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OpinionTorture9/11ArtAsiaBalanced BudgetBandelier National MonumentBoehnerBooksBordersBullyingCPACChinaCimarron Old HotelsCoeur d'ALeneCrucifixionDUIDowngradeDronesDuck DynastyELizabeth WarrenEgyptFOXGaneshaHouseKrauseLiebermanLivingstonLocalMarriageMass MurderMichael VIckMudgy and MillieNSANative AmericansNew YearsNuclearOccupy movementsPanettaParentingParis HiltonPaulPhotosPiracyPowellPressPrivacyProtestsPutinRand PaulRelocatingRick PerrySaddleback ForumSenateSenate ChaplinSequestrationSmugglingSpecterSpyingStephen BaldwinStraw PollTaiwanTaxesTea Party licansTextingTripsVictimismVideoWes ClarkYellowstoneZoo Montana Zoos Grizzlys sbin Ladendebateld PoliticsDogwalk MusingsThoughts and questions regarding just about everything while taking a daily stroll with my dog.http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/noreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)Blogger1980125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-7824054785113911334Thu, 19 Dec 2013 22:48:00 +00002013-12-19T14:48:30.632-08:00Duck DynastyHere's to You A&E! Braaaak!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mnWsPuHEHQk/UrNx6r2TTSI/AAAAAAAAKpc/wym85k_sV3o/s1600/Duck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mnWsPuHEHQk/UrNx6r2TTSI/AAAAAAAAKpc/wym85k_sV3o/s1600/Duck.jpg" /></a></div>Why, oh why, &nbsp;does everything have to become an issue? &nbsp;Duck Dynasty is meant to be entertainment, pure and simple. &nbsp;And that's what it is. &nbsp;Simple. Goofy. Redneck. Entertaining.<br /><br />A show that has propelled a family to fame and fortune because they produced a great duck call. &nbsp;Man, if that isn't living the American dream, what is?<br /><br />With that fame and fortune come things that aren't quite so innocent. &nbsp;A magazine interview becomes an expose on politically incorrect thinking which is seized upon by extremists for a cause - that everyone must view them as they view themselves. &nbsp;Acceptable. Well, tough. &nbsp;Not everyone feels the same.<br /><br />So who are these bearded wonders? &nbsp;I don't know. A family of Louisiana Rednecks who make no apology for who they are nor should they. &nbsp;Certainly not to a cable channel that programs questionable content all the time if you choose to look at it that way.<br /><br />It reminds me of the Paula Deen flap over having used the "n" word 30 some years ago. &nbsp;Who growing up in the same environment didn't? &nbsp;In this case you have a family deeply steeped in the teachings of the bible. &nbsp;They don't fool around with other women. &nbsp;They're a tight family unit. &nbsp;They care for their kids and each other. They end their programs gathered around a table and thank the Lord for their blessings.<br /><br />That the patriarch doesn't see homosexuality as normal, &nbsp;but as a sin along with other oddities such as bestiality shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone. Why did it even have to come up in an interview? &nbsp;These people are not and don't pretend to be the social arbiters of the nation or even of their fans. &nbsp;They're just having fun and making oodles of money while they're at it.<br /><br />If you find them offensive watch something else. For heaven's sake don't suspend one of them for having voiced an opinion after having been asked. &nbsp;You might as well bench all of them because they probably all think the same thing. &nbsp;And so do many who watch them. &nbsp;What are you going to do to the fans?<br /><br />Watch it or not. &nbsp;I do and I will even knowing, gasp, how Phil thinks. Stuff your duck with political correctness and let the rest of us enjoy the show for what it is. &nbsp;Entertainment. &nbsp;Pure and simple. &nbsp;And clean. &nbsp;And reverent toward the big duck hunter in the sky who they have to thank for their success. We could do a whole lot worse.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/12/heres-to-you-braaaak.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-484662716000772390Wed, 18 Dec 2013 21:32:00 +00002013-12-18T13:32:13.710-08:00HealthHealth CareSeniorsThe Waiting Game Promotes Wondering<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3tSt-xdL7zQ/UrILPxx-fQI/AAAAAAAAKpM/CSdRjAHfoNY/s1600/WAITING1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="189" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3tSt-xdL7zQ/UrILPxx-fQI/AAAAAAAAKpM/CSdRjAHfoNY/s320/WAITING1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The holiday season is not the time of year I like to sit in doctors waiting rooms but this year I seem to be doing little else.<br /><br />It has gotten me to wondering about what sort of experiences those affected by the ACA insurance debacle will be facing come the new year.<br /><br />I recently got a new primary care physician. &nbsp;I like him and have found that there are times when a change can be advantageous. &nbsp;Even so, long term associations that have been good are hard to let go even if you get to a point of diminishing returns. Which I had.<br /><br />Being of ever advancing years, I have a handful of nagging issues that had for years never been satisfactorily addressed. &nbsp;On the other hand, I'm not in as bad a shape as I had thought. &nbsp;With the new cholesterol guidelines and new blood pressure guidelines I see pressures to take certain meds along with ones I am taking to soon go away. &nbsp;Goes to show if you wait long enough...<br /><br />As for those nagging ones, my lower back has been an issue for years. &nbsp;I finally reached the point where meds were no longer working. &nbsp;I don't want even stronger ones. &nbsp;So. &nbsp;The new doc does his poking and prodding and figures the previous diagnosis had either been a red herring or I had a combination of issues. &nbsp;So. &nbsp;A new x-ray of a new spot. &nbsp;Bingo! &nbsp;A pretty good dose of arthritis in the last joint of my tailbone. &nbsp;Painful. That area had never even been considered. Off to a spinal diagnostician I go and he decides to do an MRI to confirm the x-ray. &nbsp;Do you see the costs going up here?<br /><br />Okay. &nbsp;A shot to my bottom. &nbsp;Owwww. &nbsp;Now I need an MRI of the old problem because I still show symptoms and the two don't relate. &nbsp;That comes tomorrow. &nbsp;No shot though because it hasn't been the required 10 days since the last one. &nbsp;Nor could he do the MRI the same day because medicare wouldn't pay for two the same day. &nbsp;However that works. &nbsp;More $$$$ to be sure. &nbsp;All this last minute rush is to get it in before January 1 when the new deductible cycle kicks in.<br /><br />If there is to be another shot I may squeeze it in right after Christmas but I doubt it. &nbsp;Why? &nbsp;I still have to have a spot checked out which I suspect is the return of a pesky basal cell. &nbsp;Removal, if in fact I'm correct, will again come after the first when it will be out of pocket.<br /><br />Not that any of you are interested in all this but I've been thinking about all the new doctors I've seen and will be seeing all based on the change of my primary care physician. &nbsp;Fortunately I wasn't wed to anyone from my past and am actually looking forward to a better level of expertise than I've experienced before. &nbsp;But it is complicated, time consuming and fraught with anxiety. Will they fix the problem this time or not?<br /><br />There are always the questions. &nbsp;Who did that procedure, who did another one. &nbsp;Over the years it's hard to remember names of someone you may have seen but once. &nbsp;So familiarity has its blessings. &nbsp;But so does a look see through fresh eyes.<br /><br />Hopefully I'm settled in with this new entourage for some time to come. &nbsp;Hopefully I'll remain in relatively good if not better health. &nbsp;And hopefully the Secretary will keep her nose out of it.<br /><br />For those who are just approaching major changes in not only their insurance but their health care protocols in total, I can empathize though I've had it relatively easy. &nbsp;Many won't and that's enough to make anyone queasy.<br /><br /></div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/12/the-waiting-game-promotes-wondering.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-4204002709438280522Fri, 13 Dec 2013 21:13:00 +00002013-12-13T13:13:08.529-08:00BudgetWalk A Mile In Paul Ryan's Shoes<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OVx6VtAIsMo/UqtyPRbGF9I/AAAAAAAAKo8/ZDz2eMgBeNg/s1600/b2_the_trail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OVx6VtAIsMo/UqtyPRbGF9I/AAAAAAAAKo8/ZDz2eMgBeNg/s1600/b2_the_trail.jpg" height="141" width="200" /></a></div>Is it all for political show? &nbsp;The idea that no Republican Senator supports the Ryan-Murray budget deal? &nbsp;Because it doesn't go far enough when it comes to addressing entitlements, spending, etc?<br /><br />They've gone right back to the Tea Party ways - our way or the highway. &nbsp;What part of "you're not going to get it all especially at one time" do they not understand? &nbsp;If it's just political posturing, what's the point?<br /><br />That there is a deal at all is huge considering the climate of animosity in Congress. &nbsp;I thought the other day that the Republicans might be getting smart but I see I am wrong.<br /><br />I suggest any one of those Republican Senators who has the nerve to sit down across the table from Patty Murray, who is a &nbsp;loyal, tough Democratic worker bee, and see if they can work out a better deal. Or a deal at all.<br /><br />It's a good thing the Presidential elections are two years down the road. &nbsp;Republicans are going to have a tough enough time with the mid-terms until and unless something gets through to the obstructionists and explains to them how politics actually work. &nbsp;They who are holding up Ronald Reagan as their beacon, the man who knew 80% was better than none. &nbsp;Take it in small increments. &nbsp;The wins will build. Settling for nothing but everything guarantees you'll get nothing.<br /><br />It seems elementary to me that in order to move the Republican agenda forward they are going to have to keep the House, take the Senate and the Presidency. &nbsp;It isn't going to happen as long as the party remains divided or if the obstinate faction wins the battle for the heart soul of the party.<br /><br />The excuse for the negativity is often blamed on their constituents. &nbsp;"It's what I was elected to do." &nbsp;Bull. &nbsp;None of you were elected to block any sort of progress what-so-ever. &nbsp;You were elected to figure out how to make things work. &nbsp;That doesn't mean digging in for an impossible solution then bragging about how you stood on principle!<br /><br />I'd think you'd have learned after the government shut down. &nbsp;Apparently you haven't. &nbsp;That nullifies loyalty and support. &nbsp;How many of us can you afford to lose?<br /><br /><br /></div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/12/walk-mile-in-paul-ryans-shoes.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-896691500267272517Thu, 12 Dec 2013 20:39:00 +00002013-12-12T12:39:08.724-08:00Health CareObamacareSeniorsWe Seniors Are ABout To Get Ours!