For whom the bell tolls…Senator Teddy Kennedy gone

I didn’t know until this moment that Senator Ted Kennedy had passed.  It was just a week ago that the family laid his last sibling…his sister, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, at age 88 to rest.   And now I read that Teddy is gone too.

A double blow to a family that has suffered blow after blow…and somehow has always managed to get up running.

Some say it was the sins of the father visited upon the children…the curse…the dredded Kennedy curse…or  whatever else you want to call it.   But truly for a family so hugely popular and politically active…they have had more than their share of personal woes.

Left to raise his brother’s children, John’s and Bobby’s,  Ted Kennedy did not have a easy road.  Through many years he battled the bottle…and finally found peace with himself, his family and his political life…emerging stronger, fitter and more determined to correct wrongs and right the up-side down, unbalanced politics of this country…just as his brothers before him had tried to do.   And through his recent battle with cancer, he continued what they call in church…‘the good fight’ for the people who needed to be fought for the most…and often overlooked. 

Diagnosed with cancer during the last leg of  Obama’s race to the White House, of  which he was a leading supporting voice…and a voice of  wisdom to the man ‘who would be’…though it was not a popular choice.   But true to his form…Teddy was true to the voice with-in…and did that which may have  not popular…but was what he felt was right…and always with an eye on what was best for America and her people.

And through that diagnoses of brain cancer, every time you saw him…he was smiling.  He took the illness as he took everything else he had to battle with during his life…acceptingly.    He accepted the challenge…and did not curtain his political life…didn’t let it stop him from attending the Democratic Convention…nor from showing strong support for his candidate of choice for the Presidency of this  country. 

My…what a man he was.  And I will never forget him for how he stood up for the ill treatment of  Anita Hill who had been summoned to Capitol Hill to testify against Clarence Thomas.  And no matter how many times the Republicans tried to sit him down and quiet him by bringing up the topic of  ‘a bridge in Massachusetts’…Kennedy refused to let that or them to silence his voice for justice and fairness.

Truly, he was a man for the people.   The type of  politicans that all states should endeavor to elect into office…a man of  convictions.  A  man of  compassion who was not afraid to take that compassion into his office as a Senator of  the United States.

May God continue to bless the Kennedy family.

He shall be truely missed…and write this with tears in my eyes.  I will never forget how happy he was…gleeful, in fact, to have been able to attend what his last Democratic Convention last August 2008,  in Denver, in which Barack Obama was announced as the Democrats candidate to run for the Presidency of this country.   And he did it after just getting out the hospital…and shortly upon the heels upon first finding out that his body was being attacked by cancer.

He died yesterday, Tuesday, August 25th…at the age of 77…11 years shy of  his sister’s Eunice’s age.   It is probably the reason why Carolyn Kennedy decided not to pursue Hillary Clinton’s seat as Senator in the State of New York.    They owed him much…she and John…they all did.  He gave his life to them…and his passion…politics.

You can view the history of  Senator Ted Kennedy by CLICKING the 2 CLINKS BELOW.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/32423545#32423545

http://www.cnn.com/video/flashLive/live.html?stream=stream3&iref=lb100

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32491712/?gt1=43001

http://www.kcra.com/politics/20559221/detail.html

http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/08/26/obit.ted.kennedy/index.html

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32562140/?GT1=43001

http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-19138-Dallas-Headlines-Examiner~y2009m8d11-Slideshow-Eunice-Kennedy-Striver-dies-at-88

http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/08/14/shriver.funeral/

http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/08/14/shriver.funeral/#cnnSTCVideo

        FOR WHOM THE BELL TOLLS…

        No man is an island,  entire of itself

     Each is a piece of the continent, a part of the main.

     ….Each man’s death diminishes me, for I am involved in mankind.

       Therefore, send not to know for whom the bell tolls, it tolls for      thee…by John Donne

Well, enjoy the rest of  your day…and God bless.

Got to keep on plugging my book,  THE BISHOP’S WIFE.   

Finally finished tweeking my book trailer  and have been watching it as often as I can.  Can’t wait until you see it…so you can get all the purchase info on my book.

I think I did a good job on it… and I hope that you will too.    

So, soon you will be able find out more about my  book right here, as well…on youtube. 

Didn’t make much money at the Jamaican Festival… partly because of our location. 

This year I chose to be down by the stage…because last year when I looked down from where we were…it seemed to me that that was where the most people were.   That may have been true last year…but not this year.   We barely got any traffic…whereas, last year it was none stop.  We were so busy last year that every time a family walked by my booth…I had to grab them and enlist them to work in it…of which at least 4 of us were already working. 

So, yes…location is everything.   And this saying is true too-

“The grass always seems greener on the other side.”

Now, for my saying….but don’t believe it.    We would have done part better had I just gone back to the same location or near it as we had been last year.   And I do mean…far better.

Thank you for reading this blog…and  my others.  Please be sure to continue to share this blog site with your family, co-workers and all your friends… “pass it on…” www.bsmith101.wordpress.com ©2009

  THE BISHOP’S WIFE  is now on sale…CLICK this LINK to purchase my book.  You do not need a paypal account to purchase, and you can purchase using a debit card.  Thank you. 

3 comments August 26, 2009

Done! #1 Female athlete…Serena Williams… Michael Steele… Obama…

She clinched it.

She won her 10th Grand Slam title Saturday…and she is all smiles now.   It was a simple walk in the park for Serena Williams who won by delivering up back to back game points of 6-0, 6-3.  Soak and wet by the time it was over…she battled in the intense heat…had a series of faults…errors but she did it any how.   She won.

Serena Williams won the Australia Open Women’s singles championship.

She is now the all-time number one female athlete prize winner in the world.   Serena is the Tiger Woods in sports on the women’s side…after having just pocketed $1.28 when she took the women’s single championship on Melbourne, Australia, which put Serena over $23 million in prize winnings.  That does not even include the Williams sisters sponsorships and endorsements such as Nike, Puma, Revok  etc…etc… which was one of their first major contracts when as little girls Rebok gave them a $9 million endorsement contract.  And laden with Nike’s swoosh on everything she was wearing during the tournament…and Wilson’s ‘W’ prominently displayed on her tennis racquet.   It was definitely not hard to see just who and who is heavily invested in her ability to win and continue to showcase their products and merchandise. 

You can read more by CLICKING on the LINKS below.

 http://www.fanhouse.com/news/tennis/serena-williams-wins-australian-open/310168

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12110_4876271,00.html

And yes…Serena and Venus won the women’s double also while they were busy playing around down there in the deep ‘down under.’            

CHA- CHA—CHING!

I am so happy for them…and their family. 

What a family…those Williams are.   And somebody said competition in a family is a bad thing.   I guess so…if it is used wrongly and as a negative rather than as a positive thing.  But just look what it can do when all that negative stuff is removed.  Just look at what these young ladies are accomplishing together and separately.  They have managed to become the darlings of the courts…and thousands fill arenas to watch them play.

I think that it is interesting how after Barack Obama having been elected President of the United States and for the first time in their history the highly conservative political party known as the Republican Party of this country has now chosen…at this time…to elect a black man to head their national committee…calling it the ‘winds of change.’  

Clearly, this is a move on the Republican side to start to re-vamp their political party…and image.   I am also very sure that seeing 2 million plus poured into Washington, DC regardless of the freezing cold…to celebrate the inauguration of President Barack Obama did in many ways have an awful lot of impact  in the making of that decision…along with the phenomenal record numbers of votes that Barack Obama received in the Presidential election…including the vast number of Republicans who turned out and also aided and supported Obama in that win.  And least we should forget the number of Red States that turned Blue also throwing their support behind Obama…this really must have been a real crusher for the Republican Party. 

Yes, that all being so…I would say the Republicans are going to have to conjure up some mighty powerful wind storms to assist in creating the type of change that needs to come about in order to blow the bad taste of George Bush for 8 years out of everybody’s mouth…and mind…if indeed they want any immediate future wins.  Yeah, I would say the Republican Party is in dire straits right now…and nobody put them there but themselves.  And it all started in November of 2000 when they decided it would be easier to steal the  Presidential election from Al Gore rather than to fairly win it.  I have always quoted this saying that I guess I learned in church-

“A thief never prospers.”

Clearly, the Republican Party has learned that the hard way.

