Conservative Futurist

Not Your Father's Star Trek

2009-05-08T01:21:00.003-04:00

So, my beloved Star Trek has been given a new, 21st century treatment this week in a new release by Paramount Pictures. I just got back from the showing, and, although it’s almost 0100 hours, feel compelled to put some of my thoughts down as I regurgitate the film in my mind.

Let me begin by saying that I enjoyed the movie very much. I went in with high expectations and wasn't disappointed - that’s a bonus (and is saying a lot for me). However, despite the fact that it was a truly great movie in and of itself, I have to say that the 2009 version of Star Trek, slightly offends the inner-Trekker in me. Yep, it's true... though, probably not in the way you think. I mean, never mind the fact that this movie offers the first-ever product placement in a Star Trek production, or that it features a poor performance from Eric Bana as the movie’s villain, Nero. I can overlook all of these things. It’s the fact that this movie radically alters the Star Trek universe to which I have become accustomed over the last 20 years that really gets to me. And what’s worse is that I kinda of liked it. Let me start with a few basic facts.

First, it’s no secret that the Star Trek franchise has been in trouble for the past decade or so. I admit this, despite the fact that I genuinely enjoyed the last television iteration, Enterprise, and fought hard to save it from cancellation. So even I, the most die-hard of fan, had to admit that things weren’t the same. Perhaps after 5 series, 10 movies, a cartoon and a gazillion episodes based on the same format, I knew something had to change if the overall concept was to survive.

Second, and I need to be honest and candid here (and let my true colors show at the same time), I loved the Trek universe. By that I mean I loved the so-called “canon”, or established back story that intertwines all of the Star Trek movies, television shows and books together. A canon where every fact or plot is checked for consistency against the other shows in the franchise. A daunting work for anyone willing to take on the creative task of writing for something based in this universe. And something that producer J.J. Abrams of the 2009 movie obviously felt was holding the show back from its potential, which is why he departed from it altogether. Had I been given a choice, I would have fought tooth and nail to make sure this quasi-religious canon was adhered to, strictly, in any future movie. But, because I wasn’t consulted, tonight’s film took me in directions I would have never allowed, or expected. The movie boldly went where no Trek movie has gone before… and you know, it wasn’t all that bad.

-- THE REST OF THIS CONTAINS MAJOR SPOILERS --

Third, as a Trekker, I feel somewhat obligated to support a large part of the fan-base that was utterly pissed off at this movie. Let’s be clear, not only does this movie depart from canon, it rips some of the accepted Star Trek universe to shreds. Vulcan is destroyed. Spock’s mother is killed. Fans of the show know that all of these things play major roles in the movies that are set after this prequel. How can you call a movie Star Trek when Spock’s homeworld is destroyed, yet is there again in older movies that are chronologically set after the events in this prequel? The answer – and this is pure genius because it is all too familiar to Trek fans – use a plot device that is so Trekkish, fans can’t possibly scoff at it: time travel.

Yep, this movie crushes the Star Trek we know, and creates something new using something that is entirely within the possibility of the canon, and at the same time, utterly frees any future writer from having to worry about canon again. In a nutshell, because Spock went back and time and altered the past, the future that we all accept as historical canon (bear with me, I know this is confusing) is wiped away. There can be 10 sequels to this movie that don’t have to worry about anything that went on in previous movies or television shows, because Abrams has created a brand new universe! I know, it poops on what we’ve come to love about the show, but did it by using the things that made the show so much fun to love: science fiction!

Can you see why I’m torn over this movie? It was fun, but it wasn’t Star Trek because it was Star Trek! Get it? Only a Star Trek show could take the viewer for such a ride, forcing him to abandon his preconceived notions and boldly take him on a strange, new mission!

But does the viewer have to go through this transformation alone? No! He has a cast of characters who were developed to phenomenal perfection for this movie. The old chemistry that exists between Kirk, Spock, Bones and Scotty are all here, easing the viewer into his new surroundings with stunning familiarity. The cast (with the exception of Bana) was positively fantastic. If we’ve lost everything else, we’ve gained a new depth to the characters that made Star Trek into one of the greatest franchises the entertainment world has ever seen. To see this cast work together in the spirit of Trek is worth the price of admission.

In the end, am I sad that history has been changed (or should I say, future)? Yes. I loved Vulcan. Yes, it hurts that there are only 10,000 Vulcans left in the universe down from 6 billion, and that their great civilization has been destroyed. I mourn them. I truly do. But to quote a true legend from the Star Trek universe, I need to keep some perspective and remember that in the end, “it’s just a TV show!” And let me tell you, once I did that, I truly enjoyed the picture for what it was – a great Star Trek movie!

A Little Exercise in Futurism

2009-03-02T23:12:00.003-05:00

Reading about the economic tumult in which our nation finds itself, I have come across little bits and pieces of information that paint an even grimmer picture for Europe and Asia. We’ve been so consumed with our own problems, that most of these stories have been buried and put on the proverbial back page. However, when you look for the information, there is an abundance of it – and it scares the hell out of me for several reasons, first and paramount among them being the long-term security of the United States.

There appears to be the real possibility of unrest in the Ukraine as major banks fail and its citizens are being locked out of their bank accounts. It’s an ominous sign, and not because the same thing could happen here (it could), but because nations like the Ukraine and other eastern European countries have been very friendly to the United States. They have (up until now) provided a sturdy bulwark against the designs of Putin’s Russia. And as they begin to topple like dominoes, the notion of Russia stepping in as savior seems less the vision of fantasy, and more like a real possibility.

If you push this scenario even further, there’s another element to consider. The people of these nations have a history of turning to strongmen when things go south. And as unpopular as saying such things can be, I’m afraid the same can be said for much of Europe. Just look at how Germany has utterly capitulated to the Russians. I quote from Stratfor:

NATO faces a substantial split, conditioned partly by Germany’s dependence on Russian energy, but also by deep German unease about any possible resumption of a Cold War with Russia, however mild. The foundation of NATO during the Cold War was the U.S.-German-British relationship. With the Germans unwilling to align with the United States and other NATO members over Russia or Afghanistan, it is unclear whether NATO can continue to function.

Now granted, Germany’s thick headedness is clouded by their attachment to Russia’s energy-teat and not so much by a love for Russian leaders. But still, on whose side shall they stand when push comes to shove?

And things aren’t any better back home, where Obama plans to relinquish American plans for a missile defense shield in Europe if only the Russians can help us in dealing with Iran. Clearly, America is no longer interested in projecting strength. Now it’s all about maintaining celebrity status.

So my question is this, do any of you see a scenario where a weakened United States and an economically devastated Europe might lead to the creation of a new political strongman there, who uses his position to intimidate and threaten the west while his policies give Europe and Russia the visions of power that they so desperately crave? Does anyone get the feeling that there is something more sinister at work here?

Let’s speculate!

Obama's First Campaign Speech of His Presidency

2009-01-21T09:45:00.003-05:00

Yes, I'm talking about his inauguration speech. I call it a campaign speech because surely no President would ever use such hateful, biased and ignorant rhetoric in his very first speech in office, right? Hmm. I just don't think our new President knows how to give a proper speech because he's been campaigning his whole life. The man has never led. But these obvious observations aside, let me better articulate my thoughts on his inaugural speech by quoting the following by Jay Nordlinger from National Review Online (they start getting good at number 3):

Quick Inaugural Reax

1. Interesting musical combo: Itzhak, Yo-Yo, Anthony McGill, and Gabriela. I have written about them all, for many years. (Incidentally, McGill has a brother, Demarre, who is a very good flutist.) But how were they chosen? How were they brought together? A curious thing.

Was ethno-racial variety a consideration? Perish the thought — perish the thought fast.

Also, I wonder whether Gabriela (who’s from Venezuela) is an American. I don’t give a rip, believe me: This is music, we’re talking about. I just wondered. And it was interesting that she participated in a John Williams arrangement, because her specialty — her claim to fame — is improvisation. Did she break from script?

Finally — and irrelevantly, of course — I have met her, and she’s a total babe. (I can say that on the Corner, right?)

2. A European friend (mix of nationalities) called me, a few minutes to 12. Wanted to share the last moments of the Bush administration with me. (I wasn’t able to take the call, but never mind.) Credited me with awakening his appreciation of Bush (I blush to say, but what the heck). Was nice.

3. What a great, great shame that Chief Justice Roberts screwed up the oath-administering. A great shame. This is a video clip for all time — an “iconic moment.” I’m sure he feels terrible about it. Possibly, he was “nervous as a whore in church,” as an old southern friend of mine used to say. Obama wasn’t.

4. I thought Obama did the minimum about Bush — the barest minimum: “I thank him for his service,” or something. He could have done a lot more: not with more words, but with better, truer, more gracious words. Bush has certainly done a lot. For one thing, he is passing on to his successor the means with which to fight the War on Terror.

5. Obama said something like, “It’s time to quit putting off the unpleasant decisions.” Geez: Making unpleasant decisions, in both the domestic and foreign spheres, was Bush’s specialty. In fact, he sacrificed a good deal of political popularity because of it.

6. I liked Obama’s nod to Dorothy Fields, the lyricist — who wrote, “Pick yourself up, take a deep breath, dust yourself off, and start all over again.” And, by the way, my favorite recording of that song — a Kern song — is by McNair and Previn, on this album.

7. Obama talked about “restoring science to its rightful place.” I thought that was a cheap, stupid shot. The opinion-makers will love it, of course.

8. He suggested — more like said — that Bush had jettisoned American ideals in order to pursue security. That is a slander, pure and simple. Slandering your predecessor is not a good way to start a presidency.

9. He said that “we are ready to lead once more” — ready to lead the world in the search for peace and dignity. That, my friends, is just what Bush has been doing for eight years. It would have been truer to speak of continuing to lead.

10. Obama said that we must now “leave Iraq to its people.” Well, it’s chiefly because of George W. Bush and the U.S. military that Iraqis have any say at all over their own country. No Bush, no U.S. military: no Iraqi democracy, or semi-democracy, or even hope for democracy (or decency or non-tyranny).

11. Obama said that we must “no longer ignore the suffering outside our borders” (if I heard him correctly). Oh, since when have we been doing that? In fact, one of the biggest criticisms of Bush is that he has gone too far in trying to alleviate the suffering of others — “imposing our values” and all that. And will Obama better Bush’s Africa program? Fat chance.

12. You may call this picky — and perhaps wrong — but I don’t consider the presidential oath of office a “sacred oath”; I consider it a civic one — despite the “So help me God.” (And yes, I’m familiar with the phrase “our sacred honor,” thank you.)

13. Obama did not give a bad speech — although I think there were bad, even disgraceful, lines in it. But I don’t think he gave a particularly good speech. I admired its brevity, however. And I hope his presidency continues better than it began. Time to stop knocking (and sliming) Bush and do something on his own.

So Jay sums things up better than I could have, and he makes great points about how a President, especially on his first day, needs to keep himself above the shameful slander Obama appears to have committed.

You know, we keep hearing about how we need to "put the divisiveness of the past behind us" (usually spoken by people who have done nothing but spew divisive rhetoric for the past 8 years) now that Obama is here to heal all wounds. Well, if his inauguration speech is any indication of the way he'll lead, we're in for a particularly bad next 4 years.

Obama's First Challange: The Bear's Paw

2008-11-06T11:21:00.003-05:00

I don't know if any of you saw the article on Drudge this morning about what's happening in Russia, but I find it extremely troubling and think that the power moves taking place over there are a direct result of Obama's victory.

