Enough Is Enough

So today the new budget cuts are supposed to take affect. Lord Jesus, another American crisis and no realistic measures to avoid impending doom. This has to stop!

I try not to get too political on the blog only because politics frustrate the hell out of me. Lately the situation with the American government is just intense partisanship and nothing is getting done. We reach cliffs, deadlines, and whatnot and for what? Congress seems unable or unwilling rather, to do anything to help the common Joe. I hate to admit too, it's not just the Republicans.

I'm a 100% loyal card carrying Democrat. I always will be. I support the Party because I believe their agenda falls most in line with my personal beliefs and values. However, I'm a bit miffed that my party always appears to kowtow to the other side of the aisle. Republicans know how to achieve their ambitions and drag shit out, causing constant gridlock. I think its far past time for Democrats to learn from their political opponents and fight just as tenaciously and dirty. Please. With pay checks getting smaller, prices for gas, groceries, and utilities growing, I don't think the public can suffer much more of Washington's ineptitude...

Can the bullshit. Get the Job done!

Party This Weekend at 1600!

Since I really haven't been blogging much in 2012, there's been not much political thought on the Presidential Race (and now WIN) for 44! Like most folks, Tuesday night was filled with anticipation, dread, mixed thoughts, and concern about the potential winner. Lord thank GOODNESS there's still some sense in America. Yes there's plenty of criticism of the Obama Administration, but looking at the possibility of spending four years under a Romney Plan (or lack thereof) was a pill our country couldn't swallow. The voice of the people has been heard. Like it or not, you need to move past the bullsh*t and work with the President.

I'm oh-so-glad the President achieved a second term. Hell, he deserves it. As I've plenty times this year, it took Bush eight years to fuck up the country, Obama can't solve it just four! Amen. The road ahead is gonna be long. Who knows what shenanigans the GOP has in store. I image the same old shuck and jive bullshit will continue. Hopefully, President Obama will take a lesson from across the aisle and use their same tactics to get a Democratic Agenda accomplished. The political gridlock needs resolved regarding the economy, unemployment, and general stability of the US. Lord I hope we can get through this! I know we can if folks can work together. It's time for Washington to suck it up and get to business.

Coming Home To Roost

Poor Herman. "Brutha" just can't catch a break. But then as I've heard, he shouldn't blame racism, right? Hmph. I've kept my mouth shut until now.

Until his scandal came out the woodwork, I seriously thought the Party of Hate might nominate Cain as their presidential nominee, but with evidence pointing information about Cain's alleged harassment improprieties was released from someone in his own party...well I guess they were trying to make sure that doesn't happen.

For the most, I ignore Herman Cain. In contest between him and Obama, does Cain honestly believe he'd beat 44? HONESTLY? I'm jus' asking the question. If he says 'yes," there's definitely an inflated ego goin' on, IMHO.

So, will Herman bounce back from all of this? Will he achieve the golden prize of the GOP nomination? As a friend of mine is apt to say, "All is yet to be revealed....."

Quick Thoughts...

I overslept this morning so I'm in a bit of a rush, but here we go....

Last night on the way home from work I was listening to John King on Sirius CNN. They were talking about the Republican presidential candidates and their feelings regarding immigration, illegal immigrants, and what needs to be done about the situation. The whole while they were discussing the issue, I sat and thought, OK this is only about Mexico, not Canada. But why?

No disrespect towards our brothers to the north, last I recalled no one ever suggested building 16 feet high barbed-wire fences stretching the length of the Northern Frontier Border? Why are we so hung up about Illegal Mexicans, like they're the dirt of the Western Hemisphere? IDK. I wish I had time to expound on my question. I know part of the problem is people feel illegals come and steal jobs from Americans, but let's be honest a moment! Most Illegals Immigrants take jobs that SOME feel are beneath them anyway. The other issue people feel illegals are leeching of the system.... blah, blah, blah.

I just don't understand.

And....What?!?!

Been a few thoughts ratting around in the grey matter that I haven't commented upon. Here's a rewind of some moments catching my attention this past week.

RuPaul's Drag Race Season Three Finale: First off, congrats to Raja...don't want it to seem like I'm sore loser cause I was a supporter of Team Alexis and Team Manila. That said, why the FRAK did I waste my time this season???? I knew from the FIRST episode Raja was probably going to win! Even though she worked my nerves at times, I grew to love Manila. By the Final three, I knew poor Alexis would be first to go, so I threw hope behind Manila. Alas...

