Rants and Ravings

Why Occupy Wall Street Is A Good Thing

2011-10-27T20:21:00.002-05:00

There is a new(ish) movement out there called Occupy Wall Street. They have come out with a list of one demands (yes, that is pluralized correctly), and are taking up a good bit of the news. Their main message, as far as I can tell, is that they're angry and they want something done about it.

Here is OWS's problem, they don't have a consistent viewpoint. Anyone who can speak intelligently in support of the movement does not speak about any of their "one demands". The mass majority of the supporters are just a mob of angry people. They don't really quite know why they're angry, but they do know that the others around them are angry, and they are finally fitting in with the crowd. For their whole lives they've wanted to be different, just like everyone else, and now they are achieving that goal.

Here is what I was getting to with the title of this post: self nomination. If somebody identifies themselves as part of this movement, I can safely choose to ignore any economic or social rhetoric they spew and not have wasted any of my time. As a matter of fact, they would have saved me the time and effort of listening to them because of their self nomination. That's not to say I won't listen, I'm always up for telling someone they're wrong, but at least now I can make an informed decision.

I Created This For A Reason

2011-01-21T10:40:00.002-06:00

I realize it's been a long while, but recent events have given me cause to vent. In short they are my neighbor, and Luddites. I will explain those, I just had to write it down before The Rage takes over and I pass out.

First off, my neighbor. I'm not quite sure what has happened in the apartment adjacent to mine, but it can't be good. At first, he was quiet. Then, he got a girlfriend. That wasn't so bad, you could hear her talk every now and then but oh well. What do you expect when you live in an apartment. After a short time, no more girl voices were heard and the cursing started. I assumed that he had lost his girlfriend as was sad. I hoped that it was a phase that he'd get through. I was wrong. About a month later came the sounds of another girl. At least, a assume it was a different girl. The first one wasn't around for long enough for me to remember what she sounded like. The weird thing was, though, that the cursing did not stop. In fact, it got worse and he developed a new habit of channeling Brett "The Hitman" Heart. I'm hoping that someone snaps his Slim Jim.

Today I was talking to a lady on the phone and she asked me to fax her something. I explained that I do not have access to a fax machine currently but would be happy to email it to her. She stated that she preferred fax, but would take the email anyway. Upon receiving the document she had to check some information. She had to make sure that there was a number 4 in the bottom right hand corner of the document. I was told to wait while she printed it out so she could check. I'm not quite sure what computer system she was using, but I do know that most operating systems come with some type of "viewer" such as MS Word. Oh wait, I think I just figured it out. She was using a CLI and couldn't open the attachment. How silly of me.

Obama's History

2009-07-01T22:13:00.003-05:00

It turns out I was wrong about the history of our nation. I've come to this conclusion by listening to our president. Mr. Obama says that the reason he's not doing anything about Iran or any of the other conflicts around the world is that he is trying to promote the American ideology of the Democratic Process. This is where I seem to be mistaken on my history. I thought that at the birth of our nation we had some sort of war in which we kicked some British booty and said, "We're staying on this side of the pond and ruling ourselves." Apparently it was more like, "So, guys, we voted, you're out." and the British said, "Fair enough, we're glad you put it to a vote." They then boarded their boats and yelled "Hurrah Democracy!" as they sailed back home. I knew my history books were bound to be a little off, but I had no idea it was this bad.

Read This

2009-06-18T20:34:00.001-05:00

That's an order.

http://www.glennbeck.com/content/articles/article/198/26742/

Looking For Another Job

2009-05-25T12:55:00.002-05:00

I've not so recently decided that it is time for me to find another source of income. I would like to start a company that all my friends could work for because my friends have a myriad of talents that would lend themselves well to working for me. That's right, your talents just got personified. Anyway, if any of the 5 people who read this have any ideas for something that we can do in our free time, let me know. Also, if any of you want to start learning web development with an emphasis on Java, that'd help the plans I already have in place.

Just the Beginning

2009-04-18T22:19:00.002-05:00

Late, but this needs to be on the site.

"The only verdict is vengeance; a vendetta, held as a votive, not in vain, for the value and veracity of such shall one day vindicate the vigilant and the virtuous." -V

Who's Bloody With Me!?

2009-02-19T20:15:00.000-06:00

Want to Engineer Real Change? Don't Ask a Scientist.

2009-02-02T19:40:00.002-06:00

I thought this was an interesting post (copied below).

"We will restore science to its rightful place," President Obama declared in his inaugural address. That certainly sounds like a worthy goal. But frankly, it has me worried. If we want to "harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories," as Obama has decreed, we shouldn't look to science. What we need is engineering.

To be fair, Obama's misconception is a common one. Most people who aren't scientists or engineers seem to think that science and engineering are the same. They're not. Science seeks to understand the world as it is; only engineering can change it.

That's not what most high-school teachers or even college professors tell their science students. But the truth is that full scientific understanding isn't always necessary for technological advancement. Take steam engines: They were pumping water out of mines long before a science of thermodynamics was developed to explain how they worked. The engines were what prompted researchers to look into the nature of steam power in the first place.
This may make me a heretic, but I'll take the argument a step farther: Science can actually get in the way of technology. In the 19th century, some scientists were convinced that even the largest steamship couldn't carry enough coal for transatlantic trips. Only when skeptical engineers designed ships that made this supposedly impossible task possible were the naysaying scientists forced to reconsider.
And think about the Wright brothers, who refused to believe that only birds were meant to fly. If Wilbur and Orville had waited for the publication of a sophisticated textbook on aerodynamics, they might never have left their bicycle shop in Dayton for the dunes of Kitty Hawk. Engineering, not science, enabled them to develop propellers that worked in the air the way a ship's propeller spins through water.

Steamships and flying machines may seem like things of the past, but the ingenuity behind them couldn't be more relevant today. Some of our greatest energy challenges require engineering breakthroughs, not scientific discoveries. The principles that explain how a battery works, for example, are old news. But a lightweight and cost-effective battery pack with enough juice to power a car over long distances remains an elusive goal.

The same is true of fuel and solar cells. Scientists established long ago that natural processes involving chemicals and sunlight can produce electricity. We need engineers to make the cells lean enough to compete with coal and oil. Science alone is never enough.

The president and his green team -- particularly Energy Secretary Steven Chu -- appear to understand the urgency of the world's energy problems. I'm not so convinced that they accept that science, for all its beauty, is not the best place to seek practical fixes. Obama should keep his promise to "restore science to its rightful place" -- and put engineering on at least an equal footing.

petroski@duke.edu

Henry Petroski is a professor of civil engineering and history at Duke University. He is at work on a book about science, engineering and global challenges.

Have We Reached A Plateau?

2009-01-05T10:20:00.002-06:00

There's something I've noticed recently: no one is updating their computers anymore. I'm not talking about software, but hardware. If anything, people are buying updated versions of the same type of hardware. Think about it, when is the last time you updated your RAM/Video Card/Mobo/Processor? Also, software is taking a step back. Windows 7 cut back much of the graphic/processor intensive processes so that it may run better on netbooks. That's another thing, netbooks are becoming popular. It's 3 year old technology in a slightly smaller form factor that's selling like crazy. Have we reached a plateau for the average consumer? Sure the power users will continue to update their stuff, but what about normal users? Other than complete hardware failure, will you continue to upgrade? Unless they come out with something completely different, will you upgrade any time soon?

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Okay, listen up everybody, I am goin' rogue right now so keep your voices down.

2008-11-07T21:57:00.002-06:00

Extemproanously On The Second Presidential Debate

2008-10-07T20:40:00.004-05:00

So, if you know me well, you'll know that I'm completely partisan. But, I tried to watch todays debate as if I didn't know who I was going to vote for. After watching about half an hour of it, McCain won. Here are my thoughts as I watch the remainder of the debate:

If you're exempting 95% of American from paying taxes, you're precluding them from helping their country defend itself. The Fair Tax would be the best plan, but apparently these guys have never heard of it. Why can't these guys just answer the question. Climate Change and Green Jobs are complete BS. If you want to make everyone think that Nuclear Power is a good thing, you're going to have to come up with another name for it. Nuclear has a bad connotation. I know that Obama doesn't care for the country, and is only pandering for votes because he promotes class warfare. If you say you don't believe in trickle down economics, you're an idiot. Silicon Valley is the way to go. We're the greatest and smartest country in the world. If America can't come up with the answer, there is no answer. We need to do a single subject bill policy. I don't know if that makes sense to those reading it. Instead of voting on bills with all the pork embedded, vote on each individual issue. That may create more work for Congress, but I don't care. Congress will just have to work more often. Why should the government pay for my health care? Does anyone have an answer to that? If people are going bankrupt because they can't pay for medical bills, the didn't do a good job managing their money in the first place. Secondly, why don't they have family or a church backing them up? The government shouldn't be the daddy. Obama needs to work on the beginning of his sentences. The "ehh....ehhh...eh..." is not an effective start to the presentation of an idea. I could care less how much these business executives got after the bailout. If they made out with millions, bravo for them. If they did that illegally, they'll get their comeuppance. The FBI is already investigating them. The FBI knows what they're doing. If I didn't think that I could handle tough situations, I wouldn't have joined the military. Screw Pakistan, time to invade. Not because Pakistan is bad, but because bad people are there. Actually the better situation is for one of your allies to invade, so we can go "help" them. Insisting that another country do something, does nothing. If you want it done, do it yourself. "Talk softly and carry a big stick" = Show of force. We know how to do that. Have you seen our planes? They're scary. "Green behind the ears"? I'm pretty sure you made that up. Senator McCain, you just promised to get Osama Bin Laden. You best deliver. Enough with the KGB/Putin references. If I've heard it more than once, you've said it too many times. Obama on the Putin empire = dodging the question. Oh, looks like McCain is doing it also. The UN security council is worthless. We do what we need to in order to help Israel. Looks like McCain agrees. BTW, Chief in the Navy is like an in between rank. Higher than the highest enlisted position, but lower than the lowest officer position. Obama says that the gov't got me where I am, because of gov't programs. We've seen that dream diminish because it's not the right dream. I dream of being allowed to do what I like because I have the freedom to do that, and have done what I need to in order to accomplish my goals. I don't do what I like because the gov't lets me. Well the debate is over, I'm publishing now.

