There is something amazing about the Olympics. For two weeks every two years the nations of the world (ok, not every nation - but alot) put aside their differences and engage in a world-wide competition. It amazes me to see how much respect athletes from different countries have for one another. Of course there are clear favorites, some pretty obvious outcomes, and the medal distribution is completely lopsided; but these athletes all understand the amount of diligence, training, and hard work is necessary to even qualify for the Olympic games - and that knowledge brings a level of respect from the top dog all the way down to the athlete that qualified by the slimmest of margins.
I spent the last two weeks enjoying the games with friends and finding myself so impressed with the level of performance our American athletes display. Let's face it, a lot of athletes from other nations even train at the same facilities in the US as our athletes and we still come out on top. Why is it that our athletes are clearly among the world's elite? I believe there are many reasons our nation performs so well at the Olympics.
#1 Our nation's diversity - We are a nation of diverse people. With this diversity, we are able to raise athletes that can participate in nearly all of the events and play to the strengths of the individual.
#2 Our culture of entertainment - Sports are a big deal in the US for entertainment. I'm sure they are important in other nations as well, but our culture places an emphasis on sports' stars and athletics, in general. We are taught from a young age that sports are fun and exciting - whether you're watching the Superbowl, World Cup, Olympics, or golf on a Saturday afternoon.
#3 Our vast training resources - Needless-to-say, we have state-of-the-art training facilities in our nation that attract athletes from all of the world.
#4 American liberty - I strongly believe that one of the reasons our athletes perform so well on the international stage is because of our nation's ideal of liberty. We do not take children from their families at a young age and force them to train (well, maybe some parents do). We do not shame our athletes into wanting to perform. As I watched our athletes perform, the joy and love these people have for the sport was apparent on their faces - whether they won or lost. They loved what they were doing. It was also just as clear on certain countries faces that the athletes didn't really love their life's work - when they performed well they showed a sense of relief rather than joy. I am reminded of the story of a Chinese diver who wasn't told that her mother (or grandma, can't remember) had passed away for 3 years because her coach thought it would ruin her diving. Yeah, so let's just lie to her instead - great idea! Our athletes choose what they love and for the most part, love what they do. I feel like that makes them work harder and truly enjoy their successes more.
MY OLYMPIC HIGHLIGHTS 2012 -
USA winning Woman's Gymnastics Team GOLD!
Gabby Douglas winning the All-Around GOLD!
Michael Phelps keeps winning!
Ryan Lochte stinking it up - seems like someone was compelled to be humble!
The South African man running with his "Cheetah Blades" - amazing story!
Watching the Americans and Jamaicans duke it out on the track!
Jessica Shasky making a fool of herself as she watches all the swimming!!!
Some day I will watch the Olympics in person, some day!
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Monday, March 5, 2012
Day of Love...
About a week before Valentine's Day, as I filled up my tank with gas, I saw a commercial for the most amazing Love Day activity. Picture yourself with someone you really care about, dressed to the nines. You walk into a ornately decorated restaurant: tableclothes, roses, mood lighting. A free picture of the couple is taken by the waitress who lets you order at the table and serves you a free dessert. Doesn't that just sound like heaven? Now picture your dream date and you people watching, overhearing hilarious and somewhat awkward conversation... Where do you go for such a delightful evening? WHITE CASTLE! Hahahaha! Although Whitey's is the grossest, most ghetto fast food place on the planet, I actually really like the idea of spending Valentine's Day there. I think it would be hilarious! Obviously that's not my idea of a refined, romantic dinner, but I think it would be the experience of a lifetime. Needless-to-say I did not dine at Whitey's on V-tine's day, but now I know for the future that it is an option -- and now I can add taking me to White Castle as a sign that I've found 'the one.' Haha!
Here's an article about the White Castle Valentine's Day experience -- http://www.marketplace.org/topics/life/final-note/its-true-white-castle-valentines-day-dinner
Here's an article about the White Castle Valentine's Day experience -- http://www.marketplace.org/topics/life/final-note/its-true-white-castle-valentines-day-dinner
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Here we go a-caucusing!
