Obama's Busy First Week

Wow! I have really lousy timing. I've got a million things going on and I haven't had time to Blog, yet these past few days have delivered some of the most fascinating political stories in recent history. I hate to miss out on all the fun, so since I have a few short moments I thought the least I could do was to share with you some of my favorite stories of the past week...


Obama Vs. Eric Cantor

Last friday night, President Barack H. Obama held a meeting with house republicans to discuss the Republican alternative to the pork filled stimulus package produced by Obama and the Dems.

According to Charles Hurt at the NY Post , Obama "zinged" his Rival over the GOP's idea to increase the number of tax cuts in the Stimulus package and remove some of the unneccessary Pork:

In an exchange with Rep. Eric Cantor (R-Va.) about the proposal, the president shot back: "I won," according to aides briefed on the meeting.

"I will trump you on that."

So much for the 'Age of Obama's' new bipartisan era. Lasted three whole days, that might be some kind of record in Washington, Bush played nice for years and yet they called him divisive. Obama tells minority whip in the house to get in line or be quiet, what does that make him? It should be interesting if so see if they hold The One to the same standards...

Fast forward to yesterdays passage of the $850-$1 Trillion, depending on how you look at it, "Stimulus" package in the House of Representatives. That pork filled tax payer funded behemouth that costs more than Iraq and Afghanistan combined, did Not get a Singe Vote from a Republican. As Nancy Pelosi stood smiling as she read the final Vote count 244-188, all 244 were Democrats. Democrats passed a bill knowing that is projected to benefit the Taxpayer with only 12 cents of every dollar. I was proud to be a Republican.

Eric Cantor's job is to 'whip' the republican members of the house to Vote in line with the desires of the Party, and judging by yesterday's results, He is the Right man for the Job. (Just a note: 11 Dems also voted against it) Find out how your Representative voted at the complete Roll Call here.

Want to Say Thank you to those standing up for You as a Taxpayer? Contact them Now.

Obama Vs. Rush Limbaugh

This was the same meeting where President Obama told Republicans they should stop listening to Rush Limbaugh. Which turned out to be a bigger story initially. What with Obama basically stooping to school yard bullying tactics to silence Free Speech and all. As most of you know I am a huge Rush Fan, been listening for years. He's very good at what he does. But love him or hate him this is America, Damn it and He has the Right to Say whatever he Wants, and Anyone can choose to Listen or Not.

What Liberals continue to fail to realize is that the First Amendment Exists Not to protect crucifixes dipped in urine, as 'freedom of expression', but instead to allow Us as Citizens to Freely criticize our Governement with out Fear of Government Retribution. Now we've got President Obama attacking a private citizen and a businesss, simply because they disagree with him? Hmmm. Wonder what the Founding Fathers would think about that? I'm just saying...

To me it just shows Obama's immaturity and lack of understanding of his office as President. He is no longer just a slick talking used car sales men trying to pander for liberal votes, He is the Leader of the Free World. Rush Limbaugh should be the Least of his concerns. After watching Obama navigate through the muddy campaign waters, one thing is for sure, His attack on Limbaugh was not an accident....it was part of the strategy to silence any opposition.....

Supporting Rush is your Duty as a Citizen whether you agree with what he says or not, maybe more so if you disagree. If you don't stand up for those that Offend you the Most, do You really believe in Free Speech? I've written previously about "Understanding the Dangers of the Fairness Doctrine", and the Democrats desire to bring it back in order to silence opposition Conservative Voices.

Liberals have decried my concern for the "Censorship Doctrine" as hysteria and paranoia, but now the President is Telling All of Us, What we should and Should not listen to, which since we are talking about Political Talk Radio, means He is telling us what we should and should not think. Anyone else see a problem with this?


The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee even started an online petition to in their words...

We need every grassroots Democrat to show Rush Limbaugh and all of the Republicans what they're up against if they start attacking President Obama and Democrats who are working to end the failed GOP policies of the last eight years.

The site requests that you leave a message that they would like to 'send' to Rush Limbaugh, all the messages are public so anyone who visits can read them, the site then promises to forward those on to El Rushbo himself. Well, Rush found out about this website then told his listeners they should log on and send him their messages as well. Rush encouraged his listeners to share what they thought of him and what he brings to the Political conversation. Take a moment and read through the comments , Rush's 20 million listeners are very loyal indeed, and also quite witty.

Taking on a man who has 3 hours of uninterupted airtime and a gift for conveing his message, is not necessarily in the best interest of Pres. Obama, as Pat Dollard Points out in his recent post "Limbaugh to Obama: You don't know who you are F**King With" (My apologies for the vulgarity in the title) His link is merely a cross post of a National Review Online Article, where the author Byron York, explains Obama's tactics as he was taught by reading Sal Alinky's Rules for Radicals, as it pertains to Obama's strategy with Rush Limbaugh and all he represents... “Pick the target, freeze it, personalize it, and polarize it.”


So Obama's picking fights with leaders of the RNC and the Conservative Movement? Hmmm. Either he is trying to establish Street Cred or he is really politically naive. Washington is a fickle town, and although their are 'activists' on each side of the aisle, the Lifers don't like those that Rock the Boat, regardless of party. So this could get very interesting.

Now is not the time to be complacent. What are your thoughts about Obama's first Full Week?

Vote for WithBias at 2009 LadyBlog Awards!

I got an e-mail notification this week that WithBias is a Finalist in the 2009 LadyBlog Awards held by Culture 11. I'm honored to be listed with some fantastic female bloggers, and I'm Thankful just to be recognized. But what kind of girl would I be if I didn't do a little politicking myself?

So if you're so inclined, drop by and cast a Vote for WithBias, you are allowed to Vote just once, and it only takes a second to do it.

Obama's Initiative: Free Terrorists, Kill Babies, Don't Ask Questions

Well you gotta hand it to Barack Obama. He is wasting no time quelching those rumors that he might Govern from the Center and with Transparency. Yesterday he signed several executive orders that should put that silly "centrist" theory to bed once and for all, and he let the Press know that when he says "transparency" what he really means is, we will tell you what we want you to know in a Press release (Don't worry we'll provide the Pictures, too!)

Apparently our New President, felt the two most urgent issues facing his administration were the release of Terrorists from "Club Gitmo" and funding foreign Abortions with Your tax money. At least we know where his priorities are.

