Well, it seems that the GOP has their mind set on crushing the same document they like to use as a shield. In a ridiculous move to "take America back" and to "make America what it once was", you know, an empirical nation of whites, the Republicans have made it their mission to make changes to the Constitution. And on a personal note, it makes me sick to my stomach that someone who I once that was intelligent and wouldn't side with his parties crazy fanatical policies is leading the charge. But I guess once your as old as John McCain, and you are fighting for your career, because ALL politicians serve their own ego, not the people, you do what you have to.
But lets take a look at what Washington wants to do with the cornerstone of America:
Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness: Thanks to the overturn of Prop 8, gay and lesbian couples are allowed to marry. This should be a moment of celebration across the country as we show that America truly believes in equality no matter what your race, color, creed, religion or sexual orientation is. However, many Republicans are afraid this is going to have an effect on "traditional marriage".
A woman for an organization for concerned women, told MSNBC's Chris Matthews that they are now teaching about homosexuality in schools to kindergartners. And that this takes away from their punch line of "traditional marriages" because children should grow up with one mother and one father. Well, since 50% of our heterosexual, traditional marriages end in a divorce, where if that one mommy and one daddy get remarried you get step parents, which mean a possible nother set of mommy's and daddy's. So are those who oppose gay marriage saying that step-parents fall into that category of "traditional marriages? And if they are worried about them teaching about different family dynamics, where would they have been during the Scopes Monkey Trial?
Keith Olbermann made a very valid argument in his show earlier this week. As of the 1960's, only 50 years ago, some 17 states had a law against Blacks and Whites getting married. And in the 1800's it was illegal for Blacks to get married all together because they were still viewed as slaves, and property, unable to unite in the bonds of love. That is the America the GOP wants us to get back to, where real, living, breathing, loving people don't count as much as the majority. Democracy only works when ALL people have a voice to be heard, not just the majority.
First Amendment: Well, we've already seen what Sarah Palin and her tea party cronies fall on this belief. They believe that you should have the right to believe in God, but only the god that they worship. They want to stop the building of a mosque near Ground Zero in New York, because that's the way the founding fathers imagined Freedom of Religion.
I actually found myself agreeing with Mayor Patterson when he said that denying this group of Muslims their God given, Constitutionally protected right to building a house of worship on private property is doing the terrorist job for them. It's showing them that what they think of America is right. And that is not the America our soldiers fight for.
Second Amendment: I like that through out all the overhaul the GOP wants, this is the one that they believe shouldn't be touched. They are so concerned about the outdatedness of the First and Fourteenth Amendments that they fail to realize that at no time could our founding fathers imagine an assault rifle with the ability to take out a British Militia within a minute. I'm pretty sure that those weren't the arms they wanted to grant us the right to bare. But the GOP is doing a stellar job raising fears that at anytime now Obama is going to bust down the doors of citizens and steal their guns.
Miranda Rights: While this is not technically a Constitutional right, the Supreme Court has issued that the suspects Miranda rights aren't as important as they were six months ago. Yes, you have the right to an attorney, but they don't have to provide you with one in a timely manor, so break the law and stew. In actuality, you don't even have to break the law, you just have to fit the description of a criminal, which in Arizona means anyone darker than Conan O'Brian.
Twelfth Amendment: I do think, of all the amendments that Congress sits around and considers messing with, this almost 200 year old one needs to be redone. The electoral college doesn't allow us to be a true republic.
Fourteenth Amendment: I'm unsure whether it was Mitch McConnell, the moron from Kentucky, or Old Man McCain, but a major reason they are opposing this and wanting to change it is because, they believe its out of date and that the founding fathers never thought about "Brazilians flying to America and having children", because lately there has been such a large migration of pregnant Brazilians flying into America. This new argument is made up solely of racist propaganda. While we offer political asylum to Cubans trying to escape Communism, or pushing to make Puerto Rico the 51st state, we don't want Mexicans in this country stealing our jobs, women and goods and replacing them with drugs and violence.
If the GOP, or any party for that matter, want to get America back to some sort of mythical ideal they think they have of a country that has consistently committed atrocities against anyone who doesn't look like our "founders", then they need to open up their eyes. If they want America to get back to being the strongest, most powerful and influential country in the world, we need to adhere to those principles that got us there. Instead of arguing about "entitlement programs" and how they help the poor get what they want and how its a redistribution of wealth, consider this. The worst entitlement program we have is programmed into the citizens of this country at birth. It's the belief that we will get whatever we want without putting in the work because we were born here. We are the land of opportunity because we used to believe that if you worked hard, you actually earned your money.
Now we live in a society that worships socialites who make money partying and living in bathing suits, and the only time they are photographed outside that setting is in time to release their latest sex tape. Yet we want to condemn those who believe in this country so much they are willing to risk their lives for a dream. How many of you can honestly say that in your lifetime you ever felt that way about anything? Yes, times are tough right now, and unemployment is at a ridiculous high that President Obama had promised it wouldn't get to, but there are still jobs out there, its just a matter of swallowing your pride and getting one.
If we ever have any REAL dreams of making this country great again, we need to be all in, and together. We cannot, EVER, EVER deny anyone their freedoms or rights based on their race or sexual orientation, because then we are not a truly free country. America's greatest strength comes from its fundamental belief that everyone is created equal. And even if that very fundamental belief took hundred of years to finally include minorities, women and now homosexuals, it is still self-evident.
Mancow Mueller, a right leaning radio personality, consistently says on his show that "fear" is the four letter word that controls the masses, and he is very right. Whether its fear by one side of the isle or the other, we can't let fear dictate how we live our lives. If you fear allowing gays to marry or serve openly in the military may lead to turning your child gay, you need to consider that maybe your smothering him will, or maybe it will open his/hers eyes to the wonder that is diversity. If you're afraid that the scary Mexicans are going to take your job, maybe you should spend a day watching them work in 102 degree heat, working construction. Personal growth and intelligence only comes from your ability to go outside your comfort zones and learn from those who are willing to teach you something new. Take a chance, and live a little.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
We are now on Facebook
Sorry we've been away for so long, but we'll be back soon. In the meantime, why not "like" us on facebook?!
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Kentucky Derby 136 Preview
So last year, although mathematically Mine That Bird did well, we didn't pick him and he went on to win the Derby under Calvin Borel. This year's Derby is calling for the same type of weather as last year, so the inside of the track is where you want to be, which is good for defending Derby jockey Calvin Bo"rail" and his horse Super Saver. But we have a new mathematical system, again, no promises because the race is ran on dirt, not paper.
Sidney's Candy (5-1) Post: 20 Jockey: Joel Talamo
This sweet little dessert is the leader mathematically and is among the early favorites. Winner of all three graded races he entered in California this year, with Talamo aboard and he should be a shoe-in. The issue arises with his position in the far end gate. He's a fast horse, winning all three wire to wire and will need that speed to get ahead of a fast field. Even better, he's beaten 4 of the Derby contenders, including morning line favorite Lookin At Lucky. The other issue comes in the fact that he's never raced in a field this big, which may explain the outside post position. But, its hard to win a Derby from the 20 gate. All his wins have come from the inside gates.
