax. Thus only the consumer would be charged for the consumption of a manufactured item. Of course, the problem is that all of the taxes are hidden into the production costs and the consumer would never really know the actual cost of the product minus the added taxes.

In contrast, the FAIR Tax does eliminate ALL taxes - sales, income, property, etc. - and just charges a sales tax. The consumer has better information regarding the actual production cost of the product. The consumer pays taxes for only what he/she consumes. Purchasers of luxury items like motor homes, yachts, or SUV's would not be perceived as bad people owning expensive stuff. If you want to pay the sales tax on an item, so be it. Go to their web site for a better explanation. But it is a much better and fairer tax.

The problem with Mr. Podesta's suggestion is that the VAT would be in ADDITION to sales taxes. He advocates this to increase more federal government revenue. What this will obviously do is hurt the national economy by discouraging purchasing and result in reduced need of labor - higher unemployment.

He justifies his position saying that Clinton raised taxes on the rich in the 1990's and it resulted in large increases in revenues while also growing the national economy. That is FALSE! Clinton happened to be the beneficiary of circumstances, namely the explosion of the era of technology. Home computers, the internet, and the overvaluation of technology companies during this decade. Once some intenet-based companies died or were bought out by other companies, the economy came back to reality.

Don't buy into VAT. It will do as much to destroy the economy as cap and trade and health care reform.

compare the protesters

2009-09-25T06:43:00.002-04:00

It is quite humorous to see what is happening in Pittsburgh this week. Aside from the official events planned for the G-20 Summit, watching the planned protests and police response is very interesting. The city has been boarded up, fenced up, and locked down to control or limit the activities of protestors of the event.

The fear is that violence – whether planned or spontaneous – may spawn destruction or threaten the safety of the summit participants. The ACLU is there defend protester rights. Watch the videos and observe the number of law enforcement officers in the scene and the force they have available to maintain peace.

Now compare that to the march on DC back on 9/12. Protesters everywhere. Hundreds of thousands of participants. Yet, in all of the videos and photos how many police officers were present and how much firepower did they have available? What about all of the tea parties and health care protests around the country? What was the level of police presence? Significantly lower than that in Pittsburgh.

Yet the liberals in control of Congress are more fearful and willing to label conservative protesters as more dangerous to the peace of our country. They say blood will flow in the streets. It takes the Speaker back to the violence of the 1970’s.

I attended a tea party in Fort Wayne, Indiana earlier this year. Hundreds of participants, yet I did not see any police presence. I heard some were there, yet invisible. But this is very demonstrative of the expected behavior of protesters by the police. They don’t fear the conservatives. They are peaceful, yet vocal. They just want to live in peace, trusting that the government will protect them from enemies of that peace, both foreign and domestic.

This is objective proof that conservatives are not the people that the government needs to fear.

Pride in the American economy

2009-09-13T16:14:00.003-04:00

Recently, I finished reading the book The Last Best Hope, by Joe Scarborough. Joe was formerly a Republican Congressman from Florida elected as a part of the 1994 wave. He has since left Congress and is now host of the weekday morning show, “Joe in the Morning” on MSNBC cable network. Actually, I like his TV show. He does have a lot of liberal guests on the show, but some of the other regulars do have some centrist or conservative leanings. I do wish Joe would exhibit more conservative perspective. He has spent as much time criticizing Republican policies as he does Democrats’. Given the amount of liberal commentators on television today, every defender of conservatism is needed.

Anyway, back to his book. Generally, it is good. It does take Republicans to task in their need to be the true conservatives they need to be and that America wants. He also points out where common sense should prevail over politicization of an issue. He truly sounds like the conservative I could have a beer with (oh, that’s right, I don’t drink beer).

There is one topic in his book that I do take issue with. He is very critical in the amount of energy America consumes. We consume “a disproportionate amount of the earth’s energy” (p. 101). He favors energy efficiency. While I favor increase in efficiency, there is nothing wrong with the amount of energy we have consumed.

U.S. energy has powered the American economic engine. That engine has created a large amount of wealth, not only for Americans, but also for the rest of the world. It is through our largesse that has been shared worldwide. Annually, the U.S. government sends millions of dollars to foreign governments in the form of aid. We send more emergency relief to disasters than any other nation. Our technology has improved living standards everywhere. Yes, the US of A is great!

We can always improve, but we have no reason to apologize for what our economy has done to improve the lives of people everywhere.

Another federal government spending topic

2009-09-05T08:38:00.002-04:00

There is an excellent interview article in the Sept.5 issue of the Wall Street Journal by John Fund of former GAO head David Walker.

The small facts that are included in the article but not given much discussion involves the future obligations of Social Security and Medicare. To the tune of more than $56 TRILLION. Forget health care reform and its mind-boggling future expenses. The government debt is already here and growing faster than we can imagine. (See the spinning numbers of the U.S. debt clock).

The President's desire to reform health care is not about helping people. It's about gaining control of more private money to pay for future federal obligations. This is a shell game. Rob Peter to pay Paul. Dedicated funds for specific projects - don't exist. Well, the line item in the budget exists, but the funds are nothing more than federal IOU's because the money has been raided and used for something else.

To a quote a famous personality, Earl Pitts - "Wake up America!"

The justification of government to further gets its nose under the tent of health reform can't be proven, because it hasn't been able to prudently manage the current programs. Suddenly it can do better!?!?! Get real!

Liberals chide conservatives that the richest nation in the world can't afford to provide basic health care to all of its citizes. Liberals will soon have to face major, major, MAJOR reductions in federal spending. What choices can or will they make?

Find the good in America

2009-09-03T21:19:00.002-04:00

I've written about Keith Olbermann before. What a ranting, crazy liberal loon. (Is that all reduntant?) I watch him occassionally on MSNBC in the evening, but for only a few minutes at time. I really can't handle too much at once.

He has a spot each night on his show itemizing the 3 worst people for the day. Usually he lists Glenn Beck and Rush Limbaugh somewhere in those 3 every day.

What amazes me is his daily pursuit of finding what is wrong with America. Maybe this is what is wrong with America - the fixation on what's wrong. Maybe if Olbermann found the 3 BEST people of the day every day he may actually see his ratings increase.

We need more inspirational stories every day. We need motivation that is positive. I challenge every reader here to find and share the person's story around you.

Let's share that America really is full of really good people.

How did that injury happen??

2009-08-31T08:41:00.000-04:00

Recently, I wrote about the life of King David and how his entire life has been under a microscope ever since by people in the church.

There is one event in David’s life that I feel akin to. That would be the famous story of David’s confrontation with Goliath. David had no problem identifying who the enemy was. He stood nine feet tall and daily challenged the Israelites. David took the challenge and won. David knew where the enemy was, what he stood for, how he was armed, and what his intent was.

The problem was that David had an unexpected opposition also. That came from his own family. David had no idea that he had to watch his backside. His brothers made fun of him, ridiculing what he planned to do. Rather than doing the mission the brothers were there to do themselves, they instead attacked their youngest brother.

I sometimes feel like David in that situation. Let me make the comparisons. Am I doing what God wants done? No. Am I facing down the enemy, confident that I can defeat him in God’s strength? No. Am I being attacked from behind by my own compatriots? I feel like I am.

There is a saying that the Christian army is the only one that attacks its own wounded. That is me. I feel I have been attacked from behind and left to slowly expire. I wrote nearly six months ago how my church leadership failed me. Since then, every Sunday I dread attending church. I thought several years ago I could dress and heal my own wounds. I was so wrong!