Tuesday night was the Minnesota caucus. This was my first time ever physically being in the same state where I was registered to vote on voting day. My previous voting location (NY) doesn’t have caucuses either, so I was pretty excited to see how the whole system worked. I had volunteered to be a Romney rep at my caucus (I guess they read a letter from the candidate to their precinct to try to sway undecideds -- I didn’t have to read it as all of the people in my precinct knew who they wanted). After listening to some conservative rhetoric and a few inaudible letters (people really should get to these things on time, how anyone can concentrate with so much hustle & bustle around is beyond my comprehension) we split into our precinct to conduct our straw poll and talk about precinct issues. Well, I knew there probably weren’t going to be hundreds of people in my precinct (1. I live in Saint Paul, which is a liberal haven 2. My precinct just isn’t geographically large 3. This is a non-binding caucus so the vote doesn’t count for much), but I was shocked to see only 4 people (including myself) enter our precinct room. Three of the four of us had never even been to a caucus meeting like this before. One rather large man, wearing a blue National Republican Convention 2008 button-down shirt and an artistic tie that featured the GOP elephant, took charge and took us through the step-by-step outline we were given. I quickly found out that this gentleman worked for the state for the last 35 years and was extremely involved in politics. He bragged about his experiences in politics both local and state-wide. There was another gentleman in attendance that almost immediately went off on governmental control and how he has been following Ron Paul for the past 10 years and thinks he’s just brilliant. This man was seasonally unemployed, quite scruffy, and was a bit flamboyant in his description of the city and government. The last gentleman seemed like a nice guy. He sat there quietly and talked about his divorce and the change he has seen in the neighborhood. He seemed like a clean-cut, blue collar worker. Then there was me. The well-groomed, professionally dressed (I was still in my work attire), well-educated, clean-cut female. We completed the straw poll, which is supposed to be secret, but when there are only 4 people there and 1 of the 4 has already announced that he’s a Ron Paul supporter, it’s not too difficult to figure out who the other 2 people voted for (especially since we were all sitting so close I saw each one write it down). With 4 people present and 4 potential candidates, each candidate got 1 vote. It was very interesting to see how much each one of us fit the stereotype of the type of person who votes for each candidate. The scruffy, unemployed man who is anti-government voted for Paul (this could have only been better if he was a 21 year old pot head). The fat, cocky government guy voted for Newt. The nice, clean-cut, blue collar worker voted for Santorum. And the well-groomed, well-educated, professional female voted for Mitt (this could have only been better if I was a senior citizen). CLASSIC! If that doesn’t play into stereotypes I don’t know what does! Anyway, we discussed some local issues and divvied up responsibilities. I am one of the delegates that go to our BPOU (?) convention in March where we actually select delegates for later on down the road. I am also the newest precinct Treasurer and as there is no money and I am most likely moving out of my precinct in August, I feel great about being more politically active even though I really don’t have any responsibility besides showing up to my BPOU convention on March 13.
It was really interesting to see the very beginning of the political process. I must say it really sparked something in me to be more involved and aware of what is going on in my local area. The whole thing also made me kind of disgruntled that nobody else in my area really cared to be involved at all. I know there are more than 4 conservative leaning people in my neighborhood, and yet nobody even showed up to discuss issues, learn about the process, or vote. What is America coming too?
It was really interesting to see the very beginning of the political process. I must say it really sparked something in me to be more involved and aware of what is going on in my local area. The whole thing also made me kind of disgruntled that nobody else in my area really cared to be involved at all. I know there are more than 4 conservative leaning people in my neighborhood, and yet nobody even showed up to discuss issues, learn about the process, or vote. What is America coming too?
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Ron Paul Revolution!
I’m going to preface this by stating that I will not be voting for Ron Paul this afternoon in my local caucus. And although I think that some of his ideas have merit (balancing the budget, cutting spending, upholding the constitution, etc.), some of his ideas are simply ridiculous (legalized prostitution and drugs, going back to the gold standard, etc.). I do, however, have a strange fascination with the man. He adds a certain humor and flair to the debates that I appreciate. He also has the tendency to repudiate Newt’s historically slanted “facts,” which is also greatly appreciated. I see Ron Paul as an adorable grandpa figure that is probably going a bit senile. You have to love this guy; he’s just so stinking cute!
