Pat's Pet Peeves

BEYOND A REASONABLE DOUBT

Pat White — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 18:47:34 GMT

Casey Anthony

These four words seem to have a lot of people confused. In the Legal world, the word reasonable is often used - “what would a reasonable person do....”; what would a reasonable person think....” And so it follows, if a jury finds one guilty it has to be beyond a reasonable doubt.

People confuse “beyond a reasonable doubt” with “beyond a shadow of a doubt.” In other words you can have some doubt, but it has to be less than a reasonable doubt. The question now is what is “reasonable?” Maybe they need to quantify reasonable. So that, if you are 80% sure the person is guilty, you have a 20% doubt. If 20% is a reasonable doubt then beyond a reasonable doubt would mean you are 81% or stronger sure that the person is guilty based on evidence and the person's behavior.....and 19% doubtful.

Common sense has to come into play along with the evidence presented in a case. Unless there was a camera to record a crime, or the person confessed, no one can be completely sure a person is guilty.

In O.J.'s case I was 98% sure he “did It” based on all the evidence and the car chase. However, his lawyers were able to use a lot of technicalities so that certain evidence could not even be brought into the decision making.

In the Casey Anthony case, if you ask most people, they would say they are more or less 95% sure she did something to her child so that she could have a happy-go-lucky lifestyle. She partied, she frolicked, she chilled with friends when her child first went missing. She told countless lies about a nanny kidnapping her daughter. Investigators found searches of different ways kill on her computer. She asks the neighbor for a shovel...... the car trunk smells of a dead body.......... then boom – the child's body is discovered near the home.

Again, I think the jurors felt they had to be sure "beyond a shadow of a doubt" that she was guilty. I believe “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt” has to be clarified and or quantified in future cases.

T(ea) Party?? T for Traitor

Pat White — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 22:01:00 GMT

    The Tea Party's Portrayal of the President

I don't know if they are fooling anyone, but they sure aren't fooling me. This group seems to have one agenda - to see the current government fail and to constantly try to mock and embarrass the President.   If this is not Treason, then what is. I call them the KKK dressed up in make-up. Its a shame the media is giving them so much attention and making them seem legitimate. After tracking their origins, what was found was that the origins of the so-called Tea Party was a Republican Headquarters Office. These are nothing more than Republican Right Wingers who are just beside themselves with hate that a Black President is in the WhiteHouse.

I began this blog weeks ago as you can see from the timestamp date. However, since the passing and signing of the Healthcare Reform Bill, the attacks on Democrat Leaders and the President himself, have gone to a whole new scary level. The tyrants are once again displaying their true colors. Things have escalated from townhall rantings, to verbal abuse, to spitting on Congressmen to physical attacks on buildings and offices.

Now, its not just the T(raitor) party, but the "Rest of" the Republican party acting totally out of control, because they did not get what they want. They are like spoiled brats who are throwing temper tantrums because they did not get their way.   They know this bill went through the right channels to become law. Otherwise, why did they not object at some point prior to the results of the votes. They want to change the rules of the game, because they lost. Grow up, accept the results or get on the winning the team - not the T Party or the No Party but the Y(es) Party!!

The Haitian Government - Weak at Best; Non-Existant at Worst

Pat White — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 05:34:00 GMT

       Haiti's President, Rene Preval

Lack of good leadership is the reason Haiti seemed to always be on its face. Former Governments have either been ridden with corruption or neglected its people or both. One month after the devastating earthquake in Haiti, 500,000 to one million people are still trying to survive on the streets with no real roofs over their heads.

The world is at Haiti's beckon call and the Haitian government does not seem to know how to make use of this willingness to help. No one seems to be giving firm directive as to the distribution of aid that has reached Haiti's shores. The government is not visible nor verbal and no, I don't believe they are making any difference behind the scenes either. If they were, we would have seen the results. They have found shelter to have their meetings day in and day out, while the aid is still not reaching the people. Other countries are waiting to help. Give your demands.   What happens when the rains come? Will flues and pneumonia be the next epidemic. We hope not.

Why do some people refuse to accept the critique of the Haitian Government as weak and useless. Why should this be so hard to believe. It is the result of such lack of leadership and assertiveness why Haiti and its people have always been unable to succeed in nation building. No real concern for its people, no diplomacy, unable to build good relations with developed countries, etc, etc.. A more local and immediate concern is one of logistics and aid distribution. This failure falls squarely on the Haitian Government. If you can't figure out how to get aid, medicine, tents and cots to your people, step aside  and let someone else do the job. Right now it seems the UN is doing everything.

