Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Yikes!!!! Who cares Feinstein!?! I'll sell tickets just to tick you off!

The AP published the following story about the concern that people maybe reselling tickets for the coronation of Lord Barry Obama. The story speculates that some tickets may go as high as $40,000 a piece.

Sen. Dianne Feinstein believes that this should be a crime. After all the tickets were given away through members of Congress at no charge to the taxpayer. May I ask what is wrong if there is a demand for these tickets that they should go to the highest bidder? If Dianne wants only those who can afford it to show up on coronation day, then she should give her tickets to the unemployed bums that put her in office. If she was feeling really charitable, she could drop her allotment of tickets off at the soup kitchen or maybe the methadone clinic.

Feinstein's attitude is a type and shadow of the incoming administration and a more paternalistic congress. In all reality, if people want to sell there tickets they should be able to. If they want to trade them, use them or destroy them they should. Why is it that after Congress relinquishes control of the taxpayers' tickets that they feel inclined to continue to control their dissemination?

In all reality, Feinstein and her socialist friends are most likely upset that they won't be able to collect taxes on the selling of any tickets. That must be the reason for all the fuss about the free exchange of these tickets.

Friday, October 10, 2008

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Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Gwen Ifill, Moderator of the VP Debate is in the TANK for Barry Obama!!!

This World Net Daily article was just carried by Matt Drudge:

Ifill Writes Book about Barry H. Obama

Michelle Malkin gives more detail here:

VP Moderator in the Tank for Barry


Gwen Ifill plans to release a book on "The Breakthrough" on January 20th 2009, the date the next president takes office. The Breakthrough details the coming "Age of Obama" a book praising the efforts of the Annointed Messiah, Barry Obama.

The release of this pro-socialist book by a member of the main stream media would be of little surprise for most sane Americans. However, Ifill is set to "moderate" the VP debates on Thursday evening!!!! I wonder which way Gwen leans on the issues???

I encourage everyone to contact the Commission on Presidential Debates to protest this brash and obscene action by the media. Their telephone number is 202-872-1020. The chair of the Commission on Presidential Debates is Janet Brown, her email address is: jb@debates.org. Tell these punks that enough is enough!!!

Sunday, September 28, 2008

Where Do Social Engineers Get Off Commenting on the Subprime Mess?

This is a fantastic article on the causes behind the meltdown in the mortgage market. If you are wondering why the Democrats aren't holding Congressional hearings, this is why:

_____________________________________________



By KERRI HOUSTON | Posted Wednesday, February 20, 2008 4:30 PM PT

As the subprime mortgage crisis continues to expand and the FBI begins to investigate unorthodox mortgage qualifying guidelines, the causes of the crisis are yet to be examined outside the paradigm of lending practices and within the context of do-gooderism gone awry.

Economists define predatory lending as creditors deceiving households into borrowing more than they are able to pay back, implying deception and lack of transparency.

Yet this phrase is being attached by coercive utopians with increasing frequency and decreasing accuracy to any financial transactions that includes a low-income borrower. As with any phrase tossed willy-nilly into a mix of financial reality and social engineering, it is impolite to unearth and impolitic to assault.

Two forms of lending currently are in the sites of self-proclaimed lending reformers: mortgages and short-term consumer loans. In an ironic twist of economic fate, it appears that those criticizing the latter may have contributed to the current pain of the former.

The fair housing movement forced adoption by the government and secondary lenders of unrealistic homeownership goals and ineffectual qualifying guidelines, thus creating an artificial lending environment now causing great harm to the very borrowers it purports to assist.

The best example is North Carolina, where regulatory and social-economic policy combined to increase bad debt and decrease available credit for low-income borrowers.

When public policy is based on emotion and not sound fiscal principles, personality and bad judgment often play critical roles.

Meet Martin Eakes, social activist and founder of North Carolina's Self-Help Credit Union and the Center for Responsible Lending. Although Self-Help's main activity is providing subprime loans, Mr. Eakes lobbied North Carolina's legislature to pass "predatory lending" reform on its subprime lenders and to outlaw other forms of consumer loans.

It appears that the only subprime loans that Mr. Eakes condones are his own. Coincidentally, his credit union industry is gearing up to start competing with some forms of the payday-style lending that he regularly attacks.

In 1998, Self-Help entered a very profitable venture with the left-wing Ford Foundation and secondary mortgage market giant Fannie Mae to provide mortgage loans to North Carolina's low-income families. After Ford granted $50M of risk capital to give Self-Help's clients the down payments these borrowers did not have, Self-Help then originated the loan, and finally, Fannie Mae purchased the loans from Self-Help.

