No Blog Here.

To find out what happens, when people stop being polite...

2009-07-03T10:21:00.005-04:00

The Real World DC is officially shooting...

... maybe.

GET OUT OF THE WAY! Don't you know who I am?

Hmmmm... I wonder which cliched RW character she will be?

Outside DuPont Circle, just up the street from my office... I hope MTV didn't make her walk all the way to S Street, from here!

Lights on... is any one home?

(all pictures courtesy of http://antirealworlddc.blogspot.com/)

Ooooooh spooooooky.

2009-03-22T11:04:00.001-04:00

Interesting shot from my phone. The wife and I were heading into DC to check out the Portrait Museum and the Art Gallery when on the opposite platform this train arrived. No passengers. No lights. NO CONDUCTER WOOOOOooooooOOOOOO... Not really he was in there, but the crazy thing was he left the way he came in.

Second snow...

2009-03-03T12:20:00.002-05:00

Hooray for snow and yeah for puppies playing in it!

Picture pages. Picture pages. Time to get your crayons and your penciiiiiiiiils!

2009-02-06T12:41:00.004-05:00

Hey gang! It has been a while... anywho, we have officially settled into our Washington, DC digs. We look forward to many visitors... wink, wink, nudge, nudge. Any who, wanted to share some pictures of our adventures to date... ENJOY!

Lyssee in front of one of the now retired Dumbo rideythingermajig from the, again, now retired Dumbo ride at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World... consequently the happiest place on earth... so, I hear... MOVING ON!

Me posing in front of the 44th President of the United States... wait... what? He's not the 44th President? Well, that's what the security guard told me when he took this picture. So, who's wrong? You or the security curator at the Smithsonian? Yeah! That's what I thought!

It snowed in Washington! FUN FUN! I know (groans from the Erie-ites). Our dogs LOVED it! By the way, Jack (the pug) is new. Teddy (the bischon) is not new, but his blue inflattable coller is... it keeps him safe, in case the Potomac rises and DC falls into the Atlantic. Safety first, Teddy. SAFETY FIRST!

Apparently, this guy is the 44th President of the United States. Who knew? Why are we not there? Because we are sane, and, from our HD vantage point, we technically were as close to the President as those freezing their "doopas" (technical term... look it up!) off at the Lincoln Memorial.

Finally, I turned 30. Wooo... hooo... ah, sad. NOT REALLY! I feel amazing! Anywho, surprise birthday trip ala my beautiful wife, family and friends to ERIE, PA! It was awesome and I appreciate everyone who was able to make it! Wicked cold (expected) and wicked snow (expected), but The Beast (my FJ Cruiser) performed beautifully! Good times ALL AROUND!

... and we're BAAACK!

2008-12-21T18:55:00.000-05:00

The ladies are back from commercial break. Please enjoy the thrilling conclusion!

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OMG! We were pretty bored!

2008-12-21T18:47:00.000-05:00

My favorite cooking show starring Ashley Cook and the ravishing Alyssa White!

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It has begun!

2008-12-19T08:32:00.000-05:00

As of 12/18 (officially 1 month and 2 days before the inauguration) the parade route bleachers are going up. I`m still unsure if we will brave the crowds. We might just stay home and watch it on HD.

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(SIDEWAYS) Lunch Quartet

2008-12-15T14:50:00.003-05:00

Christmas in DC! This was taken in the lobby of my building. The quartet is camped out at the bottom of the tree. MERRY CHRISTMAS!

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True

2008-11-11T07:24:00.001-05:00

Thanks Rich...

To good to pass up...

2008-11-04T11:42:00.001-05:00

Rove predicts Obama landslide

(CNN) – John McCain and his aides are still banking on a come-from-behind victory Tuesday, but the GOP's most famous political strategist has already called the race for Barack Obama.
Karl Rove, the man widely credited with engineering President Bush's two successful White House bids, is predicting the Illinois senator will take the White House in an Electoral College landslide, winning 338 votes to John McCain's 200. That would be the largest Electoral College victory since 1996, when Bill Clinton defeated Bob Dole in a 379-159 rout.
In an Electoral Map posted on Rove's Web site, the Republican mastermind predicts Obama victories in several key battlegrounds, including virtually all of the states where polls suggest he currently enjoys a slim advantage. In fact, Rove believes Missouri is the only crucial battleground state McCain will carry, while Obama scores victories in Florida, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Colorado, New Mexico, Minnesota, and Iowa. Rove also thinks Obama will win traditionally-Republican Virginia.

HA! Fox Hat!

2008-08-25T16:49:00.001-04:00

"Indeed" of the Day

2008-08-25T11:45:00.006-04:00

Why is it that Republicans... insist that Obama... is not qualified, to be the next President of the United States, due to his recent publicity and celebrity stardom, when two of their shining gems...
hail from Hollywood?

Bubb Rubb is my homeboy!

2008-08-22T13:17:00.001-04:00

I do not think that was a complete stop, Mr. Rubb. WHOO WHOO!

... and just like...dun duh dun... the movies...

2008-08-05T09:34:00.008-04:00

Hi, my name is Jimmy White, and I like Star Trek movies.

HI JIMMY.

As if it were not bad enough participating in the high school marching band (IT WAS COOL, I SWEAR!) and playing soccer in a state where everyone bleeds the foozball, the unfortunate trifecta of nerdiness comes with my adulation for anything Star Trek.

However, let's get one thing straight. I do not wear ears. I do not speak Klingon. I DO think Ricardo Montalban (KAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHNNNNNNNN!) is by far the baddest villain on screen (Yes, Junior, even worse than Darth Vader.). Thus, I am very excited to see J.J. Abrams retelling of the story of Captain James Tiberius (Yes, I know his middle name without having to Google it.) Kirk and his multi-cultural rabble of interstellar explorers.

HATE BEGETS HATE

2008-07-31T15:09:00.005-04:00

Sad news out of my home state of Pennsylvania. This type of discrimination and hate runs rampant in her homes.

I wish people would think twice before they put their hate of fellow human beings on display for their children to see... these boys learned this hate from somewhere!

One touching yet horrible consequence of this brutality, is, the fact, that Luis Ramirez was beaten so horribly that the medallion of Jesus Christ Ramirez was wearing was embedded into his chest leaving a "clotted, bruised impression of Jesus Christ on the skin of his chest."

No amount of politics justifies the killing of another human being. DESPICABLE.

The Jimmy White Gambit

2008-07-31T13:12:00.006-04:00

It may come as a surprise to most that I enjoy a good super hero movie now and then. As I stated before, my preference is for one blue tight clad red cape wearing alien from Krypton. However, there is another...

NO NOT WOLVERINE... Wolverine is a chump compared to Gambit (stay tuned for Halloween pics of my own take on Gambit).

My fan boy excitement for this film comes merely from a rewarded patience that I have maintained since THE YEAR TWO THOUSAND... THE YEAR TWOOOOO THOUSAND (shout out: Conan O'Brien)! For those unaware, Gambit (real name Remy LeBeau) is a Cajun mutant heralding from the great city of New Orleans, LA. He has the power to commute kinetic energy into potential energy with explosive consequences. He has two weapons of choice: a deck of cards and a bow staff. He is one of the most popular mutants of the X-Men, but has been absent from all 3 films (X-Men 2000, X2 2003, X3 2006)!!!!