In my quest to become more politically-minded I have been following the GOP race. This weekend some of the candidates were in town so some friends and I decided to go check out a Ron Paul rally. Saturday afternoon we went to Bethel University (a staunchly Christian private school), but there were too many people and the room was filled before we were able to get in. Last night we headed down to the Minneapolis Convention Center early for another Ron Paul rally. It was an interesting experience. Before walking into the main event room, there were tables filled with flyers, business cards, and the RON PAUL COOKBOOK! The cookbook made the whole excursion worth it. I really think that was the best part of the rally and I’m excited to try some Paul family favorites. Anyway, we took a bunch of free stuff and headed for the main room. Upon entering the event room a short man, dressed in revolutionary war era clothes was playing a drum… this was going to be one great night! We found some seats in the back, sat down, and listened to two very boring speeches about Ron Paul, and a third that was much more exciting, but strange nonetheless. The last speech focused on how the year 2012 was going to be the year of 212 because water boils at 212 degrees – I guess the Ron Paul revolution is the boiling point or something to that affect. Finally Ronny steps on the stage and there he is, this tiny old man. Man, he’s just adorable! Ron spoke for a while. Some of his ideas were great and if he didn’t ramble on from one topic to the next in random cyclical patterns, he probably would have been much more effective. I consider myself an intelligent, educated individual but it was very difficult to follow his train of thought and the progression of his ideas. I do remember him throwing in the word “tyranny” quite a few times and talking about how we need to fight against tyranny. Combine that with the theme “revolution” and the whole thing had a very eerie feel to it. During his speech, my friend turned to me and said, “He should fire his speech writer.” I wholeheartedly agree, but then after thinking about it for a while, it didn’t seem like he was even looking at anything at all. He seemed to just be going wherever the wind blew him. Maybe he writes his own speeches because I don’t know how you could pay someone the big bucks to come up with that unorganized message. The crowd seemed to love it though. I think he got the most applause when he started talking about ending the war on drugs and legalizing drugs. At that point I turned to my friend and asked, “What percentage of people here do you think are Ron Paul supports simply because he believes in legalizing drugs?” To which she responded, “At least 50%.” And I agree. After taking a long hard look at the mass of people that came together to support Ron Paul, the vast majority of them would fall into the category of 18-30 young people who look like they do not own a razor, shampoo, or soap. Granted, I feel like the Twin Cities has a large hippy population, but the vast majority of the people at the rally were young hippies who may or may not have been high on something. Don’t get me wrong, there were a couple of elderly couples there and a few middle-aged families that brought their kids along, but for the most part the group looked like a bunch of unwashed street bums. It made me wonder what Occupy Wall Street looked like. Anyway, at the end of Ron’s speech the crowd left while chanting, “End the Fed” and “RON PAUL REVOLUTION, GIVE US BACK OUR CONSTITUTION!” While we walked out to the parking garage, we were passed by a group of young men in an SUV who also came from the rally. The gentleman in the passenger’s seat rolled down the window (that wasn’t the only thing he was rolling) and while smoking a joint asked us how we liked the rally. Nice fellow, really… but he totally confirmed my earlier analysis.
Overall, the experience was enlightening and entertaining. After further analysis I find it interesting that people attribute Ron Paul’s enthusiastic following to the youth movement becoming disenfranchised with government and desire to preserve liberty and the constitution; (Let me state that preserving liberty and the constitution are phenomenal objectives and should be part of the movement of the day) however, I really don’t actually think that’s what the real underlying motivation is for his supporters. Don’t get me wrong, I’m sure there are some sincere, educated people out there who truly believe and will fight for the intentions of Paul (and I think his intentions are good), but I can’t help but think that the vast majority of the Ron Paul supports (primarily those coming from the youth) are because Paul is very liberal when it comes to his drug and prostitution views. I think for the most part the young and uneducated (who are the 2 groups that make up the majority of Paul’s following) want to get government out of the way so they can engage in any type of behavior they want without any repercussions from law enforcement. I also think a lot of youngsters join the cause because it is a fad. These self-determined truths are probably disappointing for those people who are supporters of Paul because they see him as a true champion of liberty and the constitution. I really don’t think that most of the Ron Paul followers actually understand what he stands for and the motivation for his stances, which is kind of sad because he does stand for some very good and important things.