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9th4VXCghPg/UqoXAqLR0BI/AAAAAAAAKos/-oA6jS38lWk/s1600/hospital-gowns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9th4VXCghPg/UqoXAqLR0BI/AAAAAAAAKos/-oA6jS38lWk/s320/hospital-gowns.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I really wish Congress had learned from Obamacare that any bill with the Secretary shall in it spells doom. &nbsp;But they haven't and it scares me.<br /><br />They are scheduled, today, to vote on the "Doc Fix" which will give the feds, as in HHS, authority to dictate "applicable use criteria" for medical services for seniors.<br /><br />It's tied in with reimbursements to doctors which is woefully low to begin with. &nbsp;The reason why it's so difficult to find a doctor to take a medicare patient. &nbsp;What has been a short term fix from year to year is now scheduled to become permanent. &nbsp;Woe is us. &nbsp;It gives the Secretary the right to make a judgement on things like CT scans and MRIs. &nbsp;To make matters worse, the doctors went along with this in order to get higher reimbursements and while they have a say in the decisions it's a weak one. &nbsp;The power is with the Secretary shall.<br /><br />Now I don't know about any of you, but I do not want Kathleen Sebelius anywhere near my medical care. &nbsp;She knows nothing about me nor my needs and even if she did she isn't qualified to make any determination about what is or is not appropriate. &nbsp;That's between my doctors and me.<br /><br />At the moment this is aimed at radiological services but contains a provision giving the Secretary the authority to expand it to other services.<br /><br />I'm not saying that Medicare doesn't need reformed. &nbsp;It certainly does, but I implore the medical and senior citizen community to speak up against giving this power over to the government. &nbsp;If the Secretary could micromanage effectively I'd not be so worried but it is evident this one cannot manage at all what's more micro manage. &nbsp;If we've learned anything from Obamacare it should be that government has no place in determining, on their own, what is and what isn't important or appropriate in health care, no matter your age.<br /><br />Is there such a disconnect that no one notices the language in this bill? &nbsp;Don't they see the same red flags? &nbsp;Have they even read the legislation? &nbsp;Or are they so anxious to get home for the holidays they'll vote for anything just to get out the door.<br /><br />You know, in a way I hope it slams shut on their foot. &nbsp;And when they go to the doctor to get it fixed they find that the Secretary has determined they can't get an x-ray, a cast or even a pain pill.<br /><br />One day those who vote for these ludicrous bills will be forced to abide by them just as we are. &nbsp;It can't happen too soon. They ought, too, remember they will one day be old and until then their parents already are. &nbsp;Is this really what they wish on them?</div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/12/we-seniors-are-about-to-get-ours.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-3581503923873839354Wed, 11 Dec 2013 21:21:00 +00002013-12-11T13:21:33.595-08:00BoehnerBudgetAre Republicans Beginning To Get It?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vhNEOIy2nHM/UqjQlk4eV_I/AAAAAAAAKoc/pP9HQ3twHSI/s1600/Boehner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vhNEOIy2nHM/UqjQlk4eV_I/AAAAAAAAKoc/pP9HQ3twHSI/s200/Boehner.jpg" width="157" /></a></div>I actually like John Boehner when he gets mad. &nbsp;He just doesn't do it often enough when he's dealing with the ultra conservative wing of his party. You know, the ones who refuse to vote for their own party position if it isn't exactly what they want.<br /><br />They reared their ugly heads yesterday before the details of the new budget were known nor the ink dried. &nbsp;Oh, the main stream, old guard Republicans caved they said. &nbsp;It's another big step backwards. &nbsp;You know, I wish they'd just go away. &nbsp;Their methods cost the party far more than they are worth.<br /><br />Okay. &nbsp;The budget agreement isn't perfect. &nbsp;The big thing is that an agreement was reached and it's not all bad. &nbsp;Well, they didn't address all the major issues. &nbsp;You'd think they'd learn that tackling all issues in one fell swoop can be disastrous. &nbsp;Look at Obamacare. &nbsp;Look at Ted Cruz's attempt to defund &nbsp;Obamacare. &nbsp;A big bite by both parties that didn't work for either.<br /><br />John Boehner called these influencers ridiculous. &nbsp;I'd use stronger language. &nbsp;But this ilk of the Republican party are tough nuts to crack. &nbsp;They are doing the very thing they accuse the President of doing - not bending. &nbsp;Their way or the highway but disastrously within their own party.<br /><br />At least Boehner realizes that even a small deal is better than no deal and that the country has no appetite for another government closure nail biter. &nbsp;We have enough to contend with without that added anxiety yet again. &nbsp;Consider the economy is making some small inroads toward improvement. &nbsp;With a year long deal businesses can at least plan for that period of time rather than three months and hold your breath.<br /><br />They've eased up on some of the more damaging areas of the sequester by allowing discretionary cuts rather than across the board. &nbsp;This is especially advantageous for the military. &nbsp;And no new taxes. &nbsp;Isn't that the Republican mantra?<br /><br />If just once they'd say, "Good job guys." But no. &nbsp;It's always negative and divisive. Keep an eye on those who vote against this deal and keep it in mind when the elections come along. &nbsp;If you're going to vote for an ideologue try voting for one who's ideology is 'country first, political ambitions second'.<br /><br />While you're at it keep reminded what sort of legislation you get with nothing but partisan, ideological support. &nbsp;It's called Obamacare. &nbsp;Smaller bites are far more easy to chew and digest. &nbsp;Gulps provide nothing but heartburn.<br /><br />This budget bill is small to be sure. &nbsp;But chew on it for awhile. &nbsp;It may not taste so bad after all.</div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/12/are-republicans-beginning-to-get-it.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-5065222738885457491Tue, 10 Dec 2013 22:37:00 +00002013-12-10T14:38:27.770-08:00The Picture Seen Around The World<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XF9IIPphDRw/UqeOnxlaA3I/AAAAAAAAKoM/O8NzoPd-OlI/s1600/Selfie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XF9IIPphDRw/UqeOnxlaA3I/AAAAAAAAKoM/O8NzoPd-OlI/s400/Selfie.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Is a memorial service really the place to sit, giggle and take selfies? &nbsp;Apparently so.<br /><br />So here goes the old lady again. &nbsp;My generation would have considered it inappropriate at best for what I assume was to be a solemn occasion. <br />My parents would have killed me on the spot. &nbsp;It looks like Michelle might have had the same thing in mind.<br /><br />This time I can't fault Obama alone. The British and Danish Prime Ministers are right there with him enjoying the jocularity.<br /><br />It's no wonder I have such difficulty coping with the workings and non-workings of government today. &nbsp;It is, one more time, a generational thing and perhaps a lot of what's going on is fault of mine.<br /><br />My generation is called the Silent Generation and we produced the Boomers. &nbsp;I'm guessing we were too silent, too permissive and the pendulum has yet to swing back. &nbsp;Sometimes it does, but I'm beginning to wonder. &nbsp;The Millennials, though, are showing some promise. <br /><br />Those running things around the world these days are Generation X. &nbsp;A rather innocuous name. They just go along doing their own thing without care or even awareness of what has been, what is and what may be while we Silent types are wondering what's wrong with them.<br /><br />It's pretty simple really. &nbsp;We didn't teach the Boomers the importance of our heritage, culture &nbsp;and responsibility to it to the extent they felt it necessary to pass such knowledge on to their kids. &nbsp;So today we have naivety trumping experience, self indulgence trumping duty and a total disregard for what others think.<br /><br />The Millennials are catching on though. &nbsp;Especially with the health care law where they're being ordered to shell out more so others need pay less. &nbsp;Foul, they call and they're taking the Xers by surprise. Being cool is no longer cutting it.<br /><br />Social media has changed the world, a world in which I am a dinosaur. &nbsp;Those who created it, however, are savvy and oh so smart. &nbsp;I have to continually adapt as they move the way we live into a universe almost beyond comprehension.<br /><br />The isolationism and mediocrity being promoted by those Xers with a Socialist bent are going to be challenged by the Millennials. &nbsp;Their motivation? &nbsp;Money. That evil of evils. The money they're making from being able to capitalize on ideas and technology that's leaving so many of us behind. &nbsp;I don't see them buying into Socialist ideology where it's their ideas and the rewards that those ideas have generated are taken for the good of&nbsp;those who can't or won't compete.<br /><br />Maybe one day we'll see a return to coats and ties in better restaurants, no baseball caps no matter which direction they perch on a head and memorial services attended with the respect for the deceased that is deserved.<br /><br />In the meantime three nations should be ashamed of their leaders for their inappropriate rudeness. I'm sorry that one of them is ours - but not surprised.<br /><br /><br /></div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/12/the-pictue-seen-around-world.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-634733444386155482Mon, 09 Dec 2013 21:21:00 +00002013-12-09T13:21:10.540-08:00AfghanistanHagelIranKarzaiMideastObamaRussiaDoes Anyone Have A Clue?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JNTM0rBDRjc/UqYtepBo9eI/AAAAAAAAKn8/cxLEzAWTUO8/s1600/Babel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JNTM0rBDRjc/UqYtepBo9eI/AAAAAAAAKn8/cxLEzAWTUO8/s200/Babel.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>As the Obamacare debacle continues, so does the one in Afghanistan. &nbsp;Unless you've been living in a cave, lucky you, you know that President Karzai is dragging his feet over signing an agreement that will protect our soldiers from Afghan prosecution should we leave a contingent behind and they run afoul of Afghan law. <br /><br />In return, of course, we give more than we get. &nbsp;They want to tie our hands even more than they already have thus making it easier for our soldiers to err. &nbsp;As usual it's a bad deal at best.<br /><br />In our infinite wisdom, however, we've decided to give the Afghan security forces much needed helicopters. &nbsp;Note I said give. &nbsp;At a time when our country could sorely use the revenue from selling them, but then the Afghans have privatized the aid we've given them so they have no money. &nbsp;Perhaps that's not all bad. &nbsp;At least our people will build them. &nbsp;What? &nbsp;No? &nbsp;We're buying them from the Russians? &nbsp;We're buying Russian helicopters to give to the Afghans because they are superior to ours.