The Weather/Tornadoes: OK? What in Samhain is going on? I'm not one to hit the panic button, but the last few weeks of Tornado activity has been just down right scary. Tornadoes hitting St. Louis' Airport, Tornadoes flattening entire towns in Arkansas, Alabama, Georgia... What the Hell?!?! Even PA wanted to horn in on the horrible weather. Two confirmed twisted rolled through my area on Thursday. Trees were down, flooding galore from the torrential rain, the Susquehanna way past looking menacing....Ugh! Getting to work, which normally is a 20 minute commute, took over an hour. Suffice to say our area wasn't as bad as the South, my point is why is Mother Nature tearing like a woman scorned? She's pissed!

Obama and his birth certificate: You know? Really? Why was this necessary? Honestly, Trump and the rest of the Birthers needed to go over this issue long ago. How commendable that on 44's part to put up with it this long. Mind you, I was one of those who really felt our president showing his birth certificate was so unnecessary. Officials and Reps from Hawaii time and time again gave the proof required to show his birth as US citizen. Yet, Trump and cronies just weren't satisfied. Lord! Donald just go get a haircut and leave us alone already!!! Why hasn't anyone mentioned HIPPA in all this? But I guess the highest citizen in the land isn't entitled to privacy. In any case, 44 showed 'em the long form.

The Royal Wedding: Is it done yet? I know I was one of the ones way back when to watch Charles and Diana, but I have no, none what-so-ever, interest in William and Kate. That's saying something cause usually anything British, and I'm so there. Dunno. Maybe cause Wills and Harry did a flip flop in the cuteness factor? Harry has gotten more over the years....Yeah he looked good standing next to his brother in West Minster. OK, I peeked at the highlights! I didn't watch it Friday morning though.

Superman's Citizenship: Are people really reacting over a comic book character renouncing U.S. citizenship? Really? C'mon people, it's a work of fiction! Get with the program. Let's worry about the frakkin' economy instead a make believe character written for children.

Doctor Who Series 6: After seeing part two of the season opener, I'm completely disillusioned with Who. What complete garbage! Both episodes seemed rushed and loosely tied. I do realize the point to Who has never to wrap things up in a tidy package, but these episode had too many plot whole. And can anyone explain the Silence to me? Um, the Doctor's been visiting Earth for hundreds of years and this is his first encounter? Oh yeah, you forget them when they're outta sight. I get it, outta sight, outta mind. Uh no...

This was perhaps one of the worst Doctor Who episodes to date. I don't know if I was more frustrated with BBC America's commercial interruptions or trying to understand a hastily written story. I've been watching the show since the 70s. I've long said the problem with the new incarnation of Who is it needs to go back to its root. Go back the Tom Baker era telling of story arc. Any one Remember the Invasion of Time? Now that was a story arc for the ages.... Ugh! Moffett, please turn this show around. It needs H-E-L-P. If need be, bring back some the older characters, while keeping the zest and underlying promise. Matt Smith are times shows incredible spark.

Despite my critiques, I'm still intrigued by the Doctor and River's relationship. The show is giving us the truth piece meal, but I think I've worked through the red herrings and alleged theorist on who exact River is. I might be important to not the child from the Season opener. Who was she? Why did Amy react they ways she did in child's room at the Ophanage? What was the real reason Amy told the Doctor she was pregnant and not Rory? Might point out the plot gap...HOW THE HELL DID SHE DISCOVER SHE WAS PREGNANT???

Skipping my rant, I do have speculations who the child trapped in the Apollo 11 suit was. Deconstruct the episode, piece all you know so far about River, and it all makes sense. Had to go back and re-watch River's introduction to the Doctor while he was in his David Tenant incarnation.... Oh I won't spoil it, but I would be très surprised if my theory was wrong...

MED Thoughts on "44" (Thanks, Rippa!)

I saw this over on Rippa's blog, and I give brother full credit for his post! Please be sure to review the original article on The Intersection Of Madness And Reality. I'm re-posting here because it got this brutha to think and this certainly is a must v-cast for any Barack Obama supporter/advocate. Wanted to give others the opportunity to reflect and respond on Michael Eric Dyson's thoughts as well...

Do you agree or disagree with Dr. Dyson? Read my comment and response to Rippa below after viewing the clip.