The deal was made by then-Fannie Mae Chairman Franklin Raines, who resigned in 2004 for allegedly overstating earnings to ensure inflated bonuses for himself and other executives. Raines remains a target of federal government investigations and lawsuits, yet Eakes has publicly stated that Raines was "not dishonest in any way. . . . You will not find scandal there."

Under Eakes' lending reforms, North Carolina leads the U.S. in foreclosures. In a year-over-year comparison, the state's foreclosure rate outpaced the nation with a whopping 146% increase vs. 94% nationwide.

Limiting other forms of lending also has consequences. According to a study by Donald Morgan of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, banning "payday" lending hurts consumers needing short-term loans. Unlike subprime mortgages that allowed borrowers to simply state income and assets without providing proof, payday borrowers must provide documents demonstrating the ability to repay.

In further contrast to the mortgage industry, short-term consumer lending is booming and very profitable. As a lender can't make money unless debts are repaid, it's clear that consumers are overwhelmingly repaying as agreed.

The Fed report noted that regulation increases consumers' cost, and in states where there is a wide competition between lenders, interest rates and fees are lower.

Since these loans were banned in the state in 2005, North Carolinians have suffered more utility service disruptions, bounced checks and bankruptcies. Despite these alarming statistics, Eakes and his fellow activists are pressuring other states, Virginia and Ohio in particular, to ban short-term consumer lending.

Waving the banner of race and income discrimination, Eakes contributed to a highly charged political backdrop that resulted in President Bush implementing federal goals in 2002 to increase homeownership by 5.5 million households by 2010. This helped open a Pandora's box of subprime lending vehicles that meets the "predatory" definition of extending credit to those who cannot afford it.

From January to November of 2007, more than 1 million homes entered foreclosure. Not only are homeowners losing their homes, but even renters paying as agreed are being evicted as lenders reclaim properties. Depending on the state, 48% to 69% of these foreclosed loans come from the subprime market.

"Subprime" refers not to interest rates, but to borrower quality, as low-income applicants often have poor credit, unstable employment history, and limited assets. Because of increased risk, they are unable to get favorable rates and are often drawn into loans with low short-term introductory terms. When these mortgages adjust to market rates, the borrower no longer qualifies for the loan he already has and can no longer pay.

As a gifted down payment and no requirement to actually prove income were the only way to move them into mortgages, many borrowers were lured into a false prosperity for which they were neither prepared nor equipped and are now suffering through foreclosure.

Mortgage lending, when it readjusts to market forces, will again access risk on proven underwriting principles. The natural adjustment of the market will in turn provide mortgages to low-income borrowers at terms that realistically meet their financial needs and allow long-term home ownership.

The mortgage crisis is a result of many factors. But in crafting lending reform, policy makers must ensure that the North Carolina consumer credit model is not be replicated.

Social engineers should not be allowed to influence legislative decisions about consumer practices or play loosey-goosey with underwriting criteria. Prudent fiscal policy should not be replaced with political intimidation by those who demonstrate that sound judgment is less important that achieving social goals at all cost.

Houston is a public policy analyst and president of Institute for Liberty, a free-market think tank headquartered in Northern Virginia.

Where's Wednesdays Child?

Many have asked for updates and my opinion on the crazy political season we are experiencing. Instead of opting to blog on my own site where (unfortunately, but true) my audience is limited, I have gone out and sounded the voice of reason to help people understand the mental illness of liberalism and Obamaitis (a growing and ongoing problem where there is no real substance, but those stricken with the illness have their hands stretched out asking for money that was never theirs in the first place. The only know cure at this time is a swift kick in the butt and strong dose of conservatism).

Join me on the Blogosphere and help rid the world of these nasty disorders.

Nobama, keep the change!

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Time to Drill

I am amazed at the lack of concern that Congress has for American citizens. We have been paying over $4.00 a gallon for gas since the beginning of Summer. No wonder that Congress's approval rating hit an all time low of 9% this month.

Congress: Get a clue, allow off-shore drilling and drilling in ANWR.

Low Cost Glasses

I was looking for some glasses online and came across this website that sells glass online from $8.00. No joke! They have a wide varity of frames and lens such as sunsensor,tinted sunglasses, bifocals and progressive lens. The name of the site is zennioptical.com.

So why aren't these guys charging $100 to $300 like the stores in the mall? According to their website, they only sell the own manufactured frames direct to the customer, no middle men and virtually no advertising.

Cool site. Check it out!



Thursday, June 26, 2008

To Arms.... To Arms!!!

Great decision today from SCOTUS! On a five to four vote (Okay that was really predictable and weak on behalf of the court liberals)the Supreme Court held that the ruling of the DC Circuit Court of Appeals on District of Columbia v. Heller was correct. The Constitution clearly stipulates that Americans have a reasonable expectation to bear arms, included loaded handguns and rifles within the walls of their own home. I'm glad to see the majority had the courage to read plainly the words of the founding fathers.