Oh, I am happy for the brother, Michael Steele, Republican Governor of Maryland…and I know nothing about him.  So, I can’t bad mouth him.   But I view it merely as being a political tactic on the part of the Republican Party for coming political elections.   By putting black faces in key positions in the hope of reaping large numbers of black votes for future elections on the side of the Republicans.  It is called ‘eating away at the numbers.’

It is a fact that many people…particularly those in political circles have an ever non-ending belief that black folks vote largely on color lines.  Which for the most part of last semester while sitting in my class on elections…I argued against.  But it was to no avail…because it was written in the text books which had been required for the class that it was so…and this notion was accepted broadly by the class including by the instructor as law and a given.  Which I felt was insulting…and I knew it to be a lie. 

Black folks are not dumb…and because of our history through slavery…black folks have long been torn down certain lines which white folks have no understanding of…and may never understand.  But the one thing  that all black folks know…who have any sense of who they are and the things that black folks in America have gone through.   They know this beyond anything else…‘all black folks ain’t black.’

So, therefore, ploys to get large number of black folks to shift from being Democrats…and to cross over to the other side.  Well,  it would  take a whole lot more than the Republican Party putting up a few black faces in high place here and there…e.g. Supreme Court Judge Clarence Thomas.

The Obama effect…is not going to wash across the board.

For years black Republicans have been trying to sway larger number of black folk to cross over to the Republican side…simply by trying to point out that this would  aid in the Democratic Party to stop taking the black vote for granted.   Which is another point that those text  books in my election class clearly also stated.   Meaning that because the Democratic Party could always depend upon the black vote…as stated in the text books used in my election class (of which I thought had a very limited scope on the subject because the text was based upon white men and their thoughts not the actual thoughts of black folks).   But anyway, those writers felt that the Democratic Party realized that it did not have to do anything by way of  work to ensure the black vote because it was a given.    A point in which I was seriously at odds against…as it is not true.

Even black politicians have to work for the black vote.  I will never forget while living in Chicago that one day my boss, Dr. A. L. Reynolds, Jr., had an appointment.  I had scheduled the appointed for him but never had a clue as to who the man was even upon meeting him when he showed up in the office for his meeting with Dr. Reynolds.

Dr. Reynolds was the Pastor of Sixth Grace United Presbyterian Church located at Cottage Grove Avenue and 35th Street in the heart of the South Side of Chicago just a few blocks below  the Chicago White Sox’s baseball stadium.  The gentlemen who had come to meet with Dr. Reynolds was not someone I was familiar with as he was not a member at 6th Grace.  Following the meeting as the gentleman exited the church and began walking towards his car parked out front…Dr. Reynolds came out of his office and said to me-

“See that man there,” he said pointing out the window towards the man.  “He wants to be mayor of Chicago.”

At the time that didn’t mean anything to me…but years later when that man won and actually did become mayor of Chicago.   I    remember that day in Dr. Reynolds’ office when he had come to speak with Dr. Reynolds as he was making his rounds from church to church trying to solicit the support of the city’s black clergy. 

That man was Mayor Harold Washington…and like Obama…he made it happen.  He became the first black mayor of Chicago…as Barack Obama has succeeded in becoming the President of the United States.   I have no doubt that they both must have met being both residents of Chicago…and as each at some were both ‘community organizers.’

I remember him so well…Harold Washington.  He did not come with anyone.  No fan fair nothing and he was already a member of the Illinois Senate.  He was so unsuspecting to me.  I never would have guessed who that man was…or that he was working his way up the Illinois political  ladder.   That is the thing about great people…they do not play great.   They tend to be quiet people whom you would walk right by without ever knowing who they were or are.  Juxtapose…to those who want to pretend that they are more than what they really are.  I really do prefer the latter.

I of course was not familiar with him because I had just arrived in Chicago seeking my fame and fortune in the radio industry…which never opened up its doors to me in Chicago. 

So, you see…to a degree that may have been so about the Democratic Party taking black votes for granted…but it does not mean that Democratic candidates do not have to earn our votes nonetheless…just so that we will show up to cast them. 

Since for the most part…the same could be said for all other voters as well…when you are left to vote for the lesser of 2 evils…that is to say…when voters did not have  much to voted for except for the person whom they perceived would do them the least harm or  wrong.   And for the past years this is exactly what going out to vote had come down to…until Obama gave us all a better reason to show up in the ballot booth.    Which those text books for my election class when they talked about low voter turnout totally overlooked as  a possible reason. 

 There is no doubt that since the election of  Barack Obama the value and power of the black vote will never again be under-estimated…and spoken of flippantly such as to say-

“Oh, they don’t turn out and vote.” 

Oh, don’t we?

And particularly in record numbers when we have something or someone we really want to vote for.

Yes, the winds of change have swept into the land.   That is to say…never under-estimate a people who become tired.   Tired of injustice…unfair treatment…and of being overlooked.   Because it will bring about a change…including a change of attitude about getting out to vote.

http://news.aol.com/article/michael-steele-becomes-rncs-first-black/322054

I remember listening to Mrs. Lilly Ledbetter speak at the Democratic National Convention this past August, where President Barack Obama made his nomination acceptance speech as the Democratic Candidate for the race to the White House.  At that convention many people were allowed to participate at the convention by telling their own personal stories to the American public.   Many people watching clearly understood and may have well also been going through what those people were talking about since they all talked on various problems that plagued the United States.  The stories ranged from accounts of foreclosure, health care family problems, small business and the economy etc.    All the stories were sad…and came from people who had been suffering due the affects of the bad polices and the mis-direction of the Bush Administration.

Mrs. Ledbetter’s story touched me…as many years I had worked in a highly male dominated industry…radio…communication.   Everything to do with media or entertainment…really is this way.    And at one time all businesses were too…every office, factory…etc…etc…everything. 

 Today, you see woman sitting in many various capacities but this was not so in years past.    And never had women ever received the pay bonuses, retirement plans etc.  much less the pay of their male counter-parts in any industry or company.  

But Mrs. Ledbetter’s story was about when she found out and tried to file suit and discovered she could not because of the clock…the legal clock had run out.  In the court they call it statutes of limitation…when the time to sue had tolled.   And that was an outrage…and I felt her feelings of having been cheated because she had given the Goodyear Corp. 19 years of her life only to find out that many men who did not had her qualifications nor experience had been paid considerably more than her, received better pension plans, higher social security payments etc .

In the court system…it is important to know that for most cases…but not all…the clock begins to toll from the time the plaintiff first realizes something to be wrong.  But this is not always the case…and for most cases you have a 3 year time frame to file suit.  Once that time lapses…then it is too late.  But for every state these things are different…but simple to find out simply by going to your local legal library which can be found down in your local court house or at a nearby law college.  And by researching that information through the appropriate law book and under the correct topic.

But having worked mostly under men…in a highly male dominated  cheated industry was not always easy.   I grew to hate being referred to as ‘babe’…’baby’…and whatever else name men call women that is devised and designed to keep us in our place and recognized as not being equal to our male co-workers, associates and bosses.   Like Mrs. Ledbetter, I had had far more experience and exposure than most of my male counter-parts.  But they were, however, paid considerable more always.  And many times the companies catered to them…they became the program directors, the music directors, the general managers etc. if these positions became open…which in radio they did and quite often.

So, I clearly understood how all those women on Capitol Hill felt as they looked on with eyes filled with tears…as they crowded around President Obama as he  signed the Fair Pay  Act into law.  It is a measure way past due…and it gave an extension to the time in which to file suit.  Bravo.

 http://womensrights.change.org/blog/view/putting_fairness_first_obama_to_sign_fair_pay_acts_into_law

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/obama

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=3906861&cl=11810278&ch=4226716&src=news

http://www.girardgibbs.com/discrimination.asp?_kk=fair%20pay&_kt=d71f700e-7c51-4264-a885-1517a1fc80ac&gclid=CPv0yrqJu5gCFQu-GgodiiGubQ

http://news.aol.com/article/pro-labor-obama-executive-orders/322642

Well, I got up and out early yesterday morning had to crack some ice.  The sidewalk in front of the house had been frozen solid.  I had thrown out some more salt upon it last night before going in…and the sun was shining this morning so I knew that was a good sign.  And yes it had started to melt…enough to allow me to crack enough of the ice to clear more than a large enough walkway for people. 