Stately Victor (30-1) Post: 6 Jockey: Alan Garcia
The second best mathematical horse already through a monkey wrench in all reasoning. The only graded win for this long shot was at the Bluegrass Stakes in Keeneland earlier this month, and that too was as a long shot (40-1). But he did beat 3 Derby contenders under Garcia. Of course, the Bluegrass was less than 10 horses deep, and Stately Victor is a stalking horse and may have a problem keeping pace.
Line of David (30-1) Post: 5 Jockey: Rafael Bejarano
Similar to Stately Victor, Line of David has only won one graded race this year, and that was the Arkansas Derby at a solid 17-1. The plus side maybe that Bejarano has ridden several of the other Derby contenders and may know their habits a bit, helping him pace his horse. He's got a solid gate for this fast horse who maybe among those pushing the pace.
Paddy O'Prado (20-1) Post: 10 Jockey: Kent Desormeaux
Now if there is anyone who want to get back on the winning side of the Derby, it's Kent Desormeaux. And if we were picking off based on jockeys, he may be our pick. His horse is an interesting dilemma, which shows that horse racing odds are like the stock market and you can't really trust them since Paddy O'Prado is at 20-1 while the horse that beat him at the Bluegrass is 30-1. But, Desormeaux's on a fast horse and if he gets a window, it maybe curtains for the rest of the field.
Lookin At Lucky (3-1) Post: 1 Jockey: Garrett Gomez
This horse is the morning line favorite but may run into some issues during the Derby. While the rail is where the dirt will be at its best if its raining or sloppy, the one gate is not where you want to be. 19 other horses are going to want to get to the rail. Lookin At Lucky has stalker speed for this field and could be dangerous, but he could also find himself caught up in traffic unable to make a move.
Super Saver (15-1) Post: 4 Jockey: Calvin Borel
The favorite son of Churchill Downs, Calvin Borel started this year off well winning 5 races on opening day at the Downs. He's got a fast horse that likes to stay up front, which will give Borel a shot at the rail when he needs it. This horse is one of our favorites to win it, and at 15-1, is a nice bet on any trifecta. Look for this horse to make an early move and cause some others to make different choices of where they want to go.
Jackson Bend (15-1) Post: 13 Jockey: Mike Smith
If you're looking for someone we haven't seen in the winners circle, this is your bet. Jackson Bend has been our favorite since Sunday when Eskendereya scratched. Jackson Bend finished behind the ex-favorite twice, so if Eskendereya was anything remotely close to the dominate horse everyone said he was, Jackson Bend should have a great shot at the roses. He'll should find himself in the upper half of the field for most of the race, and has perfect stalking speed to make a stretch run at the leaders. Look for this horse to stay in the top 4 or 5. But, be careful, this will be Smith's first graded race riding Jackson Bend.
Dublin (12-1) Post: 17 Jockey: Terry Thompson
Nothing about this horse really stands out and says winner. He's a slow horse who only really ran with the leaders in Arkansas and finished third there. He has seen a good majority these horses before, to varying degree of success. And the outside gate is not really his thing, but may help him with his slow start.
Discreetly Mine (30-1) Post: 15 Jockey: Javier Castellano
I think Discreetly Mine will be a good horse to watch, but in the long run will be a heart breaker. He's ran well, and likes the front of the pack, which is good, but he strikes me as the type that will get around the final turn and just not have it in him. He hasn't really beaten or seen too many of the contenders, which in normal, but the ones he seen were equally less impressive.
Noble's Promise (12-1) Post: 3 Jockey:TBA
Noble's Promise has faced his fare share of Derby contenders, especially Lookin At Lucky, unable to beat him in three attempts. In his defense, he's finished right behind him in all three, and all three have had a large group, but after a bad showing at the Arkansas Derby, Noble's Promise is going to have to have a really good day in the slop. The 3 post might be good for him though as he can keep an eye on both the leaders and Lookin At Lucky.
Mission Impazible (20-1) Post: 14 Jockey: TBA
Mission Impazible may be right for this horse. Winner of the Louisiana Derby, he did face one of the bigger fields of not only any horse in the race, but any winner. But last time he was on the outside, he finished 4th. His problem comes in the fact that this is going to be a fast field, and he doesn't have the speed to stay up with some of the quicker horses.
Make Music For Me (50-1) Post: 9 Jockey: TBA
And so starts some of the longer shots in the Derby. This one maybe the longest of them all when its all said and done. He hasn't raced a graded race since last year, and in that race he spent most of his time in seventh out of seven before making a run and finishing third. This is a much bigger field, with much faster horses.
Back Talk (50-1) Post: 18 Jockey: Miguel Mena
Thanks to some last minute scratches by Interactif and Endorsement, Back Talk was able to make the field of 20. That being said, this is a long shot of a horse who likes the middle of the pack but coming from the 18th post will make it especially hard on him to make any noise.
Conveyance (12-1) Post: 12 Jockey: TBA
This horse may be more a victim of a non-scientific mathematical system than a bad horse. He's fast and like to be up front which will be needed, because I've beaten the fact that this is going to be a fast Derby into the ground. His odds are good, he's a proven winner, finishing no worse than 2nd. Yeah, he hasn't beaten anyone impressive, and the fields have been small, and yeah, he's coming off the 12 gate, but that may not be bad. This horse should sneak in on a trifecta if you're looking for a third horse to add on.
American Lion (30-1) Post: 7 Jockey: TBA
Another horse where you can't really find a reason why he can't win the Derby, but in the same research you can't find why he should. He falls into the mold, a fast horse who like it up front, has a solid gate that may actually work against him since they'll all come crashing in on the 7-8-9 horses. He's ran in some nice size races and done well including a wire to wire win in Illinois. Could be worth the risk, especially at 30-1.
Homeboykris (50-1) Post: 19 Jockey: TBA
We'll ignore the fact that his trainer has skirted the rules before, although that stops me from putting $2 down if he ends up being the longest of long shots. He's finished fifth in both of his graded stakes this year and is just not impressive enough to win the Derby. The one thing that this horse does have is the possibility to be the pace horse early on. In both of his races, he's ran second coming down the stretch before being over taken by the field to fall into fifth.
Awesome Act (10-1) Post: 16 Jockey: Julien Leparoux
This horse does live up to its odds, and shows well in races, but they've all been smaller fields. The downside is that he hasn't beaten anyone really worth it. He's also a slower horse who may be hurt by the pace.
