A Life Celebrated....

Good morning,

This morning I heard an incredible story, it was the story of a returning son to the land upon which he can trace his heritage, that enough would be a good story, but imagine him returning to a hero's welcome.

The man pictured at left is Senator Barak Obama, the woman with him is his grandmother, a resident of the small Kenyan village the Senator visited during his African trip to promote AIDS awareness, safety, and prevention.

As I watched the news clip of the Senator as he walked down those narrow dusty streets, with crowds of people singing songs in celebration of his arrival, all I could think was how proud the man must feel. His father was born, raised, and lived in the small village, sometimes tending to the family's goats for the grandfather, he would attend school when he could, showing promise enough to inspire the village to help him further his studies. But who would have guessed that community help would have produced a Harvard graduate with a Ph.D, and a son who would eventually become a United States Senator? Talk about overcoming huge odds, Senator Barak Obama is the 5th African-American to serve in the Senate in all of our nation's history, and the only African-American Senator serving at this time. I must say I'm proud of the man, as his achievement shows he surely did inherit his father's will to succeed, and succeed he has.

It was amazing to see the video footage, with the singing crowds, the smiling faces who seem to have captured a little bit of the hope the Senator seemed to represent for them, even the American flags flying in honorary display as well as being waved by people in the crowd, and they weren't trying to light them! Truthfully, how often do you see that on the news nowadays? It's disappointing to always see the now "news-standard" image of big crowd, burning flag. Not this time, and it was just great! To me, it represented how our country could be regarded around the world, it was the friendly greeting Vice-President Cheney could only dream of.

One other thing I noticed was the plain manner by which the Senator spoke, not just on this occassion, but also on the tv news interviews I've seen him give, he makes a good point, just putting his words out there intelligently. I find it easy to respect a politician who still possesses the ability to just say what he means, rather than speaking in the circular manner we so often hear from "professionalized" politicians. Most often politicians seem to have their own language, sure it's English, but it's the language of non-answer, and what good does that do for anyone? I once heard someone say, "any good politician will answer questions, but their answer is always to what they wish the question was". How true is that? Yep, sadly it's true.

The Senator spoke to the crowd, not in an "I'm gonna tell you" manner, but in an "we're all in this together" sort of way, the crowd sporadically shouting back their replies to his words, with the Senator replying back in kind. It was a conversation with thousands, and it was incredible.

Talk on the streets of Kenya has some asking for the Senator to consider running for the presidency of Kenya, he has that much trust amongst the people, who only wish for a long and happy life.

Barak Obama t-shirts, baseball caps, and an Obama named soft drink were sold by wandering street vendors, posters of him were also available for sale in front of the village school that bears his name. In Kenya, it was Obama-mania, it was hope for our country to have a friend in Africa, and it was what must have been a magical moment for the Senator, his family.

It was the return of someone they regarded as one of their own, the son of a man of modest means who elevated himself through education, who brought with him a message of hope and umlimited possibilities to those who don't often consider life to offer as much. I can only imagine the spark ignited in some of Kenya's youth that day, what great and incredible things will they go on to do, now reminded that there is a way for the possibility to do anything, even to rise to great heights. I'd bet they probably knew all along, but now they had proof. Some in the crowd must have received that message, in my opinion, that is the best part of this story. Hope is contagious, something I believe was happily passed from person to person within the village, perhaps throughout the country.

My only question is, now what will our country do to help the people in Kenya who are dealing with a terrible AIDS crisis? Senator Obama made great strides in U.S-Kenyan relations on his trip there, but he is unfortunately just one man in the Democratic Party which doesn't have much power in our country at this moment. Will the current administration pass on this opportunity to do something great, spreading our good will to that country, while receiving it back in thanks? Looking at the track record of administration responses to good or bad situations, I have a sinking feeling that the positive advances our country made in Kenya that day will be ignored through someone's hopes that the moment will fade to be forgotten by November when election time comes around.

It won't be forgotten if we all remember there are other ways of doing things that don't result in angry crowds, there's a way of working together globally, a way of spreading hope, and just doing the right thing.

I can only imagine what just a fraction of what we'll spend on Iraq today, could do to restore hope here at home for Seniors worried about their Social Security, their pensions, and their medical care, for the people still trying to put the pieces back together along our storm battered coastlines, for kids in impoverished neighborhoods just aching for a glimmer of hope that might show them a different and better way, and of course for countries like Kenya who just want a friend to extend a helping hand with no strings attached. There has to be a better way than what we've seen these past few years, there just has to be....

