tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75652169907382137772024-03-08T14:30:48.715-05:00News and OpinionsMy opinions on news and general thoughtsErichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-54798819634280626122010-04-29T12:34:00.003-04:002010-04-29T12:40:22.226-04:00Help Americans with a Credit ActAll these bailouts and reforms keep getting passed and yet middle and lower America still struggles. Banks have money to lend, but now nobody is good enough to borrow money. <br /><br />The majority of Americans have no idea what their credit score is, what makes a negative account, what makes a positive note, and how to fix or increase their mysterious credit score.<br /><br />So lawmakers, how about you tackle this one. Make effective immediately free credit reports on demand to all Americans, with their score listed. This paying for what is being judged against us is wrong. Not once a year, not twice a year, but any time we want to see them. Its our scores, our records, we have the right to see what the villainous evil bankers and credit industry are doing to us.<br /><br />Now, lets go one step further. In our credit report(oh, and only 1, having 3 different ones is a waste of time and money) beside each and every account there is a description of what that account is doing to our score, what can be done to improve that account, or what needs to be avoided.<br /><br />The credit industry needs fixed, here is all it takes. Let us see what they see, and let us know how the numbers add up. Simplified for all Americans from all backgrounds. Once Americans can see their report, see their score go up, know what to do and how to fix it, you will then see banks loaning money and Americans spending money. But not the Americans of yesterday. The new American who is savvy and understands and can view their report at anytime.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-51424102233159920372010-04-28T14:15:00.001-04:002010-04-28T14:15:45.317-04:00Immigration Law in ArizonaPeople are in an uproar because of the new immigration law in Arizona. What people are not realizing is because of the drug wars, the drug and human trafficking; any border town is a nightmare and an unsafe place at the moment. The administration is not doing anything to prevent illegals from entering this country. <br /><br />I have no problem with people who want to come to America; however, all I ask is that you take the time to do it legally. I am fully aware of how bad the situation is on the other side, but at the risk of sounding jaded or cold, that’s not the concern of the border state governors. Their main concern is keeping their residents safe. <br /><br />The biggest concern is so called “racial profiling”. Now, if police or border patrol went up and arrested every person with Latin descent without due cause that would be a crime and a violation of the very rights we have as American citizens. Asking for identification is not a violation of your rights. <br /><br />As Americans, we want safety and security, but we forget that its not always easy to achieve. We are soft and complacent. If the federal government would do something about illegal immigrants, states wouldn’t have too. Arizona is looking out for their own since the feds won’t.<br /><br />Let’s look at something else. Because of 9/11 every American who flies has to provide identification, submit to all sorts of degrading searches, and even be treated like a criminal. Some people grumble, but in their hearts they feel safer. <br /><br />So why do the legal Mexicans in Arizona not feel safer because of this identification process? <br /><br />Why the outrage over this? And is there really a true outrage or is it just another speaking point or political point. It was ignored until the law passed. How many people knew about the drug wars, drug trafficking and human trafficking that was going on before this bill passed. How many still don’t?<br /><br />This is another sign of our failing government.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-78757043599901177072010-04-27T10:22:00.002-04:002010-04-27T10:49:26.369-04:00Political NightmaresAttention politicians. Your games are getting old and tiresome. Why push for bi-partisanship if you refuse to listen? Why attempt to talk if your ears are closed?<br /><br />Republicans, why automatically shoot down every idea without talking to the people who put you there? Your counter ideas for the most part are weak and unimaginative. You go with the "at least its not a democrats idea" ploy that has repeatedly failed.<br /><br />Democrats, why assume your way is the only way and ignore all other ideas? Why the arrogance? <br /><br />Mr. President, why are you so arrogant and refuse to see both sides? After 8 years of Mr Bush and his smug smile, it really doesn't sit well with most Americans to have another arrogant President.<br /><br />Why can you two parties not sit down, look at the end goal, and discuss how to get there. Currently we have wall street financial reform, and immigration laws on the desk. Lets start with financial reform. Both parties agree that it is needed, so there is your common ground.<br /><br />American people don't want any more bailouts that do not directly benefit the American people. Giving money to financial institutions did not help small business to not fail, or people to keep their homes, or any other resolution for the average American. It helped the banks and wall street only. So, listen to the people, no more bailouts.