Daily Thoughts - XVIII

Well, life surely marches on. With deadlines looming on several projects my time becomes a costly commodity. So for now I just look to Monday morning when the first deadline passes. I will worry about the next one starting Tuesday.

Still can’t figure out #1 son. Try and talk to him and help him and all you get is gruff and lip. Ok, bud, do it your way and your mother and I will wait for you to grow up.

Have had a few calls from #2 in West Virginia. He is having a great time from the way he sounds. Loves the food and has new friends. Yes, the school is not so fun but a lot more tolerable than last time. Mom is starting to plan a weekend trip to go see him. Guess I better scratch another weekend off the calendar.

Next week, I will be in Philadelphia for a couple of days (Wednesday – Friday). Is there such a thing as a Philly cheese steak overdose?

Time to start planning the excursions for our cruise. It is getting ever so much closer. Something like 3 months and 2 weeks away.

***** ***** *****

I wish we could get media coverage of Katrina like we had on 9/11. I am tired of the many shows dedicated to “whom can we crucify with blame.” Focus on the good that is being done. Let the Congress do their Katrina Commission and give them something to do other than pass good laws and budgets. The media is getting worse in their constant push for ratings and the most sensational stories. Make me feel good about the many people trying to help down there.

There are many questions I would like to have answered but won’t and to think the media could ask them if they were so inclined. But, they must protect the democratic leaders down there that botched it. The Republicans have made their changes, when will the Democrats?

On the baseball front, it looks like the tradition continues. The Orioles in last place and the Nationals quickly headed there. Will those play-play announcers recant their stupid rah-rah when the teams were closer to the lead? Yes, the two teams actually were in first place around mid-season. I love it when the describe a Braves win as a 4-2 squeaker and when the Nationals win 4-2, it is a “slam as they double them up.”

And those Redskins. They edge lowly Chicago who played without a competent quarterback and already they talk playoffs. I love it when two nothing teams butt heads. Yes, the Redskins are in the lower echelon of teams, too much division as the prima donnas jockey for their paycheck. We all saw what happened last year and there isn’t that much of a change in personnel that would give us any hope. Except for those that reset their hope-o-meter every year and start fresh in September.

Kudos and winks to Roberts who continues to frustrate the Democrats; Katrina victims who fight back and rebuild despite the media’s attempt to blame first and fix second; Paulison who will step into the firing line and get FEMA going again and the Braves who like the energizer bunny just keep winning.

Daily Thoughts - XVII

Well, I am sitting here taking a break from the studio build outs and will try and jot a few thoughts down.

My parents showed up for a few days. Their home escaped any damage this time. The wind and rain were there but the worse damaged was further to the west. My niece who lives in England was with them and the two of us were able to spend a few hours together. She came to the newsroom to see what her uncle did. The worst part of it was her wanting to conduct an interview with me and recording it in our studio and on CD. So after 11+ minutes of questions we were finished.

Son #2 called and sounded really upbeat with everything in Charleston WV. He starts back to school next week and this week got his uniforms. As he said, “I have a bunch of new friends.” Needless to say, it is a bit easier to live with Mom.

My nieces who were involved with MS-13 lost a bit of their freedom this week. One was arrested for parole violations and criminal charges. The other was locked up in the Girls Group Home. From what I have seen of the Child Welfare System in this state still sucks like it did when my son had his dealings with it. They say they are professionals but from my observations and personal experience they are sadly fooling themselves and the public that is paying their over-inflated salaries.

Role-play – Hmmm, let me see, “no comment.”

***** ***** *****

Judge John Roberts – A great nomination for Chief Justice.

To those affected by Katrina, my prayers and thoughts go with you. I watch the TV pictures and see places I have been too or at least what use to be there. I know exactly where they speak of as I have spent a portion of my life in this area from Pensacola to Louisiana.

As for the blame game, let’s stop it and worry about the recovery more. We all know what the agenda is for the Democrats involved in the finger pointing.

Good old Jesse Jackson, Mr. Go Off Half-Cocked. He blames President Bush for the racist response to the disaster. One of his examples is the two newspaper pictures and their caption of the people in the picture. Hmmm, Mr. Jackson, I believe President Bush didn’t take the pictures and concoct the captions. Why don’t you open your eyes and see that the newspaper editor did this. Last I knew the Federal Government hadn’t taken over the local papers. Oh, that is right; you haven’t realized yet that the media has an agenda too.

I expected as much from the talk show hosts down there trying to pad their ratings. As if there weren’t enough emotions running high, Geraldo Rivera had to run around whipping people up into frenzy and portray himself as a self proclaimed savior. Instead of grandstanding, get out and hunt for survivors. Help rescue people or better yet, start picking up some of those piles of trash and clean the place up. Make yourself useful and don’t waste good air time on your antics.

The Atlanta Braves roll while the Washington Nationals fold. I hope they have learned that the Post Season rings weren’t offered for the first half of the season. Looks like the Curly W is turning into a Bold L.

Gas prices. I love these knuckle heads who brag about driving their 8 mile per gallon custom vans. If the gas price doesn’t deter them then charge them a road use tax like you do for commercial trucks. If every one paid a road use tax of a $10.00 a year per pound over 4000 pounds, they would stop buying them gas hogs very quickly. I also hope someone investigates the Oil Industry on their price gouging following the hurricane. I vote that we set a federal gasoline price limit of $1.99 a gallon and when the oil companies stop making their >40% profits ($7.86 Billion) then we can let the oil companies set the price. If the numbers hold true at $1.99 they will still make a few hundred million as profit.

Daily Thoughts - XVI

After spending so much time cleaning up after Ivan and Dennis, the memories are vivid when I see the Katrina pictures. I wish them the best in a speedy recovery. But I also know that the Ivan damage almost a year later is still being dealt with. The Dennis repairs have just really begun.

Another summer comes to a close. Where did it go? This fast pace life really makes me long for the slower life of retirement. I guess I have 2 years to go. Why? The #2 son is in Charleston WV with the Job Corp and he won’t return except for holidays until September 2007. Funny that he biggest fear was that we would move while he was gone. So to ease his fears, we agreed to not do anything about retirement until he completed his program.

Let me see. September holds the start of the Bowling leagues, several parties, a day at the ballpark watching the Orioles and Red Sox play. Somewhere I need to find a chance to return to Florida to finish up a couple of landscaping projects started during the Hurricane Dennis cleanup.

Since Hurricane Katrina there hasn’t been much news to rile me up. Seems some people put aside their attitudes and Issues to help others.

How quickly our morality breaks down when facing tough times like those in New Orleans. Perhaps this is a pointing finger at our lack of cultural morality in favor of personal morality. We have raised a whole generation with the idea they are #1 and anything to disrupt that is wrong. Church and the Bible mean nothing except an escape from reality. Sex and alcohol are bad only if you get caught or drop the bottle.