Other countries do not want to come in and take over. They are waiting on direction from the Haitian Government and since they are getting no direction, everyone seems to be confused as to what to do; how much to do and how to do it. In the meantime, the people are trying to make-do, using pieces of wood and zinc, sticks and sheets to find shelter. The Haitian Government needs to take a more assertive role in taking care of the immediate needs of the people. The world is at their doorstep offering their services. This is an opportunity for them to make use of it on behalf of their people.

Proverbs 29:18 - Without vision the people perish.............

Hold The Presses - It's Raining!!!!

Pat White — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 06:52:00 GMT

I mean, OMG, that is what some news reporters make it sound like when we get some showers of blessings. OK it rained all day on Monday. Why are people acting like its some strange phenomenon. Others are complaining that the rain inconvenienced them and they could not get through their usual routine smoothly. For pete's sake, get an umbrella or a hoody!! Its rain!. You know, that natural thing that happens when moisture builds up in the atmosphere. It waters our plants, it replenishes our reservoirs, it keeps our grasses green. Why are we behaving like its this big inconvenience.

Which brings me to my next point. When did God need help taking care of his planet. God has been taking care of earth for centuries, so who says he needs help from man now. What are we saving the planet from again? Yes, I know we should reduce harmful pollution for our own health reasons and we should recycle materials, but I believe the planet will continue to take care of itself. That is why events like volcanoes, hurricanes and yes, sadly enough, earthquakes occur. With advances in technology, we have been able to get out of the way of hurricanes, and hopefully one day they will be able to tell when an earthquake is approaching, so people can prepare for "nature's release??"

Man is always trying to reduce God to their level. They just can't seem to accept the fact that there is some being greater than them that they cannot begin to fathom. That is why I say, again, it defies common sense to be an atheist. The earth's natural occurrences are just so awesome and incredible, its beyond our reasoning at times. And now that its colder than usual, are we going to come up with some fancy term called Global Cooling? Does this unusual cold spell dismiss the Global Warming Theory?

As the song writer puts it, ".....Its just another ordinary miracle, today!"

Are You Your Brother's Keeper? (Where Is The Dominican Republic in All of This)

Pat White — Sat, 16 Jan 2010 20:14:00 GMT

Following Haiti's devastating earthquake on January 12th, I am puzzled and bewildered by certain happenings or non-happenings. The Dominican Republic shares the same land mass with Haiti and I have not heard any public announcement from Dominica's government offering assistance to their very close neighbor. Looking at the situation, it would seem to me that Dominican Republic would be the main source to channel aid to the desolate city. Where is their closest hospital to Haiti's capital? Can't the sick and wounded be transported there? We all know that this country's destruction will require world wide assistance, but you would think that Haiti's closest neighbor would be more proactive in offering immediate assistance to the earthquake victims. What about bulldozers and cranes to lift the rubble. Efforts should have been put in place the very next day (by the Dominican Republic's government) to get heavy equipment to the region to assist in the recovery efforts. I am just amazed that the Dominican Republic has remained so quiet in all of this. Even if you don't have ample monetary resources, offer your country and it's services to the United States as a means to channel in assistance to Haiti.

Its my understanding that Haiti is a make-up of rich and poor - no middle class. Port-Au- Prince (where the earthquake hit) is to the south of the country. I know that it is a poverty stricken country, but I can't imagine there are no other Supermarkets to the north of the country that could offer assistance the hard-hit capital city. Where are the wealthy Haitians in all of this? There seems to be such a huge class division in Haiti. We know classism and racism exist everywhere, but it seems to be on a whole other level there.

Second to Medical assistance, I believe tents should be at the top of Haiti's aid list. The people need some sort of roof over their heads and a sense of security. Tents and cots should be at the top of their list along with the food and water. I know many agencies and organizations are working very hard, but It is frustrating to many when it seems like the aid is not getting there fast enough.

Race VS. Ego - The Skip Gates Incident

Pat White — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 05:37:00 GMT

                   Henry Louis Gates Jr.

Ego, Ego and more Bruised Ego. This was what this case was all about, as apposed to Race. Professor "Skip" Gates just pulled the Race card because it is easier to complain about racial profiling than complain about a bruised ego. It angers me that people like him would draw the race card when its convenient for them and ignore race issues 99.999% of their time.   As an uppity black, he and his other uppity black friends spend most of their time promoting those in their inner circle than trying to help those struggling beneath them. Most of the time they are the ones that criticize those poor and struggling blacks, by saying that they constantly have excuses and they need to pull themselves up by their own bootstraps. I'm not saying these very successful blacks have any obligation to those blacks that are less successful, but spare me the hypocritical "woe is me because I'm black," when yesterday you were trying desperately to rub shoulders in a 90% white gala.

