ThE OpEn DoOr

Through The Baptism of Bankruptcy

CJM — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 21:13:33 EDT

The American people have been watching the US Auto industry closely for a number of months. America must have an Auto Industry. We are America for crying out loud. We buy more cars than anyone. But we must have industries that compete in every way from technology, safety, productivity to efficiency and cost.

It is a very hard time for many in the industry that have done all they can do to build the best cars industry has allowed them to build, but these folks are survivors and will overcome. They will lead the new American auto industry with the experience and continuous process improvement cultures that they know are critical to quality.

Our nation is at a crossroads. An eight lane crossroads at rush hour with train tracks to-boot! Now is the time for our government & manufacturing industries to manhatanize the change over away from foreign oil. We cannot just keep kicking it down the road. It cost way to much with each kick. Look at us now, the big three in danger of survival. High efeciency & electric cars should have been the norm for at least five to ten years, but they are not. Had they of been we would be looking at a very different picture. We cannot unscramble that egg, but we must take heed, learn from it and start anew. We must not squander our last chance. Yes, I say last chance. Because the path we are on is not sustainable for another 20+ years.

At this point I believe that it is in the best interest of the nation and the auto industry for GM & Chrysler to go through a pre-packaged bankruptcy, a protected bankruptcy that will let us start fresh with a clean cost effective slate. And what I will add is for this to take the highest of national priority and to make sure it happens right and quickly, so that GM & Chrysler can get back on track and head for better days.

This is the perfect storm for breaking the back of foreign oil dependency and for re-tooling industry over to USA natural gas and electric cars and trucks. The government can play a role in determining a DVEI (dollar value to energy independence.) There are cost factors like national security on dependent energy vs potential independent energy, current greenhouse cost vs more efficient and renewable alternatives. There are other factors as well. Bottom line, there is a dollar value to energy independence and it can be used to assist the nation in a changeover. Even if we are only talking a 5 to 10% change over, that would be the start, and would grow exponentially from there as the cost would also become more affordable.

What I envision is the government working with private industry like trucking companies, UPS, FED-EX, etc.. and companies like BP & Philips to add natural gas to existing stations. Converting existing engine components for tractor trailers and other transport vehicles is where the Auto industry comes in. This and new natural gas engine conversion kits. Re-tooling and building fuel tanks and pumping stations also. Industry would do this as they continue to move forward on advanced electric vehicles. This would also feed a host of different new jobs/demands nationwide.

Tax breaks based on DVEI can be used to leverage and incentivise transport & energy related industry to be a part of the solution and make the switch. In addition the federal government can lead the way by converting government transport vehicles to natural gas and electric.

What we cannot do is to continue to do what we have been doing for the last 20+ years, expecting that we can do it for 20 more. The end of that era is NOW. If it is through the baptism of bankruptcy that will free the US Auto industry to rise again then so be it! Americans are great people and we are intelligent people. We will buy the cars again! They will be better, and we know it. We know when there is sustainable change and we will not allow some false stigmas of bankruptcy to influence us without cause.

If industry turns around and does so in an unprecedented way, as we know they can, then Americans will do their part and step to the plate. Trust me, Americans want to buy American made products. We want to take care of our own, We've had enough. So lets get on with the business of turning our auto industry around and let's seize the opportunity to use it as a vehicle :) to save our nation from the destructive addiction of foreign oil.

Obama's Wars? NO My Wars.

CJM — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 12:33:26 EDT

Obama's war? Really! Well maybe in the sense that he is now the President & Comander in Chief and is charged with "the buck stops here." But when we start to look at this wreck from all four corners of the intersection we will find some intersting perspectives and facts that cannot be seen from opposing views/corners. Some of which we rather not see, know or accept. In fact, some add up to a dirty little term known as "blowback." Just hurry and write the ticket officer, please!

What the President and his teams are doing with the wars and foreign policy is steering in a direction that will get "US" back on some sense of terra firma. It is what he clearly campaigned on and what we, The UNITED States of America, collectively as a democracy accept through his election.

Some wish that by calling this "Obama's Vietnam" or Obama's war that it will divert attention and erase the previous admin's & congresses history of their handling of the war in Iraq and Afghanistan. IT DOES NOT and NOR will it next time. Clicking ones heels wishing it to go away does not work in the real world. As the crude but true saying goes, "wish in one hand & sh*+ in the other, which one do you think will fill up faster?" remains the case for the history/the facts.

When I think about what we, America not just Obama are faced with concerning Afghanistan, I have to look at the history of our involvement and it's legacy. I personally think that the movie "Charlie Wilson's War" is a good depiction of what happened and today's current state of affairs in Afghanistan is clearly a large part of the blowback from it. While the current admin is taking credit good bad or indifferent for the latest round of buck stopping decisions, I recognize that these decisions are crafted to combat the winds and debris of actions and inactions of previous US foreign policy decisions whether out rite, coordinated or clandestine. Decisions that go well into decades of administrations and Congresses.

So let's be clear, WE OWN IT! We the People, not the President. Need I remind you that he, his administration and everyone in Congress reports to & works for YOU & I. So while the "Buck Stops with The President," the President & the Congress stops with "WE The People." And in order for us to heal & grow strong as a nation we must first own what we do. So we own it America!

The United States of America has ownership and responsibility to the wars in Iraq & Afgahnistan. Damn that hurts when I write it this way. We can argue the finer points of whether we asked for them, and to be quit frank, the answers change back and forth with the magnification and the pursuit of root cause. Like every coin has two sides, until you magnify, it is then when you will see sides, angles and corners that you did not consider at a wider more comfortable view!

And until we as a nation join not as Independents, Democrats and Republicans, but as ACTIVE AMERICAN VOTERS and take a hard clear eyed look at certain aspects of our dysfunctional foreign policy history, understand & accept what the results and ramifications/blow-back has been, then we will constantly block the potential for more sustainable problem solving as opposed to the murky problem pushing that we have engaged in.

But, we must also remember that we are a GREAT NATION and a great people that is great through it's diversity, acceptance and love of freedom. THE NATION that has very much lead the world to greater peace & prosperity. We must learn to discern. Separate the functional from the dysfunctional. It is when "We the People" lower our heads and our uprightness that the two mingle and cloud the waters of foreign policy.

So to say this is Obama's war or Bush's war, Kennedy's Bay of pig's, Nixon's Vietnam, etc.. might be comforting to those on the left or right, it is nothing more than divergence, distraction and a false pealing away of YOUR & MY responsibility as the collective OWNERS of our nations Destiny. It is our responsibility and opportunity to stay abreast, ask the questions, get the facts and vote accordingly.

In America, today more than ever WE are empowered with the tools to mandate our government in the direction that we choose. It only happens when YOU & I, the owner's start acting like we own the greatest most coveted "company" on the face of the earth, The United States of America.

The Office of Homeland Insecurity & Dysfunction

CJM — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 17:41:22 EDT

We all have our views on what we think is right. For many of us that changes as new facts are revealed, some quicker than others. We know how it feels when we argue back and fourth and when we win an argument it generally makes us feel somewhat victorious. But maybe we are not feeling so great, if we still do not come to consensus, because maybe what we really want is agreement and alignment.

But think back to a moment in your life when the leaders that you believed in were engaged in agreement with the opposition leadership and they for a brief moment were united and worked together to actually solve problems. It can be an amazing feeling when the Nation and the leadership is united for a cause. The world for that matter. We need only look back to the early days of 911 to remember what that felt like.

Why is it important for many people to see their government leaders working together in a meeting of the minds? Other than the fact that it gives us a sense of security, a sense that they know what they are doing and are working diligently to protect the interest of our Nation. Is it because of something from our past? Possibly the fact that the one thing that is terrifying to children is to see their parents/leadership figures fighting.

Maybe there is a subconscious memory aspect to it all. And maybe that is also why our leaders find it comforting to be in the fight when playing the leadership role. Is our government this giant co-dependant poster child? Yikes! Do we need to enroll the Congress and the Admin into counseling? Pelosi and Boehner? McCain and Obama! But like counseling, when they get there then they have to start unpacking bags. I don't even think Samsonite has that much luggage! But maybe, it would be worth it for both parties to increase the level of bipartisanship if only by single digits!

Where do you start? Do you open a cabinet level office of Homeland Insecurity & Dysfunction. Do we hire Dr. Phil to head the department? Maybe we are better off to just keep rowing up that great African river Denile and send our leadership into divorce court. Somethings gotta give, the kids can't take the pain that Washington continues to dole out.

March Madness has gone to the dogs, the BIG dogs!

CJM — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 01:32:52 EDT

Like our President & the loyal opposition. We take March Madness serious in this houshold!!! And my power forward is on game! So back up! It's gonna be a Carolina team, not sure which one yet but it is gonna be one!

I would like to see DUKE get there and now that they are pissed off at the President they might, They just have to make a way, where there is no way, and know that if you are trying, you are failing, you either are doing it or you are not! But I will still be happy if the Tarheels win :)

As long as I have my health!

CJM — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 18:01:56 EDT

The saying goes, "as long as I have my health" I will be ok. As we claw our way out of this economic recession, it is imperative that we understand what we are dealing with, how we got here and what we need to do to create a sustainable recovery, lest we wind up doing nothing more than flailing money at the problem in a state of drowning man syndrome. It is quite sobering to see tent cities in America and it is clear that many are hurting in many ways, but even in a tent city, one would say "as long as I have my health" in hopes that things will change for a better day.

The current state of affairs is a compilation of various root causes not just one. The president and many Americans on both sides of the isle are working hard and working smart to fix the problems. What I find fascinating is that many if not most of the issues that are crossing the wire are part of the reason we are in this financial mess. Energy policy, un enforced finance regs, outdated regs, unfair trade, health care and more, much more.

At the end of the day we can deal with most issues "as long as we have our health!" With out it, we are done. Ironically, healthcare reform is critical to solving what ails America. At the same time it is like the "we need a bigger boat" comment from the movie Jaws, when looking into the mouth of healthcare reform. At least that is a normal thought when confronted with such a daunting task.

The president has called all hands on deck to work together and solve these problems that contribute to the bigger picture, which really add up to nothing less than national security and the global recession. Healthcare reform will need a bigger ship not a bigger boat! The president was successful in bringing all the major parties to the table. But then what? What next? Well if we do what we have done in the past, then we will fail. We will go back to our corners and tailor our arguments to drive our agendas, which may or may not be aligned with the best possible solutions for the country's health. But everyone must be heard and taken seriously. Because while an individual might not have the answer, that person might have a catalyst/idea that is a step to another idea or viable solution.

Maybe Six Sigma's DMAIC, DMADV, Kaizen, Lean or some other process improvement cultures can be what facilitates the process of healthcare reform and successfully brings all the parties through the process together, and onto unprecedented problem solving! Or it might be that the tools would be used in various combinations for specific project needs and collaborations. This would allow a structure & culture that keeps us on track to solutions or closure on a specific area and not merely chasing rabbits. These tools combined will also teach those involved very valuable problem solving techniuqes that they will use in future opportunities, even at home!

I believe our nation as individuals is lacking in up to date problem solving techniques and maybe even confuses putting out fires with solving problems/eliminating root cause.

How do we solve problems as a team? When problem solving, do we DEFINE what it is we are looking to do, and at the same time define what we are not looking to do so that we do not waste time in areas that will not produce fruit.

Do we collect and MEASURE credible, relevant, un-skewed data, the voice of the customer? Or do we merely seek data that validates/qualifies our agenda?

Do we ANALYZE the data, allowing it to unfold, telling it's own story, speaking its facts? Do we listen to the data, understand it, accept it, even when painful? Or do we manipulate the data, have selective listening and take a ride on that great African river, denial?

Do we carefully develop and pilot solutions tailored to fit and IMPROVE what was defined based on our findings (the voice of the customer) and it's analysis and not what fits an ideology alone or some hidden agenda?

When we finally fix-it, do we all get happy, clap our hands, go have drinks turn our backs and return to our lives? Or do we put CONTROLs in place to monitor and determine future improvements that are inevitable, expected and necessary, as is the case with all continues improvement as we hand off the projects.

In a nutshell, this is Six Sigma DMAIC's (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control!) It is only one of several process improvement tool kits that are used to problem solve. It may or may not be the one for healthcare reform and it's complexities, but certainly the need to explore the various process improvement cultures for healthcare reform is absolutely needed and to not do so is insane. And we all know what the operational definition of insanity is.

Maybe, the president should require that all the teams find, implement and certify a process improvement culture that will facilitate their part of the solutions. Certainly the admin & congress can make the resources (instructors, materials) available. Maybe there should be an office of Process Improvement & Problem Solving Culture.

These tools are great when they are used properly and for the prescribed problems/opportunities. And like anything else, when they are not used correctly they can fail. What I do like about using process improvement tools is that you build your projects and their solutions on the VOC (voice of the customer not your opinion) and data driven facts and not merely assumptions. With these tools come the need to provide validation of findings (data or VOC) at every step. Note that the VOC is not just the external customer/end user but the internal customer/partners as well.

What tends to happen with teams is that a common process improvement language develops and provides the continuity necessary to finish projects successfully. I also love the fact, that team members are deliberately brought in together from every level, high and low. That alone brings amazing strength to a project via the diversity of thought and discussion! That way It is not just a bunch of brilliant people coming together at a meeting brainstorming solutions, voting and throwing them at the problem, without measuring, testing/piloting at every level & stage.

Ultimately, they work best when the top of the top management buys in 100%. It is then when those charged with bringing process improvement to success have the support needed to make it work. The really cool thing about it is, that "as long as you have your health" and you succeed, you will be able to replicate in other areas of concern like energy policy, finance regs, fair trade, etc, because you now have the tools & experience to conduct sustainable, continues process improvement/problem solving :)

The bullseye is in the center of the target!