Even the most Liberal among us, who have supported the measure to close Gitmo in Theory, they really liked accuse the Bush Administration of Torture policies, are now starting to question the Reality of the decision to release or redetain Terrorists inside the United States.

Even over at the Liberal safe haven the Huffington Post Obama's move raised some questions with contributor, Sam Stein, who wrote yesterday:

Yet Obama has already found that closing the prison is easier said than done. And if he fails, there'll be no shortage of Republicans to remind him that they told him so. On Wednesday, Senate Republicans voiced skepticism with the idea that the president would be able to break down a detention center housing what they claim most dangerous terrorists.....

......The real challenges, however, are not political but legal in nature. The president and his lawyers will have to maneuver deftly in order to remove 250 detainees from a facility in under a year. Federal criminal trials will commence, and in some cases individuals will be transferred to other prisons.

Read the entire article here.

Ah yes, the million dollar question: Where will we put them? Will those that don't have enough 'evidence' against them be released? Or as the article goes on to question, Will the 'Double Jeopardy' laws be enacted making the Terrorists, untouchable by American Law? Oh that's just great.

The New York Times which should win some kind of Award from our Enemies, for it's efforts to close Gitmo, carried a story yesterday, about one Gitmo prisoner that had been released, that turned up running a Terrorist operation that was resposible a "deadly bombing" of the United States Embassy in Yemen. The Time seems surprised to learn that the Rehabilitation didn't work...

Oh Really? The guy is a Terrorist. Rehabilitation is only effective in breaking bad behaviors, that someone wants to Break. Alcoholics go to AA when they want to stop drinking, you can't force them to, it never works. Well a Terrorists, took that job for One reason only, to Kill Infidels. Telling them to stop won't work either.

For all those still celebrating, what our enemies will take as a sign of weakness. Just one more questioin for you.... if we Can't release them, where should we put them? Some Republicans are already starting to push back against the thought of housing America's Enemies in their home state....

"I don't want them in Texas," said Sen. John Cornyn, (R-TX). "I intend to write a letter saying, 'Don't send them here. And I would suspect there might be Senators from 50 states who say the same thing. I don't know."

Good News for you Racists, Bitter Clinging Pennsylvanians, John Murtha, the man who has never seen Congressional Pork that he didn't like, has already offered to Welcome the Terrorists to his district with Open Arms. Michelle Malkin dedicated her syndicated column today to "The John Murtha Jihadist Correctional Facility".


I guess there are a few Million dollar questions waiting to be answered, but Obama's not taking any of them....



As Politco reports, Obama "flashed irritation" when he felt he was being "Questioned" about his apparent hypocrisy in selecting Lobbyists for his cabinet, after Promising a "Lobbyist" free administration....

"Ahh, see," he said, "I came down here to visit. See this is what happens. I can't end up visiting with you guys and shaking hands if I'm going to get grilled every time I come down here."

So Three days in, What have we learned? Barack Obama has told our enemies that we are no longer serious about holding them accountable for their actions, babies around the world will be Aborted on the tax payer dime, and Our new President doesn't think he has to answer to anyone. It's going to be an interesting four years.

Obama's First Day at Work, My Last One

I kept telling myself last week, if I can get past Tuesday. Everything will return to relative normal. I responded to CBS's "Yes We Can" Monday, by watching old Steelers films on the NFL Network. I was doing good. Then last night as I was falling asleep, I said a special prayer for my Country and my Co-workers to survive the events of January 20th. For weeks rumors have swirled about My company's plan to 'restructure' for the new economy, and we got word via the New York press last week that today was D-Day. I did not survive the cuts. Just hours before Barack H. Obama was to be sworn in as the 44th President of the United States, I was "let go". Some times things happen that are just too strange to be coincidence.

Add to the already growing weirdness, I will remind you that, I wrote a blog during the run-up to the election explaining the economic and unemployment fall-out from an Obama victory. I didn't and don't want to go into my specific field, but know that my industry relies on small businesses. I wrote in direct response to the knowledge that Millions were about to blindly cast a Vote for the Man whose policies will cause many Americans to lose their jobs. It was written out of fear and frustration at the uniformed masses making the Decision for all of us. Want some real Irony? I called the blog, "Vote for Obama! Vote Yourself Out of a Job". So it's not like I didn't know this could happen....but I didn't Vote for Obama or his recession, I voted for Sarah Palin.

At about nine o'clock this morning, I realized my scheduled had just been cleared for the remainder of the day, so I came home and settled in to watch the "Immaculate Inauguration". One reporter referred to the crowd in DC as "a sea of humanity", keeping in line with the "Royal Wedding" theme the OLM was pushing. Obama recited the oath, with limited difficulties, only slightly showing nerves at this Historic Occasion. In as much as I disagree with pretty much everything Obama says and believes. I am so proud of my Country, for the people have voted for America's First Black President, color is no longer a hindrance. In fact in Obama's case, it seems to have actually helped. Let's keep things simple and call that progress.

Obama's speech was surprisingly dull, he's usually a little stronger, but the speech meandered, mixing soaring rhetoric with awkward pausing and campaign slogans. The crowd wasn't quite as loud as I would have imagined, but they did Boo and sing that "hey, Hey Goodbye" song when President Bush was announced, so that was embarrassing. They must not have heard, We're all supposed to get along now.... They are getting the Coronation of Obama that they demanded, but they can't even show some respect for the man, The One is replacing? Liberals still have No class, some things will never Change.

Whatever the planners intentions, the Music that stole the show. Performances by Yo-Yo Ma and Itzak Perlman brought the gravitas that separated Obama's Inauguration from Finals week on American Idol. However it was Elizabeth Alexander's poem that really set the tone. Or.Should.I. say.tone. Her 'off beat delivery whether a desired effect or not, was just half the problem. I couldn't decide if it was about socialism or slavery....she actually said people in America were "darning" their something or other. It was terr.i.ble.

Then came the highlight of the birth of the Age of Obama. The closing prayer provided by Rev. Jospeh Lowery which came to the close with the following as reported by the Drudge Report, my emphasis added:

'Lord, in the memory of all the saints who from their labors rest, and in the joy of a new beginning, we ask you to help us work for that day when black will not be asked to get in back, when brown can stick around... when the red man can get ahead, man; and when white will embrace what is right. That all those who do justice and love mercy say Amen. Say Amen'...