Unfortunately, when you go to church and somebody asks “How are you?” doesn’t really expect an honest answer from you. You see, if you are an introvert in a very outgoing church you are lost to the background. You are not necessarily looked down upon, but become part of the wall decorations. Remember Milton from the movie “Office Space.” He was always the object of abuse from his co-workers. Sometimes I feel like that character at church. I don’t seek out a lot of conversation with people and so I become a lesser choice from others, if a choice at all. I’m not the pretty folk. I’m not of the folk with glamorous careers. I don’t live in chosen neighborhoods.

I realize this sounds like a self-pity party. And it probably is. And, of course, I’m the only guest in attendance. But, nonetheless, a Christian shouldn’t have to worry about injury from behind.

help!

2009-08-29T22:48:00.002-04:00

Do you have any suggestions to make this blog more interesting (other than fire the author and owner) and viewed or recommended to more people? More color, less opinion, more advertising, less widgets, more sports, less ?????

I can handle criticism. It's the unspoken but critical stuff that I can't deal with.

Give me some ideas. I want this to be the first place people go to on the internet. I know my kids come here first already.

Non -christian faith

2009-08-27T11:44:00.004-04:00

Sometimes I really believe that people that say there is no God or ridicule those who do exhibit more faith in their lives than actual believers in God do. Let me explain.

Recently scientists have apparently discovered a basic element of life itself on a comet that passed near earth about five years ago.

Based on this small discovery, scientists can extrapolate that those "seeds of life" exist throughout the universe. They exist on comets travelling around the universe and land on planets, thereby planting life everywhere.

What it comes down to is that some of these scientists really believe that life on earth - all that we see around us, plants, trees, vegetables, fish, birds, and even humans - originated from the seeds of comets. These seeds evolved into a living planet. Accidental events that accidentally evolved into other events that evolved into other events that somehow evolved into humans capable of rational thought and animals that live and behave predictably. These people actually believe all of this can happen.

I believe that God was actively involved in creation. He knew what He was doing. Everything created with a natural purpose and behavior. That is really easy to believe. How He did it - I don't know. I don't care. I just know He did it and with amazing detail. There were no accidents or mistakes.

To believe that life was accidental events that came from space somewhere and resulted in what we have today really stretches logical reasoning. And it really begs the question - If life was actually piggybacking on comets, where did that comet pick up those elements? Some really want us to believe that it came from Mars. Ha!

What do you think? Tell me on the comments button below.

Where is my money going?

2009-08-24T20:23:00.002-04:00

Man, this will get you eyes spinning around. This site records the U. S. national debt in real time. While the numbers really speak for themselves, I believe the most significant numbers are in the last box - Unfunded liabilities. These numbers will have the greatest impact on the top box - debt.

Remember after Bush 43 was re-elected and wanted to look into reforming Social Security? The democrats went nuts successfully scaring the populace into thinking Bush would destroy the entitlement program. Yet, the inaction is doing more to destroy it. And the dems in charge know they won't be around for the meltdown. It's all about power NOW!

Post Office is dissed by the President

2009-08-12T21:18:00.003-04:00

Since I am currently an employee of the U.S. Postal Service, the President made an overwhelming proof that government should not be involved as a competitor as a provider of health care services.

The post office cannot compete with UPS and Fedex because of many factors. One, Congress likes to meddle in post office operations. Two, postal management is raised from within and possess little competitive business experience. Three, postal unions have an inordinate influence in basic business decision making. Four - and my last point, but not THE last point - is the general attitude of government employees that job is not directly tied to customer satisfaction.

I tried my best to do my best at work, but one out 700,000 can only do so much.

If they wrote a book about me

2009-08-12T09:45:00.003-04:00

In a men’s Bible study at my church, we recently concluded looking at the life of David the king. As any church member will tell you there have been several books written about the life of David. Various bible studies look at David from different perspectives. Big, thick books analyze his life, his emotions, his decision-making processes, his military prowess, and on and on.

What if David had been warned early in his life that his life would be the template for Christian living for thousands of years into the future? What might have been his response to that warning? Might he have behaved differently? And yet, his moniker has traditionally been “the man after God’s own heart.”

What if we knew our life might go under the societal microscope hundreds of years into the future? Would we live differently now? Would we even care?

I doubt it!

For millions of us, our legacies will extend to our children and probably grandchildren and that will be about it. Children today live for the present. Respect for older generations has virtually disappeared. My own children have little understanding of who my grandparents were.

Which brings me to: how will my legacy be viewed by my children and grandchildren? My legacy would be defined by my relationship with God and how I presented that to the world as a whole.

I know there will be no books or bible studies based on my life. Following generations will only know me based on the words of my children. What will they remember about me? I am sure there will be many bad examples, hopefully not vocalized. There are many never-to-be-spoken by me regrets that I wish I had done better as a father. My hope is that my children will only remember the good.

But, in case somebody does write a book about my life, I expect some profit from it. You don’t know what I have gone through to live this example.

Is the government right subsidizing new car purchases?

2009-07-31T21:13:00.004-04:00

Oh my goodness, the democrats say that the “Cash for Clunkers” auto purchase program has been so successful demonstrated by the fact the program has been suspended because it was about to run out of money.

What makes this so interesting is not that the government is giving away money, but that people really do want to buy new cars. The problem – up to this point – has been the high prices of new cars. Also is the fact that I’m helping somebody else buy a car. What do I get out of this? Oops, I probably shouldn’t ask that. That may be considered un-American.

Anyway, the real success about this program is the proof that people are willing to buy new cars at the right price. The auto makers – and the unions – need to realize that their products will sell when the buying public feels they are getting a fair deal. Macroeconomics has the basic graph that demonstrates that products will sell at the intersection of supply and demand. When outside forces get involved, the intersection goes haywire.

So all of this proves that there is money out there waiting to be spent. Purchasers are looking for value. This should be a lesson not only for automakers, but for all retailers. Fast food restaurants probably understand this better than any.

The government should not expand the "Cash for Clunkers" because it does more to upset the free market than help. And I didn't get a car out of it either.

Baseball funtime

2009-07-25T15:35:00.003-04:00

Sometimes you just need something funny. The way my Cincinnati Reds are playing right now (vertical nosedive) I know that I need something funny. Sometimes the classics are the funniest. This is definitely one of them.

Planned Parenthood will make money again next year - from you!

2009-07-25T15:30:00.002-04:00

Friday, Rep. Mike Pence of Indiana offered an amendment to an appropriations bill that would have eliminated all government funding for Planned Parenthood for the next fiscal year. That amendment was defeated along near party lines.

Of course, Planned Parenthood claims that their organization is more involved in family planning education nationwide than actually providing abortion services. Remember that this is the organization that has had several video recorded incidents of allegedly illegally “advising” clients to possibly lie about their ages. At least one incident was here in Indiana.

This action is another indication that the current Congress has every intent to move elective abortions into national health care. I suspect that before this issue is concluded Congress will not only include taxpayer paid abortions, but there will also be no opt-out provision for providers. Doctors, nurses, and medical facilities will be required to offer abortion services. (“Services” – what irony in that choice of words!)

Apollo 11

2009-07-20T15:58:00.004-04:00

As others are commemorating the 40th anniversary of man on the moon, I will, yes, give my little tribute.

I was 13 years old watching the events on a black and white TV. Fortunately for me the broadcast from the moon also was in B&W. But I was just a kid watching with my own fascination. I was rabid following the progress of NASA. I was constantly sending away for the latest information on research and design at the various locations around the country. There was no internet access, I actually had to send a letter through the US mail to receive info back in the mail. I copied articles out of the local newspapers. I still have much of this original information. I made my own models of the various rockets from kits. But probably the best part of my collections were the astronaut photos I got. Forget sports heros. I still have an autographed photo of astronaut Dick Gordon (Apollo 12). No relation to me, but it was neat to think about it.