First, There are rumors coming out of Russia that Putin is maneuvering himself for an unprecedented power-grab. This is from Reuters:

Medvedev Wednesday proposed increasing the presidential term to six years
from four years, a step the newspaper said was part of a plan drawn up by
Vladislav Surkov, who serves as Medvedev's first deputy chief of staff.

Under the plan, Medvedev could implement changes to the constitution
and unpopular social reforms "so that Putin could return to the Kremlin for a
longer period," the newspaper said.

"Under this scenario Medvedev could resign early citing changes to the
constitution and then presidential elections could take place in 2009," the
newspaper said, citing the unidentified source close to the Kremlin.

The paper said Putin, who is currently prime minister, could then rule
for two six year terms, so from 2009 to 2021.

This is troubling because it reflects not only Putin's ICBM-sized ego, but because it represents a play by Russia to move itself into the dominating role it held during the Cold War. Putin recognizes that with the election of Obama, international opinion will likely turn in favor of the United States. Europe is already fawning over the guy, which is making Putin extremely nervous. The current leader of Russia, Medvedev, doesn't have the international savvy or political acumin to adequately represent Russia on the world stage in a room full of players like Obama - who has an equally large ego. And while I don't necessarily think that keeping Russia on its toes is a bad thing, I don't believe that Obama is up to the challenge of maintaining the balance required to keep us from a positive outcome in a confrontation.

Judging from the way democratic presidents inexperienced in world affairs have fucntioned in the past (Carter, Clinton), I fear that we are setting ourselves up for another disaster. Although this time, the stakes are higher. Democratic presidents have the uncanny ability to pick the worst (and rabidly partisan) foreign policy advisors, and as a result, find themselves victim to indecision and infighting that leaves the Commander in Chief without a clear direction in which to move forward when there is a crisis. And now, because the president himself lacks the ability to make a solid decision, he is setting himself up (and thus, the country) to be bullied around by players (like Russia and China) who are more aggressive in foreign policy.

My thoughts are that Putin can't stand to see Obama take the world stage, and sees himself as the only person with the charisma (and based on his narcissistic photos, the machismo) to counter someone like Obama. It's killing him to take a backseat to Medvedev. Also, Putin will be able to tap the strong nationalist vein that runs through Mother Russia - a place that has traditionally embraced strong leaders throughout its history. We may indeed be looking at another Cold War brewing.

So Biden may be right after all. Obama will likely be tested in ways that should scare every man and woman who voted against him this election. And soon.

CNN: The Left’s Mainstream Propaganda Machine

2008-10-08T16:00:00.001-04:00

For as long as I have been browsing the web (going on 14 years). CNN has been my homepage. Even though I’ve never cared for their reporting, I always found their website to be somewhat balanced and extremely well-designed and easy to navigate. However, over the last year I have noticed a marked shift on the page in the direction of becoming a left-wing propaganda machine. Today, it became too much to bear.

Just take a look at today’s headlines. The lead story: “iReporters Call Debate for Obama”. The fact that Obama’s performance tops their version of today’s news doesn’t surprise me (despite the very real economic meltdown taking place). The fact that iReporting is considered mainstream news, does. But it gets worse. Listed under their top stories are no less than 4 articles negative of McCain (down to 3 by the time I copied the picture). Negative articles about Obama? Zero.

When an opinion is repeated often enough as news, people start to believe it as fact. This is proven psychology and has been tested again and again by left wing dictatorships throughout history. In CNN’s case, it’s their spin that is the most frightening. They can’t come right out and lie about a candidate, or report their own opinions as news. So they contract that job to their liberal iReporters, and punt risky headlines under their “ticker” banner. The net result is a list of top news stories that portray republican candidates negatively.

What CNN is doing is nothing less than propagandizing. They’re just a little less “in your face” than their fast-becoming contemporaries like the Daily Kos.

CNN has employed underhanded techniques like this for over a decade. Years ago, I wrote them a letter blasting them for shameless bias in their reporting of political scandals. I catalogued a series of stories in which democrats in trouble were simply referred to as “A Congressman from Illinois,” or “A lawmaker on the Hill...” When a republican found himself in similar hot water, the story was always, “The republican Congressman from Illinois,” or “A republican lawmaker on the Hill…” You see? Blatant.

Things like this may seem small, but they leave a lasting psychological impression: Republicans are bad and democrats are, well, not really. Over time, and repeated often enough, you have a generation of people who have effectively been brainwashed. Is it any wonder why Obama supporters can’t really articulate why they like him so much (despite not having achieved anything of importance), and why people who hate Bush repeat the same things they heard on the news, over and over without adding any original thought of their own?

So as of today, I’m removing CNN from my browser. I suppose it’s about time, too. After all, I stopped watching the ratings-starved channel years ago.

Obama's Muslim Faith

2008-09-07T19:30:00.003-04:00

Hey, I'm not saying it... HE is.

I love how Stephanopolous, a supposed impartial reporter, rushes to correct him.

And hey, I know it was a gaffe, but do you think the press would give President Bush a pass on a mistake like that? Also, we're starting to see cracks in Obama's facade here. He's getting rattled and confused under pressure. Great leadership qualities if you ask me...

Someone is Using My Email

2008-09-01T19:23:00.003-04:00

If you received any strange emails from my old Yahoo address between August 1 and September 1, 2008, please disregard. Someone pretending to be me has been busy posting things around these here interwebs using that address...

Some people...

Basically, Homo Sapiens Rule!

2008-07-16T09:17:00.006-04:00

Every so often, we’re treated to one of those experiences that seems to define who you are a person by virtue of the way you see the world. For example, have you ever looked at a piece of scenery – a sunset or mountain range, for example – and suddenly realized how extraordinary this world actually is?

These moments don’t come very often, unfortunately. Well, at least for me they don’t. I’ve discovered more about myself with how bitter and annoyed I can get with my fellow human beings rather than how amazing some of them can be. However, this morning, all of that changed for a few minutes as I walked out of the Metro station jamming to some piece of shallow music on my iPhone.

At the top of the escalator were two people playing instruments. Now, in a city like DC, that’s not necessarily noteworthy as there are hundreds of aspiring musicians who seem to flock to the entrances of our subways. However, this time the people seemed to be playing with a burning intensity that I’ve only seen in some of the best musicians on the planet. So, and not without some guilt thanks to this article, I took out my earbuds. Instantly, I was treated to some of the most unique and awe-inspiring music I’ve heard in a long time.

On the left was a beautiful woman playing the violin. She looked like she might be of eastern European descent. And on the right, was a interesting looking man (frizzy, burnt orange hair) playing the bass guitar. Now, you’re probably thinking… “Oh geez, I’ve seen similar combos and they sound like crap.” And, they probably did. However, in this case, nothing could be further from the truth. These two people (not to mention instruments) were excellent together! They were playing a familiar classical tune (I don’t know the name, so don’t ask) with unbridled passion that is 100% unusual in this type of setting. It was intense!

Naturally, I opened my wallet and dropped in a few bucks so that I would feel comfortable as I planted myself to watch them for a while. I actually got goosebumps listening to the sounds. They had sheet music in front of them, and a bucket of cash that my fellow commuters seemed eager to add upon. The bass guitar was hooked up to an amplifier, and the violinist just played her heart out (no amplification needed).

As I sat there for about six minutes, I lost myself in imagining what it must be like to have a talent like that. But even without such skills, I brimmed with pride at what wonderful things our fellow human beings are capable of. And it was then when it hit me: humans are not the monsters most people think them to be. Yes, we’re capable of some pretty crappy things… but the things that we achieve, the things that we are capable of warrant so much more respect. I’m glad that for at least a few minutes this morning, I was able to show some.

Multimedia message

2008-07-04T15:47:00.000-04:00

Back in the OBX

Flooding in Point Pleasant, NJ

2008-06-15T15:55:00.000-04:00

Our weekend at the Jersey Shore ruined by flooding. At least we got one day of sun!

Boarding the Chase Boat

2008-05-30T21:08:00.000-04:00

Deploying the Buoy

2008-05-30T17:12:00.001-04:00

Another view from the bridge of the Frank Drew.

On the Bridge

2008-05-30T16:52:00.001-04:00

Deploying on the USCGC Frank Drew.

Rescue at Sea

2008-05-30T14:52:00.001-04:00

United States Coast Guard in Action.

On the Aircraft

2008-05-30T10:48:00.000-04:00

Luxury accomodations.

Boarding the C130

2008-05-30T10:47:00.001-04:00

Heading down to Yorktown to run missions with the Coast Guard.

Last Day on the Beach

2008-05-27T13:57:00.001-04:00

Enjoying the last day in the sun... Outer Banks, NC. The annual tradition for 10 years now.

And This Man Wants to be President...

2008-05-19T13:27:00.004-04:00

I'm sure most of you have seen the following Obama quote this morning:

"We can't drive our SUVs and eat as much as we want and keep our homes on 72
degrees at all times... and then just expect that other countries are going to
say OK... "

This is coming from a man who is running for President of the United States. Is this the much-ballyhooed "change" we keep hearing about? If so, I don't want any part of it. Since when has it become a moral crime to make life better for Americans as President? This guy is truly scaring me. And not in the, "Bill Clinton is a despicable man" way the former democratic President scared me. This is true horror. The awfulness of it rests with the fact that so many people are taken in by his message. Self-loathing, it would seem, qualifies you as a better American.

I'm not saying his statement is incorrect. Sure, I would expect others to be upset wth the fact that we use so much. But it's not like the US doesn't share back more of it's wealth with the rest of the world than all other nations combined. And heck, if they don't like it, tough luck. We're not asking them to be "OK" with it. It's not as if the rest of the world will suddenly lift itself out of poverty overnight if we start setting our thermostats at 60 degrees in the winter and 80 in the summer. Zimbabwe won't miraculously turn into a democratic state once the US stops using so much oil. If anything, there will be less American wealth in foreign markets, and things would get worse for those who already have a crappy run at life.

But none of this matters. It's the self-loathing that really gets things done. What is your oppression footprint? Can I buy credits to offset the level of third world-labor that went into making my leather Mezlans? Seriously? What does Obama expect to happen? What do the people who listen to him expect to happen? Do they even understand what he's saying, or are they swept away by his radiant grin?

I'm sorry, but I just can't believe people buy into this crap. It's frightening.

Cellphone Radiation or Bad Parenting?

2008-05-19T10:15:00.001-04:00

I have to wonder about studies like this. Is it the use of the phones themselves that cause these children to develop emotional problems? Or is there a correlation between the disintegrating family and these same problems that are being overlooked? The study says:

They found that mothers who did use the handsets were 54 per cent more likely to
have children with behavioural problems and that the likelihood increased with
the amount of potential exposure to the radiation. And when the children also
later used the phones they were, overall, 80 per cent more likely to suffer from
difficulties with behaviour. They were 25 per cent more at risk from emotional
problems, 34 per cent more likely to suffer from difficulties relating to their
peers, 35 per cent more likely to be hyperactive, and 49 per cent more prone to
problems with conduct.

To me, this says more about the mother. Perhaps the radiation from mobile phones (note: the study even says "potential exposure" - they don't even know) is not causing the problems. Instead, could it maybe be the lack of proper attention given to the child due to the fact its mother is always on the freaking phone? I have seen some mothers who are constantly chatting (gossiping) on the phone, almost to the point of neglect of their children. Just last week I saw a kid fall from his high chair at TGIF because the mother was yakking away on the phone. Surely children raised in such a home will suffer the same problems cited in this report?

It seems that we are eager to point the finger at everything except ourselves. Not surprising given today's world without accountability... but nonetheless, very sad.