I am convinced this has more to do with Ego than race when Gates made comments to the effect of, " I am the last person to call anyone a racist because I am 25% white, my father is 78% white and I am married to a white women." Now you tell me................ Anyone who takes the time to find out what percentage of their make-up is white, has some serious internal self esteem issues.   The only role that race played in all of this, is that no matter how much you try to run from your blackness, it stares you right in the face. No matter how much you try to magnify that 25% of whiteness that you claim you have; or marry white; or rub shoulders with white; the fact remains - you are still black. Some of these highly educated people are still brainwashed to believe that white is better than black.   How do you educate a Harvard Professor to love himself for himself and accept his blackness?

I am convinced that Skip Gates was more ashamed because they were embarrassing a HARVARD PROFESSOR. He was being reduced from a uppity Black to a regular Black. How mortifying!!!   After all, he worked all his life to avoid being called just another Black man. This was what he was running from the entire time!!   As one commentator said, "Lets not pretend that this is the first or best example of racial profiling;" and neither should this be a "poster child" for Racial Profiling. Gates is probably more privileged than the average white man. He does not know what the average Black man goes through daily, like being denied credit and mortgage loans or being charged enormous interest rates when they are approved;  Being denied jobs and  promotions; and the countless harassment stories we have heard from people over the past week or so.    No, I don't think he should now try to represent the average black man (struggles), just because he pulls the race card to band-aid his bruised ego.

Is this a case of Race, Ego or both?

Michelle Obama - Sleeve or no Sleeve

Pat White — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 01:17:00 GMT

Michelle Obama

Honestly, I am getting so sick of the sleeveless dresses. OK Michelle you made your point. You are not going to stop wearing sleeveless dresses just because some Republican on Fox news accused you of dressing down. However, most of your meetings and appearances are business like and as such, require business or formal attire. Your role is comparable to that of the Queen of England, so you can't just come out looking any "'ole" way. You always have to be prepared for the camera and - alas, the world. Yes, its a lot of pressure, but that is what you signed up for when you and the President started on the campaign trail.

Michelle Obama might be preoccupied with many things and her forte may not be fashion. Thats why I say, "GET A STYLIST." She is America's First Lady. That is the role of royalty. A Little makeup would not hurt either. Most people that are in front of the camera regularly are known to dab on a little powder or foundation, at the minimum - in order to achieve an even tone and to minimize shine.   A little eye-liner would help erase that just- woke-up look as well.

Mrs. Obama has to get into this practice, even if she is just giving a News Reporter a tour of the White house. This is not just hostess as usual. You have to dress up for all most everything. Of course, I'm not talking about glamorous dressing, but a nice investment in business suites would simplify her dress and fashion dilemmas.   I can't believe I'm actually saying this, but this is where she could take a cue from Gov. Palin. (Believe me - that was hard to write.) These she can use on a daily basis - some days will be business casual where she can throw on that famous sleeveless dress. Tie a sweater over the shoulder for a little more umph. For overseas and more formal events and functions she can get a little more glamorous as needs be.

Lets face it. For most appearances,  President Obama is seen in a suite and tie - classic business wear for men. Michelle has to do the same. Think business - and dress for business. What if President Obama went and shook hands with other Presidents in front of countless flashing lights with a shirt without a tie. We would gasp!!. Michelle has a little bit more options as a woman, but if she feels she cannot wear an outfit to an important business meeting, she probably should not wear it to her daily events.

Take a break from the one trick pony and dress like the Royalty you are.

Michael Jackson - A Simple Complexity

Pat White — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 02:39:00 GMT

I'm sure most would agree that Michael Jackson is a hard one to figure out. Many questions and bewilderment bounces of the reflection of the man in the mirror. The biggest question being, "what is the reason behind his physical transformation?" The result of a rare skin disease or plastic surgery and bleaching of the skin? Plastic surgery on the nose is obvious, but Jackson insists that the skin coloration or lack thereof is a result of a rare skin disease.

It appears as if he was obsessed with being white. Even though, through his words he insisted that he loved being black, his actions were contrary. The people he loved and admired most (apart from family, I would imagine,) are white - Elizabeth Taylor, Lisa Presley, Brooke Shields. Yes, he may have loved Diana Ross and others, but his verbal admiration for the former three was more intense and worship-like. This, coupled with the report that he wanted his children to have blond hair and blue eyes, seems to suggest that he was infatuated with white features.