But there are mounds and mounds of snow everywhere.  And I know that I am bless  because the house could be a whole lot colder due to the furnace being blown.  But thank God it is not…and I have plenty of food…and really it is very pretty outside.  It really really is.  But it is too bad I can’t light a fire in the fireplace…maybe next winter after I get it cleaned out by a chimney sweeper.   I guess they still have chimney sweepers…don’t they?

Well, God bless…

Thank you for reading this blog…and  my others.  Please be sure to continue to share this blog site with your family, co-workers and all your friends… “pass it on” www.bsmith101.wordpress.com ©2009  

Add a comment February 1, 2009

Interesting… Obama…Martin L. King, Jr’s Holiday… History

I think that it is interesting that Martin L. King, Jr’s Birthday Holiday should be celebrated the day before Barack Obama is to be sworn in as President of the United States of America.   It is funny to me just how things seem to line up…as if in some kind of historical order.

Considering the years of fighting it took to get Martin L. King, Jr. recognized as an American hero and then to have a day proclaimed in his honor was no light feat.  Stevie wrote the song…Jesse preached about it…the Black Caucus voted on it…the NAACP said it must be…and black folks agreed upon it.  And finally over time it was done.  The Federal Government of the United States of America proclaimed it to be so…Dr. Martin L. King, Jr. Holiday the 3rd Tuesday of every January since 1986, signed into law by President Ronald Regan.

I have decided not to go to Washington, DC on Tuesday…not because I would not like to be there. But to be there simply to say “I was there”…is really not a good reason to be going. But to say…

“I was there to see the manifestation of years of struggle and sacrifice combined with hope come to life…in the life, breath and limb of Barack Obama.”

Now, that would be a good reason for going. I am happy that my family is being represented in the form of my sister…who is definitely going to be one among many to see and hear Barack Obama take his oath and take his place in the corridor of American History as the 44th President of the United States of America. It is exciting.

http://www.thekingcenter.org/holiday/index.asp

Upon having gone down to Memphis this past November for the Holy Convocation of the Church of God in Christ, my son told me how he visited the Lorraine Motel, the place where Dr. Martin L. King, Jr. was assassinated on April 4, 1968 at the age of 39.

My son said that the day that Martin L. King was shot that the black men around him had refused to allow anything to be touch.  So, the hotel room that Dr. King stayed in was exactly the way he had left it upon leaving his room that day…the cars and everything are in the exact same spot that they were in when Dr. King was assassinated.   And that the site is now a National Museum.

From that time to this…this country has only celebrated the life of one black man though thousands have died through the course of the building up of this country into a nation.  Most of the greatest inventions in this country have been invented by unrecognized fallen black heros and she-ros.  The highest bounty ever put upon the head of a Wanted person prior to the 1900′s  was put upon the head of Harriet Tubman…$40,000 Dead or Alive, in 1852…due to her travels back and forth into the South bringing with her on her numerous trips over 300 slaves into freedom via the Underground Railroad.

When Tuesday comes there is much to be reflected upon…many memories to be thought of.  Some tears I am more than sure…shall be shed.  And they shall be tears of joy…promise…and more hope.

There is much to be thankful for.  I am so happy that Tuesday is coming and I look forward to it with much hope and anticipation for my nieces, nephews and my son…and his and their families for futures to come.

God bless America.

Just found out that another one of my sisters is going…and that she will be taking one on my nieces and nephews.   This is so great…we will talk about it for years to come.   Washington, DC will never be the same…nor this country.  Change is on the way.

Thank you for reading this blog…and  my others.  Please be sure to continue to share this blog site with your family, co-workers and all your friends… “pass it on” www.bsmith101.wordpress.com ©2009

CLICK LINK  below to hear Bill Cosby speak on Meet the Press regarding Obama.  I read in the transcript of that program that Bill said on Election Day he took with him into the voting booth a picture of his father, his mother and his brother, Russell who had passed at the age of 9.  Then Bill said he pulled their pictures out of  his coat and spread them before him and said-

“We’re going to vote now.”

I think that is so beautiful.

On Election Day…I took my ballot and wrote upon the face of it the full names of my mother, father, my grandmother and great-grandmother…and cast my vote in their names…as well as, my own…and for the sake of our family history in this country.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/28604541#28604541

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28605356/

Add a comment January 16, 2009

McCain… Republican Convention… Lies

 

Reform…Change …McCain????

The real agents of change…McCain…or Obama?

It was interesting hearing the Republicans talk about change during their convention as though they were the first to conceptualized that idea of change…or that America was in need of a change.

And man do we need a change.

And that change is by way…of removing the Republicans out of office…getting their hands off of regulating the business of the United States of America.  Under Bush this country has hit rock bottom.  It has gone to places where it hadn’t been since the stock market crash of the 1930′s bringing about the Great American Depression, which lasted into 1940′s.

How could one group of people do so much damage?

From a huge surplus left by Bill Clinton to a massive deficeit that continues growing moment by moment as another bullet is shot or a war tank is moved through the dessert sands of Iraq.

Under Bush has come war, attacks on American soil, home foreclosures, U.S. takeovers of huge companies  with the hope of trying to stablize a highly flautering economy.  Companies like Freddy Mac and Fanny Mae…who ever thought anything would happen to her…or them?  

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/21/business/21cong.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/09/20/AR2008092000883.html?hpid=topnews

http://topics.nytimes.com/top/news/business/companies/lehman_brothers_holdings_inc/index.html?inline=nyt-org

And they say that Bush was an Economics Major. 

Well, that is one degree that Yale should go back and reclaim quick before everybody starts wondering just what is Yale teaching its Economic Majors?

It is easy to preach change…but without it being actually in your heart…or having the heart to actually implement it….change just becomes a catch phrase…a means of merely trying to get elected without the hope of making any change.  And that is exactly what ‘change’ means to the Republicans.  It is a catch phrase…a practical joke that everytime they said it…they almost choke trying not to laugh.

Those Republicans…they have no real desire to change anything.  And why would they want to?

From what I heard at the Republican Convention….they’re all happy with the way things are.  And why not…they have reaped the benefits from this mess that the Bush Administration has sunken us into. 

Who ever heard of paying $4.00/per gallon for gas in America before George Bush got into office?

Even under Bush senior…this country still was under 90 cents per gallon for gasoline.

But when you go into office and the first thing you do is increase your own salary that really should speak volumes to everybody in the country.  Bill Clinton as President of the United States only received $200,000 a year…but George Bush felt that wasn’t enough.  So, the President’s salary went up to $400,000 a year.  That meant that within the first 4 years of Bush’s term he was paid all of what Bill Clinton got for the whole of 8 years Bill was in office.  And Bill Clinton never took any 4 week vacations at any time while he was in the office of President of this country…a thing George Bush really loves to do  (that’s that party boy attitude he’s had all his life)…and he started taking them shortly after he stole his way into the Oval Office.

Honestly, when you look at the American Economy…Bush has really been on vacation for his entire 8 years that he has been in the White House.  Well, maybe if he had…then maybe we wouldn’t be here where we are right now. 

What a mess!

So, yes…drinking champagne and watching their stocks vested in fuel, food goods etc. go soaring through the roof those Republicans loved that. 

Why shouldn’t they?

They’re making money.  That’s why they are against better health packages for employees, more taxes for the richer Americans, help to the poor, disabled, sick and disenfranchised

When you get right down to it….those…those…those REPUBLICANS are a selfish bunch!

They could care less about anybody but themselves.

So, for the most part they enjoy their standing in America…they are vested.   Vested in things remaining just as they are.

When you looked out upon the people who filled the coliseum where the Republican National Convention took place…it looked more like a meeting of the Wall Street Klan.  They for the most part looked like a bunch of stuff shirt business people (who all by the way looked sad to be at their own convention).  The Republican Convention certainly didn’t seem to have a cross section of people from all sectors of America as were the people that attended the Democratic  National Convention.  And besides that…the Republican Convention didn’t have one person who was just an ordinary Joe or Jane who came up to tell their story…like the Democratic Convention did.  And all of those stories were quite moving and compelling…as to what the Republicans have done to the American Economy and how people…everyday people are truly suffering.

Not only did there seem to be a deep difference between the 2 types of crowds attending the various Political Conventions…but also…the Republican National Convention was geared towards personality and had nothing to do with what the maverick McCain would do differently for America.  In fact, the whole Republican Convention was one big war hero story.  It would have been great for Memorial Day or something…but it didn’t speak to what McCain plans to do for America.