The Air Show at Andrews AFB

2008-05-18T20:44:00.006-04:00

I love this country. I love our military. I love airplanes. These three things together make air shows one of my favorite places to visit on Earth. I love the sights, maneuvers and antics of the daredevil planes... but most of all, I love the sound. I love the roar - up close - of aircraft engines. I love hearing the sound of 60,000 lbs of thrust rattling my bones. It makes me emotional, this sound. I can't explain it. It's part pride in what we've accomplished as a nation (both technologically and militarily), and part patriotism from being so close to the mighty power that defends us.

I have compiled a few of the high-definition videos I shot for you to enjoy. Of course, in YouTube they are no longer HD... you'll have to come over to enjoy them in full glory!

Air Force Heritage Flight (4 generations of top Air Force fighters: P51, F4, F15E & F22)

F-22 Raptor Awesomeness

B2 Stealth Bomber

At the Airshow

2008-05-17T14:43:00.001-04:00

something about the sound of loud jets in the service of our nation makes me emotional. This is an F22 getting ready to park.

On Uncle Sam's Errand

2008-05-06T11:30:00.001-04:00

Leaving the Plum Island Animal Disease Center. As you can see, Plum Island is very beautiful. The island is owned by the government and houses the nation's foremost lab in animal disease detection and outbreak prevention. Think of it as the CDC for animals.

It's That Time of the Year Again

2008-04-19T13:06:00.001-04:00

The only argument against 80 degree weather in April is 20 lbs of winter fat! Man, how am I supposed to race in June in this shape! But seriously, I missed my mountain bike!

Dan at the White House

2008-04-07T13:47:00.001-04:00

Hangin' with the Prez!

The Firing Range

2008-03-28T11:57:00.001-04:00

See, work can be fun.

Alternate History: 1865 through 2008 (Yes, I'm Bored)

2008-02-22T10:56:00.005-05:00

This is a fun bit of alternate history writing I did in 5 minutes when a friend posed that age-old rhetorical question in an email, "What if Lincoln had not been killed?" Since it's my last week at my current job, and thus, I find myself with some extra time... I gave the following response. Remember, I am the Conservative Futurist... and apparently, somewhat nerdy.

Q: [Regarding the state of Secret service protection, or lack thereof in 1865] "Had someone put up a fight & said, 'Uhm, dude, half the country hates you, and there was an attempt on your life in Baltimore a while back, so you don't have a say in this anymore,' I wonder if things might have been different that nasty night in April 1865?"

A: [My silly response] Friend, I've been to that universe and it's not fun. Lincoln lived to the ripe age of 82, and in that time became a dedicated pacifist and ended up leading the "American Peace Party," which was swept into power in 1868 by landslide margins. Due to the losses of party members to the new APP, the democratic party withered away and was eventually replaced by the American Communist Party in 1912. The "Leninists" as they were first called, knocked the APP out of power in 1912. They formed a new alliance with Russia (which later became the Soviet Union), and entered into a contract with the Soviets in 1921 to buy military equipment (The US was pacifist and didn't have a military) after Germany took over western Europe in the "Great War." In 1938, a man named Hitler rose to power and invaded Moscow on a warm spring day the next year. Russia fell, and with it, support for the US military. Germany and Japan allied forces and invaded the American west coast on January 1, 1940. Washington was captured 3 months later. In 1951, The 4th Reich tested a nuclear weapon in the Nevada desert. In 1960, a young man named John Kennedy attempted to overthrow the German Prefecture in Boston. As a result, the German Pro-Consul for the American Germany was killed. In response, the new Fuhrer in Berlin, Heinrich Himmler (who acceded to the post after Hitler's death from syphilis), ordered a nuclear detonation in Boston. When Americans in Chicago and Miami rioted in protest, those cities were destroyed as well. This led to the "Great Plague of 1965" which killed millions of Americans living in the 4th Reich, and eventually spread across the world. Ironically, Himmler was killed by one of the American super-flus, which led to a power struggle. In the confusion, the German economy collapsed, leading to an attack from China and India. In the short war, Berlin was destroyed. The 4th Reich in America collapsed leaving most of North America in a 3rd world state. In 1988, a man named Ronald Reagan - the local leader of a west coast drama club - led a group of men to San Francisco where they established the Nation of Jefferson (formerly California, Oregon and Washington). There they established relations with the closed territory of Deseret (a geographic area run by Mormons in the Rocky Mountains), and begun the process of forming a new nation. In 1999, the Federated States of America was formed, with Ronald Reagan as Prime Minister. In 2008, the FSA was recovering from the war, and had a 50% illiteracy rate, and a 30% infant mortality rate. Things continued to improve with the election of Prime Minister Rice - the first black person and woman ever to be elected to high office in the Americas. She opened the borders to Indian and Chinese help in the form of advanced electronics and medical care. At last census, the FSA had a population of 92 million, and had the world's 76th largest economy.

Obamasms and the Cult of Personality

2008-02-14T09:02:00.009-05:00

I've noticed something very peculiar when it comes to the embrace people are giving Barack Hussein Obama these days. Amid the drunken atmosphere of support that has his followers spilling the Kool-Aid all over themselves, there seems to be a sense of inevitability surrounding his candidacy that has put the blinders on most folks. His supporters have gone fanatical on us, disbelieving of the fact that anyone could possibly exist that might think the man is nothing more than an inexperienced opportunist with an agenda that will set this country down the path to ruin.

The love for Barack, of course, has been due to the overwhelmingly positive media the guy has been getting. It's as if they're afraid to point out anything negative in fear that it will offend blacks, Muslims and any white liberal with a guilt-complex. Of course, maybe the lack of criticism is due to the fact that he has virtually no experience... at least not enough to garner him any kind of reputation whatsoever... to say nothing about his ability to lead the most powerful nation on Earth.

So why do people support (and dare I say, love) him? I've asked many of his supporters that very question, and I've been very surprised at the answers (or lack thereof) that I've been given. The first response is usually, "He's for change!" Changing what, exactly? Isn't any candidate elected going to amount to some form of change? His followers can't answer that question, because they don't know what he plans to change (what a perfectly vague reason to lend support, isn't it?) - let alone his method of doing it. So, once confronted with this loop in logic, his supporters will usually shift into one of three gears: Their hatred of Bush; the War in Iraq; and Global Warming. All three are emotional issues, making it nearly impossible to say anything that might change their mind about the guy. This is called brainwashing. The inability to engage them in meaningful discussion on such topics will also reaffirm their support for a man they know almost nothing about. This is called the "Cult of Personality," and it is a very dangerous mindset to be a part of.

The problems with people who emotionally stand behind a leader without knowing why is that they will do almost anything to justify their support. Tell them Obama has no experience, and they'll start pointing out such intellectual gems like the fact that he was elected to the Senate... as if merely showing up for the job he was elected to do has anything to do with his ability to lead a nation (carefully avoiding the fact that he has done nothing to effect "change" in the whole 4 years he's been in the Senate). Or they'll proudly say, "It's about time we had a Black President!" As if that somehow automatically qualifies a person. They'll reach for answers, because Obama himself hasn't been clear enough in providing them. In fact, he has only spoken in the language of platitude. He's been telling people what they want to hear, promising them wild dreams (like ending poverty, hunger and strife, and creating endless jobs, free healthcare and access for everyone to education) without so much as being called to task on what his plans are for doing so (hint: he doesn't have any). And further, I offer this... if those things were even possible, don't you think they would have been done by now? Heck, the first world leader to accomplish even a percentage of that goal would probably be elected Ruler of the Planet.

But since the promises from Barack Hussein Obama seem to originate in a world of fairy tales, it makes sense that his followers live in that magical wonderland with him... a land that obfuscates reality just enough so that they can offer rabid support to a man with no substance, no leadership ability (other than the ability to woo a crowd) and certainly no plan to keep this nation safe from from the dangers that lurk in the real world.

Please people... it's about time you wake up and see that this particular emperor is wearing no clothes. But then, that would probably be a selling point with you, too.

Virginians: Romney is Still on the Ballot!

2008-02-12T13:57:00.000-05:00

If you're still reeling from Romney's campaign withdrawal, can't stomach voting for McCain and would like to do your part to keep Huckabee from receiving another, single, delegate vote, cast your vote for Mitt! Consider it a pre-vote for the 2012 election! Besides, Romney could choose to come back into the race at any time (technically) - although granted, that's wishful thinking on my part. But hey, a lot can happen between now and the convention... Vote for Mitt! Virginia polls close at 7pm.

American Idol Karaoke Revolution

2008-02-08T22:56:00.001-05:00

The ladies singing in front of Simon! Ah, the glorious XBox 360! I know it's a bad pic, but what do you expect from a cellphone... in the dark... at night...?

Well, It's Not Quite Star Trek...

2008-01-23T10:52:00.000-05:00

...but I would pay the $200,000 (if I had it) in a heartbeat to go for a ride into space - if only for 4 1/2 minutes. I'm not a huge Richard Branson fan, but he's got the right idea when it comes to seeing tourism as a means to spur development in space travel. I figure, any guy who can actually put me a step closer to the childhood promise of living on the moon someday is alright in my book.

And while I'm all for private investment in spaceflight and believe that it will be the driving force in making things cheaper, I still believe that governments are the only entities capable of providing the amount of funding necessary for large, deep-space exploration missions that will ultimately be beneficial for all of us. Just think where we'd be without NASA... I mean, no Tang? That's not a world in which I'd want to live...

Man Arrested Near Capitol With Shotgun, Bow and Arrow, Samurai Sword!

2008-01-18T16:21:00.001-05:00

And of course, I was right there. I took this picture after he was arrested. His car was a white Toyota 4Runner with Utah plates. It was being surrounded when I was there, and it appeared that the police had called for a tow truck, and not a bomb disposal unit. That was odd, considering that the cop I spoke to said the car had explosives inside (according to the barking dogs).

More on the breaking story HERE.

Go Ahead, THROW Your Vote Away! Choose McCain or Huckabee!

2008-01-17T12:16:00.000-05:00

If you're a good republican, your first clue that you shouldn't vote for McCain or Huckabee should come from the mainstream media. They love those guys. The New York Times just looooves Huckabee, comparing his populist message to Reagan's. They also know that a Huckabee nomination would mean the end of the GOP. He's a weak candidate with a poor record and a penchant for crusading. And McCain? Why, he's a decorated war hero! What they don't mention is their knowledge of the fact that an old haggard like McCain has absolutely NO chance against a young Obama or Girl Power.

While I don't have any particular love for outspoken political columnist Ann Coulter, she sums the situation up very well with this statement (which, by the way, is pro-Romney, like me):

"I've been casually taking swipes at Mitt Romney for the past year based on the assumption that, in the end, Republicans would choose him as our nominee. My thinking was that Romney would be our nominee because he is manifestly the best candidate.

I had no idea that Republican voters in Iowa and New Hampshire planned to do absolutely zero research on the candidates and vote on the basis of random impulses.

Dear Republicans: Please do one-tenth as much research before casting a vote in a presidential election as you do before buying a new car.

One clue that Romney is our strongest candidate is the fact that Democrats keep viciously attacking him while expressing their deep respect for Mike Huckabee and John McCain."

I would suggest reading the FULL ARTICLE. But the point is that we should not be taking the advice of our sworn political enemies (NYTimes, MSNBC, Wolf Blitzer, etc.) when it comes to choosing a candidate. If the media is ever pleasant towards a Baptist Minister (Huckabee) or a pro-war Republican (McCain), you can be pretty sure there is a hidden agenda, because it never happens otherwise. In this case, the agenda is to give the weakest candidates the most press.