Ice Box (10-1) Post: 2 Jockey:TBA
Ice Box runs like one. He's a slow moving horse that stays in the back of the pack before he makes a move down the stretch. And while that may work even in 11 horse fields, he's going to have to get around 8 more horses if that's his m.o. for the Derby. Watch him make a move around the 3/4 pole to push the front, but it will depend on where everyone else is before that. He may have a late push, but if other horses have crossed the line before then, it's all for not. he may have an adverse affect on those around him right out of the gate.
Dean's Kitten (50-1) Post: 8 Jockey: TBA
This little cat is a long shot for a reason. Although he won the Lanes End, he hasn't really beaten anyone, and in fact has lost to two contenders in the Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf race last year. He's one of the slower horses in the field and doesn't have the speed necessary to make any waves in the Derby. But hey, its nice just to be nominated.
Devil May Care (10-1) Post: 11 Jockey: TBA
With the way the ladies dominated horse racing last year it makes some sense to enter this little filly in the Derby, but it really wasn't a bright idea. She hasn't dominated the female circuit like Rachael Alexandria or Zenyatta did last year. And I understand that if she blew them all away on Oaks, it would be a what-if, but they'll end up saying, why? The plus side for her, if there is one, is the 11 post will help her shape the race early on, and may be the closes she gets to the front all day.
Try this trifecta on for size: Jackson Bend, Super Saver and Conveyance. Good luck!
Sidney's Candy (5-1) Post: 20 Jockey: Joel Talamo
This sweet little dessert is the leader mathematically and is among the early favorites. Winner of all three graded races he entered in California this year, with Talamo aboard and he should be a shoe-in. The issue arises with his position in the far end gate. He's a fast horse, winning all three wire to wire and will need that speed to get ahead of a fast field. Even better, he's beaten 4 of the Derby contenders, including morning line favorite Lookin At Lucky. The other issue comes in the fact that he's never raced in a field this big, which may explain the outside post position. But, its hard to win a Derby from the 20 gate. All his wins have come from the inside gates.
Stately Victor (30-1) Post: 6 Jockey: Alan Garcia
The second best mathematical horse already through a monkey wrench in all reasoning. The only graded win for this long shot was at the Bluegrass Stakes in Keeneland earlier this month, and that too was as a long shot (40-1). But he did beat 3 Derby contenders under Garcia. Of course, the Bluegrass was less than 10 horses deep, and Stately Victor is a stalking horse and may have a problem keeping pace.
Line of David (30-1) Post: 5 Jockey: Rafael Bejarano
Similar to Stately Victor, Line of David has only won one graded race this year, and that was the Arkansas Derby at a solid 17-1. The plus side maybe that Bejarano has ridden several of the other Derby contenders and may know their habits a bit, helping him pace his horse. He's got a solid gate for this fast horse who maybe among those pushing the pace.
Paddy O'Prado (20-1) Post: 10 Jockey: Kent Desormeaux
Now if there is anyone who want to get back on the winning side of the Derby, it's Kent Desormeaux. And if we were picking off based on jockeys, he may be our pick. His horse is an interesting dilemma, which shows that horse racing odds are like the stock market and you can't really trust them since Paddy O'Prado is at 20-1 while the horse that beat him at the Bluegrass is 30-1. But, Desormeaux's on a fast horse and if he gets a window, it maybe curtains for the rest of the field.
Lookin At Lucky (3-1) Post: 1 Jockey: Garrett Gomez
This horse is the morning line favorite but may run into some issues during the Derby. While the rail is where the dirt will be at its best if its raining or sloppy, the one gate is not where you want to be. 19 other horses are going to want to get to the rail. Lookin At Lucky has stalker speed for this field and could be dangerous, but he could also find himself caught up in traffic unable to make a move.
Super Saver (15-1) Post: 4 Jockey: Calvin Borel
The favorite son of Churchill Downs, Calvin Borel started this year off well winning 5 races on opening day at the Downs. He's got a fast horse that likes to stay up front, which will give Borel a shot at the rail when he needs it. This horse is one of our favorites to win it, and at 15-1, is a nice bet on any trifecta. Look for this horse to make an early move and cause some others to make different choices of where they want to go.
Jackson Bend (15-1) Post: 13 Jockey: Mike Smith
If you're looking for someone we haven't seen in the winners circle, this is your bet. Jackson Bend has been our favorite since Sunday when Eskendereya scratched. Jackson Bend finished behind the ex-favorite twice, so if Eskendereya was anything remotely close to the dominate horse everyone said he was, Jackson Bend should have a great shot at the roses. He'll should find himself in the upper half of the field for most of the race, and has perfect stalking speed to make a stretch run at the leaders. Look for this horse to stay in the top 4 or 5. But, be careful, this will be Smith's first graded race riding Jackson Bend.
Dublin (12-1) Post: 17 Jockey: Terry Thompson
Nothing about this horse really stands out and says winner. He's a slow horse who only really ran with the leaders in Arkansas and finished third there. He has seen a good majority these horses before, to varying degree of success. And the outside gate is not really his thing, but may help him with his slow start.
Discreetly Mine (30-1) Post: 15 Jockey: Javier Castellano
I think Discreetly Mine will be a good horse to watch, but in the long run will be a heart breaker. He's ran well, and likes the front of the pack, which is good, but he strikes me as the type that will get around the final turn and just not have it in him. He hasn't really beaten or seen too many of the contenders, which in normal, but the ones he seen were equally less impressive.
Noble's Promise (12-1) Post: 3 Jockey:TBA
Noble's Promise has faced his fare share of Derby contenders, especially Lookin At Lucky, unable to beat him in three attempts. In his defense, he's finished right behind him in all three, and all three have had a large group, but after a bad showing at the Arkansas Derby, Noble's Promise is going to have to have a really good day in the slop. The 3 post might be good for him though as he can keep an eye on both the leaders and Lookin At Lucky.
Mission Impazible (20-1) Post: 14 Jockey: TBA
Mission Impazible may be right for this horse. Winner of the Louisiana Derby, he did face one of the bigger fields of not only any horse in the race, but any winner. But last time he was on the outside, he finished 4th. His problem comes in the fact that this is going to be a fast field, and he doesn't have the speed to stay up with some of the quicker horses.
Make Music For Me (50-1) Post: 9 Jockey: TBA
And so starts some of the longer shots in the Derby. This one maybe the longest of them all when its all said and done. He hasn't raced a graded race since last year, and in that race he spent most of his time in seventh out of seven before making a run and finishing third. This is a much bigger field, with much faster horses.
Back Talk (50-1) Post: 18 Jockey: Miguel Mena
Thanks to some last minute scratches by Interactif and Endorsement, Back Talk was able to make the field of 20. That being said, this is a long shot of a horse who likes the middle of the pack but coming from the 18th post will make it especially hard on him to make any noise.