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Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog

2008-10-07T19:12:00.003-05:00

Quite possibly the greatest thing I've seen in awhile.

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This Is How I Feel Sometimes

2008-10-03T16:21:00.001-05:00

From Crackle: Saturday Night Live clip - Kevin Nealon as US gene...

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Guy Fawkes

2008-09-29T21:49:00.003-05:00

I stumbled across this post today sent to me via email (no references were made available to me). If you have some economic theory (read: garbage) you want to spout off, please, save it. In honor of Bill, pithy comments only.

I'm against the $85,000,000,000.00 bailout of AIG.

Instead, I'm in favor of giving $85,000,000,000 to America in a We Deserve It Dividend.

To make the math simple, let's assume there are 200,000,000 bonafide U.S. Citizens 18+.

Our population is about 301,000,000 +/- counting every man, woman and child. So 200,000,000 might be a fair stab at adults 18 and up..

So divide 200 million adults 18+ into $85 billion that equals $425,000.00.

My plan is to give $425,000 to every person 18+ as a We Deserve It Dividend.

Of course, it would NOT be tax free. So let's assume a tax rate of 30%.

Every individual 18+ has to pay $127,500.00 in taxes. That sends $25,500,000,000 right back to Uncle Sam.

But it means that every adult 18+ has $297,500.00 in their pocket. A husband and wife has $595,000.00.

What would you do with $297,500.00 to $595,000.00 in your family?

Pay off your mortgage – housing crisis solved.

Repay college loans – what a great boost to new grads.

Put away money for college – it'll be there.

Save in a bank – create money to loan to entrepreneurs.

Buy a new car – create jobs.

Invest in the market – capital drives growth.

Pay for your medical insurance – health care improves. And ON & ON & ON!!!!

Remember this is for every adult U S Citizen 18+ including the folks who lost their jobs at Lehman Brothers and every other company that is cutting back. And of course, for those serving in our Armed Forces.

If we're going to re-distribute wealth let's really do it...instead of trickling out a puny $1000.00 ('vote buy') economic incentive that is being proposed by one of our candidates for President.

If we're going to do an $85 billion bail-out, let's bail out every adult U S Citizen 18+!

As for AIG – liquidate it. Sell off its parts. Let American General go back to being American General.

Sell off the real estate. Let the private sector bargain hunters cut it up and clean it up.

Here's my rationale. We deserve it and AIG doesn't.

Sure it's a crazy idea that can 'never work.'

But can you imagine the Coast-To-Coast Block Party!

How do you spell Economic Boom?

I trust my fellow adult Americans to know how to use the $85 Billion

We Deserve It [Dividend] more than the geniuses at AIG or in Washington DC.

And remember, THIS plan only really costs $59.5 Billion because $25.5 Billion is returned instantly in taxes to Uncle Sam.

"Remember remember the fifth of November..."

Boortz Is Awesome

2008-09-12T01:10:00.000-05:00

Follow me!

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College

2008-08-20T20:10:00.006-05:00

It is only the first week of the fall semester. To fulfill my liberal arts requirement, I chose to take economics. After having spent the last four years learning theory, methods of solving systems and equations, graphical representations of systems… I suffered through a lecture on “what is slope?” Now, this is college and these classes do not have “mandatory attendance” under most circumstances. Yet, these classes tend to provide a wealth of entertainment. That is, until today.

The professor began to talk about “marginal cost” and was using an example of airline companies. A student raises a hand and asks, “Do planes use the same fuel as cars?”

To again quote the genius of Lewis Black, “that's the kind of sentence that when you hear it, your brain comes to a screeching halt. And the left-hand side of the brain looks at the right-hand side and goes, ‘It’s dark in here, and we may die.’”

Bonus points for a picture of Space Shuttle Endeavour filling-up at a Chevron gas station.

Dear Boss

2008-08-07T16:06:00.005-05:00

The Dear Boss Letter*

Dear Boss,
Well, I quit. I’ve finally run out of drive or devotion or rationalizations or whatever it was that kept me in the Air Force this long. I used to believe in, “Why not the best,” but I can’t keep the faith any longer. I used to fervently maintain that this was “My Air Force,” as much or more than any senior officer’s…but I can’t believe any more; the light at the end of my tunnel went out. “Why?” you ask. Why leave flying fighters and a promising career? Funny you should ask— mainly I’m resigning because I’m tired. Ten years and 2,000 hours in a great fighter, and all the time I’ve been doing more with less—and I’m tired of it. CBPO [Central Base Personnel Office] doesn’t do more with less; they cut hours. I can’t even entrust CBPO to have my records accurately transcribed to MPC [Military Personnel Center]. I have to go to Randolph to make sure my records aren’t botched. Finance doesn’t do more with less; they close at 15:00. The hospital doesn’t do more with less. They cut hours, cut services, and are rude to my dependents to boot. Maintenance doesn’t do more with less; they MND [maintenance non delivery] and SUD [supply delete] and take 2.5 to turn a clean F–4. Everybody but the fighter pilot has figured out the fundamental fact that you can’t do more with less—you do less. (And everybody but the fighter pilot gets away with it...when’s the last time the head of CBPO was fired because a man’s records were a complete disaster?) But on the other hand, when was the last time anyone in the fighter game told higher headquarters, “We can’t hack 32 DOCs [designated operational capability] because we can’t generate the sorties?’’ Anyway—I thought I could do it just like all the rest thought they could...and we did it for a while…but now it’s too much less to do too much more, and a lot of us are tired. And it’s not the job. I’ve been TDY [on temporary duty] to every dirty little outpost on democracy’s frontier that had a 6,000-foot strip. I’ve been gone longer than most young jocks have been in—and I don’t mind the duty or the hours. That’s what I signed up for. I’ve been downtown and seen the elephant, and I’ve watched my buddies roll up in fireballs—I understand—it comes with the territory. I can do it. I did it. I can still do it—but I won’t. I’m too tired, not of the job, just the Air Force. Tired of the extremely poor leadership and motivational ability of our senior staffers and commanders. (All those Masters and PMEs [professional military educators] and not a leadership trait in sight!) Once you get past your squadron CO [Commanding Officer], people can’t even pronounce esprit de corps. Even a few squadron COs stumble over it. And let me clue you—in the fighter business when you’re out of esprit, you’re out of corps— to the tune of 22,000 in the next five years, if you follow the airline projections. And why? Why not? Why hang around in an organization that rewards excellence with no punishment? Ten years in the Air Force, and I’ve never had a DO or Wing Commander ask me what our combat capability is, or how our exposure times are running during ops, or what our air-to-air loss and exchange ratios are—no, a lot of interest in boots, haircuts, scarves, and sleeves rolled down, but zero—well, maybe a query or two on taxi spacing—on my job: not even a passing pat on the ass semiannually. If they’re not interested, why should I be so fanatical about it? It ought to be obvious I’m not in it for the money. I used to believe—and now they won’t even let me do that. And what about career? Get serious! A string of nine-fours and ones as long as your arm, and nobody can guarantee anything. No matter that you’re the Air Force expert in subject Y…if the computer spits up your name for slot C—you’re gone. One man gets 37 days to report remote—really now, did someone slit his wrists or are we that poor at managing? Another gets a face-to-face, no-change-for-six-months-brief from MPC…two weeks later? You got it—orders in his in basket. I’m ripe to PCS—MPC can’t hint where or when; I’ve been in too long to take the luck of the draw—I’ve worked hard, I’ve established myself, I can do the job better than anyone else—does that make a difference? Can I count on progression? NO. At 12–15 hours a day on my salary at my age, I don’t need that insecurity and aggravation. And then the big picture—the real reasons we’re all pulling the handle—it’s the organization itself. A noncompetitive training system that allows people in fighters that lack the aptitude or the ability to do the job. Once they’re in, you can’t get them out…not in EFLIT, not in RTU, and certainly not in an operational squadron. We have a fighter pilot shortfall—didn’t you hear? So now we have lower quality people with motivation problems, and the commander won’t allow anyone to jettison them. If you haven’t noticed, that leaves us with a lot of people in fighters, but very few fighter pilots, and the ranks of both are thinning; the professionals are dissatisfied and most of Lts the masses weren’t that motivated to begin with. MPC helps out by moving every 12–15 months or so—that way nobody can get any concentrated training on them before they pull the plug. Result: most operational squadrons aren’t worth a damn. They die wholesale every time the Aggressors deploy—anybody keep score? Anybody care? Certainly not the whiz kid commander, who blew in from 6 years in staff, picked up 100 hours in the bird, and was last seen checking the grass in the sidewalk cracks. He told his boys, “Don’t talk to me about tactics—my only concern is not losing an aircraft…and meanwhile, get the grass out of the sidewalk cracks!”—and the clincher—integrity. Hide as much as you can…particularly from the higher headquarters that could help you if only they knew. They never will though—staff will see to that: “Don’t say that to the general!” or “The general doesn’t like to hear that.” I didn’t know he was paid to likethings—I thought he was paid to run things…how can he when he never hears the problems? Ah well, put it off until it becomes a crisis—maybe it will be overcome by events. Maybe if we ignore it, it won’t be a problem. (Shh, don’t rock the boat). Meanwhile, lie about the takeoff times, so it isn’t an ops or maintenance late. (One more command post to mobile call to ask subtly if I gave the right time because “ahh, that makes him two minutes late,” and I will puke!) Lie about your DOC capability because you’re afraid to report you don’t have the sorties to hack it. “Yes, sir, losing two airplanes won’t hurt us at all.” The party line. I listened to a three-star general look a room full of us in the face and say that he “Didn’t realize that pencil-whipping records was done in the Air Force. Holloman, and dive toss was an isolated case, I’m sure.” It was embarrassing— that general looked us in the eye and said, in effect, “Gentlemen, either I’m very stupid or I’m lying to you.” I about threw in the towel right there—or the day TAC fixed the experience ratio problem by lowering the number of hours needed to be experienced. And then they insult your intelligence to boot. MPC looks you straight in the eye and tells you how competitive a heart-of-the-envelope three is!…and what a bad deal the airlines offer! Get a grip—I didn’t just step off the bus from Lackland! And then the final blow, the Commander of TAC arrives—does he ask why my outfit goes 5 for 1 against F–5s and F–15s when most of his operational outfits run 1 for 7 on a good day? (Will anybody let us volunteer the information?) Does he express interest in why we can do what we do and not lose an airplane in five years? No—he’s impressed with shoe shines and scarves and clean ashtrays. (But then we were graciously allotted only minimum time to present anything—an indication of our own wing’s support of the program. Party line, no issues, no controversy—yes, sir; no, sir; three bags full, sir.)…And that’s why I’m resigning…long hours with little support, entitlements eroded, integrity a mockery, zero visible career progression, and senior commanders evidently totally missing the point (and everyone afraid or forbidden to inform them.) I’ve had it—life’s too short to fight an uphill battle for commanders and staffs who won’t listen (remember Corona Ace?) or don’t believe or maybe don’t even care. So thanks for the memories, it’s been a real slice of life…. But I’ve been to the mountain and looked over and I’ve seen the big picture—and it wasn’t of the Air Force.