<br /><br />Well, open the door and come right in. &nbsp;Those helicopters are going to have to be maintained. &nbsp;That means Russians will send their techs giving them a new foothold in the country. &nbsp;What are we thinking? &nbsp;We know Russia is trying to get a strangle hold on the Mideast. &nbsp;They already have it in Syria. &nbsp;We know they are friends with Iran and now they will have carte blanche in Afghanistan.<br /><br />And speaking of Iran, Karzai has agreed on a "cooperation pact" with them. It is to entail long term political security, economic and cultural cooperation and regional peace security. &nbsp;Who better than the Russian backed Iranians?<br /><br />Our Secretary of Defense tried to allay fears by promising to beef up security measures in non-complicit nations and it was of course considered a threat. A state of mistrust promulgated by Israel, Iran's arch enemy.<br /><br />Let's ice the cake. &nbsp;It has also been reported that prosecutions for crimes against women has slowed to a crawl, not that it ever really got going.<br /><br />Dogwalk's solution? &nbsp;Pull all our military out! &nbsp;Let the Russians sell their copters directly to Karzai. &nbsp;If he can't afford them perhaps Iran will lend him the money since they are doing better now that their sanctions have been eased.<br /><br />Of course, now that Mr. Putin has dissolved state media in Russia it may take some time for how this all works out to reach us. &nbsp;Not that it matters. &nbsp;The President wants no part of it because a speech to a captive audience can't fix it.<br /><br />That's the way things are now. &nbsp;I understand that. &nbsp;But please, Mr. President, do the right thing and bring all our personnel home. &nbsp;If you don't they'll be sitting ducks. &nbsp;I'm willing to wager the boys from Duck Dynasty would even give you some tips on how to call them home. &nbsp;It makes no less sense than any other part of our foreign policy!<br /><br /><br /></div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/12/does-anyone-have-clue.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-8989764889448031271Wed, 04 Dec 2013 22:01:00 +00002013-12-04T14:01:50.463-08:00Who Said Incomes Have To Be Equal?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EyKl_mh0sJM/Up-ecrdlFPI/AAAAAAAAKns/ZcGyg_QUhEE/s1600/taxhit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EyKl_mh0sJM/Up-ecrdlFPI/AAAAAAAAKns/ZcGyg_QUhEE/s200/taxhit.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Remember when America was thought of as the land of opportunity? &nbsp;When immigrants couldn't wait to come here because they knew with hard work anyone could make it?<br /><br />Soon it will be nothing more than a memory if the President succeeds in his quest for income equality. &nbsp;Obviously thinking he is a latter day Robin Hood he is intent on knocking those blankety blank rich down to size.<br /><br />After all, that is exactly what Obamacare is all about. &nbsp;Taking from the young and healthy to pay for the old and not so well. &nbsp;This type of thinking goes against the grain of what made America great. &nbsp;The ability for those who work hard to succeed.<br /><br />Why doesn't the government look at the real reasons there is such disparity. &nbsp;After all, we are regulated to death and taxed beyond belief. &nbsp;Except for all the exceptions that government has given to their cronies. &nbsp;Look at the tax incentives the state of <a href="http://www.stltoday.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/political-fix/missouri-senate-passes-tax-incentives-for-boeing/article_6fa398cc-8d4a-5cbe-bfca-e0336ee92b56.html"> Missouri </a>is offering Boeing to get them to build a plant there, as an example. &nbsp;Look at all the breaks given to Unions. &nbsp;And green energy experiments that fail because they're not yet ready for prime time. &nbsp;The free market has shown that yet still money is thrown at them.<br /><br />Now the fight is over minimum wage. &nbsp;They're trying to redefine what minimum wage jobs are supposed to be. &nbsp;Entry level. &nbsp;They aren't meant to be careers. &nbsp;But should the increases go into effect the fast food industry, for one, will die. &nbsp;To cover cover costs prices will go up and there is a point where a Big Mac will be priced right out of the market. &nbsp;That pesky free market.<br /><br />This is an area government should stay out of, not entrench itself. &nbsp;Look at how successful Cash for Clunkers was. &nbsp;It destroyed the used car market. Look at the stimulus. &nbsp;More money was spent on signs telling us a project was due to stimulus money than spent on the actual projects. &nbsp;They weren't&nbsp;as shovel ready as thought. &nbsp;Remember?<br /><br />We have oversight agencies. &nbsp;Why are they not doing their jobs? &nbsp;If they were, the financial institutions who were inclined to push the envelope would not have gotten so out of control. &nbsp;Or the government agencies themselves.<br /><br />Close the loopholes in the tax laws and if you insisit on equalization of something, equalize the tax burden. &nbsp;Make Unions play by the same rules as everyone else. &nbsp;Make the government have to comply with the laws they pass. &nbsp;No more Harry Reid exempting his staff from Obamacare for crying out loud. No more secretary shalls.<br /><br />It's not the income that needs to be equalized nearly as much asthe burdens placed on earning it. &nbsp;If the President has his way he won't have to worry about immigration reform. &nbsp;No one will be wanting to come here. &nbsp;Our education system is below par. &nbsp;That is one reason they came. &nbsp;If we continue to make staying to work nearly impossible they won't bother trying. They'll stay home. &nbsp;Like in India where we outsource so much because it's less expensive than to do the work on our own soil.<br /><br />Nope. &nbsp;It's not what's earned or not earned. It's what the powers that be have done to the American worker with their oh such infinite wisdom - and greed. &nbsp;</div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/12/who-said-incomes-have-to-be-equal.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-4202857747605658278Tue, 03 Dec 2013 22:11:00 +00002013-12-03T14:11:42.060-08:00AdministrationAsiaForeign PolicyIranMideastTSANaivete Rules, Or Is It Really Stupidity?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ewu4vWMBImk/Up5P-CaEnDI/AAAAAAAAKnc/PrB7MFx_8bk/s1600/066_27662.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ewu4vWMBImk/Up5P-CaEnDI/AAAAAAAAKnc/PrB7MFx_8bk/s200/066_27662.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Let's see where we are today. &nbsp;Obama has begun a campaign to resell the ACA while still not admitting that the botched roll out is the least of it's problems. &nbsp;The problem is the law itself and how he continually flouts the Constitution by imposing his own adjustments. &nbsp;The roll out is but a mere example of incompetence across the board.<br /><br />&nbsp;Then there is the fact that the TSA is now searching parked cars at airports supposedly looking for bombs and such. &nbsp;Of course you don't know about this until you find a note stuck under your windshield wiper telling you this has been done.<br /><br />Don't you love the police state this administrations is creating? &nbsp;Apparently so.<br /><br />Let's return to the Middle East. &nbsp;They should not be forgotten amid all the domestic turmoil. &nbsp;We know the administration has negotiated a deal with Iran regarding their nuclear program. &nbsp;We've eased the sanctions. &nbsp;Countries it took years to get to comply have rushed back in giving immediate relief to Iran's financial burdens and making reimposition nearly impossible.<br /><br />We are allowing them to continue enriching uranium though at a lower grade than before. &nbsp;They've told us in no uncertain terms they will never give up their enrichment program so I don't see that we're being particularly magnanimous.<br /><br />They also have not retracted any of the rhetoric that makes clear how they feel about the West, especially the U.S., and Israel. &nbsp;Knowing that we're taking the word of a country who cares little about keeping it but never-the-less we can say we've negotiated. &nbsp;Right up until it behooves them to put together that bomb. &nbsp;They'll have all the necessary ingredients just like the North Koreans did and one day there will be a big boom and we'll find they've tested their very first nuke.<br /><br />No, no. &nbsp;We'll have strict verification criteria. &nbsp;Okay. &nbsp;Then why is the <a href="http://freebeacon.com/white-house-exploring-ways-to-let-iran-enrich-uranium/"> White House </a>looking for ways to allow Iran to keep enriching officially? &nbsp;Oh, it will be for domestic use only. &nbsp;Any one who has been following this knows that the current deal has allowed for everything to stop just below weapons grade but at a point where it can be quickly upgraded.<br /><br />I personally think they have already have the 20% goal, maybe even an actual bomb, and have it safely stashed away therefore entering into these negotiations with absolutely nothing to fear. &nbsp;That may be a stretch but then maybe not.<br /><br />The question that begs to be answered, however, is if the Iranians do not have the right to enrich why are we trying to make it easy for them to do so anyway? &nbsp;For the life of me I have no idea what we're trying to accomplish in that region of the world.<br /><br />Neither does anyone else and that's why business continues as usual. &nbsp;Now we're supposedly turning our focus to Asia as China rattles its sabers over territory disputed with Japan. Are we going to negotiate that too and cave in to Chinese demands? &nbsp;Probably.<br /><br />If I were the other countries in that region and saw us coming I'd turn tail and run as fast as I could away from the "n" word. &nbsp;The "n" word? &nbsp;Negotiation.</div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/12/naivete-rules-or-is-it-really-stupidity.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-4115122268256539505Mon, 02 Dec 2013 21:50:00 +00002013-12-02T13:50:46.826-08:00NarcissismNational PoliticsPoliticiansFollowing Blindly Has Its Pitfalls<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TY9uZGqFYfs/Upz4leteK7I/AAAAAAAAKnM/fzA7yksQ-fs/s1600/066_28326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TY9uZGqFYfs/Upz4leteK7I/AAAAAAAAKnM/fzA7yksQ-fs/s200/066_28326.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Two items caught my attention while reading online headlines. &nbsp;One, a lot of Democrats are still running from the President. &nbsp;Two, Chris Christie's "bazaar behavior" may hurt his presidential aspirations.<br /><br />It strikes me as a no win situation. &nbsp;One that shouldn't be, no matter your politics.<br /><br />Both sides are like lemmings following their leadership over the cliff into the sea. &nbsp;Oh sure, both sides have their rebellious types, &nbsp;the Tea Party Republicans and the Progressive Democrats. &nbsp;They are the spoilers and proud of it. &nbsp;That nothing moves forward means nothing as long as it works out to harm the opposition. Any opposition, even if within their own party. &nbsp;That's forward thinking!