Good will fosters good will, a good deed will often create one in return, hope ignites the fire of hope in others, wouldn't that be a great foreign policy for us to build upon? Nah, I'm not saying we should go soft and neglect our military, so don't try to box me into that corner, nor am I saying Senator Obama's trip was the end to all wars, I'm just saying it showed me something good during a time when most tv news isn't so good.

Bush Penny Pinching Costs Soldiers

Good evening,

Moments ago, I read a troubling story about a group of 150 soldiers from Massachusetts who served our country bravely in Iraq, fortunate enough to make it home safely, only for them to be stranded in Indiana by this administration's penny pinching ways when it comes to soldiers.

How is that for our government to treat those who put their lives on the line daily? They are American citizens, who volunteered to serve this country, to even give their lives if need be, now being told there isn't enough money for them to be flown home to those who love, care, and have missed them during their tours of duty.

Here's the story as told by ABC News .....

150 soldiers, from a Massachusetts based regiment, received a surprising "welcome home" from their government when they touched down on American soil after doing their extended terms of service in Iraq. The soldiers landed in Indiana Friday morning, happy to be home, the soldiers excitedly asked when they would be going back to Massachusetts. It was then they were told that flying them home was out of the question as it would be too expensive, and that they should make their own arrangements (at their own expense) for bus transportation (an 18-20 hour ride back home), since they couldn't stay on base long after their debriefing and "cool-down period".

It wasn't until one of the soldiers, a Sergeant still looking out for his troopers, called the office of Senator Edward Kennedy, explaining the dilemma the soldiers were facing. The Senator wrote an official correspondence to the Secretary of the Army, describing the situation, and asking for an explanation about the treatment of the soldiers upon their return to American soil.

I'm impressed with the actions of that brave Sergeant, how's that for overcoming and adapting to a situation? He went above and beyond for his soldiers, I greatly admire his efforts.

It seems that after the letter from the Senator to the Sec'y, and probably a phone call from the Sec'y to the administration, brought about the realization of what sort of a media black-eye the situation could cause, the government somehow quickly found the money to fly the troops back home to their families who were eagerly awaiting their return.

See? I told you the story was troubling. It's so darn troubling it makes me furious to think our soldiers are having to deal with yet another example of the administration's penny pinching when it comes to them.

First there was the lack of body armor for our soldiers: there just wasn't enough to go around, therefore lives were lost due to lack of a vital piece of equipment that could have saved their lives or lessened the extent of their injuries.

Then came the inadequate body armor that was shipped into the warzone: the body armor wasn't rated high enough to deal with the velocity of the projectiles and shrapnel that could impact, therefore our troops were going into battle with government issued body armor that couldn't stop the stuff that was coming their way, more lives were lost.

Then there were the Humvees that weren't armored up for battle conditions, our troops actually had to scavenge for scrap metal plates sometimes from the hulking shells of burnt out enemy tanks, cut and weld them up themselves, to have some sort of protection on the doors, and floors of the vehicles they were told to carry out sometimes dangerous missions in, more lives were lost.

I'm sure there were other incidents, but aren't those enough examples?

Now comes the time for what should be a celebrated homecoming for a small number of our troops, they did their time in the warzone, and just want to get back home. "If you wanna go home, take a bus and you're paying, cause we're not going to spend the money on you", is what the official position amounted to when it came to them.

How is that any kind of thanks for them putting their lives on the line daily?

Granted, soldiers don't expect special treatment, but I do expect the government to go as far they can for these brave men and women. So often they've been used as props for speeches, and photo-ops. Our soldiers deserve more respect than that from this administration who see's it possible to justify spending 177 Billion ($177,000,000,000) dollars per day in Iraq. That dollar figure breaks down to 7.4 Million dollars per hour, or $122,820 per minute being spent on that country, but the doors to our tax dollars suddenly slam shut when it comes to flying soldiers home to their families? How is that fair?

Another question about something not fair, is...

"why is it that Halliburton employees fly back home to their families?"

Yep, no letters nor phone calls needed to help get them home, I guess it helps to have their former CEO sitting in the Vice-President's chair.