Until now... He will personally be manifest in this movie by the actor Taylor Kitsch a.k.a Tim Riggins from the ailing TV series "Friday Night Lights."

Now that we are all on the same page, Taylor's performance as Gambit can be seen in this footage from Comic-Con 2008 (just look for the playing cards!).

AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT (shout out: Monty Python):

IS THAT GRAVE ROLLING I HEAR?

There is a cemetery, (Founder's Park) in uptown Charlotte, where the bodies of Charlotte's founders rest (tombstones and all). It is quite a beautiful green space, but it has gone from a plot of hallowed ground to a dog park. There is just something disconcerting about walking a dog in a cemetery, letting said dog piddle on another person's grave marker, and then allowing, again, said dog poo 6 feet above where those who have come before us rest. I am still of the habit of walking around the area where a body lay while in a cemetery, thus it just blows my mind that these uptown residents would allow their canines to defecate all over their founder's graves. These are the same people trying to put the kibosh on a Coyote Ugly and a Hooters. I'm sure the founders are proud!
GOOD INTENTIONS

How do you know when to stop and help someone on the road? Does it depend on how many people are there? gender? mechanical issue? age? How many of the poor can you serve in one day? Should you carry around bottled water for drifters? Money for pan handlers? Food for the hungry? Conversation for the lonely?

The need is overwhelming! I figured it last night that if I stopped and helped every person I saw who needed my charity between my office and my home, I would not make it home until the latter part of the evening. It is personally difficult for me to help one and then walk by the next ten. I need help fighting this fight and the City of Charlotte (boushy uptown residents supplied with the infinite wisdom of selfish people) has already taken themselves out of the running. Charlotte has taken it upon themselves to begin citing homeless people who are lining up for food distribution on the city's fringes. Kudos Charlotte! DESPICABLE!

Any who, God, I pray for the wisdom to help the most needy among my community that cross my path. Help me, my friends, and my family to serve those who are referred to as "the least of these" with the courage, resources and intentions fueled by your Gospel. In Your Name, I pray. Amen.

The latest campaign Jab.

2008-07-29T09:45:00.004-04:00

Check out my cameo towards the end.

Send a JibJab Sendables® eCard Today!

Wow...

2008-07-24T14:56:00.005-04:00

B.H. Obama

This is a picture I would like to see circling around in forwarded emails... truly inspiring! The chills I feel looking at this picture are a true testament to the pure emotion captured by this AP photographer. I would caption this picture: "The Healing of America (and the World)."

Other American Presidents (insert biased assumption #1) have drawn crowds in Berlin...

J.F. Kennedy

G.W. Bush

R.W. Reagan

Any who... an update on a previous post regarding the "MySpace Tween Killer." Her lawyer has filed a motion to dismiss... "The new defense motions argue the indictment violates constitutional due process, fails to state an offense as required by federal rules of criminal procedure and alleges no crime, but is instead vague." I have a great idea, how about this women withdraw her "not guilty" plea and accept responsibility for what she did, thus a "guilty" plea would be appropriate.

DESPICABLE.

"That's it! You're outta here!"

2008-07-11T16:12:00.002-04:00

A "Jim White Adventure" is an occurrence that happens to this author when he is either off gallivanting around the globe or rocking it out solo in Charlotte... regardless, these "Adventures" seem to only happen to me when no one else is around (sort of like Dr. Henry "Indiana" Jones).

Any who, I had quite the "Jim White Adventure" yesterday. Aside from recanting my "Adventure" to my lovely wife. Alyssa, I recently recanted the tale to my brother in the law (unlike a brother-in-law) Richard Zmijewski. What follows is the transcript of our conversation... enjoy!

10:04 AM me: hola?

10:08 AM Richard: Coma estas?

me: estoy bien! e tu?

Richard: Muy bien, gracias!

10:09 AM me: i scooped your ass

Richard: how so
oh with Trina
congratulations, now all 2 of your readers were better informed
BURNED

me: lol

Richard: lol
sorry
that was mean

me: zoom zoom zooooooooooooom

10:10 AM Richard: question for you:
10:11 AM If you were a hot dog
would you eat yourself?
I know I would

10:12 AM me: id cover my self with relish and brown mustard... id chow down!
how about this sh%#
10:13 AM im going to blog about it later but ill give you the 411

Richard: sweet

me: my plane from minneapolis to charlotte was delayed last night
because some a$$#@!& would not get off his cell phone
we get on the plane
he is on a call
10:14 AM the flight attendant (fa) asks him to end his call
he ignores her

Richard: wow

me: this guy is sitting in an exit row behind me
window seat
she asks again
nothing
she tells him to hang up
he pretends to
10:15 AM another fa comes by and he is texting
the new fa tells him he has to stop and power off his phone
he pretends to
the first fa comes back around and sees him texting and she says, "thats it youre out of here!"

Richard: Tell me you intervened and f&@%!^* kicked him in the balls

10:16 AM me: this is all happening as we are rolling to the runway
ERRRRRRRRR... pilot hits the brakes and takes us back to the gate

Richard: wow

me: they present him with a "violation pamphlet" to which he says "im not
f&@%!^* reading that"
10:17 AM we park at the gate and the second fa asks him to get his things and come to the front of the plane
two cop cars roll up, they cuff him, and peace out

Richard: I hope this ends with: an air marshall tazered him to the ground and he burst into flames.

me: federal charges B$&TCH

Richard: NICE

me: no air marshal on the plane
10:18 AM or atleast he did not make himself known

Richard: so they kicked him off?

me: all in all i get into charlotte and hour late
yup

Richard: wow

me: kicked his a$$ off

Richard: douche bag mcdouchery
Did everyone clap

me: seriously
pretty much
10:19 AM we almost had an uprising

Richard: I would have clapped with a big "f%$# you farewell"

me: what was even better was i asked if i could have his window exit row seat and they said sure

Moral of this aerial "Jim White Adventure" is if you don't hang up you get locked up!

Hooray! Something NEWS worthy.

2008-07-08T19:34:00.002-04:00

WOW WOW WOW... that's right, 3 WOWs!

For one, I found something to write about.

For twosies, I do not want to be a TV anchor/reporter when I grow up. Honestly, I thought cops and teachers had it rough considering their pay, in relation to their profession, but this story out of Erie, PA (born and raised... on the playgrounds where I spent most of my days...) is the "beez-neez."

Get this...

"(Jennifer) Taylor said her annual salary at WSEE started at about $24,000, and she was making roughly $26,000 a year when she left in May. She declined to reveal her Toledo salary."It was hard to leave (Erie), but I felt like I learned all I could there," said Taylor, who has family in northeastern Ohio. "It was always my intention to move on."But it's also hard when you come into a job and you know that a manager in fast-food is making more than you are and you have a college degree."

Turns out...

"A 2007 Radio-Television News Directors Association and Ball State University survey shows that the median pay for television reporters in a market the size of Erie's is $24,000 a year. For anchors, median yearly pay is $45,900.By contrast, median pay for an assistant manager at a U.S. fast-food restaurant -- the job former WSEE reporter Taylor referred to -- is $25,775, according to PayScale.com, an Internet site that collects data on employee compensation nationwide."