I heard a commentary today asking the question “why can’t women find a good man anymore?” In some ways that is an easy answer. First, they get what they want too easily. In some cases the woman pursues the man till he gives in. So why deal with responsibility and loyalty when sex is so easy to get. If she doesn’t like it, move on or get it on-line. Secondly, his worth in the family is being stripped away. Take away his self worth and it becomes too easy to walk out. I have personally listened to my sons lady friends say they can raise a child without a male in their life. Actually, they believe it will be less complicated and less stressful. It might be but look what is happening. Each sex was put here on earth with a purpose and part in a family unit. The way we are going Family units will become obsolete. As I watch the dynamics of mixed groups of young adults the lack of respect for each other becomes very evident. Just the language used to greet each other is degrading.

I was asked the other night by a friend what it takes to find a good man, one who would respect me. I wanted to speak the truth and say don’t be so easy, give respect and honor and ask for respect and honor, but I backpedaled and said “they are hard to find.”

Well, I should get off the soap box and make the commute home. Gee, my wallet feels lighter already and my car only needs 10 gallons. Hmmm, $5.00 a gallon, when does the economy break under this pressure?

Daily Thoughts - XV

Friday is almost here and it is the end of another week. I sit here in a rather curious mood and will need to be careful and not let it spill over into my writing. I am definitely ready for some Mexican food at my favorite restaurant.

And like usual, another project come down today. I was wondering what I would do with my one free hour this fall. Now I know!

Our #2 son flies out Tuesday (8/30) to start his time with the Job Corp. We (Mom and Dad) have mixed feelings about this but at the same time we both agree it is the best for him to start making his way in the world and learn a skill. We don’t need any 40-year-old kids still living at home.

*****

Isn’t it just like the French to keep on trying to remove Lance Armstrong’s titles? Amazing how they have kept his samples since 1999 and just now decided to re-test them. Maybe if the French spent more time training they would not finish in the back of the pack. Come on guys, let up. He has retired so quit dragging up 6-year-old specimens to re-test over and over till you find what you want to find.

Oh boy, now I get to hear the District Leaders complain about the base closures for a while. I love it how they say any hospital is needed no matter how old and inadequate it is. Well, duh! What happened to the old and inadequate Southeast General Hospital you shutdown not long ago? I guess it is ok for them to pilfer money from it and bankrupt it so long as the Federal Government doesn’t do it to them.

If John Mohammed wants to starve himself in protest for being moved and tried in Maryland, then let him. When he dies we will save a lot of taxpayers money both from the trial and supporting him in prison for the next 40+ years till he dies. Why do we cater to the whims and wants of these mentally disturbed people and let the victims suffer? That old proverb, “an eye for an eye” sure looks good and makes a lot of sense. Empty out death row by carrying out the sentences and see how fast violent crimes stop. What do you say, “I am wrong?” Well, try it my way and prove me wrong. At the worse we will alleviate some over crowding and scare the crap out of some petty criminals who might decide the chance to die is too great.

I love the comment to day by a local commentator. “The majority of convicted violent criminals are not American Citizens.” Well, I see the solution in the previous paragraph as a very valid option. If they want to come live here is one thing but if they come to get rich quick and commit a crime and take away an American’s chance to live, then they deserve the same fate. My vote is for “it is time to clean out the prisons and I don’t mean early release.”

Daily Thoughts - XIV

Well, I just took our best friends to the airport so they could attend a wedding in Fairbanks AK. The other thing I am wrestling with is attending a good friend’s wedding in Guadalajara, MX on December 24. Besides Christmas I have to be in Charleston SC. for our Caribbean cruise. Decision decisions!

On the home front, #1 son is still working and that is good.

Still waiting to see if #2 son goes to Charleston WV for the job corp. I know I won’t stand a chance if she gets another $5000 Christmas bonus this year.

The wife got another 10% pay raise. They keep doing this and she doesn’t want to quit and I am ready to retire. Talk about a tough decision.

I have a new computer support contract starting 8/26/05. It will be a nice one if they hold true to the 20-25 hours a week. Especially since they will pay me $75 an hour plus a dispatch fee. It came to my attention, I could hire someone to do the work for me at $50 per hour and still pocket $25. I think that is a great plan. Now to find some kid who knows enough and is willing to work in order to gain some experience.

I have seen some of the “Going Tribal” shows and they are very interesting. I wish I had a job that I could do something like that once. It would be hard and a challenge but the memories and experiences would be great.

*****

Well, the gangs are still a problem and out of control, but now the Federal Justice Department has entered the fracas.

The next time you speak on extreme religious zealots, Pat Robertson, look at yourself in the mirror. I am saddened you have gave many a good Christian a black eye by your uncalled for comments.

If you ever commit a crime, do it in Aruba. While you are being interrogated as a prime suspect they will give you the weekend off and then you can escape. Can you believe this?

I am sorry Mrs. Sheehan for your loss. But in your grief you have been taken and manipulated by the press and the liberals. I wonder how the loss of your husband and another family member factors into this debacle. You have let them put words in your mouth, like David Duke and other extremist groups. Perhaps the best thing for you is to go home, be quiet and grieve the loss of your fine son and mend the fences you broke in your family.

Daily Thoughts - XIII

Well, Friday and another weekend approaches. I look forward to the down time. I visited a neighbor today who just had heart surgery. So with some luck they will go home tomorrow. Kind of hits you when your friends start having problems like that because “we are the same age.”

Hopefully this weekend I will get my new server built so I can register the new domain and get my web pages and bots all on one computer. Oh boy, more work and no pay.

Today is a gray and drizzly day -- the kind that is fun to just lie in bed and take a nap. But alas, I am here at work.

*****

Way to go – Atlanta Braves. The Nationals are showing us that they are just the Expo’s in different clothes.

Well, last week the D.C. Government decided that playgrounds and recreation centers was the way to stop MS-13. Well, yesterday MS-13 responded by saying they will “ambush and kill Virginia Police.” Then the police announced that several officers have placed their family in the Witness protection Program because of threats. Does that sound like a gang that will change just because you setup an after-school program? First thing they don’t go to school; secondly all you do is get all the young vulnerable kids congregated so MS-13 can recruit. These thugs only understand violence, sex, and drugs. So D.C. get serious and take that away from them. The police must be able to deal with them in a language they understand -- deadly force. But like all evil people we will take the liberal ACLU approach and try and reason with them while our children and recruited and people killed.

Daily Thoughts - XII

Well, let me see. Can I get this pencil working so I can scribble a few lines? Yes, I know I have slipped some in my writing but things happen occasionally. Gee, the fall bowling leagues start in two weeks. Hmmmm

Work last week was one long meeting. The bosses came up from Dallas and we had one meeting right after the other. The worse was the constant changing of all my project deadlines. Today, I could finally sit down and sort out what the flow would be. Yes, they gave me more money for the projects but shortened the deadlines.

The engineer they just hired about 3 months ago. They decided they didn’t need him anymore and gave him his marching orders on the 26^th. And these bunion heads think I will support them in all my free time. Believe me, the fat lady has sung and this pipe organ doesn’t pump anymore. They would rather contract to me at $75 than pay a full time employee $27. Go figure. So I said give me a contract for a guaranteed 20 hours a week for 1 year and I would consider.