CJM — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:10 EDT

I just watched a segment on the Rachael Maddow show featuring Meghan McCain. It was interesting to hear her explain her perspective on the Republican party and where she thinks it needs to go to be an effective sustainable party. I believe that her thoughts resonate with many Republicans and non Republicans alike that are sick and tired of steering far right even when life's road is straight or takes a turn to the left. In all fairness the same can be said for the Dems that steer far left, even when reason, logic and the betterment of America calls for a different direction than hard left.

I am not a member of either party, I am simply an American, and for me that is all I want to be. I feel this way because in my life, like most Americans I am confronted with experiences that will sometimes have me be conservative in my thinking and other times liberal. Not only that, but in my years, life and experience, knowledge can and will change some of your views. While I am not a party member I do believe that it is healthy to have parties that balance the scale, challenge, and test us in our plight to love our nation and make the world a better place. If you had to place me at this time in my life based on an average, I would say, TODAY, I am center left. But it depends on the issues. There was a time in my life when I was two, three clicks to the right of John McCain. Life happens and things change :)

Meghan McCain's position as a Progressive Republican is interesting to me because, of several points.

#1. Out here in the world of blood, sweat & tears, Americans from every walk, with every hat come together and make it happen. It works! We work. We make products together, the UPS man picks them up. The pilots fly them, etc... We make our jobs work, even when we don't see eye to eye on all the issues. Maybe it's because we are to busy working to fight about differences, instead we are connecting on common pourpose. Actually the fights do happen, but in most every case the job continues to it's fruition. So when I hear about people interested in maintaining their core foundation whether it be conservative values or liberal values, but those foundations not eliminating the probability of expanding/embracing difering views for a common pourpose, then I think it is great and is what brings us together to do incredibly wonderful things. It is what America is. We are different but come together for many a common poupose, hence we are "The United States of America."

#2. One of the biggest challenges that I see that face our nation is that our problem solving skills are lacking. Many people solve problems the best they can with the tools they have, I get that. I too do the same. What is different for me is that I am a process improvement guy "Lean Manufacturing guy" Six Sigma Black Belt guy (problem solving, continues improvement stuff kind of guy.) I have had a bit of exposure to various initiatives through out my working career. Some might suggest to much exposure! It has been very enlightening and I cannot imagine effective problem solving without the experience. Just like I can no longer imagine raising a dog minus active & dillegent obedience training. To me it is like raising a child without teaching him to speak. And what i know is that things change and new ways of problem solving are continuesly evolving. Also the one that gets you is continues improvement. Guess what it never stops, that is why they call it continues improvement!

OK, let me get to the point. My point is this, from generation to generation we are becoming better equipped with life's problem solving tools, and I am of the belief that in our efforts to solve problems we are coming closer and closer as a society with every solution and every failed attempt. We are migrating to the center rather than going to the fringes and I believe it is so because that is where the data is driving us. So I find it exciting to see young Meghan McCain holding to her principles but not being blinded by the reflection that can shine from what we hold dear, whether it is conservative or liberal cores. I find it encouraging because I, like most everyone wants to live in a country that truly lives up to the name it has been given. The UNITED States of America. I see a future where we are able to have our foundations and yet respect and work together to make life better. I believe it is inevitable because we live in a world that has information at lightning speed. Every word can be dissected to determine validity. That alone has the ability to drive the population to more consensus, it takes time, but not as much time as it used to!

#3. I do not think that anyone should fear that we will just become one big gray mass. What will happen is that we will still have different points of view but the things we differed on years ago we are more likely to agree on as the data & time reveals it's nature. We will magnify and find new things to differ on. i liken it to the saying "every coin has two sides." Well yes it does when you look at the coin from two feet away, but when you look at the coin through a loop you will see that the coin now has many sides, it has sides on it's sides! So will it be with our political views. As we come closer on issues, we will find new different issues, and we will always have issues to improve upon! And we will become better partners on dealing with and solving problems.

#4. While young people love their parents and can easily hold to various family values, they usually do not want to wear their parents bunched up old underwear. They want their own, rightfully so. Young people will inherently take the info/values handed down and they will make their own way. More and more with every generation. Why? Resources, info, knowledge & life coming at you fast. I don't think that we have to worry about babies picking parties, but certainly the younger generation is older in many ways then the previous similar generations. So the days of hand me down politics gets taken with young grains of salt and will be shaped accordingly. My hope is that it is not just Meghan McCain with her views and position of being a Progressive Republican but young people all over the world in all their beliefs and political perspectives!

Jack Welch, who moved your cheese?

CJM — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 20:06:05 EDT

I saw Jack Welch on Morning Joe, go off on the President about not focusing his teams energy on the economy and his cocktail buddies are freaking out because they are scared and loosing money. I almost spilled my coffee, thinking about how Jack Welch ran GE, and if he would have had his officers "just focus on one project at a time." I doubt it, I knew someone that was part of that team and it was balls to the walls 24/7 work hard play hard. So I don't know what all the confusion is all about. Hell all you have to do is watch the president on Saturday mornings and it will be crystal clear as to what the hell he is doing, not to mention the fact that he is on the other six days of the week talking to the American people.

I am glad that we have a President that knows to fight a war on various fronts. But lets stop the BS and cut to the chase.

The real problem is that there are those that are loosing their ass, because they can't manipulate what is left of the market like they did for years. That is where their confusion is coming from. Many of those years where in Jacks hot & happy years. If you want to get dizzy Jack, and be confused, then maybe you ought to be a talking head about Madoff, but I guess now that he is not there for cocktails, it's Obama's fault. That's the team spirit, the American way, Jack can do it better! I wonder how your tail end would be puckering as a world leader in this day and time. Just be glad you are not the president. Everyone has the answer when they watch from the side lines.

Give me a break Jack, that little episode was disheartening and shed light on where you really stand. It is amazing what is revealed as the waters of the swamp drain out. The party is over Jack, do you remember that little book you shoved down the throats of GE employees, "Who moved my cheese" dig out and read it.

A reasonable set of criteria for...

CJM — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 22:28:16 EST

A reasonable criteria for low-priority or wasteful spending

An appropriation that is not properly authorized by the Senate and not requested by the Administration.
An unauthorized and unrequested, locality-specific or facility-specific earmark (including those funds that are above the Administration request).
A budget add-on that would be subject to a budget point of order.
The transfer or disposal of federal property or items under terms that circumvent existing law.
New items added in conference that were never considered in either bill in either House.

He is right this time.

Stop this Bill

CJM — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 10:01:18 EST

"We need earmark reform," Obama said in September during a presidential debate in Oxford, Miss. "And when I'm president,

I will go line by line to make sure that we are not spending money unwisely." A quote from the President and what I voted for.

It is simple for me, if you are trying, then you are failing, you either are doing it or you are not. The notion that this is last years business and needs to pass is crap and I am not buying it. I am actually offended that the president and his cabinet have the gaul to make that the reason for him to wink on this. It is disingenuous and plays us for fools. Apologies are in order for Americans concerning the last year business spin from the white house.

Own it, you wanted the job and either do what you committed to and what we voted for or just tell us the truth. You said things on the trail that now that you are in office you are not able to accomplish the way you intended. Level with us, be honest, and call your dogs (keep your staff in check.)

Even the scriptures/bible say that it is better for a man to be Hot or Cold but to be luke warm is unacceptable. I have been around way to long to hear excuses of why we can't, I know better and Americans know better. Your election is a testament to that, therefore you must meet that standard. If this pig gets to your desk, kill it, plain and simple. The world will not stop turning and the congress will yield and make a way where there is no way. But you signing this corrupt bill is not help, it is nothing less than approving & fascilitating the dysfunction in government that we are determined to eradicate.

Other than this very defining issue, you are doing a great job, and we support you on the good, hard, smart work!

Stop the OmniHog in the Senate

CJM — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 19:03:52 EST

President Obama,

Senator McCain is right concerning the earmarks on the current Omnibus bill. It does not matter if it was last years business. That is like quitting smoking and saying, well I better smoke the rest of the packs because I already bought them.

The fact that the admin would even try to float the last year BS is not acceptable. nothing pisses me off more than when someone trys to play me.

You promised us that you would not allow this garbage. You need to take the lead on this issue and VETO the bill or get line item VETO. Or pray that it gets shut down before it gets to you.

If you do not handle this your credibility goes out the window. I support you, but you made it clear not once, twice, but many times that you would stand up and be a leader and protect Americans from this kind of kurupt washinton lobby laden spending. Look at Pelosi's polls, do you want yours to mirror hers???

I know and understand that we need to spend alot to get back on track, and I support that. but not foolish, Cloack & Dagger questionable earmarks that WILL be used against you/us in the future. You must find a way to cut the earmarks out or you will pay an extremely high political price.

I have written to both of my senators, Republican and Democrat to shut down the foolish spending. I have posted on CNN MSNBC and everywhere I can.

President Obama, please do what is right with our money, Veto the pork laden bill. I am dedicating my extra time creating the needed buzzz/preasure for the Congress & Whitehouse to go through, line by line. Explain to America why we need to know why pigs stink??? And why you think it is a good Idea to use our money to find out. What the heck is this.

And if there are any Senators out there that are standing agaiinst this pork, please do not just vote no. Get the testicular fortitude out and raise hell about it every chance you get, get a gang together and sleeping bags and sleep on the Capitol steps if you must, filibuster this pig, but do not just give some weak handed NO vote. Do something radical and substantial, but legal. Make a way where there is no way.

I encourage everyone to also contact your congress people. That is what we can do. At the very least do some research on this and see if it is what and how you want things to proceed in DC.

A Sample of the 9,287 Omnnibus Bill Earmarks

Amount Recipient/Purpose Congressional Sponsor

$1,049,000 Mormon Crickets, Utah Bennett

$475,000 Sidewalk Construction in Ashland & Cherryland, CA Lee

$225,000 Everybody Wins! LaHood

$200,000 Tattoo removal program in Mission Hills, CA Berman

$190,000 Buffalo Bill Historical Center, Cody, WY Cubin

$237,500 Theater renovation, Merced, CA Cardoza

$75,000 Totally Teen Zone, Albany, GA Bishop, Chambliss

$500,000 National History Day Several Lawmakers

$570,000 Ronald Reagan Parkway, Boone County, IN Buyer

$100,000 Gulf of Maine Lobster Foundation Allen, Snowe, Collins

$332,500 Build a school sidewalk, Franklin, TX Edwards (TX)