We need a real President and Vice-President sitting in those chairs, real patriots who look out for the soldiers, not just as expendable assets, but as brave Americans. We deserve better than someone who would just put on a flight suit and stand under misleading banners, once again using our brave soldiers as a backdrop. Our soldiers deserve better than a "commander-in-chief" who would yell "Bring it on!" to our enemies, while they send them over there with inadequate equipment, We deserve better than those who would ship all of our tax dollars to a foreign country at an alarming rate, then claim there's no money for seniors who depend on Social Security, who would leave our citizens stranded on rooftops because they appointed their unqualified corporate cronies to key positions, or who would leave our soldiers stranded far away from home when they return from war.

It shouldn't have taken a letter and a phone call to get those soldiers home, it should have just been the principle of the matter, not even the principle, it should have been the honor to deliver them home to their loved ones, alive and safe.

So what do you think? Does this story make you as angry as it made me? I'm steamed the more I think about this. If the administration wonders why recruitment is down, it's not just because of the war, it's because of how quickly they forget about the sacrifices these people have made, once they return. Where's the respect? Where's the honor? I sure dunno, but it's nowhere to be found in those who inhabit our nation's highest offices. Actions speak louder than words, but so far this administration seems to have trouble doing much more than whispering sweet-nothings in the ears of their corporate friends.

I can't wait for November.

Ernesto Threatens Florida?

Good morning,

Floridians, hold onto your hats, as it seems the first hurricane of the season that could threaten the U.S coast might be headed your way.

5 computer models of the projected storm path for Hurricane Ernesto seem to show it will be delivering a glancing blow to Hispaniola, making it's way over Cuba, then starting that all too familiar turn into Florida.

While computer models are useful tools when it comes to providing storm path possibilities, the models are sure to change and shouldn't be used as a definitive information source. Check the link below for the latest computer models, advisories, satellite photos, actual storm track, and other useful resources:

Hurricane Ernesto Information

If you are located somewhere within the projected storm tracks, it would be a good idea to stock up on your supply of bottled water, and non-perishable foods. It's good to have some things to eat and drink if electricity is out, and the drinking water might be contaminated by run-off or broken water mains.

Make a plan for your family, figure out which room is safest within your house ahead of time, that way you'll have a plan in place just in case an emergency weather situation takes place during the storm.

Fill-up your car's gas tank, just in case you have to evacuate, or if power is out for a while after the storm the pumps won't work. Lines at gas stations could cost you valuable hours of time, and who wants that when a big storm is headed your way.

Stock up on batteries for flashlights or your weather band radio, so you can stay informed while the storm passes over.

Make plans for pets, don't leave them outside, instead find some room for them inside with you, or at least in a garage, and stock up on food and water for them too.

I you need plywood for your windows, go out and buy it now! As the storm makes it way closer, the lines at building supply places will be long, and supplies could run out. This is a good idea for the food and water supplies too, because we all know how the store shelves empty out when a storm is coming. Use long screws to secure the plywood, as they hold better than nails, and are easier to remove afterward. You can always caulk over the holes and paint to match later.

The storm is currently a Category 1 Hurricane, but is predicted to be upgraded to a Category 2 or 3 by the time it makes it's way to the U.S. coast, which means wind damage possibilites go up, as does the threat of storm surge, flooding, tornadoes, and hail.

Be safe, plan ahead, listen for local evacuation routes and if mandatory or recommended, buy your supplies now, talk to your employers about their plans and yours in case a storm hits, just be prepared. If the storm misses you, you haven't purchased anything you won't eventually use anyway, and with the later months (Sept, Oct, Nov.) often being the most active during hurricane season, it's still good to have those items around.

2006: Racism Will be Televised?

Good morning,

Have you heard about the plans for the latest Survivor Season? "Tribes" separated by ethnic race, so there will be a White Tribe, a Black Tribe, a Hispanic Tribe, and an Asian Tribe. How does that sound like something fun to watch each week? Division of the Races for fun and entertainment.

Does anyone else find it surprising that something like that can actually be considered for prime time family hour television in the year 2006? I'm disappointed to say we, as a country, on the topic of race, haven't made it as far as I had thought for my entire life. Truthfully, I write this with a sort of sad anger, because even though I know racism exists, I didn't think it could be so blantantly shoved into the faces of people.