When he did the Amen part, the crowd responded in Kind. You could almost hear the white guilt being forgiven as they chanted "Amen". Apparently, Rev. Lowery doesn't realize when they open the back door of the limo for President Obama, it's a sign of respect not RACISM. If putting a black man in the White House isn't enough to end the unnecessary cries of Racism, What on earth would be?


Barack H. Obama campaigned on a message of "Change", but his followers never bothered to ask what kind of change, he meant to bring. I thought I knew what his "changes", would bring, but I was hoping with all my heart that I was wrong for the sake of my family and our country. As I wrote in the "Vote Youself Out of a Job", Elections have consequences. If the first day is any indication, Obama's presidency certainly isn't the Change I wanted.

Images of a Leader: The Bush Presidency

January 19th, 2008, George W. Bush's last full day of office, will be remembered as an unusual day in History, sharing the day with Martin Luther King a fellow republican, and what one friend on twitter has deemed "Hopemas Eve" in reverance to The One's impending inauguaration.

Over the last few days I've shared with facts about the Bush administration's successes that have been convientiently overlooked by the OLM. Bush is not a perfect man, nor a perfect President. But he is one that has had much more success than failure, and America has benefitted from his leadership.

Well, facts are only part of the equation. Emotions are tied to the last eight years as well. Pictures being worth at least 1000 words and all, I've choosen a few images that capture how I will remember the Presidency of George W. Bush...

"I would like to be a person remembered as a person who, first and foremost, did not sell his soul in order to accommodate the political process," George W. Bush



Just after his first inauguration...I just love the way Laura is looking at him in this shot...a mixture of pride, love and a little surprise...






On Airforce One on 9/11, assuming the role of Commander in Chief....







One of the most iconic images of Bush's presidency. He was the President that we Needed him to be that day.







Still tugs at my heart strings..the young girl had lost her mother on 9/11







I've always had a special respect for the friendship between W and Condi. It seems geniune in a world of phonies.







This is the Bush that still clears his own Brush at the Crawford Ranch....






W.-the Original "Maverick" His little stint of flying the plane drove Liberals crazy, but just made me like him even more.






The real way that Bush handled Katrina victims....







The whole world was surprised when President Bush showed up for Thanksgiving Dinner in Iraq.








Watching my Steelers honored at the White House, by W. was truly a personal highlight....






If he didn't have all that secret service, you would think he's just another American Fan. Good for him.











"I came to Washington with a set of values, and I'm leaving with the same set of values. And I darn sure wasn't going to sacrifice those values; that I was a president that had to make tough choices and was willing to make them," President George W. Bush


Thank you, President Bush. I miss you already.

Facts Reveal: Bush Actually A Good President!

In yesterday's post I revealed why George W Bush has been a superior President to the Liberal hero Bill Clinton, on matters of Civil Rights, Protecting us from Terrorists, and the Military, regardless of what you might have heard. Today I'm taking a look at what Karl Rove would call the "kitchen table" issues.

The Economy

The OLM has dutifully carried the water for Democrats on the Economy for as long as I can remember. Always suggesting that Democrats are better on economic issues, even though History tells us otherwise. I'm guessing it has roots to the Democratic Myth about Franklin D. Roosevelt's salvation of our economy from Herbert Hoover's "Great Depression". The Truth is the Market crash which kicked off the Depression took place on Hoover's watch, FDR's "New Deal" deepened and extended the Depression for over 7 years according to UCLA study.

It was during Bill Clinton's 1992 campaign that "It's the Economy, Stupid" became the new rallying cry for Democrats and their PR wing in the OLM. Well as a Tax Payer, I want a government that takes less of My money by way of IRS extortion. The rest will take care of itself.

Even in this most recent election, Liberals spoke longingly of the Days of the Clinton Economy. You know the one boosted by the Tech Bubble and faulty accounting that still had a higher unemployment figures than George W Bush's Administration? When W. was sworn into office in January of 2001, he inherited Bill Clinton's Recession. Young President Bush immediatley called for taxpayer relief in the form of the Now famous, "Bush Tax Cuts", to stimulate the economy.

Liberals love to say that Bush's Tax Cuts only benefited the Rich. Once again those pesky facts rebuff that claim.....

According the Tax Foundation's Data

Taxes under Clinton 1999 Taxes under Bush 2008

Single making 30K - tax $8,400 Single making 30K - tax $4,500



Single making 50K - tax $14,000 Single making 50K - tax $12,500



Single making 75K - tax $23,250 Single making 75K – tax $18,750



Married making 60K - tax $16,800 Married making 60K – tax $9,000



Married making 75K - tax $21,000 Married making 75K - tax $18,750

So much for those "Tax Cuts" for the Rich eh? Just remember if You make more than $30k, Democrats think You are "Rich".


Education
Contrary to popular belief, George W. Bush wanted to be an 'education president'. One of his first major initiatives as a New president was to tackling our failing educational system. Mirror his plan after his successful program in Texas which required accountability for teachers and students. No Child Left Behind was crafted in collaboration with Ted Kennedy himself. Initially supported by Liberals, but was later decried as being ineffective and under funded, which is code for the Teacher's Union doesn't like it.

Even the Washington Post was forced to admit there were many "Myths" being circulated about No Child Left Behind including the one about it being "underfunded". As the Post points out with a 40% increase in Educational spending there are some other questions Critics should be asking...

Instead of demanding more money for No Child Left Behind, critics should ask why states and local communities get such dismal returns on the half-trillion dollars, or nearly $10,000 per student, that they already spend on primary and secondary education every year.

Some quick facts about No Child Left Behind from the Department of Education:

More progress was made by nine-year-olds in reading in the last five years than in the previous 28 years combined.

America's nine-year-olds posted the best scores in reading (since 1971) and math (since 1973) in the history of the report.

America's 13-year-olds earned the highest math scores the test ever recorded.

Reading and math scores for African American and Hispanic nine-year-olds reached an all-time high.

Achievement gaps in reading and math between white and African American nine-year-olds and between white and Hispanic nine-year-olds are at an all-time low.

Forty-three states and the District of Columbia either improved academically or held steady in all categories (fourth- and eighth-grade reading and fourth- and eighth-grade math).

That is George W. Bush's legacy on education. He took action and Achieved measurable results. Other than throwing money at the problem, What exactly was Clinton's Education Policy, again? In Clinton's 'memoir' "My Life" ...