If you subtract the money it cost for the degree to become a broadcast journalist and then compare that to the upward mobility of the average committed-to-the-fast-food-industry employee, I would gather that the "Hamburglar" is more likely to come out on top of this "Dollar Menu."

Just when you thought the people you see on TV were livin' it up Diddy style... AAAAAANNNHHHHHHH... the correct answer is they are just like you and me, except someone does their hair and makeup... ooooh, and the craft services... mmmmmm, catering...

SEACREST OUT!

There's something... on... the wing!

2008-07-08T19:05:00.002-04:00

Not really... Hella bumpy, though! Felt like the pilots were bored and decided to throw it into 4WD. Much obliged, but I think I will pass on the WWII dog fight reenactment at 38,000 feet.

So it goes like this...

Dear diary, It's me, Jimmy, again. After all, who else would it be... ha ha. Today was neat... not really. Work in Minneapolis again has me missing my Butters. Anywho, can't wait to be home... You know you love me. XOXO Gossip Girl.

Man, I really have nothing creative to write... I know this "bloggers-block" (TM), if you will, effects us all... in fact, I think my boy at michaelshakes.blogspot.com hasn't blogged in a long-o time... the list of said b loggers favorite actors/actresses is weak... I KID I KID! Just gearing up for Fantasy Football, to which he is our commish'.

YOU'RE GOING DOWN SHAKE-AWAY!

Fw:

2008-06-30T08:36:00.002-04:00

I typically avoid forwarded emails (like the plague), however, this one was from my "butters!" If you feel so inspired, copy and paste your answers as comments... enjoy responsibly!

1. What time did you get up this morning? 7:15am
2. How do you like your steak? Medium
3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
4. What is your favorite TV show? Battlestar Galactica (for now...)
5. What is your middle name? Arthur
6. What is your favorite food? Italian
7. What foods do you dislike? Butternut Squash
8. What is your favorite chip? Ranch
9. Favorite dressing? Ranch
10. What kind of vehicle do you drive? Toyota FJ Cruiser
11. What are your favorite clothes? None
12. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation? Italy
13. Cup 1/2 empty or 1/2 full? Full
14. Retire to? College Town, USA
15. Favorite time of the day? Nap time
16. Where were you born? Erie, PA
17. What is your favorite sport to watch? Soccer
18. Who do you think will not send this back? Not important
19. Person you expect to send it back first? Again, not important
20. Pepsi or Coke? or
21. Are you a morning person or night person? Morning
22. Do you have any pets? Dog
23. Any new and exciting news you would like to share? +6 is rapidly approaching!
24. What did you want to be when you were little? An archaeologist
25. What is your best childhood memory? Camping with Grandma & Grandpa Bailey
26. How many siblings? Two... that I know of.
27. Always wear your seat belt? Yes
28. Been in a car accident? Yes
29. Favorite day of the week? Friday
30. Favorite restaurant? Smoothie King
31. Favorite flower? Venus Fly Trap
32. Favorite Ice Cream? Ben & Jerry's Cake Batter
33. Favorite fast food restaurants? McDonald's
34. How many times did you fail your driver's test? 2
35. From whom did you get your last email? MLS.com
36. Which store would you choose to max out your credit card? Rita's Italian Ice
37. Bedtime? Bedtime?
38. You most curious about their response to this? Anyone
39. Last person you went out to dinner with? Lyssee
40. What is your favorite color? White
41. What do you want to be when you grow up? King of the World
42. How many are you sending this email to? Everyone
43. What time did you finish this email? Posted on 8:57am
44. Coffee Drinker? Addict
45. Who sent this to you? Butters

Alpha Septaton

2008-06-26T17:50:00.002-04:00

HA! The guy in the lower left looks familiar...

Minneapolis: Diversity, Morbidity, "Mall of America"-ity

2008-06-26T10:47:00.006-04:00

Wow! That picture is poor... oh well. You see that super tall building in the middle of the skyline... apartments. Judging by my own close up inspection of the age/condition of the building... not an enjoyable place to live.

Tangent: No free wifi at the Minneapolis/St. Paul airport... dumb.

So, I was in Minneapolis on "assignment." I do have to go back the week of July 7th, therefore, if anyone would like to paint Minneapolis RED, let me know.

Anywho, I found myself not finding anything particularly appealing about Minneapolis. Sad, I know. Maybe I just did not get out, enough. I think, next time, I am going to look up The Mall of America (still the largest in America).

Tangent: Did you know that if you, as an attorney, give an oral argument in front of the U.S. Supreme Court, Justice Antonin Scalia requires that you do not use contractions. Sorry, Mr. (or Ms. or Mrs.) apostrophe creator.

One thing that did stand out about Minneapolis was the magnitude of African and Middle Eastern immigrants who call the city home. Additionally, Minneapolis is home to a very large Muslim population. Hijabs a plenty. It is enlightening, really, not many Charlotte(land) area Muslim women willing to wear their hajibs, in public, for fear of persecution... sad.

It was not until my bro-han Richard "I can run Erieblogs.com just fine sans Dennis" Zmijewski brought it to my attention that Minneapolis was home to the 35W bridge collapse (over the Mississippi) tragedy that I realized Minneapolis does have some tragic notoriety. Thanks Rich, I was perfectly fine traversing the bridges of Minneapolis until you "rang the bell." Needless to say, I'm asking TomTom to plan my routes sans bridges.

Final Tangent: bad ruling, today, by the U.S. Supreme Court... guns are for the defense of the state via militias not to be in the hands of the "people" (historical context: militias = people apart from the federal government i.e. states. people does not = individuals)... dumb.

There is no 13th floor in our building... SERIOUSLY!

2008-06-13T10:00:00.003-04:00

I'm not buying it. I have no qualms with the number 13. 13 is cool in my book. In fact it marked the beginning of my teens (good times!).

Also, if I went to Krispy Kreme Doughnuts and ordered a dozen doughnuts, and they accidently put 13 in there... THATS A GREAT DAY!

Apparently, my boy Mikey "eskiMO-PIE" Sheakley has done a bit of research on this phenomena.

News flash to all of you on the 14th floor... you are doomed. 13 will find you some day.

SHOUT OUT: Go see "The Happening." M. Knight needs you to! I think I am the only M. Knight fan in "Amurica... heyheyhey." No seriously, I have not seen an M. Knight movie I did not enjoy. As opposed to Nic "I'm a freaking Coppola and I named my son after Superman" Cage, for shame Mr. Cage, for shame.

"Indeed" Paraphrasations of the Day

2008-06-12T09:14:00.003-04:00

The single most "statistically effective" decrease in crime during the 20th Century can be attributed to Roe v. Wade.

-- Freakonomics, Steven D. Levitt & Stephen J. Dubner

If you filed an income tax return in the last decade (regardless of your accountant or accounting firm), your tax return was likely prepared in Bangalore, India.

-- The World is Flat, Thomas L. Friedman

SummerSummerSummer Tiiiiiiiiime!

2008-06-10T10:07:00.003-04:00

The scorching temps are almost over... phew! It was like people soup at the pool this weekend. Ew.