After being reminded of Jackson's enormous talent and learning more about his humanitarian side, it occurred to me that if indeed his children do not share his DNA, it would be sad that such a wonderful make up of a person would not be carried on in an offspring. Not to say talent cannot be taught and a good and kind personality cannot be formed from one's environment, but there is a lot to be said of natural talent and DNA traits. Personally , I don't believe, Michael's first two children share his DNA. Thats my opinion. Its not a professional conclusion and its not gospel. It's simply my opinion, based on obvious observation. This point of view has nothing to do with custody battle or anything of the sort. Michael is the father of those children - he raised them and his wishes should be carried out according to his will. I make the point about DNA, because it would be nice if such wonderful traits and unique musical talents were passed on to his offspring. And, maybe they were. Blanket, his third child have some of Michael's features. His beautiful large eyes resembles Michaels, especially when he was much younger. Blanket's slightly protruding cheekbones resemble Michael's as well. I say look out for that one!!!! Again my opinion - take it or leave it.

Its amazing that such great talent and such a complex mysterious person  can be as equally shy and demur. Time and time again, we hear others describing him as sweet and gentle and "Pure." People that were very close to him always seem to use words such as innocent and naive to describe this otherwise, fabulous and unique larger-than-life phenomenon.

This simple complexity that surrounded Michael is all the more reason for study and discussion.   I don't believe Michael hated black people - of course not; but I believe he was indoctrinated to believe that white was better than black and that white was close to sublime and he worshiped the thought of being white. I also believe that he was miserable and uncomfortable with his former features which changed over the years. This is totally based on his actions.   Let me add that I am not against plastic surgery to achieve aesthetics; but some would argue that some of this former pictures were much more attractive than what became the result of multiple surgeries and the questionable extreme skin color change.   Which leaves the question, what was he aiming for?

With all that Michael had to endure at an early age, I do believe he could have greatly benefited from Therapy.   Maybe he did have a therapist, maybe he did not. I have not heard of any one coming forward to say he did. I believe that most celebrities that have to be in the limelight all the time and is under enormous scrutiny and pressure can greatly benefit from therapy. Instead many seem to believe that popping a pill is easier and that it eases the pain quicker.

Michael Jackson - a simple complexity. They say still waters run deep!!

Lets All Give Rihanna A Break!!!!!

Pat White — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 10:09:00 GMT

Rihanna

Yes we were all shocked that Rihanna went back to Chris Brown so quickly after their incident which led to Rihanna's hospital visit. Many were shocked that she went back to him at all and everyone seems to be chanting, "Leave him, leave him." We know that that is easier said than done. Who are we to be judging her and to be giving unsolicited advice?

One thing I've learned to do is never tell a friend that they should leave their guy or spouse. I would give advice like, "one person cannot be in a marriage or it takes two to tango," but as we all know no matter what advice they receive the person going through stuff will have to make that decision for themselves. Affairs of the heart are not simple to explain.

Many of us that are chanting "Leave him" might be in abusing relationships of our own. It might not be physical abuse, but emotional abuse that we stay and take. Some of us are in loveless relationships and are just too afraid to leave. We need to back off and give Rihanna her space and let her figure out stuff for herself. I do believe that one day she will look at those pictures (that were taken at the time of the incident) and come to the realization that she does not need to be with that person. She has to get to that place herself before she can ever leave him. In the meantime lets remember she is a victim and give her some support and empathy.

By the way, I play and enjoy her music all the time.

Just Something About Him - Movado

Pat White — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 08:03:00 GMT

Movado

Many try to copy the sounds of reggae and dancehall music. Even Hispanics have adopted the dancehall music and chants, and while they do a decent job, they can never imitate the soulful, deep harsh sounds from dancehall Kings like Beenie Man, Buju Banton and Movado. Their sounds come from a deep place - the pain and the grit of the street and thug life. Movado is able to create such a unique sound. It seems everything he touches turns to gold because of the passion and pain that spills out from the guts of his stomach onto the vinyl or CD.

You can hear it when he cries out to God to protect him from those who might want to harm him or bring him down in "I'm on the rock." This passion can never be imitated, because its his pain, his passion, his story. Amazing Grace is so hard to listen to as it depicts hard core street life (and how he managed to survive it.) His most recent "So Special" chart buster is as sweet as it is rough; Not to mention the dances that have been invented to go along with his winning hits. The gully creep might have emerged from this thug life - hiding out from whomever - maybe the helicopter shining bright lights "a-groun". All I know is the dance just fits the rythm and the lyrics just so. Of course, everyone puts their own unique spin on it and that makes it even more beautiful.