Can’t wait for the cruise in December. Only 4 months and 12 days left. Yesterday we drove down into southern Virginia where at 5:30 on a Sunday afternoon the whole town was closed up. We checked out several state parks in an attempt to find some places to launch the boat and camp. So the peaceful country drive through forests and along the Potomac River, Rappahannock River, and Chesapeake Bay was great.

#1 son swallowed his pride and apologized and got his job back. Growing up?

#2 son still awaits the call of the Job Corps.

The youth bowling team I was on finished #1 for the second consecutive time. But the young lady I was coaching announced she was moving to New York with her family. So I will miss her and her skill. She went from an average of 89 to 141 in a year.

*****

I love it when they think they can change a violent gang like MS-13 by building recreation centers. The gang wars and attacks lately show us how much the police and the politicians are out of touch with reality. In most every case, the attack concerned someone violating “their” territory. Why won’t the new recreational center be a new piece of territory to fight over? These guys are hardened criminals with no value on life except theirs. Treat them as such and forcefully stop them, power is all they know.

I can’t wait to see the profit margins of the big oil companies this year. They were already in the billions and now it becomes astronomical. Also, how will they use the new tax breaks to protect those windfall profits? I wonder if the politicians realize that when we, John Q Public, finally gets mad that we will vote them out of office. We can’t hurt the oil company but the politicians can be hurt by losing their jobs. I know how I will vote, Do you?

Daily Thoughts - XI

Well, another week comes to a close. I can’t believe the hours I have spent sitting in meetings and on conference calls. All that time and the end result are “we need to discuss this more or the boss says, let me think this over.” “And you wanted that new laptop set up when?”

Someone please tell me why Novak gets sacked for saying ‘Bullshit” and there is a lot worse being said in most every movie, TV show, and HBO special? Seems to me if we are going to have a so called standard of clean language we should apply it across the whole media spectrum to include news, cable, movie and sports.

My vote is for Baltimore Oriole Coach Mazilli. They canned him because the team sucks. For that matter the team has sucked for years and all they do is fire managers. Has someone in Angelo’s little circle ever considered that the players they are hiring are the problem. Even a great coach can’t motivate perennial losers to win. Look at Joe Gibbs and the Redskins. So from my point of view keep the coach and get rid of the rest of the crappy team.

I continue to applaud the Brits for what they are doing about terrorism. They are fighting back like no other group of people has ever done. Thumbs up to deporting anyone (foreign national) that participates in terrorist activities or endeavors. Maybe someone on this side of the Atlantic pond will get a backbone and start getting tough here. Maybe even start with the ACLU and their liberal whiners.

The home front has added its fuel to the weekly firestorm. #1 son got tired of working and just up and quit. Never mind the car payment or insurance bill, just get tired and quit when you feel like it. Looks like #2 son is going into the Job Corps and he will be sent to Charleston WV. So let’s see how much he will grow up in that environment.

On a side note without too much personal information, I am growing to hate gang bangers with a passion. Specifically, MS-13. It wouldn’t take much for me to considered them open season just like a varmit.

Role-play is at a low point and stalled as I search for a new direction. . Perhaps in time it will become evident and the creative juices will flow and everything will get back on track. I guess even a target dummy will lose it stuffing after enough arrows are fired at it.

Just keep on smiling -- :)

Daily Thoughts - X

The last week has been fun in that work is taking all my time. Some of the fun has been dealing with people and their new wireless networks. I must have missed the boat for if I plan to use some piece of equipment or software I will learn the basics and how to do the basic tasks required. These people have no clue. Then they argue with me occasionally pointing out I don’t know what I am doing. Of course, these blonde versions of Isaac Newton get a higher labor rate.

On the work side, it has been build – build – build. Upgrading a lot of computers.

With the entire clamor over the Gitmo Bay prisoners and the Iraqi prisoners, I have come to the conclusion that we should take no more prisoners and that they should become a casualty of war. Why, because all the arm-chair quarterbacks, politicians and civil libertarians destroy our attempt to gather intelligence and detain combatants to keep them from killing others. We must treat them better than Americans lest we violate their rights. Oh well, we are already doing that with prisoners and people charged with capital crimes and child abuse crimes. They are innocent first and the victim is unimportant to the point they have no rights.

I need to do more research but this week some one politically connected stated something about nuking Mecca when they show up by the millions as a way to get rid of the maximum number of terrorists in one blow. Gee, I heard that a long time ago. Are our leaders finally waking up and taking terrorists serious? They declared war on us and in war you seek to eliminate the enemy quickly and with minimal loss. Kind of reminds me of day-light bombing in Germany and Hiroshima.

Keep it up Britain. You are pursuing the bombers like they should be. Teach us a lesson on the right way to do it. Hopefully next time we get hit someone over here will follow your lead.

I love listening to the Nationals baseball games. They are whining now that since they walked the winning run to lose the game it is a “cheap” win. Or last night, the opposing batter blooped a single to score the winning run so they now speak of bad officiating as a cause. Get off it Nationals, you lost plain and simple. In the first half of the season you won a few just like that but then it was ok, now when other teams are pressing for the postseason you cry and slump to your losing “Expos” way.

Hmmm, New Jersey wants to fine you if you smoke and drive! Well, I agree. My only accident was caused by a young lady with this excuse. “Officer, I was driving and dropped my hair brush and it rolled up under the car seat and I searched for it. After I found it and looked up I was too close to stop and hit him in the rear.” Along with that law add these items to it. If you talk on the cell phone, put makeup on, brush/comb your hair, read a book/newspaper/magazine, eat any type of food, watch a DVD or drive where you are more laying down than sitting up then you should be ticketed, charged points and fined. Driving is a responsibility not a way to get many things done because you got up late and need to get on the road. Germany does do this part right. Also the States could generate more revenue if they start charging for a license like the Germans do. $1500 a pop, with the price that high people might take driving more seriously if it cost them that much every time they lost their license. Drive without a license then? You could but if you’re caught – mandatory 2 years in jail and the next license is $2500. With the world’s population growing so fast we best be looking at these types of ideas before it is too late. It is kind of frustrating to see slow cars, erratically moving cars, or cars that stop/go unexpectedly and when you get close – they have a cell phone glued to their ear. Just today as I commuted in on I-66 in bumper to bumper traffic, one person was doing 35 and just yakking up a storm, so much that their hands were waving all over the place.

When will insanity not be allowed as a defense for committing capital crimes? Am I totally off base in believing all criminals are insane and not capable of standing trial? It seems that defense is well used to avoid punishment. It seems if you want to commit a crime, ahead of time do something that a Doctor will write down as a psychosis and you can get away with murder at a later time. I love it when someone commits a murder, goes first to the doctor and gets committed and then the lawyer tells the police where to find the corpse. Well if Saddam is smart, he will claim he has ADD, some mental disorder or something like that and he will never be tried for any crimes. He walks and lives a grand life and we get more frustrated. Maybe if Iraq had more rivers he could have used the Teddy Kennedy method for removing his adversaries and not have to worry about going to jail and Saddam then might even get re-elected to the new Iraqi government. Opps, how short sighted, only in America does that happen.

Daily Thoughts - IX

It is hot and muggy here! Come on winter, cool us off. They say we will have cooler weather this weekend. I hope so since the yard work hasn’t been done during this current hot spell.