In my quest to become more politically-minded I have been following the GOP race. This weekend some of the candidates were in town so some friends and I decided to go check out a Ron Paul rally. Saturday afternoon we went to Bethel University (a staunchly Christian private school), but there were too many people and the room was filled before we were able to get in. Last night we headed down to the Minneapolis Convention Center early for another Ron Paul rally. It was an interesting experience. Before walking into the main event room, there were tables filled with flyers, business cards, and the RON PAUL COOKBOOK! The cookbook made the whole excursion worth it. I really think that was the best part of the rally and I’m excited to try some Paul family favorites. Anyway, we took a bunch of free stuff and headed for the main room. Upon entering the event room a short man, dressed in revolutionary war era clothes was playing a drum… this was going to be one great night! We found some seats in the back, sat down, and listened to two very boring speeches about Ron Paul, and a third that was much more exciting, but strange nonetheless. The last speech focused on how the year 2012 was going to be the year of 212 because water boils at 212 degrees – I guess the Ron Paul revolution is the boiling point or something to that affect. Finally Ronny steps on the stage and there he is, this tiny old man. Man, he’s just adorable! Ron spoke for a while. Some of his ideas were great and if he didn’t ramble on from one topic to the next in random cyclical patterns, he probably would have been much more effective. I consider myself an intelligent, educated individual but it was very difficult to follow his train of thought and the progression of his ideas. I do remember him throwing in the word “tyranny” quite a few times and talking about how we need to fight against tyranny. Combine that with the theme “revolution” and the whole thing had a very eerie feel to it. During his speech, my friend turned to me and said, “He should fire his speech writer.” I wholeheartedly agree, but then after thinking about it for a while, it didn’t seem like he was even looking at anything at all. He seemed to just be going wherever the wind blew him. Maybe he writes his own speeches because I don’t know how you could pay someone the big bucks to come up with that unorganized message. The crowd seemed to love it though. I think he got the most applause when he started talking about ending the war on drugs and legalizing drugs. At that point I turned to my friend and asked, “What percentage of people here do you think are Ron Paul supports simply because he believes in legalizing drugs?” To which she responded, “At least 50%.” And I agree. After taking a long hard look at the mass of people that came together to support Ron Paul, the vast majority of them would fall into the category of 18-30 young people who look like they do not own a razor, shampoo, or soap. Granted, I feel like the Twin Cities has a large hippy population, but the vast majority of the people at the rally were young hippies who may or may not have been high on something. Don’t get me wrong, there were a couple of elderly couples there and a few middle-aged families that brought their kids along, but for the most part the group looked like a bunch of unwashed street bums. It made me wonder what Occupy Wall Street looked like. Anyway, at the end of Ron’s speech the crowd left while chanting, “End the Fed” and “RON PAUL REVOLUTION, GIVE US BACK OUR CONSTITUTION!” While we walked out to the parking garage, we were passed by a group of young men in an SUV who also came from the rally. The gentleman in the passenger’s seat rolled down the window (that wasn’t the only thing he was rolling) and while smoking a joint asked us how we liked the rally. Nice fellow, really… but he totally confirmed my earlier analysis.
