Wednesday, May 12, 2010
LOOKING FORWARD TO SUMMER
It has been very hectic around my house for the past couple of weeks with trying to study for finals and finish my classes. My family also has a lot of birthdays in the month of May. There are 5 family members in my immediate family that had birthdays over the past week. We also had Mother's Day, one of my personal favorites even though I don't like these kind of holidays. What is there not to like about making your mother feel special, or just let her know how much you appreciate her. On top of all this I also have 2 brothers graduating this year, one from High School and one from MSSU. I'm sure everyone is busy, but I am so busy I actually get a little stressed out this time of year even when I am not taking classes. I am really looking forward to this month being over and having time to spend with my children. I am planning to spend as many weekends at the lake as possible this summer. My son has been asking to take him fishing at the lake for about the last month (he has a new fishing pole he wants to try out). We are also planning a weekend in St. Louis watching baseball and going to the zoo. I hope everyone also has some good plans for their summers. Good luck with finals everyone.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Hair Booms
I read an article in the Joplin Globe about using human hair stuffed into pantyhose to help soak up the spilled oil in the Gulf Coast. I think it is a great idea. Something has to be done with all the spilled oil anyway. People also have to get a haircut, so why not send your hair to help clean up the mess. There was also a link in the Joplin Globe for Matter of Trust, the nonprofit charity group who is collecting the hair and nylons to make the booms. They are accepting hair, fur, and nylons from anyone who would like to donate. That means if you do not want to go somewhere to get your hair cut you could cut it yourself and still send in the clippings.
A hair dresser from Madison, Alabama named Phillip McCrory is the person who came up with using hair to soak up oil spills. He got the idea from watching how hard it was to clean oil from the fur of animals after a spill. After testing the idea for a while he was able to get a patent for it. Now his idea is used to make what is called an OttiMat, a brick made up almost completely of hair. Isn't it amazing what we normally throw in the trash could be used for. Maybe more people should donate to this cause so that the oil Companies will be ready for the next time there is a spill.
A hair dresser from Madison, Alabama named Phillip McCrory is the person who came up with using hair to soak up oil spills. He got the idea from watching how hard it was to clean oil from the fur of animals after a spill. After testing the idea for a while he was able to get a patent for it. Now his idea is used to make what is called an OttiMat, a brick made up almost completely of hair. Isn't it amazing what we normally throw in the trash could be used for. Maybe more people should donate to this cause so that the oil Companies will be ready for the next time there is a spill.
The other day I was at an event where they played the Star Spangled Banner, our National Anthem. While the National Anthem was being played I saw some people playing around. I went and talked to them after the incident and they wanted to know why it was such a big deal and why did they need to stand and take their hats off. So, I had to explain to them that it is out of respect and pride for their flag and Country and for those who have served, will serve, and are serving our Country. I had to explain to them that it is all about the freedoms that we have. If they like the options that their Country offers to them they should stand and show the proper respect back to their Nation.
If you can not show the proper respect, I think you should find somewhere else to live your life. This brings me back to immigration and speaking English. If you can not learn to speak English and show the proper respect to our Nation I don't think you should be aloud to live in the United States. My question is do non-English speaking immigrants (legal or illegal) like the options that our Country offers them? Of course they do. If they didn't they would not be here. Are these options enough for them to want to learn the English language instead of expecting us to understand what they are saying? I would think so!
Friday, April 30, 2010
Arizona's new immigration law
I am glad that some form of government is finally doing something that should be done. Or should I say something that should have been done a long time ago. I think as a Country we have been way to lax on immigration. Which is why we have as many illegal aliens as we do. They are here sucking our tax money out of our country, while not paying in a dime. I have no problem with legal immigrants or people that are here with a legal green card. If they have one of the two the are at least paying in like the rest of us who are actually citizens of this country.
There have already been several law suits filed saying that the new law is unconstitutional. What I want to know is where is it in our constitution that an illegal alien has any rights, other than human rights, in the U.S. Would it be considered racial profiling to check for immigration papers on all people of a Latin descent? I guess it would be, but how many illegal immigrants are anything but Latin descent? I read that almost 90% of illegal aliens are from Latin America, 54% being of Mexican descent. So, maybe racial profiling but not wrongfully so since most of them are of Latin descent.
I think that they should be given an option of being deported or becoming citizens of our great Country. Once we get a handle on the whole immigration thing maybe then we can do something about making English the official language of the United States again, another thing that drives me crazy.
There have already been several law suits filed saying that the new law is unconstitutional. What I want to know is where is it in our constitution that an illegal alien has any rights, other than human rights, in the U.S. Would it be considered racial profiling to check for immigration papers on all people of a Latin descent? I guess it would be, but how many illegal immigrants are anything but Latin descent? I read that almost 90% of illegal aliens are from Latin America, 54% being of Mexican descent. So, maybe racial profiling but not wrongfully so since most of them are of Latin descent.
I think that they should be given an option of being deported or becoming citizens of our great Country. Once we get a handle on the whole immigration thing maybe then we can do something about making English the official language of the United States again, another thing that drives me crazy.
Rubber Bands= New past time
My co-workers and I have recently started a new past time at work. Rubber Band Fights!! You might think this is childish, but that's OK. It really is, but we have a lot of fun with it. Maybe it is because we are all a bunch of big kids. It's just harmless fun, well mostly harmless. You might go home with a few red marks on your arms and legs, but they sill all be gone by the next day. Then we just start ove and do it again.
You might be thinking,"this is madness," but that is not true. We do have rules.
The Rules of Rubber Band Club
-The 1st rule of Rubber Band Club is that you do not talk about Rubber Band Club.
-The 2nd rule of Rubber Band Club is that you do not talk about Rubber Band Club.
-The 3rd rule: If someone says stop, goes limp, or taps out you shoot them one more time.
-The 4th rule: Everyone is aloud in the fight.
-The 5th rule: You can only shoot ot be shot while not ectively working.
-The 6th rule: No shooting in the face (body shots only).
-The 7th rule: Fights will go on as long as they have to.
-The 8th and final rule: If this is your first day at Rubber Band Club, you have to fight.
These rules (adapted from the Movie Fight Club) might not be completely original but the work for us. It really does make a fun work environment.
You might be thinking,"this is madness," but that is not true. We do have rules.
The Rules of Rubber Band Club
-The 1st rule of Rubber Band Club is that you do not talk about Rubber Band Club.
-The 2nd rule of Rubber Band Club is that you do not talk about Rubber Band Club.
-The 3rd rule: If someone says stop, goes limp, or taps out you shoot them one more time.
-The 4th rule: Everyone is aloud in the fight.
-The 5th rule: You can only shoot ot be shot while not ectively working.
-The 6th rule: No shooting in the face (body shots only).
-The 7th rule: Fights will go on as long as they have to.
-The 8th and final rule: If this is your first day at Rubber Band Club, you have to fight.
These rules (adapted from the Movie Fight Club) might not be completely original but the work for us. It really does make a fun work environment.
Friday, April 23, 2010
A Dangerous Job
Being in the military is one of the most a dangerous and hardest jobs. How many other jobs are there were getting shot at is part of your job? Probably police officers, but the don't have the same potential of getting shot at. How about being away from your friends and family for months or years at a time? I can't think of any. What about were doing your job could be so close to illegal that swaying, even just a little, from what you are doing could send you to prison?
Sometimes the laws of war are so vague that it is hard to tell what is legal or illegal. Sometimes people just make mistakes or do the wrong things knowing what they are doing also. Like what happened at Abu Ghraib Prison. The Iraqi prisoners were not just imprisoned but also tortured. The soldiers who did this know they were wrong.
But other times situations like the Navy Seals that were recently cleared by a U.S. military judge in another Iraqi abuse case. The Navy Seals in the case were accused of abusing a prisoner while being taken to a prison. The prisoner accusing the Seals was arrested for torturing and murdering 4 U.S. civilian contractors in Iraq. Personally I don't see why they would take this prisoner alive in the first place, but that would also be against laws of war also.
Being a medic in the military, we are trained to triage. This means don't treat if they are going to expire anyway. Basically do the most good for the most people. That means that if I was in an attack were Iraqis attacked us and we injured a few of them, I should treat them while my fellow soldier who is going to die from the attack bleeds out. This is another case were it would be hard to do what is considered the right thing. I would rather make sure my fellow soldier who is going to die is comfortable until his time comes.