I could walk almost anybody through mission agendas as if I were the one that wrote it. I knew where they landed on the moon and talk about what they were doing in that location. Other kids had earth globes, I had a moon globe. I had wall maps. My science fair projects were recreating space flight.

But it comes down to the fact that American ingenuity and determination accomplished this feat. There were the human losses. Americans did it. We had a goal bigger - and better - than ourselves.

That is what is needed today.

Pro-life will pay for abortions under Obama

2009-07-20T10:47:00.003-04:00

The health care debate intensifies.

The White House and Congressional leaders are saying that the bills that have passed so far that it is a work in progress and we should not be concerned about the details until the final bill is up for vote.

Unfortunately, from my perspective, it is way too late to try and modify/kill any proposals when we get to the final vote.

For any Christians that calls themselves pro-life, it is time to prepare yoruselves for a true gut check. Legislation that has passed out of committee (not signed into law yet) includes REQUIREMENTS TO PAY FOR ABORTIONS! The White House has also said that federal funding for abortions is still a possibility and "on the table."

This is obviously a political payment to abortion supporters from the Democratic party. But pro-life people will now be obligated to pay to unborn babies through their tax dollars.

WAKE UP AMERICA!

Don't think nationalized health care is a savior program handed from the government. This is a major power grab of our individual liberties by the federal government. Write to Senator Lugar and Senator Bayh and let them know this HAS TO STOP!

Home delivery

2009-07-18T08:35:00.002-04:00

Have fun with this picture and tell me what title you would give to this.

Entitlement spending

2009-07-15T08:31:00.003-04:00

I am just amazed by the Democrats in control of Congress. They say national health care costs must be contained by the government or those costs will destroy the US economy.

Yet, 5 years ago, President Bush wanted to reign in costs of entitlements - specifically Social Security - the Democrats said there was no problem. Bush wanted to allow for more personalized control of Social Security benefits through individual accounts.

(And we could post so many more demonstrations of stupid dem videos)

If Congress is unwilling or incapable of controllong current obligations, how do we really expect them to reallistically control costs in a new entitlement program??

If Congress retains control of Congress after the 2010 elections, then our children deserve our stupidity.

I told you so!!

2009-06-26T20:35:00.003-04:00

As I wrote on June 16th, I raised the issue of taxing employee paid health benefits by democrats. "So where is the opposition now??? Nowhere to be found. What are the unions receiving to keep quiet?" Well, they are receiving something.

The Senate Democrats are officially proposing to exempt union-negotiated health benefits from inclusion as taxable income in the future. This is the payoff. Congressional dems may not be able to change the law regarding union organizing, but they are protecting union members, while non-union employees are penalized. The result: unions can make it look as if it is profitable to be a union member - members don't have to pay taxes on health benefits.

Union membership in the U.S. is obviously on the decline - except in goverment - and unions are trying to reverse the trend. The highest level was in 1979 at 21.2% and 2003 had a level of 11.5%.

Congress is coming up with more and more opportunities to take money from us to spend the way they feel is more appropriate.

WHEN IS THIS GOING TO STOP?????

If you haven't died yet, you should be upset about the way government at all levels are trying to take more of our money to fund their desires.

Federal government dictionary

2009-06-24T19:58:00.004-04:00

The federal government uses a dictionary that only they write...they make up the definitions.

When the average American sits down at the kitchen table to see how far this week's paycheck will go. We define "pay as you go" as pay until the money runs out. Seems logical. Can't spend what you don't have.

But in the Washington dictionary PAYGO has a very different definition. It says that you can only spend a dollar in a new appropriation that has been deleted from a different appropriation. Deficit spending is still very much active. The president tries to make it sound like he's spending responsibly, when in fact the annual deficit of the federal budget continues.

The unfortunate problem is that the federal dictionary does not come in printed form. Otherwise somebody may be held accountable. Remaining unprinted allows for a flexible definition. Always changing. Always changing. Always changing.

My special Father's Day

2009-06-21T14:34:00.003-04:00

Well, here it is Father's Day 2009. I have been blessed with four wonderful children. I am really thankful how healthy and "normal" they are as can be expected. Now it is exciting to see each one moving out (of the house especially) into their career fields of choice.

What probably makes this Father's Day special to me is how special my "added" kids have made me feel. Even though my 2 daughters-in-law have probably had less than perfect childhood experiences - and I am not speaking ill of their fathers - yet they have made me feel very special in their lives. They have made feel like I am their own dad.

Thanks girls!

nationalized health care will fail

2009-06-16T21:17:00.002-04:00

As has been the trend so far for the Obama administration, every issue must be resolved now! It not really is the fact that these issues necessitate resolution now, but rather, that with the democrats in charge Congress & the White House have the ideal opportunity to reshape America into their perceived ideal.

Now the issue is health care. Millions of Americans are without health insurance and this is causing horrendous effects on the overall economy (their perception – not mine). Major reformations must be enacted into law before the end of the year. Probably before Americans can see what is in the law and stand opposed to it.

Yet, I do believe that the idea of having the government in charge of health care will be a massive mistake. I would like to show a few examples why.

Probably the best example of government mismanagement is the United States Postal Service. Now if you know me, you know that I have been employed by this agency for the past 30 years. Even though the agency really is poorly managed – and all of the unions have a hand in this – that is secondary to why this agency is so badly run. This agency is a favorite target of Congress. They like to name postal facilities after themselves. If unneeded facilities are closed, that would result in fewer facilities to put congressional names on. Second, this agency is one of few that really is a money maker for Congress. The post office does not receive money from Congress, but rather adds money to Congress. Under the 2006 reorganization law, the USPS must contribute money for future USPS retirees’ health insurance costs. The post office is going broke primarily because of this obligation. But, individual congressmen like to meddle in USPS operations. USPS has tried to close unnecessary facilities and the unions have picketed against the closing – even though the employees will still have a job, although at another location – and congressmen have tried to meddle in these closures to preserve jobs in their respective districts. What a bunch of idiots. (Just like Barney Frank meddled in the GM bankruptcy – got a proposed facility slated to be closed suddenly reopened!) If Congress has the occasion to insert themselves into something to gain favor, well……

There is one irony in the potential for the funding to insure the few. Those of us that currently have health insurance and share the premium with our employers may soon be considered as taxable income. Currently, and since time began, employee share of insurance premiums has never been considered as taxable income. “Senate Democrats said a wide variety of issues were discussed with Obama, including providing a public health insurance plan option in a reform package and whether to begin taxing some portion of the value of employer-sponsored health insurance.” This idea was buried in John McCain’s campaign platform. At that time unions were dead set against that idea. McCain apparently proposed to include health care premiums as taxable income, as reported by the AFL-CIO. So where is the opposition now??? Nowhere to be found. What are the unions receiving to keep quiet??

So it comes down to this…if congressmen get their hands into health care management of any kind will result in an absolute failure.

Inspiriration of Hope

2009-06-01T20:41:00.003-04:00

It's been 30 LONG years since Ronald Reagan became a candidate for the Presidency before finally winning. It really seems hard to believe it was that long ago. At that time the economy was literally in the toilet. Double digit unemployment, double digit inflation on goods and services, and double digit rates on home mortgages. In the nation of Iran, Americans were being held hostage.