“This is your captain speaking…on your left you should be able to see Denver, Colorado, the mile…”

* This letter was written a few years after the end of the Vietnam War by Capt. Ron Keys to Gen. Wilbur Creech, then commander of TAC.

Follow Me

2008-07-10T00:02:00.001-05:00

http://twitter.com/RiceChrispies

I'm Back

2008-06-28T13:58:00.002-05:00

It seems that this is the only time I'm updating the blog....oh well, I don't care.

I am back in the states, but in Las Vegas right now doing a little R&R. Well, I guess it's just the opposite, but it's still fun. I'll be in the Decatur area next week, so if anyone still reads this and would like to hang out, give me a call. That reminds me, I need to call some people. Ok, I love you, bye bye.

I'm out.

2008-04-10T16:30:00.002-05:00

Yet again I will be leaving the homeland. Here is the contact info.

SrA Chris Rice
763 ERS/DO
APO AE 09309

ricechrispies@gmail.com
Christopher.Rice.11@us.af.mil

A Letter From Lincoln To His Brother-In-Law

2008-03-24T17:22:00.000-06:00

Dear Johnston:--

Your request for eighty dollars, I do not think it best to comply
with now. At the various times when I have helped you a little, you
have said to me, "We can get along very well now," but in a very
short time I find you in the same difficulty again. Now this can
only happen by some defect in your conduct. What that defect is, I
think I know. You are not _lazy_, and still you _are_ an _idler_. I
doubt whether since I saw you, you have done a good whole day's
work, in any one day. You do not very much dislike to work, and
still you do not work much, merely because it does not seem to you
that you could get much for it. This habit of uselessly wasting
time, is the whole difficulty; and it is vastly important to you,
and still more so to your children, that you should break this
habit. It is more important to them, because they have longer to
live, and can keep out of an idle habit before they are in it
easier than they can get out after they are in.

You are now in need of some ready money; and what I propose is,
that you shall go to work, "tooth and nail," for somebody who will
give you money for it. Let father and your boys take charge of
things at home--prepare for a crop, and make the crop; and you go
to work for the best money wages, or in discharge of any debt you
owe, that you can get. And to secure you a fair reward for your
labor, I now promise you that for every dollar you will, between
this and the first of next May, get for your own labor either in
money or in your own indebtedness, I will then give you one other
dollar. By this, if you hire yourself at ten dollars a month, from
me you will get ten more, making twenty dollars a month for your
work. In this, I do not mean you shall go off to St. Louis, or the
lead mines, or the gold mines, in California, but I mean for you to
go at it for the best wages you can get close to home, in Coles
County. Now if you will do this, you will soon be out of debt, and
what is better, you will have a habit that will keep you from
getting in debt again. But if I should now clear you out, next year
you will be just as deep in as ever. You say you would almost give
your place in Heaven for $70 or $80. Then you value your place in
Heaven very cheaply, for I am sure you can with the offer I make
you get the seventy or eighty dollars for four or five months'
work. You say if I furnish you the money you will deed me the land,
and if you don't pay the money back, you will deliver possession--
Nonsense! If you can't now live _with_ the land, how will you then
live without it? You have always been kind to me, and I do not now
mean to be unkind to you. On the contrary, if you will but follow
my advice, you will find it worth more than eight times eighty
dollars to you.

Affectionately your brother,

A. LINCOLN.

Leaving

2007-12-11T14:47:00.000-06:00

So I'm leaving again. Can't say exactly when, but "really soon" should suffice. I'll be back around the middle of Feb. If you want to send me anything, here's the address you can send it to.

A1C Chris Rice
763 ERS/DO
APO AE 09309

Linguist Training

2007-12-06T22:44:00.001-06:00

Interesting

2007-12-02T16:36:00.000-06:00

I bought a 360 Elite. While reading about it today I found out that it had DVD upscaling. I decided to test it out with "Stranger Than Fiction" and it looks amazing.

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Now playing: Wreckless Eric - Whole Wide World
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Who I'm Voting For

2007-11-28T09:31:00.000-06:00

Damn right.

Hey MPAA, Look At Me!!!!!

2007-11-09T18:34:00.000-06:00

This couldn't be what my internet service was stopped for, could it?

Facebook

2007-11-05T22:32:00.000-06:00

I'm beginning to like Facebook less and less. This is only because I look at pictures of people I knew years ago and think, "Holy crap they got fat!"

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Rivet Joint.

2007-11-05T12:22:00.000-06:00

For those of you who want to know what I do, here area few videos.

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via FoxyTunes

2007-11-04T12:03:00.000-06:00

Imagine this, a Kenyan won the New York marathon.

----------------
Now playing: Dave Ramsey - The Dave Ramsey Show - 11022007
via FoxyTunes

I Am Alive

2007-10-25T00:51:00.000-05:00

And well actually. For all of you reading this on Facebook, thanks for the comments and such. I'm sorry but I'm way to lazy to get back to all .... or any of you. Call me if you need anything.

How NASA Screwed Up (And Four Ways to Fix It)

2007-06-23T12:21:00.000-05:00

Here is a set of rational priorities for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, in descending order of importance: (1) Conduct research, particularly environmental research, on Earth, the sun, and Venus, the most Earth-like planet. (2) Locate asteroids and comets that might strike Earth, and devise a practical means of deflecting them. (3) Increase humanity's store of knowledge by studying the distant universe. (4) Figure out a way to replace today's chemical rockets with a much cheaper way to reach Earth orbit.

Here are NASA's apparent current priorities: (1) Maintain a pointless space station. (2) Build a pointless Motel 6 on the moon. (3) Increase humanity's store of knowledge by studying the distant universe. (4) Keep money flowing to favored aerospace contractors and congressional districts.