I proposed a large package of education reforms, arguing that we should change the way we spend the more than $15 billion a year of education aid to ‘support what works and stop supporting what doesn’t work,’ by requiring states to end social promotion, turn around failing schools or shut them down.

Oh Really? Anyone else remember this "Accountability" in Clinton's policies? There certainly aren't any Programs to back it up. Trust me I googled and googled and googled. The end of "Social Promotion" came with Bush's "No Child Left Behind".





Ethics

Hysterical liberals have thrown out words like "Haliburton", "Enron" and "War Crimes" for the last eight years in attempt to cast doubt on the Character of George W. Bush. They've concocted conspiracy filled theories blaming Bush for everything from Global Warming to 9/11. Those people should probably just go ahead an move to Cuba, but they won't so I thought I'd take the time to remind people what the last Democratic President did to "restore diginity and respect" to the Office.

Just today, Chicago Ray compiled a fantastic review of the "Clinton Legacy", here's a few of my favorites..

Whitewater
Travelgate
Gennifer Flowersgate
Vince Fostergate
Donations from convicted Drug dealers and Weapons dealersgate
Wag-the-Doggate
Zippergate/Interngate
Chinese Commiegate
Pardongate

Read the Complete legacy here.

And in as much that we've heard all these crazy accusations against President Bush, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, Bill Clinton was actually Impeached. Trust me, in the current political climate, if Bush had really done anything wrong, no matter how small the offense, the Liberals would have forced an Impeachment hearing. The mere lack of a prosecution in this case, proves Bush is probably the most ethical President in our History.

Tomorrow I will conclude my reflection on George W. Bush's Presidency...

Shocker! Bush Not the Worst US President

With Tuesday's looming immaculate inauguration, we will see the conclusion of the Presidency of George W. Bush. A man maligned by the media from the beginning of his first term when they demanded recounts until he won then called it a "stolen election". To the final days of his second term, when Everyone is trying to define the Presidency of W as one of, if not 'the worst in history'. Since those suffering from Bush Derangement syndrome are unable to look past their own biases to see the truth about W. I thought I would make it easier, by putting it into terms they could understand, I'll compare him to Bill Clinton.

Civil Rights
While the Liberals spent the last 8 years complaining about George W. Bush's intentions to misuse the "Patriot Act" to listen into private conversations, not one case of abuse has ever been documented. I would get into the Gitmo media generated "controversy", but they are not American Citizens, they are Foreign Terrorists who want us dead. If a little water boarding save thousands of American Lives, I'm 100% okay with it.

Meanwhile, during the Clinton administration Americans in Waco Texas were burned to death in their homes by agencies of the Government. And who could forget little Elian Gonzalez, who was taken from his family in the middle of the night by government representatives strapped with AK47s.



Both moves authorized by Clinton's Attorney General, Janet Reno.

Bush as Commander in Chief led the liberation of over 50 Million Iraqis and because of Bush's decision to overthrow the Taliban, Afghan women and girls are reclaiming their place in society, through schools, careers and politics.

Clinton was so afraid to stand up for human rights that he either ignored the situation all together (Rwanda) or choose a campaign of half-measures (Bosnia). Clinton flawed foreign policy also included helping to promote Yassar Arafat to the head of the Palestinian State. So as the Wall Street Journal put it: "Bush Destroyed a Dictator. Clinton installed one."
No political kidnappings, or attacking of Private Citizens in their home under the Bush Administration, and millions of people in the Middle east experiencing freedom for the first time in generations. I think Bush has the clear advantage in this area.


Terrorism and National Security

One can only imagine Bill Clinton's reasoning's for ignoring the numerous terrorist attacks during his presidency. We all know he thought of it as a legal matter, not a military one but how did he miss it all. Clinton's Policy on Terrorism went something like this: What? I'm sorry did you say Terrorism, isn't that those people who took down a plane in Scotland in the 80's. Oh all those bombings overseas, no those are totally 'isolated incidents' and have no connection to a "network" or a "Base". Osama Bin Who? Oh no I've polled the issue and the American public doesn't even know who he is, so I don't need to take him into custody. Stop bugging me about that guy, I already told you once. I don't want him.

Other than helping the original Terrorist Arafat gain power in Palestine, in can be argued that Clinton is the reason Bin Laden became the Most dangerous Terrorist in the World. It's fairly well documented that Osama Bin Laden was emboldened by Clinton's withdrawal of troops in Somalia after the "Black Hawk Down" . Bin Laden saw the removal of troops as a weakness that he could exploit. Clinton has made several attempt to re-write History, thankfully lots of people still remember what really happened in Somalia. The incidents in Mogadishu occured in 1993, Clinton was given his first chance to capture Bin Laden in 1996 according to the man who set up the talks. That is five full years before 9/11, four years prior to the USS Cole and two years prior to the bombing of our troops in Kenya. You do the math, thousands of Americans lost their lives because Bill Clinton failed to remove Bin Laden from the Sudan.

It was during the Clinton Administration that Jamie Gorelick constructed her famous "wall of separation" between intelligence agencies, something that no matter how many times I hear about it, I am still enraged. If the media had correctly reported on Terrorism during Clinton's tenure, he would be known as the President that held us down and let us get our ass kicked.


In stark contrast, George W. Bush responded to the attacks on 9/11 with immediate and devastating force against Al-Queda and the Taliban in Afghanistan. He has taken the fight to the Enemies of America, and has remained steadfast in his goal of securing Americas interests, even when the fickle public had long forgotten the consequences of ignoring enemies in foreign lands.

Bush's declaration to go after any State that was a sponsor of Terrorism, was as historical as it was effective. After 9/11 the Bush Administration formed the Homeland Security Department, to open the lines of communications, closed during the Clinton Administration, between intelligence agencies to prevent further attacks. Under Bush's watch the United States has enjoyed 7 years of uninterrupted security. This is not a coincidence.

Watch a true Leader in Action:




Say what you want about W's ability to communicate, but when he said "I Can Hear You, the Rest of the World hears you, and the People who knocked these buildings down will Hear all of us soon..." Everyone knew what he meant.


The Military

It's well documented that Clinton downsized the Military during his 8 years at the helm. He reduced funding and troop numbers from 1993-2000, leaving Bush with a depleted military at the start of his term.

From my own personal experiences and anecdotal evidence provided by my in laws, Pres. Clinton was terrible commander in Chief. But you don't have to take my word for it, there are a number of studies and facts that clear things right up.