Why did Huckabee suddenly surge in Iowa? He would say it was his message, and that would be baloney. Huck's been on the same message for a year (more Jesus in government, legislation, etc.). So, it wasn't his message. He surged because of the fact that he got hundreds of hours of favorable media coverage for free, by CNN, MSNBC, ABC and CBS while the former front-runner in that state, Romney, had to pay millions for it. The media played the evangelical electorate in Iowa like an angel's harp, and they bought it like a televangelist healin'.

Romney is the the DNC's worst fear. He's intelligent, was popular in a liberal state, is conservative, articulate, a proven strong manager and leader, decent, and yes, good looking. He is the ONLY person who can beat Hillary or Obama in November. What about Giuliani? He's got a fair shot. But have you ever noticed that Giuliani's strongest moments come when he's discussing 9/11? On other subjects, he falls apart. His 9/11 leadership mystique will not carry him into the White House. Only someone who can hammer liberals can claim that prize. And that man, right now, is Mitt Romney.

If the press gives Romney half as much coverage they gave Huckabee (outside of the Mormon issue), you will see his numbers surge faster than the lines in Wal-Mart on the 1st of the month. He's good. Yes, that good.

Flat Stanley Visits the White House

2008-01-15T15:26:00.000-05:00

See, we're not all about political diatribes, ranting and nerdspeak here at the Conservative Futurist! In fact, just yesterday my new friend, Flat Stanley, made a visit to the area. Being the playful guy that I am, I rewarded Mr. Stanley with a trip to the White House! You can see here how excited Flat was. I'm sure he'll have lots of stories when he returns home to his best friend Hope in Utah.

As you can see, Flat Stanley was having trouble standing still in the wind. So, my friend helped him stand up while I took the picture. He looks like he's having fun, doesn't he?

The Addiction Continues...

2008-01-12T13:47:00.000-05:00

This time I beat Rock Band for the XBox 360.

In New Orleans. Again.

2008-01-10T17:45:00.001-05:00

Things are still in bad shape down here. This is 5 miles from downtown.

Why Huckabee Has Ruined the Republican Party

2008-01-09T13:22:00.000-05:00

Mike Huckabee is ruining the republican party. And what's worse, he's not even a real republican. Sure, he's a former preacher turned politician, and knows how to court those of faith (who typically tend to be republican). That's important, right - having faith? Normally, I'd tend to agree. But in Huckabee's case, he seems to be relying a little too much on the faith of his followers believing that he's a real conservative. Well, I have news for them - he's not. As The Wall Street Journal recently noted:

"But one wonders whether his newfound supporters would really say that if they took a close look at his policies. With increasing frequency, Mr. Huckabee invokes his faith when advocating greater government involvement in just about every aspect of American life. In doing so, Mr. Huckabee has actually answered the prayers of the religious left."

This is very concerning for the future of the republican party. A great portion of the religious right, a critical base element of the party is being duped just because this guy happens to speak their language.

While I agree with the religious right on many issues (close to 95%), I don't consider myself a part of that faction. Nor do I agree with the way they politicize their faith. As a Mormon, I have been unfairly treated by the other so-called Christians of this group who have ostracized members of my faith time and time again. It's funny that after complaining for so long that they have been marginalized by the left, been labeled kooks and wackos, this same group of religious right Christians is the quickest to do the same thing to Mormons - who are arguably one of the largest bodies of Christians who actually try to live like the the Savior did. But I digress. Needless to say, I have no love for the religious right.

Naturally, I am appalled at the level of blind support being given to Huckabee just because he "walks like a sheep and talks like lamb." One of my good friends who supports Huckabee was surprised to know that he supports a heavily expanded role of government. Again, I quote The Wall Street Journal:

As governor, he championed the ARKids First, which extended free health insurance not only to children of the working poor but to some lower middle-class families. He pleased teachers unions with his consistent opposition to school choice and voucher programs. He satisfied labor by signing into law a minimum-wage hike of 21%. "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me" -- Mr. Huckabee's oft-cited scriptural justification for growing government -- proved costly for Arkansans, who saw government spending double and their taxes rise about a half-billion dollars during his tenure.

This is blatant propagandizing. He knows exactly what to say to conservative republicans in a language they can understand and have a difficult time refuting (because of its religious context), and then turns around and governs like a liberal democrat. What gives, Mr. Huckabee?

Because of this duplicity, thousands of religious voters are voting for Huckabee just because "he's a good Christian." As a result, they are taking votes away from candidates who actually legislate like good Christians. Take Romney for example. Here is one of the most straight-forward conservative candidates in 20 years who actually has a chance. Yet, because he is Mormon, the religious right applies unfair pressure on him. They encourage people to "oppose the Mormon at all costs" (I got this quote from that same Born-again Christian friend). At what cost? The destruction of the only party that can counter the Godless nanny-state looming on the left?

And for those of the religious right who make abortion their clarion call for candidate support, and who would bash Romney for his past stance on leaving the states responsible for abortion legislation, Huckabee is no abortion saint either:

"In August, he told a group of Washington reporters that the application of his faith to politics must include concerns for the environment, poverty and hunger. "It can't just be about abortions and same-sex marriage," he said. "We can't ignore that there are kids every day in this country that literally don't have enough food and adequate drinking water in America."'

The votes that may have gone to Romney have now gone to Huckabee, causing both to lose in New Hampshire. We'll wind up with a left-centered republican nominee like Giuliani or McCain simply because the religious right was too blind to see that Huckabee wasn't even a true republican. And as a result, the GOP will likely lose in November. So, when Barack Hussein Obama or Hillary Rodham Clinton is being sowrn in this November, we have nobody by the religious right to thank.

Thanks guys.

My Christmas Break

2007-12-27T12:20:00.001-05:00

This is what I've been doing with myself over the Christmas break!

Ever Had One of THESE Days?

2007-12-18T10:18:00.000-05:00

I rode the Metro this morning for 15 minutes - standing, no less - before I noticed that one of the greatest fears I never knew I had was finally realized. Yes, the picture is accurate. And yes, I spent the remaining 15 minutes of my Metro ride trying to hide one of my feet - lest my carefully sculpted fashion sense become disrupted in the eyes of others.

Folks, today I have (literally) stumbled upon a new low. I mean, I've left the house once or twice wearing mismatched socks (seriously, no more than twice in my life), but never in my wildest dreams would I have thought I would EVER mismatch my SHOES!

Seriously, aside from those who may be mentally challenged, who walks out of the house wearing a different shoe on each foot?! Apparently, I do. And I'm thinking it may be time for me to get a MRI scan of my noggin, because something is definitely not right upstairs.

"How did this happen?" It's what I've been asking myself all morning. Well, I have an idea. My wife decided to have one of her friends organize our house this weekend (she has a business called Dutch Girl Organizing). She did an awesome job, I must say, and I hardly recognize our bedroom... However, somewhere in the process, the carefully managed chaos that is our shoe closet had suddenly become, well, organized! Well, in the beautification process, someone.... (I'm not naming names but she's hot and is my wife) paired up the wrong black shoes. So this morning in my haste, I grabbed 'em both, put 'em on and walked out.

Ultimately, I have no one to blame but myself... I mean, who doesn't pay attention to what goes on their feet? I did have to tie the stupid things... you'd think I would have figured it out then. Or, if not at home, then at least when I walked outside and noticed that one shoe clacked when I walked (hard bottom) and the other was silent (rubber sole). But no, I was too immersed in my mp3s... Ugh.

So if you notice an otherwise professional looking guy on the Metro today after work who just happens to look like he walked out of a homeless shelter from the ankles down... please, go easy on him!

RAZR2 is a Horrible Waste of a Phone

2007-12-15T17:36:00.000-05:00

I really wanted to love the Motorola RAZR2 (V9), I really did. I even went out and bought one with the hope that I could overcome some of the bad reviews I had been reading. "It can't be that bad," I told myself. Well, I was wrong. I just got back form the store where I bought it and asked for a full refund. I've never been more disappointed in a phone. But before I really begin ripping into it, let me share with you the good things first.

It's a beautiful phone. There is no denying that. When you hold it in your hand, it feels solid and elegant. It's a sexy device. Unfortunately, that's all it is.

First, the software absolutely sucks. I've had Motorola's off and on for 7 years, and in that time there has been no significant improvement in their software. People have complained about how slow it has been in the past, so Motorola addressed this by putting in a super-fast processor in the phone - 500mhz (roughly equivalent to an old Pentium II). But in the shortsighted tradition in which Motorola excels, they didn't provide the phone with a battery to meet the new chip's power consumption. The result? I was charging my phone twice a day. It would literally die after 4 hours of off-and-on texting (My Samsung SYNC can go for days). I swapped the phone thinking it may have been defective (because I have never seen a battery go so quickly), but the exchanged phone did the same thing. This was my biggest complaint. There is no way I would feel comfortable taking that phone on a trip for more than a few hours without a charger. No way.

The other problems are idiotic oversights by Motorola that add up to make this phone a bear to use. For one, the phone has a beautiful, huge outer LCD screen that is as clear as the internal screen. The reviews said you could check your texts from there and do all kinds of things without even opening your phone! Well, maybe. AT&T's version only lets you play music from the outer screen. So when you get a text, you get a giant message saying "Message Received," but you have to open the phone and retrieve it to read it.

Another thing is that the center button doesn't select things that common sense says should be a no-brainer. For example, when you open to the phone to read a text - the center button doesn't open the message. You have to click one of the soft buttons to "read" it. That's just lame. There are little annoyances like that throughout the software that drive you crazy.

AS for the keypad. It's total garbage. It's not the solid etched metal of the first generation RAZR. It's etched plastic, and you'll be hard pressed (pardon the pun) to consistently send texts without fat-fingering the 7 and 9 keys. I can't believe that for this price, Motorola couldn't put something solid in there like they did in 2004. The keypad on this thing is abysmal.

The bottom line is that this phone is not worth anything close to the $300 AT&T is charging for new contract customers. And anyone who pays the standard $500 price for it is an idiot. There are SO many phones that deliver much, much more for less money and less of a headache. Granted, this phone looks stunning... but anyone who thinks it is anything more than that is kidding themselves.

Don't buy it!

The Tree is Lit!

2007-12-02T17:22:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it has been a year. It seems like just yesterday that I was cleaning sap off my hands and arms, putting up our family Christmas Tree! We had the same arguments... Her, "Honey, you're putting up the lights wrong!" And me, "Well, you're hanging the ornaments too far on the end of the branches!" Ah yes, Yule Tide Cheer!

Anyway, here is a picture of the fruits of our labor. We made it though the ordeal, stronger for the wear... and one step closer to taking the plunge and buying a fake tree (although I still swear it will never happen as long as I continue to draw breath!).

Merry Christmas.

Pictures from London & Paris

2007-11-30T12:12:00.001-05:00

We made it back from our week-long Thanksgiving trip to Europe. I won't give a full travelogue of the journey since my wife did a good job of doing that on her blog. But I will post a few pictures and give you all a brief overview.

The weather was fantastic - relatively speaking. We had no rain during the day, and it was only overcast in the morning. The temperature was cold, but that just made walking around the city easier. We spent the first 2 days in London exploring the city, then rented a car for the next 2 days to explore the countryside. The 5th day was spent in Paris. We got up early that day and rode the Eurostar (in first class, mind you) high-speed train (200mph) from London to Paris in 2 hours. We came back to London late that night. The last day was spent in London before heading home to the States.

Overall, I'd say it was a perfect trip! Even my first experience driving a right-sided car on the left side of the road went well. Of course, it helped that Hertz upgraded us from a Toyota Prius (hey, gas is $12 a gallon there) to a diesel Volvo S80. We drove in style. I only ran over one curb, and it was only an inch high! But man, driving on the other side of the road is truly an experience. It is not for the faint of heart - especially when you're learning in central London traffic! Thankfully, none of us died.