Only one priority of four correct! Worse, NASA's to-do list neglects the two things that are actually of tangible value to the taxpayers who foot its bills — research relevant to environmental policymaking and asteroid-strike protection. NASA has recently been canceling or postponing "Earth observation" missions intended to generate environmental information about our world. For instance, a year and a half ago the agency decided not to fund Hydros, a satellite that would have provided the first global data on soil moisture trends. NASA focuses its planetary research on frigid Mars rather than Venus, which suffers a runaway greenhouse effect. The agency is conducting only a few sun-study missions — even though all life depends on the sun, and knowing more about it might clarify the global-warming debate. But $6 billion a year for astronauts to take each other's blood pressure on the space station? No problem!

Meanwhile, geologic studies increasingly show that catastrophic asteroid and comet hits were not confined to ancient times. In 1908, a small asteroid smacked Siberia with a blast impact equivalent to the strongest nuclear bomb ever detonated by the US; recent evidence suggests an enormous object struck the Indian Ocean a mere 4,800 years ago, causing global tsunamis that may have engendered the Flood referred to in the Bible. Yet NASA has no program to research ways of deflecting space objects, and the agency recently told Congress it could not spare $1 billion to catalog the locations and movements of potentially dangerous asteroids. But hundreds of billions of dollars for a moon base? No problem!

Of course, "Keep money flowing to favored contractors and congressional districts" is not a formal NASA objective, but these words explain the agency's core problem. Since the end of the Apollo glory days, NASA seems to have been driven by the desire to continue lucrative payments to the contractors behind manned spaceflight (mainly Boeing and Lockheed Martin) while maintaining staff levels in the congressional districts (mainly in Alabama, Florida, Ohio, and Texas) that are home to huge centers focused on manned missions. If the contractors and the right congressional committee members are happy, NASA's funding will continue and NASA managers will keep their jobs. The space station project was built to give the shuttle a destination, keeping the manned-space spending hierarchy intact. With the space station now almost universally viewed as worthless, the manned-space funders need a new boondoggle. The moon-base idea, pushed by President Bush, fits the bill.

For a sense of how out of whack NASA priorities have become, briefly ponder that plan. Because the Apollo missions suggested there was little of pressing importance to be learned on the moon, NASA has not landed so much as one automated probe there in three decades. In fact, the rockets used by the Apollo program were retired 30 years ago; even space enthusiasts saw no point in returning to the lunar surface. But now, with the space station a punch line and the shuttles too old to operate much longer, NASA suddenly decides it needs to restore its moon-landing capability in order to build a "permanent" crewed base. The cost is likely to be substantial — $6 billion is the annual budget of the space station, which is closer to Earth and quite spartan compared with what even a stripped-down moon facility would require. But set that aside: What will a moon base crew do? Monitor equipment — a task that could easily be handled from an office building in Houston.

In 2004, former astronaut Harrison Schmitt, now an engineering professor at the University of Wisconsin, calculated that NASA can place objects on the moon for $26,000 a pound. At that price, each bottle of water a crew member uncaps will cost the taxpayer $13,000. Even if the new moon rocket being designed by NASA cuts launch costs in half, as agency insiders hope, that's still $6,500 for one Aquafina (astronauts and moon base are extra). Prices like this quickly push the total construction bill for any serious facility into the hundreds of billions of dollars. A private company facing such numbers would conclude that a moon base is an absurd project — at least until a fundamentally different way of reaching space is found — and would put its capital into the development of new propulsion technologies. But NASA takes a cost-is-no-object approach that appeals only to those who personally benefit from the spending.

Given NASA's politicization, we should hope that the space industry evolves as aviation did — transitioning from ponderous government-run projects to mostly private-sector activities attuned to customer needs. That raises the question: Could entrepreneurs like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos eventually put NASA out of business? Perhaps, but not for the next couple of decades — space has colossal economic barriers to entry. Given that NASA is sure to be around for a while, taxpayers should insist the space agency be recon figured to produce tangible benefits for all of us. With any luck, private space enterprise will eventually find success and begin to exert competitive market pressures on the government space program. NASA's success in putting men on the moon in the 1960s is one of history's enduring achievements. But it's the 21st century now — long past time for a new set of space priorities.

-Gregg Easterbrook

Godspeed, Chris

2007-06-10T13:26:00.001-05:00

Come back with your shield or on it.

With Regards To Randomness

2007-06-06T23:12:00.001-05:00

Nothing really to write, just had to put something up. I haven't unpacked since I've gotten back to Nebraska, just can't bring myself to do it knowing that I'll be packing again this weekend. I have to remember to go to Life Support tomorrow to pick up my chem gear. I also need to remember to go to the tailor to pick up my flight suits on Friday. Psychobilly Freakout is one of the hardest songs on Guitar Hero II to beat. I actually got so mad that I turned off the game. If that guitar wasn't so expensive, Id've gone rock star on it. I like punk covers of songs. I have too many time wasting habits. I need a degree. Colin Hay is an awesome artist. Scrubs was the best show on television, but recently it's become more of a soap opera. I need another vacation....and more money. I really don't care that Blogger now saves my drafts automatically. If I had a dime for every time that somebody told me that there was a singer with my name, I'd have a couple of dollars. But, if I had a dime for every time that somebody said "if I had a dime..." I'd be rich. I'd be rich with dimes though. What can you do with dimes? You can't play quarters, it's against the rules. Buy bags? Stop on them? Mourn the loss of that guy from Pantera? Not much really. What ever happened to the Spin Doctors? Goodnight.

Yo Yo Mah

2007-05-30T00:31:00.000-05:00

Butrose Butrose Golly.

Why I Hated College

2007-05-14T17:36:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure if you've heard or not, but UC Berkeley has made a deal with BP to join together to work on alternative fuels. Now, to me, this sounds like an awesome idea that everybody can get on board with. But no. Apparently some students and teachers at the acclaimed university are against this measure.

I pose a question to those of you against this merger: What the HELL do you want? If you believe that our current state of transportation is such that it is polluting the environment badly enough to matter (which I don't, but that's not the point), then why are you against an initiative that will seek to stifle the amount of emissions from said transportation?

I'm reminded of one reason that I quit going to college. Some people I will never even begin to understand (other than women) are liberal college students and professors. If anyone has any insight into what is going on here, please let me know.

Whillary

2007-05-02T22:41:00.000-05:00

That would be the new nickname for Jonathan's girlfriend, Whitney Reid.

I told you, you can't stand between technology and I.

The Way Things Ought to Be

2007-04-19T12:09:00.001-05:00

"I believe in specific ideas and I believe that those ideas have consequences. I believe in the individual, in less government so as to allow that individual maximum freedom to create and achieve; that societies which are founded on restraining the government rather than the individual are optimum; that the individual is smart enough to solve his own problems and does not need to depend on big government for resolution of all his problems; that my belief in individuality and limited government does not preclude me from advocating the requisite amount of governmental authority to ensure law and order in our society; that our ability to enjoy peace vis-a-vis other nations is directly related to our military strength; that the best that we can hope for in an imperfect world will most likely be achieved by maximizing individual economic and political freedoms and, conversely, that social utopia cannot be achieved through governmental largesse and socialistic redistributions of wealth; that compassion is defined not by how many people are on the governmental dole but by how many people no longer need governmental assistance; that political and economic freedom are inextricably intertwined; that society owes its citizens equality of opportunity but cannot guarantee them equality of outcome; that strong, wholesome family values are at the very core of a productive, prosperous, and peaceful society; that those values cannot be instilled by government but can indeed be sucked dry and eliminated by well-intentioned but destructive governmental programs; that human life is sacred and that God placed man in a position of having dominion over nature; that environmental awareness is healthy, but that apocalyptic environmentalism based on disinformation and hysteria is destructive to society and man's best interests; that racial relations will not be enhanced or prejudice eliminated by governmental edict; that there is one God and that this country was established with that foundational belief; that our morality emanates from our Divine Creator, whose laws are not subject to amendment, modification, or rescission by man; that certain fundamental differences between men and women exist in nature; that men and women are not at war and that their relationship should not be redefined by those who believe that we are; that the meaning of the establishment clause of the First Amendment should not be stretched beyond its intended dimensions by precluding voluntary prayer in our public schools; that the United States of America was founded on the beliefs I have just enunciated and that it is the greatest nation in the history of the world; and that the USA is the greatest nation, not because Americans are inherently superior but because its government was founded on principles which seek to allow maximum individual achievement."

-Rush

What is a Liberal?

2007-03-07T22:07:00.001-06:00

What is a Conservative?

2007-03-07T22:06:00.000-06:00

Keystone 3

2007-02-26T15:10:00.000-06:00

Keystone The Movie

2007-02-23T20:45:00.001-06:00

Keystone 2

2007-02-23T15:22:00.001-06:00

Keystone

2007-02-23T15:13:00.000-06:00

Don't Mean To Brag But...

2007-02-17T04:10:00.000-06:00

I'm off to Colorado to go skiing. Check back later for pics/video of the event.

Chancellor Obama?

2007-02-12T16:19:00.000-06:00

I thought it was funny.

I will give him this though, he is very articulate.