The Republicans attacked Obama…his eloquence and ability to rally the crowds.  But they failed to offer up any meat on a Republican agenda.  They talked ‘change’…and spoke about ‘reform’…but never said ‘how’…or what differently they were going to do.  Because the reality is…it is all talk as it has always been when it comes to the Republicans. 

The Republican make promises…but only continue to enrich the rich and could care less about those who are struggling to keep above the water…as the Republicans steadily watch their bank accounts grow having invested in energy, oil and whatever else that is bleeding us into nothingness…we who don’t have their deep pockets…and have to work hard at trying to make every dollar stretch as far as we can get it.

McCain may well have been a hero…but having served in the military and making the decision to stay with his troops is not something that many others also did not decide to do when they had the option of doing something else.  I have watched stories of such people all the time on PBS.  And no one has said of them-

“This qualifies you to become the next President of the United States.”

If so, then we would see more military people running for political office along with mostly lawyers and other professional types who choose to become Senators, Governors, Mayors etc…  But no, you don’t see them…those just plain military people…and if they were to stand up and say-

“I can do a better job than of those guys.”

Somebody would tell them to sit down….and that they just did not have the experience or whatever else it takes to be in politics. 

So, therefore, military service is no prerequisite to be President of the United States…nor can it be a substitute for qualifications or experience.  When your military record is all that can stand on or all that can be said about you…one really has to wonder about John McCain.  And believe me that Republican Convention was all about John McCain’s military record.  Not once did I hear about some bill or anything else he managed to push through.

I say, give me a person who knows what it is to serve people though he may have not have been Governor or a corporation executive…but a honest caring person who has made it his life work to serve the everyday woman and man.   And that is the history of Barack Obama.

“Drill, baby…drill.”

Sounds like the Republicans don’t mind destroying what little lands this country has set aside in order to protect certain eco-systems and various species of wildlife, foliage etc.  As long as they can make money the Republicans could care less about anything else. 

Is this not the very reason that the investigators laid claim to about Hurrican Katrina?

Did they not say that that if the wet lands had not been removed that perhaps New Orleans might have had the flooding it suffered?

It was the eco-system that had been destoryed in order to increase the city limits…and in the end nature dealt New Orleans a death defying blow by the name of Katrina.

But destorying the eco-systems mean nothing to the Republicans.  Because they reap all the benefits and none of the fall-out from such decisions.

Money is the only thing most Republicans put first.

That sign being waved by many at the Republicans at their National Convention which said ‘Prosperity’ looked so much like a Hersey’s Chocolate wrapping…to me that I started craving a Hersey’s bar for the remainder of the night.  And finally got one just this week.

Prosperity…not change is what the Republicans want.  Its their same old game…they’re just trying to repackage it and give it a new name.   And during their own convention those Republicans were bold enough to display large signs reading just that…”Prosperity.” 

http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761584403/great_depression_in_the_united_states.html

Remember to get registered if you are not…the clock is ticking.  And be sure if you are registered to go down to the Voter Registration Office in your city or town and double check on your registration…just to make sure you won’t run into any problems on election day.  You vote counts.

Well, God bless…and enjoy the rest of your day.  And thanks for reading…and please remember to share this blog address with your friends….‘…pass it on…’ www.bsmith101.wordpress.com 

God bless…and thanks for reading  ©2008

Add a comment September 20, 2008

RNC…in a word ‘boring’…. Lieberman …Palin

I have been trying to catch the Republican National Convention and hadn’t had much success…until last night.  It lacked the excitement of the Democratic Convention and the overall enthusiasm of the Democratics.  In fact, the auditorum seemed to be filled more with a bunch of people who really seemed as though they didn’t want to be there.  And I really couldn’t blame them.  They had no music…and they definitely seemed to be not having any fun.  Based upon the shots, it would seem that even the TV camera crews had a hard time finding interesting coverage to shoot…not even of people talking and smiling at each other.

And as small as that venue looked to be many large sections were also left open and quite vacant.

Poor Republicans even their offers of free buses to get people there didn’t seem to work.

And was it ever so boring…with a capital “B.”

If you believe in luck…even that didn’t seem to be on McCain’s side either…as the first night of their convention everything was cut short due to Harrican Gustav.  Which I guess really gave them an excuse for ending a dismal turnout and dull evening of events during night one.

However, that turn-coat Joe Liberman seemed to be right at home amongst all those Republicans last night.  He even for the first time that I’ve seen him at a potium…seemed relaxed and right at home while socking it his ‘so’ called fellow Democratics.  In fact, Joe seemed to down right enjoy it…and way too much.  The man has no pride…and honestly, no integrity.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/cvn_convention_rdp

http://buzz.yahoo.com/buzzlog/91770

No matter what McCain’s reasoning was concerning his pick of Sarah Palin…it could never be equal to the pick that Barack Obama made when he chose Joseph Biden as his running mate.  And try as they will…Palin is a hard sale because if for no other reason…nobody knows her.  So, between now and November the McCain crew is going to have spend lots of money tring to introduce what they hope will be an Ace in the hole.

Only thing though…Palin has a 17 year old daughter…after 5 months (about as long as her mother has been mayor)…of walking around pregnant and not married…is suddenly on her way to the alter.  Sounds like a shot-gun wedding to me. 

Under no circumstance had the shoe been on the other foot…if Obama had a daughter who was pregnant and out-of-wedlock could he have dared to have hoped to get within a stone’s throw of the White House.  No, he and his daughter would have just been another statistic concerning the woes of black folks.  This is something commonly known as ‘double standards’…something that black people can tell you a lot about.

But for Palin’s daughter…

“Oh, these things happen.”

“You know how the kids are today.”

Yeah…well, if Sarah Palin is or was such a good administrator how come she couldn’t have managed her own home fires a lot better? 

Oh, I know kids do what they want to…but some of them have a bit more respect.  Some rebel just to get attention.  While others walk, act and talk like they come from something…‘called good home training.’     And no matter what people say…there are still some girls who ‘say no’…to drugs, sex or anything else negative or that could profoundly impact their lives…or cause an embarrassment to their family.

Simply saying it’s how things are today…really does not make it okay….and honestly it is not enough.  But it does speak to something that very well may be lacking in Palin…as it was with the Bush’s…who couldn’t control their daughters either.

Whatever happened to raising up good wholesome children without any excuses?

There is probably a lot more about that Palin family to be uncovered…it is in the family pictures.  They seem a bit too clean cut…to…to unreal…and natural.  Not the happy home they try to depict.

Sorry, Obama.

Though Obama has called for the media to lay off Palin’s family…if the shoe were on the other foot…the Republicans would be having a feeding frenzy on him and his family.  And it would be none ending.  But even in this…speaks volumes to the man whom Barack Obama is.

Jimmy Carter had his brother…but lets face it…they were both grown men by the time Carter went into the White House.  And there just wasn’t much Carter could do with dear ol’ Billy.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/cvn_convention_rdp

Well, hope you had a beautiful day.  I had a busy weekend for the past couple of weekends…and classes got started back today.  Can’t say if I am happy or not about it.  I’ll have to let you know that some future time…as I am still undecided.  Though I had thought about taking some time off…but then I would have wished I was in class.  So, I didn’t do that.  

Since my broadband service is out…I had to go back to watching a little TV in order to see the Republican Convention.   Thank goodness for PBS…otherwise I would be lost…as I don’t have cable.  

Well, God bless…  and ‘pass it on…’ www.bsmith101.wordpress.com  ©2008

Add a comment September 3, 2008

Michelle Obama delivers…

Her simple elegance and charm more than rose for the occasion.  Her beauty and intellect combined with passion for her family, children, parents and husband radiated all through her.

She was gracious and poised…didn’t come out wearing a $10,000 something by such and such…or burden down with fancy jewelry.  She was simple and that spoke volumes about the family that will be replacing the Bush’s in the White House.

She didn’t get bogged down in political rhetoric.  No, this was from the heart and she spoke it like someone having a conversation with a friend.  Her sincerity was written upon her face.  There was no showboating or trying to be cool…or even trying to look super elite…or ‘I have arrived.’  She was just a woman who loved a man, had bared him children and was trying to shed some light on who they and he were.

