When I read Katie Pavlich's Townhall piece about Hillary Clinton appointing Loretta Lynch to The Supreme Court my mind began racing.
Sure it began racing as to what Lynch and Bill Clinton discussed on the airport tarmac a few months ago.
But it also made me think of Ted Cruz's endorsement of Donald Trump. Did Trump make Cruz an offer he couldn't refuse? Did Trump promise Cruz a seat on the Supreme Court in exchange for his support?
It would be an astute move on Trump's part. In one fell swoop, Trump would keep the court conservative while ridding himself of a potential rival in 2020.
Of course, all of this would be contingent upon the GOP retaining a majority in the Senate. Nevertheless, it would go a long way in explaining Cruz's about face.
Friday, September 30, 2016
Thursday, September 29, 2016
Could Someone Please Pass a Joint to Gary Johnson?
So first Gary Johnson asks "What's Aleppo?"
Now he can't name his favorite foreign leader.
Could someone please pass a joint to Gary Johnson?
Johnson, of course, is an avid pot smoker who made a point of quitting right before entering the presidential race.
A colleague told me that he may have done this because marijuana use could have got Johnson disqualified off the ballot in a number of states. I'm not sure this is the case. But whatever the reason, I think his decision to stop smoking up has thrown him off his game. Some people function better under the influence.
Of course, I think Donald Trump's lack of foreign policy knowledge is far more egregious. But Trump gets away with it because he pretends he knows what he's talking about. This, after all, is a man who claims to know more about ISIS than our generals. Gary Johnson, on the other hand, looks like a dear in the headlights and admits he's having "an Aleppo moment". Unfortunately for Johnson, these Aleppo moments simply do not inspire confidence.
Put it another way. Gary Johnson should light up or leave us alone.
Now he can't name his favorite foreign leader.
Could someone please pass a joint to Gary Johnson?
Johnson, of course, is an avid pot smoker who made a point of quitting right before entering the presidential race.
A colleague told me that he may have done this because marijuana use could have got Johnson disqualified off the ballot in a number of states. I'm not sure this is the case. But whatever the reason, I think his decision to stop smoking up has thrown him off his game. Some people function better under the influence.
Put it another way. Gary Johnson should light up or leave us alone.
Obama's Answer as To Why He Won't Say "Islamic Terrorism" Contradicts What He Said at The 2015 National Prayer Breakfast
On Wednesday night's CNN Town Hall, President Obama was asked by a Gold Star mother why he won't use the phrase "Islamic Terrorism". He said in part:
If you had an organization that was going around killing and blowing people up and said, 'We're on the vanguard of Christianity.' As a Christian, I'm not going to let them claim my religion and say, 'you're killing for Christ.' I would say, that's ridiculous. That's not what my religion stands for. Call these folks what they are, which is killers and terrorists.
But this contradicts what he said at the National Prayer Breakfast in February 2015, You know the one where he told us to get off our high horse about ISIS beheading people:
And lest we get on our high horse and think this is unique to some other place, remember that during the Crusades and the Inquisition, people committed terrible deeds in the name of Christ.
So if President Obama is prepared to kill Christians killed in the name of Christ during The Crusades then why he is unwilling to say ISIS kills in the name of Muhammad? ISIS might well be perverting Islam but who is Obama as a Christian to say so? Is Obama claiming to know more Islam than Muslims?
Of course, it was Obama who famously said at the UN that the century did not belong to those who slandered Muhammad. Interestingly, he was silent about the status of those who slandered Christ.
In any case, most people understand that it would be foolish to claim every single Muslim engage in terrorism. Yet it would be equally foolish to deny that a critical mass of Muslims engage in terrorism and that it is a global problem. President Obama is squarely in this latter category and will remain there until the end of his presidency and beyond.
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
Red Sox Blow Lead in 9th Against The Yankees, But Celebrate Winning The AL East
As Boston Red Sox closer Craig Kimbrel took the mound in the top of the 9th, we learned that the team had clinched the AL East when the Baltimore Orioles beat the Toronto Blue Jays.
But Kimbrel didn't have it tonight as he walked the bases loaded. I took to Twitter and wrote:
It would be very weird if the Red Sox blew this game & then went into the clubhouse to celebrate winning the AL East.
Kimbrel was removed in favor of Joe Kelly who retired two hitters before giving up a walk off grand slam home run to Mark Teixeira to give the Yankees a 4-3 win.
The Red Sox didn't know what to make of things. But manager John Farrell told his men not to let one inning take away the fact they won the AL East. And then the celebration began complete with Big Papi dropping f-bomb after f-bomb on live TV. The loss could be a bad omen but Farrell has a way of putting things into perspective.
From this point forward the Red Sox, Indians and Rangers will see who ends up with the best record in the American League and home field advantage throughout the post-season.
The other thing to be determined is the two AL Wild Card spots. The Toronto Blue Jays and Baltimore Orioles have the two spots but the Detroit Tigers, Seattle Mariners, Houston Astros and New York Yankees still have a chance with four games left in the regular season. It will be a very exciting weekend indeed.
But Kimbrel didn't have it tonight as he walked the bases loaded. I took to Twitter and wrote:
It would be very weird if the Red Sox blew this game & then went into the clubhouse to celebrate winning the AL East.
Kimbrel was removed in favor of Joe Kelly who retired two hitters before giving up a walk off grand slam home run to Mark Teixeira to give the Yankees a 4-3 win.
The Red Sox didn't know what to make of things. But manager John Farrell told his men not to let one inning take away the fact they won the AL East. And then the celebration began complete with Big Papi dropping f-bomb after f-bomb on live TV. The loss could be a bad omen but Farrell has a way of putting things into perspective.
From this point forward the Red Sox, Indians and Rangers will see who ends up with the best record in the American League and home field advantage throughout the post-season.
The other thing to be determined is the two AL Wild Card spots. The Toronto Blue Jays and Baltimore Orioles have the two spots but the Detroit Tigers, Seattle Mariners, Houston Astros and New York Yankees still have a chance with four games left in the regular season. It will be a very exciting weekend indeed.
Tuesday, September 27, 2016
I'll Never Forget What Shimon Peres Said When He Spoke in Ottawa in March 1993
I have just learned of the passing of former Israeli Prime Minister & President Shimon Peres. His passing does not surprise me following a stroke he sustained two weeks ago which took a turn for the worse today. Peres was 93.
In March 1993, I got the opportunity to meet Peres when he visited Canada. At the time, Peres was Minister of Foreign Affairs in Yitzhak Rabin's cabinet. I was attending Carleton University and was working as a parliamentary intern for Iain Angus who was then a NDP MP from my hometown of Thunder Bay, Ontario. Knowing my passion for Israel, Iain arranged for me to attend the Canada-Israel Committee Parliamentary Dinner at the National Conference Center just down the road from Parliament Hill.
Seated at my table were former NDP leader Ed Broadbent and Canadian Labour Congress President Bob White. A who's who of Canadian politics was there including Prime Minister Brian Mulroney. But my eyes were fixed on Shimon Peres and I would get a chance to meet him very briefly.
What I remember the most about that evening was something Peres said during his remarks. Let's remember that he and Rabin were in the midst of negotiating with PLO Chairman Yasser Arafat with the aid of the Clinton Administration. Peres said, "Negotiation is not so much a matter of convincing the other side as it is convincing your own."
Six months later, Peres and Rabin were shaking hands with Arafat in the Rose Garden. Two years later, Rabin would his life at the hands of an Israeli (something I predicted would happen). Sadly, Peres and Rabin weren't able to convince all Israelis of their position.
Of course, Arafat's word turned out to be meaningless and his successor Mahmoud Abbas is no better. But Peres and Rabin had to give it a try. They negotiated in good faith and got burned at both ends.
Nevertheless there is truth in what Peres said that night. Any country that is truly committed to the democratic ideal will must expend a good faith effort to convince their citizenry of its aims and objectives and the policies which derive from these aims and objectives. Unfortunately, most democratic nations fall short of this standard. But Peres did his best to meet this standard. Israelis didn't always appreciate him for it, but I think there is a understanding that Shimon Peres was an honest man of good character. Something that is sadly in short supply within our borders.
R.I.P.
In March 1993, I got the opportunity to meet Peres when he visited Canada. At the time, Peres was Minister of Foreign Affairs in Yitzhak Rabin's cabinet. I was attending Carleton University and was working as a parliamentary intern for Iain Angus who was then a NDP MP from my hometown of Thunder Bay, Ontario. Knowing my passion for Israel, Iain arranged for me to attend the Canada-Israel Committee Parliamentary Dinner at the National Conference Center just down the road from Parliament Hill.
Seated at my table were former NDP leader Ed Broadbent and Canadian Labour Congress President Bob White. A who's who of Canadian politics was there including Prime Minister Brian Mulroney. But my eyes were fixed on Shimon Peres and I would get a chance to meet him very briefly.
What I remember the most about that evening was something Peres said during his remarks. Let's remember that he and Rabin were in the midst of negotiating with PLO Chairman Yasser Arafat with the aid of the Clinton Administration. Peres said, "Negotiation is not so much a matter of convincing the other side as it is convincing your own."
Six months later, Peres and Rabin were shaking hands with Arafat in the Rose Garden. Two years later, Rabin would his life at the hands of an Israeli (something I predicted would happen). Sadly, Peres and Rabin weren't able to convince all Israelis of their position.
Of course, Arafat's word turned out to be meaningless and his successor Mahmoud Abbas is no better. But Peres and Rabin had to give it a try. They negotiated in good faith and got burned at both ends.
Nevertheless there is truth in what Peres said that night. Any country that is truly committed to the democratic ideal will must expend a good faith effort to convince their citizenry of its aims and objectives and the policies which derive from these aims and objectives. Unfortunately, most democratic nations fall short of this standard. But Peres did his best to meet this standard. Israelis didn't always appreciate him for it, but I think there is a understanding that Shimon Peres was an honest man of good character. Something that is sadly in short supply within our borders.
R.I.P.
Monday, September 26, 2016
Cleveland Indians Win 1st AL Central Title Since 2007
The Cleveland Indians earned their first AL Central title since 2007 with a 7-4 victory over the Detroit Tigers.
When the season began, the Chicago White Sox went off gangbusters. But as the Chisox fell in May, it looked like the Kansas City Royals would be on their way to a third straight AL pennant. But by early June, the Tribe had taken over the lead in the AL Central and never looked back. They arguably have the best starting rotation in MLB with Corey Kluber, Danny Salazar, Josh Tomlin, Trevor Bauer and Carlos Carrasco. Throw in an unexpected 30 plus HR, 100 RBI season for Mike Napoli and the emergence of Jose Ramirez at third base and Terry Francona in the dugout and you've got a championship club.
The Indians, of course, haven't won a World Series since 1948. If Tito can lead both the Red Sox and the Indians to World Series titles then he is bound for Cooperstown. If the Tribe & Cubs get into the World Series then all bets are off.
When the season began, the Chicago White Sox went off gangbusters. But as the Chisox fell in May, it looked like the Kansas City Royals would be on their way to a third straight AL pennant. But by early June, the Tribe had taken over the lead in the AL Central and never looked back. They arguably have the best starting rotation in MLB with Corey Kluber, Danny Salazar, Josh Tomlin, Trevor Bauer and Carlos Carrasco. Throw in an unexpected 30 plus HR, 100 RBI season for Mike Napoli and the emergence of Jose Ramirez at third base and Terry Francona in the dugout and you've got a championship club.
The Indians, of course, haven't won a World Series since 1948. If Tito can lead both the Red Sox and the Indians to World Series titles then he is bound for Cooperstown. If the Tribe & Cubs get into the World Series then all bets are off.
The Miami Marlins Were Inspiring in Honoring Jose Fernandez
In the midst of an awful debate between Hillary Clinton & Donald Trump, I found inspiration in the Miami Marlins.
Of course, the Marlins are in mourning following the sudden death of their top starting pitcher Jose Fernandez which resulted in the cancellation of yesterday's game against the Atlanta Braves.
Fernandez had been scheduled to start tonight's game against the New York Mets. Dee Gordon put Fernandez's spikes, cap & glove on the mound before the game. All the Marlins wore Fernandez's number 16 jersey and it seemed to give them inspiration.
Gordon began the game by hitting on the right hand side of the plate and impersonated Fernandez's batting stance. He then returned to the left hand side of the plate and on the next pitch crushed the first home run of the year. Gordon would later say that he had never hit a ball that far. "If I don't believe in God, I'd better start now," Gordon would say after the game which the Marlins won 7-3.
Indeed, the slow footed Justin Bour hit his first triple. Not just in the majors, but at any level. Gordon added, "We had some help out there."
Following the game, the Marlins circled the mound and Giancarlo Stanton led the team in prayer. Christian Yelich suggested that the team leave their caps on the mound.
There's little doubt that the Marlins are playing on sheer adrenaline. One of two things will happen. The Marlins will go on a crazy run and end up with a NL Wild Card berth. But it is far more likely that with a funeral still to come that the Marlins will crash and burn with the enormity of Fernandez's death truly hitting them. But if the latter happens, look out for this team next year. I say this because the Marlins suddenly had to grow up very, very fast. It will be a difficult passage, but everything happens for a reason even if the reason isn't a good one.
But for the moment, I found that the Miami Marlins exhibited a kind of maturity that was sorely lacking on the debate stage tonight.
Of course, the Marlins are in mourning following the sudden death of their top starting pitcher Jose Fernandez which resulted in the cancellation of yesterday's game against the Atlanta Braves.
Fernandez had been scheduled to start tonight's game against the New York Mets. Dee Gordon put Fernandez's spikes, cap & glove on the mound before the game. All the Marlins wore Fernandez's number 16 jersey and it seemed to give them inspiration.
Gordon began the game by hitting on the right hand side of the plate and impersonated Fernandez's batting stance. He then returned to the left hand side of the plate and on the next pitch crushed the first home run of the year. Gordon would later say that he had never hit a ball that far. "If I don't believe in God, I'd better start now," Gordon would say after the game which the Marlins won 7-3.
Indeed, the slow footed Justin Bour hit his first triple. Not just in the majors, but at any level. Gordon added, "We had some help out there."
Following the game, the Marlins circled the mound and Giancarlo Stanton led the team in prayer. Christian Yelich suggested that the team leave their caps on the mound.