I heard on a radio show a couple of weeks ago that if D.C. had the right to ignore the 2nd Amendment because it didn't work for their city, then my local government could ignore the 16th Amendment (Federal Income Tax) because it doesn't work for its residents. If libs don't like the 2nd Amendment they should work through the existing framework of the Constitution and have it amended to strip citizens of their right to bear arms. The same goes for any law, no matter how reasonable and good it appears to any person in this country. The Constitution provides the framework that all laws must properly adhere to. If laws fall outside the framework provided by the amendments then they are to be stricken. The argument that the Constitution is a "living and evolving" document is garbage. The document does not involve unless a super majority of Congress and 3/4 of states ratify a new provision to it.

Score one for Constitutional Purists and Originalist today! Scalia and the other strict constructionists on the bench are to be applauded for their wisdom and ruling.

Monday, June 23, 2008

Summer Plantings

In previous postings I have mentioned my love of gardening. Yeah, a Conservative who is not dead set on killing the world with dangerous CO2 gases, etc. Can you believe it? Anyway, I spent Saturday working in the yard and cleared out and planted my flower garden in the front yard. Here is a shot of the handy work:

Enjoy!

Next week I'll discuss the joy of Hostas and my membership in the International Hosta Awareness and Care Society.

Interesting Stem Cell Findings

There has been alot of talk about stem cell research over the past few years. Some find the practice akin to murder (in the instance of harvesting fetal stem cells) and others see the study as the next major break in the cure for many chronic illnesses. A recent scientific study found the prestigious Journal of Cell Transplantion suggested that potentially life-saving stems cells can be found in menstrual blood. That's right folks! The study states that C'elle menstrual stem cells have deC'elle exclusive and revolutionary stem cell technology empowers women to safely and easily collect potentially life-saving stem cells found in menstrual blood. Scientific study of C'elle stem cells was recently published in the prestigious Journal of Cell Transplantation. C'elle menstrual stem cells have demonstrated the ability to differentiate into other cell types such as heart muscle, cartilage, nerve and bone stem cells. This translates into the potential for future therapeutic developments to possibly treat major diseases like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, MS, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's; as well as possible cosmeceutical applications like anti-aging and wound-healing. Menstrual stem cells are a 100% match for the woman donor and may possibly match her first degree relatives. So, for all the female readers out there who did not bank their newborn's cord blood, or have family history of major disease, or are approaching menopause or even if you are young and healthy--C'elle menstrual stem cells offer potential hope for you and your family's future health and well-being. One can order C'elle online today for special limited-time introductory price of only $399 and receive free super-chic C'elle travel satchel. Click on the following link to learn more Learn about C'elle Order Now Special Promotion Code: OL Not a bad deal at all for those interested in potentially saving their live via stem cell research.

Don't Fall for Richard Ellis's BS tomorrow. Walker is the choice

In the less publicized, but equally important State Treasurer race, Mark Walker squares off against Richard Ellis. Both Republicans and who ever wins tomorrow is the next Treasurer unless one of them pulls a "Nancy Workman" in the next five months.

I somewhat feel for Ellis. Here is a guy who has worked his way towards this position. A life long paperpusher for the State of Utah, his loftiest goals in life to reach the oft-forgotten, but ever valuable position of State Treasurer. Now he is getting a strong challange from a rising star of the Republican party Mark Walker.

Many in the press (including the liberal SL Trib) claim that Walker is too inexperienced to be selected. As AG Shurtleff states, "I call Mark 'Triple Threat Walker', and the triple threat is: substantial private sector financial experience, experience in the legislature where laws are made, and demonstrated conservative values as a republican."

Walker has raised some good points about Ellis 1) Ellis fought against a state bill that would have put a cap on state spending 2) Ellis is a life long bureaucrat (I don't care how "conservative" you claim to be as a bureacrat, if you spend you entire life on the public dime, you get pretty liberal with it). Based on these two VERY important matters (okay, somewhat important matters) I urge my friends and colleuges to join with me in voting for Mark Walker for Utah State Treasurer

Eh, Why not?

Vote Cannon: The 3rd's Real Choice

The night before the Republican Primary Election in Utah's Third District and Wednesday's Child is endorsing (no surprise here folks) Chris Cannon for re-election. The reason really boils down to a couple of points: Mr. Chaffetz lives in the Second District. As hie states, a mere 12,000 feet (or two miles to you and me) from the 3rd district, so he should be able to run in the 3rd district because its close enough. Secondly, Jason Chaffetz believes that he needs to run in for Cannon's seat because Cannon isn't conservative enough for Utahns. Really? What about your representative Mr. Chaffetz? Is the Democrat Jim Matheson conservative enough for you? Because if your concern is for the conservative values espoused by so many of us, wouldn't you want to run against the more liberal opponent?