Overall, the experience was enlightening and entertaining. After further analysis I find it interesting that people attribute Ron Paul’s enthusiastic following to the youth movement becoming disenfranchised with government and desire to preserve liberty and the constitution; (Let me state that preserving liberty and the constitution are phenomenal objectives and should be part of the movement of the day) however, I really don’t actually think that’s what the real underlying motivation is for his supporters. Don’t get me wrong, I’m sure there are some sincere, educated people out there who truly believe and will fight for the intentions of Paul (and I think his intentions are good), but I can’t help but think that the vast majority of the Ron Paul supports (primarily those coming from the youth) are because Paul is very liberal when it comes to his drug and prostitution views. I think for the most part the young and uneducated (who are the 2 groups that make up the majority of Paul’s following) want to get government out of the way so they can engage in any type of behavior they want without any repercussions from law enforcement. I also think a lot of youngsters join the cause because it is a fad. These self-determined truths are probably disappointing for those people who are supporters of Paul because they see him as a true champion of liberty and the constitution. I really don’t think that most of the Ron Paul followers actually understand what he stands for and the motivation for his stances, which is kind of sad because he does stand for some very good and important things.
Friday, September 23, 2011
The Great Debate
Recently I have been getting into the debate scene for the GOP presidential candidate. I've spent some of my down-time at work researching the positions of the candidates on the issues and watched the 4 recent debates. I have started forming my opinions about the prospective candidates. Some of those opinions are based soley on their ability to "look" the part of the president, some on their ability to "sound" the part of the president, and some on their ability to "act" as the president. I also have clear favorites and clear non-favorites. Here are my thoughts on the potential nominees at this point and time:
Jon Huntsman, Jr. -- I think of all the candidates, Jon Hunstman has the best international policy experience and know how of the group in that area. I also think he makes a great arguement about his ability to stimulate an economy, lower unemployment, and create jobs as Utah has been at the top of the charts in these areas under his governorship. But I also think that Utah has a very unique group of people in it, so his strategies might not necessarily apply to the country as a whole. Its too bad this guy can't get more ground. He brings some great things to the table, but is overshadowed because of his more moderate views. I like him, but I doubt the mass conservative base will vote for him. Another side-note -- has anyone else noticed that his eye brow does crazy things when he speaks? Its very distracting to me! I think he looks like a president and even sounds presidential. But I don't think he really gives off that presidential aire. Although he has had some good things to say in recent debate performances, the comments that make the largest impression are when he makes dumb jokes... stop the awkward joking and get down to politics Jonny boy!
Michele Bauchman -- I am tired of hearing about how you mothered 20-something foster kids. That's a great thing to do (shoot, I would LOVE to do that), but what does that have to do with being the president? I'm sick of these crazy tea partiers making all conservatives look like crazy right wingers. You are trying too hard to be the Sarah Palin upgrade and it gets you into trouble. Go back to beautiful Minnesota and enjoy the lakes, but please stop pretending like you are actually going to get the nomination.
Mitt Romney -- I'll admit it, I'm a Mitt fan. I think he has that presidential aire that is necessary to lead the nation and be effective in the international scene. Mitt comes out looking, sounding, and acting like the next president after each debate. He has clearly put alot of thought, time, and energy into how he would change the economy and other problem areas of our nation. He is intelligent, well-mannered, and knows how to defend himself well in a debate. He would also be a solid moral leader in our nation. I also think he stands the best chance of ousting Obama from office. That being said, I don't think he is the perfect candidate, but I think he is the best we've got and I think he'll do a superb job as the President of the United States of America. I like his more moderate views because that is what we need, someone who can work with both sides of the fence and can bring America together. I find myself repeatedly screaming at the TV during debates, "You tell'em Mitt!"
Rick Perry -- I like watching Mr. Perry stumble and fall in the debates. Its really not his scene. Perhaps its because he has no experience in that arena, or perhaps its because he can't think quickly on his feet, or perhaps its because he's just not presidential material. I contest to the latter. I am happy to see the Perry hype has fallen after his terrible debate performances. I feel like he is just another Bible-thumping Texan (and that is not meant to be a cut on the Bible -- I like the Bible, I believe in the Bible. But people who use their own religious beliefs to cut others down and belittle them while they are trying to build themselves up clearly aren't living by the principles taught within that book). I do, however, want to hear more specifics on your energy independence plan.... I hope you elaborate tonight in the debate.