Today I am just out of it. Nothing seems to get me motivated even though I know I have a lot to do. The picture that comes to mind is a low riding sports car with 4 flat tires.

On the Florida scene: Unbelievable, the insurance and FEMA reps came on 07/16 to inspect the damage and on 07/20 my dad received two settlement checks. Following Ivan it was several weeks. Maybe the constant stream of hurricanes has helped them get efficient or they want to clean their slate before the next one comes.

Well wishes to the Brits during the assaults on there homeland. Perhaps you will show America how to deal with someone that has declared war on you. We surely don’t take it serious.

Well, Angelos and the Orioles keep to their old self following the Yankees and Red Sox with their nose up their hineys. Worse thing is Angelos has monopolized the TV segment, of course with MLB’s quiet acquiescence, around here and prevents the Nationals from being seen in their own hometown. You see, Angelos must keep the Nationals off TV because they are in 1^st place and the Orioles are in their natural position, noses in the Yankees butt. I hope that legal group succeeds and forces Angelos and the TV conglomerate to allow Nationals games here so we can see the “Real Baseball Team in this Area.”

Thumbs up to Judge Roberts for the Supreme Court.

Here Goes

Harry Potter Personality Quiz by Pirate Monkeys Inc.

Reflections

Well, after two days I have finally caught up on my email backlog. Next week looks to be a bear of a week. All the new computers I ordered will be here. So, the workload will get nasty as all my projects move forward.

This has been an interesting time for role-play and my mind reels with thoughts and comments. Don’t worry, I won’t expound my thoughts here for I know many people read this that could care less about Blackhawke and Camelot and Dark Towers. I do know those that really care will ask me privately and then I can explain my take on these twists and turns. I find this whole affair interesting because the only communication comes second-hand by email. I remember a time my phone would ring off the hook when there was a problem and we talked. It was amazing how quickly the problem was solved and everything else became clearer. The use of Email allows us to hide and dodge the real problems. It allows you to feint with “I misread your words” when you are caught stretching for the truth or to get the wrong impression if the sender can’t put their thoughts into words. It also has been interesting to see how quickly friendships melt and people take sides without the benefit of any direct communication. Are we only willing to create relationships only in email (words)? Is it just a safe way to pretend we have a bond of friendship? This reminds me of the Citizens Band (CB) craze. People would do so much more on the radio than they ever would in real life. In retrospect, I thought I had more friends and now I am learning the truth. I wish I was wrong because friends are what make life bearable and a joy. Right now it is lonely.

Do you need to worry for me? No, I will just move on and find others who are also seeking to find those relationships that last. The best one is my role-play partner. She is a dream and one tough cookie. She has put up with me for quite a while and not run away. I am willing to admit I am not the easiest to get along with. I border on being a hardhead. But, I do listen, choose the best path given the options and then do what it takes to make it succeed. I don’t try to be the life of the party and hurt no ones feelings. In a group environment where people are exposing their ideas and thoughts, you can’t always have your way. You can't always carry a chip on the shoulder without someone knocking it off. But I know I am speaking to the wall for the email client of the other person is turned off. So I sit and wonder if someone will call and truly communicate like humans beings should.

Solve your problems the old fashion way – talk.

Pictures

here is the link I promised for the pictures. Please be patient for they will take some time to download.

http://knight.blackhawke.net/dennis/index.html

Enjoy!

Day of Returning

Well, I have finally returned to Virginia after 6 days of work in Florida. Yes, suntan and all. After spending a few days in that heat and humidity without electricity makes you appreciate the A/C when it does come back on.

Hopefully, tomorrow I will have some pictures up of what we faced when we first got there last Monday. The place actually looks nice now but much still has to be done. The trailer has to be repaired and then reset back on its foundation. At least this time FEMA and the Insurance showed up quickly and the settlement won’t take so long. So needless to say probably one more trip down will be needed in a month or so when the repairs are finished.

I can’t thank my friend Carl enough for coming down and helping. His help was beyond anything called for. After the two weeks I spent cleaning up after Ivan I wasn’t looking forward to this cleanup. But, my friend made it a lot more bearable and the workdays a bit shorter. Besides, I am impressed at how much he knows about most any handyman project. He always had an answer and the skills to do the job.

Final Comments on Camelot:

I am saddened by the closing of #Camelot on Starchat Network to point of being heartsore. That channel received many hours of my time over the years as we tried to make it into something great. Perhaps the deepest cut came from those whom I considered a friend in thinking that I wanted to kill the channel. How do you intentionally kill something that was part of your dreams and thoughts? They focused on how could I kill it or take it over, or take its members away. My options consisted of how can I return and with what character and still be believable given the storyline of the past year. So while my role-playing partner and I discussed our options and had made an initial plan to persue, it appears the distrust and hatred of my friends was greater than anything we could do or say on that fateful day.

So the loss of friends always hurts. I know you believe a true friend could never do this. In some ways you are correct, but I believed them to be straightforward in their words and friendship. Since last fall, I have taken a large share of the channels failure upon myself. Now that I sit looking at its closed gates, there should be others admitting their failure too. Camelot failed because the all the people failed. They say Camelot is a dream and a belief, that is true but like life itself it can go in a wrong direction and eventually get lost. The true believers in Camelot will stop their wandering and ask for help to find that path once again. I stopped my wandering a month ago and asked for directions but the woods were cold and empty and my friends closed their ears.

Thanks to my role-play partner for she has been there like a rock, when I was asking for directions, she gave me a boost up the tree in order to see and shout farther. For helping me, she has lost a lot too, for those same friends turn quickly against her to stand in our way. I apologize to her for what has happened mainly because we are linked by our characters and when one hurts or stumbles, so does the other.

I shall now head my own way and try and find the road again. The nice thing is she will be there and silence will allow us to sort it all out. I sadly close the book of stories for without my friends the words ring shallow and without life.

Daily Thoughts - VIIIa

Well, I shall try and finish what I started the other day. But first, Hurricane Dennis was definitely there in Pensacola, almost in the same tracks as Ivan, but I am happy to know so far the first words out were that all is well at the parent’s house. More to come.

Well, more has come! The parent’s house didn’t fair so well so I am heading south tomorrow morning to do what I can. Gee, the new roof was only a month old and the missing porch was less than 2 weeks. All the work I did a couple of weeks ago is gone. Guess Mom Nature decided I needed more exercise and sore muscles. Gosh, I love them nature types.

If you wish to see some pictures of the area (Pensacola), here is the url.

http://photos.pensacolanewsjournal.com/index.shtml

I sometimes wonder where we are going. US Highway 50 used to be called Lee Highway after the Civil War general, Robert E. Lee. Well, some people took offense and forced a name change to Fairfax Parkway. Excuse me, but a great number of streets, business’s, schools, and buildings in this area are named after Civil war generals, battles and such. This whole area was the scene of several major Civil War battles. Are we to just forget the whole Civil War? Yes, I don’t like what happened with slavery and the plight of Black Americans. But it happened, so let’s move on and get over it. Obviously, to some this is their way of continuing the war. There are numerous things I don’t like about life but I don’t grouse about the name.

