“THE FRIDAY NIGHT RAMBLINGS”

Greets and Huggers.  Posted the evening of March 5, 2010. Enough is enough. Like you, I am sitting here watching my America going deeper and deeper in debt, funding two actual wars, (and how many “other” politically mandated wars:  war on crime, war on drugs, war on poverty, etc.),   –  with deficit spending.  We are selling our IOU’s to the Chinese, or anyone else that will buy them.  At what interest rate?  Then, there is the unprecedented new social entitlement program:  “Health Care Reform”, and of course the various bailouts and “stimulus” packages.  On the news, I heard the bailouts “saved us”  from a  “depression”.  Really?  Sure don’t see it locally.  Share with me  …  do you? Our “pigs”, (re-read “Animal Farm“),  in Washington who appear to believe that “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.”  seem to be doing “Pig” things.  Making sure, posturing, to ensure they remain entitled “pigs”, by pandering to their local interests.  Isn’t that what “earmarks” are about?  Seems our red and blue pigs have bought into “Popeye’s”  “Wimpy” philosophy:   “I will gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today.” Our “hamburger” today, will cost our children dearly   …  when Tuesday comes  …  and  …  Tuesday will come.  Seems our red and blue pigs are funding programs with IOU’s, in essence, selling our future to the Chinese.  Our current personal and national debt?  CLICK HERE.  Eye opening, isn’t it?  Note the difference between the debt load of individual citizens, $40,374.00   …  and folks who actually pay income taxes,  $113,844.00.  (CBS)  –  The Income Tax System is Broken.  “An astonishing 43.4 percent of Americans now pay zero or negative federal income taxes. The number of single or jointly-filing “taxpayers” - the word must be applied sparingly - who pay no taxes or receive government handouts has reached 65.6 million, out of a total of 151 million.”  Why is that?  Is that one of the things you voted to change?
 
Our brother and sister Americans in uniform, (civil and military), are sacrificing for you and I.  Most are National Guard or Reservists who never signed up for multiple overseas deployments   …   while the rest of us are sitting on the sidelines, benefiting from their, and their families, sacrifice.  We are not really involved, invested in the outcome  …  are we?  The vast majority of us believe we don’t have a dog in this fight.  We are not even “inconvenienced”.  Unlike the British or the Spanish, we have not suffered a successful terrorist attack since 9/11.  Doesn’t the “Christmas Crotch Bomber” only prove, we have been lucky?  Maybe, it’s time to take stock and realize our lives, our fortunes, are intertwined, with the lives of our men and women in uniform  …  separated from their families, in some trench or on patrol, walking the walk  …  while we sit here “talking the talk” and wondering when the pizza delivery guy will get here.  There is no free ride, never has been.  Someone has to pick up the tab  …  for the pizza  …  and the freedoms we enjoy. Shouldn’t that be Americans like you and I, instead of some Chinese investment firm?  But  …  how to do so? During the Civil War, World War I and World War II our government issued “War Bonds” to fund the war effort.  During WW II, “War bonds sold for as little as $18.75 and matured in ten years, at which time the United States government paid the bondholder $25    …  Over the course of the war 85 million Americans purchased bonds totaling approximately $185.7 billion:  that is $2.5+ Trillion dollars adjusted for inflation into 2009 dollars.”  Don’t know about you  …  but make them available and Susan and I will commit to buying one each week.  I have absolutely NO DOUBT, so would other Americans.  Wouldn’t you commit to doing so?  I would prefer to have Americans earn interest on the IOU’s, instead of some Chinese investment firm.  To make this solution work, to get out of debt, we HAVE TO balance our budget.  No more deficit spending.  To do so, we HAVE TO vote out both blue and red pigs, any incumbent. We are now here because they have failed us and our America. They lack the political backbone to make unpopular choices  because they are locked into their “election cycle”  …  once elected, focused on getting re-elected.   We need to get beyond the red/blue pig “works for me/us” mentality.  He/she doesn’t.  He/she is working to stay elected.  You voted for “change”?  I assume, because you were fed up.  Isn’t the function of government to protect us from predators, foreign, criminal and financial?  Regulate and maintain infrastructure?  Share with me  …  when did we vote to have government become the great “provider”? 

Want another reason to vote incumbents out?  Our red and blue pigs were asleep at the wheel  …  apparently, they still don’t get it:  CHARLOTTE, N.C. �-  AIG Q4 Earnings: Insurer Lost $8.87 Billion, May Need More Government Money.  “AIG said Friday it lost $8.87 billion in the fourth quarter as its general insurance business remained weak and the company ran up expenses from paying back government loans.  The troubled insurer also said in an annual regulatory filing that it may need additional support from the government. However, AIG has included such warnings in past filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.”   …   NEW YORK �-  AIG Bonuses In 2010 Total $100 Million.  “American International Group Inc. is set to pay out about $100 million in a fresh round of bonuses to employees of its financial products division, the unit whose risky bets helped sink the company leading to a $180 billion government bailout, according to reports published Tuesday.”   “Risky bets”?  “Bets” are only risky when you have something to lose.  These employees didn’t.  They were gambling with other peoples money.  Instead of a bonus, they should be fighting to keep from losing their personal fortunes in “breach of fiduciary duty” lawsuits.   ‘Nuff said.

(CNN) –  11 additional airports to get full-body scanners, feds say.  “The federal government is starting to deploy full-body imaging machines at an additional 11 airports across the United States, Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano announced Friday.  Forty body-imaging machines already have been put into use at 19 airports nationwide as part of a field test, according the Department of Homeland Security. The Transportation Security Administration expects to deploy 450 units by the end of the summer.” Kansas City International is one of the airports on the list.  No doubt my brother, who runs the x-ray machine at KCI for TSA,  will be one of the screeners.  From what I understand, the screener will sit in a separate sound proof room.  Why a separate sound proof room?  So the person who is being screened won’t see the screener pointing and laughing.

Shelbyville, Kentucky  –  Minister with HIV sentenced to 7 years for sex abuse.  “A Shelbyville, Kentucky minister has been sentenced for having sex with a 15-year-old boy and the minister is HIV positive.  And Minister James Bell admits, he knew he was HIV positive at the time of act  …  Bell was minister of Refuge Temple Church of God in Christ in Shelbyville. The church’s website says Bell is married with three children and “a man of great faith who preaches the whole counsel of God.”  So some pilgrim, HIV positive, who actually sexually abuses a child gets 7 years,  while  Lincoln, Nebraska — Roommate’s tip leads to prison time for Lincoln man in child porn case.  “Derrick Gartner of Lincoln was sentenced Monday by Senior U.S. District Court Judge Lyle E. Strom to 14 years in prison for receipt of child pornography.”  Share with me how this makes sense? 

LAS VEGAS –  Prostitutes To Hold Charity Auction,  Donors Can Bid On Items Of A ‘Personal Nature’.  “Items donated by prostitutes will be auctioned off as part of a two-month charity drive at Nevada�s Chicken Ranch brothel, Las Vegas TV station WVVU reported. The brothel, based in the town of Pahrump, will post items of a �personal nature� online for customers to bid on. All proceeds will go to the nonprofit Asta Philpot Foundation, an organization that raises awareness of the emotional and sexual needs of the handicapped.” And who says hookers don’t have hearts of gold?  Of course they do  –  check out the “Hookers For Jesus” Website. Certainly puts Matthew 4:19 into perspective:  “And He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.”"  I wonder if they wear “fishnet stockings”?

DENVER –  Denver UFO initiative launches music video.  “When Denver voters see it on the ballot, some might think it’s a joke. But proponents take the UFO initiative very seriously. A new music video was launched this week to educate voters about the Extraterrestrial Affairs Commission ballot initiative. If it passes, the City and County of Denver would be required to create a seven-member commission tasked with collecting evidence that extraterrestrials and UFO (unidentified flying objects) have been visiting Earth  …  Peckman also believes the government is hiding the cure for cancer, among other things, with this alien technology.”  Reminds me of John Denver’s song, “Rocky Mountain High“.  “And the Colorado rocky mountain high / I’ve seen it rainin’ fire in the sky / You can talk to God and listen to the casual reply / Rocky mountain high.”  Compared to the John Denver video, the UFO initiative’s music video sucks.

(BBC NEWS) –  Ancient Egyptian priests ‘killed by rich ritual food’.  “Lavish banquets offered to ancient Egyptian gods blocked the arteries of priests who took the food home to their families, say UK researchers. An analysis of the foods listed in hieroglyphic inscriptions on temple walls showed the meals offered to the gods were laden with saturated fat. And scans of priests’ mummified remains showed many had blocked arteries.”  One of the hieroglyphics was actually a commercial for “I Can’t Believe it’s Not Butter”.

Sitting here editing these Rambling,  the “Editorial Staff” playing on the floor.  Susan and I just got back from a “Knights of Columbus” Fish Fry at St Patricks.  Those of us who are “Mackerel Snappers” can’t eat meat during Lent. Just looked at the “Debt Clock” again and the INTEREST on the debt is a staggering $190 Billion dollars, most of that going overseas.  Doesn’t it just make sense to set up a mechanism, like “Debt Reduction/War Bonds”, which would enable/encourage American citizens to become actively involved in reducing our debt?  Be able to actively support our men and women in uniform?  Keep the interest we are paying on the debt, here in our America? Perhaps even get actively involved politically, to clean up the “Animal Farm”?  On the evening news, all the earthquakes world wide.  Seems there were a bunch, all around the Pacific Rim.  No need to worry,  these are just the prelude to “THE BIG ONE”, December 21, 2012.  Plan on cooking “Spaghetti and Meatballs” for Sunday’s “Lunch and A Movie”   …   the movie?  Haven’t decided.  Time to post these Ramblings and settle in for a quiet evening at Ft Timmerman. Plan on planning and laying out our “Square Foot Garden“,  St Patricks Day is next weekend, so planting our garden is not far behind.  Life is good at Ft Timmerman.  Susan and I live modestly and have this life to share with each other.  For that, when I say my evening prayers as I drift off to sleep, I will say a prayer of thanks  …  and of course, a prayer for the safe and soon return of our men and women in uniform, (care to join me?)  Be and sleep well, the best there is, is on watch, walking the walk, so you can.  If my post offends, I apologize  –  that is not my intent.  As always  …
A Warm Brotherly Hug
KarlT  (the dumb old country lawyer from Holden, Missouri   …  and the “Editorial Staff”, Willie, Karly, Dinker, my ‘Lil Buddy  …  and Floyd the copy boy.)