"Wow! I was really ready to throw down and defend Mister "44," who I love and respect no matter what the staunchest critics say about him, but Dr. Dyson was dead on. Unfortunately, Dr. D speaks the truth, really, that to the older generations, having a black president may not matter! Washington is just a hot bed of game,contention, and mess. Pander to my neighbor so I can get what I need for my constituents or my own self interests. I'm not saying the President isn't a good man or without altruistic intentions, but let's accept there's going to be issues he'll sidetrack, back peddle, and perhaps, completely overlook for a time, until he's comfortable with the impact he's made on the majority (translation white people).

The President has to straddle a difficult fence. I don't envy him, but again, I agree with Dr. Dyson Black people shouldn't give him a "free pass." He needs to be held accountable. Believe me, as a gay black man, I'm watching and hearing the rumblings the Gay Community is having with Obama for not fulfilling his promise to LGBTQ community over DADT (Don't Ask, Don't Tell) and other equal rights for gays. They/we're certainly are holding him up to his word. They/we are demanding he honor his obligation he campaigned.

Should certain issues be sacrificed for the time being? Which issues need to go first? Does a lack to act firmly on minority issues mean "44' has forgotten about us? I don't think so. He has so much on his plate, but I think Obama wants to reach out universally, not to just one community or the other, which means some in the minority (issues) will get overlooked. Is it right? Hell, no. But it's P-O-L-I-T-I-C-S!

Here's a personal question I need to ask. As someone who understands what it's like to be multiracial, how is the whole matter of race, ethnicity, and identity seen by the POTUS? For himself? I've seen interviews. Does he relate as an American? Or does he HAVE TO because we've given Obama the "Black" label, strictly identify as Black (or African American in the truest sense)? We all know he's biracial, "mixed" as we used to say, but grew up in a different set of circumstances than your average African American. I wonder...

Now we've heard the jokes...when the President makes a mistake or slights Black folk, blame it on his "White" half. Is it fair that we hold him to a standard that he has to be 100% in our corner? Honestly? I wanna say he should because if he didn't have the labels in front of his name...Professor, Senator, Mr. President...you know the racists would just see him as another "n" word. I don't know. America speaks with forked tongue no matter what the community, what the ethnic group, we all expect something from this President that he may or may not be able to achieve.

I accept that he'll need to not offend white people, who to be sure, many will accuse him of giving hand outs and freebies to "us" (Black folk) just because of his race. HOWEVER... like Dr Dyson indicated, each of the 43 Presidents preceding Mr. Obama looked out for their "own people," it just wasn't necessarily said because they were of the "majority." And Mr. Obama wants a second term. What President hasn't? So he's gotta play the game, back peddle in some areas, to insure he doesn't offend and hurt feelings to hinder a second term. Is this right? No, but is the nature of the beast. That's why I hate Politics. Ultimately, no matter who the politician, their best intentions, isn't it all about personal gain and legacy?"

Got Racism?

Yeah effing right!

My ass.

Lawdhavmercy! Ian's on a militant tear this morning.Tired of the "isms" today already...Sexism, Racism, Homophobia, Obamaphobia...and it's only 6:30 in the AM.
Oh Christ. What a way to begin your morning, eh? Got up and checked my email and Facebook, saw that one of my "friends" had did one of those annoying little "quizzy" things... Five Historical Things In History I'd stop If You Could. Well you know the fucker had the nerve to put the election of Barack Obama. Put me on blast! Fired off a reply, which I'm sure will end our friendship:

"If I hear one more white person complain about Barack Obama, I think I'm going to be sick. Will y'all get over it already.?!?! He's really not doing that bad of a job! Or is it that White people still see Black people as inferior in this country????? And Dave you put here that you'd stop the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, who by the way, Barack Obama has modeled his presidency upon, or didn't you pay attention during the Inauguration? So far he's {Barack} done the same things Lincoln did, and making better progress. I'm not expecting you to explain yourself or understand why black people think every negative remark against Obama is racist, because you people won't, nor do we have the time or desire to educate ones out of their self-deceived bigotry. I expected better statements than this from you. Really, I did. I'm really disappointed in you man...."

Ian's Inquiry: OK, Said friend might not be a racist, but I get that perception some folks are holding on to 44's election as this great evil, and to me it conveys nothing but racism. So, is every white person who has anything substantial negative about the President being prejudiced or racist?

ASU Snubs The President

How in the hell do you not confer an honorary degree to the President of the United States? Please, someone tell me. I'm in disbelief Arizona State University will not confer an honorary degree to this year's commencement speaker, President Obama, because he supposedly "has not yet reached the pinnacle of his experience." Um, excuse me. Hello? First Black President? US Senator? Illinois State Senator? Author? Lawyer? Community Organizer? Aren't these enough?