Sometimes the laws of war are so vague that it is hard to tell what is legal or illegal. Sometimes people just make mistakes or do the wrong things knowing what they are doing also. Like what happened at Abu Ghraib Prison. The Iraqi prisoners were not just imprisoned but also tortured. The soldiers who did this know they were wrong.
But other times situations like the Navy Seals that were recently cleared by a U.S. military judge in another Iraqi abuse case. The Navy Seals in the case were accused of abusing a prisoner while being taken to a prison. The prisoner accusing the Seals was arrested for torturing and murdering 4 U.S. civilian contractors in Iraq. Personally I don't see why they would take this prisoner alive in the first place, but that would also be against laws of war also.
Being a medic in the military, we are trained to triage. This means don't treat if they are going to expire anyway. Basically do the most good for the most people. That means that if I was in an attack were Iraqis attacked us and we injured a few of them, I should treat them while my fellow soldier who is going to die from the attack bleeds out. This is another case were it would be hard to do what is considered the right thing. I would rather make sure my fellow soldier who is going to die is comfortable until his time comes.
Who knew that building a privacy fence could be a family project with young children? I didn't expect it to turn out as well as it did. And it only took us 2 days (I already set the posts) and the fence looks great.
My wife and I decided to build a privacy fence. After going and pricing and looking at everything we decided to build it piece-by-piece. This takes longer, but looks better, holds up better, and costs less than the 8 ft preassembled sections. Putting it together ourselves holds up better because we used screws to fasten it. The preassembled sections are all nailed together. The preassembled sections cost about $50 per section plus the posts to attach them to. To build it ourselves it cost about $35 per section. So, we decided to start building last weekend.
On Thursday my wife found out she had to go to Kansas City. So I was going to be home with the kids trying to build the fence. So, my son (who is 5), my daughter (who is 3), and I were going to build the fence. I was thinking sarcastically,"this is going to be good." Surprisingly it actually worked out very well. My daughter wore my tool belt (wrapped around her waist twice and was still big) and handed me screws, my son handed me fence pickets, and I took care of the rest. We had a good flowing system going and made really good time. We finished our longest section of about 50 ft. in 3 hours. All that work was almost more than the kids could take. But we managed to get it done. By the way the kids slept great after working as hard as the did.
My wife and I decided to build a privacy fence. After going and pricing and looking at everything we decided to build it piece-by-piece. This takes longer, but looks better, holds up better, and costs less than the 8 ft preassembled sections. Putting it together ourselves holds up better because we used screws to fasten it. The preassembled sections are all nailed together. The preassembled sections cost about $50 per section plus the posts to attach them to. To build it ourselves it cost about $35 per section. So, we decided to start building last weekend.
On Thursday my wife found out she had to go to Kansas City. So I was going to be home with the kids trying to build the fence. So, my son (who is 5), my daughter (who is 3), and I were going to build the fence. I was thinking sarcastically,"this is going to be good." Surprisingly it actually worked out very well. My daughter wore my tool belt (wrapped around her waist twice and was still big) and handed me screws, my son handed me fence pickets, and I took care of the rest. We had a good flowing system going and made really good time. We finished our longest section of about 50 ft. in 3 hours. All that work was almost more than the kids could take. But we managed to get it done. By the way the kids slept great after working as hard as the did.
Friday, April 16, 2010
National Prayer Day declared Unconstitutional?
Thursday a Federal Judge, U.S. District Judge Barbara Crabb, ruled National Prayer Day unconstitutional. This has upset a lot of people. These people being upset is not unwarranted. National prayer day has been a part of our great nation's history for almost out entire history. The first National prayer day was in 1775 and decided on by the Continental Congress. But, it was not made official until 1952. Since then it has been held on the first Thursday of May. You see National Prayer Day is part of our country.
Even with the ruling that National Prayer Day is unconstitutional it doesn't mean that you can not pray on that day or any other day. It is a great part of out history, but we do not need it to pray. Maybe we should just make every day a National Prayer Day. Maybe then we wouldn't have as much bad things going on here. Have a great day and pray for National Prayer Day!
Even with the ruling that National Prayer Day is unconstitutional it doesn't mean that you can not pray on that day or any other day. It is a great part of out history, but we do not need it to pray. Maybe we should just make every day a National Prayer Day. Maybe then we wouldn't have as much bad things going on here. Have a great day and pray for National Prayer Day!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
I hate Urgent Care
My daughter and I made a trip to Urgent Care earlier this week. The more I think about it the more I hate that place. This trip was because my 3 year old daughter was running a temperature of 102.8 degrees Fahrenheit for about 12 hours and vomited in the middle of the night.
So, we went to Urgent Care the following morning. We made it there about 20 minutes after they opened. There were only 2 people in the waiting room when we got there. It still took about an hour for us to be called back to be seen by the doctor. This is my first complaint. Why do we wait as long as we do before we even see the doctor?
After the doctor assessed Lanie and found nothing abnormal except her temperature, he decided to get a urine sample from her. That is not a big deal at all. But after we got the results from the urine test and again found nothing, the doctor decided he wanted chest x-rays to check for pneumonia. I do have a problem with this. He should have been able to rule out pneumonia when he checked her breathing and lungs. I think the x-ray was unnecessary, just more money for me to pay for the test.
The x-ray also came back negative. So, after being at urgent care for 3 hours and having run several test on top of the doctors assessment, we got the diagnoses. My daughter had a FEVER!! They said thanks for the money and sent us home. I had already given my daughter that diagnoses from home. That is probably where I will give it next time.
By the way my daughter is fine now. When we got home around 11:30 A.M. She took a long nap. When she got up around 2:30 her fever was gone and she wanted to go outside and play which we did for about 5 hours.
So, we went to Urgent Care the following morning. We made it there about 20 minutes after they opened. There were only 2 people in the waiting room when we got there. It still took about an hour for us to be called back to be seen by the doctor. This is my first complaint. Why do we wait as long as we do before we even see the doctor?
After the doctor assessed Lanie and found nothing abnormal except her temperature, he decided to get a urine sample from her. That is not a big deal at all. But after we got the results from the urine test and again found nothing, the doctor decided he wanted chest x-rays to check for pneumonia. I do have a problem with this. He should have been able to rule out pneumonia when he checked her breathing and lungs. I think the x-ray was unnecessary, just more money for me to pay for the test.
The x-ray also came back negative. So, after being at urgent care for 3 hours and having run several test on top of the doctors assessment, we got the diagnoses. My daughter had a FEVER!! They said thanks for the money and sent us home. I had already given my daughter that diagnoses from home. That is probably where I will give it next time.
By the way my daughter is fine now. When we got home around 11:30 A.M. She took a long nap. When she got up around 2:30 her fever was gone and she wanted to go outside and play which we did for about 5 hours.
Friday, April 9, 2010
War, Depression, Climate, Dust Bowl. Do these puzzle peices really fit together?
I read an article about another possible dust bowl in the USA Today. It made me think, isn't it kind of funny (or maybe ironic) the way history repeats itself. Just think about it. The dust bowl of the 1930's happened during the Great Depression which happened right after WWI. This was one of the hardest times our country has ever faced. What is going on right now? Now we are fighting in not only 1 war but 2, and now in basically a post war depression, and possibly having another dust bowl. But this story has more to it than that. It also has to do with climate change patterns (not Global Warming).
What caused the Great Depression? I know this is not the only cause, but one of the biggest reasons was the end of World War I and the economic decline that followed. This is the way of war in the U.S. except for WWII. It starts with an economic boom leading up to and during the war due to the needs of the Nations fighting the war. Then an economic decline at the end of the war due to the decreased needs for certain products. It has happened over and over again not only to the U.S., but to many other nations throughout history. But the Great Depression really doesn't have much do with the cause of the dust bowl. That is what makes it so ironic.
The dust bowl or dirty 30's had much more to do with climate change and the severe drought that was happening at that time. I believe the weather habbens in patterns. I do not believe in global warming. I think it is all a scam, a way for people to make money claiming that the way we live our lives is going to melt the polar ice caps. This is all a load of crap. Thanks Al Gore. I do believe that some day the polar ice caps will melt, but we are not the cause of it. It is caused by the earth naturally changing. Some time after the ice caps melt I believe we will also have another ice age. If we are still here will we call it global cooling cause by not using enough energy or living too green. Even regional climates change. Just think about today's middle east. At some point in time it was also one of the most fertile lands on our planet. Have you ever heard of the Garden of Eden? We might literally live in the desert some day.