This was my first trip to the UK since living there as a kid in 1984, so it was a really special (I hate using that word, but it was) experience for me. It was also my first time in Europe since 1998 when I visited Denmark and Sweden with my Dad and sister.

If you have questions about any of the pictures... just post them below. Enjoy!

On Our Way to London

2007-11-20T22:48:00.001-05:00

On the 777. Wish it could be first class this time.

Dumb, Stupid, Moronic Drivers!

2007-11-16T16:12:00.000-05:00

Considering I used to be the champion of berating idiotic drivers, I'm surprised that this is the first time I've decided to post something about the subject in my 3 years of writing this blog. But this article set me off today. According to the research, an estimated 36 million drivers would fail a driving test.

I can't say I'm surprised... DC and Virginia are in the bottom percentile. I've been saying that for years. The idiocy here is unmatched anywhere in the world. And, I'm not talking about crazy drivers... I'm talking about the moronic ones (and no, they are not one in the same). Let me explain:

To call someone a "crazy" driver is purely subjective. One person who may be too timid to drive above 55mph might consider someone who drives 65mph a crazy driver. By the same token, someone who feels comfortable taking a corner at higher speeds may be considered crazy by a mom in her minivan who is taking the curve more slowly. Such a driver is not necessarily an idiot (although, there are idiots who drive too fast for conditions, and that's a different issue), he is merely comfortable driving at a faster pace. Such drivers actually tend to be more alert on the road, as they are constantly looking out for slower cars, police radar traps and the like.

An "idiotic" or "dumb" driver, on the other hand, is completely oblivious to his surroundings. You'll usually find these people occupying the fast lane when they are not passing other cars (the law states that the left lane is for passing only); failing to turn left at intersections where the light turns red while they are next in line to turn; driving with their brake lights on; blocking intersections; driving too slow for conditions (when everyone around them is going faster); or my favorite - people don't know how to merge into traffic without stopping. You get the picture.

So in the article, it points out how people don't know that you're supposed to stop when the light turns yellow (if it's safe), when to properly signal, etc., and it suggests some kind of national driving standard. Let me just say that I'm all for this idea - as long as it doesn't supersede the rights of the states to make their own driving laws and requirements. But clearly, there is a need for a minimum level of uniformity.

In the meantime, I've always been an advocate for increased driver education and more stringent requirements on drivers' tests. And of course, part of that includes a mandatory basic understanding of the English language!

Tired of Being Sick

2007-11-15T19:11:00.000-05:00

Yes, another blog post about being sick. I know... I can't believe it either. It's the 3rd time I've been sick since July - and each cold has been special in its own little way. This particular cold started off pretty mild. I had some sniffles and an itchy nose last Wednesday. By Thursday, I knew I was definitely sick and elected to stay home from work. From my last 3 bouts, I've really come to believe in getting proper rest when sick.

When Friday came, I stayed home from work again. By this time my throat was feeling a little sore. Later that night, my throat was dry, and really itchy. Saturday I felt fine, and thought I was getting better until Sunday arrived. That's when I got hit by the monster truck - a really dry, hoarse cough developed that was really painful in my chest, along with a pretty bad sore throat and all of the accompanying aches and pains of being sick. By Sunday night, my voice was completely gone. Monday I felt sick again, voice still gone... and another day of missed work.

On Tuesday I finally mustered up the strength to go back to work. My voice sounded like a 12 year old boy hitting puberty, but was understandable. Now I sit here, Thursday night, voice almost 100% back and feeling pretty good - except for this darn cough. My throat is pretty raw from all of the coughing, but it's going away. Oddly, other than the first day, this cold never affected my upper respiratory tract. That means that my ears were unaffected, and thus, unplugged, the entire time. Those of you familiar with my blog should know how happy that makes me. Although, I'm still a little paranoid they will plug up (as they sometimes do days after a cold) right in time for my flight to London next week. If that happens, expect more ranting.

I know this stuff probably doesn't interest you. After all, many of you come here for my political ranting and technology reviewing (mixed with the occasional personal posts and pictures). To you, let me say that this particular post is mainly for me. Since for whatever reason I seem to be getting sick more often, it's nice to go back over my posts and know exactly when my last suffering took place. Also, I get a lot of hits on this page from people looking for ways to get over their own plugged up ears. To you, I say visit my old posts here.

By the way, I'm pretty sure I had this. I'm serious.

Thanks for reading my rant! Let's hope I'm perfectly well for my vacation next week!

Dear Hollywood Writers: Get Over Yourselves

2007-11-13T08:54:00.000-05:00

Dear Writers Guild of America:

Enough already. Throw in the towel. Know when to quit. Get back to work. And please understand, I don't say this because I hate unions (I do), or because I think you're not getting your fair share (you probably aren't), I'm simply saying "get over yourselves" because this particular strike isn't benefiting anyone - least of all, you.

I know you have every right to seek more money for what you earn. That's a principle as old as this country. But keep in mind, the producers are also in it to earn a buck. What you fight for is also a deduction from their bottom line, so don't expect to claim the side of moral superiority. You all want money. Big deal. Who doesn't? But know that there is a time to fight for largess, and a time to suck it up and be thankful you have a job at all. Now is a time to reflect on the latter.

It's not like television has a steady stream of classics keeping it alive right now. Viewership is at an all time low. Advertisers are abandoning the networks in droves in favor of Internet-based media. The decades-old reign of the boob tube is coming to a close, and if you don't recognize that, you're not worth the paper you're writing on (which, in green Hollywood, is saying a lot).

Yes, I love shows like The Office and Journeyman. But you know, once they go off the air due to a lack of written material, I'm likely to find other things on which to spend my time. My DVR is already loaded with shows I'd like to watch... maybe I'll find something new. After all, I don't need your product. In fact, a reasonable argument can be made that the world would actually benefit from less television watching. In fact, I'm sure that argument has been made. My mom argued to that effect many times during my childhood as I religiously watched Knight Rider and Star Trek. But I digress.

The bottom line is that viewer loyalty to any particular program only goes so far these days. And as I mentioned, there is quality programming out there... but it is dwarfed by the tons of crap that is being written, by you, on a daily basis. So, the level of empathy I feel for your cause is somewhere around the level I might feel towards a striking tobacco salesman whining that his numbers are down. Get over yourself, I'd say. People know crap when they see it.

And as for the Hollywood actors that are paying your bills in support and sending pizza to your picket lines... they can get over themselves, too. Does anyone take their hypocrisy seriously anymore? Oh, and to the bloggers going on a sympathy strike: You're just opportunistic and pandering idiots.

Sincerely,

A concerned viewer (The Conservative Futurist)

The Pakinstani Problem

2007-11-05T12:20:00.000-05:00

In response to those news organizations lamenting the loss of stability in Pakistan... I hate to break it to you, but Pakistan has never been stable. In fact, it's ironic that Musharraf's dictatorship has been a beacon of stability when contrasted with Bhutto's old (and extremely corrupt) government.

Stability notwithstanding, Musharraf has made a poor move in declaring this state of emergency. He has essentially thumbed his noses at American and British support, without which he (and thus, Pakistan) doesn't stand a chance financially. However, his move, no matter how poor, has a certain amount of (madman's) logic to it. Masharraf had no other choice if he wanted to remain in power. And it seems, despite his platitudes to the contrary, that it is power he wants. He couldn't accept the Pakistani judiciary's looming opinion that he relinquish his military role if he wants to be President, because he would suddenly be vulnerable to Islamic extremists who have been trying to kill him for years. Without the military, he cannot enforce the high level of protection he has been affording himself.

Also, without the military, Musharraf cannot stop the swelling of support for Bhutto now that she's returned from her self-imposed exile. And while I have no love for Musharraf's dictatorship, I have even less love for criminals like Bhutto, who are blindly given support just because she claims to embrace democracy. Given the media coverage, you'd think that she was the savior of the middle east. In fact, it was largely because of her corruption that Pakistani madman and nuclear scientist, A.Q. Khan, was able to sell Pakistan's nuclear secrets to a half dozen rogue nations from Venezuela to Iran.

However, despite the alarm raised by the press, nothing has really changed in Pakistan. Musharraf is still the dictator and the government is still in control of Pakistani's nuclear arsenal (the latter point is a good thing). He will, eventually, have to face the music for going back on his promise of letting go of some power in the form of a likely drawback of US and British financial support. This may force him to relinquish his military title while remaining President, or it may not. If his goal is to remain in power, then this is his best bet. So, why go through the motions of declaring this state of emergency? Well, he may be sending a message to India that he still retains control. Remember, it is in India's best interest that Pakistan's government remains stable - and that means more Musharraf.

The US is in a tough spot, because we also recognize the level of stability under this dictatorship (and in a sense, rely on it). However, we have a problem of hypocrisy to deal with: namely, that we ousted one man (Saddam Hussein) because he was a tyrant, while we support another (again, it is in our best interest to keep Pakistan stable - not only because of the nukes, but because Musharraf has given the US more support in its war against Islamic fascism than any other Pakistani leader). So, we have to condemn his actions, and Congress may vote to reduce our financial support... but in the end, he'll still be President - albeit, one with further-weakened credibility. And, that's not good for anyone. Especially Musharraf.

Today is Gorgeous

2007-11-03T11:32:00.001-04:00

Wakefield Park, Annandale, VA

Fall is Here

2007-11-03T11:19:00.000-04:00

And it feels like I'm coming down with a cold, to boot. My lungs are ready to explode on today's ride!

No Ship That Small Has a Cloaking Device!

2007-10-31T21:50:00.000-04:00

Actually, they do now. The British (and I've read elsewhere that we, the Americans, have this technology as well) have invented a cloaking device for military vehicles - and possibly - for the soldiers themselves. Apparently, individuals who witnessed the demonstration were absolutely awestruck. They couldn't believe their eyes. Check out the link here. And James Bond, look out...

The Left's Newest Boobs!

2007-10-30T14:42:00.000-04:00

No, I'm not talking about the Pelosi twins. I'm talking about Rep. Jim "Moronic" Moran (D-VA) and Rep. Jim "McDorkus" McDermott (D-WA). And, if the United States loses in its next major war, I'm blaming these two idiots (and their ilk) for the loss.

In an effort to oppose everything related to our national defense, these two yokels on the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee decided that they will vote against the recommended $88 million that it will cost to upgrade our B-2 bombers for 21st century warfare. Specifically, the upgrade would allow the B-2 to have increased payload capacity to accommodate a bomb that is in development called the MOP (Massive Ordinance Penetrator) - the soon-to-be largest non-nuclear bomb in the arsenal. So, naturally, in all their grandstanding glory, Moronic and McDorkus claim that this money is really Bush's way of funding his future war with Iran. Therefore, they must oppose it! Wow, what tremendous vision these men have... all 3 inches of it.

James P. Moran, D-Va., a senior member of the House Appropriations Defense Subcommittee, said he did not believe the MOP could be used in Iraq or Afghanistan and cited Iran as the potential target for the bomb. He said he would oppose the funding.

“That’s a clear red flag,” Moran said.

Jim McDermott, D-Wash., an outspoken critic of Bush’s war policies, said the funding request was the latest of many signs that indicated Bush was contemplating an attack on Iran. McDermott said such a scenario was his “biggest fear between now and the election.”

“We are not authorizing Bush to use a 30,000-pound bunker buster,” he said. “They’ve been banging the drums the same way as they did in 2002 with Iraq.”