From the moment Michelle Obama hit the stage she was a winner…she grew up being a winner…had winning parents…and later married a man who is also a winner and knows the work and effort it takes to win.

The 2 of them had learned from their parents…how to work for what they wanted…that life wasn’t easy…and that in it you have joy and pain…but by applying yourself you could increase your odds against having much pain…and greater than necessary struggles…and, also, how to abide in the light of hope.  And to always…always keep an eye out in order to help others.

They learned that it doesn’t hurt to look back and give back.  They learned that earning lots and  lots of money is nice…but it doesn’t satisfy the soul. 

They learned that life was bigger than just themselves…and that its greatest assets were those around them whom they could shed a little sunlight into their lives…or give them reason to hope for a better tomorrow.

Michelle gave a champion of a speech…and she delivered it better than most of us could because she told it from her heart.  It was her story…an American story of how people all around this country triumph over the odds.  How maybe they shouldn’t have but they did.  How they pursued when others would have turned back and said-

“My father is too sick.”

“We don’t have the money.”

“I can’t do it.”

Naw…true champions overcome the odds…no matter what they are.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/politico/20080826/pl_politico/12830

Michelle Obama may well become the Princess Di’ of the United States.

And Obama’s sister was equally as beautiful and intelligent.  What a great family…on both sides.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080826/ap_on_el_pr/cvn_obama_wife

Senator Ted Kennedy…

In my opinion he has always been under-rated.  Perhaps the single most Liberal Democratic (and never been afraid to be called one) in the US Senate.  He has always fought for the ‘less than’…those in most in ‘need of’.    And of course, I will always remember how he slashed out at those nastier than usual Republicans at their unmerciful and shameful threatment of Anita Hill when she was forced to Capitol Hill to testify against Clarence Thomas.

Last night he was like a little boy in a candy store.  Happy to be there…and they welcomed him with loving arms.  And he chuckled and grinned most of the way through it.  What a great moment in history.

Hope you are registered.  November promises to be a great time and historical.

I caught the convention on CNN.com LIVE and I must say that I am so happy that they were streaming it…as well, as the Primaries.  Without them I would be lost…it is great to have these news sources working diligently trying to insure that people around the world have access to viewing these events.

Well, hope you have a beautiful day.  I am gearing up for a long hard weekend…got lots to do.   God bless…  and ‘pass it on…’ www.bsmith101.wordpress.com  ©2008

Add a comment August 26, 2008

Analysis…Obama/Biden Ticket

Who wrote that crumby story “Biden Pick Shows Lack of Confidence”?

Are you crazy?

Who are you trying to kid?

It shows brillance, forethought, courage…and the ability to make a good sound choice when the cards say-

“Pick a woman.”

or

“Pick a Hispanic.”

or

“Pick someone from a large Red State who can deliver that state for you.”

No, Barack Obama doesn’t make foolish moves.  He is wise, focused and knows what his real needs are, and will be when he gets into the White House.

He didn’t make a hasty decision but a reflective one…and the reflection that came back to him as he stood looking down in the waters….was Joe Biden.

And they are going into the White House come January 2009…because they are going to win on November 4, 2008.

Obama has his eye on the prize…and it is not who he picked that would have made much difference to that.  Biden or no one else is responsible for Obama’s walk into destiny…but him and God.

God bless…  ‘pass it on…’    www.bsmith101.wordpress.com

Now, if you care to…you can read that dumb story…called…Obama lack of confidence is why he chose Biden.   What a dumb story…completely Republican.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080823/ap_on_el_pr/veepstakes_analysis

http://www.truveo.com/USA-2008-election-Obama-picks-Joe-Biden-as/id/101606238

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/veep_biden_profile

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=3906861&cl=9418757&ch=4226716&src=news

Get out and vote…come November. Let your voice be heard.   www.bsmith101.wordpress.com ‘…pass it on…’  ©2008

Add a comment August 23, 2008

Joseph Biden, Obama’s choice… history in making

It was no secret to me.

There could have been no better choice or a person who I think compliments the Obama ticket more than Joseph Biden.

If you want to see the reasons as to why I think Joe Biden was a sensible and most logical choice…you’ve got to read my other blog… www.bsmith101.wordpress.com …and CLICK on Biden’s name under Barack Obama in the colum to the right.

Having picked Joseph Biden…merely means to me that Obama is really taking this thing seriously.  And he is ready to…or should I say…has been playing to win all along.   That really is something which he had made quite clear fairly early in his bid to the White House, from day one.

Obama didn’t graduate off the streets…go to Princeton…and come through Harvard…to get stupid now.  No, his ever move…in my opinion have been ‘ordered’ by God.   This is destiny…and we are all bearing witness to it. 

Barack Obama could have made a lot of other choices that might have possibly given him more possible momentum…and maybe a few more votes…like picking Bill Richardson of New Mexico.  This, of course, would have garnered Obama much more enthusiasm and trust in the Hispanic community.  It would have been an easy choice…but Obama went with his heart.

No doubt there are going to be people who will be disappointed.  Namely…Hillary and her crew…just to name a few.

But had they been in Obama’s shoes…and wanting to pick the best person for the job-

“Would they have done anything less…or chosen differently?”

I have hired many people…and it only came down to who was the best…who could do the work…handle the responsibilities…could stand the test…could be counted on…etc…etc.  And at the end of the day…what their past work history looked like…it speaks volumes.  And if they didn’t have a past work history…it got down to what did I sense about them.

Clearly, Joe Biden earned his way onto the Obama ticket…and he didn’t do it through any large financial contribution to Obama’s champaign.  He did it through may years of tiredness work in the US Senate…and always challenging what was right…and that with great devotion.

Now, lets see if McCain can beat that?

He might try to pull one out of the hat…by putting a woman on his ticket.  McCain needs all the tricks he can muster in order to try and stop Obama from reaching where he was born to be…as Moses was.

Go get ‘em guys.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/veepstakes

http://www.reuters.com/article/topNews/idUSN1735050020080822?pageNumber=2&virtualBrandChannel=10112

I am so happy for them both…Obama for making a great choice.  And for Biden for finally reaping the rewards of many years of dedication…in a field he really loves…and a chance that no one ever gave to Ted Kennedy in appreciation for all of his work and tiredless efforts in the political arena.

It’s Obama and Biden all the way, baby!

Yea! Team!

http://www.nypost.com/seven/08202008/news/nationalnews/focus_on_four_vp_candidates_as_obama_ann_125308.htm

http://www.nypost.com/seven/08222008/news/nationalnews/ive_picked_my_vp__obama_125568.htm

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/chi-joe-biden-vice-president-barack-obama,0,5741095.story

http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/08/23/2344476.htm?section=justin

Now, lets get out and vote come November.

Can’t wait until the coverage starts for the Democratic Convention.

And I definitely want to see if Hillary or any of her people are going to try and start something. 

It promises to be interesting.

That’s politics, folks.  

Well, God bless…   by the time you read this it will be sometime Saturday, Sunday or Monday …..but enjoy anyhow…whenever you read it.   And don’t forget to tell all your friends and everyone else about this blog…‘pass it on’ … www.bsmith101.wordpress.com  ©2008

http://www.truveo.com/USA-2008-election-Obama-picks-Joe-Biden-as/id/101606238

Add a comment August 23, 2008

Criteria for Vice Presidentship… Joseph Biden

We’ve all have been holding onto our seats waiting…and one of the things we can all say is…none of us has a clear idea exactly who the coveted choice will be.

The only thing I can say is…let it be a wise choice…and not a choice based on anything else…like…uhm…where in the country the person resides.  That would be a poor reason for picking anyone.

Much like Cheney…though we all hate to say it…this person will certainly have to be more involved in the day to day workings of the White House.  This  based upon the amount of chaos that will be left in the wake of the Bush Administration…there is going to be a need for someone who just doesn’t look pretty…or come from a big Red State.

No, the choice will have to be a real shaker and mover…somebody who is a real team player…works good under pressure…well organized…has great communication skills…not afraid to speak truth (well, that may rule out someone or other…most politicians in fact). 

The choice also must be self-motivated, needs little supervision, able to think on his or her feet yet faithful to the direction of, ideas and concepts of leadership (the President’s desires).  A person who can take supervision, is highly able to articulate well with management (the President), as well as with others.