Will we get serious about terrorism any time soon? Right now in my mind we won’t until the worse happens and tens of thousands die. We have a group of people in the name of their religion declared “Jihad” against all Americans. Now I realize “civilized” leaders of Islam have claimed this isn’t entirely true and that they don’t support them. But at the same time they don’t stop them. They use their holy places to hide and protect the jihadist from our troops and police. They hide them and fail to identify them to the local authorities for subsequent arrest. If I in the name of the Catholic Church declared war on Muslims, do you think the Church would aid me much less hide me? I hold no illusions that I would be alone in my efforts. Let’s cut to the chase. Let’s consider this a war and deal with it as such. If we don’t want to hurt those Muslims who call for peace, then they should join us and help eliminate those members of their religion that do want to fight. In any war there are two sides. It seems lately, we have created a new class of beings. That is the class of “Fence Sitters,” people who through their own silence or tacit support allow something to continue that they publicly decry. I know some will call me a hawk but isn’t time we quit letting these terrorists push us and make us wonder when and where the next attack will occur? Also, if the mainstream Islam wants to not stand against them, then they should be ready to fight with them.

Daily Thoughts - VIII

Well, let me see where I can begin.

To the people of England – hang in there, those criminals will never beat us. I sometimes get mad because the Government won’t get serious in dealing with these terrorists. They, the government, speak out and blow off steam to get attention and get elected but when the bombs blow up; they just spout platitudes and go on their merry way.

I love it when a HIV/Aids free clinic can’t raise the funds needed to stay in business gets money given to them by the local governments. Why are you giving my tax dollars away like that? If people don’t care enough to donate why saddle the rest of us with the bill. What free stuff do I get as a result? I have to pay for all my medical care. Believe me; I struggle to make ends meet to pay those bills. I have yet to see any handouts come my way.

Supreme Court – Let’s get some none lawyer types in there to get a real perspective on life. Since when have lawyers been anointed to decide all life issues for Americans? There are many people out there that have a good grasp on life and can make some reasoned and logic choices. If they get stuck on a legal point, well duh, use one of the law clerks to help clarify it. Besides, not all cases require a pure legal disposition. Homosexuality, definition of marriage, Ethics and the role of God in our lives, basic rights of all people are value judgments based on common sense, morality and a sense of fairness. Why can’t a philosopher be Supreme Court Justice?

When will we wake up and deal with child predators. From what I am seeing any attempts to “rehabilitate them” is failing miserably. The sickening part is “our children are the ones at risk.” I guess until some adults feel the same fear and danger nothing will happen. Almost seems like we would rather shut it out than deal with an unpleasant subject. You say the predator has basic rights .. I say they lost them when they committed those heinous crimes and were convicted of the crime.

More to Come ......

Daily Thoughts - VII

Well, I am back safe and sound from the sandy world of Florida. The computers replacement and setup went well except for the fact UPS lost one of them in shipping. So, now I get to plan another trip in July so I can finish the job.

The load of dirt turned out to be two loads. Gee, mom sure knows the value of getting all you can out of free labor. Get out the Ben-gay and ace bandage and have at it. We got the dirt for the most part spread out. Other “sonny-do” projects completed were tear down the old ramp to the porch, make the sputtering riding mower run once ok again with tires that had air in them, move the outside AC unit to a better platform, clean-up branches and assorted stuff that had accumulated on the property. So I guess all in all it was a successful venture. The return trip was long as we drove through the Smokey Mountains. But the drive was worth it as we ate dinner at The Old Mill in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

I only watched a total of 5 minutes of news these past few days so I can not think of any comments. Gee, maybe life would be so much better if we all avoided the news channels.

While at the Grocery, I did see where an Angel was killed by Lightening according to one of those well written news papaers. I was crushed by the thought of one dying. Curious thought, if angels are heavenly bodies, how can they die? Isn’t that like saying God was playing with a thunderstorm in the backyard and a bolt of lightening struck him, killing him? Oh well, another childhood fantasy just died.

Daily Thoughts - VI

Today has been fun. My son and a friend volunteered to help move a friend Saturday and Sunday. Well, the friend’s car broke, so I spent the best part of the morning driving them some 160 miles to where they needed to be. And that means 160 miles back. Well, now my tummy hurts and it is getting close to Pepto time.

Well, the computers are shipped and bags almost packed, as I get ready to head out Monday to Florida. Let me see, the sonny-do list is Fix two computers plus one laptop, fix the electricity in Dad’s workshop and good ole mom just had a load of dirt delivered Friday. That is a subtle hint I will be shoveling dirt in my free time.

Our church just had Vacation Bible School and I help my wife a little bit in the nursery class. I know now why I don’t want any young kids. Count them, there were 7-10 of them for 3 hours and I pray it will be a year before I experience that again. It will take me that long to recuperate. Man, does red clay dirt, ice cream, water balloons, and bubbles make a mess.

*****

I am sorry to hear that three children died needlessly in an awful accident. But I do have a few questions. Nobody heard them when they searched the interior of the car? Why was the broken car setting in the yard with the trunk open? If I had a refrigerator I would secure the door just for that reason. If it had been open wouldn’t it trigger something if it were then found closed? Why did the family wait 3 plus hours to call the police and then claim the police weren’t thorough enough to realize they were in the trunk? Yes the Police should investigate the whole response thing. But also, investigate the family too. Could someone wanted to get rid of the kids, trick them into hiding in the trunk as part of the game, give them 3 hours to succumb and them find them 2 days later. Perfect Crime? I am sorry but I do get a bit paranoid after the mountain of evidence that parents or close family commit most of the child murders / abductions. I won’t give the list but I believe you could count on two hands the recent cases.

*****

I love it today as Carter’s National Security Advisor, Zbigniew Brzezinski, commented of how bad Bush has conducted the Iraqi war. He and Carter did the most to tear down the Military when Carter was in office. Ziggy would rather hide than face facts, or has he grown up?

To our troops my prayers and unwavering support, I occasionally wish I could un-retire and go help them, but alas, I am a dinosaur from another era and accept my role as a prayer supporter.

PS: to all my close friends and associates, I got a new cell phone with my old number, but sadly, they discontinued my account with the old phone and then restarted it thus losing all my stored phone numbers. So if I don’t call you, it isn’t that I am mad or don’t want too but that I don’t have a number to call you. Call me.

Daily Thoughts - V

For most countries of the world getting a new dictator would mean losing all you own. Only in America, can it be legislatively or judicially taken away. Who needs a dictator, all we need is a congressman, senator or judge to take what we prize and work our life for. Under this law, what is next?

• All Churchs, especially those who are tax-exempt, are removed since a shopping center or condo will generate more tax revenue and getting money is paramount to local governments.
• Any Radio or TV station that doesn't tread the "acceptable way"? A good grocery store would serve us better.
• What of any non-profit organization that didn't toe the line? Put a mall there and get some benefit from their space.
• What of any business that posed a problem for a larger competitor? Microsoft forces out AOL to but up a bigger Microsoft Headquarters and offer more tax revenue than AOL does. Wal-Mart vs mom-pop store. Major Oil vs local gas station.
  