Candidate Reagan brought a refreshing attitude of self-reliance. He encouraged Americans not to depend on the government, but depend on self and family. Even though he said that government was the problem, there was an appropriate place in America for government. He moved well beyond class division. He lowered income taxes for all Americans, resulting in increased revenues for the government. He embraced economist Arthur Laffer's curve when nobody else would.

Former Florida governor Jeb Bush seems to think that Republicans should get over their sentimentality of Reagan. I think that is so wrong! We need to bring back Reagan and introduce him to a new generation. A generation that never has had the privilege of knowing him.

Below is a Reagan speech spliced together from several other speeches. It is obvious of what was made, but it sure does address the problems of today's current events. Sit back and enjoy this.

2009-05-30T12:47:00.002-04:00

Sometimes I get into a masochistic mood and I …..
watch MSNBC evening talk shows. Sick isn’t it??

Well, anyway, it is a shame to watch Keith Olbermann and what he does to himself. I feel sorry for him because he really is quite an articulate speaker. He has a larger than average vocabulary. He is professional. (He formerly was an announcer on ESPN.)

Yet, the problem is not so much that he is a flaming, bleeding heart liberal, but that his diatribes are more about himself. He wants you to know he has a superior intellect – more than any conservative. I think he does all of this out of a deep-seated frustration. Because his show is so lowly rated. He is scheduled against Bill O’Reilly and Nancy Grace. Looking at the numbers below show how few people really care to listen to him nationally.

CABLE NEWS RACE
THURS., MAY 29, 2009

FOXNEWS OREILLY 3,526,000
FOXNEWS HANNITY 2,474,000
FOXNEWS BECK 2,009,000
FOXNEWS BAIER 1,871,000
FOXNEWS GRETA 1,834,000
FOXNEWS SHEP 1,787,000
MSNBC OLBERMANN 1,298,000
MSNBC MADDOW 1,029,000
CNNHN GRACE 915,000
CNN COOPER 852,000

K.O. does have the hope that once Obama does away with Fox Network, he will be able dominate the 8 pm network ratings.

The evolution of man - again and again and again...

2009-05-26T10:25:00.005-04:00

The newly refurbished Hubble Telescope will now be able to peer deeper iinto the depths of the universe. As described, it will be able to see millions of years back into time. The idea is that based on the speed of light and the distance that light must travel to our vision on earth means that that light must have left its source millions of years ago. Based on that calculation, our universe must be even older than that.

Recently, a discovery was made that took 2 years to reveal to the general public. A new fossil has surfaced that most likely again "proves" that man came from lower animal species. I'm sorry - well, really I'm not - but I did not evolve from some multi-celled creature that climbed out of the primordial soup. I believe that God put fossils into His creation just to confound the "brilliant" scientists. I believe that in God's sense of humor He did this just prove the ignorance of man (see Romans 1:18-23).

By connecting the creation of mankind to the evoutionary process from other life forms disconnects man from the Creator. By disconnecting man from his Creator allows man to elevate himself to god.

As man then becomes god, he can begin to determine life and death choices originally left to the Creator. The literal life and death choices. Who lives, who dies, and when. First, death before birth, then assisted end of life, then death at the moment of birth. Soon, health care decisions will be made based on the quality of life. Who has the most value to contribute to society as a whole.

I did not evolve from animals (although my Mom may say that I acted like one, at times) and I will not have an imperfect "god" determining my value to society.

My son, the serviceman

2009-05-24T15:13:00.012-04:00

Along the theme of respect for the military.... My son is a member of the US Air Force. Don't ask me what he does, I've never understood, but I have seen some of the stuff he works with and that is good for me! Anyway, he is another member of the ALL-VOLUNTEER military. Here he is being sworn in by the Number 1 pilot from the Air Force Thunderbirds (far right enlistee). He has served 12 years. I am proud of him.

In Memorium

2009-05-24T14:47:00.005-04:00

This weekend is the Memorial Day. I cannot begin to express my great respect that I have for former and present members of the military and the duty they perform.

Since the age of the Vietnam era, the liberals in the United States have taken an exceptionally high level of animosity, anger, hatred for the military. They complain about the killing they perform, when required. They want to use the military as a social services agency.

Yet, today's members of the military are far more selfless when you consider they are ALL volunteers. While I am not a fan of the premise of the movie "A Few Good Men," the statement made by Colonel Jessup:

Col. Jessep: Son, we live in a world that has walls and those walls need to be guarded by men with guns. Who's gonna do it? You? You, Lieutenant Weinberg? I have a greater responsibility than you can possibly fathom. You weep for Santiago and curse the Marines; you have that luxury. You have the luxury of not knowing what I know: that Santiago's death, while tragic, probably saved lives and that my existence, while grotesque and incomprehensible to you, saves lives. You don't want the truth because deep down in places you don't talk about at parties you want me on that wall, you need me on that wall. We use words like honor, code, loyalty. We use then as the backbone of a life trying to defend something. You use them as a punchline. I have neither the time nor the inclination to explain myself to a man who rises and sleeps under the blanket of the very freedom I provide and then questions the manner in which I provide it. I would rather you just said "thank you," and went on your way. Otherwise, I suggest that you pick up a weapon and stand a post. Either way, I don't give a damn what you think you are entitled to.

Soldiers are trained to kill. Yes, kill. I want them on that wall. They VOLUNTEER to be on that wall. And because of all of that, they deserve our greatest respect. The ultimate respect is paid at Arlington National Cemetery. If you ever have the chance to visit the Tomb of the Unknowns - take it! It is an awesome presentation of respect.

Photos of Americans torturing

2009-05-14T07:52:00.004-04:00

It is very odd that President Obama has reversed a previous decision to publish photos regarding supposed torture of detainees by Americans. During the presidential campaign last year he was all for it. Now he opposes it. Why??

The public rationalization for this turnaround is rationalized that American soldiers may be put closer to harm apparently caused by Muslim indignance. True - some Muslims may be upset and motivated to cause Americans harm based on these photos. But I don't think that the President is really that concerned about military personnel safety.

But the President does think that it is appropriate to show the remains of dead soldiers as they are returned to the United States. No need to worry about shaming them is the apparent mindset.

I believe he is more concerned about his appearance next month in Cairo, Egypt. It is anticipated to be a major speech to Muslims. How can he maintain his high international approval if photos are published of Americans torturing Muslims?? This is a decision of self-concern instead of military protection.

My weight loss program

2009-05-08T09:51:00.005-04:00

I have to admit that I am a fan of the movie "Blazing Saddles." It first came out when I finished high school. (Showing my age.) When it comes on TV I try to watch it when I can. My wife prefers that I don't.

Well, now, I have scientific evidence that I need to watch the movie for the sake of my health. RealAge, a website that advises on health issues, has said that watching "Blazing Saddles" could help me lose weight. You can see the information here. Now I can watch the movie in confidence that I am doing this for my overall health.

For those of you that are politically-correct, don't watch this. If you need an opportunity to lose a few ounces, watch this:

Capitalism made simple..50 yrs ago!

2009-05-07T09:58:00.002-04:00

My ministry is...

2009-05-06T21:30:00.004-04:00

A couple of weeks ago my wife attended a seminar entitled "Live Life Love Work." From a Christian perspective, the idea was that we should consider our job more as a ministry. As much as I don't really like my own job right now, the concept is correct.

We really should perceive our jobs more than just a job, but also an opportunity to minister to somebody else. God required from the beginning that mankind was required to work. Unfortunately, today we perceive that ministry work has a boundary line. The idea exists that full time ordained ministers perform "ministry" work and the rest of us do "work." Well, that is so wrong!

While I agree the premise of the above mentioned seminar, I also believe that as Christians God has enabled us through skills and desires to perform duties throughout the total workforce.