Why don't they just say what they really mean? "We don't wanna give that nigger a degree because he beat John McCain." I find it much better dealing with people when they're honest about their racism. Don't dance around it, be up front with it. Take off your robes and show your crooked ass smile! Wasn't Arizona the last state to formally accept Martin Luther King, Jr. Day as a national holiday?!?! How blatantly transparent and racist can Arizona State University be?

I wounder what the President himself feels about the issue? Probably is a good thing I'm not president, cause I'd back out of commencement proceedings. I'm sure Big Brother Barack won't, but I would. It's not the students' fault. It's all administrative politics. I'm Sure. And, as I pointed out, I'm positive some Arizonans are still smarting John McCain's loss for the Presidency. If the situation had been different though, you know damn Skippy ASU would offering all kinds of accolades and what not to the "distinguished gentleman from Arizona"...his his curmudgeonly self. No doubt McCain would get a degree.

We'll hear more about this gaffe in the coming days. Read the original Huffington Post article here.

Ian's Point: I'm just righteously indignant this morning. Perhaps I have no point other than I'm embarrassed for the 2009 Arizona State University Graduating Class!

I Feel A Rant Come On...

See here, Toddy started it! Teacher! I'm serious!!! But Ian is finishin' it.

Toddy did a blurb over on his blog on Rush Limbaugh (the big fat oaf) and I'm sitting here now watching Bobby Jindal on Larry King Live. Can someone remind Bobby that he's the Republican Party's token "darkie" of the moment. Negro Please. I'm so tired of the Republicans and their bullshit. Instead of criticizing the President on creating big government, why don't they make plausible suggestions to improve the economy? Why all the criticism? George Bush ran the country into the ground, starts two wars, spent a surplus Clinton had amassed, and now President Obama is trying to dig us out of W's mess, and the fat-cat elephants wanna complain?!?! Get the eff outta here!

Barack Obama gets elected President? Republicans go and make Michael Steele the GOP Party Chairman (We all know that's a total crock. Those mofos don't respect Michael Steele. Republicans are trying to attract the Black vote. When Brother Steele wears out his usefulness, he'll go the way of Sarah Palin. The Republican leadership claims Rush Limbaugh isn't the de facto leader of the party, but then why is Steele apologizing to the big bald fat Oxycontin abuser? I could say more, but.... Know this though, Limbaugh is the serpent in the Garden, Republicans. Beware of his golden fruit he offers.

While I don' agree with everything brother has to say, intrinsically, Mr. Steele isn't a bad person. Same for some Republicans. Just because the chose that party affiliation, doesn't mean their Hester Prim with a scarlet "R" branded on their chest. Well maybe some should. Like the evil one. You know her name. Starts with the letter "A."

Ann Coulter? Bitch! No more needs be said about her. I promise not to go on because I'll just come across as uneducated. Too many naughty words in my vocabulary in three languages to use. Nope. I'll shut up. So I'm tuning out of CNN and tuning into Cartoon Network. It's for the best....

-Ian

From Here

OK, folks. We had our day to celebrate. Did a flimsy post to comemorate the milestone because I was tired from staying up until 3 AM Tuesday Night. I'm still tired, but it time to resume our regular programming. Party's on hold until MLK Weekend '09. Then we can celebrate all over again. For now, life ain't gonna stop just cause history was made. There's still bills to get paid, appointments to keep, debts to be paid, commitments to hold.

But boo-yeah, baby! We got our first Black President, America!

So where do we go from here? Not Barack, but us, the addicted News Media junkies?!?! I mean, I tried watching MSNBC and CNN yesterday. Just didn't have the same feel. Nope. Not at all. Seeking a consolation prize, I even tuned into The View, hoping Elizabeth be smarting her ass off, instead all I got was a Sherry Shepard break down. Damn! Sherry didn't you get the November 5th etiquette memo??? You not supposed to breakdown in public. Only in private. Yeah, I know you was overcome, but like Whoopi tried to tell you "Don't go, don't go!"

So how many times did you cry? I'll admit it, had my moment several times. Tom Joyner did a montage on Tuesday morning starting with MLK and ending with Barack's DNC Convention speech. Tuesday night, lost it when I talked to my family, then again driving home from an Election Watch party. Whew! Too much of that, LOL.