Speaking of wearing little or no clothes, I am a fan of the art of tattoo. I technically have 5 but only 4 are visible. I would consider getting another, but I, first, would want to brighten the ones I have.

Anywho, what to get? I have been mulling around two ideas or themes: Alyssa and/or Christianity. I beleieve that tattoos should represent the tattooed's life experiences. I am not a big fan of people who get tattoos to get tattoos. LET IT MEAN SOMETHING, PEOPLE!

Again, anywho, I was thinking of either "alyssa." across my shoulder blades or (my preference) a 1950s style pin-up model (naughty secretary... I know, scandalous) of Lyss.

My other idea was The Sacred Heart in the middle of my chest or perhaps on my left pectoral. Speaking of Christian tattoos, my favorite tattoo can be found on this man:

He was a guest on the TLC show "LA Ink." He is also a pastor in Atlanta, GA. This tattoo is an interpretation of Carvaggio's "Conversion of St. Paul." It is a beautiful representation. I particularly enjoy this tattoo as an allegory for my own life. Sometimes God comes into our lives with a whisper and sometimes he comes in with some good ol' shock and awe!

Indeed.

The Wii Fit has given mii a complex!

2008-06-09T12:16:00.009-04:00

What did we do Sunday? Why we out-smarted the thralls of teeming Wii-thirsty droves and delightfully purchased a Wii Fit of our very own. We had the inside scoop regarding the location of a newly opened Best Buy off the radar of most of the inhabitants of the Charlotte metropolitan area (first time referred to here as "Charlotteland")

Apparently, this "game" was all the rage in Japan (not really known for having an epidemic of obesity). My wife and I, fit Americans (by our standards) thought, "why not."

Well let me tell you something, BROTHER, once I flipped the power button to the Wii balance board into the "ON" position, there was no turning back.

After answering a few questions during my personal biometric interview, it turns out that I am OVERWEIGHT WITH A BMI OVER 25 (pay no attention to that last line, Liberty Mutual Term Life Insurance representatives).

This is a disturbing measurement by my own calculated standards (I consider myself pretty fit, ,but apparently I considered incorrectly). To make matters worse, while I was convincing myself that these measurements were ridiculous, Alyssa did her biometric interview and rocked an amazing BMI of 22 (industry standard for healthy people)!

Needless to say, after working out a goal and Wii Fit routine, this game purports to have the ability to get my BMI below 22 (via virtual skiing, heading soccer balls, and working out with my virtual trainer). Well, Mr. Wii, it appears the gauntlet has been laid.

LET"S DO THIS, BROTHER!

"Indeed" of the day.

2008-06-09T10:37:00.002-04:00

"The Sermon on the Mount was so radical, I doubt our Justice Department would survive its application."

-- The Audacity of Hope, Barack Obama

2 Tips and a Wag.

2008-05-31T18:05:00.004-04:00

First off, props to the Colbert Nation. With that being said, let us continue.

A "Tip of my Hat" to SNL for this NBA playoff/democratic primary spoof. I was not too fond of Fred Armis' impression of Barrack Obama (mainly because he just sat there and did not say anything), but this video is spot on.

A sad sad sad (did I say sad) "Wag of the Finger" to Father Michael Pfleger. This election year has such potential to bring so many diverse people together, but these remarks do not serve to promote the Gospel of Love that Jesus intended for his disciples to disseminate. They are instead self-serving, and serve only the interest of Father Michael Pfleger. Interestingly enough, Senator Obama has severed all ties with his former controversial congregation. Good job... I am officially disgusted with the lack of wisdom shown by these church leaders.

Finally, a "Tip of the Hat" to Delta airlines. When all other airlines are cutting back on snacks, mph, and even checked bags, you have supplied we wary travelers with a little "eye candy."

This is the end... my only friend, the end.

2008-05-23T17:36:00.006-04:00

How cool is it that Oregon (pronounced: Or-e-gen not Or-e-gone... who knew?) put up a museum to honor a 1980s video game! Sike! Too bad, the museum did not embrace the fever that surrounds the video game. They were too concerned with historical accuracy and honoring the pioneers that really did have to ford the rivers.

So, I am chilling in the Portland International Airport waiting for my flight to San Francisco, CA and then off to Pittsburgh, PA (family reunion/birthday party). This is a great time to unload all of the thoughts that have swirled in my head over this past week. Don't say i didn't warn you:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BUTTERS!

It was actually, yesterday. Lover you, baby!
Good Samaritans?

I spent the week with the fine folks of Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center. Which got me to thinking about the New Testament parable in Luke regarding the "Good Samaritan." This ancient story of tolerance, non-discrimination, and racial harmony speaks volumes to our current society. What is great about this parable is that Jesus chose a Samaritan as the hero of the story. Historically, The Samaritans of this time were despised by the story's target audience, the Jews. The Samaritans were also largely taught by their interpretation of history to hate Jews. Therefore, Jesus (always beautiful in His counter cultural/revolutionary teachings) to hold up a socially despised group and make them the heroes was brilliant, and, hopefully, taught/teaches us all about the gifts tolerance and charity! Along with the moral of the story that these gifts often can be found with those whom we would least expect.
Good v. Well?

How are you doing? Good? Well? I typically go with neither. I am a big fan of "perfect," "fabulous," "wonderful," and "great." Therefore, do not try to force your "I am doing well" brain washing on me. What is so bad about saying "I am doing good?"
Down here, the locals will not even give you a chance to respond with "good" or "well." In fact, 9 times out of 10, if you ask one of our locals how they are doing, they will respond, "Doin' fine. Hope you are." Then you are relegated to a "yes" or a "no."
Oregon Fun Facts

You can not pump your own gas in the big OR, just like Jersey, but without Sloley almost getting thrown off the turnpike for trying to get out of his car and pump his own gas. Shame on you Mr. Wright, for not learning the local customs!

Ford the river?

2008-05-19T21:02:00.002-04:00

I am in Oregon this week, and yes, it was via the Oregon Trail (in the sky).

My occupation is Attorney. This means I have very little survival skills but plenty of loot. What to buy from Matt's General Store??? Does he sell Boone's Farm? One thing, I know for sure, I will need loads of oxen for fording!

Check out my "covered wagon" (one of the best rentals ever!)

Are you serious?