What caused the Great Depression? I know this is not the only cause, but one of the biggest reasons was the end of World War I and the economic decline that followed. This is the way of war in the U.S. except for WWII. It starts with an economic boom leading up to and during the war due to the needs of the Nations fighting the war. Then an economic decline at the end of the war due to the decreased needs for certain products. It has happened over and over again not only to the U.S., but to many other nations throughout history. But the Great Depression really doesn't have much do with the cause of the dust bowl. That is what makes it so ironic.
The dust bowl or dirty 30's had much more to do with climate change and the severe drought that was happening at that time. I believe the weather habbens in patterns. I do not believe in global warming. I think it is all a scam, a way for people to make money claiming that the way we live our lives is going to melt the polar ice caps. This is all a load of crap. Thanks Al Gore. I do believe that some day the polar ice caps will melt, but we are not the cause of it. It is caused by the earth naturally changing. Some time after the ice caps melt I believe we will also have another ice age. If we are still here will we call it global cooling cause by not using enough energy or living too green. Even regional climates change. Just think about today's middle east. At some point in time it was also one of the most fertile lands on our planet. Have you ever heard of the Garden of Eden? We might literally live in the desert some day.
ROUGH DAY TO THE OFFICE
Because the weather has been son nice I have been riding my bicycle to work. It had been going great until Thursday morning that is.
Everything started out as usual. I got up on time, got ready for work, and left my house 25 minutes before I had to be at work (which usually puts me at work about 10 minutes early) just like usual. Everything went as anticipated for almost a mile, when I encountered my first problem. My left pedal somehow came off of the arm. The pedal did not just simply unscrew, It pulled some of the threads out with it. Luckily, a good Samaritan stopped and let me borrow his wrench to put the pedal back on. I was a bit worried knowing that some of the threads had already pulled out, but after tightening it down, I tested the pedal and it seemed to still be functioning correctly. So, I started for work again. I had only wasted about 5 minutes correcting my pedal, so I still had about 5 minutes of leeway.
The next 3 or so miles went flawlessly. But when I tried to take off after a red light, the pedal broke again pulling out even more threads. At this point I lost my temper. Knowing that I could not put the pedal back in now, I kicked the bike over. As the bike fell the right pedal caught the and broke also. So then I had to walk the bike and myself the last mile to work, and ended up being 10 minutes late. At least everyone at work got a good laugh out of my morning. I hope for better luck next week.
Everything started out as usual. I got up on time, got ready for work, and left my house 25 minutes before I had to be at work (which usually puts me at work about 10 minutes early) just like usual. Everything went as anticipated for almost a mile, when I encountered my first problem. My left pedal somehow came off of the arm. The pedal did not just simply unscrew, It pulled some of the threads out with it. Luckily, a good Samaritan stopped and let me borrow his wrench to put the pedal back on. I was a bit worried knowing that some of the threads had already pulled out, but after tightening it down, I tested the pedal and it seemed to still be functioning correctly. So, I started for work again. I had only wasted about 5 minutes correcting my pedal, so I still had about 5 minutes of leeway.
The next 3 or so miles went flawlessly. But when I tried to take off after a red light, the pedal broke again pulling out even more threads. At this point I lost my temper. Knowing that I could not put the pedal back in now, I kicked the bike over. As the bike fell the right pedal caught the and broke also. So then I had to walk the bike and myself the last mile to work, and ended up being 10 minutes late. At least everyone at work got a good laugh out of my morning. I hope for better luck next week.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Try riding a bike.
I am very excited about the mice weather we have had over the last week or so. I am ready to start riding my bicycle to work and back again. If you don't ever do this I recommend you try it. Riding my bike offers several benefits for me.
1st- It is great exercise. Riding a bike helps to increase strength, endurance, stamina, and cardiovascular fitness. It is also less stressful on your joints than running or jogging.
2nd- Saving money. I save about $25 a week by riding my bike and not burning gas in my car.
3rd- I always feel great after riding my bike. It seems to relieve stress for me. I think it is mostly due to the fact that I know I am getting in some good exercise while only spending about and extra 10 to 15 minutes a day on my commute to and from work(about 5 miles one way.)
4th- Time. I only have to leave my house about 5 minutes earlier to get to work. Some people might not count this as a benefit. I mean it is quicker to hop in your car and take of, but 5 minutes difference to commute to work isn't that much.
For me there is only one real down side, the weather. Although a bike can be ridden in any weather it is not always practical like when it is pouring down rain or there is a lot of ice on the ground. Bad weather can be harmful to you if you aren't careful.
I have been riding my bike to work in the spring and summer months for the last 2 years. I really enjoy it and would like for more people to try it. I will admit that I was a bit sore after the first couple of days even being in good shape physically. The worst part was where my butt and the seat met. So, I also recommend that you find yourself a comfortable seat.
So now all you have to do is find out if the pros outweigh the cons for yourself. If you do decide to start commuting to work on a bike, I recommend that you try the trip on a weekend or day off before trying it on a work day just to make sure you gauge your time correctly. Have fun.
1st- It is great exercise. Riding a bike helps to increase strength, endurance, stamina, and cardiovascular fitness. It is also less stressful on your joints than running or jogging.
2nd- Saving money. I save about $25 a week by riding my bike and not burning gas in my car.
3rd- I always feel great after riding my bike. It seems to relieve stress for me. I think it is mostly due to the fact that I know I am getting in some good exercise while only spending about and extra 10 to 15 minutes a day on my commute to and from work(about 5 miles one way.)
4th- Time. I only have to leave my house about 5 minutes earlier to get to work. Some people might not count this as a benefit. I mean it is quicker to hop in your car and take of, but 5 minutes difference to commute to work isn't that much.
For me there is only one real down side, the weather. Although a bike can be ridden in any weather it is not always practical like when it is pouring down rain or there is a lot of ice on the ground. Bad weather can be harmful to you if you aren't careful.
I have been riding my bike to work in the spring and summer months for the last 2 years. I really enjoy it and would like for more people to try it. I will admit that I was a bit sore after the first couple of days even being in good shape physically. The worst part was where my butt and the seat met. So, I also recommend that you find yourself a comfortable seat.
So now all you have to do is find out if the pros outweigh the cons for yourself. If you do decide to start commuting to work on a bike, I recommend that you try the trip on a weekend or day off before trying it on a work day just to make sure you gauge your time correctly. Have fun.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Bill Snyder, the father of a fallen Marine, was ordered by the Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit Court to pay picketers at his son's funeral. After the funeral in 2006, he filed a claim against the picketers, Westboro Baptist Church from Topeka, Kansas. He was first awarded 5 million dollars by the court, but the Westboro Baptist Church, appealed the decision saying that it is their right to free speech. The Federal Court sided with the church saying that the original ruling was against their First Amendment rights. The new ruling is that Mr. Snyder must pay the Church $16,510 to cover their fees incurred during the first suit and threw out the 5 million dollars previously awarded to the Snyder family. After the appeal
Bill Snyder told Fox News that we would defy the court ruling as long as the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are going on. He is also filing a brief with the Supreme Court to see if the picketers' actions are protected by the First Amendment or limited by privacy and religious rights of the mourners.
Being a veteran myself, I feel this is all wrong. If it is not illegal for picketers to stand outside of military funerals with signs saying things like "God hates Soldiers," it should be. For anyone who agrees with me they can go to matthewsnyder.org and donate to the Snyders to help them fight the Westboro Baptist Church in these law suits. I am personally donating $5 to this cause. I know it doesn't like very much, but if everyone who would like to see them succeed in fighting this CHURCH?? did the same, they would have plenty of money to fund their cause. And if you were wondering what will happen if there is any money left over after the law suits, any money left over is to be used as scholarships for deserving Vets to further their education. Good Luck to Mr. Snyder. I hope everything goes well for him and his family and everyone who the decision of these law suits affect and could affect in the future.
Bill Snyder told Fox News that we would defy the court ruling as long as the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are going on. He is also filing a brief with the Supreme Court to see if the picketers' actions are protected by the First Amendment or limited by privacy and religious rights of the mourners.