The fact of the matter is Chaffetz sees Cannon as an easier (and less expensive) target to beat than Jim Matheson. Matheson in the 2nd district is very popular and by all means has a lock on he seat for the foreseeable future. Cannon in the 3rd district has made some political mistakes, is not a "talking points" politician and doesn't possess the pretty boy looks of the post-Eisenhower politician. Chaffetz claims to be the champion of conservative politics, and very well may be that. However, he should stand up for those values in his own district and not mine (even if it is only 144,000 inches from his backyard.

Our real choice

I hope my friends in the 3rd district will join with me and vote Cannon on Tuesday, June 24th. Let's send Chaffetz packing for the 2nd district where he belongs.

-WC

Thursday, June 19, 2008

The Marine Corps

My wife and daughter traveled to San Diego yesterday to see her brother graduate from the Marine Corps Basic Training Program at Camp Pendleton. My younger brother is a combat pilot in the USAF and we are proud of his service to the country as well as my wife's brother. We are bless to have good, brave, honest men fighting on our behalf.

Holster Shopping

I enjoy the rights afforded all Americans under the Second Amendment of the Constitution and personally exercise the right to bear arms. I recently received a M1911 .45 Caliber handgun from my brother-in-law (You know who you are!) and purchased a 9MM subcompact handgun to carry concealed. I have a great holster for the 45 but needed one for the 9MM. I was shopping online this evening and found some great accessories used by law enforcement such as concealed holsters Surefire weapon light and other police gear. Cool website, great prices, and terrific products.

Monday, June 16, 2008

Chaffetz Supporter Calls Me Today....

We have some prominent retail locations along the Wasatch Front where our company has allowed the Chris Cannon campaign to put up his signs. I received a terse call from a gentleman who decided that his candidate, "Mr. Second District" Chaffetz needed to have his signs up next to ours. I politely told the gentleman that we had endorsed Chris Cannon and that we would not be interested in allowing him to put up Chaffetz signs. The guy on the line huffed and I thanked him for his interest.

Is it just me, or don't property owners have the right to put up the campaign signs of their own choosing? Guess what? If I don't want your lousy sign in my yard I have the right to take it down.

"Hey! How come you won't put up my sign?"

We had a guy threaten to call the cops on us for taking down illegally posted signs (illegal because they put them up on our property without our permission). Of course we were popping down the Salt Lake County liberals and RINOs signs and the guy that stopped his car in the intersection was a poser with telamark skis and driving a Subaru Baja wagon (I'm certain he was on his way to meet his boyfriend). We finally had to tell this guy to leave or we were going to call the cops. He slithered away after we called him a poser and threw his signs at him.

Friday, June 13, 2008

The Passing of Tim Russert

Sad news today from Washington D.C. Tim Russert from NBC's Meet the Press died of an apparent heart attack today while doing some voice over work for his Sunday show. We watched Tim Russert each Sunday morning and felt that his work was second to none. A true old-school journalist who didn't take sides as the moderator. Fair and balanced as anyone. Our condolences to his wife, son, and family. We have lost a genuinely good man today.

Tim Russert

Yikes, why do I watch this crap!?!

Last night I watched Larry King "grill" (pun intended) his four guests about the economy and what we as Americans should do in light of $4.00 a gallon gasoline. Larry asks Barbara Corcoran, a self-proclaimed real estate expert what the average American should do to cope with the stiff gas prices. Her response: "Take equity out of your home and buy your neighbor's home that is facing foreclosure."

Moron

You know there is an idiot out there in a double wide yelling to his wife, "Hey, honey! Let's buy the neighbor's trailer before that truck from the bank comes to haul it away! That's what Florance Henderson says we should be doin' on the TV set!"

Why do I watch this garbage?

Thursday, June 12, 2008

Easy way to make a little extra cash to fill up the tank

With gas hitting $4 a gallon this week and not having the opportunity to earn any overtime I turned to my blog to make a little extra money. It's simple and anyone with a blog can do it. It's also much less painful that donating plasma. (I saw a news story on that last week and it looked like as much fun as getting your teeth drilled. People are actually going to plasma donation centers twice a week to help pay for gas). I'm a wuss when it comes to pain. That's why I've decided to stick with what I know to be painless. It's called Pay Per Post and its great! You simply sign up with and write about the cool products and services they recommend. You get to select what you want to write about, so I write about the things I best understand and love to share with others. What could be cooler that than? It's great to learn about new products and services via Pay Per Post and then being able to share why it's so great with all my friends and family who read our blog.