My belief is that young Christians should be encouraged to view career choices made with the driving motivation to infiltrate career fields to put a Christian emphasis on it. For example, a young person pursuing a career in news reporting (print or video) should consider how to impact journalism with high integrity. Eventually, these young people will assume higher positions of responsibility. Career fields - such as education, nursing, accounting, or even the military - should eventually be led by Christians.

Not only would career fields have a higher level of integrity of professionalism, but also a much-needed idea of the employer/supervisor as treating the employee fairly and respectfully.

So much more can be done to influence today's culture through the workplace. (How many christians have done just the opposite?) We really need to encourage young people that work is honorable and a ministry to God and man. No longer should ministry be restricted only to the church.

I'm baaaack

2009-04-28T21:53:00.002-04:00

Sorry, I have been gone for awhile. Surgery removed my gall bladder. I'm feeling much better now.

I should have some interesting posts in the next few days.

Stay tuned! Please! Maybe even tell somebody else about this site.

No need for a birth certificate

2009-04-18T16:36:00.002-04:00

Finally! I get the recognition from the federal government that I so deserve! You too can get your personalized copy by clicking here.

What comes around...

2009-04-16T20:00:00.002-04:00

This is just too good to even say anything about it. I bet there is probably a federal tax credit for the purchase of this "environment-friendly" device. Since an entire adult and teenage generation have never had to use one of these, they may not even know where to put the key to start it.

Earth Day

2009-04-16T10:38:00.001-04:00

April 22nd will be the thirty-ninth observance of Earth Day. As many people around the world will take time to focus on many of the benefits this planet provides us and our need to responsibly care for the planet, I would also like to take this opportunity to praise the planet.

I am thankful for the science of the planet that first of all gives us the law of gravity. Even though the rotational spin of the earth should throw us off of the earth’s surface, we can depend on that fact that we can stand and move about securely, knowing that the law of gravity is uniformly in effect.

I am thankful for the four seasons and their predictable characteristics. (I suppose you could include Frankie Valli with this.)

I am thankful that when a farmer plants a seed of corn into the ground this spring that come autumn he will harvest corn. That corn seed will ALWAYS produce corn - not wheat, carrots, or a whale. We can depend on the science of genetics.

I am thankful for the consistent process of the water cycle. Additionally, the ocean currents help to moderate planet temperatures.

I am thankful for the consistency in the properties of light. This not only affects sunlight on the earth, but also such related uses as electricity and radio.

I am thankful for the complexity of the human body and the fact that organs function similarly from person to person.

Yet, some people think that all of this uniformity, predictability, and complexity on this planet just happened! Cataclysmically, way back in time this happened and out of absolute randomness all of this has developed into what we have today. Does this really make any logical sense? To think that all of this just happened is to believe that an explosion at a print shop would result in an exhaustive dictionary of the English language or that a pile of minerals would purposefully combine unaided to form a top of the line General Motors product.

There was a Creator that started all of this. He continues to be intimately involved in His creation. He gave us the planet for our use. We are not here as servants to the planet. We need to be wise as caretakers of the planet. Jesus Christ gives us life, not this planet.

The typical stupidity of the left

2009-04-13T20:44:00.006-04:00

A new program is being run out to discourage middle school age kids to stop smoking in the Fort Wayne IN area. The idea is that kids can be taught that there is a better way.

It's just 10 days into the new year and already an estimated 40,000 youths, ages 12 to 17, have tried their first cigarette. At year's end, more than 1,100 of the 1.5 million young people who will try smoking for the first time this year will become daily cigarette users, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.A new program, The Butt Stops Here, at McMillen Center for Health Education is aimed at preventing middle school students from taking that first puff. Research shows middle school age is now the most common period in which a boy or girl will try tobacco for the first time…..“It is never as good as being right in the same room with the students but having (the IVC classes) is better than not getting the information to students at all,” Ward said.He is especially concerned about tobacco use among younger and younger students and has a variety of props and information to show students novel marketing strategies that tobacco companies are using to woo younger consumers, from flavored products to youth-oriented packaging. The Fort Wayne News-Sentinel 4/12/2009

For decades, students involved in sports are encouraged – taught – to exceed average, in other words find that capability within yourself to excel. It may take giving up other hobbies, free time, useless activities, and so on.

When it comes to these activities it is possible to teach – and expect – young people to overcome natural mediocrity to achieve better. Yet when it comes to teaching youth about sex, the current President and his supporters believe that youth do not have the capacity to abstain from sexual activity until marriage. And because of that, all school abstinence programs will no longer receive federal funding.

There is absolutely no logic in their reasoning. They will have no hesitation supporting the other personal performance programs. Yet when it comes to sex, they think kids cannot exhibit self-control. Teach the kids “responsible” behavior. They can never actually control themselves or achieve higher personal performance.

It comes down to money and morals. One of the strongest opponents to abstinence programs – Planned Parenthood – receives multimillion dollar federal funding. They have already been caught in illegal advice giving in some of their clinics.

This is one more example of the sheer idiocy of this administration.

The "New" General Motors

2009-04-05T16:51:00.004-04:00

Here are advance photos of new production cars soon to be produced by General Motors as determined by CEO Obama:

Airport visit

2009-04-05T14:15:00.003-04:00

This past weekend I had the pleasure of visiting my adult sons in another state. (Why they moved away from beautiful New Haven IN is beyond me) When I arrived at Fort Wayne International Airport and experienced the familiarity of TSA, I then headed to my gate on the upper level. At that point I realized a past experience long gone. Standing at the windows and seeing all of the runways in front of me, airplane enthusiasts no longer may go to the airport and just watch the airplanes takeoff and land. Off in the distance is the 122nd Wing of the Air National Guard with several F-16s sitting on the flight line (soon to be replaced with A-10s). Those are neat to watch!

If the airport really wanted to attract patrons back to the airport, they should provide an observation area. An area that is secure, not subject to the TSA, and has a convenient view of the major runways. (It could also put more parking revenue in their pockets).

Days gone by might be coming back

2009-03-30T20:44:00.003-04:00

As a former Camaro owner, this video brings back a sense of pride and a better day gone by. Unfortunately, I don't think this competition will actually happen after what happened to General Motors today.

The Role of a Dad

2009-03-30T20:15:00.003-04:00

In the movie "Grease" there is a scene where Frenchie is talking with Sandy and she makes the comment that "nobody can love a girl like her daddy." I have continually tried to convince my daughter of that for years and I think she has believed that until this year. Apparently she thinks there is some guy on campus that loves her more. Hopefully, she will always remember that her daddy loves her more than any other man can in her life.

But it's the same for sons also. Just displayed differently.

As I have described before, dads are marginalized in the popular media. I believe just the opposite. I think that dads are important to the development of making boys into men and girls into ladies.

Under the women's liberation movement, social roles and identities have been seriously harmed. Men became more feminized and women were masculinized.

Dads have the obligation to teach their sons that they have the duty to stand by their family to provide, protect, and love. Men are to be leaders. Not dictators, but leaders. They also have the duty to treat women as ladies. Respect, courtesy, love, put her on a pedestal.

Also, dads have the responsibility to teach a girl to be a lady. He should model to her how he treats his wife. He should instill in her that she should expect that type of treatment from her eventual boyfriends. Moms teach daughters the "how-to" of being feminine. But I believe dads have a MAJOR role in teaching daughters how to be a lady.

Dads are important to the stability of the family.

How Fights Start

2009-03-27T10:36:00.002-04:00

Lasting marriages really depend on humor to get them through the rough times. Thanks to my daughter-in-law (and hopefully these situations aren't based on my son) the following will help you get through today.

