The Pondering American

My campaign season is now over

2006-12-11T12:03:00.000-06:00

My little "urgent matter" turned into a little job for a week. Yes I was priviledged to participate in that little travesty of an election now known as the re election of William"Cold Cash" Jefferson to the United States Congress. I was hired by one of the many groups down there that were operating inthat race. Frankly this has been a tiresome election year for me and I am glad its over. Well at least I got some coin im my pocket for the holidays but that does little to alleviate my feelings. I saw this coming weeks ago but was hoping for a Christmas miracle. It did not occur. I had a long frive back yesterday and I shall state my thoughts on this election in the next post

Technorati Tags: Louisiana

The Thorns on The Roses and The Damn Irish

2006-12-05T13:45:00.000-06:00

I have to run down to South Louisiana on a urgent matter , but I wanted to put a quick entry up.
There is to be honest a little letdown this week in Tigerland. Somehow the planets aligned to deprive LSU of our Rose Bowl trip. Also AGAIN the demonic forces of USC seemed to be involved in our fate. In case you have been living under a rock USC got upset in a huge way against their rival UCLA. There was still hope though that Arkansas would win and thus save us a Rose Bowl berth. However, Florida won in such a dramatic fashion that they went to number 2. The rest is history. I was looking forward to going to out to LA to the granddaddy of the bowls. The Rose Bowl parade is one of my earliest TV memories. Also from what I hear a good many California folks were looking forward to the Tiger Nation Invasion. OH well maybe we shall go when the Rose Bowl has the National Championship. Also it would have been great for the program for LSU to play Michigan.

Pour Some Sugar on me-
However the Tigers are going to the Sugar Bowl to play the much hated Notre Dame. That will be a great experience for the fans and the program regardless. I am looking forward to this game a great bit. Notre Dame should not be overlooked. I think there is a lot of trash talk right now but that will change. THe bowl Drought streak that Notre Dame has is a major concern of mine. That coupled with talented players coupled with the pride of Notre Dame is a dangerous combination. I was at the last bowl game that Notre Dame and LSU played. That was at Independence Bowl in the late 90's. Both teams were pretty matched and both teams felt just lucky to get a Bowl game. LSU won by the way and of course it was all glorious. I am praying that the same thing occurs. LSU fans will not admit it , but they are a tad nervous about this game. If we played our hearts out and still lost in a respectable fashion to Michigan it would be ok. However, losing to Notre Dame would cause a huge shadow to fall over the program. In other words it would be a long winter, spring, and summer. A lot is at stake including SEC pride. Should LSU fans be nervous? YES!!! However if we bring our "A" game we should be alright. I trust the the team will ignore the media hype.

We shall have a little fun with the Notre Dame game this month. I shall try to highlight some of the Notre Dame blogs. It will not be just all football but some politics too.

Technorati Tags: LSU Notre Dame

Good Morning

2006-12-05T01:45:00.000-06:00

Or Good Evening since its currently 1:40 am in the morning. My long awaited return since my "hot beverage" computer debacle will have to wait a couple of hours. I had a emergency with a friend and just returned home. However I did visit my blogroll and shall give a update on that after I get a few hours of sleep.
Technorati Tags: tagnamehere

Glory Glory We are Back Online

2006-12-04T12:22:00.000-06:00

Many thanks Ted for salvaging my computer from my most unhappy "hot beverage" incident. All beverages are now a safe distance form my computer and will never be again balanced in precarious position on my monitor again. Coming up a few updates. Yes first it will be football. How could it not be. Then a blog roundup because to be honest, without being online for about 5 days I am clueless at what is going on.

Technorati Tags: tagnamehere

Shreveport mayors race and why its important

2006-11-29T12:39:00.000-06:00

Before I do a national story let me hit on a statewide theme.

The Shreveport Mayor's race is important for more reasons than the city elected its first black mayor. I talked on a earlier thread about how the Dems did a successful trial run in this race that shows there is a way to make up for the lost New Orlean's vote cushion. That also when combined with similar efforts that will be done in Monroe Louisiana and Rapides parish for example show a subtle but profound power shift to North Louisiana. However this race also showed something different and important.
For the record I ended up supporting Jones in the mayor's race who is a Republican. However I am pleased that Cedric is the mayor. The Shreveport based Forum weekly again had a great analysis of this race .I have already touched on the successful Dem GOTV effort but this is real interesting. It appears that Glover got a very respectful part of the white vote. These are white Dems and yes even Republicans.
These Republicans he got were of three kinds I suspect. (1) The ones that didnt like Jones(intra party bad blood), (2) The Republicans that are thinking in a strategic sense. That is very much like the New Orleans Nagin Republicans who made a choice between Nagin and Landrieu.

These "Cedric Glover" Republicans know that the city will have a black mayor. Cedric Glover who was always respected by the entire community was a perfect choice. In a effect why put off the inevitable and lets go for the best black Democrat mayor that might be do a great job and set a precedent versus wait for the old black machine to pick it. (3) Those that just thought Cedric was better. It appears that Cedric received anywhere from 17 to 18 percent of the "white vote". In Precinct 10 where 545 people voted Glover received 16 percent even though there were just 5 registered black voters. In Precinct 16 where 843 voted Gover got 17 percent with only 9 registered black voters. As a Republican I hate we lost but these numbers do give me something to cheer about. It means that racial bloc voting is starting not to be a sure thing.

I think its important to look at the recent Louisiana Secretary of States Race. Jay Dardenne, the Republican, received 40 percent in very black middle class areas of baton rouge. In New Orleans Jay received very respectble numbers in black strongholds of New Orleans. True it was a white v White race but still a defection of such numbers toward a Republican is significant. I think both election contest show that perhaps voting patterns shall have less to do about race but ideas in the future. That is something we can all cheer about.

Technorati Tags: Louisiana Shreveport

WHOA BABY LSU TO THE ROSE BOWL

2006-11-29T11:32:00.000-06:00

Just confirmed on ESPN Radio. We shall be playing either Michigan or USC . So no matter what we are going. More later. But now to some boring political stuff. Look here for Rose Bowl/LSU updates throughout the day

Technorati Tags: LSU Louisiana

Louisiana Democrats are not Dead yet

2006-11-28T14:07:00.000-06:00

I wish the The Forum based out of Shreveport Louisiana had their articles online. There is one that should be getting attention that was in their Nov 22 addition. The CW is that because the Dem Machine in NOLA is basically gone that people like Blanco and especially Sen Mary Landrieu are toast. I was starting to believe that till the Shreveport's mayors race.

The Louisiana Democrat party put huge resources in this race. At first I thought that was stupid but now I am not so sure. The turnout in the black areas of Shreveport jumped big time in the runoff and that is what got Cedric Glover in the winner' seat. The Louisiana Democrat state party spent 30,000 dollars on election day alone. They had at least 75 election workers just to get people to the polls. What has been done in New Orleans was done for the first time in Shreveport with great results for the Dems .

The theory is that this was a trial run. It appears to be successful. Caddo Parish has 66,000 black voters, Ouachita has 30,827, and Rapides 22,064. The Dem party has never devoted the resources to get this vote out in north Louisiana urban areas like it has in New Orleans. Simply by adding 50,000 votes from these Cities and Parishes along with the existing black vote in NOLA it appears that the Dems are back in the game in a big way. I hope the Repubs are looking at this and thinking long term
Technorati Tags: Louisiana

Great week Ahead

2006-11-28T11:21:00.000-06:00

I am still on cloud nine after my LSU tigers beat Arkansas last Friday. More on that in my football roundup post. I made myelf do some serious Christmas shopping this year early instead of like the day before. That is done now so I am setteling back into the news. Lots of things of interest have occured that I was reviewing last night. That coming up later also.

Technorati Tags: tagnamehere

Geaux Tigers Beat Arky

2006-11-24T09:26:00.000-06:00

The day has arrived. At 1:30 this afternoon the number 9 LSU Tigers will play the 5th ranked Ark Razorbacks in Little Rock. It shall be on CBS televised nationwide at 1:30. Therefore you don't have a excuse not to see my Tigers play My excitement level for this game reach a pretty high point yesterday before Lunch and hasn't come down. In Louisiana and Arkansas there is but one topic and it is this game. A lot is riding on this game this afternoon for both teams.

My prediction : Close game but

Da Boot trophy is staying where it belongs.

That is Louisiana. Geaux Tigers

The Tigers shall win out and thus get a great New Years Bowl game.

Technorati Tags: LSU

Happy Thanksgiving

2006-11-23T11:38:00.000-06:00

It' sbeen a busy two days but I wanted to take time out this blessed day to wish everyone a happy Thanksgivng. Till later tonight

Technorati Tags: tagnamehere

Thanks St Louis - Also Kookdum is about to have to eat their words on a certain Quarterback

2006-11-21T13:17:00.000-06:00

My paleoconservative conservative friend congrats us on LSU mighty victory. Thanks!!! We have no where to go but up now. Like I said I am dreaming of roses now. In fact I am planning to sign up at this kookdum sports site and talk about it.

In particular I am going to this entry and make them eat their words on our great quarterback.
Especially this entry:
Steve Beuerlein was that stupid CBS announcer. He definitely made himself look silly. Look at the fawning over DuhMarcus' arm strength this way: what they are not saying, ad nauseum, is that he's "heady," "smart," or a "field general." By dousing Russell with the same two or three compliments every time hs name is mentioned, they make it even more apparent that no one believes he is a complete QB. Russell is just a big, strong guy who is otherwise an average QB. LSU is loaded with offensive talent, which combines to make DuhMarcus look good. His fellators are quick to cite his record as a starter, which is something like 15-3 now. That record, though, belongs to the team. It's not as though Russell carries the team, like they'd be rather average without him. They don't win by blowing anyone out; defense is LSU's strength. DuhMarcus Russell would not be 15-3 if he were the starting QB at Mississippi State, Ole Miss, Kentucky, or South Carolina. He wouldn't make Arkansas a better team. He would not make 'Bama an SEC Champ contender (and forget Vandy - he'd never make the grades!). Notice the CBS commentators refrained from harsh criticism of the way Russell mis-managed the clock on LSU's last drive. He wasted valuable seconds by taking a sack that was long in the making, instead of throwing the ball away. Everyone knows he could "flick his wrist" and dump the ball beyond the sidelines, right? So, the Tigers wind up on the 5 yard line as time expires...

Translation- We want the white quarterback in. Now I love Flynn but Jamarcus is the bomb. Stay tuned to that entry because I intend tos blow away their racist cobwebs in their brain as to one of the smartest quarterbacks in the conference and even the nation.

By the way this is the site I shall be doing a expose on this week. Who knows maybe tonight. I think blogmeister you will enjoy it. It will be fair and even handed. What is frustrating about this site is that actually they do hit on a few nuggets of truth. But then what good that is is blown away by their racism and their radical agenda. I was planning to do it Saturday but decided not to ruin the best day of the week by going into this kookdum.

Ona more politcal note, the blogmeister of the Council of Conservative Citizens has a post on the supposed Buchanite wing of the Republican party. I actually agree with him a tad on this. The Buchanite wing will never be comfortable on the GOP. Partly because its full of quacks that want to try to implement policy that has proven time after time to fail. But most importantly because so much of its base is kookdum. Even the blogmeister I notice doesn't buy into all the conspiracy koolaid that so many of its people post on the net.

Technorati Tags: LSU CofCC Council of Conservative Citizens

Its time to be serious about Moslems

2006-11-21T12:29:00.000-06:00

Quick post today because I am under a deadline here. The right(in a which I am member of) has some faults. This ranting against all moslems is one of them. What I see on the web is very distressing to me. Also it disturbs me because it is so damn uneducated. That annoys me in this day where information is so available. I have no pie in the sky view of the Islamic world. I know currently there are major problems. Also as a Catholic, I come from a faith that has dealt with Islam since the beginning. Trust me, when as a Catholic you value the desert fathers, and the works of Augustine it is sad to see that ancient land of our Christianity gone.

The needs to be dialouge. It appears we want moslems to assimilate but wqe shoot down any true discussion in the blogsphere. Too many sterotypes.

If there is one person to put on your blog list or favorite links its this conservative Republican lady. Please visit Smart and Final Isis. First read her post Isis’ Guide to Sensible Islam Posting. Good stuff. She is trying to start serious dialouge between moderate Muslims and the rest of the world. There has been far too little of that. Which is amazing in this world of the blogs and the internet. ANother example of how we retreat to our echo chambers. Anywho till tonight

Technorati Tags: Islam

The Touchdown live from Tiger Stadium(LSU/Ole Miss)

2006-11-21T01:19:00.000-06:00

Ok Just one more LSU post lol. This is too good. The LSU/Ole Miss game came down to the wire. The Tigers had to pull it together like never before to come from from behind. The Critical point was as the 4th Quarter was in its final seconds. It was 4th down and we were behind by 6 points. We were either going to win and keep our BCS Bowl hopes alive or lose a game that would be a heartbreaking memory for the rest of our lives.(note Ole Miss blocked the extra point having us go to overtime where we run but this was the most dramactic moment)

Friends have told me that the Crowd noise rivaled the famous LSU/AUBURN Earthquake game at this point. Now you can be the judge through the magic of you tube. I of course like hundreds of thousands was listening on the radio about to have an heart attack.
Link-
God I love Tiger Stadium. If that doesn't send chills down your spine you need to go check in at the morgue.

Update here is a closer live view of the touchdown from another fan

Update II- Thank God I am finding all these Clips. This was the second most exciting and critical play of the game. This shows the stud that LSU's Quarterback is. Watch Jamarcus Russell spin twice and throw it 53 yards while on the run- Priceless

Update III- Another Great View from the stands fromm our earlier Touchdown. Great shot of Student section, Band and T -I-G-E-R-S- TIGERS Cheer.

Technorati Tags: LSU

The Pondering American Is Smelling Roses

2006-11-20T23:34:00.000-06:00

One final LSU post. Yes I am smelling roses. That is ROSE BOWL roses for LSU. True, we have to have USC beat those Irish folks at Notre Dame and Rutgers to win this week but it could happen. You see LSU has got to catch a break. You see my mind goes back to the third game of the year. If it had not been for 4 and half tiny yards we would be in contention for the national Championship at this moment. Surely God is going to smile on his Tigers and allow this to happen. I think it would be a great game and most likely it would be USC we would playing against. The drama of that game would be a huge draw.

However if we do take care of business this Friday against the swine in Little Rock I am pretty sure the Orange Bowl would take us. -Note to LSU Fans going to the game Friday be sure to sneak in the oranges to throw them on the field if we win. Those Orange Bowl people like that stuff plus its gets on TV.

Technorati Tags: LSU

What Do I think About An Ohio/Michigan Rematch in The National Championship?

2006-11-20T23:12:00.000-06:00

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Technorati Tags: tagnamehere

Sen Landrieu I have a Deal for You to Save Your Senate Seat

2006-11-19T10:56:00.000-06:00

This morning I was high as a kite. Nothing like a close LSU/Ole Miss(and LSU victory) to get your Sunday morning started off right. Then I read the sunday paper.
Seems like the the Democrats have big plans that effect poor ole Louisiana in a big way.It seems that the Democrats are about to kick Louisiana when its down in a big way.

The Tax Cuts that are being targeted include Topping the list for repeal are:

_Tax breaks for refinery expansion and for geological studies to help oil exploration.

_A measure passed two years ago primarily to promote domestic manufacturing. It allows oil companies to take a tax credit if they chose to drill in this country instead of going abroad.

Sen Landrieu you know the importance of the oil industry and know that these actions take the food out of our mouths. This goes directly against the aims of the Blanco administration in trying to get the Kuwait Govt to build a oil refinery in Louisiana.

Further we know if the Democrats will not allow the offshore revenue sharing bill to pass while they are in control. A move that will cause us to lose funding for the Coastal Erosion projects that are needed to literally save the ground beneath our feet.

I offer this proposal. Sen Landrieu you become a independent these next two years and agree to to work with the Republicans to elect their leadership in the Senate. The Senate will return to 50/50 with the VP as the tying vote.

In exchange you will get two things. That the GOP Senate pledges to pass the offshore revenue sharing bill. (2) That the Louisiana delegation agrees to a non agression pact for your election in 2007. A race that we all know you have serious problems with. A non agression pact means that there might be an agreement that Congressmen such as Baker, Alexander, or Boustany agree not to run against you in 07.

Do I think this deal is possible. Yes I do. On this issue in Louisiana Republicans and Democrats are on the same page. Jindal will benefit because he is heading up the effort in the House while such action would assure your re-election. How could Congressman Boustany(your likely opponent) refuse such a offer for legislation that would benefit his district in a most dramactic way. The national GOP leadership would go for this because they know that loosing the Chairmanship of the Senate Committees for the next two years will be a disaster. Especially as to the Judiciary for example.

Louisiana has one moment in time to get the resources it needs to save its future. Sen Landrieu are you ready to lead and take a risk? Who knows you might find being a independent something you wish to do beyond 2008. Further, we know the future leadership of a Democrat congress puts you in a tough situation as to some votes coming down the road. Votes that you know the typical Louisiana democrat is not in line with.

Technorati Tags: Louisiana Landrieu politics gop

The Minutemen Scam Saga Updated.- Cha Ching More Money More Money

2006-11-18T15:16:00.000-06:00

Football Saturday is not the best day to be talkng about the monkeyshines of the Minutemen, Chris Simcox Connie Hair, Maureen Otis, Alan Keyes ,American Caging and others. However since I shall revisit this again I suppose its ok. But I just noticed something in their long awaited financial reports. By the way the report does not talk about any money received in 2006 which of course is a disappointment. The very Conservative Washington Times which has been following this scam pointed out as to this report:
While the IRS papers document MCDC collections and expenditures through Dec. 31, a reported donation total of $418,493 is significantly less than the $1.6 million MCDC President Chris Simcox told The Washington Times in July that the group had collected in donations since its April 2005 creation. That figure was said to include $1 million in direct MCDC contributions and $600,000 toward the construction of a $55 million border fence.

Now as background to this, I have reported how something was rotten with American Caging in Houston Texas. A caging company usually handles the donations for certain groups. Mainly processing and other matters. Well American Caging is associated with what to say the least appear to be conservative groups that seem to be making a lot of money for themselves versus money spent on the "cause". I do strongly suggest this thread on a conservative forum that looks at American Caging and has a ton of links to primary sources and news reports.

Well, the Minutemen Faction under Simcox(the fence scam people) has issued this report that the Washington Times references above.

Now to say the least that report is not very illuminating. However lets look at the the Minutemans 990 they had to file with the IRS as a part of this.

http://www.minutemanhq.com/~video/2005_990.pdf

Now remember this is just for 2005 funds which is not when the bulk of money came into to this dubious group. Now like the report above is showsa substantial sum of the Donors money going to caging. We know that the Caging comapny is American Caging owned by Maureen Otis. At least that is the only owner we know of. We haven't quite figured out if there are certain "private partners".

Now please go to page 5 of the report. Well my Golly Mauren Otis owner of American Caging is on the freakin board. Is that proper? But you go well she recieves no compensation so what. But wait she does because a percentage of almost every Donor's dollar goes into her pocket.

However I'm interested in page 6 of the Form 990, where it asks if any of the officers of the company are related to any of the companies listed in Part II, which lists the expenses including caging fees.
On the form, it says NO, even though some of the money seems to have gone to Maureen Otis' caging company."

But looking at the report you wouldn't know that their caging company is American Caging nor that Board member Maureen Otis owns it. Things that make you go hmmmmmm. Well you know who cares if conservatives and on the average retired folks who donated are told the whole truth. After all the Minutemen and Associates are patriots(sarc)

Technorati Tags:
MCDC
Simcox
American Caging
minutemen
Minuteman
illegals
immigration
illegal immigration
Keyes

Anti-Bush Republicans

2006-11-18T12:51:00.000-06:00

The Strata-Sphere has done it again. Last night I posted this great piece called Bush Conservatives. Today he looks at the opposite number- The anti Bush Republican. It's a important piece that is also a nice little history lesson. A history lesson we need to look at because those that don't study it are apt to repeat its mistakes. You will not hear this view very much among the echo chamber of the blogsphere but I am convinced its true.

I am concerned about this Buchanite populism that is pretending to be conservative. It is like a nasty flu bug that keeps popping up every few years. This is not Regan Conservatism by any stretch of the imagination. This is one reason why kookdum like the Council of Conservative Citizens and various hardline anti immigration movements are such a threat. They are attracted to this and in fact its what they believe. It goes way beyond "illegals". It is protectionism and it is Isolationism that is at its roots. In many cases its fear.

Good read and please look at his comment section

Technorati Tags: Bush Republican

Geaux Tigers and Geaux To Hell Ole Miss

2006-11-18T10:19:00.000-06:00

This is the week of the year I have to hear this crap from my Ole Myth Friends.

HODDY TODDY

ARE YOU READY???
Hell yes, damn right!!!
hoddy toddy
gosh almighty
who in the hell are we...HEY!!!
flim flam, bim bam
OLE
MISS BY DAMN!!!

Good Grief, well Col. Reb is crying up in Ole Miss and he will hopefully be crying tonight. Which reminds me that we need to watch funniest damn YOUTUBE football related thing all year. Who can't want to watch it over and over again. Here is the story behind this internet sensation.

I do think the fans are overlooking this game a tad. However lets pray the players have not. Getting beat by Ole Myth would make my life hell for a year.

A few notes. It's Senior night and we say goodbye to our departing LSU players tonight in their last game in Tiger Stadium. We of course are wondering if it is a certain Junior Quarterbacs last night too. LSU of course is hoping to hit the trifecta and not only win but have Miss St beat Arkansas and Bama beat Auburn. If that happens our fate is in our own hands. Its quite amazing to think that for 4 and half yards in the final seconds of the Auburn game we would be in contention for the National championship. Well that is what makes this game exciting.

By the way please check out my LSU bloggers on my blogroll such as Tigersmack and LSUnpredictable

Technorati Tags: LSU Mississippi Louisiana Ole Miss

A Friday Night Roundup of Kookdum

2006-11-17T21:57:00.000-06:00

Time to look at a week in kookdum. I look at a great bit of kookdum but I specialize in exposing the koodum that wishes to hijack our Conservative politcal movements. If your new to my blog , I have been on a hiatus for the past few weeks because I was volunteering for the dear ole GOP. Hey, don't look at me most of my guys I called and worked for won!lol!

Anywho, any Koodum roundup must start at the Council of(word hijack) Conservative Citzens-St.Louis Branch. I mention the good Blogmeister last night. Let me say hello Blogmeister and thank you for your kind words about my blog and my absense. I was actually thinking of you during the World Series and wondering perhaps if you were entertaining extreme paleo-conservatives in the Council's box seats during the series. Congrats on winning. By the way tell the executive board they have seen nothing yet. Well the Vatican of this extremist group through its unoffical voice has been busy on some output on his blog. The blogmeister talks about how our pandering to the hispanic vote didn't work. First I hate the word pandering in this context. When certain conservative factions are mad at the GOP its because they were not "listened too". When we try to listen to the needs of the hispanic community its called pandering. The average Republican/Conservative doesn't consider it pandering by the way to listen to hispanics or other groups. Only the extremist do.