The choice must work well with others, be able to think outside of the box, has a level of real wisdom and understanding of domestic and foreign affairs, gets along with others, have some level of genuine concern for others with particular reference to this country. 

The choice must be able to grasp information quickly, digest it, comtemplate it…work out a plan…or make a decision…present alternative ideas…and be able to offer reasoned and well considered counsel on a myriad of matters, concerns and dealings of the White House…and the Oval Office.

The choice must be able to maintain confidence, respect, decency and honesty.  Must be able to command respect…yet walk with a gentle stick…exudes high character…and exemplify only the highest of America’s qualities at all times. 

The choice must be a person who is willing to become friend, confidant and partner…with no eye towards personal gains or future political ambitions…but is truly committed to aiding, assisting and rolling up their sleeves to get this country back on track and honestly working to serve its people…their wishes…and their needs with true dedication.

The choice must be a person who is committed and truthful…has high integrity and loyalty…with an eye on the future of America…her safty…health and wellness..and those of her people.

This is the criteria for the next Vice President of the United States…no phone calls please.

Well, if this is what is asked of our employees…shouldn’t we ask the same of any person seeking to fill this job?

Somebody please fax this off to Obama…just so he knows that we are all on the same page…or direct him to this blog address…  www.bsmith101.wordpress.com  ‘pass it on…’

And please, Obama…whatever you do…don’t pick Hillary.

I know Deleware may not be a big State…nor a Red State…but Joseph Biden has always looked good to me.  He is dedicated, cares and can maintain counsel…he is a man who can be trusted…and undoubtedly comes with much wisdom and experience, as Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.  He has all the pluses.  And he is a man along the same vein as Ted Kennedy.

Lets face it…when push comes to shove…when all the dust has settled…it won’t matter except for maybe aiding in the possibility of getting a few more votes that someone is from a big state or a Red State, or not.  But if you can’t do it on your own they will tie it around your neck…and never let you forget it. Don’t get caught in that bind.

Consider this…what will really matter in the long run…is whether they can be trusted…are they up to handling the demands that will be placed upon them…can they be counted on and trusted on when your back is turned…do they have or can garner world credibility and respect over a short period of time.  Will they have your best interest in mind and heart…and seek to protect you and this country…rather than seek out a place for themselves in 4 years to come.  Can they bring anything else to table besides the fact that they come from a big state or a Red State…because helping to clean up Bush’s mess will take a lot more than that.  It will take a bunch of willing hands all working towards united efforts…not just sitting around combing their hair…and saying-

“Well, you wouldn’t even be here if it wasn’t for me.  I delivered such and such state for you.  And without it you wouldn’t be President.”

Do you want to hear that?

No, you don’t need that kind of person, Barack.   Nor do you want to have to have that conversation over and over again…with people who believe you got there (into the White House)…just because of them.

You’ve got to look deeper…and make the right choice.  Because you don’t have room for error.   Most definitely not…there is no room for error.

Barack, you are on your way into the White House no matter who you pick…just maintain the faith you had when you got started in the race…when nobody thought you would make it.  It has taken you this far…it can take you the rest of the way.  Don’t start making silly choices now.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26263904/

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26258253/

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/26255197#26255197

http://www.csmonitor.com/2008/0811/p06s01-wosc.html

With Musharraf finally being forced out of government in Pakistan…now renders the country a lot more unstable than it was before. 

Pakistan is a country that is filled with nuclear weapons…also with millions of very poor people (the 6th most populated country in the world)…and in terms of size the country is larger than Russia.  Much of its unrest in the past years have been with India over border issues.  The conflicts at times had become highly violatile and bordered on being very dangerous…as both countries possess nuclear weapons.  Throw in insurgents, Taliban and much civil unrest and Pakistan is just a ticking time bomb.

Clearly, the issues of Pakistan and her future shall certainly be important issues that will face the White House along with many many other serious issues and problems concerning nuclear weapons, polices on aggression, Middle East matters, peace…and other world  and domestic matters.

Musharraf was also believed to have been responsible for the assissination of Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, following her rally on December 27, 2007. Bhutto was Musharraf’s rival in an upcoming Pakistani Election…she was highly favored to win.  Musharraf was faulted for her murder due to his lack of providing protection for her knowing that her life was in danger  as she was living under many treats…many saw it as a way of him getting rid of his competion inadvertently…if indeed he was not the one responsible for ordering her death.   

Recently, Musharraf was forced from office under charges of corruption and other allergations which put him on a course to being impeached.

The other recent crisis to have surfaced most recently is the invasion of Russia into Georgia.  I am sure there is much much more unrest to come that will face those entering into the White House under a new banner…and hopefully working in a new way to solve the issues of this country and aid in solving those of the world.

Well, God bless…    Hope you had…or are having a beautiful day. 

Get registered if you are not already…and lets get ready together to take the White House back by storm.   www.bsmith101.wordpress.com ©2008

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/04/opinion/04dalrymple.html

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/28/world/asia/28bhuttocnd.html

http://www.cnn.com/2007/WORLD/asiapcf/10/18/pakistan.explosions/index.html

Add a comment August 18, 2008

Hillary Clinton games …Obama trust

It’s not that we didn’t expect it. 

In fact, we anticipated it.

Hillary Clinton, herself, put it out there.  And this is what she wanted.  She has been laying quietly back waiting on the Democratic National Convention to take place, where her tainted supporters plan to disturb and cause havoc…i.e. interrupt it as much as possible.

What happened to playing by the rules…none of which Hillary ever did either.

During the Democratic Primaries…first she had the Delegate vote and Obama had the popular vote, after sweeping State after State.  She said then-

“We’ll let the Delegates decide.”

She said it because…she was a Clinton and at that time she had the Delegate votes in her pocket.  Ops…I mean pocketbook.

Then Delegates began defecting over into the Obama camp…and near the end of the Primaries he still had more of the popular vote…and had gained over a lot of those Delegates.  And after it was all said and done…the vast majority of Delegates became Obama believers.

But prior to the Primaries…Michigan and Florida decided that they would move their primaries down on the calendar…to have earlier primaries.  A move that both States were warned by the National Democratic Committee not to do…or they would suffer the price of not being counted.   A policy  implemented by the Decoratic Party and agreeded upon and voted on by all the Democratic canidates…including Hillary Clinton.

What does Obama do?

He withdrew his name off the ballot in Florida…in order to be in allignment with the wishes of his Party’s Presidential Committee rules.  But Hillary does not…she kept her name on the ballots in Florida

What also did Obama do?

He did not campaign either in the State of Michigan or Florida…to be, again, in allignment with Party wishes concerning those states.

But what did Hillary Clinton do?

She neither withdrew her name from the ballots…nor did she not campaign in those states.  She went into those states repeatedly campaigning…though she knew she had voted against them being seated or their votes counted if they held early Primaries.

In other words…Hillary out and out cheated.  She failed to adhere to her Party decision concerning Michigan and Florida.  And she did her thang.  She voted one way…yet gave herself a few added points (some additional just in case votes) by doing the direct opposite of what Obama had done by adhering to Democratic Election Committee decision.  She was banking on the fact that as she watched which way the Primaries were going…that those ballots picked up in Michigan and Florida by her might come in handy…and if need be she was going to force the issue to have them counted and seated at the National Convention.  Thereby, she played the game…but was holding some additional cards on the side.  Which in any card game…is called cheating.

It is with the…whatever number of votes she garnered in Michigan and Florida…along with the other voties in the Primaries that she picked up…that Hillary claims that she had the majority vote of some18 million voters.  Which is an out and out lie.

Along with this claim, Hillary started chiming that Obama could not win the Presidential Election because he had not won any of the big states…which for the most part she had won…though many of them narrowly.  She was determined to destory Obama anyway she could…and by any means necessary.  And when all else failed to rally up the girls.

Fact that some Clinton supporters plan to disrupt the Democratic Convention set to begin in 2 weeks in Denver…really is no surprise.  Even though the fat lady has already song and gone home…there are still some tricks up the ol’ sleeve.  

It is going to be a long bumpy road to the White House.

To read more on the story CLICK BELOW…see the youtube footage.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080814/ap_on_el_pr/clinton_holdouts

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/26186311#26186082

 

In the next footage…the Clintons, Bill and Hillary, planted the seeds of this ignorance. They irrigated…and pruned it…and then leaned back and smiled as it flourished. The Clintons breath contempt, hatred and racism…all in the name of ‘reclaiming the White House.’