Many of us have a love/hate relationship with dancehall music, because, while we do not condone or encourage the gangster lifestyle, the compilation and delivery of the lyrics and rhythms are so magnetic its hard to resist. Many leaders have lashed out against artists like Movado, saying that the lyrics in their songs might negatively influence the youths. Large sponsors have banned big concert events because of them. These artists sing about what they know, and you have to give most of them credit for their belief in God and his grace. Movado, while he sings and chants about street life, he always seem to manage to give reverence to God. You have to give him and other artists credit for that. This is one main difference that I find between (Jamaican) dancehall artists and rap artist, they always include, Jah or God in their lyrics.

The good thing is - its a way out of the street life, when they are able to succeed in the business.

If Push Comes to Shove, Will Pride Get in the Way?

Pat White — Sat, 10 Jan 2009 06:55:00 GMT

Just recently in California, a man killed his entire family and himself after he and his wife lost their jobs. Instead of buckling belts and cutting back, he made the decision to not go on.   The question is - was pride the reason for his actions? It was reported that they were fired subsequent to the falsification of company documents. They were trying to get child care assistance for their 5 children.   After being fired, they removed the children from their schools with the explanation that they were moving to another state. The children were out of school for two weeks prior to the killings.

Some believe that the act of withdrawing the children from school was an effort to save face after the dismal from their jobs. Thats one thing, but was it also pride that prevented these parents from joining the food stamp line or moving to a smaller home or taking a less attractive job just to make ends meet?

Many people feel like they have to maintain a certain lifestyle in order to impress others. With the economy the way it is, people have to ask themselves if push comes to shove will they be able to downsize, or will they melt from the pressure of trying to keep up with the Joneses Newsflash - the Joneses are probably taking less atractive jobs  or staying in a much smaller home themselves.

It was just reported during a newscast that the wealthy are not splurging like they used to.  Lavishness and big spending have now become associated with shame. New York's upper crusts are no longer splurging on expensive art, nor are they flying in the private jets as they used to. Its not so much that they can't afford to - its more the guilt associated with the indulgence as the middle class continues to struggle.

Do you believe the California family tragedy was a result of too much pride or just hopelessness?

It Defies Common Sense to Be an Atheist

Pat White — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 04:46:00 GMT

In one of my earlier blogs, I wrote about how it defies common sense to practice certain religious rituals in different denominations. I should have ended that blog by stating it also defies common sense to be an Atheist. Since I did not, I will give the topic its own blog.

All one has to do is look around them. Look up at the stars, the sun and the moon to realize that there is some being greater than us. Are men responsible for how the earth turns and how the moon and sun revolves around the earth? Do men tell the bees to pollinate the flowers? Do men tell the body to store fat for future energy when you don't eat for a long time. Is it man, that go in and turn the baby around in the mothers womb as it gets ready to be born. No, all of this gets done amazingly, on its own, in sync and timely. Isn't that beautiful. And you say there is no God?

The bible says, only a fool says in his heart there is no God. All you have to do is look at the amazement of how certain things work on their own; Look at the ocean and the mountains. I remember watching a TV Church service some time ago, where this lady was testifying about how she changed from being an Atheist to a believer. When she witnessed the birth of a baby, in all of its amazement, she became a believer.

One has to be really arrogant, and ignorantly so, to think that they are it - that there is nothing or no one greater than them. It just defies common, common sense. Someone called a radio show recently belittling the word God, by saying that when it is spelled backwards it is dog. They said it's just another word and it has no meaning to it. Well let me give you my connection between God and dog. Dog was created to serve man and man was created to serve God. How about that as an epiphany!! I remember watching a small part of the dog whisperer, and he was telling the dog's owner that the dog wants to be your servant, they like commands and wants you to be their master, that is why they act out at times. Dogs want to serve their masters. Turn that around - men should serve God. That is the connection my friend.

All God asks us to do is believe and the rest will be revealed. Some scholars spend all their time reading and trying to find or not find some evidence of God. They are missing the boat completely. Others are trying to reduce god to their level, in trying to understand it all. You probably won't ever understand it all, but I believe that if one believes and opens their heart, little by little god's glory will be revealed to them.

Can I get an Amen?