$381,000 George Eastman House, Rochester, NY Slaughter, Schumer

$380,600 Versailles Borough Stray Gas Mitigation Doyle (PA)$75,000 Wayne Gomes Youth Baseball Diversity Foundation Scott$381,000 Jazz at Lincoln Center, New York, NY Nadler$5,813,000 Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the Senate, Boston, MA Kerry, Byrd, Harkin, Durbin, Mikulski, Dodd $950,000 Bus and Bus Facilities, Lawrence, KS Moore, Roberts$300,000 Montana World Trade Center Rehberg$2,673,000 Wood Education and Resource Center President, Byrd$380,000 Lemon Street Reconstruction and Enhancements, FL Bilirakis$17,500,000 FDR Presidential Library renovation Gillibrand, Reid, Schumer $2,000,000 LBJ Presidential Library Hutchison $22,000,000 JFK Presidential Library Markey, Lynch, Kerry $300,000 GoGirlGo! Boston, MA Capuano, Kennedy, Kerry $285,000 Kansas Farm Bureau, Manhattan, KS Brownback $6,838,000 John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Several Lawmakers$427,500 Bicycle/Pedestrian Pathways, Provo, UT Cannon, Hatch$950,000 World Trade Center of St. Louis, MO Bond$725,000 Illinois Height Modernization Johnson (IL), LaHood$298,257 Small business program, Florida Department of Citrus Boyd, Putnam, Martinez $237,500 Sidewalk Construction, Vienna, VA Davis (VA)$190,000 Bishop Museum, Honolulu, HI Inouye $100,000 Police Athletic League of Buffalo, Inc Slaughter$206,000 Wool Research Conaway, Rodriguez (TX)$475,000 5th & Market St. Transportation Improvements, PA Specter $494,000 Business incubator, Arkansas State University Berry, Lincoln, Pryor $400,000 Salisbury House, Des Moines, IA Harkin, Grassley, Boswell$138,000 John Nance Garner Museum, Austin, TX Rodriguez (TX)$190,000 Sidewalk Improvements, Williamstown, VT Leahy, Sanders$870,000 Red Wolf Breeding Facility Relocation Shuler$190,000 George C. Wallace Community College-Dothan, AL Everett$142,500 Pregones Theater, Bronx, NY Serrano$6,623,000 Formosan Subterranean Termites Research Landrieu, Vitter, Alexander$1,903,000 Landfill Gas Utilization Plant in NY Schumer $475,000 Replacement of Bus Fleet, Topeka, KS Boyda$285,000 Widening of County Road 222, Cullman, AL Aderholt$2,192,000 Center for Grape Genetics, Geneva, NY Schumer, Walsh, Hinchey, Arcuri $1,791,000 Swine Odor and Manure Management Research, Ames, IA Harkin$950,000 Bossier Parish Congestion Relief Plan, LA Landrieu, Vitter$712,500 Replacement Buses, Detroit, MI Conyers, Levin, Stabenow$4,545,000 Wood Utilization Research Several Lawmakers$200,000 Oil Region Alliance Peterson (PA)$2,565,000 Renovate the Cox Building, Maysville, KY McConnell, Davis (KY) $400,000 Minnesota Teen Challenge Ramstad, Coleman $190,000 Berkshire Theater Festival, Stockbridge, MA Kennedy, Kerry$4,750,000 Shiloh Road, MT Baucus, Tester$143,000 American Ballet Theatre, New York, NY Maloney, Schumer $100,000 Ready, Willing & Able, Philadelphia, PA Brady (PA) $250,000 Lederer Theater, Providence, RI Reed$1,187,500 Wolf Trap Performing Arts Multi-Use Trail, Fairfax, VA Moran$3,800,000 Old Tiger Stadium Conservancy, MI Levin$294,500 Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center, East St. Louis, IL Durbin $143,000 Historic Jazz Foundation, Inc., Kansas City, MO Cleaver, Emanuel$1,000,000 Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation Ruppersberger, Mikulski, Shelby $237,500 Street Rehabilitation, Doral, FL Diaz-Balart (Lincoln)$49,134 Bronx Council on the Arts Serrano$475,000 Pedestrian Bridges, Iowa City, IA Loebsack$167,000 Autry National Center for the American West, Los Angeles, CA Schiff, McKeon, Bono, Boxer $315,000 Music education, Carnegie Hall, New York, NY Maloney, Schumer $122,821 Greater Toledo Arts Commission Kaptur$950,000 55th Street East Grade Separation, Minot, ND Dorgan, Conrad$951,500 Energy Efficiency Street Lighting, Detroit, MI Kilpatrick, Levin, Stabenow $143,000 Stockbridge-Munsee Museum, Bowler, WI Kagen$475,000 Italian American Museum, New York, NY Ackerman, Nadler$1,217,000 Citrus Canker, Greening, FL Several Lawmakers$900,000 Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum, Chicago, IL Jackson, Jr., Emanuel, Davis (IL)$142,500 Bus Replacement, Culver City, CA Watson$2,150,000 Wisconsin Height Modernization Obey$1,900,000 Hattiesburg 4th Street Improvements, MS Cochran, Wicker$71,000 Dance Theater Etcetera, Brooklyn, NY Velázquez$333,000 Museum of Aviation, Warner Robins, GA Marshall (GA), Isakson $1,235,000 Reconstruction and Upgrade 2300 West Street, Lehi, UT Hatch, Cannon$380,000 Revitalize Aliceville, AL Shelby$150,000 Nashua Police Athletic League Youth Safe Haven Hodes, Gregg $237,500 Paving, sidewalks and streetlights, Islip, NY Israel$238,000 Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, MA Kennedy, Kerry $1,425,000 I-85 Widening, NC Burr, Dole, Hayes, Watt$285,000 Sun Valley Lighting Project, CA Berman$119,000 Children's Discovery Museum, San Jose, CA Honda, Lofgren$385,000 World Trade Center Utah Bishop (UT), Bennett $300,000 Shakespeare and Company Olver, Kennedy, Kerry $476,000 National Council of La Raza in Washington, DC, Menendez, Bingaman $508,000 Karnal Bunt, Manhattan, KS Brownback, Roberts, Moran, Boyda, Tiahrt$300,000 Fairplex Trade and Conference Center Dreier, Napolitano$237,500 SR-91 Congestion Relief, Orange County, CA Miller (CA)$380,000 Construction of On/Off Ramps, Midland, TX Conaway$380,600 Carbon Neutral Green Campus, NV Porter, Reid $150,000 Manufacturers Association of Central New York Walsh$475,000 Calhoun County Highway 1 Resurfacing, IL Hare$45,000 Weed It Now on the Berkshire, MA Olver$24,000 A+ For Abstinence, Waynesboro, PA Specter $819,000 Catfish Genome, Auburn, AL Shelby, Rogers (AL), Everett, Davis (AL) $196,514 Beaver Street Enterprise Center, Jacksonville, FL Brown (FL), Martinez $75,000 Chattahoochee County Family Connection Bishop$2,188,450 Bismarck State College Center Of Excellence Laboratories, ND Dorgan $469,000 Fruit fly facility, HI Akaka, Inouye, Hirono$800,000 Oyster rehabilitation, AL Shelby $238,000 Ed Roberts Campus, Berkeley, CA Boxer $475,000 55th Street Extension, Rochester, MN Donnelly, Lugar

Source: Conference Report of HR 1105

The President needs a Line Item Veto Pen NOW.

CJM — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 07:37:45 EST

President Obama,

The fact that the admin would even try to float the last year BS is not acceptable. nothing pisses me off more than when someone trys to play me.

You promised us that you would not allow it. You need to take the lead on this issue and VETO the bill or get line item VETO.

If you do not handle this your credibility goes out the window. it started bothering me the other night at 3:00 AM. It should be keeping you up at night also.

We know and understand that we need to spend alot to get back on track, and we support that. but not foolish, cloack & Dagger questionable earmarks that WILL be used against you/us in the future. You must find a way to cut the earmarks out or you will pay an extremely high political price.

I have written to both of my senators, Republican and Democrat to shut down the foolish spending. President Obama, please do what is right with our money, Veto the pork laden bill. I will spend the rest of the time creating the needed buzzz/preasure for the Congress & Whitehouse to go through, line by line.

I encourage everyone to also contact your congress people. That is what we can do. At the very least do some research on this and see if it is what and how you want things to proceed in DC.

A Sample of the 9,287 Omnnibus Bill Earmarks

Amount Recipient/Purpose Congressional Sponsor

$1,049,000 Mormon Crickets, Utah Bennett

$475,000 Sidewalk Construction in Ashland & Cherryland, CA Lee

$225,000 Everybody Wins! LaHood

$200,000 Tattoo removal program in Mission Hills, CA Berman

$190,000 Buffalo Bill Historical Center, Cody, WY Cubin

$237,500 Theater renovation, Merced, CA Cardoza

$75,000 Totally Teen Zone, Albany, GA Bishop, Chambliss

$500,000 National History Day Several Lawmakers

$570,000 Ronald Reagan Parkway, Boone County, IN Buyer

$100,000 Gulf of Maine Lobster Foundation Allen, Snowe, Collins

$332,500 Build a school sidewalk, Franklin, TX Edwards (TX)

$381,000 George Eastman House, Rochester, NY Slaughter, Schumer

Source: Conference Report of HR 1105

Time to Break Out the Veto pen!

CJM — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 19:01:10 EST

President Obama,

Senator McCain is right concerning the earmarks on the current bill. It does not matter if it was last years business. That is like quitting smoking and saying, well I better smoke the rest of the packs because I already bought them.

The fact that the admin would even try to float the last year BS is not acceptable. You promised us that you would not allow it. Pelosi raised her hand saying she would not put pork in the stimulus. It does not matter if this is not the stimulus. You need to take the lead on this issue and VETO the bill or get line item VETO.

If you do not handle this your credibility goes out the window. We are sick and tired of being sick and tired of wasteful spending. We know and understand that we need to spend to get back on track, and we support that. but not foolish, questionable earmarks that will be used against you/us in the future. You must find a way to cut the earmarks out or you will pay an extremely high political price. You cannot tell us one thing and do another. You do not work for Reid or Pelosi or any of the congress, you work for the American people. We will stand behind you, just do the right thing.

I will be writing to both of my senators, Republican and Democrat to shut down the foolish spending. President Obama, please do what is right with our money, Veto the pork laden bill.

Your the Best!

CJM — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 12:50:06 EST

President Obama, Vice President Biden. You guys are the best!!!

Keep the faith and keep on keepin on!!!

Jindal Bells Jindal Bells

CJM — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 22:55:12 EST

Jindal Bells
Jindall Bells
Jindal votes no way
Oh how sad it is to see
The GOP's disarayay

Please add more verses!!!

Open Letter to The President

CJM — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 08:02:22 EST

President Obama,

The Nation & the World has watched you stretch your hand out to the Republicans to establish bipartisan relations, only to be slapped back and ridiculed by their bulk, some of which who have claimed the mantra of reaching across the isle themselves. And at the same time, many of those to the left of you refuse to turn the other cheek for fear that it continues to get slapped.

What you are doing is part of the mandate that America has set fourth and not necessarily pleasing to the Right or the Left. It is not a new battle but one that has turned swords of every medium into plow shares. Many throughout mankind's history have proclaimed the power in unity and contrastingly the consequences when it is deficient or lacking all together.

The commitment of this country and it's constitution is based on unity, as in "The United States of America." I am one grain of sand out of millions on the shores of this blessed land, and I say to you, do not loose heart, keep the faith, keep on keeping on, lest you become like them. You are re-sculpting what once was precious to us and over time has been worn and destroyed, take the time needed to re-sculpt the unity that will ultimately change the world for the better, but never, ever stop doing it.

We cannot afford a Do-Over

CJM — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 19:37:34 EST

Senators Spectar, Collins & Snow rock! They are spot on and they have worked tirelesly to produce a bill, unlike the other Repulicans that insist on lock-down.

Now, left wing House Democrats rolled the dice and screwd the pooch on this bill from the begining, which in turn will cost the loss of some important funding that they could have gotten had they of seriously brought moderate Republicans to the table. Now we pray that they do not commit double jeopordy and change what the three Republicans agreed to.

If the house Dems loose this bill for the nation, the continual economic losses will be on their shoulders.

So, I say to those Dems that think they will tread on the three GOP Senators that have signed on.

If you screw this up, you screw the President, and if you screw the President then you screw the American mandate that he was given and you will pay with your seat, while your Republican colleuges laugh you out of the House.

So take a chill pill, go on vacation, do whatever it takes.

BUT DO NOT INSIST ON CHANGING THE SENATE STIMULUS BILL. YOU WILL FAIL AMERICA.

Televise the Stimulus Conference Meetings

CJM — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 18:19:21 EST

Americans are demanding that Congress telvise the conference meetings. Enough of the closed door meetings that do not disclose to Americans who is saying what, on their behalf. We need to know and we are demanding transparancy on this very important piece of legislation.

People, please take a moment and e-mail your President, Congress & media demanding televised meetings of this very important stimulus bill reconciliation between the House and Senate. We where promised transparancy and these meetings warant it. Feel free to copy and paste my statement to your letter if you wish, or do a video on U-Tube.

Check ALL party hats at the door PLEASE!

CJM — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 10:54:38 EST

Where is John "Reach across the Isle" McCain??? You can tell a tree by it's fruit and like his vote on Veterans benefits he is MIA. Republican senators need to heed the call and set aside bitter feelings of the major loss in Nov. A NO vote is inaction. Go to work or get out of the way. They forget that this country belongs to Americans not Republicans or Democrats. Democrats need to also grab their Republican coleuges by the hand and drag them into the meetings for bipartisan solutions. THAT IS AMERCA'S DIRECTIVE, in a word "UNITY."

Even the scriptures/bible teaches that a house divided will not stand. And when it falls NO ONE wins. A mandate was clearly set, McCain quickly acknowledged it that night. Elections in this country better mean something or else we are dead in the water as a Nation. I expect more of you Senator.

The Ideological battles of the past are old, tired and do not produce $$$ when they alone are implemented.

Real Life Example: You are a Lender and your customer defaults on the home. Your company tries to collect and ultimately has to reposes. They won't leave the house, you will have to file a writ with the sheriff.

You have two choices, proceed on with the repo as planned the cost $4,000.00 for attorneys, the cost of funds?, repair & clean-up, replace apliances. and about one year of it sitting on the books.

Or, you can negotiate a "Cash for Keys" deal, where the defaulting customer gets some money to help them move and get on their feet, say $1000.00, if they sign the home over, clean it, and do not destroy the appliances.

The ideologues say WHAT, they are the ones that are going back on their commitment, NO WAY, Why should we pay them, it is fundamentally wrong.

The pragmatist say, yes you are right, they have fallen on their commitment, but $1000.00 is less then $4000.00 by $3000.00. And we have 30,000 repoes.
So if we can actually pull it off for 1 in 20 we can save $4,500,000.00
And besides not only do we loose money by trying to enforce an ideological perspective alone, but it won't work in substantial percentages because we are not addressing the root cause, we are further up the rung.

So, we save what we can $$$ and find root cause and work on eliminating the defect/root cause, if nothing more than reducing it percent by percent as we develop viable solutions.

OK, so you can do the same scenario with, unwanted pregnancies, AIDS, and many programs that Ideologues believe we should not fund. They may be right on principle. But the Feds do not print principle, they print money and we trade & tax in money.

So to me the answers are: Will it cost us money or save us money on the bottom line? If we don't have these programs does it cost Americans more to treat AIDS rather then prevent AIDS, etc? But this alone is not the answer, throwing money at the problem alone will not work, you have to find root cause/culture and address it also so that people learn best practices and in turn reduce the problem by percentage.

Fellow Citizens, there are real & good problem solving techniuqes that the Congress can adopt and use to solve problems, but they cannot, until they check their party hats at the door.

Why? Because they will have to where a different hat. A Six Sigma, Lean, problem solving hat. And i will tell you that when you put on those hats there is no room for nothing that does not come to the table with reliable concise data & facts.

Congress better take heed.

CJM — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 18:38:53 EST

I am sick and tired of the obstructionist to a bill that works for Americans in this crucial time of need, obstructionist on both sides of the isle. The Dems that put crap like tennis courts and stuff we may need and want but not in this bill and Republicans that are seizing the opportunity to throw the new admin under the bus by not coming to the capitol with America's mandate at the forefront. We are not stupid we smell the Karl Rovian type crap that drags and stalls and ultimately creates a situation where Republicans can try and fool people in thinking that Obama failed. IT AIN' T GOING TO HAPPEN.