<br /><br />On the Democratic side, they'd not have to be running from the President if they hadn't blindly voted for Obamacare. &nbsp;If they had voted the truth of the legislation it probably would not have passed, there was so much not addressed and so much flawed it was just plain bad legislation. &nbsp; But politics being what they are today, they caved to either bribery or threats from their leadership. &nbsp;Work with the each other? &nbsp; Not on your life.<br /><br />On the other hand, the die hard Republican absolutists will not forgive Chris Christie for the liberal leanings he sometimes has taken to be able to govern his state.<br /><br />Maybe that's what needs to be scrutinized. How do we get back to the methods that get the most good done? &nbsp;Certainly not following blindly because you are a member of a particular party. &nbsp;Those who do are putting party, &nbsp;ideology and career before country. The result has been a President who ignores the Constitution and cherry picks what will and will not be enforced and gets a pass and Secretaries with far too much "shall" power.<br /><br />Christie, he probably isn't alone though he gets the press, knows that flexibility gets things done. &nbsp;Would he be as flexible if he were in a Red state? &nbsp;I can't say for sure, but I would hope so. &nbsp;As is, however, he is forced to look at both sides to get things done and he has done just that. If I can assume, which is dangerous, this is his philosophy on effective governance.<br /><br />I hope sometime between now and the 2014 mid-terms both the politicians and the voters see the light. &nbsp;How much more of this agony and ecstasy emotional see saw can the country take?<br /><br />If I want to see glee I'll watch the TV show. &nbsp;I'm tired of watching it in Congress when one side or the other stumbles. &nbsp;The problem is there is no one around to pick any one up. &nbsp;They're too busy cheering the fall and we're too busy trying to patch up the mess.&nbsp;</div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/12/following-blindly-has-its-pitfalls.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-6735940412907280197Sun, 01 Dec 2013 19:56:00 +00002013-12-01T11:56:52.188-08:00HealthHealth CareObamacareA Shot In The Dark One More Time<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VIyPgWL_k2s/UpuOVZLzB-I/AAAAAAAAKm8/315ghWBo_e8/s1600/medicine_doctor_107227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VIyPgWL_k2s/UpuOVZLzB-I/AAAAAAAAKm8/315ghWBo_e8/s200/medicine_doctor_107227.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>I recently changed doctors. &nbsp;Not because my former one wasn't in my network, but rather because he didn't take any insurance. But he was a good doctor and over the years we came to understand one another and worked together quite well. &nbsp;Still, there are things I didn't address because of the out of pocket costs.<br /><br />&nbsp;On top of what an office visit cost, I still had my Medicare and supplemental premiums to deal with along with the deductibles that of course also out of pocket. It was pricey. &nbsp;When he decided to convert his practice to a concierge practice, he priced me right out of his business. &nbsp;Everyone does what needs to be done.<br /><br />I was lucky. &nbsp;I found a practice accepting medicare patients. &nbsp;In fact since that find I've seen more and more advertising just that. &nbsp;It's a good time to be on medicare. &nbsp;The doctors are sure of you even if reimbursements are less. &nbsp;And you're sure of your doctor. &nbsp;Few drop you once they have you especially if you go on medicare after the fact.<br /><br />So that brings me to where I am now. &nbsp;Still with an aching tailbone that is beginning to affect other parts of the ole bod. &nbsp;Especially the legs. &nbsp;Not a happy thought.<br /><br />The phone rang late Wednesday afternoon and it was my new doctor's office nurse. &nbsp;She said he had been able to review my previous records and has some thoughts about how we can treat my problem and would I like to come in and discuss it. &nbsp;Would I! &nbsp;Boy, was I impressed.<br /><br />Tomorrow bright and early I will make that call. &nbsp;I didn't do it Wednesday because I was elbow deep in turkey and no where near my calendar though I'd cancel just about anything to see him.<br /><br />We'll see what happens. &nbsp;I'll swallow my pride and waddle in with the dregs of Thanksgiving dinner and the myriad of leftovers clinging to my frame. We'll talk. &nbsp;I'm willing to do just about anything except dope up on narcotics. &nbsp;We'll see.<br /><br />But the idea that he called! &nbsp;He did what he said he'd do when first we met a month or so ago. &nbsp;And he says he has some ideas. &nbsp;There's little more for which I can ask - except that those ideas work.<br /><br />For those who are losing their doctors and their networks, I have the utmost empathy. &nbsp;I know the gut wrenching feeling when you lose through no fault of your own a doctor you trust.<br /><br />If they want to save the ACA cut the fluff from the programs that people neither want nor need and reimburse the doctors and hospitals in sufficient amounts to keep them in business and making a living. &nbsp;Other than that get the heck out of medicine and insurance. &nbsp;Let the market take care of itself and let the doctors take care of us.<br /><br />I'm an easy case. &nbsp;Most of what ails me is due to aging and less than perfect lifestyle choices. &nbsp;I can complain but I can live with it. &nbsp;For those with catastrophic illness to have to contend with what I'm going through it's a life changer and not for the better. &nbsp;Hopefully it won't take some youngster with cancer dying to get their attention. That's a price the government should not be willing to pay.</div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/12/a-shot-in-dark-one-more-time.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-5427511598543547267Fri, 29 Nov 2013 21:28:00 +00002013-11-29T13:28:04.842-08:00HolidaysThe Changing Meaning Of Holidays<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V38LJjK3rXo/Upj98GR2j4I/AAAAAAAAKms/8TaRYYKF9G8/s1600/halloween_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V38LJjK3rXo/Upj98GR2j4I/AAAAAAAAKms/8TaRYYKF9G8/s200/halloween_2.jpg" width="190" /></a></div>I was waxing nostalgic as we cleaned up the kitchen after our Thanksgiving dinner. &nbsp;We worked together, Hub and I, and were laughing about our &nbsp;long tradition of swapping the planning and cooking of our major holiday meals. &nbsp;This year Thanksgiving was my turn - Christmas will be his.<br /><br />Then, perhaps, we'll write off the tradition to our memories. &nbsp;It's getting to be &nbsp;more chore than fun as we get older. &nbsp;We can't eat nor drink as much as we used to, we're exhausted by days end.<br /><br />It got me to thinking how all the holidays have changed over the years and how to me they've lost their meaning. &nbsp;At least the meaning I grew up with. &nbsp;Halloween for instance. &nbsp;Hardly anyone goes trick or treating any more. &nbsp;Too many crimes against the kids and too many interlopers into neighborhoods where they weren't known nor welcome. &nbsp;Heck, part of the fun for the tykes, at least when I was one, was having the neighbors pretend to have to guess who you were and, too, you could eat the treats without parental scrutiny when you got home. <br /><br />Now it's chintzy store bought costumes and private parties held mostly by churches unless they &nbsp;happen to be one that thinks Halloween is anti-Christian and should' be celebrated at all. Cops and nurses, indeed. &nbsp;To keep order where order shouldn't be needed to be kept.<br /><br />Thanksgiving has lost out to Black Friday and now even Black Thanksgiving day. &nbsp;The headlines this morning, as usual, are filled with reports of tramplings and shootings and robbery and violent mayhem in general. &nbsp;What is it we're thankful for? &nbsp;That the stores are now opening even earlier than before? &nbsp;That we're spending big bucks on gifts for ourselves rather than others? &nbsp;It used to be a time of reflection and thanks for the blessings we've received mostly for carrying out our part of having been a good, compassionate citizen of a great country. &nbsp;What happened to that?<br /><br />Christmas is just around the corner though actually it's been around for a good part of late summer as well. While a celebration of Christ's birth, it's also a &nbsp;reminiscence of traditions from a multitude of cultures and religions - including paganism. &nbsp;Yet there are those who take offense at what used to be the most festive time of the year by trying to ban the very words, Merry Christmas. &nbsp;It's hard to find cards with that sentiment any more. &nbsp;Manger scenes in public parks are forbidden. &nbsp;Trees aren't allowed in airports. &nbsp;Come on! &nbsp;If the box stores can begin selling decorations in July why can't we enjoy carolling around the manger in the park? &nbsp;Isn't it commercial enough? <br /><br />Of course we know that isn't the reason. &nbsp;We've just become a very angry, selfish, self serving society.<br />Why else do feel good stories about the good people do become the last segment once a week on a "news" show where the rarity of such events is &nbsp;heralded as wonderful exceptionalism rather than the norm?<br /><br />Why is it necessary to be subjected to 24/7 diatribes on the failure of the ACA roll out and all the finger pointing that goes with it yet the story about the death of the boy with cancer who wanted one more Christmas, the one where an entire town created just that outside his bedroom window so he could have that one final wish, the experiencing of Christmas, was buried at the bottom of an obscure inside page of the paper and never at all heard on live media?<br /><br />Times have changed. &nbsp;Priorities have changed. &nbsp;Negativity, anger and bitterness have trumped anticipation, ambition, triumph and joy.<br /><br />" 'Tis the season" keeps running through my head. &nbsp;But 'tis the season for what?<br /><br /><br /></div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-changing-meaning-of-holidays.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-6980317679820479363Tue, 26 Nov 2013 22:08:00 +00002013-11-26T14:08:38.032-08:00ViolenceThe Knockout Game And It's Unintended Consequences<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LtB3akQvjmg/UpUUEt6nyAI/AAAAAAAAKmM/clmKrZC37lc/s1600/270913_people_fighting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LtB3akQvjmg/UpUUEt6nyAI/AAAAAAAAKmM/clmKrZC37lc/s200/270913_people_fighting.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>There haves been a a lot of reports, along with video, of what is being called the Knockout Game. &nbsp;Where one person &nbsp;sees if he can get away with sucker punching another, knocking the unsuspecting person to the ground.<br /><br />In the video some of the victims hit the ground quite hard. &nbsp;I've heard no reports about broken limbs or concussions but I would expect they might occur.