Greets and Huggers.  Posted the evening of February 26, 2010.  I guess the Kansas Legislature is considering joining Arizona, Arkansas and Louisiana by making “Covenant Marriage” one of the options, should you decide to marry.  TOPEKA, Kansas  –  Kansas lawmakers put the deadbolt back in wedlock: �covenant marriages�.  “Lawmakers have a plan to put the dead bolt back in wedlock: optional �covenant marriages� that could be ended for only specific reasons or after a trial separation.”   Interesting, since Kansas is one of only 11 States and the District of Columbia to recognize “common law” marriage.  With a “Covenant Marriage”, you have to be separated for a year, undergo counseling or have engaged in one of the deadly sins:  domestic violence, infidelity or be convicted of a felony. So Kansas will have 3 different levels of marriage? All “legal”, of course.   “Common Law” marriage for folks who want to play at being married.  “Regular Marriage”, for folks who want to be married, but want an easy out should they change their mind   …  and “Covenant Marriage”,  for those folks who actually want to make a commitment to the person they want to marry?  I wonder if Kansas also has three levels of wedding vows?  “I vow to stick around for while or until someone comes along whose Facebook Page I like better.”  “I vow to stick around until we have an argument or I no longer find you attractive, in which case, I will trade you in for a better looking model.”   …  and  …  “I vow to stick around until going to counselling is less of a pain in *ss than you are.”  Before adopting the “Dissolution Easy Button” in 1972, Missouri had “Divorce”, which was “fault based”,  like those contained in the proposed “Covenant Marriage” dissolution criteria).  In my heart, I remember the vow Susan and I made to eachother:  substantially this,  “In the presence of God, our family and friends, I offer you my solemn vow to be your faithful partner in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad, and in joy as well as in sorrow. I promise to put your happiness above mine. I promise to love you unconditionally, to support you in your goals, to honor and respect you, to laugh with you and cry with you, and to cherish you for as long as we both shall live.”  I guess for some young couples today, an old fashioned, out of date marriage commitment.  [Footnote:  If you are contemplating marriage, read Potts v Potts,  WD#70196, handed down 2/23/2010 for an excellent discussion of “Prenuptial Agreements”, after all, according to “State of Our Unions“, 6 out of 10 marriages celebrated today, will end in divorce.]

(BBC NEWS) –  Saudi women to be allowed to argue cases in court. “Saudi Arabia is planning to bring in a new law to allow women lawyers to argue cases in court for the first time. Justice Minister Mohammed al-Eissa said the law was part of King Abdullah’s plan to develop the legal system. The law - to be issued “in the coming days” - would allow women to appear in court on family-related cases, including divorce and child custody. At the moment, they can only work behind the scenes in government and court offices.”   I suppose that is progress   …  but wouldn’t greater progress be, allowing women to disagree with their husbands without getting the cr*p beat out of them.  Perhaps being allowed to drive a car, without being arrested, would as well.  [Click “HERE” for an overview of the Saudi Justice System.]

And in the “smart live off of dumb” news,   (BBC NEWS) –  PleaseRobMe website reveals dangers of social networks.  “A website called PleaseRobMe claims to reveal the location of empty homes based on what people post online. The Dutch developers told BBC News the site was designed to prove a point about the dangers of sharing precise location information on the internet  … “We urge users of Twitter, Facebook or other social networks to stop and think before posting personal details online that could leave them vulnerable to crimes including burglary and identity theft,” said a spokesperson.”  This could be a valuable tool for folks wanting to get rid of old junk or wanting to clean up crime in their neighborhoods.  Create a “G-Mail” account/Email address and create phony pages on “Facebook”, “Twitter”, “MySpace”, etc.   …   Post on all the “social network” sites that you will be gone on vacation and list your address as the empty uninhabited house next door  —  then store all the junk you don’t want any more there   …  and watch burglars cart it off.   As for getting more personally involved in fighting crime?  Post and wait for them to break into your house   …  given we now have the “Castle Doctrine” in Missouri, blow them away, (I would recommend a Mossberg “Home Defender“, slide action shotgun).  Do put down some plastic tarps, blood stains are difficult to get out of non-Scotchgard treated carpets.
 
So you believe our government is good at regulating our commerce, for the “common welfare”?  (BBC NEWS) –  Wall Street bonuses ‘jumped 17% in 2009′.  “Cash bonuses for Wall Street bankers rose by 17% to $20.3bn in 2009, figures have shown. The data, from the New York state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, also said that profits at the firms could be in excess of $55bn for last year. Mr DiNapoli added that the pay outs were a “bitter pill” and “hard to comprehend” for American taxpayers who had bailed out Wall Street firms.”   …  and  …  (BBC NEWS)  –  General Motors boss Whitacre to receive $9m pay package.  “General Motors (GM) has said chief executive Ed Whitacre will get an annual salary of $1.7m, plus $7.3m in shares at a later date. The pay package was approved by the US Treasury, which spent billions of dollars bailing out the car maker last year and now owns a large stake in it. GM also said Mr Whitacre’s predecessor, Fritz Henderson, is being paid $59,090 a month as an adviser.”  The reason these bonuses are worth it?  These folks deserve the money for figuring out how to scam our government into paying their respective companies BILLIONS, (after they brought their respective companies to the brink of collapse with questionable business practices, while collecting millions in bonuses).   As Americans, we should reward success.  After all, we got the government we voted for   …  didn’t we?  Haven’t the elected representatives, in office now, protected us from foreign, criminal and economic predators?  And after listening to the “Health Care Summit” yesterday, I have no doubt  …  they will protect us from the “robber baron” health insurance companies as well.  After all, a 2,700 page Bill, must have some substance, do something   …   wouldn’t it? 

(CNN) –  Alabama professor’s lawyer regrets calling her ‘wacko’.  “The defense attorney appointed to represent an Alabama professor accused of shooting her colleagues said Friday he regrets describing her as “wacko.” But at a news conference, Roy Miller said “something’s wrong with this lady.” He also said his client, Amy Bishop, is “aware of what she’s done and she’s very sorry for it.”  Not an area of the law I practice in  …  but seems to me, so much for an insanity defense, “defendant was incapable of distinguishing between right and wrong at the time of the offense.”  I’m sure some my “Criminal law” brethren on the SFIG will correct me.  Aren’t the statements made by defense counsel binding?

(BBC NEWS)  — Austrian monastery offers weekend visits.  “A monastery near Vienna, Austria is offering men the chance to be a monk for a weekend. Franciscans from Maria Enzersdorf, site of a monastery since the 15th Century, are opening their doors as they need recruits. During the weekend they will have the chance to work and pray with the monks.”  Yup, sure sounds like a great weekend retreat.  A kind of “bed and breakfast”,  for masochists, I suppose.  It’s a Franciscan monastery, “The most prominent group is the Order of Friars Minor (commonly called simply the “Franciscans”). They seek to follow most directly the manner of life the Saint led. This Order�actually divided among three separate groups � is a mendicant religious order of men tracing their origin to Francis of Assisi. The three separate groups, each considered a religious order in its own right, are the Observants, most commonly simply called “Franciscan friars,” the Capuchins, and the Conventual Franciscans. They all live according to a body of regulations known as “The Rule of St. Francis”. Read that to mean “austere”. 

(BBC NEWS)  –  Sex hormone progesterone to get head injury trial.  “Natural progesterone, the sex hormone used in the first contraceptive pills, is to be tested on patients with severe head injuries. Scientists will begin a phase III clinical trial in March and say the drug could save patients’ lives and reduce damage to their brains  …  Previous studies have shown that progesterone supports the normal development of neurons in the brain, and that the hormone has a protective effect on damaged brain tissue.”  Progesterone,  “also known as P4 (pregn-4-ene-3,20-dione) is a C-21 steroid hormone involved in the female menstrual cycle, pregnancy (supports gestation) and embryogenesis of humans and other species.”  Well, there’s good news and bad news.  Early studies do show a significant reduction in brain damage in men.  The bad news?  Bloating and horrendous PMS episodes.  

 Sitting here editing these Ramblings.  The “Editorial Staff” playing and running around.  While researching “marriage vows”, (didn’t realize there are so many),  I ran across one that puts Susan and I’s marriage in perspective. “An Apache Blessing“:  “Treat yourselves and each other with respect, and remind yourselves often of what brought you together.  Give the highest priority to the tenderness, gentleness and kindness that your connection deserves. When frustration, difficulties and fear assail your relationship, as they threaten all relationships at one time or another, remember to focus on what is right between you, not only the part which seems wrong. In this way, you can ride out the storms when clouds hide the face of the sun in your lives - remembering that even if you lose sight of it for a moment, the sun is still there. And if each of you takes responsibility for the quality of your life together, it will be marked by abundance and delight.”

Having shared that, it’s time to post these Ramblings and spend a quiet evening at home, looking up a good recipe for Sunday’s “Lunch and A Movie”  …  then bed down and drift off to sleep, saying a prayer of thanks for the many blessings in my life, especially having Susan to share them with  …  a prayer for the safe and soon return of our men and women in uniform, (care to join me?)  Be and sleep well, the best there is, both 2 and 4 legged, is walking the walk, on patrol so you can.  If my post offends, I apologize.  That is not my intent.  As Always  …
A Warm Brotherly Hug
KarlT  (the dumb old country lawyer from Holden, Missouri and the “Editorial Staff”, Willie, Karly, Dinker, my ‘Lil Buddy   …  and Floyd, the copy boy.)

Greets and Huggers.  Posted the evening of February 19, 2010.  Watched “Avatar” the other night, (good movie!)  Made me wonder about our need to fantasize, escape.  Do we really live the “lives of  quiet desperation“, that Henry David Thoreau wrote about in “Walden“, (1854)?  Share with me, are our lives so bad, we need to escape to an alternate reality, like “Pandora“?  We have on-line alternate reality games, like “EverQuest“.  Cable/satellite TV, movies, books, (I wonder how many people actually read “books” any more?)  We have significant leisure time.  Have the ability to take time off, go on vacation.  Big difference between 1854 American life and life today.  In 1854, there were only 24 million of us, living for the most part, hand to mouth.  Striving each day for the most basic necessities:  food and shelter. Life expectancy was 38.3 years. As of 2001, there were 571,440,474 of us, with a life expectancy of 75.7, (as of 2004),  the vast majority enjoying a life style envied the world over.   And for the first time ever, we have a generation entering the workforce, their most significant debt, being their student loans.  Today,  some live “lives of  quiet desperation”, not worried about food and shelter, but how to pay for the niceties, they enjoy.  Fancier food and more elaborate/nicer shelter.  Perhaps, that is the reason we fantasize, take the time to dream   …   because we have met our needs and now focus on our wants.  And don’t we all believe we have the time left to fulfill those dreams?  We don’t. Each and every one of us, (as my Dear Friend Bob Sig was want to share)   …  “Has only so many sunrises to watch.”  There was some discussion about vacations on the SFIG,  with several folks commenting that they can take a vacation any time they want because with todays technology, they can bring their office with them.  Look, as a profession, we are like “deep sea divers”.  We put on our diving suits in the morning, dive down to work, dealing with the pressure at 500 feet, then, in the evening rush home and take off our diving suits.  Share with me  …  how long before you come down with the bends?  Fantasizing, is not a substitute for a “decompression chamber” when you have the bends, any more than taking your office with you when you need to take time off to decompress.   There is a reason, we as a profession, have higher suicide rates,  divorce rates,  substance abuse rates and die younger than the general population.  Consider closing your office on Friday.  Use the day for case management, billing   …   and when possible, a three day weekend AWAY FROM YOUR PRACTICE, with your family.

Marion, PA  –  School used student laptop webcams to spy on them at school and home.  “According to the filings in Blake J Robbins v Lower Merion School District (PA) et al, the laptops issued to high-school students in the well-heeled Philly suburb have webcams that can be covertly activated by the schools’ administrators, who have used this facility to spy on students and even their families. The issue came to light when the Robbins’s child was disciplined for “improper behavior in his home” and the Vice Principal used a photo taken by the webcam as evidence. The suit is a class action, brought on behalf of all students issued with these machines.”  The School District handed out 2,300 MacBook Laptops, with the ability to remotely activate the incorporated Webcams and take screen shots, “in the event they were reported stolen or lost“.  So share with me  …  care to bet the computer that was issued to the Robbin’s child was not reported stolen? And for me that begs the question:  why didn’t any of the 2,300 kids that had the MacBook, figure out their laptop had spyware enabled?  Was “calling home”?  Is it that easy to hide spyware, make it undetectable on a MacBook?  If so, how secure is a MacBook?  I haven’t owned an Apple since they switched to the “closed platform” model that led to the downfall of the IBM PC  …  and interestingly enough, the PC was switched to an “open platform” model. 