And to do what with it?

This country is in need of a dire change…new direction…new blood…new leadership. Or like every superpower before it…it shall fall to fear…hatred…capitalism…exploitation…corrupt government…failed policies…racism…and absolute ignorance…as displayed in the next footage.

 

Register and get out and vote come November 2008…and lets put somebody in the White House who will truly work for the people…won’t compromise morality…will speak truth to lies…and do his best to serve both this country and all its people who live within it. 

VOTE OBAMA.  

Have a great day…and today is the day that my friend who we felt was passing is being laid to rest.  I thank God for her and all that she means and has meant to me.   …God bless…. ©2008

Add a comment August 14, 2008

Cullen Jones, Venus & Serena …Michelle O

It’s 4:00 and I’m just getting up.   Didn’t go to sleep until after I mopped the kitchen and bathroom early this morning and scrubbed down the tub.  Sometimes you just can’t sleep until you have done some things…and that was after 5 AM this morning.

I guess I should have turned on the television yesterday so I could have seen Cullen Jones shatter the World Record at the Olympics in China. He is classified as the fastest swimmer in the world…#1, baby. Ching-ching…I hear the cash registers now.

And they said we couldn’t swim.

Born in the Bronx…as in New York City…all the more reason why he should not be a swimmer…but maybe a ball handler.

So much for stereotyping.

New York is known as the concrete jungle…simply because there isn’t much green.  Few trees, grass, parks etc.   But plenty of playgrounds and basketball courts.  It is a wonder that more champion basketball players don’t come from it…which by the way is the home of LaBron James…Brooklyn in the house.

Raised in New Jersey…Irvington…which at one point was rated as the having the higest rate of auto thief in the U.S.    It’s part of the Newark, East Orange part of Jersey…and it can be very rough.

Did I say can?

It is very rough.

In fact it is so rough…that Whitney Houston made a point of reminding Wendy Williams that she was from Newark.

When I heard Whitney say that…I had to laugh…because I knew what it meant. It meant that Whitney was not afraid of storming up into that radio station and taking care of Wendy on-air or off of it. That is how those folk in Newark think…those Jersey people.   They are rough.

I never really listened to this Wendy and Whitney interview (all the way through) until after I posted this blog…and though I am not a cursing woman…and hate to hear such language…I can only say that one day Whitney will look back (as many of us have) and wished she could remove all of these things which are in the public domain…because she will regret them.  Maybe the not telling off of Wendy part…but she will regret the state that she was in at the time. 

I know a changed Whitney Houston is going to emerge one day…one who will proclaim that this was who she was…’but today I am a new creature through my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.’    And she shall walk in the steps that God has ordered for her.

Once I started looking up in youtube for the Whitney stuff and Wendy…I could not resist these other videos.

Let me take the time to say that I am praying for Whitney Houston who after a concert at Radio City (some years ago) where I had an opportunity to be at the after party…and everybody who is anybody was there…LaToya Jackson, Cicely Tyson…I can’t even think of half of the people who were there…just everybody…Stevie…every artists and New York City media person and politician etc.   All of them clamoring for a piece of Whitney.  She was the diva of the hour.  In demand at every turn.  My how they seemed to love her then.

I think back on that night and Whitney’s fall…and all the jokes that have come upon her since having fallen…and I think about how people truly are.  Everyone loves you when you’re up…but don’t fall. They’ll make jokes about you and call you outside of your name.  There is something about kicking people when they are down…that so many seem to love to do.  I suspect it all stems from some level of envy of the person while they were up…and of course, there is money in being mean…just ask Wendy.

It is sad…I pray that Whitney’s life will turn drastically around and that she will become a true witness and testimony about the goodness of God…because He is capable of doing all things.  I can say this because I know what He did for me.

How could I have been so deep into lesbianism…and yet He pulled me out…and turned me around?

I was far from seeking a change in my life…but God wasn’t.

I see it in her…Whitney…particularly in that youtube clip where she talks about her daughter…of one day sitting back and seeing her daughter as a woman of God.  That speaks volumes…for Whitney and the training that her mother instilled in her.

***She is on her way back!!!

Praise the Lord.  

 

I serve a God who can do all things…but fail.   I am happy to see that Whitney is getting her life back on track.  And hopefully at some point that she will begin to walk in the steps that God has ordered for her life. 

Though you can see the scars from the years of  the drug abuse…but she  looks great… and more and more like her aunt…Dionne.

The  prayers of  the righteous availeth much.

Now back to Cullen…that other person from New Jersey…the Jersey boy…or should I say young man who will be coming home an Olympic Champion…and had left for China as already being one.

I used to work at a radion station in Jersey, WNJR…and had to go through those mean streets many a days to get to and from work.  Newark…Irvington…Union and the Oranges are no joke…New York was a lot milder.

Ranked #1 in the world the 50 meters freestyle, Cullen already has a 7 year deal with Nike which is reportedly worth more than $2 million.  Not bad for a bright young man with some really fast swimming skills.

At 24 years of age…Cullen having broken 3 world records can look forward to many more endorsements…which will surely be for quite a lot more money since he will be returning home all wrapped in gold after last night’s race through that beautiful water of that Olympic pool in China…and the team gold he also managed to acquire.

An English Major with a Minor in Psychology from North Carolina State he is said to be very humble. And he is a champion who wants to give back to his community and that is oh so…so important.

Cullen is to be saluted…for his valour, his devotion, his God given skills, humility and generosity of spirit…a real champion.  His mother and father taught him well.

http://www.usaswimming.org/usasweb/DesktopModules/BioViewManaged.aspx?personid=51c2fb07-a280-4c57-8196-9e874d4f690d&TabId=388&Mid=597

 

Serena and Venus have won 3.  On Tuesday they won in their singles matches and in their doubles game.  CLICK below to read more.

http://sports.yahoo.com/olympics/beijing/tennis/news?slug=ap-ten-tennis&prov=ap&type=lgns

Shame on China for deciding that one little girl was not good looking enough…but that she had a great voice.  So, they elected to allow a more visually attractive little girl to lip-sync while the other little girl, 7 years old, with her crooked teeth and lack of stage presence was hid away from the public eye…as she sung their Olympic song.

What a sad story that is.  And that 7 year old will probably grow up to be such a beauty…and still have a fantastic voice…probably even better.  And she’ll have the last laugh then.

What a disgrace for China.

http://sports.yahoo.com/olympics/news?slug=ap-china-lip-synchedsong&prov=ap&type=lgns

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=207187&cl=9247790&ch=6527422&src=sports

The Democratics are getting ready for the Democratic National Convention set to kick off on August 25th in Denver, CO.  During the first night of the convention Michelle Obama is set to be speaking.

I guess I will have to turn on the television…I do not want to miss a minute of the convention.  This is as much history in the making as when the founding fathers decided how this country was going to be run…and formed the policies for its operation…called the Constitution of the United States.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080812/ap_on_el_pr/democratic_convention_speakers

Xia xia…that’s is Chinese for thanks or thank you…for reading.   And pass it on… www.bsmith101.wordpress.com   to all your friends, family and foe.  Enjoy the rest of your day…and God bless… ©2008

Add a comment August 12, 2008

Starbucks closings…Obama …Sir Barley

Since I see that so many people have come here to read about Starbucks closing of several of their stores, I decided to give you a bit more info on those closings.

But let me begin with this…I really can’t see myself paying $4.00 for a cup of anybody’s coffee.   Sorry, Mr. Starbuck…but it is just the way it is.  It’s…it is how I feel.  I just can’t see it.

I know people are all wrapped up in image…but does holding a cup with ‘Starbucks’ logo really have more value than a cup with ‘Dunkin Donuts’ logo on it.

I mean all through the Decocratic Primaries…people were saying that Obama attracks the Starbuck crowd…and Hillary the Dunkin Donuts people.   Huh????

Why all this division?

Breaking people down by coffee lines…it is all a bit too much.

Maybe it is just that I am not a coffee person. 

My father being Jamaican…and Jamaica being a British Colony once upon a time…so what do the Brit’s drink?   Tea, of course.  And so that is what most Jamaicans drink…and Chinese too.  So, our household is basically all tea drinkers…following right after daddy and our Jamaican hertiage and tradition.  And it extends all the way down to daddy’s grand-children and great-grand children…and since they are basically still kids we haven’t gotten to the fourth generation yet.  Who will also undoubtedly also mostly be a bunch of tea drinkers too, I am sure.