Being a veteran myself, I feel this is all wrong. If it is not illegal for picketers to stand outside of military funerals with signs saying things like "God hates Soldiers," it should be. For anyone who agrees with me they can go to matthewsnyder.org and donate to the Snyders to help them fight the Westboro Baptist Church in these law suits. I am personally donating $5 to this cause. I know it doesn't like very much, but if everyone who would like to see them succeed in fighting this CHURCH?? did the same, they would have plenty of money to fund their cause. And if you were wondering what will happen if there is any money left over after the law suits, any money left over is to be used as scholarships for deserving Vets to further their education. Good Luck to Mr. Snyder. I hope everything goes well for him and his family and everyone who the decision of these law suits affect and could affect in the future.
Friday, March 19, 2010
NO MAIL ON SATURDAYS
The USPS has been having a rough time for about the last 5 years. They have seen a decrease in the volume of mail due to technology. With more and more people going green and not receiving paper bills in the mail and making online bill payments, the USPS has taken huge hits. UPS and FedEx have also taken a lot of business away from the Postal Service. So the United States Postal Service is considering not delivering mail on Saturdays to cut costs and help reduce their deficit. They have even asked the Federal Government for help. I am opposed to this for most businesses (like GM). If a business can not stay afloat by itself just let it fail, don't give the rest of us the bill because someone high in management of the company is getting too large of a salary and bonuses.
But the Postal Service is a little different. We need them. If the USPS was to go away completely, who would deliver the mail that we do still receive? UPS or FedEx? At what price? Or would you have to hand deliver your personal greeting cards, Birthday Cards, Wedding Invitations, or Holiday Cards? What about magazine subscriptions? You could always buy your magazines from the News Stand for $3.00 or more.
Or mail delivery could be privatized. That does not seem like a very good idea either. Do you really want just anybody working for minimum wage handling paperwork that could have your personal information in it? I think the 5-day delivery option would be just fine. Besides, that way I might get to see my dad (a rural mail carrier) more often.
But the Postal Service is a little different. We need them. If the USPS was to go away completely, who would deliver the mail that we do still receive? UPS or FedEx? At what price? Or would you have to hand deliver your personal greeting cards, Birthday Cards, Wedding Invitations, or Holiday Cards? What about magazine subscriptions? You could always buy your magazines from the News Stand for $3.00 or more.
Or mail delivery could be privatized. That does not seem like a very good idea either. Do you really want just anybody working for minimum wage handling paperwork that could have your personal information in it? I think the 5-day delivery option would be just fine. Besides, that way I might get to see my dad (a rural mail carrier) more often.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
"MARCH MADNESS"
This is one of my favorite time's of the year. Thursday is the opening day for the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, the beginning of "March Madness." My co-workers and I have an office pool for the tournament every year. It's not a big deal, but it is a lot of fun. Everyone puts in $5 dollars and the winner gets to take home the money and the bragging rights until the following year. The best part is that almost everyone from the managers all the way down to the part-time employees participate.
Another one of the great things about the NCAA tournament is that you don't have to be a fan of a certain team or any team for that matter. Truthfully you don't even have to be a fan of college basketball to fill out a bracket and test you luck in your office pool. There are even sites that can help you decide who to pick if you don't follow college basketball. It is almost like playing the lottery except that your odds of winning are probably better in the office pool.
There are also a lot of free giveaways. All you have to do is get on the websites and enter for your chance to win prizes like $10,000 at both yahoo and espn or a new car at cbsports. Fox sports even gives a chance to win $1,000,000. Good luck to all that decide to play. If you don't win there is always next year.
Another one of the great things about the NCAA tournament is that you don't have to be a fan of a certain team or any team for that matter. Truthfully you don't even have to be a fan of college basketball to fill out a bracket and test you luck in your office pool. There are even sites that can help you decide who to pick if you don't follow college basketball. It is almost like playing the lottery except that your odds of winning are probably better in the office pool.
There are also a lot of free giveaways. All you have to do is get on the websites and enter for your chance to win prizes like $10,000 at both yahoo and espn or a new car at cbsports. Fox sports even gives a chance to win $1,000,000. Good luck to all that decide to play. If you don't win there is always next year.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
KU vs MU Rivalry
Last weekend I watched the Kansas Vs. Missouri basketball game with some friends. It usually turns out to be a great game when these two rivals meet. Their rivalry, known as the Border War, is one of the oldest in college sports dating back to 1891 when they met for the first time in a football game. But this is not the beginning of the Kansas-Missouri rivalry. These two states have been having conflict just before the Civil War. Differences in the their standings on slavery was the start of their conflicts.
Kansas University adopted the name Jayhawks for their sports teams in 1890 when they started their football program. Their team name is in remembrance of their local soldiers from the Civil War known as the Jayhawkers, not for the fictitious half blue jay half hawk. These Jayhawkers were not just local soldiers. They were more like terrorists. They stole cattle, burned houses and farms, and even murdered people throughout Missouri towns in their belief that this would help to free slaves. After several large attacks by the Jayhawkers in the early 1860's a group of border town Missourians called the Bushwhackers raided and burned the entire city of Lawrence to the ground in 1863. Two years later Kansas University was founded in Lawrence.
Missouri University also started their football program in 1890. MU adopted the Tigers as their team name. This name does not refer to the wild jungle cat. It actually represents the Missouri soldiers that stood guard in Columbia after the burning of Lawrence, KS. In the 1860's the Tigers from Missouri where known as the defenders and protectors of Columbia and Missouri University which was established in 1839.
I hope after reading this very brief history lesson you have a new respect for this great rivalry. If not respect, at least a new perspective about this almost 150 year old rivalry between the Jayhawks and Tigers and you know what and who you are representing when you cheer for your team.
Kansas University adopted the name Jayhawks for their sports teams in 1890 when they started their football program. Their team name is in remembrance of their local soldiers from the Civil War known as the Jayhawkers, not for the fictitious half blue jay half hawk. These Jayhawkers were not just local soldiers. They were more like terrorists. They stole cattle, burned houses and farms, and even murdered people throughout Missouri towns in their belief that this would help to free slaves. After several large attacks by the Jayhawkers in the early 1860's a group of border town Missourians called the Bushwhackers raided and burned the entire city of Lawrence to the ground in 1863. Two years later Kansas University was founded in Lawrence.
Missouri University also started their football program in 1890. MU adopted the Tigers as their team name. This name does not refer to the wild jungle cat. It actually represents the Missouri soldiers that stood guard in Columbia after the burning of Lawrence, KS. In the 1860's the Tigers from Missouri where known as the defenders and protectors of Columbia and Missouri University which was established in 1839.
I hope after reading this very brief history lesson you have a new respect for this great rivalry. If not respect, at least a new perspective about this almost 150 year old rivalry between the Jayhawks and Tigers and you know what and who you are representing when you cheer for your team.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Brett
The NFL season has been over for a couple months and we are still waiting to hear from Brett Favre. I was just wondering if he has decided to play another season or if he is going to retire AGAIN. I guess it doesn't really matter if he retires now or not. He might play next season anyway. It wouldn't be the first time, or the second time for that matter. That is another NFL record that Brett Favre owns, even though it isn't talked about much. He has the most retirements and unretirements in NFL history.
His first retirement was from his team of 17 years, the Green Bay Packers, at the end of the 2007 season. He finished the season by throwing an interception against the NY Giants in over time of the NFC Championship game. They were just one game away from the Super Bowl and he still decided to retire. After his first summer as an ex-NFL player, he decided to come back. He wasn't done with football yet. The Packers had already decided on a different quarterback, son Brett ended up playing his 2008 season with the NY Jets.
After playing only one season with the Jets, and with his shoulder requiring surgery, he decided to retire AGAIN. He had the surgery on his shoulder and recovered while enjoying his second summer in a row as an ex-player. But as the 2009 season approached there were several reports that Brett was coming back AGAIN. This time to play for the Minnesota Vikings. At first Brett dismissed the reports as false, but about 2 months later he was, in fact, the quarterback of the Vikings.