There's little doubt that the Marlins are playing on sheer adrenaline. One of two things will happen. The Marlins will go on a crazy run and end up with a NL Wild Card berth. But it is far more likely that with a funeral still to come that the Marlins will crash and burn with the enormity of Fernandez's death truly hitting them. But if the latter happens, look out for this team next year. I say this because the Marlins suddenly had to grow up very, very fast. It will be a difficult passage, but everything happens for a reason even if the reason isn't a good one.
But for the moment, I found that the Miami Marlins exhibited a kind of maturity that was sorely lacking on the debate stage tonight.
I Loathe Hillary & Trump Even More Than I Already Did
Like millions of other people, I watched the Hillary-Trump debate. Now I feel the need to take a shower because for more than an hour and a half they spoke and said absolutely nothing.
I will say that Trump started out strong and had Hillary on the defensive, but he seemed to tire out after Lester Holt raised his taxes. You could say he had low energy. In fact, he constantly sniffled throughout the night. It made me wonder if he had snorted cocaine because Trump said outright bizarre things. Among other things, he claimed Hillary had fought ISIS her whole adult life (they didn't exist until 2 years ago), claimed he never supported the War in Iraq and that he didn't question President Obama's birth certificate after he produced it. The debate audience laughed uproariously when he said he had a better temperament than Hillary. Trump briefly honed in on Hillary's e-mails, but then pivoted to talking about his businesses. Hillary talked nonsense about the Iran nuclear deal, but instead Trump focused on Japan and South Korea not paying their fair share of their defense. By the end of the evening, Trump came off sounding like a conspiracy theorist.
At the end of 90 plus minutes, I loathe Hillary and Trump even more than I already did. Lester Holt said one of them was going to lose. I wish both of them would and I know I am far from alone.
But one of them will win. At the end of the evening, I think Hillary's camp is the happiest they will have been since the end of the Democratic National Convention. But, of course, Mitt Romney won the first debate, but lost the election. If a week in politics is a lifetime, six weeks is an eternity.
I will say that Trump started out strong and had Hillary on the defensive, but he seemed to tire out after Lester Holt raised his taxes. You could say he had low energy. In fact, he constantly sniffled throughout the night. It made me wonder if he had snorted cocaine because Trump said outright bizarre things. Among other things, he claimed Hillary had fought ISIS her whole adult life (they didn't exist until 2 years ago), claimed he never supported the War in Iraq and that he didn't question President Obama's birth certificate after he produced it. The debate audience laughed uproariously when he said he had a better temperament than Hillary. Trump briefly honed in on Hillary's e-mails, but then pivoted to talking about his businesses. Hillary talked nonsense about the Iran nuclear deal, but instead Trump focused on Japan and South Korea not paying their fair share of their defense. By the end of the evening, Trump came off sounding like a conspiracy theorist.
At the end of 90 plus minutes, I loathe Hillary and Trump even more than I already did. Lester Holt said one of them was going to lose. I wish both of them would and I know I am far from alone.
But one of them will win. At the end of the evening, I think Hillary's camp is the happiest they will have been since the end of the Democratic National Convention. But, of course, Mitt Romney won the first debate, but lost the election. If a week in politics is a lifetime, six weeks is an eternity.
Sunday, September 25, 2016
Arnold Palmer, R.I.P.
Oh, how I wish this day would end.
First, Jose Fernandez's life ends at the age of 24. Now Arnold Palmer is gone at 87.
Yes, Arnold Palmer lived a full life. But it doesn't make his passing any less sad.
What can one say of Arnold Palmer's career? He put golf on the map in the 1950's and 1960's.
He won 95 tournaments including 7 Majors including four Masters, two Open titles & U.S. Open.
His first professional win came in 1955, his last in 1988.
Palmer was also a successful entrepreneur with golf courses, apparel and also made his name synonymous with iced tea & lemonade.
Above all else, Palmer helped to make golf accessible to the masses by bringing the country club to the city.
First, Jose Fernandez's life ends at the age of 24. Now Arnold Palmer is gone at 87.
Yes, Arnold Palmer lived a full life. But it doesn't make his passing any less sad.
What can one say of Arnold Palmer's career? He put golf on the map in the 1950's and 1960's.
He won 95 tournaments including 7 Majors including four Masters, two Open titles & U.S. Open.
His first professional win came in 1955, his last in 1988.
Palmer was also a successful entrepreneur with golf courses, apparel and also made his name synonymous with iced tea & lemonade.
Above all else, Palmer helped to make golf accessible to the masses by bringing the country club to the city.
Dodgers Win for Vin; Earn Fourth Consecutive NL West Title....With a Little Help From Charlie Culberson?
In his final game at Dodger Stadium, Vin Scully got a wonderful send off as the Dodgers won 4-3 against the Colorado Rockies on a walk off home run by journeyman player Charlie Culberson. The home run was Culberson's first of the season and came against the team that released him. It was also the Dodgers' fourth consecutive NL West title.
Following the game, Scully thanked the fans and played a recording of him singing Bette Midler's "Wind Beneath My Wings." Under most circumstances, I would have cringed. But he sang it well. He certainly sings better than Randy Newman. And given how this day began with the awful news of Jose Fernandez's death, it was perfect way to end it. It is a reminder that we all must leave the stage whether by design or by accident. Regardless of the circumstances, the game and life must carry on.
In the spirit of carrying on, the Dodgers will face the Washington Nationals in the NLDS in October.
Following the game, Scully thanked the fans and played a recording of him singing Bette Midler's "Wind Beneath My Wings." Under most circumstances, I would have cringed. But he sang it well. He certainly sings better than Randy Newman. And given how this day began with the awful news of Jose Fernandez's death, it was perfect way to end it. It is a reminder that we all must leave the stage whether by design or by accident. Regardless of the circumstances, the game and life must carry on.
In the spirit of carrying on, the Dodgers will face the Washington Nationals in the NLDS in October.
Jose Fernandez, R.I.P.
A few minutes ago, I turned on the TV and learned that Miami Marlins pitcher Jose Fernandez was killed this morning along with two other people in a boating accident on Miami Beach. Because of the tragedy, today's game between the Marlins and Atlanta Braves has been cancelled. Fernandez was scheduled to pitch tomorrow against the New York Mets. He was 24.
The Cuban born Fernandez defected to this country at the age of 15 after trying and failing to do so thrice before. On the third occasion he unsuccessfully tried to defect, he was jailed for several months. Marlins broadcaster Rich Waltz told the MLB Network that during his harrowing trip to Florida he discovered that someone had fallen out of the boat and jumped in. As it turned out, his mother had fallen in and he came to her rescue. It makes the circumstances of his death all the more cruel.
Fernandez was a first round draft pick by the Marlins in 2011. Two years later, Fernandez would become the NL Rookie of the Year with a 12-6 record and a 2.19 ERA with 187 strikeouts in 172 2/3 innings along with an NL All-Star selection. Tommy John surgery would curtail his 2014 & 2015 seasons. But Fernandez rebounded this season. In 29 starts with the Marlins this season, Fernandez went 16-8 with a 2.86 ERA. He struck out an astounding 253 batters in only 182 1/3 innings pitched. In addition to his second NL All-Star selection, he remains a strong candidate for NL Cy Young balloting. Under the circumstances, he could win it. If so he would become the first MLB player to win a major award posthumously.
Fernandez was criticized at times for being exuberant. I remember when Brian McCann took exception to Fernandez when he hit a home run against the Braves in his rookie season. Astonishingly, then Marlins manager Mike Redmond publicly lambasted Fernandez who was forced to apologize.
If Fernandez was sometimes guilty of exuberance it must be remembered that he was getting his first test of freedom. Waltz told the MLB Network about how Fernandez would remind him he was "born into freedom". Things like automatic faucets and soap dispensers were a wonder to him. Fernandez became a U.S. citizen last year.
Aside from Fernandez's youth what makes his death so sad is that he fought so hard to get his freedom and the best was still yet to come. He both had a chance at a Hall of Fame career and a distinguished citizen who would have made tremendous contributions to this country away from the baseball diamond.
I don't want to diminish the fact that two other people (who have not been identified at this time) were also killed. They too had their own stories to tell. That they were friends of Jose Fernandez already says a great deal about them.
To give you an idea of Fernandez's talent, take a look at some of his pitching highlights from this season. There should have been more but we can enjoy what he gave us. R.I.P.
The Cuban born Fernandez defected to this country at the age of 15 after trying and failing to do so thrice before. On the third occasion he unsuccessfully tried to defect, he was jailed for several months. Marlins broadcaster Rich Waltz told the MLB Network that during his harrowing trip to Florida he discovered that someone had fallen out of the boat and jumped in. As it turned out, his mother had fallen in and he came to her rescue. It makes the circumstances of his death all the more cruel.
Fernandez was a first round draft pick by the Marlins in 2011. Two years later, Fernandez would become the NL Rookie of the Year with a 12-6 record and a 2.19 ERA with 187 strikeouts in 172 2/3 innings along with an NL All-Star selection. Tommy John surgery would curtail his 2014 & 2015 seasons. But Fernandez rebounded this season. In 29 starts with the Marlins this season, Fernandez went 16-8 with a 2.86 ERA. He struck out an astounding 253 batters in only 182 1/3 innings pitched. In addition to his second NL All-Star selection, he remains a strong candidate for NL Cy Young balloting. Under the circumstances, he could win it. If so he would become the first MLB player to win a major award posthumously.
Fernandez was criticized at times for being exuberant. I remember when Brian McCann took exception to Fernandez when he hit a home run against the Braves in his rookie season. Astonishingly, then Marlins manager Mike Redmond publicly lambasted Fernandez who was forced to apologize.
If Fernandez was sometimes guilty of exuberance it must be remembered that he was getting his first test of freedom. Waltz told the MLB Network about how Fernandez would remind him he was "born into freedom". Things like automatic faucets and soap dispensers were a wonder to him. Fernandez became a U.S. citizen last year.
Aside from Fernandez's youth what makes his death so sad is that he fought so hard to get his freedom and the best was still yet to come. He both had a chance at a Hall of Fame career and a distinguished citizen who would have made tremendous contributions to this country away from the baseball diamond.
I don't want to diminish the fact that two other people (who have not been identified at this time) were also killed. They too had their own stories to tell. That they were friends of Jose Fernandez already says a great deal about them.
To give you an idea of Fernandez's talent, take a look at some of his pitching highlights from this season. There should have been more but we can enjoy what he gave us. R.I.P.
Saturday, September 24, 2016
Nationals Win 3rd NL East Title Since 2012
The Washington Nationals clinched their third NL East title in the past five seasons with a 6-1 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates.
What a difference a year makes? At this time last year, Jonathan Papelbon had his hands on Bryce Harper's throat in the dugout unbeknownst to manager Matt Williams.
This year Dusty Baker has restored order. Although Harper has had a sub-par season, former Met Daniel Murphy has had an MVP type of year (notwithstanding his current pain in the ass). Max Scherzer has had another Cy Young quality year although Stephen Strasburg is currently on the shelf. Ex-Pirate Mark Melancon is now closing games in D.C. while Papelbon got a one way ticket to Palookaville. Like the Texas Rangers, the Nats went into first place on May 29th and never looked back.
With the NL Central & NL East clinched all that remains to be determined is the NL West and the two NL Wild Card spots. The Los Angeles Dodgers' magic number is one. They could win the NL West tomorrow. If they beat the Rockies it would be fitting as it is Vin Scully's final game in Dodger Stadium.
Three teams have a chance at the two NL Wild card spots. The New York Mets have the first Wild Card berth while the San Francisco Giants and the St. Louis Cardinals are tied for the second NL Wild Card berth. That race probably won't be determined until October.
As for the Nats, they were unable to advance beyond the NLDS in both 2012 and 2014. The Nats will most likely face the Dodgers in the NLDS. In which case, I have a feeling they will face the same fate again.
What a difference a year makes? At this time last year, Jonathan Papelbon had his hands on Bryce Harper's throat in the dugout unbeknownst to manager Matt Williams.
This year Dusty Baker has restored order. Although Harper has had a sub-par season, former Met Daniel Murphy has had an MVP type of year (notwithstanding his current pain in the ass). Max Scherzer has had another Cy Young quality year although Stephen Strasburg is currently on the shelf. Ex-Pirate Mark Melancon is now closing games in D.C. while Papelbon got a one way ticket to Palookaville. Like the Texas Rangers, the Nats went into first place on May 29th and never looked back.
With the NL Central & NL East clinched all that remains to be determined is the NL West and the two NL Wild Card spots. The Los Angeles Dodgers' magic number is one. They could win the NL West tomorrow. If they beat the Rockies it would be fitting as it is Vin Scully's final game in Dodger Stadium.
Three teams have a chance at the two NL Wild card spots. The New York Mets have the first Wild Card berth while the San Francisco Giants and the St. Louis Cardinals are tied for the second NL Wild Card berth. That race probably won't be determined until October.
As for the Nats, they were unable to advance beyond the NLDS in both 2012 and 2014. The Nats will most likely face the Dodgers in the NLDS. In which case, I have a feeling they will face the same fate again.
Red Sox Win 10 Straight, Clinch Playoff Berth
The Boston Red Sox beat the Tampa Bay Rays 6-3 on Saturday night on the strength of a Dustin Pedroia grand slam home run to give them their 10th straight win. The victory clinches the team a playoff berth. At worst, they will get one of the AL Wild Card spots. Their magic number to clinch the AL East is now 3.
The Sox could clinch the division as early as Monday despite being idle that day. If the Sox win tomorrow and the Jays lose to the Yankees on both Sunday and Monday, the Sox win the AL East. Although I'm sure the Sox would prefer to clinch it in New York on Tuesday night.
In what has been a rebound season after back to back last place finishes in 2014 and 2015 after a World Series title in 2013, the Bosox have saved their best play for last and now have a five and half game lead over the Toronto Blue Jays. 40-year old David Ortiz could finish his final season with 40 home runs, Mookie Betts could win the AL MVP while Rick Porcello is the leading candidate for the AL Cy Young Award. Throw in Jackie Bradley, Jr., Hanley Ramirez, Xander Bogaerts and the emergence of Sandy Leon behind the plate and you've got a champion in the making.
With the Red Sox winning 10 in a row, I haven't heard any calls for the team to fire manager John Farrell lately. Farrell has been widely criticized for his use of the bullpen, but to me it's old-fashioned second guessing. If you can't win with a bullpen of Craig Kimbrel, Brad Ziegler & Koji Uehara there's not much the manager can do.
Of course, if the Sox lose two in a row there will be calls for Farrell's head. You'd think the team was 64-91 instead of 91-64. That's Boston for you.