Google Trick

2007-02-05T20:20:00.000-06:00

I call it a Google trick because Google is the only web page I've had it work on so far. What I do is an image search then enter this code into the address bar:

javascript:R=0; x1=.1; y1=.05; x2=.25; y2=.24; x3=1.6; y3=.24; x4=300; y4=200; x5=300; y5=200; DI=document.images; DIL=DI.length; function A(){for(i=0; i-DIL; i++){DIS=DI[ i ].style; DIS.position='absolute'; DIS.left=Math.sin(R*x1+i*x2+x3)*x4+x5; DIS.top=Math.cos(R*y1+i*y2+y3)*y4+y5}R++}setInterval('A()',5); void(0);

It should work for most sights with lots of pictures on the page.

The Knack

2007-02-04T09:00:00.000-06:00

H-y-p-o-c-r-i-s-y. To the letter

2007-01-28T16:19:00.000-06:00

I am so flabbergasted by this, I don't even have anything to say. Just read it.

Say it with me...

2007-01-19T20:51:00.000-06:00

George in the Stove

2007-01-14T15:05:00.001-06:00


Donna Chang tells George his parents are getting a divorce and George reacts...

German Coast Guard

2007-01-10T21:58:00.001-06:00


TV Ad

Ladies And Gentelmen,

2006-12-31T03:27:00.000-06:00

The moment you've all been waiting for...

(graphic)

I Won't Be Home For Christmas

2006-12-06T07:33:00.000-06:00

I'm going to Utah to spend Christmas with Jennelle and her family. I'm sorry you guys won't get to see me, but I'll be having fun.

Initiation

2006-11-25T23:04:00.000-06:00

Jennelle:

We, the undersigned, have met formally to determine your placement in The Organization. We have determined you meet all criteria and have earned placement as First Lady. This honor comes with both rights and responsibilities. The seriousness of the rights and responsibilities cause them to be passed from member to member and never be written. We happily welcome you and wish you well!

Signed,

Jonathan A.

Doug C. – Witnessed, but never seen

Current members (listed alphabetically):

Jonathan A. – Head of Public Works
Brittany B. – Wet One
Doug C. – Overseer of All Things Dead
Chris R. – Minority Leader
“Lizzy” R. – Miniature Leader

5

2006-11-18T18:21:00.000-06:00

Time to show your thumbs.

"Progress through education"

2006-11-11T13:12:00.000-06:00

“Progress through education.”  - This is a mission statement with Alabama’s schools and their financial partners.

The Bible Belt is a section of America predominantly filled with socially conservative groups.  A Democrats stench can be felt from miles away.

“Another bright blue dot in a temporarily red state.” – Left-wing garbage.

The Bible Belt is home to [former] Judge Roy Moore.  A majority of people (educated people, that is) have heard of the “Ten Commandments” battle.  Everyone has their own opinion on this battle; however, for the sake of this rant those opinions are pointless.

CAUTION:  Mature audiences only.  The following link contains images of artwork currently on display in the UAH Engineering Building student lounge.  These images contain drawings of nudity.  The state-funded school thinks these images are suitable for all ages, however, I find the need to add a disclaimer.  By clicking this link, you assume full responsibility for all “reaction-profanity.”

Art?  ( “the link”

Anyone who knows me initially finds I enjoy confrontation:  debating, logic assessments, and the like.  So, this art, as always, will cause debate and controversy.  If you read this, view the images and leave a comment or two about your opinion concerning their public placement.

We live in a state where the Supreme Court banned the Ten Commandments, but have no qualms about the display of implied sexual congress.

Too far?  Too much?  Progressive?  What do you think?

Underworld

2006-11-09T21:52:00.000-06:00

1776 – 1885

Politician (pol i ti cian)
-noun
1. A person who is active in party politics.
2. An expert in politics or political government.

----------

1885 – present

Politician (pol i ti cian)
-noun
1. One who was perfected the art of lying.
2. A highly paid yes-man.

I accept the invitation to serve as a servant to the American people. Most politicians seem to forget their duties to their people. Rather than supporting the ideologies of their constituency they delve into matters that matter least to the tax-payers.

“Hearts and minds.” This is a timeless tactic during the campaign season. Grassroots campaigns, the Bible Belt, blue-collar workers, and many others are deceived into believing the façade of a man will actually stand-up for their beliefs once the hard-working people put their trust (and livelihoods) into the greased hands of their representatives.

Fickled. The mudslinging political factions have caused to much turmoil in this country, the people fight for years to enact moral and just laws only to have them hard-fought in vain. Virginia: the last state to go “Blue.” Careers were spent placing a state-wide ban on gay marriage; however, they elect a Democrat to sit in both Houses of Congress. While gay marriage isn’t the most important issue, this happened yesterday, so it’s fresh.

“From sea to shining sea, America has voted for change.” - Nancy Pelosi, now third in line to the Presidency.

“It was a thumpin’” – W, still the President

“Here come the Democrats.” – The Drudge Report

“…I’m scared.” – Iraqi civilian responding to the Democrats win – stating they [the Iraqi people longing to be free] will be slaughtered if the Americans abandon them.

Most people have taken this change of power lightly. This change scares the living hell out of me. The Democrats are keen in their deception. They willingly cooperate on issues concerning most aspects of National Security… except one. They may not agree with the Republicans, but they share their desire to strengthen our Homeland… but…

Illegal immigration. One thing is absolutely certain: our new enemies, the terrorists, are expertly trained, fearless, and highly motivated. Tighten airport security and take away box-cutters, they develop liquid explosives. Restrict everything from carry-on luggage: they detonate bombs on trains. Focus on the trains, they attack ships. When the Israeli deputy of airport security was asked how their security differed from American airport security (prompted from the statistics that no flight from Israel has ever been hijacked) he responded, “we target terrorists, not nail files.” What a novel idea! If you want to avoid bad guys from taking control of a plane… just don’t let the bad guys on the plane! Airport security is pathetic at best. An estimated ten years will pass before any type of effective security measures are placed.

To better understand this, let’s crunch some numbers.

Approximately 19 hijackers were active on 9/11.

There are an estimated 500,000 illegal immigrants crossing into America each year.

The Washington Post estimates approximately 4% are from possible Middle Eastern countries.

So, 20,000 terrorists could be casually walking into our country each year – 54 a day.

Grab your calculators: that’s almost 3 groups of 9/11 hijackers entering our country each day.

The die has been cast, the votes counted: the light at the end of the tunnel is now spattered with foreseeable innocent blood.

Jonathan A.

Chris R.

They have the majority. We are outnumbered – but, never outgunned.

6!

2006-11-08T20:04:00.000-06:00

We've breeched the top 10! "Rants and Ravings" is now number six in Google

Politics

2006-11-05T13:09:00.000-06:00

I would like to take this space to announce that I, Chris R. (can't do the full name, security reasons), will at some point be running for any number of political offices. Jonathan, you're welcome to join me, we can both be senators.

Anyway, I've decided that there are not enough politicians that are running on issues that they truly feel passionate about because they are afraid of how "the people" might interpret them. But not me, I'm going to run to prove a point. Now, that point will be determined by the outcome of the election. If I win, it will say that a majority of this country (or state or city, etc.) really is conservative and care about the issues. If I loose, it'll prove that we're in deep crap and we have to start fighting harder to win back the country.

My platform: These are the issues that I (at this moment) feel the strongest about. If you have any questions on these or any other issues, feel free to leave that question in the comments.

Illegal Immigration: There's a reason it's called illegal immigration... it's not legal. I support reinstitution of Operation Wetback. Get them all out of here, and secure the border with armed guards and an impenetrable fence. I'm thinking "Great Wall of America" here. Sounds like it costs a lot of money, but so do the illegals. We'll wind up saving money by not having to pay for their anchor baby's welfare.

Taxes: The Fair Tax. Plain and simple. If you don't know what it is, click on the link and read. If after reading all the information about this resolution you are not convinced, tell me why; I've found absolutely nothing wrong with it.

Social Security: Privatize all of it, if you wish. I only add in the "if you wish" for those of you who actually want to let the government hold your money. The remainder of you will have the ability to selectively invest, or not, in whatever you wish. We, as Americans should be able to do what we want with our money.

Reparations: Why? If someone can give me a good reason why we should be giving black Americans (not African-Americans, that just doesn't make any sense) money, I'll be surprised. There's nothing we've done to prevent them, by now, from being successful. Listen to Bill Cosby, he very accurately represents my views on this subject.

That's all I can think of right now, but feel free to ask me about any others that you may find interesting. The most important thing, though, is for you to research these topics for yourself. Also, use multiple sources. Say for instance that you read about Social Security privatization on foxnews.com, check cnn.com also, then decide for yourself what you think on the subject.

...?

2006-11-01T22:07:00.000-06:00

Feel free to use profanity.

SP's In The Education Industry

2006-10-26T19:26:00.000-05:00

There's not really much that I can say about this that you're not already thinking.

FOX is taking over Times Square

2006-10-13T10:27:00.000-05:00

Apparently that huge screen in Times Square that was origionally owned by NBC was taken over today by Fox News. The video is at Fox.com. I'm too lazy to figure out how to make the link work correctly, so just click on the title here.