We will re-Elect President Obama if we think that he is the best man for the job. We will also throw Democrats and Republicans out of Congress if they fail to come together and get the job done on this bill. I fire people that fail to do their job, and I have the energy, experience and will to campaign hard to put competent people in Congress. NOTHING is more important to America.

We know that President Obama has come to the table in the spirit of delegating and bi-partisanship. He did not come to Washington to be a Bush type Dictator. But the fact is that it does not matter what he does there are those that will always be bitter that they/GOP lost and they will always say that he is not doing enough, or he didn't do it this way or that way.

The Majority of America has spoken and you better listen because we support our President. You have eight years of crap to clean up before your next election, get it done. And I am not a Democrat or Republican nor do I want to be, I am an American and that is all I need to be.

Open letter to the President of the United States

CJM — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 09:59:31 EST

President Obama,

I have written many posts on my blog ThE OpEn DoOr and have been onboard since about Iowa. I have been watching closely and gathered my notes/thoughts on election night but still have not written them. I have written lesser stuff since then. The same thing happened when I watched the Inauguration. Lots of thoughts but not ready to write, until now.

Congratulations, WE did it!

But one thought that is so profound in my mind and one that I can relate to is the swearing in ceremony. The ceremony certainly is a testament to the office of the Presidency. But, your specific swearing in ceremony is a stark and clear reminder that nothing worth having comes easy. Like you, I have been blessed with this type of affirmation throughout my life, but at the same time I am mindful that there are those that experience this even more so than I. It has helped me to be the type of person that will "make a way, where there is no way." So let the swearing in and the scrambling of it be an affirmation to these facts & attributes. It did not come easy, so why should it start then, right?

But what can come easy is loosing the understanding & connection that brought you this far. While America recognizes that your wonderful wife and family will do all they can to keep you grounded, ONLY YOU can really keep you grounded. Because only you are you, and only you have your thoughts and directs your own thinking. Corinthians 10: 12 in the New Testament is a verse that should sit squarely before you on your desk. Wisdom is the key. Your understanding of this is what brought me to the table.

I believe that with wisdom we can solve most every problem/opportunity that we face. Time will tell, and I will sweep my side of the street. But I cannot and you cannot sweep anyone else's. The test of life is for each one of us to do our part.

Thank you Mr. President for doing your part this far.

She can't bowl or play golf but she can dance, jump & shoot hoops!

CJM — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 14:25:06 EST

OK President Elect Obama, I probably shouldn't be showing you this, because the girl's dogs as in plural will never be the same! I know that you are going to want those dogs to learn how to shoot hoops! And then you are going to want Biden's dogs shooting hoops too!

I can see it now! Here you are in a major negotiation with some top officials and to break ice you bet him that your dogs can play basketball, first they think you are crazy, so you take them to the new doggy court and then they know you are crazy! Then you let the dogs out and they play and make some outstanding shots! The big wheels are impressed and the deal goes down smooth! Hey, whatever it takes right!

At any rate, we are muy ready for you and you team to lead us into the next four years, President Elect Obama!!! Now Zoe can't bowl and you don't want to be around when she swings clubs, but she can dance, jump and shoot hoops! Sounds familiar doesn't it ;)

Yes Yes Yes :)

CJM — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 22:56:17 EST

Yes We Can! Yes You Can! Yes I Can! Yes We Did! Yes We Will, Together :)

Happy New Year!!! Happy New President!!!

CJM — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 22:45:40 EST

Click On Me :) Happy New Year!!!

Leaping into 2009!!!

CJM — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 21:51:17 EST

2008 has been an amazing year! Amazing from one end of the spectrum to the other from bad to good and much unexpected and unforeseen. It is time to leap forward!

Leap into 2009 and keep our sleeves rolled up. There will be much to do and much to change! Remember the election was not just about Obama & Biden, it was about the person in the mirror and those you love. While we may or may not be able to control the events around us, we certainly control whether our glass is half full or half empty, whether it is a problem or an opprtunity!

Happy, Half full 2009!

Take your shoes and ...

CJM — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 18:41:06 EST

While I do not support the current administrations policy. I do not find humor in anyone throwing objects at a standing President. I have slammed Bush, McCain, Palin and others with my writings, but it is unacceptable to me for journalist of any country to conduct acts of violence against a head of state or dignitary. I understand the level of insult intended with the throwing of shoes and calling the President a dog. While I no longer support the war in Iraq, and have not for a number of years,

I find it ironic that a Shī‘ah Muslim that would have been suppressed under the Sunni Ba'ath party and Saddam Hussein would be throwing disgrace at the man responsible for his ability to do the very act and not get his head sliced off. Had this been under Saddam, he would have been eliminated right there on the spot, by Hussein himself or his sons.

You see, for me, when you throw a shoe at my President, then you throw a shoe at me or one of our soldiers or our president elect. And I understand that throwing a shoe in the western world has a very different meaning than in the Muslim world. You disrespect not Bush but the office of the PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and that is a disrespect to all that is America and the blood spilled for the cause of freedom. Especially when you use the very freedom gained by that blood to do your lower than pig $h*t act of disapproval.

Disapproval is not the issue, Join the millions that want Impeachment or legal action taken, but don't think that your act makes you a hero to Americans, because in the end we are Americans first and by the same way that I expect my President to care for my safety when I travel abroad, then I must do the same.

I know that there are some that will disagree with my take, and that is fine. I have no intention in getting into a pissing match about it. Everyone is entitled to their opinion. That being said I am writing all I will right concerning this matter. I will add that I feel the way I do because of the values I grew up with and my love of this country and it's people regardless of party, faith or disjunction.

We might be going through some tough times and will go through worst, but there is no country on earth that I would rather be a citizen of then the United States Of America. So take your size 10 1/2's and shuv them up your a$$. We will be out of there soon enough! And hopefully for those that love freedom the fragile democracy that is in place will take, otherwise your little shoe throwing days at world leaders are over.

MEET THE PRESS/CHURCH with David Gregory

CJM — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 11:16:37 EST

At church this morning (Meet the Press). Yes I call it church, because it is where I go on Sunday morning to get informed. David Gregory did an outstanding job, Russert is smiling down on you :) So what did I get out of it?

I think that what was impressive was the level of consensus on much of what America is dealing with and what we must do to take advantage of this opportunity. In the second segment I find it refreshing to see people around a table with fundamentally different core beliefs wrangle politely and ad value to the conversation. I certainly hope that President elect Obama and Vice President elect Biden were at church/meet the Press this morning.

Who am I? I am middle class America. I went to buy my groceries at Walmart this morning, keeping an eye on my time so that I would not be late for church/Meet the Press. I got home and put the groceries away and made coffee, a Jimmie Dean breakfast bowl, toast and an orange juice with less than a minute for the beginning of church!

The first part of the show on Chicago politics is something that we Americans are sick and tired of being sick and tired of. Over and over all you hear is how someone is trying to screw or shakedown someone else about something or another. It is a cultural flaw that we need to eradicate, we are the United States of America not Mogadishu. But that will take lots of work and time.

So what did I get out of Meet the Press this morning with David Gregory? He was on message and in control. Great facilitating, he helped America today! His guest in the second round brought much to the American Sunday morning table.

Gov. Granholm was right in the fact that we need to keep an auto industry in America and she also pointed to the ties of cost to our failed health care policy. What I think is important here is that when we are comparing data and statistics in the US Auto industry to the Foreign Auto industry, we are comparing apples with apples and not apples with pineapples. She also thanked Bush for looking forward to helping the auto industry, but then when asked about Obama she praised Obama and slammed Bush for not being there for the last eight years. While that might have been true, I found it to be not in the spirit of "fixing it" and tainting the very praise to the president elect. Bridling the tongue is an art, one that I too have yet to master!

Gov Romney Also agreed and echoed America in saying that we do not want to be without an American Auto industry, but his approach is closer to what most of us believe. We have to KNOW, not believe, (there is a difference), that the money we provide as tax payers are solving the problems. That being said we need guarantees that the needed change WILL happen. He also pointed out that the President, BUSH you are still the president! And the current congress need to DO, not talk but DO. As they say on SNL "FITS IT" "JUST FITS IT" DO RIGHT NOW!!! What part of that phrase do they not under stand??? Is it the DO or the RIGHT NOW?

Eric Schmidt's comments work well with the others, He brings us back home to remind us that "YES WE CAN" and he tells us how and what. We need to do in Washington, what I did in Walmart this morning. Look for the two-fer. We need to start creating solutions that solve multiple problems at one time. Energy independence, Auto industry, Infrastructure, technology, healthcare, etc He is right the sky is the limits, but we have to DO IT.

Carly Fiorina's comments today also ad value as I am employed by one of those small businesses she speaks of. But what she really cracked the whip on was the banks that are not lending our money that we gave them to lend. Why aren't they lending to the auto industry? It is amazing, I guess we really are in this together, not surprising to our astronaut friends as they pear down at the blue an brown molten mud ball we call Earth.

Lee Scott (Walmart CEO) had some interesting thoughts. He reminds us that now is not a time to do what was discussed in the first segment of the show (self Interest ahead of National interest) but to come to the barn raising with your work boots on and ready to break a sweat! He knows where he came from and refuses to forget. That alone serves America. It is when we are self indulgent and forget the struggles that gave us health & wealth that we drive off into the ditch. America we have driven off into the ditch, and while you may not have been driving this bus you are on this bus and it will take everyone getting off of this bus to help and get it out of the ditch. We can change the driver, and we have! But this is the only bus we have! BUS, Hmmmmm, B.U.S. Beautiful United States!

So, that is what I got out of church/Meet the Press today!

Answer to Bail-Out/More Crack Request: NO, NO, NO!

CJM — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 07:45:37 EST

Answer to Bail out request: NO

Why: Do not trust and believe they can fix it, (history.) They will not change ENOUGH.

Alternative Solution: Pre-Packaged Bankruptcy with Government help (guarantee) after and during the Bankruptcy restructuring.

Argument: People will not buy a car from a company that goes into bankruptcy.

Rebuttal: People are not buying the cars right now and People will still not trust them after a bail-out/crack fix. On the contrary, People will trust more that the big 3 will still be around after the prescribed bankruptcy that has government guarantees for a a few years, sorta like the banks with FDIC but not permanantly. And people will also know that the change is real and to the core and not just another fix on crack.

DO NOT GIVE MY TAX DOLLARS IN A BAIL OUT PRE BANKRUPTCY To BIG 3.

Energy Efficiency is a Growth Industry in America's Recession!

CJM — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 21:05:12 EST

Energy Efficiency is a Growth Industry in a Slow Economy

This story/link above is way cool, there are so many opportunities to reduce energy use and it's cost! I know that companies all over the US have been going "LEAN" and reducing unnecessary steps in their processes with initiatives like Six Sigma & Lean manufacturing (process improvement cultures.) In turn reducing manufacturing cost and Inventory cost and even finding markets for manufacturing by-products/waste.

I wonder how many of them even have a clue as to what they are loosing dollar wise in unnecessary energy consumption and a lack of a coherent energy management strategy? This is the sort of thing that can and should be done NOW by Americans everywhere, and does not need our President Elect or Congress to pass anything. It's about the American people taking charge and doing what is smart and saves/makes money!

What is fun to do with actual savings from something like this is to figure out how much your business has to do in sales dollars to produce the equivalent in net profit! So let's say you save $1,000.00 a year by implementing energy efficiency and let's say you sell widgets for $10.00 each and at the end of all your bills your company net profit is 10%. Your energy savings dollars are like selling an extra 1000 of your widgets minus the entire process & time, although you will have some process and time in the initial implementation. But then the next year/s you don't! Unless you improve even greater!

Tell me they can't change, they have no choice!

CJM — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 08:03:01 EST

The answer to the Big 3 Bail Out!

Pre-Packaged Bank-O is the answer for Auto

CJM — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 07:54:11 EST

I don't completely buy the notion that if GM goes into Bank-O that they will not be able to sell cars. First off what are they comparing this notion/scare tactic to. Are people going to be likely to buy their cars if we throw bail out money to them? I would not. If you have a friend on crack and he wants help do you give him more money and ask him to promise not to buy crack or do you drive him down to the rehab/Bank-O? After which scenario would you be more likely to trust him with your life, after he completes rehab or while he is trying to fight an addiction that is bigger than him by his own means and your money.

At this point I like most Americans believe that the answer is a "Pre-Packaged Bankruptcy Plan" that will kick out those that are not part of the solution but rather the problem and really protect the auto workers with a sustained conversion in US manufacturing.

At the same time I think that the American people need to remember the opinions and stances of our elected officials concerning this matter, because it will be our responsibility to determine if they are competent enough to retain their status as their terms end and new elections come about in the years to come.

A Plan for the US Auto Ind.

CJM — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 07:49:37 EST

I put together some ideas for a plan to revitilize the 3 million jobs that will be lost when the big 3 bite the dust. While my plan may not be the end all, it might provide some ideas to move forward in a productive way. What the CEO's need to read is the very book they push down the ladder "Who moved my cheese." In the book it clearly points out that sometimes you just have to change, and change to new and strange ventures, strange because they are not familliar, but serve the need and maybe even better than the previous!

Now, I have a plan.

The big three go into Bank-O with the Gov right there over the process, ready to implement the program below:

1. A restructuring that immediately starts conversion to Natural Gas for heavy equip. City Buses, trucks, Big rigs and UPS trucks.

2. They also develop the pumping stations and conversions for existing vehicles

3. advance the design and build of High efficiency Hybrids, Hydrogen and full electric cars

4. Give tax credits to people and companies that convert to natural gas, i.e. UPS, Roadway, City Buses, Gas Stations, and all those that convert.