The Secret Service (Men) Not So Secret

Pat White — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 07:44:00 GMT

Barack Obama flanked by SS Men

I watched today as President-Elect Barack Obama made his way through the crowds in Delaware and Baltimore - two stops on his way to the White House in Washington D.C. Even though he was in a mostly black crowd, and, of course, he and his wife are black, the Secret Service men that were assigned to protect him stuck out like sore thumbs.

The whole purpose of the "secret" service men is for them to blend into the crowd and be inconspicuous as the President makes his way through crowds or attends his engagements. Well, as the President-Elect and his wife made their way through the crowds, there were three to five pink heads surrounding his back. I have to say it was a little amusing. Now, I don't mean to be disrespectful to the Secret Service men when I say pink heads, but I am trying to paint a graphic picture.

I am not sure what branch the Secret Service men emerge from - the CIA or the FBI, but I am sure both organizations have black men . I am sure the men assigned to the soon to be President are the very best as I observed them being extremely intense as they watched the crowd for anything suspicious; But a note to whomever is in charge of assigning protection for the President, please get some African-American Secret Service men, who can blend in and not be so conspicuous. Better yet, get a diverse number of men and/or women.

(Written on 01/17/08)

Bush's Presidential Legacy

Pat White — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 04:58:00 GMT

Federal Budget Deficit Chart

The title of this blog could very well have been "Thirsty for Blood - Thirsty for Oil." Recently the President was interviewed by one of ABC's journalists regarding his faith. One's spiritual belief is personal, and we have to take him at his word when he talks about his relationship with God. However, his actions and decisions do not align with someone with a deep spiritual relationship with God. In the Bible it is mentioned that when you give to the poor, the sick and the under served you give to God. In other words, being compassionate to the under-served is one of the basic ways to serve God.

Bush's tax breaks have always been geared toward the wealthy. Under his Administration, many after school programs, aimed at keeping at-risk students off the streets, were terminated . There were no major programs that were installed under his administration that were geared toward the poor and the rehabilitation of those who needed to get back on their feet. There were no true indication of compassion toward the poor, needy or under served. This should be the main focus of government. With Special Interests Lobbyists and greed this has switched around to the government serving the rich.

Lets not forget Hurricane Katrina. Government dragged their feet to get help to thousands of stranded folks along the gulf coast who did not have the means to get themselves out of harm's way. Again, the poor were ignored for days and left behind. Its reported that people are still reeling from the effects of being displaced by Hurricane Katrina, with little or slow help from the government.

Of course, the war in Iraq will be one of Bush's main presidential legacies; A war he thought would be over in a couple of weeks. To his dismay, the Iraqis fought back. In the meantime, thousands of civilians died and billions and billions of dollars were and is still being spent - to pay American Contractors. Wait a minute, does this statement sound familiar - "If someone is bombing your country don't you have the right to defend yourself?" This is being asked in defense of the Israelis attacking the Palestinians. So, didn't they expect Iraqis to fight back in the same notion? Outsiders were bombing their country and their oil fields were threatened to be taken away from them. (By the way, Iraq was not an eminent threat to the U.S.)

There are statements made that the US was not attacked since 9/11 - therefore the President must have done a good job keeping terrorists away. Well, the US was not attacked prior to 9/11 (since Pearl Harbor) either, so in the same breathe, one could say the Bush Administration did not do a good job keeping America safe, since it happened under his watch.

When Bush took office, the country had a budget surplus for the first time that anyone can remember. This was due to Bill Clinton and the work of his Administration. Bush and his Administration managed to take that surplus and turn it into a trillion-dollar deficit really quickly. They had a party over the last 8 years and now the country is left holding the buckets of their hangover filth, the stench of which is smelt through the four corners of the world.

The Obama Administration has a lot of work ahead of them. Turning around a Trillion Dollar deficit; fixing a broken economy: ending the war in Iraq; Keep America safe; Returning a more positive global view of America; Helping to stabilize tensions between Israel and Palestine; Stabilizing the Middle East tensions on a whole; and Hunting down Osama Bin laden.

Whether you are a Democrat or a Republican, you have to admit, a lot of damage was done under the Bush Administration which means the new Administration has a lot of repairing to do.

Barack and Gaza

Pat White — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 21:25:00 GMT

When President Elect Barack Obama won the elections, I could not celebrate like others. I was quiet solemn about his win. I was numb and wondered why I could not get in the celebratory mood like others. Don't get me wrong, even though I was not a great fan of Obama, I absolutely did not want McCain to win. I was relieved that Obama won over McCain, but I was numb when he won. Maybe its because of the big job that is laid out ahead of him. If the Gaza conflict is not resolved before January 20th, this is one of the many tasks that Barack Obama faces when he sits down in the Oval Office.