The Sox could clinch the division as early as Monday despite being idle that day. If the Sox win tomorrow and the Jays lose to the Yankees on both Sunday and Monday, the Sox win the AL East. Although I'm sure the Sox would prefer to clinch it in New York on Tuesday night.
In what has been a rebound season after back to back last place finishes in 2014 and 2015 after a World Series title in 2013, the Bosox have saved their best play for last and now have a five and half game lead over the Toronto Blue Jays. 40-year old David Ortiz could finish his final season with 40 home runs, Mookie Betts could win the AL MVP while Rick Porcello is the leading candidate for the AL Cy Young Award. Throw in Jackie Bradley, Jr., Hanley Ramirez, Xander Bogaerts and the emergence of Sandy Leon behind the plate and you've got a champion in the making.
With the Red Sox winning 10 in a row, I haven't heard any calls for the team to fire manager John Farrell lately. Farrell has been widely criticized for his use of the bullpen, but to me it's old-fashioned second guessing. If you can't win with a bullpen of Craig Kimbrel, Brad Ziegler & Koji Uehara there's not much the manager can do.
Of course, if the Sox lose two in a row there will be calls for Farrell's head. You'd think the team was 64-91 instead of 91-64. That's Boston for you.
Friday, September 23, 2016
Rangers Win Back to Back AL West Titles
The Texas Rangers defeated the Oakland A's 3-0 on Friday evening to clinch back to back AL West titles becoming the first AL team to clinch a post-season berth. The Chicago Cubs are the only other MLB team to secure a berth as they clinched the NL Central on September 15th.
The Rangers have won the AL West seven times in the past 20 years but have never won a World Series in franchise history going back to their days as the Washington Senators.
At present, the Rangers own the best record in the AL and if they keep that record they will have home field advantage during the ALDS and ALCS. Texas climbed into first place on May 29th and never relinquished the spot.
The Rangers have five players with 20 or more home runs - Mitch Moreland, Rougned Odor, Adrian Beltre, Ian Desmond and Nomar Mazara. Odor and Mazara are 22 and 21, respectively and will be mainstays in Texas for years to come while Desmond has come back from career decline in DC. Meanwhile, Beltre is adding to his Hall of Fame credentials.
Their starting rotation is weak after Cole Hamels, but they have an outstanding bullpen led by Sam Dyson. I've a feeling Dyson and the Rangers would love to face the Toronto Blue Jays in the ALDS after Jose Bautista batted flipped them out of the race a year ago. If the Jays win the AL Wild Card match up then this rematch is a very distinct possibility. During the season, Odor sucker punched Bautista. If it does come to pass, this will surely mean ratings.
The Rangers have won the AL West seven times in the past 20 years but have never won a World Series in franchise history going back to their days as the Washington Senators.
At present, the Rangers own the best record in the AL and if they keep that record they will have home field advantage during the ALDS and ALCS. Texas climbed into first place on May 29th and never relinquished the spot.
The Rangers have five players with 20 or more home runs - Mitch Moreland, Rougned Odor, Adrian Beltre, Ian Desmond and Nomar Mazara. Odor and Mazara are 22 and 21, respectively and will be mainstays in Texas for years to come while Desmond has come back from career decline in DC. Meanwhile, Beltre is adding to his Hall of Fame credentials.
Their starting rotation is weak after Cole Hamels, but they have an outstanding bullpen led by Sam Dyson. I've a feeling Dyson and the Rangers would love to face the Toronto Blue Jays in the ALDS after Jose Bautista batted flipped them out of the race a year ago. If the Jays win the AL Wild Card match up then this rematch is a very distinct possibility. During the season, Odor sucker punched Bautista. If it does come to pass, this will surely mean ratings.
Suppose Steve Clevenger Had Taken a Knee
I think it's a bunch of rubbish that Seattle Mariners catcher Steve Clevenger has been suspended without pay for the rest of the season because he doesn't espouse liberal views.
Clevenger sent out two tweets concerning the rioting in Charlotte when a black man was shot to death by a black police officer:
Honestly though I think what got Clevenger in trouble was his criticism of President Obama and Black Lives Matter. Let's put it this way. If Clevenger had tweeted in support of Obama, Black Lives Matter or had chosen to take a knee during the national anthem he would still be on the Mariners' roster.
Chances are Clevenger has played his last big league game. Clevenger, who previously played with the Chicago Cubs and Baltimore Orioles, has been branded a racist. Under the circumstances what MLB club would touch him even if he would cost them relatively little money as a backup catcher? At this rate, Clevenger will be lucky if he can play in the Frontier League. That is where free speech will go to die.
Clevenger sent out two tweets concerning the rioting in Charlotte when a black man was shot to death by a black police officer:
“Black people beating whites when a thug got shot holding a gun by a black officer haha (expletive) cracks me up! Keep kneeling for the anthem!
“BLM (Black Lives Matter) is pathetic again! Obama you are pathetic once again! Everyone should be locked behind bars like animals!”
Now one can make the case that Clevenger's tweets were crude and the argument has also been made that his tweet is racist because he described the protesters, er, rioters as "animals". However, the rioters weren't exclusively black and, whatever their skin color, they were behaving in a less than humane way.Honestly though I think what got Clevenger in trouble was his criticism of President Obama and Black Lives Matter. Let's put it this way. If Clevenger had tweeted in support of Obama, Black Lives Matter or had chosen to take a knee during the national anthem he would still be on the Mariners' roster.
Chances are Clevenger has played his last big league game. Clevenger, who previously played with the Chicago Cubs and Baltimore Orioles, has been branded a racist. Under the circumstances what MLB club would touch him even if he would cost them relatively little money as a backup catcher? At this rate, Clevenger will be lucky if he can play in the Frontier League. That is where free speech will go to die.
So Cruz is Gonna Endorse The Guy Who Said His Dad Was Involved in The JFK Assassination
Less than two months after being booed off the stage at the Republican National Convention for imploring delegates to vote their conscience, Ted Cruz will now endorse Donald Trump after all. Cruz will now endorse the man who said his father was involved in the JFK assassination.
It just goes to show that Donald Trump can get away with anything.
I can just hear Cruz now. "Hey sure, Donald said some nutty things about my Dad, but now he's going to name my friend Mike Lee to the Supreme Court."
Well, I guess that makes up for everything. But if the Democrats gain control of the Senate to whom do you think Trump will be beholden - Ted Cruz or Chuck Schumer?
I know Cruz is doing this in part to fend off a primary challenge by Republicans sore at what they believe was his disrespect for Trump at the RNC. Nevertheless, I am disappointed. I was giving strong consideration to writing him & Carly Fiorina on my ballot. Cruz-Fiorina would have been far more viable for me than Trump-Pence. But now both Cruz and Fiorina have lain down for The Donald.
At this point, I will probably cast a ballot for Ben Sasse, the one Republican Senator who opposed Trump from the get-go.
And if Sasse folds then I guess I can write in my own Governor Charlie Baker who has wanted nothing to do with Trump.
And if Baker folds there's always Groucho Marx (a.k.a. Rufus T. Firefly). "The last guy who ran the place. He didn't know what to do with it. If you think things are bad now wait 'til I get through with it."
We're all in for some duck soup.
It just goes to show that Donald Trump can get away with anything.
I can just hear Cruz now. "Hey sure, Donald said some nutty things about my Dad, but now he's going to name my friend Mike Lee to the Supreme Court."
Well, I guess that makes up for everything. But if the Democrats gain control of the Senate to whom do you think Trump will be beholden - Ted Cruz or Chuck Schumer?
I know Cruz is doing this in part to fend off a primary challenge by Republicans sore at what they believe was his disrespect for Trump at the RNC. Nevertheless, I am disappointed. I was giving strong consideration to writing him & Carly Fiorina on my ballot. Cruz-Fiorina would have been far more viable for me than Trump-Pence. But now both Cruz and Fiorina have lain down for The Donald.
At this point, I will probably cast a ballot for Ben Sasse, the one Republican Senator who opposed Trump from the get-go.
And if Sasse folds then I guess I can write in my own Governor Charlie Baker who has wanted nothing to do with Trump.
And if Baker folds there's always Groucho Marx (a.k.a. Rufus T. Firefly). "The last guy who ran the place. He didn't know what to do with it. If you think things are bad now wait 'til I get through with it."
We're all in for some duck soup.
Why Abbas is Demanding an Apology From Britain Over The Balfour Declaration
Consider for a moment what Mahmoud Abbas, whose term as Palestinian Authority President expired a decade ago, said yesterday at the UN General Assembly:
We ask Great Britain, as we approach 100 years since this infamous declaration, to draw the necessary lessons and to bear its historic, legal, political, material and moral responsibility for the consequences of this declaration, including an apology to the Palestinian people for the catastrophes, misery and injustice this declaration created and to act to rectify these disasters and remedy its consequences, including by the recognition of the state of Palestine. This is the least Great Britain can do.
The declaration in question is The Balfour Declaration which was written in November 1917 by Arthur Balfour, a former British Prime Minister who by this time was its Minister of Foreign Affairs. Balfour wrote to Baron Rothschild his support for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in the territory known as Palestine which came under British control after the fall of the Ottoman Empire. Balfour writes to Rothschild:
His Majesty's government view with favour the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people, and will use their best endeavours to facilitate the achievement of this object, it being clearly understood that nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities in Palestine, or the rights and political status enjoyed by Jews in any other country.
Thirty years later, another World War and six million dead Jews, came the UN Partition Plan which established a Jewish homeland while respecting the civil and religious rights of non-Jews with the establishment of an Arab state. The Jews accepted while the Arabs said no whereupon Egyptian, Jordanian, Syrian and Iraqi forces immediately invaded the new state of Israel and the War of Independence was on.
Mind you at the very same forum, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu invited Abbas to address the Knesset. So while Bibi invites Abbas to his address his country's parliament, by invoking The Balfour Declaration Abbas makes clear he opposes the very idea of a Jewish homeland. Yet President Obama, Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump see fit to take Israel to task for being unwilling to make peace. Plus ça change, plus c'est la même chose.
Of course, part of this is grandstanding on Abbas' part. The Palestinian Authority is a basket case. All he can do to ensure his political survival is to blame the Jews. On the other hand, the Palestinians really do hate the Jews and if they can't put them in gas chambers they are content to wantonly stabbing, shooting or running them over with their vehicles.
Honestly, I don't think Britain will play into Abbas' game unless, of course, Jeremy Corbyn were elected Prime Minister. Then all bets are off. Although at this point Corbyn has as much chance of beating Theresa May as Michael Foot did of ousting Margaret Thatcher.
But the 100th anniversary of the Balfour Declaration is yet another opportunity for the Palestinians and their apologists to delegitimize Israel.
We ask Great Britain, as we approach 100 years since this infamous declaration, to draw the necessary lessons and to bear its historic, legal, political, material and moral responsibility for the consequences of this declaration, including an apology to the Palestinian people for the catastrophes, misery and injustice this declaration created and to act to rectify these disasters and remedy its consequences, including by the recognition of the state of Palestine. This is the least Great Britain can do.
The declaration in question is The Balfour Declaration which was written in November 1917 by Arthur Balfour, a former British Prime Minister who by this time was its Minister of Foreign Affairs. Balfour wrote to Baron Rothschild his support for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in the territory known as Palestine which came under British control after the fall of the Ottoman Empire. Balfour writes to Rothschild:
His Majesty's government view with favour the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people, and will use their best endeavours to facilitate the achievement of this object, it being clearly understood that nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities in Palestine, or the rights and political status enjoyed by Jews in any other country.
Thirty years later, another World War and six million dead Jews, came the UN Partition Plan which established a Jewish homeland while respecting the civil and religious rights of non-Jews with the establishment of an Arab state. The Jews accepted while the Arabs said no whereupon Egyptian, Jordanian, Syrian and Iraqi forces immediately invaded the new state of Israel and the War of Independence was on.
Mind you at the very same forum, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu invited Abbas to address the Knesset. So while Bibi invites Abbas to his address his country's parliament, by invoking The Balfour Declaration Abbas makes clear he opposes the very idea of a Jewish homeland. Yet President Obama, Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump see fit to take Israel to task for being unwilling to make peace. Plus ça change, plus c'est la même chose.
Of course, part of this is grandstanding on Abbas' part. The Palestinian Authority is a basket case. All he can do to ensure his political survival is to blame the Jews. On the other hand, the Palestinians really do hate the Jews and if they can't put them in gas chambers they are content to wantonly stabbing, shooting or running them over with their vehicles.
Honestly, I don't think Britain will play into Abbas' game unless, of course, Jeremy Corbyn were elected Prime Minister. Then all bets are off. Although at this point Corbyn has as much chance of beating Theresa May as Michael Foot did of ousting Margaret Thatcher.
But the 100th anniversary of the Balfour Declaration is yet another opportunity for the Palestinians and their apologists to delegitimize Israel.
Thursday, September 22, 2016
Hillary Hasn't Lost The Election Yet, But Surely She Has Lost North Carolina
With three debates to come between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump, it is far too early to conclude that Hillary has lost this election.
However, given her reaction to the police shooting of Keith Lamont Scott and the two days of rioting that have ensued in Charlotte, I think it is safe to say that Hillary Clinton will lose North Carolina. Tweeting out, "Keith Lamont Scott. Terence Crutcher. Too many others. This has got to end. -H," helps her cause no more than describing half of Trump's supporters as "deplorable".
Yes, the Terence Crutcher shooting in Tulsa, Oklahoma doesn't look so good, but Hillary pulled an Obama on Keith Lamont Scott effectively pronouncing the officer who shot Scott as guilty of racial profiling before it was revealed the officer in question is black. Obama set the whole tone in 2009 when he smeared Sgt. Crowley and the Cambridge Police Department for "acting stupidly" in the arrest of his friend Henry Louis Gates despite admitting he "did not have all the facts." Where it concerns law enforcement it has been the facts be damned and it may be finally coming home to roost.
Hillary's supporters will point out there have been tweets in support of law enforcement, but unlike the Keith Lamont Scott tweet they are not accompanied by the letter H which indicates she actually composed the tweet. So we know Hillary's heart isn't with law enforcement.
The people of North Carolina, particularly those in Charlotte, are going to have to deal with the consequences of these riots for years. Hillary accusing a black police officer of racism without evidence that he acted wrongly will not sit well with people. Hillary hasn't lost the election yet, but surely she has lost North Carolina. And if Hillary does indeed lose North Carolina (and with it the election) she will have only Herself to blame.