<br /><br />There are so many over priced services and products right now, most Americans cannot afford to live, never mind invest or purchase. From the basics to the extravagent, there is problems in every corner.<br /><br />Gas/Transportation: Why are we paying $3/gal again? Why do our vehicles not take advantage of technology to improve gas mileage? Ford is doing it with a V6 310 hp, 30mpg Mustang next year. The technology is there, car makers need to utilize it. And car prices, holy cow they are overpriced. How about we do to imports what they do to our cars? Tax the hell out of them so we buy American? How about we give car makers an incentive to build cars here? Give them tax breaks to build plants here and pay workers competitive salaries. Yes, tax breaks. You hire Americans, give them a good salary, and they will spend. Oh yes, they will spend.<br /><br />Communications: Cell phone technology. Enough is enough. Cut out the contracts, cut out the overpriced services, put in incentives to recycle the old phones. They shouldn't be able to nickle and dime you to death. <br /><br />Food: Remove the taxes on food. Country wide. Give farmers help and tax breaks, keep it American! Remove taxes on seeds, fertilizer and other farming related goods.<br /><br />Taxes: While we are on the subject, taxes. Nobody, regardless of their income should be paying more then 15% taxes to the government. We work for it, the more money we have the more we spend. The more you take, the more we resent. In my opinion, here is how taxes should break out.<br /><br />Food: No tax<br /><br />Soft drinks, cigarettes, alcohol: 10% tax<br /><br />Bottled water: No tax<br /><br />Clothing: 5% Tax. This can then be split for the governments share, and for a fund to create incentives to keep business here.<br /><br />Jewelry, electronics, pleasure goods: 8% tax. These are not required but are accessories.<br /> <br />Gas: 5% tax total. Required, but more people will drive and take vacations if gas isn't more expensive then the hotel.<br /><br />Cars/Trucks/SUV's: Sliding tax bracket from 5% to 12% based on gas mileage and price. Cheaper more fuel efficient will be taxed at the lower end. This will hopefully eliminate single people from driving large vehicles that are a waste of space. <br /><br />4 Wheelers, jet skis, motorcycles, recreational vehicles: 6% on these, but allow tax rebates for every time people use their recreational vehicle to participate in a clean up of trails/waterways.<br /><br />So much more could be done and by no means are these numbers in stone. Just a general idea of how the tax structure needs to be re-worked in this country. We need to keep jobs here, and we need to be competitive.<br /><br />In summary, financial reform is a broad sweeping job that should not be rushed and bull headed through like health care was. It will take careful analysis, thought, and work from both parties to make it successful. And please remember this. Any additional load you put on corporations, unless you close every single loophole, they will pass it on to us.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-65095593138382527582010-04-15T09:20:00.003-04:002010-04-15T09:36:39.778-04:00House Cleaning TimeYes, its that time of year, spring arrives, bringing with it pollen, insects and politicians. Early voting is taking place already for some races and in some areas.<br /><br />However, this year is an election year like no other. The president, house, and senate are all facing record low approval ratings. Our President is more intent on blaming the previous administration then actually fixing any problems. Our beloved senators and representatives are more concerned with their career then the opinions of the people who voted them in.<br /><br />In this, they have made a mistake. The American people, quite frankly, are fed up with the way the government has been acting for really the past 20 or so years. Each year we slip further and further from who we are, what we are, and where we were. Our economy is collapsing, jobs are fleeing across the borders, while immigrants are illegally entering. Healthcare reform was rammed down our throats even while wild promises are made and floated by on breezes.<br /><br />I propose here and now, it it time to clean house. For the next 2 years elections, every incumbent is voted out. Its time that as Americans, we send the message to them, do your job or your career will be very short. Start at the city/local level and move up to the top, voting them out left and right. It doesn't matter if you vote for a republican, or a democrat, or even an independent. What matter is that the message is sent to them, no more. We will stand for this no more. <br /><br />And when you new mayors and governors, senators, police chiefs and staff take your oaths and your office, do so knowing you are being watched very closely. Know that we want our freedoms back, we want our soldiers back, we want our economy back. We want government bailouts to quite going to corporate America and instead if you so choose, go to the people of America. We want to technologically move forward to reduce dependency on foreign oil. We want fairness for all people, not special treatment. <br /><br />This election, please get out and vote. Send a peaceful message to Washington, to your state, to your city. Do not get involved with violence, that time is not here. Violence will only cause more violence, and retaliation, and newscasters belittling your true intentions. Let your vote do your talking.