Do these idiots even know anything about the defense issue for which they write the checks? The MOP is currently under development. And as Spook86 points out:

Modifying B-2s to carry the MOP is hardly an indicator of a pending attack on Iran. As the CQ report notes, the weapon is still under development, and it's unclear when it might be ready for operational use. If the MOP follows a "typical" developmental cycle, then figure two or three years--at a minimum--for finalizing the design and testing prototypes. In other words, the massive ordnance penetrator won't be available until the next President is in the White House. So much for next year's "October surprise."

What kind of fools oppose a legitimate military upgrade that will help us counter threats against other states such as China and Syria - both of which have a penchant for hiding things deep underground? As if Iran is the only possible threat. But even if it was, this upgrade would still be a smart move for the military and any Commander in Chief.

So, we go without this upgrade, and thus, have limited capability to use non-nuclear devices in the theater of combat. The B-2 was designed to deliver a nuclear payload. I suppose this means we'll just have to stick to the policy of nuking our enemies due to a lack of other options - courtesy of two of the dumbest Members of Congress ever to grace the Capitol. Really, how shortsighted can you get?

Today's Wargames

2007-10-27T23:17:00.000-04:00

I haven't gone paintballing in ten years, but I went today and it was awesome! I think I am in tune with the life of a military sniper, laying low and picking off the unsuspecting. Too bad my eyes suck!

The "Costumes" are Back...

2007-10-27T10:18:00.000-04:00

We decided to dig our old award-winning costumes out from last year and recycle for a party last night. People that know us still freak out when we make our entrance. All night long it becomes, "Let me see the teeth! Let's see the butt again!" So, again for your viewing pleasure...

You've got to admit, though... the transformation is pretty good. Or, is it???

New Fires Coming in from the Left

2007-10-26T12:05:00.000-04:00

It's hard to evacuate from a firestorm when the source of the flames come from your elected officials. I know it's hard to imagine, but can you believe that politicians are actually trying to use one of the worst natural disasters in the nation's history to score points?? I know, I could hardly believe it either.

Leading the way is Barbara Boxer and the rest of the radical left. As if we weren't already hearing enough dubious connections between these fires and "cause-of-everything" global warming, we now get to hear Senator Boxer and her ilk tell us that Bush's 'War in Iraq' is the reason the fires were so bad. I guess since the fires didn't effect her home-utopia of San Francisco, the rest of the state's woes were fair game to score political points against President Bush. Does she really think this kind of thing resonates with people? Especially her own constituent victims? It doesn't. Maybe we should be used to this kind of despicable opportunism from the left. It does, after all, happen with increasing regularity.

Another example: George Carlin. According to this comedian-turned-moron, the people who lost everything deserved what they got for building homes in a fire-zone. Really, George? Where were you when the victims were poor and living in the worst flood-zone in the country? Was that their fault, too? Even when they re-elected the same criminally negligent mayor who led them to disaster in the fist place? Oh, right... in that case it was Bush's climate policies that caused the disaster, Katrina. Now, it's the affluent people of San Diego County who are to blame for this disaster. What impeccable logic.

I suppose, though, some people are just bitter no matter what happens. I work for an association that represents first responders, and we, upon hearing of the President's disaster declaration, immediately sent a letter to our members explaining how they can get in contact with the federal government to receive financial aid, resources and information. Pretty basic stuff. Only, I get a reply accusing me of "blatant pandering" in the face of this disaster. Sigh. Honestly. I don't know, maybe some people are just a-holes. So instead of trying to make sense of such lunacy, I'll just lump Boxer, Carlin and the rest of the lyin' left into that group until they can show me otherwise. I'll likely be waiting a long, long time.

Amazing San Diego Wildfire Photos

2007-10-23T15:48:00.000-04:00

The number of evacuees has reached 500,000 - including many family members and friends of mine. The picture below was taken by a friend as he drove on I-15 (the shot is facing north) in San Diego. Below that picture are AP shots of Spring Valley (another area in San Diego). They are incredible photos.

250,000 Evacuated in San Diego

2007-10-22T13:26:00.000-04:00

Since San Diego is my hometown, I have been following these fires with increasing alarm. Looks like a few of my aunts, uncles and friends are under a mandatory evacuation alert. An evacuation of this size is unprecedented for San Diego. In fact, they've opened up Qualcomm Stadium as a shelter (another first). So far (luckily), my Mom and siblings have not been directly affected (they're closer to the coast).

I should be getting a few pictures from family shortly, once they're out of harm's way (the picture to the left is from the San Diego Union-Tribune). Once I do. I'll post them here. In the meantime, please keep the folks in San Diego, and indeed, the rest of Southern California, in your prayers.

Action Shots!

2007-10-20T16:27:00.000-04:00

Here are a few pictures from my mountain biking adventure/campout a few weeks back. These are lame screenshot pictures of the video (which I’m hoping to edit and put on YouTube for your viewing pleasure) and aren’t very clear. And yes, that’s my tongue!

I’m so hardcore.

Hi Tim McFad

2007-10-12T16:17:00.000-04:00

Ah, the power of IP logs. Still obsessed, eh?

The Goracle Has Performed a Miracle

2007-10-12T12:50:00.000-04:00

He's almost a fully-fledged prophet, now! The ever-swelling braggart now has an Academy Award and a Nobel Peace Prize. A peace prize, you say? I know. I was confused, too. I thought maybe he had formally announced that he would be dropping the notion of man-induced global warming... that might bring some peace to his duplicitous soul. But nope, that wasn't it. He pulled off a miracle (of sorts)... the guy won a peace prize because of his work on climate change.

What?

Yeah, it confuses the heck out of everyone else, too. Can one come to the conclusion that this award is anything but politically motivated? As the UK Daily Telegraph spells out for those who still don't get it:

Climate change is a threat to the environment, not to "peace" and international order. The prize has gone to some sleazy recipients in the past, but at least you can make a case that their actions staved off bloodshed.

Wow. I think I might be qualified for this prize based on my work in finger painting. It's very good. It's so good, in fact, that I'm sure it could stop a war. Well, maybe a fist-fight between a couple of monkeys, at least.

Where I've Been...

2007-10-10T21:06:00.000-04:00

Thank goodness the states I've visited are in red (I kid, I kid...)... Only 6 more to go.

Make your own map HERE.

Stupid Little Piggies: The Tale of a Broken Toe

2007-10-09T10:42:00.000-04:00

I wish I could attribute my broken toe to a cool mountain bike accident… but I can't. Nope. This time, it was the preparation for a mountain bike ride that did me in. I know, sometimes it is just better to lie about our injuries.

To gain perspective on this, we'll have to go back a week. As all of you who live on Earth know, when the fall comes, the days get shorter (unless you live in the southern hemisphere... stupid rotational axis). Because of this phenomenon, I have been unable to ride some of my favorite trails (Wakefield, Accotink, etc.) after work because it simply gets dark too soon. So in the run up to Columbus Day, I have been talking non-stop about how I'm gonna "ride all day long" and have the best day ever on that upcoming day off work. I had been continually checking the weather for rain (there was none), and loaded up my hydration pack with food (and water) the night before for my day of adventure. It was all going according to plan.

So yesterday, in the final minutes of preparation before for my "epic ride," I had this great idea to wash my bike. After all, I had a bunch of mud and crap on there from my previous rides, and I didn't want anything to hamper the ride on which I was about to embark. I wanted a well-oiled machine. But washing a bike isn't as easy at it seems. At our condo, we have a large, private enclosed outdoor patio in the front yard, but we don't have a hose. So to wash my bike, I have to fill a large bucket of water in our kitchen sink and drag it outside. You can see where this is going.

Once the bucket was filled, I briskly walked (although a bit off-centered due to the weight of the bucket) towards the front door. I wanted to get this done. I wanted to ride! It was then, in my haste, of course, when I slammed my bare foot into the hard, wooden leg to our sofa chaise – and I mean slammed.

You know when you smack your toe, and it hurts real bad, the pain usually subsides after a minute or two? That doesn't happen when you break the thing. It hurts like all Hades. I laid face down, on the chaise, and growled curses and yelps for about 10 minutes before I finally was coherent enough to notice that I dropped, and thus, spilled, the bucket of water on the landing by the front door. But that didn't upset me as much as the idea that I might not be able to ride did! So I waited for a few minutes. During that time, I mopped the front room while the pain settled in my middle toe (left foot).

5 years ago, I had broken the neighboring piggy on the same foot. That time I went to the hospital (not knowing that there is nothing they can do), so I knew what to look for this time. 20 minutes later there was no swelling, so I said "to heck with it," washed my bike and went on my ride. Oh, how very dumb that was. Apparently, when you break a bone – any bone – your body raises its temperature as a defense mechanism prior to the repair work it will be engaged in. Well, as many of you know, it was 90+ degrees here yesterday with matching humidity. It sure made for one "epic" ride alright. I thought I was going to die.

So I come home 3 hours later (hardly the "day of riding" I had planned), take off my sock to find a puffy (and black) toe. Of course, there is nothing I can do but "tough it out" and walk with a very pronounced limp (which is pure torture wearing dress shoes today).

I have no reason to post this. No message. No moral to the story. I just like to complain when I hurt, and this blog allows me to reach a deeper community for sympathy. And I do need sympathy. After all, my wife laughed at me for washing my bike before my ride. And she's right... what was I thinking???

How Do You Celebrate Columbus Day?

2007-10-08T14:48:00.001-04:00

I love having every holiday off work, no matter how minor. So I figure, why not do a little exploring of my own in honor of the man!

Happy Friday Message

2007-10-05T15:11:00.000-04:00

This picture just about sums up how I feel about everything.

Celebrating Space Flight

2007-10-04T11:11:00.000-04:00

With all the subtlety of a nuclear sneak attack, today's Drudge Report screams:

"GOOGLE celebrates day of Russia achievement. Sergey Brin orders search site to celebrate Sputnik's launch anniversary on web page..."

(Today is the 50th anniversary of the Sputnik launch)

Aren't we going just a tad bit overboard on this, Drudge? I mean, I understand not wanting to highlight one of America's great losses during the Cold War... but come on! Google isn't celebrating Russia's first victory in the Space Race (after all, we pretty much won that thing)... It is recognizing a major milestone in the course of human history. When Sputnik was launched in 1957, it represented humanity's first foray into space. For the first time, humanity became a starfaring race!

I love the Drudge Report, don't get me wrong. It's one of my homepages in my web browser. But this is poor form even by the standards of sensationalism. I can appreciate the need to keep the Russians down a notch - I mean after all, they're Russians. But this anniversary is bigger than that. And since I'm also a futurist, as well as a conservative, I appreciate large technological leaps (like getting into space) that put mankind on a new level. It's cool!

So, let's not make this anniversary into something it isn't (political) and keep it on the level of worldwide celebration. After all, if it wasn't for little Sputnik, Americans might never have had the motive and ambition to eventually send a man to the moon!

"They prefer progress with messy compromise, over defeat with pristine principles"

2007-10-01T08:39:00.000-04:00

Wow, what a grand slogan for the consummate pragmatist. In addressing what "the people" want from their politicians, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger said, "They prefer progress with messy compromise, over defeat with pristine principles" in a broadcast to British Conservatives last week. According to Arnold, we are to abandon values, principles and ideals for the sake of "getting along." What a sad state of sociological affairs we find ourselves in.

Don't get me wrong here. I've been hitched for just over 2 years and I understand that compromise is a necessary part of a good marriage. But as a society, should we be taught to aim for the status quo and accept positions that may be wrong simply for the sake of avoiding an argument?