Anywho blogmeister what do you expect them to do? They were not going to vote for Graf or Hayworth in Arizona that talks about deport then all big or small. All rational Republican voices on this issue got drowned out by that abortion of a show that Lou Dobbs host. Do you expect them to vote for Tancredo? Tancredo is one of the most despised ridiculed men in the Republican Congressional Caucus but the way the media portrayed him you would have he as the leader of the party. No the problems was the radical Buchanite wing got the press this year. Many of them not even republicans. Such as the infamous Pat Buchanan himself. But I am happy that Buchanan/Graf/Dobbs bunch went down to defeat pretty much. So our lower hispanic vote is just a bump in the road. That being said the blogmeister at least runs a half intelligent racist site and often has things of interest outside koodum. I suggest this interesting post he has on a little known facet of now deceased Milton Friedman and his thought and contribution to a big issue.

Lets now leave the Vatican of Kookdum and go the main Council of Conservative Citizens Web site. Before I go further let me tell you my view on racist koodum. I am a conservative republican. I don't cry racism at a drop of the hat. I am not to thrilled with efforts by some liberals to make all people that like the Confederate flag or against gay marriage the same as the Klan or the Nazis. In the end I use common sense The Council of Conservative Citizens is a dangerous radical organization. It has especially become more radicalized in the last few years. They have open associations with kooky fringe groups, white supremacy organizations, neo nazis, and similar ilk. The stuff they believe and especially all the conspiracy nonsense that is spreading is incredible. They also are desperately trying to gain a legitimate foothold in political discussion. One misson of this blog is to stop that. More on this group in later post and feel free if you have any questions about this group just ask. I want to highlight a article that the the Council has on a certain judge named Terri Willingham Thomas that won in a seat in the great state of Alabama. You cant link directly to the the CofCC post but from the Nov 8th post:County District Judge Terri Willingham elected to Alabama Civil Appeals Court despite weeks of media attacks over speaking at a CofCC meeting.Once again left-wing newspapers tried to use the CofCC to hurt a political candidate and failed. Judge Terri Willingham had been viciously attacked by the Montgomery Advertisor and other left-wing papers for weeks over a speech she gave to the CofCC. The ultra-left wing Montgomery-based Southern Poverty Law Center, headed by former Ted Kennedy fundraising chief Morris Dess, was behind the attacks.Terri Willingham ingored the media attacks and was elected to the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals with 54% of the vote.

To say the least this is troublesome. We must do our best to educate politicians that the Council of (word hijack) Conservative Citizens is not a conservative organization. In cases like this I usually give politicos the benefit of the doubt. I also am ready to forgive past transgressions when the organization was even less well known and had not become the radical extremist group that it is today in most of it chapters. That being said it must be made clear to the good judge that any interaction with this organization is taboo in a big way. So lets keep a eye on her just to make sure this doesn't happen again. We shall be highlighting more of this kookdum that is the Council of Conservative Citzens each week. I have a few things up my sleeve as to finding out what is going on behind closed doors. Stayed tuned.

Keep looking everyday for Kookdum roundups and post. I think we can all agree no matter our politics that these groups cannot gain legitimacy. I hit a number of groups and try to highlight whats going on. Tomorrow I shall be doing a special Kookdum Sports related post. Yes folks racist kooky sports sites. I shall be typing that tomorrow as I am hopefully watching Miss State pull a upset on the Arky hogs tomorrow.

Technorati Tags: Alabama Council of Conservative Citizens CofCC Terri Willingham

The Bush Conservative is Me. Is it You?

2006-11-17T16:27:00.002-06:00

I often get asked what kind of conservative I am. This question generally comes from some faction of the conservative movement. On my blog roll today there is a answer to that question. I strongly urge you to read AJ Strata's The Bush Conservatives. This is where a lot of us are at. You want hear our viewpoint on conservative talk radio often nor on the conflict loving MSM. But this is us. Are you one too. The Anchoress appears to be one. I think its a must read and should be read in concert with the other opinion pieces taking about what ills the Grand Ole Party.

I am willing to bet this where the average Mass going Catholic voter is at. A voter that Bush carried in 2004. I am willing to be this iswhere the average evanglical voter is at too that I live among. You know the ones that are social conservatives but also have concerns about prescription medicine for mom.

Good read. Will it be listened too?

Update Some are listening
A great blog that I intend to add to my blog roll agrees too. Go check out The Squiggler.

Update II
It is a movement- My Vast Wing Conspiracy Agrees too. And boy she is not holding back. We need a Banner
She say just at the beginning:Frankly, I am sick and goddamned tired of conservatives–or as Squiggler calls them, the “neo-right”–invoking the name of Ronald Reagan when they attack other Republicans and any time they take a stand. It’s kinda like Godwin’s Law, in a sense–you can’t just throw out a name and assert moral authority, you have to back it up with facts and reality. Or alternatively, you could (I do) call it blasphemy. None of these “neo-right” types have anything to do with Reagan, in either deed or words. Reagan wasn’t an angry man, he was certainly no pessimist, and he did NOT violate his own 11th Commandment. These people are Buchanan Conservatives, if anything; not Reagan Republicans. Similarly, they like to say Bush is a “Rockefeller Republican;” believing, like leftists, that naming someone makes things so. (Of course, there’s plenty written about the similarities between ideological extremes.) Keep calling Iraq a “quagmire,” and it is one. Keep calling Bush a “Rockefeller Republican,” and he is one. Right. Click on the link to read more

Technorati Tags: Bush GOP Conservatives elections

A look Around My Blogroll

2006-11-17T13:24:00.000-06:00

I am thankful I am getting back to this as a regular part of my blog. I have missed highlighting the great things that my blogroll is saying the past few weeks.

First let me go to one of my favorite Bloggers the webmaster of both The Pink Flamingo and Subway Canaries. Pink Flamingo talks about statements released from Connie Hair about the Minuteman Fence Scam. I shall be going into that report. Its pretty hilarious and as I expected all hat and no cattle. Oh and be sure to read your link about the voodoo Priest that put a curse ont he President. Over at Subway Canaries she has a very serious piece entitled The Price of Too Much Caution - Too Many People Die - While Awaiting New Drugs to Be Approved. I am going to dig into that one more tonight.

Called As Seen has a post entitled "Powerline almost gets it... " In it he talks about the hardliners on immigration. I agree.

I need to quickly highlight four very good Louisiana blogs.
Tiger Smack shows that our freedoms are under attack again under the guise of feel good legislation. Stuff like this just infuriates me. Whats amazing is the article doesn't even talk about the proposed sanction if you violate this law.

Conservative Cajun has made a Presidential Endorsement. Cajun Conservative is going to be an Advocate for Congressman Duncan Hunter for President. Please go and take a look at the positions of Hunter that Cajun Conservative has compiled. He will not be my choice but I am gald that Cajun Conservative is starting to highlight this very important race and take a stand.

Not Right About Anything of the small enclave of unhinged liberals from Lafayette has a review or Borat. He is in Journalism so his review is interesting. I am planning to go Sunday and watch it myself

We Saw That talks about the 110 pound Grover Cleveland lobster in their post 110 year old lobster sacrificed to the god of consumerism . I think he makes a valid point. I think one question is how many of this lobsters are around. I mean age is not the only point. Look how old alligators get and we eat them all the time.

This is a limited blogroll roundup post. Part of the reason is that I want to spend substantial time talking about what two of my blogroll folks are talking about. That up next.

Technorati Tags: tagnamehere

Bush Arrives in Vietnam

2006-11-16T21:40:00.000-06:00

According to the AP. Now take a deep breath and read that again. Bush Arrives in Vietnam. One would think all the Cable News shows would be breaking in to cover this historic event. Nahh they are talking about OJ's book and upcoming TV appearance.

Technorati Tags: Bush ,Vietnam

Graceful in Defeat Democrat Patti Cox is Suing Congressman Jim McCrery

2006-11-16T18:36:00.000-06:00

She is saying that Louisiana Congressman Jim McCrery doesn't live in the district. So I suppose she wants another election or maybe just wants him taken out so she and fellow Democrat Artis Cash(who finished Second) can go out it in a new election. Patti Cox finished third but to her credit edged out anti immigration goofball Chester Kelly. Chester Kelly ran tons of ads that featured illegal aliens and nuclear mushroom clouds going off.

According to KTBS news she filed her suit in Caddo District Court. McCrery said it was pretty pointless since he has a address in Shreveport where they are paying rent.
She also filed this without a lawyer which shows how meritless pointless all this probally is.

Here is the link to the story.

Technorati Tags: McCrery Louisiana GOP Republican

Coming Up

2006-11-16T17:17:00.000-06:00

Well its not all immigration all the time here at my little ole blog. I shall be doing a Blogroll roundup tonight and talk about Bobby Jindal announcement here in Louisiana among other things. Till then I am going home to open up birthday present. Yes, my birthday is not till tomorrow but you know. So till then GEAUX TIGERS and GEAUX TO HELL OLE MISS

Technorati Tags: tagnamehere

On "Tancredo" Like Immigration Policy its Damn the Torpedos and Full Speed Ahead at The National Review

2006-11-16T16:46:00.000-06:00

I love the National Review. I especially love the always fun "The Corner Blog" on their web site. This year however their lack of diverse thought on the immigration issue has become tiresome. There appears to be no thoughtful analysis going on about immigration politics in these post election days. . My God if the very agenda oriented Center for Immigration Studies(A John Tanton founded group) says it true well my golly it must be.

Well, The Corner Blog has been placating the "Its Amnesty-hide the women and children" crowd with all sorts comforting echo chamber spin. Today and yesterday was no exception. Now I should not pick on poor Mr Ledeen because he has not been the worst offender. But this just sent me over the top. From the Corner:

Time Mag's Karen Tumulty (where do they find these names?) on Hoyer/Murtha" [Michael Ledeen]
It's pretty hard to beat this for sheer demagoguery:
Time.com ^Karen Tumulty
Nancy Pelosi showed us something important about herself this week. If Tip O'Neill thought that all politics was local, Pelosi's view is that it's personal. But what may have more significance in the long run is what her caucus showed her — that, unlike the Republicans they are replacing, they will not march lockstep at every dictate from their leaders.

Riiight, Karen. The insurrections against Harriet Meiers and the Bush immigration scheme never happened. Lord knows McCaine never ever challenged Frist or the White House. Snowe and Collins always did what they were told. And Specter was always in lockstep with his colleagues. It was stormtroopers marching in lockstep, all the time.Posted at 5:15 PM.(BOLD AND CHARACTER ENHANCEMENT MINE)

I addressed this email to him a few moments ago:

Mr. LeDeen let me say I just love The Corner. It is one my favorite places to come to keep up to date on what is happening. It is always thought provoking. However, I must say this year though your site has been an ordeal for me. It seems in the world of The Corner that Republicans and Conservatives that think perhaps the Tancredos of the world are slightly wrong do not exist. Yes, we are the people that want to get tough on illegal immigration but are not thrilled with the "deport them all big or small" or "starve them all back over the border" philosophy.

Now I know that NR has John Tanton's boy from the Center on Immigration Studies on staff. But perhaps throw us a bone or better yet give some thought of trying to portray both sides as to this issue. In that regard can you please refrain from using the words "Bush immigration scheme". That sounds like such a Democrat politcal way of talking. Much like when they talk about Bush's "tax Schemes". It is clever tactic but does little to elevate the debate.

Thank You
JH
Technorati Tags: immigration gop

Immigration Politics Myth Number 1 of 06- Democrats Pretended to be Tougher On Illegals

2006-11-16T15:29:00.000-06:00

I keep hearing this line all over the web and on TV and radio that democrats snookered the American people as to immigration. That is they pretended to be tougher on the illegals than the Republicans. In fact that some democrats downright stole the hardline position.

This is often brought up as to Hayworth defeat in Arizona. Rep Hayworth was one of those that said any compromise outside the Tancredo view was "AMNESTY". The gospel seems to be that his opponent just mirrored Hayworth's position. Well in my neck of the woods that is called a LIE. A lie that keeps circualting it seems.

From Congressman Hayworth's campaign web site on the immigration issue:
The congressman believes that under no circumstances should we reward illegal aliens with benefits such as citizenship, Social Security benefits, or in-state tuition at Arizona colleges and universities, all of which will result in more illegal immigration.

From his opponents Web Site:

Every sovereign nation has a responsibility to secure its border. In Congress, I'll make it a top priority to secure the U.S.-Mexico border and stop illegal immigration.
I'll deliver results, not rhetoric, and will work with both Republicans and Democrats to get the job done. This includes both securing our border and offering realistic solutions for the immigration problem our country faces.
Specifically, I'll work to
Station more Border Patrol agents along the border;
Put more high-tech tools along the border so we can better monitor border activity;
Extend existing fencing in urban areas;
Establish a temporary worker program that allows us to keep track of who crosses our borders; and
Hold employers accountable for whom they hire.
I oppose amnesty and will not support it. Still, we must deal with the millions of illegal immigrants who are already here. Catching and deporting 11 million illegal immigrants, as some have suggested, is neither realistic nor wise. I believe we should give families an opportunity to gain legal status if they pay a penalty for breaking the law, pay their taxes, learn English, and hold a job for a period of years.
Illegal immigration affects Arizona more than it does other states - more than half of all illegal crossings over the U.S.-Mexico border happen here in Arizona. In the State Senate, I worked closely with Governor Janet Napolitano to increase the penalties for violent human smuggling, and I supported her decision to declare a state of emergency along the border. I saw firsthand how Washington's complete failure to do its job continues to hurt our state. We need representation in Washington that secures our border and offers realistic solutions to our current immigration problem. I will bring that tough, yet realistic, voice to Capitol Hill, just as I did as Mayor and State Senator.

Do people see the difference? Yes Mitchel is tough on immigration. Just like many of us Republicans that are outside the Tancredo mindset on this issue. But the difference is that Mitchell does not endorse the "deport the all big and small" or "starve them back over the Border" viewpoint as those here. This is where Americans are at. However when you the radical population control folks at FAIR, CIS , and Numbers USA calling the shots this solution will not fly. You see again this isn't really all abot illegal immigration. Now true Hayworth had other problems in this race. But what has been marketed to Republicans as the issue of the century did not save him.

Let us look at the Graf/Gifford Race. This was a open seat in Ariz that was held by Republican Congressman Kolbe. Graf was the ultimate Tancredo immigration hardliner guy in the race. In fact he helped found the minutemen. He holds the same position as Hayworth. This district by the way is on the border.

What was Gifford's position? From USA Today :Gabrielle Giffords, the Democrat who defeated Graf, also carried Cochise County, Ariz., along the U.S.-Mexican border where frustration with immigration is highest. Gifford says she believes voters there preferred her because "people want solutions, not slogans." From another Arizona paper: Ms. Giffords is calling for comprehensive immigration reform, including a guest worker program, workplace sanctions and improved relations with Mexico.

Now of course Tancredo like hardliners won elections last week. But many of these elections did not have immigration as the a major issue. Many were far away from border areas. But I think its fair to say that AMericans are not enthralled with an approach that is so draconian as to ALL the illegals here. More analysis later.

Technorati Tags: Graf Giffords Hayworth GOP immigration

Koodum In St Louis

2006-11-16T15:07:00.000-06:00

Since the election is over, I have time to delve into the mischief that kookdum(both left and right) are doing. I had to see what my good friend at the Council of (word hijack alert) Conservative Citizens- St Louis Branch was doing. The St Louis Branch is sort of the Vatican of this radical racist organization. Well the blogmeister is as busy as ever. The blogmeister gives major kudos to "CofCC idol" Lou Dobbs and Senator-Elect Webb from Virginia. Of course the blogmeister is a little disappointed that the soon to be Senator doesn't believe in segregation but you can't have it all I suppose. However he does hit in the head as to Webb. I don't think the democrats have realized, northe people of Virginia, that they elected a Pat Buchanan in that fine state. God help us all.

Technorati Tags: Webb Lou Dobbs CofCC Council of Conservative Citizens

The Simcox Minuteman PAC- Where did the money go?

2006-11-16T14:02:00.000-06:00

To say the least it was not a stellar day election wise for the Simcox Minutemen. Many of their cguys and gals lost. The Minutemen faction headed up by Simcox have also released their long awaited audit. More on that later in a seperate post. However I wish to concentrate on the political action committee side of the Minutemen for a bit.

For some background ,please read last months Washington Times article on this whole affair. Its quite illuminating.

He are some tidbits:
According to the most recent Federal Election Commission (FEC) records, the Minuteman PAC spent $240,000 through the first week of September on eight congressional campaigns, although just $5,000 was direct candidate contributions.
The FEC records also show that about 60 percent of the Minuteman PAC's expenditures through early September went to private companies -- several with ties to a labyrinth of Virginia-based tax-exempt charities and fundraising groups founded or headed by Mr. Keyes. The money was used for direct-mail fundraisers, telemarketing programs, advertising campaigns and disbursement fees for four candidates.
The Minuteman PAC spent nearly $88,000 through early September on its own operations, including fees to many of the Keyes-aligned private firms to collect and disburse donations and do direct-mail fundraising, the FEC records show. Other PAC money went to Web site construction, bank charges, salaries and advertising.......Several current and former Minuteman members and supporters told The Washington Times that they have been deluged with requests for money from various conservative organizations since the Minuteman PAC was formed.
Response Unlimited, which calls itself the "best and most comprehensive source of mailing lists for conservative and Christian mailers and telemarketers," offers the names and contact information of Minuteman donors for $120 for 1,000 names. The Waynesboro, Va., firm, headed by Christian right activist Philip Zodhiates, also has an "exclusive contract" with the Declaration Foundation......s

Now that article was from last month. What in heck was this important PAC doing in the months of October and November? Well if one goes to their Web Site they certaintly are patting themselves on the back it seems. One gets the impression that they were out there fighting the good fight after the primaries helping out the so called No Amnesty crowd. What really happened?

Well the intial FEC filings show quite a different story.

The Minuteman PAC made the following payouts according to FEC records(note these are mainly 48 notices so we don't know how much went to caging and other folks). $73,798 to Mountaintop media related to the Graf campaign on Oct 2. $ 20,350 to Mountain Top media related to the Graf Campaign on Oct 10. $21,334 to Mountain Top Media related to the Graf campaign on Nov 1 .So basically the Minuteman PAC gave a few direct contributions of their money to 5 people(Graf included) and the rest went to the Graf campaign. It should be remembered that Randy Graf was using our friend American Caging. What in the World does this mean. Why in heavens name were they pouring all their money into one campaign? A campaign that was always 10 points behind.Why were they not helping poor ole Rep Hayworth just up the road who was in the fight of his life? Questions? Questions? Questions? Don't you think the donors were expecting that perhaps this money was going to be spread around a little bit more? It is true they were helping others out in the primary season but this sole spending on one race is awefully curious. We shall delve into this later in much more detail.

Technorati Tags: gop Graf immigration Simcox minuteman minutemen

Immigration Politics, The GOP, and Those Darn Miuntemen

2006-11-16T13:50:00.000-06:00

Today we are going to start focusing a little on the whole immigration politcs side of this election. I think its clear that the ultra hardline approach was not the issue that was going to save us our as a party. We shall also be going back into the Simcox Minuteman Scam. Looking at the campaign finance reports shows us something interested. Thats up next.

Technorati Tags: Simcox Minuteman immigration Graf GOP Arizona

Immigration Politics - Some People Haven't Learned

2006-11-14T14:57:00.000-06:00

The Tancredo immigration hardliners are trying to make a comeback it appears. Despite signs that are apparent all over the nation that Americans are thrilled neither with the "delete the border crowd" or the Tancredo "deport them all big and small crowd" it seems we have not learned the lesson. Elements of the GOP and Conservative base want to push us further in future political extinction. I am going to go into this a great deal tonight. I have looked at a lot of these races as to the immigration issue. I shall also tell how the Simcox Minutemen scammed us again. Oh by the way they are suppose to open the books this Nov 15. I havent forgotten that. I notice with interest this little item on the National Review Corner blog today talking about how Rep Pence(the only adult in the room at times) seems to have jettison any sort of compromise he once promoted for what appears for political advantage.

I just emailed the esteemed Mrs Lopez at the Corner and said:
"I just saw your post on Mike Pence. I must say his stock has gone down in my book now. I know that conservatives hate to admit some truths about immigration politics. I know because many of us "comprehensive reform type" conservatives were flamed and banned from many conservative blogs and forums for even mentioning the idea or wanting to debate it. However, its clear to me that after the election most Americans are not thrilled with open borders nor the Tancredo approach. Labeling everything amnesty in my book is as honest as the democrats Mediscare tactics.

Pence was the grown up in the room on this debate. Now it appears he will jettison all this for his own political advantage. Sorry, this issue is too important for that. I have now seen some of the character of the man. I will remember that in the future."

More later on how the ulta hardliners are screwing up again.

Technorati Tags: immigration GOP

The Dead Pelican Misses the Point

2006-11-13T13:24:00.000-06:00

I suspect the The Dead Pelican site gets the most hits of any Louisiana Internet site that focus is the news. Today the Dead Pelican had this Headline-BLANCO'S TRIP TO NOWHERE?.

The Dead Pelican says in part:A story put out by WAFB today reads that Blanco's recent meeting with the Kuwaitis has resulted in the signing of a memorandum. The memorandum is not binding on the Kuwaitis, however, and can be terminated at any time.
According to the story, Blanco and the Minister of Energy of the State of Kuwait, H.E. Shaikh Ali Jarrah Al-Sabah, signed a Memorandum of Understanding Sunday to explore building the refinery in Louisiana. But the memorandum was not a legal obligation and talks between Louisiana and Kuwait could end without penalty if it is terminated. Blanco and AL-Sabah agreed to meet as necessary on the project, WAFB reported.
A recent story in THE ADVOCATE read that Blanco would return with only a memorandum of understanding that would be "more diplomacy than deal-making."
In the end, Blanco will come home empty handed, but that hasn't stopped the Louisiana media from reporting on Blanco's adventures day, after day... after day... after day. Blanco and her Economic Development officer Mike Olivier have stated several times that the refinery is years away, if it comes at all. The same basic story has been recycled almost daily over the last few weeks (see excerpts below).

I shall not be supporting Madam Governor for her campaign to return to the Governor's mansion. But to imply this is a boondogle or worthless is not being fair. Trips like this pay dividends for the future. Our former Governor Mike Fostor, being too busy taking Helicopter lessons, getting a law degree, and riding his Harley, never made trips like these. While all the time other Southern Governors did and got huge returns in the end. There is a lot of faults to Blanco but this isnt one.

Technorati Tags: Louisiana Blanco

LSU and The Sec Championship

2006-11-13T12:07:00.000-06:00

Before we go to the less important things of life, let me please put to rest all this confusion about what has to happen for LSU to get to the SEC Championship. I keep hearing that all that has to happen is that Arkansas loses against Miss State and then we beat Arkanasas the day after Thanksgiving. For the one thousandth time that is false. There seems to be some theory out there that even if Auburn doesnt lose we just need to be 5 BCS points ahead of them. Wrong Wrong Wrong. I even heard a major LSU Sports radio guy spout this nonsense. Both Auburn and Ark have to lose this weekend for LSU to have a chance to go to the SEC championship.