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-59611050372211098582010-03-25T13:13:00.002-04:002010-03-25T13:37:31.618-04:00Meet and Greet CandidatesTonight at the knoxville expo center on clinton highway and merchants drive there will be a gathering of aspiring politicians. Mayor and governor candidates among them.<br /><br />So, here is some questions that will be asked to some of you, questions I have concerns about, and questions I think need to be asked.<br /><br />Governor Candidates: <br /><br />1. What is your plan to start rebate programs similar to those in California for <a href="http://wot.motortrend.com/6623221/green/california-begins-offering-5000-tax-rebate-for-electric-vehicle-purchase/index.html">purchasing electric/hybrid vehicles</a>.<br /><br />2. What is your plan to start a rebate program similar to those around the country for installation of<a href="http://www.gosolarcalifornia.org/"> solar/alt</a> energy sites?<br /><br />3. Do you plan to try a state income tax? Why or why not?<br /><br />4. What is your plan to bring in new business to Tennessee?<br /><br />5. What is your stance on those who live in the state, who are here illegally?<br /><br />6. How are you going to ensure graduating Tennessee high schoolers are prepared for college? <br /><br />For mayor candidates<br /><br />1. Are you willing to do what it takes to bring tourism to knoxville such as chattanooga has done?<br /><br />2. Are you willing to look into alternate energy and electric fleet vehicles?<br /><br />3. Are you going to prioritize the school system?Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-7450713314422659832010-01-22T10:18:00.000-05:002010-01-22T10:34:32.650-05:00Tennessee Governors RaceTennessee's governors race is beginning to heat up, and as usual there is a full range of people running. We have everything from politicians, to lawyers to retired doctors.<br /><br />I will begin keeping track of the candidates, posting about them and their goings on, but will especially be giving special attention to the independents and the ones without the large campaign funds, without the big names, who may be a better choice.<br /><br />The country itself is struggling currently, so states need to make sure business is taken care of at home. Personally myself, and many people I know are sick of government lies, hiding issues, stepping around issues, and completely screwing the people over.<br /><br />Tennessee like so many others is facing the same problems. Unemployment, immigration, drug problems, crime, loss of farmland, loss of industry, and general loss of the way of life.<br /><br />What I want to see in a governor is one who understands and listens to the people, who won't spend state money for frivolous endeavors, who will work hard to bring industry to the state, and will work to make the state a clean, safe, beautiful, and energy efficient state.<br /><br />Tennessee is in a unique capacity for leading the country in energy efficiency. This is in a large part to the research facilities in the Knoxville area. The University of Tennessee, Electric Power Research Institute, Tennessee Valley Authority, Oak Ride National Lab, and so many others are leaders in technology innovation, energy savings, energy production, and research. The new governor needs to realize this and work to bring the focus of the East Tennessee area into bringing in more industry and research. We need, as a state to develop and pursue alternate forms of energy, define and establish a recycling program that is not a hodgepodge of other left over programs. We need to focus on families, providing help for those that need it. We need to push for land conservation, and continuing to embrace and protect the Smoky Mountains.<br /><br />We need to look forward while embracing our past. We need to build the future on the building blocks of the past. We have so many strengths as a state, it will be a shame to let them go to waste.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-76037964114944065832008-09-02T09:12:00.002-04:002008-09-02T09:20:13.568-04:00Revenge of the truthersAll across conspiracy boards truthers are in fits of joy. Somebody was seen on msnb shout 9-11 was an inside job.<br /><br />What is a truther do you ask? Well, a truther is a self proclaimed seeker of truth concerning 9-11. They believe all sorts of things, from mini-nukes in the towers, to bombs, to cheney controlling it all, standing down norad, etc etc.<br /><br />I am not going to waste my time addressing the nutjobs and nutcases, so will reference them <a href="http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/military_law/1227842.html?page=1">here</a>. Now, the sad thing is a lot of the people that believe this, now believe that Obama will be the chosen one who will bust open this scheme and expose the rotten government for what they are. Yet another group of people placing their religious faith in an untried, unproven candidate. He is not the messiah people, he is a politician. In 4 years from now, will you still feel the same? I have no doubt he will make an impact, it just won't be as severe as y'all think.