The ‘recession’ has affected almost all areas of the economy, both in the public and private sectors; amid massive job losses, increasing UI claims from laid-off workers, record numbers of companies filing for bankruptcy, corporate profits down, shrinking market share, the Consumer Confidence Index is at its lowest level in recent memory, and banks are refusing to make loans while raising interest rates on credit cardholders to offset financial losses.
In spite of all the gloomy pessimism, there is one bright spot, and this is in the field of Law Enforcement. It seems that vacancies cannot be filled fast enough and some agencies have even had to advertise for open positions in other states employment listings. This not only pertains to local police departments, but sheriff’s deputies and state patrol officers as well. And because of the constant threat from terrorism, there are positions in Homeland Security, Port Security, Border Patrol Agents, Immigration & Naturalization Agents, and of course, the Military.
But getting back to the main point, it seems that “crime does pay,” or rather provides a paycheck for those who seek employment in the various branches of the Criminal Justice System. While the need to protect the public from harmful acts is an almost instinctive one, and a sacred trust, it is ironic that in the midst of this economic downturn, teachers are being fired but more police officers [or Public Safety Officers; if you prefer] are being hired. Bullets seem to be more important than books and a badge & gun more valued than a High School Diploma or a College degree. Think about it for a moment: The average cost to incarcerate a prisoner is $30,000 or so annually; which could feed a family of four about twelve months. If you take and multiply that amount by the nearly 1.5 million people in jails and prisons, not including those in Juvenile Detention Centers, or in Mental State Hospitals for the Criminally Insane, this comes to a whopping 45 Billion dollars.
Since the rate of ‘recidivism’ is 90%, what’s the point of locking up all these offenders who sit around most of the time without being productive; unless you call using the prison library to become familiar with criminal law precedents so they can work on their appeals, and who sit around and enjoy “three hot’s and a cot” on the taxpayers dime? Now this criticism does not mean that all the floodgates of the prisons and jails should be swung wide open to let out all the murderers, sexual predators, psychopaths, schizophrenics, paranoid delusional, bi-polar, and mentally depraved individuals to wreck havoc on the innocent citizenry. However, it has been argued for decades that the modern penal system, which by the way, was first instituted in the Americas by those peace-loving, charitable, benevolent, and God-fearing Quakers, is now an abject failure.
What is sorely needed is a practical reform of the Criminal Justice/Penal System, the Criminal Courts, and the Legislatures in each State which draft the Criminal law codes to amend the existing laws where only the most heinous, unrepentant or unremorseful, malicious, and wickedly malevolent and deviant individuals are put away where they cannot ever harm another individual. Yet at the same time, there mustn’t be a compromise of the system’s integrity and fairness, to wit; the same justice which the wealthy can afford should also be made available to the poor, as well. It must be kept in mind that the C.J. System derives most of its revenue from the taxpayer and not from fines imposed by the Courts or through Bail/Bonds proceedings.
Since there are roughly about 5 million workers without jobs, this means a shrinking tax base and insufficient revenue to meet the budgets and services as well as projects at the local, county, city, state, and national level. Just like there is an ever-increasing cry for a mandate for the Courts to dismiss frivolous lawsuits, there should be just as much vigor or rigor in addressing the issue of exorbitant sentencing guidelines for seemingly minor or less egregious criminal conduct. This must be done in such a way as to satisfy the ‘ends of the law’ to punish significant criminal behavior while at the same time is humane and sensitive to the aggrieved party as well as to act prudently in the best interests of society as a whole; and early release (‘parole’) or pre-release just might not be the best alternative in all instances.
Perhaps the next time a criminal defendant appears before the bar of justice regarding offenses deemed non-lethal, habitual, premeditated, or depraved, and after all the arguments from both opposing counsel has been heard and evidence [‘Discovery’] is introduced to the Court, the presiding Judge can then look the perpetrator straight in the eyes and say, “I hereby sentence you to ‘LIFE;’ get out of my courtroom, get a job, live responsibly, and don’t appear before my face again because I’m not going to let you off that easy, next time.” Perhaps forgiveness is the best form of rehabilitation, not retribution or punishment.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
May 1, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
Friday, May 1, 2009
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Misinterpreting Separation of Church and State
The one thing that is perhaps missing in the various legal arguments regarding the interpretation of the ‘Establishment Clause’ in the ‘First Amendment’ to the US Constitution is a proper reading of the words. It states: (I) Congress shall make no law respecting (II) [‘pertaining to’] an establishment of religion, OR (III) prohibiting the free exercise thereof; OR [Congress shall make no law ‘abridging’] the freedom of speech, OR [Congress shall make no law ‘abridging’] the freedom of the press, OR [Congress shall make no law ‘abridging’] the right of the people peaceably to assemble, {AND} [Congress shall make no law ‘abridging’ the right of the people] to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
As far as the notion of separation of “Church and State,” all it says here is that Congress or rather the Federal Government will not intervene or legislate in matters of religion and that it will not deprive [‘take away’] or diminish [‘to lessen’] various other rights guaranteed to the people. Also, what is not usually included in this theme finds its fuller expression in the ‘Tenth Amendment’ which states: The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, {OR} to the people.
The Amendments to the Constitution and the Bill of Rights cover the broad range of privileges and rights of citizenship which endeavor to promote peace, tranquility, and the pursuit of happiness; however, these do not mention every aspect of behavior in a civil and representative Democracy, and accordingly, other matters not expressly addressed in the Constitution are ‘reserved’ to the States, or the People, collectively. One of the concerns that the Founding Fathers of the nation had in the 1780’s was concern over the power of Federal Government exercising its will over the rights of the States.
Now it seems these fears were misplaced somewhat because it is not so much the Federal Legislature but rather the activist and politically-partial Supreme Court that almost seems to be a judicially-empowered legislative body within itself through the process of legal ‘Precedent,’ who have either overturned old laws or enacted new ones; bypassing the exclusively sovereign rights of the States and its citizens to make decisions or pass laws in areas of public, institutional, and in private affairs where there is no violation of or prohibition against such as delineated in the US Constitution.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
April 22, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
As far as the notion of separation of “Church and State,” all it says here is that Congress or rather the Federal Government will not intervene or legislate in matters of religion and that it will not deprive [‘take away’] or diminish [‘to lessen’] various other rights guaranteed to the people. Also, what is not usually included in this theme finds its fuller expression in the ‘Tenth Amendment’ which states: The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, {OR} to the people.
The Amendments to the Constitution and the Bill of Rights cover the broad range of privileges and rights of citizenship which endeavor to promote peace, tranquility, and the pursuit of happiness; however, these do not mention every aspect of behavior in a civil and representative Democracy, and accordingly, other matters not expressly addressed in the Constitution are ‘reserved’ to the States, or the People, collectively. One of the concerns that the Founding Fathers of the nation had in the 1780’s was concern over the power of Federal Government exercising its will over the rights of the States.
Now it seems these fears were misplaced somewhat because it is not so much the Federal Legislature but rather the activist and politically-partial Supreme Court that almost seems to be a judicially-empowered legislative body within itself through the process of legal ‘Precedent,’ who have either overturned old laws or enacted new ones; bypassing the exclusively sovereign rights of the States and its citizens to make decisions or pass laws in areas of public, institutional, and in private affairs where there is no violation of or prohibition against such as delineated in the US Constitution.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
April 22, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
The Mother of Slain Children Finally Speaks Out
In what has been the latest installment of tragically violent, family disturbances which have resulted in homicide, Angela Harrison of Graham, WA was informed Saturday that her husband James had murdered their five children before ending his own life; in an apparent suicide. The horrific nature of this crime was so riveting that it was featured on the national news segment of a major broadcast network. Although Ms. Harrison has finally broken her silence over the past few days to address the media, there are still some lingering questions which have gone unanswered.
Despite this very heinous, cowardly, and selfish act by James Harrison to kill his children in cold blood, where was Angela on last Friday night, the last night that her children were last seen alive? According to the Monday edition, April 6, 2009, of the Tacoma News Tribune, Mr. Harrison had sought out his wife and located her at a convenience store in Auburn, WA, where she informed him of her desire to end the marriage and that she was planning to leave him. There is still no credible explanation for her absence from the home; was it because she was working the late shift or is there some other reason? If Angela was afraid that her husband might become physically abusive when she came home, then why didn’t she contact the police?
And what about this anonymous and unnamed ‘friend’ of Angela’s whom she confided in about her marital troubles and was such a source of strength and support to her? This friend seems to have taken a behind-the-scene ‘special’ interest in the teetering-on-the brink-of-collapse situation of a married woman. Angela claims that her male friend showed her she deserves to be treated better than that and he was the one who helped her arrive at this decision to leave her husband, James; not her relatives, co-workers, marriage/family counselor, or girlfriends, but this individual. Usually, when someone mentions a ‘special’ friend who is a member of the opposite sex, it is in many cases a codeword for something more going on between them; especially when one of the parties has to defend the association in public.
There have been rumors and innuendo of Ms. Harrison having an extra-marital affair, to which she has denied. There is however, not such a clear distinction that can be drawn between not having an ‘affair’ or a ‘relationship.’ A person can experience intimate physical contact or voyeurism/erotica [‘looking but not touching’] and yet say that they aren’t having an ‘affair’ because to most people the act has to involve sexual intercourse.
What about someone in a ‘relationship,’ where there is conduct involving: closeness, sharing, communication, trust; that is given to another person in the form of attentiveness, warmth, loyalty, verbal expression and physical contact that is not given to one’s spouse/life partner; what would these acts be considered? Not only that, but could these things be seen by the other domestic partner such that the individual not feel betrayed or hurt? So when one says that they aren’t having an affair in the technical sense but confides in someone else exclusively of the opposite sex because he understands her so well, then one would have to be incredibly naïve not to believe that ‘something’ else isn’t going on; now, what that ‘something’ is, only Angela and her friend know for certain.
While not wanting to play the blame game or further subject Ms. Harrison to a guilt trip because of the incredible pain, grief, and mourning that she must be going through, this is not the time for second-guessing and incriminations because what is done cannot be altered. Whatever might should have been done in the past cannot be relived and in a home where there was once the joyous sound of laughter and the usual, albeit predictable ruckus of children in ages ranging from seven to sixteen, are now replaced with haunting silence, empty spaces, and cherished memories before a shrine of flowers, cards, candles, and stuffed animals.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
April 8, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
Despite this very heinous, cowardly, and selfish act by James Harrison to kill his children in cold blood, where was Angela on last Friday night, the last night that her children were last seen alive? According to the Monday edition, April 6, 2009, of the Tacoma News Tribune, Mr. Harrison had sought out his wife and located her at a convenience store in Auburn, WA, where she informed him of her desire to end the marriage and that she was planning to leave him. There is still no credible explanation for her absence from the home; was it because she was working the late shift or is there some other reason? If Angela was afraid that her husband might become physically abusive when she came home, then why didn’t she contact the police?
And what about this anonymous and unnamed ‘friend’ of Angela’s whom she confided in about her marital troubles and was such a source of strength and support to her? This friend seems to have taken a behind-the-scene ‘special’ interest in the teetering-on-the brink-of-collapse situation of a married woman. Angela claims that her male friend showed her she deserves to be treated better than that and he was the one who helped her arrive at this decision to leave her husband, James; not her relatives, co-workers, marriage/family counselor, or girlfriends, but this individual. Usually, when someone mentions a ‘special’ friend who is a member of the opposite sex, it is in many cases a codeword for something more going on between them; especially when one of the parties has to defend the association in public.
There have been rumors and innuendo of Ms. Harrison having an extra-marital affair, to which she has denied. There is however, not such a clear distinction that can be drawn between not having an ‘affair’ or a ‘relationship.’ A person can experience intimate physical contact or voyeurism/erotica [‘looking but not touching’] and yet say that they aren’t having an ‘affair’ because to most people the act has to involve sexual intercourse.
What about someone in a ‘relationship,’ where there is conduct involving: closeness, sharing, communication, trust; that is given to another person in the form of attentiveness, warmth, loyalty, verbal expression and physical contact that is not given to one’s spouse/life partner; what would these acts be considered? Not only that, but could these things be seen by the other domestic partner such that the individual not feel betrayed or hurt? So when one says that they aren’t having an affair in the technical sense but confides in someone else exclusively of the opposite sex because he understands her so well, then one would have to be incredibly naïve not to believe that ‘something’ else isn’t going on; now, what that ‘something’ is, only Angela and her friend know for certain.
While not wanting to play the blame game or further subject Ms. Harrison to a guilt trip because of the incredible pain, grief, and mourning that she must be going through, this is not the time for second-guessing and incriminations because what is done cannot be altered. Whatever might should have been done in the past cannot be relived and in a home where there was once the joyous sound of laughter and the usual, albeit predictable ruckus of children in ages ranging from seven to sixteen, are now replaced with haunting silence, empty spaces, and cherished memories before a shrine of flowers, cards, candles, and stuffed animals.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
April 8, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Michelle 'O' is no Jackie "O"
On her first entrance onto the major International stage, First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama seemed as though she did a Texas Two-Step before the descendant of the House of Tudor than a graceful Fox Trot. Michelle Obama has been compared to former First Lady of Camelot, Jackie 'O' Kennedy, but that might be a wee bit premature. Notwithstanding Michelle Obama's fashion style where she wore a sleeveless ensemble on at least one occasion at this august gathering of dignitaries and their spouses from the most powerful Industrial nations (The G-20) on planet Earth, but she made the almost unthinkable breach in etiquette and tradition when she met Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom [England].
The first thing: she shook the Queen's extended and outstretched hand, instead of taking her hand and respectfully bowing slightly with a curtsey. The second thing was that she was seen later putting her arm around the Queen Mother’s shoulder and patting her on the back, like some other ordinary acquaintance, or wife of the usual political leader. And to top it all off, the gift from the President and First Lady of the United States to the royal-blooded Queen of England was an 'iPod;' an iPod! Talk about being "Ghetto," courtesy of the lower Southside of Chicago (Amen). President Obama was so angry with GM that he wanted the CEO fired, well; he should also fire whoever advised him and Mrs. Obama in particular, on how to be introduced to royalty. Let's just hope when the President and First Lady attend all those lavish dinner parties that they will know how to use the flatware, because it seems that for them, being highly educated and a cultural sophisticate are not necessarily the same thing.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
April 3, 2009
253-382-4092
pbks@hotmail.com
The first thing: she shook the Queen's extended and outstretched hand, instead of taking her hand and respectfully bowing slightly with a curtsey. The second thing was that she was seen later putting her arm around the Queen Mother’s shoulder and patting her on the back, like some other ordinary acquaintance, or wife of the usual political leader. And to top it all off, the gift from the President and First Lady of the United States to the royal-blooded Queen of England was an 'iPod;' an iPod! Talk about being "Ghetto," courtesy of the lower Southside of Chicago (Amen). President Obama was so angry with GM that he wanted the CEO fired, well; he should also fire whoever advised him and Mrs. Obama in particular, on how to be introduced to royalty. Let's just hope when the President and First Lady attend all those lavish dinner parties that they will know how to use the flatware, because it seems that for them, being highly educated and a cultural sophisticate are not necessarily the same thing.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
April 3, 2009
253-382-4092
pbks@hotmail.com
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
A Letter to Members of Congress: Lead by Example
It is time for a little plain talk because everything is getting lost in translation regarding the financial crisis and subsequent high unemployment, and the worst recession since the "Great Depression" of 1929. While it is easy to blame greedy CEO's of FORTUNE 500 companies and the ever-shrinking membership list of "The Billionaires Club," the fault doesn't entirely rest upon the shoulders of the Titans of Industry. it does make for good theatre, like a Broadway show, to drag or subpoena certain corporate execs before a Congressional Committee and berate them in front of the television cameras and microphones; much to the delight of the people back home in the various political districts who elect these mostly self-serving Legislators.
While not wanting to exonerate these 'fat cats' from any of the well- deserved disdain and anger from Americans who are suffering through one of the greatest job loss and significant erosion of the value of their 401-k and Retirement income in recent memory, or ever, still, the blame for our pain must be spread to members of Congress as well. For nearly the last decade, what has both the Republican and Democratic leadership in the Senate and House of Congress done to regulate, monitor, and empower the FDIC, SEC, Commerce Department, The Federal Reserve, Treasury Department, The Department of Labor, and even the Justice Department to prevent this crisis from happening? It isn't about Bernie Madoff, Executives from the "Big Three" (General Motors, Chrysler, and Ford), AIG Executives, or the failure of Lehman Brothers, WA Mutual, and a few others.
Government watchdogs, or perhaps bloodhounds is a better analogy, should have sniffed out the clues of long ago with what happened with Kenneth Lay and ENRON, followed by the collapse of CountryWide Financial. Even before these companies sunk like the 'Titanic,' there was the failure of virtually all the Savings & Loan companies over a quarter century ago. Instead of threatening to sic the FBI or the IRS to seize the offending companies financial records, bank statements, and computers, why don't John Boehner, Lindsay Graham, Nancy Pelosi, Harry Reed, Barnie Frank, and other political heavyweights show solidarity with their struggling constituents and set an example by voluntarily taking a pay cut? After all, since they say they feel the pain of the average American ''Blue collar" worker (and some 'white collar' ones as well), then why should they have the exclusive right to criticize the privileged upper echelon of the 'Boardroom' and yet exempt themselves from sacrificing a little bit too?