Time to put away the handkerchiefs now. (Do people even use those anymore?) Suck it up soldier. Life keeps on going. But please, please, somebody tell me what am I gonna do now that I can't get up in wee hours to watch the campaign speeches? The asinine Fox Noise folks claiming their McCain victory? Where is my meaning to the Rachel Maddow Show, now? Do I continue to tune in for Keith Olbermann's "Worse Person Of The World?"

Oh, Anderson Cooper! Am I really gonna tune into AC 360? Larry King Live? Do I watch CNN & MSNBC at all now? Sure there's uber-sexy-as-silk CNN reporters TJ Holmes & Don Lemmon, and the pontificating Harold Ford Jr on MSNBC, but one can only stare at these brothers for so long dammit without getting that vapid feeling! Is the News still newsworthy? Tell me!

So where do I go from here? Do I migrate over to E!? HGTV? ESPN? Spike? Univision? Cartoon Network? God forbid, CMT???? Nope. The best thing from here is click the remote off, pick up a book, and immerse myself in the world of my own mind.

But the political commentary wiithdraaaaaaaawl! He'p me Lawd!

Moments...

The past few days have been annoying as hell. My computer is having all kinda problems and I'm ready to drop kick it out the window.

Sorry Darius. You caught me dead to rights. I wanted to throw a couple thoughts up last night, but my old Dell wasn't havin' it. Time for an upgrade, right? Well if I could afford one, I would've by now.

So after 28 years, the Phillies are one again the World Champions of Major League Baseball. I heard Philly was unhinged last night. Both Miss T and I cried tears of joy last night. Now if we can feel this way on Tuesday.

Speaking of Barack, what did people think on his commercial last night? I watched parts of it, but walked out the room a few times. I hope the commercial did some good. My thing is, if you don't know by now who you want to vote for, then when will you??? The Election is five days away, and by all means, I'm glad. Tired of waiting, but now I'm so overdosed on all the news media channels, it's ridiculous...

The Morning After

The Rays gave the Phillies a run for the money last night, but in the end, Philadelphia held on to their 3-2 lead and won Game 1 of the World Series.

Rays batters like BJ Upton and Carl Crawford are gonna be fierce competitors against Phillies' pitchers. Damn! Those brothers swing their bats with a mission. There's another Rays player, forget his name, but he's an Asian player and he was getting some base hits. So this ain't gonna be a cakewalk for the Phils. The Rays want this. The Phillies want this. It's a matter of who wants it more...

While watching the World Series, I was also flipping back and forth between CNN, and MSNBC. Larry King Live had on his panel, of all people, turncoat Lynn Swan. Now this has to be the whitest black man in America next to OJ Simpson! Gr! Swan needs to go sit in a corner somewhere and shut the hell up. He's still smarting his loss as Pennsylvania's Governor back in 2006. Though he's a Republican, these good folks of PA know Lynn Swan is fulla shit. N-word please! Please turn in your Black man carrying card status card now!

Thanks to Lady Miss T, Keith Olbermann and The Rachel Maddow Show have fast become two must-see programs over on MSNBC. Anderson 360 on CNN is starting to feel trite. To be honest, I'm overdosing on Election coverage. As I've read on more than a few blogs, "We're ready to vote! Enough News Media spinning already!"

The turnout for early voting has been phenomenal! I'm surprised how impassioned folks are this Election season. Wow! Truly surprised. More and more in my neighbor, the McCain signs are disappearing, and the Obama signs are out in full force. And believe me, theiving and vandalism has nothing to do with it. Folks, in the final days, are latching on to Obama's message. A'ight. I don't care when you get with the program, just as long as you do.

Now, I'm not sure if PA if having early elections (probably) or not, but I'm waiting to cast my vote on November 4th. My polling station is up the street and I plan to be there, promptly, at 7:00 AM. Might arrive at 6:00 AM just in case their might be a long line.

Dear Stephen Baldwin

Response to a little blurb over on the Huffington Post

Dear Stephen Baldwin,

Shut the Fuck up! Move to Canada already. I'm sure they'll send your fat ass to any other country once they realize how much you detract from society.!

It's a shame, really. Out of all the Baldwin brothers, you used to be the most handsome, next to Billy. Now you gained thrice as much weight as Alec or Daniel combined, and resemble just another ignorant ass, has-been actor, at the end of his career, claimed to have found Jesus, cleaned up his life, and now is the utmost authority on what America needs. Yeah, right! Uh-huh. Did you forget about any of your outstanding Oscar award winning roles? Oh waitaminute, you don't have any!