How did I find out about Pay Per Post? I have a good friend at work who decided this would be a great way to earn some extra spending money and recommended that I get involved with Pay Per Post. This comes from a guy who knows the blogosphere and what's hot and what's not. He thinks it also a great place for stay at home moms to use their talants and writing skills to share the love with others. His wife has been sharing the good word with others for over a year and loves the friendships she's formed and the extra income she's earned. Another great aspect of this opportunity is that I can spend the amount of time I want to working on it. It often takes less than five minutes to share information about some great people. What better opportunity exists for busy moms than this? It's not the plasma center! I spoke with a few of my Sisters-in-law over the weekend about this too and they are excited to sign up and blog.

What are you waiting for? You'd have to be fool not to jump on board and share the love with your friends and family. To make some extra money its either this or stick a needle in your arm? What do you prefer? Do what I've done make a few bucks and blog with Pay Per Post!

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

3rd District Primary: Don't Vote Chaffetz

Like the Japanese Beetle, the invader from the North has shown up to eat its host and leave it worse off than it is. So it goes with Jason Chaffetz Jason Chaffetz. I don't have a problem with his politics. In fact, this registered Republican (don't laugh) in the 3rd district likes his platform better than
Chris Cannon. However, Cannon has one thing going for him that Chaffetz does not. Cannon lives in the 3rd district. Chaffetz lives in Alpine, outside the district he is supposed to represent. If Chaffetz is not willing to move to the 3rd district, then what else won't he do for the people who he represents?

Voters, be informed and don't vote for Chaffetz.

Monday, June 9, 2008

Finally, Huckabee does something worthwhile...

Huckabee helps choker with Heimlich

GREENSBORO, N.C. - Former Republican presidential candidate Mike Huckabee put the squeeze on a politician at the North Carolina Republican Party convention, but in a good way.
The former Arkansas governor performed the Heimlich maneuver on Robert Pittenger, Republican candidate for lieutenant governor, at a lunch Saturday.
Pittenger said he was laughing when he choked on some food.

McCain: Obama means 2nd Carter Term

Here is a great zinger from McCain from MSNBC. Thanks to Mark Murray:

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++


Posted: Monday, June 09, 2008 6:08 PM by Mark MurrayFiled Under: , ,
From NBC's Mark MurrayIn an interview to air later tonight on Nightly News, McCain tells NBC's Brian Williams that while Obama might criticize him for representing a third Bush term, Obama seems to be running for a second Carter term. Part of the transcript...
Williams: Is it going to be tough to run with an incumbent party for the White House, given this economic backdrop?
McCain: I-- I think it's-- it's tough. But I think the American didn't, people didn't get to know me yesterday. They know me. They know that I have fought for restraining spending, which Senator Obama has been a big part of, with earmarking (UNINTEL) projects. They know that I have been a strong fiscal conservative, and they know I understand the challenges that they face.
They need a little break from-- from their gasoline taxes, and they -- and they know that -- we've got to get spending under control. And we've got to become independent of foreign oil. Sen. Obama says that I'm running for a Bush's third terms. It seems to me he's running for Jimmy Carter's second. (LAUGHTER)

====================================================

I couldn't of said it better myself.

Sunday, June 8, 2008

Can we ask Barry? Yes we can!!!

Here is a good clip from the folks at You Tube:



This is just a start of the questions we have for Barry.

Meet the Press for Idiots

I had to put this video up from Conon O'Brian. I know it is over a year old but it is absolutely funny! It makes me laugh every time I watch it.

Why Utah should let the Feds own Utah Land

In an earlier post I stated I would detail why it makes sense for the federal government to own most of Utah's land. (Yes, this is a shocker from a conservative!) At any rate, it comes down to simple economics. I believe that over 90% of the land within Utah is owned by the US government. Much of that is owned by the Defense Department for weapons testing and military training areas, some of it is Native American reservation areas, and much is held by the National Park Service and the BLM. With the exception of the Grand Escalante Staircase, which should have been retained by Utah, the feds can manage and maintain that land. The vast majority of the land they hold is not wanted by this taxpaper. Think about it. If there is a wildfire like the Milford Flats fire of 2007, who pays for that on federal land? The US taxpayer. If there is a wildfire on State of Utah land who pays for that? The Utah taxpayer. I know that there are more taxpayers to pick up that tab at the federal level than at the state level.

A few years ago, the State of Utah faced the decision to close down 1/3 of its state parks due to a lack of funding. Can you image the budgetary issues the state would have if the BLM turned the keys over and said, "It's yours!" With a small population, and a smaller number of taxpayers, Utah is not in a place to pay for the management of all of the land within its boarders. As long as our population is small, we should continue to allow the federal government the luxury of paying the tab for our land.