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
March 18, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
While not wanting to exonerate these 'fat cats' from any of the well- deserved disdain and anger from Americans who are suffering through one of the greatest job loss and significant erosion of the value of their 401-k and Retirement income in recent memory, or ever, still, the blame for our pain must be spread to members of Congress as well. For nearly the last decade, what has both the Republican and Democratic leadership in the Senate and House of Congress done to regulate, monitor, and empower the FDIC, SEC, Commerce Department, The Federal Reserve, Treasury Department, The Department of Labor, and even the Justice Department to prevent this crisis from happening? It isn't about Bernie Madoff, Executives from the "Big Three" (General Motors, Chrysler, and Ford), AIG Executives, or the failure of Lehman Brothers, WA Mutual, and a few others.
Government watchdogs, or perhaps bloodhounds is a better analogy, should have sniffed out the clues of long ago with what happened with Kenneth Lay and ENRON, followed by the collapse of CountryWide Financial. Even before these companies sunk like the 'Titanic,' there was the failure of virtually all the Savings & Loan companies over a quarter century ago. Instead of threatening to sic the FBI or the IRS to seize the offending companies financial records, bank statements, and computers, why don't John Boehner, Lindsay Graham, Nancy Pelosi, Harry Reed, Barnie Frank, and other political heavyweights show solidarity with their struggling constituents and set an example by voluntarily taking a pay cut? After all, since they say they feel the pain of the average American ''Blue collar" worker (and some 'white collar' ones as well), then why should they have the exclusive right to criticize the privileged upper echelon of the 'Boardroom' and yet exempt themselves from sacrificing a little bit too?
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
March 18, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Rihanna and Chris Brown Back Together Again??
It seems that Grammy award winning R&B musical superstars Chris Brown and Rihanna’s dating troubles have been the item of discussion at office water coolers, bars, coffee shops, grocery stores, clubs, and in living rooms across the country over the past few weeks. Although dating violence is nothing new but this particular incident happening with such a high profile couple seems to have reignited this issue once again, and there hasn’t been this level of interest and outrage expressed in the public forum since Anita Hill accused then Supreme Court Justice nominee Clarence Thomas of ‘sexual harassment,’ nearly two decades ago. That was all the more ironic because Clarence Thomas, as Director of the EEOC, headed the very Federal agency that was entrusted with investigating and enforcing complaints of the same anti-discriminatory and sexually inappropriate behaviors that he was accused of committing.
Violence against females, especially in a dating situation has taken center stage. After the release of photos by an unnamed source within the LAPD, the public was shocked and outraged to see the bruises and swollen face of the beautiful and talented singer. Rumors abound as to the reason for such an outburst on Chris Brown’s part, to include unsubstantiated reports of exposure to an STD and pictures as well as text messages from other females on Chris Brown’s cell phone. Be that as it may, this incident has invoked the ire and consternation of the most powerful woman in the entertainment industry, none other than Miss ‘O’ herself. Oprah will devote the entire hour long segment of her show and broadcast to millions of her viewers the opinions of those questionably objective individuals who have been invited to weigh in on this subject.
In what might better be suited for a “Dr. Phil” moment, the ‘Queen of the Daytime Confessionals’ will conduct her very own clinical analysis of the problem and as a special treat, Super Model Tyra Banks will reveal her own travail of being in an abusive relationship. Never mind that Rihanna and Chris Brown have decided to be seen together again, even if its just for the sake of working together professionally to lay down some new tracks for the next to-be-released CD; or perhaps they have just decided to forgive the hurt and pain and try to move on with their lives.
Of course to the naysayers, mental health experts and counselors, this is typical behavior of an abused and battered woman who has low self-esteem, accepts negative reinforcement, and has some other sort of psychological dependency. It is also true that abuse can take many forms, to include mental, emotional, and physiological [depression, eating disorder, weight loss/gain, substance abuse, etc.], and physical abuse; to include rape. And they will probably also say that for Chris Brown, it is all about power and control.
One wonders if all this negative publicity will affect Chris Brown’s upcoming trial before a judge in LA Superior Court on two charges of Felony Assault. One of the Constitutional guarantees is to a ‘fair and impartial’ trial but it is rather doubtful that there is a potential juror in America who hasn’t read not only the storyline in their local newspaper, but picked up a copy of PEOPLE Magazine, National Enquirer, or US Magazine at the grocery on convenience store. Also, who has not watched CNN, McNeil-Lehrer News Hour, ABC, NBC, CBS, and BET News, as well as GMA, The View, Inside Hollywood, Extra, Entertainment Weekly, and The Insider.
Regardless of what the legal requirement is pertaining to innocence or guilt, the deposition of witnesses, the introduction of evidence (‘Discovery’), and cross-examination of Prosecution/Defense witnesses or impeachment of their credibility, Chris Brown will be, or perhaps has already been tried in the Court of Public Opinion and with the Presiding Judge in the Court of ‘O’ along with her millions of jurists, it’s a foregone conclusion that Chris Brown is deemed by all as, “guilty as sin.”
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
March 12, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
Violence against females, especially in a dating situation has taken center stage. After the release of photos by an unnamed source within the LAPD, the public was shocked and outraged to see the bruises and swollen face of the beautiful and talented singer. Rumors abound as to the reason for such an outburst on Chris Brown’s part, to include unsubstantiated reports of exposure to an STD and pictures as well as text messages from other females on Chris Brown’s cell phone. Be that as it may, this incident has invoked the ire and consternation of the most powerful woman in the entertainment industry, none other than Miss ‘O’ herself. Oprah will devote the entire hour long segment of her show and broadcast to millions of her viewers the opinions of those questionably objective individuals who have been invited to weigh in on this subject.
In what might better be suited for a “Dr. Phil” moment, the ‘Queen of the Daytime Confessionals’ will conduct her very own clinical analysis of the problem and as a special treat, Super Model Tyra Banks will reveal her own travail of being in an abusive relationship. Never mind that Rihanna and Chris Brown have decided to be seen together again, even if its just for the sake of working together professionally to lay down some new tracks for the next to-be-released CD; or perhaps they have just decided to forgive the hurt and pain and try to move on with their lives.
Of course to the naysayers, mental health experts and counselors, this is typical behavior of an abused and battered woman who has low self-esteem, accepts negative reinforcement, and has some other sort of psychological dependency. It is also true that abuse can take many forms, to include mental, emotional, and physiological [depression, eating disorder, weight loss/gain, substance abuse, etc.], and physical abuse; to include rape. And they will probably also say that for Chris Brown, it is all about power and control.
One wonders if all this negative publicity will affect Chris Brown’s upcoming trial before a judge in LA Superior Court on two charges of Felony Assault. One of the Constitutional guarantees is to a ‘fair and impartial’ trial but it is rather doubtful that there is a potential juror in America who hasn’t read not only the storyline in their local newspaper, but picked up a copy of PEOPLE Magazine, National Enquirer, or US Magazine at the grocery on convenience store. Also, who has not watched CNN, McNeil-Lehrer News Hour, ABC, NBC, CBS, and BET News, as well as GMA, The View, Inside Hollywood, Extra, Entertainment Weekly, and The Insider.
Regardless of what the legal requirement is pertaining to innocence or guilt, the deposition of witnesses, the introduction of evidence (‘Discovery’), and cross-examination of Prosecution/Defense witnesses or impeachment of their credibility, Chris Brown will be, or perhaps has already been tried in the Court of Public Opinion and with the Presiding Judge in the Court of ‘O’ along with her millions of jurists, it’s a foregone conclusion that Chris Brown is deemed by all as, “guilty as sin.”
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
March 12, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Wake Up and Smell the Coffee
Washington Post Columnist, Courtland Milloy had an interesting Op-Ed piece which was featured in “The Tacoma News Tribune,” section B5 on Thursday, February 26, 2009. Mr. Milloy, with the precision of a medical surgeon, began a delicate dissection of the latest installment of the current “Madea” character of the hugely series of popular movies by filmmaker/actor Tyler Perry; who as it seems, stars as the main character. There is no doubt to the enormous appeal and financial success of Mr. Perry, and like King Midas, the legendary ruler of Crete, where everything Tyler Perry touches seems to turn into cinematic gold.
Yet, in spite of all the gut-busting, rib-tickling, and hysterical laughter which is the usual reaction from seeing his many characters on the ‘Big Screen,’ the social implications of this subtle negative stereotyping might not be so funny. The ‘Matriarch’ has been the pillar or foundation of the Black family, community, and Church; without whose widespread influence and almost sacrosanct status, Blacks would have a lot more problems than they do. Of course, the Hollywood executives aren’t too concerned about these negative characterizations of an updated version of ‘Aunt Jemimah’ upon the psyche of African-Americans, nor the repressed internal psychological damage and unhealthy self-esteem that these images may inflict. As long as these movies of ‘blaxploitation’ are shown on many theater screens owned by ‘AMC,’ the more the merrier. It’s all about “KA-CHING” of the cash registers, wearing the ‘Bling-bling,’ ‘Livin’ large, and driving a ‘BENTLEY.’
The problem doesn’t just rest with Tyler Perry because he is not the only performer to represent Black women in such a demeaning way because the long list includes Jamie Foxx, Martin Lawrence, and Eddie Murphy; to name a few. Even Flip Wilson’s “Geraldine” wasn’t that insulting. Of course it is always easier to parody a fictional and imaginary person because Oprah Winfrey didn’t see the humor of Kim Wayans portrayal of her in some of the comedy skits on “In Living Color.” In fact, Miss ‘O’ admitted to being hurt by Ms. Wayans, albeit funny, outlandishly insensitive, imitation of the then, overweight talk show host.
These routines, whether on the comedy shows, Broadway, or at the cinemas are reminiscent of the ‘Minstrel’ shows where White men in black facial makeup with lips and eyes painted white imitated ‘Negroes’ or ‘Colored People’ back then, with such disgusting and dehumanizing depictions; much to the approval, delight and enjoyment of their White audiences, with the most famous of them being the legendary Al Jolson. That was then, but now it’s our turn to make fun of ourselves. Forget about Steppin Fetchin and all that because it would appear that as Taalam Acey rightly depicts in “Pieces of Change,” that, “There is a Market 4 Niggaz, and the bigger the monkey the more the money.” Comedian Dave Chappelle finally came to his senses and found out the truth in that old adage, “They are Not Laughing with You, but at You.”
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
February 26, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
Yet, in spite of all the gut-busting, rib-tickling, and hysterical laughter which is the usual reaction from seeing his many characters on the ‘Big Screen,’ the social implications of this subtle negative stereotyping might not be so funny. The ‘Matriarch’ has been the pillar or foundation of the Black family, community, and Church; without whose widespread influence and almost sacrosanct status, Blacks would have a lot more problems than they do. Of course, the Hollywood executives aren’t too concerned about these negative characterizations of an updated version of ‘Aunt Jemimah’ upon the psyche of African-Americans, nor the repressed internal psychological damage and unhealthy self-esteem that these images may inflict. As long as these movies of ‘blaxploitation’ are shown on many theater screens owned by ‘AMC,’ the more the merrier. It’s all about “KA-CHING” of the cash registers, wearing the ‘Bling-bling,’ ‘Livin’ large, and driving a ‘BENTLEY.’
The problem doesn’t just rest with Tyler Perry because he is not the only performer to represent Black women in such a demeaning way because the long list includes Jamie Foxx, Martin Lawrence, and Eddie Murphy; to name a few. Even Flip Wilson’s “Geraldine” wasn’t that insulting. Of course it is always easier to parody a fictional and imaginary person because Oprah Winfrey didn’t see the humor of Kim Wayans portrayal of her in some of the comedy skits on “In Living Color.” In fact, Miss ‘O’ admitted to being hurt by Ms. Wayans, albeit funny, outlandishly insensitive, imitation of the then, overweight talk show host.
These routines, whether on the comedy shows, Broadway, or at the cinemas are reminiscent of the ‘Minstrel’ shows where White men in black facial makeup with lips and eyes painted white imitated ‘Negroes’ or ‘Colored People’ back then, with such disgusting and dehumanizing depictions; much to the approval, delight and enjoyment of their White audiences, with the most famous of them being the legendary Al Jolson. That was then, but now it’s our turn to make fun of ourselves. Forget about Steppin Fetchin and all that because it would appear that as Taalam Acey rightly depicts in “Pieces of Change,” that, “There is a Market 4 Niggaz, and the bigger the monkey the more the money.” Comedian Dave Chappelle finally came to his senses and found out the truth in that old adage, “They are Not Laughing with You, but at You.”
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
February 26, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
The 81st Annual Academy Awards Ceremony
The 81st Annual Academy Awards Ceremony held at the Kodak Theater in Hollywood, CA on Sunday, February 22, 2009, proved once again that it is not only a barometer of the changes going on in American society, but perhaps Internationally as well. Sean Penn was the lone American to win an ‘Oscar;’ alongside the beautiful Brit Kate Winslett and Spaniard Penelope Cruz. Also, what was not a surprise was the number of awards garnered by the movie, “Slumdog Millionaire.” Be that as it may, one wonders about the exploitation of the little children portrayed in “SM” who may after all the popularity dies down several months from now when the International media has turned to other interests, will these precious little ones be returned back to live in their familiar surroundings and home in some unnamed town amid the poorest of slums in Mumbai, India. Will it be for them, “Once a Slumdog, Always a Slumdog?”
Hollywood has always had an enduring and well-deserved reputation for exploitation, and history appears to repeat itself on a consistent basis. Kate Winslett, who is probably one of the best actresses on the planet, finally won an ‘Oscar’ but at what cost? Halle Berry won an ‘Oscar’ in 2001 for “Monster’s Ball,” although she has done brilliant work in other movies. What these two women have in common is that “IF YOU SHOW ENOUGH SKIN (nudity & sexual situations), YOU WIN.” Not wanting to leave it at that, consider rebel and non-conformist, Sean Penn, who sort of a combination of James Dean and Marlon Brando.
Mr. Penn won again for his portrayal of gay San Francisco politician, Harvey Milk, and due to the increasing activism of the Gay, Lesbian, Transsexual, and Bisexual (“GLTB”) movement in American it is not all that surprising; and not only that, but Heath Ledger undoubtedly benefited from his portrayal of a homosexual cowboy in the movie, “Brokeback Mountain,” which led to him receiving a Best-Supporting ‘Oscar’ posthumously for his role as ‘The Joker’ in the movie, “Batman: The Dark Knight.”
Although there have been quite a few movies where women have had to ‘take it all off’ in front of the cameras, very few movies included intimacy between two men or even the suggestion of it. Veteran actor Tom Hanks won an ‘Oscar’ for his portrayal of a gay lawyer in the 1993 movie, “Philadelphia.” A movie which was well written and acted by Forest Whitaker, Stephen Rea, and Jay Davidson was the 1992 movie, “The Crying Game,” in which Rea, as an IRA volunteer falls in love with British soldier’s (Whitaker’s) lover, played by Jay Davidson.
The unsuspecting Rea was not aware of a big “secret” which really heightened the tension between emotional conflict and the feeling of betrayal as well as the contradictions when you realize that someone you love is not ‘all female.’ Nevertheless, Hollywood doesn’t miss an opportunity when it comes across a script that pushes the buttons of our moral values, social traditions, and religious beliefs, and one can rest assured that on some executive’s desk is the next play or movie script that will either lift us up to a higher sense of philanthropy and service or we will spiral deeper into the abyss of moral and spiritual decadence.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
February 24, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
Hollywood has always had an enduring and well-deserved reputation for exploitation, and history appears to repeat itself on a consistent basis. Kate Winslett, who is probably one of the best actresses on the planet, finally won an ‘Oscar’ but at what cost? Halle Berry won an ‘Oscar’ in 2001 for “Monster’s Ball,” although she has done brilliant work in other movies. What these two women have in common is that “IF YOU SHOW ENOUGH SKIN (nudity & sexual situations), YOU WIN.” Not wanting to leave it at that, consider rebel and non-conformist, Sean Penn, who sort of a combination of James Dean and Marlon Brando.
Mr. Penn won again for his portrayal of gay San Francisco politician, Harvey Milk, and due to the increasing activism of the Gay, Lesbian, Transsexual, and Bisexual (“GLTB”) movement in American it is not all that surprising; and not only that, but Heath Ledger undoubtedly benefited from his portrayal of a homosexual cowboy in the movie, “Brokeback Mountain,” which led to him receiving a Best-Supporting ‘Oscar’ posthumously for his role as ‘The Joker’ in the movie, “Batman: The Dark Knight.”
Although there have been quite a few movies where women have had to ‘take it all off’ in front of the cameras, very few movies included intimacy between two men or even the suggestion of it. Veteran actor Tom Hanks won an ‘Oscar’ for his portrayal of a gay lawyer in the 1993 movie, “Philadelphia.” A movie which was well written and acted by Forest Whitaker, Stephen Rea, and Jay Davidson was the 1992 movie, “The Crying Game,” in which Rea, as an IRA volunteer falls in love with British soldier’s (Whitaker’s) lover, played by Jay Davidson.