One poster on a LSU board had it right on in his explanation:
If Arkansas loses to Miss. State and Auburn beats Bama, LSU CANNOT GO TO ATLANTA! Reason: Arkansas would have two SEC losses (2 in the SEC West - LSU and Miss St), Auburn would have two SEC losses (1 in the east - Georgia, 1 in the west - Arkansas), LSU would have two SEC losses (1 in the east - Florida, 1 in the west - Auburn). According to the SEC three-team tie-breaker rule, Arkansas would be eliminated first due to their Western division record, thus making it a head-to-head for LSU and Auburn. Auburn beat LSU, so Auburn would go to Atlanta.

Thus, Arkansas AND Auburn would have to lose this weekend to send LSU to Atlanta (assuming the Tigers win out, of course). If Arkansas beats Miss State, they're headed to Atlanta, regardless of the outcome of the LSU-Ark game. If Ark loses to Miss. State and Auburn beats Bama, then Arkansas would have to beat LSU to make it to Atlanta; if LSU beat Arkansas under that scenario, then Auburn would go to Atlanta .

Here is the official rules in event of a three way tie in SEC West

Lots of Talking Not Enough Facts

2006-11-12T21:36:00.000-06:00

I went down the LSU/Bama game as a reward to myself. Great Win!!! More on that later perhaps. I decided to stay away from politics a good bit for a few days so I could get some perspective. Reviewing the stuff that is circulating about why the Republicans lost is a tiresome ordeal. One reason is the spin. Each side , whether factions in the Republican party or liberal Dems ,have a spin they are promoting. However it is quite apparent most of this is not based on any thing relating to facts. A true analysis of the why and hows of the loss shall take a few weeks to even start seeing the full picture. I do feel though we can see some overall trends in this election cycle. I shall post on that shortly. Today I am starting to work on another blog I will be starting dealing with a Presidential hopeful That announcement coming up soon. I will a have two post up after midnight so stay tuned. I am ready to get back into the fight

Technorati Tags: tagnamehere

The Election

2006-11-09T01:08:00.000-06:00

I have just gotten in. I was in Missouri volunteering my time in Missouri to get Sen Talent reelected. That effort was not successful I hate to say. Anywho, I am exhausted. I am glad to say that my blogging will get back to its past levels. I have spent the last few weeks spending my nights doing calls for Republicans and other such things. TO say the least I am drained mentally and physically. I shall give my thoughts on election day later today when I wake up. I am going to bed
Technorati Tags: tagnamehere

In Arizona, GOP finds the issue of immigration no help at polls

2006-11-02T15:05:00.000-06:00

I have kept off the whole immigration/minutemen/Tancredo issue for a while(not counting yesterday). I have done this to foster some party unity here. But this article needs to be socked away.

Now its a good article and it shows that the Dems are trying to court what is called the "anti illegal" vote. But this is telling: Getting tough on illegal immigration is a winner in Arizona. Yet the issue is not playing out as House Republican leaders planned six months ago, when they bet their majority that a hard-line, no-compromise stance would rescue them in a brutal election climate dominated by the Iraq war and corruption.
With Tuesday's election days away, in districts where illegal immigration is Topic A, Republican hardliners are the candidates in trouble here. As many as three GOP House seats are in jeopardy, including that of six-term incumbent J.D. Hayworth, whose race has slid from shoo-in to toss-up.
The fire-breathing Hayworth, a staple of conservative talk shows and author of the border-security tract "Whatever It Takes" (Chapter One: "Overrun"), is in the battle of his career for the Phoenix suburbs against mild-mannered Democrat Harry Mitchell, an avuncular former mayor of Tempe who supports a guest worker program and a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants already in the country.
In Tucson (Pima County), the open-seat district that spans the nation's busiest corridor for immigrants and drug trafficking, card-carrying Minuteman Randy Graf is expected to lose to pro-guest-worker Democrat Gabrielle Giffords......think people realize that it's just not as simple as just rounding people up, sending them back, and sealing off the border," Mitchell said over lunch in Tempe, where he is so beloved that the city erected a 35-foot statue of him. "I think there's some sentiment for the fence," but "at the same time you need to be working on a guest worker program with employer sanctions."
Mitchell said a fence ignores underlying economic forces. "The illegal immigrants are not coming over here because the border is porous," he said. "They're coming over because there are jobs."
Democrats contend that House GOP leaders blundered last spring when they decided to refuse to negotiate with the Senate on its immigration bill -- sponsored by wildly popular Arizona Republican Sen. John McCain and backed by Bush -- that offered a legalization program for the estimated 12 million undocumented immigrants now in the country and a guest worker program for new arrivals.
Instead, House leaders denounced the Senate bill as amnesty and held dozens of hearings across the country highlighting the virtues of a border crackdown.
The result, however, was that only the fence bill passed. Much as Arizonans like fences, virtual or physical, many do not believe barriers alone will stop the tide of people.
Even Minutemen gathered to hear Graf debate Giffords in Sierra Vista, a conservative town near Arizona's southeastern border, said fences have limits, pointing to the rugged mountains towering over the town.
"You can't put a fence in there, that's for sure," said Gordon Cruger, a new resident of Sierra Vista.

I am not trying to rub this in but I have been screaming this forever. Go to the Pink Flamingo(whom you should visit every day) on my links. She is there and no doubt she is seeing the same thing. But please fellow Republicans listen to these words:Matt Salmon, chairman of the Arizona GOP and a former member of Congress, conceded that the House plan was flawed. "It was a good strategy, but there needed to be more accomplished," he said. "There needed to be a more comprehensive immigration reform package installed."
Democrats have exploited GOP divisions, fending off.After this election serious questions must be asked. No matter how mad it makes Lou Dobbs

Technorati Tags: immigration Republican

Conservatives Take A Deep Breath the Polls Are OK

2006-11-02T12:25:00.000-06:00

Some needless anxiety going on in Conservative land. The always intelligent and reliable JAY COST has a article that will calm you down . Very informative so you might want to print it out.

A word on polls conservatives. They are ok-promise. They are ALL not a plot. There are many variables to polls and if used and analyzed correctly they are our friend. Lets not be afraid of them but use them to aid us in our victory. Perhaps I shall do a later post where I shall expalin The Pondering American's Poll Truths. But right now I see hope in many polls not unavoidable disaster.

I must say the whole subject of polling has created some fussy people today. I had a run in on a conservative forum with a guy that I forgot I had a spat last week. The guy is convinced I am evil because I was not sold on the whole Webb Book Scandel as a vote getting tactic in Virginia. He was talking about this Poll conspiracy. He mentioned the 2004 exit polls. I just mentioned for clarity that there was no conspiracy and that the company running the poll was sending out warnings all day that they were troubled at their results. His response:

Please, nationwide exit polling showed the same damn trend on election night. That was not by accident. It was intentional. I have done this dance with you before about this election. YOU SURE LIKE TO TRY AND HELP DISCOURAGE REPUBLICAN VOTERS. I KNOW WHERE YOU STAND AND IT IS NOT YOUR BEST INTERSET FOR REPUBLICANS TO WIN. GOOD TRY WOLF IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING.All - this freeper defended the words of Jim Webb about a father picking up his 4 year old son and puttting his penis in his mouth!!!!

Good Grief dude go get a drink or get on medication. Even with a few days till the elections some folks are concerned about finding rinos and outing secret liberals. I shall be back later. I have to run down to the Wal-Mart and scare old people in to voting Dem by telling them that Republicans want to take away their SS check(Sarc)

Technorati Tags: GOP

By the Way Please Visit My Blogroll

2006-11-01T13:38:00.000-06:00

I think I have one of the best really. I am currently on a computer that has a over active filter and is denying me access to blogrolling. Which means I can't see my link list. Tonight during the Boise St/Fresno game I shall return home and hopefully do a blogroll roundup.

Technorati Tags: tagnamehere

Louisiana Senator Mary Landrieu Out Campaigning For The Democrats

2006-11-01T12:24:00.000-06:00

Most Louisiana residents are just bystanders in all this election fun the nation is having. The hottest races in the state are races for mayor in ALexandria and Shreveport, a fun Sheriffs race in St Landry Parish, and an interesting Congressional race in New Orleans where William "Cold Cash" Jefferson is running. There is also a contested congressional race deep in cajun country but anyone besides the most partisan will say that is a safe Dem seat.

However, just because there is a lack of excitement in Louisiana doesn't mean our congressional delegation is just sitting around. I noted with interest this Slate article talking about Sen Mary Landrieu up in Tennessee campaigning for Harold Ford. The writer states: The other day I wrote that it's ridiculous to say that Tennessee Senate candidate Harold Ford Jr. has "Hollywood values." But today, I'm at a "Women for Ford" event moderated by longtime Tennessee resident and political activist Ashley Judd. Also on the stage: Louisiana Sen. Mary Landrieu, a conservative, religious Southern Democrat whom Ford is clearly trying to emulate politically.

I must say that I never have thought of Landrieu as a "religious" candidate. I am not slamming Mary's personal faith here. It just never has seem to be a big theme of her campaign. Does going to Church make one a "religious Democrat"? Further looking at the demographics of Mary's vote last time. I wonder if she needs to emulate Ford and not the other way around. Besides that I am sure Senator Landrieu doesnt mind being up in Tennessee. The further away she is from that messy Congressional race in her own district the better for her politically. Plus she will need all the chits she can call in when she runs in 08.

Technorati Tags: Louisiana Landrieu politics

What Does a Possible Democrat House Majority Mean to Immigration

2006-11-01T11:27:00.000-06:00

I thought I would revisit an interesting topic today. That is what is the future of immigration politics if the House goes Democrat. This subject is one that no one seems to be talking about on the conservative forums and blogs with much frequency. That is understandable fore several reasons. First, this is not the time for whole Conservative blogsphere to admit defeat in the House. Even with my preliminary prediction below, I still think we need to fight for every seat. Second, I even the hardliners know its not time to bash the President and also depress turnout among the immigration hardliners.

However my blog does not have the readership of the of the National Review's Corner blog so I have no fear that I shall cause any problems.

Mickey Kaus at Slate is one of my favorite Democrats. He often is the only Democrat that tells his fellow travellers honest truths. Kaus also is the liberal version of Tom Tancredo on immigration. Kaus has been thinking of this issue quite a bit. He recently posted:
I've been trying to figure out if a Democrat-led House would actually pass some version of the Bush-McCain semi-amnesty immigration bill. Everyone I talk to in Washington pooh-poohs the idea, arguing that Pelosi-led Democrats will never give Bush something he wants. I'd like to agree, but I'm skeptical. The only thing standing in the way of the Bush legislation was the Republican House, and if that's gone ... . Plus, there will be intense pressure from Latino groups for Democrats to take advantage of the rare welfare-reform-like opening in which a President is willing to defy his own party's Congressional caucus. Not to mention all those new citizens for Dems to register. ... V-DARE immigration-restrictionist Steve Sailer is skeptical too, though he notes the possibility of a split among the Dems, with a significant Lou-Dobbsy "preserve unskilled wages" faction finally emerging. But Sailer leaves out the possibility of a McCain presidency--which would presumably mean at least four more years of White House pressure for "comprehensive" reform. ... P.S.: Anyone who can help me think through this somewhat crucial question, please e-mail. ... 9:55 P.M.

If you are new to this blog let me say upfront that I am a supporter of the Bush view of a comprehensive approach to immigration. I agree with Influence Peddler blog that this is a no brainer. Peddler states:A Democratic House of Representatives is going to have a tough row to hoe. With a Republican Senate (presumably) and White House, they will have no trouble finding issues on which to draw distinctions with the GOP (expanded access to health care, minimum wage increases, ramped-down commitment in Iraq, and deficit reduction). But they will also have to protect themselves against the charge that they stand for nothing but obstruction, and there are few issues where they agree with the Senate and the White House.Wait a minute. Did I say 'few issues?' I meant 'no issues' - apart from immigration.Further, there is the latino constituency to think about. After the signing of the Secure Fence Act, and after whatever happens on election day, do you think the President will sit back and forget about his efforts to woo latino voters to the GOP? What could be a better pitch than to say 'The Senate has passed earned legalization; I will sign earned legalization, but Nancy Pelosi opposes earned legalization.' Knowing that he doesn't need to appease the GOP base anymore, Bush can sing that song far and wide. And guess what? If Nancy Pelosi stubbornly refuses to cooperate, it will rankle the GOP base even less.And lastly, Pelosi will need to demonstrate that they can deliver for business on something. If the Democrats win the House, and their agenda with regard to business includes tax increases, increased regulation, a grinding halt to trade expansion, beating up on China, and investigating federal contracts, how much more likely will business be to redouble the effort to make Pelosi a one-term Speaker? There will be relatively few issues where House Democrats could do something to buy off the animosity of Big Business. Immigration will be a big one.

Like I have said since June, the Tancredo hardliners have played bad politics with this issue from the start. There were clear indications from polling data and just plain history that the Dems could retake the house. That is one reason why the refusal of many to compromise with the President on any aspect of his plan has been baffling to me. Anyone that has run for Class President could see that this was weak hand policy wise when looking down the road at the eelctions that are now upon us. There were promises that this issue would bring us election dividends. My question is where are they at? Former Minuteman and Immigration hardliner Randy Graf in Arizona is tanking in his race in Arizona. Is this issue saving our GOP Senator in Pennsylvania? I think not. For all the talk of how this was going to be the issue of the ages it seems way down the list of topics we are hearing about.

If the Democrats win the House then immigration reform is coming back in a big way. President Bush will of course be lameducked. However this issue is important to him. One gets a sense that besides his failed efforts to get people to reform the Social Security program that this is his biggest domestic vision. Perhaps more than his education policy accomplishments. I also agree that the Dems will deal with the President on this issue. Its a win/win for both the democrats and the President. However sad to say this will be the only silver lining for the Bush administration if the House Democrats takes the house.

Technorati Tags: immigration GOP 2006

Preliminary Predictions For Election Day

2006-11-01T11:13:00.000-06:00

I shall go into a more detailed analysis later this week.

By the grace of God we keep the Senate. I think Coker's lead in Tenn is real and he should pull that race out. Virginia is though is troublesome. At some point one cannot ignore the poll after poll showing Webb ahead. Will the GOP GOTV operation save Allen? I hope it will. My gut instinct is that AlLen will pull this out but it will be a nailbiter. The other race that I am hopeful about is Burns in Montana. I had written this race off months ago. However, there is room for hope in this race also. I think the GOP suprise of the night will be in Maryland.

THe HOuse on the other hand is a different story. After looking at the top 30 races I believe we lose the House by5 to 7 seats. Can the GOP GOTV save the house? Sure it can. However right now I see the function of the gotv of preventing a 20 to 25 seat takeover by the Dems. More analysis later.

Technorati Tags: GOP

Republicans still making mistakes on the Black Vote( A look at at a Miss House Race)

2006-10-30T10:42:00.000-06:00

MAYOR YVONNE BROWN-GOP HOPEFUL FOR CONGRESS FROM MISSISSIPPI

Let me say I am pleased the GOP is devoting resources to the Steele in Maryland. He ,if elected, will be only the second black US Republican Senator since the the turn of the century. Hopefully if elected the mistakes in this article will not be repeated.

This article focuses on a House race in that is taking place in the Mississippi Delta. The incumbent is the insufferable democrat Benny Thompson. Benny Thompson by the way will become head of the House Homeland Security Committee if the Dems take the House. That possibilty should scare any American. Why did Benny Thompson leave the agriculture committee to take a spot on the Homeland Security committee? Good Question. Especially since his district is largely farming. Furthermore, besides an nuclear power plant in Port Gibson and two bridges on the Mississippi River, I can't quite imagine what terrorist would even want to hit in the Mississippi Delta. The Casinos in Greenville Mississippi?In other words , I have a feeling its low on the priority list of Bin Laden.

So why did he make a move that is so counterproductive to his district? The answer is Representative Benny Thompson is looking out for Benny Thompson as always. The last time I saw Benny was at a Vicksburg Casino. He was strolling around in his jogging suit and even had bodyguards it appeared. Good Grief. Well, maybe his new bodyguards will be better since I suspect we shall be paying for it in the future.

If Republicans wish to to maintain long term viability they must be go after people that are currently minorities. Republicans buy too much into the Gospel that African Americans will not vote Republican. That is false. I do not analyze political races with Republican rose colored glasses ,so I am not saying that Republicans can capture the 51 percent of this demographic. But Republicans need to recognize trends that show the African American community is becoming more independent from the Democrat party machine. When individual Republicans make a effort to get go after the African American vote it shows dividends. I have seen that recently in my home state of Louisiana. In the Louisiana Secretary of States race, Republican Jay Dardenne received very good numbers in black areas especially in New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Why? Well because he asked for their vote . This was a factor in the Democrat dropping out of the race in the runoff.

Why should Republicans devote money, time, and resources to this obscure race in the Mississippi delta?.

Well first it is the right thing to do. As a resident of the deep south, I have observed the problems of black community first hand. In fact unlike many of our northern and western fellow countrymen, blacks and whites are truly integrated in the schools and in many facets of everyday life here in Dixie. Why do the problems in the black community seem to continue year after year? May I suggest that the lack of a viable two party system in that community is a huge part of the problem. There is a lot of bashing of the two party system nowadays. However the current system does do a important function. That is it offers debate on policy. I hate to say that is often absent in the black community at a substantial level. That is not to say that all black politicians believe in the same things. However the lack of true party partisans hinders true policy debate that can create change beyond the halls of Government. In an area that is as poor as the the Mississippi Delta, that has real life consequences.

The second reason is we can win it. In 2002 and 2004 a black Republican by name of Clinton LeSueur ran against Thompson. He was to say the least very underfunded. He could be seen around the district putting up his on yard signs. The result? He got around 44 percent of the vote. Thompson to say the least was shocked. In the rematch in 2004, Thompson unleashed the full power of his machine against LeSueur who again not well funded by the RNC. The result was that LeSueur received a very respectable 41 percent of the vote. Local Mississippi Republicans will tell you that if Le Sueur would have had help from the National party to combat that machine, the results would have been different. I agree with that assessment.

The Republicans have a fine Candiate in Yvonne Brown. She would have been a lot more viable at this point if the GOP had highlighted this race. This should have been obvious when Thompson had a serious Democrat challenger this year in his own primary. How many more wasted opportunities like this will occur till black Republican hopefuls might just give up? But it is still a week till election day. For this week ,I can dream of an conservative African American female Republican representing a majority black district in the deep South. A dream that would signal a lot of hope for people of all races in the deep south. The problem is it didn't just have to be a dream.

Technorati Tags: GOP Republican Mississippi Benny Thompson Yvonne Brown

Further Thoughts On The Whole Webb Book SEX Saga

2006-10-27T17:18:00.000-05:00

I must say I have little sympathy with the Webb camp. The Webb Camp as well as much as the Democrat party has done everything they could to portray Sen Allen as some racist. Further, bring up issues such as the confederate flag and confederate history month to slime ALLen has been distasteful. In fact that whole race has been disappointing. The Washington Post bears some responsibility in this in their unfair treatment of Senator Allen.

That being noted, as I said earlier I think this whole new theme of Webb the new Larry Flynt is stupid. STUPID!!! Michelle Malkin is not the only one that is saying that by the way.

I was over at the National Review's Corner blog section. Their thoughts:

The Webb Excerpts [John Podhoretz]

Sometimes I'm embarrassed to be on the Right. The outbreak of cynical Babbitry on the part of the George Allen campaign in using sentences from novels written by James Webb against Webb makes this day one of those days.
Posted at 5:18 PM-

Flannery O'Connor to Webb's Rescue? [Kathryn Jean Lopez]
Another reader on Allen's novel approach:
I'm going to be holding my nose and voting for Allen, but it will be a pity if he only wins because of Webb's fiction. Sure, those scenes are sick, but that doesn't mean they are wrong, either morally or as literature. Flannery O'Conner wrote disturbing stuff, and she did it for God (and was fairly explicit about that motivation, as I understand). More recently, Wolfe's I am Charlotte Simmons was loved by conservatives, but it certainly has some parts that aren't exactly Sunday school material. Well, unless said Sunday school actually reads the Bible, which is crammed with perverse stuff. Lot's daughters, anyone? Without more context it's impossible to tell whether those scene's in Webb's books are are wrong (a la Lolita, which is a horrible book, regardless of what Derb says) or right (as in the examples above) or somewhere in between. Posted at 9:34 AM-

A novel tactic [Rich Lowry]
The Allen campaign is now attacking Webb's novels! How absurd...
Posted at 6:21 PM-

Now to be fair they posted some email from readers that thought this was great. Many are saying hey you have to fight tought grow some manhood. Hey I am all for fighting tough and bareknuckled when you have too. But this is effective if only done a few days before a election where the other side doesnt have a chance to respond. This is playing stupid and is really treating the electorate like they are idiots. Just saying better hope is doesn't backfire. I am for going for the jugular but this strikes me as a boomerang. I think the above poster I referenced on the Corner is correct. Flannery O Conner was much more graphic and even disturbing than Webb. Do we really want to have this discussion?

Technorati Tags: allen

Louisiana Blogsphere Making A Difference?

2006-10-27T15:02:00.000-05:00

Since I am taking the weekend off I am going back to doing a blogroll roundup. I know I have been promising that for a week. However I wish to highlight what We Saw That posted in their entry-Lousiana Blog Revolution? We Saw ThatSays:
so why isnt louisiana's blogosophere making a difference? one theory of ours is that louisiana doesnt have a true blogosophere. the few prominent bloggers that get the publicity are really nothing more than propaganda agents for the criminal network errr the republican party. citizens can read the writings of oh say jeff sadow, emily metzgar, read and listen to jeff crouere, moon griffon and others and deduce that they are merely propaganda and it makes the rest of the blogosphere look bad. common sense tells us that if any of these and others were truly concerned about louisiana, conservative values and the republican party then they would be speaking out against the bush regime.

Ok we realize that the tone of the above is pretty partisan and calling Bobby Jindal vermin later on isnt exactly the blogsphere at its best lol. Also I don't know the "hits" We Saw That gets but I suspect they are substantial. I also notice that it seems the local paper there seesm to being paying attention to him. Therefore it is not like the entire Louisiana blogsphere (cue spooky music) is some neo con plot. Good grief just look at the blogs in the New Orleans.

However, I do think he hits on something. Personally I would put Emily Metzgar outside the Republican spin machine. One problem is that the Louisiana Govt is currently under control of the Democrats so I can't see how I can blame her for attacking problems under their Parties governance. That being said I still find the Louisiana Blogsphere sort of a non factor. I enjoy The Dead Pelican but I do get a sense that there is a agenda that is not quite so open. We all have agendas but goodness some of the headlines at that site drive me up the wall. For instance the recent Jay Dardenne/Mike Francis race was one where one got a sense that Jay wasn't getting a fair shake.

My schedule has been very hectic the past few weeks and thus I have been away from the blogs. It is amazing how quickly uninformed I one can become when that is happening. One realizes that so much local and National news is well crap.

One problem I see is the lack of geographical balance in the Louisiana political blog land. There are precious few blogs in Shreveport/Bossier. I have yet to discover one in NorthEast Louisiana. Lake Charles?-forget it. I suspect they are out there but I have yet to find many.

I have always thought that Louisiana bloggers should get together at some type of weekend conference. Invite people in the field as well as the MSM media types. The New Orleans bloggers did this quite successfully with their "Rising Tide" conference. Blogs can make a difference because most Louisiana papers are owned by one company. I do feel that we might see a explosion in this world in the next years election cycle. I do hope so.