Brett had one of his best statistical seasons of his Hall of Fame career with the Vikings last season. But the final game of the season ended on a bad note. It ended with an interception in the NFC Championship, AGAIN. Brett still has not made a decision for the upcoming season. Play or retire, does it really matter what decision he makes now. Everyone knows that he will be back next year. So, I am leaning towards retirement now then unretirement for another season, AGAIN!!
His first retirement was from his team of 17 years, the Green Bay Packers, at the end of the 2007 season. He finished the season by throwing an interception against the NY Giants in over time of the NFC Championship game. They were just one game away from the Super Bowl and he still decided to retire. After his first summer as an ex-NFL player, he decided to come back. He wasn't done with football yet. The Packers had already decided on a different quarterback, son Brett ended up playing his 2008 season with the NY Jets.
After playing only one season with the Jets, and with his shoulder requiring surgery, he decided to retire AGAIN. He had the surgery on his shoulder and recovered while enjoying his second summer in a row as an ex-player. But as the 2009 season approached there were several reports that Brett was coming back AGAIN. This time to play for the Minnesota Vikings. At first Brett dismissed the reports as false, but about 2 months later he was, in fact, the quarterback of the Vikings.
Brett had one of his best statistical seasons of his Hall of Fame career with the Vikings last season. But the final game of the season ended on a bad note. It ended with an interception in the NFC Championship, AGAIN. Brett still has not made a decision for the upcoming season. Play or retire, does it really matter what decision he makes now. Everyone knows that he will be back next year. So, I am leaning towards retirement now then unretirement for another season, AGAIN!!
Friday, March 5, 2010
What Next?
I have had an extremely eventful week. It started on Saturday afternoon when my Internet went down for no apparent reason. I called my Internet provider and they told me that they would have to send a service technician to fix the problem, but there wouldn't be any available until Friday, March 5th (today) to work on it.
Then on Sunday morning my 5 year old son (Alex) woke up with a sore throat, so my wife and I took him to Freeman Urgent Care. After being there for almost 4 hours, we found out that he not only had strep throat, he also had a seasonal flu. Not to big of deal, he just had to take an antibiotic for the next 10 days and stay home from school on Monday.
But this lead into the next complication of the week. My son also had a doctor's appointment on Tuesday at Children's Mercy Hospital (Kansas City) to see a rheumatology (doctor dealing with rheumatoid arthritis) specialist. This appointment was scheduled almost 6 months ago by our family doctor who thought Alex might have juvenile arthritis. We could not reschedule the appointment without having another long wait. The reason this might have been a problem is because the specialist might have had to draw blood labs which the antibiotic could mess up. Fortunately, the specialist found that Alex does not have juvenile arthritis without having to draw labs. It turns out that Alex's problem is that he is more flexible than most people. The extra flexibility in his ankles and arches of his feet are causing extra stress on his knees. This means that all he needs is shoes with good arch supports and for us to stretch the muscles in his legs 3 to 4 times a week. This was a great relief to us because Alex has had trouble with his knees since he was about 2 years old.
But that still isn't all. My mother was giving an irregular heart beat on Monday. So on Tuesday, while my wife, son, and I were at Children's Mercy, my mother was admitted at St. Johns in Joplin. Her situation also turned out better than expected. After arthroscopic surgery, the doctor told her that everything seemed in order. Her heart was healthy and she had little to no buildup in her arteries. Her doctor attributed her problem to an herbal energy supplement (which happens to be on topic with my English paper I finished earlier this week) she had been taking. So, without finding any major complications, my mother was released from the hospital Wednesday afternoon.
So now that my Internet is fixed, everything seems to be back to normal, thus ending one of the most eventful weeks of my life, but still not the most eventful. That is whole completely different story.
Then on Sunday morning my 5 year old son (Alex) woke up with a sore throat, so my wife and I took him to Freeman Urgent Care. After being there for almost 4 hours, we found out that he not only had strep throat, he also had a seasonal flu. Not to big of deal, he just had to take an antibiotic for the next 10 days and stay home from school on Monday.
But this lead into the next complication of the week. My son also had a doctor's appointment on Tuesday at Children's Mercy Hospital (Kansas City) to see a rheumatology (doctor dealing with rheumatoid arthritis) specialist. This appointment was scheduled almost 6 months ago by our family doctor who thought Alex might have juvenile arthritis. We could not reschedule the appointment without having another long wait. The reason this might have been a problem is because the specialist might have had to draw blood labs which the antibiotic could mess up. Fortunately, the specialist found that Alex does not have juvenile arthritis without having to draw labs. It turns out that Alex's problem is that he is more flexible than most people. The extra flexibility in his ankles and arches of his feet are causing extra stress on his knees. This means that all he needs is shoes with good arch supports and for us to stretch the muscles in his legs 3 to 4 times a week. This was a great relief to us because Alex has had trouble with his knees since he was about 2 years old.
But that still isn't all. My mother was giving an irregular heart beat on Monday. So on Tuesday, while my wife, son, and I were at Children's Mercy, my mother was admitted at St. Johns in Joplin. Her situation also turned out better than expected. After arthroscopic surgery, the doctor told her that everything seemed in order. Her heart was healthy and she had little to no buildup in her arteries. Her doctor attributed her problem to an herbal energy supplement (which happens to be on topic with my English paper I finished earlier this week) she had been taking. So, without finding any major complications, my mother was released from the hospital Wednesday afternoon.
So now that my Internet is fixed, everything seems to be back to normal, thus ending one of the most eventful weeks of my life, but still not the most eventful. That is whole completely different story.
Equal Punishment?
Did anyone else hear about the altercation between the Baylor Lady Bears' freshman basketball star, Brittney Griner and Texas Tech's Jordan Barncastle. I heard about it on ESPN this morning. After Barncastle fouled Griner during the game, Griner punched her breaking her nose. Griner was ejected for the rest of the current game and has to sit out the next game as punishment for her acton's. During the post game press conference, Griner said,"I let my emotions get the best of me," and basically went on to say she would never do it again. The Lady Bears' coach, Kim Mulkey gave Griner an additional one game suspension.
Is a 2 game suspension really a harsh enough punishment for Griner's actions? Dan Beebe, the Big 12 Commissioner, seems to think so. He stated, "I have accepted Baylor's action and commend athletics director Ian McCaw and head coach Kim Mulkey for taking a strong stance to support good sportsmanship." I personally don't believe that the punishment was harsh enough, especially after what happened last college football season to an Oregon player in a similar situation.
At the end of the season opening game between the Oregon Ducks and the Boise State Broncos LeGarrette Blount, an Oregon player, punched Byron Hout, on of the Boise State players, in the jaw. Hout provoked the incident by taunting Blount after Boise State had won the game. In a press conference after the game Blount basically gave the same apology that Griner gave yesterday. Oregon's athletic director and coach decided to suspend Blount for the remainder of the season. Their decision was upheld by the NCAA ending the senior running back's college football career, a very harsh punishment.
These two incidents, although very similar, were handled very differently. Their punishments were definitely not equal, but were either of the punishments fair?
Is a 2 game suspension really a harsh enough punishment for Griner's actions? Dan Beebe, the Big 12 Commissioner, seems to think so. He stated, "I have accepted Baylor's action and commend athletics director Ian McCaw and head coach Kim Mulkey for taking a strong stance to support good sportsmanship." I personally don't believe that the punishment was harsh enough, especially after what happened last college football season to an Oregon player in a similar situation.
At the end of the season opening game between the Oregon Ducks and the Boise State Broncos LeGarrette Blount, an Oregon player, punched Byron Hout, on of the Boise State players, in the jaw. Hout provoked the incident by taunting Blount after Boise State had won the game. In a press conference after the game Blount basically gave the same apology that Griner gave yesterday. Oregon's athletic director and coach decided to suspend Blount for the remainder of the season. Their decision was upheld by the NCAA ending the senior running back's college football career, a very harsh punishment.
These two incidents, although very similar, were handled very differently. Their punishments were definitely not equal, but were either of the punishments fair?
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Possible rematch with Canada
The USA Men's Hockey Team won again on Wednesday beating Switzerland 2-0. They already beat the host team Canada last weekend earning a first round bye. Now Team USA is just two wins away from bringing home another Gold Medal.
After beating Canada on Sunday, it looked like there might be a repeat of the 1980 "Miracle on Ice," when an outmatched USA team beat the favored Soviet Union who, at the time, was considered the best team in the world. Both Russia and USA had first round byes but Russia lost on Wednesday to Canada 7-3. So, it now looks like the road to gold leads back to the Canadian team who is again the favorite after beating Russia.