5. Where does the money come from? Determine the national security value of what it is worth to America in converting to Natural Gas via the percentage of change over and instead of just giving the money to the Car companies, use some of these moneys/tax credits to expedite the change in those that participate and complete the cycle.

6. Conduct the changes to the sectors that will allow for the quickest implementation, i.e. like trucking companies and truck stops, UPS, Municipalities.

NO AUTO BAIL OUT WITHOUT...

CJM — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 10:52:31 EST

I do not support the bail-out of the big 3 in the current form. There has to be a what I call a "Come to Jesus Meeting." Meaning the root causes MUST be dealt with and solved in any bail-out that involves my money.

What I expect is: 1. The Union must get to the basics. The basics means getting down to the bare bones on benefits and labor cost that are comparable to Non-Union American plants.

2. The management must have a "Manhattanized" restructuring/retooling to make electric, natural gas, hydrogen, and hybrid cars and their support systems, i.e. fuel pumping and recharging systems, with a signed commitment/law to push extremely hard away from building gasoline run cars by 5 years. Yes 5 years, NO B.S.

We Need a real plan before we give them any tax payer money. We need to tell them to produce a serious turnaround plan that drives us to energy independence or they can go into Bank-O and we will work with the Japanese and others on investing more in the US to fill the Vacuum by building the cars, trucks and equipment that we will need to become energy independent.

Toyota is the business model for the auto industry, in the US & abroad. The Big 3 and unions refuse to adapt to "the lean/sigma culture" completley Yes, they have implemented the lean philosophy at work, but they don't buy it, they do it because they have to. They don't believe in it like the Japanese do, and that is why they have failed and are failing, that and the weight the unions have placed around their neck concerning pay & benefits. And unless they are willing to make the complete turn around (Complete Restructuring Baptism) then they can go to the "Bank-O Baptism" and not waste my tax payer money that we do not have.

This is not good.

CJM — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 07:35:39 EST

People are not stupid, they will work around the system and you will get some on you President Obama. BAD DECISION.

A real dog!

CJM — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 20:22:05 EST

Ok,

Everyone has their take on what kind of dog the girls should get. Whatever they get, they should be the ones to pick them out. Yes, them! The white house does not work well with just one dog. You have a West wing and an East wing ;)

I grew up with allergies & asthma, and had dificulties around fury animals. But as an adult I found myself being able to be around a friend of mines dog, it was a Rotty. I imagine I just grew out of the allergies to some degree. I later purchased one and raised her, trained her in obedience and even showed her when she was young. She has turned out to be the best. She is a great family dog, while her temperament is great, I can tell you that what ever dog the girls get, they will want to go thru obedience training. That is what makes my dog the best. She was properly socialized. Opps that word again! It is not such a bad word. Handing out fish and loaves is social! Or did every body earn them? I don't think so.

Ok, back on the dog deal. The training is great, it is like teaching your kids to communicate with you (two way) and it is fun. The girls can also teach their dog to catch a ball, a Frisbee and play go find it! If they really want to get going they can also get involved in obedience trials! They can have dog day at the white house lawn! For me, Rottweiler is the breed of choice, they are great family dogs and love to work, they are smart and are strong enough to pull a cart, like in the old days at the German butchers shops. And most importantly they are the kind of dog that you will not have to worry about the press attempting to stick their hand on it's head :)

Fired -IT-Up Florida ! Ready -To-Go Florida!

CJM — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 07:45:17 EST

If you are still undecided?

CJM — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 23:02:38 EST

If you are still undecided and just are not sure, if you feel you have read so much, heard so much and are a little overwhelmed with info fro both sides, just step back. Just step back and listen to the tone of the two campaigns, listen not so much to the details of what is being said but the tone.

On one hand I hear a tone of, not him, he is wrong for America, he is wrong, he cant' be trusted, he is not one of us. Fear this, fear that. You will be sorry for this, you will loose that. I hear a tone that screeches with fear, I hear a tone that knows not what direction it will go, loud one minute, low the next. I hear a campaign that scares, not comforts. I hear a camp that is filled with pessimism, I hear a campaign that will end in sadness.

On the other side I hear a campaign that speaks of unity, hope a better way for all of America, ALL. A campaign that has a glass half full. I hear and see people that resemble the diversity of America. This is the tone of the Obama/Biden campaign. It is a tone of change, the right change, in the right way, in the right tone.

Listen to the tone of the campaigns and be true to your inner self, your heart and you will make the best decision you have made in a long time.

Yikes!

CJM — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 13:24:23 EST

The McCain campaign has been very sloppy and seams to have a problem with the concept of vetting properly. Funny & Scary!

Still Undecided? Here's a little help!

CJM — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 22:24:11 EDT

As I wrote in one of my previous post not all endorsements are created equal! If endorsements have any real value, then they do so as validation data on the endorsee. You can say, subject matter experts or those that have access to a more real time data source that is closer to the candidates would be weightier than say an endorsement out of political & business circles.

They also say something to the affect of where they believe you stand with them on philosophy, issues and the direction they would like to see the country go. Endorsements can be really good data points to weigh/measure combined with voting records/actions and character traits when trying to develop high altitude/big picture score cards on the candidates. Setting policy promises aside, it is how a candidate will react to, and properly handle the unknown problems/opportunities that will determine the making of a great President.

Why I NOW support a 60 seat majority for two years.

CJM — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 07:54:32 EDT

I am generally in favor of a balanced government with Republicans and Democrats with enough power to check each other.

I think that this time and for a pilot period of two years (next senate elections) it would be good for the next president to have a 60 seat majority in the senate to be able to pass the necessary legislation needed to start to fix the nations problems.

After studying Senator Obama's actions as president of the Harvard Law Review and his "Gold Standard Republican" endorsements Warren Buffet, Secretary of State Colin Powell, Susan Eisenhower & Lincon Chafee, Larry Hunter, Lilibet Hagel, John Hutson, Bill Weld, Christopher Hitchens, Christopher Buckley, Scott McClellen, Arnie Carlson, CC Goldwater & siblings, etc...

I am convinced that he will work hard to find the right solutions with the brightest minds, regardless of what party they are in. I also think that we have not a minute to waste and a congressional session locked down with a one vote filibuster will harm us and impede us further.

3 Steps for Undecided Voters

CJM — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 21:06:13 EDT

I am still meeting many folks that are undecided.

They ask me various questions ranging from the Senator's direction in Afghanistan to a Democratic Congress with a Democratic President (Blank Check.) Those that know me know that I am an Independent, and have studied/crunched much data to get where I am on my choice.

I suggest 3 steps to those that still feel like they do not know who to vote for and you can apply it to both sides:

1. Consider some key endorsements Senators Obama & Biden have obtained. Why endorsements? Because he has obtained endorsements from some brilliant and talented academic minds from left to right. Of coarse he would get left/Democrat endorsements but let's take a serious look at some important ones, many of which are conservative "Gold Standard Republicans" and why they support him.

Take note that these are people in most cases, if not all have had access to him or can get it. This is important, because they are not caught up in the media hype/spin, they are in the know, they are intellectuals that have concrete evidences and reasons to support him. And at the same time, because of their historical stance & stature have every opportunity NOT to support him. They are people that will go against the grain when the data/facts calls for it, regardless of their core/base beliefs. Interesting enough, I do not believe that the idea of an Obama admin goes against their core belief, but rather meets in the center!

Warren Buffet, Secretary of State Colin Powell, Susan Eisenhower & Lincon Chafee, Larry Hunter, Lilibet Hagel, John Hutson, Bill Weld, Christopher Hitchens, Christopher Buckley, Scott McClellen, Arnie Carlson, CC Goldwater & siblings, etc...

While most folks cannot get access to Senator Obama or have any direct history to his past, there is a lot of material out on him in the form of biographies, accomplishments, controversy, you name it.

2. I recommend for people to buy the book "The Audacity Of Hope" but get it in Audio CD form. He reads it to you and you can listen to it on the way to work! It is as if the two of you are sitting down and he is sharing his story with you in his own words. What I got out of it I wrote in a previous post.

3. Review & consider the character & decisions/actions of the two men and their natural behaivior during this big test (the long hard fought primary & general campains.) This is important because it gives us insight on how they will conduct themselvs with the unkown problems & opportunities of the future administration. When you let the data unfold before you, it clearly comes into focus and you will no longer be undecided!

Pass this on to your undecided friends, it will shed some light :)

Take the Big Jet, I approve, I insist!

CJM — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 21:06:11 EDT

Brad Blakeman is a looser. It sucks to be you Brad, having to defend what is not defendable. And thanks for getting me off the couch to donate more money to Obama. WiNg NuTs like this constantly remind me why Obama MUST WIN!

God bless you and your Grandmother Senator Obama. Family first :)

Oh and by the way, I (Your Supporter) do not want you flying to Hawaii in small private plane as Blakeman suggests. We will find plenty of ways to save $$$ when you safely come home and win the election!!!

Time to Tinkle on "THIS ONE'S" Parade!

CJM — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 19:53:31 EDT

On Friday Congresswoman Michelle Bachman wanted a "penetrating investigation" on liberals in congress because she thinks they are anti-American. THIS ONE, was on the Hard Ball show to slam Senator Obama as a surrogate for McCain/Palin.

Even Secretary of State Colin Powell repudiated her garbage.

I understand that she is running against a fine young patriotic American by the name of Elwin Tinklenberg!

Well, when I got home today I donated to the Obama campaign to expand into more states, the final push!!! I was appalled when I saw this woman make her sick comments. Today I came home and found out that Tinklenberg has received lots of cash to beat her in his race!

I think that is a SPLENDID IDEA!!! So I also sent a little "penatrating" mullah to help Mr. Tinklenberg TINKLE ON HER PARADE! So while I have fully supported Senator Obama for some time now$$$, I also got out a little tinkle-to-go$.

Besides, he is on our side and I am certain Senators, Obama, Biden & Clinton amongst others would not mind at all if a little tinkle paid off, It will make for great history! So everyone knows the drill ;)

And pass it on too :)

Not all endorsements are created equal

CJM — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 13:51:28 EDT

Not all endorsements are created equal. Are endorsements important at all? It depends! Endorsements are merely opinions, and if opinions come from those that are subject matter experts then they have more weight.

If you go to a General MD and he has an opinion on your condition and then you go to a subject matter expert on your specific condition, then you would want to look at the opinions with varying degrees of weight. While your General MD has a higher weight grade on your condition then let's say a family member, the opinion of the subject matter expert/specialist should have more weight then the General MD. It is probable that when collaboration between the two experts occur on the subject, there in most cases will be consensus on the condition and the road to recovery. Although there are times when you need to go further with a third opinion, but one that has just as much or more weight as the specialist is sugested.

Senator Obama & Senator Biden received the most weighty endorsement that a presidential candidate can receive. Republican Secretary of State Colin Powell is a distinguished national security & foreign policy expert and has been a Republican throughout his entire career. He has had every reason on his side to NOT endorse Obama, as he has been a great and long time friend of Senator McCain, a respected Republican, a respected military expert, a respected forigen and domestic policy expert.

Colin Powell has served as a US Army General and served in three wars not including the wars in Iraq & Ahfgahnistan. He was the 16th National security advisor under Republican Ronald Reagan. He served as the 12th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff under Presidents George H. W. Bush and Bill Clinton. He was the 65th Secretary of State to President George W. Bush. By far Colin Powell has had a life time of very serious accomplishments.

For Senator Obama and Senator Biden to garner such an endorsement is no small thing. It is huge, it speaks volumes of the situation in America and the direction we must go. Senator Obama has also received other critically important endorsements by influential experts like the endorsement of Warren Buffet.

So what does this all mean? It means that if you are serious about the condition of the patient (The United States of America) and you want to take an educated risk, then you have to look at the endorsements and their weights. It is overwhelmingly clear to me that Senator Obama is the best candidate for president.

What I find fascinating and am joyful about is that their opinions/endorsements coincide with my own research, my own findings!!! Anyone that knows me knows that I am an Independent and I didn't start here, I actually started a couple of years ago with McCain and Clinton and actually up until a couple of months ago felt like if either McCain or Obama won then I still won!

No longer do I feel this way, the rigors of the campaign have shown who can handle the powers of the presidency, who has the temperament to make clear and concise judgements on the unknown problems to face our nation and our world. As the Secretary of State has selected and the very astute and influential businessman Warren Buffet has selected, Senator Obama has crossed the thresholds in high fashion.

Might I add the graciousness and vigor of Senator Clinton's endorsement also. For without her fires of competition we might be looking at a different story. Yes we have built a President in Senator Obama and Senator Hillary Clinton is very, very much responsible for this great accomplishment that will benefit the whole of America and the world.

My vote for Senator Obama and Senator Biden is not a vote against McCain/Palin's inconsistencies or incompetence but rather a researched, well thought out, time driven, happy, hopeful vote for the qualifying characters, judgements, experience and intellect of Senators Obama & Biden!

Trolls, you throw the dice enough and you will loose.

CJM — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 10:21:59 EDT

WARNING

Harrasement is against the law.

A Well Respected Man of Wisdom

CJM — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 21:40:20 EDT

A man that is respected by many on all sides of the political & military spectrum. A man, that like myself was deceived by the current administration' false intel concerning WMD's in Iraq. A man that will continue to help America with his wisdom and guidance as we go into the next 4 years.

Joe the Plumber, join us and get legal tax cuts!!!

CJM — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 23:28:32 EDT

I knew the facts would come out. Not wanting to pay additional taxes is synonymous with owing back taxes. It might slant the way you feel, just a little, ya think!