On the positive side, I hope we see more bloggers like the Marshall Fannin Blog out of Shreveport. Blogs like this are a positive development and it is interesting to see who has been hanging out in that comment section.

Technorati Tags: Louisiana

Catholics and The Voting Booth

2006-10-27T13:11:00.000-05:00

Well its time to revist this issue again. The Catholic Church has been under attack by the right(immigration) and the left(abortion, gay marriage, and stem cell) on it daring to have a voice in the public square. Well to say the least it gets tiresome.

However, we as Catholics, as well as all Christians, have to make choices next month about the people who will represent us and our values. It to say the least is not a perfect World we live in and the choices are not clear cut. However the Church does give us guidance.

Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted of Phoneix has produced a wonderful pamphlet called Catholics in the Public Square. I am trying to find a copy on the web at this time. But several links give us the meat of what he is saying. In fact I used this in deciding whom I will support in the 08 Republican Primary bid. I shall announce that choice after the upcoming election.

Here is a good link giving a overview.

From that link I think Our Current Pope hits the bullseye when says:

In his encyclical Deus Caritas Est (28), Pope Benedict XVI states: “ It is not the Church's responsibility to make this teaching prevail in political life. Rather, the Church wishes to help form consciences in political life and to stimulate greater insight into the authentic requirements of justice as well as greater readiness to act accordingly, even when this might involve conflict with situations of personal interest.”
The Holy Father goes on to write (ibid): “ The Church cannot and must not take upon herself the political battle to bring about the most just society possible. She cannot and must not replace the State. Yet at the same time she cannot and must not remain on the sidelines in the fight for justice. She has to play her part through rational argument and she has to awaken the spiritual energy without which justice, which always demands sacrifice, cannot prevail and prosper.

LA Catholic blog also asks us to heed this part of the Bishops thoughts :
• Are all political and social issues equal when it comes to choosing a political candidate?
Absolutely not! The Catholic Church is actively engaged in a wide variety of important public policy issues including immigration, education, affordable housing, health and welfare, to name just a few. On each of these issues we should do our best to be informed and to support those proposed solutions that seem most likely to be effective. However, when it comes to direct attacks on innocent human life, being right on all the other issues can never justify a wrong choice on this most serious matter.
As Pope John Paul II has written, " Above all, the common outcry, which is justly made on behalf of human rights - for example, the right to health, to home, to work, to family, to culture - is false and illusory if the right to life, the most basic and fundamental right and the condition for all other personal rights, is not defended with the maximum determination ." (Christifideles Laici, 38).

That right there pretty much sums it up. As I tell my liberal democrat liberal friends, I also share many of their concerns regarding immigration reform, the poor, the environment, etc. However if the dignity of human life is not respected those issues too are at risk. That is the reason why issues such as Abortion and certain forms of stem cell research are more important to me than lets say person x position on public housing. If the Democrats would allow their prolifers to flourish they would be suprised at the results. In fact are we not seeing that happening in certain races around the country.

The good bishop did a homily on this issue of Cathlolics and voting entitled The Rosary, Faith and the Public Square. The pdf of that homily can be located here.

Technorati Tags: Catholic GOP

South Park Meets the SEC(Special LSU BYE WEEK EDITION)

2006-10-27T12:06:00.000-05:00

Technorati Tags: LSU, South Park Football SEC Auburn Arkansas Ole Miss Alabama Kentucky Florida Tennessee Georgia South Carolina Vnaderbilt Mississippi State

I Can't Believe it MIchelle Malkin and I Agree(The whole Webb Book Thing)

2006-10-27T10:52:00.000-05:00

Actually Malkin and I agree on many things. I just disagree with her tactics some time and how she seems to throw red meat to the wolves.

However, Michelle Malkin had a great column today on all this nonsense trying to make Hay of Webb's books. Webb is the Democrat running against the incumbent Senator Allen. Well, yesterday the Allen campaign, the Drudge report, and various bloogers tried to make a big deal about certain parts of his book. Charges of Sexual deviant, pedophilla, blah blah blah. Folks this is stupid. I read those excerpts and to make that charge is dishonest in my view.

Further it is fraught with risk. If you call Webb a pervert then you call the voters that enjoy reading his work perverts. Insanity. We got this race about won in Ole Dominion. We dont need to make Senator Allen look like the preacher in the movie "Footlose" that wanted to ban dancing in town. I have a feeling if a enterprising reporter asked Laura Bush(former librarian and organizer of the White House Book fair) what she felt the answer would not be too pleasing to many folks.

In the end I think this was a bad move by Allen because the substance of the charge will not hold up. Voters are not stupid. Yes I know he has got unfairly bashed but this can backfire.

Yesterday, I was on Free Republic on this thread. I am Catholicfreeper and my responses start at post 605. By the end of the thread I have people wanting to ban me and calling me a pervert!!!! Boy, I wonder how the voter is going to respond to that. This is Silly and I hope he moves on.
Update-
One Conservative blogger(among many I suppose) disagrees.

Technorati Tags: ALLEN WEBB GOP Republican

Microtargeting Voters

2006-10-27T10:42:00.000-05:00

I wnet back on my promise to myself and went back to the phone banks for the Republicans. I shall now take the next five days off. I am now burned out big time.

However I would like to bring up one point. There has been much talk about how Republicans over the past few years are great at picking out and able to ID the 5 Republican leaning voters out of Democrat area. Let me say I was privileged to see that in action. In the old days to get honest results one had to pretend to be from a newspaper and purport to be conducting a poll. Now however many people have vast detailed information about "you" the voter. It s incredible. I know what magazines you subscribe too, who you donated too, how many kids you have, your income, your wifes name, your religion., and your voting history. Democrats are playing catch up with theior on "voter vault" as it called. But right now I feel we have the advantage.

ANywho, I have missed my dear ole blog and today I am going to write a ton of stuff.

Technorati Tags: GOTV

Election News

2006-10-23T12:26:00.000-05:00

Just a few quick links here. I am going to be doing some early Calling for Republicans tonight but I am going to make myself post some stuff when I get in. There are quite a few good post on my blogroll I want to point out.Oh by the way if you sent me a email don't be offended. I haven't checked it in a week. I also do that. I get behind checking my email and then feel guilty about not doing. Thus I don't check thus complicating the problem. Its a problem lol.

I did do some research last night on a favorite topic of mine. That is the the always interesting Minuteman Movement. Seems that some of my fears about their PAC is correct. I shall post on that onight.

ON to the Election

The Christian Science Moniter ponders a Romney/Obama 2008 Race. Hmmm , I say dream on. Obama for VP maybe? But that is doubtful.

The Houston Chronicle tries to make a case that the Republican Governor of Texas MIGHT be in trouble. Pleaseeee. Expect more article like this in the future. If Perry loses I will streak across Tiger Stadium and post the pics.

Democrat Columnist Alter is actually trying to prepare the Dems for election day reality in his There Might Not Be a Tidal Wave. I agree with that. Also I am sensing more signs of Republicans and others returning to the fold. More on this later.

The Weekly Standard speaks to the thankfully shrinking "lets lose so we can win" crowd of Republicans and Conservatives.

If there is one article you should read its this one by Jay Cost on this supposed Republican Meltdown as to some polls we keep hearing about. Jay ran the famous(in political nerd circles) Horserace blog in 2004. HE tells it like it is and knows his stuff. Good read.

Also at Real Clear Politics is a great article called Don't Expect a Political Realignment. This examines what would happen if the Dems take lets say the House. I agree with this. The 1994 Republican landside happened for reasons that go beyond the famous"Contract for American" What occurred in that race was a political structural correction that was long overdue. Further those seats that the Republicans gained in the flood that they shouldnt have in a normal political year have gone back to the Dems. So again no 50 to 60 Dem gains

On a final note and one that is Louisiana based please read from REDSTATE-Encouraging signs in Bayou Country. As someone on the ground here it hits this piece hits it right on. A encouraging sign that has got many Dems worried. The fact that the Dems could not get a serious challenger against first term Repub Boustany in this south Louisiana District tell much. This district has always had a very heavy blue dog democrat flair. Its even more telling because this guy might be our best bet to defeat Dem US Senator Mary Landrieu. Often politcos focus on the suburbs of New Orleans when focusing on the emerging Republican dominance in the state. I have always disagreed with that. The real story is the dominance of Republicans and conservatives in Lafayette that is the real key IMHO. From that city it spread into the adjacent areas.

Technorati Tags: GOP

Louisiana Football Wrapup

2006-10-22T14:36:00.000-05:00

Before returning to the world of politics, a little Saturday roundup. Great day and week for the Bayou State. People should at times takes a step back and think how blessed we are.

LSU V Fresno State-
Great Game. Really!!! I enjoy WAC football and I would love if LSU would put Fresno State on their schedule more. Fresno is one scrappy little team that plays with heart and more importantly is about to reach the next level. Great Coach too. It was good for the Tigers to go up a little unknown and they produced fine.

The LSU Fan Base needs to get a life-
Ok the constant bitching and moaning about Miles, Jemarcus Russell, and us beating "cupcakes" is getting tiresome. Please stop. The Coaches poll came out today and we are ranked are number 13 in the Country. Not to bad if you ask me. If we win out our losses will prob come to teams that will be in the NC hunt perhaps till the SEC Championship in December.

It is bad we have a bye week because I am sure that will send the LSU fans up the wall. This is my top 15 internet threads I expect to see on LSU boards

15) 101 reasons why theLSU QB Russell is the worst thing to happen to Louisiana since the yellow fever epidemic of the 1870's

14) When can we start criticizing BasketBall Coach John Brady

13 )Fire Bertman _LSU SPORTS PROGRAM IN CRAPPER - No LSU Swimmers likely to be in 2008 Olympics

12) New Hope- Candy Picou Edwards prenatal Check up(with Pics)

11) I wish Miles would show emotion

10) I wish Mike the Tiger would show more emotion in his cage at Tiger Stadium

(9) You know with this talent we could or should (fill in blank)

(8) THe LSU Game of the Century Revisited- The Peach Bowl and Brett Farve( I mean Matt Flynn)

(7) Fans who spend thousands of Dollars and mortgage the House and pimp out out their wife to MILF films to support the Tigers are above Criticism so STFU

(6)I wish we had Spurrier

(5) Will we drop in the polls since we are not playing?

(4) Lets Pretend- Who would you like as Head Coach?( remastered with new Special effects)

(3) Does this Home Schedule suck or what

(2) WWSD- What would Saban do?

(1) WE SUCK

Honorable mention thread Theme- Take off your purple and Gold Glasses and quit ******** Miles off. We are going to lose to Tenn.

Oh and don't get me started on the fans in the stand last night. Yes I know radio reports were misleading about the weather but still.

BIG KUDOS TO UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA LAFAYETTE-
Last week ULL played a great game with Florida Atlantic in the Sunbelt.It was one of those Weeknight games. They won. ULL might win the conference. Nice talent

Congrats To LOUISIANA TECH-
Nice win against Utah State- Keep it up Dawgs

Technorati Tags: Louisiana

Sad News John Copes Dies

2006-10-20T16:00:00.000-05:00

Sad News to report. John Copes who had the deductbox.com site has passed away.

THe Deductbox was a political site that was a rarity. It was the first influential political site on the web that followed Louisiana politics. However his humor and analysis is what largely made it a success. Nothing has come close to it Louisiana politics wise yet. Who can forget the coverage of the Edwin Edwards trial or how he used to get under Gov Mike Foster's skin.

Nice Coverage at the link

Good News For the Repubs In the Senate

2006-10-20T13:54:00.000-05:00

Sorry again for the absense. I know its becoming a pattern. However I was doing the Lord's work for the GOP this week. In Louisiana we have no competive seats to speak of that the Republicans are in danger of losing. My frustration of just looking at the news and not been able to do anything has been mounting. The last few nights about 30 local Republicans and myself have been working phones(watt line sort of things) to get out the vote in Competive districts. By the time I get home I am pretty exhausted. The last two nights we have been working with a Republican group that is working the Tennessee Race. This race is hotly contested and its over the outgoing seat that is currently held by Frist. Pretty cool idea and I believe its helpnig. The GOP needs to do more of this to get all of us involved instead of feeling helpless.

Anyway, the race in Tenn is very hot and we must keep that seat. We now have some good news out of that state.
Republican U-S Senate nominee Bob Corker may be making some headway with voters.
A new Wall Street Journal/Zogby poll puts the former Chattanooga mayor ahead of his opponent by the widest margin since this time last year.
49.4% of likely voters say they're either leaning toward Corker or plan to vote for him.
Democrat Harold Ford, Jr. received support from 42% of those polled.
The 7% lead covers the margin of error of plus or minus 3.3%.
Ford tracked 2 percentage points better than Corker in a Rasmussen poll released the day after their last debate.

May I get a AMEN. This race is still of a concern but this is the second poll that seems to be showing a trend in that state.

I must say I enjoy phone work. I am one of the few that actually see it as a challenge and at times it can be quite fun. Side note- Kinda of sad about some old folks though. When a person over 70 wants to keep some campaign hack on the phone for 30 minutes, you know that persons relatives are not paying them enough attention. Anywho great results in Tenn.

Several more post this weekend. I am burned out on the phones so will not return to that till next week. Plus if its like anyother place in the South calling on A Friday or Saturday is useless.
Technorati Tags: GOP

Coming Up Tonight

2006-10-17T10:57:00.000-05:00

I am actually taking the day to do some campaign work for a Republican. Trying in my own
way to help the Grand Ole Party. True this guy is a pretty safe bet for reelection but I need to do something. I am considering going to the Mississippi a couple of days before election day and helping a Republican there that is trying to unseat the insufferable Bennie Thompson.

Anyway I shall be returning tonight. I will have a very interesting post I hope on Kookdum. This will be Racist Kookdum and their view of Sports. I ran across a very interesting and disturbing site yesterday and will talk about that. Also a I will do a much needed blogroll Roundup post
Technorati Tags: tagnamehere

Breaking(RUMOR)-- Has LSU Football Player Alley Broussard Quit LSU?

2006-10-16T22:07:00.000-05:00

Update- So far still at Rumor level-I think at this point we would have heard something official if this was a done deal. I will provide a link to some the facts of this drama that I is print tonight.

I was contacted a few hours ago by a friend in the know with LSU that told me this. It is now breaking a little on the net but is yet still not been confirmed. I was hesitant to put it out there but others have heardt he same thing and it is spreading. From what I have been told Broussard has decided to leave LSU and play for McNeese St next year.

If true I hate to see him go.

Update-
Broussard has not made a final decision on this. From what I am hearing he is tonight in Lafayette with his family

Update II-Still important to remember this is still in the "Rumor" category but let me say that I feel comfortable in saying that Broussard is considering his options. Yes , I know we have gone through this before. Stay tuned for updates

Technorati Tags: LSU Louisiana McNeese

Interesting Politics Shaping Up On Immigration Issue

2006-10-16T13:01:00.000-05:00

First let me say I am not giving up on Republican Control of Congress. Some of these pundit predictions of Dems pcking up 30 to 50 seats are likewise pretty silly. That being said one must consider it to be a very real possibility as to the House.

I believe on the immigration matter that would bring up a very intriguing politcal situation.

After the Novemeber elections there will be quite a lame duck session going on in Washington.

If the Dems took control would Bush go to the Tancredo bunch after the elections and say "We got a month deal with me on immigration reform or I shall make a deal with the Dem controlled House next year". One would think that some sane members of the hardliners would see the wisdom in t compromising.

I for one am praying that the Republicans maintain control of the House. However, it is beyond me why the hardliners that refused to compromise did not consider the possibility of a Dem Controlled House. I have always thought that was what made their hand the weakest in the long run. Bush will submit his comprehensive reform ideas next year. Some immigration hardliners are going to have to make some tough choices if the pundits are correct about Dem Control in November.

Technorati Tags: immigration

Important Louisiana News

2006-10-16T12:16:00.000-05:00

I was wandering the Louisiana News Sites and saw this important bit of news.

Playboy to feature Tulane in 'Girls of Conference USA-

That is all- Go Green Wave

Technorati Tags: Louisiana Tulane

Louisiana Politics and National Implications

2006-10-15T12:57:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of tailgaiting with someone that is a mover and shaker in the Louisiana Democrat party. Things are to say the least in quite a mess over there.

It appears that Louisiana Democrats are waking up to the fact that Katrina has vastly altered the Louisiana landscape. The results of the Louisiana Secretary of State's race is not being dismissed by the concerned in the Dem party no matter what the pundits say.

I had a chance to see some figures that were complied from the New Orleans's areas as to that race. No matter how the Dem's spin it they are horrible. True some of this can chalked up to a low voter interest race and the fact that the Dem was not a great campaigner. However this is now the third race we have had out of Orleans Parish and it is still confirming a horrible trend for the Democrats. That is the the much needed Orleans voter cushion is gone and is not coming back. The upcoming Congressional race there in November will be analyzed by many for signs of hope. More on that race later. Beyond that it appears that the leadership of the party is having problems. For instance many ,including this Republican, cannot understand why the State Democrat party spent 80,000 dollars in the Shreveport's Mayor's race. A race that had several Democrats running in it. That money could have been spent much wisely elsewhere. The internal disputes within the Louisiana Democrat party ,though not as public as its Republican counterpart, are very real.

Future Races-

Congressman Melancon- This Deep South Louisiana race is one of the few bright spots for the Dems. I still have this as a Democrat retention in Novemeber. Republican hopeful Romero, I fear, is not making up the ground needed. If someone has different info let me know. That being said the dynamics of this race could possibily still change. That 80,000 dollars the Dems spent in Shreveport would have been much better spent here.

Congressman Jefferson- Latest polls show him at 25 percent in this race. That is horrible for an incumbent. Thank God it appears he will be gone. The only possible thing that could save him was if the the Republican managed to make the runoff. I hate to say this but I hope that doesn't happen. Jefferson for the sake of Louisiana's image needs to be gone. I think he is a goner. The next Represenative will either be Councilwoman Carter or State Senator Shepard from Marrero. Both would be a vast improvement.

However now is the time for the Democrats to think ahead. Louisiana will at the very least lose one Congressman, maybe two, after the next Census. Orleans will no longer have its own Congressman in the near political future. New Orleans will always be a Democrat city but with much punch vote wise. I am sure both the State Repubs and Dems and their national counterparts are figuring out a way to divy up Orleans Parish into adjacent districts to best help their interest. The importance of the mover and shakers in the Dem party getting the right person into this job is paramount. Putting myself in Democrat shoes, I would have to think that Mitch Landrieu would have been a perfect choice and a good bet for the future. However that did not happen. In the end I believe that enough of Orleans Parish will be siphon off to the Melanchon District to make it safely forever Democrat. The rest will go to the adjoining Districts currently represented by Baker and Jindal in hopes of making them more competive.

Governor Blanco- Our current Governor I have to believe is toast next year. Unless Jindal implodes in spectacular fashion I cannot fathom him losing. Long term this is also great on a national level too. Jindal is going places and could be someone we see on future national ticket.

US Senator Landrieu in 08- This race is already causing Democrat folks on a local and national level a great deal of heartburn. Of all the Democrat politicians she is the one that has depended the most on that New Orleans vote turnout. Without it it would have been a impossibility for her to win her last two Senate races. Her remaining in office and very well possible Control of the Senate in 08 will depend on my next subject.

The Louisiana Republican Party-

If there is a major silver lining for the Dems in the State of Louisiana it is the continued chaos that is called the Louisiana Republican Party. Time after time the state Party seems to find a way to form a circular firing squad in situations where they are verge of victory. For an example please see the 2002 Terrell/Landrieu Senate race. For a more recent example of nonsense please look at the aftermath of the Louisiana Secretary of State's race. The actions of Mike Francis and company, A FORMER STATE PARTY CHAIRMAN, in not endorsing Jay Dardenne is beyond belief. Francis has lost my vote for anything in the future. I find this party in fighting has little to do with right wing versus moderate but a bunch of people that just want titles.

In order to unseat Senator Landrieu , we must not only have a good opponent but a state wide party organization that can get out the vote. That is a must. In fact Republican control of the US Senate might depend on the Republicans in the bayou state acting like adults.

I think we are at a critical point. Louisiana Republicans can take the upper hand that will last decades if we act quickly. But the opportunity will be fleeting unless we act. Two things must happen. First, I fear that people like Congressman Jindal or Senator Vitter must get involved in this matter. There must be a come to Jesus meeting and soon. Second, changes to the State Republican Central committee must be accomplished in the next election. I shall devote another post and perhaps a whole web site to this endeavor. Maybe even a PAC. Stay tuned.

Future State wide Races-
Next year Republicans have real chances at all State wide offices on the ballot. Even the Democrat Secretary of Agriculture Bob Odom can be knocked off. However this means we must have serious recruitment of quality people to run against these folks. That needs to be happening now.

The Louisiana State Legislature-
I never thought I would see the day that Republicans could take a chamber of the Lousiana legislature. That goal is within reach. This will be critical becasue the Republicans must have some control when the new local and congressional districts are drawn up. Again a matter of both state and national importance.

In essence the Louisiana Republicans have a incredible opportunity but it must be seized. It will not just fall into our laps from the heavens. If the statewide party can become a actual effective organization that is efficient we should be in good shape. Our failure to do so is the democrats only hope.

Life is Good

2006-10-15T12:18:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the delay getting back. Thursday I had a opportunity to go to Baton Rouge and thus watch my beloved LSU Tigers play last night. I have just come back. More on that later.

Thanks for the prayers. What I handle this past week was trying but in the end was manageable. I do feel I got a monkey off my back. However continued prayer would be appreciated especially as to a particular Health issue I am battling as well as employment matters. That is still weighing on me a great deal. Thanks.

Anyway my much needed pilgramage to Tiger Stadium was like a great tonic. A few thoughts on the game. First let me say perfect football weather and the Stadium looked great. The team was excellent and I have few compliants as to our win or our players or our Coaches.

The fans though are getting tiresome. Listening to the radio call in shows last night was a chore. Time for reality folks. The Auburn win against Florida last night pretty much stole our hopes for getting into the SEC Championship. Does anyone think Georgia will beat Auburn? Who knows anything can happen on each Saturday in the SEC. But the odds of that happening have needless to say diminished. That being said the LSU Tigers have a lot to play for this season and its time we change our attitude.

More post coming up. I had the benefit of tailgating with a much in the know Louisiana Politico yesterday. Thoughts on the Louisiana political situation as well as its national implications up next.

Technorati Tags: LSU

Sorry for My absense

2006-10-10T23:28:00.000-05:00

I had a awful relapse on Sunday. My illness was not helped by LSU's loss (sigh). Just starting eating solid foods again. I will be getting back to regular posting tomorrow. I was going to do a look around my blogroll post but I notice blogrolling must be down because I am not seeing my links. I don't have the energy to google everyones blog up lol. Hopefully when you are viewing this it will be back up. I am looking forward to seeing what all my blogroll friends have been up too.

I have actually missed alot of what is going on. When I have been awake , I have been mostly boycotting the news. I didn't even know about the North Korea Nuclear test until just a few minutes ago. THe reason I have been boycotting is because the political news just seems so biased and one sided. I haven't watched a full day of news in while but I found one was enough. After one day of news, I mostly learned according to the Cable shows that Republicans might as well not go vote because we are going to LOSE BIG. That certaintly wasn't helping my recovery. I suspect the reality will be different But we shall be getting into that tomorrow.