The unsuspecting Rea was not aware of a big “secret” which really heightened the tension between emotional conflict and the feeling of betrayal as well as the contradictions when you realize that someone you love is not ‘all female.’ Nevertheless, Hollywood doesn’t miss an opportunity when it comes across a script that pushes the buttons of our moral values, social traditions, and religious beliefs, and one can rest assured that on some executive’s desk is the next play or movie script that will either lift us up to a higher sense of philanthropy and service or we will spiral deeper into the abyss of moral and spiritual decadence.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
February 24, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
Monday, February 23, 2009
An Inconvenient Truth
No, this is not a critique of the award-winning documentary film by former Vice-President Al Gore warning everyone about the global threat for the catastrophic danger from ‘Greenhouse gases’ and carbon emissions, which may lead to the extinction of life on planet Earth as we know it. The concern here is about America’s deplorable history of racial hatred and social injustice. It would seem that the Nation’s first elected African-American President and appointment of a Black Attorney General has brought about a renewed interest in this divisive and uncomfortable subject into a more public focus; no matter how subdued it may appear to be on the surface.
What was only mentioned in hushed tones and secret corridors in the private and personal discourse among the closest and most trusted confidants is slowly rearing its ugly head. The greater question is why the election of Barack Obama has sparked such a continuing interest and curiosity, as though somehow people are still in a state of “shock and awe?” To those who have marched in the Civil Rights protests during the 1960’s and lived through the era of Jim Crow, miscegenation, voting rights violations, lynching, segregation, police brutality and other such abuses, an African-American “First Family” represents the culmination of Martin Luther King jr’s ‘Dream;’ but for many others this is just another step in the long march toward equality, justice, and freedom for all Americans because as MLK once famously quoted, “None of Us are Free until All of Us are Free.”
White people may feel that finally and at last a President Barack Obama will silence the voices of the soldiers who are still fighting the old racial wars of the past and still singing the well-worn out battle hymns of “We Shall Overcome” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing” (The Black National Anthem). These citizens see America as having not only turned the page on racial disparity and discrimination but rather that this country has essentially closed the book because the growing political, economic, and educational empowerment among quite a number of African-Americans. Indeed, many, if they are honest, believe that America doesn’t need Affirmative Action legislation anymore because of the all the Anti-Discrimination/Harassment enforcement and this country is a ‘Meritocracy’ where if you plan accordingly, work hard enough, get a good education, and do networking, you can be anything that you want to be. The thing is, they also fail to acknowledge that in almost all instances a White Anglo-Saxon Person (“WASP”) still has a “competitive advantage” over almost any other social, racial, cultural, or ethnic group based biologically inherited differences; especially if the individual is a White male.
Again, for African-Americans, it is replaying those old tapes passed down through generations of the oppression, horror, brutality, and dehumanization inflicted upon the ancestors during the period of ‘chattel’ slavery in America. The Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade helped America become one of the most prosperous Nations in the world and yet there are those who would want to deny its existence, except for the abundance of historical documentation which also preserves the legacy of a people and reminds us all of the depravity and depth of human cruelty as evidenced during the near extinction of nearly three-fifths of American Indians, “The Armenian Genocide” (‘Turkey; 1915’), and “The Jewish Holocaust.” One cannot use the excuse of ‘plausible deniability,’ that is, ignorance is bliss so just sweep it under the rug, pretend these things never happened or are not important today so just go about your day like ‘business as usual.’
So, the answer to solving ‘race’ relations isn’t talking about it, proposing reparations or playing upon “White Guilt;” but rather doing what Nelson Mandela did after being released from almost thirty years in prison; and that is, to “FORGIVE.” Mr. Mandela was a member of the African National Congress (ANC) which was labeled a Terrorist Organization and this activist group was outlawed in ‘Apartheid’ South Africa under President’s Botha and DeClerke at first, and was also recognized similarly in the International community; including the United States for quite some time. After Nelson Mandela was freed from prison due to pressure from the International community and economic sanctions from media exposure to the repressive and ‘racist’ regime of the South African government and amid numerous murderous atrocities and violations of human rights from the White S.A. soldiers and police against the Black South Africans whom their White, Dutch Boer overlords called “kaffirs.”
Anyway, after Mr. Mandela ascended to the presidency in South Africa, he assembled some people in his Cabinet and in other governmental offices who were once his prison guards. Mr. Mandela had come to learn during his incarceration that hatred and revenge is not the answer but that healing of a Nation and reconciliation between people who were once enemies had to include ‘forgiveness.’ This wondrous experiment was displayed before the whole world to see through the camera lens and microphones of the International Press and as it turns out, it seems to have been quite a success and unprecedented anywhere else in the known world on such a large scale. In order to receive forgiveness and in some way absolution (in a personal sense) all the perpetrator has to do is simply confess what evils they did, and that’s all there is to it.
It is so simple, yet profound, and should serve as a beautiful model for America’s huge step out of the darkness of the past into the light of a “New Day.” For too long Black Americans want to visit the “sins of the father’s upon the children,” or want some kind of public apology from the federal and state governments for the injustices of the past along with some other resources for compensation of unpaid slave labor denied to the original petitioners by proxy from their descendants, but even if that were possible, it would not give anyone permanent closure. Perhaps we need to forgive ourselves first, that is, by changing some of our self-destructive behaviors and the accompanying excuses we use to justify such acts before we can ask anyone else’s forgiveness.
America, which by its creed espouses that it is a ‘Christian Nation,’ – “One nation Under God With Liberty and Justice For All;” It is high time that America practices what she preaches and to forgive greatly one has to love greatly. Yes, forgiveness is the balm which will heal our racial wounds and this act is so important that Jesus said if we do not forgive one another, then our Heavenly Father will not forgive us.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
February 23, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
What was only mentioned in hushed tones and secret corridors in the private and personal discourse among the closest and most trusted confidants is slowly rearing its ugly head. The greater question is why the election of Barack Obama has sparked such a continuing interest and curiosity, as though somehow people are still in a state of “shock and awe?” To those who have marched in the Civil Rights protests during the 1960’s and lived through the era of Jim Crow, miscegenation, voting rights violations, lynching, segregation, police brutality and other such abuses, an African-American “First Family” represents the culmination of Martin Luther King jr’s ‘Dream;’ but for many others this is just another step in the long march toward equality, justice, and freedom for all Americans because as MLK once famously quoted, “None of Us are Free until All of Us are Free.”
White people may feel that finally and at last a President Barack Obama will silence the voices of the soldiers who are still fighting the old racial wars of the past and still singing the well-worn out battle hymns of “We Shall Overcome” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing” (The Black National Anthem). These citizens see America as having not only turned the page on racial disparity and discrimination but rather that this country has essentially closed the book because the growing political, economic, and educational empowerment among quite a number of African-Americans. Indeed, many, if they are honest, believe that America doesn’t need Affirmative Action legislation anymore because of the all the Anti-Discrimination/Harassment enforcement and this country is a ‘Meritocracy’ where if you plan accordingly, work hard enough, get a good education, and do networking, you can be anything that you want to be. The thing is, they also fail to acknowledge that in almost all instances a White Anglo-Saxon Person (“WASP”) still has a “competitive advantage” over almost any other social, racial, cultural, or ethnic group based biologically inherited differences; especially if the individual is a White male.
Again, for African-Americans, it is replaying those old tapes passed down through generations of the oppression, horror, brutality, and dehumanization inflicted upon the ancestors during the period of ‘chattel’ slavery in America. The Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade helped America become one of the most prosperous Nations in the world and yet there are those who would want to deny its existence, except for the abundance of historical documentation which also preserves the legacy of a people and reminds us all of the depravity and depth of human cruelty as evidenced during the near extinction of nearly three-fifths of American Indians, “The Armenian Genocide” (‘Turkey; 1915’), and “The Jewish Holocaust.” One cannot use the excuse of ‘plausible deniability,’ that is, ignorance is bliss so just sweep it under the rug, pretend these things never happened or are not important today so just go about your day like ‘business as usual.’
So, the answer to solving ‘race’ relations isn’t talking about it, proposing reparations or playing upon “White Guilt;” but rather doing what Nelson Mandela did after being released from almost thirty years in prison; and that is, to “FORGIVE.” Mr. Mandela was a member of the African National Congress (ANC) which was labeled a Terrorist Organization and this activist group was outlawed in ‘Apartheid’ South Africa under President’s Botha and DeClerke at first, and was also recognized similarly in the International community; including the United States for quite some time. After Nelson Mandela was freed from prison due to pressure from the International community and economic sanctions from media exposure to the repressive and ‘racist’ regime of the South African government and amid numerous murderous atrocities and violations of human rights from the White S.A. soldiers and police against the Black South Africans whom their White, Dutch Boer overlords called “kaffirs.”
Anyway, after Mr. Mandela ascended to the presidency in South Africa, he assembled some people in his Cabinet and in other governmental offices who were once his prison guards. Mr. Mandela had come to learn during his incarceration that hatred and revenge is not the answer but that healing of a Nation and reconciliation between people who were once enemies had to include ‘forgiveness.’ This wondrous experiment was displayed before the whole world to see through the camera lens and microphones of the International Press and as it turns out, it seems to have been quite a success and unprecedented anywhere else in the known world on such a large scale. In order to receive forgiveness and in some way absolution (in a personal sense) all the perpetrator has to do is simply confess what evils they did, and that’s all there is to it.
It is so simple, yet profound, and should serve as a beautiful model for America’s huge step out of the darkness of the past into the light of a “New Day.” For too long Black Americans want to visit the “sins of the father’s upon the children,” or want some kind of public apology from the federal and state governments for the injustices of the past along with some other resources for compensation of unpaid slave labor denied to the original petitioners by proxy from their descendants, but even if that were possible, it would not give anyone permanent closure. Perhaps we need to forgive ourselves first, that is, by changing some of our self-destructive behaviors and the accompanying excuses we use to justify such acts before we can ask anyone else’s forgiveness.
America, which by its creed espouses that it is a ‘Christian Nation,’ – “One nation Under God With Liberty and Justice For All;” It is high time that America practices what she preaches and to forgive greatly one has to love greatly. Yes, forgiveness is the balm which will heal our racial wounds and this act is so important that Jesus said if we do not forgive one another, then our Heavenly Father will not forgive us.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
February 23, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
Friday, February 20, 2009
Ken Griffey Jr. Wears Mariner Blue for One Last Time
When Ken Griffey jr. left the Seattle Mariners over a decade ago, the fans as well as the print and broadcast media were not so understanding or supportive. Griffey's trade to the Cincinnati Reds was met with much criticism amid rumors of chasing the big dollars but he took a pay cut instead. All he wanted to do was be a little closer to his family. Randy Johnson’s (“The Big Unit”) departure to the Arizona Diamondbacks didn't nearly get the kind of negative publicity nor did Alex R-O-I-D-riguez after being traded to the Texas Rangers; so that question is: "Why all the 'Hoopla" over a returning aged player who is playing in perhaps his last season of professional baseball before retirement, and his very likely induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, P.A. Is it because Ken Griffey Jr. is a hometown prodigy who has finally decided to end his career where he started it all at in front of the now adoring and local fans who have now finally forgiven him for leaving them in the first place.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
February 19, 2009
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
February 19, 2009
The Economic Stimulus Plan: A Political Trojan Horse?
For more than three weeks president Obama and the Congress have been trying to come up with a way to jumpstart the economy and create jobs; well, on the cusp of what appears to be the massive stimulus plan becoming ‘Law,’ it seems that once again old habits die hard in the nation’s capitol. In spite of the talk of bi-partisan support and President Obama visiting Republican Legislators in both Houses of Congress, there have been recriminations, cries of partisanship and the usual rhetoric espoused by both political parties such that the honeymoon may be over a lot sooner than expected.
The “New Deal” that is supposed to create jobs, free up tight credit from banks and financial lending institutions, and stop the hemohhraging from mortgage foreclosures appears to be in ‘cardiac arrest;’ if not for all intents and purposes, DOA. According to the “Associated Press,” which featured a version of the ‘Plan’ in the Tacoma News Tribune, Section A5, February 11, 2009, of the 23 different provisions contained in this economic package, only about 3 or 4 have anything to do with creating jobs and at least 1 is geared toward helping banks with their losses.
Now, after reviewing all the goodies of which the Senate version will cost an estimated 835.3B or so, and the House version is roughly 791.5B, the daunting question is how will all of this be paid? ‘Bush 41’ famously said, “Read My lips, No New Taxes,” which he later raised, and President Obama has constantly assured the American people that he will be able to pay for this Economic Stimulus Plan; all without raising taxes. Of course, one must cautiously listen to any politician who says they won't raise taxes because it usually means "payroll taxes" because taxes can still be raised on gasoline, alcoholic beverages, telephone and cable services, etc.
This leaves very few other viable options other than authorizing the US Treasury department to print more money, thereby devaluing the dollar even more. Also, the Federal Reserve will sell government securities in the form of Treasury Bills, Notes, and Bonds to foreign nations and thereby mortgage our future posterity, way of life and National Security to countries who may not have our best interests at heart. Indeed, what might appear to be a ‘gift’ at our gate just might end up looking like the “Trojan Horse” which Ulysses and his fellow Greeks left outside the walls of the city of Troy (modern ‘Anatolia’ in Turkey); and history tells us how badly that one turned out.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
February 12, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
The “New Deal” that is supposed to create jobs, free up tight credit from banks and financial lending institutions, and stop the hemohhraging from mortgage foreclosures appears to be in ‘cardiac arrest;’ if not for all intents and purposes, DOA. According to the “Associated Press,” which featured a version of the ‘Plan’ in the Tacoma News Tribune, Section A5, February 11, 2009, of the 23 different provisions contained in this economic package, only about 3 or 4 have anything to do with creating jobs and at least 1 is geared toward helping banks with their losses.
Now, after reviewing all the goodies of which the Senate version will cost an estimated 835.3B or so, and the House version is roughly 791.5B, the daunting question is how will all of this be paid? ‘Bush 41’ famously said, “Read My lips, No New Taxes,” which he later raised, and President Obama has constantly assured the American people that he will be able to pay for this Economic Stimulus Plan; all without raising taxes. Of course, one must cautiously listen to any politician who says they won't raise taxes because it usually means "payroll taxes" because taxes can still be raised on gasoline, alcoholic beverages, telephone and cable services, etc.
This leaves very few other viable options other than authorizing the US Treasury department to print more money, thereby devaluing the dollar even more. Also, the Federal Reserve will sell government securities in the form of Treasury Bills, Notes, and Bonds to foreign nations and thereby mortgage our future posterity, way of life and National Security to countries who may not have our best interests at heart. Indeed, what might appear to be a ‘gift’ at our gate just might end up looking like the “Trojan Horse” which Ulysses and his fellow Greeks left outside the walls of the city of Troy (modern ‘Anatolia’ in Turkey); and history tells us how badly that one turned out.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
February 12, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
J-U-D-G-E-ment Day
In the ever-growing and competitive entertainment industry there has been a steady, albeit predictable entrance of so-called “Reality TV” shows; among which are the popular ones featuring real judges. There used to be a time, not so long ago when legal proceedings were closed to the public, but not anymore. No one could have foreseen what Judge Harry Wapner, and afterwards, Judge Judy Sheindlin did to inadvertently pave the way for the latest crop of shows such as The People’s Court, Texas Justice, Divorce Court, and a host of others too numerous to mention.
These Judges have an almost cult following and celebrity-like status with household names such as Jeanine Pirro, Joe Brown, Greg Mathis, Alex Ferrer, Marilyn Millian, David Young, Larry Joe Doherty, Lynn Toler, Gloria Hatchett, Maria Lopez, Mabel Ephraim, and Larry Elder; to name a few. And don’t these judges like to ham it up in front of the camera as well as before their court audience. Never before has the public been interested in anything involving the usually tedious and slow-paced legal proceedings which normally happen behind the scenes and out of public view. Of course, the only exception to this usual rule of thumb was during “The Clarence Thomas Confirmation Hearings” and “O.J. Simpson Murder Trial.”
It seems that there are segments of American society who have a puerile and salacious interest in and gain immense satisfaction while watching other people air their dirty laundry in Civil Court when neighbor sues neighbor, friend against friend, parent against child, relative against relative, and sibling against sibling. The only thing missing from these shows is Jerry Springer introducing the litigants and after watching the perhaps unscripted dialogue and testimony of the Plaintiffs and Defendants in Court, the sitcom “Boston Legal” isn’t so ridiculous and farfetched after all.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
February 16, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
These Judges have an almost cult following and celebrity-like status with household names such as Jeanine Pirro, Joe Brown, Greg Mathis, Alex Ferrer, Marilyn Millian, David Young, Larry Joe Doherty, Lynn Toler, Gloria Hatchett, Maria Lopez, Mabel Ephraim, and Larry Elder; to name a few. And don’t these judges like to ham it up in front of the camera as well as before their court audience. Never before has the public been interested in anything involving the usually tedious and slow-paced legal proceedings which normally happen behind the scenes and out of public view. Of course, the only exception to this usual rule of thumb was during “The Clarence Thomas Confirmation Hearings” and “O.J. Simpson Murder Trial.”