Ron Paul -- You've got to love Ron Paul! He's kind of this adorable, crazy old man with little beaty eyes. I think some of his ideas are good (like going back to the Constitution and really focusing on the liberties and power expressed within that document, as well as less government control), but his ideas are pretty radical and his followers seem to be more crazy than him. I don't agree that illegal substances and prostitution should be legalized, although I understand his arguement that the government should be more hands-off. Does he look like a president... NO, he's too old. Does he sound like a president... not really. Does he act like a president... no, not really. Do I think he stands a chance, NO! But I like hearing his ideas during the debates because they are so different than the other candidates.
Hermain Cain -- I like his laid back attitude and sense of humor. I don't really think he's presidential material, and I'm kind of getting sick of hearing nothing but his 999 plan from him. I particularly enjoyed his comment during the CNN debate "If 10% is good enough for God, 9% should be good enough for the government!" That won some points with me. I think his lack of any experience in the political arena will hurt him in the long run, but I think his business experience is worth taking into consideration. What are his views on foreign policy, illegal immigration, or anything (for that matter) that doesn't have to do with the economy??? Well, when you figure it out, let me know. Does he look like a president? I don't think so. Does he sound like a president? Not really. Does he have that presidential demeanor? Not so much. Do I think he has a chance.... NO! But I like some of his comments and he adds to the entertainment of the debates.
Rick Santorum -- I kind of like this guy as the underdog. I particularly agreed with his attack on Rick Perry based on the in-state tuition given to illegal immigrants and their children in Texas. I thought he did a great job stating that it is not that those kids shouldn't be able to get an education, they should -- but why is the government subsidizing their education, when legal citizens who live outside of the state pay out-of-state tuition? Illegals should have to pay the out-of-state tuition rate just like others who are not true residents of the state. I think he pushed himself into more of the limelight this past debate and I hope he takes some of Michele Bauchman's people with him. I don't, however, think he knows what he's talking about when it comes to international affairs. Does he look like a president... I think he looks too young and unpolished for the president. Does he sound like a president? Sometimes. Does he have that presidential aire? No. Is he going to win.... No? I think he'll be one of the early candidates to remove himself from the race after the first few primaries.
Newt Gingrich -- Oh Newt, I think you just say what everyone is thinking. I really liked that he called out the media and the people running the CNN debate on trying to get the republicans to fight one another and tear eachother apart so Obama could win again. I like his candid, relaxed attitude and I think he has great political experience to run with. That being said, I think personally the guy is kind of a scuz. He cheated on his first 2 wives and blames these inappropriate trists on his "passion for politics and his job." Sorry buddy, that's a different kind of passion. All in all, I like listening to Newt in the debates. Like Santorum, I think Newt will be an earlier puller-outer of the competition once it gets going.
Gary Johnson -- You are awkward! He has only been in 1 debate I watched but this guy even stands awkwardly. I had a good laugh as I watched the debates with one of my friends just because of the way this guy's hair is cut and the way he looked into the camera. I really like him from a comic relief stand point, but this guy doesn't stand a chance.
Jon Huntsman, Jr. -- I think of all the candidates, Jon Hunstman has the best international policy experience and know how of the group in that area. I also think he makes a great arguement about his ability to stimulate an economy, lower unemployment, and create jobs as Utah has been at the top of the charts in these areas under his governorship. But I also think that Utah has a very unique group of people in it, so his strategies might not necessarily apply to the country as a whole. Its too bad this guy can't get more ground. He brings some great things to the table, but is overshadowed because of his more moderate views. I like him, but I doubt the mass conservative base will vote for him. Another side-note -- has anyone else noticed that his eye brow does crazy things when he speaks? Its very distracting to me! I think he looks like a president and even sounds presidential. But I don't think he really gives off that presidential aire. Although he has had some good things to say in recent debate performances, the comments that make the largest impression are when he makes dumb jokes... stop the awkward joking and get down to politics Jonny boy!