Anyway, if you read this I would appreciate your prayers for a private intention I have. Tomorrow will be a stressful day and just say a prayer that I everything goes well for me tomorrow. Thanks

So please visit my blogroll(when it appears) and I hope to be visiting all my blog friend sites tomorrow.

Technorati Tags: tagnamehere

Geaux Tigers Beat Florida(kickoff 2:30)

2006-10-07T10:27:00.000-05:00

Life is good. I feel halfway human today and the #5 Florida will be playing #9 LSU in the game nationwide today.

Technorati Tags: LSU

Senate Election Update

2006-10-06T16:06:00.000-05:00

Needless to say Republicans don't want to lose any chamber of Congress. Losing both would be be catastrophic. The importance of holding the Senate is of course seen as to judicial nominations and confirmations. Also, I have not given up yet that Justice Stevens might decide to retire in the next year and half. That should inspire the base greatly.

Tennessee-
This race is the one I am concerned about the most. Dem. Harold Ford is still holding a slight lead ahead of Republican Coker in most polls. Harold Ford is a smart campaigner and if he wins this seat we might have trouble getting it back in 6 years. I would like to see one good piece of news as to the Coker campaign. So far I haven't seen it. Coker can still win this race but he better nationalize this race quick or it is a goner.

Virginia-
Republican incumbant Allen is ahead in most pols in this race. He has been helped by Webb's ability to make a mess of every advantage he gets in this race. Voters in this state had to foucus in on this race much earlier than usual. So far Allen despite all these problems has maintained a lead. I am saying retention for the Repubs

Maryland-
This one of the seats that Republicans hope to be a pick up. African American Republican Steele is currently running behind Cardin in this race. I am still hopeful because I still think this seat is in play.

Rhode Island-
Despite some rumblings I think Chafee keeps this seat. YEah he is a liberla Republican but he will be there for the important Party power votes in the Senate . Stays Republican

Ohio-
Despite having a unpopular Republican Governor that seems to sap the life out of everything Republican, Republican incumbant Dewine has pulled even again. Will eb close but this campaign looks a lot better than it did just weeks ago. Likely Republican Retention

Arizona-
There were concerns that this was a endangered seat for Republicans. I am taking it off my list of possible Dem pickup.

Penn-
Santorum is still in trouble. I hate to say it but likely Dem pickup.

Montana- For whatever reason, Republican Conrad Burns is just not that popular in this State. In the last election he didn't exactly run away with it. He is running behind in polls that I am seeing. Unfort this still looks like a Dem oick up unless like in Tenn the race is Nationalized and quick

Missouri-
Missouri is a great race that for some reason seems to not pick up alot of media coverage. Republican Incumbant Talent is tied or has a slight lead. This is a similar position he was in six years ago. From what I am seeing likely Republican retention

New Jersey-
This is a seat that the Republicans have their greatest hope of picking up it appears. THe Democrat in this race is still down in the polls. I am undecided at this point. But it is our best shot and right now it appears to be leaning slightly in our favor.

These are just some preliminary thoughts I have on these races. The important thing for Republicans to do is hold on to as much as we can this election cycle in the Senate. This is our most vunerable class of Senate GOPers. The 2008 cycle is much more to our advantage. In fact there will be some vunerable Dems up for election in that cycle. Including Sen Mary Landrieu in Louisiana that will have a hell of a fight on her hands if the Repubs can get a good person up for the race.

Technorati Tags: GOP

Foley Gate DAY 7 Review

2006-10-06T14:40:00.000-05:00

I though before leaving this issue to recap where we are at 7 days out from the start of this whole affair

Congressman Rodney Alexander of Louisiana-
To say the least, It has not gone unnotice by many of us Louisiana political nerds the irony that Rodney is involved in all this. Congressman ALexander infuriated many on the State and National level when he became a Republican. It is also known that Rodney Alexander is considering a run against Sen Mary Landrieu in 08. The key word is "considering" and nothing close even serious feelers by his people have been done to my knowledge.

Congressman Alexander's page in which he sponsered was of course the start of all this saga. Basically he,the page, was the one that recieved some emails(all non sexual in nature) forwarded to the staff with the end result being that Foley didn't contact the boy anymore. The reason he is so important is he is the only one that can tie Hastert and company in with the current scandal. Well of course the facts shows that the Alexander and Hastert acted properly. However because of a nationwide and quite it appears a state wide campaign to confuse this poor boy's emails with the "sex im's" ,that very well might have been a prank, this kid is going through unholy hell. I think it is safe to say the people of his district are pretty smart cookies and are seeing through these monkeyshines. The parents of the kid gave out a statement that says it best. As to Rodney Alexander part of the statement says:
We would like to express our support for our congressman, Rodney Alexander, whose office sponsored our son's position as a House page. As far as we know, Congressman Alexander's conduct in this matter has been beyond reproach. He has tried his best to do what we have asked him to do from the very beginning: Namely, to protect the privacy of our son and family from the intense media scrutiny we are now having to endure.
In the fall of 2005, as soon as Congressman Alexander became aware of the e-mails received by our son, he called us. He explained that his office had been made aware of these e-mails by our son and that while he thought the e-mails were overly friendly, he did not think, nor did we think, that they were offensive enough to warrant an investigation.
Rather, we asked him to see that Congressman Foley stop e-mailing or contacting our son and to otherwise drop the matter in order to avoid a media frenzy. He did so. If we had any other knowledge or evidence of potential impropriety, we would have asked for the matter to be treated differently. For instance, we were not aware of the instant messages that have come to light in the past few days.
These instant messages, which have only recently surfaced as a result of the news of the ambiguous e-mails received by our son, are separate matters.

Well, I must say the family didn't have to do that but the fact they did it should give all the "Alexander Bashers" some pause.

Hastert and the attempted conservative Coup-
At the start of week, I was very concerned that a little coup was about to be successful again the current speaker of the house. After I wrote that post there appeared to be quite a gut check among the Republican Reps. This seems to have been aborted. To be honest in this entire affair the actions of some conservative groups and leaders in making the facts murky has been just as bad as their democrat counterparts. I hope people remember that and remeber who was on the front lines of engaging in such Machavillian behavior. At this point, I am not ready to absolve them all of perhaps being a part of this little affair. There are some troublesome questions I still have.

The Outing of closeted gay Republicans and others-
Likewise I think the media, the Dems, and the Repubs had a similar gut check and decided that perhaps this was a area we do not wish to tread. It would have been homosexuality today but something else tomorrow. The threats are still out there but I am sensing many of these groups are not going to be used by the blogactive.com's of the World for this radical and sick agenda. In effect , I think many people realized that this is pure and simple blackmail.

The importance of facts-
It seems definitions are changing on a daily basis. I am awaiting to hear the pharase "25 year old child" soon. It is becoming more apparent it is a sex scandal with no actual sex. That the "kids" were of legal age. And that "victims" might have been involved in book deals and now has hired a criminal defense lawyer for perhaps a prank gone awry. This is not to to absolve Foley of all guilt by any means. His conduct was wrong and it is proper he resigned. However, I think it is fair to say the picture we have today is much different that on monday of this week.

Political Fallout-
Impossible to say at this moment. It does appear that it is not as bad currently as was predicted just a few days ago for Republicans. I think we will not have a true indicator till early next week perhaps. At this point I am betting minimal impact nationwide. However, in this election cycle that might be enought ot change one or 2 seats which is in the whole scheme of things is a huge. But I think it is fair to say that liberals have misjudged the conservative electorate again because of ignorance. Yes even Evanglicals know there are gay republicans. Believe it or not that shall come as no shock to them. They will be out in force on election day , and they shall not be pulling the lever for the party of Pelosi.
Flopping Aces has a good recount of where we are at this moment. In that post he goes into this curious ex page in Oklahoma and his various relationships. A important read that gives clues to maybe how all this got started.

Because of my illiness, I have not been on the computer much. That means I have a lot of catching up on my blogroll to do. I shall attempt to do a "look at my blogroll" post tonight and share their thoughts on this as well as other matters.

Update-
I have not had a chance to visit amny of the folks on my blogroll but I see the Strata-Sphere is coming up on a lot the biggies
He has a great time line here, plus a great post on Crew and possibily doctored electronic communications here.

Technorati Tags: Louisiana Foley gop Republican Rodney Alexander

2006-10-06T13:22:00.000-05:00

I am entering day three of this bug and I am feeling slightly better. At least better enough to sit up and get an update on all the Foley stuff.

I am relieved that Republicans came to their senses and rallied behind the Speaker. I am still awaiting evidence that he did anything wrong. IF he did it will come out.

I am not sure what was behind all these but it is getting more interesting by the day. There seems to a possibility of a few unlikely alliances that wewre occuring. Most conservative blogs are playing up the possibility of of Dem dirty tricks. I am not saying that didn't happen. But the events of the last 24 hours at least have me thinking again about the possibility that a few conservatives were trying a coup against the speaker.

Anyway more later

Technorati Tags: tagnamehere

HMMM- The Importance of Getting the Facts

2006-10-05T14:54:00.000-05:00

I am sick today but I am still checking into the Pages scandal. Just looking at these headlines on Drudge:
Former page hires Timothy McVeigh's attorney...

FAMOUS IM EXCHANGE WAS WITH 18 YEAR OLD...

and this one from Drudge himself
XXXXX DRUDGE REPORT XXXXX THU OCT 5 2006 2:53:48 ET XXXXX CLAIM: FILTHY FOLEY ONLINE MESSAGES WERE PAGE PRANK GONE AWRY**World Exclusive** **Must Credit the DRUDGE REPORT** According to two people close to former congressional page Jordan Edmund, the now famous lurid AOL Instant Message exchanges that led to the resignation of Mark Foley were part of an online prank that by mistake got into the hands of enemy political operatives, the DRUDGE REPORT can reveal. According to one Oklahoma source who knows the former page very well, Edmund, a conservative Republican, goaded an unwitting Foley to type embarrassing comments that were then shared with a small group of young Hill politicos. The prank went awry when the saved IM sessions got into the hands of political operatives favorable to Democrats. The primary source, an ally of Edmund, adamantly proclaims that the former page is not a homosexual. The prank scenario was confirmed by a second associate of Edmund. Both are fearful that their political careers will be affected if they are publicly brought into the matter. The news come on the heels that Edmund has hired former Timothy McVeigh attorney, Stephen Jones. Developing...

FACTS FACTS FACTS. That is all want. But it seems many people want to rush to judgement, have people resign, and rush to make deceptive tv commericals. Should be a interesting week

Technorati Tags: Foley

Conservative Cajun Blog interviews Congressman Boustany

2006-10-03T17:52:00.000-05:00

Pretty cool. I never can recall a Louisiana Republican Congressman giving a interview for a home grown blog before. Conservative Cajun breaking new ground.

Now perhaps if someone on their campaigns/Staffs would bother to email us updates on what they are doing we can have some progress

Anyway go here for the interview. Congrats again. The LOUISIANA BLOGSPHERE BEING NOTICED!!!!!

Technorati Tags: Louisiana Boustany Republican

Who would Endorse Congressman William Jefferson?

2006-10-03T17:36:00.000-05:00

Well it appears some would. It boggles my mind really. Just from a political standpoint why bother? I think its apparent he is going to the pokey.

Any who here they are.

Senators Diana Bajoie and Edwin Murray(Sen Bajoie makes some killer turtle soup)

State Representatives Cedric Richmond, Charmaine Marchand, Juan LaFonta and Jalila Jefferson-Bullock, the congressman's daughter.

The only member of the City Council was Cynthia Willard-Lewis, who represents eastern New Orleans

Link

On the other hand Politicians that have good sense have endorsed the following for that Congressional Seat -

Current City Council Woman- Karen Carter(D) has been endorsed by former U-S Senators John Breaux and J- Bennett Johnston, and former U-S Representative Chris John, a Democrat from Crowley. (those are some nice endorsements to say the least)

I am suprised that State Senator Derrick Shepherd(D) has not picked up any big endorsements for that race. I thought he would pick up some steam in this race. I havent taken a look at this race in detail but I might tonight

Technorati Tags: Louisiana

The New McCarthyism

2006-10-03T16:09:00.000-05:00

I have suspected from the start that some of the radical gay groups that support "outing" people are behind this current saga. I suggest people buckle down and watch a sad part of American political history unfold. ALready a lot of careless gossip and charges are appearing on blogs.

The justification by these groups is that they have a right and obligation to out lawmakers that are gay or bisexual and then vote for "anti-gay" legislation. The most common piece of legislation they cite is the vote for or against the Defense of Marriage act and other pieces of legislation similar to it. I always found this strange because some of the homosexuals I know are against gay marriage believe or it or not. There reason are varied of course

I will not supply names but one can get on the net and pretty much figure out who the targets are. It is a sad state of affairs that we are about to be entering on. I have monitered two of these sites for about a year. A few months back he said he had the goods on one GOP Senator. I suspects he does. So look for that information to be released also along with others.

Politicians will not be the only ones. Media people will be next I fear. Who will be next?

The issue is not if homosexuality is right, wrong, or sinful. This is a violation of that delicate unwritten kind of "the social contract". I have noticed that even in the most religious and Conservative of Districts there was common agreement not to violate this issue of the bedroom. That I fear is about to be broken big time. There will be a ton of victims and in fact many people falsely accused. I am curious to see how the homosexual community will react to these actions by the "renegades". Outing is a hotly debated topic in the gay community. The consensus seems to be against.

If I had to bet I would think the reaction is going to be very negative. This case has done nothing for the gay community except make Gay Congressman look like a threat to young male pages. I am not saying I agree with that but that is the perception I am getting on the street. We are right now at the crucial tipping point. The unelected media will decide if now there is nothing off limits.

Technorati Tags: media Foley

Ex Page In Louisiana Getting Death Threats

2006-10-03T11:31:00.000-05:00

Well this is wonderful isn't it. The local Newspaper reports

Rep. Rodney Alexander said a former male House page from Monroe has received threats since reports surfaced Friday that former Congressman Mark Foley sent him inappropriate e-mails.
"This teenager and his family have gone through hell," Alexander, R-Monroe, said Monday. "It's just not fair that they got caught up in this and became casualties. His mother is just broken up by it. Naturally, she's concerned about her child."
Foley, R-Fla., resigned on Friday after reports were published about the e-mails connected to the Monroe teenager, who's now 17. Though the e-mails to the Monroe page weren't sexually explicit, it was later revealed that Foley did send sexually explicit e-mails to other pages as early as 2003. Neither the Monroe teenager nor his family responded to interview requests from The News-Star, but Alexander said he talked to the teenager's mother, as well as the FBI, on Monday. Alexander wouldn't say what type of threats the teenager was receiving or the source of the threats.
Alexander twice reported the e-mails from Foley to the House leadership, including Speaker Dennis Hastert,
which Hastert and others confirmed, as well as to the boy's parents.
"My first job was protecting the innocence of that young man and his family," Alexander said. "When I informed the family, they said they were aware of the situation and told me that they weren't going to pursue it because of the harm that it could do to their son."
In the e-mails, Foley asked the page how he was doing after Hurricane Katrina and what he wanted for his birthday. The congressman also asked the boy to send a photo of himself.
Though not expressly sexual, Alexander said the e-mails "made me feel uneasy. It wasn't normal for a 45-year-old man to be sending those e-mails to a 16-year-old, which is why I informed the House leadership."
"The young man clearly felt that the e-mails were creepy, which is why he notified our office."
In an e-mail to an Alexander staffer, the page called Foley's e-mails "sick" 13 times.
Alexander said that he believes he took appropriate action by informing the House leadership and the boy's parents about the e-mails, but wouldn't pass judgment on the House leadership's actions since then.
"If they were only acting on what we talked about ... I just don't know," Alexander said. "I knew that I did what I felt like we needed to do."
Hastert said he didn't pursue the matter at the parents' request, which Alexander confirmed, but Hastert also said he never saw the contents of the e-mails.
"Nobody ever asked me to see the e-mails," Alexander said.
Alexander said he would have done more if he had known about the explicit e-mails sent to other pages two years earlier.
"We knew nothing about the instant messages," Alexander said. "That blew my mind."
Alexander did say that any member of Congress who did know about the explicit instant messages sent in 2003 and didn't take action "should be removed. The question that needs to be answered is who had possession of those instant messages for two or three years and didn't do anything about them?"
Louisiana's 5th District congressman said he hasn't spoken to any member of House leadership since the story broke on Friday.
Alexander wouldn't say whether or not he felt like the leadership was disappointed that he came forward with the information a month before congressional elections that could affect the balance of the House.
"I didn't think as much about what it would do to Congress as to what it might do to the young man and his family," Alexander said. "This needed to be flushed out."
link-

A few thoughts on this. As I stated earlier what is being done to this young man is far worse than anything Rep Foley ever did to him. To keep saying that Foley is the main culprit currently causing pages distress is at this point is ludricous.

As the American Thinker stated yesterday,"The timing of the two-step release is critical to the political efficaciousness of the operation. The public is being led to conflate the different sets of correspondence (mildly inappropriate emails versus salacious IM messages), leading most people to believe the sexually explicit stuff was what Hastert had seen."

Well it is working. As I also stated one can go to the major political forums and the state wide ones too and see the confusion bearing full fruit. Most people believe this poor North Louisiana kid is not only gay but engaged in all this salacious im'ing and some think he was part of some plot. All because the media wants to confuse his emails with the im's that occured even before he was on the scene in DC.

The media though is not the only culprit. As the American Thinker laid out so well yesterday the true culprits in this matter are extremist democrats engaging in some very dirty pool. At least I hope those Dems are renegades because if they are establishment it shows us how low they have fallen.

However I am sad to say that the Dems and the radical gay elements are not the only sick individuals in this little affair. Certain conservatives in the party are misrepresenting the facts also or at least blurrying them in order to obtain a power grab. I can't come to any other conclusion really. The Washington Times instead of commending Hasert for asking for a Justice Dept investigation is asking for his resignation. Human Events got into the act by blurring the facts for their own agenda. Even WorldnetDaily decided to take time from warning us how George Bush has a secret plot to form an North American Union and gave us the headline of GOP unworthy of governing. Richard Viguree was on CNN yesterday to talk about the Page scandal but all it was a rant against the GOP leadership. Well forgive me if I don't buy all this poppycock that is being done under the guise of morality. This is basically the crowd that squacks like deranged parrot demanding "conservative purity test" and proclaims every Republican that doesn't roll over like a dog to their every utterance is a RINO. We need less Republicans on TV trying to unseat Hasert and more asking for the facts. Perhaps we just need less of them on TV period and let the Justice Dept investigation take its course.

The majority of conservatives are not doing this and we that should be noted. However they don't make good TV for the 24/7 News networks and the radio shows. That being said Kudos to Rep Rodney Alexander who has and is acting in a honorable and correct way. Rodney used to be a good ole fashion conservative Piney Hills Louisiana Democrat. He got elected to DC and after being told by Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi he had no leeway to vote his principles told her to stuff it and ran as a Republican. He won and will easily win reelection this year.

In the end lets remember despite the ambitions of a few conservatives, the ones that are using this scandal in a unethical way are the Democrats. I think this literally from the Democrat playbook says it best.

(1). Pay no heed to the distinction between the e-mails and IMs. There's no evidence (yet) that any Republican leaders knew about Foley's cybersex IMs. There's plenty of evidence that they knew how uncomfortable the "overly friendly" e-mails made at least one page. So the Dems will press the GOP on what they knew about the former and will constantly, in their press releases, refer to the "GOP's knowledge of the sexually explicit e-mails."
2. Enlarge the wedge between House leaders. The tension this weekend between Speaker Dennis Hastert and NRCC chair Tom Reynolds was thick. Dems want it to suffocate the party and throw the Republicans even further off their game.

At the end lets us return to that poor little ole kid from North Louisiana. He should be dating girls and going to Friday night football games. Not getting death threats. The above Dem playbook talking points is not helping matters.

Technorati Tags: LOuisiana Foley GOP Republican

Congrats Anchoress

2006-10-03T10:29:00.000-05:00

The Anchoress has just received her 2,000,000,000 hit. Go by an visit and help her start on next million. I think I will be 98 by the time I get my 2,000,000,000 hit.

We will be doing another blogroll tour today so stay tuned.

Technorati Tags: Anchoress

Pages, Scandals, and Power Grabs

2006-10-03T01:53:00.000-05:00

I must admit I have not been this quite irate since the Dubai Port Deal Fiasco last year. That my dear friends, family and readers is quite a feat.

Perhaps, I shall fill different tommorrow but right now this is my mood.I have resigned myself to disaster. The Dems will take the House and maybe the Senate and the extreme holy than thou conservatives branch of the party represented well by their media icons such as Worldnet Daily, Human Events, and the Washington Times will use these sets of events for a naked power grab for the House republican leadership . This will all be accomplished by basically a repeated political molestation of the poor pages they are all purporting to defend. It makes me fill ill.

To see the latest on the Dem Dirty tricks please go here and read this great piece. That is a large part of my frustration. Please read it. But before I continue let me excerpt one important piece.

The timing of the two-step release is critical to the political efficaciousness of the operation. The public is being led to conflate the different sets of correspondence (mildly inappropriate emails versus salacious IM messages), leading most people to believe the sexually explicit stuff was what Hastert had seen.

Now this is quite true. The email that the kid in Louisiana received had no sexual content as the back and forth IM's did. However the media , Democrats, and devious extreme conservatives don't make that distinction. Let me pause to give you a little fact. I know who this kid is. In fact all of my area knows who this kid is. I was in that town today and whole place was talking about how that gay boy brought down the Congressman because they were talking about how horny each of them were.

Well the only problem with that is the kid is not gay, he didnt say that, and of course they are confusing the email with the im's. Oh well at least the Dems will get Congress and the extreme elements of the conservative base will be able to perform a bloodless Coup in deposing poor ole Speaker Hasert. Oh well its just a 17 year olds life. Maybe he will find refuge in booze. What wisdom the the kids parents had in trying to keep this quiet.

Anywho, this morning the almighty Washington times, that 9o percent of Conservatives doesn't even no exists, will demand Haserts resignation. I saw this coming this yesterday. The ever present extremist part of the base that thinks is George Bush akin to a liberal has made a Caculation. That is grab the power now. Pathetic. I was at the Free Republic Forum and my God even its dawning on those folks that we are about to get reamed by all sides. Even our supposed friends.

The most incredible moment of the evening was when I saw good ole Tony Perkins of the Family Research Counsel on CNN talking about the scandal. Tony is a Louisiana boy and I have had interaction with him for years way back when he was just a lowly member of Louisiana State legislature. Since I was a small lowly cog I doubt he remembers me but whoa I remember him. Tony of course was talking about the Gays and making veiled threats about the base staying home etc etc on the TV today. HE also was misrepresenting the facts. Tony Perkins, is on leave from his day job in DC and was in Baton Rouge where he just finished up his monkeyshines in the Secretary of States race. In that race he helped make Republican Jay Dardenne, the eventual winner among the Republicans and who is going to the runoff , out to be something akin to a abortionist and the greatest threat to the Judeo Christian ethic since the Barbarians sacked Rome. Needless to say the Party is shambles because of this nonsense. Tony , before his present job in DC, was a powerful force in the Louisiana Republican Party. He and his like minded friends made the party about as useful as a dead battery. Well, they could not elect a classroom Vice President, but my God they certaintly made sure that no impure elements entered the party. Impure being those not made in their image. So folks if Speaker Hasert is deposed and the extreme right wing gets this victory just look at the Louisiana Republican party and see a preview of coming attractions. I haven't quite figured if he is part of the palace Coup plotters or is the guy that will offer his influence to Hasert for a price. We shall soon see. God Bless America
To all the Tony Perkin fans I am sorry. The man might talk a good game about Jesus and the Lord and I think believes it but to be honest his scorched earth style of politics is well known. Also his tactics don't work so its a double whammy.