However, given her reaction to the police shooting of Keith Lamont Scott and the two days of rioting that have ensued in Charlotte, I think it is safe to say that Hillary Clinton will lose North Carolina. Tweeting out, "Keith Lamont Scott. Terence Crutcher. Too many others. This has got to end. -H," helps her cause no more than describing half of Trump's supporters as "deplorable".
Yes, the Terence Crutcher shooting in Tulsa, Oklahoma doesn't look so good, but Hillary pulled an Obama on Keith Lamont Scott effectively pronouncing the officer who shot Scott as guilty of racial profiling before it was revealed the officer in question is black. Obama set the whole tone in 2009 when he smeared Sgt. Crowley and the Cambridge Police Department for "acting stupidly" in the arrest of his friend Henry Louis Gates despite admitting he "did not have all the facts." Where it concerns law enforcement it has been the facts be damned and it may be finally coming home to roost.
Hillary's supporters will point out there have been tweets in support of law enforcement, but unlike the Keith Lamont Scott tweet they are not accompanied by the letter H which indicates she actually composed the tweet. So we know Hillary's heart isn't with law enforcement.
The people of North Carolina, particularly those in Charlotte, are going to have to deal with the consequences of these riots for years. Hillary accusing a black police officer of racism without evidence that he acted wrongly will not sit well with people. Hillary hasn't lost the election yet, but surely she has lost North Carolina. And if Hillary does indeed lose North Carolina (and with it the election) she will have only Herself to blame.
John D. Loudermilk, R.I.P.
Acclaimed songwriter John D. Loudermilk has passed away. The cause of death has not been released. He was 82.
Although Loudermilk's roots were in country music, he would make his biggest mark in rock 'n roll. Loudermilk is best remembered for three songs - "Tobacco Road" by The Nashville Teens & numerous others (including War with Eric Burdon), "Then You Call Tell Me Goodbye" by The Casinos as well as Paul Revere & The Raiders' biggest hit "Indian Reservation (Lament of the Cherokee Nation)".
Have a listen to all these songs below. All of them are very different. The fact that these artists could arrange Loudermilk's songs in their respective manner is a tribute to the high quality of his songwriting.
Although Loudermilk's roots were in country music, he would make his biggest mark in rock 'n roll. Loudermilk is best remembered for three songs - "Tobacco Road" by The Nashville Teens & numerous others (including War with Eric Burdon), "Then You Call Tell Me Goodbye" by The Casinos as well as Paul Revere & The Raiders' biggest hit "Indian Reservation (Lament of the Cherokee Nation)".
Have a listen to all these songs below. All of them are very different. The fact that these artists could arrange Loudermilk's songs in their respective manner is a tribute to the high quality of his songwriting.
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
Some Trump Supporters Really Are Deplorable
While Hillary Clinton may have been wrong to characterize "half" of Donald Trump's supporters, it is an apt word for some of them.
Have a listen to what one of Trump's supporters (named Alan) has to say when he leaves a voice mail for Rina Shah, the campaign manager of independent presidential candidate Evan McMullin:
Just so we're clear this is exactly what Alan had to say to Shah:
You frothing, libtard piece of shit Islamic dog. Vote for the pathological lying criminal you fucking piece of shit … and get out of our country … while you’re at it, got back and get fucked by your dirtbag Islamic terror scum friends. Slut.
When contacted by BuzzFeed, Alan confirmed he left the voicemail proudly stating, "I stand by every word of it."
It's not like Trump has done anything to dissuade this sort of behavior. Indeed, it's Trump very contempt of Muslims (which Shah isn't) and other minorities which has not only made racism socially acceptable, but made people proud to brag of it.
As I've previously argued, if some of Trump's supporters are deplorable it is because their man is deplorable and they are doing their finest to follow his lead.
Have a listen to what one of Trump's supporters (named Alan) has to say when he leaves a voice mail for Rina Shah, the campaign manager of independent presidential candidate Evan McMullin:
Just so we're clear this is exactly what Alan had to say to Shah:
You frothing, libtard piece of shit Islamic dog. Vote for the pathological lying criminal you fucking piece of shit … and get out of our country … while you’re at it, got back and get fucked by your dirtbag Islamic terror scum friends. Slut.
When contacted by BuzzFeed, Alan confirmed he left the voicemail proudly stating, "I stand by every word of it."
It's not like Trump has done anything to dissuade this sort of behavior. Indeed, it's Trump very contempt of Muslims (which Shah isn't) and other minorities which has not only made racism socially acceptable, but made people proud to brag of it.
As I've previously argued, if some of Trump's supporters are deplorable it is because their man is deplorable and they are doing their finest to follow his lead.
Obama, As Usual, Is More Concerned About Israeli Settlements Than Palestinian Violence
Before his final meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu today in New York City, President Obama was true to form concerning his priorities:
I'll also be interested in hearing from the Prime Minister his assessment of conditions within Israel and in the West Bank. Obviously, our hearts go out to those who have been injured, both Israeli and Palestinian. Clearly, there is great danger of not just terrorism, but also flare-ups of violence. We do have concerns around settlement activity, as well. And our hope is that we can continue to be an effective partner with Israel in finding a path to peace.
So Obama treats violence against Israelis and Palestinians the same. Yet it is clear that Palestinians have been wantonly entering Israel for the purpose of stabbing, shooting or using vehicles as weapons against Jews. It is equally clear that the Palestinian Authority has been encouraging and inciting this violence. Obama is simply unable and unwilling to recognize this reality in any meaningful way and has never chided the Palestinian Authority in the way he has repeatedly denounced Israel singling out Netanyahu in particular.
It is equally troubling that Obama puts Palestinian state sanctioned murder against Israelis and Israeli "settlement activity" on the same moral plane. But what can we honestly expect of a man who is angrier at apartments being built in East Jerusalem than when the Iranian Revolutionary Guard holds American sailors hostage and parades them on state TV.
Now I'm sure when Obama said he is only going to be President "another few months" it is music to Bibi's ears. But this happy tune is likely to be short-lived. Netanyahu is either going to have to deal with Hillary who proudly bragged she was the Obama Administration's "designated yeller" at Israel or with Trump who publicly questioned Israel's commitment to peace while not questioning the commitment of the Palestinians. The thing with Trump is that he might say something Monday and by Tuesday deny he ever said such a thing.
As bad as things have been between the U.S. & Israel since 2009 things are bound to get worse before they get better. Of course, if Iran gets a nuclear bomb it will probably never get better.
I'll also be interested in hearing from the Prime Minister his assessment of conditions within Israel and in the West Bank. Obviously, our hearts go out to those who have been injured, both Israeli and Palestinian. Clearly, there is great danger of not just terrorism, but also flare-ups of violence. We do have concerns around settlement activity, as well. And our hope is that we can continue to be an effective partner with Israel in finding a path to peace.
So Obama treats violence against Israelis and Palestinians the same. Yet it is clear that Palestinians have been wantonly entering Israel for the purpose of stabbing, shooting or using vehicles as weapons against Jews. It is equally clear that the Palestinian Authority has been encouraging and inciting this violence. Obama is simply unable and unwilling to recognize this reality in any meaningful way and has never chided the Palestinian Authority in the way he has repeatedly denounced Israel singling out Netanyahu in particular.
It is equally troubling that Obama puts Palestinian state sanctioned murder against Israelis and Israeli "settlement activity" on the same moral plane. But what can we honestly expect of a man who is angrier at apartments being built in East Jerusalem than when the Iranian Revolutionary Guard holds American sailors hostage and parades them on state TV.
Now I'm sure when Obama said he is only going to be President "another few months" it is music to Bibi's ears. But this happy tune is likely to be short-lived. Netanyahu is either going to have to deal with Hillary who proudly bragged she was the Obama Administration's "designated yeller" at Israel or with Trump who publicly questioned Israel's commitment to peace while not questioning the commitment of the Palestinians. The thing with Trump is that he might say something Monday and by Tuesday deny he ever said such a thing.
As bad as things have been between the U.S. & Israel since 2009 things are bound to get worse before they get better. Of course, if Iran gets a nuclear bomb it will probably never get better.
Tuesday, September 20, 2016
W.P. Kinsella Rejected The Ideology of Cultural Appropriation
When W.P. Kinsella ended his life on September 16th (my birthday as it happens) no doubt some chose to focus on how he died.
However, I choose to focus on how he lived.
Kinsella's death is a reminder that the battle between creative liberty and so-called cultural appropriation in literature is far from new. Although the Canadian born Kinsella is best known for his baseball writing especially Shoeless Joe (which was adapted into the classic movie Field of Dreams starring Kevin Costner), he also wrote about Aboriginal peoples from their point of view through the character of Silas Ermineskin who told of his adventures with his friend Frank Fencepost on an Alberta reservation in books like Dance Me Outside and The Fencepost Chronicles.
Many Aboriginal writers and members of Canada's liberal intelligentsia blasted Kinsella for cultural appropriation, but Kinsella refused to bow to the intimidation of political correctness. He steadfastly maintained that writers had license to write as they see fit.
I also doubt most of Kinsella's critics read any of Silas' stories. I read them back in high school and while Silas & Fencepost were no angels neither were they a caricature of Aboriginals. They were people who made the best of a bad situation through good humor. Silas' narrative describes the travails of putting up with government bureaucrats who determine what size of shoes they can wear yet manage to walk tall. Great writers tell great stories in whatever voice they choose.
So when Lionel Shriver denounced cultural appropriation earlier this month in New Zealand she could have very easily been talking about Kinsella. I don't know if Shriver is familiar with Kinsella's work, but they are surely kindred spirits.
R.I.P.
However, I choose to focus on how he lived.
Kinsella's death is a reminder that the battle between creative liberty and so-called cultural appropriation in literature is far from new. Although the Canadian born Kinsella is best known for his baseball writing especially Shoeless Joe (which was adapted into the classic movie Field of Dreams starring Kevin Costner), he also wrote about Aboriginal peoples from their point of view through the character of Silas Ermineskin who told of his adventures with his friend Frank Fencepost on an Alberta reservation in books like Dance Me Outside and The Fencepost Chronicles.
Many Aboriginal writers and members of Canada's liberal intelligentsia blasted Kinsella for cultural appropriation, but Kinsella refused to bow to the intimidation of political correctness. He steadfastly maintained that writers had license to write as they see fit.
I also doubt most of Kinsella's critics read any of Silas' stories. I read them back in high school and while Silas & Fencepost were no angels neither were they a caricature of Aboriginals. They were people who made the best of a bad situation through good humor. Silas' narrative describes the travails of putting up with government bureaucrats who determine what size of shoes they can wear yet manage to walk tall. Great writers tell great stories in whatever voice they choose.
So when Lionel Shriver denounced cultural appropriation earlier this month in New Zealand she could have very easily been talking about Kinsella. I don't know if Shriver is familiar with Kinsella's work, but they are surely kindred spirits.
R.I.P.
Did Anyone Honestly Think George H.W. Bush Would Vote for Trump?
While I'm sure former President George H.W. Bush didn't appreciate Kathleen Kennedy Townsend blabbing that he's going to vote for Hillary Clinton, can anyone really be surprised?
Did anyone honestly expect Bush the Elder to support Trump?
Trump certainly did nothing to endear himself to Bush even after Jeb dropped out of the race.
Surely his absence at the Republican National Convention was a telltale sign.
Why would Bush support a man who not only personally insulted Jeb, but insulted his wife Columba?
Why would Bush support a man who claimed that George W. Bush not only lied about WMDs but claimed he had advanced knowledge about 9/11?
Why would Bush, a war hero, support a man who has gone out of his way to demean others who have served this country heroically?
Why would Bush support a man who has sacrificed nothing?
Of course, the big news is that Bush would actually vote for Hillary. After all, Jeb stated back in July he won't vote for either candidate. As usual, W isn't talking. So this is certainly a significant development. For Bush 41, I guess Hillary is the devil he knows.
Did anyone honestly expect Bush the Elder to support Trump?
Trump certainly did nothing to endear himself to Bush even after Jeb dropped out of the race.
Surely his absence at the Republican National Convention was a telltale sign.
Why would Bush support a man who not only personally insulted Jeb, but insulted his wife Columba?
Why would Bush support a man who claimed that George W. Bush not only lied about WMDs but claimed he had advanced knowledge about 9/11?
Why would Bush, a war hero, support a man who has gone out of his way to demean others who have served this country heroically?
Why would Bush support a man who has sacrificed nothing?
Of course, the big news is that Bush would actually vote for Hillary. After all, Jeb stated back in July he won't vote for either candidate. As usual, W isn't talking. So this is certainly a significant development. For Bush 41, I guess Hillary is the devil he knows.
Monday, September 19, 2016
When It Comes to ISIS Both Hillary & Trump Talk Out of Their Asses
In the wake of bombs going off in New York & New Jersey and a mass stabbing in Minnesota, I'm not surprised Hillary Clinton would claim that Donald Trump is "giving aid and comfort" to ISIS.
After all, it was back in December when Hillary claimed that Trump was "ISIS' best recruiter" and using him in their videos. This was a lie.
Of course, Trump hasn't covered himself in virtue where it concerns ISIS. It was only last month that Trump claimed both Hillary & President Obama were founders of ISIS.
Would Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump please shut the hell up?
They have no solutions for ISIS so they are reduced to talking out of their asses by trying to make the other synonymous with ISIS.
Let me break something to both of them.
ISIS beheaded James Foley without a moment's thought for Hillary Clinton.
ISIS beheaded Steven Sotloff without a moment's thought for Donald Trump.
ISIS would love nothing better than to behead the President of the United States - be it Hillary or Trump.
Until Hillary and Trump recognize this they have nothing worth saying about ISIS and the fight against radical Islamic terrorism.
After all, it was back in December when Hillary claimed that Trump was "ISIS' best recruiter" and using him in their videos. This was a lie.
Of course, Trump hasn't covered himself in virtue where it concerns ISIS. It was only last month that Trump claimed both Hillary & President Obama were founders of ISIS.
Would Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump please shut the hell up?
They have no solutions for ISIS so they are reduced to talking out of their asses by trying to make the other synonymous with ISIS.
Let me break something to both of them.
ISIS beheaded James Foley without a moment's thought for Hillary Clinton.
ISIS beheaded Steven Sotloff without a moment's thought for Donald Trump.
ISIS would love nothing better than to behead the President of the United States - be it Hillary or Trump.