Conveyance (12-1) Post: 12 Jockey: TBA
This horse may be more a victim of a non-scientific mathematical system than a bad horse. He's fast and like to be up front which will be needed, because I've beaten the fact that this is going to be a fast Derby into the ground. His odds are good, he's a proven winner, finishing no worse than 2nd. Yeah, he hasn't beaten anyone impressive, and the fields have been small, and yeah, he's coming off the 12 gate, but that may not be bad. This horse should sneak in on a trifecta if you're looking for a third horse to add on.
American Lion (30-1) Post: 7 Jockey: TBA
Another horse where you can't really find a reason why he can't win the Derby, but in the same research you can't find why he should. He falls into the mold, a fast horse who like it up front, has a solid gate that may actually work against him since they'll all come crashing in on the 7-8-9 horses. He's ran in some nice size races and done well including a wire to wire win in Illinois. Could be worth the risk, especially at 30-1.
Homeboykris (50-1) Post: 19 Jockey: TBA
We'll ignore the fact that his trainer has skirted the rules before, although that stops me from putting $2 down if he ends up being the longest of long shots. He's finished fifth in both of his graded stakes this year and is just not impressive enough to win the Derby. The one thing that this horse does have is the possibility to be the pace horse early on. In both of his races, he's ran second coming down the stretch before being over taken by the field to fall into fifth.
Awesome Act (10-1) Post: 16 Jockey: Julien Leparoux
This horse does live up to its odds, and shows well in races, but they've all been smaller fields. The downside is that he hasn't beaten anyone really worth it. He's also a slower horse who may be hurt by the pace.
Ice Box (10-1) Post: 2 Jockey:TBA
Ice Box runs like one. He's a slow moving horse that stays in the back of the pack before he makes a move down the stretch. And while that may work even in 11 horse fields, he's going to have to get around 8 more horses if that's his m.o. for the Derby. Watch him make a move around the 3/4 pole to push the front, but it will depend on where everyone else is before that. He may have a late push, but if other horses have crossed the line before then, it's all for not. he may have an adverse affect on those around him right out of the gate.
Dean's Kitten (50-1) Post: 8 Jockey: TBA
This little cat is a long shot for a reason. Although he won the Lanes End, he hasn't really beaten anyone, and in fact has lost to two contenders in the Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf race last year. He's one of the slower horses in the field and doesn't have the speed necessary to make any waves in the Derby. But hey, its nice just to be nominated.
Devil May Care (10-1) Post: 11 Jockey: TBA
With the way the ladies dominated horse racing last year it makes some sense to enter this little filly in the Derby, but it really wasn't a bright idea. She hasn't dominated the female circuit like Rachael Alexandria or Zenyatta did last year. And I understand that if she blew them all away on Oaks, it would be a what-if, but they'll end up saying, why? The plus side for her, if there is one, is the 11 post will help her shape the race early on, and may be the closes she gets to the front all day.
Try this trifecta on for size: Jackson Bend, Super Saver and Conveyance. Good luck!
Friday, March 12, 2010
Obama Administration picks foreign policy over people
Over the past few weeks, there has been a multi-national movement to recognize the 1915 Ottoman Empire's atrocities against the Armenian people a genocide. This is the same genocide that Hitler in 1939 referenced weeks before entering Poland and starting his own genocide. He concluded a meeting with his military officers by stating "Who still talks nowadays of the extermination of the Armenians?"
Well, the answer to that are the Swedes and the House Foriegn Committee, just not the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize winner, leader of the free world, mister "main street" before "wall street", the first black president of a country with a history of slavery Barack Oabama.
Now Michael Hughes of the Huffington Post does raise a very valid question, based on the United States own history of genocide and human rights issues, what makes us the judge and jury of the Armenian genocide? And in his article he makes very valid points that, if the House Foreign Committee should look at our own history as well. He also states that this is nothing more than a ploy by members of congress desperate to save their own jobs.
However, to answer Mr. Hughes question, we don't have to look any further than World War II Holocaust survivor, and 1986 Nobel Peace Prize winner, author Elie Wiesel. Being interviewed for the CNN special "Scream Bloody Murder" Wiesel said that countries look toward the United States for leadership in human rights. If the United States doesn't do anything, then no one else will, he claimed.
The facts are that, yes the United States has one of the worst Human Rights histories in the world, so does many other super powers throughout the world and history in general. The Romans salted Carthage so that nothing would grow. Religions have been trying to squash one another for thousands of years. The Russians on several occasions practiced scorched earth tactics. Most of Asia and Africa have a very recent history of genocide.
The issue is that if you are going to stand up in front of the entire world and except an award for being considered the leader of peace, then you need to understand all that comes along with it. Throughout the annals of history, Barack Obama will be lumped in with Elie Wiesel, Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., so forth and so on. If you have the audacity to do that, then your administration, your Secretary of State, and the Congress that is controlled by your party need to follow your lead and push for peace and basic human rights.
To paraphrase a very famous Holocaust quote: "When they killed in Darfur, I did nothing, because I wasn't the president of Darfur. When they massacred in Niger, I did nothing because I wasn't president of Niger. When my country tortured Muslims, I voted in favor of the war, because I was American. When China was moving Muslims out, and punishing those who dared worship God, I did nothing, because they were our allies. When I was given the Nobel Peace Prize, I accepted it, because I felt I deserved it. But when the world came to me for help, I squashed legislation because it was not good foreign policy."
Well, the answer to that are the Swedes and the House Foriegn Committee, just not the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize winner, leader of the free world, mister "main street" before "wall street", the first black president of a country with a history of slavery Barack Oabama.
Now Michael Hughes of the Huffington Post does raise a very valid question, based on the United States own history of genocide and human rights issues, what makes us the judge and jury of the Armenian genocide? And in his article he makes very valid points that, if the House Foreign Committee should look at our own history as well. He also states that this is nothing more than a ploy by members of congress desperate to save their own jobs.
However, to answer Mr. Hughes question, we don't have to look any further than World War II Holocaust survivor, and 1986 Nobel Peace Prize winner, author Elie Wiesel. Being interviewed for the CNN special "Scream Bloody Murder" Wiesel said that countries look toward the United States for leadership in human rights. If the United States doesn't do anything, then no one else will, he claimed.
The facts are that, yes the United States has one of the worst Human Rights histories in the world, so does many other super powers throughout the world and history in general. The Romans salted Carthage so that nothing would grow. Religions have been trying to squash one another for thousands of years. The Russians on several occasions practiced scorched earth tactics. Most of Asia and Africa have a very recent history of genocide.
The issue is that if you are going to stand up in front of the entire world and except an award for being considered the leader of peace, then you need to understand all that comes along with it. Throughout the annals of history, Barack Obama will be lumped in with Elie Wiesel, Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., so forth and so on. If you have the audacity to do that, then your administration, your Secretary of State, and the Congress that is controlled by your party need to follow your lead and push for peace and basic human rights.