• What of all our parks? Put a business there. It will generate more tax income. The kids can go home to play. Ooops, that is right, their home was removed last week.
  

While we could focus on the American Citizen and their home, the implications of this law goes far beyond that. What does the legislature or Judicial have to worry about. They take our home to generate more money because they made a law that took our weapons away and ensured we couldn't defend it. Next they will decide who is the real "American Citizen" and pass a law to implement it.

Part of their argument was that the current law forced them to use "blighted areas" and thus hurt the poor. So, as I see it, destroy the dream of the working class to erect all these tax-generating endeavours and leave the "blighted areas" alone so that they can remain an eyesore to the inner-city.

Well, we continue to see protect the poor, screw the workers all so that the rich can maintain a life style. You try and take the rich man's home, the army of lawyers will stop that. But the poor worker can only muster a public defender whose salary depends on the tax money that is generated by taking the workers home. So who wins?

When are the laws of this land going to be decided by the "American Citizen" and not some "Appointed" Judge? If the American people vote and the majority decides for a law, then who gives that "appointed" judge the right to throw it out? They may review it and bring it to the people's attention that it isn't fair and equitable but ultimately, the people decide through free and open elections how they are to be governed. Then the "appointed" judge applies that law and helps the police who enforce the law. This is what I think is called "The Will of the People".

Excuse me, I got wrapped up and forgot. It really is "The will of the Judge" and the "whim of a Congressman or Senator". Like I said earlier, Who needs a Dictator, all we need is a Congressman, Senator or Judge to take what we prize and work our life for because what we want doesn't matter, especially to them.

*********************************************

I disagree with what happened in Mississippi. I know some will argue with me but I can still say it is wrong.

How did a jury split 6-6, over night and after only 2-3 hours the next morning become unanimous? They were split just like the first trial. Who changed their minds to make it so obvious?

The judge said age or whether the defendent was living or dead .. the law must be served. Ok, why wasn't there others charged and sentenced even if they were dead already? This man was one member of a group ... do we now charge and sentence one man for the sins of others. I vaguely recall that happened 2000 years ago. This smacks of judically sponsored reverse racism to make a group of people feel better. The same group who harbored revenge and hate for the perpetrator for 41 years all the while they sat piously in their church pew pretending to be a christian full of love and forgiveness.

Why not go after the U.S Congress now. They publically apologized for allowing all the lynchings by not taking action when they should. They have said by their own words they were an accomplice to the racism of that time. Under the law, if you aid or abet someone in the act of a crime, you are guilty too. So sentence the Congress to prison for being an accomplice to the racism of the 60's and 70's. You have sentenced that old man because he was an accomplice or aided in the murders. Smells like crap .. it must be crap.

***************************************************

Looks like a little Father and Son action in Aruba. Could it be a little "Danish Roll"?

Daily Thoughts - IV

Hmmmm ....


Estne volumen in toga, an solum tibi libet me
videre?


Which Weird Latin Phrase Are You?
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Daily Thoughts - III

Am I having fun? .... Ha ha ha ha!

I guess since the nights are now getting shorter, I had better start making more efficient use of the time I am there.

My name using Egyptian Hieroglyphs!

Try your name

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Daily Thoughts - II

I love how times change the way our leaders react. When 9-11 happened the president said we would hunt them down no matter where they would hide. Furthermore any country harboring or aiding the terrorist would be subject to retaliation. Well, guess what, someone (CIA) says we know where Bin laden is but because of their national sovereignty we won’t get him. Well, what happened to those bold statements from 2001? Sounds like someone has a bigger mouth than their balls.

Father’s day was nice. It was a quiet day filled with food, TV and bowling. The father/ Son banquet was also great since both of my boys went. And we managed to do some damage to the BBQ, Cole slaw, and potato salad. The games were so-so but it only lasted a short time. The golf was great because Tiger lost and a mere mortal beat him.

I am saddened that another scout has been lost in the same area as another one was. Isn’t someone at the local BSA headquarters watching? Obviously, that area has some inherent problems that make it easy to become lost. When the troop fills out the permit for the trip, why isn’t it scrutinized a little more as to precautions that are being taken based on the areas history?

I see we are still prosecuting criminal cases some 40+ years after the fact. I was always brought up that there was a statue of limitations. From the looks of it, you can be hounded even after you are dead. Perhaps, people are still looking for a free handout; sue someone to make your retirement life better. Who needs a 401K; one lawsuit and you are set for life. There you go Bush, revamp Social Security to allow one major lawsuit as your retirement plan. Everyone gets rich and the Government is taken off the hook. Kind of like the Terry Schiavo’s family. Dig up the mud and reopen the investigation from some 15 years ago. Let’s ruin everyone’s life now. They want closure, no way; they had it when they buried their daughter. What they want now is vengeance, the chance to cause pain and hurt to anyone involved. I can see it now, sitting in church trying to act so pious and innocent, all the while plotting and scheming what their next vindictive action is. What is sad are the State Officials that are abetting them, all for political gain at the polls.

Next week, I shall be heading for Florida for a few days to fix my parents computers. So I shall be out of pocket and trust all the children to play fair and don’t fight.

Guess, I best run and get my self ready for the Summer Solstice. All them earthy people going crazy and keeping me up all night. Litha? Hmmmm.

Things are changing in Dark Towers. After much thought, several changes will occur. As usual I expect some to belly ache and complain. But simply put in PG terms, “mind your own business and leave us alone.”

Daily Thoughts - 1

Well, the temperature goes up and the schools get out. I can’t even remember getting out of school because it was “too hot.” All we did was limit our exposure outside and remained inside in the shade. But then again most school kids are out of shape and overweight according to the experts so that would explain why we should pamper them even more than they are on a daily basis.

Well, whether I like it or not Michael Jackson is free to ply his lifestyle. He is innocent of the molestation charges even though he admitted he liked sleeping with young boys and now his lawyer says MJ will no longer allow young boys into his bed. Gee, it seems they are saying something is not right. Oh well, perhaps the Catholic Priests need to get the lawyer’s cell number to help them get out of their predicament.

I love where the jury said their first task was to deal with the celebrity status and deal with MJ as a common person. Hogwash. I have a close friend who faced the same allegations and it was his word versus the child’s word with no other witnesses. My friend could only afford a public defender. The judge stated that the court had an overriding responsibility to protect the innocence of the child so more leverage was attributed to the child’s words. As a result, my friend went to prison. If this same standard was applied to MJ he would not returned to Neverland last night. In California, stars are never guilty. Right, Michael, OJ and Robert? On a side note about my friend, 4 years later the child admitted he lied because he didn’t get his way (he wanted to drive the new car instead of his old car to which my friend said no) and wanted to hurt my friend. The Public Defender said no to doing anything to clear my friend’s record. So where does he get the money to clear his name since he isn’t a celebrity?

At first I thought I was done taking time off this summer but now I find out I am a must use situation with my leave and sick time. So, reluctantly, smiling all the time, I will take another week off the end of this month and probably another week in late august. Then I can start working on my comp time which is still over 150 hours. I will later this month go to my parents house in Florida and upgrade their computers and eat some fresh seafood.