Earlier this week the Gateway Pundit reported:

The Bush-bashers still feign outrage that the US lost 4,226 heroes liberating Iraq.
Of course, they weren't too upset about military losses when the Clinton's were in charge.




Numbers from Iraq Coalition Casualties and CRS report to Congress

As reported at DiscovertheNetworks.org During the Clinton Administration,

Of the 305,000 employees removed from the federal payroll, 286,000 (or 90%) were military cuts.The statistics for America's defense during the Clinton years reveal the deep-seated animosity of the administration toward those who served in the military. The Army was cut from 18 divisions to 12. The Navy was reduced from 546 ships to 380. Air Force flight squadrons were cut from 76 to 50"

One of the first things Bush did when he became President was to ask for an increase in pay and benefits for Military personnel, as the Government Executive reported back in February of 2001:

As anticipated, President Bush Monday pledged a $1.4 billion pay raise for military personnel next year in a move to improve military readiness and lift morale.

Keep in mind this was over seven months prior to 9/11. It was literally one of the first acts of his young presidency. He knew Clinton's military wasn't going to cut in the new century.

To be continued....

Time For Me To Put Down the Diet Pepsi

I can no longer deny it. I am going to have to stop drinking Diet Pepsi. When the I first spotted the newest Pepsi logo, at first I thought, It looks like the Obama symbol. Followed immediately by the next thought...It just looks like the Obama symbol, to me because I am a Right Wing Nut Job. Normal people probably didn't even notice they changed logos, it was so subtle. I told myself this for about a month after the new logo was introduced, sometime around election day. Coincidence, I told myself. And Pepsi owned the red/blue half circle look first, Right? Maybe Barack Obama stole it from them? I know I was grasping....




The second time I saw the New Pepsi logo I thought it WAS the Obama symbol. On New Year's Day, as I recovered from the previous night's celebration, I was watching Fox and Friends. On the set, Clayton and the pretty blond one that fills in for Gretchen occasionally, played with a few left over balloons from the night before. The balloons were huge and had words written on them. Kinda like this...



One said "Joy" and one said "hope". But they didn't say Joy and Hope they said J-obamasymbol-l and H-obamasymbol-pe. I thought only in NYC do they drop Obama balloons. Thus I spent the next few moments cursing at the television. Then I thought, why are they dropping Obama balloons, don't they know the campaign's over, He Won. At this point I yelled to my husband, "They found something to spend the extra campaign money on...guess they had to use the money by the end of 2008." I found myself very amusing. I was less amused a few days later, however,after watching one of their new hippie dippie commercials featuring just those words, spelled just that way. I realized it was The New Pepsi logo on those Balloons. I later read online were part of Pepsi's Ode to Joy 09campaign. I choose to think Pepsi was just trying to cheer everybody up, it's been a rough couple of months...I continued to purchase Diet Pepsi as usual.

I've come under fire recently from conservative friends who know about my addiction to Diet Pepsi. "How do you look into your refrigerator, and just see All of them?" One asked about my 24 pack a week habit. I defended Pepsi, saying changing a logo is not something you do lightly and it was probably in design long before Obama created the creepiest symbol in this new century. And I would say, "it's not really that much different than the old logo." But secretly I wondered... Is Pepsi trying to 'draft' off of Obama's popularity with the most sot after demographic in all of America 18-34 year olds? Or is Pepsi running a PR campaign for Barack Obama?



But today, I came across something via a friend on twitter, that well, let's just say I think I just bought my last Diet Pepsi.

Watch:



Isn't it just the Awesomest! Obama's going to "Refresh the Nation"! OMG! Does anyone remember Pepsi asking us to write President Bush after 9/11 and Thank him for lifting this Nation out of the ashes? But this guy hasn't even taken office yet and they have rebranded their Primary product lines with HIS symbol. This is too much. Even for me. (Is there a 12 step program for Diet Pepsi?) I have a few left in the fridge, so I'm sitting here drinking one now, I've put it in a glass, so as to not have to look directly into the symbol.

Let me just say, I think it's brilliant marketing by Pepsi and it might even work for them. Obama followers will buy anything with his face on it, so why not "The Symbol". Lord knows there are enough of them to shift market share. So it's probably a good move for Pepsi. I just can't support it. So alas, I must stop the denial and put down the Diet Pepsi. Some are supporting a boycott, according to The Advocate, the American Family Association was already boycotting Pepsi for donations to a gay cause. Me, I'm not much for mass boycotting. I'm way too much of a Fan of Individual Choice to participate in mass anything. I'm a firm believer in voting with your money on a daily basis, It's the American Way. Everybody gets to make a Choice and this member of the old "New Generation" will be choosing to drink Water until Pepsi changes the logo or I run out of Willpower.

2009: The Year of Indicted Democrats? Mayor Adds to the Growing List

Mayor of Baltimore, Shelia Dixon a Democrat, was indicted yesterday on charges of Perjury, theft and misconduct surrounding Gift Cards and donations intended for "needy families" but that were allegedly found to be used by the Mayor for personal purchases according to the Baltimore Sun. The Sun also point out that Dixon, is "the city's first sitting mayor to be criminally indicted." In Baltimore, that is a Real achievment. Charm City's most shining moment prior was whenHBO gave us "the Wire". It was a smash hit with its loyal following due to the gritty true to life portrayal of the corruption and devastion that flowed throughout City Hall. Now I'm just waiting to hear that Dixon took a meeting with "Stringer Bell".



But her supporters and the local media are suggesting, that since the prosecutors were unable to provide enough evidence to indict on charges of Bribery, it's really not a big deal.

In a statement published the Baltimore Sun

Del. Maggie L. McIntosh, a Baltimore Democrat and influential leader in Annapolis, said, "I did note that there was no charge that she was in any way bribed. ... We now need to hear her side of the case."

I wanted to embed the WJZ, the CBS affliate in Baltimore's coverage of the response to the Mayor's indictment to the allegations here, but they only provide a link. So here you go: Response to Democrat Mayor's Indictment

I mean what's a little violation of public trust among friends?