To paraphrase a very famous Holocaust quote: "When they killed in Darfur, I did nothing, because I wasn't the president of Darfur. When they massacred in Niger, I did nothing because I wasn't president of Niger. When my country tortured Muslims, I voted in favor of the war, because I was American. When China was moving Muslims out, and punishing those who dared worship God, I did nothing, because they were our allies. When I was given the Nobel Peace Prize, I accepted it, because I felt I deserved it. But when the world came to me for help, I squashed legislation because it was not good foreign policy."
Friday, January 29, 2010
State of the Union
My fellow Americans, it is with a great hope and awakening that I write to you today. As we step out of the trying time that was 2009 and look into the future of not just 2010, but a new decade that I am inspired by what we can achieve if we all drop our political reservations and work together in unity to make this country what it once was, what its struggling to remain, and what it can be yet again, a great nation that fosters individuality and freedom for all, not just some. A nation that will stand up to those wishing to create a world in its own chaotic conditions, but my fellow Americans, it is not something that I can do alone.
Over the past 12 months, the new administration has tried, much like the Republican regime before it, to use fear to pressure Americans into drinking its kool-aid. This administration, as well meaning as it may seem, does not understand the people it was sworn to protect and serve. But don't be fooled, the Republicans don't care about you either. No, my friends, no one party cares anything about the people of this country. They make promises for "hope" and "change in Washington" as punchlines, quick soundbites that work for newspaper, television and twitter, but not in the everyday world. Not in the world were over 10% of Americans are out of the job; not the everyday world where families are being forced out of their homes and onto the streets, and definitely not in a world where we, as Americans, have the given right, by our founding fathers to raise our own voices and tell them what we truly think of them.
My countrymen, and women, to quote the great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. "I have a dream". The dream for this nation is one built upon the sweat, tears and blood of generations that have come well before us, but also the blood, sweat and tears of this generation. We are still in an economic decline. Businesses are still leaving, corner stores that were once neighborhood conrnerstones are going the way of the dinosaur and may never be seen again. We need a government, Executive, Judicial, and Legislative branches, to all come together to do what is best for its people.
While the economy is now something that the President has decided to take on, it should not have taken a year to figure that out. We need to find ways of not only keeping jobs but to reduce the over 10% unemployment rate, and holding town hall meetings, talking about it isn't going to fix the problem. I do agree that the tax break for businesses that are hiring new employees will help, hopefully. But we can't let ridiculously phrased common occurrences ruin our path. Yes, the unemployment rate went down in October, that's because stores are hiring for the holidays, so obviously unemployment will be inflated during January and February because those same people are being laid off. It's not a boom, it happens every year. You can't claim that Americans spending during the holidays and right after they receive their tax returns the economy is in the upswing, that is when Americans traditionally spend money.
One thing that has consistently been in the face of the government, a way to increase revenue in the nation that they refuse to look at is the legalization and taxation of marijuana. We are a nation based on tobacco, we have the factories and labor to do it. It would increase jobs, free up space in our overcrowded prisons and bring in large amounts of money through a vice-tax.
JFK once said, "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country." Well, my fellow Americans, your country needs you. Your friends and neighbors need you. If we are to recover from this crisis, we need to do it as a whole, as a UNITED States of America, not as an individual confederation of states. In order to help those less fortunate, some sacrifices will need to be made. Those who have been blessed with an abundant amount of money may need to pull more than what they perceive as their fare share of weight. And although we ask, "What's in it for us?", I will answer you with the pride and joy of helping those less fortunate, with the wonderment of giving others the chance to achieve the dream that you already have reached. Our nation has been built on the back bones of the little man since the first Europeans landed here 400 years ago. Its time that those you have profited from that give back to their own "Main Streets".
I believe that education is the most important tool in achieving the American Dream. We need our schools to not only remain open, and for our students to remain in them, but for our schools to be safe. We need our teachers to want to be in the schools, and we need teachers who understand that it is their job to teach and lead these students and not to take advantage of the bonds they create.
Growing up we were told that a college education will open up doors to you. Today, I think that the Federal Government should open those doors wider. I think that the United States Government, in order to keep its pledge to its students should consider a scholarship fund that will benefit ALL American children. Any student who maintains a "B" average and misses no more than 5% of their total academic year will receive 5% off their college tuition. Those who maintain an "A" average for their entire academic career, and miss no more than 5% of their total academic time, has the possibility to receive a free ride to any public university and up to the possible 60% off their attendance to private schools.
I believe that America does need open health care reform, not back room, private alliances with prescription drugs. However, I believe that it will obviously take time to create and work out the kinks. When it comes to people's health its always too late for someone and we need to get it right the first time and not rush something through Congress just because you have the numbers to do so. Both parties, Republican and Democrat need to really understand that peoples lives are at stake here, its not just some political issue to hang your hat on and use as a rallying cry to get some votes. We need health care that is affordable for EVERYONE, and is available for everyone who wants it, but there shouldn't be punishment for anyone who doesn't want to pay for health care, sometimes you simply can't afford it, even if it is incredibly cheap.
I do believe that gays have the right to serve in our military. It's not like the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy is stopping them from doing so, it is simply stopping them from serving out in the open. I believe that the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy should be repealed with the understanding that, just as race, religion and creed are not reasons to justify discrimination, neither is sexuality. A persons sexual orientation does not hinder their ability to learn drills, protect their fellow American or comrade in arms. If a gay American wants to serve his country, fight for the freedoms that our forefathers risked their lives to protect, then they have every right to do so. And, though this may be an unpopular decision, my fellow Americans, and our brave men and women, the Constitution, the document that you are sworn to protect, that our government is sworn to uphold, states in clear English, "All Men Are Created Equal", so let them equal serve as brothers and sisters in arms.
And to that extent, I believe there should be allowed, gay civil unions where the life partners are allowed the same privileges and rights as heterosexual partners are. I will not, nor can I endorse gay marriages because I do believe that there should be a separation between church and state and I believe that there should not be pressure on houses of worship to marry those that they do not wish to. However, I do believe that marriage is a union of love between two people that are dedicated to one another. And that bond transcends not only race, age and religion, but sexual orientations as well.
The "War on Terrorism" is a war that, like it or not, we are stuck in for the foreseeable future. The future of this war depends not just on our military but on the governments that we are trying to aid. If these governments truly want to end foreign troops being present, then they need to stand up on their own two feet and declare to their own people and the world that they will not stand for terrorism. That they will do everything to seek out these radicals who are disgracing their religion, their families and their homelands, and bring them to justice. The United States will come to the aid of those you need us, but we will not fight your battles for you. We will take the lead in the beginning, but you cannot be willing simply to follow, because once we leave, it will be yours to fight and keep the pressures on.