Ok, ok, I know some who read this will say "it's only a reality tv game show, so what's the big deal?" Nothing really in the reality tv game show part of it, it's the desire of the show's production company to consider using race as a means by which to divide contestants into teams, and of CBS Television to allow it. Isn't there already enough of that sort of thing in the world?

The whole thing truly is disappointing.

Can you imagine the watercooler talk in some circles? "Wow, did ya see? The Whites really beat up on the Blacks this week!", "Yeah, but they really did a number of those Hispanics last week."

Now doesn't that sound like fun?

I don't think so.

My hope is that someone will call for a national boycott of the Survivor show, and a boycott of any companies who might choose to sponsor. For that matter, why not boycott CBS, and all sponsors of their programming? Afterall, it is CBS who is giving the approval for a race themed game show to air on their network.

There comes a time for people to draw the line and say, no racism, even if it's packaged nicely in the form of a game show competition. The idea of selling the idea to the American people in this day and age offends me, as it should so many others out there. It's the principle of the thing, it's a taking back of American culture to pre-Civil Rights Movement days. If we allow the door to blantant racism to be opened, will we actually like what's waiting for us inside? I'm referring to all of us, all colors, races, and creeds, we're better than that.

BTW, I'm not a victim of racism in my life, nor was I raised to give it, I'm of Italian-Spanish heritage, and the words I hear when it comes to race, came a long time ago from my father, when he said, "there's good and bad in all races, even within your own, it's the person that matters, not their race, remember that and you'll live a better life, ya got me? Your friends are buncha a**holes, don't be one, wisen up to the way things are, do the right thing." My dad was always straight and to the point when it came to our talks, that particular one came after he heard one of my friends from the block, yelling something racial at a new kid in the neighborhood. I've always remembered what my dad said, and have lived my life by what he said that day, his words were true. The kid who was being yelled at by my friends, we became good friends, and nobody messed with him after that. He's currently serving with the Marines in Iraq, we keep in touch, and my family will always be there for his family, his wife, and kids.

So, when it comes to the issue of race, remember the words of my father..

"to live a better life, just do the right thing."

Buonanotte Bruno

Good evening,

In some sad news from the movie world, veteran character actor Bruno Kirby has passed away after battling Leukemia, he was 57 years old. Born Bruno Giovanni Quidaciolu in New York City, to a prominent movie industry family, Mr. Kirby succeeded in making his mark in Hollywood.

The extent of his work might surprise some, but he was one of those actors who just made a film better by being there, with the ability to add a likeable quality to the characters he played.

His roles included parts in: Crash, The Godfather II, Modern Romance, Donnie Brasco, City Slickers, The Freshman, Sleepers, Good Morning Vietnam, This is Spinal Tap, When Harry Met Sally, Stuart Little, The Basketball Diaries, Hoffa, We're No Angels, Borderline, Cinderella Liberty, even the original television pilot episode of the long running show M*A*S*H. Truly impressive, coincidentally that list includes 2 of my all time favorite movies, and several others that I've seen many times.

To his family and loved ones, I wish them peace in knowing he won't be forgotten, and will be missed.

Rest well Bruno, peace unto you in the arms of God, and thanks for all of the fine work you did.

Buonanotte.

Snakes on a Plane!

Good evening,

Just say it....
"Snakes on a Plane"

C'mon, admit it, it's fun to say, but the question everyone is asking:

"Will it be fun to watch?"

I sure hope so.

It's not often that a movie gathers so much fan hype that it takes on a life of it's own, just from the sheer absurdity of it's title, but that is exactly what happened (even before it's first showing) Snakes on a Plane.

The movie's premise is simple, some might say so simple it borders on genius, You have a plane, you have snakes, put the snakes on the plane, throw in some people to be on the plane with the snakes, make one of them the great Samuel L. Jackson, and there ya have it, Snakes on a Plane.

Now, back to the question everyone is asking, "Will it be as fun to watch as millions (ok, maybe thousands or hundreds, or tens) of internet "SoaP" fans imagined it would be?" Since the movie was announced for an August box office premiere, I've been watching and listening for clues.

One not so good clue was the original director leaving the project due to "creative differences and budget disputes". Worried? Maybe a little, as that sounds like the work of movie studio "suits". One more clue I heard about was the movie going back in for a quick 5 day re-shoot "to fix a nagging story problem". Uh oh, either "the suits" are at it again, or (as Hollywood Reporter suggested) they were looking to bump up the movie to an R rating, instead of the original PG-13 rating the studio had been pushing for so hard ("suits").