Until Hillary and Trump recognize this they have nothing worth saying about ISIS and the fight against radical Islamic terrorism.
When Doesn't President Obama Feel Personally Insulted?
Lost amid the anxiety around the bombs in New York & New Jersey as well as the ISIS stabbing at a mall in St. Cloud, Minnesota was President Obama's speech at the Congressional Black Caucus when he said he would take it as a personal insult if black voters didn't show up for Hillary Clinton:
It all matters. And after we have achieved historic turnout in 2008 and 2012, especially in the African-American community, I will consider it a personal insult, an insult to my legacy, if this community lets down it's guard and fails to activate itself in this election. You want to give me a good send off? Go vote!
Obama has a remarkable way of making everything about him and his thin skin. All of which makes me ask when isn't he personally insulted? Obama takes it as an affront when Congressional Republicans don't roll over and play dead for him, when Benjamin Netanyahu reminds of the real history of The Middle East, when police officers do their jobs or when the public is more worried about terrorism than it is about killer bathtubs.
Mind you, Obama isn't speaking of blacks thriving economically but rather speaking of them for voting for him. Of course, he can't brag in that regard as black unemployment is in double digits in many states and black incomes have declined despite an overall reduction in the unemployment rate and rising incomes. Hip hop icon Sean "Diddy" Combs, while largely praising Obama, recently said that he believed blacks were "a bit shortchanged".
Frankly, where it concerns African-Americans, Obama doesn't have much of a legacy to brag about.
It all matters. And after we have achieved historic turnout in 2008 and 2012, especially in the African-American community, I will consider it a personal insult, an insult to my legacy, if this community lets down it's guard and fails to activate itself in this election. You want to give me a good send off? Go vote!
Obama has a remarkable way of making everything about him and his thin skin. All of which makes me ask when isn't he personally insulted? Obama takes it as an affront when Congressional Republicans don't roll over and play dead for him, when Benjamin Netanyahu reminds of the real history of The Middle East, when police officers do their jobs or when the public is more worried about terrorism than it is about killer bathtubs.
Mind you, Obama isn't speaking of blacks thriving economically but rather speaking of them for voting for him. Of course, he can't brag in that regard as black unemployment is in double digits in many states and black incomes have declined despite an overall reduction in the unemployment rate and rising incomes. Hip hop icon Sean "Diddy" Combs, while largely praising Obama, recently said that he believed blacks were "a bit shortchanged".
Frankly, where it concerns African-Americans, Obama doesn't have much of a legacy to brag about.
NYC Mayor de Blasio Now "Definitely Leaning" Towards Terrorism in NY/NJ Bomb Incidents
So let's see here. A bomb explodes on Saturday night in New York City wounding 29 people with another explosive device found a few blocks away. The explosion comes hours after another bomb exploded near a Marine charity race across the Hudson in New Jersey where several other unexploded bombs were found. Then came the pipe bombs located at a train station in Elizabeth, New Jersey (one of which was detonated by authorities).
This morning authorities captured Ahmad Khan Rahami following a shootout with him in which he was wounded.
In light of all this information, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio says he's now "definitely leaning" towards terrorism.
I'm not sure how much more information the man formerly known as Warren Wilhelm, Jr. needs to definitively conclude these were acts of terrorism. Perhaps he was waiting for Rahami to shout "Allahu Akbar!!!"
Nah, that wouldn't have made any difference. The Fort Hood shooter did that and the Obama Administration still concluded it was an act of "workplace violence." Why would de Blasio react any differently? Perhaps he would say the bombs were "randomly situated devices of a potentially explosive nature."
It is a miracle that this country survives the morons who run it. But, as much as our leaders might want, we can't avoid staring the reality of radical Islamic terrorism in the face forever. But by the time we do a lot of Americans will have lost their lives. I fear the numbers will dwarf the lives lost on September 11, 2001.
This morning authorities captured Ahmad Khan Rahami following a shootout with him in which he was wounded.
In light of all this information, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio says he's now "definitely leaning" towards terrorism.
I'm not sure how much more information the man formerly known as Warren Wilhelm, Jr. needs to definitively conclude these were acts of terrorism. Perhaps he was waiting for Rahami to shout "Allahu Akbar!!!"
Nah, that wouldn't have made any difference. The Fort Hood shooter did that and the Obama Administration still concluded it was an act of "workplace violence." Why would de Blasio react any differently? Perhaps he would say the bombs were "randomly situated devices of a potentially explosive nature."
It is a miracle that this country survives the morons who run it. But, as much as our leaders might want, we can't avoid staring the reality of radical Islamic terrorism in the face forever. But by the time we do a lot of Americans will have lost their lives. I fear the numbers will dwarf the lives lost on September 11, 2001.
Sunday, September 18, 2016
Jerry Corbetta, R.I.P.
Jerry Corbetta, lead singer and keyboardist for the 1970's rock group Sugarloaf, passed away on Friday (on my birthday) of Pick's Disease (a condition similar to Alzheimer's). The disease stopped Corbetta's music career in 2009. Corbetta was 68.
Based in Denver, Sugarloaf would score two hits during the '70's. First came "Green Eyed Lady" in 1970 and five years later they would score another hit with "Don't Call Us, We'll Call You".
Guitar might be what draws most people to rock 'n roll, but for me nothing is more powerful than the keyboards be it Alan Price in The Animals' "House of the Rising Sun" or Rod Argent in The Zombies' "She's Not There". Corbetta's keyboards on "Green Eyed Lady" is right up there and hit me the very first time I heard the song more than 30 years ago. Here is the long version of the song which runs just under seven minutes. It is well worth the time to listen.
Based in Denver, Sugarloaf would score two hits during the '70's. First came "Green Eyed Lady" in 1970 and five years later they would score another hit with "Don't Call Us, We'll Call You".
Guitar might be what draws most people to rock 'n roll, but for me nothing is more powerful than the keyboards be it Alan Price in The Animals' "House of the Rising Sun" or Rod Argent in The Zombies' "She's Not There". Corbetta's keyboards on "Green Eyed Lady" is right up there and hit me the very first time I heard the song more than 30 years ago. Here is the long version of the song which runs just under seven minutes. It is well worth the time to listen.
At 90, Don Rickles Still Lives To Make People Laugh (Even Inside a Depressing Casino in Rhode Island)
My birthday was on Friday. However, the formal celebration of it took place last night as my roommate Christopher Kain and I drove down from Boston to the Twin River Casino in Lincoln, Rhode Island to see comedy legend Don Rickles perform.
If one were to drive in Lincoln, RI one would never know there was a casino in their midst. It's as if the townfolks were ashamed of the place. After having spent several hours there I can see why. It is one of the most depressing places I have ever walked into. Never have I seen so many walkers, oxygen tanks, wheelchairs and canes assembled in one place. Throw in cigarette smoke and the blank looks of people playing the slot machines and you have arrived at the death of hope. I suspect that similar conditions prevail at a Trump rally (after all it was inside a casino).
Sadly, entertainment is a secondary consideration at the Twin River Casino. The Event Center (as it is called) is buried way in the rear of the facility and is a glorified banquet hall. The chairs were smushed together in such a way that I prayed that my seatmate wouldn't exceed 300 pounds.
Needless to say, if it weren't for Don Rickles neither one of us would have conceived of going there. As it turned out, he was the best part of the whole evening. Indeed, he didn't want to be there anymore than Christopher and I did. "I would like nothing more than to go home right now," said Rickles.
At 90, Rickles is not in the best of health. A bout of flesh eating disease and spinal stenosis has weakened his voice and confined him to a chair. But his wit remains razor sharp. Let me put it this way. Both Christopher & I were grateful to be sitting way in the back. If you sit in the front row of a Rickles show you do so at your own peril.
In our age of political correctness and safe spaces, Rickles might be the last white comedian who can get away with ethnic humor directed at blacks. He can get away with it because a) he's genuinely funny b) he's been doing this for decades and c) perhaps above all else, he does so with a good heart. Donald Trump tries to be Don Rickles but lacks his heart. There's no malice with Rickles. Could Trump ever sing "I'm a Nice Guy"?
Perhaps the most interesting moment of the entire evening occurred when Rickles invited two gentlemen up on the stage. One of them was named Danny who is a lobbyist (which drews jeers from the audience) and Pat who is a comedian. When Pat told Rickles his last name is "McLoud", Rickles snapped, "Change it." Pat also walked into one when he said he wanted to open for Rickles who replied, "Not gonna happen." And by the looks of it this was as close as he was going to get.
The funniest bit of the evening was about how he still makes loves to his wife by pretending to be a Mississippi barge while she tells him, "Dock me!!! Dock me!!!"
In between schtick, there were video highlights of his career such as when he roasted President Reagan during his Second Inauguration, making a surprise appearance on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson & Frank Sinatra as well as the Late Show with David Letterman on an unsuspecting Denzel Washington. There was also an extended video tribute to his friendship with Sinatra, the man instrumental in getting his career started more than half a century ago.
One particularly poignant moment was how he met James Cagney as a youngster wanting to make it in show business & did a spot-on Cagney impersonation.
Younger generations might not know Rickles' face but they will know his voice as Mr. Potato Head in the Toy Story movies. He revealed that he has just signed up to do Toy Story 4.
After a quick stop at Kentucky Fried Chicken (which I hadn't eaten in years), we couldn't get out of there fast enough.
Nevertheless, if Don Rickles comes to a casino near you by all means go see him. He lives to make you laugh. An opportunity like this might not come around again.
If one were to drive in Lincoln, RI one would never know there was a casino in their midst. It's as if the townfolks were ashamed of the place. After having spent several hours there I can see why. It is one of the most depressing places I have ever walked into. Never have I seen so many walkers, oxygen tanks, wheelchairs and canes assembled in one place. Throw in cigarette smoke and the blank looks of people playing the slot machines and you have arrived at the death of hope. I suspect that similar conditions prevail at a Trump rally (after all it was inside a casino).
Sadly, entertainment is a secondary consideration at the Twin River Casino. The Event Center (as it is called) is buried way in the rear of the facility and is a glorified banquet hall. The chairs were smushed together in such a way that I prayed that my seatmate wouldn't exceed 300 pounds.
Needless to say, if it weren't for Don Rickles neither one of us would have conceived of going there. As it turned out, he was the best part of the whole evening. Indeed, he didn't want to be there anymore than Christopher and I did. "I would like nothing more than to go home right now," said Rickles.
At 90, Rickles is not in the best of health. A bout of flesh eating disease and spinal stenosis has weakened his voice and confined him to a chair. But his wit remains razor sharp. Let me put it this way. Both Christopher & I were grateful to be sitting way in the back. If you sit in the front row of a Rickles show you do so at your own peril.
In our age of political correctness and safe spaces, Rickles might be the last white comedian who can get away with ethnic humor directed at blacks. He can get away with it because a) he's genuinely funny b) he's been doing this for decades and c) perhaps above all else, he does so with a good heart. Donald Trump tries to be Don Rickles but lacks his heart. There's no malice with Rickles. Could Trump ever sing "I'm a Nice Guy"?
Perhaps the most interesting moment of the entire evening occurred when Rickles invited two gentlemen up on the stage. One of them was named Danny who is a lobbyist (which drews jeers from the audience) and Pat who is a comedian. When Pat told Rickles his last name is "McLoud", Rickles snapped, "Change it." Pat also walked into one when he said he wanted to open for Rickles who replied, "Not gonna happen." And by the looks of it this was as close as he was going to get.
The funniest bit of the evening was about how he still makes loves to his wife by pretending to be a Mississippi barge while she tells him, "Dock me!!! Dock me!!!"
In between schtick, there were video highlights of his career such as when he roasted President Reagan during his Second Inauguration, making a surprise appearance on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson & Frank Sinatra as well as the Late Show with David Letterman on an unsuspecting Denzel Washington. There was also an extended video tribute to his friendship with Sinatra, the man instrumental in getting his career started more than half a century ago.
One particularly poignant moment was how he met James Cagney as a youngster wanting to make it in show business & did a spot-on Cagney impersonation.
Younger generations might not know Rickles' face but they will know his voice as Mr. Potato Head in the Toy Story movies. He revealed that he has just signed up to do Toy Story 4.
After a quick stop at Kentucky Fried Chicken (which I hadn't eaten in years), we couldn't get out of there fast enough.
Nevertheless, if Don Rickles comes to a casino near you by all means go see him. He lives to make you laugh. An opportunity like this might not come around again.
Intentional But Not Terrorism?
I heard about the explosion in Chelsea on the way back from seeing Don Rickles in Rhode Island (which I will discuss in another post).
As of this writing, an explosion took place on West 23rd & 7th Avenue wounding 29 people. Another IED was found on 7th & West 27th.
New York Mayor Bill de Blasio says this was an "intentional act" but is not connected to terrorism. Why does someone deploy an explosive device if not to terrorize people? I just don't see how that statement is anything other than double talk.
When you consider a pipe bomb exploded near a Marine Corps charity race in New Jersey on Saturday morning (along with two other bombs found) one cannot help but wonder if the same person or persons were involved although de Blasio dismissed that possibility out of hand.
As if that wasn't enough there was also a mass stabbing at a mall in St. Cloud, Minnesota where the attacker made reference to Allah and asked one of his victims if they were Muslim. Eight people were stabbed before the perpetrator was shot and killed by an off-duty police officer. It's not clear if the perpetrator was Muslim or if he was targeting Muslims.
Whatever the case, this is our new normal. The question is why we are putting up with it.
As of this writing, an explosion took place on West 23rd & 7th Avenue wounding 29 people. Another IED was found on 7th & West 27th.
New York Mayor Bill de Blasio says this was an "intentional act" but is not connected to terrorism. Why does someone deploy an explosive device if not to terrorize people? I just don't see how that statement is anything other than double talk.
When you consider a pipe bomb exploded near a Marine Corps charity race in New Jersey on Saturday morning (along with two other bombs found) one cannot help but wonder if the same person or persons were involved although de Blasio dismissed that possibility out of hand.
As if that wasn't enough there was also a mass stabbing at a mall in St. Cloud, Minnesota where the attacker made reference to Allah and asked one of his victims if they were Muslim. Eight people were stabbed before the perpetrator was shot and killed by an off-duty police officer. It's not clear if the perpetrator was Muslim or if he was targeting Muslims.
Whatever the case, this is our new normal. The question is why we are putting up with it.
Friday, September 16, 2016
Cubs Clinch NL Central (With a Little Help From The Giants)
The Chicago Cubs clinched the NL Central Division last night although they needed a little assistance from the San Francisco Giants.