What most people don't realize about the Miracle on Ice of 1980 is that Team USA did not win the Gold Medal after beating the Soviet Union. They also had to beat a very good Finland team. If Team USA was to win Gold this year, it would be the first time since beating Finland for the Gold in 1980. In fact, USA has only won one other medal (Silver in 2002 Winter Olympics) in Hockey.
Good luck Team USA! Bring home another Gold!!!
After beating Canada on Sunday, it looked like there might be a repeat of the 1980 "Miracle on Ice," when an outmatched USA team beat the favored Soviet Union who, at the time, was considered the best team in the world. Both Russia and USA had first round byes but Russia lost on Wednesday to Canada 7-3. So, it now looks like the road to gold leads back to the Canadian team who is again the favorite after beating Russia.
What most people don't realize about the Miracle on Ice of 1980 is that Team USA did not win the Gold Medal after beating the Soviet Union. They also had to beat a very good Finland team. If Team USA was to win Gold this year, it would be the first time since beating Finland for the Gold in 1980. In fact, USA has only won one other medal (Silver in 2002 Winter Olympics) in Hockey.
Good luck Team USA! Bring home another Gold!!!
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Man Vs. Wild
A killer whale killed his trainer at Orlando Sea World Wednesday afternoon. The 12,000 pound killer whale (Tallikum) jumped up and grabbed his female trainer (Dawn Brancheau) by the arm taking her underwater and drowning her. is the largest male at any Sea World. Both the whale and trainer where reported to be veterans at the theme park with the whale being at the theme park since 1992 and the trainer having 16 years of experience.
This event makes me think of another animal attacking his trainer. You all probably remember when Roy of Siegfried and Roy was attacked by a tiger in a show in 2003. He was lucky to be alive after being dragged from the stage by his neck. Both Roy and the tiger were experienced with these shows.
This brings me to the point "a wild animal will always be a wild animal." It is kind of like the story of the Indian boy and the snake. The Indian boy has to climb a snow covered mountain as his right of passage to manhood. As the boy is climbing the mountain he encounters a poisonous snake. The snake asks the Indian to pick him up and carry him to the bottom of the mountain where he can warm up. But the Indian says "you are a snake and you will bite me." The snake promises he will not bite the boy because if he did how would he get to the bottom of the mountain without freezing. After thinking about it the boy decided to take the snake to the bottom of the mountain. He put the snake in his shirt to help keep the snake warm on the trip down. When they got to the bottom of the mountain the boy took the snake from his shirt. As the boy sat the snake down it struck and bit him. The Indian boy, knowing he was going to die after the poisonous bite, asked the snake why it bit him. The snake said "you knew I was a snake when you picked me up."
This isn't the exact meaning of the fable but it still works. These trainers knew what the animals were capable of before choosing their line of work.
This event makes me think of another animal attacking his trainer. You all probably remember when Roy of Siegfried and Roy was attacked by a tiger in a show in 2003. He was lucky to be alive after being dragged from the stage by his neck. Both Roy and the tiger were experienced with these shows.
This brings me to the point "a wild animal will always be a wild animal." It is kind of like the story of the Indian boy and the snake. The Indian boy has to climb a snow covered mountain as his right of passage to manhood. As the boy is climbing the mountain he encounters a poisonous snake. The snake asks the Indian to pick him up and carry him to the bottom of the mountain where he can warm up. But the Indian says "you are a snake and you will bite me." The snake promises he will not bite the boy because if he did how would he get to the bottom of the mountain without freezing. After thinking about it the boy decided to take the snake to the bottom of the mountain. He put the snake in his shirt to help keep the snake warm on the trip down. When they got to the bottom of the mountain the boy took the snake from his shirt. As the boy sat the snake down it struck and bit him. The Indian boy, knowing he was going to die after the poisonous bite, asked the snake why it bit him. The snake said "you knew I was a snake when you picked me up."
This isn't the exact meaning of the fable but it still works. These trainers knew what the animals were capable of before choosing their line of work.
Friday, February 19, 2010
cold weather survival tips
After a couple of beautiful days this last week I have been looking forward to some outdoor recreational activities. Then I saw the weather for this weekend. That's right it is supposed to snow again. This made me think of what I would do if I got stuck out in this kind of weather while camping or hiking or any other outdoor activity. So, I decided to share a few survival tips for inclimate weather. I thought this would be good for anyone who lives in a climate like our region of the world. Being from Missouri we know how quick the weather can change from 50 and sunny to 30 with freezing rain and snow.
First off you should always let someone know where you are going and about when you should be back. It would be a good idea to map out the area before you go and check the forecast for the area. You should also charge your cell phone before you leave your house. If you do have cell phone service where ever you are going it would be a shame not to be able to use it because of a dead battery.
You should always carry a first aid and survival kit in your vehicle even if you aren't planning a trip or recreation. There is no telling when you might need it. In the first aid and survival kit you should include but is not limited to the following
bottled water
matches or a lighter
a blanket
a change of clothes
some food like granola bars or energy bars
a flashlight and extra batteries
a water proof jacket
a utility tool
an assortment of bandages (ace bandages and band aids)
medicine (like benadryl, ibuprofen, and Tylenol)
If you know that the weather might turn cold you should dress in layers and try to avoid cotton clothing. Cotton is the most common fabric for our clothing because of comfort. But, if it gets wet it will hold the water longer than other materials. Wool clothing is the best because of its insulating properties and it does not hold water as like cotton. I have an acronym to make clothing easy to remember.
C- Keep clothing clean. Dirty and oily clothing loose there insulating properties.
O- Avoid overheating. When you overheat you sweat and when you sweat which is the bodies process of cooling itself. It also dampens your clothing which takes away from their insulating properties.
L- Dress loose and in layers. The layers allow you to prevent sweating by taking of or opening a layer of clothing. Loose clothing allows air in the spaces between layers to add insulation. Also dressing in restrictive of tight clothing decreases blood circulation.
D- Keep clothing dry. The easiest way to do this is to wear a water proof outer layer and avoid sweating to keep the inner layers dry.
If you can not leave the area you are in or can not reach your car, it would be beneficial if you could make a shelter or find something to block the wind. Just getting out of the wind will help to keep you warm.
One of the most important aspects of survival in cold weather is to keep a positive attitude. The will to survive can do a lot for a person even if they are not well equipped for the cold weather.
I found a pretty cool quiz about winter survival through Field and Stream if you would like to assess your own understanding of cold weather survival. I hope some of this information can help you if you ever find yourself in a bad situation.
First off you should always let someone know where you are going and about when you should be back. It would be a good idea to map out the area before you go and check the forecast for the area. You should also charge your cell phone before you leave your house. If you do have cell phone service where ever you are going it would be a shame not to be able to use it because of a dead battery.
You should always carry a first aid and survival kit in your vehicle even if you aren't planning a trip or recreation. There is no telling when you might need it. In the first aid and survival kit you should include but is not limited to the following
bottled water
matches or a lighter
a blanket
a change of clothes
some food like granola bars or energy bars
a flashlight and extra batteries
a water proof jacket
a utility tool
an assortment of bandages (ace bandages and band aids)
medicine (like benadryl, ibuprofen, and Tylenol)
If you know that the weather might turn cold you should dress in layers and try to avoid cotton clothing. Cotton is the most common fabric for our clothing because of comfort. But, if it gets wet it will hold the water longer than other materials. Wool clothing is the best because of its insulating properties and it does not hold water as like cotton. I have an acronym to make clothing easy to remember.
C- Keep clothing clean. Dirty and oily clothing loose there insulating properties.
O- Avoid overheating. When you overheat you sweat and when you sweat which is the bodies process of cooling itself. It also dampens your clothing which takes away from their insulating properties.
L- Dress loose and in layers. The layers allow you to prevent sweating by taking of or opening a layer of clothing. Loose clothing allows air in the spaces between layers to add insulation. Also dressing in restrictive of tight clothing decreases blood circulation.
D- Keep clothing dry. The easiest way to do this is to wear a water proof outer layer and avoid sweating to keep the inner layers dry.
If you can not leave the area you are in or can not reach your car, it would be beneficial if you could make a shelter or find something to block the wind. Just getting out of the wind will help to keep you warm.