2008-05-16T08:40:00.005-04:00

Each and every day I find myself wondering, "Is their an insane majority in today's society?" Often the answer to this question is a resounding YES! Case and point this smattering of "newsworthy snippets" I have observed over the past 5 days:

Sweetie-gate

Also known as, Presidential candidate Barack Obama referring to a female reporter as "sweetie" whilst dodging her question at a Detroit, MI auto plant. PPPPPPPPPPPPPLLLLLLEEEAAAASSSSSSE Eddy! Who among you has not referred to another person with an off the cuff contextual remark as sweetie, bud, shakes, brother, babe, hon (HOLLER BACK B-MORE!), friend?
First of all, if you are offended by such slangery, get over yourself. There are millions of people dying all over the world because they do not have enough food to eat or potable water to drink. There are reporters being killed, by the governments, of the countries they live in, because of what said reporters write down or say in front of a camera.
Secondly, the reporter who was called "sweetie" was not even offended! But alas, like a Shakespearean antagonist, the media must have its pound of flesh. Thank goodness, too, because they have all run out of interesting things to talk about regarding Indiana Jones 4.
Finally, a wag of my finger (Colbert Nation RAISE THE ROOF!), to GMA (Good Morning America) for reporting on the possible derogatory effect of a man referring to a woman as "sweetie" with the juxtaposition of "sweetie-gate" and a scene from Will Ferrell's COMEDY (Yes, I said COMEDY. C-O-M-E-D-Y.) "Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgandy?" Bad form, GMA. Bad form.
MySpace hoax leads to teen's suicide

How depraved an indifferent does one ADULT person have to be to pose as a teenage boy, on MySpace, lure an unsuspecting teenage girl into an online relationship, and then treat that teenage girl so viciously that she kills herself? The answer: VERY!
It is already hard enough to raise a child, today, (from what I hear.) let alone a child who suffers from depression. Now, on top of those already daunting tasks, parents have to beware of adults who are out for some good ol' fashion iRevenge.
The only wisdom I could impart on the parents of the world (based on my limited interaction with all types of fellow human beings) is hug your kids. Love them with all of your heart. Put them above your needs. If you have made the decision to raise a child then that is what you do: RAISE YOUR CHILD. Do not ignore them. Do not abuse them. Do not teach them hate. Do teach them love.
Interesting legal note: the crime happened in Missouri. Back in December, Missouri prosecuters declined to pursue charges due to the lack of any violated state laws. Now, the case is in California Federal Court with charges of conspiracy and accessing protected computers to obtain information to inflict emotional distress. In my "learned" opinion why not file simple involuntary manslaughter charges? The element of recklessness could be redefined by these facts, for sure. If the defendant, in this case, gets 20 years, I will be surprised.

Listen, here's the thing. If you can't spot the sucker in the first half hour at the table, then you ARE the sucker.
-- Matt Damon, Rounders

This is one of my favorite quotes from Rounders! I think it speaks volumes for society, namely, if you can still recognize that society is insane than you can count yourself lucky; you are still sane!

Ralph Macchio Rules!

2008-05-15T14:22:00.004-04:00

Two words that should not be used in the same sentence: "dang" and "coy pond."

"Its Mother's DaaaaaAAAAAaaaaaaay... I'll be..."

2008-05-11T09:17:00.002-04:00

I do believe that Tom, Mark, and Travis said it best via their "ode to mothers" ballad Mother's Day, when they said, "It's Mother's Day."

To all the mothers out there (the following title does not apply to any woman who has shirked her God given responsibilities in the name of Salems and Strohs... Shout out to Kathi A.!), you rock! Today is your day! Enjoy yourselves! Its a celebration!

"Unofficial" Coat Posse Wiki: The Loose Fist of Disgust

2008-05-10T15:00:00.004-04:00

The Loose Fist of Disgust:

A sterilized hand gesture used to communicate the user's disgust toward a particular person or regarding a particular situation.

To make the Loose Fist of Disgust, raise either your right or left hand towards your intended target. With your palm facing towards you, curl all five of your fingers, as if you were grasping an imaginary tennis ball.

Not intended for those persons under 21, persons with heart problems, nursing or expectant mothers, Please gesture responsibly.

Source: Jimmy White, CP Soulz, Charlotte, NC

Negating Hillary in Pennsylvania? Hooray!

2008-05-06T20:11:00.004-04:00

Chris Todd (MSNBC, Political Analyst) stated, tonight, if Obama wins 57% of the vote in North Carolina then he will have effectively negated Hillary's lead in PA. Oh my! How scandalous!

Another look at the numbers, older (over 65) white non-college educated men and women are more likely to vote for Clinton... hmmmmm... I wonder why? I know, and I think it rhymes with "pace-ism."

Cinco/Cinco/Dos Mil Ocho

2008-05-05T22:30:00.005-04:00

Happy Cinco de Mayo! As important to Mexican Americans as Christopher Columbus Day is to Italian Americans, however, with a tad bit more drinking and a little less genocide.

Misconcepton of the day: Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican Independence Day. In fact, The 5th of May commemorates an initial victory of Mexican forces led by General Igancio Zaragoza Sequin over French forces in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Mexican Independence day is celebrated on September 16th.

On a lighter note, the theme of the day is love. When we were in American Eagle today I watched this Dave Matthews video (LOVE IT!):

On top of this, I want to slather on some more love. The movie of the day is Lars and the Real Girl. This movie helps you to realize that no matter how counter cultural you act all you really need is LOVE.

To echo Di, the birds in Charlotte are acting very odd. First, dive-bombing birds. Second, there is a flightless bird (although, I think it should be flying.) chilling in the bushes in front of my house. Third, a similar flightless bird totally stepped to me as I was meandering from the pool to la casa. When I say stepped, I mean flying a "B line" right at me then coming in for a landing mere feet in front of me and finally blocking the path so that I had to adjust my ingress to his egress. Fourth, bird fights. Phew! If we had earthquakes, I'd say we were due for one, buuuuuut we don't. Therefore, I'd say Hitchcock is calling.

In honor of this special day, It is time to highlight a present day revolutionary: Subcomandante Marcos.

Early and Often

2008-05-03T00:49:00.002-04:00

EARLY VOTE! Do it. DO IT NOW!

I did. NC has an early voting system. No registering to vote. Just walk in, tell them who you are and WHAM-O. You can vote.

This is my first experience with early voting which is similar to regular voting except for the excuse to not vote. However, I neglected to do enough research into the local races therefore I only cast one vote today... for HOPE!

4/29/2008: Hickory, NC

2008-04-29T21:28:00.010-04:00

The Obama has landed. Report, The Obama has landed.

It was a brisk NC afternoon. 50 degrees with a steady wind sweeping into the Piedmont. Ron Paul revolution signs waving from across the road. We arrived about a thousand people deep of the soon to be 3400 strong. Merchants peddled their campaign swag. The gymnasium was a welcome sight after a sunny hour and a half.

After much a do, the Senator took the stage. He spoke on issues. He cracked some jokes. He took time to recall his campaign trail experiences. He reacted to the audience. He addressed his competition. He showed us that he is an American and not what you read in emails. He is an American that salutes the flag. He is an American that wears flag lapel pins. He is an American that says (and has lead) the Pledge of Allegiance. He is an American!

He is not an Al-Qaeda conspirator. He is not an Islamic fundamentalist. He is not funding the genocide in Africa. He is not evil. He is an American!

He wrapped up his time with Q&A: The deficit, NAFTA, immigration, and "No Child Left Behind."

I have not been to a major presidential rally since George Dubya back in 2k. I always leave these rallies with a sense of euphoria. It is too bad the other democratic candidate was in Charlotte at the same time as this candidate. As far as the republican candidate... is there a republican candidate? Oh yeah, I did see some Ron Paul signs.

The Obama nation!

2008-04-28T20:46:00.002-04:00

Wait... that's not right, but you know what? Count me in!

Luckily, Lyss and I have "golden tickets" to tomorrow's town hall meeting, in Hickory, NC. We are both very excited. I "HOPE" to have great things to report afterward.

p.s. Wii Mario Kart is the bomb-dizzle!