Michele Bauchman -- I am tired of hearing about how you mothered 20-something foster kids. That's a great thing to do (shoot, I would LOVE to do that), but what does that have to do with being the president? I'm sick of these crazy tea partiers making all conservatives look like crazy right wingers. You are trying too hard to be the Sarah Palin upgrade and it gets you into trouble. Go back to beautiful Minnesota and enjoy the lakes, but please stop pretending like you are actually going to get the nomination.
Mitt Romney -- I'll admit it, I'm a Mitt fan. I think he has that presidential aire that is necessary to lead the nation and be effective in the international scene. Mitt comes out looking, sounding, and acting like the next president after each debate. He has clearly put alot of thought, time, and energy into how he would change the economy and other problem areas of our nation. He is intelligent, well-mannered, and knows how to defend himself well in a debate. He would also be a solid moral leader in our nation. I also think he stands the best chance of ousting Obama from office. That being said, I don't think he is the perfect candidate, but I think he is the best we've got and I think he'll do a superb job as the President of the United States of America. I like his more moderate views because that is what we need, someone who can work with both sides of the fence and can bring America together. I find myself repeatedly screaming at the TV during debates, "You tell'em Mitt!"
Rick Perry -- I like watching Mr. Perry stumble and fall in the debates. Its really not his scene. Perhaps its because he has no experience in that arena, or perhaps its because he can't think quickly on his feet, or perhaps its because he's just not presidential material. I contest to the latter. I am happy to see the Perry hype has fallen after his terrible debate performances. I feel like he is just another Bible-thumping Texan (and that is not meant to be a cut on the Bible -- I like the Bible, I believe in the Bible. But people who use their own religious beliefs to cut others down and belittle them while they are trying to build themselves up clearly aren't living by the principles taught within that book). I do, however, want to hear more specifics on your energy independence plan.... I hope you elaborate tonight in the debate.
Ron Paul -- You've got to love Ron Paul! He's kind of this adorable, crazy old man with little beaty eyes. I think some of his ideas are good (like going back to the Constitution and really focusing on the liberties and power expressed within that document, as well as less government control), but his ideas are pretty radical and his followers seem to be more crazy than him. I don't agree that illegal substances and prostitution should be legalized, although I understand his arguement that the government should be more hands-off. Does he look like a president... NO, he's too old. Does he sound like a president... not really. Does he act like a president... no, not really. Do I think he stands a chance, NO! But I like hearing his ideas during the debates because they are so different than the other candidates.
Hermain Cain -- I like his laid back attitude and sense of humor. I don't really think he's presidential material, and I'm kind of getting sick of hearing nothing but his 999 plan from him. I particularly enjoyed his comment during the CNN debate "If 10% is good enough for God, 9% should be good enough for the government!" That won some points with me. I think his lack of any experience in the political arena will hurt him in the long run, but I think his business experience is worth taking into consideration. What are his views on foreign policy, illegal immigration, or anything (for that matter) that doesn't have to do with the economy??? Well, when you figure it out, let me know. Does he look like a president? I don't think so. Does he sound like a president? Not really. Does he have that presidential demeanor? Not so much. Do I think he has a chance.... NO! But I like some of his comments and he adds to the entertainment of the debates.
Rick Santorum -- I kind of like this guy as the underdog. I particularly agreed with his attack on Rick Perry based on the in-state tuition given to illegal immigrants and their children in Texas. I thought he did a great job stating that it is not that those kids shouldn't be able to get an education, they should -- but why is the government subsidizing their education, when legal citizens who live outside of the state pay out-of-state tuition? Illegals should have to pay the out-of-state tuition rate just like others who are not true residents of the state. I think he pushed himself into more of the limelight this past debate and I hope he takes some of Michele Bauchman's people with him. I don't, however, think he knows what he's talking about when it comes to international affairs. Does he look like a president... I think he looks too young and unpolished for the president. Does he sound like a president? Sometimes. Does he have that presidential aire? No. Is he going to win.... No? I think he'll be one of the early candidates to remove himself from the race after the first few primaries.