Cuts at the Deseret News

The Deseret News, (Founded in 1850 by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) announced last week that it is planning on laying off some 35 of its 200 employees due to decreased revenues and readership. This comes as no surprise to this conservative, especially since the D-News decision to turn hard left since the late 90s. KSL and other media pundits blame the shrinking revenues on items like blogs, Internet, and free online ads. While all of those things create a more competitive environment for print papers, they are not the source of the problems facing most newspapers.

One only needs to look at the viewpoints espoused by the Editorial Board and the writing staff at the Salt Lake based paper to see the problems. The paper (with the exception of its views on the LDS Church) focuses one appeasing to environmentalist, big government programs, "unity" issues, tax increases, anti-business sentiments (i.e. "tax the bastards to death") and an open disdain for traditional political values held by most Utahns.

Being in business myself, I know that the Paper has lost its core responsibility of delivering to its readers what they want. People, especially those who read papers, don't want thinly veiled propaganda and talking points from the United Nations from a supposedly "right of center" newspaper. I point to the Wall Street Journal. While hundreds of papers are downsizing and fretting about their future in five years, the WSJ continues year after year growth. Why? Because the WSJ knows it audience and gives them the news and stories they expect from a pro-business newspaper. Do you believe for one minute that the WSJ's circulation would be increasing if it took every chance it could to kick the beliefs of its readership? NO! Then why do the editors at the Deseret News believe they can put down the believes of its potential customers and expect them to subscribe in droves?

The Deseret News was a once decent paper. (I subscribed to it until 2005) Now it tries to play second fiddle and little brother the the SL Tribune. Stop walking in the shadow of that paper, stand up, deliver the quality of news expected by the conservative majority within Utah. Stop putting down businesses, quit pushing for tax increases when they are not needed. Stay away from the KSL editorial board! That group continues to represent itself as the voice of the Priesthood. It is not the mouthpiece of the Church. The members of the KSL and D-News editorial board represent their personal "feel good" politics of shame. In order for these organizations to survive without the aid of the Church they need to better represent the population of Utah.

First 18 Holes

I played my first 18 holes at Jug Mountain Ranch south of McCall, Idaho this past week. GOlf Digest named it the 2nd best public course in the nation. What a beautiful place to loose so many golf balls! Yikes. I went with my Dad and two brothers. My Dad doesn't golf (It's a four letter word...) and my brothers are really good. Anyway I think I lost somewhere between a dozen to 18 balls. Ponds all over the place, marshes right and left. Anyway, I had a few good fairway shots and I left a better player than when I showed up.

Morons to the Left of Me, Bright ones to the right...

Sunday mornings around our house are spent watching the political shows of the morning. I watched Fox News Sunday and This week on ABC. I forgot how dull, abrassive, and repulsive John Kerry was. Kudos to him on the face lift, nothing makes a Frankenstein look more life-like then a few shots of Botox and a stretch of the skin. Unfortunately it appears that the botox has moved into his brain. Here are a few examples: 1) Endorsing and supporting Obama should be enough to warrant a check of the noggin. 2) Stating that raising taxes on those making more than 100K a year is a good thing and that cutting the taxes on the elderly making less than 50K is a good idea 3) Stating that an immediate withdrawl of troops in Iraq makes sense and 4) John McCain is wrong on Iraq (I think he is the only national politian who has made sense on that issue).

What is of greatest concern to me is the number of people who will believe the Junior Blowhard from Taxachusetts. A Barry Hussein Obama presidency will take this country into thinly veiled socialism. The problem is that most Americans want socialism, or feel that taxpayers owe them something. We are in for some seriously difficult times if Barry is elected.

Saturday, June 7, 2008

Memorial Day Follow-up

Last year my wife and I traveled to Emery in Central Utah to visit the grave of a few of her ancestors. Along the way we thought it would be a teriffic experience for us to visit the graves of all our our direct ancestors who are buried in the state of Utah. We want to start a blog in the next couple of weeks and begin detailing our plans for the Memorial Day 2009 Utah Road trip to visit ancestors. This is no small task where every progenitor of mine since the 1880s have lived in Utah. For my wife it may be somewhat simpler that only half of her ancestors have been here since the turn of the 20th Century. We look forward to sharing our experiences, research, and travels with everyone as we prepare for next year's trip.

Monday, May 26, 2008

Memorial Day

Every year I go out on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend and decorate graves. Three of my four grandparents have passed away and the majority of my great-grandparents are buried in Alpine, American Fork and Pleasant Grove (the majority are in PG). I really enjoy visiting their graves and dropping off flowers. By the look of other visitors out this year that the tradition will be unfortunately short lived (a lot of old folks wearing welding glasses and taking flowers from the yard and putting them on their loved ones graves).