Comfort and Mercy

2008-04-23T19:36:00.009-04:00

These will probably be the last of the "spy images" I will be able to post. I am running out of photo-ops.

Today, however, we had the distinct privilege of touring the USNS Mercy. We were up on the deck checking out the helo-pad. We were on the bridge. It was awesome! It is amazing how many ships our American Navy has for war, yet we only have a couple of ships for humanitarian missions i.e. the USNS Mercy (a.k.a. "the office") and the USNS Comfort.

These ships (or are they boats?) are truly deserving of their names.

The work they do is truly blessed. They will roll up on impoverished, often times, extremely treacherous areas of the world to lend medical assistance: free surgeries, plastic and dental reconstruction, crisis assistance, anything! Take it from me, without getting too specific, They are as equipped if not better equipped than any of the major hospital networks in the country.

Anywho, it has been a pleasure to be a part of this whole thing and to help out with their mission of healing and love.

These two (final) shots were taken on our way to the Mercy. This is actually the dock that runs between the Mercy (white with the red cross) and the Bob Hope (grey). These ships absolutely dwarf any person striding next to them.

Dude?

2008-04-23T09:03:00.003-04:00

My job involves a lot of travel. Sometimes fun, but always lonely (Miss you Butters!). Anywho, Bud Light's newest "dude" commercial highlights the worst case scenario for any "road warrior."

The "moral" of the story: "No matter how bad your day is, you can always end it on a good note with an ice cold Bud Light." I never knew!

"Taking pictures, on the base, could get you shot."

2008-04-22T23:45:00.006-04:00

Quote... Un-quote!

Bah! I'm not taking pictures. I'm on the "phone."

Enjoy (Hopefully, more to come!)! By the way, THESE SHIPS ARE HUGE! When we board the USNS Mercy, we have to walk between it and the USNS Bob Hope. Its like walking down an alley between two HUGE city blocks (just as tall and just as long!)!

Boat with missiles.

Boat with guns.

Two boats with guns and four cars without guns.

USNS Bob Hope... old boat.

Boat with BIG guns.

USNS Mercy... a.k.a. "the office."

USNS Bob Hope... the encore.

WWE Raw Politics!

2008-04-22T01:14:00.002-04:00

WHO YOU GONNA VOTE FOR, BRRRRRROTHER?

Saint James, California

2008-04-22T00:34:00.007-04:00

WEST COAST!!!!!!!!!!

I dipped my toes in the Pacific Ocean, today.

It was a first. I am working, this week, in San Diego, CA. It truly is a beautiful city. Much smaller than I pictured. All I know about San Diego, I learned from the Real World: San Diego.

I will try to take more pictures and make more observations as the week goes on. For now, I will leave you with these two nuggets:

-- The desent into San Diego is hair raising! The airport is set in downtown which means we practically buzzed the skyline. Additionally, the Thrifty car rental location is directly under the landing planes (I am hoping to snap a pic tomorrow!)

-- San Diego is the SAFEST CITY IN AMERICA because of the constant military presence. Seriously! The Naval ships patrol the coast, due to the Naval base. Additionally, fighter jets patrol the skies. On top of that, there is a very large Coast Guard presence.

Here is a shot of the USS Mercy. This is the ship I will be working on.

Here is a shot of few more ships docked in the harbor.

Watch out for that battleship!

Dude! This bridge is HUGE!

We were unable to get into the Naval base today, because of a security issue. However, I am hearing that tomorrow we are a go at 7:30AM PST.

P.S. Miss you Butters! "You know you love me. XOXO. Gossip Girl."

Ladies and Gentlemen...

2008-04-16T11:54:00.003-04:00

I present, to you...

Bipolar

This is one of the original cuts. I am currently working on an enhanced Director's Cut Redux Special Edition that will include a director's commentary and a preview for Bipolar 2: Lew's A Bad Shot.

Enjoy!

Bring me your...

2008-04-11T17:50:00.005-04:00

"A group of immigrants has entered the United States en masse, bringing with them many things that Americans found objectionable. Poor, Catholic, uneducated, and different, these immigrants became the biggest scapegoat of the American public. They worked difficult, menial jobs that no American citizens wanted to do, often in unsanitary and dangerous conditions with low pay. The men would get odd jobs when they could as handymen, janitors, and carpenters. The women would get jobs as waitresses, nannies, and housekeepers. There were many conflicts with people already established in this country over jobs, and one of the biggest groups they had problems with was African-Americans. They lived many families to a single room, sometimes with no daylight or even running water, where the American public would complain that they were turning their neighborhoods into ghettos. There was public outcry over the rise in crime that accompanied these immigrants, and the American public wanted them gone.

The people referred to were the Irish, and in the late 1800's early 1900's they went through very similar things as latino immigrants are going through now and have been going through for years."

-- http://migramatters.blogspot.com/2006/04/immigrant-path-to-acceptance.html

The Italians, also faced similar stigmas and persecutions.

This picture of Italian day laborers, was taken in New York.

Society is doing it again. When faced with an ever-increasing immigrant population, we do what we have always done and attempt to repel the immigrants. However, if history is to teach us anything it is that the immigrants who are immigrating to our country are not our enemies, they are hard working men and women just like our grandparents and great grandparents were before we. We should truly embrace the positive addition they will bring to our already diverse American culture.

I leave you now, with a softer suggestion, as far as our new neighbors are concerned. J.D.? Turk? Take it away...

Just a good ol' boy... Never meanin' no harm?

2008-04-11T08:57:00.004-04:00

Lyss and I were driving up I-77, yesterday, when we were passed by a late model Saturn with this vanity license plate:

This driver had also methodically placed stickers, of the old Confederate states, on his bumper. I am surprised he stopped there! Why not just paint the car "construction zone" orange and slap an "01" on the side? If you are going to go, go all the way!

Sidebar: I love the Dukes, but I hate racists! Not that this guy was a racist, he probably just enjoyed the days, before the "War of Northern Aggression," of owning people and making them farm his land while he sipped mint juleps... oh wait, he was not alive back then! Did you know that it was not too long ago, in the public record, that decedents (dead people) were "leaving" their heirs (alive people) their slaves (more alive people)? Every time I check a title and come across one such document, it makes me want to spit!

Notes from the Underbelly, of a Caribou.

2008-04-10T13:56:00.002-04:00

Drove down Sardis North... missed it. Drove left on Sardis... missed it. Drove left on Pineville-Matthews... missed it. Turned around. Drove right on Pineville-Matthews... missed it. Drove right on Sardis... missed it. Drove up Sardis North... eureka!

A large iced coffee... please. A shot of vanilla... please. Skim... please. 'Preciate it. Damn... forgot the reciept.

Caffeine is kicking in. Data is wearing thin. People walk by. "Are you selling a computer?" says one guy. Sorry buddy.

Tried to connect to the internet. tried. tried. tried... eureka!

Other laptops come lookin'... "Did you get in?"

Patience... is not sold here.

An Australian takes the stage... "Cheers, mate. What page?" His ringer screaches "God Bless America." Indeed. I whisper to him, "God Bless Australia."

He ignores me... through the window.

It is beautiful outside... the meter has run... I better order more food: Vitamin C Odwala Smoothee and a piece of banana nut bread. Damn... forgot the receipt.