Greatest Quote from a [Foreign] Professor

2006-10-12T19:46:00.000-05:00

"Listen to me, or I kill you."

Follow-up to Chris

2006-10-01T10:55:00.000-05:00

Something With Text

2006-09-30T17:27:00.000-05:00

The Secular-Progressive Ten Commandments

Thou shalt not make any judgment regarding most private personal behavior. Man/Woman is the master/mistress of the universe and his/her gratification is paramount.
Thou shalt not worship or acknowledge God in the public square, for such an exposition could be offensive to humankind.
Thou shalt take from the rich and give to the poor. No private property is sacrosanct.
Thou shalt circumvent mother and father in personal issues such as abortion and sex education in public schools.
Thou shalt kill if necessary to promote individual rights in cases of abortion and euthanasia.
Thou shalt be allowed to bear false witness against thy neighbor if that person stands against secular humanism.
Thou shalt not wage preemptive war in any circumstance.
Thou shalt not impede the free movement of any human being on earth. All countries should be welcoming places without borders.
Thou shalt not prohibit narcotics or impede personal gratification in this area.
Thou shalt not limit the power of the government in order to provide "prosperity" to all.

Taken from Bill O'Reilly's Culture Warrior

Alabama's "American"

2006-09-23T17:39:00.000-05:00

This marquee is one block north of the Beltline-Spring Ave. intersection. Let's take a closer look:

White and Nerdy

2006-09-22T23:38:00.000-05:00

2006-09-22T22:43:00.000-05:00

That Woman

A little nostalgia

Piggy-backing

2006-09-20T20:07:00.000-05:00

Who wants chowder?

Vintage Alabama

2006-09-20T20:06:00.000-05:00

The Exxon filling station at the intersection of 6th Ave and 8th St. Evidently Exxon's profits do not go toward education.

It's Peanut Butter Jelly Time!

2006-09-20T13:25:00.000-05:00

Oh, you're in the mood!

It had to be done!

2006-09-16T19:55:00.000-05:00

Know thy enemy.

Obsession: Radical Islam's War Against the West

Summer Blockbuster... except in America. The liberal media strikes again. No distributor will carry this film [yet]. Find it. Watch it. Learn from it.

Alabama

2006-09-10T20:30:00.000-05:00

A picture we took at Big Spring Jam. It makes you proud of our great state. It also reminds me of the state anthem:

"Brave and pure thy men and women,
Better this than corn and wine,
Make us worthy, God in Heaven,
Of this goodly land of Thine;
Hearts as open as our doorways,
Liberal hands and spirits free"

Please, click on the title "Alabama" at the top of this post. If this picture resembles you in any way, the information on the provided webpage will benefit you, and mankind.

Hillary '08

2006-09-09T23:28:00.000-05:00

This is an actual KFC marquee in NYC. I hope you can see the sign. The t-shirts are correct: "I <3 NY"

Strip Of The Day

2006-09-09T21:54:00.000-05:00

You see, it's funny, because I've said that before.

Great... He's Back

2006-09-09T13:43:00.000-05:00

Just when we thought it was safe... he returns.

Bit Of Nostalgia

2006-09-06T18:33:00.000-05:00

I forgot that I had this site for my pics.

Getting Back To The Heart Of The Matter

2006-09-06T16:38:00.000-05:00

Seeing as this blog is supposed to be about complaints and grievances and such...

I bought a new wallet the other day because I've had my previous one for about 6 or 7 years. I finally got the kind I want (bi-fold, 2 separate money pouches (money in one and receipts in the other) and an easy to access ID holder) and am loving it except for one simple thing. The wallet has not yet formed to my posterior so the key card that I place behind it actually hides itself next to the wallet causing a brief period of panic every time I need to open my door. Seeing as I don't need the most exciting thing in my day to be that I can't find the key to my room for about 1/2 a second, this causes me much anger. My only course of action is to continually try and mold the money holder (a.k.a. sit on my arse) and I have no problem with that.

Hey Ya Accoustic

2006-09-05T14:42:00.000-05:00

Hadji Girl

2006-09-05T12:22:00.000-05:00

2006-08-31T14:48:00.000-05:00

Yeah, uh, I'd like to give a shout out...

2006-08-25T00:32:00.000-05:00

We all wish Douglas the best on this, his day of atonement.

Proof That It Is A Small Air Force

2006-08-22T12:39:00.000-05:00

I saw this video back when I was in Texas doing compression chamber training, and somehow it wound up online. The video itself is pretty much self-explanatory. The cool thing though is this, the young lady at the beginning of the video is the one who put my group through the compression chamber. After watching the video you will see that she did the best in the G-Force simulator, and she's just an Airman, all the rest in the video are officers. That's right, we rule.

Look out, Dolce and Gabbana!

2006-08-21T20:10:00.000-05:00

We officially don't know what the heck we're doing anymore.

Give me an "S!"

2006-08-17T21:23:00.000-05:00

As usual, most Liberals speak about topics based upon facts that are still spinning faster than anything coming out of Hillary's mouth. A main argument against dethroning Saddam is the Liberal's parallel of Saddam and Bush.

The Liberals claim that although Saddam lived a life of luxury in many palaces while his own people were being slaughtered and dying of hunger on the streets, President Bush was doing the exact same thing! *Gasp* Bush lives in a big white house while we have homeless and hungry. The obvious difference can be seen in that the hungry and homeless in America can find employment if they wanted to make a better life. It becomes apparent, however, that more than a vast majority of those that demonize Bush are Democrats that voted for Kerry. What they still fail to realize is they voted against the incumbent without fear for their lives. They take the word "Democracy" for granted.

CNN spun a story claiming Saddam unanimously won his election out of the Iraqi's spite for President Bush. This is another instance when the liberal media only use the facts that support their biased, anti-Bush agenda. Their sins of omission have not gone undetected. Soon after "we found him" [in a hole in the ground] the Iraqi people began to speak out about their former dictator. Those that opposed Saddam (even something such as a vote against him) were imprisoned or killed. The period between Saddam's capture and his removal from office was filled with fear. Most Iraqi's were terrified to speak out against Saddam. During the carnival trial of Saddam, most witnesses keep their identities hidden to protect their families.

So, use some discretion when condemning an Administration while simultaneously praising the efforts and achievements of a ruthless dictator. It's a sad day when these warning are needed.

Random Link 2

2006-08-16T07:41:00.000-05:00

Funny things about movies.

Random Link

2006-08-14T15:01:00.000-05:00

For the guys.

Tell me, how does that make you FEEL?

2006-08-12T00:45:00.000-05:00

Quickie (kwik-e) n. informal. - Something made or done rapidly.

If something ever annoys me so bad that immediate education is needed, I will post what is called a “quickie.” As this website is intended, these will be written out of pure frustration toward (but not limited to): stupidity, women, Democrats, liberals, rednecks, Alabamians, and/or bad/women/redneck drivers.

I am currently re-reading Ann Coulter’s Godless. I passed along a series of quotes I found interesting to my friend, Doug. This is what peak my interest enough to pass along:

“As a matter of faith, liberals believe: Darwinism is a fact, people are born gay, child-molesters can be rehabilitated, recycling is a virtue, and chastity is not. If people are born gay, why hasn't Darwinism weeded out people who don't reproduce? ...and if gays can't change, why do liberals think child-molesters can?”

Obviously he found this just as interesting, as he posted this on his personal blog. The first comment (by the alias "Dog") read that the lines were probably plagiarized.

I don't like "Dog." These people are like bad psychology patients. Everything is a "word-association." Bush: BAD! Iraq: Halliburton! Ann Coulter: Plagiarism! The bad thing about these terminal pessimists is that while they're so busy trying to convince everyone America is more evil than Hitler himself, they're allowing the civil "rights" of foreign terrorists to over-power the security of American citizens – costing tens of thousands of innocent lives both home and abroad.

Which is Greater: 100 or 101?

2006-08-10T16:37:00.000-05:00

Fasten your seatbelt.

I was browsing the political and world affairs sections at Books-A-Million not too long ago. Certain books caught my eye, both from being some of my personal favorites and those that sounded interesting. Eventually I came across one particular book: 101 People Who Are Really Screwing Up America (And Bernard Goldberg is only #73). For those of you less-informed than what is acceptable, Bernard Goldberg wrote 100 People Who Are Screwing Up America (And Al Franken is #37). Of course, I initially interpreted this as yet another liberal spinning comeback to the New York Times Bestseller. Then, however, I read the blurb:

“Best-selling author Jack Huberman provides us with an entertaining and informative bestiary of the real crooks, liars and cheats who are screwing up America. These are not just the people making asses of themselves or getting more media attention than they deserve. Huberman restores the likes of Fox News CEO Roger Ailes, James A. Baker III, Gary Bauer Brent Bozell, Ann Coulter, Karen Hughes, Karl Rove, Leo Strauss and Ralph Reed to their rightful place in the national hall of shame, along with such oozing pustules of cultural putrefaction as the Olson Twins, Mel Gibson, William Bennett, Katie Couric, Matt Drudge, Sean Hannity, Rush Limbaugh, Dr. Phil, Dr. Laura, Oprah Winfrey, Teletubbies, the Simpson sisters, and God.”