The woman is accused of stealing gift cards intended for Poor Kids, as in they were found at her house. I understand the innocent until proven guilty argument. But as a high ranking public Servant, she shouldn't put herself in a position to attract suspicion. But if the Gift cards were the first time her name had come up in a corruption investigation, I might have been a little less likely to grab my torch, however just this week, Mayor Dixon's ex-boyfriend, Baltimore Developer,, Ronald Lipscomb was formerly charged with Bribing City Council member, Helen Holton with $12,500 worth of campaign contiributions in return for a tax break for one of his development projects. development projects.





Apparently it doesn't really matter which poltical party she belongs to anyway, as CNN shows us here in this shining example of what liberals consider "objective" reporting, "it's just very disappointing..."



Newsbusters reported:

During a breaking news brief on Friday’s Newsroom program, CNN anchor Kyra Phillips failed to identify the party affiliation of Baltimore Mayor Sheila Dixon, a Democrat, who earlier in the day had been indicted on 12 counts related to a corruption probe by Maryland state officials. She did identify Dixon as “the first woman to serve as the city’s mayor” and “the first African-American female to serve as that city’s mayor.”

Democrats and Corruption are as Forrest Gump would say "Like Peas and Carrots", so much so that Boycottliberalism.com has created a page documenting each offense. When you have time read the whole list. Even rabid democratic mouthpiece, James Carville has already predicted in article for CNN, that 2009 will just continue the Scandal streak the Dems have been on since early 2008...

The Democratic Party has had a recent run of corruption and sex scandals. Mathematicians say that there are no such things as streaks and that the last event has nothing to do with the next. The only people who disagree are crapshooters and political operatives. Since I am both, I firmly believe that there are streaks and that political scandals happen in clusters....

.....The current streak, however removed from President-elect Barack Obama, doesn't bode well for Democrats in 2009.

My Question to James Carville: Which Scandals are you talking about? The one involving the Senator from Countrywide, Christopher Dodd(D-CT)? Maybe you were thinking of Democratic Govenor Elliot Spitzer, that certainly involved sex. Certainly he could have been talking about the Numerous Democrats involved with the Blago case. But maybe, Mr. Carville was referring to the federal investigation into Barack Obama's former cabinet Nominee, Bill Richardson, that forced him to withdraw his bid for Sec. of Commerce this week. Maybe he was giving us a hint of things to come....

The 46 has been doing an in depth series on what he calls the "BlackBox Scandal" involving Richardson. But as The 46 points outin an entry earlier this week, this Scandal has tenacles that could reach all the way to Pennsylvania, specifically Governor Ed Rendell.

The pattern for CDR and is to pour campaign donations into Democrats across this country. In exchange they receive sweet heart deals from the government in order to carry out their rather opaque financial transaction, now we know David Rubin of CDR worked on Rendell's transition and donated over 10,000's of thousands of dollars to Rendell's campaign to win the governorship,

Carville can call it whatever he'd like, but He Knows that scandalous Democrats have been capturing Headlines, for at least a year. The difference of course is how the media covers the Story. When Dems are being "naughty' the OLM, finds something else to talk about. But if a Repbulican says "Macaca" that's worthy of Five Weeks worth of coverage. It's the way of the Liberal World. On July 10th, 2008, 12 Democrats were indicted on Conspiracy Charges related to a scandal know as "BonusGate".

As Susan Duclos reported back in July on DigitalJournal

After a 17 month probe, two state grand juries, Harrisburg and Pittsburgh, have indicted 12 Democrats for alleged illegal activities and according to prosecutors, more charges are expected in what they are calling a "widespread" conspiracy within the Pennsylvania Democratic caucus to use tax payer funds to finance political activities.

Can you imagine the Outrage these were Republicans? I can already see the MSNBC's "CountDown to Conviction Clock" on the corner of the screen. But since they had a "D" beside their name, the story was brushed under the rug by the OLM, thus ignored by the American public.

Maybe, Carville is right and 2009 will be the Year of the Democratic Scandal, but if it is, I have a feeling it will be because of something posted on The Drudge Report, not something uncovered by the OLM.

Action Alert: Support Demint and Co. on "Broadcaster Freedom Act"

Apparently some of those in Congress still understand the need to protect Free Speech. As I've written before, the Democrats have expressed interest eliminating Conservative Voices, in "Understanding the Dangers of the UnFairness Doctrine", a response to the growing support from Liberals to silence Talk Radio Well fortunately there are still a few Good Guys in DC, and they are doing everything they can to stop this blatant infringment of Conservative's First Amendment Rights.

Liberals and Democrats in Congress have suggested that Republicans were being "paranoid" about the impending return of the Fairness Doctrine. Just yesterday there was a piece in the Huffington Post about our "Paranoia Festival". Reminds me of that old bumper sticker, "Just because you are Paranoid, Doesn't mean they are Not out to Get you". With a Democratic Controlled Congress and White House, whose party leaders have come out publicly to support the Fairness Doctrine, it sounds to me like they are Out to Get Us. Whether we are Paranoid about it or not.

Well now we can put an end to that Paranoia. The Democrats can assure us all that they have no interest in returning to the Fairness Doctrine. They can support the "Broadcasters Freedom Act" introduced by several Republican members of Congress today. The bill is aimed at protecting the precious right of Free Speech. Something Jim DeMint has been on record as supporting since July of 2007.

From Sen. DeMint's Website

January 7, 2009 - WASHINGTON, D.C - In an effort to prevent Democrats from suppressing the right to free speech for talk radio and other broadcasters, today Congressman Mike Pence (R-Indiana), chairman of the House Republican Conference, Congressman Greg Walden (R-Oregon), Senator Jim DeMint (R-South Carolina), chairman of the Senate Steering Committee, and Senator John Thune (R-South Dakota), Vice Chairman of the Senate Republican Conference, introduced the Broadcaster Freedom Act of 2009 (S. 34 in the Senate, bill number pending in the House). The bill would prevent the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) from reinstating the Fairness Doctrine, which would suppress free speech by requiring the government to monitor political views and decide what constitutes fair political discourse.

“The time has come to do away with the Fairness Doctrine once and for all,” said Congressman Pence. “Over the past few months, some of the most powerful Democrats in Congress have made their intentions to restore this Depression-era regulation clear. However, bringing back the Fairness Doctrine would amount to government control over political views expressed on the public airwaves. It is dangerous to suggest that the government should be in the business of rationing free speech.

The Press Release goes on to explain the history of the Fairness Doctrine, and the Democrats repeated attempts to bring it back.