<br /><br />And the truthers? Don't try to argue with them, they bring up 1000's of webapges from self professed experts and believe them all. And heaven forbid, dont point out the contradictions between them.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-29070826811567974602008-08-29T14:16:00.001-04:002008-08-29T14:16:24.407-04:00Barack Obama King of Obamalot<p>King Arthur, the legendary king of Camelot has been reborn as Barack Obama, king of Obamalot. Sounds rather silly, and I agree, but the name is catchy. It has started to catch on in blogs, even some press articles. </p><p>Why the hype? Do people believe in Obama the man? Or do they believe in Obama the politician. There is no doubt the man is one of the greatest speakers in recent memory, possibly even surpassing Bill Clinton. Or have we just become so used to the past 8 years that anybody that can string together sentences with passion has become such a relief? Obama has this ability to inspire, to make people feel what they think they have been missing. He can bring tears to eyes, cheers to throats, and normally impassioned people talk about him with a fever bordering on fanaticism. Like King Arthur of old, he speaks about change, equality, salvation. But to date, that is all he has done, merely spoken the words. Pretty words, words that people want to hear, but words none the less.</p><p>Obama's more fervent followers have an almost fanatical approach to them. Mention one word against him, and they attack, rabidly tearing out your throat. It is border line a religion. This can be quite dangerous. Passion can only carry so far, at some point people need substance. People need to see or hear that within the first three months, this is what he is going to do, and how he will accomplish it. Then a 6 month plan, and a 1 year plan, and so on and so forth. For so long all we hear is what is wrong, and how candidate A is better then candidate B.</p><p>I watched Obama's speech last night, then re-read the text of that speech this morning. It is a totally different experience reading without observing his gestures, hearing the inflictions in his voice, and observing the crowd. In black and white, he didn't have a lot if anything concrete. Oh he mentions cutting government spending, eliminating this or that, but no mention how. His ideals on energy are very similar to McCain's, though neither candidate will admit it. They both will continue the war on terror. They will both push for nuke energy, clean coal, and alternate energy. There is a difference concerning Iraq, but more in the fact of a timetable versus no timetable. </p><p>When election time comes, I truly hope people vote with their heads, and not their hearts. Take the time to review each candidate, their past, their voting record, their experience, and what they say now. Remember they are politicians, and will say what they need to say to get elected. </p>Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-5797401025788233212008-08-29T11:19:00.002-04:002008-08-29T11:26:46.628-04:00Sarah Palin Republican VPAlaskan governor Sarah Palin has been asked and has accepted the VP nomination with John McCain. In my opinion this was a very risky political move. She is relatively young, inexperienced, and has ties through her husband to oil companies. I understand the thoughts behind a female VP, but why not a more experienced one?<br /><br />John McCain is relatively old, and not in the greatest of health. This means if anything were to happen to him, this untried governor would suddenly find herself the president. She is in her first term as governor, even less experience then the media's golden boy, Obama. Biden will more then likely destroy her in the VP debate.<br /><br />The one thing he did do by choosing her, is took race and gender( hopefully ) out of the equation. One way or the other this is a historic election, and will see either the first female VP, or the first non white president. Hopefully race will not play apart of this, either for or against either candidate. It needs to be focused entirely on the merits and stances of both candidates.<br /><br />Governor Palin is currently in some controversy in her home state involving the mishandling of a fired state employee. Depending on this plays out, and believe me, the media will go after it, will also have an impact on the election.<br /><br />Quite an unusual choice, one that will bear watching in the coming weeks.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-87924218976826370452008-08-23T09:07:00.002-04:002008-08-23T09:11:08.398-04:00OlympicsI have to say, even with all the controversy, the olympics have still been a fun watch. I do have serious issues with the gymnastics judging though. Nobody could figure out how they were giving the chinese gymnast the scores they were. Don't get me wrong, they were good, just not that good.<br /><br />In addition, the female gymnast are not 16, no matter what the chinese government says. Too many people have found proof that the girls are between 12 and 14 years old. Which in my opinion should invalidate all the chinese gold from womens gymnastics.<br /><br />On a positive note, huge kudos to Michael Phelps and the womens beach volleyball teams. Very outstanding work.