Starbucks has to have the record for being one of the fastest growing companies in America.  I have never seen a company grown so fast.

But then they seem to have made all the right moves in the beginning.  They started off with statilite stores…branched off into deals where they went into places like Virgin Records and other high traffic locations which proved to be excellent decisions for them.  Because people who purchase $13/$15 CD’s certainly also have enough to buy a $4.00 cup of coffee.  And they did.

Starbucks a Seattle based company has 7,100 company owned stores across the country.  Some time this year the company plans to close 600 of its under producing stores.  Which means they will be laying off some 12,000 employees…which the company says it will try to place as many of them as possible at other store locations.

In February of this year, Starbucks fired some 600 other employees and is currently periodically shutting down stores during some regular business hours in order to do some re-training of its employees.

It is probably safe to say…that if you work at a Starbucks that is inside a Barnes & Nobles or a Virgin Records location…or any high volume/high traffic area…your store will probably not be closing.

For a listing of the closing stores Click Link below.

http://www.starbucks.com/aboutus/USStoreClosureInfo.pdf

Or go to…

http://www.starbucks.com/aboutus/pressdesc.asp?id=882

And to read more on the story via ABC News Click on the Link below.

http://abcnews.go.com/Business/story?id=5288740

These youtube videos may need some loading time…if so lower the volume all the way and read the blog or all of my blogs until it loads completely.  The stop and go will drive you crazy otherwise.  Thank you.   

And while I am sharing…don’t forget to share this blog address with all your friends, family, church, the people upstairs and down the street too…  www.bsmith101.wordpress.com      the place to be when it comes to staying on top of what is important…interesting…and insightful.   Pass it on….

Barack Obama is quite a family man…a man who clearly loves his wife and his children as is evident in his pictures with them, everytime you see him with his wife and in his comments concerning them.  For such passion to extend itself into the public and political area is a gift to those of us who shall soon reap the rewards of it…which shall also be reaped by those of the whole world also when he becomes President of the United States of America in November of this year.

Clearly the people in Germany, France, England and Israel who gathered to hear him speak recognized that Obama is an extrodinary person…that kind of person only goes around once in a lifetime.

So, to have been on this planet to have seen and heard the likes of Dr. Martin L. King, Jr., John Fitzgerald Kennedy, Bobby Kennedy, Nelson Mandela etc. we can truly say that we have been blessed.  Because we have truly be blessed to be here in the company of some very extra-ordinary people who have shown us what true love and commitment is all about.

Now, in walks Barack Obama.

From the time he hit the world stage at the 2004 Democratic National Convention. They saw it then…the press…they all saw it…and when he stepped from the stage they touted him ‘The Future of the Democratic Party.’

It was upon that stage as he addressed the members of the convention that Barack Obama literally looked out and saw his destiny. And from the moment he stepped off that stage he began working towards today and where he will be come November of this year, 2008…the President of the United States of America.

Some people don’t trust him because they look at him as not being black enough.

Others look at him and say he is too black.

The hispanic say he will only do for black people and forget about us.

 It is quite clear that Barack Obama does not wish for his children or grand-children to inherit the chaos and fear that the Bush Administration has ushered into the United States.

He does not want his daughters…nor their children to live under the cloud of uncertainty of what tomorrow may bring for this country or this world.

Through all of its current troubles, Barack Obama has chosen to shoulder the burden…to take on the responsibility of trying to right this country again…to rewrite the history of American that George Bush and his people so callously sought to undermind and undo.

When he left Harvard, he hit the streets of the ghetto working to undo social ills and injustices. It is in his nature to champion the cause of the people.  When you read about his mother, you see that it runs in the blood…the seeking to unify the world and caring for others.   It is what Barack Obama is all about.

This week in Germany, we got a chance to see that the world too sees something special in Barack Obama.  To hear those people in Germany chant ‘change’ and call out his name was more than moving.

They say that Barack Obama doesn’t know enough.  He has no experience…no.  And they are right.  He has not had any experience running with the liars and the cheats who have made up this country’s government for years. 

This country needs somebody who isn’t down with the ‘crew.’  Somebody not afraid to make his own decisions.  Not afraid to be wrong if he thinks it is in the best interest of this country.  Not afraid of second guess himself and yet comtemplate the decision and its overall impact.

This country needs somebody who is not afraid to stand alone.  Who is not afraid to say wrong is wrong.

Give me somebody young and yearning for training.  Don’t give me somebody who thinks he already knows everything…and doesn’t know nothing.

I don’t care who goes into the White House or who has gone into it in past…they all had to learn on the job.  It is not like going to work from one fast food place to another…or from one corporate office into another. 

It is not…it is the White House…the Presidency.  

Until you get voted in…you can’t possibly have all of or a fifth of the capabilities to do it.  Most of it comes with on the job-training.  For anybody to say anything else is a lie.  No corporate CEO has ever been under the pressure of the President of the United States…nothing is like the job of being the President of this country.

Barack Obama not only looked Presidential in Germany…he spoke Presidential.  He speaks with authority, leadership, knowledge and a zeal for this country that we have not heard for a very long time.  Give me that any day…because I know the rest will follow.

Unlike any other President of this country…Barack Obama has lived as a child in several other countries.   Having done so he understands other people, their language, their cultures…that gives him a greater sensitivity to other nations that no other President of this country could have possibly had.  On the world stage or on domestic politics Barack Obama is head over heels beyond Senator John McCain.  There is no contest.

For the problems that Bush has brought to America’s door…we are going to need somebody who can think outside of the box…not trying to hide within the box.  But a real thinker and doer.  Someone with temperance and perhaps even some tolerance…and between Hillary and Jesse Jackson…and Rev. Jeramiah Wright…Obama has shown lots of that.  And certainly for one thing for sure it will, also, take more than politics as usual to straighten up the Bush messes that we are in.

Just a quick note on Charles Barley.  Like Reggie Jackson and so many other athletes that chose to do for others, Charles Barley while recently out dining came across a young man who was waiting on his table whom he recognized was in need of some help…in order to go on to college.  Barley stepped in and told the young man he would take care of his full college tuition…brings tears to my eyes.   I love these kind of stories.

And I love Charles Barley in that television commercial…he is so annoying. 

Great for you Charles Barley…and you can read more on this story by Clicking and Link below.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/blog/ball_dont_lie/post/Charles-Barkley-tips-well-pays-busboy-s-tuition?urn=nba,95780

Okay, you China Olympics bound people…here is another Chinese word or saying…

Bu yong xie…pronounced   Boo you shay…    Remember that I told that ‘bu‘ is the Chinese negative… well, in this case too…but it depends upon what you want to say…

It translates into 2 meanings…     1.  You’re welcome

                                                     2.  No problem…

‘No problem’ is a popular saying or phrase in China.

If you remember ‘xie xie’… pronounced ‘sure shay’ ….meaning ‘thank you.’   then you recognize ‘xie’ (shay) in  Bu yong xie, as well.

Ni hao….you are saying ‘hi’ to one person       Nim hao…you are saying ‘hi’ to a group or more than one      

Ni hao ma…    Knee how ma  …..it means   hi, and how are you?    or how are you doing.

Nim hao ma…means  the exact same thing except you are addressing more than one person.     And ‘nim‘….is pronounced as you think  …as nimb.

Now, I am going to advance you a little bit….

Wu chew chin sway…. means I want water     (this I forgot to write out in the actual Chinese spelling…I was great for sitting in class and writing down ‘what it sounds like’…it was the only way I could learn the language.  Other than that…in less than 30 seconds I would forget).   

So, this means ‘I want water’ but remember it is not written in the actual Chinese spelling…and of course the Chinese do not really write this stuff out….no.  They use characters…or what we call Chinese characters.  And you have seen what Chinese characters look like…but we have never been able to make them out…or knew that each character symbolizes a Chinese word…and there are thousands of characters…and some even have a gender…to reference male or female.

Now, you have learned something else.   And remember that “wu” ….means ‘I’ or ‘me’… first person singular.    pronounced “woo.”

Well, I am suppose to really be doing some work today.  So, I better get to it.

Have a beautiful day…    God bless…. ©2008

Add a comment July 26, 2008