With Father's day fast approaching, I may get to have both sons go to the dinner sponsored by my church. That hasn't happened in a long time for many reasons. I hope the building doesn't collapse or something like that.

It was nice last night to have my RP partner join in the fun. It has been a while and each time is special and time filled with memories. A simple reminder is that our characters are still developing and sometime things are simpler than they look, it is the smoke and mirrors that obscure the truth.

Quick Thought

Rather than muddying up the Blog site with pieces of my stories, I have moved these stories to my regular website and the address.

http://knight.blackhawke.net/Camelot/Stories/Wandering/index.html

Please feel free to read them.

More thoughts - A little slower in Happening

Things I forgot when I posted the last Blog. It is nice to be home finally and to get to sort through some 4000 emails, answer all the phone messages, settle a half dozen petty squabbles, and figure out how much longer I can delay cutting the jungle in the front yard. Gee! I love vacations. Perhaps I should spend more time trying to decide the question – Mary Ann or Ginger?

One thing nice this past week was listening to all the memories and stories of my wife’s family history. It did bring a lot of my own personal memories of my own family up. This past week I came to realize how quickly a hyperactive 5 year old could get under the skin. I am now thankful all mine grew up when I was younger.

I would make a comment on the current events in the news, but I have sat down yet to watch any. Well, I did see the California white van thing for a moment. My take, if he wants to point two guns to his head an threaten to blow it off, and if no one else will get hurt if he does, then let the IDIOT blow his brains out, he will be the one to miss the rest of his life and any of the good things it brings.

For My Role-Playing Friends:

The Duke cornered his wife in the dining room following their evening meal. “M’Lady, please reconsider and tell them of your lineage.” He implored her. The Lady lost her cool, for months now they had pressured her. “If I hear that request one more time, I will take my daughter and leave for a place that won’t bug us. If you had any God-given sense you would recognize her birthmark and know why I must be silent!” Slowly her anger subsided. The Duke sat there silent as his mind raced to recall what birthmark she spoke of. Though he was dying to have his memory refreshed, he bit his tongue lest she leave as she threatened.

Two men sat talking in a secluded booth at the nearby local pub. “In three days we will know if the child is really who we think she is. This I promise. If she is, then she will die before the new moon rises.” The second man looked from beneath his cloak hood. “ok, but if you fail before the new moon sets on the first night, you will be spread across this land for the wolves to eat.”

Where has Spring Sprung?

Sorry for the silence the last few weeks. Many things have been going on and I just didn’t feel like writing if I couldn’t give it the time I felt it deserved.

May 20-23 was spent at State Bowling Tournament with my son. We both didn’t do as well as we wanted too but we had no reason to hang our head. I really enjoyed the time with my son wishing we could somehow do it more. Only now I realize the wasted times in the first 18 years of his life and what could have been. I shall not make the same mistake twice.

This week an old friend announced she is moving back home after many years away from it. It is almost like losing a child. After helping her rebuild her life as an abused spouse, I sometimes wish I could have done more but help can only be given as it is wanted and needed. I wish her the best and all happiness as she goes into the next phase of her life.

May 23-25 was spent in the mountains at a very secluded cabin. Perched beside the river our deck touched the river bank. A large Jacuzzi sat on that deck allowing us to soak while watching the river flow by. Add the fresh caught grilled rainbow trout and you get very near heaven. All in all it was a very quiet and nice few days.

June 1 – 6 was spent in Indiana for my nieces wedding and my In-laws 50^th anniversary. She is the oldest of the grand-daughters and chose their anniversary as her wedding date. The interesting thing is that everyone is pouring through all of the boxes of old pictures that my mother-in-law has. We shared a lot of laughs and snickers as we looked at pictures of people from 25-30 years ago. Pictures of kids now grown but forever captured as a toddler. Gee, was I ever that thin or have that much hair?

This past year has been rather frustrating when it comes to bowling. My average slipped and I began to wonder if age was finally catching up. Making a few changes didn’t help either this year as I watched my average slip some 15 pins. So I made some equipment changes and style changes to try and regain the old form. But Memorial weekend it all clicked and I saw the old form return and I was able to devastate the pins with nearly a 235 average for the whole weekend (9 games). Now I am excited for the regular season and tournament season to return.

The oldest son got rear ended the other week. I was surprised when he declined to file a complaint against the young lady. All he wanted was his car fixed. As he said, “she suffered enough having to fix both cars. Especially since her car had just came out of the shop earlier that week.”

Work Scene: Just hired a new assistant. For now it is nice having three of us but a hard choice will have to be made when the second person completes workman’s comp. As usual they gave me help but added two new projects for this summer. Oh, well. The only way to get out of this circle is to retire. Not yet but soon, sooner than they think.

To my Brothers in Arms in all services, I salute you and I say a silent prayer for all of them that gave their life that I might be free.

In the News:

Jackson: Let’s get it over with. He is guilty but will walk free because of who he is. The really sad part is that he will flee to Europe to live where the laws are not so clear and there is a ready pool of orphaned children from the conflicts in Eastern Europe. Orphans mean no parents to blow the whistle on his perverse life style.

I see where there is a new push for more media – source confidentiality following the Deep Throat revelations. Have we already forgotten the repercussions of the Washington Post fiasco or Dan Rather source problems? What we need is more integrity and accountability from media and their sources. Instead of “I am sorry” there should be some punishment for their actions. If I as Joe Q. Public did this I would be prosecuted or at a minimum sued.

Let’s quit making Deep Throat a hero. I am tired of the coverage for some one who in reality was a disgruntled employee who threw a tantrum because he didn’t get the job he wanted. The anonymity given him allowed him to retire and live off the government he so despised. Talk about being two-faced. Could we allow anonymous sources, but their identity is sealed by a Grand Jury for 10 years?

On the way home, I was standing in that proverbial never moving line at the security check-in at the airport. The TSA person walks bay and says “Sir, shoes and belt need to come off before going through the metal detector.” So I complied. The four kids in front of me started to remove theirs as any well-mannered kid would. The TSA person stops and replies, “Oh, you kids don’t need to remove your shoes, only adults!” Excuse me, but how many bombers have small children? This same tactic messed us up in Vietnam because of our belief children can’t be combatants. The terrorist profile would show the kids would be a higher probability than an old man. Come on, TSA, get the job done right.

For My Role-Play friends:

The Duke sat there as the Barrister implored him to force his wife to reveal her complete lineage. He knew why it must be done but he didn’t like it. He knows the Duchess is extremely protective of her early years and the true identity of her father. Finally he gave in to the Barrister’s pressing. “I will get the information.” As his eyes swept the room as if he was searching for a way to do it.

Not far away, the Duchess sat there brushing her daughter’s hair. The girl rested with her head on her mother’s lap. “Mother, who was my grandfather? It seems everyone is asking about him. Why won’t you tell us?” “Well, my princess, he as a great man and because of that many people was jealous and would like to hurt his family. I couldn’t bear to think of you being hurt.” With a wry smile breaking across her face, “besides, if grandfather heard that you were hurt, he would ride here and take revenge like they have never seen.” That caused the young girl to lurch up, “Really? He would come and rescue me?” The Duchess smiled. “Just as fast as his horse could run, you are the one person he cherishes above life itself.” And with that the princess leaped up and ran off with thoughts of a white knight saving her.