Don't worry Joe, most Americans don't like paying taxes either BUT WE DO because we like safe roads, bridges, airports, stadiums, fire trucks, police cars, dog parks, fire hydrants, planetariams, aquariums, zoos, FEMA, NOAA, NPR, NASA, schools and much much more! And that Joe the Plumber, is also why we are voting for Obama so we can rebuild our crumbling infrastructure and get a real tax cut! A real legal one ;)

Joe the Plumber

CJM — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 23:41:21 EDT

i f Joe the Plumber is making a quarter million a year plumbing, then I am in the wrong buisness.

Vote on the Debate!

CJM — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 23:38:33 EDT

Vote the Debate!

The Last Debate, Ever!

CJM — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 20:55:02 EDT

The Last Debate, ever!

McCain: McCain sits down and is thinking, sweating, praying that the moderator does not bring up Bill Ayers or any of the smears from the campaign trail. He sits down with that nervous smile.

Obama: Obama walks into the room smiling and also hoping that it does not come up, he sits and smiles big like a deer in headlights.

Moderator: Moderator starts to speak,

McCain: McCain thinks Oh My God, here it comes!

Moderator: Senator McCain, you have been challenging Senator Obama's patriotism and honesty with the Bill Ayers comments out on the campaign trail, here is your chance to say it to his face or to put it behind you ONCE AND FOR ALL.

Obama: Thinks a scene in his mind of being atop of a roller coaster and it is now starting it's vertical downward fall as he thinks Oh Shit here we goooooooo! It is silent for a second

McCain: McCain's heart rate jumps up, he starts to sweat and passes out on the floor

The audience: Sighs, Moderator And Obama quickly look at each other in dismay with their mouths hanging wide open.

Obama: Obama jumps to the floor screaming John, John get up! Obama starts old style CPR pumping and mouth to mouth.

Moderator and Audience: Turn their heads and sigh in confusion as to whether it is a good thing or not?

McCain: McCain is slipping into the third dimension and ascending over his body and Obama. He grimaces as he watches Obama conduct mouth to mouth and thinks yuuuck.

Moderator: That style is no longer necessary Barrack, the mouth thing, you know.

Obama: I know what I am doing. Thinking/joking don't you come back you old sucker you, not really, you better come back.

McCain: McCain ascending into the third dimension starts grining thinking, hey man, this might be a better deal and then he hears a loud voice!

McCain's father: Don't get to comfortable, you are going back to fight you are a McCain!

McCain: Daddy, Daddy is that you?

McCain's Father: No it's Nixon, of course it's me you dummy. Now get up and fight, you are a McCain, get up and fight champ, get up!

McCain: That sounded familiar, I heard that last week???

McCain's father: I got it form Joe B's father big dummy, we are all in this together, so get up and go back to it.

McCain: Daddy is right, we are all in this together, I gotta go back, I gotta help Obama!

Obama's father's voice: I told you, he always thinks he has to save something or somebody (talking to McCain's father about Barrack)

McCain: McCain starts to descend back to his body in the "real world" and his eyes open quickly!

Obama: Obama jumps back, wipes his mouth on his sleeve and says damn, your back.

Moderator & Audience: Sigh and look freaked out.

McCain: McCain starts babbling, Obama, Obama we are in this thing together, I don't want to debate anymore, I want to work things out, I am immediately suspending my campaign to help you however you need me. I heard your Daddy and mine and Joe's is there too, Everyone is there!

Crowd: Surprised, but not about the campaign suspension.

Obama: Obama looks at McCain in horror, confusion and in disbelief, shaking his head, none of it registering, spiting out his mouth and wiping on his sleeve. Camera closes in on face shot & cut!

People save this link, you might need it!

CJM — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 19:05:02 EDT

The Republicans are already trying to scare people with the "Runaway Train" garbage. Tim Palenty is already talking trash about having a Democratic President and a Democratic Congress.This link/data clearly debunks the myth. Scroll through the data/charts and arm yourself for those water cooler conversations. All the suporting references are in links!

Opinions do not dictate the facts!

CJM — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 18:15:45 EDT

Here is a great tool to use when folks try to say that a Democratic Congress and a Democratic President don't work and would be bad for America. Just the facts please! Data, Data, Data :)

Some Stuff for SNL :)

CJM — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 07:56:44 EDT

I have an Idea for part of a skit for our friends at SNL!!!

The third debate

Moderator: Senator McCain, the American people want details on your stimulus plan, What will you do for Americans on the economy?

McCain: Well, first off my friends we can't wait we must do something now, this month. I plan on giving out FREE candy on Halloween, yes my friends FREE candy. Now Senator Obama does not understand, he wants to give out acorns. Everyone knows that kids and people don't eat acorns, but my friends I fought for you, I ate acorns when I was in Vietnam, very bitter, but i always served my country first. My friends I am not going to give you acorns. I am going to give you what is tried and proven, I am going to give you candy corn, yes 'more of the same" good America candy corn that you are used to, trust and love, my friends. My friends, Americans don't want some radical acorns that are not real candy, they want what they already have in their system candy corn.

McCain thoughts presented in thought voice over or in a cloud over his head: I wished I had some acorns...about 3.5 million of them!

Who is who is who is???

CJM — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 22:08:07 EDT

Who Is the real Senator Obama??? He is a decent person and a person you do not have to be scared as President of the United States. He is a decent family man citizen!

Who is Senator McCain, now? Is he a squirrel reincarnate?

Who is Sarah Palin? Who is the Governor of Alaska, Sarah Palin or Todd Palin?

Three Million dollars = 13.392 Minutes

CJM — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 07:50:56 EDT

John McCain's attempt to nail Senator Obama on the Adler Planetarium's Projector is a clear example of the fact that McCain has no idea on how education is an important integral aspect of growing a strong nation. He asserts that the projector's $3,000.000.00 dollars that was asked for in a bipartisan bill is "Pork Barrel Spending" when the bill was out front and in the open.

In comparing this learning tool for children and adults alike to the cost of the war in Iraq, I found that in the time it took me to research, compose & post this I had already surpassed the cost of $3,000,000.00.

The cost of the war in Iraq is at 10 billion a month (31 days.) That in comparison to the cost of the Planetariums complex projection system is $3 million dollars for 13.392 minutes.

Plain & Simple

CJM — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 19:54:13 EDT

This is why America will vote for Obama/Biden!

The debate trap that McCain has created for himself

CJM — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 18:52:54 EDT

**IMPORTANT**
Senator McCain has said over and over that if Obama would attend "town hall" meetings with him then the tone of the campaign would change. If he attacks his character, Senator Obama should take him to the wood shed on this. Showing that his assertions about meeting together in town halls is not true and he needs to start being straight with the American people and quite listening to his "Ill Advisors."

Joe and Barack are too kind to say it. But me...

CJM — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 18:35:47 EDT

Look let's have some REAL straight talk here. Now Senator Obama and Senator Biden have to much class to phrase it this way, But I will say it. Children close your ears, or maybe not.

What we have with McCain and Palin are not Mavericks but rather Bullshitters. Plain and simple. You can tell it by the way she does not answer questions and plays games and you can tell it by the way he out right lies an cheats, starting with Carol and on with Keating it ryhms with cheating!

Let me repeat myself, Bullshitters not Mavericks. Close, but opposite, at the back end of the Bull!

Why I just gave more money!

CJM — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 17:54:28 EDT

I just gave more money because of this! Make a statement and join me.

Open Letter to our Campaign Decision Makers

CJM — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 09:42:29 EDT

A positive winning campaign message

Senator McCain's high jacked campaign is going to step up attacks on Senator Obama's character. I recently purchased "The Audacity of Hope in audio CD. After listening to the book that is voiced of by Senator Obama himself (his own words) I realized that if America had that same opportunity to hear this SPECIFIC book they would come over in droves. I have been at this campaign diligently for over 19 months and have not read, or seen anything that gave me the level of confidence and understanding in Senator Obama like this book. It is a GREAT tool to get to learn about what makes him tick.

With all that said, I am requesting that the Senator and the campaign make the book or at least portions of the book available FREE to the public for a period of two weeks. To do this effectively he can:

1. Send discs to millions of homes in the same way that the Obsession cd's were sent out.

2. Have the down-loads free and available on the Obama website.

3. Have down-loads available and CD's from various Google ads.

4. Have CD's distributed by canvassers at intersections and neighborhoods.

This strategy will allow most of America to get to know and understand Senator Obama's phenomenal knowledge and respect of the Constitution, the major parties and their views. It will allow them to do so while driving to work or in a time of their choosing and convienience. In addition it will have the country to know their next President so that they can continue to rally behind him and work with him as we go into the next four years.

I have personally sent some to my friends and undecided's with great results. The McCain campaign is playing for keeps, and they know that they can influence people with fear and smears in the last days of this race and if we waver then we will take serious hits to an end not of our choosing.

Get Up America, Get Up!

CJM — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 07:10:16 EDT

As an Independent voter that has supported candidates from both sides of the isle for years, tonight I have seen enough. I believe that Senator McCain is a good man and Governor Palin is probably a good person also. All four candidates are good Americans. I believe that it is important for the President & Vice President to speak "kitchen table talk" when talking to the bulk of America. It is important so that we get it, so that we basically understand to a degree the complexities of what they are dealing with.

But, it is imperative that the President and the Vice President of the United States of America be the sharpest pencils in the box. They will be dealing with some of the brightest minds, shrewdest minds and intricacies, complications of legislation, judicial concerns and executive branch decisions not to mention extremely difficult problem solving.

We must hire the most qualified people for these jobs. In addition to the judgement, intelligence, knowledge,experience and intentions, we must also realize that cohesiveness and workability to the congress is paramount (the bigger picture,) lest we have grid-lock and a continuation of a dysfunctional relationship between the legislature and the executive branch.

Scenario A. McCain/Palin. Republican President McCain while respected for his many years in the senate and love of country would be in gridlock with a democratic majority Congress. They will never give him the permanent tax cuts that his campaign is founded on and he would start as somewhat of a lame duck. Palin would be President of the Congress. The majority would not respect her intellect and knowledge, or rather and to no fault of her own, her lack of legislative knowledge. This coupled with her hair raising comments of executive expansion over Congress is a 4 inch thick titanium wall that has slammed shut her prospects of bipartisanship work in the nations capitol. Simply put it would be more of the same. And at the end of the day, if the legislative branch is locked down with the executive branch, we the people loose.

Scenario B. Obama/Biden. Democratic President Obama would be welcomed by the democratic majority congress with his exemplary constitutional law knowledge and legislative knowledge and experience. And actually some centrist Republicans would welcome him because of his ability to understand and respect opposing opinions. Vice President Biden is loved by the majority of Congress and respected by ALL of Congress. His constitutional law knowledge and legislative accomplishments and experience commands respect. So as President of the Congress and a clear understanding of this congressional president's reach, Vice President Biden will be warmly welcomed by the Congress. In addition Senator McCain would return to the senate as the loyal opposition that can reach to his base and his conservative Republicans in the Capitol when attempting to make continuity with the executives of the White house.

This to me is the clearest most functional scenario between the two tickets. As a good friend of mine said to me "America and the world needs a shift in paradigm." I have worked on this decision for over 19 months and for some time have been over in this camp. But tonight I put the ink to the paper and have voted for President Obama and Vice President Biden. Get Up America, as Senator Biden's father would say, Get Up. Get Up and vote for President Obama and Vice President Biden!

One

CJM — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 18:31:03 EDT

Just One Person. You are just one person. If you influence just one person, then America wins. If you register just one person to vote then you have contributed to America. From now until election day, if you make it your goal to get just one person to vote for Barack Obama and Joe Biden then YOU have rescued America. You, just one person!

FactCheck.org needs our help!

CJM — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 07:54:21 EDT

Hey Folks, We need your help. FactCheck.org has mischaracterized/left out important facts from the 1st debate in a special edition video. In one of their videos that they have emailed to lots of people.

The piece they are not acknowledging and correcting is 1:14:12 into the video clip. The part where Senator Obama clearly points out that no one is talking about Kissinger saying anything about Presidential level talks,but rather talks period, without preconditions. McCain tries to make the case against Presidential level talks by saying that Kissinger never suggested the talks be at that level.

Senator Obama points out that this is not what they are talking about. It is not what he meant when he said that Kissinger recommended high level talks as opposed to the closed door policies of the past. You can here Senator Obama say it as they clip the tape.

I do not see what Factcheck.org has in video as complete facts, but rather misleading. Complete facts would be for her to say McCain was right Kissinger responded that he was not referring to Presidential level talks, but Senator Obama clearly pointed out that he was not insinuating that the secretary was. Please call or email them to see if they will correct it!

There once was a Troll...

CJM — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 21:53:12 EDT

There once was a troll from McCain land

His website looked like the current plan

So he took a trip over to Obama land

and cried to the people about this and that

They knew he was loosing but gave him a break

until the troll turned into a freekin snake

over and over it just would not stop

They chased and they chopped and deleted him away

but the troll that turned snake just wouldn't go away

Admin found out

and sent cyber agents to route

and explained to the snake

that harassment was out :(

FactCheck.org is missing something!

CJM — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 21:48:08 EDT

Hey Folks, We need your help. FactCheck.org has mischaracterized/left out important facts from the 1st debate in a special edition video. In one of their videos that they have emailed to lots of people.

The piece they are not acknowledging and correcting is 1:14:12 into the video clip. The part where Senator Obama clearly points out that no one is talking about Kissinger saying anything about Presidential level talks,but rather talks period, without preconditions. McCain tries to make the case against Presidential level talks by saying that Kissinger never suggested the talks be at that level.

Senator Obama points out that this is not what they are talking about. It is not what he meant when he said that Kissinger recommended high level talks as opposed to the closed door policies of the past. You can here Senator Obama say it as they clip the tape.