Is that necessarily a bad thing? Nah, could be good as someone might have found a way to allow Samuel L. Jackson to say the line so many imagined him shouting about "muthaf**kin' snakes on the muthaf**kin' plane!" Afterall, what's a Samuel L. Jackson movie without a few "MF's" said in the way only good ol' Sammy can say 'em? Of course there's the exception of Mr. Jackson's starring role in a movie called The Red Violin, not a single "MF!" in the whole movie, and it was excellent.

Wondering what I'm talking about with all of this "MF" talk? Imagine the movie Pulp Fiction without the scene where Sammy pulls a gun on the guy who is holding up the diner, telling him to reach into his bag of collected loot to find his wallet:

the robber looks into the bag,

(many wallets can be seen in the bag)

the robber says, "which one is it?"

Sammy (answers in a calm voice), "it's the one that says Bad Muthaf**ka"

the robber nervously digs around in the bag,

finds it, pulls it from the bag

(the wallet is shown)

and sure enough it did have "Bad Muthaf**ka" embossed right into the leather.

Classic! Now that's the Samuel L. Jackson, use of the "MF" word connection I'm talkin' about. *LOL

By Friday night we should all begin to hear the "thumbs-up" or "thumbs-down" on the movie from fans (of the movie title) and the curious who wanted to be part of not often seen movie event (and oddly enough that's exactly what it is, an event as it will show the movie studio's ability to deliver what people wanted to see). Surely the movie will be lambasted by snooty "professional" movie critics out there who have long forgotten how to appreciate a movie that somehow willed itself into being. But who cares? Even if the movie is no good, we'll all still have the title, and memories of how it worked itself into popular culture. Click the link and you'll see what I mean, it's a phenomenon.

I gotta say it again...
Snakes on a Plane!

"Dude, your Dell's on Fire!"

Good afternoon,

Well, it seems that Dell laptop owners can cancel their doctors appointments, that burning sensation they were experiencing might not be what they thought.

Dell has issued a recall for certain laptop batteries which can malfunction to the point of catching fire or exploding. The batteries in question are Lithium Ion batteries manufactured by Sony.

If you happen to own a Dell laptop, yank out your battery and give this site a look...

https://www.dellbatteryprogram.com/

The site will give you all of the information you'll need to determine if your laptop battery is amongst those recalled.

What's interesting about this story is that it's not actually new news to Dell, as they issued a battery recall in 2005, though most likely very quietly. It wasn't until an online video of a Dell bursting into flames (complete with secondary explosions) found it's way onto the net, that Dell decided to let everyone in on the news.

To the currently unemployed "Dell Dude" (Steven, their former pitchman) I'd like to say, "Dude, I'm not gettin' a Dell anytime soon", and I'm actually looking for a new computer. Though, I sure won't be looking for a laptop that comes with the threat of a weenie roast when actually placed on the lap. *LOL

War of Perception?

Good afternoon,

Well, those wacky guys in the funny outfits over in Lebanon are at it again, they've declared victory in the fight against Israel. The really bad thing is that the Arab press is backing them up on their claims, so a sizeable percentage of the population could regard their kooky claims as truth.

But are they wrong?

If you go by the match-up of their forces vs. Israel, they are wrong, and they did lose. If you go by the shot for shot comparison of damage to country, once again they are wrong, and did lose. However, if you look at the war as them baiting Israel into a fight to allow them to have this opportunity to lie to the Lebanese people, as part of their agenda to gain attention to themselves, and to in some way show their strength to the average people who might want them to go away, then they succeeded in meeting the requirements for them to carry out their agenda.

But is it a victory?

No, not in the true sense of the word. All that group did was to bring additional hardships to the average Lebanese citizen who wants to live their life peacefully. To call what they accomplished a victory is like saying the giant "Mission Accomplished" banner our president posed with for pictures in the early days of the Iraq War had some credibilty, and we all know how that turned out.

Will this effect the cease fire?

Yes, I believe it will. That group will now feel the need to keep up appearances even more, and in time will do something stupid to get the fight going again. Though I don't often agree with what this presidential administration says, they did have a point when they said there is a need for a lasting peace, that just calling for a cease fire will do nothing to help the situation and would only give that armed militia group time to regroup themselves and restock their inventory of terror accessories. My hope is that Israel continues the monitoring of the region and will block those people's attempts to re-arm themselves.