Yes, “…and God.”

It appears Ann Coulter was correct. The Church of Liberalism is, in fact, Godless.

{update} Never judge anything until you've done your homework. So, I read this book. Let's quote it! "#77: God - He thinks He's above the law." He goes on to say how God was "pushed underground" by the Enlightenment and has been thwarting all moral actions globally by "supporting evildoers" such as Bush (#2 in his list) and Cheney (#1). {/update}

Jack Huberman: “best-selling author.” His works include: Bushit: An A-Z Guide to the Bush Attack on Truth, Justice, Equality and the American Way and The Bush-Hater's Handbook: A Guide to the Most Appalling Presidency of the Past 100 Years.

Goldberg’s books encompass the bias (no pun intended) perpetuated by our media – those that spin the truth into a spiral of shame (including an inside look within CBS).

Politically, there is a perpetual game of “who has the biggest D.I.C.K.” (depth, insight, cleverness, and knowledge). The Republicans do or say something, and not long after the Democrats have a comeback; and vice versa. The movie Fahrenheit 9/11 prompted the Republican response of Fahrenhype 9/11. It’s obvious that the Republicans were merely defending themselves on an attack from Michael Moore (who shall hence forth be referred to as “it.”). It used subtle camera tricks and lighting to paint a portrait of a horrible country. These tricks included cutting responses from Senators and Congressmen since they gave answers that didn’t support it’s idea.

Democrats only use the facts that support their agenda. 500+ Weapons of Mass Destruction found in Iraq - including Sarin and Mustard Gas. But, that’s right, we already knew he had those. A few Kurds were just mistaken about the nerve agents Saddam “didn’t” have at his disposal. Democrats have a statute of limitations of WMD’s. Since Iraq didn’t manufacture these weapons within the last three years, they don’t count.

I’m not even entirely sure what this post will cover. I’ve become increasingly irritated towards… a lot. Some of you have forgotten: we’re at war. Forget the Israeli offensive. WE are at war. Battle lines are being drawn. France, Germany and the rest, like a fat kid at a pick-up basketball game, will be left on the sidelines... until the war is brought to their doorsteps - and they need us... again.

As many as ten airliners were saved today. Some feel we should defend America. Others feel individual rights are more important than the security of the innocent. Ann Coulter (shown below) speaks about this political correctness.

I once thought something drastic would need to happen before Democrats would open their eyes to the threats we face. 9/11 wasn’t even enough. Most have already forgotten. I haven’t…

Random Thoughts

2006-08-05T18:55:00.000-05:00

Believe it or not, minimum wage is economically inept. More people should take economics. I hate dealing with stupid people. What happened to common sense? Common sense isn't so common; if it were so, more people would have it.

In a matter of about 12 years, the Social Security administration will not be able to pay in full for all of its obligations. This is because the system is faulty in its planning. It requires that those working at the present pay for those in retirement at that time. There is no reserve of any substantial amount to allow for the baby boomers to retire with all their benefits.

This could be solved, but not by raising taxes. It could be solved by completely changing the taxing system in America. Instead of a federal tax based on how much you make, there could be a tax based on how much you spend. This way, those visiting the country would also pay into our tax system. If you make this tax apply to only final goods and services, those companies that moved overseas to avoid heavy taxation would come back in order to be in the thriving economy of the US. You know, come to think of it, I've heard of this before. Something that this radio host was talking about...I think he called it the Fair Tax.

If you smoke, and force me to smell it, I'll find it hard not to laugh at your funeral.

Believe it or not, the Air Force has a union. It's called the Air Force sergeants Association. You pay them money that they send to lobbyists in D.C. who fight for the "rights" of airmen. They fight for stuff like better living arrangements, good COLA (Cost Of Living Adjustment) each year, and tax deferment for the businesses on base. They call themselves the "voice of the Air Force enlisted." Don't get me wrong, I enjoy each and every one of these benefits, but I believe that they are obtained in the wrong way. Paying lobbyists tons of money so that they can convince members of congress to spend more of the taxpayers money (and if they don't they are anti-American) just doesn't seem right to me. Instead, it should be left as a laissez-faire system. If the Air Force sees that they are lacking in the membership department, up the benefits. This would save a ton of money and keep people from needlessly complaining because they knew what they were getting in to when they signed up (and anyone who doesn't, didn't do enough research and deserves to be disappointed). AFSA, you are not the voice of this airman.

That's all I've got for now, maybe more later.

2006-08-05T10:13:00.000-05:00

Random Pic Post

Just read it.

2006-08-03T21:24:00.000-05:00

I’ve noticed a fun correlation.

I had an awesome professor for my Digital Logic Design class (no, grades have not been posted yet). Saying the class title, it’s important to place an emphasis on LOGIC. A combination of logic and a good instructor make this class pretty easy. As with most post-secondary education classes, there are those in the class that ask questions that, in the words of Mr. Black, cause your brain to come to a screeching halt. I’ll let you connect the dots, but it's obvious that most college students lack common sense (i.e. logic). This mirrors the statistic that a vast majority of college students are Democrats. Oh, then there are the ones that claim not to be “either,” but tread the line in some fruitless attempt to metaphysical enlightenment…? While these “third-party” candidates have convinced themselves of their superiority over the rest – having such keen intellect – their political agenda and observations of government are nothing more than a watered-down Hilary Clinton. So, banana you!

Yet, I digress. Not to beat around the bush, but Democrats… get a life – and a [better] education.

2006-08-01T12:15:00.000-05:00

Bush's Speech Writer

I love satire. Please note the "haha" humor of this.

Declaration of Revocation by John Cleese

2006-07-31T10:21:00.000-05:00

To the citizens of the United States of America, in the light of your failure to elect a competent President of the USA and thus to govern yourselves, we hereby give notice of the revocation of your independence, effective today.

Her Sovereign Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will resume monarchical duties over all states, commonwealths and other territories. Except Utah, which she does not fancy.

Your new Prime Minister (The Right Honourable Tony Blair, MP for the 97.85% of you who have until now been unaware that there is a world outside your borders) will appoint a Minister for America without the need for further elections.

Congress and the Senate will be disbanded.

A questionnaire will be circulated next year to determine whether any of you noticed. To aid in the transition to a British Crown Dependency, the following rules are introduced with immediate effect:

1. You should look up "revocation" in the Oxford English Dictionary. Then look up "aluminium." Check the pronunciation guide. You will be amazed at just how wrongly you have been pronouncing it.

The letter 'U' will be reinstated in words such as 'favour' and 'neighbour'; skipping the letter 'U' is nothing more than laziness on your part. Likewise, you will learn to spell 'doughnut' without skipping half the letters.

You will end your love affair with the letter 'Z' (pronounced 'zed' not 'zee') and the suffix "ize" will be replaced by the suffix "ise."

You will learn that the suffix 'burgh' is pronounced 'burra' e.g. Edinburgh. You are welcome to re-spell Pittsburgh as 'Pittsberg' if you can't cope with correct pronunciation. Generally, you should raise your vocabulary to acceptable levels. Look up “vocabulary." Using the same thirty seven words interspersed with filler noises such as "uhh", "like", and "you know" is an unacceptable and inefficient form of communication.

Look up "interspersed."

There will be no more 'bleeps' in the Jerry Springer show. If you're not old enough to cope with bad language then you shouldn't have chat shows. When you learn to develop your vocabulary, then you won't have to use bad language as often.

2. There is no such thing as "US English." We will let Microsoft know on your behalf. The Microsoft spell-checker will be adjusted to take account of the reinstated letter 'u' and the elimination of "-ize."

3. You should learn to distinguish the English and Australian accents. It really isn't that hard. English accents are not limited to cockney, upper-class twit or Mancunian (Daphne in Frasier). You will also have to learn how to understand regional accents --- Scottish dramas such as "Taggart" will no longer be broadcast with subtitles.

While we're talking about regions, you must learn that there is no such place as Devonshire in England. The name of the county is "Devon." If you persist in calling it Devonshire, all American States will become "shires" e.g. Texasshire, Floridashire, Louisianashire.

4. Hollywood will be required occasionally to cast English actors as the good guys. Hollywood will be required to cast English actors to play English characters. British sit-coms such as "Men Behaving Badly" or "Red Dwarf" will not be re-cast and watered down for a wishy-washy American audience who can't cope with the humour of occasional political incorrectness.

5. You should relearn your original national anthem, "God Save The Queen", but only after fully carrying out task 1. We would not want you to get confused and give up half way through.

6. You should stop playing American "football." There is only one kind of football. What you refer to as American "football" is not a very good game. The 2.15% of you who are aware that there is a world outside your borders may have noticed that no one else plays "American" football. You will no longer be allowed to play it, and should instead play proper football.

Initially, it would be best if you played with the girls. It is a difficult game. Those of you brave enough will, in time, be allowed to play rugby (which is similar to American "football", but does not involve stopping for a rest every twenty seconds or wearing full kevlar body armour like nancies).