How Fights Start --------------------------------

My wife sat down on the couch next to me as I was flipping channels.
She asked, 'What's on TV?'
I said, 'Dust.'
And then the fight started...

I took my wife to a restaurant. The waiter, for some reason, took my order first.
"I'll have the strip steak, medium rare, please."
He said, "Aren't you worried about the mad cow?""
Nah, she can order for herself."
And then the fight started...

I asked my wife, "Where do you want to go for our anniversary? "
It warmed my heart to see her face melt in sweet appreciation.
"Somewhere I haven't been in a long time!" she said.
So I suggested, "How about the kitchen?"
And that's when the fight started....

After retiring, I went to the Social Security office to apply for Social
Security. The woman behind the counter asked me for my driver's
license to verify my age. I looked in my pockets and realized I had
left my wallet at home. I told the woman that I was very sorry, but I
would have to go home and come back later. The woman said, 'Unbutton your shirt'. So I opened my shirt revealing my curly silver hair. She said, 'That silver hair on your chest is proof
enough for me' and she processed my Social Security application.
When I got home, I excitedly told my wife about my experience at the Social Security office.
She said, 'You should have dropped your pants. You might have gotten disability, too.'
And then the fight started...

My wife and I are watching Who Wants To Be A Millionaire while we were in
bed. I turned to her and said, "Do you want to have sex?"
"No," she answered.
I then said, "Is that your final answer?"
She didn't even look at me this time, simply saying "Yes."
So I said, "Then I'd like to phone a friend."
And that's when the fight started....

AIG or pork?

2009-03-20T17:32:00.002-04:00

According to Congress, Americans are very upset about the $165 million bonuses for AIG executives. But that is really not true. Senator Schumer from New York reminds us that we really don't care about the billions that the government spends on special projects, ie pork projects. So the news media must be totally wrong.

They earn HOW MUCH?!?!

2009-03-16T20:07:00.005-04:00

Federal legislators are SO upset that employees of bailed-out companies are getting hundreds of thousands of dollars in compensation for work that apparently put these businesses in their current condition. All well and good. Salary tied to performance. I love it. But yet the president and Congress don't want executives of large corporations earning more than $500,000. Is that fair? These people make decisions that affect the careers and lives of thousands of employees and their families. Their decisions affect stock prices of investors.

Where is the outrage at people earning millions of dollars each year and add no value to the overall American economy? Below is a list of current major league baseball players and their income. Where is the outrage?? These people are earning money from average schmucks walking through the turnstiles. What is their skill? Hit, catch, and throw a baseball.

Average annual value of current highest-paid players in baseball:

Alex Rodriguez, $27,500,000 (2008-17)
CC Sabathia, $23,000,000 (2009-15)
Johan Santana, $22,916,667 (2008-13)
Manny Ramirez, $22,500,000 (2009-10)
Mark Teixeira, $22,500,000 (2009-16)
Miguel Cabrera, $19,037,500 (2008-15)
Derek Jeter, $18,900,000 (2001-10)
Carlos Zambrano, $18,300,000 (2008-12)
Andruw Jones, $18,100,000 (2008-09)
Ryan Howard, $18,000,000 (2009-11)
Torii Hunter, $18,000,000 (2008-12)
Ichiro Suzuki, $18,000,000 (2008-12)
Vernon Wells, $18,000,000 (2008-14)
Barry Zito, $18,000,000 (2007-13)
Jake Peavy, $17,333,333 (2010-12)
Carlos Beltran, $17,000,000 (2005-11)
Alfonso Soriano, $17,000,000 (2007-14)

Cot's Baseball Contracts

Esentially, I have no problem with people earning what the market will bear. I do have a problem with Congress beginnning to say who should make what they determine to be fair compensation. This really is a major shift toward socialism.

Church leadership

2009-03-16T11:34:00.000-04:00

I will be the first to admit that the evangelical church is not perfect. It contains members that imperfect, but as is said, forgiven. I am one of them. Fortunately, you will not find a perfect Christian anywhere. Again, thankfully, we have a Savior that is very forgiving.

Because there are no perfect church members, there are many mistakes made within the church. Even by the leaders. Since I know hardly anybody reads what I write here, let alone even care about my opinion, I figure it’s time to vent. Hopefully, it will be cathartic.

Several years ago I taught in adult Bible studies in church. I know that sometimes my presentation style was not the best. I occasionally attended local conferences to help me. When I started attending my current church I would fill in sometimes teaching when the regular teacher was away on business. I enjoyed that schedule. Otherwise, I would open the class with small discussion, prayer, etc. prior to the lesson. Well, one couple felt the class structure needed changed. I was out. A year later I was asked to lead a Wednesday class one week before the class was scheduled to begin. I was upset. No time to plan or prepare. I asked to meet with the elders about this situation. I was upset that I was unceremoniously removed from my little position previously in ABS. Now I was asked at the last minute to lead a class. I said that was poor planning. At that point I was told by one elder that he was in one of my classes and said I was a poor teacher. Another elder said that he had heard the same thing. Another elder called me selfish for not agreeing to lead the Wednesday class. If they felt I was less than capable to teach, then why hadn’t they told me previously, I asked. They had no answer. I said that if they felt there were issues to correct, I could accept instruction. They apologized for not doing that. I asked for follow-up. Maybe there would be many others willing to be instructed on how to teach an interesting class. More than a year later not a word from any of them about follow-up. I finally went back to them and said never mind, I’m tired of waiting. At this point, one asked if I would be willing to submit to them for restoration. All I could do was chuckle. I had done everything right. Yet they were trying to come off as the righteous ones.

All this brings me now to today. More than a year after that last meeting, I still harbor feelings of bitterness. I tried to be faithful to this church and they dumped me. A couple of weeks ago the sermon was from Ephesians chapter 5. Part of the sermon asked about personal growth. “You should be teachers, yet you still need to be taught the basics.” I was thinking about those (me) that wanted to teach but leadership wanted nothing to do with. I sit in classes where other individuals are less competent than me – I don’t deny their passion to be there – and have heard the pastor endorse them. Yes. I am bitter. And I don’t need anybody to tell me that that is wrong, I know. I just wish they would at least make an effort to qualify uniformly who will stand in class to teach. If their responsibility is to protect the flock, then they should. If someone is teaching correct theology and is putting the class to sleep, how effective are they? Who is responsible for correcting the situation?

One last thing. This is definitely not intended to give reason for any person to avoid church. Any believer needs to be in attendance. Regularly.

I had to vent.

Why??

2009-03-14T16:12:00.003-04:00

Growing up I was enamored with the concept of space travel. I wasn't necessarily a science fiction junkie, but a follower of the US space program. As each Apollo flight was headed to the moon, I was watching it on TV, reading about it in the newspapers, listening on the radio. (I even have - still - an autographed photo of Richard Gordon from Apollo12). So my kids know now that my favorite movie is Apollo13. When there is anything on tv about those days of landing on the moon, I'm watching it.

Well, recently there was a program on tv called "For All Mankind." It was a compilation of videos from the spacecrafts taken by the astronauts themselves. The program was also narrated by the astronauts. One made an interesting comment and I want the scientists to answer for me.
"When the sunlight shines through the blackness of space it's black. But I was in sunlight and I was able to look at this blackness. What are you looking at? Call it the universe, but it's the infinity of space and time. I'm looking at something called space that had no end and at time that has no meaning." In other words, he was in total light and yet in total blackness at the same time. How can this be??

Why?

Teaching a man to be a man

2009-03-11T21:17:00.002-04:00

Back to the discussion of manhood.