Well folks, looks like the cycle just keeps on cycling and recycling, over and over again. Sure is a shame.

Sharon's Condition Grim

Good morning,

While watching the morning news, I just heard word that former Israeli Prime Minister, Ariel Sharon, is in grave condition after suffering a stroke which left him in a coma some months ago.

I admit I don't know much about the man, with the exception of a brief biography I read prior to mentioning this here, but I guess like all men who have made their mark on this world, or have entered into the world of politics or the military, he is loved or disliked by some.

His biography was very surprising to me, as I learned he was a member of Israel's paramilitary forces which eventually lead to the creation of the Israeli Defense Force, he was a general in the service of his country's military, and a member of Israel's first ever special forces unit. He eventually rose to political prominence when elected to the position of prime minister of his country, and even formed a third political party which gained a stong foothold within the Israeli parliament. An incredible life indeed.

He remains a controversial figure to some, regarding his tactics used during war. Like I said, he is loved or disliked by some, though with my limited knowledge on the subject, I can't make any judgements, all I can do is talk about what I read.

Mr. Sharon has been in a coma since suffering a massive stroke a few months ago. He now faces a big battle for his life as it has been diagnosed that he is suffering diminished brain activity, a secondary infection, and the onset of kidney failure. As someone who was there to be with my grandma in her final days, I know that means he is growing tired, and with that tiredness the body fights for a time until exhausted. If these are to be the final days of Ariel Sharon, I pray that he rests well and finds peace with God. If his life's journey is to end, the question of hero or villain will be between him and God, no longer for anyone else to decide.

With my reading of Mr. Sharon's biography, I have to admit I gained a new respect for the man, he truly has lead an incredible life. By all appearances, he served his country with distinction throughout his life, and that in itself is worthy of recognition and respect.

The life of a soldier is not an easy one, and at this time the soldier in Ariel Sharon fights on, I wish him well.

Cease Fire Coming...

Good evening,

Well, by the time I finish typing this, a cease-fire between Israel and Lebanon will have started, but will it last, and what will be the eventual outcome of this fragile peace that is being established? That is anyone's guess, but I would bet that it won't last.

Nope, I'm not one of those fist waving people who chant war, war, war to get my day going, nor am I one of those people who turns the other cheek even after both sides have been struck (though yes, I know I should be in accordance to religion), my beliefs reside somewhere in the middle. I believe in war only as a last resort after all other diplomatic channels have exhausted themselves, I believe in establishing a firm objective once war has been declared, and I believe in keeping the soldier in mind when all decisions are made, rather than just throwing people into the fray with hopes of a good outcome. If my views appear to be filtered through our own war in Iraq, that is no accident, as I have friends and family serving in our nation's military, and I wouldn't trade any of their lives for a water treatment plant, or a purple finger election in that country, I say bring 'em all home, now.

Back to the issue at hand with the cease-fire in the Middle East, I say that the peace is unlikely to hold because of the spin already coming from Arab television and newspaper media. Their take on the cease fire is that Hezbolla will gain respect in the "Arab world" (and I hate that term because afterall we all live in the same world) as many people will have anger directed at Israel for the casualties of the conflict, as well as blaming them for disrupting their lives. The media there is also saying (and I saw this during an MSNBC interview with a reporter from a prominent newspaper in the region) that HEZ is being perceived "as one of the few who faught Israel to a draw". HUH? To a draw? Are there actually people really so in need of feeling empowered that they could call the cease-fire a draw? Well, apparently so. For those of us living in the real world, we know that world opinion called for the cease fire because of the overwhelming decimation of Lebanon. The cease fire was more a case of pity for an outgunned people who really faced a bad situation had the fighting had continued. Though I often try to look on the bright side of things, and not regard the world with a cynical view, that is the reason I don't believe the peace will hold for long, with the combination of what has become a traditional feuding between the two peoples, and the skewed stream of information/propaganda that finds it's way into homes there.