(CNN) — War dogs remembered, decades later. “Maybe it was the sound of the wind cutting through the wire. Perhaps he caught a small vibration with his keen eyes. Or it could have been a slight difference in the air’s smell. Whatever it was, when Sarge noticed that his Marine Corps handler, Fred Dorr, was creeping down the wrong path in the Vietnam jungle, the German shepherd did something he’d never done out in the field: He looked at Dorr and barked, before taking a seat. “When he sat down, I knew there was a trip wire. I was one step away from it,” remembered Dorr, who with his dog in 1969 was “walking point,” leading the way for a dozen soldiers. Had the hidden explosive device been tripped, “It would have gotten half of us.” More than 40 years later, the gratitude and love Dorr, 59, feels for the dog he served with is as strong as ever. And it’s for this reason that Dorr, president of the Vietnam Dog Handler Association, drove from his Yoakum, Texas, home to be in Southern California this week  …  The Viet Cong placed a bounty on the dogs because they were so effective,  … All told  …  K-9 teams averted more than 10,000 casualties. But at the end of the war, only about 200 dogs came home. The rest who had survived were either euthanized or turned over to the South Vietnamese — left behind, a surplus of war   …  In November 2000, President Clinton signed into law legislation that established a military working dog adoption program. Now the dogs working in Iraq and Afghanistan will have a chance to find comfortable homes when they return from war   …    For Dorr, of the Vietnam Dog Handler Association, this has been a blessing. He said leaving his partner Sarge behind, all those decades ago, haunted him.  “A lot of us [handlers] suffered PTSD,” he said, referring to post-traumatic stress disorder. “It’s like leaving your kid back there.”  But he now has Bluma, the war dog he adopted from Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. The German shepherd, who has hip problems, looks uncannily like Sarge, he said, and having him around is a source of comfort.  “I’m taking care of an old vet,” Dorr said, “and he’s taking care of me.“”  Some times, there are things you read or hear, that just make your heart sing.  For me, this evening, this is one.  The 60’s and 70’s were a different time.  Some of us remember that all too well.

Atlanta, Georgia (CNN) –  H1N1 virus’ death toll as high as 17,000, CDC estimates.  “The H1N1 virus, also known as swine flu, may have killed as many as 17,000 Americans, according to new estimates by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta. Though 2,498 confirmed deaths linked to the H1N1 virus had been reported to the CDC as of January 30, the agency estimates that between 8,330 and 17,160 people actually have died from H1N1.”  So the CDC, our first line of defense against infectious diseases reports 2,498 “confirmed” H1N1 deaths    …   and in fact, there “may be” as many as 17,160?  We need “health care”, not “health insurance” reform, (found out today, our health insurance premium when we renew, (and we have to), will increase by 28% to well over a $1,000.00/mo.)  Makes you feel real comfortable with a government run “health care” system, doesn’t it?

BBC NEWS –  Why love birds ‘dance’ to the Sun.  “Male great bustards have developed a trick to make their elaborate mating displays even more alluring to females, a study suggests. The large birds lift and point their bottoms towards the Sun, say scientists, making their bright white tail feathers more conspicuous.”  Interesting when you think about it   …  the birds “moon”  the sun!

BBC NEWS –  Men ‘need better-fitting condoms’  “Badly fitted condoms do not just reduce the pleasure of sex for men and women - they raise the risks of infection and pregnancy, researchers say. Men are twice as likely to take the condom off midway through sex due to a poor fit, a poll of 436 men in Sexually Transmitted Infections journal reveals   …  “Men come in all shapes and sizes and so do condoms. When we talk with men on the FPA helpline about condoms tearing, slipping off or being a nuisance to use, one of the main culprits is often something as simple as not using the right size  …  Unlike in Europe and the US, [ in Africa] the variety of sizes and shapes of condoms is not available to most men - she told of some resorting to tying an oversized condom on with string, or preferring to use the female condom because regular size versions were so painful.”   …  (shuddering)    …  no comment, other than,  I didn’t know “Men come in all shapes and sizes.. “  Makes sense I suppose, course, then, why would I know?  Not exactly something guys sit around and chat about, (although I suspect gals do.)

Short Ramblings this evening.  The “Editorial Staff” was really lazy this week, preferring to play instead of contributing to the Ramblings. On the news, (MSNBC and CNN),  for the better part of the day, was a dissection of Tiger Woods apology by the usual talking heads.  Why?  Who cares?  The guy is a “he-whore” who happens to play golf.  Perhaps, not the only one out there. He didn’t give any details   …  so the apology sure won’t improve anyones stroke. Rumor has it, he may become a spokesperson for E-Harmony.com.  Buick dumped him   …  like GM should point a finger after screwing far more Americans over the years, than Woods ever did?  The pellet stove insert is cranking out heat.  Our average monthly gas bill for November, December and January was $87.00,  down from an average of $300.00/mo before the stove.  On the local news?  Looks like we will get an additional 3 - 6 inches of snow on Sunday   …  and they identified the young man who had to be taken out by a SWAT sniper when he came out of his house, after a two hour standoff, using his mother as a hostage, (was holding a knife to her throat).  There was a comment on the SFIG that perhaps that was excessive force.  My opinion? I wasn’t there.  I can only surmise, it was a judgement call, the best of or a balancing of the available options. I don’t know any peace officer that would take a life, if other options were available.

Time to post these Ramblings,  then spend a quiet evening hunkered down at Ft Timmerman.  Plan on cooking Garlic/Rosemary Chicken Breasts on Sunday for “lunch and a movie”, (haven’t decided on a movie.)  Last Sunday, Christen S visited Ft Timmerman and enjoyed “lunch and a movie”, (the movie was “2012″).  Later, as I drift off to sleep, I will say a prayer for the many blessings in my life, the foremost being Susan, to share this life with   …  and a prayer for the safe and soon return of our men and women in uniform, (care to join me?)  Be and sleep well, the best there is, both 2 and 4 legged is on patrol, so you can.  If my post offends, I apologize, that is not my intent,  As always   ….
A Warm Brotherly Hug from Ft Timmerman
KarlT (the dumb old country lawyer from Holden, Missouri  …  and the lazy Editorial Staff, Willie, Karly, Dinker, my L’il Buddy    …  and Floydius Irritatus, the copy boy.)

Greets and Huggers.  Posted the evening of February 12, 2010.  Last Monday evening watched “Armageddon” on the FX channel.  Yeah, well, a “morality play”, a “psychodrama”.  Ok, Ok.  I cried  …  and it felt great to see the hero’s daughter have a happy ever after, with the love of her life.  Speaking of love, Sunday is Valentines Day:  “Saint Valentine’s Day, (commonly shortened to Valentine’s Day) is an annual holiday held on February 14 celebrating love and affection between intimate companions. The holiday is named after one or more early Christian martyrs named Valentine and was established by Pope Gelasius I in 496 AD. It is traditionally a day on which lovers express their love for each other by presenting flowers, offering confectionery, and sending greeting cards (known as “valentines”). The holiday first became associated with romantic love in the circle of Geoffrey Chaucer in the High Middle Ages, when the tradition of Courtly love flourished.”   Valentines Day is a celebration of what the Greeks called “Eros“, romantic/sexual love. The Greeks recognized 3 other forms, Agape, the love of God, Philia, love of family and friends and Storge, general affection.  I KNOW Susan loves me and she KNOWS I love her, not because I buy her “stuff” for Valentines Day  …  but by the way I treat her and she me, on a day to day basis. It is the little day to day things that make a relationship   …  and as a divorce lawyer, I can share, also can destroy a relationship.  Susan and I have been together now for 14 years, and in all that time, even though we certainly see the world differently and disagree on many issues, we have NEVER had an argument. For some unknown reason, men seem to be reluctant to share how much they love their wives, or complain.  I’m not and don’t.  I just Thank God that Susan is part of my life:  without my Susan, for me, life would have no joy.  All of the awards, accolades and recognition, would have no meaning for me, if I didn’t have Susan to share them with.  I respect, like and love my Susan:  she is my greatest supporter, best friend,  partner and lover.  No matter what, good or bad, I KNOW she has and will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with me, knowing all my many flaws.  And even with those many flaws, she continues to love me.  This year, given the tough economic times, Susan and I decided, instead of giving each other gifts for Valentines Day, to donate $100.00 in groceries to St Patricks Food Pantry.  Celebrate the love we have for each other, by helping others not so fortunate. 

(Reader’s Digest) –  Would you marry the same person again?.  “Would you marry the same person again?” could be a dangerous question. However, an international poll conducted in 15 countries reveals that 68 percent of respondents, and even more women, would again say “I do” to their spouse.  The survey, which was conducted by Reader’s Digest and published in the March issue, reveals that China has the highest level of spousal satisfaction (83 percent.)”  In case you are wondering, the United States came in at number 12 for satisfaction levels (63 percent) and Malaysia last (59 percent.)  The reason the Chinese are first? Easy, when you have 120 men for every 100 women,  at least 100 men will be grateful for what they got  …   and the remaining 20 will have a much firmer handshake  …  and a much stronger squint.

Watched the “Toyota” commercial this week  …  apologizing for all the vehicles with problems.  What’s with all the recalls?   BBC NEWS –Volkswagen recalls 200,000 cars in Brazil.  “Volkswagen (VW) is recalling nearly 200,000 cars in Brazil because of a rear wheel problem. The company wants to determine whether rear wheel bearings are sufficiently greased on the Novo Gol and Novo Voyage models made before July 2009.”   …  and  …   BBC NEWS –  Honda extends airbag recall by 437,000 cars. “Honda has added 437,700 cars, mainly in North America, to its existing global safety recall over airbag inflation problems. It broadens a recall announced in late 2008 for less than 4,000 Accord and Civic sedans, then expanded in mid-2009 to cover another 510,000 vehicles.”   Didn’t see any commercials from Ford, GM and Dodge/Chrysler for the rolling abominations they put on the road over the years  …  and their numerous recalls.  I suppose recalls are predictable, as automotive technology becomes ever more complex.  The average automobile today, has more computing power than the first space shuttle.  The days of the “shade tree” mechanic are long gone.  Today, you can’t replace “parts”, you have to replace “assemblies”   …  and to figure out what “assemblies” you need to replace requires an automotive diagnostic computer. And the vehicles you purchase today?  They are disposable.  Share with me  …  do you really think you will see a 2010 Chevy still on the road in 20 years  …  when the paint on it is thicker than the sheet metal used?   Begs the question   …   Ever see a ‘56 Chevy with “hail damage”?

BBC NEWS –  China dinosaur footprints found in Zhucheng.  “Scientists in China say they have discovered more than 3,000 dinosaur footprints, all facing the same way. The footprints - thought to belong to at least six dinosaur types - were found in eastern Shandong province, state news agency Xinhua reports. Experts believe the prints are more than 100 million years old and say they could represent a migration or a panicked attempt to escape predators.” Course, it could also represent the grand opening of the first Chinese Restaurant.  