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-27741618640949422652008-07-29T10:20:00.003-04:002008-07-29T10:28:08.337-04:00Fire SeasonMore fires are burning in <a href="http://www.reuters.com/article/domesticNews/idUSN2741973720080729?feedType=RSS&feedName=domesticNews">Yosemite</a> and parts of California. Seems to be the time of year again. Plus with fall coming up, and more dry weather, camping etc, be sure and follow fire safety.<br /><br />1. Be sure all campfires are extinguished and buried. Stir it around with dirt and water to make sure it is out.<br /><br />2. On windy days, be mindful of your surroundings and your fire.<br /><br />3. Put the cigarette out. Put it in a disposable cup or something similar so the ashes don't get free.<br /><br />4. If you find yourself in path of a fire, follow instructions precisely, it could save your life.<br /><br />Just be mindful and careful around flames this year, too many fires claim too many lives.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-7397451660878835252008-07-18T10:24:00.002-04:002008-07-18T10:40:38.784-04:00Make all US electricity from renewable sourcesAl Gore is trying to regain some fame with his latest statement: We need to make all US energy come from renewable sources in 10 years. <br /><br />This statement once again shows that he truly knows nothing about energy or the environment. Not only is his plan impossible, it is technically unfeasible at our current energy consumption. We are having problems supplying the energy needed at our current level or production. If Gore wants to truly help the environment, he needs to follow the following steps.<br /><br />1) Convince oil companies to invest more in alternate fuels. These companies have some of the largest amounts of profit that there is in the market today. Investing 1 million here or there doesn't help. Nor does 16 billion dollar profits in their pockets while America pays for it. <br /><br />2) Convince environmental activist to allow the construction of new efficient clean power plants. They can build one with nearly no CO emissions, generate more power, then the current plants.<br /><br />3) Support energy efficiency standards. We need to get people making inefficient products to be held accountable and clean up the strain on the grid.<br /><br />4) Educate with real data and facts, not information made up in his head. Some people are hardened against the word climate change and global warming. Talk to their wallets, not their sense of responsibility.<br /><br />5) Point out the ways people can currently cut back and save.<br /><br />There is no way we can be off the current grid without massive changes. Technology is increasing yearly, but the amount of energy this country consumes is astronomical and growing. With hybrid cars on the rise, their charge cycle is more strain on an already over-burdened grid. People need to accept responsibility for their actions. Talk to local utilities and find ways you can save energy, and money and do it!Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-78196332327922050232008-07-17T13:12:00.002-04:002008-07-17T13:19:02.703-04:00Contraception is AbortionSo wow, this is just out of the blue, but almost what one would expect from this administration. According to an <a href="http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5jJ83TQdFoKZ_hSK8JAsImgooHrYQD91V97F80">AP</a> article, a new bill refers to some types of contraception as abortion. Yeah, that's right. <br /><br />The law attempts to define abortion as:<br /><br />"any of the various procedures, including the prescription and administration of any drug or any performance of any procedure or any other action, that results in the termination of the life of a human being in utero between conception and natural birth, whether before or after implantation.”<br /><br />Some women may not know they are pregnant for a couple of months. In my opinion, this is being done to get rid of the morning after pill. Abortion is every womans choice, the one she has to be with, and government needs to stay out of it.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-38379676175127352572008-01-06T13:25:00.000-05:002008-01-06T13:31:46.646-05:00Iowa Caucus, sick yet?The Iowa caucus has come and gone yet, and it solved? Nothing. Thats right, it solved nothing, except media perception. The media is running this election, and anybody thinking anything different needs to do some personal research. Its the first of the year, it sets the tone of the primaries, etc etc. Does the winner of Iowa always win the nod from their respective parties? No, not always.<br /><br />In a race this close, with the nation desperately needing true leadership, why should the media pre-determine the candidates? Vote for who you want to vote for, not who the media tells you is "winning", or a "clear choice". <br /><br />As somebody able and willing to think for myself, I believe more Americans should research the candidates, research the issues, and vote for who they want running the country.