<br /><br />The reaction to this "fad" puzzles me and once again I'm guessing it's a generational thing. When I was a youngster I was allowed to play tag and dodge ball and such but would never have thought about blindsiding someone with the intent of knocking them down. &nbsp;Now, in some schools tag and dodge ball are no longer allowed but the Knockout Game is getting a pass. &nbsp;What, no harm no foul?<br /><br />I can't help but wonder what makes the teens think this is a game. &nbsp;It's a mean spirited display of violence. &nbsp;Just because it's supposed to be one on one doesn't change that. The police are fumbling with it. &nbsp;Intent and all that nonsense. &nbsp;If no one is hurt it can't be assault. &nbsp;So, tsk, tsk it's just another fad like flash mobs that will soon disappear.<br /><br />Will it? &nbsp;It was mentioned in a local blog this morning that an elderly gentleman having coffee in a supermarket was showing off his protection - a taser! &nbsp;Maybe the kids and the authorities think it's nothing, but should someone my age or said gentleman's get in the way serious harm could be done. &nbsp;Really serious. &nbsp;If the victim should fall against an elderly person or the perpetrator run into one while trying to get away you're looking at a whole slew of unintended consequences. &nbsp;Broken bones, heart attacks, and more. &nbsp;Oh, sure, they'd all be unintended consequences but consequences never-the-less.<br /><br />Beyond that, I'm not crazy about a lot of old folks walking around with hidden tasers either. Who knows what might incite them to action and oh, my, another slew of unintended consequences. &nbsp;Maybe even law suits.<br /><br />I keep backtracking, however, to the game itself. &nbsp;How have we degenerated to the point to where this type of activity is thought of as fun? &nbsp;Where are these young people coming from and more importantly, where are they going?<br /><br />It's bad enough people need to heed the possibility of some sort of assault whenever it's necessary to walk our streets. &nbsp;Especially this time of year where there are always stories of lurkers waiting to make off with the spoils of Christmas shoppers. &nbsp;And consider the violence that always seems to be a part of Black Friday when hoards of greedy shoppers go on the attack. <br /><br />Our entire society is becoming an oxymoron. &nbsp;We want no part of protecting the defenseless like the Syrian civilians being slaughtered yet we're perfectly fine with a &nbsp;totally violent game that is growing in popularity.<br /><br />I don't think we have a clue as to what we are any more or who we want to be. &nbsp;We live in the moment for the moment with no thought of the future. &nbsp;Maybe it's because we don't see one or if we do it's not a particularly encouraging one.<br /><br />An activity like the Knockout Game indicates we've chosen the lowest common denominator. &nbsp;If there is any good in it, it's the fact there's no place to go but up. &nbsp;Unless we decide the status quo is good enough. &nbsp;There will be unintended consequences with that choice too.</div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-knockout-game-and-its-unintended.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-1593030672107504697Mon, 25 Nov 2013 21:27:00 +00002013-11-25T13:29:22.333-08:00AfghanistanForeign PolicyKarzaiWomenKarzai - Neither The Man Nor His Country Deserve Our Support<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GsyiZAej4oI/UpO6chJ92cI/AAAAAAAAKl8/35DbaIFLdRA/s1600/Karzai.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GsyiZAej4oI/UpO6chJ92cI/AAAAAAAAKl8/35DbaIFLdRA/s200/Karzai.jpg" width="165" /></a></div>It never ceases to amaze me how many things we just don't seem to get. &nbsp;For instance, before Kerry, having women serving as National Security Advisors and Secretaries of State.<br /><br />If in a perverse sort of way it was intended to rub their chauvinistic noses in it, it hasn't worked. Hillary accomplished absolutely nothing. &nbsp;Nor did her female predecessors. So why are we now sending Susan Rice to Afghanistan to try to get Karzai to sign the agreement allowing our troops to remain after 2014. &nbsp;Even the loyal jirga know they are needed to buck up their own troops, but no, Karzai has never felt beholden to the country who has made him a rich man and kept him in power. &nbsp;Susan Rice isn't going to change that.<br /><br />Why be so hard on the country? &nbsp;Karzai will soon be out of office. &nbsp;Because they are once more thumbing their collective noses at us by planning to reintroduce stoning as a punishment for adultery. That's for married adulterers. &nbsp;The unmarried will only need to endure 100 lashes. &nbsp;So much for human and women's rights.<br /><br />This is who they are as a people. &nbsp;A deeply ingrained lack of respect for women. &nbsp;Just like Iran who holds a deeply ingrained disrespect for America. &nbsp;Yet we continue to fall prey to their insidious schemes. &nbsp;It's what happens when you have amateurs running your government.<br /><br />What can Susan Rice possibly do to get Karzai to give up his obstinance? &nbsp;Are any more American deaths warranted for these people. &nbsp;Were the ones that have come before? &nbsp;I think not.<br /><br />What a way to spend Thanksgiving. &nbsp;Trying to buck up the morale of the troops who remain and garner respect from a host who hates them and those who sent them.<br /><br />We have a lot to be thankful for in this country but having leaders who sense of appeasement outweighs their sense of patriotism is not one of them.</div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/11/karzai-neither-man-nor-his-country.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-8407730619115494989Sun, 24 Nov 2013 18:57:00 +00002013-11-25T13:29:02.267-08:00Animal IssuesPetsGoing To The Dogs<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mHllhNEeTKQ/UpJGePWIacI/AAAAAAAAKls/gIYzG_o81QI/s1600/boydog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mHllhNEeTKQ/UpJGePWIacI/AAAAAAAAKls/gIYzG_o81QI/s200/boydog.jpg" width="183" /></a></div>I'm paying much more attention, though it often takes some looking, to stories about the incredible good that goes on within our communities. &nbsp;The type of activity that reminds me when put in the right hands all will be well. I need the mental boost.<br /><br />Often such stories involve animals, in this case dogs. &nbsp;Put a dog with a youth at risk in our area you don't get abuse, you get a miracle. &nbsp;That is if the kids are engaged in a program called <a href="http://www.pawsitiveworks.com/"> Pawsitive Works.</a><br /><br />You've seen it work with adult offenders, you've seen it work with returning vets with problems, why shouldn't dog therapy work with kids? &nbsp;What better match?<br /><br />For five weeks youngsters are paired with a dog from local shelters and work with them three times a week. What a teaching tool. &nbsp;Perhaps the greatest thing &nbsp;learned is about love and that it goes both ways. And more.<br /><br />Think about what is learned about how a dog acts and being able to translate that to people. &nbsp;How a dog learns. &nbsp;What motivates them. &nbsp;It's all a positive two way street. &nbsp;They even learn how to say good bye which is probably the most difficult part. Yet it is paired with the satisfaction &nbsp;of knowing that a formerly unwanted pet is then adoptable because of your efforts.<br /><br />Here the program began in somewhat remote Bonner County but is spreading. &nbsp;The <a href="http://www.cdapress.com/news/local_news/article_ecc43498-0d44-527c-8bc4-793aa9240cfd.html"> story </a> that caught my eye was about the program in one of our local alternative schools. &nbsp;Wouldn't it be wonderful if it caught on across the country. &nbsp;Kids and dogs both getting a new lease on life. &nbsp;It doesn't get any better.<br /><br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/sI9k5Mt6Wyg" width="420"></iframe> <br /><br /></div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/11/going-to-dogs.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-3585221302170489920Sat, 23 Nov 2013 20:29:00 +00002013-11-24T15:17:44.107-08:00IranKerryNuclear Options All Over The Place<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Eh8yodv5Dlc/UpEHcveUU0I/AAAAAAAAKlc/2KK8rwpDF3E/s1600/earth_irradiated_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Eh8yodv5Dlc/UpEHcveUU0I/AAAAAAAAKlc/2KK8rwpDF3E/s200/earth_irradiated_2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>I have never in my life seen an administration so detached from the country it is supposed to be serving not to mention the world.<br /><br />It has tunnel vision and a huge disrespect for everything and&nbsp;everybody outside of themselves. &nbsp;First let's look at the sham of a treaty with Iran which will allow them to give up nothing while we open the doors for a nuclear Iran. &nbsp;Where does the arrogance come from that allows those in the administration to think they and they alone can control Iran? &nbsp;Heck, they can't even build a web site.<br /><br />Part of it is Kerry wanting to make a name for himself. &nbsp;Funny. &nbsp;The administration makes the point that everything is being done for the children. &nbsp;Does that include a nuclear Iran? Have they even considered it?<br /><br />Or is it enough because of Obama's desperate need for a victory and Kerry's desire to be seen as a great statesman. &nbsp;So far all he has done is sleep with the enemy. &nbsp;And let's not forget what has been recently confirmed. &nbsp;Valerie Jarrett, who was born in Iran, has been paving the way for months according to the <a href="http://www.timesofisrael.com/iran-and-us-held-secret-talks-for-over-a-year/"> Times of Israel </a>. Yes, the administration has flatly denied this, but if past history holds true, the more they deny it the more truth lies within.<br /><br />All I can say is what in the world are they thinking? &nbsp;They never consider consequences, wanting more the victory of the moment.<br /><br />Then there is the Senate's passing of the 'nuclear option' which means that the minority party no longer has a say in, for now, appointments. I would expect they will expand it as needed now that a precedent has been set. The throwing away of one more practice that was designed to prevent this very thing. When, and it will happen, the Republicans regain power, the favor will be returned. &nbsp;I'd like to think they're above vindictiveness of that sort but we all know neither party is.<br /><br />The disturbing thing about this is it's all tied to the disposal of nuclear waste in Yucca Mountain, Nevada and he needs the President's support in order to continue stalling &nbsp;progress on the depositories which had been approved and permitting begun. &nbsp;There it is, that dirty word again. &nbsp;Nuclear.<br /><br />There are conversations all over the web about how to handle the influence of those who hold extreme ideologies on government. &nbsp;One would be to be more thorough in scrutinizing candidates and make sure if in rejecting them it truly benefits the country.<br /><br />I fear that's a pipe dream in this day and age. &nbsp;For it to work the candidates have to get the message and so far all I've seen is each party wiping their collective brows in relief as one crisis passes to another.