In closing, I believe that it is not the body of legislation, it is not the elected officials, it is not even our foundations that continue to make this country great, it is you the people. It is the spirit and drive that resides in every person, from the children breathing their first breathes as you read this, to those souls which have breathed their last. It is found in the parents working hard, making those hard decisions that may not improve their current condition, but will help their children grow, because they believe their child is the future. It is found in the inner cities where young men and women are fighting everyday for survival to get out of the projects through education and character building because they believe that a rose can grow out of the concrete. Its in our rural areas where generations have grown and kept our heartland pumping through good times and bad because that's just the way they were raised. Our country was founded on revolution, and while the path we have chosen to get here may not have been the right one all the times, here we stand, UNITED. So we need to STATE, in one common voice, to all those, foreign and domestic, who wish to take away our rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, that we are AMERICA.
Over the past 12 months, the new administration has tried, much like the Republican regime before it, to use fear to pressure Americans into drinking its kool-aid. This administration, as well meaning as it may seem, does not understand the people it was sworn to protect and serve. But don't be fooled, the Republicans don't care about you either. No, my friends, no one party cares anything about the people of this country. They make promises for "hope" and "change in Washington" as punchlines, quick soundbites that work for newspaper, television and twitter, but not in the everyday world. Not in the world were over 10% of Americans are out of the job; not the everyday world where families are being forced out of their homes and onto the streets, and definitely not in a world where we, as Americans, have the given right, by our founding fathers to raise our own voices and tell them what we truly think of them.
My countrymen, and women, to quote the great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. "I have a dream". The dream for this nation is one built upon the sweat, tears and blood of generations that have come well before us, but also the blood, sweat and tears of this generation. We are still in an economic decline. Businesses are still leaving, corner stores that were once neighborhood conrnerstones are going the way of the dinosaur and may never be seen again. We need a government, Executive, Judicial, and Legislative branches, to all come together to do what is best for its people.
While the economy is now something that the President has decided to take on, it should not have taken a year to figure that out. We need to find ways of not only keeping jobs but to reduce the over 10% unemployment rate, and holding town hall meetings, talking about it isn't going to fix the problem. I do agree that the tax break for businesses that are hiring new employees will help, hopefully. But we can't let ridiculously phrased common occurrences ruin our path. Yes, the unemployment rate went down in October, that's because stores are hiring for the holidays, so obviously unemployment will be inflated during January and February because those same people are being laid off. It's not a boom, it happens every year. You can't claim that Americans spending during the holidays and right after they receive their tax returns the economy is in the upswing, that is when Americans traditionally spend money.
One thing that has consistently been in the face of the government, a way to increase revenue in the nation that they refuse to look at is the legalization and taxation of marijuana. We are a nation based on tobacco, we have the factories and labor to do it. It would increase jobs, free up space in our overcrowded prisons and bring in large amounts of money through a vice-tax.
JFK once said, "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country." Well, my fellow Americans, your country needs you. Your friends and neighbors need you. If we are to recover from this crisis, we need to do it as a whole, as a UNITED States of America, not as an individual confederation of states. In order to help those less fortunate, some sacrifices will need to be made. Those who have been blessed with an abundant amount of money may need to pull more than what they perceive as their fare share of weight. And although we ask, "What's in it for us?", I will answer you with the pride and joy of helping those less fortunate, with the wonderment of giving others the chance to achieve the dream that you already have reached. Our nation has been built on the back bones of the little man since the first Europeans landed here 400 years ago. Its time that those you have profited from that give back to their own "Main Streets".
I believe that education is the most important tool in achieving the American Dream. We need our schools to not only remain open, and for our students to remain in them, but for our schools to be safe. We need our teachers to want to be in the schools, and we need teachers who understand that it is their job to teach and lead these students and not to take advantage of the bonds they create.
Growing up we were told that a college education will open up doors to you. Today, I think that the Federal Government should open those doors wider. I think that the United States Government, in order to keep its pledge to its students should consider a scholarship fund that will benefit ALL American children. Any student who maintains a "B" average and misses no more than 5% of their total academic year will receive 5% off their college tuition. Those who maintain an "A" average for their entire academic career, and miss no more than 5% of their total academic time, has the possibility to receive a free ride to any public university and up to the possible 60% off their attendance to private schools.
I believe that America does need open health care reform, not back room, private alliances with prescription drugs. However, I believe that it will obviously take time to create and work out the kinks. When it comes to people's health its always too late for someone and we need to get it right the first time and not rush something through Congress just because you have the numbers to do so. Both parties, Republican and Democrat need to really understand that peoples lives are at stake here, its not just some political issue to hang your hat on and use as a rallying cry to get some votes. We need health care that is affordable for EVERYONE, and is available for everyone who wants it, but there shouldn't be punishment for anyone who doesn't want to pay for health care, sometimes you simply can't afford it, even if it is incredibly cheap.
I do believe that gays have the right to serve in our military. It's not like the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy is stopping them from doing so, it is simply stopping them from serving out in the open. I believe that the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy should be repealed with the understanding that, just as race, religion and creed are not reasons to justify discrimination, neither is sexuality. A persons sexual orientation does not hinder their ability to learn drills, protect their fellow American or comrade in arms. If a gay American wants to serve his country, fight for the freedoms that our forefathers risked their lives to protect, then they have every right to do so. And, though this may be an unpopular decision, my fellow Americans, and our brave men and women, the Constitution, the document that you are sworn to protect, that our government is sworn to uphold, states in clear English, "All Men Are Created Equal", so let them equal serve as brothers and sisters in arms.
And to that extent, I believe there should be allowed, gay civil unions where the life partners are allowed the same privileges and rights as heterosexual partners are. I will not, nor can I endorse gay marriages because I do believe that there should be a separation between church and state and I believe that there should not be pressure on houses of worship to marry those that they do not wish to. However, I do believe that marriage is a union of love between two people that are dedicated to one another. And that bond transcends not only race, age and religion, but sexual orientations as well.
The "War on Terrorism" is a war that, like it or not, we are stuck in for the foreseeable future. The future of this war depends not just on our military but on the governments that we are trying to aid. If these governments truly want to end foreign troops being present, then they need to stand up on their own two feet and declare to their own people and the world that they will not stand for terrorism. That they will do everything to seek out these radicals who are disgracing their religion, their families and their homelands, and bring them to justice. The United States will come to the aid of those you need us, but we will not fight your battles for you. We will take the lead in the beginning, but you cannot be willing simply to follow, because once we leave, it will be yours to fight and keep the pressures on.