Why the tirade? Hmm. Maybe you need to check your racist attitudes at the door and have an open mind for a minute...How the hell is Barack Obama a cultural terrorist?!?! This coming from the same man who starred in the trashy "Threesome" flick and a ton of forgettable movies. How is Barack winning the White House going to personally hurt you? Please tell me. Oh wait. I guess because McCain is another good ole boy white man makes him more qualified? I dunno what frightens you about Barack Obama, but you frighten me. They should sell your face as a mask for trick o' treat in two weeks! But no, I'll be good.

Instead of violence by offering to box with Obama, why not sit down and have a genuine conversation with him, eh? (Better get used to that!) Have you personally sat down with the man to discuss anything about the economy, health care, energy crisis, or even unemployment?!?! You should know a thing or two about unemployment, dude!

And seriously. I'm sure Barack's health care plan could benefit you too. Looks like you need to call Dr. Ian Smith's 50 Million Pound Weight Challenge, bruh? See, you need to take some advice from Daniel. At least he had the courage to go on "Celebrity Fit Club." Don't get me wrong. I love your brothers. Billy (always easy on the eyes), Alec (a force to be reckoned with back in the day and funny as hell in "30 Rock" and "Will & Grace"), and Daniel (most notably Dr. Drew's "Celebrity Rehab". I respect Daniel's courage in facing his addiction)... But you? What efforts have you personally taken to solve the American crisis?

When was the last time you gave one iota to the plight of most Americans? How much money came out your pocket for the Gulf Coast victims from Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Gustav, or Ike? How many times were you in Iraq and Afghanistan, entertaining the the troops; raising their spirits so they can serve another day? When was the last time you put down your fork, and volunteered at a food pantry or soup kitchen to feed the hungry? When was the last time you served your country in some capacity other than living off your "celebrity" status and taking up space? When Stephen, when?

Oh. I didn't think so. It's not your job, huh? Hmm. OK, I understand you now. Just another consumer without giving back to the cause. Let me then say this as plesant as I can....There's no reason why you're still here. Leave already. We don't want you anymore. If you can't give back, at least keep your mouth shut! Barack Obama, who has shown time and time again to be a moral, upstanding, contributing American citizen, is trying to bring necessary change and hope for the average citizen. So, if Barack being elected President of the United States gives you the impetus to move to Canada, by all means, leave!

I'm holding you to your promise, Stephen Baldwin. Leave. If Barack wins the presidency, you have until January 19th to emigrate to Canada. So show me what you really stand for buddy. If you feel this strongly about it, I expect you to live by your words. I want you to hold a huge press conference 'n all too. Make a graaaaaaand display. But you won't, cause everybody knows you're just shootin' your mouth off, talkin' shit, selling wolf tickets (as they used to say). We all know if McCain wins or loses, your fat, lazy, privileged ass will be right on your studio couch, here in these United States of America, come Election and Inauguration day. OK?

Now do us all this one courtesy you can do, Stephen...Shut up! Thank you.

Sincerely,
Ian

What's My Name, Bitch?!?!

John McCain sincerely needs to thank Barack Obama that I wasn't the one up there debating with him last night. McCain's "That One" comment ruffled my feathers. Here's a word for John McCain...your oponnent has a name, it's Barack H. Obama, not "that one." That's his name bitch!

Sushi For Two Plus More

Ugh! I'm still getting over a nasty cold. What's worse, a cold in the fall or the winter? I was knocked on my ass most of last weekend. Monday was an iffy day, but yesterday I felt good enough to go out with Hester for sushi. Come Hell or Highwater, sushi is my best friend and any opportunity I can get, sick or not, I'm there.

The restaurant had an all-you-can-eat sushi feature, but I wasn't up to gorging myself. Instead, Hester and I ordered a beautiful sushi for two platter. It came with Miso soup and a light cucumber salad. Very refreshing. I tend to eat sushi rolls more than nigiri or sashimi, but last night I wolfed down everything put in front of me.

Overall, I think we had a good time, met new folks, and engaged in stimulating intellectual conversation. While most topics stayed away from the Presidential race, people obviously made there opinion's known. Hester wore her Obama pin on her coat and I noticed more than a few smiles and gleeful expressions. One person (Hillary supporter) at our table went so far as saying while he's really not happy with Obama, he's anti-McCain, therefore casting his vote on the democratic ticket regardless.

'S OK. You don't have to love "Barry" to vote for him, just do your part to ensure McCain doesn't win next month. (Can you believe the election is a little over a month away? Where did 2008 go people???)