It seems that there are segments of American society who have a puerile and salacious interest in and gain immense satisfaction while watching other people air their dirty laundry in Civil Court when neighbor sues neighbor, friend against friend, parent against child, relative against relative, and sibling against sibling. The only thing missing from these shows is Jerry Springer introducing the litigants and after watching the perhaps unscripted dialogue and testimony of the Plaintiffs and Defendants in Court, the sitcom “Boston Legal” isn’t so ridiculous and farfetched after all.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
February 16, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Obama's Seamless Transition Hits A Snag
Senator John McCain's Arizona Cardinals may not have won "SUPER BOWL XLIII," but he just may get the last laugh as his opponent for the presidency, an angry and embarrassed Barack Obama tries to explain before the American people the recent implosion of his high level Cabinet appointments. Before he even took the oath of office, there was the withdrawal of former New Mexico Governor, Bill Richardson. Now the latest fallout has included former Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle and Nancy Killefer, who withdrew their names from consideration.
Treasury Secretary Tim Geitner barely mustered enough support for confirmation, even though he tried to blame his financial troubles on using TurboTax. In what would seem like a sort of political "egg on his face," President Obama has had to deflect the criticism and distraction of these unintended consequences of exercising 'poor judgment' while taking the blame for the failed appointments, all at the risk of possibly losing some bi-partisan Congressional support in his effort to pass the massive Taxpayer Bailout Plan to jumpstart the economy and create new Green Energy jobs.
Indeed, it may seem as though the staff who vetted Alaska Governor Sarah Palin for John McCain must be the same people who are working for "TEAM OBAMA." Candidate Obama rode to the White House on the 'high horse' and lofty words of change, transparency, deliberateness, and getting it right, but it seems as though the horse has thrown its rider. In this political rodeo, President Obama needs to get up from the ground, mount his horse, rope them little dogies and handle the nation's business; and wipe off the clown's make-up that he has been wearing lately.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
February 5, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
Treasury Secretary Tim Geitner barely mustered enough support for confirmation, even though he tried to blame his financial troubles on using TurboTax. In what would seem like a sort of political "egg on his face," President Obama has had to deflect the criticism and distraction of these unintended consequences of exercising 'poor judgment' while taking the blame for the failed appointments, all at the risk of possibly losing some bi-partisan Congressional support in his effort to pass the massive Taxpayer Bailout Plan to jumpstart the economy and create new Green Energy jobs.
Indeed, it may seem as though the staff who vetted Alaska Governor Sarah Palin for John McCain must be the same people who are working for "TEAM OBAMA." Candidate Obama rode to the White House on the 'high horse' and lofty words of change, transparency, deliberateness, and getting it right, but it seems as though the horse has thrown its rider. In this political rodeo, President Obama needs to get up from the ground, mount his horse, rope them little dogies and handle the nation's business; and wipe off the clown's make-up that he has been wearing lately.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
February 5, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Oprah Winfrey Barely Visible at Barack Obama’s Historic Presidential Inauguration
Unlike Cinderella, who at precisely the stroke of 12 midnight, the magical glass slippers and the beautiful horse-drawn carriage turns back into a ragged giant pumpkin, and her magically stitched clothing turns into rags, where was Miss "O" at 12 noon (9 A.M. EST) when the Ebony Prince charming that she had introduced onto the world stage by publicly backing him and launching his campaign, Her Senator from Chicago, IL, Oprah appears to have gone, either MIA or BV (“barely visible”) when Barack Obama was crowned; becoming the forty-fourth President of the United States, the Nation's first African-American and non-White man, and leader of the Free World. Also conspicuously keeping a low-profile was Oprah's entourage to include best friend and Girl Friday, Gayle King as well as her Beau, Stedman Graham.
It is unconceivable to think that Oprah would not have had a ring side seat to the coronation that she helped bring about by endorsing Barack Obama instead of Hillary Clinton, not to mention Oprah's sense of relishing in this once-in-a-lifetime historic moment. It seems unlikely if Miss "O" were at the Washington D.C. Mall that some media source would not put a camera and microphone in front of her face to get her reaction to this almost surreal, if not epic event. Strangely, there was barely any mention of the Queen of the Daytime Confessionals and America's unofficial Royalty at the Presidential Inauguration or at any of the ten Inaugural Balls which commenced later on late into the night on yesterday. Whatever the reason for Oprah's gracious humility and her almost unannounced and barely recognizable presence in that record-breaking sea of humanity, it is a shame because she had just as much to do with this victory celebration than any one of the millions of voters who made the decision to choose CHANGE over FEAR.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
January 21, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
It is unconceivable to think that Oprah would not have had a ring side seat to the coronation that she helped bring about by endorsing Barack Obama instead of Hillary Clinton, not to mention Oprah's sense of relishing in this once-in-a-lifetime historic moment. It seems unlikely if Miss "O" were at the Washington D.C. Mall that some media source would not put a camera and microphone in front of her face to get her reaction to this almost surreal, if not epic event. Strangely, there was barely any mention of the Queen of the Daytime Confessionals and America's unofficial Royalty at the Presidential Inauguration or at any of the ten Inaugural Balls which commenced later on late into the night on yesterday. Whatever the reason for Oprah's gracious humility and her almost unannounced and barely recognizable presence in that record-breaking sea of humanity, it is a shame because she had just as much to do with this victory celebration than any one of the millions of voters who made the decision to choose CHANGE over FEAR.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
January 21, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
How will History Remember George W. Bush?
President George ("Dubya") Bush may go down in the annals of American History as the first President to end the domination of White males to singularly occupy the White House. Although for most people George Bush will be blamed for the financial crisis, employment crisis, mortgage crisis, the confidence crisis, the Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, MISSION("Not")ACCOMPLISHED, the Hurricane Katrina and FEMA nightmare, as well as the 2000 ELECTION, which he stole from Al Gore. Ex-President George Bush's blow to the status-quo is like the White baseball pitcher, Al Downing of the "DODGERS" who slugger Hank Aaron of the "BRAVES" hit that homerun off of on April 8, 1974, which beat the here-to-fore unthinkable feat in baseball that a 'negro' [at that time] player would have the audacity break BABE RUTH'S ("the Great Bambino's") record. That pitcher as well as Hank Aaron received death threats from disgruntled Whites because it shattered a stereotype that always held the Black man to be inferior to any White man. Conversely,George Bush was supposed to maintain and to pass along the hierarchy of power and prestige of the office of President to the next White man to come along, not to a descendant of African slaves who built the very steps where Barack Obama walked up to take the presidential oath of office.
Also, a lot has been made about President Abraham Lincoln freeing the slaves, but Lincoln was not moved by compassion for the plight of the slaves or pressure from the abolitionists, but rather it was by, in his own memoir, "To Preserve the Union." The Founding Fathers may not be too happy at this inconceivable historic event because the freedoms that they extolled in all of their numerous writings and lofty ideals did not apply to people whom they considered property in the least and three-fifths of a person at the most. So, while we as a country celebrate the ascendancy of Barack Hussein Obama to the pinnacle of power as the leader of the Free World and "The Man," let's not forget to send a shout out to Bush 43 because without him there would not be a President Barack Obama. Thank You, George “Dubya” Bush.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
January 22, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
Also, a lot has been made about President Abraham Lincoln freeing the slaves, but Lincoln was not moved by compassion for the plight of the slaves or pressure from the abolitionists, but rather it was by, in his own memoir, "To Preserve the Union." The Founding Fathers may not be too happy at this inconceivable historic event because the freedoms that they extolled in all of their numerous writings and lofty ideals did not apply to people whom they considered property in the least and three-fifths of a person at the most. So, while we as a country celebrate the ascendancy of Barack Hussein Obama to the pinnacle of power as the leader of the Free World and "The Man," let's not forget to send a shout out to Bush 43 because without him there would not be a President Barack Obama. Thank You, George “Dubya” Bush.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
January 22, 2009
pbks@hotmail.com
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Atheist Placard Arouses Righteous Indignation
A sign placed near a Nativity scene in the lobby of the WA State Capitol building by the group Freedom From Religion has received national attention; especially vociferous denunciations from none other than FOX television commentator Bill OReilly, who berated Governor Chris Gregoire and the liberal un-churched Washingtonians for allowing this affront to Christianity. This event has turned into a Three-Ring-Circus to include protests from all sides in this mole hill turned into a mountain. Now the Capitol lobby has turned into the nexus for all forms of religious expression, coincidentally during this time of PEACE ON EARTH, GOODWILL TOWARD MEN.” Even included in all the symbols of faith is a sign celebrating “FESTIVUS” as portrayed on the KSTW Channel 11(UPN) television station sitcom, “SEINFELD.”
Supporters of Free Thinkers and true believers clash once again to include Co-Pastor Wendy Treat of Christian Faith Center in Federal Way, WA and Pastor Ken Hutcherson of Antioch Bible Church in Kirkland, WA. It is surprising that Pastor Hutcherson has the time because his energies are usually focused on waging a one-man crusade against the GLTB community. Be that as it may, the ‘real’ issue isn’t religion anyway, but rather the United States Constitution. The Founding Fathers of the Nation, those original representatives of the 13 colonies or Confederation as well as some of the great thinkers of the time whose intellect, philosophy, virtue, and doubtless belief in a Supreme Being helped erect the cornerstone and shape the framework of this great experiment in this government of a Democratic Representative Republic.
One of the essential elements that must be closely looked at is the very structure and language embedded within our most cherished documents. The Preamble to the Constitution and the Declaration of the Constitution itself do not contain language that can be constructed to embody the belief in any particular faith practice concept of deity. In fact, the words religion, Nature’s God, and Creator are ‘generic’ terms that can be applied to any number of religions; and not to any particular one or worldview.
The original settlers and immigrants who came to America doubtless embraced the full spectrum of religious as well as secular thought and experience. It must also be noted that the beginning clause First Amendment says, “Congress [Federal Government] shall not establish a religion [National], nor would it make it illegal for the establishment of one. This seems to imply that it would be left up to the people to practice ‘religion’ as they so determine without interference from the Federal Government. Also within this same Amendment is perhaps the most important, namely, Freedom of Speech. It is UNCONSTITUTIONAL to censure, abrogate, or deny the practice of this Right; no matter how much one may disagree with the expression of it.
Now what have been the history, tradition, and cultural practice for nearly 250 years are citizens who embrace a Christian Theology and whose influence permeate all aspects of American society as well as educational, political, and social institutions. It is unfortunate that the placard placed by this one atheist group denigrates all religions, including itself, but yet, it is still protected under the provision of the Constitution. During the Vietnam War many protestors and demonstrators burned the American flag, but a later US Supreme Court ruled that such actions, as seemingly anti-American, unpatriotic, and disrespectful were nevertheless, Free Speech as allowed under The First Amendment.
This entire matter has for the moment, taken people’s minds off the dreary economic news and unemployment figures, so in a strange and ironic sort of way it is a bit of comic relief; although it seems that nobody is laughing.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
December 10, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Supporters of Free Thinkers and true believers clash once again to include Co-Pastor Wendy Treat of Christian Faith Center in Federal Way, WA and Pastor Ken Hutcherson of Antioch Bible Church in Kirkland, WA. It is surprising that Pastor Hutcherson has the time because his energies are usually focused on waging a one-man crusade against the GLTB community. Be that as it may, the ‘real’ issue isn’t religion anyway, but rather the United States Constitution. The Founding Fathers of the Nation, those original representatives of the 13 colonies or Confederation as well as some of the great thinkers of the time whose intellect, philosophy, virtue, and doubtless belief in a Supreme Being helped erect the cornerstone and shape the framework of this great experiment in this government of a Democratic Representative Republic.
One of the essential elements that must be closely looked at is the very structure and language embedded within our most cherished documents. The Preamble to the Constitution and the Declaration of the Constitution itself do not contain language that can be constructed to embody the belief in any particular faith practice concept of deity. In fact, the words religion, Nature’s God, and Creator are ‘generic’ terms that can be applied to any number of religions; and not to any particular one or worldview.
The original settlers and immigrants who came to America doubtless embraced the full spectrum of religious as well as secular thought and experience. It must also be noted that the beginning clause First Amendment says, “Congress [Federal Government] shall not establish a religion [National], nor would it make it illegal for the establishment of one. This seems to imply that it would be left up to the people to practice ‘religion’ as they so determine without interference from the Federal Government. Also within this same Amendment is perhaps the most important, namely, Freedom of Speech. It is UNCONSTITUTIONAL to censure, abrogate, or deny the practice of this Right; no matter how much one may disagree with the expression of it.
Now what have been the history, tradition, and cultural practice for nearly 250 years are citizens who embrace a Christian Theology and whose influence permeate all aspects of American society as well as educational, political, and social institutions. It is unfortunate that the placard placed by this one atheist group denigrates all religions, including itself, but yet, it is still protected under the provision of the Constitution. During the Vietnam War many protestors and demonstrators burned the American flag, but a later US Supreme Court ruled that such actions, as seemingly anti-American, unpatriotic, and disrespectful were nevertheless, Free Speech as allowed under The First Amendment.
This entire matter has for the moment, taken people’s minds off the dreary economic news and unemployment figures, so in a strange and ironic sort of way it is a bit of comic relief; although it seems that nobody is laughing.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
December 10, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Oprah Fails to Heed Own Advice
The Queen of the Daytime Confessionals, talk show host Oprah Winfrey has finally admitted to losing her struggle against gaining weight. What had originally been reported in celebrity televised tabloids such as “INSIDE EDITION” and “ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY” and featured in newspapers across the country has been confirmed by the talk show host. Although Oprah’s condition has been exacerbated by a thyroid condition, which she could manage with the proper medication, diet, and exercise, it is surprising that the High-Priestess of CHANGE YOUR LIFE SPIRITUALITY could not follow her own advice.
Oprah has had many guests on her show throughout the years that she has lectured to about the causes for food addictions, such as having a negative self image who consume food as a sort of feel good therapy. In fact, Miss “O” dispenses more advice to the guests than the medical experts, authors, and professionals in the field who are invited on the show to address these issues. One can only wonder what the root cause is, besides an overactive thyroid, which has resulted in the recent gain of forty pounds to a nearly unhealthy 200 pounds. One would think that Oprah would have consulted friends like Dr. Phil, Eckhart Tolle, or even beau Stedman Graham as she began to feel control over her health slip away.
This personal embarrassment for her must be painful and of course Oprah tries to keep it real for her legions of fans by allowing herself to be portrayed on the latest edition of ‘O’ Magazine, but that is not the same thing as sitting in front of the television cameras where she is viewed by millions of people or in front of her studio audience. It’s too bad that Oprah is in this situation because in 41 days, Barack Obama will take the Oath of Office to become the forty-fourth President of the United States; an event of historic proportions on many levels. Doubtless, Oprah wants to be the ‘Belle’ of the Inaugural Ball for this once-in-a-lifetime event but it would be quite a challenge for any of the famous designers to come up with a dress or gown constructed of the most exquisite fabric and elegant style to be worn by someone who is not exactly a demure waif; but then again, don’t underestimate Miss “O” because what she wants she usually gets.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
December 10, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Oprah has had many guests on her show throughout the years that she has lectured to about the causes for food addictions, such as having a negative self image who consume food as a sort of feel good therapy. In fact, Miss “O” dispenses more advice to the guests than the medical experts, authors, and professionals in the field who are invited on the show to address these issues. One can only wonder what the root cause is, besides an overactive thyroid, which has resulted in the recent gain of forty pounds to a nearly unhealthy 200 pounds. One would think that Oprah would have consulted friends like Dr. Phil, Eckhart Tolle, or even beau Stedman Graham as she began to feel control over her health slip away.
This personal embarrassment for her must be painful and of course Oprah tries to keep it real for her legions of fans by allowing herself to be portrayed on the latest edition of ‘O’ Magazine, but that is not the same thing as sitting in front of the television cameras where she is viewed by millions of people or in front of her studio audience. It’s too bad that Oprah is in this situation because in 41 days, Barack Obama will take the Oath of Office to become the forty-fourth President of the United States; an event of historic proportions on many levels. Doubtless, Oprah wants to be the ‘Belle’ of the Inaugural Ball for this once-in-a-lifetime event but it would be quite a challenge for any of the famous designers to come up with a dress or gown constructed of the most exquisite fabric and elegant style to be worn by someone who is not exactly a demure waif; but then again, don’t underestimate Miss “O” because what she wants she usually gets.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
December 10, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Thursday, October 30, 2008
The “Palin Effect” in One Word: S-E-X-Y
Finally, someone has dared to reveal the ‘TRUTH’ about Governor Sarah Palin’s popularity, and it’s in print (Kathleen Parker Op-Ed in “T-N-T” Section B-7, 10/26/08); namely, her enormous popularity is based upon, not surprisingly, primal “sex appeal.” It doesn’t matter if she butchers the English language or drops her “g’s,” just as long as she looks ‘HOT’ in the process. It goes without saying that the Alaska Governor is the favorite political eye candy of most men, irrespective of party affiliation, and which one of us wouldn’t want to get a hug from the Republican Vice-presidential nominee.
In a strange twist-of-fate, John McCain’s political Ads likened Barack Obama to a celebrity such as Paris Hilton but Sarah Palin has become the Republican equivalent; although Paris has probably been to a foreign country, at least. In fact, if you think about it, both of them are sexy and their lives mirror each other as some sort of ‘Reality TV’ show. Paris Hilton is dogged by the paparazzi and the same can be said for Sarah Palin’s coverage by the media.