Next year over the Memorial Day Weekend we plan on visiting and decorating every direct ancestor of ours within the state. We estimate it will take the entire three day weekend to visit every grave.

Thursday, May 15, 2008

Yard work makes me happy.

Beautiful day in the yard this weekend. Mowed the lawn, planted flowers, pulled weeds and installed a attic fan to help reduce the energy bill. It is always good to put in a hard day's efforts and to enjoy the fruits of your labors. With the trees filling in the backyard the sound and sights of my neighbors is disappearing. Very nice indeed. I enjoy working in my yard. The stress and worries of everyday living disappear and I renew myself. I look forward to a summer in my yard and garden.

Thursday, May 8, 2008

Bob Wrongsberry

During morning drive time in Utah I have often listened to the Bob Lonsberry Show on 570 KNRS AM. I've been a steady listener for the past five years. Lonsberry is a self-professed conservative and a member of the LDS Church. About a week ago I decided that I had enough of this guy's bellyaching and have decided to look elsewhere for true local and conservative opinion. I don't blame Lonsberry for my current dissatisfaction with his program. He like everyone else is entitled to his opinion. However, here are the things that finally pushed me over the edge and away from him:

1) He is based out of New York yet proclaims to be a local host. Bob rarely reveals that his show is broadcasted out of upstate New York. He hosts another local (truly local) show for the Buffalo market and makes his home there. That is fine and dandy, but I have a hard time with a guy who tells me and my locally elected officials what's best for the State of Utah when he doesn't live here. It kind of reminds me of city administrators who work in one city but live in another and the residents of that community find out the guy who has a lot of clout in their community won't be directly affected by the opinions/decision he makes. In Lonsberry's case it was him point out that Utah should take control of federally controlled land. "Yeah, thanks for the advice Bob." I'll listen to you when you start paying the same taxes I do as a full-time resident of the State of Utah.

Side note: I'll blog later why this conservative is against the idea of this state taking control of what the federal government currently manages.

Bob claims to be a conservative, but that is only true as far as family values go. Well, kind of. I’m finding that Lonsberry is bashing more and more on business, one example is the short-term loan industry. A basic tenant of conservatism is the idea of less, not more regulations. Laisse-faire ideals should be espoused by those claiming to be conservatives. Society has a wonderful way of 1) improving business based on customer pressures and 2) abandoning businesses that hurt consumers. (Read John Stossel's book: Give Me a Break)

I've noticed that when he doesn't agree with a group he incites the morality of the LDS church (i.e. "That person should be ashamed to be a Mormon and be associated with that" or "If you are involved with this belief you should repent")

If Bob believes in the basics of the LDS faith, why wouldn't he leave calling people and groups to repentance to those authorized to do so? (Bishops and Missionaries come to mind). Since Bob does hold either of these positions he should simmer down and use logic, not religion to lambast people.

On a side note, his religious overtones bug me because he's been excommunicated from the LDS church. Were he has had such a serious falling out with the teaching of the Mormon faith; it surprises me that he would us its tenants to besmirch others.

There are other things that bug me (i.e. The whining, the constant talk of his kids, trying to model himself after Glenn Beck (who is awesome!) the snide comments, etc.) But those items will have to be discussed another time.

While I won't turn to Dough Left at KSL for "more stimulating" talk I will definitely move away from the increasingly superficial conservative Bob Wrongsberry in the morning. After listening to Wrongsberry for so many years, maybe NPR won't be a such bad choice. At least I won't be disappointed.

Sunday, May 4, 2008

Kobe Bryant & Phil Jacksons Pact with the Devil

I love the Jazz. I'm getting set to see them go down in flames to the Lakers. It not that I believe the Lakers are an out and out better team than the Jazz, because they are not. The Lakers have talent like Bryant, Odem, and Fisher. However, if one looks closely at Phil Jackson and Kobe Bryant they both look like the devil. Examine the picture of the Masters Mayhem below:



What you can't see in the picture are the horns, but they are there. (I have it from a friend that the two of them grow them out during the off season). From what I've been told these two guys swore away their souls to Old Scratch if he would give them two things: 1) Referees with a hard tilt towards the Lakers (as appearant in today's home cooked show and 2) NBA titles. I rest my case.

The only hope for the Jazz at this point is to pray that they can win at least one on the road.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Amazing Golf Course Photos




Here are some pictures of the course we went to today. Yeah, exciting, I know. It's a freaking golf course, get over it.

Golfing

I took my first golf lesson today, at the age of 30. I played with my friend from work and we picked up some goods tips/pointers and numerous other techniques from the pro at the local golf course. The weather was cold which kept other golfers off the course and allowed us to spend time working on driving, mid-fairway, chip shots and putting. I haven't been a fan of golf because it takes a lot of time and I don't have much to devote to it. All in all it was a pretty good time, minus the cold weather and the fact I can't hit crap.