Tomorrow's Vice Presidential debates should be interesting to say the least. I wonder how old girl will perform? Hester, Miss T, Arturo, and I are supposed to watch the debates over dinner at Hester's house. I'm a bit nervous because this will the first meeting of my friends for Artie. He's smart, witty, and down to Earth. Artie should be able to pass inspection and gain approval. He's a good sell, LOL, but I'd be lying if I didn't say I wasn't holding my breath until the initial contact has been made. Hester and T are the two best judges of character I know. They'll see through any bullshit (certainly did with Napoleon)....

Baseball playoffs are on! I'm ecstatic the Phillies won the National League East Division two years in a row! Hopefully they can go past the first round this year. First match up is with the Brewers. I think the game is this afternoon in Philly.

Gotta get off to rehab therapy. I'm not in the mood for it to be honest, but...C'est la vie. If I wanna get back into the game, I gotta do the required work, right?

Ian

Presidential Debate

I'm anticipating an interesting debate or conversation tonight. If John McCain doesn't show up, Senator Obama will hold a Town Hall meeting if McCain decides not to attend.

By current reports, Barack still has a lead over Senator McCain in the polls. Would he really be dumb enough not to go down to Ole Miss and debate his opponent? Seems funny to me McCain said he was suspending his campaign, but there were at least three McCain commercials on during Ugly Betty and Grey's Anatomy last night. What happened to no ads???

Tonight will be hectic. Between dividing my time celebrating with Tamodi's for her birthday, stopping in to see Arturo, and helping Miss T prep for yard sale tomorrow, I'll catch the debates. There's a feeling of anticipation in the air...Barack mesmerizes me. Like many other Americans, I sit in awe at his oratory skills, knowledge, and passion.

Barry Knows

"With respect to the debates, it’s my belief that this is exactly the time when the American people need to hear from the person who, in approximately 40 days, will be responsible for dealing with this mess. And I think that it is going to be part of the president’s job to deal with more than one thing at once. I think there’s no reason why we can’t be constructive in helping to solve this problem and also tell the American people what we believe and where we stand and where we want to take the country."

-Senator Barack Obama

Barry knows the deception! He's a smart individual, takin' care o' business, his and ours, not falling McCain aggressive distractions. Senator Obama had a 10% lead in the polls yesterday. Not sure where he stands today. All I know is I'm feelin' mighty anxious. My faith in America waivers, but never in God...If it's His will Barack Obama wins, then Barry will be our next President of these here United States. No ands, ifs, or buts about it.

Just Because He's Black....

I caught a glimpse of McCain on CNN giving a speech blaming everything and anything currently wrong in the US due to Barack Obama.

"What an old, out-of-touch bastard," I thought to myself. Listening to his nasally voice whine how he'll do this so much better or do that so much more efficiently, I was disgusted.

McCain blatantly lied how Obama would increase taxes, worsen the economy, cause further unemployment, etc, etc, etc. I couldn't listen.

With 46 days left until the Presidential Election, my patience is wearing thin. The sad thing is I'm pretty convinced people are going to elect McCain as the next president. I'm losing hope! In addition, CNN also recently aired one McCain supporter sentiments about Senator Obama, "Well I could see myself voting for no colored man. What do they know about change? The only change they know about is the one in their cup."

Isn't that nice? Well if some folks are gonna vote for McCain because he's white, he's a reason to vote for Barack Obama, just because he's black....

Just Because He's Black.

A white man asked his black friend, "Are you voting for Barack Obama just because he's black?"

The black man responded by saying, "Why not? Hell, in this country men are pulled over everyday just cause they're black; passed over for promotions just cause they're black; considered to be criminals just cause they're black; and there are going to be thousands of you who won't be voting for him just because he's black! However, you do not seem to have a problem with that!

This country was built with the sweat and whip off the black slaves' back, and now a relative of those same slaves has a chance to lead the same country, where we weren't even considered to be people, where we weren't allowed to be educated, drink from the same water fountains, eat in the same restaurants, or even vote.

So yes! I'm going to vote for him!

But it's not just because he's black, but because he is hope, he is change, and he now allows me to understand when my grandson says that he wants to be president when he grows up,it is not a but a short term goal. He now sees, understands and knows that he can achieve, withstand and do ANYTHING just because he's black!"

If You Only Believe

Friday is finally here folks. Thank God is right. For some reason this week seemed incredulously tedious and long. But it's a'ight cause we made it through and endured the storms, didn't we? Praise God!