I do not see what Factcheck.org has in video as complete facts, but rather misleading. Complete facts would be for her to say McCain was right Kissinger responded that he was not referring to Presidential level talks, but Senator Obama clearly pointed out that he was not insinuating that the secretary was. Please call or email them to see if they will correct it!

You = 1 + 1 = President Obama

CJM — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 20:06:53 EDT

We here in America...

CJM — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 07:58:49 EDT

We here in America don't know what to make of a campaign that talks to regular folks in a pizza parlor about attacking the terrorist in Pakistan but then later on TV says it's not what they meant. At least Senator Obama is clear and has the testicular fortitude to let the world know that we are serious about terroism.

United States National Debt

CJM — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 20:19:21 EDT

An Analysis of the Presidents Who Are Responsible for the Borrowing

One

CJM — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 07:25:14 EDT

You can tell a man's soul through his eyes

CJM — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 07:23:56 EDT

When Senator McCain did not have the testicular fortitude or respect to look Senator Obama in the face, I asked myself a few questions. How would this lack of confidence and insecurity play out in the job of the President? How would this attitude play out in more critical debates with our enemies, or high tension cabinet meetings? I do not want a President that has a mental block going into the job out of the gate. The job is way too demanding of all your faculties for that kind of dangerous behavior.There is no excuse or reason that can make his condescension of Senator Obama justified. Senator McCain is not fit to be the President of the United States of America. HIS decisions continually validate that and NOW is the time to realize it, before he enters office.

McCain is out of touch, HA!

CJM — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 14:39:50 EDT

McCain keeps taliking about pork barrel spending on bear DNA science, but i don't know maybe it is something that we need to increase funding on!

Just One Person

CJM — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 14:29:51 EDT

McCain's role in government

CJM — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 13:55:59 EDT

I used to support McCain, and at the end of it I do believe that he is a good American. But now at looking at the bigger picture (future Congress & White house), I see where McCain needs to be "the loyal opposition" in the Senate. The country will be better served to have him in the senate helping to make continuity from the White house to Republicans in particular conservatives. He validated my assumptions and displayed this week that he can better serve the country in that role instead of commander in chief. When we look at our government we need to look at many if not all the roles in Legislative, Executive and Judicial Branches of government. We need to have clear representation of ALL of America and not just the left or the right. It is our government, it is our team and it is our ability & responsibility to choose a team that will protect our interest and guide our nation into a prosporous future.

McCain's Situmataition

CJM — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 20:03:10 EDT

McCain and foxes/friends know that it is over. They know that the G.W. economic surprise cake blew up way to early. It makes you wonder what playbook Bubbya was working from! It was not to go off until after Nov. 4th.

They also knew that it would be tough to keep Palin under wraps. The Island for weekend at Bernie's was taken. They knew that they had to slaughter Obama last night with that hatchet Obama spoke of, but when McCain started pointing that gun about Pakistan, he soon found that gun at his jugular with songs of Iran & N. Korea singing in his head. But that was not all, blood started spewing from McCain unknowingly as Senator Obama passed the scapel through McCains lack of testicular fortitude in his inability to look Senator Obama in the eye when it came to McCain's poor judjement on war tactics vs strategy concerning Iraq & ahfgahnistan.

But what got McCain here is the real question? McCain has a gambling problem and America can see it. His need to be president comes from a very different place then does Senator Obama's. A place that says I know how to win! I know how to cheat! I know how to gamble! But the American people have other plans for their treasures. America wants a leader that does not play dice as the first option, like he did with his first very important decision (Palin.) Hell, I don't blame her. Most folks would be obligated to run if asked. I blame McCain for throwing the dice and setting her up for failure like a puppy in training. But then again she was against establishment Republicans, so who knows if there is a darker motive from the voices that enter John McCain's head.

So do not be surprised if they try something new, like a new running mate or show up in kabuki makeup or attempting to throw the election. At any rate, we must think hard of every person we can talk to and influence/educate for a vote. Strategically think of and gage conversations you can be in every day until we win!

The thing that McCain needs to finally understand about gambling is that just because you double down or put all in, your bet does not change your odds of winning, but rather changes how much you can loose!

Hatchet or Scapel!

CJM — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 10:15:14 EDT

Last nights debate shed much light on the stark differences between McCain & Obama. What is clear to me is one of the candidates understands the need to get to root cause concerning problems and the other is more geard to the fix of a problem. One is concerned with preventing fires in the first place and the other likes to put them out. One of the candidates understands that judjement based on facts even before the fact is crucial to making decisions that will affect the lives of millions. The other aproaches from a shorter view, a more tacticl view. The war in Iraq and the tactics in the war like the surge is a perfect example.

One of the candidates approaches from a perspective of nurturing to grow something the other believes in throwing the seeds and the miracles of life will have them grow. The economy is an example here. One candidate understands that in order to have a safe healthy economy, you must prep, and do preventive maintenance/invest to it's infrastructure. The other believes that you run it and when it breaks you fix it (why fix what isn't broken) The other understands that while you do not want to fix what is not broken, In order to win continuously, not just one time, you must check under the hood and continuously find better more efficient ways to run the country.

One candidate believes that you remove cancer with a hatchet or a sledge hammer, the other believes that you have to review all the data, know where the cancer is and carefully remove it without damaging other important tissue. This example defines the two candidates well on most all the issues.

As Six Sigma Black Belt & Lean Manufacturing Guy (Proccess Improvement Specialist) I can identify with the candidate that looks to "Root Cause" and not just put out fires to live another day. Problem solving has changed/improved over the last twenty+ years and those that continue the practices of old of putting out fires instead of stopping what causes them will always be putting out fires instead of stopping them in the first place. The BIG TIME flaw with the putting out fires mental is that it is ALWAYS more cost effective to invest in prevention of the ultimate failure then the exponential cost of the failure itself.

Call it what you will, but look at examples of success like Toyota. They are a "Nice Lean Problem Solving Machine" and look at failures like the State of the Union. The economy is at the brink of collapse, the ultimate fire to put out.

So the question is this: Your State of the Union is hemoraging profusely, do you hire the 'Experienced Guy" with the hatchet to stop the bleeding and bring the country back, or do you hire the 'knowledgeable & skilled surgeon that uses a scapel in a way that will allow healing of a Great Nation?

A great tool to get votes!

CJM — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 20:59:31 EDT

I just listened to Senator Obama's audio book "The Audacity of Hope." The voice on the CD is of the Senator himself, in his own words! I have been following the campaign closely since Iowa. In this time I have read and learned much about Senator Obama, but what this book/cd's gave me was clearer insight on Senator Obama's Intellect, thinking process and judgement. He is a very deep thinker, and not just a deep thinker, but a thinker with a huge arsenal of knowledge, in turn creating wise thought and continues questions. I wished I had bought it sooner, I have bought copies for friends that I think are on the fence or leaning Obama but not yet convinced. Those that I have heard back from have a different perspective of him now. They see much of what I see in the Senator.

Senator Obama is very qualified to be president, and after listening to the cd's I would argue that he is very qualified to be a Supreme Court Justice. He has an incredible understanding on the makings of America and it's people and it's government. I highly recommend for everyone to read the book or get the cd's.

If you are like me I do not read much, mostly because I am busy, but the cd's allowed me to listen while I drive and do things around the house. I wished that every voting American had a copy of the CDs. I am convinced that many ill thoughts of race or party would quickly melt away. I am also convinced that many would agree that he is the most qualified to be president. It is important to be able to speak to folks at the kitchen table level, but when it is time to be in the oval office dealing with the complexities of the nation and the world, it is imperative that the president have the depth, knowledge and judgment to govern effectively. He has it!

The man commands respect, not that he personally is hautily commanding but rather his display of knowledge, humbleness of spirit and desire for wisdom and do right by America commands respect. America will be fortunate to have you as president. America will have a president made of everything that makes us a great nation. A president that knows the constitution as if he lived in its inked pages for the last 200 years.

Bushy & McBushy

CJM — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 21:58:00 EDT

OK, if you insist, we win!

CJM — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 20:47:23 EDT

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOBAMA!!!

!@$#%^&*+_)(

CJM — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 19:53:27 EDT

I actually have no title for this, I am at a lose of words. I am shaking my head as I think of the what if... You title it!

Maverick or Squirrel?

CJM — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 19:35:24 EDT

In light of all the switchy swappin in McCain's brain I cant keep up with his BS. He is not a maverick, he is a squirrel! I am going to start calling squirrels McCains! Economic pain is a strain on the brain of squirrely McCain.

Maverick or Squirrel?

CJM — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 19:04:09 EDT

Governor Palin has yet to "MEET THE PRESS"

CJM — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 08:29:11 EDT

Senator McCain has been on meet the press 52 times. Senator Biden has been on 42 times. Senator Obama has been on at least two or three times if not more. Senator Palin, has yet to be vetted by the American People. The McCain camp has kept her from the American people, other than scripted rehearsed talking points, and her appearance on the with Charlie Gibson was astonishing to those that know politics and the stances of the running mates and our current president.

Sarah Palin has yet to "MEET THE PRESS." Lord knows we miss Tim Russert, and think of him at every turn in this election. And we are grateful for Tom Brokaw and his ability to fillet the candidates and get to the meat of their substance, or lack thereof. Meet the Press is America's Sunday morning church, concerning politics. It is the one place that we can go to get the GOSPEL/TRUTH when it comes to the candidates.

Sarah Palin DOES NOT GET A PASS, no one gets a pass from Meet the Press that has intentions of getting into the White House. The McCain camp reserves the right to keep her from the peoples interview and or put her in at the 11th hour (After early voting ends in Oct.) But to think that she can skip a "Meet the Press" interview and waltz right into the White House as a VP is fantasy.

Meet the Press belongs to the people and is one of our most valuable tools used to identify those that are not competent or qualified to serve in government. What are you afraid of Governor Palin & senator McCain? I thought you where all about full disclosure, or has this become your "Pork Barrel of non disclosure." Even Tim's son Luke mentioned to Senator McCain, “I’d love to see Governor Palin on Meet the Press!” McCain laughed.

So what can we do? Pass this on to all those that are serious about this election, talk about it. Do it to create a buzz that demands a Meet the Press interview with Tom Brokaw. We need to know who all the candidates are and what they know and stand for before we put them in the office of the President and Vice President.

And as far as the Vice president and the importance of the position goes. I look at it this way, the two jobs are like two bullets in a gun. One (the President) is in the chamber and ready to fire, the second (the Vice President) must also be in the gun next to the first and just as ready to fire, if chambered to. We must know our candidates in order to make intelligent, informed choices.

The Swift Boat CD I recieved in the mail

CJM — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 08:25:47 EDT

I like many people received a CD in the mail today titled Obsession (Radical Islam's war against the west.) Being the trust in one hand and verify in the other kind of person that I am, I was skeptical at best to begin with.

The first red flag was not being able to clearly ID the folks that funded this "Swift Boat." Secondly the fact that the CD's are only sent to key battle ground states that McCain needs to win clearly indicates to me that this group is not concerned with educating ALL Americans but rather influence those they need to win an election.

While they used slick impressive covers and high tech CD's to get their propaganda out, they are behind Americans ability to surf the net and find truth and opinions on stuff like this. We have been doing this for some time now (at least 19 months.) It is going to take a hell of a lot more than scary movies to fool Americans on their intent/swift boating.

Americans take the attacks of 9/11 seriously, and Americans take the two wars we are engaged in seriously. Americans are continuously finding out about how we were lied to and diverted from those that attacked us on 9/11 to start a war in Iraq. A war that cost way to much and a war that has stalled our efforts of capturing or killing Osama Binladen. America should fear nothing but fear and it's use to sway.

Americans from every walk of life will elect Senator Obama as President! I now predict that Senator Obama will win with 333 Electoral College votes to McCain's 205 votes and when he is President Obama, America will focus it's war efforts on those that are responsible for 9/11 and for the most part they currently reside in Afghanistan & Pakistan.

Regs, Fines or Bail-Outs but Nobody rides for Free!

CJM — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 19:03:33 EDT

While we look at Wall street and the current administrations failures of deregulation of financial markets and the toothless regs on short selling. The one thought that comes to mind is "insanity," to do the same thing over and over again expecting different results. We have seen this movie before, and for me, I have been in this movie before as a Six Sigma BB.

The Bush administration had plenty of opportunity to properly regulate the stick built home mortgage industry and grow our economy in a safe, strong prudent way, they failed. In 1998 Conseco bought Green Tree Financial Corp. (later named Conseco Finance) for $6 billion. Green Tree specialized in loans for manufactured housing (sub prime loans.) This was a sharp departure from Conseco's insurance and investment businesses that proved to be cancerous and sling the fortune 500 giant into bank-O. Those that struggled to save the hemoraging giant quickly realized that booked loans to under qualified applicants would be the demise and send de-valued manufactured housing loans into the securitization like demons in Trojan horse.

The problem was that it was profitable to those individuals that had the power to write the loans, very profitable! And to make matters worse, when loans were at the brink of failure and homes where to be repossessed, once again it was profitable, not to the company but very profitable to those individuals that had the power to reposes. The mortgage and lending industry has been screwed up for some time now and short sellers knew it. And while the bail out now is a must do, or a lesser of the two evils. We are destined to fail again and again, unless we adequately regulate the industry with the seriousness of a heart attack with doctors on strike. Regulations with teeth, titanium teeth! What corporate America cannot get through it's thick skull is that the cost of prevention is always more cost effective than the cost of the failure. But I am still hopefull!