Some may take my discussions here as sexist. They are not intended to be. Historically the man/husband has been assumed to be responsible for the family. He provided the work to bring home the “bacon.” Sometimes that meant actually butcher the hog and bring home the bacon. He would sign the contracts to purchase the home, car, etc. Society today has changed the role to make equals of husband and wife. I don’t have a problem with that, but I do believe that somebody has to make the final decisions.

Unfortunately, a lot of what is wrong with the family today is the fault of the husband/father. While I don’t have statistical info to back up my claims, I think most people would agree with my assumptions. Most divorces are the result of the wandering eye of the man. Whether it is sexual or career or self-interest, men are more willing to pursue diversionary interests outside of the family.

To wit, the evangelical church has failed to address this issue. There is a class for every group. Infants, pre-schoolers, little kids, pre-teens, teens, college age, women’s groups. And the programs for these groups are intense. We have staff to address kid’s programs. Multiple women’s studies and get togethers. Where is the husband/father at? Maybe a seasonal sporting activity.

What men really need is to be taught how to be men. Too many men these days base their instruction on media representations. Television portrays men as idiots. Perhaps the model as described in the Bible. Actual mentoring. Small groups. One-on-one. A respect for older men that have been through it. Life-seasoned. But the church hardly does this. We wonder why Christian marriages are failing at the same rate as non-religious marriages. Lack of instruction. Lack of respect. Lack of determination to do the hard stuff. Look in your church library at books on how to be a man. The total will probably be less than the number on how to raise children. It will be less than women’s issues.

What are your thoughts?

That's my child?!?

2009-03-09T21:17:00.004-04:00

The President has said that he wants the government to provide health care for all Americans. He wants to provide educational training from cradle to adult career employment. Right now, when the bill comes due for medical services or education it is sent to the natural parents. That is proof they are your children. If the government becomes provider of services, won't you become nothing more than surrogate parents, providing future taxpayers for the benefit of the government?? Logically, this situation could also allow the government then to choose the health and sex of the child, force abortion if the child is developing abnormally, or place birth limitations on families. Hasn't this happened elsewhere? It does sound familiar.

Love is....

2009-03-09T10:09:00.002-04:00

It is difficult sometimes to understand why bad things can happen to good people on this earth. And it’s usually the people that don’t believe there is a God that ask “why does God allow evil to happen?”

I saw yesterday in church why this takes place. (The short story) A couple of years ago a family with two children was now expecting their third. Soon the family was told that the child would not survive after birth due to defects. The parents were advised to abort the child. The parents chose not to and followed through to natural birth, knowing the baby would die very soon after birth. As expected, the baby was born, lived briefly, then died. The child had the honor of being recognized by the government as a citizen with all due birthrights. The story doesn’t end here. Leaving the hospital childless was emotional for the parents.

God gives experiences to believers that can endure the difficulties. This family is one example. They have felt the need to reach out to families that now and will in the future go through the same pain. They are in contact with virtually every area hospital when this may happen. They will provide a birth scrapbook and a stuffed bear to families to help ease the pain for the childless parents.

I am a “John-Wayne-don’t-show-your-emotion” type of person. It takes a lot for me to cry publicly. (Or listening to “Butterfly Kisses”) Listening to their presentation had me in tears. Firstly, it makes me so thankful for the perfect health of all of my children. Second, it is amazing to see God working through the lives of people. And this really is God actively interacting with mankind.
Want to know more? Call Wallen Baptist Church. 260-489-4942.

Similarity is AMAZING!!!!!

2009-02-28T14:22:00.005-05:00

Had to delete some potentially bad language on the first pic.

The President's "Budget"

2009-02-28T08:15:00.004-05:00

There are smarter people than me out there analyzing the budget that the President has proposed for next year. What amazes me during this entire process is the ignorance of many taxpayers - especially young people - that believe they see little wrong with this budget.

The lack of understanding of the implications of today's federal budget is based on the lack of remembering historical events and basic financial principles.

After World War I, Germany tried to lift itself out of its economic misery by printing more currency. This only resulted in staggering inflation. The following is a quote from Wikipedia referring to the period of the Weimar Republic:

Although the inflation ended with the introduction of the Rentenmark and the Weimar Republic continued for a decade afterwards, hyperinflation is widely believed to have contributed to the Nazi takeover of Germany. Adolf Hitler himself in his book, Mein Kampf, makes many references to the German debt and the negative consequences that brought about the "necessity" of National Socialism. The inflation also raised doubts about the competence of liberal institutions, especially amongst a middle class who had held cash savings and bonds. It also produced resentment of Germany's bankers and speculators, many of them Jewish, whom the government and press blamed for the inflation.

Failure to pay attention to events of the past - and the corresponding consequences - results in what we have today. The general populace believes that the president is doing the right thing by borrowing money to pay for programs now. They have no knowledge of these kinds of events happening previously and the results.

The payment of this budget is ensured by the "full faith and credit of the United States." The assumption is that today's debt will be paid in the future. How will that debt be paid? Currently, it is sold on the open market in the form of Treasury bills and savings bonds. But that principle - and interest - will be paid in the future through higher taxes. How can the government avoid raising taxes? Print more money. By decreasing the value of the dollar, apparent wages and costs of goods goes up. It now becomes easier to pay for yesterday's debt. But the value of money continues to decline and the financial effect on the average consumer will become more burdensome.

Men, young men, leaders of families, are obligated to be aware of these implications. You are responsible for your families. Not the government!

I beg you to heed the warnings of an older man.

My prescription to fix the economy

2009-02-22T11:30:00.005-05:00

I'm just laying around the house totally under the weather today. To speed my recovery, I've been watching several of the Sunday morning talk shows. Every one of them has been obviously discussing the current U.S. economy and how to fix it. It has been fascinating how screwed up many of these people are.

So.....
I will give my prescription for fixing the economy (because everybody else is). And I hope my children listen the most closely.

1.Save
2. Pay cash

Sounds pretty complicated, huh? These two principles are not part of the current discussion. Of course, it is pretty difficult to do this while unemployed. But these should have been the dominant points of discussion during the good times. But these two points run contrary to current popular thought. Spend, spend, spend to keep the economy expanding. Put it on plastic to do it. WRONG!

I would even go so far as to say that churches should establish "rainy day" funds in their budgets to help people when in need. I don't mean to use it to protect the church budget during bad times, but rather help members when the need exists. Pay attention to any effective money management program - such as Dave Ramsey's Total Money Makeover - and the two principles above are at the center of those programs.

Ignore the talk of Washington's financial institutions' bailouts. Let them fail. That is the basis for the economic concept called "risk." They took the risk to loan money to people that did not have the resources to repay.

1.Save
2.Pay cash

Pretty simple. I guess that is why the Bible speaks so highly of them.

A new gas tax

2009-02-20T14:55:00.004-05:00

Here we go again with the stupid contradictions in government. Last year when gasoline prices exceeded $4/gallon, the government's response encouraged drivers to reduce their gasoline consumption - either by driving less or buy more fuel-efficient vehicles - to help bring down oil prices. In a way, that is sensible. Basic macroeconomics principle states that more demand results in higher prices. Lower demand results in lower prices. Demand went down. Supply went up. Prices came down. When consumption went down, so did the federal taxes collected on each gallon of gasoline. Those taxes go to - theoretically - help pay for road construction and maintenance. Less taxes collected...less money available for roadwork. So the government is coming up with a new way to increase those tax revenues to previous levels. They want to tax the number of miles you drive. You can read the details here . Through taxation government can control your behavior. And they will take your money from you one way or another because they think it belongs to them. You can have what is left over when they are done taking what they want.