Many around the world, are opposed to Israel's attacks against the Palestinians. Even though they say they are fighting Hamas, they are targeting Palestinians. Realistically, there is no way to directly target Hamas, a political organization in Palestine. Because, many around the world see Israel's attacks as unfair as they have done far more damage than Hamas. It puts a great burden on President elect Obama, because he is expected to stand by and support Israel. He is in between a rock and a hard place, because the leaders of Hamas wants him to speak out about the Israel occupation in their country.

Many believe that President Elect Obama should be more verbal and involved in the current conflict between Israel and (Hamas) Palestinians. I believe the statement he made is enough until he is officially sworn in. I don't believe he needs to be more verbal about the conflict until he is sworn in. Of course, he needs to be working on it behind the scenes with his advisory team. He and his team need to collaborate with the current administration. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Senator Hillary Clinton and others need to exchange thoughts, but what Obama has stated about the situation, I believe, should suffice until he his actually sworn in.

Many are pressuring him to speak out more about the Gaza situation, forcing him to make a decision between one side or the other. I don't believe he should bend under this pressure. Behind the scenes he should keep abreast of the situation and take a diplomatic stance, but any further action, should wait until January 20th.

Weigh in. Should Barack Obama say more or take a position about the Gaza conflict?

Text Vs. Talk

Pat White — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 05:22:00 GMT

I hope I don't sound like an old fowl, when I say I'm not really into texting. How annoying is it when you are trying to drive and read a text message. Just call me - that way I can keep my eyes on the road, while I'm talking to you. When someone is into texting, it really says a lot about their age, lifestyle and generation category. Can you imagine being slightly tipsy and trying to read a text on top of it; then trying to respond (while driving?)  This is not a good idea. Please do not ever do this. I finally gave up and responded with a call back.    I don't get it!! It takes that much longer to type out a sentence, than just speaking the words.

Most of my friends and peers do not text; Maybe once in a while, if we are trying to be hip. So, when this new acquaintance of mine just kept texting, I said wait a minute - How old is this guy anyway?!!! He must have asked the same question of me when I insisted on calling instead of texting. (LOL)

Seriously though, especially when driving, its best not to be on the phone at all. If you have to be on the phone, its better to just talk - even better  - hands free with the phone on speaker.   I say, wait until you reach your destination, but if you have to respond to a call really quickly call instead of text.   Of course, if you are not driving - by all means, knock yourself out and put those thumbs to work. I must admit, texting does have it's place though, especially if the topic is a little awkward and you don't necessarily want to have a verbal discussion about it.

OMG -  I can't believe it. I am a talker not a texter - Am I old-fashioned???    I don't think so!!!!

Are you a talker or a texter?

(By the way, texter and texting have not reached the dictionary as yet.)

Are we Allowed to Laugh (At the Hurling Shoe?)

Pat White — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 06:05:00 GMT

Angy Iraquis

By now you have had numerous discussions about the infamous (or famous) hurling shoe - the shoe that was thrown at the President. I want to know if you think its ok to laugh at the incident. A shoe being hurled in mid air is just hilarious to me (if no one gets hurt in the process of course.) However, its seems some take offense to people having a good laugh at the matter. Take away the President from the equation for a minute, would you laugh then? However, in all honesty the President being the target, combined with him ducking adds to the craziness of this picture. I guess it all depends on how you feel about the person on the receiving end. Some Hispanics who were scowling at the fact that people were laughing at the incident, would probably do the same if it were Castro instead of Bush on the receiving end. If it were done to Obama for instance, it would probably be seen as a hate crime There are many facets to this incident - some humorous and some not so humorous.

Anyway, to Bush's credit he made light of the situation, which is even more reason why its ok to chuckle or have a good hearty laugh about it. The second part of the story is the security issue. From what I understand about secret service men, their main purpose is to protect the president and keep him out of harm's way. If there is an incident, their initial response is to cover the president (or whomever they are protecting) and remove him from the harmful environment. There was a secret service man that approached the president, but he brushed him off with an "I'm ok" gesture. Its not practical to have secret service men in every row of every audience, especially at a news conference. They would more likely be close to him to cover him and remove him from any potential harm.

Last but not least, is the message behind the hurling shoe, which is not so funny at all. This was a representation of how many Iraqis feel about Bush and his Administration. They hold him in very low regard. They have little or no respect for him and their feelings border on loathing. The Journalist is now seen as a hero by many in that country. What is sad is the president's comments, "I don't know what his beef is." If you think the Governor of Illinois suffer from narcissism, take another look. It seems he feels he has done nothing, and can't do any, wrong.