Although the Cubs lost 5-4 to the Milwaukee Brewers, a St. Louis Cardinals loss would do the trick. The Cardinals fell to Johnny Cueto and the Giants 6-2.
Still, let's not take away from the fact the Cubs have the best record in MLB at 93-53 some 17 games ahead of the Cardinals. With 16 games left on the regular season schedule the Cubs are very likely to be the only MLB team to reach 100 wins in 2016.
This might very well be the best Cubs team ever. But will it be enough? Given how early they've clinched they could be vulnerable in the NLDS to a team that has played more meaningful games. But with the likes of Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo as well as Jake Arrieta, Jon Lester, Kyle Kendricks plus Aroldis Chapman closing games one would be hard pressed to bet against them.
Make no mistake. The Cubs led the NL Central from start to finish and except for the first couple of weeks in July right before the All-Star Break they have been nearly unstoppable.
The next teams likely to clinch would be the Washington Nationals in the NL East and the Texas Rangers in the AL West. Their magic numbers are 7 & 8, respectively.
Although the Cubs lost 5-4 to the Milwaukee Brewers, a St. Louis Cardinals loss would do the trick. The Cardinals fell to Johnny Cueto and the Giants 6-2.
Still, let's not take away from the fact the Cubs have the best record in MLB at 93-53 some 17 games ahead of the Cardinals. With 16 games left on the regular season schedule the Cubs are very likely to be the only MLB team to reach 100 wins in 2016.
This might very well be the best Cubs team ever. But will it be enough? Given how early they've clinched they could be vulnerable in the NLDS to a team that has played more meaningful games. But with the likes of Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo as well as Jake Arrieta, Jon Lester, Kyle Kendricks plus Aroldis Chapman closing games one would be hard pressed to bet against them.
Make no mistake. The Cubs led the NL Central from start to finish and except for the first couple of weeks in July right before the All-Star Break they have been nearly unstoppable.
The next teams likely to clinch would be the Washington Nationals in the NL East and the Texas Rangers in the AL West. Their magic numbers are 7 & 8, respectively.
Thursday, September 15, 2016
Little Donald: My Dad Can't Release His Tax Returns Because People Would Ask Questions
Donald Trump, Jr. (heretofore referred to as Little Donald) has said his father cannot release his tax returns because people would ask questions. Little Donald told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review yesterday:
Because he's got a 12,000-page tax return that would create … financial auditors out of every person in the country asking questions that would detract from (his father's) main message.
That's right, Little Donald. People would ask questions. How much is Trump really worth? Why does he give so little to charity? Is he doing business with Russia or Iran?
This is what people do in a free & democratic society. And yes it would detract from his father's main message because people could decide for themselves whether his message is worth the paper on which his tax returns are printed.
Mind you, let's remember that Trump insisted on seeing Mike Pence's tax returns and those of his other prospective VP running mates. Not surprisingly, Trump holds others to standards to which he won't hold himself.
This is also reflective of the feeling of entitlement in the Trump family. In their business dealings, they are answerable to no one and expect the same in the White House.
It doesn't work that way. At least it shouldn't.
Because he's got a 12,000-page tax return that would create … financial auditors out of every person in the country asking questions that would detract from (his father's) main message.
That's right, Little Donald. People would ask questions. How much is Trump really worth? Why does he give so little to charity? Is he doing business with Russia or Iran?
This is what people do in a free & democratic society. And yes it would detract from his father's main message because people could decide for themselves whether his message is worth the paper on which his tax returns are printed.
Mind you, let's remember that Trump insisted on seeing Mike Pence's tax returns and those of his other prospective VP running mates. Not surprisingly, Trump holds others to standards to which he won't hold himself.
This is also reflective of the feeling of entitlement in the Trump family. In their business dealings, they are answerable to no one and expect the same in the White House.
It doesn't work that way. At least it shouldn't.
Wednesday, September 14, 2016
Colin Powell's E-Mails About Hillary & Trump Reflect Our National Disgust
Obviously, Colin Powell did not intend for his e-mails concerning Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump to go public. But now that they have I would argue that they reflect our national disgust with both presidential candidates.
Powell speaks for millions of us when he says Trump is "a national disgrace" and "an international pariah".
Powell also speaks for millions of us who resent Hillary for her inability to tell the truth and take responsibility for her actions. Naturally, Powell feels this personally where it concerns the e-mail scandal and Hillary's efforts to drag him into it.
Naturally, it will be interesting to see how Hillary and Trump respond to these e-mails. I am particularly interested in Trump's response given his repeated claims that the Bush Administration lied about WMDs in Iraq. Of course, it was Powell who made the case that Iraq had WMDs at the UN.
If Trump goes after Powell then Hillary's camp will be smiling. It would take the spotlight off her health and also take Trump's focus away from her. Trump can ill-afford to go after someone like Powell. Despite his role in the Bush Administration, he has never sought elected office and has cross partisan appeal with his support of Barack Obama in the last two elections. But if Trump refrains from criticizing Powell then it will show that he is listening to Kellyanne Conway and is maintaining his discipline he has shown regarding Hillary's health. But a caged animal is still a dangerous animal.
Colin Powell's e-mails not only reflect our national disgust with both Hillary and Trump, but it also reminds us that there are public figures in this country who have character. I don't always agree with Powell, but I do not question his integrity. If he had been on the ballot with Hillary and Trump, I would not hesitate to cast a ballot for him.
I suspect that Colin Powell will get more than a few write-in votes in November.
Powell speaks for millions of us when he says Trump is "a national disgrace" and "an international pariah".
Powell also speaks for millions of us who resent Hillary for her inability to tell the truth and take responsibility for her actions. Naturally, Powell feels this personally where it concerns the e-mail scandal and Hillary's efforts to drag him into it.
Naturally, it will be interesting to see how Hillary and Trump respond to these e-mails. I am particularly interested in Trump's response given his repeated claims that the Bush Administration lied about WMDs in Iraq. Of course, it was Powell who made the case that Iraq had WMDs at the UN.
If Trump goes after Powell then Hillary's camp will be smiling. It would take the spotlight off her health and also take Trump's focus away from her. Trump can ill-afford to go after someone like Powell. Despite his role in the Bush Administration, he has never sought elected office and has cross partisan appeal with his support of Barack Obama in the last two elections. But if Trump refrains from criticizing Powell then it will show that he is listening to Kellyanne Conway and is maintaining his discipline he has shown regarding Hillary's health. But a caged animal is still a dangerous animal.
Colin Powell's e-mails not only reflect our national disgust with both Hillary and Trump, but it also reminds us that there are public figures in this country who have character. I don't always agree with Powell, but I do not question his integrity. If he had been on the ballot with Hillary and Trump, I would not hesitate to cast a ballot for him.
I suspect that Colin Powell will get more than a few write-in votes in November.
Monday, September 12, 2016
If David Duke Isn't Deplorable Then Who Is?
So Mike Pence condemns Hillary Clinton for calling his & Donald Trump's supporters "deplorables" he refuses to call David Duke "deplorable" because it would be "name-calling."
I think it's safe to say that Pence has never watched any of Trump's speeches or read any of Trump's tweets over the past 15 months.
All this does remind people of when Trump refused to condemn the former Klansmen more than six months ago. If Duke ends up being the GOP Senatorial candidate for Louisiana it will only make things worse. Worse still is that Pence had made an effort to cultivate an image as a moderate counterpoint to Trump. That image now goes out the proverbial window.
Hillary Clinton has taken a lot of heat for calling half of Trump's supporters "deplorables" but if David Duke isn't deplorable then who is?
I think it's safe to say that Pence has never watched any of Trump's speeches or read any of Trump's tweets over the past 15 months.
All this does remind people of when Trump refused to condemn the former Klansmen more than six months ago. If Duke ends up being the GOP Senatorial candidate for Louisiana it will only make things worse. Worse still is that Pence had made an effort to cultivate an image as a moderate counterpoint to Trump. That image now goes out the proverbial window.
Hillary Clinton has taken a lot of heat for calling half of Trump's supporters "deplorables" but if David Duke isn't deplorable then who is?
If Adam Jones Thinks Baseball is a White Man's Sport Then He Isn't Paying Attention
As I write this, Baltimore Orioles outfielder Adam Jones is stepping into the batter's box against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park.
Over the weekend while the Orioles were in Detroit, Jones spoke to USA Today in defense of San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick and then offered some choice words about his own sport:
We have already have two strikes against us already so you might as well not kick yourself out of the game. In football, you can't kick them out. You need those players. In baseball, they don't need us.
Baseball is a white man's sport.
Now when Jones stood at the plate he was facing David Price who last I checked is still African-American. Given how often the Orioles play the Red Sox you would think that Jones would have noticed an all African-American outfield - Chris Young in left, Jackie Bradley, Jr. in center and especially Mookie Betts in right who is a strong American League MVP candidate. As I write this, Betts just stroked a two-run double to give the Sox a 2-0 lead. Betts has driven in an astounding 19 runs against Baltimore this season. Make that 4-0. Betts caught Steve Pearce sleeping and ran all the way home from second.
Yes, it's true that the number of African-Americans in MLB pales in comparison to the NFL and the NBA. But MLB players is rich in players from Latin American and the Far East. MLB is far more diverse than the NFL, NBA and, for that matter, the NHL. I realize that Jones, by virtue of being in Baltimore, is under pressure to speak out by the black community angry at the Baltimore PD for the death of Freddie Gray. But it is utterly disingenuous of Jones to suggest that baseball is a white man's sport as if it were pre-Jackie Robinson in 1946. If that is his suggestion then Adam Jones just isn't paying attention.
Yet this brings up an additional question. When Jones says baseball is a white man's sport does he view teammates like Matt Wieters or Mark Trumbo as nothing more than white men? Or what of Manny Machado or Jonathan Schoop who are of Dominican and Dutch heritage, respectively ? Or for that matter South Korean teammate Hyun Soo Kim? Does Adam Jones judge them as men or does he judge them by their skin color or where they were born?
Over the weekend while the Orioles were in Detroit, Jones spoke to USA Today in defense of San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick and then offered some choice words about his own sport:
We have already have two strikes against us already so you might as well not kick yourself out of the game. In football, you can't kick them out. You need those players. In baseball, they don't need us.
Baseball is a white man's sport.
Now when Jones stood at the plate he was facing David Price who last I checked is still African-American. Given how often the Orioles play the Red Sox you would think that Jones would have noticed an all African-American outfield - Chris Young in left, Jackie Bradley, Jr. in center and especially Mookie Betts in right who is a strong American League MVP candidate. As I write this, Betts just stroked a two-run double to give the Sox a 2-0 lead. Betts has driven in an astounding 19 runs against Baltimore this season. Make that 4-0. Betts caught Steve Pearce sleeping and ran all the way home from second.
Yes, it's true that the number of African-Americans in MLB pales in comparison to the NFL and the NBA. But MLB players is rich in players from Latin American and the Far East. MLB is far more diverse than the NFL, NBA and, for that matter, the NHL. I realize that Jones, by virtue of being in Baltimore, is under pressure to speak out by the black community angry at the Baltimore PD for the death of Freddie Gray. But it is utterly disingenuous of Jones to suggest that baseball is a white man's sport as if it were pre-Jackie Robinson in 1946. If that is his suggestion then Adam Jones just isn't paying attention.
Yet this brings up an additional question. When Jones says baseball is a white man's sport does he view teammates like Matt Wieters or Mark Trumbo as nothing more than white men? Or what of Manny Machado or Jonathan Schoop who are of Dominican and Dutch heritage, respectively ? Or for that matter South Korean teammate Hyun Soo Kim? Does Adam Jones judge them as men or does he judge them by their skin color or where they were born?
If Campaigning With Pneumonia Is So Brave Then Why Did Hillary Try to Hide Her Condition?
I just love the spin being put forward on Hillary's pneumonia by the likes of Patton Oswalt who tweeted:
Wait, so Hillary has PNEUMONIA and she's still campaigning as hard as she is? You realize how badass that is, right?
There are many adjectives I could use to describe Hillary Clinton. Badass wouldn't be one of them.
But dishonest would be.
I mean it's not as if Hillary or her campaign was forthcoming about her condition until she collapsed in broad daylight.
Indeed, it was three weeks ago today when Hillary told Jimmy Kimmel that concerns about her health represented "a wacky strategy" on the part of Republicans.
Well, it's not looking so wacky now.
Oswalt's extolling Hillary as a badass lacks credulity now that she has cancelled her West Coast campaign stops. That aside, I would take his claims of badass or bravery far more seriously if Hillary had been upfront about her condition from the get-go. But when has Hillary been upfront about anything?
Wait, so Hillary has PNEUMONIA and she's still campaigning as hard as she is? You realize how badass that is, right?
There are many adjectives I could use to describe Hillary Clinton. Badass wouldn't be one of them.
But dishonest would be.
I mean it's not as if Hillary or her campaign was forthcoming about her condition until she collapsed in broad daylight.
Indeed, it was three weeks ago today when Hillary told Jimmy Kimmel that concerns about her health represented "a wacky strategy" on the part of Republicans.
Well, it's not looking so wacky now.
Oswalt's extolling Hillary as a badass lacks credulity now that she has cancelled her West Coast campaign stops. That aside, I would take his claims of badass or bravery far more seriously if Hillary had been upfront about her condition from the get-go. But when has Hillary been upfront about anything?
Donald Trump is Deplorable & So Are a Critical Mass of His Supporters
No doubt you are familiar with Hillary Clinton's "basket of deplorables" remarks during a Democrat fundraiser with Barbra Streisand concerning half of Donald Trump's supporters. If not here they are in all their glory:
You know, to just be grossly generalistic, you could put half of Trump's supporters into what I call the basket of deplorables. Right? [Laughter/applause]. The racist, sexist, homophobic, xenophobic, Islamophobic — you name it. And unfortunately there are people like that. And he has lifted them up. He has given voice to their websites that used to only have 11,000 people, now have 11 million. He tweets and retweets offensive, hateful, mean-spirited rhetoric. Now some of those folks, they are irredeemable, but thankfully they are not America.
For all the heat Hillary has taken over these remarks (which could account for her overheating at the 9/11 ceremonies yesterday), I largely agree with what she said. It's a question of addition and subtraction. I would have added "anti-Semitism" into the mix of racism, sexism, homophobia, xenophobia and Islamophobia while subtracting "half of Trump's supporters". If half of Trump's supporters possessed those characteristics, Barack Obama would not have twice been elected President of the United States.