You know I need to take my butt to church this weekend and give proper thanks for His Blessings. Amen!

Weekend plans are underway. This afternoon I'm meeting up with Arturo for lunch, tomorrow I'm plannin' on seeing Tyler Perry's "The Family That Preys," (the spelling "Prey" is correct, as Tyler emphasized this morning on Tom Joyner, while promoting the film) and as mentioned, Sunday will find my butt in a church pew. A'ight now!

Tyler Perry is a brother in action. Go on TP! Didn't realize Tyler is only a coupla months older 'an me. He mentioned his 39th birthday is this weekend. Damn, 39? OK, so if Tyler Perry can make his dreams come true, what's my excuse? Huh!?! Time to get off my ass and get in motion! My dreams of starting my own restaurant can be a reality if I only apply myself. There's still time.

Speaking of motion, this morning is movin' fast! Whew. I lost track of time when I sat down for coffee, started blogging, and listened to Barack speak on the TJMS. Talk about gettin the day started off on the good foot. I could listen to Barack speak all day long! Somehow, some way, this man needs to win the November election. Barack has got what it takes to be President! Brother is full of passion, faith, hope, and conviction! Preach it B!

Did anyone see Sarah Palin's interview last night? I caught parts of it. Lemme tell you, she was a dear caught in the headlights. Oh God help us! Open your eyes America. Don't be swayed or misguided. Please people! Hear Barack's message. Know he has a plan that will put our country back on track! But you know folk gonna do what they gonna do! Some people won't be convinced, no matter what, and'll continue to fall for the same old same old.

On a side note, my thoughts and prayers go out to my friends in Texas who need to evacuate as precaution for Hurricane Ike's arrival. I'm hearing this storm is gonna pack a wallop and is possibly nastier than Katrina or Rita. Ike has left a path of devastation and life lost in it's wake, so you know this one ain't no joke. E-mailed the French Fry Guy to keep me apprised on his sitch. Prayin' him and his will ride out this storm, literally.

My thoughts are with ya brotha! Hold on tight and holla soon!

My Concern

A few months ago I posted the picture to the right of Hill Harper wearing a Barack the Vote t-shirt. Photogreg loved the shirt (and Hill Harper) so much he ran out and got one for himself.

Not until recently did I know Hill Harper and Barack Obama are actually close associates. Found that out from watching the CNN special on Barack last weekend. Small world.

So, Barack is under fire for his "lipstick on a pig" comment? Sigh. More subterfuge! Everything and anything Senator Obama saying is being taken out of context and being used against him. I'm sure he in no way inferred the statement about Ms. Palin. However, it's enough controversy for the news media to jump all over the story and further stir the pot.

Sarah Palin agitates me for a number of reasons. She comes off as very sanctimonious and a bit of a religious zealot at that. I've been reading about her beliefs, some of which are very disturbing. Neither she or McCain are supporters of gay rights or equality.

Is there anyone within the LGBT community going to vote for a McCain-Palin ticket? I imagine there are a handful, but I implore those voting for McCain to know the issues. Know what they're bargaining for...no gay marriage, an attempt to undo Roe v. Wade, no gay adoption, further involvement in war... yadda, yadda, yadda. I don't trust John McCain or Sarah Palin. For those looking for a Hillary substitute in Sarah Palin, you're barking up the wrong tree. Senator Clinton is far removed from Governor Palin. I'm sure Palin relishes her gun-toting, anti-feminist, anti-homosexual, anti-religious diversity, right wing conservative politician status.

Palin has too many skeletons in her closet for my tastes.

More than a few folks in my circle are worried about Barack's chances gaining the election in November. While it's a concern for me, I've also told myself that McCain is going to win, so if Barack loses, then it won't be so much of a let down. However, I have faith. I've prayed the best candidate will win and hopefully that's Barack H. Obama. Regardless who wins, history will be made. And who knows? If the old guard gets the Oval Office, maybe McCain will enact on his new found "change" message.

One can only hope a McCain Administration won't take our country back to a time where gay men and women go running back into the closet, where women are getting back alley abortions, and other faiths have to worship in secret... Palin belongs to a Christian denomination who's key tenet is everyone of the world SHOULD BE Christian. As a Christian, I believe it's important to spread the Gospel, however, religious freedom is a fundamental right at the foundation of United States ideology. No one should be forced to accept Christianity.

McCain as President scares me. Palin as Vice President and a heartbeat away from the Presidency terrifies me!