Ok, I know that the average person on the street in Lebanon is most likely just a regular working person, looking to move on with their life, and to live happily, but how can they not somehow manage to take charge of the situation and drive out those militia groups who keep fighting just so a handfull of high ranking militia people can maintain their wishes to retain power and influence? Once peace is solidly established, it's safe to say those very same people will have to lay down their arms and get a real job. Still, the Lebanese people need to ignite and stoke the embers of their own freedom from the oppression of those militia groups who operate like a shadow government within the established country boundaries who already has an elected government. Without a concerted public effort to rid themselves of their own problem, how can they actually expect to ever live in peace? Yep, I said it, the conflict is the result of a few men who wish to retain power at any cost of innocent lives, they really don't want that regular job.

I find it difficult to cast blame onto Israel, even after seeing many of the news stories where Israel was being villified in the latter days of the conflict. One night while watching the news, friend of mine asked "aren't we still friends with Israel?" Actually, she asked a good question, because I sure couldn't see that friendship shown by the nature of many news stories. Yes, war is a terribly ugly thing, and I do believe that anyone with a heart would feel sorry for the innocent Lebanese people caught in the crossfire, but then again I still can't help but ask "how did they not expect something like this to happen when they have an armed group in their country who doesn't make their presence much of a secret, and who calls for the destruction of a military power like neighboring Israel, often launching attacks against them?" All in all, it's just a shame, a terrible shame that brought about equally terrible destruction. I also find it difficult to blame Israel for feeling that their diplomatic channels had exhausted themselves to the point of going to war, when that armed group and their supporters continue to send vested people to target people within Israel's borders, or sends rockets packed with ball-bearings to fall where they may without concern for innocent life. The practice of exercising restraint only works if both sides exercise restraint, otherwise we're back to the difficulty of "turning the other cheek" too many times and being perceived as weak. Even in the day-to-day world of people interacting, someone can only be pushed so many times before the desire to push back comes.

The world in all of it's beauty, does have an element of ugliness in it, as seen in the pictures taken from within the area under siege. Peace in itself is beautiful, as is freedom, but that element of ugliness and hate does have a way of picking at those beautiful ideas, until hate and ugliness is somehow returned in kind. I once read a quote that said "if someone drives you to hate, then they've conquered you", my hope is that the average Israeli or Lebanese doesn't hate all people on the other side of that imaginary border, that one day they can learn to live with each other, and will drive away the ugliness from their midst. I know it's easy for me to say, a world away in the comfort of my home, but isn't it hope that often proves to be the must useful of tools in bridging the gaps between people, and mending the chasms created by adversity? I'd like to think so, for if hate can be born out of something as simple as an idea, so can hope and peace.

Though I don't know any Israeli's nor Lebanese, if I could, I'd like to say "Peace is there, if you truly want it, live and let live, and just do the right thing." (I know, all trite sayings, but appropriate) To the UN, I'd like to say, "Enforce that resolution that called for the disarmament of the trouble making militia group and their supporters. If the people can't do it on their own within their country, give them some help and direction to allow the spark of self-determination to grow." The road to achieving that will be difficult, but worthwhile. (I still would like to believe that the average Lebanese person is just a regular person like us all, and not looking for a fight or the elimination of a whole other group of people)

Hope and reachable alternatives must be established, or the region will find itself once again caught in a perpetual cycle of violence then peace. Though my opening comment seemed pessimistic, I really do hope the cease fire will hold.

Mad Mel

Good afternoon,

I always liked Mel Gibson's public image persona, he always came across as a cool guy, someone who would be fun to hang out with talking about stuff. His public image allowed both men and women to like his movie characters who ranged from the heroic, to stoic, to cocky, philosophical, or just teetering on the brink of madness while making up some combination of the previously named types. Mel never came across as a guy who thought he was cooler than the average guy, "down to Earth" some might say. His movies were entertaining, so he was doing his job, and people liked him so he was doing his job off the set as well. But was it all just careful guarding a public image either he or someone else had so masterfully crafted? Maybe, but who would have been asking that question until a few nights ago?

Reality came crashing through like a dam burst, when Mel was pulled over by a deputy of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, for driving at near twice the legal speed (87 mph in a 45 mph zone). Mel spoke with the deputy, something brought on the question of Mel being under the influence of alcohol or some other substance. If only that were the whole story, I wouldn't be writing about the incident, but ohhh there was so much more....

As it became apparent to Mel that an arrest for DUI (driving under the influence of an intoxicating substance) was quickly on it's way to taking place, he flew into an emotional tirade. "I own this county" or something to that effect was said, "I'm gonna make you pay", or something to that effect was said to the deputy as well. Such words I like to describe as the "mating call of the spoiled big-name actor" who believes their money can buy their way out of anything or can use their position of recognition to intimidate, oh how pathetic it is. If it had been just that which was said, this latest blog entry might be ending right now, but once again.... ohhh there was so much more....