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-5591971376864242212007-07-27T13:19:00.001-04:002007-07-27T13:40:59.663-04:00Aquafina<p>Aquafina, one of the leading bottled water brands, is coming <a href="http://www.reuters.com/article/healthNews/idUSN2620706220070726" mce_href="http://www.reuters.com/article/healthNews/idUSN2620706220070726">clean </a>on their less then savory practices. It appears, as was reported today, that <a href="http://www.pepsico.com/" mce_href="http://www.pepsico.com/">PepsiCo</a> will begin printing on the label of the popular bottle, what it really is. Tap water. Yep. Tap water. I have a bottle in front of me right now, and it clearly states on the bottle, "Pure Water, Perfect taste, Purified drinking water". It appears, it is not pure, nor purified. Also appears that when enough bottles are emptied together, a stench begins to appear that rivals that of any compost pile.<o:p></o:p></p> <p> And by no means is Coke and its popular Dasani let off the hook. They gather their water from public reservoirs as well. they report that they will post the quality process online in a month or so.<br /><o:p></o:p></p> <p>I see several lawsuits coming from this. It will be amazing if they survive this. I know I for one will not buy their water again. Nor am I likely to purchase any <a href="http://www.pepsi.com/home.php" mce_href="http://www.pepsi.com/home.php">Pepsi</a> products as my means of protest.<o:p></o:p></p>Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-14733476552809633592007-07-26T09:58:00.000-04:002007-07-26T10:17:41.318-04:00Global warmingWow, seems its always in the news. Some agree, some disagree but according to <a href="http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/">recent studies </a>the earth has warmed up by a few degrees the last 100 years or so. Honestly, based on how careless we are with the environment, its a miracle we have a planet left. Is it part of a natural warming cycle? Is it due to the deforestation, pollution, and general disregard of the environment we have?<br /><br />More then likely, it can be a combination of both. What then can be done to slow it down, stop it, or even possible reverse it?<br /><br />As an individual, what can be accomplished is small, but as a nation, it can be huge. Little things that can be done to help the environment, conserve energy make a big difference in the big picture.<br /><br />Lets start at home. Check your home, look at windows and doors. Do the seal properly? Do you have one or two windows cracked open while the AC is blasting? Close them! Seal the cracks around the window. If you need to get a new door or window, look around for energy saving ones. These seal better, and insulate better. Check your insulation. Is your home properly insulated? Temp control is another. If you don't already have a programmable thermostat, get one. Make sure when you are not home( if you have a normal work time) that you drop that temp down. No sense in the house staying 70 degrees all day while nobody is there. Drop it down to 76 or 80 even. Have it revert to your preferred temperature 30 minutes before you come home. Sign up for green power through your local utility. It may be a little more expensive, but you are still doing your part. Replace some light bulbs with more efficient light bulbs. Keep lights off in rooms you are not in. Plant some shade trees around your house. <br /><br />What about the driving? Car pool when you can. As if gas prices are not incentives enough, carpooling is better for the environment. Keep you car tuned and up to date to reduce emissions as much as possible. When possible, roll down the window, take the convertible top down. Spare the AC on your car as much as you can. Take public transportation. Most public transportation uses some form of bio diesel, which is better for the environment.<br /><br />Get involved with a group the helps the environment. Plant trees, take some time to go to a national park and see what we risk losing if things are not fixed. At your neighborhood home owners meeting, bring up the subject, get neighbors involved. Write your <a href="http://www.house.gov/writerep/">congressman</a> and explain your concerns. Keep updated on legislation coming that address the issue. Be informed.<br /><br />All we can do is our part at the moment. Until those in charge make sweeping fixes, or supply money for alternate fuel/energy, we the little people must lead by example.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-53417557932582914372007-07-24T10:28:00.000-04:002007-07-24T10:35:54.800-04:00Michael Vick: The disgraceAbsolutely pathetic. I do not know which is worse, his actions, or the NFL's. They finally prohibited him from attending training camp, but he should be out of the NFL. As should all the others who have used drugs, committed crimes, or acts of domestic violence.<br /><br />Why in the world do we put these spoiled brats on such a pedestal. From the first time they show promise in a sport, they are pampered and forgiven. They get out of punishments, get slaps on the hand for crimes that would land the majority of the country in prison, and basically get worshipped. Regardless of whether or not they wish to be role models, by the very path they have taken, they become one. <br /><br />Michael Vick has had a good career, albeit rather over rated in my opinion. Now, it should be over. Who wants to explain to their kids not to do something, when it is shown on tv that not only do celebrities do it, but they get away with it!<br /><br />Dog fighting! Not only is it illegal, its immoral. Dogs are loving companions, and should be treated as such. Making any other sentient being fight for our enjoyment is wrong, disgusting and should be shunned.