What if the Founding Fathers accepted a compromise? Surely, if we were to live in the same alternate universe that Schwarzenegger does, Patrick Henry's inspiring phrase "Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death" would have gone something like, "Liberty would be super, but I'll submit to the King if we could just end this whole 'revolutionary' war thing, now." And I suppose Arnold thinks that slavery might have been best ended through compromise, rather than war?

I understand Arnold's desire to see government move along at a faster pace. After all, fighting for a cause and sticking to ideology can drag a democratic system to a crawl. But where would be be as a nation - or indeed, as a species - if we had allowed those who would do us harm a seat at the bargaining table? Where would we be if we had taught George Washington to believe in compromise over principle? Winston Churchill? Ghandi? Ronald Reagan?

While I don't enjoy war or bloodshed, I understand that in the course of human events, sometimes there are ideals worth fighting for. If we teach our children that standing their ground when defending their beliefs is wrong, we will have finally put out the driving fire of human spirit that tyrants have sought to extinguish for millennia. It is the human desire to change ourselves in the face of all opposition that has brought out the best and worst of mankind. And while we may gain some short-term peace by practicing ritual compromise, we will have given up and lost far, far more.

The Shenandoah Valley

2007-09-29T07:26:00.001-04:00

Waking up for our downhill mountain bike ride with the guys. We camped in Basye, VA. It's freezing this morning!

Fostering Anti-Americanism: The Continuing Chronicles of Columbia University

2007-09-28T10:54:00.000-04:00

At first glance, I pretty much agreed with Peggy Noonan's comments in the WSJ regarding Iranian President Ahmadinejad's invitation to speak at Columbia University in New York. After all, she makes some really good points:

But this has been our history: to let all speak and to fear no one. That's a good history to continue. The Council on Foreign Relations was right to invite him to speak last year--that is the council's job, to hear, listen and parse--and Columbia University was well within its rights to let him speak this year. Though, in what is now apparently Columbia tradition, the stage was once again stormed, but this time verbally, and by a university president whose aggression seemed sharpened by fear.

There were two revealing moments in Ahmadinejad's appearance. The first is that in his litany of complaint against the United States he seemed not to remember the taking and abuse of American diplomatic hostages in 1979. An odd thing to forget since he is said to have been part of that operation. The second was the moment when he seemed to assert that his nation does not have homosexuals. This won derisive laughter, and might have been a learning moment for him; dictators don't face derisive from crowds back home.

And I have to admit, I really didn't care much about Ahmadinejad's visit until I read her article. I thought I agreed. But after reading her article, something started nagging at me. Then it hit me: Despite some of these points, I have a problem with Noonan's main argument: She compares Ahmadinejad's Columbia speech with Khrushchev's UN speech, without going into the reasons why Columbia wanted him to speak at their campus in the first place. Despite the fact these are two completely different venues, she's missing a crucial element behind Columbia's invitation - motive.

We know that Columbia has a political agenda that has opposed the leadership in our country since, oh, about the day The Goracle conceded the election. They have kicked military recruiters off the campus, and attempted to put the smack-down on the school's ROTC program as well. There is a huge anti-military presence there. So, in a sense, Columbia was continuing the problem Noonan points out with American political debates. By inviting Mr. Ahmadinejad, Columbia provided a safe audience (at least in terms of hostility towards American foreign policy). The laughs at the "we don't have any homos in our country" statement was inconsequential, and is actually what one would expect from a liberal school. It may have been a wake up call (of sorts) to the Iranian leader, but it was inconsequential as proof that Columbia had provided a true forum for debate.

Moreover, Noonan misses the point all together when it comes to the way universities have become a more focused tool aimed at subverting the nation's President and foreign political agenda. Can you imagine asking Khrushchev to come speak on the eve of the Cuban Missile Crisis to explain "his view"? Or what about inviting Ho Chi Minh to Georgetown while troops were dying in Vietnam? No way that would have flown. But now, we're expected to believe the argument that having this tyrant speak as we are considering sanctions (keeping in mind that we don't even engage in official diplomacy with Iran, whereas the Soviet Union had an embassy, ambassador and everything) is somehow the sign of a healthy democracy? I don't buy it.

The bottom line is that Columbia was not looking for honest intellectual dialogue. They only wanted to make President Bush look bad for pursuing sanctions (and possibly war) against Iran. It's safe ground for them - a win/win - many Americans are weary of war and they are capitalizing on that to make a point. Never mind that Iran is directly behind the murders of American troops in Iraq, and had publicly called for the destruction of Israel.

People like Ahmadinejad just don't deserve a forum in the US in a time of war.

Anderson Cooper is a Tool

2007-09-27T08:51:00.000-04:00

Last night I watched CNN for the first time in years. Why would I turn to the dark side for my information after many years of happily watching FoxNews, you ask? High Definition, that's why. Yesterday, DirecTV rolled out its expanded HD channels, which happens to include CNN-HD. And I'll admit, CNN has never looked better. But quality news and a quality image don't seem to add up in the case of CNN-HD. The reason: Anderson Cooper.

I've never really had a reason to dislike Mr. Cooper - even despite my annoyance at parents who name their kids with a last name for a first name (so trendy), but I digress. Before I tuned in to CNN last night, he seemed like an OK guy, if not a little taken in by the Clooney school of political thought. But since I never watch CNN (due to the blatant, America-hating, liberal viewpoints espoused in every story broadcast on that channel), I hadn't formed much of an opinion on the guy. Well, that changed last night. Anderson Cooper is a pandering, sniveling opportunist who is clearly serving a political interest that is not neutral.

My first clue was when Mr. Cooper was talking about the strife in Burma. He used the word Burma several times, and then made a big point about how it was wrong to use that name, because "the native government and the United Nations recognize the name as Myanmar" or something like that. Then Cooper goes on to smugly talk about how evil and repressive the government of that nation is.

Well, Mr. Cooper, do you know that the same evil and repressive government that kills defensive monks and innocent civilians is the same government demanding the world call it Myanmar? Did you know that the freedom fighters in that country still call it Burma? Did you know that the US, UK and Australia still call the country Burma because we don't recognize the names of countries that are changed by oppressive military regimes? Apparently not, because you're a "trying-to-sound enlightened" tool talking out of two-sides of your mouth like the rest of the hypocrites on CNN.

But still, I thought, maybe Mr. Cooper isn't that bad. After all, he's just falling victim to the standard, blinded mindset that gives most liberals extreme tunnel-vision. Until, that is, I saw his interview with Bill Clinton.

From the start, it was obvious that Bill Clinton is Anderson Cooper's hero. During the interview. Mr. Two-Last-Names threw him softball questions, and goaded Clinton into coming unhinged while talking about republicans (Clinton lost his temper when referring to the GOP as "those people" before proceeding to attack the patriotism of the entire party). And instead of asking Clinton to clarify his remarks like most responsible journalists would do, Cooper just lapped it up. Then he continued to play Clinton's tirade in his promo clips all through the broadcast.

This experience has proven useful to me, in that it has helped me understand a few things. First, HD or no, CNN is still garbage. Second, Anderson Cooper is, indeed, a tool. And lastly, Bill O'Reilly really isn't kidding when he talks about how far CNN has fallen. I've seen it for myself (and now understand why Cooper's ratings are in the toilet). But if you don't believe me, see it for yourself. After all, I report, you decide.

What Is The Matter With People?

2007-09-21T15:03:00.000-04:00

First it was this bozo who went out and purposely put himself into a position where he could look like some kind of retarded martyr. The effect? People crying that the police "went too far" and that tasers are akin to disembowelment and other torturous techniques employed in the dark ages. And now, you have another clueless moron showing up an an airport wearing a fake bomb strapped to her chest and then being upset when she learns that the Boston Airport Police don't have the same taste in "art" that she does.

But silliness aside, what is it about college kids these days that makes them think they are somehow exempt from the law? Perhaps the years of indoctrination telling us that we're allowed to do anything we want as long as it doesn't hurt anyone else (rules of society be damned). Or is it something more problematic, such as a growing lack of respect for authorities (another attitude preached to us by those in hip hop, Hollywood and other institutions that worship self gratification)? Maybe it's somewhere in between those two things and the insatiable public desire to be given 15 minutes of fame, so that they can be the ones doing the preaching!?

It's amazing that the question of why the police tased that guy is even given broadcast time. The answer is really easy: Because when asked to sit down, he didn't sit down! When the police give you an order, it's not a suggestion. You do it! If you feel that you were unfairly singled out, then proclaim your innocence in a court of law. Seriously, what kind of idiot would get out of a car and physically resist a traffic officer writing him a ticket and not expect to spend the night in the slammer? Ridiculous.

I'm 33 years old, and already I'm starting to sound like my Grandparents. What is wrong with kids these days? And it's not going to get any better. In fact, with all of the bleeding hearts that cry and sob for these "innocent victims" or torture (by the way, cops are required to subject themselves to being tasered before they are issued a taser gun in most states), police will be even more reluctant to restrain out-of-control children in the future. Heaven forbid another VA Tech massacre should take place in 15 years! The cops of that time will probably be so afraid of being sued by then that no one will even have the courage to stand up to the kids who look innocent, but then turn out to have a secret agenda to kill 30 people. I mean, it would be a shame if someone had to suffer a little shock to prevent a possible mass casualty situation... Don't tase me, bro!

This Can't Be Happening

2007-09-19T16:34:00.001-04:00

Did I wake up in an alternate universe today, or is this top sponsor of state terror, American troop killing, holocaust-denying tyrant actually going to be allowed to visit one of the most hallowed spots on American soil?

This is more than just a consideration. Plans are actually being drawn up to accommodate this madman's request. An Islamofascist, while not of the same branch of Islam, at least of the same ilk of those who brought the towers down and killed 3000 innocent people, wants to visit Ground Zero in New York City.

The NY Sun Reports:

In a move that has stunned New York, the Bloomberg administration is in discussions to escort the Iranian president, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, to ground zero during his visit to New York next week, Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly said today.

The Iranian mission to the U.N. made the request to the New York City Police Department and the Secret Service, which will jointly oversee security during the leader's two-day visit. Mr. Ahmadinejad is scheduled to arrive September 24 to speak to the U.N. General Assembly as the Security Council decides whether to increase sanctions against his country for its uranium enrichment program.

This is unfathomable. If the Administration actually lets this happen, the political implications will haunt this Presidency throughout history. As Michelle Malkin puts it:

...if Bush and Rice let him go down there, especially in the wake of Petraeus and Crocker reporting the threat Iran poses to American soldiers in Iraq, you have no idea how grave the political fallout will be. Consider this an alert from the grassroots early warning system.

Hopefully the GOP will jump on this before the democrats try to prove their patriotism after all of their surrender talk. We will all be watching this with great interest.

UPDATE: The NYPD has denied Ahmadinejad's request to tour Ground Zero. But, and pardon the pun here, it was a total cop-out. Their reason was security concerns. What a joke. Just flat out say, "we won't protect this terrorist" and call it a day. But whatever. It is what it is.

Passive Aggressiveness is Contagious

2007-09-19T12:11:00.000-04:00

I've decided that I'm tired of getting out of office replies from people I don't care about. So, as a bird to the world, I'm going with the following "In the Office" standard reply on all of my emails:

"Hi, thanks for emailing me. This response confirms that yes, I got your email. You should know, however, that the length of time it takes me to reply is directly proportional to the importance I place on your message, and thus, you. So, if I don't get back to you right away, it's probably because I hate you."

I might even change my signature to: "You deserve the taser" because let's face it, you probably do.