Anyway I am not a Hasert fan. As someone put it to me tonight:" Hasert is that form of Republican that I find unnecessarily ineffective". Well gosh that is true in many ways. He has let for instance Tom Tancredo run all over him, Watching him today ,despite knowing he is a good and decent man, one can't help but feel he could not fight his way out of a paper bag. Well he needs some help and until he is proven in the wrong I am sticking by him.

I see it like this. Go read the link above and ask if you think that is acceptable. I don't. If this isallowed we conservatives shall adopt the same tactics later. The result being our souls perhaps. Sorry, I am standing up for principle on this one.

Technorati Tags: Republican Foley GOP

Elements of Republican Party Trying to take Advantage of Page Situation

2006-10-02T20:22:00.000-05:00

If things cant get worse, the moonbat extreme right is basically molesting these kids again. What I have seen in the last two hours is discusting. They are out to settle old scores in the Republican Party it seems. More when I calm down. I got to take a break from watching ourselves eat our own

Technorati Tags: tagnamehere

Will Mike Francis Endorse Jay Dardenne(Louisiana Alert)

2006-10-02T18:29:00.000-05:00

I am pretty sure that Francis will endorse Jay Dardenne in the Secretary of State's race. I know that the blogs and the talking heads want this Republican warfare to continue but give it some time. It was a tough race and Francis has a right to have a few days to do it. So lets all relax and just get Jay elected

Technorati Tags: Louisiana

Republicans being Played Like A Drum

2006-10-02T13:46:00.000-05:00

To BE Updated-
Ok I am hitting this cluster of a Page scandal now. First some disclosure and a few of my positions

I know Congressman Alexander and know a couple of his present and former staff. I live about 15 minutes from his district. Congressman Alexander is of course the person that sponsered the boy that had the first email that was controversal and caused the the current scandal to come to light. I have spent a enormous part of the morning having to defend him against smear tactics. The same thing right now is occuring on a National level.

Congressman Foley's conduct ,in my opinion with the facts we know, though maybe not criminal was a breach of trust and his resigination was the right thing to do. I am not defending Congressman Foley's actions.

A quick message to certain segments of the conservative community. It appears to me there are some that are using this as a opportunity to purge the Republican party of high ranking officials that are either gay or bisexual. Further some are using it as a excuse to maybe get rid of Republican leadership you don't like. My advice quite honestly is to take a hike. If you have that view please go the the blogactives blogs of the world. They are your allies. Yall have different goals but the means of "outing" you both share. I will not be a part of that witchhunt.

The Press-
If Republicans can't see what is going on then I think you have to be blind. Over the past weekend I have seen emails and alleged IM's and their content intentionally confused by the media.
Example 1- The email sent to the page of Congressman Alexander when the page was 16. Nothing in it was criminal and it all had a innocent explaination. Hasert was informed though of the Page's discomfort and he told Foley not to contact him any more. What else was he suppose to do? If I was in Haserts place I would have done the exact same thing nothing more nothing less. Unless Hasert has magical powers , I am not sure how he would know about these IM's that are years old that now just magiclly made an appearance.
However because of intentional misinformation by the press, this poor Monroe Louisiana kid is attributed to engaging in a conversation that took place years before where that 17 year old told
Foley "he was Horny too". Pretty sick.

If Speaker Hasert knew of this misconduct then he should resign. But I will be damned if what is becoming more apparent by the hour that he is going to resign over IM's that no one but the Democrat operatives and sick sites like www.blogactive.com knew about for months. Sorry folks I am not playing that game.

I am going to update this thread all day and share what I have discovered. If you think Hasert's head should roll over the facts we know now so be it. But I am not going with the panic or the mob right now.

Just remember every privately gay or bisexual Republican is at risk right now. The left knows how to exploit that in our own ranks. The issue is not if homosexuality is right or wrong but simple decency and privacy. I know of one gay congressman in the House. He is closeted. I don't think his privacy shouldn't be at risk because of a couple of pages making comments like"watch out for congressman X he is queer". That is not the situation here but it is the bar of proof I am rapidly being seen set right now. Ditto for HetrosexualCongressman.

Because of some conversations I have had with people in the know this morning I am very concerned. What is happening is SICK and is a threat to civil political discourse. That is about to come out and it should scare the heck out of anyone that dares to put their voice in the public square.

If Speaker Hasert and the Republican leadership did not live up to their responsibilty I will be the first to demand their removal. But right now I am going with the idea of not listening to the mob that is demanding that heads roll regardless of the facts

To be Updated-

-Trancript of email that Hasert and Congressman Alexander knew about-
The e-mails were sent from Foley's personal AOL account, and the exchange began within weeks after the page finished his program on Capitol Hill
"did you have fun at your conference…what do you want for your birthday coming up…what stuff do you like to do."
"how are you weathering the hurricane…are you safe…send me an email pic of you as well…" PDF's available at the link.
That is it as to the facts we know. This seems to indicate to me that the Speaker did the correct action. When I worked in the legislature it was not umcommon for State Reps too give gifts to favorite pages or have similar type seniments. They were not out to get them in bed.

My Concerns-
More and more of what is going on behind the scenes is on the blogs-
First go to American Thinker- This required reading to understand why many of us are getting more inflamed by the minute. To get more angry go here for the update.

Why are the Republicans taking a beating when these alleged IM's and email's(sorry I am sticking with the fact much of this stuff hasnt been released) is appearing on strange web sites that seem to have Dem connections.

In the coming days, you shall hear me reference such sites as blogactive.com. If there are levels of hell , people like them shall occupy it lowest level in my book. I have been monitering that site and similar sites for about a year because of concerns over a certain politician well being I am concerned about. the Stratasphere has a small post on this blog.

Freakin AP has done it again here. Notice that email is in the title. Not instant messages. Why is that important? Because Hassert and out Louisiana Congressman were aware of the email I posted. But not the im's that are more troubling. What is being referenced is the IM's in the content of the piece. Not the email sent to the ex page in Louisiana ABC did something similar just a hour ago. WAKE UP FOLKS

An interesting and important side line and this confirms what was told to me this morning-
Turns out that ABC's headline that GOP Staff warned pages back in 2001 is incorrect-

More dubious Conservative talk from the Washington Times-
Also Monday, several prominent conservatives called for Hastert's resignation, the conservative newsweekly Human Events reported. They included David Bossie, president of Citizens United, and Michael Reagan, a son of former President Ronald Reagan and a conservative columnist.
"Any member of Congress who was aware of the sexual e-mails and protected the congressman should also resign effective immediately," Reagan said. "I was sexually abused by a day camp counselor at age 8 and also made to be part of child pornography."
May I make a humble suggestion here. Human events and Yes Ronald Reagan Jr are not exactly Hasert fans. Again notice the confusion of the email and the im's. Sorry not ready to join the mob yet.

Remember when I talked about Conservatives using this scandal for their own agenda. Well good ole Louisiana boy now DC big shot Tony Perkins has stepped into it.

Democrats seeking to exploit the resignation of Rep. Mark Foley (R-FL) are right to criticize the slow response of Republican congressional leaders to his communications with male pages. But neither party seems likely to address the real issue, which is the link between homosexuality and child sexual abuse. Foley, an unmarried 52-year-old representative, had always refused to answer questions about his sexual orientation. Now that his emails and messages to teenage male pages have been revealed, it appears clear that Foley is a homosexual with a particular attraction to underage boys. While pro-homosexual activists like to claim that pedophilia is a completely distinct orientation from homosexuality, evidence shows a disproportionate overlap between the two. Although almost all child molesters are male and less than 3% of men are homosexual, about a third of all child sex abuse cases involve men molesting boys--and in one study, 86% of such men identified themselves as homosexual or bisexual. Ignoring this reality got the Catholic Church into trouble over abusive priests, and now it is doing the same to the House GOP leadership. They discounted or downplayed earlier reports concerning Foley's behavior--probably because they did not want to appear "homophobic." The Foley scandal shows what happens when political correctness is put ahead of protecting children.
Interpretation of the above- We want to have a political climate where the the Family Research Counsel can go after gay republicans just like the radical gay groups do. Also notice he is misstating the facts of this incident

Sorry folks. I knew this was going to come out of on this Foley stuff. I believe homosexuality is wrong . I am against gay marriage. But I will be damned if I start participating in a witch hunt in the Republican party and start "outing" people. I am a Christian and yes I am even a conservative almost "Christian righ"t voting Christian. But Tony Perkins using this for his own agenda makes me ill. I had enough of him when he was down here. Thanks Tony- This is going to help the party
Full disclosure here. After working in a Senate race where Tony Perkins was the Opponent and after seeing him up close in the Louisiana legislature , I am not a big fan of Tony. That might offend a few people that think the sun rises and falls on T Perkins but I saw a different side.

Technorati Tags: GOP Foley

Republicans are being played for Idiots on this Page Scandal

2006-10-02T00:45:00.000-05:00

I am finally whooped after all the past activity of the week. I am going to be hitting national issue again starting tomorrow. Plus hitting what my blogroll is saying.

I can't believe though how Republicans are being played for fools for this issue. There is alot going on here and it will hit it first thing tomorrow.

Technorati Tags: tagnamehere

Were the 911 Terrorist in Shreveport Louisiana?

2006-10-01T19:58:00.000-05:00

I was out of town a few days and with College football,elections. etc I am just catching up on my reading. I was pretty shocked to see a story on a blog that referenced a news report out of Shreveport. This deals with statements of a man ,now deceased ,that he saw three 911 highjackers in Shreveport. It was shocking because I have some intimate knowledge of his statements. I had some involvement you see in giving him counsel on certain aspect of this affair.

Let me say straight out that I am not a 911 conspiracy person. However I believe to this day he saw them in that Chinese Restaurant at the foot of the Shreveport Barksdale Bridge. A detective that I have ultimate confidence in that facilitated an interview between him and the FBI is of the same viewpoint. To this day I have kept pretty quiet about what I knew about this because for what I suppose are the "national security" reasons this never was referenced in the 911 reports. Because of what he observed , I can understand why it was not referenced.

Despite my firm belief there was no conspiracy ,the events of his horrific and slow death have troubled me to this day. Anywho this ancient computer is having trouble downloading the segment but if you go the Marshall Fannin blog and go to the Sept 25 entry he has a link to the broadcast. I shall reserve further comment till I view the report for obvious reasons. Here is to you Dr Grahmn. God Bless Your Soul and May you Rest in Peace.

Technorati Tags: 911 Shreveport Louisiana

Jews, Backward Baton Rouge, and Bigoted Louisiana

2006-10-01T16:38:00.000-05:00

Last night after the Louisiana Secretary of State's race results were in, I remembered a very annoying article that appeared on a liberal internet site.

A few months ago on the Huffington Post the following appeared:
".....Now, I lived in Baton Rouge from age 1 to 14. A more assertively provincial, narrow-minded, anti-progressive, anti-New South place you could not hope to find. The people who choose to occupy its many lifeless, cookie-cutter subdivisions are defined by the fact that they hate New Orleans and everything that it represents: crime, culture, city life writ large. Three of my defining experiences of growing up there were 1) the David Duke campaign for governor, 2) dealing with anti-Semitic taunting and harassment throughout elementary school, including from a self-styled "neo-Nazi" in 6th grade, and 3) the murder of Yoshi Hattori, a Japanese exchange student who was living with some family friends of ours. He was shot because he went to the wrong house looking for a Halloween party, and the homeowner, Rodney Peairs, a meat cutter at Winn Dixie, didn't like his looks. After some well-coached crying on the witness stand, Peairs got off."
link

This of course is more than just Louisiana bashing. It pretty much is bashing of conservatives and people that think a tad different out side the LA and New York mindset. There are several things wrong about her article. First EBR Parish was not a stronghold of Duke support. The shooting cases she references is both tragic and complex. Racism had little to do with it.

However, we Louisiana folks as well as other Southerners need to respond to these charges. I have talked to people from out west and up north that have moved to Louisiana that are overwhelmed with relief after a few months living here. Why? Because they literally thought most of the State were going to KLAN rallies before they arrived. Also believe it or not people sometimes do not move businesses down here because of these printed and widely circulated sterotypes.

Why did the Secretary of State's race come to mind? Well because Republican State Senator Jay Dardenne made the runoff. Jay Dardenne is a Jew and has been a state Senator from Baton Rouge for a number of years. That didn't make the above article. Maybe because it is because he is Republican. Well last night Jay won a spirited race, that included another Republican, to advance to the runoff. Lets looks at the result from the Parish where the above misguided author lived:
Among the main three the results were in East Baton Rouge-

(r)Dardenne 34,428
(r)Francis 6,951
(D) Heitmeier12,998

Just for giggles lets look at neighboring Livingston Parish that is a bedroom community of Baton Rouge

(r) Dardenne 8,579
(r) Francis 2,655
(D) 2,804

For those curious see the State wide results here.

I don't mean to pick on the above author of this piece. Children can be cruel and sometimes it leaves a scar. But the point here is much larger than the above piece. Sen Jay Dardenne has a been a State Republican Senator from Baton Rouge for a number of years. He is highly respected. He also just happens to be Jewish .There is a good chance he will become the new Louisiana Secretary of State. People might have disagreed with Jay Dardenne on issues but his Jewish faith has never been a issue. It appears it was not a issue state wide either. If any canidate had brought it up they would have been politically castrated by ordinary Louisiana and Baton Rouge folks. I could go on and on.

Louisiana is not all roses to say the least. But using sterotypes for some agenda is not helpful for the advancement of this state or the nation. The above Huffington post piece is just an example of journalistic pieces that one often sees and often causes us to roll our eyes. In post Katrina Louisiana we can't afford economically to ignore such things anymore.

Technorati Tags: Louisiana Baton Rouge Dardenne GOP Republican Jews

Thoughts On Last Nights Louisiana Elections

2006-10-01T10:06:00.000-05:00

Last night was not a high profile or voter attention grabbing Louisiana election like some of recent history. Still however there are some interesting lessons and and trends that I think can be observed.

Signs of Trouble for New Orleans and Louisiana-
First the bad news. Voter turnout in New Orleans was again really bad. Turnout across the board ,even in areas with hot mayor's races, were down. However, the turnout numbers in New Orleans were extremely bad. Turnout State wide appears to have averaged in the lower to mid 20's. In Parishes where there was a hot mayor's race one can add about 10 to 15 percent to that figure. This is not that shocking because of the nature of the State wide offices on the ballot. The problem is that in Orleans Parish and St Bernard Parish turnout was only 11 percent and 9 percent in those respective Parishes. Ouch. New Orleans had only an Absentee vote of around 1100 votes. When one looks at the surrounding Parishes that were also devasted by Katrina and Rita it shows a disturbing trend. For instance turnout was 19% in Cameron, 29% in Vermillion, and 36% in Plaquemines Parishes. The Orleans turnout in this race is a extension of low turnout we saw in the hotly contested mayors races of this year. I find that this is the clearest sign that the future population of these parishes will be much lower than feared. The November elections will be important to watch. Both St Bernard and Orleans Parishes will be involved in two very contested Congressional races. If we don't see numbers increase then there are problems.

The problem is simple . It all relates to the US Census. First New Orleans appears to be way below the numbers to receive the Urban grants and aid that cities all over the Country receive. Where will that be made up? The big concern that will be felt state wide is our represenatation in the US Congress. Louisiana like many of its sister states with similar demographics have weak Congressional delegations. Before Katrina and Rita we were bracing ourselves for the reality we would be losing one Congressional seat because of population loss. Now it appears we might have to brace ourselves for the possibility of losing two. That could be a disaster.

Sec of State Race-
This race of course is going into a runoff. As expected Heitmeier made the runoff because of the fact he was the only Democrat running. More on Heit later. The real intriguing race was between the two Republicans running. That is Sen Jay Dardenne and Mike Francis. Jay Dardenne of course emerged the victor between the two.

Mike Francis-
Mike Francis ran a good campaign for his first try at a major elective office. Kudos to him for putting his name in the ring. However his campaign had problems and the political minded folks who care about this politics game should take heed of them. First, Francis seemed to be running in the tradition of the angry right wing. That is throw the bums out, get rid of the career politicians, and lets get "real" republicans in there and not hese Louisiana "rinos". A few problems that Francis had with this approach.

First, that alone will not get you the win. Francis could have ran fewer ads about "family values" and more about the job he was running for. Francis talks about corruption and reform , but the problem is he never related it to the Secretary of State's office. The Secretary of State's office regulates business regulations as to corporations, handles elections, and run museums. This office has been pretty much under Republican control for the past 8 years except for the short time after the former occupants tragic death. If there is corruption then what needed to be reformed? It appears not much since Francis couldn't come up with anything in his political ads. Many voters I talked to said of his ads were asking what the hell abortion had to do with the Secretary of State's office.

Second there is the issue of negative campaigning. One gets a sense that voters thought that Francis was being a tad unfair to Republican Sen Dardenne. The abortion issue being a prime example where the Francis forces tried to portray Dardenne as being pro choice and a liberal. It seems that very conservative Baton Rouge sent that message when it came out to defend their own State Senator at the polls. We saw that also in other cities. Even in areas where Francis was strong in. Looking at the absentee votes in North Louisiana one sees a stronger showing by Francis than he had on election day. I think the negatives ads and what voters sensed as unfair attacks hurt him in the final weeks. Jay's very negative ad in the closing week did not hurt him. In a sense voters realized Dardenne had a ton of mud thrown at him and didn't mind if he struck back.

Finally the best thing Francis can do is to unite the party and get baehind Dardenne. I expect he will.

Jay Dardenne-
I am very impressed with Jay Dardenne campaign efforts. The only thing he could have done better was to campaign more in North Louisiana. I am wondering if perhaps Repubs should have ran Jay against Dem US Senator Mary Landrieu in two years instead of for Secretary of State. A few major points about his electoral success last should be noted.

Black Vote -
Good grief Jay did great with this segment of voters that are so Democrat leaning. The biggest surprise of the night was how well Jay did in Orleans Parish itelf in the black areas. He was running 16 to 19 percent in some areas. Very Jindal like numbers. In areas of Baton Rouge , Dardenne got 40 to 45 percent of middle class Black neighborhoods that vote Dem in a big way!!! The Republicans need to find out how he did this.

What would be productive is to figure out how Jay did so well in the Black community and can it be duplicated. Is it (1) Jay actually campaigned in those areas instead of just promising to do it next election. If so how did he do it
or
(2) Did the Dems just take it for granted
or
(3) Blacks are becoming more open to voting for conservatives or Republicans
or
(4) Are we seeing traditionally black political organizations working with republicans in this post Katrina World.

I don't buy that Jay bought off the "blacks" as some folks are saying in their own un PC way because that machine is pretty dead and two that doesnt explain how he was getting 40 to 45 percent in affluent Black neigborhoods last night in BR.

Conservative or Rino?
Jay had the rino charge leveled against him in this campaign. I think he dealt with it in a effective matter. It appears that people from the conservative Parishes such as Jefferson, Livingston, St Tammny didn't think that charge was valid. It also appears that despite aggressive campaigning by Francis in the North, Jay was also able to counter some of the early damage caused by those allegations.

The Jewish Question-
There was no Jewish question of course. My line of thought on this shall be in an additional post since it is of interest on more than a local or state level.

Heitmeier and the Democrats-
Senator Heitmeier as expected got into the runoff as being the only true Dem contender in the race. However I must admit his campaign aswell as the State's Dem party effort as to this race is pretty strange. Speaking to a Democrat last night, he informed me that Heitmeier took too long to get his camp together. I believe that is the understatement of the year. Heitmeier of course is from the New Orleans area. The results from Orleans Parish speak for themselves-

Orleans Parish-
Dardenne 12,688
Francis 1,744
Heitmeier 12,856

That sucks for a Louisiana Democrat. Similar results can be found in other Parishes that should have been very pro Heitmeier He had better result sightly in areas where there were active mayor's races. It will be interesting to see how his numbers improve with the Congressional race occuring in Orleans and the race involving Melachon that will be on the Novmeber ballot.
As a Republican I am on the outside trying to look in as to what is happening in the Dem Camp. Therefore I am just making educated guesses to be honest. Is this a sign of of party in trouble? Perhaps it is but we shall see in the runoff.

Dept Of Insurance Race-
We should thank God anyone wanted to run for this office. Talk about a office where all you get is gripes. Especially in this Post Katrina and Louisiana world. My hat is off to all three people in this race.
Louisiana should say a collective prayer this race is over. Because of the Liberatarian in this race it wasn't clear we were not going to have a runoff till about 1 am in the morning. Doneleon manage to win a avoid a run off by 500 votes. This race had two Republicans. They were acting Dept of Insurance head Doneleon and State Senator David Cain. To show you how unpopular this office is even to politcos the Dems couldnt find someone to run for it. S. B. A. Zaitoon was the Libertarian. Here is the breakdown.

222,417
39%
James David Cain, R
-
283,366
50%
James J. "Jim" Donelon, R

60,094
11%
S. B. A. Zaitoon, L

Cain-
Cain almost pulled this one out. The problem was in my view the negative ads. I am not against negative ads. There is often more truth on negative ads than positive ones. Howeverever there is a line that one can not cross when negative ads become a liability. I suggest when Donelon whent to court to stop them on the basis of libel that the line was crossed.

Like the Secretary of States race it is a crying shame the ads did not focus on how the heck we are going to get out of this mess. IF Cain had ran a few more of those ads I think he would have run. Cain has his own negatives that are well known so I won't go into them here.

From a political standpoint this was a pretty fun race to watch. Cain had a North Louisiana political strategy that almost worked. How the traditional Dem black vote panned out was fascinating. It appears that Cain had a slight edge with blacks in BAton Rouge and in North Louisiana while Doneleon had it in other areas.

Doneleon-
Metro New Orleans advertising saved him as well as it appears a good bit of the Republican party. I think he appeared to be more Republican than Cain. TO give him credit he got the votes needed in the hurricane ravaged parishes. Could it be that voters thought he was doing the best job any human could possibly do in this situation?

Zaitoon-
Since Zaitoon gor 11 percent in this race I should give him his due. There seemed to be a big effort by the blogs and others to have people to support him. However, I don't view this as a big moral victory for this esteemed third party. Zaitoon basically got the protest votes and the vote of those who couldn't stand either guy. If Zaitoon presented a Libertarian view of how to deal with our insurance crisis , I didn't hear it. I suspect most of his voters had not either. That is a shame in a sense. The post hurricane insurance crisis is a big one with no easy answers. If he had some answers or possible solutions I would loved to have heard it.