"Don't ride the bus or train." says the Creative Loafing. Maybe the Creative Loafing should get up earlier.

I should blog about this... "Drove down Sardis North... missed it..."

Liberals v. Conservatives

2008-04-08T09:43:00.002-04:00

It is said only half in jest that a conservative is a liberal who just got mugged, and a liberal is a conservative who just got indicted.

- Hon. James P. Gray, Why Our Drug Laws Have Failed and What We Can Do About It, A Judicial Indictment of the War on Drugs, 2001

War.

2008-04-08T09:34:00.002-04:00

The nation... changed its songs. At first we sang of how we would knock the hell out of Helgoland and hang the Kaiser and march over there and clean up the mess them damn foreigners had made. And then suddenly we sang, "In the war's red curse stands the Red Cross nurse. She's the rose of No Man's Land," and we sang, "Just a baby's prayer at twilight, when lights are low. She climbs upstairs and says her prayers---Oh, God! please tell my daddy thaddy must take care---" I guess we were like a tough but inexperienced little boy who gets punched in the nose in the first flurry and it hurts and we wished it was over.

- John Steinbeck, East of Eden, 1952

Congratulations!

2008-04-06T21:19:00.002-04:00

On Saturday, April 5th 2008, Alyssa and I had the distinct pleasure of attending the "Wedding of the Century" a.k.a. the nuptials of Glenn and Ashley Cook.

Here we are pictured at the reception. Good times!

I just want to take this opportunity to wish Glenn and Ashley health, wealth, and happiness. May you be poor in misfortune, rich in blessings, slow to make enemies, and quick to make friends.

Oh Snap!

2008-04-04T08:23:00.005-04:00

Someone's in trouble...

I happened upon this billboard, yesterday, on my way uptown to meet Alyssa, for lunch. You can read more about this "Scooby-doo Mystery," here, along with the devastating impact the theft has had on this church.

Here are some other billboards they put up across the area.

Slow down and save a... GALLON OF GAS

2008-04-03T18:30:00.004-04:00

We have all seen these signs on our nation's interstates imploring the driver's of America to "Slow down and save a life." However, we all drive our automobile's speeds grossly disproportionate to what the Government has deemed a safe traveling speed. Are we so disenfranchised with our fellow men and women that we ignore these signs thus ignoring our ability to save a life?

Unlikely, we are all just caught up in the fast and furious pace of today's society. However, it is well documented that our fuel economy will increase if we drive slower. While each vehicle reaches its optimal fuel economy at a different speed (or range of speeds), gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph. As a rule of thumb, you can assume that each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.20 per gallon for gas.

As an experiment, I drove "The Beast" uptown to meet Alyssa for lunch. I usually make the trip at speeds of anywhere between 65-85 mph. However, today I made the whole trip without traveling faster than 65 mph. It was actually very calming. We shall see what prolonged results my experiment has.

Which brings me to my next point. Observing the speed limit is also safer. As I was driving the speed limit (interstates and side streets), today, I noticed that had I been involved in an accident I would have likely been unharmed. 30 mph IS SO SLOW, but again very calming. I have decided that, if we all drove the speed limits assigned to the side streets, automobile accidents would fall by 70-80%. Honestly, at those speeds you would have to try to hit other cars in order to actually be involved in a collision.

I challenge you all to drive the speed limit. The benefits to your wallet and life far out weigh the ability to test the limits of your 4 cylinders.

Super-Jesus

2008-04-02T09:10:00.004-04:00

I think it is no big surprise that I am a fan of the comic book character Superman. Why? I do not know. I chalk it up to having to choose a comic book candidate. Some people stand behind Batman or the Green Lantern, but for me the choice was clear, Superman.

Anyone, who is familiar with the story of Superman, will find it hard to deny the similarities between the life of Jesus Christ and the fiction of Superman. Allow me to elaborate:

- Superman, the only son of Jor-El, was sent to Earth and became humanity's savior; Jesus, the son of God, was sent to Earth to be humanity's Savior.

- When Superman's ship crash landed on Earth, he was discovered and later adopted by the Kents, of whom had no children of their own; Jesus was born of the virgin Mary.

- Little is known of the childhood and adolescence of Clark Kent/Superman; ditto for Jesus.

- Superman had super strength, could fly, had heat vision, was invulnerable, etc., etc.; Jesus performed many miracles including raising people from the dead, healing the sick, walking on water and turning water into wine.

- Superman set an example for humanity by his words/actions; ditto for Jesus.

- Superman died to save humanity from the alien Doomsday; Jesus died to save humanity from sin and their ultimate "doomsday."

- Superman was resurrected; ditto for Jesus.

Superman is no Jesus, but the similarities between the Life and the story are uncanny. Equally uncanny is the fact that Superman was created by two Jewish immigrants living in Cleveland, OH, during the early part of the last century.

The rub is that Jesus reveals himself to all of us in mysterious and wonderful ways. Each way is unique and tailored specifically to our needs regardless of who we are or where we come from. If we look hard enough we can see that his influence surrounds us everywhere.

"Live as one of them, Kal-El (Superman), to discover where your strength and your power are needed. Always hold in your heart the pride of your special heritage. They can be a great people, Kal-El, they wish to be. They only lack the light to show the way. For this reason above all, their capacity for good, I have sent them you... my only son." -Jor-El (Superman's father)

"In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. The
same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the
true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world."
John 1:4-9, KJV

"Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life."
John 8:12, KJV

"As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world."
John 9:5, KJV

April Googles!

2008-04-01T13:10:00.005-04:00

Today is April 1st 2008. No prank here.

However, this is the time of year Google's employees look forward to more than Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa. This is the one day of the year when Google rolls out their annual barrage of pranks.

However, what is particularly appealing about the Google pranks are the fine line they straddle between reality and prank-ality.

I have so far discovered two, if you guys find any others let me know.

If you have ever dreamed of living on Mars with Virgin's founder Sir Richard Bronson then look no further than this budding space exploration program. Expertise in Guitar Hero II is a prerequisite.

Finally, Google has grown so powerful that they have learned to bend the space-time continuum. So that is what Sloley was doing over in Austria.

Folklore Review: John Henry

2008-03-31T15:31:00.004-04:00

Gather round boys and girls as I tell you a story about the greatest railroad worker of them all, John Henry.

We all remember this American folklore of the strongest man alive. An African American by the name of John Henry who races against the very machine that would seek to put him and many other railroad workers out of a job. The race tragically ends with John Henry triumphing over the machine but ultimately dying.

I have been mulling this story around, in my head (dangerous place to be), for some years. Each time I can not help but draw significant parallels to the deep divisions between the southern states and the northern states.

First, the protagonist, John Henry, is a recently emancipated African American man carving out a living, in the south, by working for a newly expanded railroad company (historians would debate whether the tale actually took place in Alabama or West Virginia. Also, many historians claim John Henry was born a slave.).

This blurb alone illuminates who John Henry represented in this folklore: the southern states. His agrarian work style (blood, sweat, and tears) paralleled the equally agrarian economy of the south. Additionally, the fact that John Henry was a former slave directly correlates with the southern state's newly emancipated yet still primary work force.