When John McCain is around Sarah Palin he seems more invigorated, like receiving a charge from the “Energizer Bunny.” It is worth noting how the Alaska Governor’s designer glasses and her apparel has received some much attention while poor Cindy McCain can wear a $200,000 ensemble outfitted with matching diamonds and pearls, yet it barely rates more than a big “yawn” in the press. About twenty years ago when Hillary Clinton burst on the political scene she was attractive in a plain sort-of-way, but she definitely did not make any of the testosterone-driven observers want a pinup of her.
So, yes, like the famous “PLAYBOY” magazine interview in which former president Jimmy Carter admitted to having ‘lusted in his heart,’ to wit, many of us would doubtless plead “The FIFTH” [Amendment against self-incrimination]. In a week or so the voters will decide who the next President and Vice-president of our country will be, and Sarah Palin will be missed because for the past two months she was to reason to watch more “SNL” with Tina Fey, David Lettermen, Jimmy Kimmel, FOX News, CNN, CBS News with Katie Couric, McNeil-Lehrer News Hour, and any other media source that was interested in her. She will be missed; the most beautiful, sexy, charming, Hockey Mom-Moose-skinning, pit-bull with lipstick, politically scatterbrained person in modern times.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
October 27, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
In a strange twist-of-fate, John McCain’s political Ads likened Barack Obama to a celebrity such as Paris Hilton but Sarah Palin has become the Republican equivalent; although Paris has probably been to a foreign country, at least. In fact, if you think about it, both of them are sexy and their lives mirror each other as some sort of ‘Reality TV’ show. Paris Hilton is dogged by the paparazzi and the same can be said for Sarah Palin’s coverage by the media.
When John McCain is around Sarah Palin he seems more invigorated, like receiving a charge from the “Energizer Bunny.” It is worth noting how the Alaska Governor’s designer glasses and her apparel has received some much attention while poor Cindy McCain can wear a $200,000 ensemble outfitted with matching diamonds and pearls, yet it barely rates more than a big “yawn” in the press. About twenty years ago when Hillary Clinton burst on the political scene she was attractive in a plain sort-of-way, but she definitely did not make any of the testosterone-driven observers want a pinup of her.
So, yes, like the famous “PLAYBOY” magazine interview in which former president Jimmy Carter admitted to having ‘lusted in his heart,’ to wit, many of us would doubtless plead “The FIFTH” [Amendment against self-incrimination]. In a week or so the voters will decide who the next President and Vice-president of our country will be, and Sarah Palin will be missed because for the past two months she was to reason to watch more “SNL” with Tina Fey, David Lettermen, Jimmy Kimmel, FOX News, CNN, CBS News with Katie Couric, McNeil-Lehrer News Hour, and any other media source that was interested in her. She will be missed; the most beautiful, sexy, charming, Hockey Mom-Moose-skinning, pit-bull with lipstick, politically scatterbrained person in modern times.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
October 27, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Friday, October 24, 2008
McCain-Palin’s Other Secret Weapon
The Republican Presidential campaign has been given an unexpected gift in the person of Barack Obama’s presidential running mate, Delaware Senator Joseph Biden. The unflappable member of Congress has made some untimely political gaffes which Barack Obama has had to do some damage control, downplay, or ignore altogether. John McCain and Sarah Palin are making some inroads with small businesses and blue collar working class Americans with their poster boy “Joe the Plumber,” and it seems, they are getting an extra bonus with “Joe the Bumbler.” Some of the more memorable political fodder for the Republicans to use has been comments such as: “It is patriotic to pay taxes; Hillary Clinton is more qualified than I am to be Vice-President, FDR got on television and addressed the American people about the Stock Market Crash of 1929, and within six months an international incident will test the presidency of Barack Obama.”
Never mind all the attacks from Governor Sarah Palin, mostly, that Barack Obama doesn’t share our values, that he is a friend of terrorists, an elitist, he is a socialist (will redistribute wealth), he will raise taxes on the struggling middle class and small businesses, he will increase the size of government and increase federal spending; he voted to give big tax breaks to oil companies, he supported the Bush-Cheney Energy Plan, his earmarks are substantially larger than John McCain’s, and that Barack Obama places his own political aspirations to be President above the interests of the American people and the safety of our troops.
When every political point counts in a very close election, with all the scrutiny and criticism of Governor Sarah Palin’s oddball answers to reporter’s questions, still she is a dynamo in front of a lectern. With Senator Joe Biden, on the other hand, it’s no telling what might come out of his mouth. Since picking the Vice President is the first major policy decision of the incoming Presidential nominee, the more Joe Biden speaks, at least as of late, the better he makes Sarah Palin look. For Barack Obama, with a friend and running mate like this, who needs enemies?
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
October 24, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Never mind all the attacks from Governor Sarah Palin, mostly, that Barack Obama doesn’t share our values, that he is a friend of terrorists, an elitist, he is a socialist (will redistribute wealth), he will raise taxes on the struggling middle class and small businesses, he will increase the size of government and increase federal spending; he voted to give big tax breaks to oil companies, he supported the Bush-Cheney Energy Plan, his earmarks are substantially larger than John McCain’s, and that Barack Obama places his own political aspirations to be President above the interests of the American people and the safety of our troops.
When every political point counts in a very close election, with all the scrutiny and criticism of Governor Sarah Palin’s oddball answers to reporter’s questions, still she is a dynamo in front of a lectern. With Senator Joe Biden, on the other hand, it’s no telling what might come out of his mouth. Since picking the Vice President is the first major policy decision of the incoming Presidential nominee, the more Joe Biden speaks, at least as of late, the better he makes Sarah Palin look. For Barack Obama, with a friend and running mate like this, who needs enemies?
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
October 24, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Friday, October 17, 2008
McCain Finally Get's Some Fire in the Belly at Last Debate
In the third and final Presidential debate for 2008, which was televised on Wednesday, October 15, 2008, Republican Senator John McCain finally showed “True Grit.” It was like watching the final bout of a heavyweight title fight, some sheer political pugilism with the underdog on the scorecard throwing some pretty good jabs; but once again, he was not able to land any solid blows or deliver that ‘haymaker’ or knock-out punch to buckle Barack Obama’s knees and sending him face first onto the canvas. In what has been described as one of the dirtiest and meanest Presidential political campaigns in American history with each side accusing the other of distorting the other’s record, lying, and dishonesty.
The last two weeks has seen its share of some of the lowest points, especially at Republican rallies featuring V.P. nominee Alaska Governor Sarah Palin who gets the crowds riled up and worked into a frenzy amid denunciations of “He doesn’t share our values, He is a friend of terrorists, He will raise taxes on the Middle Class, all amid the cries in the audience of, “Liar, Abomination, and Off with His Head.” Also, just as disturbing is a statement within the past week by longtime Civil Rights activist and elder statesman, Congressman John Lewis of Atlanta, GA who likened the activities of the McCain/Palin campaign’s racist attacks (albeit very subtly, if at that) to the character exhibited by former Jim Crow Segregationist, Governor George Wallace of Alabama. This is what it all has descended to with all the partisan name-calling but the stakes have never been higher with both Obama and McCain vying for this country’s highest office and leader of one of the most powerful nation’s on earth.
To Senator McCain’s credit, he did get in a memorable ‘zinger’ when he said to Barack Obama, “I’m not George Bush and if you wanted to run against President Bush you should have done so four years ago.” Perhaps for McCain, it is too little too late in this ‘Eleventh and a half hour’ of his run for the Presidency. Also, with the recent admittance of Vice-President into the hospital for the third time for his heart condition, this may raise concerns in the minds of the voters about John McCain’s overall health, age, and fitness to be Commander-in-Chief and the thought of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin running the country terrifies a lot of people of all political persuasions. John McCain is right when he says that he is not George Bush, but there are similarities. Several years ago, President Bush was criticized for focusing so much on the “War on Terror” that he essentially had no Domestic Policy.
Senator McCain had focused so much on keeping to troops in Iraq for as long as it takes, until ‘Victory is Won,’ caused him to be so preoccupied with that single goal, along with supporting “The Surge” that he became shortsighted when it came to the economy, too. In a very important way, this became an ‘Albatross’ for McCain because during one of the earlier Republican Presidential Primary debates, Senator McCain was asked a question about the economy, and he said, “I haven’t thought about it very much, so I guess I will have to read up on it.” About a month ago, John McCain was speaking in Jacksonville, FLA, which he uttered words that have ominously haunted him ever since when he said, “The fundamentals of the economy are strong.” About a week later to the very day was the “MELTDOWN on WALL STREET.”
To add a bit of “irony of ironies” to this political Shakespearean drama, Senator Hillary Clinton, though not surprisingly, was seated among the audience at ‘Hofstra University’ in her adopted State of New York. One can only wonder what thoughts must have been going around inside her head as she watched the verbal exchanges between her Democratic presidential rival, Senator Barack Obama and Senate colleague Republican Senator John McCain. It must have been surreal as well as painful because she undoubtedly winced as she disagreed with some of the answers to the questions posed by CBS News veteran Correspondent and Moderator for the debate, Bob Schieffer. In the back of Hillary Clinton’s mind, she knows that she is more knowledgeable and qualified than either Barack Obama or John McCain, and it is apparently bittersweet as she replays over and over again in her mind the title from a popular song by the Soul group of the 1970’s, Gladys Knight and the Pips, “It Shoulda Been Me.”
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
October 17, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
The last two weeks has seen its share of some of the lowest points, especially at Republican rallies featuring V.P. nominee Alaska Governor Sarah Palin who gets the crowds riled up and worked into a frenzy amid denunciations of “He doesn’t share our values, He is a friend of terrorists, He will raise taxes on the Middle Class, all amid the cries in the audience of, “Liar, Abomination, and Off with His Head.” Also, just as disturbing is a statement within the past week by longtime Civil Rights activist and elder statesman, Congressman John Lewis of Atlanta, GA who likened the activities of the McCain/Palin campaign’s racist attacks (albeit very subtly, if at that) to the character exhibited by former Jim Crow Segregationist, Governor George Wallace of Alabama. This is what it all has descended to with all the partisan name-calling but the stakes have never been higher with both Obama and McCain vying for this country’s highest office and leader of one of the most powerful nation’s on earth.
To Senator McCain’s credit, he did get in a memorable ‘zinger’ when he said to Barack Obama, “I’m not George Bush and if you wanted to run against President Bush you should have done so four years ago.” Perhaps for McCain, it is too little too late in this ‘Eleventh and a half hour’ of his run for the Presidency. Also, with the recent admittance of Vice-President into the hospital for the third time for his heart condition, this may raise concerns in the minds of the voters about John McCain’s overall health, age, and fitness to be Commander-in-Chief and the thought of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin running the country terrifies a lot of people of all political persuasions. John McCain is right when he says that he is not George Bush, but there are similarities. Several years ago, President Bush was criticized for focusing so much on the “War on Terror” that he essentially had no Domestic Policy.
Senator McCain had focused so much on keeping to troops in Iraq for as long as it takes, until ‘Victory is Won,’ caused him to be so preoccupied with that single goal, along with supporting “The Surge” that he became shortsighted when it came to the economy, too. In a very important way, this became an ‘Albatross’ for McCain because during one of the earlier Republican Presidential Primary debates, Senator McCain was asked a question about the economy, and he said, “I haven’t thought about it very much, so I guess I will have to read up on it.” About a month ago, John McCain was speaking in Jacksonville, FLA, which he uttered words that have ominously haunted him ever since when he said, “The fundamentals of the economy are strong.” About a week later to the very day was the “MELTDOWN on WALL STREET.”
To add a bit of “irony of ironies” to this political Shakespearean drama, Senator Hillary Clinton, though not surprisingly, was seated among the audience at ‘Hofstra University’ in her adopted State of New York. One can only wonder what thoughts must have been going around inside her head as she watched the verbal exchanges between her Democratic presidential rival, Senator Barack Obama and Senate colleague Republican Senator John McCain. It must have been surreal as well as painful because she undoubtedly winced as she disagreed with some of the answers to the questions posed by CBS News veteran Correspondent and Moderator for the debate, Bob Schieffer. In the back of Hillary Clinton’s mind, she knows that she is more knowledgeable and qualified than either Barack Obama or John McCain, and it is apparently bittersweet as she replays over and over again in her mind the title from a popular song by the Soul group of the 1970’s, Gladys Knight and the Pips, “It Shoulda Been Me.”
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
October 17, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
The McCain-Palin Campaign In Need of a Bailout Plan
With only about four weeks to go until the curtain closes on the 2008 Presidential Election, this partisan political drama is about to run its course. In the waning moments before the final conclusion, John McCain has decided to take the kid gloves off and unleash the Alaskan pit-bull terrier, Governor Sarah Palin to maul Barack Obama before the November deadline. With the first of the "Baby Boomers" about to retire, the Financial and Mortgage Crisis, tightening of credit, bank failures, nearly one million jobs lost since January, equities in 401-k, IRA and pension funds down nearly 35% or more in value, millions of Americans are uninsured or under-insured, and unprecedented numbers of families that have to shop at the GOODWILL STORES and feed their families by accepting donations from food banks, Sarah Palin wants to chastise Barack Obama for attending a political fundraiser hosted by former domestic terrorist William Ayers. The Republicans must really be desperate and are looking for the political 'Hail Mary' pass, another Lee Atwater inspired 'WILLIE HORTON' interlude that will scare the HELL out of white people; but it won't work this time. Americans are not going to fall for the race-baiting that effectively worked in other elections, whether Senatorial or otherwise.
Barack Obama is right on the money when he says that John McCain is OUT OF TOUCH, OUT OF IDEAS, and RUNNING OUT OF TIME. The time is past for demagoguery because the issues are too important and it will take a long time for things to get back to a sense of normalcy, so why are McCain-Palin wasting their resources on bringing up the past? During the Vice-Presidential debate, when Senator Joe Biden linked John McCain to President Bush's failed economic policies and leadership, the same Governor Palin talked about looking ahead instead of back in the past; but she must have forgotten about all of that. What's next on the agenda: Rev. Jeremiah Wright, or whether Barack is a Muslim, Tony Rezko, or perhaps making an issue of Barack's middle name of Hussein? These matters have already been addressed, and besides all that, what does all of this have to do with the really important things anyway? There was a duet sung by Johnny Mathis and Deniece Williams in 1977, which went by the title, "TOO MUCH, TOO LITTLE, TOO LATE, and it seems so appropriate as a post-mortem for the McCain/Palin political life cycle because there is so much to do and so little time to accomplish it in, and their time has just about run out.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
October 7, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Barack Obama is right on the money when he says that John McCain is OUT OF TOUCH, OUT OF IDEAS, and RUNNING OUT OF TIME. The time is past for demagoguery because the issues are too important and it will take a long time for things to get back to a sense of normalcy, so why are McCain-Palin wasting their resources on bringing up the past? During the Vice-Presidential debate, when Senator Joe Biden linked John McCain to President Bush's failed economic policies and leadership, the same Governor Palin talked about looking ahead instead of back in the past; but she must have forgotten about all of that. What's next on the agenda: Rev. Jeremiah Wright, or whether Barack is a Muslim, Tony Rezko, or perhaps making an issue of Barack's middle name of Hussein? These matters have already been addressed, and besides all that, what does all of this have to do with the really important things anyway? There was a duet sung by Johnny Mathis and Deniece Williams in 1977, which went by the title, "TOO MUCH, TOO LITTLE, TOO LATE, and it seems so appropriate as a post-mortem for the McCain/Palin political life cycle because there is so much to do and so little time to accomplish it in, and their time has just about run out.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
October 7, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Sarah Palin: Biting off more than she can chew
For Governor Palin, it could be "BLACK THURSDAY" later on this week if she fails to convince a very concerned electorate that her Foreign Policy experience is more than just living close to the Russian border and meeting a few world leaders at the United Nations last week after a crash course on International Relations from former Secretary of State, Henry Kissinger. Indeed, the lipstick has worn thin, the designer glasses are going out of vogue, the red bathing suit doesn't impress, she didn't sell the jet on eBay, Congress was the first to cancel the Bridge to Nowhere, and the moose steaks are starting to taste a little bit stale now.
Sarah Palin has also championed herself as the reinvented modern feminist political figure but has dismissed the concerns and agenda of her would-be White working Moms constituency as "irrelevant;" that is, compared to her own personal ambitions. The "OCTOBER SURPRISE" might be Governor Palin's minimal knowledge of the issues which are of concern to a lot of women such as Healthcare, The Economy, Education, Equal Pay for Equal Work, Family Leave, Childcare, and Women's Reproductive Rights; among a few others. If the so-called Alaskan Hockey-Mom/Pit Bull/Barracuda doesn't do well in her first serious televised debate, she will have about as much of a future in National Politics as a 'dog catcher.'
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September 29, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Sarah Palin has also championed herself as the reinvented modern feminist political figure but has dismissed the concerns and agenda of her would-be White working Moms constituency as "irrelevant;" that is, compared to her own personal ambitions. The "OCTOBER SURPRISE" might be Governor Palin's minimal knowledge of the issues which are of concern to a lot of women such as Healthcare, The Economy, Education, Equal Pay for Equal Work, Family Leave, Childcare, and Women's Reproductive Rights; among a few others. If the so-called Alaskan Hockey-Mom/Pit Bull/Barracuda doesn't do well in her first serious televised debate, she will have about as much of a future in National Politics as a 'dog catcher.'
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September 29, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Saturday, September 27, 2008
The Real McCain: War Hero or Just Another Politician??