In closing, I believe that it is not the body of legislation, it is not the elected officials, it is not even our foundations that continue to make this country great, it is you the people. It is the spirit and drive that resides in every person, from the children breathing their first breathes as you read this, to those souls which have breathed their last. It is found in the parents working hard, making those hard decisions that may not improve their current condition, but will help their children grow, because they believe their child is the future. It is found in the inner cities where young men and women are fighting everyday for survival to get out of the projects through education and character building because they believe that a rose can grow out of the concrete. Its in our rural areas where generations have grown and kept our heartland pumping through good times and bad because that's just the way they were raised. Our country was founded on revolution, and while the path we have chosen to get here may not have been the right one all the times, here we stand, UNITED. So we need to STATE, in one common voice, to all those, foreign and domestic, who wish to take away our rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, that we are AMERICA.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Being a good Sport
Alright, alot has happened since I took the winter off. But the plus side of a new year is a chance to start over or just having a fresh start. That being said, we will try to continue to bring you our point of view on a wide range of topics. Of course all the contributors to "Political Liability" have outside gigs, families, and other endeavors to which they are committed.
So in an effort to not get burned out on the same ol' politics as usual, which I'm pretty sure President Obama promised to get rid of, but I'm sure he's working on that and not making back room agreements or pushing legislation through without careful reading done by Congress like previous presidents did, we will venture back into a realm I am familiar with, sports.
Prior to this experience, sure I talked politics and knew my way around conversations, but I was a focused blogger on ESPN, being featured 7 times on their homepage "Voice of the Fan" in 2007. And what better time to expand than this week with all the goodness that is going on in the sporting world.
A Hawk to the Hall: Andre "The Hawk" Dawson, a mainstay at Wrigley during the 90's, a beloved Cub has gotten his invite to join the immortals in Cooperstown. And while the Hall is currently unsure what hat his famed bust will wear, its the hopes of all those in the Windy City its a "C".
And while this is great news for the lovable losers, its does overshadow the hurt of one Mr. Ron Santo. Ron Santo, who has since his retirement loss his legs to diabetes, should be in the hall of fame. There is not a baseball fan who disagrees with that statement, except for those who, for whatever reason, refuse to acknowledge his greatness.
The biggest DUH! moment of 2010: Mark McGuire admitted he did steroids, called up Roger Maris' widow, apologized and then blubbered his sorry self all over sports television. Now he's hoping that those same voters who won't put in legit stars, will somehow find it in their hearts to forgive him and vote for him next year, while this year he collects a check from the St. Louis Cardinals for helping his dealer...um, coach, Tony LaRussa, as hitting coach for the team.
His first advice to Cardinal players, "Ok, Pujols, Holliday, first rule in hitting a baseball is that while HGH won't help hand-eye coordination, a little squirt may help push the ball over that fence they put out there."
Slinking Slimeball Slides into Sunny SoCal: I am ashamed to admit it now, but I once thought Lane Kiffin got a raw deal in Oakland, and thought his being hired at Tennessee was going to be good for him. It would give him the chance to show what he's really made of. And he didn't fail us in that regard. Joining college slimeballs like Bobby Patrino and Nick Saban, who actually slinked away from NFL jobs, Lane one upped them only the way Lane Kiffin could. As Notre Dame fans rejoiced, and maybe a silent tear spilled in Stanford, Pete Carroll left for his "third times a charm" shot at the NFL, no one would have guest who USC would bring in to replace him.
Never fear, Lane is here, and his staff from Tennessee has volunteered to move itself west like it was 1849 all over again. This time the "chosen one" will strike it rich, and is hoping not for gold, but for a crystal football.
Playoff Prediction Time: Okay, I meant to do this last week, but oh, well. Here's how I think the playoffs will play out for the remainder of the season:
Divisional:
Baltimore at Indianapolis: The Colts almost blew this one during the regular season as they needed a huge defensive play to help them overcome the Ravens D. The Ravens ended the season for the Pats last week, and started rumors this maybe the beginning of the end in Beantown, and are hoping to do the same in Naptown. Not going to happen. The Colts players are rested, well rested in fact, and are tired of people putting them down for not going undefeated. This is what they've been focused on. With Flaco's going to have to throw more than 10 times this weekend, and everyone knows that. COLTS WIN 28-10
Arizona at New Orleans: New Orleans has been on a slide since losing to the Boys. They've looked defeated and almost even loss home field advantage after losing their perfect season bid. But never fear, if anyone can jazz up this team, its home field, its the Superdome, and its Drew Brees. Arizona barely got by the Pack, and the Cards were at home. After the helps of a facemask, maybe some other botched calls and of course Aaron Rodgers first and last drives of the game, the Cards were able to get the overtime win. I don't think they get that chance this weekend. Brees is going exploit that weak secondary worst than Rodgers did, and the Saints secondary is far better than the swiss cheeseheads they played last week. SAINTS WIN 49-14
Dallas at Minnesota: Yeah, I know, the Boys got a huge monkey off their back by not only getting a playoff win, but embarrassing the Eagles twice in the process. And like some bad wild west, this game features two of the most carefree gunslingers in the NFL with Romo going against Favre, so get ready for plenty of turnovers. And yes, both teams have excellent backfields and d-line. But, the Cowboys don't have Adrian Peterson, and there will be the difference. This should be a great game the way they both match up, but, and it pains me to say because I hate both teams, the Vikes will win. And if they don't and the Boys end up in the Super Bowl, look for a conspiracy theory or two popping out. VIKES WIN 24-21
New York Jets at San Diego: Yes, Rex Ryan did pick the Jets to go to the Super Bowl. And, if anyone can pull of the Jet-lag it would be SoCal's own Mark Sanchez, who will have a sort of home coming playoff game. And yes, Revis, the Jets corner will play a role in shutting down Rivers and the Charger passing game, so this game has all the intangibles of being a great game, probably the best of the four. The only real reason the Jets won't win is that the Chargers just keep finding ways to pull games out. And if Rivers gets anywhere close to a ring, he'll be even more annoying, but he does deserve it after he helped resurrect a dead San Diego franchise. CHARGERS WIN 17-14
CONFERENCE:
San Diego at Indianapolis: Early in the last decade the Colts couldn't get over hump that was the New England Patriots, until Peyton and the rest of the team manned up and just did it. When they did, they got into the Super Bowl and won. This time the humps name is San Diego Chargers, who have eliminated the Colts each of the past 3 years, since said Super Bowl win. Well, this Colts team will get over that hump once again and march on into the Super Bowl behind a great Peyton Manning drive and some stout Colts D. COLTS WIN 31-17
Minnesota at New Orleans: This should be the better of the two conference games. This is, after all, the reason Brett Favre came out of retirement, both times. And if he really thinks gun slinging is the way to win this game, I'm going to be wrong in my prediction, but Darren Sharper is going to have a field day. I can definantly see Favre literally throw this one away a la NFC Conference Championship 2007 when he gave it up to the Giants who went on to win, but I think that, again, Adrian Petterson is a difference maker in this one. Brees and the explosive Saints offense will put up a good fight, but its not to be. VIKES WIN 38-35
Super Bowl:
Minnesota at Indianapolis: Hopefully this will be Brett Favre's going away party, but since I think they'll come up short, he'll probably come back again next year and fail horribly. The Colts offense will just be too much for the Vikings Defense. The Colts D, which has held steadfast all season will contain Petterson, and put pressure on Favre causing him to throw 3 picks, yeah, I'm going to even predict the amount of picks. Colts fans will rejoice and Peyton will be crowned the Greatest Quarterback ever getting his second Super Bowl ring and an early invite to Canton. COLTS WIN 38-14
So in an effort to not get burned out on the same ol' politics as usual, which I'm pretty sure President Obama promised to get rid of, but I'm sure he's working on that and not making back room agreements or pushing legislation through without careful reading done by Congress like previous presidents did, we will venture back into a realm I am familiar with, sports.