Nevertheless, there are a critical mass of Trump supporters who are racist, sexist, homophobic, xenophobic, Islamophobic & anti-Semitic and Hillary is correct to say that Trump has given them a legitimacy they did not have before. In fact, Trump has done to more to legitimize racism and other forms of hatred in this country than anyone since George Wallace before he got shot.
It's a strong statement, but when Trump sees fit to retweet messages from white supremacists we've got a big problem which gets compounded when he didn't want to distance himself from David Duke. Let us also not forget that Trump offered to pay the legal bills of a man who hit another man for no other reason than he was black.
There are a critical mass of Trump supporters who loved it when he made fun of a reporter's disability.
There are a critical mass of Trump supporters who think Judge Curiel should be removed from the federal bench because of his Mexican heritage.
There are a critical mass of Trump supporters who think all Muslims are the same and see no difference between Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala & the Taliban who shot her.
There are a critical mass of Trump supporters who equate illegal immigrants with murderers.
This state of affairs is possible because Donald Trump is a man of deplorable character.
So honestly Hillary was right on the substance of her argument except that she painted too broad a brush which is something Trump has been guilty of all too frequently where it concerns Mexicans, Muslims and anyone else he doesn't like at a given moment.
The other problem with Hillary's critique is Hillary. She is pretty deplorable herself.
You know, to just be grossly generalistic, you could put half of Trump's supporters into what I call the basket of deplorables. Right? [Laughter/applause]. The racist, sexist, homophobic, xenophobic, Islamophobic — you name it. And unfortunately there are people like that. And he has lifted them up. He has given voice to their websites that used to only have 11,000 people, now have 11 million. He tweets and retweets offensive, hateful, mean-spirited rhetoric. Now some of those folks, they are irredeemable, but thankfully they are not America.
For all the heat Hillary has taken over these remarks (which could account for her overheating at the 9/11 ceremonies yesterday), I largely agree with what she said. It's a question of addition and subtraction. I would have added "anti-Semitism" into the mix of racism, sexism, homophobia, xenophobia and Islamophobia while subtracting "half of Trump's supporters". If half of Trump's supporters possessed those characteristics, Barack Obama would not have twice been elected President of the United States.
Nevertheless, there are a critical mass of Trump supporters who are racist, sexist, homophobic, xenophobic, Islamophobic & anti-Semitic and Hillary is correct to say that Trump has given them a legitimacy they did not have before. In fact, Trump has done to more to legitimize racism and other forms of hatred in this country than anyone since George Wallace before he got shot.
It's a strong statement, but when Trump sees fit to retweet messages from white supremacists we've got a big problem which gets compounded when he didn't want to distance himself from David Duke. Let us also not forget that Trump offered to pay the legal bills of a man who hit another man for no other reason than he was black.
There are a critical mass of Trump supporters who think this act of assault is a great thing. There are a critical mass of Trump supporters who loved it when he made fun of a reporter's disability.
There are a critical mass of Trump supporters who think Judge Curiel should be removed from the federal bench because of his Mexican heritage.
There are a critical mass of Trump supporters who think all Muslims are the same and see no difference between Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala & the Taliban who shot her.
There are a critical mass of Trump supporters who equate illegal immigrants with murderers.
This state of affairs is possible because Donald Trump is a man of deplorable character.
So honestly Hillary was right on the substance of her argument except that she painted too broad a brush which is something Trump has been guilty of all too frequently where it concerns Mexicans, Muslims and anyone else he doesn't like at a given moment.
The other problem with Hillary's critique is Hillary. She is pretty deplorable herself.
Sunday, September 11, 2016
Hillary's Collapses, Will Her Support Follow?
This video is pretty disconcerting especially when you consider that Hillary Clinton felt the need to leave a ceremony at the 9/11 Memorial in New York City.
With Hillary's pneumonia diagnosis now public knowledge, she cannot now so easily dismiss concerns about her health with any degree of credibility.
So Hillary collapsed. The question now will her support follow?
Well, that depends. Is the public more scared of Hillary not surviving a term in office or are they more scared of the thought of a Trump presidency?
Those questions could be answered when Hillary & Trump meet for their first debate two weeks from tomorrow.
Today, On The 15th Anniversary of 9/11, I Saw Something & Said Something
After writing my rather bleak assessment of things on the 15th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, I decided I needed to take advantage of the warm weather and get some fresh air.
I made my way to The Esplanade and walked along the Charles River and after ambling on the Arthur Fiedler foot bridge which leads to Beacon Street, I decided to walk along the Commonwealth Avenue Mall, something I have done in quite some time.
Things were very nice, shady and downright serene until I came across something amiss on a park bench.
Like many Americans, I have developed a heightened awareness of my surroundings post 9/11. Over the years, I've seen unattended bags. I've done my best to balance my heightened awareness with letting things play out. Simply put, I stick around for a few minutes to see if anyone has claimed the bag and someone invariably does.
That is until today.
Fortunately, there was a Boston PD van a block away. Evidently there was a fender bender and the officer was preoccupied with that task. Nevertheless, I thought I would tell him what I saw. When I did he said to me, "You're like the tenth person to have told me that."
On one hand, I was gratified that I wasn't the only one who thought something was amiss and felt the need to alert the authorities. Of course, this was only a few blocks away from where two backpacks of explosives were detonated during the Boston Marathon nearly three and a half years ago. Those memories won't fade anytime soon.
On the other hand, the officer seemed annoyed with me. How can I assume that others would have told him about the bag? Would he have preferred that I keep my mouth shut? One T-shirt vendor in New York City wasn't prepared to make such an assumption when he something amiss with smoke coming out of a SUV in May 2010. If not for Lance Orton, New York City would have a memorial at Times Square.
Now 99 times out of 100, there is probably nothing sinister about that bag. But it only takes that one time and I wasn't prepared to take that chance. Especially not on this day.
I made my way to The Esplanade and walked along the Charles River and after ambling on the Arthur Fiedler foot bridge which leads to Beacon Street, I decided to walk along the Commonwealth Avenue Mall, something I have done in quite some time.
Things were very nice, shady and downright serene until I came across something amiss on a park bench.
Like many Americans, I have developed a heightened awareness of my surroundings post 9/11. Over the years, I've seen unattended bags. I've done my best to balance my heightened awareness with letting things play out. Simply put, I stick around for a few minutes to see if anyone has claimed the bag and someone invariably does.
That is until today.
Fortunately, there was a Boston PD van a block away. Evidently there was a fender bender and the officer was preoccupied with that task. Nevertheless, I thought I would tell him what I saw. When I did he said to me, "You're like the tenth person to have told me that."
On one hand, I was gratified that I wasn't the only one who thought something was amiss and felt the need to alert the authorities. Of course, this was only a few blocks away from where two backpacks of explosives were detonated during the Boston Marathon nearly three and a half years ago. Those memories won't fade anytime soon.
On the other hand, the officer seemed annoyed with me. How can I assume that others would have told him about the bag? Would he have preferred that I keep my mouth shut? One T-shirt vendor in New York City wasn't prepared to make such an assumption when he something amiss with smoke coming out of a SUV in May 2010. If not for Lance Orton, New York City would have a memorial at Times Square.
Now 99 times out of 100, there is probably nothing sinister about that bag. But it only takes that one time and I wasn't prepared to take that chance. Especially not on this day.
9/11 @ 15: This Is Our New Normal & I Don't Like It
Fifteen years have now passed since the World Trade Center and the Pentagon were hit with commercial aircraft by al Qaeda operatives. Capitol Hill or possibly the White House would have suffered the same fate if not for the passengers on United Flight 93. Their sacrifice kept the death toll just below 3,000.
Yet I wonder if we have learned much of anything in 15 years time.
The Obama Administration and, by extension, Hillary Clinton, do everything they can to minimize the nature of these attacks and the nature of our enemy. if not outright dismissed it as when he told David Remnick of The New Yorker that ISIS was the "jayvee squad" in January 2014. ISIS now controls parts of Iraq, Syria & Libya. Some jayvee squad. Then there was The Atlantic interview this past April in which Jeffrey Goldberg noted that Obama frequently reminds his staff that more people in America die due to falls in their bathtubs than by terrorists.
But when Americans do die at the hands of Islamic terrorists, President Obama has consistently obfuscated the issue. When 12 soldiers, a civilian and an unborn child died at Fort Hood at the hands of a traitorous soldier it was "workplace violence." Because of this designation those soldiers were shamefully denied Purple Hearts and their families the benefits associated with them until Congress intervened.
When Americans died at the hands of Islamic terrorists in San Bernardino and Orlando, President Obama tried to make gun control the issue. And when four Americans died at our consulate in Benghazi four years ago today, on the anniversary of 9/11, the Obama Administration led by Hillary Clinton blamed an "internet video".
John Kerry, Hillary's successor at the State Department, isn't much of an improvement. Following the ISIS attacks in Paris last November, Kerry told U.S. Embassy staff in Paris that unlike the Paris attacks there was a "rationale" for the Charlie Hebdo attacks the previous January. In other words, to paraphrase Obama at the UN, if you slander Muhammad you deserve your fate. It goes a long way to explain why Obama didn't see fit to attend the Charlie Hebdo solidarity rally & Kerry saw fit to offer James Taylor as a consolation prize.
Earlier this summer, while in Vienna, Kerry said that air conditioners were a greater threat than ISIS. Then late last month, while speaking in Bangladesh, Kerry criticized the media for reporting about terrorism stating if they did this "people wouldn't know what was going on." Ah, ignorance is bliss.
Speaking of ignorance, this brings me to Donald Trump. Here is a man who is on public record as a so-called 9/11 "truther" who claims the Bush Administration had advanced knowledge of the attacks. Trump is in no position to say anything about 9/11 but when has that ever stopped him? After all, he erroneously claimed "thousands and thousands" of Muslims in New York City were cheering 9/11. If that had happened I doubt the people of NYC would have taken that lying down.
While Obama, Hillary and company downplay Islamic terrorism, Trump paints all Muslims with a broad brush threatening to ban all Muslim immigration and travel. Trump cannot discern between Malala and the Taliban who shot her. Trump cannot discern between the Muslim who killed Jews at the Hyper Cacher in Paris and the Muslim employee who saved Jews by hiding them. Nor can Trump discern Muslims who order Christians off a bus in Kenya and execute them and the Muslims who told al-Shaabab terrorists that if they shot the Christians they would have to kill them too. In Trump's world, there are no such distinctions.
On the one hand, Trump claims he will bomb the shit out of ISIS and on the other claims that America isn't a force for good in the world. A few short months ago, he was perfectly happy to let ISIS take care of Assad in Syria. But what can we expect of a man who on the one hand claims he knows more than all our generals about ISIS and the other cannot tell the difference between the Kurds and the Quds?
Ladies and gentlemen, this is our new normal. I, for one, do not like it.
Can this country survive the fools who run it?
In 15 years, we have learned nothing from the 9/11 attacks. I shudder to think where we will be in 15 years from now.
Yet I wonder if we have learned much of anything in 15 years time.
The Obama Administration and, by extension, Hillary Clinton, do everything they can to minimize the nature of these attacks and the nature of our enemy. if not outright dismissed it as when he told David Remnick of The New Yorker that ISIS was the "jayvee squad" in January 2014. ISIS now controls parts of Iraq, Syria & Libya. Some jayvee squad. Then there was The Atlantic interview this past April in which Jeffrey Goldberg noted that Obama frequently reminds his staff that more people in America die due to falls in their bathtubs than by terrorists.
But when Americans do die at the hands of Islamic terrorists, President Obama has consistently obfuscated the issue. When 12 soldiers, a civilian and an unborn child died at Fort Hood at the hands of a traitorous soldier it was "workplace violence." Because of this designation those soldiers were shamefully denied Purple Hearts and their families the benefits associated with them until Congress intervened.
When Americans died at the hands of Islamic terrorists in San Bernardino and Orlando, President Obama tried to make gun control the issue. And when four Americans died at our consulate in Benghazi four years ago today, on the anniversary of 9/11, the Obama Administration led by Hillary Clinton blamed an "internet video".
John Kerry, Hillary's successor at the State Department, isn't much of an improvement. Following the ISIS attacks in Paris last November, Kerry told U.S. Embassy staff in Paris that unlike the Paris attacks there was a "rationale" for the Charlie Hebdo attacks the previous January. In other words, to paraphrase Obama at the UN, if you slander Muhammad you deserve your fate. It goes a long way to explain why Obama didn't see fit to attend the Charlie Hebdo solidarity rally & Kerry saw fit to offer James Taylor as a consolation prize.
Earlier this summer, while in Vienna, Kerry said that air conditioners were a greater threat than ISIS. Then late last month, while speaking in Bangladesh, Kerry criticized the media for reporting about terrorism stating if they did this "people wouldn't know what was going on." Ah, ignorance is bliss.
Speaking of ignorance, this brings me to Donald Trump. Here is a man who is on public record as a so-called 9/11 "truther" who claims the Bush Administration had advanced knowledge of the attacks. Trump is in no position to say anything about 9/11 but when has that ever stopped him? After all, he erroneously claimed "thousands and thousands" of Muslims in New York City were cheering 9/11. If that had happened I doubt the people of NYC would have taken that lying down.
While Obama, Hillary and company downplay Islamic terrorism, Trump paints all Muslims with a broad brush threatening to ban all Muslim immigration and travel. Trump cannot discern between Malala and the Taliban who shot her. Trump cannot discern between the Muslim who killed Jews at the Hyper Cacher in Paris and the Muslim employee who saved Jews by hiding them. Nor can Trump discern Muslims who order Christians off a bus in Kenya and execute them and the Muslims who told al-Shaabab terrorists that if they shot the Christians they would have to kill them too. In Trump's world, there are no such distinctions.
On the one hand, Trump claims he will bomb the shit out of ISIS and on the other claims that America isn't a force for good in the world. A few short months ago, he was perfectly happy to let ISIS take care of Assad in Syria. But what can we expect of a man who on the one hand claims he knows more than all our generals about ISIS and the other cannot tell the difference between the Kurds and the Quds?
Ladies and gentlemen, this is our new normal. I, for one, do not like it.
Can this country survive the fools who run it?
In 15 years, we have learned nothing from the 9/11 attacks. I shudder to think where we will be in 15 years from now.
Friday, September 9, 2016
Palestinian Elections Delayed....Again!!!
As pathetic as the presidential election between Hillary and Trump has become it could be worse.