Overall Trends in LA Politics-
The Secretary of State Race is already being spinned the wrong way. It is being viewed as Republican moderates versus the religious right. Let me suggest that what is viewed as the religious right is actually populist rethoric and views. This has often been identified with democrats. However the Republicans have their own version of it. I find religion has precious little to do with it.

I think both Francis and Cain in a more traditional sense ran in this tradition. Both failed in their ultimate objective. Francis though is the race too look at. When I think of the Francis campaign the first feeling I get is anger. Throw the bums out!!!! US against Them!!! They are all Crooked!!! Well goodness with that theme no wonder why these campaigns come off as too moralistic. Someone made a good point as to these defeats last night. This does not bode well for a future Foster Campbell Governor's run. It also seems to indicate that Louisiana citizens are looking for reasoned approaches and solutions to our problems. Does not mean that partisan poliitcs is out the window? Of course not. Party politics is still needed to help clarify different approachs and to foster a competition of ideas. However I am convinced for the time being the Mike Francis approach is not going to appeal much to voters in the forseeable future.

Const Amendments-

I am impressed . Louisiana passed what was needed. Let us give ourselves a hand.

Technorati Tags: Louisiana politics

Louisiana Election Results Coming up

2006-09-30T23:48:00.000-05:00

Besides watching 4 games at once , I have been following the Louisiana election returns. I shall have a full post on that and my thoughts. However can some one explain to me why it is 11:43 at night and a whole Parish still has not recorded their votes with the Sec of States Office(St Charles)?

Technorati Tags: Louisiana

College Game Day thread(Updated all Day and Night)

2006-09-30T11:08:00.000-05:00

Pondering American's Top Ten Games of Interest and other other games
(1) LSU vs Misstake-(kickoff 11:30)
Good Grief, this game is going to be brutal for Miss State. We will be sure to give them some pretty beads though after we violate them though. LSU will win baby
UPDATES-
-WHOO HOO LSU SCORES ON FIRST POSSESSION LSU 7 MISS STATE 0
-- Second Possession of the Game LSU SCORES LSU 14 Maroon folks 0
--- 3rd Possession of the game LSU Scores 21 Miss State 0
----4th Possession of the game LSU SCORES LSU 28 MISS State 0
-----5th Possession of the game LSU scores LSU 35 Miss State 0
------Miss State shows some Life LSU 35 Miss State 3
-------Game Delay early in the 3rd quarter lightning within 6 miles. MSU was showing some momentum. Had to unleash our weather experiments
Whoo Hoo LSU WINS Geaux tigers-

(2) Louisiana Tech V Clemson-
Ok Tech will get beat. I realize that. But the hell with ESPN gameday where they said Clemson will put 48 to 58 points on LA Tech. La Tech will a tad harder than that.
- Clemson 7 Tech 0 in the first
--Yuck so far ESPN guys are right despite my hopeful sentiments Clemson 24 Tech 0 in the second
Clemson wins- Sad

(3) Ole Miss Vs Georgia-

Poor Coach O from Ole Miss. Been a bad week. Rumors about a wife that makes profanity an art form and reports about fights with the neighbors. I suspect it will not get better today. The great state of Mississippi will be embarrased twice on National TV today. Georgia will win.
-Interesting Game here at the Half Old miss 3 Georgia 0.
-- GEORGIA WINS A DOWN TO THE WIRE GAME IN OXFORD 14 to 9

(4) Ohio V Iowa-
I so want Ohio to lose. However they will not. Ohio will win. But a close one
OHIO WINS DAMN DAMN DAMN-

(5) USC at Washington State-
I am so looking forward to this game. I am not over awed with USC this year. Even though I love their quarterback because he is a local Louisiana boy and I have hung with him before. Speaking on Mr Booty, you should see his My Space page. Jeez, he is one lucky Shreveport boy. Hot girls. Anywho I am predicting Washington Wins. Sorry John David, LSU needs USC to go down. Have your 3 or 4 of your nice hotties console you. It will help
-In the first quarter USC 7 Washington 3
--USC 14 Wash 6
Good Grief USC Wins. Good Game though USC 28 Wash St 22- USC IS OVERRATED

(6) Alabama V Florida-
My brain says Florida but my gut has been telling me something else. I think this will be a killer of a game. Alabama I think has a real chance. However Florida is good real good. I am going with my brain and saying FLORIDA WINS.
-- This game has been fun and I am praying that Florida wins In the 4th Florida 14 Bama 13
FLORIDA WINS 28 to 13

(7) Michigan at Minnesota-
I am so tired of Michigan this and Michigan that I can scream. However it seems I will just have keep on screaming. Michigan will win
MICHIGAN WINS-

(8) Tennessee at Memphis-
This game is currently on. This game is often a good one. I think the same today. Tenn wins though.
Update-
It is Halftime Tenn 13 Memphis 0- Should be noted that 2 of Memphis star players were suspended by the Coach for the first half for being late to a team meeting this morning
---Tenn Wins 41 Memphis 7

(9) Purdue at Notre Dame -
Heck, can't root against Notre Dame this week. Tough game but I expect Notre Dame to win.
Notre Dame Wins 35 to 21-

10. Boise State at Utah -
Tech Starts up WAC conference play thank God next week. Unfort it is against Boise. Boise wins this one
OHHHH Bosie Showed up today. Good thing because some people are taking a killing on the spreads today. Boise State Wins 36 to 3

OTHER GAMES-
This will be added to as the day rolls on

Michigan State V Illinois (possible upset alert)
It is tied in the final minutes of the 4th. Been watching this game during the LSU weather delay. It is 20 to 20
--Illinois pulls Upset beats Michigan State 23-20-

Virgina Tech V Georgia Tech(Major Upset in Making Alert)
-Georgia Tech currently ranked 24 is beating 11th ranked Virginia Tech 31 to 13 in the 3rd
--UPSET GEORGIA TECH WINS 38 to 27

Miami V Houston- Potential big meltdown alert if Miami loses. It is tied 7 to 7 in the 2nd
-Houston 13 Miami 7 in the 3rd

MIAMI WINS 14 to 13 Cokers Wife Does't have to pack the China tomorrow
Technorati Tags: LSU Louisiana

Geaux Tigers Beat Mississippi State

2006-09-30T10:02:00.000-05:00

It is game day and GAWDDDDD it is a early kickoff. Freakin 11:30 am. Urggggh. I hate LSU day games. I still have not got over the gospel that LSU does not play as well during the day. But heck it is the truth. Anyway should be a good win today. I was considering driving down for the game at 6 am this morning but I am too tired after this week to makee the 4 hour drive and come back at like 2pm. So we shall have the College Game day(Updated All day and night) up above.

LSU links-
From the papers

LSU, State to rise early today

LSU Defense Makes Case as Nation's Best

Tigers' defense could feast on Miss. State

Landry sees similarities between '06 and '03

From the LSU Blogs

TigerSmack blog is interviewing our opponents who are fans and bloggers. Pretty cool. This week he interviews a Miss State one check it out. Oh be sure to see Comeaux the Clarivoyant Corndog game predictions.

MISS State-

Be sure to check out the SIX Pack Forum.

Technorati Tags: LSU Louisiana

Louisiana Citizens- Get Off Your Butts and Go Vote

2006-09-30T09:54:00.000-05:00

Today is election day and several important things are on the ballot. Polls opened at 6 AM and don't close till 8 pm. Therefore plenty of time after the LSU game and before the Tech game to go vote. I have been up since 1 am doing my annual election tradition. That is putting up signs for my guy all over God's creation. In this case a certain three parish Area in North Louisiana. Yes I am one of those you cuss but it works -promise.
Technorati Tags: Louisiana

Oh Well Republicans have lost another House Seat

2006-09-29T15:07:00.000-05:00

It appears that emails from Republican House member Foley of Florida to a males page that worked for Louisiana Congressman Alexander has caused another to go into the Dem column. The only hope we got is a write in and that ain't going to work. Not good news

Technorati Tags: Republican

Election Endorsements

2006-09-29T10:32:00.000-05:00

Secretary Of State-
It is sad that the political ads for this campaign rarely focused on what the Secreatry of State's Office actually does in the whole scheme of things. This office is in charge of corporations, LLC'S and other rules and regulations regarding such entities. It is also charged with handling elections as well as having number of museums under its control. In essence it is important you get someone in charge of this that knows what they are doing.

I am voting for Sen Jay Dardenne for Secretary of State. This is where his political experience and background is a plus. I feel he knows what works there and what doesn't. His experience of interceding on behalf of the people of his district when they had problems with this office should be a plus. Sen Dardenne in my opinion is the most competent man for the job.

Const Amendments-(Vote YES on 1-4)
As usual we have a ton of Const. amendments on the ballot. I think some of these amendments were poorly written. However I wish to just focus on the amendments that deal with coastal erosion issues. I strongly urge everyone to vote YES for amendment 1. Amendment 2 is a tough choice. This shifts money from the tobacco lawsuit into coastal erosion. That money is supose to be going into fund to help citizens to smoking related ailments. I am voting YES on Amendment 2 because it acts in tandem with Amendment 1 and only 20 percent of that fund can be used for such purposes. The money is needed. The other two amendments(3 and 4) I am voting yes on as well. Four is a tad controversial but it will be needed when Louisiana has to make tough choices as to Diversion projects. There are many other amendments on the ballot. I might take a look at them in a seperate post.

Secretary Of Insurance-
Again another race that seemed not to talk about the issues that much. I frankly don't like any of the guys running that much. Howwever one still has to amke a choice. I am supporting Donelon and praying tht is the best choice.

Technorati Tags: Louisiana

ELECTION ENDORSEMENTS COMING UP

2006-09-29T09:28:00.002-05:00

I am returning home today but have managed to find a computer so I can post a couple of items on first. Tomorrow is elecction day in Louisiana so I shall be a Pondering Endorsement post in a bit
Technorati Tags: Louisiana

The Mexico Fence Issue Again

2006-09-26T15:23:00.000-05:00

I am going to give an update on the whole Miunteman/Minutegate monkeyshines soon. I had to tke a break from that madness for a few weeks. However, the fence issue is about to come up again. Of course the problem is that it is only the fence and not comprehensive reform.

Big Lizards has a excellent post on this issue. It is well worth the read. Big Lizards hits it dead on when he says:
Simply put, the fence is great; I'm all in favor of the fence; but there are other reforms equally vital, without which the fence alone cannot work. And here's the kicker: once we get the fence, the enforcement-first crowd in Congress will turn into the enforcement-only mob, and I am 100% convinced that they themselves will do everything in their power to obstruct and disrupt every other element of immigration reform.
The only incentive for "enforcement only" Congressmen to support other reforms is to tie those reforms to the border fence. It's a sad state of affairs for the nation -- but one that is forced upon reformers by the monomania of the enforcement-only representatives and senators. Both moderates and conservatives have immigration ideas that are vital to solving this problem; but the hard right refuses even to consider the moderates' ideas... even to the point of letting the border fence go unbuilt, if to build it means they have to accept some other reforms.

I must say after immersing myself in this issue he has hit it on the nail. I am all for a fence in places being part of the solution. However, it is not the entire solution. Remember the goal of many of these anti immigration groups is to bring immigration to a vitural standstill. We have the goalpost moved constantly by the enforcement first crowd. Sorry I don't have the patience to play that game and neither do large segments of this country. This issue will kill the Republican party in the long run if we don't come up with a sensible solution. Read the whole post. Another great read.

One final note. I think we Republicans and conservatives might need to be a tad more discerning in what we are reading as to this issue. For months I have heard that the hardliner appraoch is a winning formula for the GOP. In fact it is the only winning formula to some. If that is the case, I would like to know why the heck it appears not to be panning out. Look at the Santorum Senate race in Penn. More importantly look at the Graf(r) v Gifford(d)House race in the border state of Arizona.Graf was a founder of the minutemen and was backed by Tancredo. He barely won the Rewpublican primary. Gifford favors a comprehensive approach. Guess what? She is ahead in all polls.

Technorati Tags: immigration illegals Republican

Meanwhile Way Out There On Mars

2006-09-26T14:55:00.000-05:00

Nasa is still kicking it. From the Washington Post

When the Mars rovers Opportunity and Spirit reached their distant destination in early 2004, NASA scientists hoped the vehicles would probe the planet's frigid landscape for 90 days before they pooped out or were undone by the harsh Martian environment.
More than 900 days later, however, both robotic explorers are going strong-- and Opportunity is on the cusp of what is likely to be its greatest accomplishment.
After enduring an 18-month trek through rugged terrain, dust devils and daily temperature swings approaching 200 degrees, the rover is scheduled to arrive today within easy lens view of a deep and geologically revealing crater. By tomorrow, if all goes well, the little robot that could will be right at Victoria Crater's edge and in position to peer inside and send back images like none seen before.
"Exploring Victoria is something we joked and fantasized about but never really thought we could realistically get to it," said Steven Squyres of Cornell University, principal investigator for the rovers' science instruments. "This is the absolutely highest-priority destination we could have reached."
The reason is that Victoria is an impact crater about 200 feet deep and half a mile wide, with sheer cliffs and layers upon layers of exposed rock. Before Victoria, the deepest crater the rover visited was Endurance, which is a mere 23 feet deep.
The scientists think Victoria Crater is the kind of geological formation that can tell them a great deal about Mars's history, and especially about whether and when water may have covered parts of the planet. Water is essential for life as we know it.

To awesome. I wish we would hear about things like this a bit more.

The Nasa Page to keep up todate on this mission is here. Great pics and resources.

Technorati Tags: mars NASA

Honoring the Other President Bush

2006-09-25T23:00:00.000-05:00

Needless to say, I am thrilled with the Saints winning and the coverage ESPN gave us. Great day for New Orleans and Louisiana. It feels that the Dome has been baptized and the evil and suffering washed away. There was one negative point involving a certain moviemaker that was in the ESPN booth but I shall not drell on that.

President George H. Bush was in attendance tonight at the game. He like many Louisiana people had his own Superdome moment that was not Katrina related. Bush of course received the Republican nomination for President in the Superdome way back in 1988. I wonder what was going through his mind tonight? He gave a great classy and positive pre- game interview on ESPN. He gave accolades not only to the Govt his son heads but to the state and local govt as well.

He , with his typical good nature humor, did the opening coin toss. George Bush along with President Clinton has done the Lord's work with their charity relating to Katrina.

It is a shame but Bush Sr. will not be appreciated till he is dead I am afraid. The media and others will allow some people to speak out about this great man at the funeral hopefully. People forget that as communism was dying, it was George Bush that made sure things did not become a disaster. When the attempted coup happened in Russia, it was Bush at the helm. When the Berlin Wall came down Bush did not gloat and use it for photo ops. He knew that wasn't the time in those delicate days. Eastern Europe came to freedom largely on his watch. He helped guide it and made sure that those countries former overlords were not replaced with a different kind of terror. People also forget the domestic opposition to our first excursion into Iraq. He was willing to do what was right even though he knew it posed great risk. There were many more accomplishments. It should be remembered he served his country before he was President. He was a congressman and helped build the Republican party in Texas to what it is today. He was head of the CIA, the head of the National Republican Party, and ambassador to China. Oh yes he was Vice -President for eight years,t hat should not be forgotten either.

He ,like his son, was made fun of and took a million unfair jabs. Before "compassionate conservativism" we had the the dad's "thousands points of light". It too was ridiculed but I still believe in both. That re-election campaign was one to watch. It is the Economy Stupid was the theme of the democrats and Team Clinton that year. I am still not sure if "stupid" was referring to Bush or to us voters. I still remember watching CNN the day after Clinton won and the networks announcing we were coming out of the light recession we were in. I SO WANTED TO SHOUT AT JEFF GREENFIELD ON CNN THE DAY AFTER AS HE WAS JUST MENTIONING THAT LITTLE FACTOID FOR THE FIRST TIME. That news and those economic studies of course were not highlighted by the media during the campaign.

George Bush was the last WWII President this country will ever have. I just hope we don't forget the lessons that the pacific fighter pilot that became leader of the free world gave to us.

Bush Sr has been a very classy Ex President. He of all people would have been given a pass to really say what is on his mind since his son is an occupant currently of that office that carries such weight. I wish certain ex- Presidents would take him as a role model. I remember President Jimmy Carter at the Coretta Scott King funeral and it's was like night and day.

I am going to try to keep track of his speaking schedule in the future and try to keep track when he is within driving distance to my little part of the World. I am proud he was our President and am grateful of how he has made his new vocation as ex- President a force for so much good. Hopefully before he dies I will have a opportunity to tell him that fact in person.

God Bless You President George H Bush
Update- LOL Never post a post when you are in excitement over the game still. Not Right about Everything pointed out that these pics are not from last night game. As can be seened from the Jerseys and the Stadium. They were the first ones I saw at the Saints Home page so I put them up. Corrected pics to come up shortly. However still a stellar performance by bothe Bush's, the player and former Prez, and the Saints

Technorati Tags: Bush Louisiana Saints GOP Republican

Saints in the Superdome Tonight

2006-09-25T18:14:00.000-05:00

We are Still here and it feels good.

I think that is the message tonight. I hope everyone watches the game and the special halftime show.

I just saw part of the pre game concert on ESPN and it brings tears of joy to ones eyes. The Song was by the Goo Goo Dolls and it was Better Days.
And you ask me what I want this year
And I try to make this kind and clear
Just a chance that maybe we'll find better days
Cuz I don't need boxes wrapped in strings
And desire and love and empty things
Just a chance that maybe we'll find better days

So take these words
And sing out loud
Cuz everyone is forgiven now
Cuz tonight's the night the world begins again

And it's someplace simple where we could live
And something only you can give
And thats faith and trust and peace while we're alive
And the one poor child that saved this world
And there's 10 million more who probably could
If we all just stopped and said a prayer for them

So take these words
And sing out loud
Cuz everyone is forgiven now
Cuz tonight's the night the world begins again

I wish everyone was loved tonight
And somehow stop this endless fight
Just a chance that maybe we'll find better days

So take these words
And sing out loud
Cuz everyone is forgiven now
Cuz tonight's the night the world begins again
Cuz tonight's the night the world begins again

Yep its time to forgive and all move on.

New Orleans has got a lot of negative coverage. Much of that criticism was justified but my God a lot it has not been. New Orleans and the surrounding metro area have some of the greatest folks on the planet. 99 percent of the struggles and yes even victories have never been brought into the public eye. Tonight is one of those important ones. It is much more than a football game tonight.

GO Saints

Technorati Tags: Louisiana Saints

A new Interesting GOP Site and Commentary on "rinos', conservatives and moderates

2006-09-25T14:56:00.000-05:00

I am going to be adding this site to my blogroll called GOPProgress.com. I like what I see.

It bills itself as:
If you’re a moderate or a small “l” libertarian Republican looking for a forum to share your views on everything from taxes to national security to our environment, you’ve come to the right place! GOPProgress.com gives mainstream Republicans like you a place to discuss current policies and politics in the nation's capital and across the country. Voice your opinions, meet like-minded people, and engage in thoughtful debate with Republicans committed to the ideal of real progress for our party, and real progress for our country.

I am not in the traditional use of a term a GOP moderate and despite at times having libertarian leanings on some things, I am not one even with a small "l".

Despite that I like the site because it is a source of good news and appears a place where thoughtful debate and comment can be had.

I really believe that the problem this Republican party has is from the "labeling" police of the extreme right that wishes to conduct purity test 24/7. The base of the Republican party is indeed a conservative one. However, it seems to me that all this rantings we hear is not from the "base" really. The constant complaining is from a largely unelected subset of the "base" that seems to think he is the guardian of all things "conservative".

I am anti abortion and only are for the three exceptions for purely pragmactic political reasons. I am wary of stem cell research, euthanasia, and anything in this technological age that makes human life a commodity or devalue its. I also wanted Terry Schivo to live. I am against restrictions on the right to bear arms and am a big supporter of the NRA. I am for less taxes and getting a grip on federal spending. I believe that the freedom of religion is paramount and that the actions of the San Francisco City Council and the Government of Canada are abhorrent and more frightning than any of the ravings against the so called religious right. I am against campaign finance reform as championed by John McCain and only ask that the donations be transparent. I am for a robust National defense and aggresive US foreign policy. I believe in free trade and commerce and against protectionism except when National Security dictates. I am for welfare reform but wish to have a safety net. I am against gay marriage and support a Const ban to prevent it from coming in the back door in states throught the "full faith and commerce clause". I think you get the point. I am a conservative. However, nowadays I feel perhaps that maybe I am a

Rino(republican in name only) was a term that used to be employed to describe very liberal republicans. Now it is used to describe people it seems that don't agree with Michelle Malkin, Ann Coulter , Tom Tancredo and similar folk on every little issue. Why have I been called a Rino?

I have been called a rino because I believe in a comprehensive approach to immigration and treating even the illegals here with human dignity.

I have been labeled a rino because I believe that the handling of the DUBAI terminal deal was a huge disaster and threatened our vital relationships.

I have been called a rino because I don't cotton to talk that the Muslim faith should be banned in the US and that they are all the "enemy".

I have been labeled a rino because I am not so sure all this global warming stuff is ALL without exception poppycock.

I have been called a rino because I thought the "gang of 14" in the senate was a reasonable
compromise.

I have been called a rino on national conservative forums because I plead with people to help us stop coastal erosion in Louisiana.

I have been called a rino because I have the gall to tell people that not all people think like we do and we can not just purge all moderate republicans from the party and to think in a pragmatic way.

Believe it or not to show you how far we have fallen, I am a rino because I support NAFTA and CAFTA for goodness sake. Reagan must be spinning in his grave.

The above are my sins that seem to be unforgiveable by the unelected talk show hosts, the big so called "conservative bloggers", and the rest. For the above stances I am a rino. Should I fight back and say you can't steal the term conservative or should I adopt this new name with a passion? I think I shall fight.

This of course is not about me. The issue is not that my feelings are hurt or that I am being labeled incorrectly. The issue is that it is happening to conservatives far more important than me.

Governor Mike Huckabee of Arkansas is labeled a rino by the very aggressive but very much factually challenged in this instance Club for Growth.

In fact while having the gall to call a conservative like Hugh Hewitt a Rino, Save the GOP says as to Huckabee George Allen, Sam Brownback, Bill Frist, Rudy Giuliani, Mike Huckabee, John McCain, and Mitt Romney that they are not "conservatives". Good grief , could Ronald Reagan pass their test? I mean ok we can debate at thios point if Giuliani and maybe Romney are more moderate than the average GOP voter but the others? Give me a break.

Senator Graham? Well just take a look at this FR thread. It pretty much voices the mindset of the "rinos" under my bed folk. He like other "rinos" often have stellar conservative credentials.

Of course the biggest Rino to some of course is President Bush. Sad.

I could go on and on. The main crime the above have is theydon't march in lockstep on every issue that they are demanded to do so on. In effect they don't heel and roll over like a dog everytime the blogsphere or the rightmarch.com folks tell them to doWe saw that with Congressman Cannon this year and the horrible way he was treated. For that sin they must be purged.