Prior to this experience, sure I talked politics and knew my way around conversations, but I was a focused blogger on ESPN, being featured 7 times on their homepage "Voice of the Fan" in 2007. And what better time to expand than this week with all the goodness that is going on in the sporting world.
A Hawk to the Hall: Andre "The Hawk" Dawson, a mainstay at Wrigley during the 90's, a beloved Cub has gotten his invite to join the immortals in Cooperstown. And while the Hall is currently unsure what hat his famed bust will wear, its the hopes of all those in the Windy City its a "C".
And while this is great news for the lovable losers, its does overshadow the hurt of one Mr. Ron Santo. Ron Santo, who has since his retirement loss his legs to diabetes, should be in the hall of fame. There is not a baseball fan who disagrees with that statement, except for those who, for whatever reason, refuse to acknowledge his greatness.
The biggest DUH! moment of 2010: Mark McGuire admitted he did steroids, called up Roger Maris' widow, apologized and then blubbered his sorry self all over sports television. Now he's hoping that those same voters who won't put in legit stars, will somehow find it in their hearts to forgive him and vote for him next year, while this year he collects a check from the St. Louis Cardinals for helping his dealer...um, coach, Tony LaRussa, as hitting coach for the team.
His first advice to Cardinal players, "Ok, Pujols, Holliday, first rule in hitting a baseball is that while HGH won't help hand-eye coordination, a little squirt may help push the ball over that fence they put out there."
Slinking Slimeball Slides into Sunny SoCal: I am ashamed to admit it now, but I once thought Lane Kiffin got a raw deal in Oakland, and thought his being hired at Tennessee was going to be good for him. It would give him the chance to show what he's really made of. And he didn't fail us in that regard. Joining college slimeballs like Bobby Patrino and Nick Saban, who actually slinked away from NFL jobs, Lane one upped them only the way Lane Kiffin could. As Notre Dame fans rejoiced, and maybe a silent tear spilled in Stanford, Pete Carroll left for his "third times a charm" shot at the NFL, no one would have guest who USC would bring in to replace him.
Never fear, Lane is here, and his staff from Tennessee has volunteered to move itself west like it was 1849 all over again. This time the "chosen one" will strike it rich, and is hoping not for gold, but for a crystal football.
Playoff Prediction Time: Okay, I meant to do this last week, but oh, well. Here's how I think the playoffs will play out for the remainder of the season:
Divisional:
Baltimore at Indianapolis: The Colts almost blew this one during the regular season as they needed a huge defensive play to help them overcome the Ravens D. The Ravens ended the season for the Pats last week, and started rumors this maybe the beginning of the end in Beantown, and are hoping to do the same in Naptown. Not going to happen. The Colts players are rested, well rested in fact, and are tired of people putting them down for not going undefeated. This is what they've been focused on. With Flaco's going to have to throw more than 10 times this weekend, and everyone knows that. COLTS WIN 28-10
Arizona at New Orleans: New Orleans has been on a slide since losing to the Boys. They've looked defeated and almost even loss home field advantage after losing their perfect season bid. But never fear, if anyone can jazz up this team, its home field, its the Superdome, and its Drew Brees. Arizona barely got by the Pack, and the Cards were at home. After the helps of a facemask, maybe some other botched calls and of course Aaron Rodgers first and last drives of the game, the Cards were able to get the overtime win. I don't think they get that chance this weekend. Brees is going exploit that weak secondary worst than Rodgers did, and the Saints secondary is far better than the swiss cheeseheads they played last week. SAINTS WIN 49-14
Dallas at Minnesota: Yeah, I know, the Boys got a huge monkey off their back by not only getting a playoff win, but embarrassing the Eagles twice in the process. And like some bad wild west, this game features two of the most carefree gunslingers in the NFL with Romo going against Favre, so get ready for plenty of turnovers. And yes, both teams have excellent backfields and d-line. But, the Cowboys don't have Adrian Peterson, and there will be the difference. This should be a great game the way they both match up, but, and it pains me to say because I hate both teams, the Vikes will win. And if they don't and the Boys end up in the Super Bowl, look for a conspiracy theory or two popping out. VIKES WIN 24-21
New York Jets at San Diego: Yes, Rex Ryan did pick the Jets to go to the Super Bowl. And, if anyone can pull of the Jet-lag it would be SoCal's own Mark Sanchez, who will have a sort of home coming playoff game. And yes, Revis, the Jets corner will play a role in shutting down Rivers and the Charger passing game, so this game has all the intangibles of being a great game, probably the best of the four. The only real reason the Jets won't win is that the Chargers just keep finding ways to pull games out. And if Rivers gets anywhere close to a ring, he'll be even more annoying, but he does deserve it after he helped resurrect a dead San Diego franchise. CHARGERS WIN 17-14
CONFERENCE:
San Diego at Indianapolis: Early in the last decade the Colts couldn't get over hump that was the New England Patriots, until Peyton and the rest of the team manned up and just did it. When they did, they got into the Super Bowl and won. This time the humps name is San Diego Chargers, who have eliminated the Colts each of the past 3 years, since said Super Bowl win. Well, this Colts team will get over that hump once again and march on into the Super Bowl behind a great Peyton Manning drive and some stout Colts D. COLTS WIN 31-17
Minnesota at New Orleans: This should be the better of the two conference games. This is, after all, the reason Brett Favre came out of retirement, both times. And if he really thinks gun slinging is the way to win this game, I'm going to be wrong in my prediction, but Darren Sharper is going to have a field day. I can definantly see Favre literally throw this one away a la NFC Conference Championship 2007 when he gave it up to the Giants who went on to win, but I think that, again, Adrian Petterson is a difference maker in this one. Brees and the explosive Saints offense will put up a good fight, but its not to be. VIKES WIN 38-35
Super Bowl:
Minnesota at Indianapolis: Hopefully this will be Brett Favre's going away party, but since I think they'll come up short, he'll probably come back again next year and fail horribly. The Colts offense will just be too much for the Vikings Defense. The Colts D, which has held steadfast all season will contain Petterson, and put pressure on Favre causing him to throw 3 picks, yeah, I'm going to even predict the amount of picks. Colts fans will rejoice and Peyton will be crowned the Greatest Quarterback ever getting his second Super Bowl ring and an early invite to Canton. COLTS WIN 38-14
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