Some might take offense to people laughing at this incident, but I say, better we laugh about this, than be sad or shocked about something that could have been worse.

Using the Bad Economy as an Excuse for Irresponsible Behavior.

Pat White — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 00:09:00 GMT

You hear about it everyday - people walking away from their homes and their mortgages, even before the foreclosure process fully plays out. Someone called in on the Suzy Orman show concerned about a friend who stopped paying her mortgage and instead started going on indulgent shopping sprees. Suzy mentioned that this was more common than we thought. I suspect that some people might be using the bad economy and the foreclosure frenzy as an excuse to indulge in reckless spending behavior.

I mentioned in a previous blog that just because you are in an upside down mortgage, it's no reason to panic and walk away from your home. You have to pay mortgage or rent anyway, so go ahead and keep paying the mortgage and keep your home. I can understand a situation where your payments may have doubled or tripled over the recent years. Still, this is no reason to behave recklessly and use your mortgage payment in a department store or at a car dealership. Speaking to your bank or mortgage broker (or lawyer) is the more responsible thing to do.

I know some people absolutely had no choice, but to leave their homes. I think the important thing is to get back into a home (whether it is by rent or mortgage) before everything shows up on the credit report. That means using the mortgage payments on the new home, not on shopping sprees. Its Christmas time and it is probably tempting to make excuses and indulge in flat screens and other gadgets instead of keeping up with your important payments. Lets get a grip, some people are just getting way out of hand!!

OJ, OJ, OJ..........Oh No!!!!!

Pat White — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 06:24:00 GMT

OJ Simpson at Recent Trial

It seems the same reason why some say OJ should have laid low is the very same reason he kept tempting his fate. O. J. Simpson was acquitted on double murder charges over ten years ago. The evidence seemed to have been stacked against him. Even though his Lawyers were able to get the jury to acquit him, many whispered that they knew OJ did it. If OJ really committed these crimes and he got away with them, this seems to have made him feel indispensable.He probably felt that he could walk on water. Add to this, he was already a mega star and had many fans. No one can get him now!!!!!! With this disposition, he seemed to keep pushing the envelope.

Writing his book "if I DID IT," was what cracked the camel's back - no it did not quiet brake it, but he sure came close to the edge. Many comedians used OJ's acquittal as part of their material, making comments like we know he did it!!! Earth to OJ - just because others whispered he did it, doesn't mean you should do the same. The book and the title was a bad, bad joke. The rule, OJ, is that you cannot be charged for Murder twice, not "they cannot charge me for anything again, and I am indispensable."

The other part of this whole ordeal is knowing the people who you hang around with. They say keep your friends close and your enemies closer. Maybe it should be the other way around, since you kind of already know that the enemies don't have your best interest at heart. Bob Marley's lyrics say, "Only your friends know your secret, so only he can reveal it........" It seems like OJ's friends really blind sided him, with this quest to recover his stolen items. Many say he was set up, why else tape the ambush. Wow, how could he have known they were out to get him? And, got him they did.

OJ should have been extra cautious , knowing his alleged victims' family were out for blood (revenge - justice?)

(written 12/7/08)

Huge Corporate Competitors Merge All The Time

Pat White — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 05:22:00 GMT

Clinton/Obama on the Same Team

So, Senator Biden and Senator Clinton were once President Elect Obama's competitors at one point. This does not mean they cannot merge for the common good of the people. The media keeps making the comment that these individuals chosen to serve on Obama's team were once his opponents and they made certain remarks while on the campaign trail. Senator Biden made comments that Senator Obama was not ready to be President and Senator Clinton ran an ad suggesting that Obama was not prepared to take a 3:00AM call about a possible security issue. Well now Mr. Obama can take that call and pass it on to Senator - soon to be Secretary of State - Clinton - Its all good!!!!

Big corporations merge with their competitors all the time. They come together and discuss what's in everyone's best interest. The result is a win-win for all. Of course this comes with a lot of skillful negotiations and everyone has their own agenda. The trick is to highlight what you are giving up or giving to the other party, as opposed to what you what to receive.

So what if they bad-talked each other during the campaign? The important thing is putting together a skillful, experienced and diplomatic team, that the president-elect knows will represent him well. He will have to call on them for advice and solutions. He knows he cannot make all the decisions himself so its in his best interest to appoint the best, even if they fought in the past. its just business!!!