And speaking of food:   (CNN) –  Dubai diners flock to eat new ‘camel burger’.  “A new fast food sensation has hit the Emirates’ culinary scene.  Right now, Dubai diners can’t seem to get enough of the “camel burger.”  …  Not only are the exotic burgers a novelty, they are also a healthier alternative to their beefy American cousins, the restaurant claims. The $6 “camel quarter-pounder” is virtually fat and cholesterol-free, according to Ramesh    …  Instead of the familiar sesame bun, they serve the burgers with freshly-baked “khameer” — a popular and yeasty regional bread. “It also comes with melted cheddar cheese, our very own burger sauce and a portion of fries,” Ramesh said   …  Although camel meat is similar to beef in taste, it has a reputation for being extraordinarily tough. How the “Local House” transforms it into a soft and tender patty remains a closely guarded secret.” A secret? Does the word “meat-grinder” ring a bell? You can run hoofs through a grinder a few times and you would wind up with camel hoof pate! I suppose the good news, given how lean the meat is, the hump won’t wind up on your rump!!  Course the next evolution of camel cuisine would have to be camel SPAM. 

(CNN) –  Volunteers try to dissuade young sex workers on Super Bowl weekend.  “Volunteers are taking to the streets of Miami, Florida, this Super Bowl weekend to inform teenage girls of alternatives to working as prostitutes.  Just as Miami’s hotels, restaurants and retail stores are seeing a bump in business for one of the biggest sporting events of the year, law enforcement and social service agencies say they are also witnessing a spike in trafficking of underage sex workers.”  Look, criminalizing prostitution doesn’t work, any more than criminalizing “soft” drug use.  Didn’t “prohibition” teach us anything?  As long as there is a market for “vice”, and experience teaches, there will always be a market,  use the European model:  legalize it, then regulate and tax it.

NEW YORK — Unemployment taxes slam businesses.  “Employers are getting hit with a massive tax hike at a time when they can least afford it. Companies in at least 35 states will have to fork over more in unemployment insurance taxes this year, according to the National Association of State Workforce Agencies. The median increase will be 27.5%. And employers in places such as Hawaii and Florida could see levies skyrocket more than ten-fold  …  State trust funds have been decimated by the Great Recession, forcing a record 26 states to borrow a total of more than $30 billion from the federal government. The numbers are expected to grow to 40 states borrowing $90 billion by 2012 …” Makes sense doesn’t it?  Increase the overhead for small businesses, so they have to lay off employees to pay the increased taxes, which then increases the load on the unemployment insurance fund.  Small businesses are not like the Federal government:  they can not spend money they do not have. 

(CNN) –  Rep. John Murtha dies after surgery complications. ” Rep. John Murtha of Pennsylvania, a longtime fixture on the House subcommittee that oversees Pentagon spending, died after complications from gallbladder surgery, according to his office. He was 77. The Democratic congressman recently underwent scheduled laparoscopic surgery at National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, to remove his gallbladder. The procedure was “routine minimally invasive surgery,” but doctors “hit his intestines,” a source close to the late congressman told CNN.” Sad end to a distinguished and at times, controversial life.  I am amazed at the number of congressional figures electing not to run. And for the first time in half a century, there will not be a Kennedy in congress.

It’s later than usual for me to be editing the Ramblings.  Had a new client in Grandview this afternoon.  The “Editorial Staff” is asleep at my feet, soon, Susan will be giving them their evening treats and retire to the bedroom to watch TV, covered by her furry babies.  I usually stay up later:  guess I’m the “night owl” in the family.  According to the evening news, Holden will get more snow.  I had planned to meet with my Dear Lady Friend Christen S. on Sunday afternoon  …  but I’m not certain that’s a good idea, given we are due to get 2″ - 4″ inches of snow Saturday night and Sunday morning. She is, or course, welcome to come out, should she wish.  We will be hunkered down here.  Time to post these Ramblings, load the pellet stove, and settle in for a quiet evening at home.  I’ll spend the evening creating a USB Boot drive, (500 gig), for a friend, then hit the sack as well.  I will say a prayer of Thanks for Susan to share my life with and a prayer for the safe and soon return of our men and women in uniform, (care to join me?)  Be and sleep well, the best there is, is walking the walk so you can.  If my post offends, I apologize, that is not my intent.  As always  …
A Warm Brotherly Hug
KarlT (the dumb old country lawyer from Holden, Missouri  …  and the “Editorial Staff”, Willie, Karly, Dinker, my ‘Lil Buddy  …  and Floyd, the copy boy.)

Greets and Huggers.  Posted the evening of February 5, 2010.  I love Walmart. I bought my glasses there after getting checked out by their ophthalmologist. While “instant messaging” on Facebook with my Dear Lady Friend Susan R last night, chatting about issues that impact Solo and Small Firm lawyers, the “Dissolution Kits” available on-line, and the “Modification Kits” available on-line, this June  …  I was struck by a thought:  Walmart setting up “legal clinics”, to help folks fill out the forms supplied by our Supreme Court and Secretary of State. They have to be accepted by our judges since they are Supreme Court approved forms.  Manned by Walmart trained “paralegals”.  Wills, trusts and other estate planning forms.  Incorporation and business forms, (available for download from the Secretary of State’s Website.) And perhaps, although forms are not available YET, forms on how to deal with PI claims. Not the unauthorized practice of law is it?  Just providing a service, helping folks fill out forms. And if anybody complains  …  who would listen?  Who would care? Oh!  Wait!!  “Legalzoom” already does that!! “Save time and money on common legal matters! Created by top attorneys, LegalZoom helps you make reliable legal documents from your home or office. Simply answer a few questions online and your documents will be created within 48 hours. We even review your answers and guarantee your satisfaction.”  So they ask you questions, and based on the answers, prepare the document you need.  Only a question of time before you see a Kiosk in Walmart  …  isn’t it?  Share with me again, why lawyers need to be licensed?  Why I paid my Bar dues?

So, there is a renewed debate about the  “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy adopted by President Clinton in 1993, to deal with gay service members in our military, (10 U.S.C. � 654).   As a society, we have come a long way since 1993.  But we still have a ways to go:  NEW YORK — Gay dating site’s Super Bowl ad rejected by CBS. “Super Bowl network CBS rejected an ad Friday from ManCrunch.com, a gay dating Web site. “After reviewing the ad, which is entirely commercial in nature, our standards and practices department decided not to accept this particular spot,” said CBS spokeswoman Shannon Jacobs. “We are always open to working with a client on alternative submissions.” CBS said it turned down the ad partly for financial reasons, but ManCrunch believes that there’s more to it than that.  “It’s straight-up discrimination,” said Elissa Buchter, spokeswoman for the Toronto-based dating site.”  Interesting study to read:  “Is Homophobia Associated With Homosexual Arousal?” , Henry E. Adams, Lester W. Wright, Jr., and Bethany A. Lohr,  Journal of Abnormal Psychology Copyright 1996, Vol. 105, No. 3,440–445.  The study’s conclusion?  “Only the homophobic men showed an increase in penile erection to male homosexual stimuli. The groups did not differ in aggression. Homophobia is apparently associated with homosexual arousal that the homophobic individual is either unaware of or denies.  As for the denied ad?  I didn’t care for it.  The ad has been viewed on “YouTube” 23,162 times   …  kind of wonder if 23,000 of those views, weren’t by the Fred Phelps family. 

And in the “Does anybody really care?” news   –  (PEOPLE.com) — ‘N.J. Housewife’: ‘I’m a born-again virgin’.  “Danielle Staub, the polarizing star of “The Real Housewives Of New Jersey,” is turning over a new leaf: She’s abstaining from all sexual activity until she’s married. “I’m abstinent now,” she told PEOPLE. “I realized that with abstinence, if you really, really believe in yourself like I do, you discover your own self-worth. Abstinence means you refrain from any sex — thinking about it, doing it — even to yourself! I’m a born-again virgin.” In fact, Staub said it’s been “over a year-and-a-half” since she’s had sex.” My, oh my. A “celebrity” that might actually become a role model for our children.  What a novel idea.  So I wonder   …  will Mr. Edwards re-virginate as well?  (CNN) — Judge orders ex-Edwards aide to turn over sex tape.  “A judge ordered an ex-aide to former Sen. John Edwards on Friday to turn over a sex tape said to depict Edwards and his former mistress, an official in a North Carolina court said. Judge Abraham Penn Jones found former Edwards aide Andrew Young and his wife, Cheri, in civil contempt of court, said Tammy Keshler, a judicial assistant in Chatham County Superior Court.  He ordered them to give the court the tape and other materials they may have by 2 p.m. Wednesday, she said. The judge said he could jail the Youngs if they do not comply, she said.”  I seem to vaguely remember something called   …  “fornication“.  Used to be something called a “sin”.  Used to be against the law, a crime once, as well.  I suppose criminalizing smoking in bars, or texting while driving is more of a societal priority now.

So, you wonder why there is a “Tea Party” movement/convention?  Why there are a bunch of folks willing to pay $549.00 to attend?  They are angry, afraid and sick of our elected representatives in Washington.  Why?  BBC NEWS –  US economy bail-out goals ‘not met’.  “The US economic bail-out programme has done little to ensure that financial crises do not occur in the future, a key watchdog report has said. While conceding that “some aspects of the financial system are more stable”, it said that a number of the bail-out’s key goals “have simply not been met”. Most notably, banks are still too big and lending has not increased  …  “Even if Tarp saved our financial system from driving off a cliff back in 2008,” he warned, in the absence of “meaningful reform, we are still driving on the same winding mountain road, but this time in a faster car”. Mr Barofsky said some US banks remained “too big to fail”, while investors were more convinced than ever that the government would step in to save them in the event of another crisis. There was little incentive, therefore, for banks to curtail risky trading activities, he argued.”  And of course, he is correct.  How else could you explain this?  WASHINGTON � A.I.G. Planning Huge Bonuses After $170 Billion Bailout.  “The American International Group, which has received more than $170 billion in taxpayer bailout money from the Treasury and Federal Reserve, plans to pay about $165 million in bonuses by Sunday to executives in the same business unit that brought the company to the brink of collapse last year.” Some of my Republican and Democrat friends describe “Tea Party” folks as “wingnuts”. No doubt, some are  …  even if all are,  there appears to be a bunch of “wingnuts” willing to lay down $549.00 to learn how to organize politically at the local level.  Something I have not seen since Ross Perot’s Presidential campaigns in 1992 and 1996.

Topeka, Kansas  — Alcohol laws debated.  “Liquor stores that hold the monopoly on strong beers are fighting for the exclusive right to keep the tap flowing.  Lawmakers are considering a bill that would push open the door to allow convenience stores and grocery stores to sell stronger beer. Currently, those cereal malt beverage vendors are capped at selling 3.2 beer, but the bill would allow the sale of beer with 4 percent alcohol by weight. The bill also would put Alcoholic Beverage Control in charge of cereal malt beverage vendors.”  Colorado, Kansas, Minnesota, Oklahoma and Utah limit beer sales to 3.2 % in convenience stores, (Click “HERE” for the liquor laws in all States).  I have never understood the distinction nor rational for limiting the alcohol content at such levels   …   I am told it is a public welfare issue.  3.2% vs. 4% - 6%?  So you can’t drink two cans to get the same buzz?  I’m sure my very Dear Friend Dan Ryan would have a rational explanation, since he is a home brewer and beer aficionado!  No doubt, history teaches beer is the most efficient storage mechanism for grain and the reason we stopped living in trees, (hard to hold on to a branch, while holding a bottle of beer.) And the most efficient mechanism for storing beer, (short term)?  A bladder.  The only explanation for 3.2% beer, in my mind?  An unusually strong latrine lobby in those states have such laws. 