The Picture That Made Me Famous Around the World

2007-09-14T15:43:00.000-04:00

Despite the fact that it is the most unflattering picture of me ever taken, it looks like this is how I will be immortalized forever. The picture was made famous by being published on the front page of every major newspaper (and a few major magazines) in the free world (example) during the 2000 Presidential election controversy (another example).

And I just found out (while narcissistically Googling myself) that the guy who took the picture for the Associated Press (AP), Michael DiBari, even won an award for it. Good for him!

Man, I never thought I would be applying the "activist lunacy" and "ego" tags in the same post!

Always a View

2007-09-13T10:43:00.001-04:00

a beautiful day, too.

Now, in the Windy City

2007-09-13T10:07:00.001-04:00

Beautiful view of the Chicago River and one of the Marina Towers.

The Alamo

2007-09-09T19:01:00.001-04:00

One of the most heroic battles was fought here. I'm glad I was able to see it.

The Famous Riverwalk

2007-09-07T22:06:00.001-04:00

Hmm... I wonder why they call it that! On our way to dinner.

The Stars at Night...

2007-09-07T21:41:00.001-04:00

...are big and bright! Here I am in San Antonio for 5 days. Beautiful and hot so far. Come back for more adventures.

Since I'm Back from Vacation...

2007-09-05T11:50:00.000-04:00

I feel like torturing you.

Last Day on the Beach

2007-09-04T11:41:00.001-04:00

Well, here we are enjoying our last day in the OBX. Upper 80's, no clouds. I wish we were able to stay the whole week. But alas, reality beckons.

The House

2007-09-02T11:16:00.001-04:00

18 people crammed into this little seaside paradise. 10 rooms. Pool. Hot tub. Sky decks. Game room.

Outer Banks, NC - Trip II

2007-09-01T19:00:00.001-04:00

View from our deck. Ready for another week.

My Most Embarrassing Moment. Ever.

2007-08-29T08:54:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, on my way home, I was walking through an Orange Line Metro car looking for a place to stand, when the train suddenly lurched forward and started moving. Naturally, I was in mid-step when this happened, so when the car moved forward my center of gravity pulled me backwards (and away from the handrail I was trying to grab with an embarrassingly flailing hand). To keep from falling backwards, I over compensated and threw my weight forward. Well, wouldn't you know it, the train slowed suddenly at the exact same time causing me to completely lose my balance and face-plant (with my glasses and all) into the wall map on the side of the train. I hit my right cheek and forehead on the wall, and went down onto one knee.

A Good Samaritan rushed to see if I was OK, but I knew there was nothing he could do for my bruised and battered ego, so I dismissed him rather offhandedly. At this point (the whole affair lasted no more than a second or two, mind you) I gracefully stood up, opened my book and tried to read so as to ignore the fact that whole train was probably trying to hold back their laughter!

In retrospect, I should have taken a bow.

Virginia's Ridiculous Vehicle Laws

2007-08-23T14:29:00.000-04:00

I've been avoiding this topic for far too long, mainly because it enrages me to the point where any reasoned discussion on the subject is impossible for me. However, when I found out about Lindsay Lohan being charged with 2 DUIs, driving under the influence of cocaine and reckless driving, then read that all of those crimes only amount to misdemeanors, I decided to say something.

Virginia's antiquated motor vehicle laws have got to go.

Now, before some people get their feathers in a ruffle. I'm not saying that we should reduce the fines and penalties for serious traffic offenses like DUIs and hit and run. I would suggest that those become more stringent, actually. No, I'm mainly talking about speeding laws here in the Commonwealth - a place where driving 75mph on the Capital Beltway will land you in jail for felony reckless driving. And now, thanks to this bonehead, will also end up costing you $3500 and a criminal record that lasts 11 years. Are you starting to see my frustration here?

OK, after reading some of the links I've posted for you here... I've decided that I still can't talk about this subject rationally. How is it that driving 75mph can be considered a felony when in other parts of the country people are able to drive under the influence of addictive narcotics and get a slap on the wrist? Where have our legislative priorities gone? Since this post has come unglued and gone off the rails, I'll instead point you instead to Big Stupid Guy's post on the subject. He pretty much encapsulates exactly what I'm trying to say. Grr....

UPDATE: VA Residents! You can petition to end the excessive fees HERE.

The Eastern Shore

2007-08-18T15:02:00.001-04:00

Livin' the good life!

Outer Banks, NC - Trip 1

2007-08-18T14:40:00.001-04:00

We've started our first of two vacations to tin Outer Banks today. Here's our house. We'll be back for Labor Day week and be staying in a house 4 times this size!

Some People Are So Brave...

2007-08-17T12:30:00.000-04:00

You've gotta hand it to Bear Grylls, survival-man extraordinaire. I mean, this guy is a bonafide daredevil! Wow.

To steal a quote from a funny gossip-rag, "Thank goodness Bear Grylls didn't fall into that terrifying crevice in Hawaii. He would have had to hike dozens of feet to get to help. Literally ... dozens!"

All I have to say is, LOL.

My Simpsonization

2007-08-13T14:43:00.000-04:00

This picture is worth a thousand blogs. What do you think? A dead ringer, no? Go here to join in the fun!

An American Terrorist Handbook

2007-08-08T17:34:00.000-04:00

The New York Times is asking people to submit their best and brightest ideas for killing Americans. "Think like a terrorist for a day!" Wow, what fun! And hey, we can help Uncle Sam prepare at the same time - goes the logic.

For a plausible terrorist scenario, read Orson Scott Card's recent book, Empire. Beyond that, I'm not quite sure what I think about this "public service" of Mr. Levitt's.

For starters, these types of black exercises, while interesting and thought provoking, have the potential to cause great harm in a public forum. I understand the altruistic logic of playing these games, believing that the government should be aware of every type of scenario possible. However, the feds cannot possibly prepare for every single incident imaginable. By giving rise to a forum where people are free to let their imaginations run wild about ways to kill our fellow citizens, the NYT is essentially setting up a "cookbook" of sorts for those who would do us harm. Tell me, does the NYT think students should be able to list ways in which they can kill their classmates online in an open forum like this one? I doubt it.

I'm all for tabletop exercises, but there are sanctioned forums and think-tanks for this particular task. And while some readers may stumble upon an attack scenario that hasn't been conceived of yet - one that actually has the potential to be carried out - the potential recipes that are listed here already far outweigh the government's ability to effectively prepare. So, what's the point? I mean, besides tabloid tactics to draw readers, what is the point?

It's a tough call to make, because I love creative thinking and writing. But when it comes to authoring what will amount to another Anarchist's Cookbook or Columbine Journal, I have to draw the line at common sense. This is a bad idea.

How Am I Supposed to Ride in This?

2007-08-07T16:44:00.000-04:00

I'm home now. Back from a way-too-short vacation (see pictures in previous posts) out west visiting the in-laws. Yep, that's right... I enjoy spending time with the in-laws! Anyway, since I'm not on vacation anymore, I've been excited to get back to the trails with my newly repaired mountain bike. Unfortunately, I have to deal with this (also see picture at left - keeping in mind it's almost 5 pm). What you don't see is the humidity level - hovering right at 50%. It feels like Caribbean Mexico. Hot and nasty - only without the great beaches.

For those that don't know, riding mountain bikes in the mid-Atlantic in August is a bit like sitting in a sauna with a sweater on. It's brutally debilitating and a tad bit retarded. However, it's manageable with plenty of water and a slower pace. Why do I do it? Because, it's that much fun. Kind of like writing mindless posts like this...

View of the Tetons

2007-08-05T15:09:00.001-04:00

From the top o' the mountain.

Headed up the Mountain

2007-08-05T14:59:00.001-04:00

Riding the Alpine Slide at Jackson Hole.

Jackson, WY

2007-08-05T13:31:00.001-04:00

Beautiful day, too!

Nowhere Idaho

2007-08-04T17:05:00.001-04:00

Tetons

Only in Idaho

2007-08-04T16:08:00.001-04:00

Walking down the street.

Video of Minneapolis Bridge Collapse

2007-08-02T09:52:00.000-04:00

This is absolutely shocking video taken by a security camera of the bridge collapse in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Just awful.

Wednesday at Wakefield

2007-07-25T20:07:00.001-04:00

Live from the event! Sadly, I'm not racing today. Still getting over my cold and congestion.

The Problem With Theories Based on Lies

2007-07-25T09:22:00.000-04:00

Global warming. Give me a break. The number of hurricanes forecast for this season has just been reduced because of "cooler than usual ocean temperatures." Now, before the environmentalist lunatic fringe tries to tell you that ocean cooling is a sign of global warming, just remember their dire predictions during the active 2005 hurricane season, which was unusually warm. They told us of the coming ecological apocalypse - hurricanes so frequent that we would run out of letters of the alphabet to name them! Please.

This highlights yet another example of how utterly ridiculous the arguments in favor of global warming have become. If you listened to their rhetoric, we would be led to believe that any variation from perfect is an argument for global warming. I've touched on this before. It's the perfect argument. If it's too hot - well obviously - it's global warming! If it's too cold - well, that's a sign of global warming, too! If you disagree with them, you're labeled some kind of capitalist polluter (or worse). Can you tell I'm frustrated by this lunacy?

Real climatologists (not the biologists interviewed in Gore's fictional horror movie) have been telling us that these kind of fluctuations have been going on for centuries. Besides, one erupting volcano puts more crap into the atmosphere than even the most energy-hungry country could ever dream possible.

So, before we start legislating away our freedoms based on faulty, knee-jerk science, let's at least have an open and honest debate! A debate where global warming skeptics will not be castigated and dismissed just because being "green" is currently en vogue.

Is That a Carbon Footprint Underneath Your Scurvy-laden Legs?

2007-07-24T15:03:00.000-04:00

Bet you didn't know that carbon footprint of yours would end up making you walk like a pirate, did ya? Well, maybe I'm exaggerating a little, but isn't that what Elizabeth Edwards is doing by trying to prove you can save the environment by screwing the tangerine producers? Heavens! Those greedy SOBs are killing the world just to bring you some vitamin C... they must be stopped!

This is the kind of mass hysteria that will end up screwing not just the tangerine producers, but anyone who leaves a "carbon footprint" of any kind (i.e. YOU). It absolutely cannot be dealt with on a rational level. Well, unless you're The Goracle. If you're him, all you need to do is buy some carbon credits, and you can pollute the world as much as you want. But as for the rest of us, we need to do what he says. After all, he made a movie about global warming, so it must be true!

1400 Filipino Prisoners Can't Be Wrong

2007-07-23T15:48:00.001-04:00

As far as I'm concerned, this is what the Internet was invented for. Screw all of that nuclear survivability garbage. The Internet was made so that you and I could enjoy the pleasure of watching 1400 inmates at a prison in the Philippines reenact Michael Jackson's Thriller video. Can you imagine if that much effort went into an escape plan? The world would be doomed (and we'd probably all be wearing red leather jackets).

And yes, that's a dude. Nasty.

Back From the Dead

2007-07-21T20:46:00.000-04:00

As you can tell, it's been a slow week for me, blogwise. I picked up a nasty cold in Seattle (probably from some pederast tree-hugger who coughed next to me or something) and spent the better part of last week recovering. It was the usual - stuffed up head, plugged ears and a nasty cough. Although, thankfully, I learned how to get the upper hand on the plugged ears from my last two experiences with that nightmare. Now if I could only find a way to supress the coughing that has been driving my wife crazy!

Anyway, to celebrate my return to health (despite this pesky and lingering cough), my wife and I took a ride into DC to see the sights and enjoy this unusually perfect weather. Enjoy a few pics from the day!

View from the Top

2007-07-13T13:27:00.001-04:00

From the top o the Seattle Space Needle.