The Fairness Doctrine was implemented by the FCC in 1949 in an attempt to ensure balanced and fair coverage of controversial subject matter by broadcasters. In 1985, the FCC determined that the Fairness Doctrine was no longer necessary due to the emergence of a “multiplicity of voices in the marketplace.” The FCC was also of the view that the Fairness Doctrine may have violated the First Amendment. In a 1987 case, the courts declared that the doctrine was not mandated by Congress and the FCC did not have to continue to enforce it. Twice, Congress has passed legislation restoring the Fairness Doctrine, but Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush vetoed the bills.

The DeMint-Thune Senate bill, S. 34, has 24 cosponsors including Senators Lamar Alexander (R-Tennessee), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Christopher Bond (R-Missouri), Sam Brownback (R-Kansas), Saxby Chambliss (R-Georgia), Tom Coburn (R-Oklahoma), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) John Ensign (R-Nevada), Michael Enzi (R-Wyoming), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), James Inhofe (R-Oklahoma), Johnny Isakson (R-Georgia), Jon Kyl (R-Arizona), Richard Lugar (R-Indiana), Mel Martinez (R-Florida), Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky), Pat Roberts (R-Kansas), Jeff Sessions (R-Alabama), David Vitter (R-Louisiana), George Voinovich (R-Ohio), and Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi).

The Pence-Walden bill in the House already has over 100 cosponsors including Representatives John Boehner (R-Ohio), Eric Cantor (R-Virginia), John Carter (R-Texas), David Dreier (R-California), Jeb Hensarling (R-Texas), Kevin McCarthy (R-California), Thaddeus McCotter (R-Michigan), Cathy McMorris-Rodgers (R-Washington), Tom Price (R-Georgia), Adam Putnam (R-Florida), Pete Sessions (R-Texas), and Fred Upton (R-Michigan).

Read the entire Press Release

Get to know these names, because these are your Starting line up for the next two years. These are Our warriors, they are outnumbered and Outgunned in Washington, but as we found out during the Bailout Mania, when America is paying attention, Congress gets a little more concerned about how things "Look" to the public. If we take our eye off of them for a minute, they've got their grubby little hands back in the Cookie Jar.

Hats off to the members of Congress who are supporting this Bill. These guys get it. We can play a vital role in the successful passage of this Bill, just by making a few phone calls, sending a few e-mails or maybe even writing one of those things that goes into an envelope and requires a 42 cent sticker to get there. Time to Take Action...

Contact your representatives if they are supporting the Broadcaster Freedom Act, and Tell them you've got their Back. If your representative has not taken a stance or has come out against this Bill, Please contact them immediately and Let your Voice Be Heard!

Tell the Dems who say they don't want a return to the "Un-Fairness Doctrine", to Prove it by supporting the Broadcasters Freedom Act. As Ronald Reagan always said "Trust, but Verify".

Contact Your Representatives In Congress, Now.

Ann Coulter's "Guilty" Causing Controversy Already?

The Drudge Report has a screaming Headline that "NBC BANS COULTER FOR LIFE", assuming it's true, Ann Coulter should send the folks over at the Peacock Network a nice fruit basket for all the free publicity she's about to have bestowed upon her. See the Divine Ms. Coulter has a new book coming out this week, it's said to be a Crucifixion of the OLM and their well documented liberal bias. Do you know what it's called? "Guilty" NBC must not have realized She was talking about them, when they booked her first Broadcast interview. The advanced copy must have cleared things right up.



I for one, can't wait to get my hands on it, her last book "If Democrats had any brains, They'd be Republicans" was more of a compilation of quotes and columns. While I enjoyed the read, it didn't hold a candle to what I consider her Masterpiece, "Godless". As a huge fan of Ann Coulter's writing, I can only imagine what little nuggets she has dug up on Lexus Nexus search this time.

Her milder critics have called her Harsh or Brash, maybe, but that's what makes her writing so interesting. No concessions, where you give credit to the other side just to be taken seriously. Coulter doesn't play by those rules, instead She puts her Stiletto heels on Liberals' jugulars, then firmly presses down. You've got to admire her style.

Liberals despise Ann Coulter usually before ever having read a word she has written. In fact I would venture to say that 95% of Ann Coulter's 'critics' have Never read one of her columns, let alone one of her books. Her "Vicious" persona is just perpetuated by the OLM. When new friends first see the Coulter section of my living room library, even those who lean to the Right, they are forced to comment. Or more accurately, Question. As in, "Have you read all of Her books?" The answer of course is yes, but honestly she's only published a handful of books. (It's not like I've got the entire Dean Koontz collection.)

Liberals hate Ann Coulter for many of the same reasons they reacted so strongly to Sarah Palin, Coulter is intelligent, successful and the High Holy of Liberal Sins...Pretty. Liberals women especially hate the likes of Coulter. They would prefer women to be mousy, victimized and homely, it better suits their agenda. Coulter represents everything they have fought against their entire lives. She's a catholic, gun loving Barbie Doll. She's even said that she likes to annoy liberals by posing on the cover of her books, smiling wearing a black evening gown. Did I mention she's funny?

For those of you who have never had the pleasure of reading one of Ms. Coulter's books, one thing you need to know: You may not like what she is saying, you may not like how she says it, but you can't argue with her research. The girl sources everything. It's one of the reason I enjoy her books so much, they lead you to other information sources. But it's her cutting Wit that Fans and critics alike find themselves remembering...If you've seen her in an interview, you know she's quick on her feet, imagine what she can do when she puts it down on paper.

Some of my favorite Ann Coulter Quotes....

"The common wisdom holds that "both parties" have to appeal to the extremes during the primary and then move to the center for the general election. To the contrary, both parties run for office as conservatives. Once they have fooled the voters and are safely in office, Republicans sometimes double-cross the voters. Democrats always do."

"Liberals use the word science exactly as they use the word constitutional. Both words are nothing more or less than a general statement of liberal approval, having nothing to do with either science or the Constitution."

"Support for all liberal ideas is always at its zenith before people figure out what liberals are talking about. (This is known as the Howard Dean effect.)"

"The reason any Conservatives failing is always major news is that it allows liberals to engage in their very favorite taunt: Hypocrisy! Hypocrisy is the only sin that really inflames them. Inasmuch as liberals have no morals, they can sit back and criticize other people for failing to meet the standards that liberals simply renounce. It's an intriguing strategy. By openly admitting to being philanderers, draft dodgers, liars, weasels and cowards, liberals avoid ever being hypocrites."