And in the news from “Down Under”,  (CNN) — Judge says Men at Work’s ‘Down Under‘ mimics nursery rhyme. “A judge has ruled that the famous flute riff in Men at Work’s Australian rock anthem “Down Under” plagiarized a popular nursery rhyme about a Kookaburra written in 1932. Thursday’s ruling marks the end of a three-year legal battle that started with a trivia question on Australian quiz show “Spicks & Specks   …   “There’s a lot more to ‘Down Under’ than that flute melody. It’s not the main melody and not the main hook and I suppose that in the end will mean that it will be a minor share of the royalties that this publisher can claim now,”" So what is a Kookaburra?  “Kookaburras (genus Dacelo) are large to very large (total length 28�42 cm/11-17 in) terrestrial kingfishers native to Australia and New Guinea  …  Kookaburras are best known for their unmistakable call, which is uncannily like loud, echoing human laughter � good-natured, but rather hysterical, merriment in the case of the well-known Laughing Kookaburra (Dacelo novaeguineae); and maniacal cackling in the case of the slightly smaller Blue-winged Kookaburra (D. leachii).”  These should not be confused with “Kaakaburra”,  the little piles left by Koala Bears.

Sitting here editing these Ramblings, the “Editorial Staff” running around playing, (except my L’il Buddy  —  he’s laying snuggled up behind me.).  On the local evening news, Kansas City didn’t get hit that badly  –  the snow storm swung southeast.  Here in Holden, we got about 5 inches.  The office is normally closed on Fridays for case management, billing,  and 3 day weekends.  We have a centralized number, so clients can get ahold of me 24/7.  Ft Timmerman has about 7,000 square feet, with 1/3 of that being the office.  We have 3 furnaces, one for the office, one for the living area and the third for the living room/bedroom area.  We turn the office furnace down to 50 degrees and keep the other two furnaces set at 60 degrees, with most of the heat coming from the pellet stove insert.  Quite toasty at Ft Timmerman.  On the national news, Toyota’s CEO, bowed several times and apologized.  Toyota hired a new PR firm in Washington today as well, (with heavy ties to both the Democrat and Republican leadership in the house.)  Business as usual, isn’t it?  Reminds me of the old McDonalds Commercial,  cause Ford and GM are “Lovin It“.  Also the Tea Party Convention  …  “Obama’s a Socialist!“  …  folks that voted for him,  “illiterate“.  The good news, I suppose   …  No one violated “Godwin’s Law (also known as Godwin’s Rule of Nazi Analogies) is an adage formulated by Mike Godwin in 1990. The law states:  “As a Usenet discussion grows longer, the probability of a comparison involving Nazis or Hitler approaches one.” And finally the “Directors Guild of America” named a woman it’s director of the year, (the first in 91 years).  Kathyn Bigalow,  for “The Hurt Locker“.  The weather here?  Freezing fog and continued snow flurries.  The folks on the east coast?  Up to 30 inches of snow.  Time to post these Ramblings.  We are not going anywhere, just a quiet evening at home, hunkered down, with me doing a Photoshop Tutorial and Susan making some “Stamping Up“, cards, (she is a dealer).  We are all, safe and warm.  Later, as I drift off the sleep, I will say a prayer of thanks for the many blessings Susan and I enjoy, and for Susan to share my life with.  As I do every night, I will also say a pray for the safe and soon return of our men and women in uniform, (care to join me?)  Be and sleep well, you will also sleep safe and warm this evening, while too many those who ensure you can,  won’t.  If my post offends, I apologize  –  that is not my intent.  As always  …
A Warm Brotherly Hug
KarlT (the dumb old country lawyer from Holden, Missouri and the “Editorial Staff”, Willie, Karly, Dinker, my L’il Buddy  …  and Floyd, the copy boy.)

Greets and Huggers.  Posted the evening of January 29, 2010.   Remarkable!! The Haitian Relief special was on all local broadcast channels, all of the major networks, and just about every cable channel, last Friday night.  Made my heart sing.  MY America, united, leading the charge, World Wide, in an effort to provide relief for Haitian earthquake victims.  The hungry, the homeless and those needing medical care. Share with me  …  where else on this, God’s Creation, any nation, any people, could pull together such an exercise in compassion?  Not the government, but the American people. All segments, artistic and technical, pulling it together, with how much notice!!  In how much time? Course, do a “google” on “Haitian Relief” and note the number of Websites that have sprung up, soliciting funds.  I wonder how many are scams?  And the legitimate efforts  …  make me wonder,  “What about the suffering here, in my America?“  Don’t we also have children/people going to bed hungry?  Aren’t there also homeless Americans?  Aren’t there also Americans needing medical treatment?  Who is mobilizing an “American Relief” effort?  Without a doubt, history teaches, Americans as a people,  are among the most generous on earth, opening their hearts and wallets for every natural disaster worldwide. And not just for natural disasters. In 2006, we spent $22.8 billion dollars on Foreign Aid, up from $14.8 Billion in 2001. The two largest recipients?  Israel, $2.5 Billion  …  and Egypt, $1.7 Billion.  Israel and Egypt?  Why?  In 2008, the American people voted for change.  Perhaps part of that change is a review of the way we view ourselves in the world community?  Stop trying to be the world’s “policeman”?  Stop trying to export/impose our sense of justice or social order on the rest of the world? Instead, focus and use that $22.8 Billion dollars to reduce our budget deficit and provide relief to the “least of us”, here, in our America?  Charity begins at home, doesn’t it?

New York (CNN) –   Software executive admits affair after mistress’ billboard campaign.  “The former mistress of a married man has taken their relationship public in a big way — a series of giant billboards of the happy couple erected in New York, San Francisco and Atlanta. New Yorkers passing through midtown Manhattan this week saw the smiling faces of “Charles and YaVaughnie” beaming down upon them from one of two billboards in the city with the caption reading, “You are my soulmate forever! - cep.”  …  Phillips, 50, the co-president of Oracle Corp., admitted the affair with Wilkins, 42, in a statement released by his spokeswoman Friday.” Well, perhaps this “software” executive should have exercised better control over his “hardware”    …   consulted an “oracle” about whether this “lady” really was his “soulmate”.  And this “lady” feels stepped on, after screwing around with a man she knew was married, when he dumped her?  Like she had no clue “fidelity” was not his strong card? We decriminalized “adultery” years ago and criminalized “bestiality”   …   I wonder,  does the prohibition against “bestiality” apply to two legged bitches?

(PEOPLE.com) –  Elin Nordegren hopes to save marriage.  “Elin Nordegren is hoping to save her marriage to Tiger Woods because she doesn’t want to raise their two children without a father. “Elin wants a solid family life,” a Florida source told PEOPLE. “She was a child of divorce and felt her dad slighted her. She absolutely does not want that to happen to Sam and Charlie. So she wants to keep her family together even if she and Tiger live together as friends instead of lovers.” During the past week, Nordegren, 30, reportedly visited her husband at the Gentle Path sexual addiction clinic in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, where he has been getting treatment. During the middle of the six-week counseling session, a patient’s spouse is invited to visit for about a week, according to a former patient of the alcohol addiction section of the Hattiesburg clinic.”  So “conjugal visits” are part of the treatment at a sex addiction clinic?  Wouldn’t they just be a reminder, why you were screwing around on your spouse to start off with? 

Queensland, Australia –  Man in court over Simpsons porn.  “AN IPSWICH man has admitted downloading graphic cartoon porn images featuring child characters from The Simpsons and The Powerpuff Girls TV shows. The 28-year-old is now a registered sex offender and will have to report to police after pleading guilty in Ipswich District Court to having the bizarre images on his computer  …  Defence lawyer Matthew Fairclough said his client did not get any sexual gratification from the cartoons.” It would be a crime here as well:  18 U.S. Code � 1466A,  ” … defines obscene child pornography as �a visual depiction of any kind, including a drawing, cartoon, sculpture, or painting,� that depicts (i) a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct and is obscene (� 1466A(a)(1) and � 1466A(b)(1))”  [See US v Whorley: ” The Virginia Employment Commission maintains a public resource room in Richmond, Virginia, where job seekers may use Commission copiers, computers, and printers for employment-related purposes. On March 30, 2004, a woman in the resource room informed a Commission employee that Dwight Whorley was viewing what appeared to be child pornography on a Commission computer. In response, the office manager and two supervisors went to the resource room and saw Whorley standing in front of the printer with papers in his hand. Upon request, Whorley showed the supervisor the documents, which depicted Japanese anime-style cartoons of children  … “  Mr. Whorley was sentenced to 20 years in prison.]  I’m certainly not in favor of any form of porn:  have no interest in it   …   but share with me, does it really make sense to sentence a person to 20 years in prison for looking at cartoons, while the penalty for armed criminal action, is 10 years?

BBC NEWS  –  New Zealand jails German underwear gecko smuggler.  “A German man who tried to smuggle 44 live geckos and skinks out of New Zealand in his underwear has been sentenced to 12 weeks in jail. The Christchurch court heard Hans Kurt Kubus, 58, had sewn pouches into his clothing to hide the protected animals as he had gone through the airport.”  You have to ask yourself,  what kind of  fool would pack 44 live, carnivorous reptiles in his shorts?  That’s 176 little hoofies tap dancing on your cojones.  Certainly raises “kinky” to a new level.

Beijing, China (CNN) –   China’s super-rich look for love online. “In China it can be hard for millionaires to find love. Just ask Xu Tianli. “These people are very excellent themselves, which leads to their high standards for partners,” Xu said. “And those who can meet those standards are few.” Xu is the founder of Golden Bachelor, an online dating site catering to an expanding class of super-wealthy Chinese singletons who have it all except for one thing: a bride. So they pay, a lot, to find one. The Golden Bachelor “Diamond Love” membership goes for 300,000 Yuan ($44,000).”  I guess the Beatles were wrong:  money can buy you love.  But if not, for $44,000.00, I’m sure you can rent it.

BBC NEWS — Movie made by chimpanzees to be broadcast on television. “The world’s first film shot entirely by chimpanzees is to be broadcast by the BBC as part of a natural history documentary. The apes created the movie using a specially designed chimp-proof camera given to them by primatologists. The film-making exercise is part of a scientific study into how chimpanzees perceive the world and each other. It will be screened within the Natural World program “Chimpcam” shown on BBC Two at 2000GMT on Wednesday 27 January.”  The chimps have hired an agent and are currently negotiating with CBS for a new “reality show” series, “Are You Smarter Than A Chimp?”  If current programing is any indication, most aren’t, so it will probably be a hit.

(CNN) –  Activist Roeder convicted of abortion provider’s murder.  “A Kansas jury deliberated just 37 minutes before convicting an anti-abortion activist of first-degree murder in the fatal shooting of an abortion provider. The jury found Scott Roeder, 51, guilty of gunning down Dr. George Tiller, who operated a clinic in Wichita where late-term abortions were performed. Roeder, 51, faces life in prison when he is sentenced on March 9.”  The part I find amazing remains, that there are people who actually believe shooting Dr. Tiller, as he worshiped in church, was justifiable.  Only reinforces the statement, “Play it safe.  Never turn your back on a Christian.”