Of course the moderate and liberal Republicans act silly at times. Their obsession this year with what they call the "religious" nuts in the party is pretty lamebrained. Conservative Catholics and Evangelicals are not the problem. The problem is this demand for 100 percent conformity and no debate on every issue the supposed "base" decrees obedience on. The Anchoress when commenting on Bush's problems with the supposed base said it best:
Some say that the GOP should consider “losing in ‘06 to win in ‘08.” Some conservatives say that they’re going to not vote - to sit out an election or vote for a third party candidate to “teach the GOP a lesson.”
The far-right gwwwwarks like a cracker-obsessed parrot: Bush has abandoned the base, he’s abandoned the base, he’s abandoned the base.
Ever stop to think maybe the president feels his base has abandoned him, that uncontent with 75%, they’ve simply moved beyond reason? Ever stop to think that while you’re calling the president every despicable name in the book and demanding his fealty or you’ll “teach him a lesson,” that perhaps there is a lesson you need to learn? That a good man, disinterested in merely laughing or crying for the camera for 8 years and looking to do a difficult job in the face of unprecedented hate, unprecedent speed of communication, unprecedented global instability, unprecedented backstabbing from within his own CIA, deserves some loyalty and the benefit of a doubt as he tries to bring you the 75% you so callously spit back at him as insufficient......Here is a question, and I’ll be writing on it some more during the week, but start thinking about it, now: HOW DO YOU RECEIVE A GOOD?
How you receive a good has a lot to do with whether any more “good” comes your way. The Conservatives got a “good” in 2000 and 2004; they’re receiving it very badly, indeed. I think the throwing-under-the-bus-of-George-W-Bush by “the base” is one of the most shameful things I have ever witnessed in all my years of watching politics, from both sides of the political spectrum. How do you receive a good?

It is a great read and should cause the "base" some serious soul searching if they bother to read anything outside their echo chamber. But I am rino because I haven't heeled on every SINGLE issue so what do I know. I used to laugh when I saw Dems screaming that Hillary Clinton was not a "liberal". I thought how stupid and out of touch the left wing was to think such a thing. I don't laugh anyore because it is happening over on our side now all the time.

So visit GOPPROGRESS.COM. I don't agree with everything that is posted but at least I suspect if you go and are rational and respectful you won't get banned and even might learn something. Isn't that what the joy of politics is all about.

Technorati Tags: Republican rino GOP gopprogress.com

A Blogroll Roundup and my Comments

2006-09-25T11:07:00.000-05:00

Called as Seen has some good post up as usual. He has a few words over that leaked intelligence report we have all been hearing about today. He also has a link to Mel Gibson's latest comment on Iraq and Bush. I will always like Mel Gibson and unlike many I often don't care if movie stars politics are different than mine. There are a few noteable exceptions lol. I do find Mel Gibson's view interesting though. I often wonder if this is because of the schismatic Catholic faith he practices. I have heard similar thoughts from these " extreme traditionalists" before and I have yet to figure out why.

The Pink Flamingo has a post people should take a good look at. The meat of this post deals with a law that that congress just passed relating to "possible strip searches of kids" at school and other violations of privacy by non law enforcement officials. In case your wondering the bill might make it far more easier as well as expand invasions of privacy. The bill in question is HB HR 5295 and it appears that both the right and the left are raising alarm bells. I am going to do some research as to this issue myself. It is true that children in a school setting have less reasonable expectations of privacy than the rest of us. However this seems absurd if true.

The Subway Canaries blog has a great post giving some background to the anti immigration movement in Artizona. Also she hits on Graf's problem with the infamous David Duke endorsement.

Let me give my some my thoughts here. This David Duke issue should be handled carefully. I have had to endure 4 Louisiana election when that man was running in either local or statewide races. I have had the opportunity to speak to him on a number of occasions. The man is a publicity hound and he is getting exactly what he wants right now. I am sure that Graf didn't go after this endorsement and is not pleased with it. The David Duke's of the world of course favor a hardline extremist approach on immigration. However all hardliners are not "David Duke". For instance I oppose affirmative action and so do the David Duke's of the world. That doesn't mean though I am agree with the real philosophy of David Duke however.

We conservatives must be careful. Remember the KKK endorsed Ronald Reagan. Does that mean that Reagan was allied with the KKK? Of course not. I am not thrilled with the publicity Duke is getting right now at all. He is one of the few people when I met him I sensed evil. This is getting him back into the game and it should be avoided at all cost.

That being said the media is missing the real story here. As Subway Canaries points out the real issue is PAN and this other associations. . Hard questions relating to that are legitimate and should be asked.

If you concerned about good Louisiana Government and protecting the taxpayer, please go see this post WE SAW THAT has got up. This is more on reservoir "scam".

The Hedgehog Blog has a link up showcasing some of the things going on in the always rough and tumble South Carolina Republican primary. If you are interested in McCain, Romney, or the Mormon issue you will want to pay a visit. I still think the Mormon issue will not be a huge factor among evanglicals or other Christians in this election. There will be a moment when it is has its media moment , but after that I suspect it will fade
-UPDATE- Called As Seen has some thoughts what Romney should do.

In other McCain news, the Caucus Cooler tells of a very significant hire in Iowa.

We in Louisiana and especially New Orleans of course are looking forward to tonight. The Saints play the Falcons in the Superdome. I am glad to see this special place come back to life. Not Right About Anything has some great Saints highlights from the past in honor of the occasion. YES there were some!!!!!

Another Louisiana Blogger , Paw Paws House talks about a real interesting aspect of that Clinton interview. I agree with Paw Paw that would have been an interesting question. Also I concur I have never heard of a former President admitting we do that either.

More Iowa Republican Caucus news from the Krusty Konservative blog. Check it out. It' s not good news for Hillary Clinton.

One other bit of election news. Strata Sphere has a link to a great TV ad by our hopeful in Maryland. Check it out. This could be a needed pickup.

Much more on the blogroll but it is time for lunch. Check it all out.

Technorati Tags: Clinton Graf GOP Republican Iraq Mormon Saints Louisiana Romney McCain DUKE immigration illegals

Thoughts on College Gameday Week Four

2006-09-24T10:05:00.000-05:00

(1) New Clock Rules-- Still Bleauxs- Hopefully these will be repealed next yeR

(2) LSU- Pretty awesome game last night. Scott is a Godsend for the running game. First time I can ever recall seeing 4 LSU quarterbacks in a game. Next week should be great too

(3) Florida will be the extreme test. I am very impressed with that team. They played against a much improved Kentucky last night . Calm team that doesn't get rattled easily.

(4) Georgia needs to stay at number 9 in the polls.

(5) Notre Dame was a incredible game last night. However how the ESPN idiots are already treating them after their win is silly.

(6) USC has a close one last night considering who they were up against. They can still fall.

(7) Air Force needs some love from the media.

(8) Finally, yesterday shows anything can happen in this college football season. No major upsets but it looked several times yesterday that there would be .

Technorati Tags: tagnamehere

The Pondering American College Football Games of the Day-Updated throughout the Day

2006-09-23T12:05:00.000-05:00

*
Updates as to scores and other football thoughts will be posted today

1. How much does LSU have to win by to stop this crying game in Baton Rouge and to make sure we don't drop in the polls. It seems this year rules are out of the question when only a loss could drop you
*These games and the struggles that several big teams have had makes me nervous. Just a few minutes till kickoff
**LSU up 7 to zip against Tulame with 9 min left in the first
***LSU scores
LSU 14 Green Folks 0 still in the 1st
*** Whoo HOOO Right at the Start of the 2nd LSU scores LSU 21 Green people 0
****LSU beating the "Harvard on the Bayou" 28-0
*****In the 3rd LSU 35 - Tulane 0
******4th Quarter LSU49 Tulane ZIPPO
******* For those Keeping Score I believe the worse ass whooping we gave Tulane was 62- 0. It is in reach
*********Rats Tulane Scored its a Final LSU 49 Tulane 7 GEAUX TIGERS
2.Mississippi State

Let my people go!
And behold! There was darkness on the face of the people! And they were without understanding!

Will Coach Croom and the Miss State bulldogs quit embarassing the SEC today and win against UAB? We shall see. Lose or win be sure to check out this Miss State board. If they lose it will be a riot. Anyway good luck Maroon Doggies. I feel for you and we have been where you are at. Well not that low but close. By the way I pick Miss State
*Seems things are getting off for a slow start for the State of Mississippi. UAB 7 Miss State 0 in second quarter
**HOLY TAPDANCING MOSES MISS STATE WINS- It is a start of a streak. To bad they play LSU next week MSU 16 UAB !)

3. Arkansas V Alabama
I am clueless who will win this game. I am looking forward to this game since both of the teams are in the SEC west. I am looking forward to see Bama play. This game will tell us alot what sort of condition both teams are in especially Bama. My hunch is Bama wins.
* 12:01 left in the second Ark 3 Bama 0- messy game already as to Penalties
** At the Half its Bama 10 Ark 3
*** With 9 min in the 3rd it is Bama 10 Ark 9(missed extra point by Ark- ouch that is going to hurt the way it looks)
****On the way back home got to listen to this double overtime game. Arkansas Wins beats Bama 24 to 23. This game would have gone into a third overtime if the Bama kicker had not missed the extra point.

4. Ole Myth v Wake Forest
Ole Miss wins- If they don't expect the home of William Faulkner to be burned down in Oxford.
*Game Delayed necause of lightning
**In the first Wake beating Ole Miss 7 -0
*** It is truly a William Faulkner moment at Ole Miss. Full of shadows and tragedy. In the second Wake Forest 10 Ole Myth 0
**** At the half Wake 10- Ole Myth 3
***** Good Grief like a minute left in the 3rd Wake 27 Ole Miss 3
OLE MISS LOSES- BAAWWAAAAA- Wake Forest 27 OLE MYTH 3

5. Louisiana Tech v Texas A @ M
Local interest for me. I so want the Bulldogs to win but I know it will be a uphill struggle but Wac Football is getting better. Of concern is that Louisiana Tech had its hands full with Nicholls State last Saturday.Perhaps they will take inspiration form Nevada's win over Northwestern last night.
* Nice in the second quarter LA Tech leading 7 -0
** Tied up 7-7 in the second
*** At half 14-7 A and M
****There was hope for a good bit of the game - My Poor Dawgs TEXAS A and M 45Louisiana Tech 14-

6. Boise V Hawaii-
I think this is going to be a killer game in the WAC and I so wish I could catch it on the tv. Boise is of course one of those teams that could spoil the BCS Bowl hopes of the biggie schools. Boise is predicted to win. I am not so sure. Hawaii is a good team and I think might be flying below the radar. They played a good game against Alabama which is always tough. This could be a upset. If it is there will be sighs of relief from the school currently in the top ten.
* Well Hawaii isnt delivering. Right not Boise is whomping them
**Boise 41 Hawaii 27- Disappointing Hawaii was doing sort of a comeback
BOISE WINS 41 Hawaii 34

7. Michigan V Wisconsin-
This game is on right now and it is tied in the 2nd. Wisconsin is a tough team and I have been thinking this will be a upset. I hope so LSU needs Michigan to lose.
*- Seems that Michigan finally woke up Mich 24- Wis 10 in the 4th 9 min to go
** Michigan wins 27 to 13- Damn

8. USC V Arizona
USC does not look as impressive to me as last year. They win this one though. But LSU and Auburn fans have a few more hours to dream and fantasize about a loss.
*I must say if this is the upset of night it would take the sting out of last week. Starting the 2nd quarter 0-0
** USC 3 Zona 0 at the half
***USC 10 ZONA 0 (sigh)
*** USC 10 Zona 0 at start of third Darn
****Double Darn USC wins USC 20 Arizona 3

9. Arizona State V Cal-
Cal wins but this might be a goody to watch
* Hmm Arizona got out first but in the Second it is Cal 21 Arizona St 7
** Well at the half it looks like Cal has got this game under control Cal 42 Ariz-14
CAL WINS-

10.Notre Dame V Michigan State-
Going to be a tough game and prob be my evening choice of games to have on the TV as I am listening to LSU on the Radio. No pay per view for me today. There seems to be a groundswell of feeling that Michigan State will win. I am going for Touch Down Jesus since I am Catholic and dont want to spend more time in Purgatory .
* Michigan State , always a dangerous team is giving Notre Dame hell. It is currently 14 to 0 in the 2nd with 6 minutes to go
**This is not pretty Michigan 31- Our lady 14 at the half
*** MSU 37 ND -21 in the 3rd
****Good Golly Miss Molly -People must be saying the Hail Mary's MSU 37 ND 33- Oops missed extra point-that hurts 4:49 left
*****I think Notre Dame is Going to pull this one out ND40 MSU 37 1:32 left but MSU is driving
*******TOUCHDOWN JESUS COMES THROUGH HE MUST HAVE BEEN VISITING SPARTAN FIELD- I cant believe it Notre Dame finds a way to win ND 40 MSU 37
********I like Notre Dame but please ESPN know need to start the puffing up of them already

Updated-
Georgia

Boy the 27 point favored Georgia Bulldogs are having some major problems right down against Colorado. In the second it is Colorado 10 Georgia zero and that is on top of what seems to be bad calls against Colorado. Yikes!!!
*Good Grief Georgia is sucking. This sucks- Meltdown in the State of Georgia in 5 4 3 2 1
** Georgia has new lease on life. Georgia 7 CU 13 with 9 min left in the game--bad news Georgia has to waste a timeout on field goal because didn't have enough people on the field
*** Georgia Attempting to a comeback but it is not pretty They waste another timeout 1:30 left
**** GEORGIA WINS SEC HONOR UPHELD Georgia 14 CU 13
***** Final Thoughts on Georgia. I think Georgia should stay at number 9. Every team has a close one like this during the season for the most part. A loss should take you down not a close ball game. Also I expect Georgia to have a nice little quarterback controversy next week.

Ohio
An interesting game developing in the Ohio(1) vs Penn State(24) game
It is the second quarter 7 min left and it is still scoreless.
* Poor Coach Patterno of Penn State. Getting over a bug and had to leave the field to go to bathroom. Has not returned yet. But in his absense Penn scores a field Goal. At the half Penn 3 Ohio-0
** Damn- Penn State blew a chance early in the third and even missed the field Goal. Ohio has scored. In the 3rd Ohio 7 Penn St 3
***Back from Mass and my hopes as to this game are dashed- Appears that in the 4th things came togther for Ohio. OHIO WINS-28 to 6. I hate scores like this. It doesnt show how good the game actually was.

Texas-
It seemed early in the day we had the makings of a possible upset Sunday. It appears that might be getting a second gasp late in the afternoon
Texas is having problems with Iowa St down in Austin Texas 16 Iowa St 14 in the second.
*Hmm Looks Like Texas is waking up Texas 23 - IowaSt 14
** Seems like Texas is fine shape- At the half Texas 30 Iowa State 14
*** This game was delayed in the 2nd half because of Weather- Is it me or is there bad weather all over the place as to these games. Right now Texas cruising to victory- Texas 37 Iowa State 14
****TEXAS wins looks real solid

West Virgina-
Even though not in my top 10 games of interest West Virgina is tied 7 to 7 with East Carolina State in the Second. I am sure WVU will wake up be we LSU folks can dream.
*I must say I am wishing I didnt have to run to Sat Mass with all theselots of interesting games. With 5 left in the half its WV 14 ECU 7. No telling what the scores of some of these games will be like.
** Appears the dreaming is coming to a end for a West Virginia loss. Tough game though
In the 4th with about 2 minutes left WVU 27 ECU 10
Final West Virginia wins 27-10

Florida V Kentucky-
I told a Florida Fan I felt they would have no problem with Kentucky. It appears I spoke too soon. Florida is having in hands full with Kentucy right now. I am flipping between that and the Notre Dame game. Kentucky put on a very impressive performance against Ole Miss last week. Currently with 12 min left in 2nd its Florida 6- Kentucky 0
*Florida 12 Kentucky 9 in 3rd
** FLorida will win this and is a very good team Fla 26 Kentucy 7
***Its a wrap 26 to 7 Florida wins. Kentucky is much improved
Technorati Tags: LSU Mississippi State Louisiana Tech Hawaii Alabama Arkansas Boise USC football Georgia

The National Problem of Louisiana Coastal Erosion And Louisiana loses money because of Federal goof.

2006-09-23T11:12:00.000-05:00

There are some good articles about the national problem of Louisiana coastal erosion out today.

First a good piece out of the New York Times entitled Time to Move the Mississippi, Experts Say. That article talks about possible solutions. I found this intriguing as to where we would divert the River:One possible location is near Davant, about 45 miles southeast of New Orleans. Another is near Empire, further down the river, where the levees could be opened. In either case the river flow into wet and marshy areas to the west. Another way would have to be found — or constructed — for ships to reach the shipping lane, possibly something engineers call a slack-water channel.

That makes sense to me. If nothing is done that area will slowly go into the gulf anyway. The question is who on the Federal and State Level will lead and make the difficult choices.

LSU has produced a controversial report that is talked about in the Picayune article Study challenges thinking on wetlands. It makes the claim that contrary to popular thinking that hurricane help prevent Coastal erosion. I am not buying that yet.

On a typical Louisiana note we find because of a goof during the Clinton administration that Louisiana will lose out on a huge pile of money as to the new field that was found. I suspect that we will not see a dime. It appears that even the Chevron people had no idea of this goof. If under pressure they even try to alter that contract their Stockholders will sue so fast it will make your head spin.-DEPRESSING-

Louisiana folks and their leaders need to wake up quickly. We have a Presidential election coming up and Louisiana electorial votes could make the difference in the election. This is a bipartisan issue. Republicans and Democrats must take it upon themselves to make sure that they support the person in their respective parties primaries that will deliver on the Coastal erosion problem

As always to learn more about this problem, go to Conservative Cajun and check out his link section.

Technorati Tags: Louisiana Coastal erosion

GEAUX TIGERS BEAT TULANE

2006-09-23T09:45:00.000-05:00

Kickoff at 7pm

It's GameDay: LSU and Tulane Renew Old Rivalry -

LSU NOTES: Tigers sympathize with 2005 Tulane road warriors-

LSU-Tulane Matchups-

LSU looks to rebound against Tulane-

OOPS - Maybe the Immigration Hardliners will Want to Retract This Study

2006-09-22T12:26:00.000-05:00

The Center for Immigration Studies is often on tv and presented as some non partisan think tank. That of course is utter nonsense. It is a tool of the John Tanton groups. They have a new study out today called The Impact of New Immigrants on Young Native-Born Workers, 2000-2005. Let me say the study is deeply flawed as usual. They say "Over the 2000-2005 period, immigration levels remained very high and roughly half of new immigrant workers were illegal. This report finds that the arrival of new immigrants (legal and illegal) in a state results in a decline in employment among young native-born workers in that state.

Despite the flaws a question here is left out in the air. Currently the US Unemployment national rate fell to 4.7 percent in August from 4.8 percent in July. IF half the new Jobs were taken by immigrants(legal or illegal) who in the heck would replace them? Sounds like this is a reason we need a sound guest worker program that is reviewed on a quarterly basis.
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Technorati Tags: immigration illegals

Well, Let Me Reconsider About Tom Tancredo

2006-09-22T10:25:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I mentioned that in the spirit of Republican unity I would try to go light on Congressman Tancredo during the general election season. I must say comments like these make that hard.

An immigration compromise plan will not work, because President Bush cannot be trusted to "certify" America's borders are secure, Rep. Tom Tancredo (R-Colo.) said Thursday........"I don't trust the president to say the borders are secure," Tancredo told an audience at the Heritage Foundation in Washington, D.C. He said immigration policy should be formulated with an emphasis on law enforcement as opposed to "political pandering" for votes....

I have had a enough to be quite honest. Tancredo can disagree with the President but to imply that the President can't be trusted is insane and sounds like something from the other side of the aisle. Disagreement fine. However, to continue to use this rethoric to appeal to this segment of the voters is beyond the pale.

Technorati Tags: Bush Tancredo illegals immigration

The Chickens Coming Home to Roost?

2006-09-22T02:57:00.000-05:00

Before I retire for the night, I wish to highlight a post the Anchoress has written that I believe hits just the right tone. The Anchoress brings up the the uncomfortable point that what Chavez was ranting about yesterday might have its source right here at home.

Some leading democrats spoke out and rightfully so. It was so refreshing because I hate to say I did not expect it. That shows us perhaps what was decent and right thing to do not even 20 years ago is now a rarity.

Of course as the Anchoress said before, if I recall correctly, we are in danger in becoming what we hate(paraphrasing). We on the right seem to be becoming affected slightly with this disease also. Case in point this Ann Coulter Column that the Pink Flamingo pointed out in a post I linked earlier. Good Ole Ann said:McCain, along with Sen. Lindsey Graham and Sen. John Warner -- or, as the Times now calls him, the "courtly Virginian" ("fag-hag by proxy to Elizabeth Taylor" being beneath his dignity these days) -- want terrorists treated like Americans accused of crimes, with full access to classified information against them and a list of the undercover agents involved in their capture. Liberals' interest in protecting classified information started and ended with Valerie Plame.

Ouch- was that really necessary? How in heavens name does that advance reasoned debate and uphold the dignity of the US Senate. The problem is that is nothing compared to the slams on the character of these men we have seen the past few days on the blogs , in the conservative internet "press", and in the forums. So have no doubt that this poison that started and is in full blossom on the left can also infect us. Right now we are just testing it out on our own.

This over heated rethoric must stop. We must stop pretending that we live in a world where every utterance of Cindy Sheehan and Air America and other talking heads has equal weight, validity and substance as any other.

I do have hope though. I am praying that Hillary Clinton does not receive the Democrat nomination for 08. My reasons having very little to do with her policy. I think we need a clear break and fresh faces. On the Republican side this will be the first Presidental election in 25 years that doesn't have a Bush or Dole on the ticket. Perhaps it would be wise for the Democrats to break with the past too. I have one hope if this is the outcome . That because of the emotions of the Clinton years and the Bush years on all sides that perhaps taking the symbols that push our relative buttons might calm us all down some. It might be naive hope and I think deep down I don't really believe it. (Remember Jesus land on all those famous faux Electoral maps) But right now I am willing to try anything. Especially since we have a enemy that wants to kill us in very vast numbers.

Technorati Tags: Chavez Bush Republican

Compromise on Interrogation

2006-09-22T01:41:00.000-05:00

I am hearing some compromise has been reached regarding the interrogation issue. I am hearing that it is a decent one. Regardless it is time for the bashing of McCain, Snowe, Grahmn, and Warner to stop. It has been quite over the top and I say that as someone that was leaning toward the President's view. Pink Flamingo has a great post on this including some comments that Senator Grahmn from South Carolina made. THose Senators and especially McCain and Grahmn are great example of Republican US Senators. The conservative press should not bash them fore their stance. There is nothing wrong about slowing things down and asking the tough questions. In fact that is what the Senate is suppose to do.

I see this as a win for the system and win for Republican leadership. I am sure the media has some spin on this that doesnt fit the reality.

This episode shows me that the media is a big part of the problem in this process and not so much the political parties. Even some of our darlings such as Ann Coulter goes way over the top as the Flamingo shows. One reason I had a hard time coming to a decison on this was that the media frankly was not too helpful in informing me. It seemed to be all about the supposed "showdown" and precious little about substance.

Lets us just pray we made the right one

Technorati Tags: Republican

US Blows Great PR Opportunity

2006-09-22T00:58:00.000-05:00

I suppose someone was asleep at the Switch this week in the US Govt Pr department. Heck I would have loved to seen this mentioned in the President UN Speech or asked by one of the reporters to the Dr Evil of Iran. Done with Mirrors has the great story of the first female Muslim in space

Technorati Tags: Iran ISlam Space