"(Liberals say) (t)he death penalty does not deter. How do liberals know? This is an article of faith, not a statement of empirical fact. If the death penalty doesn't deter murder, how come Michael Moore is still alive and I'm not on death row?"

Honestly, how can you not Love this woman? That's good stuff and truly just the tip of the iceberg. But Liberals have No sense of humor. So it's really not surprising they don't get it. What surprises me is that with Television ratings in the tank across the board, NBC decided to dump a draw like Ann Coulter. It won't silence her, but it will make a trip to the Today show unnecessary for other Authors, once "Guilty" goes to the top of the Best Seller list.

Reflection, Resolutions and Moving Forward in 2009

After taking some time off from my day job and blogging over the Christmas Holiday, I find myself a bit introspective going into this New Year. Looking back on 2008, it was a year of mixed blessings. As a Conservative, I survived "Obama-Mania", by friends, colleagues and the Obama Loving Media (OLM). The onslaught of Obamism taught me a bit about others and myself. Turns out even if "Everyone else is doing it"...If I disagree with it, I'm Out. Good to know. I never felt like much of a Sheep, but somehow now I feel like I have proof. I learned a little about my friends, and how even though they don't 'follow' politics, their ears perked up this time around on Both sides of the political spectrum.

I myself had something of a Political "Awakening" in 2008. As I've said before I have followed politics for years, and was quite active at different points in my life, but with the introduction of Sarah Palin, and the ensuing outbreak of "Palin Derangement Syndrome", I was motivated to start this Blog. For that I am forever Grateful to the Obama Followers. Writing and Politics have always been a passion,but without the constant barrage of insults against everything I believe by the media and colleagues, I don't know if I would have been motivated to publish WithBias. Thank you, Liberals and the Uniformed, for giving me the push I needed to "Let My Voice Be Heard"....




A few days ago I asked readers to send me their New Year's Resolutions, I was surprised at how Many responses I received. Thanks to all who shared your plan with me. Some of you contacted me through e-mail, some through comments, and others through Twitter.


What first struck me, while reading through the Resolutions was most people want the same things from life regardless of where they live or how old they are or how much money they make. Most of the Resolutions I received, are ones that I strive to achieve this year as well, in fact I've adopted many as my own....

Several wrote that they wanted to live healthier in 2009. Something most Americans can appreciate. Some of you are pledging to join a gym, quit smoking or changing your diet. For those about to "Diet" We salute you.
Some were pretty vague, saying only they 'wanted to lose weight'. Others more specific, one reader sent me his plan "to lose two pounds a week", a lofty yet achievable goal. I wish you all the best and will be joining you on your journey to a healthy lifestyle. I hope that you will all keep me posted on your progress throughout the year.

Others will be striving to be "kinder to their fellow man" as one reader told me or more simply put by friend on twitter "to be nicer to people". While I can agree with the sentiment, James Agate summed up my thoughts more appropriately when he said "New Year's Resolution: To tolerate fools more gladly, provided this does not encourage them to take up more of my time."

Another popular topic amongst the Resolutions was Spirituality. Many said they were returning to their Church or becoming more faithful in their service to God. A fellow blogger and friend, has promised to "read the Bible" everyday and more effectively understand it's teachings. It's heartening to see so many turning to God during these troubled times. Thinking of the events of the past year, it brings to mind that old adage..The Lord works in Mysterious ways. While I am an unwavering Christian, I do not attend services as regularly as I should. I can make all the excuses that I'd like, however the Truth is... I just need to get my Butt into Church more often. The election of Obama may not actually signal the Apocalypse, but why take any Chances? Mysterious ways, indeed.

Family was top of mind for many of you. Whether it was spending more time at home or off-line, many promised this year, they would make their loved ones a priority. Some are just in the planning stages, like my friend over at Rightklik, who has told us that a baby in is the works for 2009. While I'm not ready to jump on the Breeding bandwagon, yet. I am planning more trips home to visit my family in Pennsylvania this year. When the world seemingly goes Mad around you, it's important to focus on what really matters and even if they drive you crazy during the Holidays, for most of us, That's Family.

Not surprisingly, many respondents talked about Politics. More specifically what they'd like to see change in 2009 after what some saw as a Disastrous 2008. Many voiced complaints and hopes for the Republican National Committee, some of which may be addressed by the election of the New Chairperson in the next few weeks. My friend, Robert who writes over at The 46 said he would to "See the GOP make some gains in 2009 as groundwork for major gains in 2010." Which brings me to my point of all these Resolutions, whether Political or Personal, they require action on the part of person making the declaration.

Twenty pounds won't magically melt off my carcass, nor will the Pastor start giving sermons in my living room, I'm going to have to do something in order to achieve my goals. Republicans find themselves in the same position. The RNC won't turn into the "Grand Old Party" without some effort on the part of Republicans themselves. Good News is that many Conservatives didn't wait for New Year's to Resolve to make a difference. Immediately after the election, social networking sites sprung up and groups formed creating a "Virtual Conservative Think Tank" on line. One of these groups, Rebuild the Party, is determined to overhaul the RNC with a Grassroots approach. I like their style, so I signed up. Once I started reading all the ideas and initiatives being put forth I was inspired to get more involved.



So I started a group for Conservative Bloggers, a place for those so inclined, to share ideas and blog addresses. With in weeks, it became apparent we had an eclectic growing group of motivated idealists and I wanted to find a way to share these ideas with a larger audience. That's when the idea for ChargingElephants was born. It's a new site that is scheduled to go "Live" on January 5th, and will feature Conservative Voices from around the Blogasphere. Just my small contribution to the cause, but I'm hoping to create a place for our ideas to be shared, heard and discussed. Each writer bringing their own 'version' of Conservatism to the table. It's a tiny step in the process of Turning our Party and this Great Nation of ours around. But it is a Step, and I'm not done yet. If you think it's time to Turn those Resolutions into Real Solutions...Now is the time to Act. (Check out my the links on the sidebar for ideas!)

You know Conservatives have come a long way in a short while, from Rebuild The Party , to Grassfire to the #tcot group on Twitter. Conservatives are getting organized and as Robert pointed out, just in time. 2010 is just around the corner.


Note to fellow Bloggers:

If you'd like to have your blog syndicated on ChargingElephants, please send me an e-mail at Likethemouse@gmail.com