<br /><br />Meanwhile the possibility of war hangs over the Mideast. &nbsp;The &nbsp;al Qaeda linked rebels in Syria have joined forces and are pushing out the moderates we refused to help when it would have helped. The Afghans have thumbed their nose at us yet again and Pakistan continues to protect the Taliban.<br /><br />Saudi and Israel are left hung out to dry. &nbsp;But they won't. &nbsp;They'll do whatever necessary to protect their interests and the region, if not the world, will explode. <br /><br />Meanwhile our politicians and the administration will continue living life in the bubble they've created for themselves with nary a notice of what's happening around them. &nbsp;One thing they should remember, not only do bombs explode - bubbles do burst. &nbsp;That's a given.<br /><br />So far though the score is a dismal Nucs 3 - World 0. Iran is about to score. &nbsp;Obama is calling the defense. &nbsp;We lose.<br /><br /><br /><br /></div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/11/nuclear-options-all-over-place.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-3690994377540682671Fri, 22 Nov 2013 22:31:00 +00002013-11-22T14:31:58.879-08:00RaceRacist? Why Not Multicultural?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zTbvVQNJEuM/Uo_RrzEtwQI/AAAAAAAAKlM/aV1N_LfO4_U/s1600/peanut-butter-and-jelly-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zTbvVQNJEuM/Uo_RrzEtwQI/AAAAAAAAKlM/aV1N_LfO4_U/s200/peanut-butter-and-jelly-.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>When I read that a school principal in Oregon said that eating or even talking about a peanut butter and jelly sandwich could be considered racist, I began to wrack my brain. What about this staple from my childhood and still a quick go to favorite have about it that's racial?<br /><br />Is it racial if you use white bread? &nbsp;Maybe because the white bread is encompassing the brown peanut butter and the red jelly? &nbsp;What about where the pb and j are combined in &nbsp;nice even stripes in one jar? &nbsp;What does that do to the equation? &nbsp;Besides, not all jelly is red. &nbsp;Some is yellow or orange or purple. &nbsp;How is that racist? &nbsp;Especially the purple?<br /><br />Then I thought that it's really more of a symbol of&nbsp;multiculturalism. &nbsp;White and red or yellow or orange along with the brown all together, combining to make one beautiful and tasty repast representing a multitude of races.<br /><br />Then I read on. &nbsp;It isn't about the peanut butter and jelly at all. &nbsp;It's about the bread and the name we've given the concoction. &nbsp;A - sandwich! <br /><br />This, according to the powers that be is indicative of our exercising our "white privilege". &nbsp;I didn't even know there was such a thing. &nbsp;But, for those poor souls coming from other cultures who do not have sandwiches as such don't seem to perform as well. &nbsp;They have pitas or maybe wraps or tortas or some such. &nbsp;This supposedly makes them feel inferior? &nbsp;This particular <a href="http://www.examiner.com/article/portland-school-sees-racism-peanut-butter-and-jelly-sandwiches"> school</a>&nbsp;has what they call Courageous Conversations, an examination of news items to see what racist "white privilege" is displayed. &nbsp;This to fulfill a mandate to improve the education particularly of black and brown boys.<br /><br />First it was a war on words that are considered racist - like squaw and Redskins. &nbsp;Then came the war on books which exposed the youngsters to things they already knew but their parents didn't know they knew. &nbsp;Now it's words of common usage regarding the food we eat. &nbsp;No wonder they don't learn anything practical in school. &nbsp;The teachers are too busy trying to unteach them. &nbsp;Forget it. &nbsp;There's this thing called the Internet. &nbsp;Kids can find out about anything their little hearts desire.<br /><br />Me? &nbsp;Well, I am finally going to quit fighting the obvious. &nbsp;I spend a lot of time criticizing the policies of our President and his administration and am considered a racist because of it. Oprah says so. &nbsp;Al Sharpton says so. &nbsp;So many say so I'm tired of denying it.<br /><br />&nbsp;This is just the final nail in my coffin. &nbsp;I am &nbsp;a racist. &nbsp;That's a "White Privilege" word too isn't it? &nbsp;If you think about it. &nbsp;But the real reason is because I do eat sandwiches. &nbsp;Besides pb and j's, I love BLTs and French dips and Ruebens. &nbsp;I also love tacos and gyros and egg rolls. &nbsp;They are all sandwiches of a sort aren't they? &nbsp;Maybe I'll be okay if I quit thinking that way and see the error of my ways.<br /><br />No, on second thought, &nbsp;I'm going to give up. &nbsp;A sandwich by any other name is still a sandwich. &nbsp;If that makes me a bona fide racist, so be it.</div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/11/racist-why-not-multicultural.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-6139384559412294389Wed, 20 Nov 2013 21:39:00 +00002013-11-20T13:39:13.155-08:00AfghanistanEgyptForeign PolicyIranObamaSyriaObama Is No Jean-Luc Picard<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2g_tmiq6amI/Uo0ibbJP3XI/AAAAAAAAKk8/nU25zl4ADMc/s1600/1384980881.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2g_tmiq6amI/Uo0ibbJP3XI/AAAAAAAAKk8/nU25zl4ADMc/s200/1384980881.png" width="200" /></a></div>Remember when on Star Trek Jean-Luc Picard would say, "Make it so" and the very competent 'Number One' would do just that? &nbsp;I find myself wondering why our President couldn't do more to align himself with Picard. Well, for one thing he doesn't have competent 'Number Ones' and he doesn't hold anyone, including himself, responsible. &nbsp;He just blames others.<br /><br />As such, he gives the order and no one makes it so. &nbsp;Especially with Obamacare as more and more faults are being found. &nbsp;The lesson, of course, is read the legislation before passing it.<br /><br />It goes further, however, and that takes us back to foreign policy. &nbsp;Nothing in ours is concrete. If we even have something that is called policy. &nbsp;Take the promise of having our troops out of Afghanistan by the end of 2014 being negotiated into a broken promise.<br /><br />We have the National Security Advisor, Susan Rice, at odds with Secretary of State John Kerry as to whether we back Morsi and his Muslim Brotherhood or the Military who is on track to having elections and a new constitution rather than an entrenched Islamic regime. &nbsp;Side with Kerry on this one. &nbsp;One wonders where the President is. &nbsp;Probably with Rice. &nbsp;The wrong side as usual.<br /><br />Then there is Syria. By partnering with Assad and Russia over the supposed destruction of WMDs, if anyone will take them, we have left the Syrian people exposed to systematic slaughter. &nbsp;The cause, of course, is Assad who is practically guaranteed to stay in power and continues to be a strong ally of Iran, an even bigger nemesis. Plus, if they need WMDs again, North Korea stands ready to help them out from their ample supply.<br /><br />Stay tuned to Syria. &nbsp;The al Qaeda rebels have brought in their own mercenary to run the show, a well known <a href="http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303309504579181962177007316"> Chechan</a> terrorist who was looking for a new gig. &nbsp;We fear him. &nbsp;The Russians fear him. &nbsp;Assad fears him. &nbsp;And the time when we could have intervened to help the 'good' rebels has long since passed. &nbsp;Nothing good can come of this. &nbsp;Now everybody's lives will be at stake! What lengths will Assad go to in order to remain in power?<br /><br />Back to Iran. &nbsp;Some have been suggesting that sanctions should not be tightened while negotiations are pending. Every minute of every day the Iranians continue their march toward weapons grade enrichment. &nbsp;There is nothing in their past history with us nor the rest of the world that suggests they will stop that march or dismantle or destroy anything already at hand.<br /><br />No one trusts them. &nbsp;Why are we so willing? I don't believe one phone call between historically adversarial leaders should carry that much weight. &nbsp;What can I say other than Vive la France!<br /><br />Come to think of it Jean-Luc Picard was French!</div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/11/obama-is-no-jean-luc-picard.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-2493485889283976089Mon, 18 Nov 2013 22:01:00 +00002013-11-18T14:01:03.988-08:00Gay RightsPoliticsThe Tasteless Side Of Politics<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1IO2xAKpMK0/UoqFHHaukDI/AAAAAAAAKks/he6CzXsBmnk/s1600/girls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1IO2xAKpMK0/UoqFHHaukDI/AAAAAAAAKks/he6CzXsBmnk/s320/girls.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>What do you do when you're considered royalty within your party due to your parentage, are running for office the very first time (the Senate no less) and haven't been able to get beyond a shaky 50% in the polls against your opponent from the same party?<br /><br />Do you bow out gracefully and admit maybe a lesser office might be a more appropriate goal or do you pick one of the most controversial items on the social conservative agenda, gay marriage, on which to take a very vocal stand?<br /><br />If you're Liz Cheney you choose the latter. &nbsp;Never mind that your sister is gay and married. &nbsp;Now Mary, the sister, and her wife aren't exactly free from criticism here. &nbsp;They both took to Facebook to criticize Liz about the stand she took during an interview on FOX, saying it was offensive. &nbsp;Nothing like keeping a family matter private!<br /><br />I haven't visited the Facebook spat. &nbsp;I have no desire to watch a cat fight between three women in one family in a public venue. Especially when there seems to be political motivation behind it.<br /><br />I could be mistaken, but this doesn't seem to me the way to woo Wyoming voters to the Cheney side. &nbsp;From my perspective, I'm not really sure if what Liz says is true even though her Dad confirms her stance. &nbsp;He had to dance that tightrope when he was still Vice President and found himself with a gay daughter and therefore at odds with his boss.<br /><br />Even as more and more states are legalizing gay marriage, it's still a touchy issue. All indications, however, point to it becoming universal in the not too distant future. It is also a states issue so I wonder why it's necessary for Ms. Cheney to be taking a stand at all. &nbsp;Especially because of the family situation. &nbsp;Then I guess that's the very reason though since she never seemed to mount much of a challenge to her primary opponent before this spilled over into social media, I don't see it being used against her either.<br /><br />Wyoming is itself a state in flux. &nbsp;While it doesn't allow gay marriage it does recognize those married elsewhere.<br /><br />If I were the candidate I'd make a non-issue of it. &nbsp;Yes, my sister is gay and married and happy. I'm happy for her and have nothing more to say on the subject.<br /><br />I think far more voters would accept that stand more than a dust up on Facebook which makes all sides look petty and yes, certainly lacking in good taste.