I am going to try to get out once or twice a week and hit a bucket of balls and work on putting. Hopefully by mid-July I shouldn't be a complete embarrassment on the fairway.

One aspect I am really enjoying is the opportunity I have to learn something completely new. I'm not old, but it is a little late in life to pick up golfing. Regardless, I enjoy the challenge the game presents and I look forward to becoming more involved with the game.

Socialists in Moderate's Clothing

It amazes me still that there are socialists and communists in this world. Especially after the collapse of the Soviet Empire and the many failures associated with that style of government. Since its collapse in 1991, communists quickly disappeared like cockroaches in the light of day.

Many foolishly assume they are gone, but on this May Day it is apparent that they have little more than change their names less abrasive titles like: social progressives, progressives, and moderates.

Without the bright light of day from media, policy makers, and other influentials, the growing number of those groups who subscribe to the teachings of Marx and Mao will increase.

It is obvious from the actions of pinkos like George Soros and Barack Obama that they are quietly and swiftly moving to remove cherished values like freedom of speech, free enterprise, and privacy rights away from average Americans. As the news "highlights" the May Day celebrations from around the world today remember they are celebrating a pinker version of the world

Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Multi-Level Marketing

We have a big day tomorrow at work. We are pitching a new business idea to the owner of our company. This could be a big deal for a lot of different people. My partner and I work at solving problems with the company (We are "fixers" as so aptly described in the movie "Michael Clayton." While assigned in one division of the company we realized or stumbled upon a great opportunity that was sitting underneath the nose of the company for years. As we began to inquire as to the new concept's true value it became apparent that this service we could offer would have very broad appeal, not only in our industry, but in other industries as well.

I am certain that 10,000s of men between the age of 20 and 50 who work for some large corporation have these "this is going to change everything" attitude towards their pet project. I ran the concept by my Father tonight and he seemed about at interested in it as snow peas.

Regardless, we have put a lot of time and energy into putting this project together and believe with some backing from the owner we could be successful.

At least I can be confident that we are not introducing Utah to its next MLM service.

Springtime in the Rockies

Here it is, cold again after experiencing highs in the 70s and 80s it's back down to 50s and rain. This happens every year. I shouldn't be surprised.

Monday, April 28, 2008

Spring Fever

Monday afternoon, 70 degrees outside and the last place I want to be at 5:00 PM is here at work. Unfortunately, I don't have any money and it looks like I won't be getting my tax stimulus check for a few days still. I would love to buy a bike and hit the mountains. I am tempted enough to go online and get a cash advance from a online lender. I think for four or five days I would only pay $20 bucks for $500.00. Not bad when you consider how nice it would be to go for a ride when the weather is so nice.

Sunday, April 27, 2008

Rice Shortages

Saturday night my wife sent me to the store to pick up some groceries. While there I thought I would be smart and pick up some rice. Yeah, they were COMPLETELY out of rice. There was some rice-a-roni and a couple of small boxes of Minute Rice. However, every bulk box or bag was gone. A little strange when you take into consideration that as Americans we have not seen such shortages in decades, perhaps a century.

I was working on a church lessontoday and was reminded how important it is to be prepared for future events.

When I got home I expressed my concern that there wasn't any rice in the store. She pointed out the 100 pounds we had downstairs in storage that we hadn't opened since we purchased it a year ago. My desire for rice was based on the shortage, not the demand. Anyway, it is amazing to see how human we are when we hear of shortages and move to hoard any food we can.

By the way, I am on a diet and haven't had rice in two months. Why should I care if there is a rice shortage?

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Upcoming Vacation

You know you are working too much when you don't want to go on vacation. I work at a job where I put in over 55 hours a week. I really enjoy my work. I like the people I work with, the challenges we face as a team and the knowledge each day will be different from the one before.

This summer my parent's family is planning a trip to Idaho for a week long vacation. In the 6 years I've been working since I graduated from college I have never taken more than 3 days off of work. This year I am supposed to spend a whole week away and "relax." My wife has started a pool to see how long I will last before cracking.

If it were up to me, we would head south and spend some time in St. George, Utah. I went to the parade of homes there and saw a home built by a great St. George Homebuilder. With as long a winter as we've experienced it would be nice to head south instead of north.

Welcome to Wednesday's Child

It's the first posting for Wednesday's Child and I know everyone has been dying to hear the many wonderful pearls of wisdom that I have for the world. Welcome one and all!

Wednesday's child will be a place where I will post thoughts, philosophies, and ideas important to me. I enjoy receiving comments
from others regarding my postings.