One of the most important aspects of survival in cold weather is to keep a positive attitude. The will to survive can do a lot for a person even if they are not well equipped for the cold weather.
I found a pretty cool quiz about winter survival through Field and Stream if you would like to assess your own understanding of cold weather survival. I hope some of this information can help you if you ever find yourself in a bad situation.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Big day for U.S. Olympians
Wednesday was one of the greatest days for U.S. in Winter Olympics history. The United States earned 6 medals throughout the course of the day. This included Shaun White, Lindsey Vonn, and Shani Davis all receiving Gold Medals.
One of the most popular U.S. Olympians, Shaun White, dominated his competition in the half pipe last night. He was so good at his event that he had already wrapped up the gold medal before he even made his third and final run. Another U.S. snowboarder Scotty Lego won Bronze in the half pipe. It is amazing to see such a young man win the way he did. He now has two Olympic gold medals at the age of 23 and probably has more to come.
Lindsey Vonn and Julia Mancuso earned gold and silver medals for the United States in the Women's downhill alpine skiing. It was the first time since 1984 that the U.S. finished first and second in this event. Vonn and Mancuso finished just 56 hundredths of a second apart.
U.S. Olympian Shani Davis placed first in men's 1000 meter speed skating with fellow Olympian Chad Hedrick coming in third. With Davis' gold and Hedrick's bronze medals the U.S. won 6 medals.
What could be better for U.S. Olympics than listening to the National Anthem and seeing our Stars and Stripes raised 3 times for 3 different events?
One of the most popular U.S. Olympians, Shaun White, dominated his competition in the half pipe last night. He was so good at his event that he had already wrapped up the gold medal before he even made his third and final run. Another U.S. snowboarder Scotty Lego won Bronze in the half pipe. It is amazing to see such a young man win the way he did. He now has two Olympic gold medals at the age of 23 and probably has more to come.
Lindsey Vonn and Julia Mancuso earned gold and silver medals for the United States in the Women's downhill alpine skiing. It was the first time since 1984 that the U.S. finished first and second in this event. Vonn and Mancuso finished just 56 hundredths of a second apart.
U.S. Olympian Shani Davis placed first in men's 1000 meter speed skating with fellow Olympian Chad Hedrick coming in third. With Davis' gold and Hedrick's bronze medals the U.S. won 6 medals.
What could be better for U.S. Olympics than listening to the National Anthem and seeing our Stars and Stripes raised 3 times for 3 different events?
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Don't Ask, Don't Tell
There has been talk in the last few months of repealing the military Don't Ask, Don't Tell(DADT) policy and to allow open homosexuals to join our U.S. Military. As an Iraqi Veteran and current Army Reserve member I have a strong opinion about this issue.
The Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy basically states that military members should keep their sexual orientation to themselves. It does not say that gays and lesbians can not join the military. They just can't talk about it to others (don't tell). It also states that a soldier's superiors can not investigate someones personal life to find out what their sexual orientation is (don't ask).
I personally feel that there is no place for open homosexuals in our military. Don't get me wrong. I don't have a problem with someone being a homosexual. It is that individuals decision. I just don't want to be unwillingly subjected to it, which will happen if the military DADT policy is abolished. Just the thought of it makes me uncomfortable.
What if a homosexual service member tried to make a move on me while we were in the showers? (by the way, military barracks have community bathrooms) I would probably turn around and punch the guy in the face. Would this be considered self-defense or protecting my personal space? Would I be prosecuted for a Federal Hate Crime because the guy is an open homosexual? Personally, I don't think this should be a problem that I should have to worry about. What if it happened to you? Would you feel comfortable around that soldier? What if you were in a guard tower in Iraq with that soldier? Don't you think that would make you uncomfortable too!!
The Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy basically states that military members should keep their sexual orientation to themselves. It does not say that gays and lesbians can not join the military. They just can't talk about it to others (don't tell). It also states that a soldier's superiors can not investigate someones personal life to find out what their sexual orientation is (don't ask).
I personally feel that there is no place for open homosexuals in our military. Don't get me wrong. I don't have a problem with someone being a homosexual. It is that individuals decision. I just don't want to be unwillingly subjected to it, which will happen if the military DADT policy is abolished. Just the thought of it makes me uncomfortable.
What if a homosexual service member tried to make a move on me while we were in the showers? (by the way, military barracks have community bathrooms) I would probably turn around and punch the guy in the face. Would this be considered self-defense or protecting my personal space? Would I be prosecuted for a Federal Hate Crime because the guy is an open homosexual? Personally, I don't think this should be a problem that I should have to worry about. What if it happened to you? Would you feel comfortable around that soldier? What if you were in a guard tower in Iraq with that soldier? Don't you think that would make you uncomfortable too!!
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
City of Joplin pay raise
Has anyone else seen or herd about Joplin City Counsil approving a 3 percent raise for City of Joplin employees? Sure, most of them probally do deserve a raise. But, is this the right time to give one? Where does the City of Joplins money come from anyway? Oh, that's right. It is part of my our tax money. So, everyone who makes a purchase in Joplin will be paying for more sales tax to acommidate for their raise.
According to the article in yesterdays Joplin Globe the 3 percent raise will cost Joplin shoppers around $800,000. There are a lot of people looking for jobs right now after being laid off this past year. There are probably going to be more in the year to come. So, how do these public servants feel justified asking for more of their money. Maybe I should talk to the company I work for (a wholesale company that sells a lot of products to the City of Joplin) into charging the city more money so that I can get a raise and get some of my tax money back.
According to the article in yesterdays Joplin Globe the 3 percent raise will cost Joplin shoppers around $800,000. There are a lot of people looking for jobs right now after being laid off this past year. There are probably going to be more in the year to come. So, how do these public servants feel justified asking for more of their money. Maybe I should talk to the company I work for (a wholesale company that sells a lot of products to the City of Joplin) into charging the city more money so that I can get a raise and get some of my tax money back.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Haiti Relief Fund Fraud
I have read several stories about how fraudulent websites had been set up within hours of the catastrophic earthquakes in Haiti. I do not understand why these scammers feel the need to rob from someone who is willing to help others in need. Do they have no moral compass? Are they just trying to make a few quick bucks?
Scammers have tried everything from fraudulent websites and messages sent using social networking sites to going door to door and asking for donations. A man going door-to-door in Michigan was arrested by the FBI. He was impersonating an FBI Agent and asking for monetary donations for the Haitian children.
Please be aware of scammers if you have donated or are planning to donate to Haitian relief or any other charities. I found a site on how to avoid these scams. I think the most important tips are to donate to well established organizations and don't donate directly to an individual. If you suspect fraud, you can also call the National Disaster Fraud Hotline given in USA Today. If you don't want to check it out the number is 1-866-720-5721.
If any of these criminals are caught, I think they should be made to serve time helping in the Haiti relief efforts and/or other disaster sites. It would be better for them to be made to help others than for them to sit in prison and be served.
Scammers have tried everything from fraudulent websites and messages sent using social networking sites to going door to door and asking for donations. A man going door-to-door in Michigan was arrested by the FBI. He was impersonating an FBI Agent and asking for monetary donations for the Haitian children.
Please be aware of scammers if you have donated or are planning to donate to Haitian relief or any other charities. I found a site on how to avoid these scams. I think the most important tips are to donate to well established organizations and don't donate directly to an individual. If you suspect fraud, you can also call the National Disaster Fraud Hotline given in USA Today. If you don't want to check it out the number is 1-866-720-5721.
If any of these criminals are caught, I think they should be made to serve time helping in the Haiti relief efforts and/or other disaster sites. It would be better for them to be made to help others than for them to sit in prison and be served.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
KURT WARNER
Kurt Warner announced his retirement from the NFL last Friday at age 38. His retirement marks the end of a storybook career.
In his 12 seasons in the NFL he was selected to 5 Pro Bowls, won 2 NFL MVP Awards, appeared in 3 Super Bowls, and won one Super Bowl MVP. He did all of this and wasn't even drafted.
Kurt Warner played college football at University of Northern Iowa. He did not get to play until his senior year. When he Finally got the chance to play, he became his conference's offensive player of the year.