There used to be an old expression about something being genuine, “true blue,” or honest as “The Real McCoy,” and Republican Senator John McCain just might not be in reality what all the hype has said about him. John McCain was a P.O.W. at the “Hanoi Hilton” for five years and his life in “HELL” was the stuff of LEGEND; but does that necessarily make him a HERO? All the prisoners were tortured, some more than others, and there were doubtless a few who succumbed to their injuries and sicknesses who later died.
John McCain told Diane Sawyer in an interview on ABC’s 20/20 on Friday, September 26, 2008, “I was so ashamed that I considered taking my own life.” John McCain’s shame and humiliation is understandable, and who can imagine enduring the horrors that he not only witnessed but personally experienced, yet be that as it may, he was the only prisoner on record who did the bidding of the enemy. When John McCain chose another career path, it made perfectly good sense to go into politics because how could he gain respect from military superiors or subordinates whom he might have to lead into battle if necessary, who, if any of them were ever captured by the enemy, would it be acceptable for them to give in also; what kind of a role model would that be? Now, why this same ‘War Hero’ wants to be the Commander-in-Chief of the entire United States military forces during a time of war, peril, and uncertainty is totally unfathomable. Talk about audacity, John McCain has plenty!
John McCain talks a lot about being a ‘Maverick’ during his nearly thirty years in the Senate, but outside of the McCain-Feingold Bill on Campaign Finance Reform, what other significant things has he done that specifically has his name on it. It is not enough just to say that he disagreed with or was in favor of a particular piece of legislation, or that he opposed his own ‘Party’ when he was in disagreement; anyone could do that. It is not enough to say that he has ‘experience’ if it cannot be quantified as specifically highlighting his own personal values, ability, and success in getting needed resources to the people he wants to help.
What pressing issues were at the forefront and the cornerstone of his long and distinguished political career? Was Senator McCain at the front of the line or did he lead the charge for against the abuses of power, greed, and indifference within the citadels of power in this country, or is this just a more recent interest? What outstanding Bill has John McCain authored, co-sponsored and pushed through the notoriously partisan Senate to eventually become Law? It is not enough to have lived to a respectable age of seventy-two, and although wise from experiencing many things, still it doesn’t qualify as the litmus test to be President of the United States. John McCain talks about having met several world leaders and spent time in a few foreign countries, but it doesn’t mean that he understands the culture or knows them.
Lastly, just to set the record straight about September 1, 2001. It wasn’t so much that terrorists hijacked commercial aircraft and destroyed the Twin Towers in New York, and although the loss of 3,000 innocent American lives was tragic, those atrocious criminal acts seemed to be geared towards disrupting the global financial infrastructure, centered in the world's most stable economy, which is the United States of America. It is interesting to hear the Presidential candidates talk about ‘National Security’ but as John McCain chided Barack Obama regarding being naïve or saying “Barack just doesn’t get it,” when in point-of-fact, neither of them gets it! America’s National Security isn’t solely about victory in Iraq, Afghanistan, destroying al-Qaida, or even capturing or killing Osama bin-Laden; but rather quite simply, it’s about having stable and growing financial markets. This Nation’s Armed Forces can vanquish any foe set against them on the battlefield anywhere in the world but Americans can lose the more devastating Economic War at home; with a lot more dire consequences.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September 27, 2008
253-382-4092
pbks@hotmail.com
John McCain told Diane Sawyer in an interview on ABC’s 20/20 on Friday, September 26, 2008, “I was so ashamed that I considered taking my own life.” John McCain’s shame and humiliation is understandable, and who can imagine enduring the horrors that he not only witnessed but personally experienced, yet be that as it may, he was the only prisoner on record who did the bidding of the enemy. When John McCain chose another career path, it made perfectly good sense to go into politics because how could he gain respect from military superiors or subordinates whom he might have to lead into battle if necessary, who, if any of them were ever captured by the enemy, would it be acceptable for them to give in also; what kind of a role model would that be? Now, why this same ‘War Hero’ wants to be the Commander-in-Chief of the entire United States military forces during a time of war, peril, and uncertainty is totally unfathomable. Talk about audacity, John McCain has plenty!
John McCain talks a lot about being a ‘Maverick’ during his nearly thirty years in the Senate, but outside of the McCain-Feingold Bill on Campaign Finance Reform, what other significant things has he done that specifically has his name on it. It is not enough just to say that he disagreed with or was in favor of a particular piece of legislation, or that he opposed his own ‘Party’ when he was in disagreement; anyone could do that. It is not enough to say that he has ‘experience’ if it cannot be quantified as specifically highlighting his own personal values, ability, and success in getting needed resources to the people he wants to help.
What pressing issues were at the forefront and the cornerstone of his long and distinguished political career? Was Senator McCain at the front of the line or did he lead the charge for against the abuses of power, greed, and indifference within the citadels of power in this country, or is this just a more recent interest? What outstanding Bill has John McCain authored, co-sponsored and pushed through the notoriously partisan Senate to eventually become Law? It is not enough to have lived to a respectable age of seventy-two, and although wise from experiencing many things, still it doesn’t qualify as the litmus test to be President of the United States. John McCain talks about having met several world leaders and spent time in a few foreign countries, but it doesn’t mean that he understands the culture or knows them.
Lastly, just to set the record straight about September 1, 2001. It wasn’t so much that terrorists hijacked commercial aircraft and destroyed the Twin Towers in New York, and although the loss of 3,000 innocent American lives was tragic, those atrocious criminal acts seemed to be geared towards disrupting the global financial infrastructure, centered in the world's most stable economy, which is the United States of America. It is interesting to hear the Presidential candidates talk about ‘National Security’ but as John McCain chided Barack Obama regarding being naïve or saying “Barack just doesn’t get it,” when in point-of-fact, neither of them gets it! America’s National Security isn’t solely about victory in Iraq, Afghanistan, destroying al-Qaida, or even capturing or killing Osama bin-Laden; but rather quite simply, it’s about having stable and growing financial markets. This Nation’s Armed Forces can vanquish any foe set against them on the battlefield anywhere in the world but Americans can lose the more devastating Economic War at home; with a lot more dire consequences.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September 27, 2008
253-382-4092
pbks@hotmail.com
Monday, September 15, 2008
Is Sarah Palin Ready for the Job?
Alaska Governor and Republican Vice-Presidential nominee Sarah Palin gave ABC News unprecedented access to her over the last several days. Sarah Palin was featured on ABC News, 20/20, and NIGHTLINE where she was asked a number of questions ranging from National Security to Domestic Issues. Veteran Correspondent and ABC News Anchor Charlie Gibson peppered the Vice-President Elect with the effectiveness of a Prosecuting Attorney, and the result was quite a far cry from the Sarah Palin of the Republican National Convention. Sure, Governor Palin answered all the questions that she was asked, along with the usual tenacity and firm conviction that all of America has come to expect of her; but was it convincing? According to the latest MSNBC opinion poll (“LIVE VOTE”) which was taken after all the interviews, a significant majority of 70% of respondents believe that Sarah Palin is NOT qualified to be Commander-in-Chief, let alone possess the requisite knowledge in Foreign Affairs, especially the so-called “Bush Doctrine,” to be part of the Executive Branch of the Government.
Ironically, it was Sarah Palin herself who scoffed at Barack Obama’s Celebrity status and political shallowness except that he delivers great speeches; yet she seems to be his counterpart. It is not enough to defend Sarah Palin by saying that she is ONLY running as Vice-President and not President, but when Charlie Gibson asked her about that possibility also, she said “I am ready for the Job.” To Sarah Palin, it doesn’t matter to her whether it is as Vice-President or President, she feels qualified just the same; however, nothing could be further from the truth. By Sarah’s answers to some basic questions on key policy issues, Governor Palin has shown inadequate knowledge, preparation, reflection, and even honesty to her responses elicited by Charlie Gibson. Sarah Palin wanted to reframe the specific intent of the questions to mask her weaknesses and to repeat familiar rhetorical themes of her knowledge in Energy matters and Reform Theology; politically-speaking.
It appears that major print and broadcast media are afraid to criticize Governor Palin for fear of incurring the wrath of and offending White women, who comprise nearly half of the electorate. This is reminiscent of the delicate way Barack Obama was treated in the Primaries and is still in evidence for the most part since the beginning of the General Election. The McCain camp may continue to argue until they are blue in the face that Governor Palin was not a last minute choice for Vice-President, but clearly, it is not a strong position that they can honestly continue to defend. The die is cast and one cannot go back to the drawing board after putting forth Sarah Palin’s name into nomination. So far the Republican Conservative Evangelical Christian base is energized for the moment, but Governor Palin has yet to really portray herself as someone who will appeal to Independents, Reagan Democrats, and to the rest of voters as someone who would seek bipartisan support if she were ever, due to unforeseen circumstances to occupy the Oval Office.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September 12, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Ironically, it was Sarah Palin herself who scoffed at Barack Obama’s Celebrity status and political shallowness except that he delivers great speeches; yet she seems to be his counterpart. It is not enough to defend Sarah Palin by saying that she is ONLY running as Vice-President and not President, but when Charlie Gibson asked her about that possibility also, she said “I am ready for the Job.” To Sarah Palin, it doesn’t matter to her whether it is as Vice-President or President, she feels qualified just the same; however, nothing could be further from the truth. By Sarah’s answers to some basic questions on key policy issues, Governor Palin has shown inadequate knowledge, preparation, reflection, and even honesty to her responses elicited by Charlie Gibson. Sarah Palin wanted to reframe the specific intent of the questions to mask her weaknesses and to repeat familiar rhetorical themes of her knowledge in Energy matters and Reform Theology; politically-speaking.
It appears that major print and broadcast media are afraid to criticize Governor Palin for fear of incurring the wrath of and offending White women, who comprise nearly half of the electorate. This is reminiscent of the delicate way Barack Obama was treated in the Primaries and is still in evidence for the most part since the beginning of the General Election. The McCain camp may continue to argue until they are blue in the face that Governor Palin was not a last minute choice for Vice-President, but clearly, it is not a strong position that they can honestly continue to defend. The die is cast and one cannot go back to the drawing board after putting forth Sarah Palin’s name into nomination. So far the Republican Conservative Evangelical Christian base is energized for the moment, but Governor Palin has yet to really portray herself as someone who will appeal to Independents, Reagan Democrats, and to the rest of voters as someone who would seek bipartisan support if she were ever, due to unforeseen circumstances to occupy the Oval Office.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September 12, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Will the Real Sarah Palin Please Stand Up
There is an old saying that “Fame is fleeting,” and Super Woman-Hockey Mom-Moose Hunting-Lipstick Wearing-Republican Bulldog-Political Barracuda and Governor of Alaska Sarah Palin may find that her moment in the spotlight is beginning to lose its radiance under the print and broadcast scrutiny of her background and embellishments of accomplishments mentioned during the Republican National Convention and on the campaign trail. What has come to light is that Governor Palin may not have been as forthright about that so-called “Bridge to Nowhere” and receiving earmarks. Besides the ongoing investigation about “TrooperGate,” there is also Sarah Palin’s term as Mayor of Wasilla where she met with the local Public Librarian to inquire about the banning of certain books which apparently she thought was inappropriate; putting her nose in business matters which should have been none of her concern. Clearly, this overnight sensation of the Republican Party has a lot of explaining to do regarding her values and views within the next couple of months.
What hasn’t been discussed or investigated a lot is about Sarah Palin’s religion and what she believes. There was such a great interest about Barack Obama’s religion, what Church he attended, and what his Pastor taught, then why not afford the same level of scrutiny for Palin? Supposedly, her former Pastor at an Assembly of God Church believes that Alaska’s vast territory will be a refuge for those who will survive “The Great Tribulation,” and who also reportedly is to have warned that those [believers??] who supported former Democratic Presidential nominee John Kerry were ‘going straight to hell;’ Not only that, but Sarah Palin has said that the involvement of this country in Iraq is “God’s work.” This sounds eerily a bit like President George Bush who talks to his Heavenly Father in Foreign Policy matters and believes that “Democracy” is God’s gift to the world and America is charged with the responsibility to carry it to every corner of the earth.
Former Governor of New York Ed Koch, a Republican, supports Barack Obama for President, and responding to questions about Sarah Palin, says, “She’s scary.” Although Governor Palin enjoys a remarkable 80% approval rating among the people of Alaska, and that is even with of her support of ‘Aerial Hunting,’ which would doubtless not be so favorable outside of Alaska; offending animal lovers and PETA for sure. No one knows about her track record among the indigenous Tklingit, Inuit, and other Indian tribes and protections of their lands, hunting and fishing rights, as well as respect for their ancient and sacred customs. No one knows about Sarah Palin’s positions on Environmental Protection Laws, Civil Liberties, the Economy, the “Morning After Pill,” Partial-Birth Abortion, No Child Left Behind, Healthcare, Social Security Reform, and the government takeover of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, etc. The only thing that is known is her unceasing to the point of nausea criticism of Barack Obama, repetitive reminders of not taking earmarks (not true), and threatening to reform Washington D.C. Someone needs to remind Sarah that just as Hope is not a Strategy, “Propaganda is not Policy.”
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September 9, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
What hasn’t been discussed or investigated a lot is about Sarah Palin’s religion and what she believes. There was such a great interest about Barack Obama’s religion, what Church he attended, and what his Pastor taught, then why not afford the same level of scrutiny for Palin? Supposedly, her former Pastor at an Assembly of God Church believes that Alaska’s vast territory will be a refuge for those who will survive “The Great Tribulation,” and who also reportedly is to have warned that those [believers??] who supported former Democratic Presidential nominee John Kerry were ‘going straight to hell;’ Not only that, but Sarah Palin has said that the involvement of this country in Iraq is “God’s work.” This sounds eerily a bit like President George Bush who talks to his Heavenly Father in Foreign Policy matters and believes that “Democracy” is God’s gift to the world and America is charged with the responsibility to carry it to every corner of the earth.
Former Governor of New York Ed Koch, a Republican, supports Barack Obama for President, and responding to questions about Sarah Palin, says, “She’s scary.” Although Governor Palin enjoys a remarkable 80% approval rating among the people of Alaska, and that is even with of her support of ‘Aerial Hunting,’ which would doubtless not be so favorable outside of Alaska; offending animal lovers and PETA for sure. No one knows about her track record among the indigenous Tklingit, Inuit, and other Indian tribes and protections of their lands, hunting and fishing rights, as well as respect for their ancient and sacred customs. No one knows about Sarah Palin’s positions on Environmental Protection Laws, Civil Liberties, the Economy, the “Morning After Pill,” Partial-Birth Abortion, No Child Left Behind, Healthcare, Social Security Reform, and the government takeover of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, etc. The only thing that is known is her unceasing to the point of nausea criticism of Barack Obama, repetitive reminders of not taking earmarks (not true), and threatening to reform Washington D.C. Someone needs to remind Sarah that just as Hope is not a Strategy, “Propaganda is not Policy.”
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September 9, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Monday, September 8, 2008
The Underreported Story at the Democratic and Republican National Conventions
The partisan political speeches and denunciations are over with and the General Election is in full swing, but there is an untold or at the very least, the big underreported activities of corruption at the highest levels within both the Democratic and Republican Convention delegates. Brian Ross, ABC News Chief Investigative Reporter conducted an undercover investigation titled, “Following the Money Trail” in which he was able to expose the shenanigans of the upper echelon and committee officers within the campaigns of both political parties. While some of the most stirring speeches were being spoken in Denver, Colorado and Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota, Corporate Lobbyists were throwing lavish parties for Democratic and Republican lawmakers. For the Republican bigwigs, a big party was paid for by the NRA, Lockheed Martin, and the American Trucking Association, featuring entertainment by a band called, ironically, “Hookers and Blow.” According to the report, at least 200 parties had been scheduled during the Republican Convention; just about the same number as the Democrats.
Following in the same traditional practices, Corporate Lobbyists from CitiGroup, Merrill Lynch, and UBS spent millions of dollars on food, drink, and entertainment to influence Democratic lawmakers. Speaker of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, has a “Pelosi 100,” which are wealthy contributors to the Democratic Party who pay $100,000 in personal funds for access to Legislative leaders within the Party. Despite the rhetoric within both the Democratic and Republican camps to “Reform” or “Change” the way things are done in Washington D.C. as far as fighting the entrenched Special Interests and Corporate Lobbyists influencing lawmakers, it is only paying lip service to the voters. During the Democratic National Convention, Senator mentioned about “The government must be about we the people, not we the favored few,” but in reality it seems that “The more things appear to change, the more they remain the same.”
These stark political realities were parodied in 1992 by the movie, “The Distinguished Gentleman,” starring Eddie Murphy. The movie was a satire which wasn’t and isn’t too far from the truth as it attempted to portray the sleaziness, greed, and corruption of Congress (“House of Representatives”) and Eddie Murphy played con-man turned Congressman Thomas Jefferson Johnson. To show the neophyte Freshman Congressman how things really are done in the nation’s Capitol was a perhaps over-the-top but nonetheless tour-de-force performance by actor Lane Smith as Dick Dodge, Power & Industry Chairman. Two of the realistic and applicable issues that were raised in the movie, though not treated seriously were ‘Corporate Finance Reform’ and ‘Environmental Protection.’