</div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-tasteless-side-of-politics.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-8731773305812826231Sun, 17 Nov 2013 22:10:00 +00002013-11-17T14:10:43.574-08:00ObamaOprahI Liked Oprah Better Before She Got Political<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1vknxc5gSJA/Uok2lywPbAI/AAAAAAAAKkc/d8yQKCfObDI/s1600/Oprah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1vknxc5gSJA/Uok2lywPbAI/AAAAAAAAKkc/d8yQKCfObDI/s200/Oprah.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>There was a time when millions of women wanted to be the BFF of Oprah Winfrey. &nbsp;She was successful beyond belief, had the same great looking beau for years and despite all she seemed down to earth, real. &nbsp;One of the girls.<br /><br />She was never political until Barack Obama ran for President. I can understand why she changed. &nbsp;Lots of us did. &nbsp;We wanted so much to believe in this young man, for him to succeed, to bring the country together. <br />Race wasn't a factor to enough of us who did not share his to make him the resounding winner.<br /><br />But what happened to Oprah? &nbsp;Is it because she gave up her daily gig to promote her own TV network and has found it wanting? &nbsp;Is it because her last&nbsp;movie, The Butler, has been a box office bust? &nbsp;I don't know, but suddenly she is on a racist kick.<br /><br />Okay, maybe she believes the President has so many detractors because of his race. &nbsp;To be sure there are &nbsp;people of that persuasion. &nbsp;But they are not the cause of his problems and by suggesting so on <a href="http://newsbusters.org/blogs/noel-sheppard/2013/11/15/oprah-racists-have-die-racism-end#ixzz2kp1wIMph"> foreign soil</a>&nbsp;is a disservice to both herself, the country and the President.<br /><br />The President's problems are of his own making. &nbsp;Attitude, personality traits, management style, &nbsp;inexperience and unpopular policies are contributing factors. It's disingenuous for her to suggest it's all due to his race.<br /><br />What makes it even worse she blames that attitude on aging whites and goes on to say the problem of racism won't be over until we all die! &nbsp;Well, Oprah, I'm in no hurry to oblige you.<br /><br />I also don't think my generation is the problem as much as the behavior of the younger set in places like Chicago where the whole city lives in fear of the racial gangs.<br /><br />You don't hear those like Alan West, or Ben Carson or Herman Cain harping on race as the cause of their successes or failures. &nbsp;They talk about policy and that's where the discussion should be. <br /><br />Look at yourself and what you accomplished regardless of your race. &nbsp;Are you now going to blame the lack of success of your network on race? &nbsp;Please. &nbsp;Don't.<br /><br />Look at the President you defend. &nbsp;He had a questionable educational background by his own hand in not releasing his transcripts. &nbsp;His mother was an avowed communist. &nbsp;His preacher was one you chose not to be affiliated with. Many of his associates had less than stellar backgrounds when it came to patriotism. His work experience was no more than being, for a short time at that, a community organizer. &nbsp;He came to office on a wave of hope. He ran into trouble because he cared more about furthering his ideology rather than the country. &nbsp;People finally noticed as it began to affect them personally.<br /><br />Had he been white with that background he'd never have become President. That his agenda is in trouble has nothing to do with the fact that he isn't white.<br /><br />The country has forgiven him more than deserved. &nbsp;To accuse that same country of racism in the beholding of his problems is just not true. &nbsp;There was a time I thought Oprah was above brandishing the race card under false pretenses. &nbsp;I guess I was wrong.<br /><br /><br /></div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/11/i-liked-oprah-better-before-she-got.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-956944265778151331Thu, 14 Nov 2013 20:40:00 +00002013-11-14T12:40:21.393-08:00ObamacarePoliticsThe "Fix" Is In<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xS2IX7PmAIU/UoUr20y1wbI/AAAAAAAAKkM/suiUwQMvmu8/s1600/bandages_headaches_193591.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xS2IX7PmAIU/UoUr20y1wbI/AAAAAAAAKkM/suiUwQMvmu8/s200/bandages_headaches_193591.jpg" width="155" /></a></div>Ah, the Sun King has waved his scepter and all is well! &nbsp;Obamacare lives! Don't believe it. <br /><br />I've been wondering for some time if the President is really as dumb as he sometimes appears or if &nbsp;he thinks we're so dumb we'll buy anything he says. Remember too, he has no authority to any of what he's said he will do but then that's never stopped him before. &nbsp;Perhaps now is the time to challenge him.<br /><br />If he really believes what he said in today's remarks he isn't cognisant of the facts. Continuing the plans now being canceled is not as easy as his waving the magic wand. &nbsp;There are rewrites, filings, insurance commissioners' sign offs not to mention finding the people effected, notifying them and their doctors and hospitals, etc. of yet another change and the process of changing those areas to reverse once again what has already begun. Kathleen Sebelius, having been an insurance commissioner, should have alerted him to the impossibility of doing this, especially in a timely manner. &nbsp;Remember we're talking about <i>millions</i> of policies.<br /><br />Some insurance firms have even quite writing health insurance, not wanting to get into the Obamacare mess. &nbsp;There is no easy fix.<br /><br />Even if a fix were possible it will take months. &nbsp;He only extended the timeline for one year. &nbsp;Then what? &nbsp;It begins all over again, he did not exempt insurance companies for having to comply nor people from having to be insured. &nbsp;He has, if a fix is possible, allowed for a huge gap in funding which will mean higher premiums when it does finally kick in. &nbsp;Those who can't afford ACA policies now, even with subsidies, certainly won't under increased premiums. &nbsp;Remember too, a lot of those young people his slightly sleazy ads are aimed at will be on their parent's plan until they're 26, leaving another funding gap. &nbsp;What he has essentially done is collapse his signature legislation by his own hand.<br /><br />Nope. &nbsp;Nothing happened today other than more politics in an effort to get the people off his back. When the actual insurance people begin to weigh in the tide will change again considering he has just set them up to take the fall for one more unachievable task.<br /><br />The fault, however, does not fall on the President alone. &nbsp;We have 100% of the Democrats who voted in lock step for this monster. I almost feel sorry for the Democratic "strategists" who continue to spout the daily talking points in support of the law. &nbsp;They look so foolish expounding about something of which they haven't a clue other than what they've been told to say.<br /><br />&nbsp;Have you wondered what the qualifications are to be a strategist? &nbsp;Both sides seem to have so many, mostly women with long blond hair who sit with legs crossed to show to best advantage. &nbsp;May the better looking side win the day! Pardon my being snarky but its emblematic of the whole process.<br /><br />Anyway, it's not over by a long shot. &nbsp;The Republicans cannot just sit back and watch hoping the damage is sufficient to sink the law. &nbsp;They must present a comprehensive and less costly alternative. &nbsp;I'll give them a couple of days to get their act together but won't hold my breath.<br /><br />It's a shame that the little that is good about the law is being obscured by the majority which is bad. If the Republicans come forward with a plan, they should indeed include those parts. &nbsp;Being smart <i>and</i><br />magnanimous would really be something and definitely give them the march on the Democrats! &nbsp;It would be, however, for the wrong reasons. &nbsp;They should be doing it for the American people. &nbsp;Not to win one for themselves.<br /><br /></div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-fix-is-in.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-5092160721989756113Wed, 13 Nov 2013 20:57:00 +00002013-11-13T12:59:55.978-08:00AdministrationForeign PolicyIranKerryMideastObamaSyriaGround Kerry Before More Harm Is Done<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6_goRemeUgY/UoPe5BZrauI/AAAAAAAAKj8/MbqQ06c0X7o/s1600/toy-plane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6_goRemeUgY/UoPe5BZrauI/AAAAAAAAKj8/MbqQ06c0X7o/s200/toy-plane.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>The debacle that is Obamacare is bringing a point home that has long been needed. &nbsp;This administration is less than truthful on top of being inept.<br /><br />The reasons are many for both. &nbsp;One, they're trying to push an agenda by the American people knowing if it were transparent the people would rebel. To wit Obamacare.<br /><br />To do so they've allowed people with questionable expertise in any aspect of health care craft the bill. &nbsp;If they've done it on purpose to move the country toward single payer system they should all be thrown out of office. &nbsp;It's not for them to decide; it's for us to decide. &nbsp;If they've done it because they're inept the same holds true.<br /><br />So, before things get any worse, it's time to ground John Kerry. &nbsp;We're seeing now what the world already knows on an international scale. &nbsp;This administration is weak and inept. It's foreign policy staggers like a drunken sailor. <br /><br />Now, however, they are so in need of a victory they are willing to sacrifice a tenuous calm, with several exceptions at that, in an entire region of the world on the false pretense the Iranians would keep their word on anything. The rest of the world and previous administrations can't all be wrong when saying Iran cannot be trusted. We do know Obama is not all knowing and his word also cannot be trusted.<br /><br />What about his success in Syria? &nbsp;Ah, yes. &nbsp;The death toll is now over 250,000. &nbsp;The civil war continues having passed the 2 1/2 year mark.<br /><br />But the weapons of mass destruction are being destroyed. So? People are still dying. &nbsp;Are you aware of Assad's latest tactic? &nbsp;Starvation. Systematic, slow, agonizing starvation. Loyalist troops are not only not letting aid into civilian and rebel strongholds, which in many cases are one and the same, but they are not allowing food &nbsp;in either. Is there a worse way to die?<br /><br />One soldier was heard telling a young boy begging to take a bag of pita bread through a government check point, "...there are those bigger than me and you who make the rules and they're watching you right now."<br /><br />While the administration basks in the fact they didn't have to used military force to rid the Syrians of their poison gas, what are they doing for those who are starving?<br /><br />Have you read or heard anything about this in our media? &nbsp;Neither have I. &nbsp;This came from the <a href="http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/ad62124e-4619-11e3-9487-00144feabdc0.html#axzz2kYoAuMaQ"> Financial Times </a>&nbsp;which covers international news far better than our media.