We could be the Palestinians who have delayed elections yet again.
The Palestinian Authority hasnn't had national and municipal elections in 10 years.
Mahmoud Abbas was elected President in 2005 for a four year term.
His four year term expired seven years ago.
And yet The Left clamors for Palestinian statehood.
I guess they'd rather have one more failed state than a successful state like Israel.
It makes sense because if there's anything The Left hates it is success.
We could be the Palestinians who have delayed elections yet again.
The Palestinian Authority hasnn't had national and municipal elections in 10 years.
Mahmoud Abbas was elected President in 2005 for a four year term.
His four year term expired seven years ago.
And yet The Left clamors for Palestinian statehood.
I guess they'd rather have one more failed state than a successful state like Israel.
It makes sense because if there's anything The Left hates it is success.
I Hope Tim Tebow Finds Success With The Mets
So Tim Tebow has signed a minor league contract with the New York Mets. I, for one, hope he finds success in baseball. He could have potential as a power hitter.
Of course, there are some players who resent his signing because it took away an opportunity for another minor leaguer. Maybe so, but by that reasoning the same people ought to lambaste Michael Jordan for his stint in the Chicago White Sox organization.
Then there are those who hate Tim Tebow for being Tim Tebow. I don't know why he gets singled out. There are a lot of professional athletes who have deep Christian beliefs. I suspect that many of the people who hate Tebow would probably like him a great deal more if he sat down during the Star Spangled Banner while wearing socks portraying the police as pigs.
In the final analysis, it is a low risk investment for the Mets. If Tebow doesn't pan out then a minor leaguer who might have been denied a position today will get one tomorrow. But if Tebow does pan out then both the New York Mets and Major League Baseball will be the better for it.
Of course, there are some players who resent his signing because it took away an opportunity for another minor leaguer. Maybe so, but by that reasoning the same people ought to lambaste Michael Jordan for his stint in the Chicago White Sox organization.
Then there are those who hate Tim Tebow for being Tim Tebow. I don't know why he gets singled out. There are a lot of professional athletes who have deep Christian beliefs. I suspect that many of the people who hate Tebow would probably like him a great deal more if he sat down during the Star Spangled Banner while wearing socks portraying the police as pigs.
In the final analysis, it is a low risk investment for the Mets. If Tebow doesn't pan out then a minor leaguer who might have been denied a position today will get one tomorrow. But if Tebow does pan out then both the New York Mets and Major League Baseball will be the better for it.
Thursday, September 8, 2016
Star Trek Lives Long & Prospers 50 Years Later
I'm not a Trekkie by any stretch of the imagination, but one need not dress up as a Klingon to know there is much to admire about Star Trek which has lived long and prospered for 50 years.
Naturally, I am partial to the original series. Gene Roddenberry created some magnificent characters in Captain Kirk, Mr. Spock, Dr. McCoy, Scotty, Sulu, Chekhov and Uhura. William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, DeForest Kelley, James Doohan, George Takei, Walter Koenig and Nichelle Nichols brought those characters to life and gave each of them a unique resonance which is stronger now than it was 50 years ago and, God willing, will be even stronger during the centennial year of Star Trek in 2066.
With that, I wish the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise well in its ongoing mission to explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and new civilization and to boldly go where no man has gone before.
Naturally, I am partial to the original series. Gene Roddenberry created some magnificent characters in Captain Kirk, Mr. Spock, Dr. McCoy, Scotty, Sulu, Chekhov and Uhura. William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, DeForest Kelley, James Doohan, George Takei, Walter Koenig and Nichelle Nichols brought those characters to life and gave each of them a unique resonance which is stronger now than it was 50 years ago and, God willing, will be even stronger during the centennial year of Star Trek in 2066.
With that, I wish the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise well in its ongoing mission to explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and new civilization and to boldly go where no man has gone before.
Wednesday, September 7, 2016
How Could Phyllis Schlafly Have Been Fooled By Trump?
To start with, I must say I don't care for the unkindness towards Phyllis Schlafly following her death on Monday at the age of 92.
By all means, disagree with her ideas. But please don't revel in her death. On my Twitter feed last night, I received the comment, "F*#king witch is dead. Ding Dong."
And what precisely is this supposed to accomplish? From where I sit, it only demonstrates the callousness of the person who wrote such a vile thing in the first place.
With that said, I am absolutely dismayed that someone so ensconced in the conservative movement be fooled by Donald Trump?
I suspect that Schlafly was attracted in large part due to his opposition to NAFTA, TPP and other trade deals. I recall Schlafly's opposition to the Free Trade Agreement of the Americas during the Bush Administration in the early 2000's. I'm not unsympathetic to Schlafly's opposition given the constitutional questions where it concerns Congress giving President fast track authorization to negotiate such deals.
But even if Schlafly shared common cause with Trump on that particular issue I would think that Trump's less than stellar commitment to the Constitution and the principles of freedom and liberty would resonate with her. I am tempted to say that perhaps she wouldn't have been so easily fooled 20 years ago, but then how does one explain the likes of Sean Hannity or Laura Ingraham?
While I don't concur with the decision of The Dallas Morning News to endorse Hillary, I understand their reasoning. Unlike Schlafly, The Dallas Morning News sees right through Trump:
Trump's values are hostile to conservatism. He plays on fear — exploiting base instincts of xenophobia, racism and misogyny — to bring out the worst in all of us, rather than the best. His serial shifts on fundamental issues reveal an astounding absence of preparedness. And his improvisational insults and midnight tweets exhibit a dangerous lack of judgment and impulse control.
As for Phyllis Schlafly, I guess I'll just have to read her final book The Conservative Case for Trump which was released the day after her death. It could go a long way in explaining why Schlafly and too many other conservatives have given up on conservatism.
By all means, disagree with her ideas. But please don't revel in her death. On my Twitter feed last night, I received the comment, "F*#king witch is dead. Ding Dong."
And what precisely is this supposed to accomplish? From where I sit, it only demonstrates the callousness of the person who wrote such a vile thing in the first place.
With that said, I am absolutely dismayed that someone so ensconced in the conservative movement be fooled by Donald Trump?
I suspect that Schlafly was attracted in large part due to his opposition to NAFTA, TPP and other trade deals. I recall Schlafly's opposition to the Free Trade Agreement of the Americas during the Bush Administration in the early 2000's. I'm not unsympathetic to Schlafly's opposition given the constitutional questions where it concerns Congress giving President fast track authorization to negotiate such deals.
But even if Schlafly shared common cause with Trump on that particular issue I would think that Trump's less than stellar commitment to the Constitution and the principles of freedom and liberty would resonate with her. I am tempted to say that perhaps she wouldn't have been so easily fooled 20 years ago, but then how does one explain the likes of Sean Hannity or Laura Ingraham?
While I don't concur with the decision of The Dallas Morning News to endorse Hillary, I understand their reasoning. Unlike Schlafly, The Dallas Morning News sees right through Trump:
Trump's values are hostile to conservatism. He plays on fear — exploiting base instincts of xenophobia, racism and misogyny — to bring out the worst in all of us, rather than the best. His serial shifts on fundamental issues reveal an astounding absence of preparedness. And his improvisational insults and midnight tweets exhibit a dangerous lack of judgment and impulse control.
As for Phyllis Schlafly, I guess I'll just have to read her final book The Conservative Case for Trump which was released the day after her death. It could go a long way in explaining why Schlafly and too many other conservatives have given up on conservatism.
Sunday, September 4, 2016
Willy Wonka Can't Go On Forever But It Shall Endure
Earlier this evening, my roommate Christopher Kain & I attended a special screening of Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory in AMC Loews in downtown Boston in honor of Gene Wilder who passed away last week.
Although Wilder is most commonly associated for his film with Mel Brooks and Richard Pryor, I suspect that if you are under 30 you probably know him best as Willy Wonka. Although Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory was released in 1971, it wasn't until 30 years ago that the movie saw release on home video and through regular viewings on network TV. Because of this Willy Wonka became even beloved by Millennials than The Waco Kid, Leo Bloom or Dr. Frankenstein.
I must admit I choked up for a moment when Willy Wonka told Charlie Bucket he was giving him the chocolate factory "he couldn't go on forever." And indeed neither could Gene Wilder. But his life's work shall endure along with our sweet imaginations.
Although Wilder is most commonly associated for his film with Mel Brooks and Richard Pryor, I suspect that if you are under 30 you probably know him best as Willy Wonka. Although Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory was released in 1971, it wasn't until 30 years ago that the movie saw release on home video and through regular viewings on network TV. Because of this Willy Wonka became even beloved by Millennials than The Waco Kid, Leo Bloom or Dr. Frankenstein.
I must admit I choked up for a moment when Willy Wonka told Charlie Bucket he was giving him the chocolate factory "he couldn't go on forever." And indeed neither could Gene Wilder. But his life's work shall endure along with our sweet imaginations.
Thursday, September 1, 2016
MLB Notes for August: The Dodgers Lead The NL West Without Clayton Kershaw
The Los Angeles Dodgers aren't setting the world afire. They were a modest 15-13 in August and 23-19 since the All-Star Break. But it's more than what would have expected with their ace Clayton Kershaw on the DL for more than two months.
But it's good enough for the Dodgers to have a 1 1/2 game lead in the NL West over the San Francisco Giants who were 11-16 in August and have gone 15-27 since the All-Star Break. Yet don't feel too sorry for the Giants who despite their poor play still have one of the two NL Wild Card berths along with the St. Louis Cardinals. The Redbirds are very much grateful for the Wild Card as they are currently 15 games back of the Chicago Cubs who had their best month of the season going 22-6 in August including a 11-game winning streak to begin the month.
The New York Mets are similarly grateful. While they are 9 games back of the Washington Nationals, they have won 8 of their last 10 games and are only 1 1/2 games back of the Cardinals for the second Wild Card spot. Not bad when you consider the Mets were under .500 as recently as August 20th.
Also in the NL Wild Card hunt are the Pittsburgh Pirates (2 1/2 games back) and the Miami Marlins (3 1/2 games back). However, the Marlins sorely miss Giancarlo Stanton. The Marlins were 10-18 in August and have lost 8 of their last 10 games including five in a row.
Still, the Marlins have a fighting chance. The same cannot be said of the Philadelphia Phillies and the San Diego Padres who have each lost 7 of their last 10, the Milwaukee Brewers who went 10-20 in August and the Cincinnati Reds who have lost four in a row, 8 of their last 10 and are 30 games behind the Cubs in the NL Central.
Yet the Atlanta Braves are happy. Although they still own the worst record in the NL, they no longer own the worst record in MLB. That distinction belongs to the Minnesota Twins who ended August with 13 consecutive losses and are 27 1/2 back of the Cleveland Indians in the AL Central.
The Tribe has a 4 1/2 and 7 1/2 game lead on the Detroit Tigers and Kansas City Royals. The Tigers are currently tied with the Baltimore Orioles for the second AL Wild Card spot while the defending World Series champions had a strong August with a 20-9 record after ending July losing 8 of their final 10 games. The Royals are only 3 1/2 half back of the second AL Wild Card spot with the Seattle Mariners (4 games back), New York Yankees (2 1/2 games back) and the Houston Astros (1 game back). The Boston Red Sox currently own the first seed in the AL Wild Card and are only two games back of the Toronto Blue Jays in the AL East.
Meanwhile, the Texas Rangers have the biggest lead in the AL with an 8 1/2 and 11 1/2 games leads on the Astros and Mariners, respectively in the Western Division. After falling behind the Mariners, the Astros finished August winning 8 of their last 10. The Mariners have gone in the opposite direction. The M's began August 14-6 and were 6 1/2 back of the Rangers as recently as August 20th. But losing 8 of their 10 has put them back in third place in the AL West.
I will keep you posted on the post-season picture as teams clinch divisions or wild card berths. Now the real fun begins.
But it's good enough for the Dodgers to have a 1 1/2 game lead in the NL West over the San Francisco Giants who were 11-16 in August and have gone 15-27 since the All-Star Break. Yet don't feel too sorry for the Giants who despite their poor play still have one of the two NL Wild Card berths along with the St. Louis Cardinals. The Redbirds are very much grateful for the Wild Card as they are currently 15 games back of the Chicago Cubs who had their best month of the season going 22-6 in August including a 11-game winning streak to begin the month.
The New York Mets are similarly grateful. While they are 9 games back of the Washington Nationals, they have won 8 of their last 10 games and are only 1 1/2 games back of the Cardinals for the second Wild Card spot. Not bad when you consider the Mets were under .500 as recently as August 20th.
Also in the NL Wild Card hunt are the Pittsburgh Pirates (2 1/2 games back) and the Miami Marlins (3 1/2 games back). However, the Marlins sorely miss Giancarlo Stanton. The Marlins were 10-18 in August and have lost 8 of their last 10 games including five in a row.
Still, the Marlins have a fighting chance. The same cannot be said of the Philadelphia Phillies and the San Diego Padres who have each lost 7 of their last 10, the Milwaukee Brewers who went 10-20 in August and the Cincinnati Reds who have lost four in a row, 8 of their last 10 and are 30 games behind the Cubs in the NL Central.
Yet the Atlanta Braves are happy. Although they still own the worst record in the NL, they no longer own the worst record in MLB. That distinction belongs to the Minnesota Twins who ended August with 13 consecutive losses and are 27 1/2 back of the Cleveland Indians in the AL Central.
The Tribe has a 4 1/2 and 7 1/2 game lead on the Detroit Tigers and Kansas City Royals. The Tigers are currently tied with the Baltimore Orioles for the second AL Wild Card spot while the defending World Series champions had a strong August with a 20-9 record after ending July losing 8 of their final 10 games. The Royals are only 3 1/2 half back of the second AL Wild Card spot with the Seattle Mariners (4 games back), New York Yankees (2 1/2 games back) and the Houston Astros (1 game back). The Boston Red Sox currently own the first seed in the AL Wild Card and are only two games back of the Toronto Blue Jays in the AL East.
Meanwhile, the Texas Rangers have the biggest lead in the AL with an 8 1/2 and 11 1/2 games leads on the Astros and Mariners, respectively in the Western Division. After falling behind the Mariners, the Astros finished August winning 8 of their last 10. The Mariners have gone in the opposite direction. The M's began August 14-6 and were 6 1/2 back of the Rangers as recently as August 20th. But losing 8 of their 10 has put them back in third place in the AL West.
I will keep you posted on the post-season picture as teams clinch divisions or wild card berths. Now the real fun begins.
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