Sitting here finishing off and editing these Ramblings, the Editorial Staff hunkered down or playing.  It is cold and snowing outside, a good night to stay home.  The pellet stove is cranking out heat:  it is nice and warm, here, at Ft Timmerman.  I watched President Obama answer questions at the Republican Caucus on CNN today. Unprecedented, (no pun nor play on words, intended).  Good news, in that the economic recovery seems to be taking hold:  a 5.7% increase in the GNP for the 4th quarter.  Scott Brown, (who replaced Sen. Kennedy), and President Obama are 10th cousins.  I wonder how many other people President Obama is related to?  I will get on-line this evening and research recipes for Cornish Game Hens, (thanks to those of you who shared yours), for “Lunch and A Movie” on Sunday.  The movie?  Haven’t selected one yet.  Later I hit the sack and settle in and as I drift off to sleep, I’ll say a prayer of thanks for the many blessings in my life, Susan to share them with   …  and for the safe and soon return of our men and women in uniform, (care to join me?)  Be and sleep well, the best there is, is walking the walk,  so you can.  If these Ramblings offend, I apologize, that is not my intent.  As always  …
A Warm Brotherly Hug
KarlT (the dumb old country lawyer from Holden, Missouri and the “Editorial Staff”, Willie, Karly, Dinker, my L’il Buddy   …  and Floyd, the copy boy.  “Smarticus” and “Farticus” were too busy playing!!)

Greets and Huggers.  Posted the evening of January 22, 2010.  Life has it’s ironies.   27 days after the US Senate passed a sweeping health insurance reform bill,  something Senator Ted Kennedy, (February 22, 1932 � August 25, 2009),  championed and labored on his whole senate career   …   now appears doomed, or significantly scaled back, because of the election of his replacement. Washington (CNN) –  Scott Brown: From pinup to pickup-driving populist.  “The morning after winning the Massachusetts Senate special election on Tuesday, Scott Brown was still trying to take it all in. “If you would have told me growing up [that] a guy whose mom is on welfare and parents had some marital troubles — and I had some issues growing up … would be standing before you right now, going to Washington D.C.? Are you kidding me?” Brown said at a news conference Wednesday.” Brown is an interesting guy, (read the link!)  Put in perspective,  he is one of 5 Republican Senators in the 40 member Massachusetts Senate.  “When told that different people labeled him a conservative, moderate and a liberal Republican, he responded �I�m a Scott Brown Republican   …   “I’m Scott Brown, I’m from Wrentham, I drive a truck, and I am nobody’s senator but yours.”"  Of course my Democrat friends claim he won because his opponent ran a very poor campaign  …  and my Republican friends claim, it is a public rebuke of Obama. As for me?  I’m just struck by the irony:  the original “Boston Tea Party” signaled a populist revolt.  “For the 2010 Senate race, Brown was supported by the Greater Boston Tea Party group, which organized a January 2, 2010 fundraising breakfast for him in Boston, which he attended.” Republicans and Democrats consider the “Tea Party” folks a bunch of “wingnuts”.  On December 16, 1773, so did the British.  I think incumbents are in for a rude awakening.

And in the review of a death penalty Federal Habeas Corpus case,  handed down by the Supreme Court of the United States this week:  “Petitioner Marcus Wellons was convicted in Georgia state court of rape and murder and sentenced to death.  Although the trial looked typical, there were unusual events going on behind the scenes. Only after the trial did defense counsel learn that there had been unreported ex parte contacts between the jury and the judge, that jurors and a bailiff had planned a reunion, and that �either during or immediately following the penalty phase, some jury members gave the trial judge chocolate shaped as male genitalia and the bailiff chocolate shaped as female breasts,� 554 F. 3d 923, 930 (CA11 2009). The judge had not reported any of this to the defense.”  see  Wellons v. Hall, (click on the link).  The issue in this case is not whether Mr. Wellons is guilty   …  he may or may not be.  The issue is whether he has the ability/right to have a hearing about whether or not he received a fair trial, given the disclosures made after trial. Our Supremos ordered he should, given the facts of this case.  They declined to deal with the really important issues. Was it white or dark chocolate?  What size were the male genitalia chocolates?  (From “Blazing Saddles“,  “It’s twoo, it’s twoo!“)  Did the bailiff munch on the chocolate shaped “female breasts“?  Did the “female breasts” appear to be the breasts of a female of appropriate age?  Is the bailiff a potential child molester, if the chocolate breasts appear to be those of a female less than 18 years of age? No doubt, a pervert.  Maybe, the jury is as well!  A jury of perverts, sentencing some pilgrim to death!!  Fair trial? Look,  the death penalty is like putting a Band-Aid on a syphilitic chancre.  It’s an “Easy Button”, no less so than the “Zero Tolerance” policies our schools have adopted.  It costs more to put a person to death, then keep him/her confined for life.  It is not a deterrence.  And in my world view, the taking of human life is immoral under any circumstance, but justifiable to preserve human life.  As a veteran, I’m comfortable with that.

ABC NEWS –  ‘Small Smiles Centers’ Company to Pay $24 Million.  “A dental management company that serves low-income children insured by Medicaid will pay $24 million to settle allegations that it provided medically unnecessary and substandard services, the Justice Department announced Wednesday   …  Carrying out unnecessary and often painful procedures on children is “pretty disgusting; it doesn’t get much more disgusting than that,” Tony West, the assistant attorney general in charge of the Justice Department’s civil division, told a news conference  …  In a statement, FORBA said the settlement “encourages us to continue to focus on vital, high-quality dental care for children in America’s low-income communities.”  Justice Department civil division?  Where are the criminal prosecutions?

HOUSTON –  Attorney Stole Dead Dad’s Checks. “A Houston-area attorney who stole tens of thousands of dollars from his deceased father’s Social Security account is headed to prison, KPRC Local 2 reported Thursday.  Carlos Correa was accused of cashing his father’s Social Security checks for 12 years after his father died. Investigators said he took more than $100,000. Jurors found him guilty of one charge of theft. It took the panel 20 minutes to reach the verdict   … Correa’s father died in 1996, but no one told the Social Security Administration. Correa’s attorney said that should not have happened  …  The state bar has suspended him twice. Once he is released from prison, Correa will not be able to practice law again.” There’s good news and bad news. The good news?  He will not be able to regain his license to practice law.  The bad news?  He is moving to Missouri, opening a storefront and will help folks fill out the forms provided by our Court Administrator. I suppose in a way, that is also good news:  will provide additional advertising revenue for “Craig’s List” and the “Pennysaver”.

BBC NEWS  — Pretty women ‘anger more easily’.  “Attractive women may have the competitive edge by letting their temper flare more, research suggests. Researchers found women who rated themselves as pretty displayed a war-like streak when fighting battles to get their own way  …  In the study, the women who believed they were good looking were more likely to respond angrily in disputes than those who rated themselves as less attractive. Attractive women also had higher expectations of what they deserved.” Reminds me of Jimmy Soul’s song, (1963), “If You Wanna Be Happy.“  “If you wanna be happy for the rest of your life/  Never make a pretty woman your wife/  So from my personal point of view/ Get an ugly girl to marry you.”  Jimmy Soul was a two hit wonder.  His other hit, (1962), was “Twisting Matilda“.  He died of a heart attack in 1988, at the age of 45.

BBC NEWS –  Sexy sparrow exposed as world’s most promiscuous bird.  “A bird living on the coast of the US is the world’s most promiscuous bird, say scientists. The saltmarsh sparrow, a bird that lives in the marshes of Connecticut, was found to have extreme levels of multiple mating. The researchers found that 95% of females mated with more than one male during each nesting period  …  We found that nearly every clutch of eggs was the product of more than one father, and that within broods it was extremely common for any two siblings to have different fathers,” says Professor Chris Elphick from the University of Connecticut.”  Male and female saltmarsh sparrows do not form pairs nor do the males play any role in caring for chicks.  Sounds like some people I know.  Course, that begs the question, “Why didn’t the other 5%?”  Perhaps, it’s because they are ugly and found a male to nest with them?  Help raise the chicks? Maybe some birds are smarter than their human counterparts, (humming Jimmy Soul’s song!)

Sitting here editing these Ramblings, “Smarticus” and “Farticus” are playing on the floor, while the “Editorial Staff” is asleep in their chair.  We will have some “Lunch and a Movie” guests Sunday.  Cheese mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, beef garlic pot roast and French Silk Chocolate pie for dessert. The movie?   “Inglorious Bastards“  Time to post these Ramblings, then do a Photoshop Tutorial about “Alien Skin Bokeh“.  Then, chat a bit on “Facebook” and later hit the sack.  As I always do, I will say a prayer for the folks on my “prayer list”, a thank you for the many blessings in my life, especially Susan  …  and a prayer for the safe and soon return of our men and women in uniform, (care to join me?)  Be and sleep well, the best there is, is walking the walk so you can.  If my post offends, I apologize  –  that is not my intent. As always  …
A Warm Brotherly Hug
KarlT (the dumb old country lawyer from Holden, Missouri, and the “Editorial Staff”, Willie, Dinker, Karly, my ‘Lil Buddy  …  and “Floyd” the copy boy.  “Smarticus” and Farticus” get no credit, since they didn’t contribute.)

Greets and Huggers.  Posted the evening of January 15, 2010.  I celebrate my 62nd birthday, today.  Dr. Martin Luther King and I have only two things in common.  We were both born the same day, he, January 15, 1929 and me, January 15, 1948  …  and we both had a dream.  His, much more worthy than mine.  He, to liberate us all from the cancer of racism.  Make our America live up to the promises contained in our Constitution   …  become the promised land. As for me?  Just become like an “Atticus Finch“:  a small town lawyer, representing real people, with real problems. That’s what I am, and that’s what I do.  I suppose in our own way, we have both realized our dreams.  He championed the cause against “racism”, equality, color blindness   …  and succeeded.  We have an African American President.  Racism still exists, of course,  but legally, our America has, indeed, become the promised land.  Yet, as a society, we are not yet “color blind”, when “race” remains a selection factor,  in the name of “diversity”.  Bigots remain bigots   …  both black and white.  I kind of wonder though  …  whether   …  there aren’t more Black bigots playing the race card, than White bigots?  Share with me?  How does a white bigot play the race card?  Certainly not on “Prime Time”.  Seems to me, Black Bigots own that venue. White bigots snipe in the background  …  spewing venom when and where they can.  There will always be bigots, (both Black and White), but they will only have something to hang their hats on until we as a society become completely “color blind”.  Until we focus on the real discrimination issue: economic disparity.  Although “race” may be one to the factors of  “diversity”  …  socioeconomic standing and cultural background, in my mind, remain the most important factors.  A fact Dr. King realized:  “In 1968, King and the SCLC organized the “Poor People’s Campaign” to address issues of economic justice. The campaign culminated in a march on Washington, D.C. demanding economic aid to the poorest communities of the United States. King traveled the country to assemble “a multiracial army of the poor” that would march on Washington to engage in nonviolent civil disobedience at the Capitol until Congress created a bill of rights for poor Americans.”  He was assassinated April 4, 1968. 

And in the “some lawyer will no doubt come up with a new cause of action and sue” category:  (CNN) –  Audiences experience ‘Avatar’ blues.  “James Cameron’s completely immersive spectacle “Avatar” may have been a little too real for some fans who say they have experienced depression and suicidal thoughts after seeing the film because they long to enjoy the beauty of the alien world Pandora.”  A new “wrongful death” action, perhaps?  I guess this means they will have to put a disclaimer at the beginning of the Movie:  “WARNING:  The scenes and scenery in this movie will bum you out if you lack the ability to see the beauty in your life, assuming you have one, which we doubt, since you just spent a bunch of money to escape it.”  Give me a break.  Is this the fallout from a 3D experience?  It’s so real, you become lost in it?  Easy enough to cure  –  join a new virtual reality game site, like “EverQuest” or
“Second Life“.  Course, if you lack the social skills to have a life in this reality,  can you really do any better in a virtual reality?  I doubt it.