<br /><br />Be skeptical when the administration says negotiations with Iran need be given a chance. If you look at the situation in Syria, you'll see they are inept at that too.<br /><br />This is no time for glory seeking to save a Presidential or a Secretary of State's legacy. Tighten the sanctions until the Iranians cry uncle and not before. &nbsp;And hope those who once believed in our strength and loyalty will have it within them to give us another chance when we shed this administration.<br /><br />But don't bet on it.</div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/11/ground-kerry-before-more-harm-is-done.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-43179266024977186Tue, 12 Nov 2013 18:46:00 +00002013-11-12T10:46:10.816-08:00AdministrationHealth CareMediaObamacareRepublicansIt's Time To Change The Programming<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AphCzWAxpj4/UoJuj20jsEI/AAAAAAAAKjs/D8BMtm3k_NM/s1600/MEDICAL0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AphCzWAxpj4/UoJuj20jsEI/AAAAAAAAKjs/D8BMtm3k_NM/s200/MEDICAL0.jpg" width="168" /></a></div>The evening airwaves between four and, say, eight are filled with redundancy no matter which channel you favor. I've gotten to the point I want to lash out like Jay Carney did not long ago to a CBS reporter. &nbsp;"I get it, ...!"<br /><br />If I see one more clip of Obama saying we can keep our health care, period and the talking head proceed to bug a guest &nbsp;into say the President LIED, I'm going to get violent. &nbsp;Then the host usually trots out a litany of citizens who have either lost their coverage or have seen their cost skyrocket. &nbsp;Okay. &nbsp;I get it! &nbsp;How many times is that dead horse going to be beaten?<br /><br />I beg to question, however, why don't <i>they</i> get it? &nbsp;The disastrous roll out of the health care website is due to a lot of things, none of which have anything to do with the actual content of the bill. &nbsp;You could say it shows the government should never get involved in anything in which it lacks expertise. Which is just about everything. It's a given but about as possible under this administration as Ted Cruz's attempt to defund the bill.<br /><br />They're going to meddle because it's the nature of the beast. &nbsp;Those in high places always think they know more than the rest of us even though most of them are there for no more than having been a loyal supporter of the man who holds the top job.<br /><br />In truth, the problem with the bill is it's content. &nbsp;It doesn't take a rocket scientist to know that when unnecessary benefits are added, demanded, the price is going to increase. &nbsp;It shouldn't take a rocket scientist to know that those increased prices are going to preclude a lot of the very people they need because of that additional cost. &nbsp;It should be easy to see that by saying only 5% or 15% of the people are being effected is ignoring the number of bodies actually effected which is in the millions. &nbsp;A percentage is far more palatable and masks the fact real people with real needs make up that percentage. I could break it down even further but for space and time constraints.<br /><br />Could the pundits help the case? &nbsp;I think so but they won't because they have no imagination as to how to program plus it's easier to harangue than offer something of substance.<br /><br />What would I do? &nbsp;I'd seek out the Republicans who have had good ideas about how to fix the problem sit down for a serious panel discussion all in one place at the same time. &nbsp;I'd have each lay out their ideas. &nbsp;I'd not interrupt. I'd not allow them to interrupt each other.<br /><br />When they were finished I'd ask them why they don't take themselves off the air, sit down together and piece together the best of each idea. &nbsp;Then they select the most dynamic among them to be the spokesman for the plan and present it to the people in every venue that would have them. &nbsp;And fight for those who wouldn't. &nbsp;Just to keep it fair. &nbsp;If, say, MSNBC said no thanks, let it be known by every means available.<br /><br />Yep. &nbsp;That's what I'd do. &nbsp;It's the Dogwalk solution for Congressional &nbsp;inertia and media complacency.</div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/11/its-time-to-change-programming.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-5661560944915740981Mon, 11 Nov 2013 22:42:00 +00002013-11-11T14:42:24.113-08:00CampaignCandidatesVotersRed State Blues<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cfJ47iryc2w/UoFVwtrMSVI/AAAAAAAAKjc/fmEcITj6tmE/s1600/eywritergirlthinking2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cfJ47iryc2w/UoFVwtrMSVI/AAAAAAAAKjc/fmEcITj6tmE/s200/eywritergirlthinking2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Maybe Iowa and New Hampshire have the right idea. &nbsp;I don't &nbsp;believe either state should have the power in choosing our political nominees that they do because I don't think either is representative of the country as a whole.<br /><br />That being said, what they do have is access to the candidates up close and personal. &nbsp;What better way to assess a person than in person?<br /><br />That's why I was so excited to see a headline in the local paper heralding the fact that Chris Christie was coming to northern Idaho! &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Okay, he wasn't coming to campaign for himself but to help raise funds for our Governor. &nbsp;I understand the need for fundraising, but it sure cuts out the little guy. &nbsp;Especially in this economy.<br /><br />Sure, the masses will be able to see him at a rally for a whole half hour for $50 a pop. &nbsp;Oh well. &nbsp;Out of my budget. &nbsp;The big spenders will be able to attend a VIP reception for $1000 per couple. &nbsp;Way out of the budget!<br /><br />The problem is, this is likely to be the only time he comes close. &nbsp;If he actually runs he may make a token visit to Boise, the capital, but that's it. &nbsp;It's because we're such a solidly red state, the Republicans don't bother with us because we're a given. &nbsp;The Democrats stay away too for the same yet opposite reason. &nbsp;We're just here. &nbsp;Taken for granted. &nbsp;Do we have unaddressed concerns? &nbsp;Does anyone really care?<br /><br />It's back to voting by guess and by golly. &nbsp;I can do no more to inform myself than to read as much as I can. &nbsp;I didn't do enough of it with Obama and I've vowed not to make the same mistake twice. Listening to stump speeches tell me little and are so repetitious I get to the point of tuning them out. &nbsp;Listening to the talking heads gives no more than slanted insight from those I feel sometimes are even less informed than I am. &nbsp;It's perplexing.<br /><br />I don't know if I'll still be interested in Christie when it gets closer to the presidential sweepstakes, but I'd have a better sense if I could actually see him. &nbsp;Feel a handshake. &nbsp;Is it strong? &nbsp;Look him in the eye. &nbsp;Do his eyes meet mine? Listen to him speak. &nbsp;Is there a dynamic the television mics don't pick up? There is certainly the matter of context.<br /><br />Back to business as usual. Reading, listening and trying to figure out the being within from afar. &nbsp;No wonder we make so many bad decisions at the ballot box. &nbsp;In most cases we haven't a clue for whom<br />we're voting!</div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/11/red-state-blues.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14192095.post-7949189201762120348Fri, 08 Nov 2013 21:16:00 +00002013-11-08T15:20:07.396-08:00AdministrationForeign PolicyHealth CareMideastObamaTerrorWarObama Has The Sadim Touch<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1_5HJ9i95jw/Un1KQvwlDSI/AAAAAAAAKi8/cl4VdqoKkqA/s1600/recycle_recycling_294912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1_5HJ9i95jw/Un1KQvwlDSI/AAAAAAAAKi8/cl4VdqoKkqA/s200/recycle_recycling_294912.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>What is the Sadim Touch? &nbsp;The opposite of the Midas Touch. Where everything that is touched is turned into a mess.<br /><br />In some respects perhaps we should be glad Obama has turned out to be a bystander President rather than a leader. &nbsp;Everything he touches is either a pending disaster or an unmitigated mess.<br /><br />Consider Fast and Furious, the IRS scandal, Benghazi, the NSA, violating reporter's privacy, &nbsp;and now the ACA. Not just the roll out, but the consequences of poorly written and unread legislation &nbsp;paired with too many "the Secretary shall"s. These are but a few of the unmitigated messes.<br /><br />The pending disasters are more far reaching in that they are global. &nbsp;Syria, where Assad gave up his chemical weapons in order to be able to continue slaughtering his people. Since Assad didn't really need them it was no punishment. Not following through on arming the once good guys thus allowing the extremists to gain a foothold.<br /><br />Cutting off aid to Egypt because of the misguided assumption that because Morsi was duly elected he should remain in office no matter the increasingly dictatorial stance he was taking.<br /><br />Libya. &nbsp;What more needs to be said. &nbsp;Over a year later no arrests for the consulate attack while the press has had a multitude of interviews with those involved.<br /><br />And now he's about to ease sanctions on Iran with nothing in return. &nbsp;No freeze on enrichment. &nbsp;No dismantling of centrifuges. &nbsp;Leaving everything in place for Iran's nuclear program to continue. Something that has been going on since June, actually.<br /><br />So what happens now? No one has considered any of the U.S. actions in the middle east to be wise. &nbsp;Essentially everyone will fend for themselves. &nbsp;The Taliban in Pakistan has elected the man who threatened school girl Malala as their new leader. Iran will get its nuke. &nbsp;Pakistan has agreed to sell nukes to Saudi Arabia. Saudi will continue arming the rebels in Syria. &nbsp;Russia may provide the nuke for Syria if deemed &nbsp;advantageous. &nbsp;Jordan will probably fall, &nbsp;Hamas and Hezbollah will be strengthened. &nbsp;Iraq will lose out to Iran as will Afghanistan to the Taliban. Al Qaeda will continue to run rampant and spread across Somalia, the Sudan and throughout the weaker African states.<br /><br />Then there is Israel. With friends like us they don't need enemies! Whatever they choose to do be sure we will not be forewarned. &nbsp;We have opposed them, besmirched them and finally betrayed them.<br /><br />All because Obama needed to divert attention from the ACA in an attempt to save his administration from total collapse. &nbsp;What a trade off. Every mid eastern expert in the world takes exception to our policies if thats what you want to call them. &nbsp;Peace in our time? &nbsp;Not by this President's hand.<br /><br />Unless the negotiations in Geneva come to a total stand still you'll hear the other shoe we've been waiting for - drop.<br /><br /></div>http://dogwalkmusings.blogspot.com/2013/11/obama-has-sadim-touch.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Mari Meehan)0