Next, the railroad machine that will ultimately supplant John Henry and his fellow workers. The machine is touted as having the ability to perform the same job as a human worker but faster and cheaper.

Our second character is clearly an illustration of the northern states. The north's industrial nature was very intimidating to the southern state's way of life, and after the Civil War the south became more and more industrialized.

So, the clash of these two characters is not merely the struggle between John Henry and the railroad machine, but the struggle for the south to maintain its way of life in the shadow of the north, after the Civil War.

Unfortunately, John Henry dies at the end of the folk lore. This could be representative of the south losing the Civil War, a perceived end to the southern (agrarian) way of life, or just a declaration of the southern will and spirit. I do not pretend to have all of the answers. However, it is interesting to look back at stories we took for granted as children, and possibly discover something more as adults.

Next up: Why you can draw certain parallels between the Smurfs and communism.

God bless you.

2008-03-30T21:18:00.004-04:00

Comedians, like Dane Cook, in my opinion, are equivalent to modern day prophets (less in the biblical sense and more in the analytical or commentative sense). Stay with me on this one! They take ordinary life and make "scientific" observations to which they craft around a meaning or a "punch line."

This video, in particular, contains some very interesting observations regarding God and atheism. Enjoy.

A three hour tour...

2008-03-29T15:53:00.018-04:00

Well we just flew in from Vegas and boy are my arms tired (cue high hat and snare drum).

No seriously, I slept the entire flight. It was like time travel. I went to bed at 11pm and I woke up at 6am, but I had only been sleeping for THREE HOURS!

The flight to and from Vegas is odd: It takes 5 hours to get there (we left at 8pm Eastern and got there at 10pm Pacific) but on the way home it took 3 hours to get back (we left at 11pm Pacific and got home at 6am Eastern). I guess, the jet stream hooked us up with the express ride home!
Regardless, it took a whole day to get back to normal. The Jet lag was fierce!

With all that said, we really enjoyed our last day out there. We drove out to Red Rock Canyon and The Hoover Dam. What was truly wonderful, was the creative dichotomy of the two landmarks. In the one hand you have a true testament to the awesome constructive power of God and the inherent beauty within,

and in the other hand you have awesome constructive power of man and the inherent beauty within.

One observation while at the Dam: I could not believe how low Lake Mead was. I heard that they were letting some water out, but "some water" was an understatement. It is neat how the color of the rocks under the water are so different from those above.

All in all, the trip was a success. My client was very happy with the time we had together. The Palms was a lot of fun. However, if you are looking for a theme casino with lots of "things" to do, you had better book a room at Caesar's Palace or MGM. The Palms is more for partying with famous people and being seen. Their casino floor is small and they do not offer many games. Their pool is even more cramped. But, if you want to see naked inebriated girls stumbling across the casino floor after getting kicked out of the pool for skinny dipping at 4:30am, then the Palms is for you (true story, by the way).

Interestingly (and almost commonsensical), one common thing the locals would tell me, time and time again, was that this is a terrible place to raise children. I could not agree with them more. It would be impossible to instill any sort of moral fiber into an impressionable mind if they were to grow up in an environment where anything goes at anytime of the day. In fact, I do not think that even at my worst I could have lasted very long in Vegas. It is no wonder that Vegas touts one of the largest homeless and poverty stricken populations in the entire United States.

In the "City of Sin," the sin is not cheap!

UPDATE 3/31/2008:

I appear to not be the only one shocked and awed by Lake Mead's current state of affairs.

http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1724411,00.html

E85 Ethanol Baby!

2008-03-24T19:12:00.007-04:00

Work has me in Vegas this week (I know, how will I survive?). Many great things have already happened:

Our flight was direct and incident-free

Work is great!

Alyssa is here with me!

We are staying at the Palms!

Its Sunny and 80 degrees all week!

This is the view from our room.

The Palms is "AWESOME" (see New Orleans Mardi Gras video)! Plus, its just far enough off "the strip" to not get caught up in the masses of people crowding the streets.

The itinerary for tonight is shopping/eating on "the strip" and perhaps some quality time in the Palms poker room.

I did notice a "sign" of our ever evolving times...

Unleaded is $3.29 9/10 per gallon

Diesel is $3.97 9/10 per gallon

E85 is only $3.16 9/10 per gallon!!!!

Now, I was always under the impression that E85 Ethanol was much more expensive than regular unleaded gasoline. In fact, whenever I meet someone with a "flex fuel" vehicle, I always ask them if they actually run E85 Ethanol. Most tell me, "No. It is too expensive."

REEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLY?

One other crazy observation I have made, in the short time we have been out here, is that the mountains surrounding Vegas are truly breathtaking (beautiful gift from God!) and they have snow!!!! Its just crazy to think I am melting down here on street level, but, if I just spy the mountain ranges, I can practically see skiers shredding the slopes (too hazy for a pic of the mountains, at this time. Maybe tomorrow?).

Alright people, work is done for today and now it is time for play!

Peace, Love, and Vegas Baby!

Hand in your homework...

2008-03-22T16:45:00.003-04:00

So, who is ready for a revolution? I cannot think about/read The Grapes of Wrath without wanting to just Rage Against the Machine (hence, assignment numero due).

It seems too commonplace that the people of our world are victims of oppression (financially, physically, emotionally, etc...). Whether it is by Big Government, Big Business, or Big... Anything, history has shown us that benevolence is a trait not often concurrent with power and money.

However, there are a few who have dedicated their lives to balancing out the equation. Some with money: Bill & Melinda Gates. Some with fame: Bono. Additionally, some with power: (insert pious political official). Charity is the great equalizer.

I have attempted to be more charitable in my own life. Not only in my giving but in my living. I have tried (and am still trying) to adjust my prejudices against those who are "worse off" than I am. If that means handing out bottles of water to the transient on a highwayexit ramp, or helping the homeless combat veteran with some bus fare, or even paying for the groceries of the single mother fumbling for enough money to pay for said groceries; than, believe me, that is the least I can do. It is our duty to help "the least of these," by rejecting the stereotypes and prejudices of society and getting back to a Steinbeckian way of life.

When is the last time you knocked on your neighbor's door and asked to borrow a cup of sugar?

Especially now, in this Easter season, when we celebrate the Resurrection of the Greatest of All Counter Cultural Rage Against the Machine Revolutionaries, Jesus Christ (more on this in a later blog); we too should follow His teachings of charity and love in order to build us up and through us the communities we live in.

I pray that you can all find love in your heart for your fellow men and women regardless of race, citizenship, or social class.

Until next time... Peace, Love, and Rosary Beads.

Silence!!!!!! I kill you (not really).

2008-03-22T16:41:00.001-04:00

This guy is hilarious!

Heeeeeeeeeeere's Jimmy...

2008-03-22T10:07:00.002-04:00

Take two...

Not much time to remark on anything today, but I will leave you with homework (groan...):

Read the Grapes of Wrath... and ask yourself what happened to Tom Joad
Listen to "The Ghost of Tom Joad" (covered by Rage Against the Machine)
Analyze the economic principle of "supply and demand" and its ramifications on modern day issues like immigration, oil, and the war on drugs.
Enjoy your Easter.

Until next time... Peace, Love, and Rosary Beads