BBC NEWS –  China faces growing gender imbalance.  “More than 24 million Chinese men of marrying age could find themselves without spouses by 2020, says the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. The gender imbalance among newborns is the most serious demographic problem for the country’s population of 1.3 billion, says the academy  …  The academy says gender selection abortions are “extremely common”  …  The latest figures show that for every 100 girls born in China, 119 boys are born, the academy says in a new book.”   Now that’s a comforting thought:  24 million horny Chinese men in their late teens and early 20’s driven by a biological/hormonal need for female companionship?  Absent a war to kill off excess males,  I’m sure “polyandry” may become the norm for future Chinese families   …   really makes sense, if you think about it.  If the primary evolutionary goal, survival of the species, rests in providing for offspring,  what would be better than having 2 - 3 males providing the resources, (food, shelter, Nintendo, etc.).   Frankly, after doing the research, I don’t understand why there are so many Chinese.  According to the Durex Survey (2003):  “The countries with the lowest frequency of sex are Japan (37 times per), Malaysia (62) and China (69).”  If you do the math, that is an amorous evening about once a week.  So if a woman was encouraged to marry 3 men, each would have the ability to enjoy a couple of evenings per week with “his” wife, sit around, eat some Chinese and watch propaganda TV  …  and she would still have one quiet evening per week to be by herself, while the 3 “husbands” watch the children   …   and each of the 3 “husbands” would have at least 3 evenings per week to hang out with their “buds”.  Share with me   …  what women or man wouldn’t enjoy such a lifestyle?  The more I think about it, the more elegant a solution it appears to be.
 
BBC NEWS –  Having a big bum, hips and thighs ‘is healthy’.  “Carrying extra weight on your hips, bum and thighs is good for your health, protecting against heart and metabolic problems, UK experts have said.  Hip fat mops up harmful fatty acids and contains a natural anti-inflammatory agent that stops arteries clogging, a Nature publication has reported.  Big behinds are preferable to extra fat around the waistline, which gives no such protection, the authors said.”  That certainly explains why Americans are living longer!  Take a look around.  How many people can you see that don’t have fat *sses?  Sheesh!  And here we thought having an enlarged derriere and fat thighs was a bad thing.  No doubt a conspiracy by the clothing industry and fashion magazines,  pushing the “thin is healthy” agenda. Obviously, it takes less cloth to cover a thin butt:  resulting in a larger profit margin!!  Also explains why corpulent women were considered the most beautiful and desirable in the middle ages. I guess unclogged arteries have their charm.

Horrible tragedy in Haiti this week.  A 7 point earthquake devastated the country.  Projected death toll?  Well over 180,000.  According to the CIA Factbook,  Haiti and the Dominican Republic share an island in the Caribbean.  Haiti’s population?  9,035,536.  Ethnic Breakdown? 95% Black, 5% Mulatto and White.  Religion?  Roman Catholic 80%, Protestant 16% (Baptist 10%, Pentecostal 4%, Adventist 1%, other 1%), none 1%, other 3%   …   and roughly half of the population practices voodoo).  GNP?  $11.53 billion (2008 est.)  Dominican Republic’s population? 9,650,054, (July 2009 estimate).  Ethnic breakdown? 11% Black, 73% Mulatto, 16% White. Religion?  Roman Catholic 95%, other 5%.  GNP? $78.19 billion (2008 est.)  Haiti was devastated, the Dominican Republic was not.  Why?  Interesting article gives a good explanation:  Guardian.Co.UK  –  A divided island: the forces working against Haiti.  “Why did the political, economic and ecological histories of the Dominican Republic and Haiti  two countries that share the same island � unfold so differently?”  Part of the answer?  Haiti was a French Colony while the Dominican Republic was a Spanish Colony.  The French relied on slave labor while the Spanish did not.  “A second social and political factor is that the Dominican Republic with its Spanish-speaking population of predominantly European ancestry was both more receptive and more attractive to European immigrants and investors than was Haiti with its Creole-speaking population composed overwhelmingly of black former slaves.”  Read that to mean an industry based culture instead of an agrarian based culture.

Sitting here finishing off these Ramblings, the Editorial Staff scampering around, playing.  “Smarticus” and “Farticus”, asleep on their pillow.  I’m watching the evening news video feeds out of Haiti.  As densely populated as Port-au-Prince is,  the death toll will ultimately be much, much higher than the 180,000 projected.  Not from the earthquake per se, but from the lack of food, water and medical attention.  Societal unrest will be difficult to deal with when you have no food and water distribution infrastructure and providing security for aid workers will be near to impossible. Protecting Haiti’s 9 million civilians from each other will also be impossible.  Thugs will rule the streets.  For my birthday, Susan bought me a set of TV Ears.  Her ears are a lot younger than mine and also have not been subjected to gunfire, so she has no hearing loss.  Read that to mean she can actually watch and hear the TV, at a volume level that requires me to read lips!!  Kind of an interesting device.  A two piece unit:  a base that recharges the batteries in the headset and plugs into the audio out of the TV,  which also relays the audio, wirelessly, to a headset you wear. It works really, really well.  You can control the Bass and Treble settings and the overall volume level.  I would recommend it.  Time to post these Ramblings, and to all of you who Emailed birthday wishes to me:  Thank You.  My Dear Friend Bryan S, Dawn and their daughter will be coming to Ft Timmerman Sunday for a photo shoot.  I love shooting portraits, so should be a really good time.  I will spend the rest of this evening working on some images, then hit the sack   …  and as I drift off to sleep, pray for the folks in Haiti, (they truly need it), a pray of thanks for my greatest blessing, having Susan to share my birthday with  …  and a prayer for the relief workers in Haiti and our men and women in uniform:  I pray they all come home safe and soon, (care to join me?)  Be and sleep well,  take a look around at what you have in this life and be thankful. Many have nothing, not even the basic necessities, nor their health.  You are safe, warm and have eatin today.  If my post offends, I apologize, that is not my intent.  As always  …
A Warm Brotherly Hug
KarlT (the dumb 62 year old, country lawyer from Holden, Missouri   …  and the Editorial Staff, Karly, Willie, Dinker, my ‘Lil Buddy   …   and Floyd, the copy boy, (Smarticus and Farticus are crashed  …  so they didn’t contribute anything to these Ramblings  …  other than being adorable!!)

Greets and Huggers!  Posted the evening of January 8, 2009.  Is it just me,  does anyone have any interest in watching what the major networks present as entertainment now-a-days?  ABC, CBS, NBC were  the networks I grew up watching.  What happened to them?  I remember a time when the evening news was about sharing what was happening in the world.  Just the facts, information reported in an unbiased manner.  Editorial opinion was clearly labeled “Editorial”.  Now, the evening news is about entertainment.  There were great westerns, like “Bonanza”, “Have Gun Will Travel”, (I can still hear the opening theme song, “Ballad of Paladin”, in my mind!!), “The Rifleman” and “Kung Fu”, to name several.  Comedy shows like, “Three’s Company”,  “Bob Newhart” and of course, the classic “All In The Family”.  Who could forget “Archie Bunker”?  Lawyer drama’s like “Perry Mason”,  “Matlock”, “L A Law” and of course “Ally McBeal”. Whole genre’s of shows with characters who were heros our children could emulate. Some shows rising to the level of  a “Morality Play”.  Now, what characters on network TV would you want your child to regard as a hero?  Frankly, I really have no desire to have my children want to emulate “Denny Crane”.  I suppose now, due to cable, we have more choices.  More channels.  More information.  And, of course, the Internet,  for those who wish to know, have up to date data, to form an opinion. As for the big networks?  A couple of good shows, from September through December, then re-runs and shows like “Dancing with the Stars”, “Survivor” and “American Idol”.  So share with me  …  can you name a character currently on network TV, that you believe would be a good role model for your child?  How about “Simon Cowell” from “American Idol”?

And in the Russian Government’s version of a “bailout”:  BBC NEWS  –  Russia ‘plans to stop asteroid’.  “The head of Russia’s federal space agency has said it will work to divert an asteroid which will make several passes near the Earth from 2029. Anatoly Perminov told the Voice of Russia radio service that the agency’s science council would hold a closed meeting to discuss the issue   …  Any eventual plan is likely to be an international collaboration, he said.  The US space agency said in October that there is a one-in-250,000 chance of Apophis hitting Earth in 2036  …  “People’s lives are at stake,” Mr Perminov reportedly told the radio service Golos Rossii (Voice of Russia)  …  “We should pay several hundred million dollars and build a system that would allow us to prevent a collision, rather than sit and wait for it to happen and kill hundreds of thousands of people.”  Honestly, 2029?  Hasn’t he watched the History Channel?  Everyone knows the world will end December 21, 2012.  Why spend the money for that? I think the money would be better spent on a Russian “Cash for Clunkers” program,  reviving the “Y ugo”.  Ok, Ok,  …  after watching the commercial, I thought of buying one, (some of my friends actually did!  Although most will now deny it!!).
 
( CNN) — Scientists discover oldest footprints on Earth.  “Scientists have found the oldest fossilized footprints made by a four-legged creature forcing a rethink on when fish first crawled out of water and onto land.  The discovery of the footprints in a former quarry in the Holy Cross Mountains in south-eastern Poland are thought to be 395-million years old — 18 million years older th(an the earliest tetrapod (a vertebrate with limbs rather than fins) body fossils.  The report published Thursday in the science journal Nature says the footprints of the tetrapod measure up to 26 (10 inches) centimeters wide, which scientists say is indicative of an animal around 2.5 (7.5 feet) meters in length.”  Wow.  I didn’t know there were Polish dinosaurs.  Does that mean Polish folks are descended from lizards, instead of apes? Not that it matters:  I still love kielbasa.  As an aside, Mel Brooks’, (Melvin “Mel” Kaminsky),  petrified baby shoes were also found there.

And in the latest “Global Warming” news  –  BBC NEWS — Germany prepares to face blizzard.  “German households have been advised to stock up on food, medicines and drinking water as the nation braces for a blizzard that is heading its way. Germany’s Civil Protection Office (BBK) says heavy snowfalls expected on Saturday could trigger local power cuts and severely disrupt public transport.” I don’t know if the science behind “Global Warming” is credible or not.  Whether rising global temperatures are just part of a natural cycle, or not.  There is a vigorous ongoing debate,  so I guess, reasonable, knowledgeable people can form differing opinions. Climatology:  Perhaps the earliest person to hypothesize the concept of climate change was the medieval Chinese scientist Shen Kuo (1031-1095 AD). Shen Kuo theorized that climates naturally shifted over an enormous span of time, after observing petrified bamboos found underground near Yanzhou (modern day Yan’an, Shaanxi province), a dry climate area unsuitable for the growth of bamboo. Early climate researchers include Edmund Halley, who published a map of the trade winds in 1686, after a voyage to the southern hemisphere. Benjamin Franklin, in the 18th century, was the first to map the course of the Gulf Stream for use in sending mail overseas from the United States to Europe. Francis Galton invented the term anticyclone. Helmut Landsberg led to statistical analysis being used in climatology, which led to its evolution into a physical science.  Well, the temperature in Holden these past couple weeks sure don’t support “Global Warming”.  Currently, the “wind chill” is -18 degrees and the projected low this evening is -8 degrees, with a wind chill of -30 degrees.