Perhaps noticing the deputy's last name or accent in his speech or something, Mel flew off the deep end right into a barrage of anti-semitic comments, a hate filled barrage of statements against Jews. Mel blamed the Jews for starting every war, and what not, I say "what not" because I have no idea what goes on in the mind of a drunk actor who believes he owns the world one county at a time. Did Mel stop there? Ohhh nooo.... he also saw it fit to ask the deputy "are you a Jew?", which he was.

Some might say, "whatta schmuck!" (not the officer, I mean Mel) *LOL

Now you might be wondering, did the rant and bad behavior end there? Nope, not even close.

When Mel was hauled into the station, he continued his tirade, attempting to intimidate a female deputy while apparently getting angry at a phone and throwing it across a room (perhaps in his best effort to keep up with Russell Crowe in phone tossing). Umm... somehow that just didn't sound right... but oh well. *LOL

You see what I mean about a public persona or movie persona that is heaped upon these flawed human beings? It is we, the movie-going public, who empower these people to become the wealthiest of monsters, with the sad fact that being that power WE GAVE THEM is what they so often take for granted, yet they still use it to get themselves out of trouble.

So, I ask, "why not give them a reminder of what the real world feels like?" Surely they all knew the real world once, perhaps a refresher course is needed from time-to-time? C'mon now, someone who says they "own the county" is in desperate need for reminding how the regular people, who finance their over-the-top lifestyles, are living. Get that man a job at the local supermarket or car wash quickly!

That being said, do I feel the need to forgive Mel for his anti-semitic comments? Nope, I really don't. Of course I know he's only human, with flaws just like anyone else out there. But hey, hate is hate, whether spewed forth while drunk or not drunk, flaw or no flaw, I believe that if ol' Mel hates one group so much, it would probably be relatively easy for him to hate another group (or groups) of people. So, I've decided to step into the shoes of a group of people he most likely hates, and say he's welcome to go ahead and hate. I won't hate him back, but he shouldn't expect any sympathy nor support. Now that the whining has started, and his down on his knees mea culpa has begun, complete with the oft tried "I need help" mantra, I do hope Mel gets the help he needs, and I hope he's a better man for it. However, did anyone think it was a bit much for him to call upon leaders of the Jewish faith to have a conference with him to iron out the situation? Umm... ego check please, why would they need to talk to Mel? It's obvious that he is trying his hardest to make amends, if not just for the sole reason of saving his career opportunities, or just maybe so he can still claim to "own the county". I find it all too obvious, a bit pathetic, and a little too late.

Will this be the end of Mel in Hollywood? Will Mel learn his lesson? Sadly I say, no, I don't think so (and this is in answer to both questions). Already on some of the so-called "news" shows, the ultra-religious right wing is rallying behind Mel (which is where I got the ideas for all of the "flawed human being" references). Still, I wonder how much they would stick by the "flawed human being" defense if Mel had spoken out against them? They're basically a religious group, so what if he had lumped them all into a tight ball, and cast blame on them for all that has gone wrong in the world? Then I believe flaw or no flaw, Mel would have been toast, those ever so "compassionately conservative" (heh) people would have been fast on the attack. I can hear it now, "Hollywood liberal this, Hollywood liberal that", they love to say those two words together. All-in-all, this ugly incident will most likely hurt Mel in the pocketbook for a while, but a few thousand dollars thrown this way and that, finding it's way to a particular palm here and there, and Mel will be back in his self proclaimed throne as the "king of his very own county". Give him time though, for at this pace, Mel is just a few beers or shots of hard liquor away from offending someone else, I wonder who it will be? Could it be you or me?

Come to think of it, nah, Mel doesn't have time for taking on the "little people" of the world one at a time, he's taking on entire races. I guess he figures why waste time? When someone is an aging leading man in Hollywood with a drinking problem and a big mouth, I figure there's probably only so much time they have before people stop listening.

Yep, the Hollywood machine that we all feed so very often and so much, will continue to chug ever forward, with a new monster being made even at this very moment, coming to a theater near you. We can all cheer now, booo, or throw popcorn, they're still gonna get paid.