The thing that is inexplicable is why was ABC the only network to cover this monumental disconnect between all the passionately convincing political diatribe and business-as-usual.’ Although Congress has its own ethics reform law called the “Honest Leadership and Open Government Act” but it contains loopholes purposely enacted by Congress so that they would not be constrained by the very piece of Legislation that they passed into Law. The promised “Change” by both Presidential candidates may be more of a superficial one on the surface because behind the scenes it may be just more of the same.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September 7, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Following in the same traditional practices, Corporate Lobbyists from CitiGroup, Merrill Lynch, and UBS spent millions of dollars on food, drink, and entertainment to influence Democratic lawmakers. Speaker of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, has a “Pelosi 100,” which are wealthy contributors to the Democratic Party who pay $100,000 in personal funds for access to Legislative leaders within the Party. Despite the rhetoric within both the Democratic and Republican camps to “Reform” or “Change” the way things are done in Washington D.C. as far as fighting the entrenched Special Interests and Corporate Lobbyists influencing lawmakers, it is only paying lip service to the voters. During the Democratic National Convention, Senator mentioned about “The government must be about we the people, not we the favored few,” but in reality it seems that “The more things appear to change, the more they remain the same.”
These stark political realities were parodied in 1992 by the movie, “The Distinguished Gentleman,” starring Eddie Murphy. The movie was a satire which wasn’t and isn’t too far from the truth as it attempted to portray the sleaziness, greed, and corruption of Congress (“House of Representatives”) and Eddie Murphy played con-man turned Congressman Thomas Jefferson Johnson. To show the neophyte Freshman Congressman how things really are done in the nation’s Capitol was a perhaps over-the-top but nonetheless tour-de-force performance by actor Lane Smith as Dick Dodge, Power & Industry Chairman. Two of the realistic and applicable issues that were raised in the movie, though not treated seriously were ‘Corporate Finance Reform’ and ‘Environmental Protection.’
The thing that is inexplicable is why was ABC the only network to cover this monumental disconnect between all the passionately convincing political diatribe and business-as-usual.’ Although Congress has its own ethics reform law called the “Honest Leadership and Open Government Act” but it contains loopholes purposely enacted by Congress so that they would not be constrained by the very piece of Legislation that they passed into Law. The promised “Change” by both Presidential candidates may be more of a superficial one on the surface because behind the scenes it may be just more of the same.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September 7, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Is John Edwards Affair Forgiven and Forgotten??
Now that the Beijing Olympics and the Democratic and Nepublican National Conventions are over, is the John Edwards/Reille Hunter Affair back on the table? There has been relative since the "National Enquirer" broke perhaps the biggest story of the political season; aside from that of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin being selected as John McCain's Vice-Presidential running mate. Is it out of sympathy for cancer-striken Elisabeth Edwards and their family that the print and broadcast media has decided to lay off or is there just no more interest as it is a non-event; that is, because the General Election is well under way with only about two months to go until the election of the next President of the United States. There are still some lingering unanswered questions about the affair such as when did it really occur, how long did it last, when did it end, who was the baby that John Edwards was shown holding in the "National Enquirer" photo (perhaps doctored), why Reille Hunter won't confirm the paternity of her baby, and the Million dollar question; is John Edwards really the father?
Perhaps this is all just the public's insatiable curiosity with the salacious and scandal-ridden lives of celebrities and political figures who should know better or do we have a right to know when those who might be role models are exposed when their private and personal indiscretions become exposed in the public arena of ridicule, scorn, and shame. Bristol Palin's pregnancy became an issue in the media for a few days at least and not because of a gender bias but due to the diligence of Internet bloggers who wanted to find out everything about a here-to-fore not well known Governor from Alaska who had shocked the political world by being announced as John McCain's running mate. Unfortunately for Bristol, she became a sort of collateral damage, an incidental innocent bystander in the frenzy to quickly amass as much information about the Palin family as soon as possible; and Bristol's pregnancy somehow became the attention of that search.
There is an old saying which goes like this, "Let a sleeping dog lay," and so perhaps it is best to move on to more important things or just sit back and wait for the "National Enquirer" to reopen the investigation or lay the next bombshell because instead of being just a supermarket 'rag,' they have a little credibility now. Besides all that, most reporting is "Tabloid Journalism" anyway.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September 7, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Perhaps this is all just the public's insatiable curiosity with the salacious and scandal-ridden lives of celebrities and political figures who should know better or do we have a right to know when those who might be role models are exposed when their private and personal indiscretions become exposed in the public arena of ridicule, scorn, and shame. Bristol Palin's pregnancy became an issue in the media for a few days at least and not because of a gender bias but due to the diligence of Internet bloggers who wanted to find out everything about a here-to-fore not well known Governor from Alaska who had shocked the political world by being announced as John McCain's running mate. Unfortunately for Bristol, she became a sort of collateral damage, an incidental innocent bystander in the frenzy to quickly amass as much information about the Palin family as soon as possible; and Bristol's pregnancy somehow became the attention of that search.
There is an old saying which goes like this, "Let a sleeping dog lay," and so perhaps it is best to move on to more important things or just sit back and wait for the "National Enquirer" to reopen the investigation or lay the next bombshell because instead of being just a supermarket 'rag,' they have a little credibility now. Besides all that, most reporting is "Tabloid Journalism" anyway.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September 7, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Oprah Winfrey’s Refusal to Interview Sarah Palin
On Monday, September 8, 2008 will debut the 150 American athletes who competed at the Beijing Olympics, including members of the “Dream Team” gold medal winning Men’s Basketball for her 23rd Anniversary Show as the ‘Mother Superior Daytime Television host,’ but she doesn’t want to interview Republican Vice-Presidential nominee, Alaska Governor Sarah Palin. Oprah is known for her unqualified support of successful, educated, White Soccer/Hockey Moms (“Fem-Power”), so it is quite surprising that she would not have Sarah Palin on her show; at least possibly not until after the Presidential Election is over. Although Oprah has made changes in her show and staff over the two decades that she has been on television, to include shifting from those wonderful moments of Spiritual anecdotes offered by Iyanza Van Zandt to Marianne Williamson to Deepak Chopra to Eckhart Tolle; at last count. Oprah has left the sassy theme song of “A New Attitude” by Patty LaBelle to a more almost “New Age” Spirituality or Metaphysical “Oneness /Enlightenment” which evokes musical themes of the singer Enya.
Oprah has never before, until recently, publicly endorsed any political candidate; that is, until she saw and heard fellow Illinoian, Senator Barack Obama. It was like seeing a ‘kid in a candy store,’ and Oprah enjoyed that political confectionary so much that not only did she endorse him, but did one better by going out on the campaign trail with him in the very beginning of the Presidential Primary. With Oprah’s much sought after stamp of approval, Barack Obama got out of the starting blocks with a little bit of a headwind behind him over all the other candidates. There was only one little problem with Oprah’s enthusiasm for Barack Obama, namely, forgetting about Hillary Clinton. Oprah’s lack of lending support to Hillary Clinton left many of her affluent, professional, educated White working Moms feeling betrayed because they thought Oprah was one of “them” or just like them; at the very least. To say that her supporters were shocked, surprised, and enraged would be an understatement of epic proportions. Now, it seems, is another slap in the face of some of those very same female constituencies and supporters who transcend racial and political boundaries. Some of Oprah’s closest friends and supporters, who are most likely Gail King, Maria Shriver, and Caroline Kennedy to name a few, probably had advised her against the idea; although the Executive Producers of Oprah’s show were in favor of it.
Regardless if one agrees with Sarah Palin’s Evangelical Christian Conservative Republican political and social views and her taking those cheap shots at Barack Obama during the RNC, still it is an historic moment for women across America regardless of political ideology that she is the first female to be nominated as Vice-President on the Republican ticket since the founding of the Republic. The backlash against is bound to increase and the chorus of disenchanted Hillary supporters might swell the ranks of those who wield those “PALIN POWER” signs to put pressure on the sponsors of Oprah’s show, which could result in the loss of advertising revenue and slipping in the Nielsen ratings. As a reminder as to what can happen when you fall from grace, just ask Martha Stewart. It wasn’t so much that she lied about her insider trading of IMClone stock to Federal Investigators leading to criminal prosecution and conviction, which was bad enough, but more importantly was the fact that a majority of her legions of adoring fans withdrew their support; and as they say, the rest is history. Of course this is not to say that Oprah has done anything close to being criminal but it does suggest that she is not immune to the swaying of public opinion; which is important in her line of work.
Over the many years, Oprah has been able to successfully weather her share of small controversies, criticisms, or rumors about her and has been able to put all of them to rest for the most part. Still, it seems a little disingenuous for Oprah to pride herself on being so open and unbiased, staunchly leading the charge for ‘Working Women of America,’ and yet be so obviously partisan in her refusal to acknowledge the significant accomplishment of one of the very people that she is the “Poster Girl” for. Not only that, but if Oprah can have George Bush on her show, then why not Sarah Palin? Perhaps it is time to take a second look at Oprah Winfrey and find out who she really is. There was a familiar refrain which criticized the Republicans during the Obama campaign all the way to the Democratic Convention, which was, “That’s Not Change but More of the Same.” But for Oprah, the label seems appropriate because when it comes to shafting Hillary Clinton and Sarah Palin, she is certainly consistent because her actions show, “That’s Not Change but More of the Same.”
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September7, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Oprah has never before, until recently, publicly endorsed any political candidate; that is, until she saw and heard fellow Illinoian, Senator Barack Obama. It was like seeing a ‘kid in a candy store,’ and Oprah enjoyed that political confectionary so much that not only did she endorse him, but did one better by going out on the campaign trail with him in the very beginning of the Presidential Primary. With Oprah’s much sought after stamp of approval, Barack Obama got out of the starting blocks with a little bit of a headwind behind him over all the other candidates. There was only one little problem with Oprah’s enthusiasm for Barack Obama, namely, forgetting about Hillary Clinton. Oprah’s lack of lending support to Hillary Clinton left many of her affluent, professional, educated White working Moms feeling betrayed because they thought Oprah was one of “them” or just like them; at the very least. To say that her supporters were shocked, surprised, and enraged would be an understatement of epic proportions. Now, it seems, is another slap in the face of some of those very same female constituencies and supporters who transcend racial and political boundaries. Some of Oprah’s closest friends and supporters, who are most likely Gail King, Maria Shriver, and Caroline Kennedy to name a few, probably had advised her against the idea; although the Executive Producers of Oprah’s show were in favor of it.
Regardless if one agrees with Sarah Palin’s Evangelical Christian Conservative Republican political and social views and her taking those cheap shots at Barack Obama during the RNC, still it is an historic moment for women across America regardless of political ideology that she is the first female to be nominated as Vice-President on the Republican ticket since the founding of the Republic. The backlash against is bound to increase and the chorus of disenchanted Hillary supporters might swell the ranks of those who wield those “PALIN POWER” signs to put pressure on the sponsors of Oprah’s show, which could result in the loss of advertising revenue and slipping in the Nielsen ratings. As a reminder as to what can happen when you fall from grace, just ask Martha Stewart. It wasn’t so much that she lied about her insider trading of IMClone stock to Federal Investigators leading to criminal prosecution and conviction, which was bad enough, but more importantly was the fact that a majority of her legions of adoring fans withdrew their support; and as they say, the rest is history. Of course this is not to say that Oprah has done anything close to being criminal but it does suggest that she is not immune to the swaying of public opinion; which is important in her line of work.
Over the many years, Oprah has been able to successfully weather her share of small controversies, criticisms, or rumors about her and has been able to put all of them to rest for the most part. Still, it seems a little disingenuous for Oprah to pride herself on being so open and unbiased, staunchly leading the charge for ‘Working Women of America,’ and yet be so obviously partisan in her refusal to acknowledge the significant accomplishment of one of the very people that she is the “Poster Girl” for. Not only that, but if Oprah can have George Bush on her show, then why not Sarah Palin? Perhaps it is time to take a second look at Oprah Winfrey and find out who she really is. There was a familiar refrain which criticized the Republicans during the Obama campaign all the way to the Democratic Convention, which was, “That’s Not Change but More of the Same.” But for Oprah, the label seems appropriate because when it comes to shafting Hillary Clinton and Sarah Palin, she is certainly consistent because her actions show, “That’s Not Change but More of the Same.”
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September7, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Saturday, September 6, 2008
John McCain Addresses Republican National Convention
The speech that John McCain delivered can best be summed up as full of a sense of patriotism and wanting to change the status-quo in Washington D.C. Considering that America is still involved in two wars, one in Iraq and the other in Afghanistan, it is not surprising that a heavily nuanced theme of Nationalism (“Country First’) and military service augmented John McCain’s incredible ordeal as a POW in the “Hanoi Hilton” for 5 unimaginably brutal and tortuous years; being subjected to atrocities that scarcely anyone can hardly imagine. If ever there was one distinguished American who should be honored and recognized for his military service and devotion to his country, then John McCain certainly stands right up there near the top. Having said all of that, still even someone with such an impeccable record as well as serving thirty years in the U.S. Senate with distinction does not by itself qualify him to be President of the United States.
On Thursday, September 5, 2008, Senator John McCain had the opportunity to tell the American people by laying out his case, much like the duty of a lawyer presenting evidence before a judge and jury as to why he would be the best choice to be the sole occupant to sit in the Oval Office. Although Senator McCain is not known for being one of the most oratorical-gifted Senator’s, still he failed to give specific and concrete steps that he would take to solve some of the most pressing issues that the average American citizen faces, namely, jobs and healthcare; among a few others. Yes, there was the typical ‘boilerplate’ as George Stephanopoulos, Senior Correspondent for ABC News calls it. McCain talked a lot about “CHANGE” (sound familiar??), about our being Americans, government corruption, losing the confidence and betraying the trust of the American people, and quite a lot of time was spent on the McCain biography; perhaps a little bit too much time.
There were some light brushes of issues that McCain wanted to address, such as: reducing big government, doubling the child tax exemption, lowering business taxes, opening new markets for our domestically-produced products, new job creation and worker retraining, choice of sending children to a public, private, or charter school, and spending some of the estimated 700 billion on oil sent to mostly the Middle East and use those funds to invest in and develop new technologies in nuclear energy, wind, oceanic tides, solar, electric hybrid energy sources as well as drilling offshore as a temporary stopgap measure until America gets these new energy sources up and running. One of the more memorable statements by John McCain besides chastising the more entrenched special interests and corporate lobbyists within GOP was when he said that “Education is the Civil Rights issue of this Century.” Little does he realize that this profound statement will have significant implications in the future; especially among those who are racial minorities.
Selecting Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as the Vice-presidential running mate, it seems was a shrewd and clever choice, and only time will tell if it was the right choice. Sarah certainly has energized the Convention delegates who are just enamored with her and she will undoubtedly attract some of the Conservative base and White women in general who can relate to her. With an employment rate at 6% nationally, high department store retail prices everywhere, a slumping economy, high gasoline prices, and increases across the board at the grocery checkout, it’s going to take a lot more to convince the average blue-collar worker and the nearly 65-95 million ‘Baby Boomers’ who will be retiring within the next several years than just clever one-liners and sharp barbs at Barack Obama.
It is going to take coming up with practical solutions and since the McCain-Palin ticket are still the inheritors of the failed Bush-Cheney Republican legacy, it going to require more than just a group of “talking-heads” going at it with each other. Perhaps that political Ad or spoof by Paris Hilton needs to be looked at again because by mimicking both Obama and McCain, she might be on to something, which is, instead of an either-or-solution, why not look at the merits of both and take the best parts from each.
For too long in our politics, each side of the major political parties tries to play one-upmanship on the other and it’s like the little kid with the ball who says, “It’s my ball and my rules and if I can’t get my way, I will just take my ball and go home.” Even if a Democrat learns that a Republican has a better policy solution, he or she will either plagiarize (Oops, rework) it and pass it off as their own original idea, credit it to someone else, or simply just discredit it; vice versa for the Republicans too.
This is probably the way things are done in the Nation’s Capitol, it seems, and as a confirmation of the poor Legislative accomplishment of our Federally-elected officials is the fact that President Bush’s approval ratings are the lowest of any President since this information was collected. Not surprisingly, how the citizens rate the U.S. Congress is even worse. Let’s hope that the ‘Change’ which both the Democrats and Republicans promise won’t end up leaving the voter getting ‘shortchanged.’
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September 5, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
On Thursday, September 5, 2008, Senator John McCain had the opportunity to tell the American people by laying out his case, much like the duty of a lawyer presenting evidence before a judge and jury as to why he would be the best choice to be the sole occupant to sit in the Oval Office. Although Senator McCain is not known for being one of the most oratorical-gifted Senator’s, still he failed to give specific and concrete steps that he would take to solve some of the most pressing issues that the average American citizen faces, namely, jobs and healthcare; among a few others. Yes, there was the typical ‘boilerplate’ as George Stephanopoulos, Senior Correspondent for ABC News calls it. McCain talked a lot about “CHANGE” (sound familiar??), about our being Americans, government corruption, losing the confidence and betraying the trust of the American people, and quite a lot of time was spent on the McCain biography; perhaps a little bit too much time.