After college, he was signed by the Green Bay Packers in 1994, but was released before the season started. After being released he went back to Iowa. While waiting to get another chance at the NFL he worked at a Hy-Vee grocery store stocking shelves. Kurt then joined the Arena Football League. He played in the AFL, from 1995 to 1997, before getting another chance in the NFL. While in the AFL, he was named First-team All-Arena twice. He took his team, the Iowa Barnstorm, to the Arena Bowl both years.
Kurt Warner finally reached the NFL in 1998 when he was signed by the St. Louis Rams. The Rams sent him to NFL Europe ,where he led the league in passing touchdowns and passing yards, before returning to the U.S. for the 98 season. He did not get to start for the Rams until 1999. After getting a chance to start, he became a star. He took the Rams to two Super Bowls winning one of them. After getting injured and having turnover problems the Rams released him in 2003. He then played sparingly for New York Giants in 2004.
In 2005 he was signed with the Arizona Cardinals to be a back-up for Heisman Trophy Winner Matt Leinart. He once again became the star of an NFL team when Matt Leinart didn't work out as the Cardinals had planned. He was able to take another team to the Super Bowl. His team's loss in the 2009 Playoffs brought his NFL career to a close.
In his 12 seasons in the NFL he was selected to 5 Pro Bowls, won 2 NFL MVP Awards, appeared in 3 Super Bowls, and won one Super Bowl MVP. He did all of this and wasn't even drafted.
Kurt Warner played college football at University of Northern Iowa. He did not get to play until his senior year. When he Finally got the chance to play, he became his conference's offensive player of the year.
After college, he was signed by the Green Bay Packers in 1994, but was released before the season started. After being released he went back to Iowa. While waiting to get another chance at the NFL he worked at a Hy-Vee grocery store stocking shelves. Kurt then joined the Arena Football League. He played in the AFL, from 1995 to 1997, before getting another chance in the NFL. While in the AFL, he was named First-team All-Arena twice. He took his team, the Iowa Barnstorm, to the Arena Bowl both years.
Kurt Warner finally reached the NFL in 1998 when he was signed by the St. Louis Rams. The Rams sent him to NFL Europe ,where he led the league in passing touchdowns and passing yards, before returning to the U.S. for the 98 season. He did not get to start for the Rams until 1999. After getting a chance to start, he became a star. He took the Rams to two Super Bowls winning one of them. After getting injured and having turnover problems the Rams released him in 2003. He then played sparingly for New York Giants in 2004.
In 2005 he was signed with the Arizona Cardinals to be a back-up for Heisman Trophy Winner Matt Leinart. He once again became the star of an NFL team when Matt Leinart didn't work out as the Cardinals had planned. He was able to take another team to the Super Bowl. His team's loss in the 2009 Playoffs brought his NFL career to a close.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
How to be a winner
How old do children need to be to learn how to win and lose? How old are they when they learn right from wrong? My three year-old daughter knows right from wrong. If she didn't why would she hide when she fills her diaper.
I was an assistant coach for my son's Pre-k T-ball with the Joplin Family YMCA team last Spring. I also coached his Basketball team the winter before. The Joplin Family YMCA does not keep score. Truthfully the don't even play by the rules. In basketball the children are allowed to run up and down the floor without dribbleing. The only thing about them playing that is like basketball is that they throw the ball through the basket. T-ball there are no outs. The children run to first base and stop unless they are the last batter. Then their hit is automatically a homerun. This is not basketball or T-ball. Why is it that they can not play by the rules, we can't keep score?
Is it that the YMCA doesn't want any children to feel bad about losing a game? If this is the case, they should not be playing. It is a game. It is meant to be fun. Children will play and have fun wether the win or lose. They are going to get snack at the end of the game anyway. We might as well teach our children about winning and losing early in life. They have to learn sometime that you can't win every game. Ask anyone no one wins every game. Michael Jordan didn't win every basketball game. He definitely didn't win every baseball game.
Is it that children don't understand winning and losing? That is incorrect. I know from listening to the children my son played with. At every game they talked about how their team was going to win. Sure, everyone wants to win. It is not possible for everyone to win. If that was the case there would be no Super Bowl, World Series, NBA Championship, Stanley Cup, World Cup, no gold medals at the Olympics, and probably no Olympics at all.
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
I was an assistant coach for my son's Pre-k T-ball with the Joplin Family YMCA team last Spring. I also coached his Basketball team the winter before. The Joplin Family YMCA does not keep score. Truthfully the don't even play by the rules. In basketball the children are allowed to run up and down the floor without dribbleing. The only thing about them playing that is like basketball is that they throw the ball through the basket. T-ball there are no outs. The children run to first base and stop unless they are the last batter. Then their hit is automatically a homerun. This is not basketball or T-ball. Why is it that they can not play by the rules, we can't keep score?
Is it that the YMCA doesn't want any children to feel bad about losing a game? If this is the case, they should not be playing. It is a game. It is meant to be fun. Children will play and have fun wether the win or lose. They are going to get snack at the end of the game anyway. We might as well teach our children about winning and losing early in life. They have to learn sometime that you can't win every game. Ask anyone no one wins every game. Michael Jordan didn't win every basketball game. He definitely didn't win every baseball game.
Is it that children don't understand winning and losing? That is incorrect. I know from listening to the children my son played with. At every game they talked about how their team was going to win. Sure, everyone wants to win. It is not possible for everyone to win. If that was the case there would be no Super Bowl, World Series, NBA Championship, Stanley Cup, World Cup, no gold medals at the Olympics, and probably no Olympics at all.
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Tim Tebow Superbowl Ad
I have recently read several articles about Tim Tebow's controversial anti-abortion ad set to air on CBS during the Super Bowl. The ad talks about Tebow winning the Heisman Trophy as a Sophomore and helping his team, the Florida Gators, win two National Titles in three years, and how none of his accomplishments would have happened if it wasn't for a decision his mother, Pam, made.
Pam, while pregnant, contracted amoebic dysentery on a missionary trip in the Philippines with her husband. Doctors told her the disease and medicines used to treat it threatened the fetus and advised her to abort it. She decided to go against the doctors' advice. She gave birth to Tim Tebow.
The christian group Focus on the Family is sponsoring the ad. Focus on the Family paid almost 2.5 million to air the ad during the Super Bowl. They said that the theme of the ad is "Celebrate family, celebrate life." Tebow is participating in the Focus on the Family ad because of his mother's decision.
When asked Tim Tebow said "I know some people won't agree with it. But I think they can at least respect that I stand up for what I believe. I've always been very convicted of (his views on abortion) because that's why I'm here, because mom was a very courageous woman."
There are several women's groups already calling for CBS not to air the ad. Erin Matson the Action Vice President of the National Organization for Women said "the ad is frankly offensive. It is hate masquerading as love. It sends a message that abortion is always a mistake."
Gary Schneeberger, a spokesman for Focus on the Family told ABC news "there is nothing political or controversial about the spot. It's a personal story about the love between a mother and a son."
I personally believe that the ad should be aired controversial or not. Focus on the Family paid for the air time. As long as it is acceptable for network television, I have no problem with any ad being aired at any time.
Pam, while pregnant, contracted amoebic dysentery on a missionary trip in the Philippines with her husband. Doctors told her the disease and medicines used to treat it threatened the fetus and advised her to abort it. She decided to go against the doctors' advice. She gave birth to Tim Tebow.
The christian group Focus on the Family is sponsoring the ad. Focus on the Family paid almost 2.5 million to air the ad during the Super Bowl. They said that the theme of the ad is "Celebrate family, celebrate life." Tebow is participating in the Focus on the Family ad because of his mother's decision.
When asked Tim Tebow said "I know some people won't agree with it. But I think they can at least respect that I stand up for what I believe. I've always been very convicted of (his views on abortion) because that's why I'm here, because mom was a very courageous woman."
There are several women's groups already calling for CBS not to air the ad. Erin Matson the Action Vice President of the National Organization for Women said "the ad is frankly offensive. It is hate masquerading as love. It sends a message that abortion is always a mistake."
Gary Schneeberger, a spokesman for Focus on the Family told ABC news "there is nothing political or controversial about the spot. It's a personal story about the love between a mother and a son."
I personally believe that the ad should be aired controversial or not. Focus on the Family paid for the air time. As long as it is acceptable for network television, I have no problem with any ad being aired at any time.
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