This is similar to the logic of raising tobacco taxes to pay for smoking cessation programs. When the purchase of tobacco goes down - as they wanted it to - they raise taxes elsewhere to maintain the viability of the program.

I really get dizzy going around on these idiotic circular arguments.

Congress should follow their own advice

2009-02-16T13:12:00.003-05:00

An open letter to all Congressmen and Senators:

You find that executives of some businesses are earning too much money. Terrible isn't it? At the same time some of those businesses are losing money, excessing employees, and even asking for government assistance. Your answer has been to require those executives not to earn more than $500,000 annually. I don't know if you have noticed, but the federal government is losing money right now also. Why not accept some of your own advice. I suggest until you balance the federal budget at 2008 FY spending that you lower your annual salary to $1. When the government again runs actual surpluses in the budget then you can again resume your salary.

Whadayasay?? Help out the little guy...the taxpayer.

Where have all of the superheroes gone?

2009-02-14T14:35:00.003-05:00

Continuing the thought about men:
Where have all of the (super)heroes gone? Men need heroes. Men need role models that defend country, honor, women, children, and the right thing to do.

I had Superman. I had Batman. I had Roy Rogers. These were heroes that were more than just a guy doing the right thing for themselves. What they did was a part of life itself. Doing the right thing wasn’t for personal benefit. They did it because they understood it was bigger than life. For some, it meant saving the damsel in the old West. For others, it meant saving the planet and the human race. Either way, it was more than themselves.

This next statement will show if anybody is actually reading this blog. I will reveal a part of myself that few know about me. I doubt if my mom or brothers remember this. I used to find the biggest bath towel in the house and a large safety pin and became another superhero. Yes, I did this when I was growing up, not as an adult. I was out to save the world from evil villains also. I could get my cape to flow in the breeze. It was exhilarating. I used to walk with pretend six-shooters strapped on. I would make sure that my fingers curled slightly as did the good guys.

These were my role models. Fictional-yes! But they did it right. I wanted to be like them. Where are those heroes today? Superman and Batman now are borderline dysfunctional. They can’t deal with having an alter-ego. Bruce Wayne is probably an evil industrialist gaining wealth at the expense of his employees. Roy Rogers wouldn’t be allowed to have guns anymore. Or at least be sure that they are registered and have a license to carry a weapon.

The heroes of today are real life people: sports stars, wizards of wealth, politicians. The problem is that with these heroes you also have their faults. Their status is based on only what they do for themselves. They are not heroes to the bigger things in life. They are wrapped up in themselves.

Men (and young men) need to know that they can be the super heroes of today. Fight for the bigger things in life. Rid the world of crime, save the beautiful damsel, and still remain a humble man. That is what this world needs today. Boys need to put on the cape.

My letter to the editor that they have chosen NOT to print

2009-02-11T20:58:00.001-05:00

Three weeks ago, I sent an editorial to a local morning newspaper for them to print. The normal process has been that a representative from the newspaper calls back after receiving the letter is to confirm the authenticity of the letter and gain approval for printing. No problem. I'm still waiting to hear from them! So I The represented need to be equally - or more so – informed as those that represent us. will instead print that letter here, hoping that the world (internet access is powerful) will read and respond to my ideas.

A magician depends on the ability to distract the attention of the audience in order to give the illusion of magic. Keep them looking in one direction while the real action is happening somewhere else.

The new administration will use that same tactic in making decisions regarding national issues. While the current state of the national economy hurts many individuals and families, it is a diversionary benefit for the Obama administration to implement its very liberal social agenda. The media is focused on the efforts of the new president to restart the economy. The administrative staff is labeled as moderate – middle of the road – willing to compromise with both conservatives and liberals to accomplish certain goals. The foreign policy team is also described as moderate, an attempt to disguise several specific goals that many Americans would be opposed to.

According to the Obama transition website (http://otrans.3cdn.net/3b21d35e246c18a427_d7m6bw2o1.pdf), he plans to resume sending money internationally to provide for abortions, reinstate abortion services on military bases, and eliminate all funding to abstinence programs in the schools. He is being encouraged to enact the Freedom of Choice Act – FOCA – negating state laws that regulate abortion on demand. The bold actions to expand abortion services during an Obama administration depend on the public’s misdirected attention.

He is planning to lift President Bush’s ban on federal research using embryonic stem cells. This ban only prevented government research, not private research. The use of embryonic stem cells has already been proven to have no medical value. The use of adult stem cells has proven to be a gold mine to address medical issues. Significantly, research using embryonic stem cells requires the destruction of the embryo – the death of a potential life as defined by pro-life supporters. Research using adult stem cells does not require any embryo destruction.
These extreme proposals reveal the general attitude to life itself. If an embryo is not life, then there is no wrong in destroying it. This lack of respect for life can potentially grow and permeate other areas of life, such as assisted suicide services. A rationed national government run health care system that evaluates a life saving surgery in terms of value to the patient and the government. Two people are in need of a liver transplant. One is 75 years old, the other person is 28. The 28-year-old has better future earnings potential (pays taxes). The 75-year- old is a tax liability - Social Security and Medicare benefits taken from the system, not added to it. Eliminate the fringes of life and then move towards the center.

Our form of government – republic – requires diligent oversight of elected officials at all levels –local, state, federal - by the represented. We cannot simply trust them to do the right thing. We must continually hold them accountable for their actions – how they spend our money. The represented need to be equally - or more so – informed as those that represent us.

What does it mean to be a "man?"

2009-02-11T09:54:00.004-05:00

There are many aspects to being a man. There is the physical man with all of his biological functions. Some are blessed with strong muscles, great looks, and hardly any cranial follicles. Many are not as fortunate. A man also can become a husband. He can become a father. Late in life he can even become a patriarch. Our media-centered society has given little effort to explain these roles.

The one issue in my life that has weighed the greatest on me involves the definition of being a man. What does it mean to be a MAN in today’s American society?

There have been so many definitions during my lifetime. The most prominent definer of manhood has been through the media, primarily television and the movies. “Make Room for Daddy,” “Father Knows Best,” “The Andy Griffith Show” were great starts for defining a father that – while comical at times – as a leader in the family with always the right thing to say at the right time.

I always liked John Wayne’s “The Quiet Man” as representative of man that courted a woman in proper fashion. Once he was married he was the defender of his bride and that was what Maureen O’Hara wanted. Of course, several other John Wayne movies defined manhood.

But now manhood has been feminized over the past 25 years. Display the softer side. Show no aggression. Anger is out. Cooperation is in, take charge is out.

I want to continue to develop this topic – primarily for the benefit of my sons – to get some discussion going.

2009-02-10T20:58:00.002-05:00

Thanks to my youngest son. He always has the perfect comment that fills the moment.

2009-02-09T21:05:00.004-05:00

This is my first attempt at blogging. As my friends who know me, I am very opinionated about politics. I also believe that religious beliefs should influence every aspect of our lives. Sometimes, however, our lives reflect just the opposite. We sometimes let politics drive our religious thought. I don't think I will be able to clearly define the difference. Maybe it's better I don't.

I write here because the old avenues of expressive thought (local newspaper editorial pages) are no longer dependable to publish letters of opinion in a timely manner. At my age, I have probably too much to say and too small of an audience to listen to me.

I invite your comments. I like debate. I love intelligient debate. I can't gurantee that together we'll change the world, but we may change some minds.

In my opinion, Steve is:
	an overachiever
	an under-performer
	always in the wrong place at the wrong time
	all of the above
	none of the above
	I could care less about Steve
	Steve who???

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