Newt Gingrich -- Oh Newt, I think you just say what everyone is thinking. I really liked that he called out the media and the people running the CNN debate on trying to get the republicans to fight one another and tear eachother apart so Obama could win again. I like his candid, relaxed attitude and I think he has great political experience to run with. That being said, I think personally the guy is kind of a scuz. He cheated on his first 2 wives and blames these inappropriate trists on his "passion for politics and his job." Sorry buddy, that's a different kind of passion. All in all, I like listening to Newt in the debates. Like Santorum, I think Newt will be an earlier puller-outer of the competition once it gets going.
Gary Johnson -- You are awkward! He has only been in 1 debate I watched but this guy even stands awkwardly. I had a good laugh as I watched the debates with one of my friends just because of the way this guy's hair is cut and the way he looked into the camera. I really like him from a comic relief stand point, but this guy doesn't stand a chance.
Those are my thoughts... you can be with them or against them, tis your perogative. All-in-all I have found this debate season rather entertaining. I just wish the same questions weren't asked over and over again. It gets kind of repetitive.
Tune in tonight at 8pm ET for the next GOP presidential debate on CNN!
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
A Castle for Willow Smith
My friend has gotten me hooked on a new TV show - ok, it's not new (there have been 3 seasons) but it is new to me. The show is called Castle and airs on ABC. It is a show about a famous murder mystery novelist who starts to work with the NYPD to get ideas for his books. At first, I thought it was an awful lot like Bones (one of my fave shows) because it has to do with solving murders. But the humor and characters in the two are different, making this a fresh show. And obviously there is a crime-fighting duo whose chemistry make the whole thing worth watching continually. I highly recommend the show, although I will say that some of the culprits are pretty predictable.
What does this have to do with Willow Smith? you might ask. Well, last night I went to the public library to mooch off of their free internet -- I needed to catch up on some of my Castle watching before the next season starts. As I sat at my computer desk, this chubby, black kid (approxiametely 9 or 10), sat next to me watching Willow Smith videos over and over again. He had a grand time, as was evidenced by the boisterous laughing, knee slapping, and the fact that he almost fell out of his chair chuckling 2 times! Everytime he started laughing I looked over to see what he was watching, and each time (without fail) he was watching an interview or performance by Willow Smith. Clearly, he's a fan. This kid made my whole day because it was so stinkin' entertaining.
I have attached a video of Willow Smith's "Whip Your Hair" in his honor.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymKLymvwD2U&ob=av2e
What does this have to do with Willow Smith? you might ask. Well, last night I went to the public library to mooch off of their free internet -- I needed to catch up on some of my Castle watching before the next season starts. As I sat at my computer desk, this chubby, black kid (approxiametely 9 or 10), sat next to me watching Willow Smith videos over and over again. He had a grand time, as was evidenced by the boisterous laughing, knee slapping, and the fact that he almost fell out of his chair chuckling 2 times! Everytime he started laughing I looked over to see what he was watching, and each time (without fail) he was watching an interview or performance by Willow Smith. Clearly, he's a fan. This kid made my whole day because it was so stinkin' entertaining.
I have attached a video of Willow Smith's "Whip Your Hair" in his honor.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymKLymvwD2U&ob=av2e
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Liverpool!
I've been back home in Liverpool, NY now for almost a week. I haven't been home for over a year and a half. And I haven't spent more than a week and a half at home since the summer of 2005 -- so this is a special treat for the summer... I love the town I grew up in, there is no place like it anywhere! This past week I've been checking out the Duke's garden, hanging out with the Torres clan at Onondaga Lake Park, shopping at Wegmans (it is seriously the best grocery store known to man-kind), eating Avicolli's (best pizza ever) and Dinosaur BBQ (a Syracuse specialty), and hanging out with one of my best friends from highschool Tiffany Jane! Tiff is moving with her hub and kids to New Mexico in a couple weeks. I'm glad we get to spend some time together before she heads out West.
While I was in St. Louis, at the City Museum, I spotted the "World's Largest Pair of Underwear" and had to buy it for my friend Jane (its a long story about our adventures growing up)... It was a hit! We cracked up at this lovely pair of humongous undies... Oh, Stuetz and Jane together again!
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