There were some light brushes of issues that McCain wanted to address, such as: reducing big government, doubling the child tax exemption, lowering business taxes, opening new markets for our domestically-produced products, new job creation and worker retraining, choice of sending children to a public, private, or charter school, and spending some of the estimated 700 billion on oil sent to mostly the Middle East and use those funds to invest in and develop new technologies in nuclear energy, wind, oceanic tides, solar, electric hybrid energy sources as well as drilling offshore as a temporary stopgap measure until America gets these new energy sources up and running. One of the more memorable statements by John McCain besides chastising the more entrenched special interests and corporate lobbyists within GOP was when he said that “Education is the Civil Rights issue of this Century.” Little does he realize that this profound statement will have significant implications in the future; especially among those who are racial minorities.
Selecting Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as the Vice-presidential running mate, it seems was a shrewd and clever choice, and only time will tell if it was the right choice. Sarah certainly has energized the Convention delegates who are just enamored with her and she will undoubtedly attract some of the Conservative base and White women in general who can relate to her. With an employment rate at 6% nationally, high department store retail prices everywhere, a slumping economy, high gasoline prices, and increases across the board at the grocery checkout, it’s going to take a lot more to convince the average blue-collar worker and the nearly 65-95 million ‘Baby Boomers’ who will be retiring within the next several years than just clever one-liners and sharp barbs at Barack Obama.
It is going to take coming up with practical solutions and since the McCain-Palin ticket are still the inheritors of the failed Bush-Cheney Republican legacy, it going to require more than just a group of “talking-heads” going at it with each other. Perhaps that political Ad or spoof by Paris Hilton needs to be looked at again because by mimicking both Obama and McCain, she might be on to something, which is, instead of an either-or-solution, why not look at the merits of both and take the best parts from each.
For too long in our politics, each side of the major political parties tries to play one-upmanship on the other and it’s like the little kid with the ball who says, “It’s my ball and my rules and if I can’t get my way, I will just take my ball and go home.” Even if a Democrat learns that a Republican has a better policy solution, he or she will either plagiarize (Oops, rework) it and pass it off as their own original idea, credit it to someone else, or simply just discredit it; vice versa for the Republicans too.
This is probably the way things are done in the Nation’s Capitol, it seems, and as a confirmation of the poor Legislative accomplishment of our Federally-elected officials is the fact that President Bush’s approval ratings are the lowest of any President since this information was collected. Not surprisingly, how the citizens rate the U.S. Congress is even worse. Let’s hope that the ‘Change’ which both the Democrats and Republicans promise won’t end up leaving the voter getting ‘shortchanged.’
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September 5, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Sarah Palin a Big Hit at the Republican National Convention
The eagerly anticipated national debut of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as Senator John McCain’s Vice-President running mate did not disappoint. The ‘Hockey Mom’ in designer glasses or in her own vernacular, showing the distinction between a pit bull and a hockey mom was only that one of them wears lipstick, showed to a partisan crowd that the reputation may be well deserved. Her acceptance speech was laced with humor, toughness, competence, and Sarah Palin will be a force to be reckoned with on the political stage for some time to come. Some of her sharpest attacks were directed at Barack Obama, which is traditionally what candidates in those positions do by attacking the other Party’s Presidential nominee. The Republicans have touted Sarah Palin’s background on the Wasilla, Alaska City Council as well as becoming Mayor and eventually elected as the Governor of Alaska which has a territory 250 times the size of the State of Delaware. Sarah Palin’s experience and Executive responsibilities dwarf any of the other Presidential and Vice-Presidential candidates of either political party; eclipsing even those of Senator John McCain also.
Sarah was painfully effective in presenting the weakness of Barack’s scant political resume of Community Service Organizer to Illinois State Senator to United States Senator to President-Elect. She was correct to state that in the U.S. Senate Barack Obama passed no significant Legislation with his name on the Bill and that he only produced a couple of published memoirs worth noting. During the Democratic National Convention John McCain was lambasted by partisan Democratic speakers as voting with President George Bush at least 90% of the time, but can’t it also be said by the Republicans that Barack Obama voted with his own partisan Democrats 90% of the time, too. Perhaps the only noticeable hint of independence and working across the aisle was in his efforts to get a Senate Ethics Reform Bill passed into Law.
Sarah Palin has now publicly thrown down the gauntlet and accepted the challenge of National Political warfare and as Green Energy Advocate and former oilman and CEO of Mesa Petroleum, T. Boone Pickens one said, “If you want to play with the big boys, you have to learn how to block and tackle.” Sarah will undergo her “baptism of fire” including even more intense media scrutiny of her political career and answering reporters’ tough questions about her views on Immigration, Stem Cell Research, Roe vs. Wade, the Economy, Health Care, Gun Control, Torture (“Guantanamo detainees”), Social Security, The Budget Deficit, FISA, the Mortgage Crisis, The Global War on Terror, Israel and the Middle East (Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, Syria), Nuclear Weapon proliferation, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Global Warming, North Korea, Russia, India, China, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and many other such complex issues.
To Barack Obama’s credit, at least he has had to endure a grueling and brutal eighteen month Primary, not to mention engaging in around 20 televised public debates as well as being the subject numerous relentless interviews, investigations, etc. Sarah Palin has criticized Barack Obama as being essentially nothing but all “flash” but without any real substance or in the politically-correct jargon, “he doesn’t have any realistic solutions.” Well, Sarah, the challenge for you is like the question that Hillary Clinton posed regarding Barack Obama during the Presidential Primaries, and that is, “Can he take a punch [to the chin]?” So Sarah, when the attack dogs are unleashed on you and start ripping away, don’t whine and complain about the biased Liberal Media or try to play the ‘victim’ or the equivalent of a political feminizing White Hockey Mom/White-working Women-with-a-Family against the Male-dominated World card because it won’t work.
Already there is a small and perhaps insignificant Ethics investigation amid questions as to whether Sarah Palin as Governor of Alaska used undue influence to fire the Public Safety Commissioner because he refused to terminate a State Trooper who was married to Sarah Palin’s sister while they were going through a bitter and nasty divorce. This is just the beginning of woes and although Sarah’s Star is shining very brightly in the Republican Heaven for the moment; however, in an instant all of this could change and suddenly her political future can be dashed down to ‘Hell’ faster than you can blink an eye.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September 4, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Sarah was painfully effective in presenting the weakness of Barack’s scant political resume of Community Service Organizer to Illinois State Senator to United States Senator to President-Elect. She was correct to state that in the U.S. Senate Barack Obama passed no significant Legislation with his name on the Bill and that he only produced a couple of published memoirs worth noting. During the Democratic National Convention John McCain was lambasted by partisan Democratic speakers as voting with President George Bush at least 90% of the time, but can’t it also be said by the Republicans that Barack Obama voted with his own partisan Democrats 90% of the time, too. Perhaps the only noticeable hint of independence and working across the aisle was in his efforts to get a Senate Ethics Reform Bill passed into Law.
Sarah Palin has now publicly thrown down the gauntlet and accepted the challenge of National Political warfare and as Green Energy Advocate and former oilman and CEO of Mesa Petroleum, T. Boone Pickens one said, “If you want to play with the big boys, you have to learn how to block and tackle.” Sarah will undergo her “baptism of fire” including even more intense media scrutiny of her political career and answering reporters’ tough questions about her views on Immigration, Stem Cell Research, Roe vs. Wade, the Economy, Health Care, Gun Control, Torture (“Guantanamo detainees”), Social Security, The Budget Deficit, FISA, the Mortgage Crisis, The Global War on Terror, Israel and the Middle East (Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, Syria), Nuclear Weapon proliferation, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Global Warming, North Korea, Russia, India, China, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and many other such complex issues.
To Barack Obama’s credit, at least he has had to endure a grueling and brutal eighteen month Primary, not to mention engaging in around 20 televised public debates as well as being the subject numerous relentless interviews, investigations, etc. Sarah Palin has criticized Barack Obama as being essentially nothing but all “flash” but without any real substance or in the politically-correct jargon, “he doesn’t have any realistic solutions.” Well, Sarah, the challenge for you is like the question that Hillary Clinton posed regarding Barack Obama during the Presidential Primaries, and that is, “Can he take a punch [to the chin]?” So Sarah, when the attack dogs are unleashed on you and start ripping away, don’t whine and complain about the biased Liberal Media or try to play the ‘victim’ or the equivalent of a political feminizing White Hockey Mom/White-working Women-with-a-Family against the Male-dominated World card because it won’t work.
Already there is a small and perhaps insignificant Ethics investigation amid questions as to whether Sarah Palin as Governor of Alaska used undue influence to fire the Public Safety Commissioner because he refused to terminate a State Trooper who was married to Sarah Palin’s sister while they were going through a bitter and nasty divorce. This is just the beginning of woes and although Sarah’s Star is shining very brightly in the Republican Heaven for the moment; however, in an instant all of this could change and suddenly her political future can be dashed down to ‘Hell’ faster than you can blink an eye.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September 4, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Bristol Palin’s Pregnancy Reveal Republican Party Hypocrisy
On the third year Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina inundating the city of New Orleans, LA, and in the wake of Hurricane Gustav again pummeling the Gulf Coast states, including Louisiana, the Republican Party Convention had another storm to weather; namely, the pregnancy of Bristol Palin, the seventeen year old daughter of Alaska Governor and Republican Vice-Presidential nominee, Sarah Palin. The issue is not the pregnancy of a seventeen year old or Sarah and her husband’s parenting skills but rather John McCain’s judgment and hurried determination at the eleventh hour to nominate someone who wasn’t even remotely considered as a potential running mate.
Supposedly, the McCain camp had thoroughly investigated Sarah Palin’s background and was aware of the pregnancy; at least this is what is being told to the media. There is even an unsubstantiated rumor that Sarah Palin’s youngest child, the one with “DOWN SYNDROME” is not really her’s, but that the baby is really Bristol’s also, and Sarah is just covering up for her daughter. Be that as it may, it is troubling that Sarah Palin would put her political ambitions ahead of her daughter’s privacy because she has been in the game long enough and could not have been so naïve as to believe that this would not have surfaced and not only that, why did she not disclose all of this information from the beginning instead of it being circulated on Internet blogsites.
It is interesting that the Republican Delegates who were interviewed by television news reporters were supportive and stated that at least Bristol Palin was going to keep the baby and not get an abortion. In fact, many of the wagons of the GOP are surrounding the Palin family with their unqualified support during this very difficult as well as embarrassing time. The byline in most reports on this surprise announcement defend Sarah Palin and note that it is her politics and not her success as a parent which is the issue. While that may be true it must also be remembered that your family situation is an example to the nation as a role model and what kind of example you set and your family decisions and experiences which go on behind closed doors and later to come out in full view of the public does have some impact on the lives of other Americans and perhaps even Internationally among those who look up to the Presidential and Vice-Presidential nominees as exemplary examples of contemporary American family life.
Although Democratic Presidential nominee Barack Obama has defended the Palin family and stated unequivocally not only his support for Sarah Palin, but that family should be off limits in political discourse. This is quite gracious of the Illinois Senator and no one should want to gain political points from the poor decision of a young teenage girl but it is yet another wake up call to the political party who prides itself on being the staunch moral guardian of American family values, abstinence is the best policy, Evangelical Christianity, and social conservatism. On a side note, even Vice-President Dick and Lynn Cheney who are so strong in their opposition to Gay/Lesbian relationships lovingly embrace their adult daughter who is openly ‘Gay.’
However, many of the partisan responses to this situation does mask the uncomfortable tone of ‘race’ in America and particularly this Presidential election as evidenced by the question that Tavis Smiley asked former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich on The Tavis Smiley Show on Monday night, September 1, 2008, which was, “What if instead of a White girl named Bristol Palin it was Sasha or Malika Obama who got pregnant as a teenager, what would be the reaction?” During the entire segment of the telecast Mr. Gingrich failed to answer the question and was evasive because he knew the truth and was unwilling to publicly admit it. Teenage Black unwed mothers who are on welfare are the fodder of White-controlled media and the bane of White tax payers who are the first to decry the failings of Black families but are not so vocal when it comes to one of their own; especially one who is in the preeminent political spotlight. Rarely, if ever, is the virtue extolled of a Black female teenager who chooses to keep to keep her child as opposed to getting an abortion. Instead the girl’s promiscuity, how soon she became sexually active, or how many lovers she has had seem to be more carefully scrutinized than having compassion or giving her support she needs during this difficult time.
In fact, so little is the value placed upon the offspring of Black teenage unwed mothers that Bill Bennett, who this very month three years ago, addressing a caller's suggestion that the "lost revenue from the people who have been aborted in the last 30 years" would be enough to preserve Social Security's solvency, radio host for “Morning in America” and former Reagan administration Secretary of Education dismissed such "far-reaching, extensive extrapolations" by declaring that if "you wanted to reduce crime ... if that were your sole purpose, you could abort every black baby in this country, and your crime rate would go down." Bennett conceded that aborting all African-American babies "would be an impossible, ridiculous, and morally reprehensible thing to do," then added again, "but the crime rate would go down."
And poor Bristol Palin is going to be pressured into marrying her eighteen year old baby’s father when both of them are probably not mature enough to handle the responsibility of parenthood. And what about Sarah Palin, the very attractive, political maverick-in-her-own-right, and charming ‘CINDERELLA’ who seems to have come out of nowhere to attend the Republican National Political Ball wearing glass slippers and designer glasses may come to realize it is 12:00 midnight and that beautiful political carriage that she rode into town on and magically enchanted us all, may quickly turn into a giant pumpkin.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September 2, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
Supposedly, the McCain camp had thoroughly investigated Sarah Palin’s background and was aware of the pregnancy; at least this is what is being told to the media. There is even an unsubstantiated rumor that Sarah Palin’s youngest child, the one with “DOWN SYNDROME” is not really her’s, but that the baby is really Bristol’s also, and Sarah is just covering up for her daughter. Be that as it may, it is troubling that Sarah Palin would put her political ambitions ahead of her daughter’s privacy because she has been in the game long enough and could not have been so naïve as to believe that this would not have surfaced and not only that, why did she not disclose all of this information from the beginning instead of it being circulated on Internet blogsites.
It is interesting that the Republican Delegates who were interviewed by television news reporters were supportive and stated that at least Bristol Palin was going to keep the baby and not get an abortion. In fact, many of the wagons of the GOP are surrounding the Palin family with their unqualified support during this very difficult as well as embarrassing time. The byline in most reports on this surprise announcement defend Sarah Palin and note that it is her politics and not her success as a parent which is the issue. While that may be true it must also be remembered that your family situation is an example to the nation as a role model and what kind of example you set and your family decisions and experiences which go on behind closed doors and later to come out in full view of the public does have some impact on the lives of other Americans and perhaps even Internationally among those who look up to the Presidential and Vice-Presidential nominees as exemplary examples of contemporary American family life.
Although Democratic Presidential nominee Barack Obama has defended the Palin family and stated unequivocally not only his support for Sarah Palin, but that family should be off limits in political discourse. This is quite gracious of the Illinois Senator and no one should want to gain political points from the poor decision of a young teenage girl but it is yet another wake up call to the political party who prides itself on being the staunch moral guardian of American family values, abstinence is the best policy, Evangelical Christianity, and social conservatism. On a side note, even Vice-President Dick and Lynn Cheney who are so strong in their opposition to Gay/Lesbian relationships lovingly embrace their adult daughter who is openly ‘Gay.’
However, many of the partisan responses to this situation does mask the uncomfortable tone of ‘race’ in America and particularly this Presidential election as evidenced by the question that Tavis Smiley asked former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich on The Tavis Smiley Show on Monday night, September 1, 2008, which was, “What if instead of a White girl named Bristol Palin it was Sasha or Malika Obama who got pregnant as a teenager, what would be the reaction?” During the entire segment of the telecast Mr. Gingrich failed to answer the question and was evasive because he knew the truth and was unwilling to publicly admit it. Teenage Black unwed mothers who are on welfare are the fodder of White-controlled media and the bane of White tax payers who are the first to decry the failings of Black families but are not so vocal when it comes to one of their own; especially one who is in the preeminent political spotlight. Rarely, if ever, is the virtue extolled of a Black female teenager who chooses to keep to keep her child as opposed to getting an abortion. Instead the girl’s promiscuity, how soon she became sexually active, or how many lovers she has had seem to be more carefully scrutinized than having compassion or giving her support she needs during this difficult time.
In fact, so little is the value placed upon the offspring of Black teenage unwed mothers that Bill Bennett, who this very month three years ago, addressing a caller's suggestion that the "lost revenue from the people who have been aborted in the last 30 years" would be enough to preserve Social Security's solvency, radio host for “Morning in America” and former Reagan administration Secretary of Education dismissed such "far-reaching, extensive extrapolations" by declaring that if "you wanted to reduce crime ... if that were your sole purpose, you could abort every black baby in this country, and your crime rate would go down." Bennett conceded that aborting all African-American babies "would be an impossible, ridiculous, and morally reprehensible thing to do," then added again, "but the crime rate would go down."
And poor Bristol Palin is going to be pressured into marrying her eighteen year old baby’s father when both of them are probably not mature enough to handle the responsibility of parenthood. And what about Sarah Palin, the very attractive, political maverick-in-her-own-right, and charming ‘CINDERELLA’ who seems to have come out of nowhere to attend the Republican National Political Ball wearing glass slippers and designer glasses may come to realize it is 12:00 midnight and that beautiful political carriage that she rode into town on and magically enchanted us all, may quickly turn into a giant pumpkin.
Robert Randle
776 Commerce St. #B-11
Tacoma, WA 98402
September 2, 2008
pbks@hotmail.com
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