In American politics this translates to regulation vs deregulation. We need a President that understands that in today's world knowledge, technology and progression moves in exponential ways at times. That requires a governing system that can also respond exponentially and not at the slow out dated ineffective pace that government moves today.

It is not whether government is considered "Big Government" or not. It is whether Government is effective, responsive and "LEAN." Yes LEAN. Government might need to be "BIG GOVERNMENT" in some cases, like the military, social security, national security, environmental protection etc...but it cannot be BIG & FAT. If it must be big then it must be BIG but LEAN.

Senator Obama understands this and has a plan that is tailored to meet the needs of America's future. A plan that has the flexibility to change if need be. We must learn from our missteps, or we will fulfill the definition of insanity. We must implement fresh ideas and a new way of thinking! We must elect Senator Obama as President, lest we fulfill the adages of old and become like a dog, returning to his own vomit.

Connect the Dots Senator Obama!

CJM — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 09:22:31 EDT

Friday the 26th will be the first Presidential debate. The focus will be on foreign policy & national security. The last eight years of neo-conservative foreign policy & national security have been a dismal failure. The ill advised war in Iraq to start with, and to think we could have avoided the distraction had the International WMD inspectors stayed and inspected for the few months that they requested. Not going after the terrorist of 9/11 with full force in Afghanistan will be even more costly, just like the mortgage crises will cost us more after the fact of deregulation.

Senator Obama has a great opportunity to jump right in and reiterate the failures of the current administration and John McCain's endorsements of the supporting policies. One area that Senator Obama can loop & tie over and over in the "Forien policy" debate is the economy at home and the failed deregulation of the markets. Ye, "it's the economy stupid." Even in a foreign policy debate, it all comes back to what we have done and do here at home.

These last eight years have yielded the clearest of results on what happens under a incompetent Republican Neo-conservative administration and how it dominoes into global/foreign policy. Senator Obama has a great opportunity to be the intellectual professor that he is by connecting the dots for the American people on debate Friday.

Connect the dots Senator Obama. Connect the foreign policy conversation to current administration actions and inactions. Quickly, clear and to the point, lay the case out to the American people. Emphasis on the words quickly, clear and to the point. Showing, that while not perfect the cost of deregulation or distractions in the case of Iraq is 10 fold in comparison to even a poorly regulated system or focusing on those responsible for 9/11. Then take it to kitchen table level (dumb it down) and tell us what you are going to do about it as President.

Carly Fail-Arena is Lost in Space and out of touch.

CJM — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 19:14:38 EDT

Look Carly Fail-Arena,
What do you think the Obama Campaign is? It is a business! A business that brought in 66 million last month the most of any on the planet. It is a business where people give the money freely because we believe in the leaders, Obama & Biden! It is the "Obama Campaign business" that is on the ground like ants at a National picnic! It is the Business that Senator Obama has lead and will defeat you and the Republicans in November. You guy's are lost in space. The problem is the show is old and it is not on the air anymore. And the closest thing McCain/Palin come to being Mavericks is the BullS#!+ they are peddling. Just sit back in the school chair and watch Fail-Arena, You just might learn how to run a business and a government by watching us win this election and run a lean mean governing machine!

Senator Obama has been setting the table for real reform!

CJM — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 21:34:55 EDT

On the topic of wasteful spending in government. To me, it is not the size of government that concerns me, but rather "is it lean?" Some programs need to be "big government" like social security, national security, energy, etc... but they fail because they do not operate in LEAN, they are big fat wasteful slow government instead of big lean fighting machines.

One of the first bills that Senator Obama helped to pass (working across the isle with GOP Senator Coburn) is now a law that lifts the lid on government spending (earmarks) and allows me and you to "follow the money."

For one it educates us on where the money is going! It also gives us the opportunity to call them on wasteful spending. When Senator Obama becomes President, he plans on extending this by making public on C-Span much of the meetings like the ones they will have on health care. This will be important because the public will have a better chance to see if certain congressmen are more concerned with helping the drug & insurance companies or helping to pass affordable healthcare policy.

John boy Bush, We will Defeat you in November!!!

CJM — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 21:13:00 EDT

John McBush says the fundamentals of the economy are strong??? What planet do you live on John boy Bush? What are you smoking man? We can't afford to take a chance with you and McBridge to Nowhere lady. We are taking a stand, Americans from every walk and every state and we will defeat you in November!!!

We here in America don't know what to make of a governor that talks about supporting the bridge to nowhere...

CJM — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 20:05:17 EDT

We here in America don't know what to make of a Governor that talks about supporting the bridge to nowhere when it is under the radar and then says "thanks but no thanks" after America says no way. And then keeps the 229 million dollars for other projects. Americans would rather you return our money and tell the truth. Maverick or just Bull$&!+

Maverick or just a Bull$&!+er

CJM — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 19:46:53 EDT

The closest John McCain comes to being a Maverick is that he is full of Bull$&!+.

The Man has spoken!

CJM — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 12:45:37 EDT

The Man has spoken! Even though he is a long time friend of McCain, he does not mince words on the green stuff! It clearly points out that the change that McCain wants to dish out is change to more of the same. Bush's tax cuts came while financing a two wars through China. The Chineese will be the first to have oil contracts in Iraq. Was that their motivation to finance us and stay mum on the "Bush Doctrine?" The one that Palin does not understand!

Governor Palin on MEET The PRESS

CJM — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 09:11:53 EDT

John McCain stands for CHANGE!!!

CJM — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 13:21:45 EDT

John McCain stands for CHANGE! Yes! Change to more of the same ;?

E-Mail me the Facts Please!

CJM — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 12:59:36 EDT

As we move forward we need to spread the word to the folks that are undecided and even to some that might change their minds based on Facts. I am aware of the onsite fact checking and that is a good thing! This election is way to important to not make a choice based on facts. Here is neutral link that you can forward to people that will give them quick and to the minute facts on statements, ads, and rumors from both campaigns. A link that they wont feel is spin to the left or right. I recommend this as I am an Ardent Independent Obama supporter and know that facts are on our side. There will be incidents that clearly show that both sides need to be more vigilant on being factual, and this is another way to hold both camps feet to the fires of facts.

Just the facts please!

This race is about color!!!

CJM — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 18:56:51 EDT

This election is going to be about the color of money, not the color of Obama's skin or the color of McCain's hair or the color of lipstick, chap stick or dipsticks. It is money. Money, money, money! Green, green, green!!! The bottom line for most folks is their wallet and purse. What are you gong to do to or for my wallet or purse? If you make less than $250,00.00 a year then Obama is your guy. If you make more than $250,000.00 a year then Obama is your guy! WHAT??? Yes Obama! Because, even if McCain wins, he will be tossed to a Democratic congress that will probably have more seats! You only get to vote for the ones in your state that are running.

So if McCain wins then guess what he ain't going to pass ner dime on Bush's permanent tax cuts. They are expiring soon and oh yea, Senator Obama and Senator Biden and Senator Clinton will be there to vote NO. McCain will sour the world politics even more and the global economy will go further south, and that means that even if you are wealthy, Your wealth will not be safe and that is not even including potential extra friction with Russia and others. you can bet your pottuty that McCain will not talk/use diplomacy first. Think about it! Obama is our best hope to make your wallet or purse green and is the lesser of the two evils, even for those that are currently wealthy and enjoy lots of green, key word currently!

This won't be well recieved by the GOP.

CJM — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 22:45:08 EDT

Doctor Phillip Butler is a 1961 graduate of the United States Naval Academy and a former light-attack carrier pilot. In 1965 he was shot down over North Vietnam where he spent eight years as a prisoner of war. He is a highly decorated combat veteran who was awarded two Silver Stars, two Legion of Merits, two Bronze Stars and two Purple Heart medals. After his repatriation in 1973 he earned a Ph.D. in sociology from the University of California at San Diego and became a Navy Organizational Effectiveness consultant. He completed his Navy career in 1981 as a professor of management at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California. He is now a peace and justice activist with Veterans for Peace.

http://www.military.com/opinion/0,15202,164859,00.html

I went canvassing for the first time today :)

CJM — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 19:44:15 EDT

Today I had the opportunity to join a fellow supporter in canvassing! It was my first experience going into neighborhoods and actually speaking with folks. It was a great experience! There were a lot of folks that welcomed us at their doors and said they would support Senator Obama. We had some that were not sure and some that are going for McCain. But even some of them even thanked us for doing what we are doing! What I learned was that one on one visits (canvassing) seams to be one of the most effective ways to get folks thinking and ultimately get votes.

We registered some folks to vote while out and was even able to recruit one to volunteer and she is planing on bringing others! What was striking was how bad people want change. We all hear it, and see it at work and our friends, but canvassing let's you see and meet the fabric of America (Folks) in their own settings, and America is tuned in and listening and watching!!! One of the latest polls in Florida shows us 1 point ahead of McCain, a tie!

In the 2000 election between Bush and Gore, Bush won Florida by about 500 votes. That is the equivalent to 1 voter per 7 precincts. I am certain that knowing what we all know now and what we have been through for the last 8 years, if anyone had a clue that all they had to do is go out and canvas and just produce 1 vote for 7 precincts, I am sure all of us would have done so. I learned that canvassing averages about 1 vote per 14 house visits.

This election is going to be very close we cannot take it for granted and if we can get Florida then we will be in great shape!!! What I am suggesting is, that if you have had feelings like you wanted to do something like canvass but are not sure, do like I did and go to the Obama Headquarters near you and tell them that you want to try it (shadow) with someone that has done it. Or you might just want to go through the class and go on your own. I will be back out there again and again! We only have 8 weeks.

We did it for a couple of hours and visited around 20 or 30 homes, some folks were not there and we left literature. We registered 2 people and got volunteers! What is also interesting to me is that folks will remember which camp cared enough to come by!

So if you are someone that might be a little scared or unsure of the unknown of such an experience, just ask yourself one question! What would you do if you were not scared or unsure? The answer is you would jump in and do it!!! And to think that we could have literally changed the world in 2000 with over 500 votes obtained by canvassing neighborhoods in Florida! It's now or never, go for it. I am :)

The Operational Definition of Insanity is:

CJM — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 08:28:44 EDT

To hire Republicans as President & Vice President AGAIN and to expect the next four years to be change/different from the last eight.

McCain's Veterans Affairs Voting Record

CJM — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 08:19:38 EDT

McCain as Commander in Chief? You can tell a tree by it's fruit! McCain's fruit are how he takes care of (votes) for or against Veterans needs. Just the facts :(

Lost in the Sheep ;(

CJM — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 21:38:55 EDT

It is amazing as to the number of people that follow blindly and do not check facts or even reason. Do not get lost in the sheep. CHECK THE FACTS and make informed decisions. I have followed this campaign since before Iowa, and have spent countless hours crunching data, reading left & right stories and checking facts, and while no campaign can claim that they have told 100% truth, my experience is that the Obama campaign strives to run a pretty clean campaign. Probably because they know that they will be called out on it and most Obama supporters will not put up with it.

Check your facts and watch all the major news stations (surf), yes even Fox! It is important to get the data and spin from all the different perspectives. Do not be afraid, they are not going to eat you and you will not only make the right choice in the end, but with conviction, knowing that you covered all the bases!

Why McCain cannot deliver!

CJM — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 15:22:34 EDT

The other night after watching the GOP's convention I started thinking about one of the main reasons some folks would vote for John McCain. This reason is his stance on taxes. He once stood firm against the permanent tax cuts that G.W. pushed. But early on in the campaign he repositioned and now stands for them.

There are several problems with this ever materializing. Let's say he were to win. According to presidential election history, when a outgoing president has a low approval rating like Bush enjoys it has been the case that the incumbent party also takes the beating in the congressional races. The Congress is lead by the Democrats, and while the Senate approval rating is very low, it is clear that Democrats will still gain seats to bolster their positions to draw the ink out of veto pens that McCain might have in mind. Not to mention the Republican Congress people that survive the storm in November. They will also have their backs against the wall with the trashed GOP brand. They will seek compromise.

So what does this mean for a McCain Presidency? What it means is that he is one leg of a three leg stool (not to include the Supreme court) and the other two legs appose him much of the time, not to mention that he really is not loved by his base, and will be loved less as he presides. He will go into office as a weak President and will not enjoy the support of the congress for his permanent tax cuts. They will shut him down on it and do it in the name of the American people. But he won't beat a dead horse, you see it never was his plank in the first place, it was Bush's.

McCain will not want to go down in flames as president so what is his platform that he will be able to pass, he will get some support on pork barrel spending reform, but he will have to give on alternative energy and scrap his current proposal for more drilling now on new leases. He will get more drilling now on current leases, but with closing loopholes on crude futures trading and alternative energy.

You see, you have to be very careful of what you wish for, what I mean is that McCain has touted reform, cleaning up the system, etc... He will be forced to do just that, and it will undermine some of what he has promised to the GOP. So for those of you that are considering voting for McCain because he can save you money, I suggest that if we have a government that is in grid-lock or slow moving then the economy will continue to slide south and your wealth will be worth less, less than the taxes you are worried about paying. And that is why it really makes sense to vote for Obama/Biden.

Remember the Clinton years! That is more of the model of what will happen if Obama wins. Progress & cooperation in Washington, even if you do not agree with all of the issues, your bottom line stands a better chance, even with the taxes. And while the top 10% of the working population might have to pay more taxes, at least they will have something to pay them from.

So is it that the Obama/Biden ticket is the lesser of the two evils when it comes to your wallet? for those that appose their platform, yes. For me, NO it is the best ticket that I have seen in my adult political life concerning the big picture!!!

And I didn't even touch the International political ramifications with McCain as president and a Supercharged Democratic Congress!

The choice is ever so crystal clear, Obama & Biden 08!!!