BBC NEWS –  Surprise rise in US job losses.  “US employers unexpectedly cut 85,000 jobs in December, but the unemployment rate held steady at 10%, official figures have shown.  The number of job losses was surprising, particularly after November’s figures had been revised. The US Labor Department had initially estimated that 11,000 jobs were cut in November, but now says that the economy had in fact added 4,000 jobs.”  We have spent how many trillion dollars in 2009?  The National Debt on 09/30/2000 was $5,674,178,209,886.86 and on  09/30/2006 it was $8,506,973,899,215.23.  So during the 6 years the Republicans were on watch, it increased by $2.8 Trillian.   In 2006, Democrats took the congressional wheel.  On their watch, these past 3 years, it has increased by $3.4 Trillion to $11,909,829,003,511.75. Almost $2 Trillian was spent in 2009.  Look,  I don’t acknowledge any difference between Blue Pigs and Red Pigs:  pigs is pigs.  But $2 Trillian dollars spent and there were 85,000 jobs lost last December alone?  Share with me  …  where is the money going?  It sure isn’t trickling down to main street.  I don’t know if the “Tea Party” movement will become a viable political force. I hope they do.  As of today, I will not support anybody in office in Washington. As contained in the title of Carrie Underwood song, ” Jesus take the wheel”,  I pray HE does,  because the Pigs in Washington are so wrapped up in their respective opposing political agendas, don’t believe anyone is holding it now.  Even a fool can see our America is trucking down the road at 90 miles an hour and  the bridge is out. 

Sitting here editing these Ramblings  …  it is so cold outside, the Editorial Staff is hunkered down before the space heater in Susan’s office and a couple even put on sweaters.  I’m watching the “Hitler Channel” because there is nothing else worth watching. Doesn’t look like —  my mouse disappeared.  I’m finishing these Ramblings in “Safe Mode”.  Oh well, always something.  I’m going to post these Ramblings, then try to figure out why my mouse disappeared.  Been putting off upgrading to WIN 7, have it installed on another disk but have not figured out how to run it in the WIN XP theme and don’t have the time to figure out the nuances.  I want to post these Ramblings.  Susan and her babies are asleep and looks like I’m going to spend an interesting evening  …  at the end of which, hopefully my system will be back up and running   …  and will say a prayer of thanks and a prayer for the safe and soon return of our men and women in uniform, (care to join me?)  Be and sleep well, please keep our men and women in uniform in your thoughts/prayers   …  and I’m hitting the send button.  Huggers
KarlT

Greets and Huggers.  Posted the evening of January 1, 2010.  Today is the evening of the first day of another decennial/year.  I remember watching, with Susan, 2000 roll in with all the “end of the world” hype. Didn’t happen. Yesterday, Susan sent in the check for our “property taxes” and a check for “Quarterly Income Taxes”.  I won’t share the amounts  …  but SURE made us bleed. And I wonder, was it worth it?  Tempered by watching folks on CNN, in Iran, take to the streets  …  seek THEIR voice in their government,  social justice and security   …   reminds me   …  in our America, due to the Second Amendment  …  I have the RIGHT and the ability, to have enough weaponry at Ft Timmerman to hold off the Chinese Communist Army for a couple of hours, should they desire to invade.  Break into my home?  Do so at your own risk, I can rely on the “Castle Doctrine“.   Should a local cop, or the local political powers that are, target me for dissenting  …  I have recourse in our courts, the third branch of our government. History teaches, they will lose.  I can walk the streets and feel safe in my home because we remain a nation of laws, enforced by our men and women in uniform, (civil and military)  …  funded, for the most part, not by graft  …  but the taxes you and I pay.  And that begs the question, who will pay?  Simple. Due to choices made this year, our children and their children  …   and for now,  those of us who toiled in the fields, this past year.  We spent years learning how to hold the hoe, work the row, sacrificed for our families, paid student loan debts, and made enough money to trigger an income tax liability.  Accumulated enough, to owe substantial property taxes.  Some did not   …  because, perhaps, they had no desire or need to do so  …  [one of the most contentious debates ever on the SFIG was about the “Ants and Grasshopper” Fable!!]  For the past few years, some grasshoppers played in the fields,  and survived due to mild winters.  But this year, with a tough economic winter coming,  facing death  … some demanded ants share what they had worked hard to store, suggested ants have a moral obligation to share, so that grasshoppers can survive.  Is there a moral obligation to do so?  Grasshoppers have a great lobby in Washington. So do the owners of the fields they played in.  Some voted themselves obscene bonuses.  Some ants lived on what they stored because they could not find a row to hoe, (unemployment remains at unacceptably high levels.)  So share with me  …  do ants have a lobby/representation in Washington? All said and done?  I don’t mind writing a check to provide funds to protect me and mine, fund our government, if that government is limited, and focused on protecting me and mine from social, economic and physical predators. As for grasshoppers?  Let them reap as they sow.  History teaches, that saving grasshoppers only results in more grasshoppers.

Debates/posts on the SFIG this past year, were relatively mild, perhaps because it was not an election year.  Even the vigorous discussion of “Health Care Reform”, by SFIG standards, was civil. SFIG “family” members, for the most part, adhered to the Nettiquette Haiku.  And I remain puzzled by some of the posts from members of our little “Family” this past year.   Someone commenting about me being able to afford upgrading to a D700  …  while they vacationed in Mexico.  Another sharing  …  they didn’t need a “Vacation Rule” because they have a deal worked out with another Solo which allows them to take off whenever they wish  …  and suggested a “Vacation Rule” may limit their ability to take a vacation.  Share with me how having the ability to designate a time for you and your family to take time off, would in any way limit your ability, to do so? Share with me how creating/expanding/codifying an ability you already have, into a “right”,  could/would decrease or limit that ability? Instead, wouldn’t it be a way of encouraging our “Puppy Sharks” to take time off and refocus on what is important in the practice of law   …  and life in general? 

Somalia’s gross national product in 2008 was 2.6 billion dollars.  It has a population of approximately 9.8 million people, who have an average yearly income of $600.00, with a life expectancy of 49 years, (the median age being 17.8).  It does not have a viable government:  just clans and “Warlords”.  Last year, Somali Pirates attacked 214 vessels and successfully hijacked 47.  As of today, there are 12 ships with 263 crews members being held for ransom.  The average ransom amount is $2 million dollars.  35 ships and their crew were released after the ransom was paid.  (CNN) — Hijacked ships released off Somalia.  “A Singapore-flagged container ship hijacked by pirates off the coast of Somalia was released Monday, according to the European Union Naval Force Somalia.  The Kota Wajar, with a crew of 21, was the second hijacked ship released in as many days. A Chinese bulk carrier, the De Xin Hai, and its crew of 25 were released on Sunday, NAVFOR said. Both ships were hijacked in October.”  …  and, at the same time  …  (CNN) –  Somali pirates seize two ships.  “Somali pirates have seized two vessels, the International Maritime Bureau said Tuesday. The UK-flagged chemical tanker St. James Park, with 23 crew members aboard, was attacked at 14:49 UTC Monday (9:49 a.m. ET), said Michael Howlett, spokesman for the Maritime Bureau  …  A second vessel, the Navios Apollon bulk carrier, sailing under Panamanian flag and carrying 19 crew members, was attacked at 18:47 UTC Monday (1:47 p.m. ET).”  The United Nations has authorized the pursuit of pirates on land as well as the sea:   MANAMA (Reuters) –  Gates says U.S. lacks intelligence to fight Somalia pirates.  “The United States lacks the intelligence needed to pursue the fight against pirates on Somali soil, Defense Secretary Robert Gates said on Saturday.  His comments came days after the U.S. delegation at the United Nations circulated a draft resolution that would give countries the right to pursue pirates on land as well as at sea. Analysts say that pursuing pirates on land is crucial to any military response to attacks that have targeted dozens of ships in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean in recent months. “With the level of information we have at the moment, we’re not in a position to do that kind of land-based operation,”  Gates told a regional security conference in Bahrain. “Our first need is intelligence, (to know) who is behind it.”  Referring to media reports that “two to three clans or extended families” were behind the pirate attacks on ships off the Somali coast, Gates said: “If we can identify who those clans are then we can operate on land under the auspices of the United Nations and seek out ways to minimize collateral damage.”   There is difficulty in identifying the pirates?  The pirates home base is the port city of Eyl, Somalia,  (NOTE:  the link is to an interesting BBC article from September 18, 2008),  on the eastern coast of Africa. “Fancy houses are being built, expensive cars are being bought - all of this in a country that has not had a functioning central government for nearly 20 years.”   Gee, would it be a logical leap to assume some guy driving around in a late model Mercedes or Landcruiser in Somalia is somehow affiliated with the pirates, if indeed he was not one himself?  Do the words “Predator” and “Hellfire” ring a bell? 

BBC NEWS –  Scientists discover how wild mushroom cancer drug works.  “Scientists have discovered how a promising cancer drug, first discovered in a wild mushroom, works.  The University of Nottingham team believe their work could help make the drug more effective, and useful for treating a wider range of cancers. Cordycepin, commonly used in Chinese medicine, was originally extracted from a rare kind of parasitic mushroom that grows on caterpillars.”  Now, you have to ask yourself  …  who was the person in ancient China, that figured out that the mushrooms growing on a caterpillar have medicinal value?  What’s the Chinese word for “serendipity”?

BBC NEWS — Montana paves way for assisted suicide. “The Supreme Court in Montana has ruled that nothing in the state’s law prevents patients from seeking medical assistance to commit suicide. The ruling paves the way for Montana to become the third US state alongside Washington and Oregon to allow patients to seek the procedure  …  Doctors will now be able to prescribe the necessary drugs to the terminally ill without fear of prosecution.”   I have no doubt, given “Health Care Reform”,  patients will be given the option of seeking medical assistance for end of life issues.  It is a most cost effective solution, isn’t it? I also have no doubt, medical care will, at some point, have to be rationed because “Health Care Reform” doesn’t address the real underlying problem:  cost.  An answer is contingent on the question asked. At some point the question shifted from “How do we reduce cost so more people can afford health insurance?“  …  to  …  “How do we insure more people?”
 
Sitting here editing the Ramblings, the “Editorial Staff” hunkered down, (it is REALLY cold outside!!)  We held a “7 Bells Sanctuary” board meeting today, (by telephone conference).  The news? We incorporated, applied for and recieved 501(c)(3) status and  received our sales tax exemption from the State of Missouri, this past year.  We rescued 312 dogs, adopting out 102!! In a couple of weeks, on January 15th, I will celebrate my 62nd birthday, (never thought, I would live this long!!)  My daughter shared this past week, she is engaged to be married, to a really nice young man, (I have NO desire to kill him, and she does love him  …  doesn’t get any better than that  …  does it?)  Also, in another couple of weeks, our Board of Governors will meet to plan MoBar’s long term objectives.  The last long term plan included an “access to the courts” goal.  That resulted in the “Pro Se Commission”. which resulted in “Dissolution Kits” being made available on-line.  I remain opposed to providing the means for folks to harm themselves.  If the purpose for lawyers being licensed is to protect the public, why would we encourage folks to harm themselves  …  and why isn’t our Bar actively lobbying for tougher sanctions for the unauthorized practice of law?  I would encourage our BOG to highlight that as a goal.  Time to post these Ramblings and spend the rest of this evening working on some images.  Later as I drift off to sleep, I will say a prayer of thanks for having had a good year to share with Susan.  And a prayer for the safe and soon return of our men and women in uniform, (care to join me?)  Be and sleep well, the best there is, is walking the walk so you can.  If my post offends, I apologize  …  that is not my intent.  Susan and I want to wish you and yours a Happy and Prosperous New Year  …  and offer you all, a warm brotherly Hug!
KarlT (the dumb old country lawyer from Holden, Missouri  …  and the Editorial Staff, Willie, Dinker, Karly, my ‘Lil Buddy   …  and Floyd the copy boy!)