<br /><br />Why do we pay these people millions of dollars a year, yet fail to pay police, firefighters and teachers the same? Are they not saving lives, and instructing our next generation? Who do we want our children idolizing? A teacher who taught them what they need to know? A policeman who risk his life daily for our protection? A firefighter who sweats and trains to save our kitten from a burning house? Or a rich entertainer who gets away with criminal acts?<br /><br />I know my answer.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-85313050629055987692007-07-24T08:15:00.000-04:002007-07-24T08:35:36.256-04:00You tube-Cnn debateTough questions were asked, by people from all over the country. Using You tubes video, and CNN's broadcasting, the Democratic presidential candidates were spotlighted in yet another debate. The questions that were asked cut to issues the candidates had no answer for, or did not want to give answers for.<br /><br />From questions ranging from reparations from slavery, to womens rights, a lot of topics were covered last night. None of the candidates would give a straight answer, they would merely briefly address it, then go into a long tirade about something else. Anderson Cooper had to remind them several times last night to stay on topic.<br /><br />Going into the debate, Sen Clinton has the lead, with Sen Obama and Sen Edwards following. <br /><br />Rep. Dennis Kucinich: Had a few good moments. He had the others squirming on the Iraq issue, by showing he had never ever supported the war. Personally, I havent checked this out yet, but doubt he would make this obvious of a lie in a debate. <br /><br />Gov. Bill Richardson: He appeared weak and undecided for the most part, his biggest stand was on bringing the troops home by the end of 2007 with no exceptions. Guess he wants it cleaned up before he gets in office so he does not have to deal with it.<br /><br />Sen. Joe Biden: He made a few enemies by indirectly supporting the war, and not wishing to bring the troops home immediately.<br /><br />Sen. Chris Dodd : Not a big show either. He seems to be in the same boat as Biden and Gravel. Making a show to get his name out there, and people to remember his name for the next few years.<br /><br />Sen. Mike Gravel : Absolutely butchered the minimum wage question. Lost points in my opinion.<br /><br />Sen John Edwards: Had a few moments of nervous posture, especially during the gay marriage issue. Other then that, had a relatively strong showing.<br /><br />Sen Hillary Clinton. Polished and smooth. A little too polished and smooth. She appeared afraid to smile at times. She was without a doubt the most polished speaker, but no emotion or passion, just speaking words.<br /><br />Sen Barack Obama: In my opinion, came out on top of this debate. He spoke with confidence, stood with confidence, and had passion in his voice. It was close between him and Sen Clinton, but I think based on the passion, and some of the very tough questions he was asked, he gets the nod in this debate.<br /><br />Republicans have their You tube-Cnn debate September 17th. Will be most interesting to see how they handle it, especially with one question on the mouth of most votes being, why do we want four more years of republican control?<br /><br />This debate was a refreshing debate, a new style, a new format, and questions asked by real Americans, not professional journalist. For a link to the complete transcripts go to <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/07/23/debate.transcript/index.html">Cnn.com</a>Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-82382339134289569832007-07-23T12:56:00.000-04:002007-07-23T13:02:26.061-04:00Presidential CandidatesIts never too early to start sniffing, exploring and looking for information on these people. One of them will be the new president. The more that is known now, the better informed our decisions will be. <br /><br />A few pet peeves I have. Don't make a decision based on one fact or stand. A lot of people make their decisions based on abortion or gun control. Hey, thats all well and good, but a candidate needs to be chosen based on overall stance and opinion. <br /><br />Political party. Honestly, who cares anymore. Both parties cross party lines based on the issue. Both parties have their own agenda. Look to the person. Look for the person strong enough to unite both parties for the importance and preservation of the country.<br /><br />Being ill informed. Honestly, this just raises my hackles. Who cares if their daddy was president, or senator, or their name sounds familiar. Investigate the person. Don't take anything for what is reported. All media has bias, all reports will be biased one way or the other. Check the source, check the information, verify it, and then look at the big picture.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7565216990738213777.post-7142489032546981632007-07-20T15:27:00.001-04:002007-07-20T15:29:38.902-04:00President Bush surgeryTomorrow, Dick Cheney will be in charge of the country for a few hours while Bush has a colonoscopy. I think the question on everybodies mind is, will he take anybody hunting? On a serious note, hopefully the procedure will be over with quickly, and he will be back in charge soon. Kinda the devil you know vs the devil you dont.Erichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17756671735989986987noreply@blogger.com0