We are hoping to get together at least a US Rugby sevens side by 2008.

You should stop playing baseball. It is not reasonable to host an event called the 'World Series' for a game which is not played outside of America. Since only 2.15% of you are aware that there is a world beyond your borders, your error is understandable. Instead of baseball, you will be allowed to play a girls' game called "rounders," which is baseball without fancy team strip, oversized gloves, collector cards or hotdogs.

7. You will no longer be allowed to own or carry guns. You will no longer be allowed to own or carry anything more dangerous in public than a vegetable peeler. Because we don't believe you are sensible enough to handle potentially dangerous items, you will require a permit if you wish to carry a vegetable peeler in public.

8. July 4th is no longer a public holiday. November 2nd will be a new national holiday, but only in England. It will be called "Indecisive Day."

9. All American cars are hereby banned. They are crap, and it is for your own good. When we show you German cars, you will understand what we mean. All road intersections will be replaced with roundabouts. You will start driving on the left with immediate effect. At the same time, you will go metric with immediate effect and without the benefit of conversion tables. Roundabouts and metrication will help you understand the British sense of humour.

10. You will learn to make real chips. Those things you call 'French fries' are not real chips. Fries aren't even French, they are Belgian though 97.85% of you (including the guy who discovered fries while in Europe) are not aware of a country called Belgium. Those things you insist on calling potato chips are properly called "crisps." Real chips are thick cut and fried in animal fat. The traditional accompaniment to chips is beer which should be served warm and flat.
Waitresses will be trained to be more aggressive with customers.

11. As a sign of penance 5 grams of sea salt per cup will be added to all tea made within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, this quantity to be doubled for tea made within the city of Boston itself.

12. The cold tasteless stuff you insist on calling "beer" is not actually beer at all, it is lager . From November 1st only proper British Bitter will be referred to as "beer," and European brews of known and accepted provenance will be referred to as "Lager." The substances formerly known as "American Beer" will henceforth be referred to as "Near-Frozen Gnat's Urine," with the exception of the product of the American Budweiser company whose product will be referred to as "Weak Near-Frozen Gnat's Urine." This will allow true Budweiser (as manufactured for the last 1000 years in the Czech Republic) to be sold without risk of confusion.

13. From November 10th the UK will harmonise petrol (or "gasoline," as you will be permitted to keep calling it until April 1st 2007) prices with the former USA. The UK will harmonise its prices to those of the former USA and the Former USA will, in return, adopt UK petrol prices (roughly $6/US gallon -- get used to it).

14. You will learn to resolve personal issues without using guns, lawyers or therapists. The fact that you need so many lawyers and therapists shows that you're not adult enough to be independent. Guns should only be handled by adults. If you're not adult enough to sort things out without suing someone or speaking to a therapist, then you're not grown up enough to handle a gun.

15. Please tell us who killed JFK. It's been driving us crazy.

16. Tax collectors from Her Majesty's Government will be with you shortly to ensure the acquisition of all revenues due (backdated to 1776).

Thank you for your co-operation.

Chris' Birthday

2006-07-28T01:12:00.000-05:00

Not exactly ranting or raving, but today 7-28-06 is Chris' 20th birthday.
Everyone needs to wish him a happy birthday, and buy him something from his wish list that can be found on this page.

It Explains Itself.

2006-07-20T12:40:00.000-05:00

Drop Everything and Read

2006-07-19T21:23:00.000-05:00

Government 101.

According to the Constitution of the United States, our self-elected Congress has the following powers:  Article 1, Section 8: “…[11] To declare War”

Our President has the following responsibilities: Article 2, Section 2: “[1] The President shall be Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of the United States”

Okay, hence forth, we’re going to assume those reading this have a brain capable of thought – with the obvious exception of Democrats who need to read the 12th Amendment (but, that’s a rant for another day).

We all remember the 2004 Presidential election.  Bush, Kerry, the geography lesson of Dean, the purple hearts, Vietnam, “Re-defeat Bush!” (Again, we’ll dispense with the tangential rants), Iraq, terrorism, and all the fun we’ve grown to love about election time.

Remember the Bush / Kerry fight over their respective “service to their country?”  Kerry has Purple Hearts!  Bush was only in the Texas Air National Guard flying F-102’s.  (Please, note my sarcasm.  If you didn’t, leave)

Back to the Constitution.  Article 2, Section 1: “…[5] No person except a natural born Citizen, or a Citizen of the United States, at the time of the Adoption of this Constitution, shall be eligible to the Office of President; neither shall any person be eligible to that Office who shall not have attained to the Age of thirty-five Years, and been fourteen Years a Resident within the United States.”

It’s obvious to notice our President is not required to serve in the military to be considered for the Office.  It’s just a resume builder.  Having military experience, though, would be quite nice for the guy in charge of the most powerful armed force in the world.

This brings me full circle to the topic that Congress seems to have the idea they can dictate military strategy.  They seem to feel the need to have all operations undertaken by our military to be disclosed to the public, scrutinized, debated, and then approved.  They want to impose Due Process on the terrorist POW’s while Nick Berg, and the like, die horrific deaths each day.

During the election of the President of the United States, we analyze their service in the very military under his control.  A Congressman’s military service is the last thing on anyone’s mind during a Congressional election.

The system of checks and balances has shifted.   People are beginning to look for answers in all the wrong places.

Never Question Me

2006-07-18T15:57:00.000-05:00

If you read this blog with any sort of frequency, you will recall this article written about 10 months ago. In doing a little research on the topic, I discovered this. It seems that my predictions were correct almost to the day (note the date at the top of the page). I will be accepting any contributions you wish to give to help enhance my formidable wisdom. There is a paypal donate button below on the sidebar.

Stream

2006-07-16T01:17:00.000-05:00

Remember High School? Remember how you had that teacher that nobody liked, yet everyone was nice to her because she was the type to give bad grades based on weather she liked you or not? Remember how that teacher always taught English, and made you write "Stream of Consiencseness" poems? That's what this is. I haven't been able to talk to my girlfriend as much as I would like to. I bought an Xbox 360 and Halo 2 so that I can play online. I should be saving more money for many different reasons. I want to go see my girlfriend. I want to get out of debt. It is almost impossible to do both of those things at once, but that's what I plan on doing. Dare to dream. Live the impossible. Spell things wrong because there's always spellcheck. I wish real life had spellcheck. I wish that real life had grammer check more. If real life had grammer check, Microsoft programmed the version that the south uses. Worms are weird. Have you ever heard about a computer worm, and thought of an actual worm crawling through your computer. Is it weird to kiss your phone every night because it has a picture of your girlfriend on it? I'm leaving tomorrow for Omaha, and I'm sorta glad. Not because I want to leave my family or anything, but because i'll be with my stuff again. George Carlin has this bit about a place for your stuff, and it's entirely true, I think that's why he's so funny. I need my stuff, it's completely weird and makes no sense, but it's hard to function without my stuff. I was spacing out driving home tonight. I'm only slightly hungry, not enough to make me get up and get something to eat, but enough to make me think about it. When people get drunk, do their true feelings come out, or is that just what they think their true feelings are? Scrubs is a really funny show. "I'm no Superman." Superbleeder. Superbleader. I don't know which way to spell it. I will not type what I was about to type. I had to change positions because my legs were getting tired. I'm not even sure if i'll post this. My foot hurts. Probably because it is under my leg. I should post more pictures. I should take more pictures. I need to fix my link on Myspace. I tried that already, and it did not want to work for me. I'm sure I could figure it out, but i'm too lazy. I switched back to the first position. I need to take my RHCP poster with me, but I have no way of safely transporting it. I don't trust the airport baggage handlers with my new xbox. Xbox 360 that is. I'm still only slightly hungry. If anyone has read this far, they must be really bored. Hi Jennelle. Feel free to comment, i'm sure none of you will. I believe that I have over half the commments on this site. That is sad because it is my site. I have removed Doug and Cody from admin because they have to do nothing admin in nature. I'm about to remove Cody all together because he no longer does anything to contribute to the site. My phone is blue, and I have mixed feelings about it. On the one hand, it gets bad signal. On the other hand, it has an IR port on it. This means that I never have to pay for ringtones, wallpapers, or anything. I can just transport them through IR. It also has a good bit of memory, so I don't really have to worry about that. I wonder how much I've typed. I don't think I'll run spellcheck on this. I need to pack, but I don't want to do it now. I always pack at the last minute. I miss you Jennelle. I'm sorry to anyone who does not like reading about my relationship, but you'll get over it. I wonder what the highest number of people you can piss of in one day is. If I start becomming completely frank with everyone, will everyone hate me? I like being frank, no one expects it and they are always taken aback by the....frankness. I like my socks. I am just the smallest bit tired, which is good, because I really need to get some sleep so that I don't mess up and drool on the guy sitting next to me on the plane. Still slightly hungry. I want a bicycle. Pitter patter, pitter patter. That was my heard beating. Goodnight.

Update

2006-07-14T22:58:00.000-05:00

Chris is home. It is fun.