Unbelievable

This weekend was a quiet one. Both the Youth-Adult league and Sunday Night Adult league had their payoffs and awards. 1st of 10 and 7th of 16, not a bad result. The only problem with weekends is that it isn't long enough. I need at least 2 more days. But the dinner at El Agave was great as usual. I never leave there hungry .. usually I am stuffed.

Media – This is getting really sad to what levels the media has stooped too. They are in such a rush to beat the other New Services to get out a sensational story that they go half-baked with the story. I am referring to the story dealing with the Koran. CBS and Rather did it with the Bush story and the list goes on and on. Now, they say “they are sorry for not getting the facts right.” EXCUSE ME, 15 people died because of your sloppy and inaccurate reporting as you rushed to be first. What is needed is that the officials who approved this story be charged with a crime. If I incite a riot or some group to commit a crime then I am just as guilty. Perhaps negligent Homicide is a good place to start. Where is your integrity News Services to provide timely and factual news? Truth in reporting should be paramount to making a lousy dollar at the expense of innocent people. I am very disappointed and a bit pissed at your callousness and greed.

I also love how the media within an hour of last night's final episode of Survivor was stirring up crap that "did the jury select the wrong winner?" Come on, it was 6-1 for Tom and besides, the jury was required to pick the winner, they did, so there is no reason to question them. Go find a better topic to report ... like lying about something or not researching a story completely.

Recruiters - Shame on you that you resorted to these low handed tactics. What happened to your pride? I do understand that the Services put extrordinary pressure on you to meet a quota but honor and integrity demand you resist that and not lower yourself. Recruiters have always been the butt of some jokes as to their underhanded tactics .. what was a joke has become reality thanks to you.

Thoughts during a moment of weakness

The Work Scene: All is going ok. I now have the authority to find and hire a new assistant engineer. So perhaps things will return to some level of normality. Though, they did add two new studio build outs and one upgrade project. Oh well, I guess I like the work since I am still here.

Next weekend (21-25) is the State Bowling Tournament followed by a quiet retreat to a mountain cabin for a long and quiet weekend with the wife.

Delta – What makes anyone’s retirement safe now that the company can drop it for financial reasons. What is sad is that the Military retirement system has been doing this for years. Our benefits have been taken away or lessened because the budget got cut. It was bad enough when a company folded and your pension disappeared but now they can just take it, pay the big bonus’s to its executives and plod on losing money. What is going on with the pensions makes me consider the merits of the private social security accounts. Let me control my future and make the changes but don’t lock me out with no say as someone else takes the money to pay for their mismanagement while paying their ungodly bonus.

Rehabilitation: Lately the rash of ex-cons killing people after their release cries for prison reform. Why can’t we just accept the fact some people can not be rehabilitated. Leading this group are the child abusers. Get the bleeding heart liberal lawyers out of the process. Perhaps we need a law change. For example: Any lawyer directly involved in the early release or termination of a court-ordered prison sentence is just as liable as the convict is if they (the convict) commit a crime after their early release. If the Convict serves their full court ordered sentence then the lawyer is relieved of that responsibility. I bet some lawyers would take a second look at what they are doing unless they believe their fee for services exceeded the pain of being in prisoner.

Nomination for the Darwin award: The two pilots in yesterday’s incident in Washington, D.C.

For my Role Playing friends:

The Duke sat there looking at his wife. She was busily sewing something but he couldn’t make hide nor hair of what it was. Finally the silence broke as he asked her a question. “M’Lady, please reconsider the request to lay out your lineage. I could order you but I would rather not go that far.” The Duchess looked up. “Which tower should I go and stay in for the answer remains no! I promised my father and I intend to keep that promise no matter what.” The Duke sighed for now he had a dilemma. Scratching his head he grasped for a straw. “Is there any way, maybe give them enough to work with but withholding the critical items?” Her eyes said plenty. A few moments later she gathered up her sewing items and stormed from the room.

Tidbits of Nonsense

All is well in Virginia. I have even been able to role-play with my friends on a more frequent basis. Maybe the work load has changed enough to allow me to return to a more regular life.

Did the State Police read my blog from 04/10/05? Yesterday, for the first time in over a year the State Police were actively cracking down on HOV violators. Six cruisers in a 3 mile stretch on I-66 had people pulled over. Thanks State Police!

Can you believe? In his news conference last Thursday night the President stated that there would be close scrutiny for price gouging in the Oil Industry in light of the record high gas prices. Well, the search doesn’t have to go far after Exxon Mobile announced a $25.33 Billion profit in 2004. I believe companies should make a profit but not at the price of gouging the people that have no alternative or their livelihood depend on their use of the product. I would go, as far to say all the oil companies will be posting mega profits at a time they cry about no crude oil. Releasing the Strategic Petroleum Reserve only adds to that profit margin.

Why not tax the Oil companies, take about 50% of that profit and use it to fix the Social Security program or subsidize the Medicare program? But don’t give them any more tax breaks to further increase their profits. The sad part is that most of the profit will go to a handful of executives who already are having trouble spending last year’s bonus.

What is next? It seems now the defense of the soldier that participated in the Iraqi prison scandal is one of “she has extreme learning difficulties.” Talk about shifting the blame to anything but her. I am curious on how she made it through the whole military screening process without manifesting it somehow? How did she complete basic training? How did she complete any advanced training? Was she just passed through like the public schools? Is the military training so easy that anyone no matter their handicap can get through? What I suspect is say anything, do anything to get out of accepting the fact you abused prisoners. Come on soldier, stand up and accept the fact you screwed up and take the punishment.

The runaway bride should face the music. If anyone else would have made a false claim to the police or 911 they would get punished. So if you would punish a child for making a false 911 calls then punish this ADULT. I know from personal experience that just giving a wrong name to the police officer results in an Identity Theft charge. So making a false claim for kidnapping should be treated the same. Oh, on a side note. Thanks media for blowing something up so much you created a media event to highlight a runaway and her lies. It saddens me to see mainstream media stoop to the tabloid level in order to get a better rating than another news source. Come on, have some integrity and become a news source and not a tabloid.

For my Role-play friends:

The Duchess sat there reading an old ancient text. Its dusty pages crackled every time she moved one. Her eyes raised from the odd looking characters on the stained page as a barrister entered the room. "M'Lady, I must implore you to give me the information so that I can complete the heraldry register." The Duchess quickly replied, "I said no." The barrister frowned, "but you must do that so the officials can verify your lineage. The King is sick and given certain circumstances, you husband can sit on the throne. But if your lineage isn't established then you can't become Queen .. just the Duchess." The Duchess looked the man in the eyes, "NO!" Her demeanor quickly changed as the young girl rounded the corner of the doorway more in a skid than a lady-like manner of walking. With the appearance of the young girl, the barrister realized his attempts would fall on the deaf ears of the Duchess. "M'ladies" as he bowed and exited the room.